SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-K
__X__ ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES
EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 (FEE REQUIRED)
For the fiscal year ended September 30, 1998
_____ TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES
EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 (NO FEE REQUIRED)
For the transition period from ________ to ________.
Commission File Number: 0-25360
AG-CHEM EQUIPMENT CO., INC.
(Name of Registrant as Specified in Its Charter)
Minnesota 41-0872842
(State or Other Jurisdiction of (I.R.S. Employer
Incorporation or Organization) Identification No.)
5720 Smetana Drive
Minnetonka, Minnesota 55343-9688
(Address of Principal Executive Offices)
(612) 933-9006
(Registrant's Telephone Number, Including Area Code)
Securities Registered Under Section 12(b) of the Exchange Act: None
Securities Registered Under Section 12(g) of the Exchange Act:
Common Stock, $.01 par value
(Title of Class)
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant: (1) has filed all
reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act during
the past 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.
_X_ Yes ___ No
Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to
Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained,
to the best of the registrant's knowledge, in definitive proxy or information
statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any
amendment to this Form 10-K. ___
As of December 2, 1998, the aggregate market value of the voting stock
held by non-affiliates of the registrant, computed by reference to the closing
sales price for such stock as reported by the Nasdaq National Market System, was
approximately $41,064,430.
As of the close of business on December 2, 1998, there were
outstanding, 9,640,268 shares of the registrant's Common Stock, $.01 par value.
DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
Portions of the registrant's Proxy Statement for its March 9, 1999 Annual
Meeting of Shareholders are incorporated by reference into Part III hereof.
<PAGE>
PART I
ITEM 1. BUSINESS
INTRODUCTION
Ag-Chem Equipment Co., Inc. ("Ag-Chem" or the "Company")
manufactures and distributes off-road equipment primarily used for agricultural
fertilization, the application of crop protection chemicals, and to a lesser
extent, industrial waste treatment applications and other industrial uses. The
Company was incorporated in Minnesota in 1963. Its principal executive offices
are located at 5720 Smetana Drive, Minnetonka, Minnesota.
Ag-Chem generates a majority of its consolidated revenues from its
line of agricultural equipment which consists of self-propelled, three- and
four-wheeled vehicles and related equipment for use in the application of liquid
and dry fertilizers and crop protection chemicals. Ag-Chem manufactures
equipment for use both prior to planting crops ("pre-emergence") and after crops
emerge from the ground ("post-emergence"). The Company believes it holds 60 -
70% of the pre-emergence market, a position it has built on more than 30 years
of innovative products.
The Company's mission is to position itself as the leading,
state-of-the-art manufacturer of agricultural application equipment, with an
emphasis on "Site-Specific Agriculture" through SOILECTION(R) and other
high-tech hardware and software product offerings. In order to achieve this
goal, the Company has implemented a business strategy which is focused on
customer service and training. In addition to its 21 parts and service centers
(discussed below), the Company provides customers with service by offering an
organization of field service repair personnel who are stationed at various
locations throughout the country. Customer training in site-specific agriculture
technology is of paramount importance, and the Company operates a Technology
Education Center in Jackson, Minnesota to meet the specialized training needs of
its customers. Unlike most of its competitors which sell through distributors,
Ag-Chem sells a majority of its products directly to its customers, which
include fertilizer dealers, farm cooperatives, large growers, municipalities,
waste disposal contractors and mining and construction companies. Farmers are
not generally the Company's direct customer. Management believes that this
distribution strategy enables the Company to maintain close ties with its
customers and maintain 100% Ag-Chem focused sales effort.
The Company maintains a network of 21 parts and service centers
located throughout the major farming regions of the United States and Canada.
These centers, combined with the Company's field service repair team and
in-house support staff, offer customers a high level of service and
responsiveness, thereby averting critical delays during periods of peak usage.
Each Parts and Service Center operates as a separate profit center, selling
parts and servicing equipment manufactured by Ag-Chem as well as selling parts
for equipment manufactured by other companies.
The Company holds certain patents and has designed software related
to the "SOILECTION" process. The Soilection process enhances application
equipment and allows it to selectively blend fertilizers, chemicals,
micro-nutrients, seed, and crop protection chemicals at the point of application
based on a digitized map. Although SOILECTION is a relatively small contributor
to the Company's revenues, such revenues have continued to grow significantly in
recent periods and the Company believes that site-specific agriculture may
represent possible significant future revenue over the long term.
The Company supplements its agricultural equipment line by marketing
vehicles for various other industrial uses. Most notably, the Company
manufactures vehicles used for waste application, specifically designed for
subsurface liquid injection and surface spreading of biosolids, i.e., sewage
sludge and other farm
<PAGE>
or industrial waste that can be safely used for soil enrichment. The Company has
recently developed a version of its industrial application which utilizes the
SOILECTION process. This equipment allows purchasers to deal with increasing
amounts of manure from livestock confinement operations in an environmentally
sound manner.
The Company's business is highly seasonal: Approximately 50% of its
net sales occur during the period from January 1 through April 30. Accordingly,
the Company increases inventory levels during the quarters ended September 30
and December 31 to meet this seasonality. The Company periodically receives
prepayments from customers to secure either more favorable pricing or a desired
delivery date. These prepayments partially fund the increase in inventories. If
the Company did not receive customer prepayments, it believes its line of credit
would provide sufficient liquidity to meet working capital requirements.
As of December 1, 1998, the Company had an order backlog of
approximately $19.7 million compared to $28.4 million on December 1, 1997. The
Company expects that substantially all of such backlog orders will be filled
during the fiscal year ending September 30, 1999.
PRODUCTS AND SERVICES
PRE-EMERGENCE APPLICATION EQUIPMENT. The Company manufactures and
sells high-flotation, self-propelled vehicles and related equipment which are
used for fertilization and the spraying of crop protection chemicals under the
"Terra-Gator", "Big Wheels" and "Lor*Al" brand names. These vehicles are
primarily used prior to planting crops, (i.e. "pre-emergence"). These vehicles
are made with extra wide tires to provide maximum traction and a minimum level
of soil compaction. Ag-Chem manufactures a full line of three-wheeled and
four-wheeled vehicles in a range of engine sizes.
Unlike most of its competitors' vehicles, which are simply
over-the-road vehicles modified for agricultural use, the Company's Terra-Gator
models have chassis specifically designed for off-road use. Ag-Chem primarily
manufactures three-wheeled vehicles which offer an advantage over four-wheeled
vehicles because of significantly lower soil compaction, which has an adverse
effect on crop yield. The new Terra-Gator model 8104 was introduced in fiscal
1998 and along with the model 8103 introduced in 1997, includes significant
styling and operational improvements.
The Company's pre-emergence equipment is manufactured in a variety
of model sizes, engine horsepower and equipment configuration. For example,
larger models carry bigger tanks which reduce the need for tank refills.
Similarly, increased engine horsepower allows a vehicle to navigate rough
terrain and to power add-on equipment. This equipment, including attachments,
sells for between approximately $100 and $180; prices for equipment combined
with the SOILECTION system range from $235 to $310.
The Company manufactures a variety of application systems which are
normally ordered with a chassis. The systems serve as the means to apply
fertilizer and crop protection chemicals. Ag-Chem produces several liquid
fertilizer and dry fertilizer systems which offer varying levels of boom size,
spraying accuracy and ease of maintenance. Although liquid systems are often
more accurate in their application than dry systems, liquid fertilizer is often
more expensive than dry fertilizer. Liquid crop protection chemicals and
fertilizers also tend to break down more quickly than dry fertilizers. The
Company also markets a computer-controlled, direct delivery chemical injection
system (TALON(TM)) which provides precise application of multiple chemicals at a
constant or variable rate. Sales of this system, which was introduced in 1997,
continue to be minimal. Variable rate delivery is based on mapping input data,
and when combined with Global Positioning Satellite (GPS) navigation, allows
site-specific application.
<PAGE>
The Company's Lor*Al subsidiary modifies on-road trucks by adding
heavy-duty rear axles, suspensions and oversized tires. Lor*Al's product
offering consists of various modified Navistar and Ford truck chassis which sell
under the Lor*Al and Big Wheel brand names. The Company believes that Lor*Al's
converted on-road vehicles diversify Ag-Chem's product line and provide Ag-Chem
a significant presence in the middle price segment of the fertilizer application
market. Lor*Al models currently have lower margins than the Terra-Gator and Big
A models due to the fact that truck chassis are purchased from other providers
and the Company adds less value during the manufacturing process.
POST-EMERGENCE APPLICATION EQUIPMENT. Post-emergence equipment is
used to apply chemicals to fields after crops have already emerged. Ag-Chem
markets products for this purpose under the RoGator brand name. The RoGator has
high crop clearance to avoid crop damage during the application process. In
addition, the RoGator offers an adjustable wheel track which allows it to
operate in a variety of row crop spacings. These adjustments are controlled from
the cab. The RoGator, with attachments, sells for between $85 and $140.
Since its introduction in 1993, the RoGator has enabled Ag-Chem to
reduce the seasonal impact of its pre-emergence equipment sales and now accounts
for a significant portion of sales. Sales of post-emergence equipment
represented 27.5 percent of total revenues during fiscal 1998. The RoGator line
was expanded in 1998 to meet the needs of multiple market segments. RoGators are
produced in three sizes - the 854 model, the smaller 554 model, and a new larger
machine, the 1254. The 1254 was introduced in the summer of 1998 and is
scheduled for production mid-1999.
PARTS AND SERVICE CENTERS. The Company believes that the
availability of parts and service for its agricultural equipment is essential to
the end-user. Delays during the planting, growing or harvesting period can be
critical to farmers. Accordingly, potential customers view on-going maintenance
of application equipment as a significant factor in making a purchase decision.
The Company's customers need products which can be serviced in a minimal amount
of time. For this reason, the Company operates 21 parts and service centers
across the United States and Canada. These centers are intended to serve the
Company's customers by providing parts and technical support on a regional
basis. The parts and service centers service only the Company's products. They
stock and sell parts manufactured by the Company as well as parts which are
manufactured by other companies which have been incorporated into the Company's
products. The parts and service centers also stock and sell parts for equipment
manufactured by other companies for use in competitors' products. The Company's
parts and service centers also refurbish used Ag-Chem agricultural equipment for
resale. The Company believes that its parts and service centers are an important
part of the Company's growth because of the support they provide to its
customers.
EUROPEAN OPERATIONS. The Company's subsidiary, Ag-Chem Europe B.V.,
a corporation organized under the laws of the Netherlands, is engaged in the
importation, manufacture and distribution of agricultural and industrial
equipment throughout Europe. Ag-Chem Europe B.V. imports application equipment
manufactured by the Company, customizes the equipment by adding systems and
other modifications, and resells the equipment to European customers.
SOILTEQ. The Company holds patents for and has designed software
related to the process known as "SOILECTION." The SOILECTION system is a process
that utilizes a variety of input data to develop a site-specific application
map. Through such inputs as soil test data and soil surveys, software developed
and provided by the Company is able to generate a spreading map for each unique
soil plot. When this spreading map is used with a machine equipped with a FALCON
control system, site specific placement of multiple products is possible.
<PAGE>
SOILECTION technology benefits farmers by ensuring that appropriate
amounts of crop inputs, such as fertilizer, crop protection chemicals,
micronutrients and seed are applied to each section of a field based on selected
criteria. This system allows the farmer to allocate inputs to areas which can
support high yields, and avoid over-application of inputs on soils which produce
low yields. With SOILECTION, inputs are placed only in areas where they can be
used by the crop, and excess application is minimized. This results in optimal
economic performance and potentially positive environmental benefits.
CUSTOMER TRAINING. With the growth of site-specific agriculture, the
Company has recognized an increasing demand for customer training related to
this new technology. The Company operates a 40,000 square foot facility in
Jackson, Minnesota, the Ag-Chem Technology & Education Center, staffed with
dedicated instructors and equipped with state-of-the-art computer and control
system training rooms. At the facility, the Company provides a varied curriculum
of site-specific agriculture and other course offerings.
OTHER AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS. The Company's AgTec division
manufactures and sells: (i) low volume air sprayers used for spraying crop
protection chemicals on orchards, vineyards, field crops and Christmas trees;
(ii) low volume lawn sprayers; (iii) injection systems for use by professional
lawn care contractors; (iv) high volume sprayers used by commercial tree
spraying contractors; (v) boom sprayers used in crop spraying; and (vi) a line
of lawn garden sprayers. The AgTec Division also distributes heavy-duty flail
brush choppers and swing-arm rotary mowing equipment for use by orchards and
nurseries.
INDUSTRIAL EQUIPMENT. Ag-Chem manufactures a line of equipment that
is used in the waste application industry. This equipment applies or injects
sludge from waste treatment facilities to agricultural land. Direct injection
minimizes odor and runoff problems associated with land disposal. This equipment
is sold to waste disposal companies and municipalities. In addition to its waste
disposal equipment, the Company manufactures other lines of equipment for the
drilling, mining and construction industries. In 1998, the Company introduced a
map-based application system for its sludge equipment. This technology enables
customers to create map-based variable rate applications of sludge based on
nutrient needs of the soil.
SALES AND MARKETING
Of the employees Ag-Chem has in sales and marketing positions, there
is a group devoted to the agricultural market. There are also groups of direct
sales positions focusing primarily on fertilizer dealers and farm cooperatives,
selling industrial equipment, selling SOILECTION equipment, and selling the
Company's AgTec Division products to retail dealers. In the United States, the
Lor*Al product line is sold to end-users through five distributors in part of
the country and through Ag-Chem's sales force in other parts of the country.
Internationally, Ag-Chem sells its products through its wholly-owned subsidiary,
Ag-Chem Europe, B.V., as well as a network of distributors. The Company's sales
effort is supported by national and regional advertising, a catalog, direct mail
programs and trade shows.
For fiscal 1998, 1997 and 1996 the members of a farming co-op
accounted for 13.8%, 13.8% and 12.9% of net sales, respectively. Such members
retain individual purchasing authority, and the Company does not consider the
related business risks to equate to one single, large customer.
Ag-Chem offers financing to customers through several different
programs involving third-party lenders and lessors. Although Ag-Chem has no
responsibility or obligation in the event of a default by purchasers or lessors
of such equipment, the Company attempts to assist lenders and lessors in
reselling repossessed equipment.
Ag-Chem also offers its own lease and debt financing program.
Ag-Chem retains a security interest in the financed equipment, which allows the
Company, at its option, to sell such leases or notes. Ag-Chem main-
<PAGE>
tains a full time credit and collection staff who conduct credit evaluations and
administer the customer financing activities. Since the Company began financing
its own equipment, it has experienced limited defaults. Moreover, the Company
believes an active market exists for used equipment.
Ag-Chem finances equipment for terms up to five years. Lessees have
the option of converting the rental to a purchase.
SUPPLIERS
The Company currently relies upon single sources of supply for a
number of components that are used in the manufacture of the off-road machines
and related equipment. Management believes that alternative sources would be
available within a reasonable time for each of the components presently obtained
from such sources. Ag-Chem generally has supply contracts with its larger
suppliers which are based on price but do not require minimum volume purchases.
INDUSTRY AND COMPETITION
In general, the agricultural equipment industry is highly
competitive. The industry continues to experience significant consolidation and
retrenchment.
The United States market for custom application equipment consists
largely of retail fertilizer dealers, farm cooperatives and some farmers who
operate very large farms. Ag-Chem sells primarily to fertilizer dealers and farm
cooperatives.
The Company believes that the percentage of farmers who apply
fertilizer with their own equipment has decreased and expects it to decline
further due to a number of factors.
Increased productivity is one of the benefits of outsourcing crop
input application to independent fertilizer dealers. Tractors and pull-behind
spreaders traditionally used by farmers for fertilizing are typically less
accurate and require significantly more time, and operate at lower speeds
(approximately 4 to 5 mph) than Ag-Chem equipment, which fertilizes at a speed
of approximately 16 mph and precisely applies the fertilizer.
Both the trend towards outsourcing crop input application and the
consolidation of the farming industry over the last decade have bolstered demand
for Ag-Chem's products. The result of such consolidation has been fewer but
larger and financially stronger farms. Farmers are becoming increasingly
sophisticated in agro-economics and more likely to contract for applicator
services. Moreover, heightened competition motivates fertilizer dealers to stay
current with advances in fertilization technology, which can result in replacing
application equipment before the end of its useful life. Accordingly, while the
aggregate United States farm acreage planted has remained relatively stable in
recent years, Ag-Chem, and the custom application equipment industry as a whole,
have continued to grow.
Demand for Ag-Chem's agricultural equipment can be affected by the
following factors, among others:
* Grain prices - commodity prices have an effect on customer
attitudes and purchasing decisions;
* Government regulations - many growers don't want the concerns
associated with increasing regulations on handling various
crop inputs;
* Low-dose chemicals - changes in crop protection chemistry and
formulation have resulted in crop protection chemicals that
require very precise spray systems;
* Rural labor pool - decreasing rural populations make finding
seasonal farm labor more
<PAGE>
difficult;
* Weather - extreme conditions of drought or flood affect
equipment purchase decisions in those areas;
* Trained personnel - the limited number of skilled equipment
operators is a factor for customers considering equipment
purchases;
* Interest rates - the cost of borrowing money is a factor for
customers considering equipment purchases;
* Market conditions for the ag retailer/custom applicator -
margins on crop inputs affect profitability, and therefore
influence buying decisions;
* Mandated capital expenditures - fertilizer dealers in many
states have been or will be required by law to upgrade their
facilities with costly containment measures, potentially
delaying equipment purchases.
The off-road agricultural application equipment industry, which
excludes "short-line" equipment, (i.e. equipment pulled behind or mounted on a
tractor or pickup), consists of over 10 manufacturers. Competitors who at one
time were substantially smaller than Ag-Chem are now substantially larger. In
the recent past, Deere & Co. has entered the post-emergence market, Case
Corporation (Case) has purchased Tyler Inc. (Tyler) and AgCo Inc. (AgCo) has
purchased Willmar Manufacturing Inc. (Willmar). Although each company is smaller
in terms of equipment sold in the Company's industry, they are each supported by
a much larger parent company. Deere & Co., and Willmar manufacture and sell
post-emergence vehicles. Tyler, a Case subsidiary, markets pre-emergence and
post-emergence equipment.
With competition based largely on price, quality, technology and
service, Ag-Chem has positioned itself as a supplier of quality products with an
emphasis on service and training, as exemplified by the Company's numerous parts
and service centers and by the training provided at the Ag-Chem Technology &
Education Center.
MANUFACTURING
The Company's manufacturing process includes machining, fabricating,
welding, assembling and painting. Off-road machines and related equipment are
manufactured in the Company's facilities in Jackson, Minnesota. The spraying
equipment produced by the Company's AgTec Division is manufactured in a plant
located in Niles, Michigan. The Lor*Al product line is manufactured in Benson,
Minnesota, as are certain components for the Ag-Chem line. The Company's Ag-Chem
Europe B.V. subsidiary manufactures sludge and fertilizer equipment in
Grubbenvorst, Holland.
RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT
As of September 30, 1998, the Company employed a staff of employees
and contractors in research and development who are responsible for developing
new products and improvements or enhancements to existing products. Research and
development expenditures were $10.8 million in fiscal 1998, $9.4 million in
fiscal 1997 and $7.2 million in fiscal 1996. Such expenditures constituted 3.4
percent, 2.9 percent and 2.6 percent of the Company's fiscal 1998, 1997 and 1996
net sales, respectively. The Company believes its ongoing commitment to new
products and improvements and upgrades of existing products provide the Company
with a major competitive advantage and technological leadership.
<PAGE>
PATENTS AND TRADEMARKS
The Company holds a number of patents which cover certain aspects of
its products. The Company believes that several of its patents, particularly
relating to site specific farming, are significant to the Company's business.
The Company's patents generally have terms that expire twenty years from the
effective patent application filing dates, although patent terms can differ,
based on the particular jurisdiction and filing date. No assurance can be given
that, if applied for by the Company, any patents will be issued or that the
patents currently held or new patents, if issued, will be valid or will provide
any significant competitive protection for the Company.
Ag-Chem has obtained federal trademark registration of the Ag-Chem
logo, and the "Soilection(R)" mark. In addition, the Company uses and claims
rights to, and has obtained federal registration of, a number of trademarks used
to identify the Company's products. The Company's prior use of an unregistered
name or mark may establish an exclusive right to its use by the Company in
connection with the sale of Company products in a particular market area,
however, registration of a mark with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office
provides such right throughout the United States and creates a presumption that
the mark is valid. There can be no assurance that any trademark application, if
filed by the Company, will result in the receipt of a registration for the mark.
There can also be no assurance that the Company's use of tradenames or
trademarks will not infringe the rights of others, or that they will be free
from future challenge by others as to prior use or as otherwise being
unprotectable.
REGULATIONS
The Company is subject to environmental laws and regulations
concerning emissions to the air, discharges of processed or other types of waste
water and the generation, handling, storage, transportation, treatment and
disposal of waste materials. These laws and regulations are constantly changing
and it is impossible to predict with accuracy the effect they may have on the
Company in the future.
In 1990, certain provisions of the Clean Air Act Amendments were
adopted by Congress which require the Environmental Protection Agency (the
"EPA") to study emission from off-road engines and equipment, including the
majority of the equipment manufactured by the Company. In June 1994, the EPA
promulgated emission standards for new non-road, non-spark-ignition engines. The
EPA began implementing such regulations on January 1, 1996 for some models and
January 1, 1997 for other models. These regulations apply to equipment
manufactured on or after the January 1, 1996 and 1997 implementation dates,
respectively. The Company is currently in compliance with such regulations
In July 1994, the EPA promulgated regulations allowing the State of
California to implement regulations concerning emissions from off-road engines
and equipment, as long as such regulations meet or exceed federal standards. The
Company is not aware of any other promulgated or proposed regulations at the
present, and cannot predict the impact, if any, of future regulations on the
operations of the Company.
The Company is subject to various federal, state, and local laws
affecting its business, as well as a variety of regulations relating to such
matters as working conditions and product safety.
The Company's European shipments are subject to the rules and
regulations of the European Economic Community (the "EEC") as well as those of
the individual countries. These rules and regulations apply to self-propelled
agricultural working machines traveling on public roads. Also required by the
"EEC" is a certification that addresses operator safety and working conditions.
<PAGE>
EMPLOYEES
Prior to recent lay-offs, the Company employed 1,535 full-time
employees, of whom 874 were engaged in manufacturing and engineering, 382 in
service and parts distribution, 132 in sales, and 147 in administration. The
Company is not subject to any collective bargaining agreement and believes that
its employee relations are good.
ITEM 2. PROPERTIES
The principal properties of the Company are as follows:
Location Description of Property
-------- -----------------------
Minnetonka, Minnesota Corporate Office
Jackson, Minnesota Manufacturing
Jackson, Minnesota Parts/Service Support
Jackson, Minnesota Training Center
Benson, Minnesota Manufacturing
Benson, Minnesota Parts/Service Support
Grubbenvorst, Holland Manufacturing
The Company owns its executive offices in the Brenwood Office Park
in Minnetonka, Minnesota. The Company's executive offices occupy approximately
43,300 of the total 176,000 square feet of available space. Leasing operations
related to space not occupied by the Company in the Brenwood Office Park is not
deemed material to the Company's operations. The Company owns the properties
located in Jackson, Minnesota, and leases the others. The manufacturing facility
in Benson, Minnesota is operating at approximately 85% capacity, and the
Jackson, Minnesota manufacturing facility is operating at approximately 60%
capacity. The Company considers each of its facilities to be in good condition.
The Company also has 21 parts and service centers ranging from 8,000
to 45,000 square feet, of which it owns 12, leases 6 and operates 3 on a
consignment basis (i.e. the Company contracts with a third party to service
Ag-Chem customers).
ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
None.
ITEM 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITYHOLDERS
The Company submitted no matters to a vote of security holders
during the fourth quarter of the fiscal year ended September 30, 1998.
PART II
ITEM 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS
The Common Stock of the Company (ticker symbol "AGCH") currently
trades on The Nasdaq Stock Market (National Market System). The following table
sets forth, for the periods indicated, the high and low sales prices for the
Company's Common Stock for each quarter within the last two fiscal years as
reported by
<PAGE>
Nasdaq. These quotations reflect inter-dealer prices, without retail markup,
markdown or commissions and may not represent actual transactions.
SALES PRICE
------------------
LOW HIGH
------- -------
FISCAL YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 1997
First quarter $ 14.75 $ 19.50
Second quarter 18.25 24.00
Third quarter 18.25 23.00
Fourth quarter 18.50 24.50
FISCAL YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 1998
First quarter $ 12.50 $ 19.88
Second quarter 12.75 18.00
Third quarter 12.75 22.13
Fourth quarter 12.25 21.00
As of December 1, 1998, there were 380 shareholders of record, and
approximately 2,500 shareholders in street name.
The Company has never paid cash dividends on its Common Stock. The
Company currently intends to retain any earnings for use in its operations and
does not anticipate payment of cash dividends in the foreseeable future.
<PAGE>
ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
The following selected financial data has been derived from the
Company's consolidated financial statements. The data should be read in
conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto
included elsewhere herein and with "Management's Discussion and Analysis of
Financial Condition and Results of Operations."
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EARNINGS DATA:(1)
Years ended September 30,
-------------------------------------------------------
1998 1997 1996 1995 1994
-------- -------- -------- -------- --------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Net sales $322,122 $318,212 $280,152 $233,852 $183,151
Cost of sales 234,959 232,565 200,378 166,711 131,813
Selling, general and admin-
istrative expenses 74,003 69,034 61,239 48,279 37,600
Operating income 13,160 16,613 18,535 18,862 13,738
Other income 3,384 3,186 3,248 2,200 2,136
Interest expense 6,246 6,229 5,935 2,673 1,749
Earnings before income taxes 10,298 13,570 15,848 18,389 14,125
Income tax expense 3,450 6,000 6,100 6,980 5,550
Net earnings 6,848 7,570 9,748 11,409 8,575
Earnings per share .71 .78 1.01 1.19 .88
Weighted average common
shares outstanding 9,660 9,683 9,672 9,604 9,728
<CAPTION>
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET DATA:(1)
September 30,
-------------------------------------------------------
1998 1997 1996 1995 1994
-------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Working capital $76,174 $53,497 $47,873 $56,248 $28,224
Property, plant and equipment,
net 45,813 46,260 42,697 38,322 26,957
Total assets 188,194 187,999 185,559 151,689 95,664
Long-term debt, less
current installments 59,903 45,368 43,334 57,105 28,969
Stockholders' equity 70,420 63,887 57,343 44,873 33,888
Average number of employees 1,720 1,637 1,534 1,111 1,030
Return on beginning equity(2) 10.7% 13.2% 21.7% 33.7% 32.3%
</TABLE>
- ------------------------
(1) Dollars and shares in thousands, except per share amounts.
(2) Return on beginning equity is calculated as net earnings for the period
divided by the equity balance at the end of the prior period.
<PAGE>
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF
OPERATIONS
(DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)
SUMMARY
The following table sets forth for the years indicated the percent
of net sales for each item in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Years ended September 30,
-----------------------------------
1998 1997 1996
---- ---- ----
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Net sales 100.0 100.0 100.0
Cost of sales 72.9 73.1 71.5
---- ---- ----
Gross profit 27.1 26.9 28.5
Selling, general and administrative expense 23.0 21.7 21.9
---- ---- ----
Operating income 4.1 5.2 6.6
Other income (expense):
Other income 1.0 1.0 1.2
Interest expense (1.9) (1.9) (2.1)
---- ---- ----
Earnings before income taxes 3.2 4.3 5.7
Income tax expense 1.1 1.9 2.2
---- ---- ----
Net earnings 2.1 2.4 3.5
==== ==== ====
</TABLE>
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS -FISCAL 1998 COMPARED TO FISCAL 1997
Consolidated net sales increased by $3,910 or 1.2 percent to
$322,122 in the fiscal year ended September 30, 1998 (fiscal 1998) from the
fiscal year ended September 30, 1997 (fiscal 1997). The increase was the net
effect of a number of offsetting factors as follows:
* Post-emergence equipment net sales decreased $12,582,
resulting from decreased unit shipments due to increased
competition and softening of the agricultural markets. The
Company expects this competition to continue to be a factor
in the post-emergence market, and is uncertain about the
impact on future sales. Post-emergence equipment also
decreased because the farming economy has suffered as a result
of low commodity prices which has decreased demand for
equipment. Finally, the farm supply industry has experienced
consolidation that has reduced the number of potential
customers, with a resulting decrease in the demand for new
equipment.
* Pre-emergence equipment net sales increased $6,776, primarily
the result of sales of newly designed equipment, such as the
model 8103 Terragator which was introduced in the second
quarter of fiscal 1998. These new models have higher selling
prices. As such, pre-emergence net sales increased due to
higher average selling prices rather than as a result of the
number of units shipped.
* Sales of other product lines increased $9,716 primarily as the
result of the Company's new market penetration efforts in its
parts and service centers, and increased demand for used
equipment.
The net effect of the foregoing factors is that net sales of the
Company's line of post-emergence equipment decreased by 12.4% during fiscal
1998, while net sales of pre-emergence equipment increased by 5.6%. As a result,
sales of post-emergence equipment decreased from 32.0% of net sales during
fiscal 1997 to 27.5% of total revenues during fiscal 1998. Due to increased
competition in the market, the Company is uncertain
<PAGE>
about the direction of future sales. In general, the Company expects
consolidated net sales in fiscal 1999 to decrease compared to fiscal 1998 as a
result of the decline in the farming economy and this decline is expected to
have a similar impact on the Company's competitors.
Consolidated gross profit for fiscal 1998 increased $1,516 or 1.8
percent from the prior year. Consolidated gross profit as a percent of net sales
was 27.1 and 26.9 percent for fiscal 1998 and 1997, respectively. The increase
in gross profit as a percentage of net sales was primarily the result of changes
in product mix that improved gross margin during fiscal 1998. Also, fixed costs,
as a percentage of total product costs, increased in the prior year as a result
of plant expansions during such year. These factors were offset, in part, by
operating efficiencies gained from increased production during such year. Fiscal
1998 gross profit as a percentage of net sales was negatively impacted by
warranty experience related to older model equipment. The Company has made
efforts to reduce warranty expense through improved designs on newer models, but
is uncertain of the amount and timing of any cost savings that may result. Also
during fiscal 1998, gross profit as a percentage of net sales was negatively
impacted by higher product costs due to start-up expenditures in the first
quarter on the Company's new model 8103 Terragator. As expected, margins
improved on the new model 8103 after the second and third quarters. The start-up
costs associated with the introduction of additional new models are expected to
negatively impact margins during the first half of fiscal 1999. The Company
estimates that the net impact of these factors will continue to hold margins
relatively stable in fiscal 1999, depending on sales and product mix.
Consolidated selling, general and administrative ("S,G&A") expenses
increased $4,969 or 7.2 percent in fiscal 1998 as compared to the prior year.
This increase is largely attributable to a 6.4 percent or $2,890 increase in
compensation, employee benefits and employee-related expenses resulting from an
increase in the number of employees to support the Company's
previously-anticipated sales growth and new product development. All other S,G&A
expenses increased by 8.7 percent or $2,079 as a result of actual sales growth
and support of previously anticipated sales growth. Of the overall increase in
S,G&A expenses, costs to support the Company's sales growth increased $2,135 or
3.7%, and product development costs increased $2,834 or 24.9%. S,G&A expenses as
a percent of net sales were 23.0 and 21.7 percent in fiscal 1998 and 1997,
respectively. Due to the general decline in the farming economy and the
Company's anticipation of continuation of this decline, the Company has made
efforts to contain S,G&A expenses through employment reductions and other cost
control efforts. The Company intends to continue to monitor the farming economy
and will make further adjustments in S,G&A expenses to keep S,G&A expenses, as a
percentage of net sales, consistent with prior periods.
As a result of the above, operating income was $13,160 and $16,613
in fiscal 1998 and 1997, respectively.
Interest expense increased $17 in fiscal 1998. Base interest rates
were relatively stable and changes in such rates had a minimal effect on
interest expense. The primary cause of the increased interest expense was
increased borrowing to support working capital requirements.
The effective tax rates in fiscal 1998 and 1997 were 33.5 percent
and 44.2 percent, respectively. The factors contributing to the reduction in the
rate include an increase in the research and experimentation credit, the
implementation of several strategies to reduce federal and state taxes, and the
inability to benefit the net loss incurred by the Company's European subsidiary
in fiscal 1997.
As a result of the above, net earnings were $6,848 and $7,570 in
fiscal 1998 and 1997, and earnings per share were $.71 and $.78 for fiscal 1998
and 1997, respectively.
Included in the results of operations discussed above, are the
results of the Company's Dutch subsidiary. This subsidiary experienced a $3,132
or 21.6% increase in net sales. This increase was primarily the result of
<PAGE>
increased pre-emergence equipment sales due to an increase in unit shipments.
The increase in units shipped was the result of increased efforts by the Company
to penetrate the European market. Gross profit for this subsidiary increased
$1,904 or 230% in fiscal 1998, compared to the prior year. Gross profit as a
percentage of sales increased from 5.7% during fiscal 1997 to 15.5% in fiscal
1998. This increase was due to a one-time charge in the prior year that related
to used inventory valuation. Net income for this subsidiary was $136 during
fiscal 1998 as compared to a net loss of $1,556 in the prior year. The remaining
components of the subsidiary's results were materially unchanged from the prior
year and had no material effect on the consolidated result of operations. The
Company expects the decline in the farming economy to affect its European
operations in a manner similar to its domestic operations.
A single currency called the euro will be introduced in Europe on
January 1, 1999. The increased price transparency resulting from the use of a
single currency may affect the ability of Ag-Chem and other companies to price
their products differently in the various European markets. A possible result of
this price harmonization is lower average prices for products sold in these
markets. Additionally, the Company is in the process of replacing the financial
systems used by its European subsidiary so that it will be capable of converting
to the currency. The Company expects that such new systems will be in place by
the first quarter of fiscal 2000.
LIQUIDITY AND FINANCIAL POSITION - FISCAL 1998 COMPARED TO FISCAL 1997
Net cash provided by operating activities was $9,789. in fiscal
1998, compared to $17,754 in fiscal 1997. The major reason for this change was
that changes in operating assets and liabilities used cash of $5,788 in fiscal
1998 while changes in operating assets and liabilities provided cash of $1,949
in the prior year. Increased investments in inventories, net of an increase in
accounts payable balances, used $1,786 of cash compared to cash provided in the
prior year of $4,821. Inventories increased to $101,751 at September 30, 1998
from $99,894 at September 30, 1997 in order to meet the forecasted fall shipment
schedule. In addition, customer prepayments and deferred income decreased $334
in fiscal 1998 compared to an increase of $1,856 in fiscal 1997. The Company
anticipates that in fiscal 1999, cash will be provided by net earnings, and will
be used to satisfy the current portion of long-term debt. Accounts receivable
and inventory turnover have remained relatively stable in recent periods, and
have not significantly affected liquidity.
Cash used in investing activities in fiscal 1998 was $6,187 compared
to $10,990 in the prior-year period. This decreased use of cash was primarily
due to investments in the Company's Technology & Education Center and other
investments in property, plant and equipment to support the Company's growth
during fiscal 1997. In fiscal 1998, investments in property, plant and equipment
were $3,969 compared to $7,407 in fiscal 1997. The Company had no material
commitments for future capital expenditures at September 30, 1998.
Cash used in financing activities was $3,789 in fiscal 1998,
compared to $6,249 in the prior period. The decrease in cash used in financing
activities was primarily the result of an increase in checks outstanding in
excess of cash balances. The net repayments of notes payable and long-term debt
were $5,425 and $5,452 during fiscal 1998 and 1997, respectively. This decrease
in net borrowings was primarily due to decreased working capital requirements
due to the reduction in cash used in investing activities.
Working capital at September 30, 1998 was $76,174. As of September
30, 1998 the Company had $32,500 of unused credit line available. The Company
periodically receives prepayments from customers to secure either more favorable
pricing or a desired delivery date. If the Company did not receive customer
prepayments, it believes its line of credit would provide sufficient liquidity
to meet working capital requirements.
The terms of the Company's line of credit agreement, which was
amended in July 1998, include covenants that the Company must maintain. There
are a number of standard affirmative covenants, as well as restrictive negative
covenants as to additional borrowings and requirements for the Company to
maintain cer-
<PAGE>
tain financial ratios. These restrictive covenants include a minimum tangible
net worth of $35 million plus 75% of each fiscal year's net earnings, a ratio of
total liabilities to tangible net worth, and an interest coverage ratio. There
are additional limitations on mergers, acquisitions, disposal of assets, and
capital expenditures. The Company does not anticipate any difficulty in meeting
these covenants. At September 30, 1998, the weighted average interest rate
payable on this line of credit was 7.0%.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS -1997 COMPARED TO 1996
Consolidated net sales increased by $38,060 or 13.6 percent to
$318,212 in fiscal 1997 from fiscal 1996. The increase was primarily the result
of an increase in post-emergence and pre-emergence fertilization equipment sales
due to increased unit shipments, rather than pricing changes. The increased unit
shipments were largely due to more orders than in the prior year. Sales of the
Company's line of post-emergence equipment grew by 12.9 percent during fiscal
1997. During the same period, sales of pre-emergence equipment grew by 7.3
percent. Additionally, the Company's other product lines increased consolidated
net sales. As a result, sales of post-emergence equipment decreased from 32.0
percent of total revenues during fiscal 1996 to 31.8 percent of total revenues
during fiscal 1997.
Consolidated gross profit for fiscal 1997 increased $5,873 or 7.4
percent from the prior-year period. Consolidated gross profit as a percent of
net sales was 26.9 and 28.5 percent for fiscal 1997 and 1996, respectively. The
primary reason for the lower margin percentage was special incentives given on
the Company's introduction of 1998 models, and sales increases in the Company's
lower margin product lines, such as used equipment. Also, fixed costs, as a
percentage of total product costs, increased as a result of the plant
expansions. The Company had not yet fully utilized the capacity of these
expansions, resulting in decreased margins.
Consolidated selling, general and administrative (S,G&A") expenses
increased $7,795 or 12.7 percent in fiscal 1997 as compared to the prior year.
This increase is largely attributed to a 10.7 percent or $4,598 increase in
compensation, employee benefits and employee-related expenses resulting from an
increase in the number of employees to support the Company's then anticipated
sales growth and new product development. All other S,G&A expenses increased by
17.6 percent or $3,207. Of the overall increase in S,G,&A expenses, costs to
support the Company's sales growth increased $4,696 or 8.9 percent, and costs to
support product development increased $3,099 or 37.0 percent. S,G&A expenses as
a percent of net sales were 21.7 and 21.9 percent in fiscal 1997 and 1996,
respectively. S,G&A expenses increased more rapidly than sales during fiscal
1997. This was primarily a result of an increase in SG&A expenses in
anticipation of an increase in sales, however actual sales increases were less
than expected.
As a result of the above, operating income was $16,613 and $18,535
in fiscal 1997 and 1996, respectively.
Other income decreased $62 or 1.9 percent in 1997, as compared to
the prior year. Prior year other income included a favorable lawsuit settlement.
This was offset in 1997 by improved earnings from the Company's commercial
rental property, resulting from a more robust commercial real estate market.
Interest expense increased $294 in fiscal 1997. Borrowings and base
interest rates remained similar to the prior year.
The effective tax rates in fiscal 1997 and 1996 were 44.2 percent
and 38.5 percent, respectively. The increase in the effective tax rate was
primarily the result of losses incurred by the Company's Dutch subsidiary which
are not tax-effected, additional non-deductible goodwill amortization related to
the Soil Teq acquisition in December 1995, and a reduction in the valuation
reserve in the prior year.
<PAGE>
The Company's European subsidiary, Ag-Chem Europe B.V., incurred a
net loss of $1,556 in fiscal 1997, as compared to a loss of $114 in the prior
year.
As a result of the above, net earnings were $7,570 and $9,748 in
fiscal 1997 and 1996, and earnings per share were $.78 and $1.01 for fiscal 1997
and 1996, respectively.
LIQUIDITY AND FINANCIAL POSITION - 1997 COMPARED TO 1996
Net cash provided by operating activities increased to $17,754
during fiscal 1997, compared to net cash used in operating activities of $11,289
in fiscal 1996. The major reason for this change was an increase in cash
provided by changes in operating assets and liabilities to $1,949 in fiscal 1997
from cash used in operating assets and liabilities of $27,762 in the prior year
period. Inventories, together with increased accounts payable balances provided
cash of $4,821 compared to cash used of $32,633 during fiscal 1997 and 1996,
respectively.
Account receivable turnover has remained relatively stable in recent
periods, and has not significantly affected liquidity. Inventory turnover
improved in 1997, primarily because of a build-up of inventory balances in the
prior year in anticipation of demand. Actual demand was less than expected,
resulting in higher debt levels to support working capital requirements at
September 30, 1996.
Cash used in investing activities in fiscal 1997 was $10,990
compared to $12,509 in the prior-year period. This decreased use of cash was
primarily due to prior-year investments in property, plant and equipment to
support the Company's then anticipated sales growth. During fiscal 1997
property, plant and equipment increased by $7,407 compared to an increase of
$10,022 in the prior year. This decrease was partially offset by the increase in
rental equipment. Rental equipment increased by $3,517 during fiscal 1997,
compared to $1,308 in the prior year.
Cash used in financing activities was $6,249 in fiscal 1997,
compared to cash provided of $23,776 in the prior year. The increase in cash
used in financing activities was primarily the result of the net repayments of
notes payable of $10,050 compared to net borrowings of $30,000 during fiscal
1997 and 1996, respectively. Additionally, proceeds from long term borrowings,
net of repayments, were $4,598 during fiscal 1997, compared to net repayments
$3,894 during fiscal 1996. The increase in net repayments was primarily due to
decreased working capital requirements that resulted from increased sales,
reduced production and completion of the Company's plant expansions in Jackson
and Benson, Minnesota.
Working capital at September 30, 1997 was $53,497. As of September
30, 1997 the Company had $30,500 of unused credit line available. The Company
periodically receives prepayments from customers to secure either more favorable
pricing or a desired delivery date. If the Company did not receive customer
prepayments, it believes its line of credit provides sufficient liquidity to
meet working capital requirements.
The terms of the amended line of credit agreement include covenants
that the Company must maintain. There are a number of standard affirmative
covenants, as well as restrictive negative covenants as to additional borrowings
and requirements for the Company to maintain certain financial ratios. These
restrictive covenants (which are included in Exhibits 10.1 and 10.2 to the
Company's Form 10Q filed with the Commission on August 15, 1997) include a
minimum tangible net worth of $35 million plus 50% of each fiscal year's net
earnings, a ratio of total liabilities to tangible net worth, and an interest
coverage ratio. There are additional limitations on mergers, acquisitions,
disposal of assets, and capital expenditures.
MARKET RISK MANAGEMENT
The Company is exposed to market risk from changes in interest rates
and foreign currency exchange rates. Changes in these factors could cause
fluctuations in the Company's earnings and cash flows. The Company estimates
market risk using sensitivity analysis, which is defined as the change in the
fair value of a derivative or financial instrument assuming a hypothetical 10%
adverse change in the market rates or prices. The Company evaluates and manages
exposure to these market risks as follows:
* Interest rates - The Company manages its debt structure and
interest rate risk through the use of fixed- and floating-rate
debt and through the use of derivatives. Interest rate swaps
may be used to hedge the Company's exposure to interest rate
changes, and also to lower financing costs. Generally under
these swaps, the Company agrees with a counterpart to exchange
the difference between fixed-rate and floating-rate interest
amounts based on an agreed notional principal amount. The
Company's primary exposure is to U.S. interest rates and to a
lessor extent to Dutch interest rates. The Company has no
exposure due to rate changes for fixed rate long-term debt
obligations which aggregated $31.4 million at September 30,
1998 with interest rates ranging from 4.5 to 7.25 percent.
Based on the results of the sensitivity analysis, net earnings
would be adversly impacted by approximately $200. This impact
is based on the Company's $46.2 million of variable interest
rate borrowings outstanding at September 30, 1998.
* Foreign currency exchange rates - Foreign currency
fluctuations can affect the Company's net investments and
earnings denominated in foreign currencies. The Company
primarily uses currency forward contracts to selectively hedge
exposure to changes in exchange rates. These contracts
function as hedges since they change in value inversely to the
change created in the underlying exposure as foreign exchange
rates fluctuate. The Company's primary exchange rate exposure
is with the Dutch guilder and the Canadian dollar against the
U.S. dollar. Based on the results of the sensitivity analysis
at September 30, 1998, the Company's estimated net earnings
exposure for foreign currency exchange rates is not material.
<PAGE>
IMPACT OF YEAR 2000
Beginning in early 1996, the Company included certain Year 2000
initiatives and remediation plans in its broader information systems strategic
plan. The Company has retained an independent consultant to assess the adequacy
of the Company's Year 2000 initiatives and remediation plans. Since that time,
all of the Company's essential information technology ("IT") systems have been
inventoried and remediation plans for any Year 2000 issues have been
implemented. The Company has developed Year 2000-compliant applications for the
Company's order entry and customer service systems. In the third quarter of
fiscal 1997, the Company upgraded its information system used in manufacturing
operations, material planning, inventory management, order processing, financial
management and human resources applications, which is now Year 2000-compliant.
The Company purchased Year 2000-compliant upgrades to the Company's payroll
application in 1997 and the Company's telephone system in 1998. The Company
purchased Year 2000-compliant upgrades for its software applications for
customer inquiries and for processing and tracking warranty claims and returns.
The Company anticipates these upgrades will be fully implemented and tested in
the first half of 1999. With the implementation of these applications and
upgrades, the Company expects that all of its core applications and IT systems
will be Year 2000 compliant by the end of the second quarter of 1999.
In May 1998, the Company formed a Year 2000 project team ("Year 2000
Project Team") to identify and address Year 2000 compliance matters, including
the Company's significant non-IT systems which are comprised of the embedded
technology used in the Company's buildings, plant, equipment and other
infrastructure. The Year 2000 Project Team has inventoried all material Year
2000 issues in the Company's non-IT systems and is currently monitoring
compliance efforts. The Company expects that remedial action for all of its
non-IT systems will be completed by the end of the second quarter of 1999.
During the first quarter of 1998, the Company initiated discussions
with its largest suppliers regarding their plans to remediate Year 2000 issues.
The Company sent each of its significant suppliers a questionnaire inquiring as
to the magnitude of their Year 2000 issues and the status of their readiness.
The Company has received assurances from a significant portion of its suppliers
that such third parties will become Year 2000 compliant in a timely manner. The
Company is following up with these third parties and is searching for
alternative sources, should they be unable to continue business in the Year
2000.
The Company is dependent on its customers for future sales, and if
any of its significant customers were not adequately prepared for the Year 2000,
there could be a significant negative effect on sales and net income. Related
purchases of the Company's equipment could be delayed or cancelled by
inadequately prepared customers. The Company has identified its significant
customers and will be sending each of them a questionnaire inquiring as to the
magnitude of their Year 2000 issues and the status of their readiness. The
Company will pursue responses from each of these customers and include this
issue in its development of contingency plans. The Company is also encouraging
customers to take active steps to review and evaluate the Year 2000 compliance
of all products and systems used in their particular situation. For example,
products and customer processes might include a variety of third party hardware,
software, operating systems and other equipment that may not have been developed
or supplied through Ag-Chem, and may interact differently with respect to Year
2000 issues depending on the particular combination of products involved.
In addition to suppliers and customers, the Company also relies upon
governmental agencies, utility companies, telecommunication service companies
and other service providers outside of the Company's control. There can be no
assurance that such governmental agencies or other third parties will not suffer
a Year 2000 business disruption that could have a material adverse effect on the
Company's business, financial condi-
<PAGE>
tion and operating results.
The Company estimates that the expenses it has incurred in fiscal
1998 to address Year 2000 issues were approximately $90. The Company estimates
that it will incur approximately $300 of additional expense to complete its
remediation plans required for its IT systems, which includes systems software
costs and consulting fees. The Company does not have an estimate of Year 2000
remediation costs that may be required for its non-IT systems, but the Company
believes that such costs will not have a material adverse effect on the
Company's business, financial condition and operating results.
As the process of inventorying non-IT systems proceeds, the Company
may identify systems that present a Year 2000 risk. In addition, if any third
parties who provide goods or services essential to the Company's business
activities fail to appropriately address their Year 2000 issues, such failure
could have a material adverse effect on the Company's business, financial
condition and operating results. For example, a Year 2000 related disruption on
the part of the financial institutions which process the Company's electronic
funds transfers and credit card charges would have an adverse effect on the
Company's business, financial condition and operating results.
The Company's Year 2000 Project Team's initiatives include the
development of contingency plans in the event the Company has not completed all
of its remediation plans in a timely manner. In addition, the Year 2000 Project
Team is in the process of developing contingency plans in the event that any
third parties who provide goods or services essential to the Company's business
fail to appropriately address their Year 2000 issues. The Year 2000 Project Team
expects to conclude the development of these contingency plans by the end of the
third quarter of fiscal 1999.
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
Certain information included in this Report is "forward-looking"
within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such
forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as "will,"
"intends," "expects," "should," and similar language. Such forward-looking
statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors
which may cause the actual results, performance, or achievements of the Company,
or industry results, to be materially different from any future results,
performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking
statements. These include factors that affect all businesses, as well as matters
specific to the Company and markets it serves.
For most companies operating in a global economy, monetary and
fiscal policies implemented in the U.S. and abroad have a significant impact on
economic growth, and, accordingly, demand for their products. For example, if
the Federal Reserve Board raises interest rates in fiscal 1999, the U.S. economy
could slow and negatively impact demand for the Company's products. If low
interest rates in Europe do not stimulate that economy or if government spending
is significantly reduced, the demand for Company products in that region could
be negatively impacted.
Political factors in the U.S. and abroad also have a major impact on
global companies. The Company anticipates significant growth in international
sales. International trade and fiscal policies implemented in the U.S. this year
could impact the Company's ability to grow its business abroad. U.S. foreign
relations with certain countries and any related restrictions imposed could also
have a significant impact on foreign sales. In addition, political instability
in regions such as Eastern Europe and South America make potential economic
growth difficult to predict for those countries.
Currency fluctuations are also a significant unknown for global
companies. If the U.S. dollar continues to strengthen against foreign
currencies, the Company's ability to realize price increases on sales could be
nega-
<PAGE>
tively impacted.
The rate of growth for the agricultural industry, and the rate of
acceptance of new technologies, such as SOILECTION also play a significant role
in the Company's results. The Company's products are an integral component of
these activities and as they increase or decrease in the U.S. or abroad, demand
for the Company's products may be significantly impacted.
The Company operates in a highly competitive environment and the
Company's outlook depends on a forecast of the Company's share of industry
sales. A reduction in that share could result from unanticipated pricing or
product strategies pursued by competitors, unanticipated product or
manufacturing difficulties, or a failure to price the Company's products
competitively. As discussed in Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial
Condition and Results of Operations, competitive pressures did have an effect on
share of industry sales in the U.S. and Canada in 1998 and if those pressures
continue to have an impact, sales for 1999 could fall below current projections.
This discussion of risks, uncertainties and other factors is by no
means exhaustive but is designed to highlight important factors that may impact
the outlook for the Company. Examples of uncertainties not discussed in detail
include the many interrelated factors that affect farmers' confidence, including
world-wide demand for agricultural products, world grain stocks, commodity
prices, weather, animal diseases, crop pests, harvest yields, real estate values
and government farm programs; legislation, primarily legislation relating to
agriculture and the environment; actions of the Company's competitors;
production difficulties, including capacity and supply constraints; dealer
practices; labor relations; accounting standards; and other risks and
uncertainties. Obvious factors such as general economic conditions throughout
the world do not warrant further discussion but are noted to further emphasize
the myriad of contingencies that may cause the Company's actual results to
differ from those currently anticipated.
The Company disclaims an obligation to update statements regarding
such risks and uncertainties except to the extent required to do so in its
filings under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA.
<PAGE>
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT
The Board of Directors and Stockholders
Ag-Chem Equipment Co., Inc.
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Ag-Chem
Equipment Co., Inc. and subsidiaries as of September 30, 1998 and 1997 and the
related consolidated statements of earnings, stockholders' equity, and cash
flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended September 30, 1998.
These consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's
management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated
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 consolidated financial statements referred to above present
fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Ag-Chem Equipment
Co., Inc. and subsidiaries as of September 30, 1998 and 1997 and the results of
their operations and their cash flows for each of the years in the three-year
period ended September 30, 1998 in conformity with generally accepted accounting
principles.
KPMG Peat Marwick LLP
Minneapolis, Minnesota
November 12, 1998
F-1
<PAGE>
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
AG-CHEM EQUIPMENT CO., INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
(DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
September 30,
------------------------
ASSETS 1998 1997
---------- ----------
<S> <C> <C>
CURRENT ASSETS:
Accounts receivable, less allowance for doubtful
accounts of $730 and $576, respectively $ 23,499 $ 23,728
Notes receivable, current portion, and accrued
interest receivable (note 5) 4,178 3,188
Inventories (note 2) 101,751 99,894
Deferred income tax benefits, net (note 10) 4,000 4,550
Prepaid expenses and other current assets 617 881
---------- ----------
Total current assets 134,045 132,241
---------- ----------
PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT, NET (NOTES 3, 4 AND 8) 45,813 46,260
OTHER ASSETS:
Notes receivable, long-term portion (note 5) 5,596 5,213
Bond funds held by trustees 23 745
Intangible and other assets, net of accumulated
amortization of $3,404 and $2,392,
respectively (note 1) 2,717 3,540
---------- ----------
Total other assets 8,336 9,498
---------- ----------
Total assets $ 188,194 $ 187,999
========== ==========
</TABLE>
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
F-2
<PAGE>
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
AG-CHEM EQUIPMENT CO., INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
(DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
September 30,
---------------------------
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY 1998 1997
----------- -----------
<S> <C> <C>
CURRENT LIABILITIES:
Current installments of long-term debt (note 8) $ 6,367 $ 4,994
Note payable to banks (note 7) 11,352 32,685
Accounts payable 15,120 15,049
Checks outstanding in excess of cash balances 2,145 7
Customer prepayments 6,934 7,718
Accrued expenses (note 6) 14,566 17,504
Deferred income 1,013 563
Accrued income taxes 374 224
----------- -----------
Total current liabilities 57,871 78,744
LONG-TERM DEBT, LESS CURRENT INSTALLMENTS (NOTE 8) 59,903 45,368
----------- -----------
Total liabilities 117,774 124,112
----------- -----------
STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY:
Common stock, $.01 par value:
Authorized, 40,000,000 shares; issued and
outstanding, 9,640,268 shares and, 9,670,268 respectively 96 97
Additional paid-in capital 1,737 2,188
Retained earnings 68,930 62,082
Foreign currency translation adjustment (343) (480)
----------- -----------
Total stockholders' equity 70,420 63,887
----------- -----------
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (NOTES 12 AND 13)
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity $ 188,194 $ 187,999
=========== ===========
</TABLE>
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
F-3
<PAGE>
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EARNINGS
AG-CHEM EQUIPMENT CO., INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
(DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT SHARES AND EARNINGS PER SHARE)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Years ended September 30,
-----------------------------------------------
1998 1997 1996
----------- ----------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Net sales $ 322,122 $ 318,212 $ 280,152
Cost of sales 234,959 232,565 200,378
----------- ----------- -----------
Gross profit 87,163 85,647 79,774
Selling, general and administrative expenses 74,003 69,034 61,239
----------- ----------- -----------
Operating income 13,160 16,613 18,535
Other income (expense):
Other income (note 11) 3,384 3,186 3,248
Interest expense (6,246) (6,229) (5,935)
----------- ----------- -----------
Earnings before income taxes 10,298 13,570 15,848
Income tax expense (note 10) 3,450 6,000 6,100
----------- ----------- -----------
Net earnings $ 6,848 $ 7,570 $ 9,748
=========== =========== ===========
Earnings per share $ .71 $ .78 $ 1.01
=========== =========== ===========
Weighted average common shares outstanding 9,660,152 9,683,341 9,671,932
=========== =========== ===========
</TABLE>
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
F-4
<PAGE>
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
AG-CHEM EQUIPMENT CO., INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
(DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Foreign
Common Stock Additional currency Total
-------------------------- paid-in Retained translation stockholders'
Shares Amount capital earnings adjustment equity
--------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Balances at September 30, 1995 9,595,768 $ 96 $ -- $ 44,764 $ 13 $ 44,873
Issuance of shares for Soil
Teq's minority interest 100,000 1 2,699 -- -- 2,700
Net earnings -- -- -- 9,748 -- 9,748
Foreign currency translation
adjustment -- -- -- -- 22 22
--------- ---------- --------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Balances at September 30, 1996 9,695,768 97 2,699 54,512 35 57,343
Purchases and retirement of
previously issued shares (25,500) -- (511) -- -- (511)
Net earnings -- -- -- 7,570 -- 7,570
Foreign currency translation
adjustment -- -- -- -- (515) (515)
--------- ---------- --------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Balances at September 30, 1997 9,670,268 97 2,188 62,082 (480) 63,887
PURCHASES AND RETIREMENT
OF PREVIOUSLY ISSUED SHARES (30,000) (1) (451) -- -- (452)
NET EARNINGS -- -- -- 6,848 -- 6,848
FOREIGN CURRENCY TRANSLATION
ADJUSTMENT -- -- -- -- 137 137
--------- ---------- --------- ---------- ---------- ----------
BALANCES AT SEPTEMBER 30, 1998 9,640,268 $ 96 $ 1,737 $ 68,930 $ (343) $ 70,420
========= ========== ========= ========== ========== ==========
</TABLE>
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
F-5
<PAGE>
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
AG-CHEM EQUIPMENT CO., INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
(DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Years ended September 30,
--------------------------------------
1998 1997 1996
-------- -------- --------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
Net earnings $ 6,848 $ 7,570 $ 9,748
ADJUSTMENTS TO RECONCILE NET EARNINGS TO NET CASH
PROVIDED BY (USED IN) OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
Depreciation and amortization 8,330 8,259 8,015
Gain on sale of equipment (151) (5) (130)
Decrease (increase) in deferred income tax benefits 550 (19) (1,160)
Changes in operating assets and liabilities,
net of effects of acquisition:
Accounts receivable 229 (827) (928)
Notes receivable (1,373) (964) 1,727
Inventories (1,857) 2,417 (26,475)
Other current assets 264 (311) (139)
Accounts payable 71 2,404 (6,158)
Customer prepayments and deferred income (334) 1,856 1,832
Accrued expenses (2,938) (682) 2,433
Income taxes 150 (1,944) (54)
-------- -------- --------
Cash provided by (used in) operating activities 9,789 17,754 (11,289)
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
Retirement of short-term investments
for industrial revenue bond 722 -- --
Purchase of property and equipment (3,969) (7,407) (10,022)
Increase in rental equipment (2,906) (3,517) (1,308)
Proceeds from sale of equipment 132 19 218
Decrease in other assets (166) (85) (1,397)
-------- -------- --------
Cash used in investing activities (6,187) (10,990) (12,509)
</TABLE>
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
F-6
<PAGE>
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
AG-CHEM EQUIPMENT CO., INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
(DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Years ended September 30,
-----------------------------------------
1998 1997 1996
--------- --------- ---------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Increase (decrease) in checks outstanding in
excess of cash balances $ 2,138 $ (286) $ (2,330)
Proceeds from notes payable - banks 155,150 78,900 71,180
Repayments on notes payable - banks (176,483) (88,950) (41,180)
Proceeds from long-term borrowings 29,750 42,975 67,100
Repayments of long-term borrowings (13,842) (38,377) (70,994)
Purchase of common stock (452) (511) --
--------- --------- ---------
Cash (used in) provided by financing activities (3,739) (6,249) 23,776
Foreign currency translation adjustment 137 (515) 22
--------- --------- ---------
Net change in cash -- -- --
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT BEGINNING OF YEAR -- -- --
--------- --------- ---------
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT END OF YEAR $ -- $ -- $ --
========= ========= =========
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION:
Cash paid during the year for:
Interest $ 6,184 $ 6,204 $ 5,100
Income taxes 2,744 7,900 7,209
</TABLE>
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF NON-CASH INVESTING AND FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
The Company entered into capital leases for computer equipment that
aggregated to $789 and $141 during the periods ended September 30, 1998 and
1997, respectively.
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
F-7
<PAGE>
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
September 30, 1998, 1997 and 1996
AG-CHEMEQUIPMENT CO., INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
(DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)
1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT
ACCOUNTING POLICIES
PRINCIPLES OF CONSOLIDATION
The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the
accounts of Ag-Chem Equipment Co., Inc. and its subsidiaries (the Company). All
material intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in
consolidation.
USE OF ESTIMATES
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally
accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and
assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and
disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial
statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the
reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
CONCENTRATION OF CREDIT RISK
The Company extends credit primarily to agricultural cooperatives
and dealers in the United States and Canada, and to international distributors.
The Company also provides financing for the sales of equipment through notes
receivable and operating leases.
INVENTORIES
Substantially all inventories except used equipment are stated at
the lower of cost or market. Cost is determined using the last in, first out
(LIFO) method for all inventories other than used equipment. Used equipment is
valued at amounts which do not exceed estimated fair market value.
PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT
Property, plant and equipment are recorded at cost. Depreciation and
amortization of all property, plant and equipment is computed on straight-line
and accelerated methods over the following estimated useful lives:
Years
-----
Land improvements 15-20
Buildings and improvements 15-40
Rental property 5-40
Machinery and equipment 5-10
Rental equipment 5
Transportation equipment 3-5
Office equipment and furniture 5-10
Computer equipment 5-7
INDUSTRIAL REVENUE BOND ISSUE
Reserve bond funds relate to industrial revenue bonds issued by the
City of Jackson, Minnesota to finance the acquisition of a portion of the
Company's Jackson, Minnesota facilities and will be used to pay principal and
interest due on the bonds only when amounts deposited by the Company are
insufficient.
Industrial revenue bond issuance costs have been deferred and are
being amortized over the term of the bonds using the effective interest method.
F-8
<PAGE>
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
September 30, 1998, 1997 and 1996
AG-CHEMEQUIPMENT CO., INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
(DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)
INTANGIBLE AND OTHER ASSETS
Intangible and other assets, net of accumulated amortization,
consists of the following:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
September 30,
1998 1997
------ ------
<S> <C> <C>
Excess of purchase price over fair market value of net assets purchased $1,355 $1,928
Non compete agreements 224 320
Deferred financing costs 253 326
Manufacturing and marketing rights 672 874
Other 213 92
------ ------
Total intangible and other assets $2,717 $3,540
====== ======
</TABLE>
Intangible and other assets are capitalized at cost and, except for
deferred financing costs, are amortized on a straight-line basis over periods
ranging from two to ten years. Deferred financing costs are being amortized over
the term of the financing using the effective interest method.
Management periodically assesses the amortization period and
recoverability of the carrying amounts of intangible assets based upon an
estimation of their value and future benefits of the recorded asset. Management
has concluded that the carrying amount of the intangible assets is realizable.
RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT EXPENDITURES
The Company's research and development expenditures are expensed as
incurred and totaled $10,846, $9,361 and $7,208 for fiscal 1998, 1997 and 1996,
respectively.
INCOME TAXES
The Company recognizes deferred tax assets and liabilities for the
future tax consequences attributable to temporary differences between the
financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and
their respective tax bases. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured
using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in
which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The
effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is
recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date.
FOREIGN CURRENCY TRANSLATION
For the Company's Dutch operation, the Dutch guilder is considered
the functional currency. Assets and liabilities are translated using the
exchange rates in effect at the balance sheet date. Results of operations are
translated using the average exchange rates prevailing throughout the period.
Translation effects are accumulated in the foreign currency adjustment caption
in stockholders' equity.
EARNINGS PER SHARE
Earnings per common share are computed based upon the weighted
average number of common shares outstanding during the respective years. The
Company has no dilutive-potential common stock equivalents.
F-9
<PAGE>
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
September 30, 1998, 1997 and 1996
AG-CHEMEQUIPMENT CO., INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
(DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)
REVENUE RECOGNITION
Payments for future deliveries of equipment are classified as
customer prepayments. Customers will periodically pay for equipment in advance
of shipment to secure either more favorable pricing or a desired delivery date.
The primary benefits to the Company are that it generates additional sales and
allows the Company to improve economies of scale by better scheduling its
production. The Company recognizes revenue relating to customer deposits upon
shipment of the related equipment.
PROFIT SHARING PLAN
The Company made contributions of $414, $3,171, and $4,778 to its
profit sharing plan in fiscal 1998, 1997 and 1996, respectively.
STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
For purposes of the statements of cash flows, the Company considers
all highly liquid debt instruments purchased with an original maturity of three
months or less to be cash equivalents.
IMPAIRMENT OF LONG-LIVED ASSETS AND LONG-LIVED ASSETS TO BE DISPOSED OF
The Company reviews its long-lived assets and certain identifiable
intangibles for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate
that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. Recoverability of
assets to be held and used is measured by a comparison of the carrying amount of
an asset to future net cash flows expected to be generated by the asset. If such
assets are considered to be impaired, the impairment to be recognized is
measured by the amount by which the carrying amount of the assets exceeds the
fair value of the assets. Assets to be disposed of are reported at the lower of
the carrying amount or fair value less costs to sell.
NEW ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS
During fiscal 1998, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB)
issued SFAS No. 130, "Reporting Comprehensive Income," SFAS No. 131,
"Disclosures about Segments of an Enterprise and Related Information," and SFAS
No. 133, "Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities." The
Accounting Standards Executive Committee issued Statement of Position (SOP)
98-1, "Accounting for the Costs of Computer Software Developed or Obtained for
Internal Use." With the exception of SFAS No. 133, these standards are effective
in fiscal 1999, and the adoption of the standards will have no impact on the
Company's financial position, results of operations, or cash flows.
SFAS No. 133 establishes new standards for recognizing all
derivatives as either assets or liabilities and measuring those instruments at
fair value. The Company will be required to adopt the new standard beginning
with the first quarter of fiscal 2000; earlier application is permitted. The
Company is currently in the process of evaluating the impact of this statement.
2. INVENTORIES
Inventories consist of the following:
September 30,
-------------------------------
1998 1997
--------- ---------
Finished goods $ 49,317 $ 46,278
Resale parts 25,029 22,116
Work in process 4,739 7,542
Raw materials 24,068 25,700
--------- ---------
Total 103,153 101,636
Less LIFO reserve (12,006) (12,454)
--------- ---------
Total 91,147 89,182
Used equipment 10,604 10,712
--------- ---------
Total inventories $ 101,751 $ 99,894
========= =========
If the first in, first out (FIFO) method utilizing current costs had
been used for inventories valued using the LIFO method, inventories would have
been higher by $12,006 and $12,454 at September 30, 1998 and 1997, respectively.
F-10
<PAGE>
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
September 30, 1998, 1997 and 1996
AG-CHEMEQUIPMENT CO., INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
(DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)
3. PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT
Property, plant and equipment consists of the following:
September 30,
------------------------
1998 1997
-------- --------
Land $ 1,369 $ 1,225
Land improvements 3,807 3,647
Buildings and improvements 24,977 24,270
Machinery and equipment 20,322 19,413
Rental property 4,617 4,395
Rental equipment (note 4) 11,896 8,990
Transportation equipment 2,330 2,486
Office equipment and furniture 3,765 3,577
Computer equipment 10,056 8,514
-------- --------
83,139 76,517
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization (37,326) (30,257)
-------- --------
Net property, plant and equipment $ 45,813 $ 46,260
======== ========
4. RENTAL EQUIPMENT
The Company leases equipment to customers through operating leases,
the majority of which are cancelable. The net investment in equipment leased to
customers under operating leases is as follows:
September 30,
------------------------
1998 1997
-------- --------
Rental equipment $ 11,896 $ 8,990
Less accumulated depreciation (3,442) (2,307)
-------- --------
Net rental equipment $ 8,454 $ 6,683
======== ========
Future minimum rentals receivable under non-cancelable operating
leases at September 30, 1998 are as follows:
Year ending September 30, Amount
------------------------- ------
1999 $ 497
2000 135
2001 107
2002 107
-----
Total $ 846
=====
F-11
<PAGE>
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
September 30, 1998, 1997 and 1996
AG-CHEMEQUIPMENT CO., INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
(DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)
5. NOTES RECEIVABLE
The Company provides financing to customers with notes receivable
which bear interest between 8.0% to 13.0%. These notes are payable in
installments over 1 to 5 years and are secured primarily with the equipment sold
to the customer. Principal maturities of notes receivable are as follows:
Year ending September 30, Amount
------------------------- ------
1999 $3,790
2000 2,327
2001 1,614
2002 1,372
2003 283
------
Total $9,386
======
6. ACCRUED EXPENSES
Accrued expenses consist of the following:
September 30,
--------------------------
1998 1997
------- -------
Compensation $ 5,966 $ 9,396
Warranty 1,537 1,385
Taxes other than income 1,543 1,790
Insurance 1,557 1,861
Interest 1,816 1,755
Other 2,147 1,317
------- -------
Total $14,566 $17,504
======= =======
7. NOTE PAYABLE TO BANKS
In June 1998, the Company refinanced its line of credit agreement
with four banks. The Company is required to pay a commitment fee of 0.125 to
0.375 percent of the average daily unused portion of the line of credit. The
amended agreement requires the Company to maintain a tangible net worth of $47.5
million plus 75% of each fiscal year's net earnings, certain working capital,
net worth and debt to net worth ratios as well as limits the amount of capital
expenditures, distributions and indebtedness.
The new line of credit agreements allow aggregate borrowings up to
$75 million, of which $30 million is due in June 1999 and $45 million is payable
in May 2000. As of September 30, 1998, $7,650 was outstanding compared to
$44,500 in the prior year. The weighted average interest rate on short-term
borrowings outstanding was 8.0% as of September 30, 1998.
The Company's European subsidiary utilizes a portion of Ag-Chem line
of credit agreement. Borrowings outstanding of the subsidiary under this
agreement were $3,185. The subsidiary also has its own line of credit with a
bank. The agreement allows aggregate borrowings up to 2.8 million Dutch Guilders
(approximately $1,500) which expires on January 31, 1999. There were $517 of
borrowings outstanding under this agreement at September 30, 1998. Borrowings
under this line of credit bear interest at the Dutch prime rate plus 0.85
percent and are secured by substantially all of the subsidiary's assets which
aggregate approximately $9,162.
F-12
<PAGE>
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
September 30, 1998, 1997 and 1996
AG-CHEMEQUIPMENT CO., INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
(DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)
8. LONG-TERM DEBT
Long-term debt consists of the following:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
September 30,
--------------------
1998 1997
------- -------
<S> <C> <C>
Industrial revenue bonds with the City of Jackson, MN payable in varying
annual amounts beginning in November 1998 through 2007 with interest
from 4.5% to 6.0 % $ 6,065 $ 6,065
Note payable under line of credit with four banks with interest at the
banks' reference rate due May 2000 (see note 7) 34,850 15,000
Note payable in five annual installments of $3 million commencing in
April 1997 with interest payable semiannually at 6.83% 9,000 12,000
Note payable in seven annual installments of $2,143 commencing in
April 1999 with interest payable semiannually at 7.25% 15,000 15,000
Notes payable to former owner of European distributorship with interest
at 6 percent due October 1997 -- 1,480
Miscellaneous notes payable 1,355 817
------- -------
Total long-term debt 66,270 50,362
Less current installments 6,367 4,994
------- -------
Long-term debt, less current installments $59,903 $45,368
======= =======
</TABLE>
Scheduled annual maturities of long-term debt are as follows:
Year ending September 30, Amount
------------------------- -------
1999 $ 6,367
2000 40,836
2001 5,918
2002 2,708
2003 2,726
Thereafter 7,715
-------
Total $66,270
=======
Industrial revenue bonds are secured by a mortgage on a
manufacturing plant in Jackson, Minnesota and a security interest in equipment
purchased with bond proceeds. The industrial revenue bonds are payable in
escalating yearly installments commencing December 1, 1998 through December 1,
2007 of $480 to $765, respectively. The bonds bear interest which escalates from
4.5 percent for the December 1, 1998 installment to 6.0 percent for the December
1, 2007 installment. Under the terms of the agreement, the Company is required
to meet certain debt covenants. These bonds were refinanced on November 19,
1997.
Both $15,000 notes payable contain certain restrictive covenants as
to additional borrowings and requires the Company to maintain certain financial
ratios.
F-13
<PAGE>
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
September 30, 1998, 1997 and 1996
AG-CHEMEQUIPMENT CO., INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
(DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)
9. FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
Most of the Company's financial instruments are recorded on the
balance sheet. Quoted market prices generally are not available for all of the
Company's financial instruments. Accordingly, fair values are based on judgments
regarding current economic conditions, risk characteristics of various financial
instruments and other factors. These estimates involve uncertainties and matters
of judgment, and therefore, cannot be determined with precision. Changes in
assumptions could significantly affect the estimates.
A description of the methods and assumptions used to estimate the
fair value of each class of the Company's financial instruments is as follows:
ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE, NET
As the average collection period for these is less than 45 days, the carrying
amount approximates fair value.
NOTES RECEIVABLE
The fair values of fixed rate notes receivable are estimated by discounting
future cash flows using current discount rates that reflect the risks associated
with similar types of loans.
BOND FUNDS
The carrying amounts approximate fair value due to the short maturity of these
instruments.
NOTE PAYABLE TO BANK
The carrying amounts approximate fair value due to the short maturity of these
instruments.
ACCOUNTS PAYABLE, CHECKS OUTSTANDING IN EXCESS OF CASH BALANCES, AND ACCRUED
EXPENSES The carrying amounts approximate fair value due to the short maturity
of these instruments.
LONG-TERM DEBT
The fair value of the Company's long-term debt was estimated based on the amount
of future cash flows associated with each instrument discounted using the
current rates offered to the Company for similar debt instruments of comparable
maturity.
The carrying amount and estimated fair values of the Company's
financial instruments at September 30, 1998 and 1997 are summarized as follows:
1998 1997
----------------- ------------------
CARRYING ESTIMATED Carrying Estimated
AMOUNT FAIR VALUE Amount Fair Value
------ ------ ------ ------
Accounts receivable, net $23,499 $23,499 $23,728 $23,728
Notes receivable and accrued
interest receivable 9,774 9,843 8,401 8,542
Bond funds 23 23 745 745
Accounts payable 15,120 15,120 15,049 15,049
Checks outstanding in
excess of cash balances 2,145 2,145 7 7
Accrued expenses 14,566 14,566 17,504 17,504
Long-term debt 66,270 67,487 50,362 50,693
Note payable to banks 11,352 11,352 32,685 32,685
F-14
<PAGE>
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
September 30, 1998, 1997 and 1996
AG-CHEMEQUIPMENT CO., INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
(DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)
The Company from time to time selectively uses derivative
instruments to reduce financial risk of interest rates and foreign currency.
Interest rate swap and foreign exchange agreements are made with highly rated
financial institutions. The Company has exposure associated with derivative
agreements to the extent these agreements have positive value. The Company does
not have a significant concentration of risk with any single party. As of
September 30, 1998, the Company's Dutch subsidiary has a foreign currency
exchange contract with a nominal amount of $1,350 to hedge certain dollar
denominated payments to its parent in the first quarter of fiscal 2000. The fair
value of such agreements are not material to the Company's consolidated
financial position or results of operations.
10. INCOME TAXES
The provision for income tax expense (benefit) consists of the
following:
Federal State Total
------- ------- -------
1998
CURRENT $ 2,750 $ 550 $ 3,300
DEFERRED 125 25 150
------- ------- -------
TOTAL $ 2,875 $ 575 $ 3,450
======= ======= =======
1997
Current $ 5,019 $ 1,000 $ 6,019
Deferred (15) (4) (19)
------- ------- -------
Total $ 5,004 $ 996 $ 6,000
======= ======= =======
1996
Current $ 6,060 $ 1,200 $ 7,260
Deferred (1,000) (160) (1,160)
------- ------- -------
Total $ 5,060 $ 1,040 $ 6,100
======= ======= =======
The actual tax expense for 1998, 1997 and 1996 differs from the
"expected" tax expense for those years (computed by applying the United States
federal corporate rate of 35 percent on earnings before income taxes) as
follows:
1998 1997 1996
------- ------- -------
Expected tax, at statutory rates $ 3,604 $ 4,750 $ 5,546
State taxes, net of federal tax effect 374 650 676
(Decrease) increase in valuation allowance
for deferred tax assets (50) 545 (310)
Tax benefit of foreign sales
corporation (135) (90) (140)
Goodwill, technology rights
amortization 140 141 176
Research tax credit (500) (200) --
Other, net 17 204 152
------- ------- -------
Actual tax expense $ 3,450 $ 6,000 $ 6,100
======= ======= =======
F-15
<PAGE>
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
September 30, 1998, 1997 and 1996
AG-CHEMEQUIPMENT CO., INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
(DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)
The tax effects of temporary differences that give rise to deferred
tax assets and liabilities at September 30, 1998 and 1997 are as follows:
1998 1997
------- -------
Inventory $ 2,449 $ 2,771
Accrued warranty 329 260
Accrued vacation 505 393
Deferred revenue 390 219
Subsidiary's net operating tax loss carryforward 450 850
Foreign subsidiary net operating loss
carryforward 495 545
Intangibles 239 242
Fixed assets 40 212
Other 389 338
------- -------
Gross deferred tax assets 5,286 5,830
Research and development expenditures (200) (144)
Other (101) (101)
------- -------
Gross deferred tax liabilities (301) (245)
------- -------
Valuation allowance (985) (1,035)
------- -------
Net deferred tax asset $ 4,000 $ 4,550
======= =======
A reconciliation of the valuation allowance for deferred taxes is as follows:
1998 1997
------- -------
Valuation allowance at beginning of year $ 1,035 $ 490
(Decrease) increase in valuation allowance (50) 545
------- -------
Valuation allowance at end of year $ 985 $ 1,035
======= =======
The valuation allowance is necessary due to uncertainty over the
future utilization of the net operating loss carryforwards of Soil Teq and
Ag-Chem Europe.
11. OTHER INCOME
Other income consists of the following:
Years ended September 30,
----------------------------
1998 1997 1996
------ ------ ------
Interest income and finance charges $1,394 $ 958 $1,000
Gain on sale of property, plant and equipment 151 5 96
Income from rental properties, net of expenses 778 1,337 217
Lawsuit award -- -- 1,026
Miscellaneous income 1,061 886 909
------ ------ ------
Total $3,384 $3,186 $3,248
====== ====== ======
F-16
<PAGE>
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
September 30, 1998, 1997 and 1996
AG-CHEMEQUIPMENT CO., INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
(DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)
12. LEASES
Rent expense under operating leases amounted to $900, $893 and
$1,169 for offices, warehouses and equipment, and $1,823, $1,495, and $1,315 for
autos and trucks in fiscal 1998, 1997 and 1996, respectively.
The following is a schedule, by year, of future minimum rental
payments required under operating leases that have initial or remaining non
cancelable terms in excess of one year as of September 30, 1998. Commitments for
autos and trucks have not been included since most of these leases are
cancelable upon specified notice.
Years ending September 30, Amount
-------------------------- ------
1999 $ 631
2000 450
2001 137
2002 113
2003 113
Thereafter 717
------
Total $2,161
======
Several parts and service centers are leased under agreements
classified as operating leases. Most leases can be renewed at fair rental value
for additional periods.
The Company leases its Benson, Minnesota facility under a long-term
lease which expires in September 2012 with monthly lease payments of $7. The
Company has the right to purchase the property subject to the lease at any time
during the lease term for an amount not greater than $100 plus an amount,
defined by the lease agreement, which approximates the remaining outstanding
lease balance.
13. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENT LIABILITIES
The Company is involved in several legal actions at September 30,
1998, the ultimate settlement of which is not expected to have a material effect
on the consolidated financial condition of the Company.
14. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
In fiscal 1998, 1997 and 1996, legal services in the amount of $344,
$1,007 and $450, respectively, were provided by a law firm in which a director
and stockholder of the Company is a partner.
15. SEGMENT INFORMATION
For fiscal 1998, 1997 and 1996 the members of a farming co-op
accounted for 13.8%, 13.8% and 12.9% of net sales, respectively. Export sales
were 11.4%, 14.2% and 10.7% of net sales in fiscal 1998, 1997 and 1996,
respectively.
The Company has a subsidiary in the Netherlands. This subsidiary had
net sales of $17,622, $14,490 and $14,878 in fiscal 1998, 1997 and 1996,
respectively. Foreign operating income (losses) for fiscal 1998, 1997 and 1996
were $136, ($1,556) and ($115), respectively. At September 30, 1998, 1997 and
1996, identifiable assets of the foreign subsidiary aggregated $9,162, $10,622
and $11,280, respectively. Foreign currency transaction gains or losses included
in net earnings for fiscal 1998, 1997 and 1996 were not significant.
F-17
<PAGE>
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
September 30, 1998, 1997 and 1996
AG-CHEMEQUIPMENT CO., INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
(DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)
16. SELECTED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL DATA - QUARTERLY (UNAUDITED)
NET EARNINGS EARNINGS (LOSS)
NET SALES GROSS PROFIT (LOSS) PER SHARE
-------- -------- -------- -------
1998
1ST QUARTER $ 62,537 $ 16,972 $ (1,095) $ (.11)
2ND QUARTER 122,500 34,147 7,930 .82
3RD QUARTER 71,248 18,264 (474) (.05)
4TH QUARTER 65,837 17,780 487 .05
-------- -------- -------- -------
TOTAL $322,122 $ 87,163 $ 6,848 $ .71
======== ======== ======== =======
1997
1st Quarter $ 56,290 $ 17,140 $ 994 $ .10
2nd Quarter 130,618 34,772 8,287 .86
3rd Quarter 66,442 18,036 36 .00
4th Quarter 64,862 15,699 (1,747) (.18)
-------- -------- -------- -------
Total $318,212 $ 85,647 $ 7,570 $ .78
======== ======== ======== =======
F-18
<PAGE>
ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND
FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE
There have been no changes in or disagreements with accountants for
the Company which require reporting under this item.
PART III
ITEM 10. DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT
The information required by Item 10 is incorporated herein by
reference to the section entitled "Principal Shareholders" in the Company's
proxy statement for its fiscal 1998 Annual Meeting of Shareholders, which will
be filed with Securities and Exchange Commission within 120 days of the
Company's fiscal year ended September 30, 1998.
<PAGE>
ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
The information required by Item 11 is incorporated herein by
reference to the section entitled "Executive Compensation" in the Company's
proxy statement for its fiscal 1998 Annual Meeting of Shareholders which will be
filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission within 120 days of the
Company's fiscal year ended September 30, 1998.
ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT
The information required in Item 12 is incorporated herein by
reference to the section entitled "Principal Shareholders" in the Company's
proxy statement for its fiscal 1998 Annual Meeting of Shareholders, which will
be filed with Securities and Exchange Commission within 120 days of the
Company's fiscal year ended September 30, 1998.
ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS
The information required by Item 13 is incorporated herein by
reference to the section entitled "Certain Relationships and Related
Transactions" in the Company's proxy statement for its fiscal 1998 Annual
Meeting of Shareholders which will be filed with the Securities and Exchange
Commission within 120 days of the Company's fiscal year ended September 30,
1998.
<PAGE>
ITEM 14. EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES AND REPORTS ON FORM 8K
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The following consolidated financial statements of Ag-Chem Equipment
Co., Inc. are included herein at the indicated page numbers under Part II, Item
8:
Page No.
--------
Independent Auditors' Report F-1
Consolidated Balance Sheets as of September 30, 1998 and 1997 F-2
Consolidated Statements of Earnings for the Fiscal Years
Ended September 30, 1998, 1997 and 1996 F-4
Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity for the
Fiscal Years Ended September 30, 1998, 1997 and 1996 F-5
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Fiscal Years
Ended September 30, 1998, 1997 and 1996 F-6
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements F-8
FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES
The following financial statement schedule of Ag-Chem Equipment Co.,
Inc. is included herein at the indicated page number:
Page No.
--------
Independent Auditors' Report FS-1
Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts FS-2
<PAGE>
Exhibits
Exhibit No TITLE
- ---------- -----
3 Articles of incorporation and by-laws (1)
10.1 $45,000,000 Long Term Second Amended and Restated Revolving Credit
Agreement among Ag-Chem Equipment Co., Inc., NBD Bank, as Lender
and Agent, First Chicago NBD Bank, Canada, as Canadian Lender, The
First National Bank of Chicago, London as Lender, Harris Trust and
Savings Bank, as Lender, Cooperatieve Centrale Raiffeisen -
Boerenleenbank B.A., as Lender, and Rabobank Netherlands, New York
Branch, as Lender (2)
10.2 Second Amendment to Long Term Second Amended and Restated
Revolving Credit Agreement among Ag-Chem Equipment Co., Inc., NBD
Bank, as Lender and Agent, Harris Trust and Savings Bank, as
Lender, Rabobank Nederland, as Lender, dated July 14, 1998. (3)
10.3 $30,000,000 Short Term Revolving Credit Agreement among Ag-Chem
Equipment Co., Inc., NBD Bank, as Lender and Agent, Harris Trust
and Savings Bank, as Lender, Rabobank Nederland, as Lender, dated
June 12, 1998. (3)
10.4 Long Term Amended and Restated Revolving Credit Notes (2)
10.5 Short Term Revolving Credit Notes (2)
10.6 Guaranty (Long Term) of Lor*Al Products, Inc. (2)
10.7 Guaranty (Long Term) of Ag-Chem Sales Co., Inc. (2)
10.8 Guaranty (Long Term) of Ag-Chem Equipment Co., International Corp.
(2)
10.9 Guaranty (Long Term) of Ag-Chem Equipment Canada Ltd. (2)
10.10 Guaranty (Long Term) of Ag-Chem Manufacturing Co., Inc. (formerly
Soil Teq, Inc.) (2)
10.11 Guaranty (Long Term) of Ag-Chem Europe, B.V. (formerly Kurstjens
Terra-Gator, B.V.) (2)
10.12 Guaranty (Short Term) of Lor*Al Products, Inc. (2)
10.13 Guaranty (Short Term) of Ag-Chem Sales Co., Inc. (2)
10.14 Guaranty (Short Term) of Ag-Chem Equipment Co., International
Corp. (2)
10.15 Guaranty (Short Term) of Ag-Chem Equipment Canada Ltd. (2)
10.16 Guaranty (Short Term) of Ag-Chem Manufacturing Co., Inc. (formerly
Soil Teq, Inc.) (2)
10.17 Guaranty (Short Term) of Ag-Chem Europe, B.V. (formerly Kurstjens
Terra-Gator, B.V.) (2)
11.1 Statement of Computation of Earnings per Share
21 Subsidiaries of the Company
27 Financial Data Schedule
(1) Incorporated by reference to the Company's September 30, 1994 Form 10/A.
(2) Incorporated by reference to the Company's June 30, 1997 Form 10Q.
(3) Incorporated by reference to the Company's June 30, 1998 Form 10Q.
REPORTS ON FORMS 8-K
The Company did not file any reports on Form 8-K during the fourth
quarter of the fiscal year ended September 30, 1998.
<PAGE>
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to
be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
AG-CHEM EQUIPMENT CO., INC.
Dated: December 28, 1998
By: /s/ Alvin E. McQuinn
------------------------------------
Alvin E. McQuinn
Its: Chief Executive Officer
POWER OF ATTORNEY
Each person whose signature appears below hereby constitutes and
appoints Alvin E. McQuinn and John C. Retherford, or either of them, such
person's true and lawful attorney-in-fact and agent with the full power of
substitution and resubstitution for such person and in such person's name, place
and stead, in any and all capacities, to sign any or all amendments to this
Annual Report on Form 10-K, and to file the same, with all exhibits thereto and
other documents in connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange
Commission, granting unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents, and each of them,
full power and authority to do and perform each and every act and thing
requisite and necessary to be done in and about the premises, as fully to all
intents and purposes as such person might or could do in person, hereby
ratifying and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact and agents, or either
of them, or their substitute or substitutes, can lawfully do or cause to be done
by virtue hereof.
Pursuant to the requirements with the Securities Exchange Act of
1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of
the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Signature Title Date
--------- ----- ----
<S> <C> <C>
/s/ Alvin E. McQuinn Chairman of the Board, Chief Executive Officer December 28, 1998
- --------------------------- (Principal Executive Officer), Director of Marketing
Alvin E. McQuinn and Director
/s/ Don Pottinger President and Director December 28, 1998
- ---------------------------
Don Pottinger
/s/ John C. Retherford Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer December 28, 1998
- --------------------------- (Principal Financial and Accounting Officer),
John C. Retherford and Director
/s/ Robert L. Hoffman Secretary and Director December 28, 1998
- ---------------------------
Robert L. Hoffman
/s/ G. Waddy Garrett Director December 28, 1998
- ---------------------------
G. Waddy Garrett
/s/ Mary M. Jetland Senior Vice President Advanced Technology December 28, 1998
- --------------------------- and Manufacturing and Director
Mary M. Jetland
/s/ A.J. (Al) Giese Director December 28, 1998
- ---------------------------
A.J. (Al) Giese
/s/ Dewalt J. Willard, Jr. Director December 28, 1998
- ---------------------------
Dewalt J. Willard, Jr.
</TABLE>
<PAGE>
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT
The Board of Directors and Stockholders
Ag-Chem Equipment Co., Inc.
Under date of November 12, 1998, we reported on the consolidated balance sheets
of Ag-Chem Equipment Co., Inc. as of September 30, 1998 and 1997 and the related
consolidated statements of earnings, stockholders' equity and cash flows for
each of the years in the three-year period ended September 30, 1998, as
contained in the annual report on Form 10-K for the year 1998. In connection
with our audits of the aforementioned consolidated financial statements, we also
audited the related consolidated financial statement schedule as listed in the
accompanying index. This financial statement schedule is the responsibility of
the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on this
financial statement schedule based on our audits.
In our opinion, such financial statement schedule, when considered in relation
to the consolidated financial statements taken as a whole, presents fairly in
all material respects the information set forth therein.
KPMG Peat Marwick LLP
Minneapolis, Minnesota
November 12, 1998
FS-1
<PAGE>
SCHEDULE II - VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS
AG-CHEM EQUIPMENT CO., INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
(DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Additions
Balance at charged to Deductions Balance at
beginning of costs from end of
Description period and expenses reserves period
---------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Allowances for possible losses
on accounts receivable:
Year ended September 30, 1998 $ 576 $ 300 ($146)(a) $ 730
Year ended September 30, 1997 $ 393 $ 381 ($198)(a) $ 576
Year ended September 30, 1996 $ 334 $ 188 ($129)(a) $ 393
Allowance for possible losses
on accrued warranty:
Year ended September 30, 1998 $1,385 $4,530 ($4,378)(b) $1,537
Year ended September 30, 1997 $1,132 $3,729 ($3,476)(b) $1,385
Year ended September 30, 1996 $1,189 $2,010 ($2,067)(b) $1,132
</TABLE>
Notes:
(a) Bad debt write-offs
(b) Actual warranty claims
FS-2
Exhibit 11.1
STATEMENT RE: COMPUTATION OF EARNINGS PER SHARE
AG-CHEM EQUIPMENT CO., INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
(DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT EARNINGS PER SHARE)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1998 1997 1996
----------- ----------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Shares outstanding at beginning of year 9,670,268 9,695,768 9,595,768
Issuance of common stock -- -- 100,000
Repurchase and retirement of common stock (30,000) (25,500) --
----------- ----------- -----------
Shares outstanding at end of year 9,640,268 9,670,268 9,695,768
=========== =========== ===========
Weighted average common shares outstanding 9,660,152 9,683,341 9,671,932
=========== =========== ===========
Net earnings $ 6,848 $ 7,570 $ 9,748
=========== =========== ===========
Earnings per common share $ 0.71 $ 0.78 $ 1.01
=========== =========== ===========
</TABLE>
The Company has no dilutive-potential common stock equivalents.
Exhibit 21
SUBSIDIARIES OF AG-CHEM EQUIPMENT CO., INC.
(ALL WHOLLY-OWNED, EXCEPT AG-CHEM EUROPE B.V. AT 90%)
Company Jurisdiction of Incorporation
------- -----------------------------
Ag-Chem Sales Co., Inc. Minnesota
Ag-Chem Manufacturing Co., Inc. Minnesota
Ag-Chem Equipment Co., International Corp. U.S. Virgin Islands
Ag-Chem Equipment Canada, Ltd. Minnesota
Ag-Chem Europe B.V. Netherlands
Lor*Al Products, Inc. Minnesota
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 5
<MULTIPLIER> 1,000
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> 12-MOS
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> SEP-30-1998
<PERIOD-START> OCT-01-1997
<PERIOD-END> SEP-30-1998
<CASH> 0
<SECURITIES> 0
<RECEIVABLES> 23,499
<ALLOWANCES> (730)
<INVENTORY> 101,751
<CURRENT-ASSETS> 134,045
<PP&E> 45,813
<DEPRECIATION> (37,326)
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 188,194
<CURRENT-LIABILITIES> 57,871
<BONDS> 0
0
0
<COMMON> 9,640,268
<OTHER-SE> 0
<TOTAL-LIABILITY-AND-EQUITY> 188,194
<SALES> 322,122
<TOTAL-REVENUES> 322,122
<CGS> 234,959
<TOTAL-COSTS> 234,959
<OTHER-EXPENSES> 74,003
<LOSS-PROVISION> 300
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 6,246
<INCOME-PRETAX> 10,298
<INCOME-TAX> 3,450
<INCOME-CONTINUING> 6,848
<DISCONTINUED> 0
<EXTRAORDINARY> 0
<CHANGES> 0
<NET-INCOME> 6,848
<EPS-PRIMARY> 0.71
<EPS-DILUTED> 0.71
</TABLE>
