UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, DC 20549
FORM 10-KSB
[x] Annual Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange
Act of 1934 for the fiscal year ended September 24, 1998
[ ] Transition Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934
Commission File No. 0-24466
THE BARBERS, HAIRSTYLING FOR MEN & WOMEN, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
Minnesota 41-0945858
(State or other jurisdiction of (I.R.S. Employer
incorporation or organization) Identification No.)
300 INDUSTRIAL BOULEVARD NE
MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA 55413
(Address and zip code of principal executive offices)
612-331-8500
(Registrant's telephone number, including area code)
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Exchange Act: NONE
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Exchange Act:
COMMON STOCK, PAR VALUE $.10 PER SHARE
(Title of class)
Check whether the issuer: (1) filed all reports required to be filed by Section
13 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act 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 ___.
Check if no disclosure of delinquent filers in response to Item 405 of
Regulation S-B is contained in this form, and no disclosure will 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-KSB or any
amendment to this Form 10-KSB. [X]
The issuer's revenues for the year ended September 24, 1998: $26,138,435
Aggregate market value of Common Stock held by non-affiliates
as of December 4, 1998: $11,411,120
Number of Shares of Common Stock outstanding as of the close
of business December 4, 1998: 3,983,268
DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
Portions of the Registrant's definitive Proxy Statement for Annual Meeting of
Shareholders to be held January 26, 1999, ("Proxy Statement") to be filed with
the Commission, are incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-KSB.
Transitional Small Business Disclosure Format- Yes ___ No _X_.
<PAGE>
PART I
ITEM 1. DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS.
A. BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT
GENERAL. The Barbers, Hairstyling for Men & Women, Inc. (the "Company")
develops, franchises, services and operates a system of hair care salon concepts
which provide hair care services and products for men, women and children. The
Company also owns and operates 30 salons in the United States. The Company
implements its retail concepts through nationwide franchise systems that the
Company supports with a comprehensive package of centralized services. The
Company primarily earns revenue through its franchise operations from franchise
initial fees, franchise royalties and sales of beauty products, salon equipment
and consumer appliances.
The Company markets three different hair care salon concepts that
target a broad spectrum of the hair care market. Most franchises do business
under the names "Cost Cutters Family Hair Care(R)" ("Cost Cutters"), "City Looks
Salons International(R)" ("City Looks"), or "We Care Hair(R)" ("We Care Hair").
The Company also has a limited number of franchises operating under the names
"The Barbers(R)" ("The Barbers"), "The Barbers, Hairstyling for Men & Women(R)",
"The Hair Performers(R)" and "Family Haircut Stores(R)". The Company currently
sells only franchises in the Cost Cutters, City Looks, and We Care Hair
concepts.
Each franchise concept is specifically tailored to satisfy a particular
market niche. Cost Cutters franchises provide value-priced hair care services
targeted to price sensitive customers. City Looks franchises provide full
service, high-fashion hair care as well as various personal grooming and spa
services, including facials, manicures, massages and tanning facilities. City
Looks franchises target customers who place a premium on full service. We Care
Hair franchises provide hair care services, tanning, nail care and waxing
services targeted at adults aged 18 to 40.
The Company had a total of 969 franchised and company-owned salons in
operation as of September 24, 1998, compared to 935 franchised and company-owned
salons in operation at September 25, 1997.
The Company's principal executive offices are located at 300 Industrial
Boulevard Northeast, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55413. Its telephone number is (612)
331-8500.
HISTORY. The Company was incorporated under the laws of Minnesota on
October 1, 1968. It quickly established a chain of company-owned, full service
hairstyling businesses throughout the United States under the name "The Barbers,
Hairstyling for Men". In 1970, the Company began selling franchises for the
operation of hairstyling businesses doing business under the names "The Barbers"
and "The Barbers, Hairstyling for Men & Women". Recognizing the need to update
the market focus and decor of the salons, in 1987 the Company began selling
franchises for the operation of hairstyling businesses under the name "City
Looks(R) By The Barbers" and the Company began to convert the existing "The
Barbers" locations to this business format. This trade name was revised to "City
Looks(R) Salons" in 1991 and to "City Looks Salons International(R)" in 1993,
although some salons continue to operate under the older names.
The Company began selling franchises for the operation of hairstyling
businesses doing business under the name "Cost Cutters Family Hair Care(R)" in
1982. In 1986, the Company decided to focus principally on doing business as a
franchisor and reduced its number of company-owned stores in the United States
from 69 in 1986 to 3 in 1994. Since then, the Company has capitalized on the
opportunity of developing the Cost Cutters chain within major mass
merchandisers. As part of this business strategy, the Company has built over 30
new company-owned stores since 1995. Most of these new stores are located within
Wal-Mart Supercenters.
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On January 25, 1997, the Company, through its subsidiary WCH, Inc.,
acquired substantially all of the franchise assets (trademarks, franchise
agreements and certain other assets) of 139 "We Care Hair(R)" salons from We
Care Hair Development, Inc. in exchange for $2,000,000 cash plus a contingent
earn-out equal to 40% of all initial franchise fees and royalties collected
pursuant to certain specified franchise contracts during the six year period
ending January 24, 2003. Under the terms of the acquisition agreement, the
Company may deduct the purchase price of specific franchise contracts from
future payments if the salons close within one year of the acquisition date. As
of January 24, 1998, 19 franchises valued at $646,724 had either closed or taken
down their signs. The Company is presently in litigation with several of these
franchisees. See Item 3. Legal Proceedings. The Company began offering We Care
Hair franchises in June 1997.
The Company currently offers for sale three different franchise
businesses, operates 30 company-owned salons in the United States and sells
beauty products, salon equipment and consumer appliances.
B. BUSINESS
RETAIL STORE OPERATIONS. The Company provides franchise services,
including initial and ongoing operational training, financial analysis services,
advertising and marketing services, and sells beauty products, salon equipment
and consumer appliances to a total of 969 salons worldwide (as of September 24,
1998). In the revenue figures set forth below, "system revenue" refers to
revenue received at the store level from retail sales of products and services
at all locations, whether franchised or company-owned, of a particular franchise
type (i.e., Cost Cutters, City Looks, or We Care Hair). Company revenue refers
to all sales of products and services by the Company directly, including, but
not limited to, franchise fees and royalties, beauty products and equipment as
well as revenue generated by the operation of the company-owned salons. Salons
operating under The Barbers and The Hair Performers names are few in number and
are combined for financial reporting purposes with the City Looks franchise
system. The salon operating under the name Family Haircut Store is combined for
financial reporting purposes with the Cost Cutters franchise system.
COST CUTTERS FAMILY HAIR CARE. Cost Cutters franchises provide
value-priced hair care services for men, women and children. In addition, Cost
Cutters franchises sell a complete line of hair care products, merchandise and
appliances. The Company created the Cost Cutters business system to meet the
demand of the general public for high quality, value-priced family hair care
services and products. For the fiscal year ended September 26, 1996, the Company
had 713 franchised and company-owned Cost Cutters producing $138,100,000 in
system revenue and $5,535,000 in royalties paid to the Company. For the fiscal
year ended September 25, 1997, the Company had 765 franchised and company-owned
Cost Cutters producing $153,500,000 in system revenue and $6,126,000 in
royalties paid to the Company. At the fiscal year ended September 24, 1998, the
Company had 823 franchised and company-owned Cost Cutters salons producing
$175,606,000 in system revenue and $7,052,000 in royalties paid to the Company.
Cost Cutters franchises operate throughout the United States.
CITY LOOKS SALONS INTERNATIONAL. City Looks franchises provide men,
women and children with high-fashion, full service hair care including, cutting,
perming, coloring, shampooing, conditioning, hairstyling, and other hair care
services. City Looks franchises also provide spa services and personal grooming
services such as nail care, manicures, makeovers and sell related products. The
Company developed the City Looks business system to meet the demand of the
general public for a complete line of high-fashion hair care services and
products. For the year ended September 26, 1996, the Company had 73 franchised
and company-owned City Looks salons producing $18,800,000 in system revenue and
$500,000 in royalties paid to the Company. For the year ended September 25,
1997, the Company had 66 franchised and company-owned City Looks salons
producing $20,800,000 in system revenue and $483,000 in royalties paid to the
Company. At fiscal year ended September 24, 1998, the Company had 75 franchised
and company-owned City Looks salons producing $23,064,000 in system revenue and
$516,000 in royalties paid to the Company. City Looks franchises operate
primarily in the Midwest. City Looks also has 25 locations in France and two
locations in Russia.
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WE CARE HAIR. We Care Hair franchises target men and women between the
ages of 18 and 40 with hair care services, tanning, nail care, and waxing
services. We Care Hair franchises also sell hair care and nail care products.
The Company purchased the business system during fiscal 1997. At fiscal year
ended September 25, 1997, the Company had 104 We Care Hair franchises producing
$10,444,000 in system revenue and $605,000 in royalties paid to the Company. At
fiscal year ended September 24, 1998, the Company had 71 franchised We Care Hair
salons producing $12,759,000 in system revenue and $829,000 in royalties paid to
the Company. We Care Hair franchises operate throughout the United States and
two locations operate in Mexico.
COMPANY-OWNED SALONS. The Company owned and operated 29 Cost Cutters
and one City Looks salons as of September 25, 1998. All of these salons are
located in the United States. The company-owned salons produced $2,940,000 of
revenue in fiscal 1996 with 22 salons, $4,611,000 of revenue in fiscal 1997 with
23 salons and $6,073,000 of revenue in fiscal 1998 with 30 salons. During fiscal
1998, the Company opened 13 company-owned salons and sold six company-owned
salons. While recognizing that the Company is fundamentally a franchising
company, the Company intends to selectively expand its base of company-owned
salons, primarily in Wal-Mart Supercenters and other product outlet locations.
BEAUTY PRODUCT AND EQUIPMENT DISTRIBUTION. The Company distributes
beauty products, salon equipment and consumer appliances primarily to its
franchisees. The beauty products, which include shampoos, conditioners and
finishing products, consist of private label and nationally recognized licensed
brands, both of which the Company purchases from third party suppliers. The
Company does not own or operate any product manufacturing or labeling
operations. Private label products are available under the names of Cost Cutters
Family Hair Care(R), City Looks Salons International(R) and The Barbers(R) and
are designed to be sold by the franchise bearing that particular product's name.
The ingredients of the Company's private label products are widely available
from a number of suppliers, and thus, the Company is not dependent upon any one
supplier. The licensed brands available from the Company include Paul
Mitchell(R), Sebastian(R), KMS(R), Back to Basics(R), American Crew(R), and
Joico(R). Due to the great diversity of licensed products currently offered to
franchisees through the Company, the Company is not dependent upon any one
brand, and continually reviews and adds to its licensed brand product lines. The
Paul Mitchell brand is the largest selling brand, making up 33% of the Company's
beauty product sales volume. Private label products are about 16% of the
Company's beauty products sales volume. The franchisees are required to maintain
a minimum inventory of private label products. Although the franchisees are not
required to purchase any national brand product from the Company, the
franchisees may enjoy significant discounts as a result of the Company's
purchasing power. The Company carries $2,000,000 of product liability insurance
with an additional $20,000,000 provided as excess coverage.
The Company has implemented the "Designer Salon Program" for its
franchise systems. The purpose of the Designer Salon Program is to encourage
franchisees to purchase beauty products through the Company. Each salon that
participates in the Designer Salon Program is eligible for additional training,
special merchandising kits, and product rebates. The Company also rewards
franchisees for their loyalty based on each franchisee's historical purchases of
beauty products from the Company in relation to the franchisees retail sales of
merchandise. If the franchisee exceeds a minimum goal, the franchisee receives a
rebate on purchases which is paid in shares of the Company's Common Stock based
on the fair market value of the stock at the fiscal year-end. The Company issued
9,372 shares in fiscal 1997 and 11,741 shares in fiscal 1998 under this program.
The Company will issue approximately 15,000 shares in fiscal 1999 based on the
franchisees' fiscal 1998 purchases.
The Company also sells salon equipment and consumer appliances to
franchisees. Salon equipment available for purchase from the Company includes
everything necessary to equip a franchise store, such as chairs, work stations,
shampoo bowls, store displays and point of sale material. In addition to
franchise store equipment, the Company provides consumer appliances such as blow
dryers, styling combs and curling irons. The consumer appliances are sold to
franchisees, who in turn sell them to their retail customers.
<PAGE>
Total revenue from beauty products, salon equipment and consumer
appliances was $8,019,000 in fiscal 1996, $8,885,000 in fiscal 1997, and
$10,193,000 in fiscal 1998.
FRANCHISING OVERVIEW. Franchising is a method of distributing goods and
services which has experienced rapid growth in recent years. The franchisor
typically develops the business concept and operations systems for the
franchised business. Franchisees are granted rights to use the franchisor's
service marks and must operate their businesses in accordance with the systems,
specifications, standards and formats developed by the franchisor. Virtually all
types of retail businesses are currently franchised, including clothing,
computers and electronics, sporting goods and various specialty retail
businesses.
Pursuant to their franchise agreement with the Company, each franchisee
pays an initial fee and ongoing royalty and advertising fees to the Company.
These fees vary depending upon the particular franchise and the age of the
franchise agreement, but are generally as follows: initial fees for the first
franchise location are currently $19,500 for Cost Cutters, City Looks and We
Care Hair franchises; initial fees for each additional franchise location are
$12,500. Royalty fees are generally four to six percent of gross revenues for
Cost Cutters franchises; two to four percent of gross revenues for City Looks
franchises; and six to eight percent of gross revenues for We Care Hair
franchises. Advertising fees are generally four to six percent of gross revenues
for Cost Cutters franchises; three to five percent of gross revenues for City
Looks franchises; and four percent of gross revenues for We Care Hair
franchises.
The continued growth of the Company is, in part, dependent upon its
ability to retain qualified franchisees and to attract new franchisees. Although
the Company has established criteria to evaluate prospective franchisees, there
can be no assurance that the Company's existing or future franchisees will have
the business abilities or access to financial resources necessary to open new
locations or that they will successfully develop and operate these salons in a
manner consistent with the Company's standards. The Company's largest franchisee
owns 61 salons, and seven other franchisees each own more than 20 salons.
Together, these eight franchisees own an aggregate total of 272 salons,
representing approximately 29% of the total number of franchised salons.
Although the Company presently has no reason to believe that it will occur, if
any one or more of these franchisee's business fails or declines substantially,
the Company's business, results of operations and financial conditions could be
materially adversely affected.
BUSINESS STRATEGY. The Company's business strategy is to develop
value-oriented retail salon concepts based on a mix of the value-priced hair
care market and the full service, high-fashion hair and body care market and to
implement these concepts through a nationwide franchise system that provides
comprehensive support services to its franchisees. The key elements of this
strategy include:
NICHE MARKET MERCHANDISING. The Company, promoting Cost Cutters, City
Looks, and We Care Hair franchises, reaches three distinct market
niches. Cost Cutters provides its customers with high quality services
at low, a la carte prices. Cost Cutters customers may choose from
numerous services and select one or any combination of them. City Looks
provides high-fashion, full service hair and body care and hair and
body products as well as personal grooming services such as nail care,
manicures, facials, massages, tanning facilities and make-overs to
customers who prefer full service hair and body care. We Care Hair
provides hair care services, tanning, nail care, and waxing services
and targets adults aged 18 to 40.
FRANCHISE SUPPORT. The Company provides, pursuant to each franchise
agreement, initial and ongoing operational training, advertising and
marketing services, and financial analysis services to all of its
franchises. The Company sells all salon equipment necessary to equip a
franchise store as well as supplying franchise stores with retail
consumer goods, such as beauty and hair care products and appliances.
NATIONAL AND LOCAL ADVERTISING. Pursuant to the franchise agreement,
each franchisee, depending upon the particular franchise and the age of
the franchise agreement, pays up to six percent of their gross sales
into an advertising fund managed by the Company. The Company uses a
portion of the
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fund to provide market research, production materials, ad slicks,
brochures, radio and television commercials to all franchisees. The
balance of the fund is used for advertising and promotion development
for franchisees. In addition, each franchisee is also required to spend
one percent of its gross sales on local advertising.
CONVENIENT LOCATIONS. The Company's franchises are typically located in
grocery anchored strip shopping centers, regional malls, power shopping
centers (shopping centers which include one grocery store and one major
softgoods store) and inside of major mass merchandisers. The Company
has also opened some salons in "outlet malls" and intends to pursue
further opportunities as other outlet malls sites become available.
This location strategy insures that each franchise will be easily
accessible by a large number of potential customers.
EXPANSION TO NEW MARKETS. The Company intends to expand and build upon
its existing markets in an effort to increase its market share in those
areas. The Company is also committed to introducing its franchise
concepts into new markets. Expansion may come from the granting of
franchises in geographic areas where the Company currently has only a
limited number of salons, the continued development of salons inside
Wal-Mart Supercenters, or acquisitions of suitable candidates.
COMPETITION. The hair care business is highly competitive and
fragmented, with limited barriers to entry. The Company's franchised and
company-owned salons compete with traditional, independent hair care stores,
regional and national chains, regional and national franchises and various other
businesses which offer spa services similar to that of the Company's franchises.
The principal bases of competition in the hair care industry are price,
convenience, quality and name recognition. The Company believes that it competes
favorably in these areas.
EMPLOYEES. As of September 24, 1998, the Company employed 326 people.
The Company employed 96 full-time employees and one part-time employee at its
corporate headquarters. The Company employed 201 full-time and 28 part-time
employees at its company-owned salons. The Company considers its employee
relations to be good. None of the Company's employees are covered under a
collective bargaining agreement.
GOVERNMENTAL REGULATIONS. The Company is subject to various federal,
state and local laws affecting its business as well as a variety of regulatory
provisions relating to zoning of store sites, sanitation, health and safety of
its company-owned salons. The Company must also satisfy various federal and
state franchise laws and regulations. The Company has registered its offering of
franchises with the regulatory authorities of those states in which it offers
franchises and in which such registration is required. Although the Company
believes it is currently in material compliance with existing federal and state
laws, there is a trend toward increased government regulation of franchising.
Twenty states and the Federal Trade Commission impose pre-sale
franchise registration or some level of disclosure or filing requirements on
franchisors. In addition, a number of states and the District of Columbia have
statutes that regulate substantive aspects of the franchisor-franchisee
relationship such as termination, nonrenewal, transfer, discrimination and
competition.
Additional legislation is currently pending both at the federal and
state levels which could expand pre-sale disclosure requirements, further
regulate substantive aspects of the franchise relationship, and impose
additional filing requirements on franchisors. The Company cannot predict the
effect of future franchise legislation, but does not believe that legislation
currently under consideration will have a material adverse impact on its
operations.
FRANCHISE LOCATIONS AND DEVELOPMENT. As of September 24, 1998, there
were 823 franchised and company-owned Cost Cutters and Family Haircut Store
locations in operation, 75 franchised and company-owned City Looks, The Barbers
and Hair Performers locations in operation, and 71 franchised We Care Hair
locations in operation. Franchised and company-owned salons operate in diverse
locations throughout the United States; in addition, 25 salons operate in
France, two salons operate in Russia and two salons operate in Mexico.
<PAGE>
The Company's North American growth strategy focuses on development
from existing franchisees. Existing franchisees opened 72 of the 73 new
franchised salons opened during fiscal 1998. The Company also signed development
agreements with seven new franchisees in fiscal 1998. The Company expects to
open a total of approximately 90 new locations in the United States during
fiscal 1999, of which roughly 40 to 50 will be in Wal-Mart Supercenters. The
Company's international growth strategy relies primarily on contractual
relationships with master franchisees. The Company opened 11 salons in France
and one salon in Russia during fiscal 1998. The Company expects to open at least
four new salons in France during fiscal 1999.
TRADEMARKS AND SERVICE MARKS. The Company holds numerous trademarks and
service marks registered on the principal register of the United States Patent
and Trademark Office and registered in several foreign countries. The Company
believes that its trademarks and service marks have significant value and are
important to the marketing of its franchises. There are no agreements currently
in effect which significantly limit the rights of the Company to use or license
the use of its trademarks, service marks, trade names, logotypes or other
commercial symbols in any manner material to the Company. The Company has
expended considerable resources to protect its franchise identity.
ITEM 2. DESCRIPTION OF PROPERTY.
PROPERTIES. The Company does not own any real estate. The Company
creates revenue from franchise related activities and does not anticipate
directing its resources toward investment in real estate nor in equity interests
in those entities which primarily invest in real estate.
The Company's interest in real estate is limited to the lease of its
corporate headquarters, the lease of commercial property for its company-owned
salons and the lease of commercial properties subleased to franchisees.
The Company leases two properties, its corporate headquarters and a
parking lot, from the Francis Family Limited Partnership. Florence F. Francis,
Chairman of the Board of Directors for the Company, Susan Goldstein, a member of
the Company's Board of Directors, and John W. Francis, an officer of the Company
are limited partners in the Francis Family Limited Partnership. See Notes 8 and
9 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, Part II, Item 7:
LEASE OF THE COMPANY HEADQUARTERS. The Company leases approximately
65,400 square feet for its corporate headquarters. The lease expires on
October 31, 2002. The rental payments for the corporate headquarters
were $412,000 in fiscal 1996, $423,000 in fiscal 1997, and $394,000 in
fiscal 1998. The current corporate headquarters space is sufficient to
meet the Company's office space needs for the next few years. The
Company subleases 29,100 square feet of its corporate headquarters
office space to a third party. As a result, the Company earned rental
income of $101,000 in fiscal 1996, $109,000 in fiscal 1997, and
$114,000 in fiscal 1998. The sublease expires in December 2000.
LEASE OF THE COMPANY PARKING LOT. The Company also leases its parking
lot from the Francis Family Limited Partnership. The lease expires
September 30, 2002. Rental payments were $13,800 in each of the fiscal
years 1996 and 1997 and $18,000 in fiscal 1998.
The Company relocated its warehouse operations to a new 18,500 square
foot location during fiscal 1998. The lease on this location expires October 31,
2002. Rent on this location was $64,000 in fiscal 1998.
The Company leases commercial property for its 30 company-owned stores.
The Company paid $396,381 for 21,344 square feet in fiscal 1996, $665,199 for
27,551 square feet in fiscal 1997 and $817,421 for 29840 square feet in fiscal
1998. The leases expire at various times between 1998 and
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2003. Most of these leases are renewable for an additional term of five years.
See Note 9 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, Part II, item 7.
The Company also leases commercial property for 149 retail stores,
which it subleases to franchisees. The Company is the primary obligor or
guarantor on leases for these salons. In addition, the Company leases commercial
property for 97 retail stores through its wholly-owned subsidiary, We Care Hair
Realty, Inc., which in turn are subleased to We Care Hair franchisees. We Care
Hair Realty, Inc. is the primary obligor or guarantor on leases for these
salons. Generally, the franchisee personally guarantees the sublease to the
Company or We Care Hair Realty, Inc. The Company subleases the space to the
franchisees with substantially the same terms as the primary lease. However, on
approximately 60% of these subleases, the Company receives an additional charge
from the franchisee over and above the amount of rent paid to the landlord. The
Company or its subsidiary is liable for the rent payments on these locations,
even if a franchisee defaults on the payment of rent. The Company expects that
it will be able to renew its leases on satisfactory terms as they expire. See
Note 9 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, Part II, item 7.
Total facility lease obligations for the Company and its subsidiary,
including properties subleased to franchisees for which the Company or its
subsidiary is liable if the franchisee defaults, for fiscal years ending
September 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, and 2003 are approximately $5,806,000;
$4,947,000; $3,545,000; $2,344,000; and $536,000 respectively.
ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS.
Other than as set forth below, the Company is not currently a party to
any material pending legal proceedings. From time to time the Company may become
involved in routine litigation incidental to its business.
LELA BISHOP, ET AL. V. DOCTOR'S ASSOCIATES, INC., FREDERICK DELUCA,
PETER H. BUCK, FRANCHISE WORLD HEADQUARTERS, INC., WE CARE HAIR
DEVELOPMENT, INC., JOHN AMICO, SR., FRED FLORIO, THE BARBERS,
HAIRSTYLING FOR MEN & WOMEN, INC., WE CARE HAIR REALTY, INC., FRANCHISE
REAL ESTATE LEASING CORP., JOHN F. AMICO & COMPANY, WCH, INC. AND JAMI
INTERNATIONAL, INC. (Circuit Court, Third Judicial Circuit, Madison
County, Illinois, Cause No. 97-L-231, filed February 4, 1997).
Approximately 58 present or former We Care Hair(R) franchisees have
joined in this lawsuit and requested certification of the lawsuit as a
class action pursuant to 735 ILCS Section 5/2-801 et seq. on behalf of
all past and present We Care Hair(R) franchisees. This lawsuit has been
brought against the above defendants for alleged breaches of fiduciary
duty. The plaintiffs further allege that We Care Hair Development, Inc.
and all other defendants in this lawsuit have violated the Illinois
Anti-trust Statute, 740 ILCS Section 10/3 (2) or (3), by requiring We
Care Hair(R) franchisees to purchase alleged unusable hair care
products. The plaintiffs further allege that We Care Development, Inc.
and all other defendants in this lawsuit have violated the Illinois
Franchise Disclosure Act by using a standard franchise agreement for We
Care Hair(R) franchises that violated the anti-waiver provisions of 815
ILCS Section 705/41, and by engaging in fraudulent practices and
selling franchises at certain times during which We Care Development,
Inc.'s registration with the Illinois Attorney General's Office had
lapsed. The Company and its subsidiary, WCH, Inc., have been named as
defendants in this lawsuit under the theory that they acted with all
other defendants pursuant to a civil conspiracy and/or mutual scheme
with concerted action for the purpose of constructively terminating the
We Care Hair(R) franchises throughout the country by convincing We Care
Hair(R) franchisees to execute new franchise agreements with the
Company to operate as Cost Cutters franchisees and decrease and/or
eliminate all services and advertising for the remaining We Care
Hair(R) franchisees in violation of the Illinois Franchise Disclosure
Act. We Care Hair Realty, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of WCH, Inc.,
has been named as a defendant in this lawsuit under the theory that it
also participated in the conspiracy or scheme by attempting to transfer
the We Care Hair(R) subleases to the Company and WCH, Inc. The
plaintiffs seek to recover an award of actual damages,
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punitive damages, treble damages and attorneys fees in an amount not to
exceed, in the aggregate, under all counts of the complaint, against
all defendants, the sum of $74,950 for each franchisee, and for court
costs.
This case is in the early pretrial stage. The Company, WCH, Inc. and We Care
Hair Realty, Inc. have initiated an action in Illinois Federal District Court
seeking to compel arbitration of the claims of the plaintiffs and are awaiting
the Court's decision on their pending motion to compel arbitration. The
co-defendants have initiated a separate action in Illinois Federal District
Court also seeking to compel arbitration of the claims of the plaintiffs. By
order dated September 25, 1997, the Federal District Court, in the
co-defendants' action, compelled all non-Illinois plaintiffs to arbitrate their
disputes with the co-defendants, and enjoined all non-Illinois plaintiffs from
continuing the lawsuit against all defendants, including the Company, WCH, Inc.
and We Care Hair Realty, Inc. The plaintiffs have appealed this ruling. In
addition, on March 9, 1998, the Appellate Court of Illinois - Fifth District
ordered the State Court proceeding to be transferred to the Circuit Court of
Cook County, Illinois.
ITEM 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS
No matter was submitted to a vote of the security-holders during the
fourth quarter of the fiscal year covered by this report.
PART II
ITEM 5. MARKET FOR THE COMMON STOCK EQUITY AND RELATED STOCKHOLDERS MATTERS.
MARKET INFORMATION. The Common Stock of the company is listed on The
Nasdaq National Market(R) and traded under the symbol BBHF. As of December 4,
1998, there were 3,983,268 outstanding shares with 661 shareholders of record.
Based upon quotes obtained from Nasdaq (which reflect inter-dealer prices,
without retail mark-up, mark-down, or commissions and may not represent actual
transactions), the following table sets forth for the periods indicated the high
and low bid prices for the Company's Common Stock, prior year prices have been
adjusted to reflect the 3-for-2 stock splits which were effective October 31,
1996 and April 17, 1998:
High Low
---- ---
Fiscal Year Ended September 25, 1997
First Quarter $ 5.33 $ 3.50
Second Quarter $ 5.50 $ 4.33
Third Quarter $ 6.00 $ 4.33
FourthQuarter $ 5.75 $ 4.59
Fiscal Year Ended September 24, 1998
First Quarter $ 6.33 $ 4.17
Second Quarter $ 9.00 $ 5.17
Third Quarter $ 11.00 $ 7.17
FourthQuarter $ 10.00 $ 6.13
SALES OF UNREGISTERED SECURITIES. In December, 1997, the Company issued
3,825 shares of unregistered common stock to its outside directors for
compensation for their services. Also in December 1997, the Company issued 45
shares of unregistered common stock to its "employee of the year". The Company
issued these securities pursuant to section 4(2) of the Securities Act of 1933.
<PAGE>
DIVIDENDS. The Company does not pay cash dividends on its Common Stock.
The Company is prohibited from paying cash dividends under its loan agreement
with Norwest Bank.
ITEM 6. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OR PLAN OF OPERATION.
GENERAL. The Company is engaged in the business of franchising three
different hair care salon concepts which provide hair care services and products
for men, women, and children. Most franchises do business under the names "Cost
Cutters Family Hair Care(R)" ("Cost Cutters"), "City Looks Salons
International(R)" ("City Looks"), and "We Care Hair(R)" ("We Care Hair"),
although the Company also has a limited number of franchises operating under the
names "The Barbers, Hairstyling for Men & Women(R)", "The Hair Performers(R)"
and "Family Haircut Stores(R)". The Company currently only sells franchises in
Cost Cutters, City Looks and We Care Hair. Each franchise is specifically
tailored to satisfy a particular market niche. Cost Cutters franchises provide
value-priced hair care services to their customers. Cost Cutters franchises
target price sensitive customers. City Looks franchises provide full service,
high-fashion hair care to their customers as well as various personal grooming
and spa services, including facials, manicures, massages, and tanning
facilities. City Looks franchises target customers who place a premium on full
service. We Care Hair franchises provide hair care services, tanning, nail care,
and waxing targeted at adults aged 18 to 40.
The Company had a total of 969 salons as of September 24, 1998. This
consisted of 939 franchised locations and 30 company-owned locations. The
Company primarily earns revenue through its franchise operations from franchise
initial fees, franchise royalties, and sales of beauty products and equipment to
the franchisees.
The Company uses a 52-53 week reporting period. The years ended
September 24, 1998, September 25, 1997, and September 26, 1996, each included 52
weeks of operations.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS. The following table sets forth the percentage
relationship to total revenues of certain items included in the Company's
Consolidated Statements of Income:
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
September 24, September 25, September 26,
Year ended 1998 1997 1996
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
REVENUES:
Franchise royalties 32.1% 32.6% 32.5%
Franchise fees 3.3% 4.2% 6.4%
Company-owned salons 23.2% 20.8% 15.8%
Beauty products & equipment 39.0% 40.2% 43.2%
Other 2.4% 2.2% 2.1%
----------------------------------------------------
Total revenues 100.0% 100.0% 100.0%
COSTS AND EXPENSES:
Franchise operations 12.7% 13.8% 14.7%
Company-owned salons 22.8% 20.1% 16.8%
Distribution & general administration 53.5% 55.3% 59.5%
----------------------------------------------------
OPERATING INCOME 11.0% 10.8% 9.0%
OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE):
Interest income 1.0% 0.8% 0.7%
Interest expense -0.8% -0.6% -0.2%
Net gain (loss) on disposal of assets 0.5% 0.0% 0.3%
----------------------------------------------------
NET INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAXES 11.7% 11.0% 9.8%
INCOME TAXES 4.8% 4.6% 4.1%
----------------------------------------------------
NET INCOME 6.9% 6.4% 5.7%
====================================================
</TABLE>
YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 24, 1998 COMPARED TO YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 25, 1997:
SYSTEM-WIDE REVENUES. System-wide revenues of all salons, franchised and
company-owned, were $211.4 million for fiscal 1998, an increase of $26.6 million
or 14.4% over fiscal 1997. This increase was attributable to the addition of new
stores, new promotional programs and service price increases. During fiscal year
1998, the Company opened 81 new salons, including 13 company-owned locations in
North America. The Company also opened 13 in foreign markets. This compares to a
total of 75 new salon openings in fiscal 1997. System-wide there were 969 salons
as of September 24, 1998 versus 935 salons as of the end of the prior year.
REVENUES. The Company's total revenues were $26,138,485 for fiscal 1998, an
increase of $4,016,685 or 18.2% over fiscal 1997. Franchise royalties increased
$1,183,197, or 16.4% which was due to new salon openings, increases in same
store sales, and reflects a full year of royalties from the We Care Hair salon
chain versus eight months of royalty revenue in fiscal 1997. Franchise fees
decreased by $75,938, or 8.2%, due to incentives offered to large multi-store
developments and a decrease in the number of salons opened by first time
franchisees. Revenue from company-owned salons increased $1,462,035, or 31.7%
due to the maturing of salons built in the previous years and the net addition
of seven new company-owned salons during fiscal 1998. Revenue from beauty
products and equipment increased $1,307,407 or 14.7% from fiscal 1997. The
increases in beauty products and equipment revenue were attributable to the
addition of new salons and volume increases in sales to existing salons.
COSTS AND EXPENSES - FRANCHISE OPERATIONS. Total expenses of franchise
operations were $3,325,619, an increase of $266,783, or 8.7% over fiscal 1997.
Salaries and benefits for fiscal 1998 were $2,199,236, an increase of $223,191
or 11.3% over fiscal 1997. This increase was due to the growth in
<PAGE>
field staff to service the new salons and general salary increases. General and
administrative expenses for fiscal 1998 were $1,126,383, an increase of $43,592
or 4.0% over fiscal 1997.
COSTS AND EXPENSES - COMPANY-OWNED SALONS. The Company owned and operated 30
salons as of the end of fiscal 1998. Six of these salons are located in product
outlet centers and 23 are located in Wal-Mart Supercenters. The Company opened
eight new salons, purchased five franchised salons and sold six salons to
franchisees during fiscal 1998. The total cost of operations for the
company-owned salons in fiscal 1998 was $5,949,989, an increase of $1,502,609,
or 33.8%. Salaries and benefits for fiscal 1998 were $3,220,159, an increase of
$752,986, or 30.5% from fiscal 1997. Most salon employees are paid on a
commission basis against the services they perform and the retail products they
sell. The increase in salaries and benefits in fiscal 1998 reflects the increase
in the number of salons owned as well as sales increases at the salons built in
prior years. General and administrative expenses in fiscal 1998 were $1,559,685,
an increase of $337,640 or 27.6% from fiscal 1997. This was due to the increase
in the number of salons owned and annualization of the operating costs of salons
built in the previous year. Costs of products sold in fiscal 1998 were
$1,170,145, an increase of $411,983, or 54.3% over fiscal 1997.
COSTS AND EXPENSES - DISTRIBUTION AND GENERAL ADMINISTRATION. The total
operating expenses for distribution and general administration for fiscal 1998
were $13,974,624, an increase of $1,751,563, or 14.3% from fiscal 1997. The cost
of products and equipment sold was $7,801,958 in fiscal 1998. This was an
increase of $1,074,597, or 16.0% from fiscal 1997. Gross margins on the sale of
products and equipment were 23.5% in fiscal 1998 compared to 24.3% in fiscal
1997. The change in margins was due primarily to changes in the mix of products
sold. Salaries and benefits were $3,473,048, an increase of $446,909, or 14.8%
versus fiscal 1997. This increase was due to the addition of staff in
distribution; staff additions in administrative departments to handle the
increases in workload created by the expansion of Company-owned salons;
increases in incentive compensation for employees and general salary increases.
General and administrative expenses for fiscal 1998 were $2,699,618, an increase
of $230,057, or 9.3% versus fiscal 1997. Increases in general and administrative
expenses were due to primarily legal and professional fees associated with the
newly acquired We Care Hair salons and costs to relocate the Company's
warehouse.
OPERATING INCOME. Operating income for fiscal 1998 was $2,888,253, a 20.7%
increase over fiscal 1997. Operating income as a percent of sales was 11.0% for
fiscal 1998 as compared to 10.8% for fiscal 1997.
INTEREST INCOME AND EXPENSE. Interest income increased $70,629, or 38.2% over
fiscal 1997 due to increases in notes receivable from franchisees and increases
in daily cash investment balances. Interest expense for fiscal 1998 was
$207,354, an increase of $56,220 versus fiscal 1997. The large increase in
interest expense was due to loans taken by the Company to purchase the We Care
Hair salon chain.
NET GAIN ON DISPOSAL OF ASSETS. The Company recorded a gain on disposal of
assets in fiscal 1998 of $116,866, which compares to a loss in the previous year
of $1,831. The gains recorded in fiscal 1998 were due to the sale of six
company-owned salons, and miscellaneous assets. The loss recorded in fiscal 1997
was due to the sale of five company-owned salons and miscellaneous assets.
INCOME TAXES. The Company's effective income tax rate for fiscal 1998 was 40.9%,
this compares to 42.0% for the previous year.
NET INCOME. The Company's net income for fiscal 1998 was $1,803,249, or $.42 per
diluted share. This is an increase of $396,836 or 28.2% over fiscal 1997 net
income and an increase per diluted share of $.09. Earnings per share have been
adjusted to reflect the 3-for-2 stock split which was issued April 17, 1998.
<PAGE>
YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 25, 1997 COMPARED TO YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 26, 1996:
SYSTEM-WIDE REVENUES. System-wide revenues of all salons, franchised and
company-owned, were $184.8 million for fiscal 1997, an increase of $27.9 million
or 17.8% over fiscal 1996. This increase was attributable to the addition of new
stores, notably the We Care Hair salons which contributed $10.5 million. New
promotional programs and service price increases also favorably impacted the
increase in revenue. During fiscal year 1997, the Company opened 75 new salons,
including six company-owned locations. This compares to 115 new salon openings
in fiscal 1996. System-wide there were 935 salons as of September 25, 1997; this
compares to 786 salons as of the end of the prior year.
REVENUES. The Company's total revenues were $22,121,800 for fiscal 1997, an
increase of $3,556,049 or 19.2% over fiscal 1996. Franchise royalties increased
$1,178,873, or 19.5% which was due to new salon openings, increases in same
store sales, and the addition of the We Care Hair salon chain. Franchise fees
decreased by $253,221, or 21.4%, due to the decrease in the number of new salons
opened in fiscal 1997 versus fiscal 1996. Revenue from company-owned salons
increased $1,670,897, or 56.8% due to the maturing of salons built in the
previous years and the net addition of one new company-owned salon during fiscal
1997. Revenue from beauty products and equipment increased $866,418 or 10.8%
from fiscal 1996. The increases in beauty products and equipment revenue were
attributable to the addition of new salons and volume increases in sales to
existing salons.
COSTS AND EXPENSES - FRANCHISE OPERATIONS. Total expenses of franchise
operations were $3,058,836, an increase of $333,648, or 12.2% over fiscal 1996.
Salaries and benefits for fiscal 1997 were $1,976,045, an increase of $194,258
or 10.9% over fiscal 1996. This increase was due to the growth in field staff to
service the new salons and general salary increases which averaged about 4.0%.
General and administrative expenses for fiscal 1997 were $1,082,791, an increase
of $139,390 or 14.8% over fiscal 1996. More than half of these increases were
due to the addition of the We Care Hair franchises.
COSTS AND EXPENSES - COMPANY-OWNED SALONS. The Company owned and operated 23
salons as of the end of fiscal 1997, including six new salons opened during
fiscal 1997. Three of these new salons are located in product outlet centers and
three are located in Wal-Mart Supercenters. The Company also sold five salons
during fiscal 1997. The total cost of operations for the company-owned salons in
fiscal 1997 was $4,447,380, an increase of $1,322,639, or 42.3%. Salaries and
benefits for fiscal 1997 were $2,467,173, an increase of $764,224, or 44.9% from
fiscal 1996. Most salon employees are paid on a commission basis against the
services they perform and the retail products they sell. The increase in
salaries and benefits in fiscal 1997 reflects the increase in the number of
salons owned as well as sales increases at the salons built in prior years.
General and administrative expenses in fiscal 1997 were $1,222,045, an increase
of $290,411 or 31.2% from fiscal 1996. This was due to the increase in the
number of salons owned and annualization of the operating costs of salons built
in the previous year. Costs of products sold in fiscal 1997 were $758,162, an
increase of $268,004, or 54.7% over fiscal 1996.
COSTS AND EXPENSES - DISTRIBUTION AND GENERAL ADMINISTRATION. The total
operating expenses for distribution and general administration for fiscal 1997
were $12,223,061, an increase of $1,179,779, or 10.7% from fiscal 1996. The cost
of products and equipment sold was $6,727,361 in fiscal 1997. This was an
increase of $564,831, or 9.2% from fiscal 1996. Gross margins on the sale of
products and equipment were 24.3% in fiscal 1997 compared to 23.1% in fiscal
1996. Salaries and benefits were $3,026,139, an increase of $425,331, or 16.4%
versus fiscal 1996. This increase was due to the addition of staff in
distribution; staff additions in administrative departments to handle the
increases in workload created by the We Care Hair acquisition; increases in
incentive compensation for employees and general salary increases which averaged
4.0%. General and administrative expenses for fiscal 1997 were $2,469,561, an
increase of $189,617, or 8.3% versus fiscal 1996. Increases in general and
administrative expenses were primarily legal and professional fees associated
with the newly acquired We Care Hair salons and additions in the Company's bad
debt reserves.
<PAGE>
OPERATING INCOME. Operating income for fiscal 1997 was $2,392,523, a 43.0%
increase over fiscal 1996. Operating income as a percent of sales was 10.8% for
fiscal 1997 as compared to 9.0% for fiscal 1996.
INTEREST INCOME AND EXPENSE. Interest income increased $50,842, or 37.9% over
fiscal 1996 due to increases in notes receivable from franchisees and increases
in daily cash investment balances. Interest expense for fiscal 1997 was
$151,134, an increase of $111,766 versus fiscal 1996. The large increase in
interest expense was due to loans taken by the Company to purchase the We Care
Hair salon chain.
NET GAIN ON DISPOSAL OF ASSETS. The Company recorded a loss on disposal of
assets in fiscal 1997 of $1,831, which compares to a gain in the previous year
of $55,169. The loss recorded in fiscal 1997 was due to the sale of five
company-owned salons and miscellaneous assets. The gains recorded in fiscal 1996
were due to the sale of one company-owned salon, one piece of real estate, and
miscellaneous assets.
INCOME TAXES. The Company's effective income tax rate for fiscal 1997 and 1996
was 42.0%.
NET INCOME. The Company's net income for fiscal 1997 was $1,406,413, or $.33 per
diluted share. This is an increase of $349,059 or 33.0% over fiscal 1996 net
income and an increase per share of $.07. Earnings per share have been adjusted
to reflect the 3-for-2 stock split which was issued April 17, 1998 and the 3-for
2 stock split which was issued October 31, 1996.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
The Company has been able to generate adequate amounts of cash from
operations to support the routine expansion of the business. Cash generated from
operating activities, net of interest expense, totaled $2,097,230 and $1,745,265
in fiscal years 1998 and 1997, respectively. Cash used by operations in fiscal
1996 was $169,684. During fiscal 1996, the Company invested a portion of its
capital to fund accounts receivable and promissory notes to franchisees who were
developing new salons.
Capital expenditures were $1,040,657, $387,826, and $576,813 in fiscal
years 1998, 1997, and 1996, respectively. Capital expenditures during fiscal
1998 were primarily for equipment for the Company's new warehouse and new
company-owned salons. The Company will continue to expand its company-owned
salons operations as well as invest in new computer technology during the next
fiscal year. Capital expenditures for fiscal 1999 are anticipated to be about
$1,000,000 to $1,500,000.
The Company has a bank credit agreement that provides for a maximum
line of credit of $1,500,000. The line bears interest at the prime lending rate
(8.5% at September 24, 1998), expires June 30, 1999, is secured by accounts
receivable, inventories, general intangibles, and property and equipment, and
requires the Company to maintain certain financial ratios. There are no
compensating balance requirements. As of September 24, 1998, there are no
borrowings against this line of credit. Management believes that the lender will
renew this line of credit for another full year at generally the same terms.
During fiscal year 1997, the Company acquired the We Care Hair salon
chain. The Company paid $2,000,000 for the franchise agreements, trademarks, and
other assets. This purchase was funded by increases in bank debt. The Company
secured two bank loans totaling $2,500,000 to finance the purchase of the We
Care Hair salon chain and to fund additional working capital, such as inventory
and accounts receivable, necessary to support the new chain. The first loan was
in the amount of $1,500,000 and bears a fixed interest rate of 8.82% and is
payable over seven years and is secured by all assets of the Company. The
balance of this loan as of September 24, 1998 was $1,224,442. The second loan
was in the amount of $1,000,000 with a floating interest rate equal to the
bank's prime rate and was also payable over seven years. The Company repaid this
loan during fiscal 1998.
<PAGE>
Management believes that cash generated from operating activities,
together with available funds from its operating line of credit or replacement
financing will be sufficient to fund its anticipated operations, capital
expenditures and required debt repayments for the foreseeable future.
YEAR 2000
The Year 2000 issue focuses on whether computer systems will properly
recognize date-sensitive information in the Year 2000 and beyond. Many installed
computer systems and software products are coded to accept only two digit
entries in the date code field. As the Year 2000 approaches, these code fields
will need to accept four digit entries to distinguish years beginning with "19"
from those beginning with "20." This inability to recognize or properly treat
the Year 2000 may cause systems to process financial and operational information
incorrectly. As a result, in the next year, computer systems and/or software
products used by many companies may need to be upgraded to comply with such Year
2000 requirements. The Company is dependent on computer processing in its
business activities and the Year 2000 issue creates risk for the Company from
unforeseen problems in the Company's computer system and from third parties with
whom the Company does business. The failure of the Company's computer system
and/or third parities computer systems from unforeseen problems could have a
material adverse effect on the Company's ability to conduct its business.
The Company is in the process of conducting an assessment of its
computer hardware and software for Year 2000 compliance. The Company does not
have a scheduled completion date for this assessment, but it anticipates that
all necessary upgrades and corrections necessitated by the results of this
assessment will be completed before January 1, 2000. As part of this assessment,
the Company is also examining whether it needs to develop contingency plans
related to Year 2000 issues. The Company does not currently have any such
contingency plans. The Company believes that the results of this assessment will
indicate that the Company's primary computer system is Year 2000 compliant. The
Company also believes that the results of this assessment will require the
company to upgrade certain of its computer hardware and software to replace
obsolete equipment and to ensure that all such hardware and software is Year
2000 compliant. The Company anticipates that the aggregate costs of this upgrade
will be $500,000 to $1,000,000 and that such costs will be incurred during the
next two fiscal years. If the Company encounters any unanticipated delays in, or
costs associated with the upgrading or replacement of this system, or if this
assessment indicates that the Company's primary computer is not Year 2000
compliant, the Company may incur additional costs.
The Company has completed an assessment of its non-information
technology systems. As a result of this assessment, the Company is in the
process of replacing its phone system in order to insure that it is Year 2000
compliant. The estimated cost of this phone system replacement is $60,000. If
the Company encounters any unanticipated delays in, or costs associated with the
upgrading or replacement of this system, the Company may incur additional costs.
As part of its assessment of its computer hardware and software for
Year 2000 compliance, the Company has also contacted each of its vendors and
suppliers who provide computer hardware and software products to the Company on
a regular basis with regard to Year 2000 compliance. The Company has received
assurances from these vendors and suppliers that the hardware and software
currently being purchased by the Company from these vendors and suppliers is
Year 2000 compliant. The Company is in the process of developing procedures to
test hardware and software products previously purchased from these vendors and
suppliers to determine if those products are Year 2000 compliant. As an
additional part of this assessment, the Company intends to contact its
significant vendors and suppliers of products other than computer hardware and
software regarding their Year 2000 compliance. The failure to be Year 2000
compliant by any of the Company's significant vendors and suppliers could result
in an interruption in or a failure of, certain normal business activities or
operations of the Company. Such failures could materially and adversely affect
the Company's business, results of operations, and financial condition. Due to
the general uncertainty inherent in the Year 2000 problem, resulting from the
uncertainty of the Year 2000 readiness of the Company's significant vendors and
suppliers, the Company is unable to determine at this time whether the
consequences of Year 2000
<PAGE>
failures will have a material impact on the Company's business, results of
operations, or financial condition.
The Company is also working with its franchisees to assist them in
identifying Year 2000 issues. Although the Company's point of sale software is
Year 2000 compliant, the Company believes that many of its franchisee's hardware
systems are not Year 2000 compliant. The Company is in the process of developing
test procedures to assist its franchisees in testing their hardware systems for
Year 2000 compliance. The Company does not anticipate incurring significant
costs related to assisting its franchisees in this manner.
FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS
The Company anticipates opening 90 new Cost Cutters salons in fiscal
1999, including 20 company-owned salons. Approximately 40 to 50 of these salons
will be located within Wal-Mart Supercenters. Additionally, the Company expects
to open four franchised salons in France under the City Looks Salons
International name. The Company continues to seek and evaluate opportunities to
acquire other operating stores or franchise operations.
The preceding statement and any other statements in this annual report
not based on historical information constitute forward-looking statements that
are based on management's goals, estimates, assumptions and projections.
Important factors could cause results to differ materially from those expected
by management. Some of these factors are: 1) Increased competition from other
hair salon chains in the consumer marketplace could negatively impact sales
volume at both franchised and company-owned salons. This would reduce royalty
revenue from franchised locations and reduce company-owned salons' revenue and
profits. 2) Increased competition for sites for new salons from other retail
concepts, including other hair salons, could increase occupancy costs and impede
the Company's ability to meet its growth objectives. 3) The Company's growth
plans could be adversely affected by changes in its relationship with Wal-Mart,
including changes in Wal-Mart's marketing or business plans. 4) An inability to
find qualified franchisees for new locations or the inability of franchisees to
finance the construction of new salons could also prevent the Company from
meeting its growth objectives. 5) Although the Company presently has no reason
to believe it will occur, major beauty product vendors could cancel their
distribution agreements with the Company thereby causing reductions in the sale
of beauty products and the loss of those corresponding margins. 6) Litigation to
protect trademarks or enforce franchise agreements is extremely expensive, even
if the Company is victorious, and may have a material adverse effect on the
Company's results of operations in any particular period.
Due to factors noted above and elsewhere in this annual report, the
Company's future earnings and Common Stock price may be subject to volatility.
Any shortfall in revenue or earnings from the levels anticipated could have a
significant effect on the trading price of the Company's Common Stock in any
given period.
ITEM 7. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
<PAGE>
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
THE BARBERS, HAIRSTYLING FOR
MEN & WOMEN, INC.
YEARS ENDED SEPTEMBER 24, 1998,
SEPTEMBER 25, 1997 AND SEPTEMBER 26, 1996
<PAGE>
THE BARBERS, HAIRSTYLING FOR MEN & WOMEN, INC.
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Years ended September 24, 1998,
September 25, 1997 and September 26, 1996
CONTENTS
Report of Independent Auditors.................................................1
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements
Consolidated Balance Sheets....................................................2
Consolidated Statements of Income..............................................4
Consolidated Statement of Shareholders' Equity.................................5
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows..........................................6
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.....................................7
<PAGE>
[ERNST & YOUNG LLP LETTERHEAD]
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS
The Board of Directors and Shareholders
The Barbers, Hairstyling for Men & Women, Inc.
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of The Barbers,
Hairstyling for Men & Women, Inc. at September 24, 1998, September 25, 1997 and
September 26, 1996, and the related consolidated statements of income,
shareholders' equity and cash flows for the years then ended. These financial
statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our
responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on
our audits.
We conducted our audits in accordance with generally accepted auditing
standards. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain
reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material
misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting
the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes
assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by
management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation.
We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in
all material respects, the consolidated financial position of The Barbers,
Hairstyling for Men & Women, Inc. at September 24, 1998, September 25, 1997 and
September 26, 1996, and the consolidated results of its operations and its cash
flows for each of the years then ended in conformity with generally accepted
accounting principles.
/s/ Ernst & Young LLP
November 2, 1998
1
<PAGE>
Th Barbers, Hairstyling for Men & Women, Inc.
Consolidated Balance Sheets
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SEPTEMBER 24, SEPTEMBER 25, SEPTEMBER 26,
1998 1997 1996
-----------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents $ 2,931,376 $ 2,789,933 $ 1,317,448
Trade receivables, less allowance for doubtful
accounts of $400,000 in 1998, $450,000 in
1997 and $315,000 in 1996 2,693,108 2,574,179 2,163,968
Notes receivable 398,585 596,635 235,206
Inventories held for resale 2,166,420 1,684,312 1,199,939
Prepaid expenses 111,682 120,744 74,372
Deferred income taxes 419,000 360,000 287,000
-----------------------------------------------------
Total current assets 8,720,171 8,125,803 5,277,933
Notes receivable, less current portion and
allowance for doubtful notes of $200,000 in
1998, $125,000 in 1997 and $100,000 in 1996 975,394 621,877 733,924
Equipment and leasehold improvements, at cost:
Equipment 2,807,858 2,044,204 1,918,682
Leasehold improvements 1,012,700 945,150 852,109
-----------------------------------------------------
3,820,558 2,989,354 2,770,791
Less accumulated depreciation 2,370,837 2,094,285 1,816,151
-----------------------------------------------------
Net equipment and leasehold improvements 1,449,721 895,069 954,640
Investment in franchise contracts, less
accumulated amortization of $563,741 in 1998,
$419,260 in 1997 and $221,805 in 1996 2,416,635 2,593,522 733,419
Deferred income taxes 417,000 386,000 338,000
Other assets 353,191 286,271 210,287
-----------------------------------------------------
Total assets $ 14,332,112 $ 12,908,542 $ 8,248,203
=====================================================
</TABLE>
2
<PAGE>
The Barbers, Hairstyling for Men & Women, Inc.
Consolidated Balance Sheets (continued)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SEPTEMBER 24, SEPTEMBER 25, SEPTEMBER 26,
1998 1997 1996
------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
Current liabilities:
Current maturities of long-term debt and capital
lease obligations $ 187,576 $ 339,150 $ 86,675
Accounts payable 858,097 573,088 481,897
Deferred franchise fees 60,500 90,000 113,750
Committed advertising 1,087,310 933,502 521,208
Accrued compensation and related payroll taxes 1,187,813 935,653 741,704
Other accrued expenses 264,853 296,548 287,011
Income taxes payable 101,983 202,934 82,943
------------------------------------------------------
Total current liabilities 3,748,132 3,370,875 2,315,188
Long-term debt and capital lease obligations 1,036,866 2,111,689 56,250
Deferred franchise fees 298,250 201,000 226,000
Deferred compensation 363,857 287,786 204,278
Commitments and contingencies
Shareholders' equity:
Common stock, $.10 par value:
Authorized shares - 7,500,000
Issued and outstanding shares - 3,975,243
in 1998, 3,887,928 in 1997 and 3,852,411
in 1996 397,524 388,793 385,241
Additional paid-in capital 463,894 328,059 247,319
Retained earnings 8,023,589 6,220,340 4,813,927
------------------------------------------------------
Total shareholders' equity 8,885,007 6,937,192 5,446,487
------------------------------------------------------
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity $ 14,332,112 $ 12,908,542 $ 8,248,203
======================================================
</TABLE>
SEE ACCOMPANYING NOTES.
3
<PAGE>
The Barbers, Hairstyling for Men & Women, Inc.
Consolidated Statements of Income
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
YEAR ENDED
SEPTEMBER 24, SEPTEMBER 25, SEPTEMBER 26,
1998 1997 1996
--------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Revenues:
Franchise royalties $ 8,396,932 $ 7,213,735 $ 6,034,862
Franchise fees 852,080 928,018 1,181,239
Company-owned salons 6,072,688 4,610,653 2,939,756
Beauty products and equipment 10,192,685 8,885,278 8,018,860
Other 624,100 484,116 391,034
--------------------------------------------------------
Total revenues 26,138,485 22,121,800 18,565,751
Costs and expenses:
Franchise operations:
Salaries and benefits 2,199,236 1,976,045 1,781,787
General and administrative 1,126,383 1,082,791 943,401
--------------------------------------------------------
3,325,619 3,058,836 2,725,188
Company-owned salons:
Salaries and benefits 3,220,159 2,467,173 1,702,949
General and administrative 1,559,685 1,222,045 931,634
Cost of products sold 1,170,145 758,162 490,158
--------------------------------------------------------
5,949,989 4,447,380 3,124,741
Distribution and general administration:
Salaries and benefits 3,473,048 3,026,139 2,600,808
General and administrative 2,699,618 2,469,561 2,279,944
Cost of products and equipment sold 7,801,958 6,727,361 6,162,530
--------------------------------------------------------
13,974,624 12,223,061 11,043,282
--------------------------------------------------------
Operating income 2,888,253 2,392,523 1,672,540
Other income (expense):
Interest income 255,484 184,855 134,013
Interest expense (207,354) (151,134) (39,368)
Net gain on disposal of assets 116,866 (1,831) 55,169
--------------------------------------------------------
Income before income taxes 3,053,249 2,424,413 1,822,354
Income tax expense 1,250,000 1,018,000 765,000
--------------------------------------------------------
Net income $ 1,803,249 $ 1,406,413 $ 1,057,354
========================================================
Earnings per share:
Basic $ .46 $ .36 $ .28
Diluted .42 .33 .26
========================================================
Average shares outstanding:
Basic 3,925,891 3,857,775 3,817,394
Diluted 4,341,084 4,210,409 4,113,201
========================================================
</TABLE>
SEE ACCOMPANYING NOTES.
4
<PAGE>
The Barbers, Hairstyling for Men & Women, Inc.
Consolidated Statement of Shareholders' Equity
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
ADDITIONAL
NUMBER OF COMMON PAID-IN RETAINED
SHARES STOCK CAPITAL EARNINGS TOTAL
---------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Balance at September 28, 1995 3,808,239 $ 380,824 $ 149,923 $3,756,573 $4,287,320
Net income for 1996 -- -- -- 1,057,354 1,057,354
Issuance of common stock to outside directors 3,600 360 11,640 -- 12,000
Issuance of common stock to employees 4,388 439 15,634 -- 16,073
Issuance of common stock under Designer Salon Program 13,684 1,368 44,247 -- 45,615
Issuance of common stock under stock option plan 22,500 2,250 25,875 -- 28,125
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Balance at September 26, 1996 3,852,411 385,241 247,319 4,813,927 5,446,487
Net income for 1997 -- -- -- 1,406,413 1,406,413
Issuance of common stock to outside directors 4,725 473 18,427 -- 18,900
Issuance of common stock to employees 45 4 176 -- 180
Issuance of common stock under Designer Salon Program 9,372 937 39,675 -- 40,612
Issuance of common stock under stock option plan 21,375 2,138 22,462 -- 24,600
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Balance at September 25, 1997 3,887,928 388,793 328,059 6,220,340 6,937,192
Net income for 1998 -- -- -- 1,803,249 1,803,249
Issuance of common stock to outside directors 3,825 383 20,017 -- 20,400
Issuance of common stock to employees 45 5 235 -- 240
Issuance of common stock under Designer Salon Program 11,741 1,174 55,535 -- 56,709
Issuance of common stock under stock option plan 71,704 7,169 60,048 -- 67,217
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Balance at September 24, 1998 3,975,243 $ 397,524 $ 463,894 $8,023,589 $8,885,007
=====================================================================
</TABLE>
SEE ACCOMPANYING NOTES.
5
<PAGE>
The Barbers, Hairstyling for Men & Women, Inc.
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
YEAR ENDED
SEPTEMBER 24, SEPTEMBER 25, SEPTEMBER 26,
1998 1997 1996
---------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Net income $ 1,803,249 $ 1,406,413 $ 1,057,354
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash
provided by (used in) operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization 535,708 531,027 384,158
Provision for losses on accounts and notes
receivable 245,419 217,009 232,578
(Gain) loss on disposal of assets (116,866) 1,831 (35,883)
Deferred income taxes (90,000) (121,000) (115,000)
Stock compensation 20,640 19,080 28,073
Stock awarded to franchisees under the
Designer Salon Program 56,709 40,612 45,615
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Accounts and notes receivable (519,815) (604,698) (1,168,529)
Inventories held for resale (482,108) (484,373) (146,955)
Prepaid expenses 9,062 (46,372) (37,535)
Other assets (66,920) (75,984) (17,833)
Payables and accrued expenses 735,353 790,479 (293,607)
Deferred franchise fees 67,750 (48,750) (142,227)
Income taxes payable (100,951) 119,991 40,107
---------------------------------------------------
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities 2,097,230 1,745,265 (169,684)
INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Proceeds from disposal of assets 244,050 111,994 53,975
Capital expenditures (1,040,657) (387,826) (576,813)
Investment in franchise contracts -- (2,329,462) (42,501)
---------------------------------------------------
Net cash used in investing activities (796,607) (2,605,294) (565,339)
FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Principal payments on long-term debt (1,226,397) (180,411) (75,000)
Principal payments on capital lease obligations -- (11,675) (21,964)
Proceeds from issuance of stock options 67,217 24,600 28,125
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt -- 2,500,000 --
---------------------------------------------------
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities (1,159,180) 2,332,514 (68,839)
---------------------------------------------------
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash
equivalents 141,443 1,472,485 (803,862)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year 2,789,933 1,317,448 2,121,310
---------------------------------------------------
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year $ 2,931,376 $ 2,789,933 $ 1,317,448
===================================================
Cash paid during the year for:
Interest $ 207,354 $ 151,134 $ 39,368
Income taxes 1,440,951 1,019,009 839,893
</TABLE>
SEE ACCOMPANYING NOTES.
6
<PAGE>
The Barbers, Hairstyling for Men & Women, Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
September 24, 1998
1. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
DESCRIPTION OF THE COMPANY
The Barbers, Hairstyling for Men & Women, Inc. (the Company) operates and sells
franchises to operate Cost Cutters Family Hair Care salons, City Looks salons,
Hair Performers salons, Family Haircut Store salons and We Care Hair salons. The
Company operates primarily in the United States with a limited number of
franchisees in France, Mexico and Russia.
PRINCIPLES OF CONSOLIDATION
The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of The Barbers,
Hairstyling for Men & Women, Inc. and its wholly-owned subsidiaries, WCH, Inc.,
CLS International, Inc., Hair Performers International, Inc. and The Barbers
Export, Inc.
Certain prior year balances have been reclassified to conform to the 1998
presentations.
The Company uses a 52-53 week reporting period. Under this method, certain years
will include 53 weeks of operations as opposed to 52 weeks. The years ended
September 24, 1998, September 25, 1997 and September 26, 1996 each include 52
weeks of operations.
BUSINESS SEGMENT INFORMATION
The Company is engaged in principally one business segment: developing,
licensing, franchising, and servicing several systems of retail hair salons.
As of September 24, 1998, the Company owned and operated 30 salons and
franchised 939 salons.
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS
All investments with a maturity of three months or less at the time of purchase
are considered cash equivalents. Cash equivalents are carried at cost which
approximates market value.
7
<PAGE>
The Barbers, Hairstyling for Men & Women, Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)
1. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)
CONCENTRATIONS OF CREDIT RISK
Financial instruments which potentially subject the Company to concentrations of
credit risk consist principally of accounts and notes receivable.
Accounts receivable are generally unsecured but are personally guaranteed by the
respective franchisees. Concentrations of credit risk with respect to these
receivables are limited due to the large numbers of franchisees and their
dispersion across many geographic areas. Notes receivable are generally secured
by equipment or the existing franchise agreements. (See Notes 2 and 8.)
INVENTORIES
Inventories, principally goods held for resale, are carried at the lower of cost
(first-in, first-out) or market.
INVESTMENT IN FRANCHISE CONTRACTS
On January 24, 1997, the Company acquired the franchise contracts of 139 We Care
Hair Salons in exchange for $2,000,000 in cash plus a contingent earn-out equal
to 40% of all initial franchise fees and royalties collected pursuant to certain
specified franchise contracts during the six year period ending January 24,
2003. The total purchase price, including acquisition expenses, was allocated to
Investment in Franchise Contracts at the acquisition date and is amortized on a
straight-line basis over 15 years.
On June 1, 1993, the Company acquired the franchise contract rights of 22 Family
Haircut Store salons for $599,214. The investment is amortized on a
straight-line basis over 15 years, the estimated average remaining life at the
time of acquisition.
During fiscal 1992, the Company acquired the franchise contract rights of
certain Hair Performers salons in exchange for conditional future payments based
upon royalties collected by the Company through 1997. All payments to the seller
ceased as of April 1, 1997. An investment in franchise contracts of $350,751 was
recorded based upon the amount of actual payments made to the seller. The
investment balance is amortized on a straight-line basis over 15 years.
8
<PAGE>
The Barbers, Hairstyling for Men & Women, Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)
1. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)
The investment balance in franchise contract rights is individually allocated to
specific contracts. On a monthly basis, individual valuations are reviewed and
at any time the value of a contract is deemed permanently impaired, a write-down
is recorded to the extent the contract value exceeds the future revenues
expected to be realized related to the contract.
DEPRECIATION
Equipment and leasehold improvements are stated at cost. Depreciation of
equipment is provided on the straight-line method over estimated useful lives of
three to seven years. Leasehold improvements are being depreciated over the
related lease terms or estimated useful life, whichever is shorter.
REVENUE RECOGNITION OF FRANCHISE, DEVELOPMENT AND ROYALTY FEES
All fees from franchised operations are included in revenue as earned. The
Company enters into area development agreements with franchisees which require
fees based upon the number of salons to be opened within the specified
development area. Development and initial franchise fees are earned when the
related salon opens, with the development fees being recognized ratably as the
salons within the development area open. Development and initial franchise fees
paid prior to salon openings are recorded as deferred franchise fees. Royalty
fees are based on the franchised salons' revenues and are recorded by the
Company in the period the related franchised salons' revenues are earned.
INCOME TAXES
The Company accounts for income taxes under the Statement of Financial
Accounting Standards No. 109. Accordingly, deferred tax assets and liabilities
are recorded based on the "temporary differences" between the assets and
liabilities recorded for financial reporting purposes and such amounts as
measured by tax laws and regulations.
COMMITTED ADVERTISING
Committed advertising represents unexpended amounts received from franchisees to
finance national and regional advertising programs.
9
<PAGE>
The Barbers, Hairstyling for Men & Women, Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)
1. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)
STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION
The Company applies APB 25, "Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees" in
accounting for stock options and presents in Note 5 pro forma net earnings as if
the accounting prescribed by SFAS 123, "Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation"
had been applied.
EARNINGS PER SHARE
In 1997, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Statement No. 128,
Earnings per Share. Statement No. 128 replaced the previously reported primary
and fully diluted earnings per share. Unlike primary earnings per share, basic
earnings per share excludes any dilutive effects of options and warrants.
Diluted earnings per share is very similar to the previously reported fully
diluted earnings per share. All earnings per share amounts for all periods have
been presented, and where necessary, restated to conform to the Statement 128
requirements. All share and per share amounts have been adjusted to reflect the
3-for-2 stock splits that were approved by the Board of Directors on September
19, 1996 and March 12, 1998.
The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted earnings per
share:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
YEAR ENDED
SEPTEMBER 24, SEPTEMBER 25, SEPTEMBER 26,
1998 1997 1996
-------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Numerator:
Net income $ 1,803,249 $ 1,406,413 $ 1,057,354
=================================================
Denominator:
Denominator: for basic earnings per share -
weighted average shares 3,925,891 3,857,775 3,817,394
Effect of dilutive stock options and warrants 415,193 352,634 295,807
-------------------------------------------------
Denominator for diluted earnings per share -
adjusted weighted average shares 4,341,084 4,210,409 4,113,201
=================================================
Basic earnings per share $ .46 $ .36 $ .28
=================================================
Diluted earnings per share $ .42 $ .33 $ .26
=================================================
</TABLE>
10
<PAGE>
The Barbers, Hairstyling for Men & Women, Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)
1. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)
USE OF ESTIMATES
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted
accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that
affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes.
Actual results could differ from the estimates.
IMPAIRMENT OF LONG-LIVED ASSETS
The Company will record impairment losses of long-lived assets used in
operations when indicators of impairment are present and the undiscounted cash
flows estimated to be generated by those assets are less than the assets'
carrying amount.
2. NOTES RECEIVABLE
Notes receivable consist of the following:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1998 1997 1996
-----------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
10% franchise development notes, secured by franchise
development licenses, due upon salon opening $ 12,500 $ 7,500 $ 17,000
8% to 15% notes, due in varying monthly installments,
secured by salon equipment, leasehold improvements
and inventory 1,258,112 1,028,836 556,621
Non-interest bearing notes, due in varying monthly
installments, secured by salon equipment, leasehold
improvements and inventory 41,970 71,220 --
8.5% to 14% notes, unsecured 250,755 230,550 480,823
Unsecured, non-interest bearing note 10,642 -- 12,500
Accrued interest -- 5,406 2,186
-----------------------------------------
1,573,979 1,343,512 1,069,130
Less allowance for doubtful notes 200,000 125,000 100,000
-----------------------------------------
1,373,979 1,218,512 969,130
Less current portion 398,585 596,635 235,206
-----------------------------------------
$ 975,394 $ 621,877 $ 733,924
=========================================
</TABLE>
11
<PAGE>
The Barbers, Hairstyling for Men & Women, Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)
3. LINE OF CREDIT
The Company has a credit agreement which provides for a maximum line of credit
of $1.5 million. The line bears interest at the prime lending rate (8.5% at
September 24, 1998), expires June 30, 1999, is secured by accounts receivable,
inventories, general intangibles, and property and equipment and requires the
Company to maintain certain financial ratios. There are no compensating balance
requirements for this credit facility. As of September 24, 1998, there were no
outstanding borrowings under this line of credit. An outstanding $50,000 standby
letter of credit reduces the availability under the line at that date.
4. LONG-TERM DEBT
Long-term debt consists of the following:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1998 1997 1996
-----------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Note payable, due in monthly installments
of $23,997, including interest at 8.82%,
with remaining balance due in January
2004, secured by all assets of the
Company $1,224,442 $1,394,589 $ --
Note payable, due in monthly installments
of $13,888, plus interest at prime -- 1,000,000 --
Note payable, due in monthly installments
of $6,250, plus interest at .75% above
prime -- 56,250 131,250
Obligations under capitalized leases -- -- 11,675
-----------------------------------------
1,224,442 2,450,839 142,925
Less current maturities 187,576 339,150 86,675
-----------------------------------------
$1,036,866 $2,111,689 $ 56,250
=========================================
</TABLE>
12
<PAGE>
The Barbers, Hairstyling for Men & Women, Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)
4. LONG-TERM DEBT (CONTINUED)
Approximate maturities of long-term debt are as follows:
1999 $ 187,576
2000 204,806
2001 223,618
2002 244,158
2003 266,585
Thereafter 97,699
-------------
$1,224,442
=============
The carrying amount of the Company's debt instruments in the balance sheet at
September 24, 1998 approximates fair value.
5. SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
The Company's 1991 Stock Option Plan has reserved 675,000 shares of common stock
for key employees and 225,000 shares of common stock for non-employee directors.
The Plan requires the option price to be the average of the bid and ask prices
of the common stock on the date of grant. The employee options vest and become
exercisable at the rate of 25% on each anniversary from the date of grant.
Non-employee directors' options vest and become exercisable on the six month
anniversary of the date of grant. The options expire ten years from date of
grant.
13
<PAGE>
The Barbers, Hairstyling for Men & Women, Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)
5. SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY (CONTINUED)
No compensation expense has been recorded for the stock option plans under APB
25. Had compensation expense for the stock option plans been determined based on
the fair value at the date of grant for awards in fiscal 1998, 1997 and 1996,
consistent with the provisions of SFAS No. 123, the Company's net earnings and
earnings per share for the fiscal years shown below would have been reported as
follows (in thousands):
1998 1997 1996
-------------------------------------------
Net earnings - as reported $ 1,803 $ 1,406 $ 1,057
Net earnings - pro forma 1,732 1,370 1,037
Earnings per share - as reported:
Basic $ .46 $ .36 $ .28
Diluted .42 .33 .26
Earnings per share - pro forma:
Basic .44 .36 .27
Diluted .40 .33 .25
The fair value of each option grant is estimated on the date of grant using the
Black-Scholes option-pricing model with the following weighted average
assumptions:
1998 1997 1996
-------------------------------------------
Expected dividend yield 0% 0% 0%
Expected stock price volatility 33% 31% 29%
Risk-free interest rate 4.5% 6.0% 6.0%
Expected life of options 5.0 YEARS 5.0 years 5.0 years
The pro forma effect on net income and earnings per share is not representative
of the pro forma net earnings in future years because it does not take into
consideration pro forma compensation expense related to grants made prior to
1996.
14
<PAGE>
The Barbers, Hairstyling for Men & Women, Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)
5. SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY (CONTINUED)
The Black-Scholes option valuation model was developed for use in estimating the
fair value of traded options which have no vesting restrictions and are fully
transferable. In addition, option valuation models require the input of highly
subjective assumptions including the expected stock price volatility. Because
the Company's employee stock options have characteristics significantly
different from those of traded options, and because changes in the subjective
input assumptions can materially affect the fair value estimate, in management's
opinion, the existing models do not provide a reliable single measure of the
fair value of its employee stock options.
The weighted average fair value for options granted during fiscal 1998, 1997 and
1996 is $3.05, $1.81 and $1.30 per share, respectively.
As of September 24, 1998 there were 80,050 options outstanding with exercise
prices between $1.05 and $1.31, 130,000 options outstanding with exercise prices
between $1.33 and $2.17, 112,500 options outstanding with exercise prices
between $3.50 and $5.17 and 45,000 options with exercise prices between $6.00
and $9.00. At September 24, 1998 outstanding options had a weighted-average
remaining contractual life of six years.
The number of options exercisable at September 24, 1998, September 25, 1997 and
September 26, 1996 were 277,550, 289,125 and 254,250, respectively, at weighted
average exercise prices of $2.56, $1.85 and $1.51 per share, respectively.
15
<PAGE>
The Barbers, Hairstyling for Men & Women, Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)
5. STOCK OPTIONS AND WARRANTS (CONTINUED)
Stock option activity is summarized as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
OPTIONS OUTSTANDING
------------------------------
OPTIONS AVAILABLE WEIGHTED AVERAGE
FOR GRANT NUMBER PRICE PER SHARE
-------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Balance September 28, 1995 567,000 333,000 $ 1.45
Granted (45,000) 45,000 3.50
Exercised -- (22,500) 1.25
------------------------------------------------------
Balance September 26, 1996 522,000 355,500 1.72
Granted (67,500) 67,500 4.71
Exercised -- (21,375) 1.15
Canceled 5,625 (5,625) 1.33
------------------------------------------------------
Balance September 25, 1997 460,125 396,000 2.27
Granted (45,000) 45,000 7.50
Exercised -- (73,450) 1.17
------------------------------------------------------
Balance September 24, 1998 415,125 367,550 $ 3.15
======================================================
</TABLE>
In July 1991, the Company granted warrants to the President to purchase 112,500
shares of the Company's common stock at an exercise price of $1.05 per share. On
October 13, 1994, the Company granted warrants to the Chairman and President to
purchase 112,500 shares, respectively, of the Company's common stock at an
exercise price of $1.78 per share. The warrants would expire one year after
termination of employment with the Company. 292,500 warrants were exercisable at
September 24, 1998. The Company has reserved 337,500 shares for issuance under
these warrants.
The Company issued 3,825, 4,725, and 3,600 shares of stock to outside directors
as part of their compensation plan in 1998, 1997, and 1996, respectively.
All share numbers and per share prices have been adjusted to reflect the 3-for-2
stock splits authorized by the Board of Directors September 19, 1996 and March
12, 1998.
16
<PAGE>
The Barbers, Hairstyling for Men & Women, Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)
6. INCOME TAXES
Income tax expense is summarized as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1998 1997 1996
--------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Current $ 1,340,000 $ 1,139,000 $ 880,000
Deferred (90,000) (121,000) (115,000)
--------------------------------------------------
$ 1,250,000 $ 1,018,000 $ 765,000
=================================================
</TABLE>
The Company's provision for income taxes differs from the federal rate of 34%
for the following reasons:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1998 1997 1996
--------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Federal income tax at statutory rate $ 1,038,000 $ 824,000 $ 620,000
State income tax, net 167,000 145,000 107,000
Expenses not deductible for tax purposes 45,000 49,000 38,000
--------------------------------------------------
$ 1,250,000 $ 1,018,000 $ 765,000
==================================================
</TABLE>
Components of deferred tax assets and liabilities are:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1998 1997 1996
--------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Deferred tax assets:
Deferred franchise deposits $ 122,000 $ 99,000 $ 116,000
Bad debt reserves 204,000 195,000 141,000
Depreciation 135,000 109,000 86,000
Inventory capitalization adjustment 53,000 44,000 35,000
Payroll related 249,000 202,000 163,000
Other reserves 73,000 97,000 89,000
Deferred tax liabilities:
Installment sales gains -- -- (5,000)
--------------------------------------------------
Net deferred tax assets $ 836,000 $ 746,000 $ 625,000
==================================================
</TABLE>
17
<PAGE>
The Barbers, Hairstyling for Men & Women, Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)
7. DEFERRED COMPENSATION
The Company has entered into employment agreements with the Chairman of the
Board and President which include deferred compensation equal to 10% of their
base salaries. Additionally, certain key executives may voluntarily elect to
defer up to $25,000 of their annual compensation.
8. TRANSACTIONS WITH RELATED PARTIES
The Company leases space for its headquarters from its Chairman, the majority
shareholder. Rental payments, including real estate taxes and insurance, were
$412,000, $437,000 and $426,000 in 1998, 1997 and 1996, respectively.
The majority shareholder is a minority investor in a company which operates 20
franchised salons. The Company recognized revenue from these franchises as
follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1998 1997 1996
---------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Product sales $ 212,000 $ 187,000 $ 210,000
Equipment sales 5,000 45,000 25,000
Royalty fees 151,000 126,000 168,000
Franchise fees -- 25,000 3,000
---------------------------------------------
$ 368,000 $ 383,000 $ 406,000
=============================================
</TABLE>
Trade receivables for 1998, 1997 and 1996 include approximately $88,000,
$106,000 and $48,000, respectively, from these franchises.
9. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
OPERATING LEASES
The Company conducts its operations in leased facilities. The initial lease
periods are generally five to ten years. Some of the lease agreements contain
renewal options for additional periods up to five years. The Company also has
entered into operating leases
18
<PAGE>
The Barbers, Hairstyling for Men & Women, Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)
9. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (CONTINUED)
for equipment over various periods. Minimum annual commitments under these
operating leases are approximately as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
COMPANY- COMPANY
OWNED HEADQUARTERS COMPANY
SALONS (SEE NOTE 8) WAREHOUSE EQUIPMENT
-------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Years ending:
1999 $ 827,252 $ 300,000 $ 57,360 $ 379,208
2000 771,632 319,250 62,618 251,615
2001 571,002 321,000 63,096 160,311
2002 462,943 321,000 63,096 3,877
2003 156,316 26,750 5,258 --
Thereafter 142,465 -- -- --
-------------------------------------------------------------
$2,931,610 $1,288,000 $ 251,428 $ 795,011
=============================================================
</TABLE>
Certain of the salon leases provide for payment of additional rentals based on a
percentage of sales over a fixed amount and for the payment of taxes, insurance
and other charges.
Total rent expense is as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
MINIMUM LESS
RENTALS AND SUBLEASE TOTAL
OTHER CHARGES RENTALS EXPENSE
---------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
1998 $1,287,783 $(114,000) $1,173,783
1997 1,074,059 (109,271) 964,788
1996 881,525 (111,901) 769,624
</TABLE>
19
<PAGE>
The Barbers, Hairstyling for Men & Women, Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)
9. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (CONTINUED)
The Company also is the primary obligor on leases for the salons operated by
certain franchisees. The Company subleases the space to the franchisees, and
generally the franchisees personally guarantee the subleases. On 60% of these
subleases, the Company receives an upcharge from the franchisee over and above
the amount of rent paid to the landlord. The Company's remaining commitments,
should the franchisees fail to make the scheduled rental payments, are
approximately as follows:
Years ending:
1999 $ 4,621,568
2000 3,793,581
2001 2,589,752
2002 1,496,631
2003 348,038
Thereafter 234,036
-------------
$13,083,606
=============
Included above is approximately $429,320 of leases held by the majority
shareholder and guaranteed by the Company. These leases were originally
guaranteed by the Company for Company-owned salons which were sold in 1986 to a
company in which the majority shareholder is an investor (see Note 8).
Generally, as renewals of leases occur, the guarantees are withdrawn.
RENTAL INCOME
The Company is subleasing office space to another party through December 2000.
As a result, the Company earned rental income of approximately $114,000,
$109,000 and $101,000 during 1998, 1997 and 1996, respectively.
10. 401(k) PROFIT SHARING PLAN
During fiscal 1991, the Company established The Barbers, Hairstyling for Men &
Women, Inc. 401(k) Plan (the Plan), a profit sharing plan. All employees who
meet certain eligibility requirements may join the Plan. Plan participants elect
to have a percentage of their salary contributed to the Plan. The Company makes
a matching contribution to the Plan of 100% of the first one percent and 25% of
the next four percent
20
<PAGE>
The Barbers, Hairstyling for Men & Women, Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)
10. 401(k) PROFIT SHARING PLAN (CONTINUED)
of salary contributed by employees. In addition, the Company may elect to make a
discretionary contribution to the Plan. The Company's contributions vest based
on the employee's length of service with the Company and are 100% vested after
three years of service if hired before March 1, 1996 and 100% vested after five
years of service if hired on or after March 1, 1996. In 1998, 1997 and 1996, the
Company made matching contributions of $75,645, $66,205 and $51,057,
respectively, and no discretionary contributions.
11. QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA (UNAUDITED)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
FIRST SECOND THIRD FOURTH TOTAL
QUARTER QUARTER QUARTER QUARTER YEAR
--------------------------------------------------------------------
(DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
FISCAL YEAR 1996
Revenue $ 4,488 $ 4,363 $ 4,913 $ 4,802 $18,566
Operating income 295 382 478 517 1,672
Net income 204 234 286 333 1,057
Diluted earnings per share $ .05 $ .06 $ .07 $ .08 $ .26
FISCAL YEAR 1997
Revenue $ 4,843 $ 5,584 $ 5,598 $ 6,097 $22,122
Operating income 353 567 609 864 2,393
Net income 219 331 340 516 1,406
Diluted earnings per share $ .05 $ .08 $ .08 $ .12 $ .33
FISCAL YEAR 1998
Revenue $ 6,437 $ 6,443 $ 6,503 $ 6,755 $26,138
Operating income 517 771 662 938 2,888
Net income 299 460 435 609 1,803
Diluted earnings per share $ .07 $ .11 $ .10 $ .14 $ .42
</TABLE>
21
<PAGE>
ITEM 8. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND
FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE.
None
PART III
ITEM 9. DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS, PROMOTERS AND CONTROL PERSONS;
COMPLIANCE WITH SECTION 16(a) OF THE EXCHANGE ACT.
The information called for in this item is incorporated by reference to
the Sections of the Proxy Statement entitled "Information Concerning Directors
and Nominees," "Information Regarding Executive Officers Who Are Not Directors"
and "Compliance with Section 16(a) of the Exchange Act."
ITEM 10. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION.
The information required in this item is incorporated by reference to
the Section of the Proxy Statement entitled "Executive Compensation."
ITEM 11. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT.
The information called for in this item is incorporated by reference to
the Section of the Proxy Statement entitled "Security Ownership of Certain
Beneficial Owners and Management."
ITEM 12. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS.
The information called for in this item is incorporated by reference to
the Section of the Proxy Statement entitled "Certain Relationships and Related
Transactions."
ITEM 13. EXHIBITS, LIST AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K.
(a) EXHIBIT LIST.
Exhibit
Number Description
- ------ -----------
3.1 Articles of Incorporation, dated September 30, 1968 (incorporated
by reference to the registrant's registration statement on Form
10-SB dated June 28, 1994)
3.2 Amended and Restated By-laws, dated January 21, 1993
(incorporated by reference to the registrant's registration
statement on Form 10-SB dated June 28, 1994)
4.1 Specimen of Common Stock (incorporated by reference to the
registrant's registration statement on Form 10-SB dated June 28,
1994)
10.1 Form of Cost Cutters Family Hair Care Franchise Agreement
(incorporated by reference to the registrant's quarterly report
on Form 10-QSB for the quarter ended December 25, 1997)
10.2 Form of Cost Cutters Family Hair Care Development Agreement
(incorporated by reference to the registrant's quarterly report
on Form 10-QSB for the quarter ended December 25, 1997)
10.3 Form of City Looks Salons International Franchise Agreement
(incorporated by reference to the registrant's quarterly report
on Form 10-QSB for the quarter ended December 25, 1997)
10.4 Form of City Looks Salons International Development Agreement
(incorporated by reference to the registrant's quarterly report
on Form 10-QSB for the quarter ended December 25, 1997)
<PAGE>
10.5 Form of We Care Hair Franchise Agreement (incorporated by
reference to the registrant's quarterly report on Form 10-QSB for
the quarter ended December 25, 1997)
10.6 Form of We Care Hair Development Agreement (incorporated by
reference to the registrant's quarterly report on Form 10-QSB for
the quarter ended December 25, 1997)
*10.7 1990 Stock Option Plan For Directors, as Amended and Restated on
June 23, 1994 (incorporated by reference to the registrant's
registration statement on Form 10-SB dated June 28, 1994)
*10.8 Resolutions amending the 1990 Stock Option Plan For Directors
adopted December 1, 1994 (incorporated by reference to the
registrant's Annual Report on Form 10-KSB for the year ended
September 29, 1994)
*10.9 Amendment to 1990 Stock Option Plan for Directors adopted
September 21, 1995 (incorporated by reference to the registrant's
registration statement on Form S-8 dated October 13, 1995)
*10.10 1990 Stock Option Plan For Key Employees, as Amended and Restated
on June 23, 1994 (incorporated by reference to the registrant's
registration statement on Form 10-SB dated June 28, 1994)
*10.11 Resolutions amending the 1990 Stock Option Plan For Key Employees
adopted December 1, 1994 (incorporated by reference to the
registrant's Annual Report on Form 10-KSB for the year ended
September 29, 1994)
*10.12 Amendment to 1990 Stock Option Plan for Key Employees adopted
September 21, 1995 (incorporated by reference to the registrant's
registration statement on Form S-8 dated October 13, 1995)
*10.13 Employment Agreement between Frederick A. Huggins, Jr. and The
Barbers, Hairstyling for Men & Women, Inc., dated effective April
2, 1990 (incorporated by reference to the registrant's
registration statement on Form 10-SB dated June 28, 1994)
*10.14 Addendum to Employment Agreement between Frederick A. Huggins,
Jr. and The Barbers, Hairstyling for Men & Women, Inc., dated
effective January 1993 (incorporated by reference to the
registrant's registration statement on Form 10-SB dated June 28,
1994)
*10.15 Employment Agreement between Frederick A. Huggins, Jr. and The
Barbers, Hairstyling for Men and Women, Inc., effective October
1, 1994 (incorporated by reference to the registrant's Annual
Report on Form 10-KSB for the year ended September 29, 1994)
*10.16 Amendment to Employment Agreement between Frederick A. Huggins,
Jr. and The Barbers, Hairstyling for Men & Women, Inc., effective
February 6, 1996 (incorporated by reference to the registrant's
quarterly report on Form 10-QSB for the quarter ended December
28, 1995)
*10.17 Common Stock Purchase Warrant of Frederick A. Huggins, Jr. dated
April 2, 1990 (incorporated by reference to the registrant's
registration statement on Form 10-SB dated June 28, 1994)
*10.18 Common Stock Purchase Warrant of Frederick A. Huggins, Jr. dated
October 13, 1994 (incorporated by reference to the registrant's
Annual Report on Form 10-KSB for the year ended September 29,
1994)
*10.19 Amendment to Common Stock Purchase Warrants of Frederick A.
Huggins, Jr. dated September 21, 1995 (incorporated by reference
to the registrant's registration statement on Form S-8 dated
October 13, 1995)
*10.20 Employment Agreement between Florence F. Francis and The Barbers,
Hairstyling for Men & Women, Inc. effective October 1, 1994
(incorporated by reference to the registrant's Annual Report on
Form 10-KSB for the year ended September 29, 1994)
*10.21 Common Stock Purchase Warrant of Florence F. Francis dated
October 13, 1994 (incorporated by reference to the registrant's
Annual Report on Form 10-KSB for the year ended September 29,
1994)
*10.22 Amendment to Common Stock Purchase Warrant of Florence F. Francis
dated September 21, 1995 (incorporated by reference to the
registrant's registration statement on Form S-8 dated October 13,
1995)
<PAGE>
*10.23 Salary Continuation Agreement between Patricia D. Kessler and The
Barbers, Hairstyling for Men & Women, Inc., dated effective
February 9, 1988 (incorporated by reference to the registrant's
registration statement on Form 10-SB dated June 28, 1994)
*10.24 Employment Agreement between John A. Fox and The Barbers,
Hairstyling for Men & Women, Inc. effective October 1, 1997
(incorporated by reference to the registrant's Annual Report on
Form 10-KSB for the year ended September 25, 1997)
*10.25 The Barbers, Hairstyling for Men & Women, Inc. Incentive
Compensation Plan (incorporated by reference to the registrant's
Annual Report on Form 10-KSB for the year ended September 29,
1994)
*10.26 The Barbers Hairstyling for Men & Women, Inc. Deferred
Compensation Plan as adopted August 17, 1995 (incorporated by
reference to the registrant's Annual Report on Form 10-KSB for
the year ended September 26, 1996.)
*10.27 Special Termination Allowance dated September 21, 1995
(incorporated by reference to the registrant's quarterly report
on Form 10-QSB for the quarter ended December 28, 1995)
10.28 Term Loan and Credit Agreement between The Barbers, Hairstyling
for Men & Women, Inc. and Norwest Bank Minnesota, N.A. dated
January 22, 1997 (incorporated by reference to the registrant's
quarterly report on Form 10-QSB for the quarter ended December
26, 1996)
10.29 Revolving Note between The Barbers, Hairstyling for Men & Women,
Inc. and Norwest Bank Minnesota, N.A. dated January 22, 1997
(incorporated by reference to the registrant's quarterly report
on Form 10-QSB for the quarter ended December 26, 1996)
10.30 Term Note A between The Barbers, Hairstyling for Men & Women,
Inc. and Norwest Bank Minnesota, N.A. dated January 22, 1997
(incorporated by reference to the registrant's quarterly report
on Form 10-QSB for the quarter ended December 26, 1996)
10.31 Arbitration Agreement between The Barbers, Hairstyling for Men &
Women, Inc. and Norwest Bank Minnesota, N.A. dated January 22,
1997 (incorporated by reference to the registrant's quarterly
report on Form 10-QSB for the quarter ended December 26, 1996)
+21 Subsidiaries
+23.1 Consent of Ernst & Young LLP
+27 Financial Data Schedule - For SEC use only
- -----------------
* Management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement required
to be filed as an exhibit to this Form 10-KSB pursuant to Item
13(a).
+ Filed herewith
(b) REPORTS ON FORM 8-K.
The registrant did not file any reports on Form 8-K during the
fourth quarter of fiscal 1998.
<PAGE>
SIGNATURES
In accordance with the requirements of Sections 13 or 15(d) of the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant caused this report to be signed
on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
THE BARBERS, HAIRSTYLING FOR MEN & WOMEN, INC.
Date: December 17, 1998 By: /s/ Frederick A. Huggins, Jr.
------------------------------
Frederick A. Huggins, Jr.
President, Chief Executive Officer and Director
In accordance with the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has
been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant in the
capacities indicated on December 17, 1998.
/s/ Florence F. Francis Chairman of the Board of Directors
- -------------------------------
Florence F. Francis
/s/ Frederick A. Huggins, Jr. Chief Executive Officer and Director
- -------------------------------
Frederick A. Huggins, Jr.
/s/ J. Brent Hanson Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
- ------------------------------- Principal Financial & Accounting Officer
J. Brent Hanson
/s/ Marcia J. Bystrom Director
- -------------------------------
Marcia J. Bystrom
/s/ David E. Emerson Director
- -------------------------------
David E. Emerson
/s/ Susan F. Goldstein Director
- -------------------------------
Susan F. Goldstein
/s/ Richard H. King Director
- -------------------------------
Richard H. King
/s/ James L. Reissner Director
- -------------------------------
James L. Reissner
EXHIBIT 21
THE BARBERS, HAIRSTYLING FOR MEN & WOMEN, INC.
SUBSIDIARIES
Name of Subsidiary State of Incorporation Trade Name, if any
- ------------------ ---------------------- ------------------
WCH, Inc. Minnesota We Care Hair
We Care Hair Realty, Inc. Delaware none
Hair Performers International, Inc. Minnesota The Hair Performers
CLS International, Inc. Minnesota City Looks Salons
International
The Barbers Export, Inc. Minnesota The Barbers
CL Moscow Partners, LLP* Minnesota* none
*The Barbers, Hairstyling for Men & Women, Inc. owns 70% of this Limited
Liability Partnership.
EXHIBIT 23.1
CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS
We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statement (Form
S-8 No. 33-98126) pertaining to the 1990 Stock Option Plan for Directors; the
1990 Stock Option Plan for Key Employees; the Chairman's Compensation Program
and Employment Agreement; and the President's Compensation Program and
Employment Agreement of our report dated November 2, 1998, with respect to the
consolidated financial statements of The Barbers, Hairstyling for Men & Women,
Inc. included in the Annual Report (Form 10-KSB) for the year ended September
24, 1998.
/s/ Ernst & Young LLP
Minneapolis, Minnesota
December 21, 1998
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 5
<LEGEND>
THIS SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM THE
UNAUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE FOURTH QUARTER OF FISCAL 1998 CONTAINED
IN THE COMPANY'S REPORT ON FORM 10-KSB AND IS QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY BY
REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> 12-MOS
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> SEP-24-1998
<PERIOD-START> SEP-26-1998
<PERIOD-END> SEP-24-1998
<CASH> 2,931,376
<SECURITIES> 0
<RECEIVABLES> 2,491,693
<ALLOWANCES> 400,000
<INVENTORY> 2,166,420
<CURRENT-ASSETS> 8,720,171
<PP&E> 3,820,558
<DEPRECIATION> 2,370,837
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 14,332,112
<CURRENT-LIABILITIES> 3,748,132
<BONDS> 0
0
0
<COMMON> 397,524
<OTHER-SE> 8,487,483
<TOTAL-LIABILITY-AND-EQUITY> 14,332,112
<SALES> 10,192,685
<TOTAL-REVENUES> 26,138,485
<CGS> 7,801,958
<TOTAL-COSTS> 13,751,947
<OTHER-EXPENSES> 9,498,285
<LOSS-PROVISION> 245,419
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 207,354
<INCOME-PRETAX> 3,053,249
<INCOME-TAX> 1,250,000
<INCOME-CONTINUING> 1,803,249
<DISCONTINUED> 0
<EXTRAORDINARY> 0
<CHANGES> 0
<NET-INCOME> 1,803,249
<EPS-PRIMARY> .46
<EPS-DILUTED> .42
</TABLE>