UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-Q

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

For the quarterly period ended April 30, 2015

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

For the transition period from _______________ to _______________

Commission file number 001-10382

SYNERGETICS USA, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
Delaware
 
20-5715943
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)
 
(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)

3845 Corporate Centre Drive
   
O’Fallon, Missouri
 
63368
(Address of principal executive offices)
 
(Zip Code)

 
(636) 939-5100
 
 
(Registrant’s Telephone Number, Including Area Code)
 

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

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§ 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).  Yes R No £

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company.  See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.  (Check one):

Large Accelerated Filer  £
Accelerated Filer  
R
Non-Accelerated Filer  £
Smaller Reporting Company
£

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes £ No R

The number of shares outstanding of the issuer’s common stock, $0.001 value per share, as of June 6, 2015 was 25,571,975 shares.
 


SYNERGETICS USA, INC.
Index to Form 10-Q

     
Page
PART I
Financial Information
 
       
 
Item 1.
 
   
3
   
4
   
5
   
6
 
Item 2.
17
 
Item 3.
30
 
Item 4.
31
       
PART II
Other Information
31
       
 
Item 1.
31
 
Item 1A.
31
 
Item 2.
31
 
Item 3.
31
 
Item 4.
32
 
Item 5.
32
 
Item 6.
32
32
 
33
     
Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
34
Certification of Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
35
Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Section 906 of Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
36
Certification of Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 906 of Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
37
 
Page | 2

Part I — Financial Information
Item 1 — Financial Statements
Synergetics USA, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets
As of April 30, 2015 (Unaudited) and July 31, 2014
(Dollars in thousands, except share data)

   
April 30, 2015
   
July 31, 2014
 
Assets
       
Current assets
       
Cash and cash equivalents
 
$
10,448
   
$
15,443
 
Accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $590 and $722, respectively
   
13,809
     
14,641
 
Inventories
   
16,870
     
15,134
 
Prepaid expenses
   
1,572
     
1,223
 
Deferred income taxes
   
2,384
     
2,042
 
Total current assets
   
45,083
     
48,483
 
Property and equipment, net
   
10,594
     
8,785
 
Intangible and other assets
               
Goodwill
   
17,048
     
12,738
 
Other intangible assets, net
   
20,276
     
11,911
 
Deferred income taxes
   
--
     
1,219
 
Patents, net
   
1,432
     
1,472
 
Deferred financing costs, net
   
88
     
--
 
Cash value of life insurance
   
107
     
107
 
Total assets
 
$
94,628
   
$
84,715
 
Liabilities and stockholders’ equity
               
Current liabilities
               
Accounts payable
 
$
4,334
   
$
2,530
 
Accrued expenses
   
3,260
     
2,845
 
Income taxes payable
   
870
     
386
 
Contingent acquisition liability
   
750
     
--
 
Current maturities of long-term debt
   
550
     
--
 
Deferred revenue
   
1,288
     
1,288
 
Total current liabilities
   
11,052
     
7,049
 
Long-Term liabilities
               
Borrowings under term loan facility
   
2,063
     
--
 
Deferred income taxes
   
500
     
--
 
Contingent acquisition liability
   
2,180
     
--
 
Deferred revenue
   
12,276
     
13,242
 
Total long-term liabilities
   
17,019
     
13,242
 
Total liabilities
   
28,071
     
20,291
 
Commitments and contingencies (Note 9)
               
Stockholders’ equity
               
Common stock  at April 30, 2015 and July 31, 2014, $0.001 par value, 50,000,000 shares authorized; 25,571,975 and 25,364,608 shares issued and outstanding, respectively
   
26
     
25
 
Additional paid-in capital
   
29,216
     
28,594
 
Retained earnings
   
39,108
     
36,160
 
Accumulated other comprehensive loss:
               
Foreign currency translation adjustment
   
(1,793
)
   
(355
)
Total stockholders’ equity
   
66,557
     
64,424
 
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity
 
$
94,628
   
$
84,715
 

See Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
Page | 3

Synergetics USA, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income (Unaudited)
Three and Nine Months Ended April 30, 2015 and 2014
(Dollars in thousands, except share and per share data)

   
Three Months
Ended April 30,
2015
   
Three Months
Ended April 30,
2014
   
Nine Months
Ended April 30,
2015
   
Nine Months
Ended April 30,
2014
 
Net sales
 
$
19,375
   
$
16,135
   
$
54,211
   
$
46,761
 
Cost of sales
   
9,270
     
7,223
     
25,252
     
20,527
 
Gross profit
   
10,105
     
8,912
     
28,959
     
26,234
 
Operating expenses
                               
Research and development
   
991
     
1,302
     
3,218
     
4,012
 
Sales and marketing
   
3,864
     
3,450
     
11,203
     
10,655
 
Medical device excise tax
   
126
     
83
     
370
     
323
 
Exit costs
   
--
     
64
     
719
     
578
 
General and administrative
   
3,355
     
2,602
     
9,325
     
8,240
 
     
8,336
     
7,501
     
24,835
     
23,808
 
Operating income
   
1,769
     
1,411
     
4,124
     
2,426
 
Other income (expense)
                               
Investment income
   
1
     
1
     
3
     
7
 
Interest expense
   
(39
)
   
--
     
(53
)
   
--
 
     
(38
)
   
1
     
(50
)
   
7
 
Income from operations before provision for income taxes
   
1,731
     
1,412
     
4,074
     
2,433
 
Provision for income taxes
   
502
     
469
     
1,125
     
781
 
Net income
 
$
1,229
   
$
943
   
$
2,949
   
$
1,652
 
Earnings per share:
                               
Basic earnings per share
 
$
0.05
   
$
0.04
   
$
0.12
   
$
0.07
 
Diluted earnings per share
 
$
0.05
   
$
0.04
   
$
0.12
   
$
0.07
 
                                 
Basic weighted average common shares outstanding
   
25,371,764
     
25,331,925
     
25,358,631
     
25,311,641
 
Diluted weighted average common shares outstanding
   
25,476,336
     
25,392,782
     
25,429,946
     
25,388,493
 
                                 
Net income
 
$
1,229
   
$
943
   
$
2,949
   
$
1,652
 
Foreign currency translation adjustment
   
378
     
41
     
(1,438
)
   
181
 
Comprehensive income
 
$
1,607
   
$
984
   
$
1,511
   
$
1,833
 

See Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
Page | 4

Synergetics USA Inc. and Subsidiaries
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Unaudited)
Nine Months Ended April 30, 2015 and 2014
(Dollars in thousands)

   
Nine Months
Ended April 30,
2015
   
Nine Months
Ended April 30,
2014
 
Cash Flows from Operating Activities
       
Net income
 
$
2,949
   
$
1,652
 
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities
               
Depreciation
   
1,145
     
864
 
Amortization of intangible assets
   
892
     
553
 
Amortization of deferred financing costs
   
14
     
--
 
Accretion of contingent acquisition liability
   
128
     
--
 
Provision for doubtful accounts receivable
   
(35
)
   
66
 
Stock-based compensation
   
567
     
807
 
Deferred income taxes
   
(218
)
   
1,643
 
Gain on sale
   
--
     
(9
)
Changes in assets and liabilities
               
(Increase) decrease in:
               
Accounts receivable
   
1,019
     
(861
)
Inventories
   
(323
)
   
(822
)
Prepaid expenses
   
(322
)
   
(581
)
Income taxes refundable
   
--
     
(282
)
Increase (decrease) in:
               
Accounts payable
   
1,368
     
(60
)
Accrued expenses
   
299
     
(497
)
Deferred revenue
   
(966
)
   
(966
)
Income taxes payable
   
332
     
(70
)
Net cash provided by operating activities
   
6,849
     
1,437
 
                 
Cash Flows from Investing Activities
               
Proceeds from sale
   
--
     
18
 
Purchase of property and equipment
   
(821
)
   
(800
)
Acquisition of Sterimedix Limited
   
(13,177
)
   
--
 
Acquisition of patents and other intangibles
   
(167
)
   
(229
)
Net cash used in investing activities
   
(14,165
)
   
(1,011
)
                 
Cash Flows from Financing Activities
               
Deferred financing costs
   
(102
)
   
--
 
Proceeds from borrowings under the Term Loan Facility
   
2,750
     
--
 
Principal payment on Term Loan facility
   
(137
)
   
--
 
Proceeds from the issuance of common stock
   
28
     
36
 
Tax benefit associated with the exercise of non-qualified stock options
   
28
     
25
 
Net cash provided by financing activities
   
2,567
     
61
 
                 
Foreign exchange rate effect on cash and cash equivalents
   
(246
)
   
(204
)
Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents
   
(4,995
)
   
283
 
Cash and cash equivalents
               
Beginning
   
15,443
     
12,470
 
Ending
 
$
10,448
   
$
12,753
 

See Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
Page | 5

Synergetics USA, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
(Tabular information reflects dollars in thousands, except share and per share information)

Note 1. General

Nature of business: Synergetics USA, Inc. (“Synergetics USA” or the “Company”) is a Delaware corporation incorporated on June 2, 2005, in connection with the reverse merger of Synergetics, Inc. (“Synergetics”) and Valley Forge Scientific Corp. (“Valley Forge”) and the subsequent reincorporation of Valley Forge (the predecessor to Synergetics USA) in Delaware. Synergetics USA is a medical device company.  Through continuous improvement and development of its people, the Company’s mission is to design, manufacture and market innovative surgical devices, surgical equipment and consumables of the highest quality in order to assist and enable surgeons who perform surgery around the world to provide a better quality of life for their patients.   The Company’s primary focus is on the surgical disciplines of ophthalmology and neurosurgery.  Its distribution channels include a combination of direct and independent vitreoretinal sales organizations and important strategic alliances with market leaders.  The Company’s product lines focus on precision engineered, disposable and reusable devices, surgical equipment, procedural kits and the delivery of various energy modalities for the performance of surgery including: (i) laser energy, (ii) ultrasonic energy, (iii) radio frequency energy for electrosurgery and lesion generation and (iv) visible light energy for illumination, and where applicable, simultaneous infusion (irrigation) of fluids into the operative field. The Company is located in O’Fallon, Missouri, King of Prussia, Pennsylvania, California, USA and Corby and Redditch, United Kingdom.  During the ordinary course of its business, the Company grants unsecured credit to its domestic and international customers.

Basis of presentation: The unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Synergetics USA and its wholly owned subsidiaries: Synergetics, Synergetics Delaware, Inc. and Synergetics IP, Inc. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated. The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“GAAP”) for interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X. Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and notes required by GAAP for complete financial statements. In the opinion of management, all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring items) considered necessary for a fair presentation have been included. Operating results for the nine months ended April 30, 2015 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the fiscal year ending July 31, 2015. These unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements of the Company for the year ended July 31, 2014, and notes thereto included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on October 14, 2014 (the “Annual Report”).

Note 2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

The Company’s significant accounting policies are disclosed in the Annual Report. In the first nine months of fiscal 2015, no significant accounting policies were changed.

Note 3.  Exit Costs

On October 1, 2013, the Company announced plans to close its King of Prussia, Pennsylvania facility and consolidate the manufacturing operations into its existing facility in O’Fallon, Missouri.  The Company concluded manufacturing at the facility in February of 2015. Costs are reflected in “Exit costs” in the consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income.
 
Page | 6

 
(dollars in thousands)
 
Three Months
Ended April 30,
   
Nine Months Ended
April 30,
   
Cumulative
as of April
   
Total
Costs
 
   
2015
   
2014
   
2015
   
2014
   
 30, 2015
   
Incurred
 
Employee termination costs
 
$
--
   
$
34
   
$
304
   
$
533
   
$
919
   
$
919
 
Other associated costs
   
--
     
30
     
415
     
45
     
482
     
482
 
   
$
--
   
$
64
   
$
719
   
$
578
   
$
1,401
   
$
1,401
 

   
Termination Costs
 
     
Exit liabilities at August 1, 2014
 
$
112
 
Additions
   
126
 
Payments
   
(238
)
Exit liabilities at April 30, 2015
 
$
--
 

The Company will continue to incur certain costs through the first quarter of fiscal 2016 as the facility is completely vacated.

Note 4.  Acquisitions

On May 3, 2014, the Company acquired a private, original equipment manufacturing company incorporated in the United States for net cash consideration of $1.4 million.

The Company has allocated the purchase price to the tangible and intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on their estimated fair value at the date of acquisition resulting in the recognition of $0.8 million of intellectual property and $0.4 million of goodwill, including the impact of deferred income taxes.  The results of operations for the acquired company have been included in the Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income from the date of acquisition.

On December 10, 2014, the Company entered into the Share Purchase Agreement (the "Agreement") with shareholders (the "Sellers") of Sterimedix Limited ("Sterimedix"), a private manufacturer of cannulas, needles and other disposable products for ophthalmic and aesthetic procedures incorporated in England and Wales.  Pursuant to the Agreement, the Company purchased all of the outstanding share capital of Sterimedix for net cash consideration of $13.2 million (the "Sterimedix Acquisition") plus future contingent consideration in the form of an earn-out (see discussion below).

Pursuant to the Agreement, the Sellers are entitled to receive earn-out payments, calculated as 136.7% of the amount by which Sterimedix’s defined Gross Profit exceeds the following amounts for each annual period:

(i) £3,190,000 for the year ended December 31, 2015;
(ii) £3,767,500 for the year ended December 31, 2016; and
(iii) £4,400,000 for the year ended December 31, 2017.

The fair value of the future earn out payments recorded at the acquisition date was $2.8 million, determined using a discounted cash flow methodology on probability-weighted expected cash flows.  These cash flows resulted in a range of estimated payouts of $0 to $5.9 million over the three year period.

The Company has agreed not to transfer the Sterimedix shares for a period of one year and has also agreed after the one-year period, (i) to negotiate in good faith the assumption of the earn-out payments with the proposed transferee; (ii) at the discretion of the Company, to make modified earn-out payments to the Sellers as set forth in the Agreement and transfer certain Sterimedix assets to the Sellers upon arms' length negotiations; or (iii) if option (i) does not occur and option (ii) is not exercised, to remain obligated to pay the earn-out payments.
 
Page | 7

The amounts of identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed as of December 10, 2014 are set forth below at the exchange rate in effect at that date:

Accounts receivable
 
$
715
 
Inventory
   
1,617
 
Other current assets
   
138
 
Property, plant and equipment
   
2,187
 
In-process R&D
   
343
 
Tradenames
   
2,894
 
Customer relationships
   
4,999
 
Other amortizable intangibles
   
1,026
 
Goodwill
   
4,519
 
Total assets
 
$
18,438
 
 
Current liabilities
 
$
827
 
Deferred tax liabilities
   
1,597
 
Total liabilities
 
$
2,424
 
         
Net assets acquired
 
$
16,014
 

The fair value of goodwill mainly reflects the impact of strategic growth opportunities. The changes in these amounts from what was reflected in the condensed consolidated financial statements for the quarter ended January 31, 2015 primarily relate to the identification of separable intangible assets and the related deferred tax liabilities, which had a corresponding impact on the value of goodwill.  The acquired goodwill is not deductible for tax purposes.

During third quarter of 2015 and for the period from December 10, 2014 through April 30, 2015, Sterimedix recognized net sales of $2.3 million and $3.3 million, respectively, and generated net income of approximately $333,000 and $375,000, respectively.  In the third quarter and the first nine months of fiscal year 2015, the Company incurred $50,000 and $341,000, respectively, in acquisition-related costs, which are included in general and administrative expenses in the consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income.

The accompanying consolidated statements of income for the three and nine months ended April 30, 2015 reflect the revenues and expenses of Sterimedix since the acquisition date.  The following unaudited pro forma consolidated financial information is presented as if the acquisition had occurred at the beginning of each year presented.  These unaudited pro forma results  are provided for illustrative purposes only and are not necessarily indicative of either the historical results that would have been attained if this acquisition had actually occurred during these periods, or of the results that will be attained in the future as a result of this acquisition (in thousands):

(Dollars in thousands)
 
Three Months Ended April 30,
   
Nine Months Ended April 30,
 
Pro Forma (unaudited)
 
2015
   
2014
   
2015
   
2014
 
Net Sales
 
$
19,375
   
$
18,276
   
$
56,802
   
$
52,200
 
Net Income (Loss)
 
$
1,264
   
$
917
   
$
3,169
   
$
1,550
 
Basic earnings per share
 
$
0.05
   
$
0.04
   
$
0.12
   
$
0.06
 
Diluted earnings per share
 
$
0.05
   
$
0.04
   
$
0.12
   
$
0.06
 

The combined pro forma financial information has been adjusted to exclude acquisition expenses and includes purchase accounting adjustments for fair values impacting inventory, depreciation of fixed assets and amortization of intangible assets.
 
Page | 8

Note 5. OEM Neurosurgery Partner Agreements

The Company sells all of its generators and a majority of its neurosurgery instruments and accessories to two U.S.-based global original equipment manufacturer (“OEM”) partners as described below:

Codman & Shurtleff, Inc. (“Codman”)

In the neurosurgical market, the bipolar electrosurgical system manufactured by Valley Forge prior to the merger has been sold for over 30 years through a series of distribution agreements with Codman, an affiliate of Johnson & Johnson.  On April 2, 2009, the Company executed a three-year distribution agreement with Codman for the continued distribution by Codman of certain bipolar generators and related disposables and accessories, effective January 1, 2009.  In addition, the Company entered into a new, three-year license agreement, which provides for the continued licensing of the Company’s Malis® trademark to Codman for use with certain Codman products, including those covered by the distribution agreement.  In December 2010, Codman elected to exercise its option of exclusive distribution with respect to the bipolar generators and related disposables and accessories. On December 16, 2014, the Company executed an amendment to the agreements with DePuy Synthes Products, LLC, successor to Codman, effective as of December 9, 2014.  This amendment extends the terms of the agreements until December 31, 2015. All other provisions of such agreements remain unchanged.

On November 16, 2009, the Company announced the signing of an addendum to its agreement with Codman.  Under the terms of the revised agreement, Codman has the exclusive right to market and distribute the Company’s Malis® branded disposable bipolar forceps produced by Synergetics.  Codman began distribution of the disposable bipolar forceps on December 1, 2009, domestically, and on February 1, 2010, internationally.

Total sales to Codman and its respective percent of the Company’s net sales in the three and nine months ended April 30, 2015 and 2014, including the sales of generators, accessories, disposable bipolar forceps and cord tubing, were as follows:

(Dollars in Thousands)
 
Three Months
Ended April 30,
2015
   
Three Months
Ended April
30, 2014
   
Nine Months
Ended April 30,
2015
   
Nine Months
Ended April
30, 2014
 
Net Sales
 
$
3,869
   
$
3,827
   
$
12,669
   
$
11,018
 
Percent of net sales
   
20.0
%
   
23.7
%
   
23.4
%
   
23.6
%

Stryker Corporation (“Stryker”)

The Company supplies a multi-channel ablation generator, used for minimally invasive pain treatment, to Stryker pursuant to a supply and distribution agreement dated as of October 25, 2004, as amended.  The agreement expires on June 30, 2015.

On March 31, 2010, the Company entered into a supply agreement with Stryker pursuant to which the Company agreed to supply Stryker with disposable ultrasonic aspirator instrument tips and certain other consumable products used in conjunction with Stryker’s ultrasonic aspirator console and handpieces.  The agreement expires on March 31, 2016.

Total sales to Stryker and its respective percent of the Company’s net sales in the three and nine months ended April 30, 2015, and 2014, including the sales of ablation generators, disposable ultrasonic instrument tips and accessories, were as follows:
 
(Dollars in thousands)
 
Three Months
Ended April 30,
2015
   
Three Months
Ended April 30,
2014
   
Nine Months
Ended April 30,
2015
   
Nine Months
Ended April 30,
2014
 
Net Sales
 
$
3,666
   
$
3,185
   
$
9,355
   
$
7,798
 
Percent of net sales
   
18.9
%
   
19.7
%
   
17.3
%
   
16.7
%

No other customer comprises more than 10 percent of sales in any given quarter.
 
Page | 9

Note 6. Stock-Based Compensation

Stock Option Plans

The following table provides information about stock-based option awards outstanding at April 30, 2015:

   
Shares
   
Weighted
Average Exercise
Price
   
Weighted
Average Fair
Value
 
Options outstanding beginning of period
   
815,162
   
$
4.25
   
$
3.27
 
For the period August 1, 2014 through April 30, 2015
                       
Granted
   
340,000
   
$
3.43
   
$
2.51
 
Forfeited
   
--
     
--
     
--
 
Exercised
   
(22,500
)
 
$
1.27
   
$
1.02
 
Options outstanding, end of period
   
1,132,662
   
$
4.06
   
$
3.09
 
Options exercisable, end of period
   
671,577
   
$
4.18
   
$
3.23
 

Options to purchase 40,000 shares of the Company’s Common Stock were granted in the second quarter of fiscal 2015 to the Company’s Board of Directors.  Each independent director receives an option to purchase 10,000 shares of the Company’s Common Stock each year in which he or she is elected, appointed, or continues to serve as a director pursuant to the Amended and Restated 2005 Non-Employee Directors’ Stock Option Plan. These options vest pro-ratably on a quarterly basis over the next year of service on the Board.  These options also vest upon a change of control event.  The Company recorded $27,000 and $106,000 of compensation expense for the three and nine months ended April 30, 2015, respectively, and $39,000 and $124,000 of compensation expense for the three and nine months ended April 30, 2014, respectively, with respect to the directors’ options.

During the second quarter of fiscal 2015, options to purchase 300,000 shares of Common Stock were granted to the officers and certain employees of the Company.  These options were granted in conjunction with the Company’s annual review of its long-term incentive compensation plan.  These options will vest when the Company achieves $100 million of sales for an annual period.  The Company recorded $49,000 and $73,000 of compensation expense for the three and nine months ended April 30, 2015, respectively, related to these options.  In addition, the Company recorded $63,000 and $195,000 of compensation expense for the three and nine months ended April 30, 2015, respectively, and $66,000 and $298,000 of compensation expense for the three and nine months ended April 30, 2014, respectively, for previously granted options.  Compensation expense of $101,000 is included in exit costs for the nine months ended April 30, 2014.

The Company expects to issue new shares as options are exercised. As of April 30, 2015, the future compensation cost expected to be recognized for currently outstanding stock options is approximately $139,000 for the remainder of fiscal 2015, $472,000 in fiscal 2016, $313,000 in fiscal 2017, $212,000 in fiscal 2018 and $40,000 in fiscal 2019.

The grant-date fair value of options granted during fiscal 2015 was determined using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model and the following weighted-average assumptions:

Expected average risk-free interest rate
 
2.10 to 2.19
%
Expected average life (in years)
   
10
 
Expected volatility
   
65.7
%
Expected dividend yield
   
0.0
%

The expected average risk-free rate is based on the 10-year U.S. treasury yield curve in December of 2014.  The expected average life represents the period of time that the options granted are expected to be outstanding giving consideration to the vesting schedules, historical exercises and forfeiture patterns.  Expected volatility is based on historical volatilities of the Company’s Common Stock.  The expected dividend yield is based on historical information and the Board of Directors’ plan to reinvest available resources in the growth of the Company’s business for the foreseeable future.
 
Page | 10

The intrinsic value of the in-the-money stock options outstanding was $2.3 million and $244,000 at April 30, 2015 and 2014, respectively.  The intrinsic value of in-the-money exercisable stock options was $1.2 million and $236,000 at April 30, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

Restricted Stock Plans

Under the Company’s Second Amended and Restated Synergetics USA, Inc. 2001 Stock and Performance Incentive Plan (the “2001 Plan”), the Company’s common stock may be granted at no cost to certain employees and consultants of the Company.  Certain plan participants are entitled to cash dividends and voting rights for their respective shares.  Restrictions limit the sale or transfer of these shares during a vesting period whereby the restrictions lapse pro-ratably over either a three-year or four-year vesting period.  These shares also vest upon a change of control event.  As of April 30, 2015, there was approximately $410,000 of total unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested share-based compensation arrangements granted under the Company’s 2001 Plan, excluding the performance based awards discussed below.  The cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of four years, which is generally the vesting period. The following table provides information about restricted stock grants during the nine month period ended April 30, 2015:

   
Number of Shares
   
Weighted Average Grant
Date Fair Value
 
Balance as of July 31, 2014
   
275,547
   
$
3.42
 
Granted
   
208,000
   
$
3.43
 
Forfeited
   
(2,834
)
 
$
4.74
 
Vested
   
(160,289
)
 
$
2.47
 
Relinquished for taxes
   
(29,110
)
 
$
2.47
 
Balance as of April 30, 2015
   
291,314
   
$
4.04
 

During the second quarter of fiscal 2015, 200,000 restricted shares of Common Stock were granted to the officers and employees of the Company in conjunction with the Company’s annual review of its long-term incentive compensation plan.  These shares will vest when the Company achieves $100 million of sales for an annual period.  As of April 30, 2015, there was approximately $612,000 of total unrecognized compensation cost related to these non-vested share-based compensation arrangements granted under this performance based grant.  The cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 3.8 years from the date of grant, which is the Company’s estimate of when this goal will be achieved.

Note 7. Fair Value Information

For certain of the Company’s financial instruments, including cash and equivalents, accounts receivable, accounts payable and accrued liabilities, the carrying amounts approximate their fair values due to their short maturities. Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) Topic 820, “Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures,” requires disclosure of the fair value of financial instruments held by the Company. ASC Topic 825, “Financial Instruments,” defines fair value, and establishes a three-level valuation hierarchy for disclosures of fair value measurement that enhances disclosure requirements for fair value measures. The carrying amounts reported in the balance sheets for receivables, current liabilities and borrowings under the credit facilities each qualify as financial instruments and are a reasonable estimate of their fair values because of the short period of time between the origination of such instruments and their expected realization and their current market rate of interest. The three levels of valuation hierarchy are defined as follows:

Level 1 inputs to the valuation methodology are quoted prices for identical assets or liabilities in active markets.

Level 2 inputs to the valuation methodology include quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets, and inputs that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly, for substantially the full term of the financial instrument.
 
Level 3 inputs to the valuation methodology are unobservable and significant to the fair value measurement.
 
Page | 11

The Company analyzes all financial instruments with features of both liabilities and equity under ASC 480, “Distinguishing Liabilities from Equity,” and ASC 815, “Derivatives and Hedging.”

As of April 30, 2015, the Company identified that the contingent acquisition liability is required to be presented on the balance sheet at fair value.  Any future change required to the contingent acquisition liability will be reflected in the Consolidated Statement of Income and Comprehensive Income.

Non-financial assets such as goodwill, intangible assets and property, plant and equipment are measured at fair value when there is an indicator of impairment or when tested for impairment at least annually and recorded at fair value only when impairment is recognized. No impairment indicators existed as of April 30, 2015.

Note 8. Supplemental Balance Sheet Information

Inventories: Inventories as of April 30, 2015 and July 31, 2014, respectively, were as follows:
 
(Dollars in thousands)
 
April 30, 2015
   
July 31, 2014
 
Raw material and component parts
 
$
7,289
   
$
5,900
 
Work in progress
   
2,561
     
2,077
 
Finished goods
   
7,020
     
7,157
 
   
$
16,870
   
$
15,134
 

Property and Equipment: Property and equipment as of April 30, 2015 and July 31, 2014, respectively, were as follows:
 
(Dollars in thousands)
 
April 30, 2015
   
July 31, 2014
 
Land
 
$
1,708
   
$
984
 
Building and improvements
   
6,678
     
6,650
 
Machinery and equipment
   
10,828
     
9,023
 
Furniture and fixtures
   
1,573
     
1,182
 
Software
   
1,129
     
1,113
 
Construction in progress
   
136
     
153
 
     
22,052
     
19,105
 
Less accumulated depreciation
   
11,458
     
10,320
 
   
$
10,594
   
$
8,785
 

Goodwill:  Goodwill as of April 30, 2015 and July 31, 2014, respectively, was as follows:

(Dollars in thousands)
 
April 30, 2015
   
July 31, 2014
 
         
Reverse merger (September 21, 2005)
 
$
10,660
   
$
10,660
 
M.I.S.S. Ophthalmics Limited (July 8, 2013)
   
1,490
     
1,639
 
Sterimedix Limited (December 10, 2014)
   
4,459
     
--
 
Other
   
439
     
439
 
   
$
17,048
   
$
12,738
 

See Note 4 related to intangible assets acquired in the Sterimedix acquisition.
 
Page | 12

Other Intangible Assets:  Information regarding the Company’s other intangible assets as of April 30, 2015 and July 31, 2014, respectively, were as follows:

 
(Dollars in thousands)
 
Gross Carrying
Value
   
Accumulated
Amortization
   
Net
 
   
April 30, 2015
 
Proprietary know-how
 
$
4,208
   
$
2,469
   
$
1,739
 
Customer relationships
   
5,684
     
208
     
5,476
 
Trademark
   
5,950
     
--
     
5,950
 
Tradename
   
3,262
     
71
     
3,191
 
Licensing agreement
   
5,694
     
3,097
     
2,597
 
Patents
   
2,536
     
1,104
     
1,432
 
Other intangibles
   
1,375
     
52
     
1,323
 
   
$
28,709
   
$
7,001
   
$
21,708
 
     
   
July 31, 2014
 
Proprietary know-how
 
$
4,208
   
$
2,208
   
$
2,000
 
Customer relationships
   
806
     
61
     
745
 
Trademark
   
5,944
     
--
     
5,944
 
Tradename
   
447
     
44
     
403
 
Licensing agreement
   
5,694
     
2,895
     
2,799
 
Patents
   
2,375
     
903
     
1,472
 
Other intangibles
   
26
     
6
     
20
 
   
$
19,500
   
$
6,117
   
$
13,383
 

See Note 4 related to intangible assets acquired in the Sterimedix acquisition.  Other intangibles of $765,000 are the result of the acquisition of the private, OEM company completed on May 3, 2014.  Other intangibles of $955,000 are a result of the acquisition of M.I.S.S. Ophthalmics Limited completed on July 8, 2013.  Proprietary know-how of $3,707,000 is a result of the reverse merger transaction completed on September 21, 2005.

The Company did not incur costs to renew or extend the term of acquired intangible assets during the period ended April 30, 2015.  Amortization expense is included in general and administrative expense and was $349,000 and $892,000 for the three and nine months ended April 30, 2015, respectively, and $187,000 and $553,000 for the three and nine months ended April 30, 2014, respectively.  Amortization expense for the next five years is expected to approximate $1.4 million annually.

Pledged Assets; Short and Long-Term Debt:  Short- and long-term debt as of April 30, 2015 consisted of the following:

Revolving Credit Facility: The Company has a credit facility with a bank which allows for borrowings of up to $9.5 million.  There were no borrowings under this facility at April 30, 2015.

Equipment Line of Credit: Under this credit facility, the Company may borrow up to $1.0 million.  There were no borrowings under this facility at April 30, 2015.

Term Loan Facility:  The Company has a credit facility with a bank which allows for borrowings of up to $13.0 million with $6.5 million restricted for earn-out payments required under the Sterimedix Acquisition Agreement. There was $2.6 million borrowed under this facility at April 30, 2015. The advances under the term loan are amortized quarterly over five years.

These facilities bear interest based on either the one-, two- or three-month LIBOR plus 1.75 percent and adjusting each quarter based upon our total debt to earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA).  As of April 30, 2015, interest under the facilities was 1.92 percent.  The unused portion of the facilities is charged at a rate of 0.20 percent.  The termination date of the facilities is February 28, 2018.  The facilities are collateralized by substantially all of the Company’s assets.
 
Page | 13

These facilities have two financial covenants: a maximum total debt to EBITDA ratio of 2.25 times and a minimum fixed charge coverage ratio of 1.25 times. As of April 30, 2015, the total debt to EBITDA ratio was 0.30 times and the fixed charge coverage ratio was 11.7 times. The facility restricts the payment of dividends if, following the distribution, the fixed charge coverage ratio would fall below the required minimum.

Deferred Revenue: Deferred revenue as of April 30, 2015 and July 31, 2014, respectively, consisted of the following:
 
(Dollars in thousands)
 
April 30, 2015
   
July 31, 2014
 
Deferred revenue – Alcon, Inc. settlement
 
$
13,564
   
$
14,530
 
Less:  Short-term portion
   
1,288
     
1,288
 
Long-term portion
 
$
12,276
   
$
13,242
 

Note 9. Commitments and Contingencies

The Company has entered into change of control agreements with each of its President and Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Vice President of Domestic Sales and Vice President of Marketing and Technology.  The change of control agreements with its executive officers provide that if employment is terminated within one year for cause or disability following a change in control (as each term is defined in the change in control agreements), as a result of the officers’ death, or by the officer other than as an involuntary termination (as defined in the change in control agreements), the Company shall pay the officer all compensation earned or accrued through his or her employment termination date, including (i) base salary; (ii) reimbursement for reasonable and necessary expenses; (iii) vacation pay; (iv) bonuses and incentive compensation; and (v) all other amounts to which they are entitled under any compensation or benefit plan of the Company (“Standard Compensation Due”).

If the officer’s employment is terminated within one year following a change of control without cause and for any reason other than death or disability, including an involuntary termination, and provided the officer enters into a separation agreement within 30 days of his or her employment termination, he or she  shall receive the following: (i) all Standard Compensation Due and any amount payable as of the termination date under the Company’s objectives-based incentive plan, the sum of which shall be paid in a lump sum immediately upon such termination; and (ii) an amount equal to one times his or her annual base salary at the rate in effect immediately prior to the change in control, to be paid in 12 equal monthly installments beginning in the month following his or her employment termination. Furthermore, all of the officer’s awards of shares or options shall immediately vest and be exercisable for one year after the date of his or her employment termination.

Various claims, incidental to the ordinary course of business, are pending against the Company.  In the opinion of management, after consultation with legal counsel, resolution of these matters is not expected to have a material effect on the accompanying financial statements.

The Company is subject to regulatory requirements throughout the world. In the normal course of business, regulatory agencies may require companies in the medical industry to change their products or operating procedures, which could affect the Company.  The Company regularly incurs expenses to comply with these regulations and may be required to incur additional expenses.  Management is not able to estimate any additional expenditures outside the normal course of operations which will be incurred by the Company in future periods in order to comply with these regulations.

Note 10. Enterprise-wide Sales Information

The Company reviewed its sales presentation once it had completed the Sterimedix Acquisition and determined that a more comprehensive approach to its ophthalmic and neurosurgery sales is now required to more completely describe its revenues by market as compared to its method of distribution.  The enterprise-wide sales presentation shown below incorporates both the revised presentation and the previous presentation for the three and nine months ended April 30, 2015 and 2014, respectively:
 
Page | 14

(Dollars in thousands)
 
Three Months
Ended April 30,
2015
   
Three Months
Ended April 30,
2014
   
Nine Months
Ended April 30,
2015
   
Nine Months
Ended April 30,
2014
 
Presentation based upon market
             
Net Sales
               
Ophthalmic (1)
 
$
11,137
   
$
8,744
   
$
30,646
   
$
26,873
 
Neurosurgery (2)
   
7,762
     
7,277
     
22,675
     
19,522
 
Other (3)
   
476
     
114
     
890
     
366
 
   
$
19,375
   
$
16,135
   
$
54,211
   
$
46,761
 
Presentation based upon distribution
                         
Net Sales
                               
Ophthalmic(4)
 
$
8,134
   
$
8,494
   
$
25,092
   
$
25,730
 
OEM (5)
   
11,022
     
7,383
     
28,492
     
20,355
 
Other (6)
   
219
     
258
     
627
     
676
 
Total
 
$
19,375
   
$
16,135
   
$
54,211
   
$
46,761
 
Net Sales
                               
Domestic
 
$
13,199
   
$
12,106
   
$
38,240
   
$
35,025
 
International
   
6,176
     
4,029
     
15,971
     
11,736
 
   
$
19,375
   
$
16,135
   
$
54,211
   
$
46,761
 

(1) Net sales from Ophthalmic represent all sales of ophthalmic devices from direct sales representatives, distribution partners and OEMs.  Recognition of deferred revenue of $322,000 and $966,000 from Alcon, Inc. is included in this category for the three and nine months ended April 30, 2015 and 2014, respectively.
(2) Net sales from Neurosurgery represent sales of electrosurgery generators, disposable bipolar forceps and related accessories and royalties from Codman, multi-channel generators, disposable ultrasonic tips and related accessories to Stryker and certain neurosurgery disposables sold through distribution.  Many of the products that the Company sells to its neurosurgery OEM customers are shipped to their non-U.S. customers in various countries around the world, but are included in the Company’s domestic revenues.
(3) Other net sales represent all sales of aesthetic devices and other miscellaneous revenues.
(4) Net sales from Ophthalmic represent sales of ophthalmic devices from direct sales representatives and distribution partners.
(5) Net sales from OEM represent sales of electrosurgery generators, disposable bipolar forceps and related accessories and royalties from Codman, multi-channel generators, disposable ultrasonic tips and related accessories to Stryker and sales of certain disposable products.  Recognition of deferred revenues of $322,000 and $966,000 from Alcon, Inc. is included in this category for the three and nine months ended April 30, 2015 and 2014, respectively.  Many of the products that the Company sells to its neurosurgery OEM customers are shipped to their non-U.S. customers in various countries around the world, but are included in the Company’s domestic revenues.
(6) Other net sales represent direct neurosurgery revenues and other miscellaneous revenues.

Note 11. Recent Accounting Pronouncements

In March 2013, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued an accounting standard update requiring an entity to release into net income the entire amount of a cumulative translation adjustment related to its investment in a foreign entity when as a parent it either sells a part or all of its investment in the foreign entity or no longer holds a controlling financial interest in a subsidiary or group of assets within the foreign entity. The Company has adopted this accounting standard update which had no impact on its consolidated financial statements.

In July 2013, the FASB issued an accounting standard update that provides explicit guidance on the financial statement presentation of an unrecognized tax benefit when a net operating loss carryforward or a tax credit carryforward exists. Under the new standard update, an unrecognized tax benefit, or a portion of an unrecognized tax benefit, is to be presented in the financial statements as a reduction to a deferred tax asset for a net operating loss carryforward or a tax credit carryforward. The Company has adopted this accounting standard update which had no impact on its consolidated financial statements.
 
Page | 15

In April 2014, the FASB issued an accounting standard update increasing the threshold for a disposal to qualify as a discontinued operation and require new disclosures of both discontinued operations and certain other disposals that do not meet the definition of a discontinued operation.  The Company has adopted this accounting standard update, which had no impact on its consolidated financial statements.

In May 2014, the FASB issued an accounting standard update that provides explicit guidance on the recognition of revenue based upon the entity’s contracts with customers to transfer goods or services.  Under the new standard update, an entity should recognize revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services.  This accounting standard update will be effective for the Company in the first quarter of fiscal 2018.  The Company is currently evaluating the impact of this accounting standard update on its consolidated financial statements.

In June 2014, the FASB issued guidance clarifying that share-based compensation performance targets that could be achieved after the requisite service period should be treated as a performance condition that affects vesting, rather than a condition that affects the grant-date fair value of the award.  This guidance is effective for the Company in the first quarter of fiscal 2017, with early adoption permitted.  The adoption of the pronouncement may affect the Company’s presentation of future performance-based stock compensation awards.

In August 2014, the FASB issued an accounting standard update that provides explicit guidance on whether there is substantial doubt about an entity’s ability to continue as a going concern.  Before the issuance of this update, there was no guidance in U.S. GAAP about management’s responsibility to evaluate whether there is substantial doubt about an entity’s ability to continue as a going concern or to provide related footnote disclosures. This guidance is expected to reduce the diversity in the timing and content of footnote disclosures. The guidance requires management to assess an entity’s ability to continue as a going concern by incorporating and expanding upon certain principles that are currently in U.S. auditing standards as specified in the guidance. The guidance becomes effective for the annual period ending after December 15, 2016 and for annual and interim periods thereafter. Early adoption is permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the effects of adopting this guidance on its consolidated financial statements, but the adoption is not expected to have a significant impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

In November 2014, the FASB issued an accounting standard update providing guidance for determining whether and at what threshold an acquired entity can reflect the acquirer’s accounting and reporting basis (pushdown accounting) in its separate financial statements.  The amendments in this update provide an acquired entity with an option to apply pushdown accounting in its separate financial statements upon occurrence of an event in which an acquirer obtains control of the acquired entity.  The Company has adopted this accounting standard update, which had no impact on its consolidated financial statements.

In January 2015, the FASB issued an accounting standard update eliminating the concept of extraordinary items.  The accounting standard update will be effective for the Company in the first quarter of fiscal 2016.  The adoption of this guidance is not expected to have a significant impact upon the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

In February 2015, the FASB issued an accounting standard update changing the analysis that a reporting entity must perform to determine whether it should consolidate certain types of legal entities.  The accounting standard update will be effective for the Company in fiscal 2017.  The adoption of this guidance is not expected to have a significant impact upon the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

In April 2015, the FASB issued an accounting standard update simplifying the presentation of debt issuance costs as a deduction from the carrying amount of the debt liability. The accounting standard update will be effective for the Company in fiscal 2017.  The adoption of this guidance is not expected to have a material impact upon the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

The Company has reviewed all other recently issued, but not yet effective, accounting pronouncements and does not believe any such pronouncements will have a material impact on its financial statements.
 

Page | 16

Item 2 — Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

Overview

Synergetics USA, Inc. (“Synergetics USA” or the “Company”) is a leading supplier of precision surgical devices. The Company’s primary focus is on the surgical disciplines of ophthalmology and neurosurgery. Our distribution channels include a combination of direct and independent vitreoretinal sales organizations, both domestically and internationally, kit packers and important strategic alliances with market leaders. The Company’s product lines focus on precision engineered, disposable and reusable devices, surgical equipment, procedural kits and the delivery of various energy modalities for the performance of surgery including: (i) laser energy, (ii) ultrasonic energy, (iii) radio frequency energy for electrosurgery and lesion generation and (iv) visible light energy for illumination, and where applicable, simultaneous infusion (irrigation) of fluids into the operative field. Enterprise-wide sales information is included in Note 10 to the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.

The Company is a Delaware corporation incorporated on June 2, 2005 in connection with the reverse merger of Synergetics, Inc. (“Synergetics”) and Valley Forge Scientific Corp. (“Valley Forge”) and the subsequent reincorporation of Valley Forge (the predecessor to Synergetics USA) in Delaware.  Synergetics was founded in 1991. Valley Forge was incorporated in 1980 and became a publicly-held company in November 1989. The Company’s securities are listed on The NASDAQ Capital Market under the ticker symbol “SURG.”

Recent Developments

Over the past few years, we have had several developments that we expect will contribute to the growth of our business in the foreseeable future, the most recent of which are as follows:

On June 27, 2012, the Company announced that it received 510(k) clearance from the Food and Drug Administration for VersaVITTM, a novel vitrectomy system for the retinal surgery market.  On July 20, 2012, the VersaVITTM vitrectomy system received clearance for the “CE” mark, allowing access to the European market.

On November 28, 2012, the Company announced the signing of the third amendment to its agreement with Stryker Corporation (“Stryker”) for the supply and distribution of a multi-channel ablation generator and accessories, used for minimally invasive pain treatment, extending the termination date until June 30, 2015.

On July 9, 2013, the Company announced that it acquired M.I.S.S. Ophthalmics Limited (“M.I.S.S.”), a private ophthalmology distribution company incorporated in England and Wales, for net cash consideration of $2.8 million.

On October 1, 2013, the Company announced plans to close its King of Prussia, Pennsylvania facility and consolidate the manufacturing operations into its existing facility in O’Fallon, Missouri.  The Company expended approximately $1.4 million, of which $719,000 and $682,000 were expended during the first six months of fiscal 2015 and all of fiscal 2014, respectively.  The final production was completed in February 2015. The Company expects the closure to result in a reduction in operating expense of more than $1.1 million on an annualized basis beginning in fiscal 2016.

On May 3, 2014, the Company acquired a private Original Equipment Manufacturing (“OEM”) company incorporated in the United States for net cash consideration of $1.4 million.

On May 5, 2014, the Company announced the launch of the next generation DirectionalTM Laser Probe.  The DirectionalTM II Laser Probe is a significant improvement as compared to the original DirectionalTM Laser Probe as it incorporates years of feedback from surgeons on the original design.  The improvements include significant enhancements to the mechanism responsible for adjusting the fiber from a straight to curved position and an ergonomic, color-coded handle that emulates our PinnacleTM instrument line.
 
Page | 17

On May 12, 2014, the Company announced the completion of a cooperative development agreement with Cleveland Clinic to develop the next generation of intraoperative devices.  These devices are expected to lead to improved visualization of surgical sites leading to more precise tissue targeting and improved surgical outcomes.

On June 9, 2014, the Company announced the targeted launch of the next generation vitrectomy system, VersaVIT 2.0TM, in the second-half of June.  VersaVIT 2.0TM offers an improvement over the first generation system by providing high speed cutting in combination with active duty cycle control. Combined, both high speed cutting and duty cycle control provide surgeons with a more efficient way to remove vitreous while simultaneously increasing safety by decreasing traction on retinal tissues when shaving along the base of the retina. Additional features of the VersaVIT 2.0™ system and accessories include LED illumination, pressurized infusion and a silicone oil collection chamber.

On December 10, 2014, the Company acquired Sterimedix Limited (“Sterimedix”), a private manufacturing company incorporated in England and Wales, for net cash consideration of $13.2 million (the “Sterimedix Acquisition.”)  Sterimedix manufactures and supplies cannulas for ophthalmic and non-surgical aesthetics procedures.  Sterimedix generated total revenue of approximately $7.9 million during its fiscal year ended December 31, 2014 and was solidly profitable on an operating basis.  In connection with the acquisition, the Company and Sterimedix entered into the Stock Purchase Agreement, dated December 10, 2014 (the “Agreement”).  In addition to the cash consideration, the Agreement provides for potential gross profit margin earn-outs through December 31, 2017.

On December 16, 2014, the Company executed an amendment to the agreements with DePuy Synthes Products, LLC, successor to Codman & Shurtleff, Inc. (“Codman”), effective as of December 9, 2014.  This amendment extends the terms of the agreements until December 31, 2015. All other provisions of such agreements remain unchanged.

On December 16, 2014, the Company entered into a restated loan and security agreement to secure an additional $13.0 million term loan facility to finance the earn-out payments under the Sterimedix Agreement and to provide additional sources of financing for the Company.

Summary of Financial Information

The following tables present net sales in the Company’s new presentation by market and our results of operations (dollars in thousands):

NET SALES BY CATEGORY
 
   
Three Months Ended
April 30, 2015
   
Mix
   
Three Months Ended
April 30, 2014
   
Mix
 
Ophthalmic (1)
 
$
11,137
     
57.5
%
 
$
8,744
     
54.2
%
Neurosurgery (2)
   
7,762
     
40.1
%
   
7,277
     
45.1
%
Other (3)
   
476
     
2.4
%
   
114
     
0.7
%
Total
 
$
19,375
           
$
16,135
         
                                 
   
Nine Months Ended
April 30, 2015
   
 
Mix
   
Nine Months Ended
April 30, 2014
   
Mix
 
Ophthalmic (1)
 
$
30,646
     
56.5
%
 
$
26,873
     
57.5
%
Neurosurgery (2)
   
22,675
     
41.8
%
   
19,522
     
41.7
%
Other (3)
   
890
     
1.7
%
   
366
     
0.8
%
Total
 
$
54,211
           
$
46,761
         

(1) Net sales from Ophthalmic represent all sales of ophthalmic devices from direct sales representatives, distribution partners and OEMs.  Recognition of deferred revenue of $322,000 and $966,000 from Alcon, Inc. is included in this category for the three and nine months ended April 30, 2015 and 2014, respectively.
(2) Net sales from Neurosurgery represent sales of electrosurgery generators, disposable bipolar forceps and related accessories and royalties from Codman, multi-channel generators, disposable ultrasonic tips and related accessories to Stryker and certain neurosurgery disposables sold through distribution.  Many of the products we sell to our neurosurgery OEM customers are shipped to their non-U.S. customers in various countries around the world, but are included in our domestic revenues.
(3) Other net sales represent all sales of aesthetic devices and other miscellaneous revenues.
 
Page | 18

The increase in sales for the third quarter of fiscal 2015 compared with the third quarter of fiscal 2014 was primarily due to the increase of $2.4 million in ophthalmic sales, a $485,000 increase in neurosurgery sales and a $362,000 increase in other sales.  Currently, disposable product sales account for approximately 90.3 percent of our total product sales. For the three months ended April 30, 2015, sales of our disposable products grew $3.6 million, or 26.2 percent, in the third quarter of fiscal 2015 as compared to the comparable period of fiscal 2014. Sales of capital equipment decreased by approximately $391,000, or 20.1 percent, in the third quarter of fiscal 2015 as compared to the comparable period of fiscal 2014.

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
(Dollars in thousands, except for per share amounts)
 
   
Three Months
Ended April 30,
2015
   
Three Months
Ended April 30,
2014
   
Increase
(Decrease)
 
Net Sales
 
$
19,375
   
$
16,135
     
20.1
%
Gross Profit
   
10,105
     
8,912
     
13.4
%
Gross Profit Margin %
   
52.2
%
   
55.2
%
   
(5.4
%)
Commercial Expenses
                       
Research and Development
   
991
     
1,302
     
(23.9
%)
Sales and Marketing
   
3,864
     
3,450
     
12.0
%
General and Administrative
   
3,355
     
2,602
     
28.9
%
Exit Costs
   
--
     
64
     
(100.0
%)
Medical Device Excise Tax
   
126
     
83
     
51.8
%
Operating Income
   
1,769
     
1,411
     
25.4
%
Operating Margin
   
9.1
%
   
8.7
%
   
4.6
%
EBITDA (1)
   
2,575
     
1,892
     
36.1
%
Net Income
   
1,229
     
943
     
30.3
%
Earnings per Share
 
$
0.05
   
$
0.04
     
25.0
%
Operating Return on Average Equity (1)
   
1.9
%
   
1.5
%
   
26.7
%
Operating Return on Average Assets  (1)
   
1.3
%
   
1.1
%
   
18.2
%

   
Nine Months
Ended April 30,
2015
   
Nine Months
Ended April 30,
2014
   
Increase
(Decrease)
 
Net Sales
 
$
54,211
   
$
46,761
     
15.9
%
Gross Profit
   
28,959
     
26,234
     
10.4
%
Gross Profit Margin %
   
53.4
%
   
56.1
%
   
(4.8
%)
Commercial Expenses
                       
Research and Development
   
3,218
     
4,012
     
(19.8
%)
Sales and Marketing
   
11,203
     
10,655
     
5.1
%
General and Administrative
   
9,325
     
8,240
     
13.2
%
Exit Costs
   
719
     
578
     
24.4
%
Medical Device Excise Tax
   
370
     
323
     
14.6
%
Operating Income
   
4,124
     
2,426
     
70.0
%
Operating Margin
   
7.6
%
   
5.2
%
   
46.2
%
EBITDA (1)
   
6,164
     
3,850
     
60.1
%
Net Income
   
2,949
     
1,652
     
78.5
%
Earnings per Share
 
$
0.12
   
$
0.07
     
71.4
%
Operating Return on Average Equity (1)
   
4.5
%
   
2.7
%
   
66.7
%
Operating Return on Average Assets  (1)
   
3.3
%
   
2.0
%
   
65.0
%

(1) EBITDA, operating return on average equity and operating return on average assets are not financial measures recognized by U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”). EBITDA is defined as income from continuing operations before interest expense, income taxes, depreciation and amortization. Operating return on equity is defined as net income divided by average equity. Operating return on assets is defined as net income plus interest expense divided by average assets. See disclosure following regarding the use of non-GAAP financial measures.
 
Page | 19

Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures (dollars in thousands)

EBITDA Reconciliations

   
Three Months
Ended April 30,
2015
   
Three Months
Ended April 30,
2014
   
Nine Months
Ended April 30,
2015
   
Nine Months
Ended April 30,
2014
 
Net income
 
$
1,229
   
$
943
   
$
2,949
   
$
1,652
 
Interest
   
39
     
--
     
53
     
--
 
Income taxes
   
502
     
469
     
1,125
     
781
 
Depreciation
   
456
     
293
     
1,145
     
864
 
Amortization
   
349
     
187
     
892
     
553
 
EBITDA
 
$
2,575
   
$
1,892
   
$
6,164
   
$
3,850
 

Operating Return Calculations
 
   
Three Months
Ended April 30,
2015
   
Three Months
Ended April 30,
2014
   
Nine Months
Ended April 30,
2015
   
Nine Months
Ended April 30,
2014
 
Net income
 
$
1,229
   
$
943
   
$
2,949
   
$
1,652
 
Average Equity
   
65,624
     
62,260
     
65,130
     
61,529
 
Operating Return on Average Equity
   
1.9
%
   
1.5
%
   
4.5
%
   
2.7
%
Average Assets
   
92,756
     
83,116
     
89,231
     
83,065
 
Operating Return on Average Assets
   
1.3
%
   
1.1
%
   
3.3
%
   
2.0
%

Average Equity Calculations
 
   
2015
   
2014
 
Average Equity:
       
Balance April 30     (A)
   
66,557
     
62,853
 
Balance January 31 (B)
   
64,691
     
61,667
 
Balance October 31 (C)
   
64,849
     
61,445
 
Balance July 31 of previous fiscal year (D)
   
64,424
     
60,152
 
Average Equity QTD  (A+B)/2
   
65,624
     
62,260
 
Average Equity YTD  (A+B+C+D)/4
   
65,130
     
61,529
 

Average Asset Calculations

   
2015
   
2014
 
Balance April 30     (E)
   
94,628
     
83,843
 
Balance January 31 (F)
   
90,883
     
82,389
 
Balance October 31 (G)
   
86,696
     
83,334
 
Balance July 31 of previous fiscal year (H)
   
84,715
     
82,693
 
Average Assets QTD  (E+F)/2
   
92,756
     
83,116
 
Average Assets YTD  (E+F+G+H)/4
   
89,231
     
83,065
 
 
We measure our performance primarily through our growth in revenue and our operating profit.  In addition to our consolidated financial statements presented in accordance with GAAP, management uses certain non-GAAP measures, including EBITDA, operating return on average equity and operating return on average assets, to measure our operating performance.  We provide a definition of the components of these measurements and reconciliation to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measure.

These non-GAAP measures are presented to enhance an understanding of our operating results and are not intended to represent cash flow or results of operations. The use of these non-GAAP measures provides an indication of our ability to service debt and measure operating performance. We believe these non-GAAP measures are useful in evaluating our operating performance compared to other companies in our industry, and are beneficial to investors, potential investors and other key stakeholders, including creditors who use this measure in their evaluation of performance.
 
Page | 20

These non-GAAP measures are not in accordance with, or an alternative to, measures prepared in accordance with GAAP and may be different from non-GAAP measures used by other companies. In addition, these non-GAAP measures are not based on any comprehensive set of accounting rules or principles. Non-GAAP measures have limitations in that they do not reflect all of the amounts associated with the Company’s results of operations as determined in accordance with GAAP. These measures should only be used to evaluate our results of operations in conjunction with the corresponding GAAP measures.

Results Overview

Product categories as a percentage of total sales under the new sales presentation by market were as follows:

   
Three Months
Ended April 30,
2015
   
Three Months
Ended April 30,
2014
   
Nine Months
Ended April 30,
2015
   
Nine Months
Ended April 30,
2014
 
Ophthalmic
   
57.5
%
   
54.2
%
   
56.5
%
   
57.5
%
Neurosurgery
   
40.1
%
   
45.1
%
   
41.8
%
   
41.7
%
Other
   
2.4
%
   
0.7
%
   
1.7
%
   
0.8
%
Total
   
100.0
%
   
100.0
%
   
100.0
%
   
100.0
%

International revenues represent $6.2 million, or 31.9 percent, of our total revenues for the three months ended April 30, 2015, as compared to $4.0 million, or 25.0 percent, for the three months ended April 30, 2014.  Many of the products we sell to our neurosurgery OEM customers are shipped to their non-U.S. customers in various countries around the world, but are included in our domestic revenues.  The increase in the international sales percentage was due to the Sterimedix Acquisition, which will continue to drive the percentage of international sales higher during the remainder of fiscal 2015.

Our Business Strategy

The Company’s strategy is to enhance shareholder value through profitable revenue growth in targeted segments of the ophthalmology and neurosurgery markets. This is accomplished through the identification and development of reusable and disposable devices in collaboration with leading surgeons and OEM partners. We are committed to establishing a strong operational infrastructure and financial foundation within which growth opportunities can be prudently evaluated, financed and pursued. We will remain vigilant and sensitive to new challenges which may arise from changes in the definition and delivery of appropriate healthcare in our fields of interest. In fiscal 2015 and beyond, our strategic priorities are to drive accelerating growth in the ophthalmology business, deliver improved profitability through our enterprise-wide continuous improvement initiatives, manage our neurosurgery and other OEM businesses for stable growth and strong cash flows, demonstrate consistent, solid financial performance and continued growth through strategic acquisitions.

Drive Accelerating Growth in our Ophthalmology Business

We are focused on expanding our product platform into larger and faster-growing segments of the vitreoretinal device market. Thus, we have focused our internal research and development efforts on developing innovative technologies that will enable the Company to enhance its value to the vitreoretinal community. We are implementing several focused initiatives to leverage our introduction of VersaVIT 2.0TM and other new products to capitalize on the current macroeconomic environment. In addition, we are also seeking business development opportunities to augment and complement our existing ophthalmic franchise.  Finally, we are improving our sales force productivity. For example, we are focused on rigorous development of our sales force capabilities through enhanced training and customer relationship management. In the international markets, we are working to optimize our sales capabilities and distribution infrastructure.  Our recent acquisition of M.I.S.S. demonstrates our commitment to enhancing our international distribution infrastructure.
 
Page | 21

Deliver Improved Profitability through our Enterprise-Wide Continuous Improvement Initiatives

We have developed comprehensive enterprise-wide continuous improvement initiatives aimed at creating a more efficient operating platform. We implemented our Enterprise Resource Planning (“ERP”) system in August 2011 which brought us accurate, timely information to more effectively manage our cost savings initiatives.  Prior to fiscal 2015, we believe we have taken over $3.1 million out of our cost basis since we implemented our cost savings efforts.  Through reducing our scrap, more efficient use of our labor force and concentrating our efforts on less costly components, we believe we have saved another $663,000 in the first nine months of fiscal 2015.  Also, during fiscal 2014, we began our efforts to consolidate our manufacturing operations in O’Fallon, Missouri.  These efforts were completed in February 2015.  We believe these efforts will result in more than $1.1 million in operating savings on an annualized basis beginning in fiscal 2016.

Manage our Neurosurgery and OEM Businesses for Stable Growth and Strong Cash Flows

We have long-term relationships established with our two largest OEM partners, Codman and Stryker. These relationships provide high visibility within the neurosurgery and pain control markets. We provide best-in-class technologies with our electrosurgical generators and disposable bipolar forceps being distributed by Codman and our multi-channel ablation generator and ultrasonic aspirator disposables being distributed by Stryker. We are working with both of these OEM partners to provide product line iterations to maintain their technological advantages. We also work with a select number of other potential OEM customers to develop relationships to support our strategic goal.

Demonstrate Consistent, Solid Financial Performance

In the short and long-term, we expect to grow our revenues and increase our profitability. We also expect to enhance our working capital usage by employing both our enterprise-wide continuous improvement initiatives and our ERP system to derive increased cash flow from the business. We will prudently manage our capital structure to allow for additional growth opportunities and optimal cash deployment.

Growth through Strategic Acquisitions

We believe that we can generate substantial revenue and cost synergies through strategic acquisitions and have a history of successfully acquiring companies that expand our footprint, either geographically or in market sectors that are complementary to our existing operations.  We intend to continue to grow our business and enhance our product offerings through acquisitions that either complement our existing products or provide additional resources or products that will enrich and increase our customer relationships.  We regularly consider and enter into discussions regarding potential acquisitions. Any such transaction would be subject to negotiation of mutually agreeable terms and conditions; receipt of fairness opinions (if required) and approval of the parties’ respective boards of directors and shareholder(s) (if required); could be effected quickly; could occur at any time; and could be significant in size relative to our existing assets or operations.  Our recent acquisition of Sterimedix demonstrates our commitment to enhancing our ophthalmic market footprint.

Demand Trends

The Company’s sales increased 15.9 percent during the first nine months of fiscal 2015, compared to the first nine months of fiscal 2014.  The increase in sales for the first nine months was primarily due to the increase of $3.8 million in ophthalmic sales, a $3.2 million increase in neurosurgery sales and a $524,000 increase in other sales. Currently, disposable product sales account for approximately 87.6 percent of our total product sales. Overall sales of our disposable products grew $6.7 million, or 16.1 percent, in the first nine months of fiscal 2015, as compared to the comparable period of fiscal 2014. Sales of capital equipment increased by approximately $736,000, or 14.7 percent, in the first nine months of fiscal 2015, as compared to the comparable period of fiscal 2014.
 
Page | 22

A study performed by Market Scope in March 2015 predicts a steady growth of 3.3 percent per year in vitrectomy procedures worldwide driven by an increase in emerging market demand, an increase in the worldwide elderly population, an increase in the number of surgeons, an increase in the number of diseases treated with vitrectomy and an increase in frequency of diabetic complications due to the obesity epidemic.  Based upon this growth in procedures, revenues for retinal surgical sales products worldwide are forecasted to increase by approximately 7.7 percent.

Neurosurgical procedures on a global basis continue to rise at an estimated 1.0 to 3.0 percent growth rate driven by an aging global population, new technologies, advances in surgical techniques and a growing global market resulting from ongoing improvements in healthcare delivery in emerging markets, among other factors. Based significantly upon this growth in procedures, sales of neurosurgical products worldwide are forecasted to increase by approximately 4.0 percent.

In addition, the Company believes that the demand for high quality, innovative products and new technologies consistent with the Company’s devices and disposables will continue to favorably impact procedure growth in the ophthalmic and neurosurgical markets.

Pricing Trends

The Company has generally been able to maintain the average selling prices for its products in the face of downward pricing pressure in the healthcare industry. However, increased competition, in combination with customer budget constraints, capital scarcity and the transition of procedures to the ambulatory surgery center, has continued to pressure the Company’s selling prices on certain devices. The Company has no major domestic group purchasing agreements.

Economic Trends

Economic conditions may continue to negatively impact capital expenditures at the hospital, ambulatory surgical center and physician level. Further, global economic conditions continue to negatively impact the average selling price of the Company’s products in our global markets.

Results of Operations

Three-Month Period Ended April 30, 2015, Compared to Three-Month Period Ended April 30, 2014

Results Overview

During the third quarter ended April 30, 2015, the Company recorded net sales of $19.4 million, which generated $10.1 million in gross profit, operating income of $1.8 million and net income of approximately $1.2 million, or $0.05 earnings per share.  The Company had $10.4 million in cash and $2.6 million in interest-bearing debt as of April 30, 2015. Management believes that cash flows from operations, together with available cash, will be sufficient to meet the Company’s working capital and capital expenditure needs for the next 12 months.

Net Sales

The following table presents net sales under the new sales presentation by market (dollars in thousands):

   
Three Months Ended
April 30, 2015
   
Three Months Ended
April 30, 2014
   
Increase
(Decrease)
 
Ophthalmic (1)
 
$
11,137
   
$
8,744
     
27.4
%
Neurosurgery (2)
   
7,762
     
7,277
     
6.7
%
Other (3)
   
476
     
114
     
317.5
%
Total
 
$
19,375
   
$
16,135
     
20.1
%
 
Page | 23

(1) Net sales from Ophthalmic represent all sales of ophthalmic devices from direct sales representatives, distribution partners and OEMs.  Recognition of deferred revenue of $322,000 from Alcon, Inc. is included in this category for the three months ended April 30, 2015 and 2014, respectively.
(2) Net sales from Neurosurgery represent sales of electrosurgery generators, disposable bipolar forceps and related accessories and royalties from Codman, multi-channel generators, disposable ultrasonic tips and related accessories to Stryker and certain neurosurgery disposables sold through distribution.  Many of the products we sell to our neurosurgery OEM customers are shipped to their non-U.S. customers in various countries around the world, but are included in our domestic revenues.
(3) Other net sales represent all sales of aesthetic devices and other miscellaneous revenues.

Ophthalmic sales increased 27.4 percent in the third quarter of fiscal 2015, compared to the third quarter of fiscal 2014. Domestic ophthalmic sales increased 11.4 percent in the third quarter of fiscal 2015, primarily due to the increased sales to ophthalmology OEM customers while direct sales were essentially flat.  Direct sales of procedural kits offset decreased sales of base business capital equipment and disposables.  International ophthalmic sales increased 46.5 percent in the third quarter of fiscal 2015, primarily due to the addition of Sterimedix sales for the third quarter of fiscal 2015, partially offset by a 9.9 percent decrease in international ophthalmology direct and distributor sales.  The decrease in international ophthalmology direct and distributor sales was primarily due to the impacts of the change in foreign currency exchange rates compared to the prior year.

Neurosurgery sales increased $485,000 in the third quarter of fiscal 2015 as compared to the third quarter of fiscal 2014. Total neurosurgery sales rose 6.7 percent to $7.8 million in the third quarter of fiscal 2015, compared with $7.3 million in the third quarter of fiscal 2014. The increase in neurosurgery sales benefited from strong volumes of disposable products sold to Codman and Stryker.  Other sales increased $362,000 in the third quarter of fiscal 2015, or 317.5 percent, compared to the third quarter of fiscal 2014, primarily due to the addition of Sterimedix aesthetics sales for the third quarter of fiscal 2015.

Currently, disposable product sales account for approximately 90.3 percent of our total product sales. Overall sales of our disposable products grew $3.6 million, or 26.2 percent, in the third quarter of fiscal 2015, as compared to the comparable period of fiscal 2014. Sales of capital equipment decreased by approximately $391,000, or 20.1 percent, in the third quarter of fiscal 2015 as compared to the comparable period of fiscal 2014.

The following table presents domestic and international net sales (dollars in thousands):

   
Three Months
Ended April 30,
2015
   
Three Months
Ended April 30,
2014
   
 
Increase
(Decrease)
 
Domestic
 
$
13,199
   
$
12,106
     
9.0
%
International
   
6,176
     
4,029
     
53.3
%
Total
 
$
19,375
   
$
16,135
     
20.1
%

Domestic sales increased 9.0 percent in the third quarter of fiscal 2015 due to the increase in ophthalmology sales to our OEM customers and the 6.7 percent increase in neurosurgery sales which are recorded as domestic sales.  International sales increased 53.3 percent in the third quarter of fiscal 2015 primarily due to addition of Sterimedix sales for the third quarter of fiscal 2015, partially offset by the 9.9 percent decrease in international direct and distributor ophthalmology sales.  The decrease in international ophthalmology direct and distributor sales was primarily due to decreased sales of base business disposables, partially offset by sales of procedural kits.

Gross Profit

Gross profit as a percentage of net sales was 52.2 percent in the third quarter of fiscal 2015 compared to 55.2 percent for the same period in fiscal 2014.  Gross profit as a percentage of net sales for the third quarter of fiscal 2015 compared to the third quarter of fiscal 2014 decreased 3.0 percentage points due to many factors of which the largest contributors were:  the impacts of the change in foreign currency exchange rates compared to the prior year; the final costs associated with the upgrade of the VersaVITTM vitrectomy machine to the version 2.0; and the inventory purchase price accounting adjustment in connection with the Sterimedix Acquisition.
 
Page | 24

Operating Expenses (dollars in thousands)

   
Three Months Ended
April 30, 2015
   
Three Months Ended
April 30, 2014
 
   
Dollars
   
Percent of
Sales
   
Dollars
   
Percent of
Sales
 
Research & Development expenses
 
$
991
     
5.1
%
 
$
1,302
     
8.1
%
Sales & Marketing expenses
   
3,864
     
19.9
%
   
3,450
     
21.4
%
General & Administrative expenses
   
3,355
     
17.3
%
   
2,602
     
16.1
%
Exit Costs
   
--
     
0.0
%
   
64
     
0.4
%
Medical Device Excise Tax
   
126
     
0.7
%
   
83
     
0.5
%

Research and development expenses (“R&D”) as a percentage of net sales was 5.1 percent and 8.1 percent for the third quarter of fiscal 2015 and 2014, respectively.   R&D costs decreased $311,000 in the third quarter of fiscal 2015 compared to the same period in fiscal 2014.  The Company’s pipeline included approximately 21 active projects in various stages of completion as of April 30, 2015.  The Company’s R&D investment is driven by the opportunities to develop new products to meet the needs of its surgeon customers and reflects the Company’s R&D budget. This results in an investment rate that the Company believes is comparable to such spending by other medical device companies.  The Company expects to invest in R&D at a rate of approximately 6.0 to 8.0 percent of net sales over the next few years.

Sales and marketing expenses increased $414,000 to approximately $3.9 million, or 19.9 percent of net sales, for the third quarter of fiscal 2015 compared to $3.5 million, or 21.4 percent of net sales, for the third quarter of fiscal 2014.  These increases were primarily due to the expenses associated with the upgrade of the VersaVITTM vitrectomy machine to version 2.0 and the addition of Sterimedix sales and marketing expenses.

General and administrative expenses increased by approximately $753,000 to $3.4 million, or 17.3 percent of net sales, in the third quarter of fiscal 2015 compared to $2.6 million, or 16.1 percent of net sales, for the third quarter of fiscal 2014.  These increases were primarily due to the addition of Sterimedix Acquisition related expenses and Sterimedix general and administrative costs, partially offset by the reduction in expenses associated with the Company’s King of Prussia facility.

Exit costs decreased $64,000 to $0, or 0.0% of net sales, in the third quarter of fiscal 2015, primarily due to the completion of production at the King of Prussia facility in February 2015.

Medical device excise tax increased $43,000 to $126,000, or 0.7 percent of net sales, in the third quarter of fiscal 2015 compared to $83,000, or 0.5 percent of net sales, for the third quarter of fiscal 2014.

Other Income/Expense

 Other expense for the third quarter of fiscal 2015 increased to $38,000, compared to income of $1,000 in the third quarter of fiscal 2014, primarily due to interest on the $2.75 million term loan.  The borrowings under the term loan were used to fund the Sterimedix Acquisition.

Operating Income, Income Taxes and Net Income

Operating income for the third quarter of fiscal 2015 increased $358,000 to $1.8 million, as compared to the comparable 2014 fiscal period. The increase in operating income was primarily the result of a 20.1 percent increase in sales, partially offset by a 28.3 percent increase in cost of sales, resulting in a $1.2 million increase in gross profit.  The increase in gross profit was augmented by a 23.9 percent decrease in R&D expenses and a $64,000 decrease in exit costs, partially offset by a 28.9 percent increase in general and administrative expenses and a 12.0 percent increase in sales and marketing expenses.
 
Page | 25

The Company recorded a $502,000 tax provision on pre-tax income of $1.7 million, a 29.0 percent tax provision, in the quarter ended April 30, 2015.  The decrease in the effective tax rate for the quarter was primarily due to the distribution of income between domestic and foreign tax jurisdictions.  The Company recorded a $469,000 tax provision on pre-tax income of $1.4 million, a 33.2 percent tax provision, in the quarter ended April 30, 2014.

Net income increased by $286,000 to $1.2 million for the third quarter of fiscal 2015 from $943,000 in net income for the same period in fiscal 2014. The increase in net income was primarily from the increase in operating income discussed above.  Basic and diluted earnings per share for the third quarter of fiscal 2015 were $0.05 as compared to $0.04 in the third quarter of fiscal 2014.  Basic weighted average shares outstanding increased from 25,331,925 during the quarter ended April 30, 2014, to 25,371,764 at during the quarter ended April 30, 2015.

Nine-Month Period Ended April 30, 2015, Compared to Nine-Month Period Ended April 30, 2014

Results Overview

During the first nine months ended April 30, 2015, the Company recorded net sales of $54.2 million, which generated $29.0 million in gross profit, operating income of $4.1 million and net income of approximately $2.9 million, or $0.12 earnings per share.

Net Sales

The following table presents net sales under the new sales presentation by market (dollars in thousands):

   
Nine Months Ended
April 30, 2015
   
Nine Months Ended
April 30, 2014
   
Increase
(Decrease)
 
Ophthalmic (1)
 
$
30,646
   
$
26,873
     
14.0
%
Neurosurgery (2)
   
22,675
     
19,522
     
16.2
%
Other (3)
   
890
     
366
     
143.2
%
Total
 
$
54,211
   
$
46,761
     
15.9
%

(1) Net sales from Ophthalmic represent all sales of ophthalmic devices from direct sales representatives, distribution partners and OEMs.  Recognition of deferred revenue of $966,000 from Alcon, Inc. is included in this category for the nine months ended April 30, 2015 and 2014, respectively.
(2) Net sales from Neurosurgery represent sales of electrosurgery generators, disposable bipolar forceps and related accessories and royalties from Codman, multi-channel generators, disposable ultrasonic tips and related accessories to Stryker and certain neurosurgery disposables sold through distribution.  Many of the products we sell to our neurosurgery OEM customers are shipped to their non-U.S. customers in various countries around the world, but are included in our domestic revenues.
(3) Other net sales represent all sales of aesthetic devices and other miscellaneous revenues.

Ophthalmic sales increased 14.0 percent in the first nine months of fiscal 2015, compared to the first nine months of fiscal 2014. Domestic ophthalmic sales remained flat in the first nine months of fiscal 2015, primarily due to the decreased sales of base business capital equipment and disposables, partially offset by increased sales of procedural kits (including $966,000 of deferred revenue recognized).  International ophthalmic sales increased 32.5 percent in the first nine months of fiscal 2015, primarily due to the addition of Sterimedix sales from December 10, 2014 through April 30, 2015 partially offset by a 1.7 percent decrease in international ophthalmology direct and distributor sales, primarily due to the impacts of the change in foreign currency exchange rates compared to the prior year.

Neurosurgery sales increased $3.2 million in the first nine months of fiscal 2015 as compared to the first nine months of fiscal 2014. Total neurosurgery sales rose 16.2 percent to $22.7 million in the first nine months of fiscal 2015, compared to $19.5 million in the first nine months of fiscal 2014. The increase in neurosurgery sales benefited from strong volumes of disposable products and generators sold to Codman and Stryker.  Other sales increased $524,000 in the first nine months of fiscal 2015, or 143.2 percent, compared to the first nine months of fiscal 2014, primarily due to the addition of Sterimedix aesthetics sales from December 10, 2014 through April 30, 2015.
 
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Currently, disposable product sales account for approximately 87.6 percent of our total product sales. Overall sales of our disposable products grew $6.7 million, or 16.1 percent, in the first nine months of fiscal 2015, as compared to the comparable period of fiscal 2014. Sales of capital equipment increased by approximately $736,000, or 14.7 percent, in the first nine months of fiscal 2015 as compared to the comparable period of fiscal 2014.

The following table presents domestic and international net sales (dollars in thousands):

   
Nine Months
Ended April 30,
2015
   
Nine Months
 Ended April 30,
2014
   
Increase
(Decrease)
 
Domestic
 
$
38,240
   
$
35,025
     
9.2
%
International
   
15,971
     
11,736
     
36.1
%
Total
 
$
54,211
   
$
46,761
     
15.9
%

Domestic sales increased 9.2 percent in the first nine months of fiscal 2015 due to the 16.2 percent increase in neurosurgery sales which are recorded as domestic sales.  International sales increased 36.1 percent in the first nine months of fiscal 2015 primarily due to addition of Sterimedix sales from December 10, 2014 through April 30, 2015, partially offset by a 1.7 percent decrease in international ophthalmology sales.

Gross Profit

Gross profit as a percentage of net sales was 53.4 percent in the first nine months of fiscal 2015 compared to 56.1 percent for the same period in fiscal 2014.  Gross profit as a percentage of net sales for the first nine months of fiscal 2015 compared to the first nine months of fiscal 2014 decreased 2.7 percentage points primarily due to many factors of which the largest contributors were:  the margins associated with the final production at our King of Prussia facility, the impacts of the change in foreign currency exchange rates compared to the prior year; the final costs associated with the upgrade of the VersaVITTM vitrectomy machine to the version 2.0; and the inventory purchase price accounting adjustment in connection with the Sterimedix Acquisition.

Operating Expenses (dollars in thousands)

   
Nine Months Ended
April 30, 2015
   
Nine Months Ended
April 30, 2014
 
   
Dollars
   
Percent of
Sales
   
Dollars
   
Percent of
Sales
 
Research & Development expenses
 
$
3,218
     
5.9
%
 
$
4,012
     
8.6
%
Sales & Marketing expenses
   
11,203
     
20.7
%
   
10,655
     
22.8
%
General & Administrative expenses
   
9,325
     
17.2
%
   
8,240
     
17.6
%
Exit Costs
   
719
     
1.3
%
   
578
     
1.2
%
Medical Device Excise Tax
   
370
     
0.7
%
   
323
     
0.7
%

R&D as a percentage of net sales was 5.9 percent and 8.6 percent for the first nine months of fiscal 2015 and 2014, respectively.   R&D costs decreased $794,000 in the first nine months of fiscal 2015 compared to the same period in fiscal 2014.  The Company’s pipeline included approximately 21 active projects in various stages of completion as of April 30, 2015.

Sales and marketing expenses increased $548,000 to approximately $11.2 million, or 20.7 percent of net sales, for the first nine months of fiscal 2015 compared to $10.7 million, or 22.8 percent of net sales, for the first nine months of fiscal 2014.  These increases were primarily due to the expenses associated with the upgrade of the VersaVITTM vitrectomy machine to version 2.0 and the addition of Sterimedix sales and marketing expenses.
 
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General and administrative expenses increased by approximately $1.1 million to $9.3 million, or 17.2 percent of net sales, in the first nine months of fiscal 2015 compared to $8.2 million, or 17.6 percent of net sales, for the first nine months of fiscal 2014.  These increases were primarily due to the addition of Sterimedix Acquisition related expenses and Sterimedix general and administrative costs, partially offset by the reduction in expenses associated with the Company’s King of Prussia facility.

Exit costs increased $141,000 to $719,000, or 1.3 percent of net sales, in the first nine months of fiscal 2015 compared to $578,000, or 1.2 percent of net sales in the first nine months of fiscal 2014, primarily due to the expenses associated with the final production at the King of Prussia facility consisting of severance costs, inventory write-down and preparation costs of the Company’s O’Fallon, Missouri facility.

Medical device excise tax increased $47,000 to $370,000, or 0.7 percent of net sales, in the first nine months of fiscal 2015 compared to $323,000, or 0.7 percent of net sales, for the first nine months of fiscal 2014.

Other Income/Expense

Other expense for the first nine months of fiscal 2015 increased to $50,000, compared to income of $7,000 in the first nine months of fiscal 2014, primarily due to the interest on the $2.75 million term loan.  The borrowings under the term loan were used to fund the Sterimedix Acquisition.

Operating Income, Income Taxes and Net Income

Operating income for the first nine months of fiscal 2015 increased $1.7 million to $4.1 million, as compared to the comparable 2014 fiscal period. The increase in operating income was primarily the result of a 15.9 percent increase in sales, partially offset by a 23.0 percent increase in cost of sales, resulting in a $2.7 million increase in gross profit.  The increase in gross profit was augmented by a 19.8 percent decrease in R&D and was partially offset by a 24.4 percent increase in exit costs, a 14.6 percent increase in medical device excise tax, a 13.2 percent increase in general and administrative expenses and a 5.1 percent increase in sales and marketing expenses.

The Company recorded a $1.1 million tax provision on pre-tax income of $4.1 million, a 27.6 percent tax provision, in the first nine months ended April 30, 2015.  The decrease in the effective tax rate for the first nine months of fiscal 2015 was primarily due to the re-enactment of the Research and Experimentation credit in December 2014 and to the distribution of income between domestic and foreign tax jurisdictions.  The Company recorded a $781,000 tax provision on pre-tax income of $2.4 million, a 32.1 percent tax provision, in the first nine months ended April 30, 2014.

Net income increased by $1.3 million to $2.9 million for the first nine months of fiscal 2015 from $1.7 million for the same period in fiscal 2014. The increase in net income was primarily from the increase in operating income discussed above.  Basic and diluted earnings per share for the first nine months of fiscal 2015 were $0.12 as compared to $0.07 in the first nine months of fiscal 2014.  Basic weighted average shares outstanding increased from 25,311,641 during the quarter ended April 30, 2014, to 25,358,631 during the quarter ended April 30, 2015.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

The Company had approximately $10.4 million in cash and $2.6 million in interest-bearing debt as of April 30, 2015.

Working capital, including the management of inventory and accounts receivable, is a key management focus. At April 30, 2015, the Company had an average of 70 days of sales outstanding utilizing the trailing 12 months’ sales for the period ended April 30, 2015. The 70 days of sales outstanding at April 30, 2015, was 12 days favorable when compared to July 31, 2014, and 17 days favorable when compared to April 30, 2014, utilizing the trailing 12 months of sales.

At April 30, 2015, the Company had 183 days of average cost of sales in inventory on hand utilizing the trailing 12 months’ cost of sales for the period ended April 30, 2015.  The 183 days of cost of sales in inventory was favorable to July 31, 2014, by 11 days and 17 days favorable to April 30, 2014, utilizing the trailing 12 months of cost of sales. The Company had invested $3.7 million in inventory for new products and new product launches at April 30, 2015.  In addition, the Company had $3.5 million in backlog as of April 30, 2015.
 
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Cash flows provided by operating activities were $6.8 million for the nine months ended April 30, 2015, compared to cash flows provided by operating activities of $1.4 million for the comparable fiscal 2014 period. The increase in cash flows of $5.4 million was primarily attributable to the increase in accounts payable and accrued expenses of $2.2 million, the decrease in accounts receivable of $1.9 million, an increase in net income of $1.3 million, the decrease in inventory of $499,000, the decrease in income taxes payable of $402,000 and various other adjustments to reconcile net income to cash provided of $971,000; partially offset by a $1.9 million increase in deferred taxes.

Cash flows used by investing activities were $14.2 million for the nine months ended April 30, 2015, compared to $1.0 million of cash used by investing activities for the comparable fiscal 2014 period. During the nine months ended April 30, 2015, the Company expended $13.2 million on the Sterimedix Acquisition.  During the nine months ended April 30, 2015, cash additions to property and equipment were $821,000, compared to $800,000 during the nine months ended April 30, 2014.  During the nine months ended April 30, 2015, cash additions to patents and other intangibles were $167,000, compared to $229,000 during the nine months ended April 30, 2014.

Cash flows provided by financing activities for the nine months ended April 30, 2015 were $2.6 million compared to $61,000 for the nine months ended April 30, 2014.  The increase in cash flows provided by financing activities was due primarily to the $2.75 million borrowed under the Company’s term loan facility.

The Company had the following committed financing arrangements as of April 30, 2015:

Revolving Credit Facility: The Company has a credit facility with a bank which allows for borrowings of up to $9.5 million.  There were no borrowings under this facility at April 30, 2015.

Equipment Line of Credit: Under this credit facility, the Company may borrow up to $1.0 million.  There were no borrowings under this facility at April 30, 2015.

Term Loan Facility:  The Company has a credit facility with a bank which allows for borrowings of up to $13.0 million with $6.5 million restricted for earn-out payments required under the Sterimedix Acquisition Agreement. There was $2.6 million borrowed under this facility at April 30, 2015.  The advances under the term loan are amortized quarterly over five years.

These facilities bear interest based on either the one-, two- or three-month LIBOR plus 1.75 percent and adjusting each quarter based upon our total debt EBITDA.  As of April 30, 2015, interest under the facilities was 1.92 percent.  The unused portion of the facilities is charged at a rate of 0.20 percent.  The termination date of the facilities is February 28, 2018.  The facilities are collateralized by substantially all of the Company’s assets

These facilities have two financial covenants: a maximum total debt to EBITDA ratio of 2.25 times and a minimum fixed charge coverage ratio of 1.25 times. As of April 30, 2015, the total debt to EBITDA ratio was 0.30 times and the fixed charge coverage ratio was 11.7 times. The facility restricts the payment of dividends if, following the distribution, the fixed charge coverage ratio would fall below the required minimum.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

We do not have any off-balance sheet arrangements that have or are reasonably likely to have a current or future effect on our financial condition or results of operations.
 
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STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION

The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Exchange Act, provide a safe harbor for forward-looking statements made by or on behalf of the Company. The Company and its representatives may from time to time make written or oral statements that are “forward-looking,” including statements contained in this report and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) and in our reports and presentations to stockholders or potential stockholders. In some cases forward-looking statements can be identified by words such as “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “plan,” “potential,” “continue” or similar expressions. Such forward-looking statements include risks and uncertainties and there are important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These factors, risks and uncertainties can be found in the Part I, Item 1A, “Risk Factors” section of the Company’s Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended July 31, 2014.

Although we believe the expectations reflected in our forward-looking statements are based upon reasonable assumptions, it is not possible to foresee or identify all factors that could have a material effect on the future financial performance of the Company. The forward-looking statements in this report are made on the basis of management’s assumptions and analyses, as of the time the statements are made, in light of their experience and perception of historical conditions, expected future developments and other factors believed to be appropriate under the circumstances.

In addition, certain market data and other statistical information used throughout this report are based on independent industry publications. Although we believe these sources to be reliable, we have not independently verified the information and cannot guarantee the accuracy and completeness of such sources.

Except as otherwise required by the federal securities laws, we disclaim any obligation or undertaking to publicly release any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statement contained in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q and the information incorporated by reference in this report to reflect any change in our expectations with regard thereto or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any statement is based.

Critical Accounting Policies

The Company’s significant accounting policies which require management’s judgment are disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended July 31, 2014.  In the first nine months of fiscal 2015, there were no changes to the significant accounting policies.

Item 3 — Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk

The Company’s primary market risks include fluctuations in interest rates and exchange rate variability.

The Company has $10.4 million in cash and cash equivalents with a substantial portion of this cash held in short-term money market funds bearing interest at 30 basis points. Interest income from these funds is subject to market risk in the form of fluctuations in interest rates. A reduction in the interest on these funds to 15 basis points would decrease the amount of interest income from these funds by approximately $16,000 on an annual basis.

The Company currently has a revolving credit facility, an equipment line of credit facility and a term loan facility in place. The revolving credit facility and the equipment line of credit facility had no outstanding balance at April 30, 2015.  However, the term loan facility had a $2.6 million balance at April 30, 2015. All three facilities bear interest at a current rate of LIBOR plus 1.75 percent. Interest expense from these credit facilities is subject to market risk in the form of fluctuations in interest rates. An increase in the interest on the aggregate borrowings of $2.6 million of 50 basis points would increase the amount of interest expense on these funds by approximately $13,000 on an annual basis.  The Company does not perform any interest rate hedging activities related to these three facilities.
 
Page | 30

Additionally, the Company has exposure to non-U.S. currency fluctuations through export sales to international accounts and direct sales from our foreign subsidiaries. Approximately 15.7 percent of our sales revenue is denominated in non-U.S. currencies.  In a period during which the U.S. dollar is strengthening or weakening as compared to other currencies, our revenues and expenses denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars at a lower or higher value than they would be in an otherwise constant currency exchange rate environment. The Company does not conduct any hedging activities related to non-U.S. currency.

Item 4 — Controls and Procedures

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

Our management, under the supervision and with the participation of our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, has reviewed and evaluated the effectiveness of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures as of April 30, 2015. Based on such review and evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that, as of April 30, 2015, the disclosure controls and procedures were effective to ensure that information required to be disclosed by the Company in the reports that it files or submits under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, (a) is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms and (b) is accumulated and communicated to the Company’s management, including its principal executive and principal financial officers, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.
 
Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

There were no changes in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting identified in connection with the evaluation required by paragraph (d) of Rule 13a-15 or 15d-15 of the Exchange Act that occurred during the fiscal quarter ended April 30, 2015 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

Part II — Other Information

Item 1 — Legal Proceedings

From time to time, we may become subject to litigation claims that may greatly exceed our liability insurance limits.  An adverse outcome of such litigation may adversely impact our financial condition or liquidity.  We record a liability when a loss is known or considered probable and the amount can be reasonably estimated.  If a loss is not probable, a liability is not recorded.  As of April 30, 2015, the Company has no litigation reserve recorded.

Item 1A — Risk Factors

The Company’s business is subject to certain risks and events that, if they occur, could adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations and the trading price of our common stock. For a discussion of these risks, please refer to the “Risk Factors” section of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended July 31, 2014. In connection with its preparation of this quarterly report, management has reviewed and considered these risk factors and has determined that there have been no material changes to the Company’s risk factors since the date of filing the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended July 31, 2014.

Item 2 — Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

None

Item 3 — Defaults Upon Senior Securities

None
 
Page | 31

Item 4 — Mine Safety Disclosures

Not applicable

Item 5 — Other Information

(a) None.
(b) There have been no material changes to the procedures by which security holders may recommend nominees to the Company’s Board of Directors since the filing of the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended April 30, 2015.

Item 6 — Exhibits

Exhibit No.
Description
   
Certification of the Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
   
Certification of the Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
   
Certification of the Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
   
Certification of the Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
 
101.INS
XBRL Instance Document
 
101.SCH
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document
 
101.CAL
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document
 
101.LAB
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document
 
101.PRE
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document

Trademark Acknowledgements

Regarding our trademarks, the Company relies on protections from both formal registrations and common law rights.  The Synergetics, Sterimedix and Silkann brand name are registered trademarks of the Company.  Other trademarks used in association with the Company’s products include the diamond logo, Vision for Life, VersaVIT and VersaVIT 2.0, VersaPACK, Core Essentials, Bullseye, Corona, Diamond Black, DDMS, Directional Laser Probe, Extendable Directional Laser Probe, Inverted Directional Laser Probe, FullView, I-Pack, Kryoptonite, Maxillum, Microfiber, Microserrated, One-Step, Photon, Photon I, Photon II, PhotonEX, P1, P2, Pinnacle, Syntrifugal, Apex, Synerport, TruCurve and Vivid.  Other trademark registrations owned by the Company include Malis, the Malis waveform logo, Bident, Gentle Gel and Finest Energy Source Available for Surgery.  Other trademarks owned by us and for which use inures to the benefit of the Company include Burst, Barracuda, Lumen, Lumenator and TruMicro.  All other trademarks appearing in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q are the property of their respective owners.
 
Page | 32

SIGNATURES

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

 
SYNERGETICS USA, INC.
 
(Registrant)
   
June 9, 2015
/s/ David M. Hable
 
David M. Hable, President and
Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer)
   
June 9, 2015
/s/ Pamela G. Boone
 
Pamela G. Boone, Executive Vice President,
Chief Financial Officer, Secretary and Treasurer
(Principal Financial and Principal Accounting Officer)
 
 
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