BLYTH INDUSTRIES INC
10-Q, 1999-12-15
MISCELLANEOUS MANUFACTURING INDUSTRIES
Previous: VARIFLEX INC, 10-Q, 1999-12-15
Next: RIGHTCHOICE MANAGED CARE INC, 8-K, 1999-12-15



<PAGE>

                       SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
                               WASHINGTON DC 20549

                                    FORM 10-Q

                QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d)
                     OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

                     FOR THE QUARTER ENDED OCTOBER 31, 1999


                         Commission file number 1-13026



                             BLYTH INDUSTRIES, INC.
             (Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

           DELAWARE                                 36-2984916
(State or other jurisdiction of          (IRS Employer Identification No.)
 incorporation or organization)

               100 FIELD POINT ROAD, GREENWICH, CONNECTICUT 06830
               (Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)

                                 (203) 661-1926
              (Registrant's telephone number, including area code)

                                 NOT APPLICABLE
               (Former name, former address and former fiscal year,
                           if changed since last report)


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 the number of shares outstanding of each of the registrant's classes
of common stock, as of the latest practicable date.

                48,075,460 COMMON SHARES AS OF NOVEMBER 30, 1999.


                                  PAGE 1 OF 22

<PAGE>


                             BLYTH INDUSTRIES, INC.

                                      INDEX

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                                       PAGE
                                                                       ----
<S>                                                                    <C>
Form 10-Q Cover Page.....................................................1

Form 10-Q Index..........................................................2


Part I.    Financial Information:

      Item 1.  Financial Statements:
                   Consolidated Balance Sheets...........................3

                   Consolidated Statements of Earnings.................4-5

                   Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity.......6

                   Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows.................7

                   Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.........8-10

      Item 2.  Management's Discussion and Analysis of
                 Financial Condition and Results of Operations.......11-17

      Item 3.  Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures
                 about Market Risk......................................18

Part II.   Other Information

      Item 1.  Legal Proceedings........................................19

      Item 2.  Changes in Securities....................................19

      Item 3.  Defaults upon Senior Securities..........................19

      Item 4.  Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders......19

      Item 5.  Other Information.....................................19-21

      Item 6.  Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K.........................21


Signatures..............................................................22
</TABLE>


                                  PAGE 2 OF 22

<PAGE>


Part I.   FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Item I.   FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

                           BLYTH INDUSTRIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
                                  CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                OCTOBER 31,     JANUARY 31,
(In thousands, except share data)                                                                      1999            1999
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                                                                             <C>             <C>
ASSETS                                                                                           (Unaudited)
CURRENT ASSETS:
Cash and cash equivalents                                                                        $ 13,533        $ 18,571
Accounts receivable, less allowance for doubtful receivables
   of $2,396 and $1,404, respectively                                                             122,623          60,810
Inventories                                                                                       231,333         169,749
Prepaid expenses                                                                                    2,393           2,831
Deferred income taxes                                                                                 830             600
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
       Total current assets                                                                       370,712         252,561

PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT, AT COST:
   Less accumulated depreciation of $76,575 and $58,184, respectively                             270,129         236,273

OTHER ASSETS:
Investments                                                                                         8,920          18,914
Excess of cost over fair value of assets acquired, net of
   accumulated amortization of $6,374 and $4,446, respectively                                     91,912          67,534
Deposits and other assets                                                                           6,140           1,501
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
       Total assets                                                                              $747,813        $576,783
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
CURRENT LIABILITIES:
Bank lines of credit                                                                             $ 41,069        $  3,455
Current maturities of long-term debt                                                               15,574           9,339
Accounts payable                                                                                   51,877          51,336
Accrued expenses                                                                                   52,309          44,074
Income taxes                                                                                       10,253           1,197
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
       Total current liabilities                                                                  171,082         109,401
DEFERRED INCOME TAXES                                                                              23,074          18,978
LONG-TERM DEBT, less current maturities                                                           195,581         114,246
EXCESS OF FAIR VALUE OVER COST OF ASSETS ACQUIRED, net of
   accumulated amortization of $901 and $811, respectively                                            503             593
MINORITY INTEREST                                                                                     974          11,533
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES                                                                           -               -
STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY:
Preferred stock - authorized 10,000,000 shares of $0.01
   par value; no shares issued and outstanding                                                          -               -
Common stock - authorized 100,000,000 shares of $0.02
   par value; issued, 49,224,160 and 49,200,474, respectively                                         984             984
Additional contributed capital                                                                     93,605          93,281
Retained earnings                                                                                 292,850         227,995
Treasury stock, at cost, 1,148,700 shares and 10,000 shares, respectively                         (28,790)           (228)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss                                                               (2,050)              -
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
       Total stockholders' equity                                                                 356,599         322,032
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
       Total liabilities and stockholders' equity                                                $747,813       $ 576,783
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

                            SEE NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS


                                  PAGE 3 OF 22

<PAGE>


                               BLYTH INDUSTRIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
                                 CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EARNINGS
                                          (UNAUDITED)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

NINE MONTHS ENDED OCTOBER 31 (In thousands, except per share data)

                                                                                              1999                      1998
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                                                                     <C>                       <C>
Net sales                                                                                $ 768,577                 $ 622,807
Cost of goods sold                                                                         332,994                   265,234
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Gross profit                                                                           435,583                   357,573
Selling and shipping                                                                       252,781                   209,281
Administrative                                                                              65,869                    56,441
Amortization of goodwill                                                                     2,090                     1,531
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                           320,740                   267,253
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Operating profit                                                                       114,843                    90,320
Other expense (income):
     Interest expense                                                                        8,055                     5,221
     Interest income                                                                          (440)                     (255)
     Equity in earnings of investees                                                         1,549                      (106)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                             9,164                     4,860
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
     Earnings before income taxes and minority interest                                    105,679                    85,460
Income tax expense                                                                          40,396                    33,546
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
     Earnings before minority interest                                                      65,283                    51,914
Minority interest                                                                              428                       (15)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
     Net earnings                                                                        $  64,855                 $  51,929
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Basic:       Net earnings per common share                                               $    1.34                 $    1.06
                 Weighted average number of shares outstanding                              48,558                    49,158
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Diluted:    Net earnings per common share                                                $    1.33                 $    1.05
                 Weighted average number of shares outstanding                              48,925                    49,652
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
                 SEE NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS


                                  PAGE 4 OF 22

<PAGE>


                     BLYTH INDUSTRIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
                       CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EARNINGS
                                   (UNAUDITED)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
THREE MONTHS ENDED OCTOBER 31, (In thousands, except per share data)
                                                                                       1999                       1998
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                                                                 <C>                        <C>
Net sales                                                                            $ 294,441                  $ 240,766
Cost of goods sold                                                                     131,003                    106,392
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Gross profit                                                                       163,438                    134,374
Selling and shipping                                                                    88,991                     74,149
Administrative                                                                          21,470                     17,693
Amortization of goodwill                                                                   815                        513
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                       111,276                     92,355
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Operating profit                                                                    52,162                     42,019
Other expense (income):
     Interest expense                                                                    3,679                      1,853
     Interest income                                                                      (256)                      (131)
     Equity in earnings of investees                                                       273                       (308)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                         3,696                      1,414
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
     Earnings before income taxes and minority interest                                 48,466                     40,605
Income tax expense                                                                      18,426                     15,923
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
     Earnings before minority interest                                                  30,040                     24,682
Minority interest                                                                          152                        150
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
     Net earnings                                                                    $  29,888                  $  24,532
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Basic:       Net earnings per common share                                           $    0.62                  $    0.50
             Weighted average number of shares outstanding                              48,365                     49,186
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Diluted:     Net earnings per common share                                           $    0.61                  $    0.49
             Weighted average number of shares outstanding                              48,748                     49,610
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
                           SEE NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS


                                  PAGE 5 OF 22

<PAGE>


                     BLYTH INDUSTRIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
                 CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
                                   (UNAUDITED)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
OCTOBER 31, (In thousands, except share data)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                          ACCUMULATED
                                                    COMMON STOCK       ADDITIONAL                            OTHER
                                               ---------------------   CONTRIBUTED   RETAINED  TREASURY   COMPREHENSIVE
                                                  SHARES      AMOUNT       CAPITAL   EARNINGS     STOCK       LOSS        TOTAL
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                             <C>            <C>        <C>        <C>        <C>        <C>        <C>
FOR THE NINE MONTHS ENDED OCTOBER  31, 1998

Balance, January 31, 1998                       49,100,953     $ 982      $ 92,357   $153,493  $     -      $     -    $ 246,832

Net earnings for the period                              -         -             -     51,929        -            -       51,929

Common stock issued in connection with
   exercise of stock options                        87,423         2           623          -        -            -          625

Treasury stock purchase                            (10,000)                                        (228)                    (228)
                                                 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Balance, October 31, 1998                       49,178,376     $ 984      $ 92,980   $205,422  $   (228)    $     -    $ 299,158
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FOR THE NINE MONTHS ENDED OCTOBER 31, 1999:

Balance, January 31, 1999                       49,190,474     $ 984      $ 93,281   $227,995  $   (228)    $     -    $ 322,032

Net earnings for the period                              -         -             -     64,855         -            -      64,855
Foreign currency translation adjustments                 -         -             -          -         -       (2,050)     (2,050)
                                                                                                        -------------------------
   Comprehensive income                                                                                       (2,050)     62,805

Common stock issued in connection with
  exercise of stock options                         23,686         -           324          -         -            -         324

Treasury stock purchase                         (1,138,700)        -             -          -   (28,562)           -     (28,562)
                                                 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Balance, October 31, 1999                       48,075,460     $ 984      $ 93,605   $292,850  $(28,790)    $(2,050)   $ 356,599
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
                 SEE NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS


                                  PAGE 6 OF 22

<PAGE>


                     BLYTH INDUSTRIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
                      CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
                                   (UNAUDITED)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NINE MONTHS ENDED OCTOBER 31, (In thousands)                                                     1999            1998
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                                                                         <C>             <C>
Cash flows from operating activities:
     Net earnings                                                                            $ 64,855        $ 51,929
     Adjustments to reconcile net earnings to net cash
        provided by operating activities:
             Depreciation and amortization                                                     20,481          14,650
             Deferred income taxes                                                                838           2,429
             Equity in earnings of investees                                                    1,549            (106)
             Minority interest                                                                    428             (15)
     Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of effect of business
        acquisitions:
             Accounts receivable                                                              (53,327)        (34,347)
             Inventories                                                                      (44,865)        (17,012)
             Prepaid expenses                                                                   1,422            (755)
             Other assets                                                                      (2,742)            (46)
             Accounts payable                                                                   2,984             440
             Accrued expenses                                                                  (3,545)          3,189
             Income taxes                                                                       8,989           5,095
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                   Total adjustments                                                          (67,788)        (26,478)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                   Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities                         (2,933)         25,451
Cash flows from investing activities:
    Purchases of property, plant and equipment                                                (35,618)        (29,529)
    Net long term investments                                                                     655          (6,434)
    Purchase of businesses,  net of cash acquired                                             (38,967)           (788)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                   Net cash used in investing activities                                      (73,930)        (36,751)
Cash flows from financing activities:
    Proceeds from issuance of common stock                                                        324             625
    Purchase of treasury stock                                                                (28,562)           (228)
    Borrowings from bank line of credit                                                       385,902         374,643
    Repayments on bank line of credit                                                        (365,000)       (374,710)
    Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt                                                  150,000               -
    Borrowings (payments) on long-term debt                                                   (70,839)          1,117
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                   Net cash provided by financing activities                                   71,825           1,447
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                   Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents                                   (5,038)         (9,853)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period                                               18,571          21,273
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period                                                   $ 13,533        $ 11,420
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

                 SEE NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS


                                  PAGE 7 OF 22

<PAGE>

                    BLYTH INDUSTRIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
                   NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
                                   (UNAUDITED)

1.       BASIS OF PRESENTATION

         The Company, which operates in a single category, home fragrance
         products, designs, manufactures, markets and distributes an
         extensive line of home fragrance products including scented candles,
         outdoor citronella candles, potpourri and environmental fragrance
         products and markets a broad range of related candle accessories and
         decorative gift bags and tags.

         The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the
         Company, and its direct and indirect subsidiaries. All significant
         intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated.
         Investments in companies which are not majority owned or controlled
         are reported using the equity method and are recorded in other
         assets. European operations maintain a calendar year accounting
         period which is consolidated with the Company's fiscal period. In
         the opinion of management, the accompanying unaudited consolidated
         financial statements include all accruals (consisting only of normal
         recurring accruals) necessary for fair presentation of the Company's
         consolidated financial position at October 31, 1999 and the
         consolidated results of its operations and cash flows for the nine
         month period ended October 31, 1999 and 1998. These interim
         statements should be read in conjunction with the Company's
         consolidated financial statements for the year ended January 31,
         1999, as set forth in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K.
         Operating results for the nine months ended October 31, 1999 are not
         necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the
         year ending January 31, 2000.

2.       BUSINESS ACQUISITIONS

         In May 1999, the Company acquired the remaining 50% of Colony Gift
         Corporation Ltd. ("Colony"), a U.K. candle manufacturer, for
         approximately $10.0 million in cash. The excess of the purchase
         price over the estimated fair value of assets acquired approximated
         $8.0 million and is being amortized over 15 years.

         In June 1999, the Company acquired additional Class A and Class B
         common shares of Liljeholmens Stearinfabriks AB ("Liljeholmens"),
         through a tender offer for approximately $28.3 million in cash. As a
         result, the Company has increased its economic ownership percentage
         in Liljeholmens to approximately 99% from approximately 39%. The
         Company is currently in the process of acquiring the remaining 1%
         economic interest in Liljeholmens through a compulsory purchase
         procedure pursuant to Swedish law. The excess of the purchase price
         over the estimated fair value of assets acquired from this
         additional investment approximated $15.9 million and is being
         amortized over 40 years.

3.       INVENTORIES

         The components of inventory consist of the following (in thousands):

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                            OCTOBER 31, 1999          JANUARY 31, 1999
         --------------------------------------------------------------
         <S>                       <C>                       <C>
         Raw materials             $  39,520                 $  34,807
         Work in process               4,639                     2,658
         Finished goods              187,174                   132,284
         --------------------------------------------------------------
                                   $ 231,333                 $ 169,749
         --------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

         The above amounts as of October 31, 1999 include, as a result of the
         recent acquisitions, $50,971 of inventory of Liljeholmens and
         Colony. The above amounts as of January 31, 1999 include $17,375 of
         inventory of Liljeholmens.

                                  PAGE 8 OF 22
<PAGE>


                          BLYTH INDUSTRIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
                   NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
                                       (UNAUDITED)

4.       EARNINGS PER SHARE

         The components of basic and diluted earnings per share are as follows
         (in thousands):

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                          THREE MONTHS        NINE MONTHS       THREE MONTHS         NINE MONTHS
                                                       ENDED OCTOBER 31,  ENDED OCTOBER 31,  ENDED OCTOBER 31,   ENDED OCTOBER 31,
                                                             1999               1999               1998                1998
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                                          <C>                <C>                <C>                 <C>
Net earnings                                                  $ 29,888           $ 64,855           $ 24,532            $ 51,929
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding:
         Basic                                                  48,365             48,558             49,186              49,158
         Dilutive effect of stock options                          383                367                424                 494
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding:
         Diluted                                                48,748             48,925             49,610              49,652
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

5.       STOCK REPURCHASE PLAN

         On September 10, 1998, the Company's Board of Directors authorized
         the Company to repurchase up to 1,000,000 shares of its common stock
         and on June 8, 1999 it authorized the repurchase of up to an
         additional 1,000,000 shares. During the three month period ended
         October 31, 1999 the Company repurchased 414,000 of its common
         shares. As of October 31, 1999, the Company had purchased on the
         open market 1,148,700 common shares for a total cost of
         approximately $28.8 million. The acquired shares are held as common
         stock in treasury.


                                  PAGE 9 OF 22

<PAGE>


                          BLYTH INDUSTRIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
                   NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
                                       (UNAUDITED)


6.       SEGMENT INFORMATION

         The Company operates in a single category, home fragrance products.
         The Company designs, manufactures, markets and distributes an
         extensive line of home fragrance products including scented candles,
         outdoor citronella candles, potpourri and environmental fragrance
         products. Closely complementing these products are a broad range of
         candle accessories and decorative gift bags and tags. The Company
         has operations outside of the United States and sells its products
         worldwide.

         The following geographic area data include trade net sales and net
         earnings based on product shipment destination and long-lived assets
         (which consist of fixed assets, goodwill and long term investments)
         based on physical location. This data is presented in accordance
         with FASB No. 131 "Disclosures about Segments of an Enterprise and
         Related Information," which the Company has adopted for all periods
         presented.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                             THREE MONTHS ENDED OCTOBER 31,               NINE MONTHS ENDED OCTOBER 31,
                        -----------------------------------------    -----------------------------------------
(In thousands)                        1999                  1998                   1999                  1998
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                             <C>                   <C>                    <C>                   <C>
Net Sales:
    United States                $ 234,876             $ 209,434              $ 598,573             $ 523,482
    International(1)                59,565                31,332                170,004                99,325
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
        Total                    $ 294,441             $ 240,766              $ 768,577             $ 622,807
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<CAPTION>
                             THREE MONTHS ENDED OCTOBER 31,               NINE MONTHS ENDED OCTOBER 31,
                        -----------------------------------------    -----------------------------------------
(In thousands)                        1999                  1998                   1999                  1998
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net Earnings:
    United States                 $ 28,159              $ 23,661               $ 57,722              $ 47,572
    International(1)                 1,729                   871                  7,133                 4,357
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
        Total                     $ 29,888              $ 24,532               $ 64,855              $ 51,929
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<CAPTION>
                                  OCTOBER 31,           JANUARY 31,
(In thousands)                        1999                  1999
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------
Long-Lived Assets:
    United States                 $271,393              $240,251
    International(1)                99,568                82,470
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------
        Total                     $370,961              $322,721
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

(1) No individual country represents a material amount of net sales, net
    earnings or long-lived assets.


                                  PAGE 10 OF 22

<PAGE>


Item 2.  MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
         FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS:

NET SALES

         Net sales increased $145.8 million, or 23.4%, to $768.6 million in
         the first nine months of fiscal 2000 from $622.8 million in the
         first nine months of fiscal 1999. Net sales in the third quarter
         ended October 31, 1999, increased $53.6 million, or 22.3%, to $294.4
         million compared with $240.8 million a year earlier. Most all of
         this increase was attributable to unit sales growth in sales of the
         Company's everyday products which was achieved through a combination
         of new products, more customers and acquisitions. First, new
         products, which typically account for approximately 20% of the
         Company's total sales each year, have continued to be a key
         contributor to the Company's sales growth. Secondly, all of the
         Company's wholesale business units have continued to add new
         customers or increase shelf space devoted to our product lines and
         our direct selling channel increased the number of independent sales
         consultants selling the PartyLite brand products worldwide by over
         5,000 when compared to the prior year third quarter. Lastly, in the
         quarter ended October 31, 1999, the Company's acquisitions of
         Liljeholmens and Colony Gift have accounted for approximately half
         of the sales growth, on a percentage basis, when compared to the
         same period a year ago. International sales for the quarter ended
         October 31, 1999 grew by approximately 90% when compared to the same
         period last year. Within the International markets during the
         quarter ended October 31, 1999, our direct selling channel in
         Germany was adversely impacted by new tax legislation that affected
         all independent contractors in that country. For the nine months
         ended October 31, 1999, International sales increased by more than
         70% when compared to the prior year.

GROSS PROFIT

         Gross profit increased $78.0 million, or 21.8%, from $357.6 million
         in the first nine months of fiscal 1999 to $435.6 million in the
         first nine months of fiscal 2000. Gross profit margin decreased
         slightly from 57.4% for the first nine months of fiscal 1999 to
         56.7% for the first nine months of fiscal 2000. Gross profit in the
         third quarter ended October 31, 1999 increased $29.0 million, or
         21.6%, from $134.4 million for the quarter ended October 31, 1998 to
         $163.4 million. Gross profit margin decreased slightly from 55.8%
         for the quarter ended October 31, 1998 to 55.5% for the quarter
         ended October 31, 1999. The gross profit as a percentage of net
         sales was negatively impacted by the inclusion of Liljeholmens,
         which has a lower gross profit percentage than the rest of the
         Company. Before including Liljeholmens, gross profit as a percentage
         of net sales in the three and nine month periods ended October 31,
         1999 increased more than 1.5% when compared to the same period a
         year ago. The increase in gross profits before the inclusion of
         Liljeholmens in the three and nine month periods ended October 31,
         1999 resulted from a relatively higher sales growth of premium
         priced products. In addition, the Company continues to benefit from
         the capital investments made over the last several years in
         manufacturing and distribution, as well as cost savings in product
         sourcing. The gross profit contribution of the International market
         has grown consistent with the sales growth.

         Operating profit grew at a higher rate than sales during the quarter
         ended October 31, 1999 when compared to the same period last year.
         This growth rate, which is a continuation of the trend of each of
         the first two quarters of this year, is a result of the same key
         factors driving the growth in gross profits. Operating profit as a
         percentage of net sales for the three months ended October 31, 1999,
         which includes the impact of Liljeholmens, was 17.7% compared to
         17.5% for the same period last year. Operating profit as a
         percentage of net sales for the nine months ended October 31, 1999,
         which includes the impact of Liljeholmens, was 14.9% compared to
         14.5% in the prior year period.


                                  PAGE 11 OF 22

<PAGE>



Item 2.  MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
         FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (CONTINUED)

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS: (CONTINUED)

SELLING AND SHIPPING EXPENSE

         Selling and shipping expense increased $43.5 million, or 20.8%, from
         $209.3 million in the first nine months of fiscal 1999 (33.6% of net
         sales), to $252.8 million in the first nine months of fiscal 2000
         (32.9% of net sales). Selling and shipping expense increased $14.9
         million, or 20.1%, from $74.1 million in the quarter ended October
         31, 1998 (30.8% of net sales), to $89.0 million in the quarter ended
         October 31, 1999 (30.2% of net sales). The decreases in selling and
         shipping expense as a percentage of net sales were attributable to
         the inclusion of Liljeholmens which incurs relatively lower selling
         and shipping expenses as a percentage of net sales, and a decrease
         in the rate of increase in shipping costs across the Company.

ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSE

         Administrative expense increased $9.5 million, or 16.8%, from $56.4
         million in the first nine months of fiscal 1999 (9.1% of net sales)
         to $65.9 million in the first nine months of fiscal 2000 (8.6% of
         net sales). Administrative expense increased $3.8 million, or 21.5%,
         from $17.7 million in the quarter ended October 31, 1998 (7.4% of
         net sales) to $21.5 million in the quarter ended October 31, 1999
         (7.3% of net sales). Administrative expenses as a percentage of
         sales declined versus the same period last year for two main
         reasons: the economies of scale (the ability to spread
         administrative expense over a larger net sales base); and the
         inclusion of Liljeholmens (which experiences relatively lower
         administrative expense as a percentage of sales). The growth in
         administrative expense continues to be lower than the growth in
         sales when compared to the prior year.

INTEREST EXPENSE

         Interest expense increased $2.9 million, or 55.8%, from $5.2 million
         in the first nine months of fiscal 1999 to $8.1 million in the first
         nine months of fiscal 2000. Interest expense increased $1.8 million,
         or 94.7%, from $1.9 million in the quarter ended October 31, 1998 to
         $3.7 million in the quarter ended October 31, 1999. The increase in
         interest expense is primarily attributable to borrowings to fund the
         acquisitions of Liljeholmens and Colony as well as debt assumed as
         part of these acquired companies, and to a lesser extent the
         Company's debt offering (as further described in "Liquidity and
         Capital Resources").

INCOME TAXES

         Income tax expense increased $6.9 million, or 20.6%, from $33.5
         million in the first nine months of fiscal 1999 to $40.4 million in
         the first nine months of fiscal 2000. Income tax expense increased
         $2.5 million, or 15.7%, from $15.9 million in the quarter ended
         October 31, 1998 to $18.4 million in the quarter ended October 31,
         1999. The effective income tax rate decreased from approximately
         39.3% for the nine months ended October 31, 1998 to approximately
         38.2% for the same period this year due to the growth in sales in
         countries with lower tax rates than the U.S.


                                  PAGE 12 OF 22

<PAGE>


Item 2.  MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
         FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (CONTINUED)

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS: (CONTINUED)

NET EARNINGS

         As a result of the foregoing, net earnings increased $13.0 million,
         or 25.0%, from $51.9 million for the nine months ended October 31,
         1998 to $64.9 million for the nine months ended October 31, 1999.
         Net earnings increased $5.4 million, or 22.0%, from $24.5 million in
         the quarter ended October 31, 1998 to $29.9 million in the quarter
         ended October 31, 1999.

         Basic earnings per share based upon the weighted average number of
         shares outstanding for the nine months ended October 31, 1999
         increased $0.28 or 26.4%, to $1.34 compared to $1.06 for the nine
         months ended October 31, 1998. Basic earnings per share based upon
         the weighted average number of shares outstanding for the quarter
         ended October 31, 1999 increased $0.12, or 24.0%, to $0.62 compared
         to $0.50 for the quarter ended October 31, 1998. Diluted earnings
         per share based upon the potential dilution that could occur if
         options to issue common stock were exercised or converted were $1.33
         for the nine months ended October 31, 1999 compared to $1.05 for the
         same period last year, an increase of $0.28, or 26.7%. Diluted
         earnings per share based upon the potential dilution that could
         occur if options to issue common stock were exercised or converted
         were $0.61 for the quarter ended October 31, 1999 compared to $0.49
         for the same period last year, an increase of $0.12 or 24.5%.

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

         Inventory increased $78.8 million from $152.5 million at October 31,
         1998 to $231.3 million at October 31, 1999 an increase of 51.7%. The
         Liljeholmens and Colony acquisitions did not exist in the prior year
         period. Before including the $51.0 million of inventory of
         Liljeholmens and Colony, inventory at October 31, 1999 increased
         18.2% when compared to the prior year (while the base business
         (before including Liljeholmens and Colony) experienced sales growth
         of approximately 11%). Inventory as of October 31, 1999 included
         product to meet early November 1999 shipments of existing customer
         orders. Accounts receivable increased $36.3 million, or 42.1% from
         $86.3 million at October 31, 1998 to $122.6 million at October 31,
         1999. This increase in accounts receivable was due to the increase
         in sales and the inclusion of the Liljeholmens and Colony balances
         which were not in the prior year's accounts receivable. Accounts
         payable and accrued expenses at October 31, 1999 increased $31.8
         million ($3.9 million excluding Liljeholmens and Colony), when
         compared to October 31, 1998. Such increase is attributable to the
         greater operating expenses to support the increased sales.

         Capital expenditures for property, plant and equipment were $35.6
         million in the nine months ended October 31, 1999. This compares to
         $29.5 million in the nine month period ended October 31, 1998. The
         Company anticipates capital spending of approximately $55.0 million
         for fiscal 2000. The remainder of the spending will be primarily for
         increased manufacturing and distribution capacity, upgrades to
         machinery and equipment in existing facilities, and computer
         hardware and software.

         The Company has grown in part through acquisitions and, as part of
         its growth strategy, the Company expects to continue from time to
         time in the ordinary course of its business to evaluate and pursue
         acquisition opportunities as appropriate. This could be in the form
         of acquiring other companies, selected assets and product lines,
         long term investments, and/or joint ventures that either complement
         or expand its existing business.


                                  PAGE 13 OF 22

<PAGE>

Item 2.  MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
         FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (CONTINUED)

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS: (CONTINUED)

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES (CONTINUED)

         The Company's primary capital requirements are for working capital
         to fund the increased inventory and accounts receivable required to
         sustain the Company's sales growth and for capital expenditures. The
         Company believes that cash on hand, cash from operations, the
         Company's public debt offering and available borrowings under the
         Credit Facility and lines of credit described below, will be
         sufficient to fund its operating requirements, capital expenditures,
         the Company's stock repurchase program and all other obligations for
         the next twelve months.

         Pursuant to the Company's revolving credit facility ("Credit
         Facility") as amended on September 14, 1999, which matures on
         October 17, 2002, the lending institutions have agreed, subject to
         certain conditions, to provide an unsecured revolving credit
         facility to the Company in an aggregate amount of up to $135.0
         million and to provide, under certain circumstances, an additional
         $33.8 million. Amounts outstanding under the Credit Facility bear
         interest, at the Company's option, at Bank of America's prime rate
         (8.25% at October 31, 1999) or at the Eurocurrency rate plus a
         credit spread ranging from 0.25% to 0.50%, based on a pre-defined
         financial ratio, for a weighted average interest rate of 5.76% at
         October 31, 1999. At October 31, 1999, $5.5 million (including
         outstanding letters of credit) was outstanding under the Credit
         Facility.

         In August 1999 and January 1999 the Company entered into agreements
         with three banks to provide uncommitted one-year lines of credit
         with total available borrowing of $70.0 million. Borrowings under
         the agreements bear interest, at the Company's option, at short term
         fixed rates, at the banks' prime rate (8.25% at October 31, 1999) or
         at the Eurocurrency rate plus a credit spread. No amounts were
         outstanding under the uncommitted lines of credit at October 31,
         1999.

         Liljeholmens has lines of credit which are renewed annually, with
         available borrowing of approximately $31.0 million. As of September
         30, 1999, Liljeholmens had borrowings under the lines of credit of
         approximately $19.4 million. Amounts outstanding under the lines of
         credit bear interest of 3.56% at September 30, 1999.

         At September 30, 1999, Liljeholmens had various long-term debt
         agreements in multiple European currencies maturing at different
         dates over the next two to six years. The total amount outstanding
         as of September 30, 1999 under the loan agreements was approximately
         $31.4 million with interest rates ranging from 2.75% to 8.46%, of
         which $14.7 million relates to the current maturities. The loans are
         collateralized by certain of Liljeholmens' real estate and by a
         pledge of Liljeholmens' shares in its subsidiaries.

         Colony has a revolving credit facility with Barclays Bank
         ("Barclays"), which matures on May 20, 2000, pursuant to which
         Barclays has agreed to provide a revolving credit facility in an
         amount up to L16.0 million, secured by certain of Colony's assets.
         As of September 30, 1999, Colony had borrowings under the credit
         facility of L13.2 million ($21.7 million at the September 30, 1999
         exchange rate), at a weighted average interest rate of 5.66%.

         Net cash provided by operating activities for the quarter ended
         October 31, 1999 was a strong $21.3 million, an increase of $7.4
         million when compared to the same period a year ago. For the nine
         months ended October 31, 1999 net cash used in operating activities
         amounted to $2.9 million compared to $25.5 million provided by
         operating activities in the same period last year. We expect on a
         full year basis to generate significant cash flow from operations
         based upon fourth quarter income levels, as well as the lowering of
         accounts receivable and inventory, given the normal seasonal aspect
         of our business.

                                  PAGE 14 OF 22
<PAGE>


Item 2.  MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
         FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (CONTINUED)

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS: (CONTINUED)

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES (CONTINUED)

         In May 1999, the Company filed a shelf registration statement for up
         to $250 million in debt securities with the Securities and Exchange
         Commission. On September 24, 1999, the Company issued $150.0 million
         of 7.9% Senior Notes due October 1, 2009. Interest is payable
         semiannually on April 1 and October 1. The proceeds of the offering
         were used to repay substantially all of the Company's outstanding
         debt under its revolving and uncommitted lines of credit in the
         United States.

         On June 8, 1999, the Company's Board of Directors authorized the
         Company to repurchase up to an additional 1,000,000 shares of its
         common stock bringing the total authorization to 2,000,000 shares.
         During the three month period ended October 31, 1999 the Company
         repurchased 414,000 of its common shares. As of October 31, 1999,
         the Company had purchased 1,148,700 shares for a total cost of
         approximately $28.8 million.

IMPACT OF ADOPTION OF RECENTLY ISSUED ACCOUNTING STANDARDS

         On June 15, 1998, the FASB issued Statement No. 133, "Accounting for
         Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities". FASB No. 133 (as
         deferred by FASB No. 137) is effective for all fiscal years
         beginning after June 15, 2000. FASB No. 133 requires that all
         derivative instruments be recorded on the balance sheet at their
         fair value. Changes in the fair value of derivatives are recorded
         each period in current earnings or other comprehensive income,
         depending on whether a derivative is designated as part of a hedge
         transaction and, if it is, the type of transaction. The Company
         anticipates that, due to its limited use of derivative instruments,
         the adoption of FASB No. 133 will not have a significant effect on
         the Company's results of operations or its financial position.

YEAR 2000 COMPLIANCE

         The "Year 2000 Issue" is the result of computer programs that were
         written using two digits rather than four digits to define the
         applicable year. If the Company's computer programs with
         date-sensitive functions are not Year 2000 compliant, they may
         recognize a date using "00" as the Year 1900 rather than the Year
         2000. This could result in miscalculations, malfunctions or
         disruptions when attempting to process information containing dates
         that fall after December 31, 1999 or other dates which could cause
         computer malfunctions.

         Recognizing the importance of the "Year 2000 Issue" the Company
         began developing a Year 2000 compliance plan in fiscal 1997. The
         Company's efforts have been focused on the elements that are
         believed to be critical to business operations ("mission critical"),
         which includes: (a) an assessment, and where needed, a remediation,
         of both information technology ("IT") and non-IT elements of its
         business information, computing, telecommunications, and process
         control systems, (b) an assessment, and remediation, as necessary,
         of equipment with embedded chips, and (c) an evaluation of the
         Company's relationships with significant product and services
         providers and major customers ("key business partners").


                                  PAGE 15 OF 22

<PAGE>


Item 2.  MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
         FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (CONTINUED)

         YEAR 2000 COMPLIANCE (CONTINUED)

         The compliance plan contains five components as follows: (1)
         Internal assessment - a detailed evaluation of the potential Year
         2000 effects on the Company's IT and non-IT systems and on its
         equipment with embedded computer chips, (2) Remediation - corrective
         action including code enhancements, hardware and software upgrades,
         system replacements, vendor certification, equipment repair or
         replacement, and other associated changes to achieve Year 2000
         compliance, (3) Testing - the verification that remediation actions
         are effective and that systems currently deemed compliant in fact
         are compliant, (4) Third party evaluation - an evaluation of the
         Year 2000 readiness of key suppliers of goods and services and of
         key customers, and (5) Contingency planning - the development of
         detailed procedures to be put in place should the Company or key
         business partners experience a significant Year 2000 problem.
         Although we believe the above is a sound plan, there can be no
         assurances that this process will identify or remediate all of the
         existing Year 2000 exposures.

         The assessment phase is complete on currently installed products.
         The remediation process is complete on critical IT and non-IT
         systems, and the Company presently believes that remediation and
         testing of remaining systems is complete in all material respects.
         The testing phase, which is done in most instances using simulated
         data, was completed in all material respects on critical IT and
         non-IT systems, as of August 31, 1999.

         The third party evaluation phase entailed the Company identifying
         its key business partners. The Company is continuing the process of
         ascertaining their stage of Year 2000 readiness through
         questionnaires, interviews, on-site visits, and other available
         means. However, the actual readiness of these third parties is
         beyond the Company's control; therefore, there can be no assurances
         that significant deficiencies do not exist amongst such third
         parties. This phase was completed in all material respects as of
         September 30, 1999, but the Company anticipates having to follow-up
         on non-compliant responses through December 31, 1999.

         If needed modifications and conversions of computer systems are not
         made on a timely basis by the Company or its key business partners,
         the Company could be affected by business disruption, operational
         problems, and financial loss, any of which could have a material
         adverse effect on the Company's results of operations and
         consolidated financial position.

         Although not anticipated, the most reasonably likely worst case
         scenario of failure by the Company or its key business partners to
         resolve the Year 2000 issue would be a short-term slowdown or
         cessation of manufacturing operations at one or more of the
         Company's facilities, and a short-term inability on the part of the
         Company to process orders and billings in a timely manner and to
         deliver product to customers in a timely manner.

         In addition to the readiness measures described above, the Company
         intends to mitigate, through contingency plans that have been
         developed, the possible disruption in business operations that may
         result from the Year 2000 issue. Contingency plans include, but are
         not limited to, expediting critical supplier orders for physical
         receipt prior to December 31, 1999, securing alternate sources of
         supply for certain key materials and services and updating and
         testing disaster recovery plans for communications, technology,
         materials and distribution both domestically and internationally.
         Review and testing of the contingency plans will continue on an
         on-going basis through year-end.


                                  PAGE 16 OF 22

<PAGE>


Item 2.  MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
         FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (CONTINUED)

         YEAR 2000 COMPLIANCE (CONTINUED)

         It is currently estimated that the aggregate cost of the Company's
         Year 2000 compliance efforts will be approximately $3.1 million, of
         which approximately $3.0 million has been spent. These costs are
         being expensed as they are incurred except for costs associated with
         the replacement of computerized systems, hardware or equipment,
         substantially all of which will be capitalized, and are being funded
         through operating cash flow. These amounts do not include any costs
         associated with the implementation of contingency plans, but such
         contingency plan costs are not expected to be significant. The costs
         associated with the Company's Year 2000 compliance efforts are not
         expected to be material in relation to the Company's IT budget, and
         such efforts are not expected to have a material effect upon the
         Company's other IT projects.

         While the Company does not expect that it will have any need to
         obtain independent verification of its risk or cost estimates, it
         should be recognized that the risk and cost estimates herein
         constitute forward-looking statements and are based solely on
         management's best estimates of future events. The Company's Year
         2000 compliance plan is an ongoing process and the estimates of
         costs and completion dates for various components of the Year 2000
         compliance plan described above are subject to change; therefore
         actual costs could vary significantly from those currently
         anticipated and there can be no guarantees regarding the timing or
         effectiveness of plan completion.


                                  PAGE 17 OF 22

<PAGE>


Item 3.  QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES
         ABOUT MARKET RISK

MARKET RISK

         The Company has operations outside of the United States and sells
         its products worldwide. The Company's activities expose it to a
         variety of market risks, including the effects of changes in
         foreign-currency exchange rates, interest rates and commodity
         prices. These financial exposures are actively monitored and managed
         by the Company.

INTEREST RATE RISK

         As of October 31, 1999, the Company is subject to interest rate risk
         on approximately $59.1 million of variable rate debt, including
         Liljeholmens and Colony. Each 1.00% increase in the interest rate
         would impact pre-tax earnings by approximately $591,000 if applied
         to the total.

FOREIGN CURRENCY RISK

         The Company uses forward foreign exchange contracts to hedge the
         impact of foreign currency fluctuations on certain committed capital
         expenditures and Canadian intercompany payables. The Company does
         not hold or issue derivative financial instruments for trading
         purposes.

         With regard to commitments for machinery and equipment in foreign
         currencies, upon payment of each commitment the underlying forward
         contract is closed and the corresponding gain or loss is included in
         the measurement of the cost of the acquired asset. With regard to
         forward exchange contracts used to hedge Canadian intercompany
         purchases, gain or loss on such hedges is recognized in earnings in
         the period in which the underlying hedged transaction occurs. If a
         hedging instrument is sold or terminated prior to maturity, gains
         and losses are deferred until the hedged item is settled.

         However, if the hedged item is no longer likely to occur, the
         resultant gain or loss on the terminated hedge is recognized into
         earnings. For consolidated financial statement presentation, net
         cash flows from such hedges are classified in the categories of the
         cash flow with the items being hedged.

         The following table provides information about the Company's foreign
         exchange forward contracts at October 31, 1999.


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                   U.S. DOLLAR       AVERAGE
(In thousands, except average contract rate)        NOTIONAL         CONTRACT        ESTIMATED
                                                     AMOUNT            RATE         FAIR VALUE
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                                <C>                <C>             <C>
Canadian Dollar                                     $ 8,704            1.47            $ (13)
Euro                                                  1,502            1.05                4
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                    $10,206                            $  (9)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

         The foreign exchange contracts outstanding as of October 31, 1999
         have maturity dates ranging from November 1999 through February 2000.


                                  PAGE 18 OF 22

<PAGE>


Part II.  OTHER INFORMATION

ITEM 1.  LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

         None

ITEM 2.  CHANGES IN SECURITIES

         None

ITEM 3.  DEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES

         None

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

         None

ITEM 5.  OTHER INFORMATION

         The Company is including the following cautionary statement in this
         Report to make applicable, and to take advantage of, the safe harbor
         provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995
         for any forward-looking statements made by, or on behalf of, the
         Company. Forward-looking statements include statements concerning
         plans, objectives, goals, strategies, future events or performance
         and underlying assumptions and other statements which are other than
         statements of historical facts. From time to time, the Company and
         its representatives may publish or otherwise make available
         forward-looking statements of this nature. All such forward-looking
         statements, whether written or oral, and whether made by or on
         behalf of the Company, are expressly qualified by the following
         cautionary statements. Forward-looking statements involve risks and
         uncertainties which could cause actual results or outcomes to differ
         materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements.
         Such forward-looking statements are expected to be based on various
         assumptions, many of which are based, in turn, upon further
         assumptions.

         There can be no assurance that management's expectations, beliefs or
         projections will occur or be achieved or accomplished. In addition
         to other factors and matters discussed elsewhere in this Report and
         in the Company's other public filings and statements, the following
         are important factors that, in the view of the Company, could cause
         actual results to differ materially from those discussed in the
         Company's forward-looking statements. The Company disclaims any
         obligation to update any forward-looking statements, or the
         following factors, to reflect events or circumstances after the date
         of this Report.


                                  PAGE 19 OF 22

<PAGE>


Part II.  OTHER INFORMATION (CONTINUED)

ITEM 5. OTHER INFORMATION (CONTINUED)

Risk of Inability to Maintain Growth Rate

         The Company has grown substantially in recent years. We expect that
         our future growth will be generated by sales to the faster growing
         worldwide consumer market for home fragrance products. The market
         for our institutional products has grown, but more slowly, and we
         expect it will continue to do so. Our ability to continue to grow
         depends on the following: market acceptance of existing products,
         the successful introduction of new products, and increases in
         production and distribution capacity to meet demand. The home
         fragrance products industry is driven by consumer tastes.
         Accordingly, there can be no assurance that our existing or future
         products will maintain or achieve market acceptance. We expect that,
         as we grow, our rate of growth will be less than our historical
         growth rate. In addition, we have grown in part through acquisitions
         and there can be no assurance that we will be able to continue to
         identify suitable acquisition candidates, to consummate acquisitions
         on terms favorable to the Company, to finance acquisitions or to
         successfully integrate acquired operations. In the future,
         acquisitions may contribute more to the overall Company's sales
         growth rate than historically.

Ability to Respond to Increased Product Demand

         Our significant internal growth has required increases in personnel,
         expansion of production and distribution facilities, and enhancement
         of management information systems. Our ability to meet future demand
         for products will be dependent upon success in (1) training,
         motivating and managing new employees, (2) bringing new production
         and distribution facilities on line in a timely manner, (3)
         improving management information systems in order to respond
         promptly to customer orders and (4) improving our ability to
         forecast anticipated product demand in order to continue to fill
         customer orders promptly. If we are unable to meet future demand for
         products in a timely and efficient manner, our operating results
         could be materially adversely affected.

Risks Associated with International Sales and Foreign-Sourced Products

         Our international business has grown at a faster rate than sales in
         the United States. In addition, we source a portion of our candle
         accessories and decorative gift bags from independent manufacturers
         in the Pacific Rim, Europe and Mexico. For these reasons we are
         subject to the following risks inherent in foreign manufacturing and
         sales: fluctuations in currency exchange rates, economic and
         political instability, transportation delays, difficulty in
         maintaining quality control, restrictive actions by foreign
         governments, nationalizations, the laws and policies of the United
         States affecting importation of goods (including duties, quotas and
         taxes) and trade and foreign tax laws.

Raw Materials

         For certain raw materials, there may be temporary shortages due to
         weather or other factors, including disruptions in supply caused by
         raw material transportation or production delays. Such raw material
         shortages have not previously had, and are not expected to have, a
         material adverse effect on the Company's operations.

Dependence on Key Management Personnel

         Our success depends upon the contributions of key management
         personnel, particularly our Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and
         President, Robert B. Goergen. We do not have employment contracts
         with any of our key management personnel, nor do we maintain any key
         person life insurance policies. The loss of any of the key
         management personnel could have a material adverse effect on the
         Company.


                                  PAGE 20 OF 22

<PAGE>


Part II.  OTHER INFORMATION (CONTINUED)

ITEM 5. OTHER INFORMATION (CONTINUED)

Competition

         Our business is highly competitive, both in terms of price and new
         product introductions. The worldwide consumer market for home
         fragrance products is highly fragmented, with numerous suppliers
         serving one or more of the distribution channels served by the
         Company. Because there are relatively low barriers to entry to the
         home fragrance products industry, we may face increased future
         competition from other companies, some of which may have
         substantially greater financial and marketing resources than those
         available to us. From time to time during the year-end holiday
         season, we experience competition from candles manufactured in
         foreign countries, particularly China. In addition, certain of our
         competitors focus on a particular geographic or single-product
         market and attempt to gain or maintain market share solely on the
         basis of price.

ITEM 6.   EXHIBITS AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K

         a)   Exhibits

                      27.    Financial data schedule

         b)   Reports on Form 8-K

              During the fiscal quarter ended October 31, 1999, the Company
              filed the following Current Reports on Form 8-K:

                      Current Report on Form 8-K on September 1, 1999 to file
                      as an exhibit the press release announcing the Company's
                      results of operations for the fiscal quarter ended July
                      31, 1999.

                      Current Report on Form 8-K on September 28, 1999 to file
                      certain exhibits related to its filing of a Prospectus
                      Supplement.


                                  PAGE 21 OF 22

<PAGE>


SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the
registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

                                                BLYTH INDUSTRIES, INC.



         Date: December 15, 1999                By: /s/ Robert B. Goergen
               ----------------------               -----------------------
                                                Robert B. Goergen
                                                Chief Executive Officer


         Date: December 15, 1999                By: /s/ Richard T. Browning
               ----------------------               -----------------------
                                                Richard T. Browning
                                                Chief Financial Officer


                                  PAGE 22 OF 22

<PAGE>


                                  EXHIBIT INDEX
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

EXHIBIT       DESCRIPTION                                          PAGE NO.
- -------       -----------                                          --------
<S>          <C>                                                    <C>
   27.        Financial data schedule                                N/A
</TABLE>




<TABLE> <S> <C>

<PAGE>
<ARTICLE> 5
<LEGEND>
THIS SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM THE
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET AT OCTOBER 31, 1999 AND THE CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF
EARNINGS, STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY AND CASH FLOWS FOR THE NINE MONTHS ENDED OCTOBER
31, 1999, AND IS QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL
STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<MULTIPLIER> 1,000

<S>                             <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE>                   9-MOS
<FISCAL-YEAR-END>                          JAN-31-2000
<PERIOD-START>                             FEB-01-1999
<PERIOD-END>                               OCT-31-1999
<CASH>                                          13,533
<SECURITIES>                                         0
<RECEIVABLES>                                  125,019
<ALLOWANCES>                                     2,396
<INVENTORY>                                    231,333
<CURRENT-ASSETS>                               370,712
<PP&E>                                         346,704
<DEPRECIATION>                                  76,575
<TOTAL-ASSETS>                                 747,813
<CURRENT-LIABILITIES>                          171,082
<BONDS>                                              0
                                0
                                          0
<COMMON>                                           984
<OTHER-SE>                                     355,615
<TOTAL-LIABILITY-AND-EQUITY>                   747,813
<SALES>                                        768,577
<TOTAL-REVENUES>                               768,577
<CGS>                                          332,994
<TOTAL-COSTS>                                  332,994
<OTHER-EXPENSES>                               319,224
<LOSS-PROVISION>                                 1,516
<INTEREST-EXPENSE>                               8,055
<INCOME-PRETAX>                                105,679
<INCOME-TAX>                                    40,396
<INCOME-CONTINUING>                             64,855
<DISCONTINUED>                                       0
<EXTRAORDINARY>                                      0
<CHANGES>                                            0
<NET-INCOME>                                    64,855
<EPS-BASIC>                                       1.34
<EPS-DILUTED>                                     1.33


</TABLE>


© 2022 IncJournal is not affiliated with or endorsed by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission