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

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

For the quarterly period ended March 31, 2010
 
or
 
o
TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 or 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934.
 
 
Commission file number:  1-4743
 
Standard Motor Products, Inc.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

New York
11-1362020
(State or other jurisdiction of
(I.R.S. Employer
incorporation or organization)
Identification No.)

37-18 Northern Blvd., Long Island City, N.Y.
11101
(Address of principal executive offices)
(Zip Code)

(718) 392-0200
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

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

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 o      No o

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 definition of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.  (Check one):

 
Large Accelerated Filer o
Accelerated Filer þ
 
Non-Accelerated Filer o   (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)
Smaller reporting company o

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

As of the close of business on April 30, 2010, there were 22,753,280 outstanding shares of the registrant’s Common Stock, par value $2.00 per share.
 


 
 

 
 
STANDARD MOTOR PRODUCTS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

INDEX
 
 
Page No.
PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION
   
Item 1.       Consolidated Financial Statements:
 
   
Consolidated Statements of Operations (Unaudited) for the Three Months Ended March 31, 2010 and 2009
3
   
Consolidated Balance Sheets  as of March 31, 2010 (Unaudited) and December 31, 2009
4
   
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Unaudited) for the Three Months Ended March 31, 2010 and 2009
5
   
Consolidated Statement of Changes in Stockholders’ Equity (Unaudited) for the Three Months Ended March 31, 2010
6
   
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)
7
   
Item 2.       Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
22
   
Item 3.       Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk
35
   
Item 4.       Controls and Procedures
36
   
PART II – OTHER INFORMATION
   
Item 1.       Legal Proceedings
37
   
Item 6.       Exhibits
39
   
Signatures
39
 
 
 

 

PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION
 
ITEM 1.      CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 
STANDARD MOTOR PRODUCTS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

(Dollars in thousands, except share and per share data)
 
Three Months Ended
March 31,
 
   
2010
   
2009
 
   
(Unaudited)
 
             
Net sales
  $ 179,351     $ 172,222  
Cost of sales
    135,533       131,329  
Gross profit
    43,818       40,893  
Selling, general and administrative expenses
    36,665       36,019  
Restructuring and integration expenses
    753       1,163  
Operating income
    6,400       3,711  
Other income, net
    398       105  
Interest expense
    1,864       2,477  
Earnings from continuing operations before taxes
    4,934       1,339  
Provision for income taxes
    2,067       552  
Earnings from continuing operations
    2,867       787  
Loss from discontinued operations, net of income taxes
    (496 )     (260 )
Net earnings
  $ 2,371     $ 527  
Net earnings per common share – Basic:
               
Earnings from continuing operations
  $ 0.13     $ 0.04  
Discontinued operations
    (0.02 )     (0.01 )
Net earnings per common share – Basic
  $ 0.11     $ 0.03  
Net earnings per common share – Diluted:
               
Earnings from continuing operations
  $ 0.13     $ 0.04  
Discontinued operations
    (0.02 )     (0.01 )
Net earnings per common share – Diluted
  $ 0.11     $ 0.03  
Average number of common shares
    22,414,311       18,596,218  
Average number of common shares and dilutive common shares
    22,495,888       18,596,218  

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
 
 
3

 
 
STANDARD MOTOR PRODUCTS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
 
(In thousands, except share and per share data)
 
March 31, 
2010
   
December 31,
2009
 
   
(Unaudited)
       
ASSETS
 
CURRENT ASSETS:
           
Cash and cash equivalents
  $ 14,734     $ 10,618  
Accounts receivable, less allowance for discounts and doubtful accounts of $7,674 and $6,962 for 2010 and 2009, respectively
    142,388       124,823  
Inventories
    210,090       199,752  
Deferred income taxes
    17,509       18,129  
Assets held for sale
    433       1,405  
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
    10,269       9,487  
Total current assets
    395,423       364,214  
                 
Property, plant and equipment, net
    61,967       61,478  
Goodwill
    1,437       1,437  
Other intangibles, net
    11,803       12,368  
Deferred income taxes
    28,605       29,542  
Other assets
    14,325       15,420  
Total assets
  $ 513,560     $ 484,459  
                 
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
 
CURRENT LIABILITIES:
               
Notes payable
  $ 75,707     $ 58,430  
Current portion of long-term debt
    81       67  
Accounts payable
    69,826       54,381  
Sundry payables and accrued expenses
    19,293       24,114  
Accrued customer returns
    26,306       20,442  
Accrued rebates
    25,394       25,276  
Payroll and commissions
    15,132       21,913  
Total current liabilities
    231,739       204,623  
Long-term debt
    17,703       17,908  
Post-retirement medical benefits
    19,490       19,355  
Other accrued liabilities
    23,907       23,821  
Accrued asbestos liabilities
    24,472       24,874  
Total liabilities
    317,311       290,581  
Commitments and contingencies Stockholders’ equity:
               
Common stock – par value $2.00 per share:
               
Authorized – 30,000,000 shares; issued 23,936,036 shares
    47,872       47,872  
Capital in excess of par value
    77,230       77,238  
Retained earnings
    81,336       80,083  
Accumulated other comprehensive income
    4,719       5,475  
Treasury stock – at cost 1,387,511 and 1,562,649 shares in 2010 and 2009, respectively
    (14,908 )     (16,790 )
Total stockholders’ equity
    196,249       193,878  
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity
  $ 513,560     $ 484,459  
 
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

 
4

 

STANDARD MOTOR PRODUCTS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
 
(In thousands)
 
Three Months Ended
March 31,
 
   
2010
   
2009
 
   
(Unaudited)
 
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
           
Net earnings
  $ 2,371     $ 527  
Adjustments to reconcile net earnings to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:
               
Depreciation and amortization
    3,285       3,652  
Increase in allowance for doubtful accounts
    411       1,061  
Increase in inventory reserves
    1,048       2,000  
Amortization of deferred gain on sale of building
    (262 )     (262 )
Gain on disposal of property, plant and equipment
     (198 )  
 
Equity loss from joint ventures
    94       58  
Employee stock ownership plan allocation
    408       85  
Stock-based compensation
    205       125  
Decrease (increase) in deferred income taxes
    1,557       (8 )
Loss from discontinued operation, net of income tax
    496       260  
Change in assets and liabilities:
               
Increase in accounts receivable
    (17,976 )     (8,332 )
Decrease (increase) in inventories
    (11,387 )     23,226  
Increase in prepaid expenses and other current assets
    (266 )     (304 )
Increase (decrease) in accounts payable
    8,958       (13,221 )
Increase (decrease) in sundry payables and accrued expenses
    (5,578 )     9,145  
Net changes in other assets and liabilities
    (606 )     535  
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities
    (17,440 )     18,547  
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
               
Proceeds from the sale of property, plant and equipment
    4    
 
Net cash received from the sale of land and buildings
    873    
 
Divestiture of joint ventures
    1,000       4,000  
Capital expenditures
    (3,065 )     (1,320 )
Acquisitions of businesses and assets
 
      (5,996 )
Net cash used in investing activities
    (1,188 )     (3,316 )
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
               
Net borrowings (repayments) under line-of-credit agreements
    17,278       (9,792 )
Net repayment of long-term debt
    (262 )     (34 )
Increase (decrease) in overdraft balances
    6,486       (308 )
Adjustment to costs related to issuance of common stock
    36    
 
Dividends paid
    (1,118 )  
 
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities
    22,420       (10,134 )
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash
    324       (720 )
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents
    4,116       4,377  
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS at beginning of the period
    10,618       6,608  
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS at end of the period
  $ 14,734     $ 10,985  
                 
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information:
               
Cash paid during the period for:
               
Interest
  $ 728     $ 2,987  
Income taxes
  $ 524     $ 889  
 
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

 
5

 
 
STANDARD MOTOR PRODUCTS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Three Months Ended March 31, 2010
 (Unaudited)
 
 (In thousands)
 
Common
 Stock
   
Capital in
Excess of
Par Value
   
Retained
Earnings
   
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income
   
Treasury
Stock
   
Total
 
                                     
Balance at December 31, 2009
  $ 47,872     $ 77,238     $ 80,083     $ 5,475     $ (16,790 )   $ 193,878  
Comprehensive income (loss):
                                               
Net earnings
                    2,371                       2,371  
Foreign currency translation adjustment
                            396               396  
Pension and retiree medical adjustment, net of tax
                            (1,152 )             (1,152 )
Total comprehensive income (loss)
                                            1,615  
Cash dividends paid
                    (1,118 )                     (1,118 )
Adjustment to costs related to issuance of common stock
            36                               36  
Stock-based compensation
            205                               205  
Employee Stock Ownership Plan
            (249 )                     1,882       1,633  
                                                 
Balance at March 31, 2010
  $ 47,872     $ 77,230     $ 81,336     $ 4,719     $ (14,908 )   $ 196,249  
 
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

 
6

 
 
STANDARD MOTOR PRODUCTS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED)
 
Note 1.  Basis of Presentation
 
Standard Motor Products, Inc. (referred to hereinafter in these notes to consolidated financial statements as the “Company,” “we,” “us,” or “our”) is engaged in the manufacture and distribution of replacement parts for motor vehicles in the automotive aftermarket industry.

The accompanying unaudited financial information should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2009.  The unaudited consolidated financial statements include our accounts and all domestic and international companies in which we have more than a 50% equity ownership.  Our investments in unconsolidated affiliates are accounted for on the equity method, as we do not have controlling financial interest.  All significant inter-company items have been eliminated.

The accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles for interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Rule 10-01 of Regulation S-X. Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and footnotes required by generally accepted accounting principles for complete financial statements. In the opinion of management, all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring adjustments) considered necessary for a fair presentation have been included.  The results of operations for the interim periods are not necessarily indicative of the results of operations for the entire year.

Reclassification

Certain prior period amounts in the accompanying consolidated financial statements and related notes have been reclassified to conform to the 2010 presentation.

Note 2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

The preparation of consolidated annual and quarterly financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amount of assets and liabilities, the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of our consolidated financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the reporting periods.  We have made a number of estimates and assumptions in the preparation of these consolidated financial statements.  We can give no assurance that actual results will not differ from those estimates.  Some of the more significant estimates include allowances for doubtful accounts, realizability of inventory, goodwill and other intangible assets, depreciation and amortization of long-lived assets, product liability, pensions and other postretirement benefits, asbestos, environmental and litigation matters, deferred tax asset valuation allowance and sales return allowances.

The impact and any associated risks related to significant accounting policies on our business operations is discussed throughout “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations,” where such policies affect our reported and expected financial results.  There have been no material changes to our critical accounting policies and estimates from the information provided in Note 1 of the notes to our consolidated financial statements in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2009.

 
7

 
 
STANDARD MOTOR PRODUCTS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED) – (Continued)
 
Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements

Fair Value Measurements

On March 31, 2010, we adopted Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2010-06, Improving Disclosures about Fair Value Measurements that requires companies to enhance the usefulness of fair value measurements by requiring both the disaggregation of information in certain existing disclosures, as well as the inclusion of more robust disclosures about valuation techniques and inputs to recurring and nonrecurring fair value measurements.  The adoption of this standard will impact how we disclose in the future any material transfers into and out of Level 1 (measurements based on quoted prices in active markets) and Level 2 (measurements based on other observable inputs) inputs of the fair value hierarchy.  There were no such transfers in the first three months of 2010.

Revenue Arrangements with Multiple Deliverables

In October 2009, the FASB issued ASU 2009-13  which will update ASC 605, Revenue Recognition, and changes the accounting for certain revenue arrangements.  The new standard sets forth requirements that must be met for an entity to recognize revenue from the sale of a delivered item that is part of a multiple-element arrangement when other items have not yet been delivered and requires the allocation of arrangement consideration to each deliverable to be based on the relative selling price.   ASU 2009-13 is effective prospectively for revenue arrangements entered into or materially modified in the fiscal years beginning on or after June 15, 2010, which for us is January 1, 2011.  We are currently evaluating the impact this new standard will have on our financial statements.

Note 3.  Restructuring and Integration Costs

The aggregated liabilities relating to the restructuring and integration activities as of December 31, 2009 and March 31, 2010 and activity for the three months ended March 31, 2010, consisted of the following (in thousands):

   
Workforce
Reduction
   
Other Exit
Costs
   
Total
 
Exit activity liability at December 31, 2009
  $ 8,774     $ 1,971     $ 10,745  
Restructuring and integration costs:
                       
Amounts provided for during 2010
    525       228       753  
Cash payments
    (1,741 )     (192 )     (1,933 )
Exit activity liability at March 31, 2010
  $ 7,558     $ 2,007     $ 9,565  

Restructuring Costs
 
Voluntary Separation Program

During 2008 as part of an initiative to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of operations, and to reduce costs in light of economic conditions, we implemented certain organizational changes and offered eligible employees a voluntary separation package.  The restructuring accrual relates to severance and other retiree benefit enhancements to be paid through 2015.  Of the original restructuring charge of $8 million, we have $2.8 million remaining as of March 31, 2010 that is expected to be paid in the amount of $1.2 million in 2010, $0.6 million in 2011, and $1 million for the period 2012-2015.
 
 
8

 
 
STANDARD MOTOR PRODUCTS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED) – (Continued)
 
Activity for the three months ended March 31, 2010 related to this program, by segment, consisted of the following (in thousands):

   
Engine
Management
   
Temperature
Control
   
Other
   
Total
 
Exit activity liability at December 31, 2009
  $ 1,395     $ 385     $ 1,422     $ 3,202  
Restructuring costs:
                               
Amounts provided for during 2010
    72                   72  
Cash payments
    (215 )     (23 )     (248 )     (486 )
Exit activity liability at March 31, 2010
  $ 1,252     $ 362     $ 1,174     $ 2,788  

Integration Expenses

Overhead Cost Reduction Program

Beginning in 2007 in connection with our efforts to improve our operating efficiency and reduce costs, we announced our intention to focus on company-wide overhead and operating expense cost reduction activities, such as closing excess facilities and reducing redundancies.  Integration expenses under this program to date relate primarily to the integration of operations to our facilities in Mexico, and the closure of our production operations in Corona, California and Hong Kong, China.  We expect that all payments related to the current liability will be made within twelve months.

Activity for the three months ended March 31, 2010 related to this program, consisted of the following (in thousands):

   
Workforce
Reduction
   
Other Exit
Costs
   
Total
 
Exit activity liability at December 31, 2009
  $ 1,347     $     $ 1,347  
Integration costs:
                       
Amounts provided for during 2010
    407       173       580  
Cash payments
    (653 )     (92 )     (745 )
Exit activity liability at March 31, 2010
  $ 1,101     $ 81     $ 1,182  
 
Wire and Cable Relocation

As a result of our acquisition during 2009 of a wire and cable business and the relocation of certain machinery and equipment to our Reynosa, Mexico manufacturing facility, integration costs related to employee severance and equipment relocation costs have been incurred.  As of March 31, 2010, all such costs have been fully paid.

   
Workforce
Reduction
   
Other Exit
Costs
   
Total
 
Exit activity liability at December 31, 2009
  $ 532     $     $ 532  
Integration costs:
                       
Amounts provided for during 2010
          27       27  
Cash payments
    (532 )     (27 )     (559 )
Exit activity liability at March 31, 2010
  $     $     $  
 
 
9

 
 
STANDARD MOTOR PRODUCTS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED) – (Continued)
 
Reynosa Integration Program

During 2006 and 2007, we announced plans for the closure of our Long Island City, New York and Puerto Rico manufacturing facilities and integration of operations in Reynosa, Mexico.  In connection with the shutdown of the manufacturing operations at Long Island City that was completed in March of 2008, we incurred severance costs and costs associated with equipment removal, capital expenditures, and environmental clean-up.  As of March 31, 2010, the reserve balance related to environmental clean-up at Long Island City of $1.9 million is included in other exit costs.

In connection with the shutdown of the manufacturing operations at Long Island City, we entered into an agreement with the International Union, United Automobile, Aerospace and Agricultural Implement Workers of America and its Local 365 (“UAW”).  As part of the agreement, we incurred a withdrawal liability from a multi-employer plan.  The pension plan withdrawal liability is related to trust asset under-performance in a plan that covers our former UAW employees at the Long Island City facility and is payable quarterly for 20 years at $0.3 million per year, which commenced in December 2008.  As of March 31, 2010, the reserve balance related to the pension withdrawal liability of $3.2 million is included in the workforce reduction reserve.

Activity for the three months ended March 31, 2010 related to this program, consisted of the following (in thousands):

   
Workforce
Reduction
   
Other Exit
Costs
   
Total
 
Exit activity liability at December 31, 2009
  $ 3,693     $ 1,971     $ 5,664  
Integration costs:
                       
Amounts provided for during 2010
    46       28       74  
Cash payments
    (70 )     (73 )     (143 )
Exit activity liability at March 31, 2010
  $ 3,669     $ 1,926     $ 5,595  

Integration activity for the three months ended March 31, 2010 related to our aggregate integration programs, by segment, consisted of the following (in thousands):

   
Engine
Management
   
Temperature
Control
   
Other
   
Total
 
Exit activity liability at December 31, 2009
  $ 7,017     $ 364     $ 162     $ 7,543  
Integration costs:
                               
Amounts provided for during 2010
    358       323             681  
Cash payments
    (1,220 )     (190 )     (37 )     (1,447 )
Exit activity liability at March 31, 2010
  $ 6,155     $ 497     $ 125     $ 6,777  

Assets Held for Sale

As of March 31, 2010, we have reported $0.4 million as assets held for sale on our consolidated balance sheet related to the net book value of the vacant land located in the U.K. and the closed facility in Reno, Nevada.  Following plant closures resulting from integration activities, these facilities have been vacant and therefore a decision to solicit bids has been made.  We are hopeful that a negotiated sale to a third-party will occur within the next twelve months, and we will record any resulting gain or loss in other income, net as appropriate.  In January 2010, we sold our Wilson, North Carolina property and in February 2010 we sold the vacant land at one of our locations in the U.K.

 
10

 
 
STANDARD MOTOR PRODUCTS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED) – (Continued)
 
Note 4.  Sale of Receivables

We sell undivided interests in certain of our receivables to financial institutions.  We entered these agreements at our discretion when we determined that the cost of factoring was less than the cost of servicing our receivables with existing debt.  Pursuant to these agreements, we sold $82.2 million of receivables during the three months ended March 31, 2010.  Under the terms of the agreements, we retain no rights or interest, have no obligations with respect to the sold receivables, and do not service the receivables after the sale.  As such, these transactions are being accounted for as a sale.  A charge in the amount of $1.2 million and $0.4 million related to the sale of receivables is included in selling, general and administrative expense in our consolidated statements of operations for the three months ended March 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

Note 5. Inventories

Inventories, which are stated at the lower of cost (determined by means of the first in, first out method) or market, consist of (in thousands):

   
March 31,
2010
   
December 31,
2009
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Finished goods, net
  $ 139,471     $ 130,054  
Work in process, net
    5,304       4,472  
Raw materials, net
    65,315       65,226  
Total inventories, net
  $ 210,090     $ 199,752  

Note 6. Credit Facilities and Long-Term Debt

Total debt outstanding is summarized as follows:

   
March 31,
2010
   
December 31,
2009
 
   
(In thousands)
 
             
Revolving credit facilities (1)
  $ 75,707     $ 58,430  
15% convertible subordinated debentures
    12,300       12,300  
15% unsecured promissory notes
    5,098       5,339  
Other
    386       336  
Total debt
  $ 93,491     $ 76,405  
                 
Current maturities of debt
  $ 75,788     $ 58,497  
Long-term debt
    17,703       17,908  
Total debt
  $ 93,491     $ 76,405  
 
(1)  Consists of the revolving credit facility and the Canadian term loan.

 
11

 
 
STANDARD MOTOR PRODUCTS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED) – (Continued)
 
Deferred Financing Costs

We had deferred financing costs of $5.2 million and $5.6 million as of March 31, 2010 and December 31, 2009, respectively.  These costs relate to our revolving credit facility and the 15% convertible subordinated debentures.  Deferred financing costs as of March 31, 2010 are being amortized, assuming no further prepayments of principal, in the amount of $1.5 million in 2010, $1.7 million in 2011, $1.6 million in 2012 and $0.4 million in 2013.

Revolving Credit Facility

In March 2007, we entered into a Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement with General Electric Capital Corporation, as agent, and a syndicate of lenders for a secured revolving credit facility.  This restated credit agreement replaces our prior credit facility with General Electric Capital Corporation.  The restated credit agreement (as amended) provides for a line of credit of up to $200 million (inclusive of the Canadian term loan described below) and expires in March 2013. Direct borrowings under the restated credit agreement bear interest at the LIBOR rate plus the applicable margin (as defined), or floating at the index rate plus the applicable margin, at our option. The interest rate may vary depending upon our borrowing availability. The restated credit agreement is guaranteed by certain of our subsidiaries and secured by certain of our assets.

Borrowings under the restated credit agreement are collateralized by substantially all of our assets, including accounts receivable, inventory and fixed assets, and those of certain of our subsidiaries. After taking into account outstanding borrowings under the restated credit agreement, there was an additional $92.3 million available for us to borrow pursuant to the formula at March 31, 2010.  At March 31, 2010 and December 31, 2009, the interest rate on our restated credit agreement was 4.1%.  Outstanding borrowings under the restated credit agreement (inclusive of the Canadian term loan described below), which are classified as current liabilities, were $75.7 million and $58.4 million at March 31, 2010 and December 31, 2009, respectively.

At any time that our average borrowing availability over the previous thirty days is less than $30 million or if our borrowing availability is $20 million or less, and until such time that we have maintained an average borrowing availability of $30 million or greater for a continuous period of ninety days, the terms of our restated credit agreement provide for, among other provisions, financial covenants requiring us, on a consolidated basis, (1) to maintain specified levels of fixed charge coverage at the end of each fiscal quarter (rolling twelve months), and (2) to limit capital expenditure levels. As of March 31, 2010, we were not subject to these covenants.  Availability under our restated credit agreement is based on a formula of eligible accounts receivable, eligible inventory and eligible fixed assets.  Beginning October 15, 2010 and on a monthly basis thereafter, our borrowing availability will be reduced by approximately $2.9 million for the repayment, repurchase or redemption of the aggregate outstanding amount of our 15% convertible subordinated debentures and our 15% unsecured promissory notes due April 15, 2011.  Our restated credit agreement also permits dividends and distributions by us provided specific conditions are met.

Canadian Term Loan

In June 2009, we amended our credit agreement with GE Canada Finance Holding Company, for itself and as agent for the lenders. The amended credit agreement provides for a line of credit of up to $10 million, of which $7 million is currently outstanding and which amount is part of the $200 million available for borrowing under our restated credit agreement with General Electric Capital Corporation (described above). The amended credit agreement is guaranteed and secured by us and certain of our wholly-owned subsidiaries and expires in March 2013.  Direct borrowings under the amended credit agreement bear interest at the same rate as our restated credit agreement with General Electric Capital Corporation (described above).

 
12

 
 
STANDARD MOTOR PRODUCTS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED) – (Continued)
 
Subordinated Debentures

In May 2009, we exchanged $12.3 million aggregate principal amount of our outstanding 6.75% convertible subordinated debentures due 2009 for a like principal amount of newly issued 15% convertible subordinated debentures due 2011.  The 15% convertible subordinated debentures carry an interest rate of 15% payable semi-annually, and will mature on April 15, 2011.  As of March 31, 2010, the $12.3 million principal amount of the 15% convertible subordinated debentures is convertible into 820,000 shares of our common stock; each at the option of the holder.  The convertible subordinated debentures are subordinated in right of payment to all of our existing and future senior indebtedness. In addition, if a change in control, as defined in the agreement, occurs at the Company, we will be required to make an offer to purchase the convertible subordinated debentures at a purchase price equal to 101% of their aggregate principal amount, plus accrued interest.

Unsecured Promissory Notes to Related Parties

In July 2009, we issued $5.4 million aggregate principal amount of 15% unsecured promissory notes to certain directors and executive officers and to the trustees of our Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan on behalf of the plan participants.  The 15% unsecured promissory notes will mature on April 15, 2011, carry an interest rate of 15%, payable semi-annually, are not convertible into common stock and may be prepaid prior to maturity.  The 15% unsecured promissory notes are subordinated in right of payment to all of our existing and future senior indebtedness.  Prepayments of the principal amount have been made to fund annual or quarterly unfunded Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan distributions to participants, as required.

Capital Leases

During 2010 and 2009, we entered into capital lease obligations related to certain equipment for use in our operations of $0.1 million and $0.4 million, respectively.  As of March 31, 2010, our remaining capital lease obligations totaled $0.4 million.  Assets held under capitalized leases are included in property, plant and equipment and depreciated over the lives of the respective leases or over their economic useful lives, whichever is less.

Note 7.  Stock-Based Compensation Plans

We account for our five stock-based compensation plans in accordance with the provisions of Accounting Standards Codification 718, “Stock Compensation,” which requires that a company measure the cost of employee services received in exchange for an award of equity instruments based on the grant-date fair value of the award. That cost is recognized in the statement of operations over the period during which an employee is required to provide service in exchange for the award.
 
 
13

 
 
STANDARD MOTOR PRODUCTS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED) – (Continued)
 
Stock Option Grants
 
The following is a summary of the changes in outstanding stock options for the three months ended March 31, 2010:
 
   
Shares
   
Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price
   
Weighted Average
Remaining
Contractual
Term (Years)
 
                   
Outstanding at December 31, 2009
    378,095     $ 13.26       3.7  
Expired
    (48,671 )   $ 14.74        
Exercised
                 
Forfeited, other
    (8,900 )   $ 12.75       5.5  
Outstanding at March 31, 2010
    320,524     $ 13.05       3.2  
                         
Options exercisable at March 31, 2010
    320,524     $ 13.05       3.2  

There was no aggregate intrinsic value of all outstanding stock options as of March 31, 2010.  All outstanding stock options as of March 31, 2010 are fully vested and exercisable.  There were no stock options granted in the three months ended March 31, 2010 and 2009, and for the period ended March 31, 2010, we had no unrecognized compensation cost related to stock options and non-vested stock options.  There were no options exercised during the first three months of 2010.

Restricted and Performance Stock Grants

As part of the 2006 Omnibus Incentive Plan, we currently grant shares of restricted and/or performance-based stock to eligible employees and directors.  Selected executives and other key personnel are granted performance awards whose vesting is contingent upon meeting various performance measures with a retention feature.  Performance-based shares are subject to a three year measuring period and the achievement of performance targets and, depending upon the achievement of such performance targets, they may become vested on the third anniversary of the date of grant.  Each period we evaluate the probability of achieving the applicable targets, and we adjust our accrual accordingly.  Restricted shares become fully vested upon the third and first anniversary of the date of grant for employees and directors, respectively. Forfeitures on restricted stock grants are estimated at 5% for employees and 0% for executives and directors, respectively, based on our evaluation of historical and expected future turnover.

Our restricted and performance-based share activity was as follows for the three months ended March 31, 2010:

   
Shares
   
Weighted Average
Grant Date Fair
Value Per Share
 
Balance at December 31, 2009
    288,425     $ 9.40  
Granted
           
Vested
           
Forfeited
    (725 )   $ 12.16  
Balance at March 31, 2010
    287,700     $ 9.39  
 
 
14

 
 
STANDARD MOTOR PRODUCTS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED) – (Continued)
 
We recorded compensation expense related to restricted shares and performance-based shares of $198,600 ($115,500 net of tax) and $124,600 ($73,200 net of tax) for the three months ended March 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively. The unamortized compensation expense related to our restricted and performance-based shares was $1.3 million at March 31, 2010, and is expected to be recognized as they vest over a weighted average period of 1.5 and 0.1 years for employees and directors, respectively.

Note 8.  Employee Benefits

In 2000, we created an employee benefits trust to which we contributed 750,000 shares of treasury stock. We are authorized to instruct the trustees to distribute such shares toward the satisfaction of our future obligations under employee benefit plans. The shares held in trust are not considered outstanding for purposes of calculating earnings per share until they are committed to be released. The trustees will vote the shares in accordance with its fiduciary duties.  During 2010, we contributed to the trust an additional 170,000 shares from our treasury and released 175,075 shares from the trust leaving 6,930 shares remaining in the trust as of March 31, 2010.

In August 1994, we established an unfunded Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan (SERP) for key employees. Under the plan, these employees may elect to defer a portion of their compensation and, in addition, we may at our discretion make contributions to the plan on behalf of the employees.  In August 2009, contributions of $73,500 were made related to calendar year 2008.  In March 2010, contributions of $67,000 were made related to calendar year 2009.

We participate in multi-employer plans which provide defined benefits to unionized workers at certain of our manufacturing facilities.  Contributions to the plans are determined in accordance with the provisions of a negotiated labor contract.

In October 2001, we adopted a second unfunded SERP. The SERP, as amended, is a defined benefit plan pursuant to which we will pay supplemental pension benefits to certain key employees upon the attainment of a contractual participant’s payment date based upon the employees’ years of service and compensation.  We use a December 31 measurement date for this plan.

We provide certain medical and dental care benefits to eligible retired employees.  Eligibility of employees who can participate in this program is limited to employees hired before 1996.  In May 2008, we announced that, in lieu of the then current retiree medical and dental plans previously funded on a pay-as-you-go basis, a Health Reimbursement Account (“HRA”) was established January 1, 2009 for each qualified U.S. retiree.  The plan amendment effectively reduced benefits attributed to employee services already rendered and instead credited a fixed amount into an HRA to cover both medical and dental costs for all current and future eligible retirees.  The remeasurement of the postretirement welfare benefit plan as a result of these benefit modifications generated a $24.5 million reduction in the accumulated postretirement benefit obligation on June 1, 2008, which is being amortized on a straight-line basis and recognized as a reduction in benefit costs over the remaining service to full eligibility (3.8 years) as of that date.
 
 
15

 
 
STANDARD MOTOR PRODUCTS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED) – (Continued)
 
The components of net periodic benefit cost for our defined benefit plans and post retirement benefit plans for the three months ended March 31, 2010 and 2009 were as follows (in thousands):

   
Three Months Ended
 
   
March 31,
 
 
 
2010
   
2009
 
Pension Benefits (1)            
Service cost
  $ 22     $ 22  
Interest cost
    36       72  
Amortization of prior service cost
    40       28  
Actuarial net (gain) loss
          (33 )
Net periodic benefit cost
  $ 98     $ 89  
                 
Post Retirement Benefits
               
Service cost
  $ 55     $ 74  
Interest cost
    283       273  
Amortization of prior service cost
    (2,258 )     (2,317 )
Amortization of transition obligation
    1       1  
Actuarial net (gain) loss
    319       383  
Net periodic benefit credit
  $ (1,600 )   $ (1,586 )

(1)
The components of net periodic benefit costs for the three months ended March 31, 2009 includes the pension cost related to the U.K. pension plan which was disposed of in November 2009 in connection with the sale of our European distribution business.

Note 9. Fair Value Measurements

We follow a three-level fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs to measure fair value.  This hierarchy requires entities to maximize the use of “observable inputs” and minimize the use of “unobservable inputs.”  The three levels of inputs used to measure fair value are as follows:

Level 1: Quoted prices (unadjusted) for identical assets or liabilities in active markets as of the measurement date.
 
Level 2: Significant other observable inputs other than Level 1 prices such as quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities; quoted prices in markets that are not active; or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data.
 
Level 3: Significant unobservable inputs that reflect assumptions that market participants would use in pricing an asset or liability.
 
The following is a summary of the carrying amounts and estimated fair values of our financial instruments at March 31, 2010 and December 31, 2009 (in thousands):
 
   
March 31, 2010
   
December 31, 2009
 
   
Carrying
Amount
   
Fair Value
   
Carrying
Amount
   
Fair Value
 
                         
Cash and cash equivalents
  $ 14,734     $ 14,734     $ 10,618     $ 10,618  
Deferred compensation
    5,147       5,147       5,319       5,319  
Short term borrowings
    75,788       75,788       58,497       58,497  
Long-term debt
    17,703       17,703       17,908       17,908  
 
 
16

 
 
STANDARD MOTOR PRODUCTS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED) – (Continued)
 
For fair value purposes the carrying value of cash and cash equivalents approximates fair value due to the short maturity of those investments.  The fair value of the underlying assets held by the deferred compensation plan are based on the quoted market prices of the funds in registered investment companies and based upon the quoted market price of our publicly traded 15% convertible subordinated debentures which is used as a proxy for funds invested in the 15% unsecured promissory notes, which are considered Level 1 inputs.  The carrying value of our revolving credit facilities, classified as short term borrowings, equals fair market value because the interest rate reflects current market rates.  The fair value of our long-term debt is based upon the quoted market price of our publicly traded 15% convertible subordinated debentures which was also used as a proxy for our 15% unsecured promissory notes, and which is considered a Level 1 input.

Note 10.  Earnings Per Share

The following are reconciliations of the earnings available to common stockholders and the shares used in calculating basic and dilutive net earnings per common share (in thousands, except per share data):

   
Three Months Ended
 
   
March 31,
 
 
 
2010
   
2009
 
Basic Net Earnings per Common Shares:             
Earnings from continuing operations
  $ 2,867     $ 787  
Loss from discontinued operation
    (496 )     (260 )
Net earnings available to common stockholders
  $ 2,371     $ 527  
                 
Weighted average common shares outstanding
    22,414       18,596  
                 
Net earnings from continuing operations per common share
  $ 0.13     $ 0.04  
Loss from discontinued operation per common share
    (0.02 )     (0.01 )
Basic net earnings per common share
  $ 0.11     $ 0.03  
                 
Diluted Net Earnings per Common Share:
               
Earnings from continuing operations
  $ 2,867     $ 787  
Loss from discontinued operation
    (496 )     (260 )
Net earnings available to common stockholders
  $ 2,371     $ 527  
                 
Weighted average common shares outstanding
    22,414       18,596  
Plus incremental shares from assumed conversions:
               
Dilutive effect of restricted stock
    82        
Dilutive effect of stock options
           
Dilutive effect of convertible debentures
           
Weighted average common shares outstanding – Diluted
    22,496       18,596  
                 
Net earnings from continuing operations per common share
  $ 0.13     $ 0.04  
Loss from discontinued operation per common share
    (0.02 )     (0.01 )
Diluted net earnings per common share
  $ 0.11     $ 0.03  
 
 
17

 
 
STANDARD MOTOR PRODUCTS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED) – (Continued)
 
The shares listed below were not included in the computation of diluted earnings per share because to do so would have been anti-dilutive for the periods presented or because they were excluded under the treasury method (in thousands):

   
Three Months Ended
 
   
March 31,
 
   
2010
   
2009
 
Stock options
    321       455  
Restricted shares
    119       189  
15% convertible subordinated debentures
    820        
6.75% convertible subordinated debentures
          1,394  

Note 11.  Comprehensive Income (Loss)

Comprehensive income (loss), net of income tax expense is as follows (in thousands):

   
Three Months Ended
 
   
March 31,
 
   
2010
   
2009
 
             
Net earnings as reported
  $ 2,371     $ 527  
Foreign currency translation adjustment
    396       (1,180 )
Postretirement benefit plans:
               
Reclassification adjustment for recognition of prior period amounts
    (1,343 )     (1,313 )
Unrecognized amounts
    191       210  
Total comprehensive income (loss)
  $ 1,615     $ (1,756 )
 
Note 12.  Industry Segments

In November 2009, we sold our European distribution business to the managers of the business for £1.8 million ($3.0 million) in cash and a promissory note and approximately £1.4 million ($2.3 million) in assumed debt.  In connection with the sale, we retained our manufacturing operation in Poland, certain land available for sale in the United Kingdom, and a small investment is a joint venture.  The third-party owned European operations will continue to buy manufactured product from our facility in Poland and from our domestic operations through two separate supply agreements.  As such, we are expected to receive significant continuing cash flows as a result of a continuation of activities between us and the disposed business (the European operations), and therefore the European operations results of operations have not been presented as a discontinued operation.

Effective January 1, 2010, as a result of the sale of our European distribution business, we realigned our business segments to more clearly reflect our evolving business model.  The realignment consisted of moving the results of our Poland manufacturing facility within the Engine Management Segment to reflect the change in responsibility for the operating activities, financial results, forecasts, and strategic plans for the facility to the management of this segment.  Results for the three months ended March 31, 2009 have been reclassified to reflect this realignment.
 
 
18

 
 
STANDARD MOTOR PRODUCTS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED) – (Continued)
 
The following tables show our net sales and operating income by our operating segments (in thousands):

   
Three Months Ended
 
   
March 31,
 
   
2010
   
2009
 
Net Sales
           
Engine Management
  $ 137,097     $ 124,313  
Temperature Control
    40,015       40,260  
Europe
          6,721  
All Other
    2,239       928  
Consolidated
  $ 179,351     $ 172,222  
                 
Intersegment Revenue
               
Engine Management
  $ 4,432     $ 7,260  
Temperature Control
    919       698  
Europe
          21  
All Other
    (5,351 )     (7,979 )
Consolidated
  $     $  
                 
Operating Profit
               
Engine Management
  $ 9,550     $ 7,575  
Temperature Control
    23       (1,329 )
Europe
          221  
All Other
    (3,173 )     (2,756 )
Consolidated
  $ 6,400     $ 3,711  
 
Note 13.  Commitments and Contingencies

Asbestos.  In 1986, we acquired a brake business, which we subsequently sold in March 1998 and which is accounted for as a discontinued operation. When we originally acquired this brake business, we assumed future liabilities relating to any alleged exposure to asbestos-containing products manufactured by the seller of the acquired brake business. In accordance with the related purchase agreement, we agreed to assume the liabilities for all new claims filed on or after September 1, 2001. Our ultimate exposure will depend upon the number of claims filed against us on or after September 1, 2001 and the amounts paid for indemnity and defense thereof.  At March 31, 2010, approximately 1,525 cases were outstanding for which we were responsible for any related liabilities.  Since inception in September 2001 through March 31, 2010, the amounts paid for settled claims are approximately $9.4 million. In September 2007, we entered into an agreement with an insurance carrier to provide us with limited insurance coverage for the defense and indemnity costs associated with certain asbestos-related claims. We have submitted various asbestos-related claims for coverage under this agreement, and received approximately $2.3 million in reimbursement for settlement claims and defense costs.  We have submitted additional asbestos-related claims to such insurance carrier for coverage.

In evaluating our potential asbestos-related liability, we have considered various factors including, among other things, an actuarial study performed by a leading actuarial firm with expertise in assessing asbestos-related liabilities, our settlement amounts and whether there are any co-defendants, the jurisdiction in which lawsuits are filed, and the status and results of settlement discussions. As is our accounting policy, we engage actuarial consultants with experience in assessing asbestos-related liabilities to estimate our potential claim liability. The methodology used to project asbestos-related liabilities and costs in the study considered: (1) historical data available from publicly available studies; (2) an analysis of our recent claims history to estimate likely filing rates into the future; (3) an analysis of our currently pending claims; and (4) an analysis of our settlements to date in order to develop average settlement values.

 
19

 
 
STANDARD MOTOR PRODUCTS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED) – (Continued)
 
The most recent actuarial study was performed as of August 31, 2009.  The updated study has estimated an undiscounted liability for settlement payments, excluding legal costs and any potential recovery from insurance carriers, ranging from $26.6 million to $66.3 million for the period through 2059. The change from the prior year study was a $1.3 million increase for the low end of the range and a $2.9 million decrease for the high end of the range.  Based on the information contained in the actuarial study and all other available information considered by us, we concluded that no amount within the range of settlement payments was more likely than any other and, therefore, recorded the low end of the range as the liability associated with future settlement payments through 2059 in our consolidated financial statements.  Accordingly, an incremental $2.2 million provision in our discontinued operation was added to the asbestos accrual in September 2009 increasing the reserve to approximately $26.6 million. According to the updated study, legal costs, which are expensed as incurred and reported in earnings (loss) from discontinued operation in the accompanying statement of operations, are estimated to range from $21.4 million to $42 million during the same period.

We plan to perform an annual actuarial evaluation during the third quarter of each year for the foreseeable future. Given the uncertainties associated with projecting such matters into the future and other factors outside our control, we can give no assurance that additional provisions will not be required. We will continue to monitor the circumstances surrounding these potential liabilities in determining whether additional provisions may be necessary. At the present time, however, we do not believe that any additional provisions would be reasonably likely to have a material adverse effect on our liquidity or consolidated financial position.

Antitrust Litigation.  In November 2004, we were served with a summons and complaint in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York by The Coalition for a Level Playing Field, which is an organization comprised of a large number of auto parts retailers. The complaint alleges antitrust violations by us and a number of other auto parts manufacturers and retailers and seeks injunctive relief and unspecified monetary damages. In August 2005, we filed a motion to dismiss the complaint, following which the plaintiff filed an amended complaint dropping, among other things, all claims under the Sherman Act. The remaining claims allege violations of the Robinson-Patman Act. Motions to dismiss those claims were filed by us in February 2006. Plaintiff filed opposition to our motions, and we subsequently filed replies in June 2006.  Oral arguments were originally scheduled for September 2006, however the court adjourned these proceedings until a later date to be determined. Subsequently, the judge initially assigned to the case recused himself, and a new judge has been assigned before whom further preliminary proceedings have been held. Although we cannot predict the ultimate outcome of this case or estimate the range of any potential loss that may be incurred in the litigation, we believe that the lawsuit is without merit, deny all of the plaintiffs allegations of wrongdoing and believe we have meritorious defenses to the plaintiffs claims. We intend to defend this lawsuit vigorously.

Other Litigation.  We are involved in various other litigation and product liability matters arising in the ordinary course of business. Although the final outcome of any asbestos-related matters or any other litigation or product liability matter cannot be determined, based on our understanding and evaluation of the relevant facts and circumstances, it is our opinion that the final outcome of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations.

Warranties. We generally warrant our products against certain manufacturing and other defects. These product warranties are provided for specific periods of time of the product depending on the nature of the product. As of March 31, 2010 and 2009, we have accrued $10.6 million and $10.5 million, respectively, for estimated product warranty claims included in accrued customer returns. The accrued product warranty costs are based primarily on historical experience of actual warranty claims.

 
20

 
 
STANDARD MOTOR PRODUCTS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED) – (Continued)
 
The following table provides the changes in our product warranties (in thousands):
 
   
Three Months Ended
 
   
March 31,
 
   
2010
   
2009
 
             
Balance, beginning of period
  $ 10,476     $ 10,162  
Liabilities accrued for current year sales
    10,527       10,276  
Settlements of warranty claims
    (10,438 )     (9,915 )
Balance, end of period
  $ 10,565     $ 10,523  
 
 
21

 

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

This Report contains forward-looking statements made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements in this Report are indicated by words such as “anticipates,” “expects,” “believes,” “intends,” “plans,” “estimates,” “projects” and similar expressions. These statements represent our expectations based on current information and assumptions and are inherently subject to risks and uncertainties.  Our actual results could differ materially from those which are anticipated or projected as a result of certain risks and uncertainties, including, but not limited to, our substantial leverage; economic and market conditions (including access to credit and financial markets); the performance of the aftermarket sector; changes in business relationships with our major customers and in the timing, size and continuation of our customers’ programs; changes in the product mix and distribution channel mix; the ability of our customers to achieve their projected sales; competitive product and pricing pressures; increases in production or material costs that cannot be recouped in product pricing; successful integration of acquired businesses; our ability to achieve cost savings from our restructuring initiatives;  product liability and environmental matters (including, without limitation, those related to asbestos-related contingent liabilities and remediation costs at certain properties); as well as other risks and uncertainties, such as those described under Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk and those detailed herein and from time to time in the filings of the Company with the SEC. Forward-looking statements are made only as of the date hereof, and the Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise the forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. In addition, historical information should not be considered as an indicator of future performance.  The following discussion should be read in conjunction with the unaudited consolidated financial statements, including the notes thereto, included elsewhere in this Report.

Business Overview

We are a leading independent manufacturer and distributor of replacement parts for motor vehicles in the automotive aftermarket industry, with an increasing focus on the original equipment and original equipment service markets.  We are organized into two major operating segments, each of which focuses on a specific line of replacement parts.  Our Engine Management Segment manufactures ignition and emission parts, ignition wires, battery cables and fuel system parts.  Our Temperature Control Segment manufactures and remanufactures air conditioning compressors, air conditioning and heating parts, engine cooling system parts, power window accessories, and windshield washer system parts.

In 2010, as a result of the sale of our European distribution business, we realigned our business segments to more clearly reflect our evolving business model.  The realignment consisted of moving the results of our Poland manufacturing facility within the Engine Management Segment to reflect the change in responsibility for the operating activities, financial results, forecasts, and strategic plans for the facility to the management of this segment.

We sell our products primarily to warehouse distributors, large retail chains, original equipment manufacturers and original equipment service part operations in the United States, Canada and Latin America. Our customers consist of many of the leading warehouse distributors, such as CARQUEST and NAPA Auto Parts, as well as many of the leading auto parts retail chains, such as Advance Auto Parts, AutoZone, O’Reilly Automotive/CSK Auto, Canadian Tire and Pep Boys. Our customers also include national program distribution groups and specialty market distributors. We distribute parts under our own brand names, such as Standard, BWD, Intermotor, Four Seasons, Factory Air, ACi, Imperial and Hayden and through private labels, such as CARQUEST, NAPA Echlin, NAPA Temp Products and NAPA Belden.

 
22

 

Our goal is to grow revenues and earnings and deliver returns in excess of our cost of capital by providing high quality original equipment and replacement products to the engine management and temperature control markets.  Our management places significant emphasis on improving our financial performance by achieving operating efficiencies and improving asset utilization, while maintaining product quality and high customer order fill rates.  We intend to continue to improve our operating efficiency, customer satisfaction and cost position by focusing on company-wide overhead and operating expense cost reduction programs, such as closing excess facilities and consolidating redundant functions.

Seasonality.  Historically, our operating results have fluctuated by quarter, with the greatest sales occurring in the second and third quarters of the year and revenues generally being recognized at the time of shipment. It is in these quarters that demand for our products is typically the highest, specifically in the Temperature Control Segment of our business. In addition to this seasonality, the demand for our Temperature Control products during the second and third quarters of the year may vary significantly with the summer weather and customer inventories. For example, a cool summer may lessen the demand for our Temperature Control products, while a hot summer may increase such demand. As a result of this seasonality and variability in demand of our Temperature Control products, our working capital requirements typically peak near the end of the second quarter, as the inventory build-up of air conditioning products is converted to sales and payments on the receivables associated with such sales have yet to be received. During this period, our working capital requirements are typically funded by borrowing from our revolving credit facility.

Inventory Management. We face inventory management issues as a result of warranty and overstock returns. Many of our products carry a warranty ranging from a 90-day limited warranty to a lifetime limited warranty, which generally covers defects in materials or workmanship and failure to meet industry published specifications. In addition to warranty returns, we also permit our customers to return products to us within customer-specific limits (which are generally limited to a specified percentage of their annual purchases from us) in the event that they have overstocked their inventories. We accrue for overstock returns as a percentage of sales, after giving consideration to recent returns history.

In order to better control warranty and overstock return levels, we tightened the rules for authorized warranty returns, placed further restrictions on the amounts customers can return and instituted a program so that our management can better estimate potential future product returns.  In addition, with respect to our air conditioning compressors, which are our most significant customer product warranty returns, we established procedures whereby a warranty will be voided if a customer does not provide acceptable proof that complete air conditioning system repair was performed.

Discounts, Allowances and Incentives. In connection with our sales activities, we offer a variety of usual customer discounts, allowances and incentives. First, we offer cash discounts for paying invoices in accordance with the specified discount terms of the invoice. Second, we offer pricing discounts based on volume and different product lines purchased from us. These discounts are principally in the form of “off-invoice” discounts and are immediately deducted from sales at the time of sale. For those customers that choose to receive a payment on a quarterly basis instead of “off-invoice,” we accrue for such payments as the related sales are made and reduce sales accordingly. Finally, rebates and discounts are provided to customers as advertising and sales force allowances, and allowances for warranty and overstock returns are also provided. Management analyzes historical returns, current economic trends, and changes in customer demand when evaluating the adequacy of the sales returns and other allowances. Significant management judgments and estimates must be made and used in connection with establishing the sales returns and other allowances in any accounting period. We account for these discounts and allowances as a reduction to revenues, and record them when sales are recorded.

 
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Interim Results of Operations:

Comparison of Three Months Ended March 31, 2010 to Three Months Ended March 31, 2009

Sales.  Consolidated net sales for the three months ended March 31, 2010 were $179.4 million, an increase of $7.2 million, or 4.1%, compared to $172.2 million in the same period of 2009.  The increase in net sales is primarily from increases in sales in our Engine Management Segment, offset by a $6.7 million decrease related to the sale of our European distribution business.

The following table summarizes net sales by segment for the quarters ended March 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively:

Three Months Ended
March 31,
 
Engine
Management
   
Temperature
Control
   
Europe
   
Other
   
Total
 
2010
                             
Net sales
  $ 137,097     $ 40,015     $     $ 2,239     $ 179,351  
Gross margins
    33,134       8,253             2,431       43,818  
Gross margin percentage
    24.2 %     20.6 %                 24.4 %
                                         
2009
                                       
Net sales
  $ 124,313     $ 40,260     $ 6,721     $ 928     $ 172,222  
Gross margins
    30,525       6,247       1,828       2,293       40,893  
Gross margin percentage
    24.6 %     15.5 %     27.2 %           23.7 %

Engine Management’s net sales increased $12.8 million, or 10.3%, to $137.1 million for the first quarter of 2010.  The sales growth was driven by stronger sales across all markets including a rebound in the OE/OES markets, which were down significantly in 2009.  In addition, incremental sales from our acquisition of Federal Mogul’s wire and cable business, which began shipping in September 2009, contributed to the increase in our traditional sales volumes.

Temperature Control’s net sales decreased $0.2 million, or 0.6%, to $40 million for the first quarter of 2010.  Temperature Control’s sales are seasonal with shipments primarily in the second and third quarters each year.  The flat results against the first quarter of 2009 primarily reflect the timing for pre-season orders.

Gross margins.  Gross margins, as a percentage of consolidated net sales, increased to 24.4% in the first quarter of 2010, compared to 23.7% in the first quarter of 2009.  The increase resulted from improvements in Temperature Control margins of 5.1 percentage points, partially offset by a 0.4 percentage point decrease to Engine Management margins.  The gross margin percentage increase in Temperature Control compared to the prior year was primarily the result of favorable manufacturing variances while the slight decrease in Engine Management gross margin percentage was impacted by the higher mix of OE/OES sales volumes with lower margins.

Selling, general and administrative expenses.  Selling, general and administrative expenses (SG&A) increased by $0.7 million to $36.7 million or 20.4% of consolidated net sales, in the first quarter of 2010, as compared to $36 million, or 20.9% of consolidated net sales in the first quarter of 2009.  The increase in SG&A expenses is due primarily to an incremental increase in distribution expenses as a result of higher sales volumes and an increase in expense related to our customer accounts receivable factoring program.

Restructuring and integration expenses.  Restructuring and integration expenses decreased to $0.8 million in the first quarter of 2010, compared to $1.2 million in the first quarter of 2009.  The 2010 expense related primarily to severance costs incurred in connection with the announced closures of our Corona, California and Hong Kong, China manufacturing facilities.  The 2009 expense related primarily to severance and other exit costs incurred in connection with the closure of our Edwardsville, Kansas manufacturing operations and Wilson, North Carolina facility.

 
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Components of our restructuring and integration accruals, by segment, were as follows (in thousands):

   
Engine
Management
   
Temperature
Control
   
Other
   
Total
 
Exit activity liability at December 31, 2009
  $ 8,412     $ 749     $ 1,584     $ 10,745  
Restructuring and integration costs:
                               
Amounts provided for during 2010
    430       323             753  
Cash payments
    (1,435 )     (213 )     (285 )     (1,933 )
Exit activity liability at March 31, 2010
  $ 7,407     $ 859     $ 1,299     $ 9,565  

Operating income.  Operating income was $6.4 million in the first quarter of 2010, compared to $3.7 million in the first quarter of 2009. The increase of $2.7 million was primarily due to the higher net sales in our Engine Management Segment and an increase in gross margins in our Temperature Control Segment, partially offset by the impact of the divestiture of our European distribution business.

Other income, net. Other income, net increased to $0.4 million in the first quarter of 2010 compared to $0.1 million in the same period in 2009.  Other income, net included a $0.2 million gain on the sale of vacant land at one of our locations in the U.K.

Interest expense.  Interest expense decreased by $0.6 million in the first quarter of 2010 compared to the same period in 2009 due to lower average borrowings partially offset by higher average interest rates.

Income tax provision.  The income tax provision in the first quarter of 2010 was $2.1 million at an effective tax rate of 41.9% compared to $0.6 million and an effective tax rate of 41.2% for the same period in 2009.  The effective tax rate was essentially flat year over year.

Loss from discontinued operation.  Loss from discontinued operation, net of tax, reflects legal expenses associated with our asbestos related liability. We recorded $0.5 million and $0.3 million as a loss from discontinued operation for the first quarter of 2010 and 2009, respectively.  As discussed more fully in Note 13 in the notes to our consolidated financial statements, we are responsible for certain future liabilities relating to alleged exposure to asbestos containing products.

Restructuring and Integration Costs

The aggregated liabilities relating to the restructuring and integration activities as of December 31, 2009 and March 31, 2010 and activity for the three months ended March 31, 2010, consisted of the following (in thousands):

   
Workforce
Reduction
   
Other Exit
Costs
   
Total
 
Exit activity liability at December 31, 2009
  $ 8,774     $ 1,971     $ 10,745  
Restructuring and integration costs:
                       
Amounts provided for during 2010
    525       228       753  
Cash payments
    (1,741 )     (192 )     (1,933 )
Exit activity liability at March 31, 2010
  $ 7,558     $ 2,007     $ 9,565  

 
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Restructuring Costs

Voluntary Separation Program

During 2008 as part of an initiative to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of operations, and to reduce costs in light of economic conditions, we implemented certain organizational changes and offered eligible employees a voluntary separation package.  The restructuring accrual relates to severance and other retiree benefit enhancements to be paid through 2015.  Of the original restructuring charge of $8 million, we have $2.8 million remaining as of March 31, 2010 that is expected to be paid in the amount of $1.2 million in 2010, $0.6 million in 2011, and $1 million for the period 2012-2015.

Activity for the three months ended March 31, 2010 related to this program, by segment, consisted of the following (in thousands):

   
Engine
Management
   
Temperature
Control
   
Other
   
Total
 
Exit activity liability at December 31, 2009
  $ 1,395     $ 385     $ 1,422     $ 3,202  
Restructuring costs:
                               
Amounts provided for during 2010
    72                   72  
Cash payments
    (215 )     (23 )     (248 )     (486 )
Exit activity liability at March 31, 2010
  $ 1,252     $ 362     $ 1,174     $ 2,788  

Integration Expenses

Overhead Cost Reduction Program

Beginning in 2007 in connection with our efforts to improve our operating efficiency and reduce costs, we announced our intention to focus on company-wide overhead and operating expense cost reduction activities, such as closing excess facilities and reducing redundancies.  Integration expenses under this program to date relate primarily to the integration of operations to our facilities in Mexico, and the closure of our production operations in Corona, California and Hong Kong, China.  We expect that all payments related to the current liability will be made within twelve months.

Activity for the three months ended March 31, 2010 related to this program, consisted of the following (in thousands):

   
Workforce
Reduction
   
Other Exit 
Costs
   
Total
 
Exit activity liability at December 31, 2009
  $ 1,347     $     $ 1,347  
Integration costs:
                       
Amounts provided for during 2010
    407       173       580  
Cash payments
    (653 )     (92 )     (745 )
Exit activity liability at March 31, 2010
  $ 1,101     $ 81     $ 1,182  

Wire and Cable Relocation

As a result of our acquisition during 2009 of a wire and cable business and the relocation of certain machinery and equipment to our Reynosa, Mexico manufacturing facility, integration costs related to employee severance and equipment relocation costs have been incurred.  As of March 31, 2010, all such costs have been fully paid.

 
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Workforce
Reduction
   
Other Exit
Costs
   
Total
 
Exit activity liability at December 31, 2009
  $ 532     $     $ 532  
Integration costs:
                       
Amounts provided for during 2010
          27       27  
Cash payments
    (532 )     (27 )     (559 )
Exit activity liability at March 31, 2010
  $     $     $  

Reynosa Integration Program

During 2006 and 2007, we announced plans for the closure of our Long Island City, New York and Puerto Rico manufacturing facilities and integration of operations in Reynosa, Mexico.  In connection with the shutdown of the manufacturing operations at Long Island City that was completed in March of 2008, we incurred severance costs and costs associated with equipment removal, capital expenditures, and environmental clean-up.  As of March 31, 2010, the reserve balance related to environmental clean-up at Long Island City of $1.9 million is included in other exit costs.

In connection with the shutdown of the manufacturing operations at Long Island City, we entered into an agreement with the International Union, United Automobile, Aerospace and Agricultural Implement Workers of America and its Local 365 (“UAW”).  As part of the agreement, we incurred a withdrawal liability from a multi-employer plan.  The pension plan withdrawal liability is related to trust asset under-performance in a plan that covers our former UAW employees at the Long Island City facility and is payable quarterly for 20 years at $0.3 million per year, which commenced in December 2008.  As of March 31, 2010, the reserve balance related to the pension withdrawal liability of $3.2 million is included in the workforce reduction reserve.

Activity for the three months ended March 31, 2010 related to this program, consisted of the following (in thousands):

   
Workforce
Reduction
   
Other Exit
Costs
   
Total
 
Exit activity liability at December 31, 2009
  $ 3,693     $ 1,971     $ 5,664  
Integration costs:
                       
Amounts provided for during 2010
    46       28       74  
Cash payments
    (70 )     (73 )     (143 )
Exit activity liability at March 31, 2010
  $ 3,669     $ 1,926     $ 5,595  

Integration activity for the three months ended March 31, 2010 related to our aggregate integration programs, by segment, consisted of the following (in thousands):

   
Engine
Management
   
Temperature
Control
   
Other
   
Total
 
Exit activity liability at December 31, 2009
  $ 7,017     $ 364     $ 162     $ 7,543  
Integration costs:
                               
Amounts provided for during 2010
    358       323             681  
Cash payments
    (1,220 )     (190 )     (37 )     (1,447 )
Exit activity liability at March 31, 2010
  $ 6,155     $ 497     $ 125     $ 6,777  

Liquidity and Capital Resources

Operating Activities. During the first three months of 2010, cash used in operations amounted to $17.4 million compared to cash provided by operations of $18.5 million in the same period of 2009.  The year-over-year decrease is primarily the result of higher accounts receivables due to an increase in sales volumes and the build-up of inventory levels in response to increased demand, partially offset by higher accounts payable.

 
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Investing Activities.  Cash used in investing activities was $1.2 million in the first three months of 2010, compared to cash used in investing activities of $3.3 million in the same period of 2009.  During 2010, we received a $1 million payment related to the note issued in connection with the divestiture of certain of our joint venture equity ownerships.  In addition, we received proceeds of $0.9 million from the sale of our Wilson, North Carolina building and the sale of the vacant land at one of our locations in the U.K.  Investing activities in 2009 included a $6 million payment to complete our core sensor asset purchase transaction agreed to in 2008 offset, in part, by a $4 million cash receipt in connection with our joint venture divestiture.  Capital expenditures in the first three months of 2010 were $3.1 million compared to $1.3 million in the comparable period last year.

Financing Activities. Cash provided by financing activities was $22.4 million in the first three months of 2010, compared to cash used in financing activities of $10.1 million in the same period of 2009.  The increase is primarily due to higher borrowings and an increase in cash overdrafts compared to the same period of 2009.  Dividends of $1.1 million were paid in the first three months of 2010.  No dividends were paid in 2009.

In March 2007, we entered into a Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement with General Electric Capital Corporation, as agent, and a syndicate of lenders for a secured revolving credit facility.  This restated credit agreement replaces our prior credit facility with General Electric Capital Corporation.  The restated credit agreement (as amended) provides for a line of credit of up to $200 million (inclusive of the Canadian term loan described below) and expires in March 2013. Direct borrowings under the restated credit agreement bear interest at the LIBOR rate plus the applicable margin (as defined), or floating at the index rate plus the applicable margin, at our option. The interest rate may vary depending upon our borrowing availability. The restated credit agreement is guaranteed by certain of our subsidiaries and secured by certain of our assets.

Borrowings under the restated credit agreement are collateralized by substantially all of our assets, including accounts receivable, inventory and fixed assets, and those of certain of our subsidiaries. After taking into account outstanding borrowings under the restated credit agreement, there was an additional $92.3 million available for us to borrow pursuant to the formula at March 31, 2010. At March 31, 2010 and December 31, 2009, the interest rate on our restated credit agreement was 4.1%. Outstanding borrowings under the restated credit agreement (inclusive of the Canadian term loan described below), which are classified as current liabilities, were $75.7 million and $58.4 million at March 31, 2010 and December 31, 2009, respectively.

At any time that our average borrowing availability over the previous thirty days is less than $30 million or if our borrowing availability is $20 million or less, and until such time that we have maintained an average borrowing availability of $30 million or greater for a continuous period of ninety days, the terms of our restated credit agreement provide for, among other provisions, financial covenants requiring us, on a consolidated basis, (1) to maintain specified levels of fixed charge coverage at the end of each fiscal quarter (rolling twelve months), and (2) to limit capital expenditure levels. As of March 31, 2010, we were not subject to these covenants. Availability under our restated credit agreement is based on a formula of eligible accounts receivable, eligible inventory and eligible fixed assets. Beginning October 15, 2010 and on a monthly basis thereafter, our borrowing availability will be reduced by approximately $2.9 million for the repayment, repurchase or redemption of the aggregate outstanding amount of our 15% convertible subordinated debentures and our 15% unsecured promissory notes due April 15, 2011. Our restated credit agreement also permits dividends and distributions by us provided specific conditions are met.

 
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In June 2009, we amended our credit agreement with GE Canada Finance Holding Company, for itself and as agent for the lenders. The amended credit agreement provides for a line of credit of up to $10 million, of which $7 million is currently outstanding and which amount is part of the $200 million available for borrowing under our restated credit agreement with General Electric Capital Corporation (described above). The amended credit agreement is guaranteed and secured by us and certain of our wholly-owned subsidiaries and expires in March 2013.  Direct borrowings under the amended credit agreement bear interest at the same rate as our restated credit agreement with General Electric Capital Corporation (described above).

In May 2009, we exchanged $12.3 million aggregate principal amount of our outstanding 6.75% convertible subordinated debentures due 2009 for a like principal amount of newly issued 15% convertible subordinated debentures due 2011.  The 15% convertible subordinated debentures carry an interest rate of 15% payable semi-annually, and will mature on April 15, 2011.  As of March 31, 2010, the $12.3 million principal amount of the 15% convertible subordinated debentures is convertible into 820,000 shares of our common stock; each at the option of the holder.  The convertible subordinated debentures are subordinated in right of payment to all of our existing and future senior indebtedness. In addition, if a change in control, as defined in the agreement, occurs at the Company, we will be required to make an offer to purchase the convertible subordinated debentures at a purchase price equal to 101% of their aggregate principal amount, plus accrued interest.

In July 2009, we issued $5.4 million aggregate principal amount of 15% unsecured promissory notes to certain directors and executive officers and to the trustees of our Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan on behalf of the plan participants.  The 15% unsecured promissory notes will mature on April 15, 2011, carry an interest rate of 15%, payable semi-annually, are not convertible into common stock and may be prepaid prior to maturity.  The 15% unsecured promissory notes are subordinated in right of payment to all of our existing and future senior indebtedness.  Prepayments of the principal amount have been made to fund annual or quarterly unfunded Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan distributions to participants, as required.

During 2010 and 2009, we entered into capital lease obligations related to certain equipment for use in our operations totaling $0.5 million.  As of March 31, 2010, our remaining capital lease obligations totaled $0.4 million.  Assets held under capitalized leases are included in property, plant and equipment and depreciated over the lives of the respective leases or over their economic useful lives, whichever is less.

In order to reduce our accounts receivable balances and improve our cash flow, we sold undivided interests in certain of our receivables to financial institutions. We entered these agreements at our discretion when we determined that the cost of factoring was less than the cost of servicing our receivables with existing debt. Pursuant to these agreements, we sold $82.2 million of receivables during the three months ended March 31, 2010. Under the terms of the agreements, we retain no rights or interest, have no obligations with respect to the sold receivables, and do not service the receivables after the sale. As such, these transactions are being accounted for as a sale. A charge in the amount of $1.2 million and $0.4 million related to the sale of receivables is included in selling, general and administrative expense in our consolidated statements of operations for the three months ended March 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

We anticipate that our present sources of funds, including funds from operations and additional borrowings, will continue to be adequate to meet our financing needs over the next twelve months. We continue to evaluate alternative sources to further improve the liquidity of our business. The timing, terms, size and pricing of any alternative sources of financing will depend on investor interest and market conditions, and there can be no assurance that we will be able to obtain any such financing. In addition, we have a significant amount of indebtedness which could, among other things, increase our vulnerability to general adverse economic and industry conditions, make it more difficult to satisfy our obligations, limit our ability to pay future dividends, limit our flexibility in planning for, or reacting to, changes in our business and the industry in which we operate, and require that a substantial portion of our cash flow from operations be used for the payment of interest on our indebtedness instead of for funding working capital, capital expenditures, acquisitions or for other corporate purposes. If we default on any of our indebtedness, or breach any financial covenant in our revolving credit facility, our business could be adversely affected. For further information regarding the risks of our business, please refer to the Risk Factors section of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ending December 31, 2009.

 
29

 

The following table summarizes our contractual commitments as of December 31, 2009 and expiration dates of commitments through 2028:
 
(in thousands)
 
2010
   
2011
   
2012
   
2013
   
2014
     
2015-
2028
   
Total
 
Principal payments of long term debt 
  $
    17,639    
   
   
   
     17,639  
Lease obligations
    8,928       7,685       5,979       5,905       5,187       9,879       43,563  
Post retirement benefits
    1,080       1,104       1,135       1,182       1,238       11,645       17,384  
Severance payments related to restructuring and integration
    4,097       920       751       652       530       3,876       10,826  
Total commitments
  $ 14,105     $ 27,348     $ 7,865     $ 7,739     $ 6,955     $ 25,400     $ 89,412  

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

We have identified the policies below as critical to our business operations and the understanding of our results of operations.  The impact and any associated risks related to these policies on our business operations is discussed throughout “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations,” where such policies affect our reported and expected financial results. There have been no material changes to our critical accounting policies and estimates from the information provided in Note 1 of the notes to our consolidated financial statements in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2009.  You should be aware that preparation of our consolidated quarterly financial statements in this Report requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amount of assets and liabilities, the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of our consolidated financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the reporting periods.  We can give no assurances that actual results will not differ from those estimates.

Revenue Recognition. We derive our revenue primarily from sales of replacement parts for motor vehicles from both our Engine Management and Temperature Control Segments. We recognize revenues when products are shipped and title has been transferred to a customer, the sales price is fixed and determinable, and collection is reasonably assured. For some of our sales of remanufactured products, we also charge our customers a deposit for the return of a used core component which we can use in our future remanufacturing activities.  Such deposit is not recognized as revenue but rather carried as a core liability. The liability is extinguished when a core is actually returned to us. We estimate and record provisions for cash discounts, quantity rebates, sales returns and warranties in the period the sale is recorded, based upon our prior experience and current trends. As described below, significant management judgments and estimates must be made and used in estimating sales returns and allowances relating to revenue recognized in any accounting period.

Inventory Valuation. Inventories are valued at the lower of cost or market. Cost is determined on the first-in, first-out basis. Where appropriate, standard cost systems are utilized for purposes of determining cost; the standards are adjusted as necessary to ensure they approximate actual costs. Estimates of lower of cost or market value of inventory are determined at the reporting unit level and are based upon the inventory at that location taken as a whole. These estimates are based upon current economic conditions, historical sales quantities and patterns and, in some cases, the specific risk of loss on specifically identified inventories.

We also evaluate inventories on a regular basis to identify inventory on hand that may be obsolete or in excess of current and future projected market demand. For inventory deemed to be obsolete, we provide a reserve on the full value of the inventory. Inventory that is in excess of current and projected use is reduced by an allowance to a level that approximates our estimate of future demand.

 
30

 

We utilize cores (used parts) in our remanufacturing processes for air conditioning compressors. The production of air conditioning compressors involves the rebuilding of used cores, which we acquire generally either in outright purchases or from returns pursuant to an exchange program with customers.  Under such exchange programs, we reduce our inventory, through a charge to cost of sales, when we sell a finished good compressor, and put back to inventory at standard cost through a credit to cost of sales the used core exchanged at the time it is eventually received from the customer.

Sales Returns and Other Allowances and Allowance for Doubtful Accounts. We must make estimates of potential future product returns related to current period product revenue. We analyze historical returns, current economic trends, and changes in customer demand when evaluating the adequacy of the sales returns and other allowances. Significant judgments and estimates must be made and used in connection with establishing the sales returns and other allowances in any accounting period. At March 31, 2010, the allowance for sales returns was $26.3 million.  Similarly, we must make estimates of the uncollectability of our accounts receivables. We specifically analyze accounts receivable and analyze historical bad debts, customer concentrations, customer credit-worthiness, current economic trends and changes in our customer payment terms when evaluating the adequacy of the allowance for doubtful accounts.  At March 31, 2010, the allowance for doubtful accounts and for discounts was $7.7 million.

New Customer Acquisition Costs. New customer acquisition costs refer to arrangements pursuant to which we incur change-over costs to induce a new customer to switch from a competitor’s brand. In addition, change-over costs include the costs related to removing the new customer’s inventory and replacing it with Standard Motor Products inventory commonly referred to as a stocklift. New customer acquisition costs are recorded as a reduction to revenue when incurred.

Accounting for Income Taxes. As part of the process of preparing our consolidated financial statements, we are required to estimate our income taxes in each of the jurisdictions in which we operate. This process involves estimating our actual current tax expense together with assessing temporary differences resulting from differing treatment of items for tax and accounting purposes. These differences result in deferred tax assets and liabilities, which are included within our consolidated balance sheet. We must then assess the likelihood that our deferred tax assets will be recovered from future taxable income, and to the extent we believe that it is more likely than not that the deferred tax assets will not be recovered, we must establish a valuation allowance. To the extent we establish a valuation allowance or increase or decrease this allowance in a period, we must include an expense or recovery, respectively, within the tax provision in the statement of operations.

We maintain valuation allowances when it is more likely than not that all or a portion of a deferred asset will not be realized.  In determining whether a valuation allowance is warranted, we evaluate factors such as prior earnings history, expected future earnings, carryback and carryforward periods and tax strategies. Management considers all positive and negative evidence to estimate if sufficient future taxable income will be generated to realize the deferred tax asset. We consider cumulative losses in recent years as well as the impact of one time events in assessing our core pretax earnings.  Assumptions regarding future taxable income require significant judgment. Our assumptions are consistent with estimates and plans used to manage our business which includes restructuring and integration initiatives which are expected to generate significant savings in future periods.

At March 31, 2010, we had a valuation allowance of $29.8 million, due to uncertainties related to our ability to utilize some of our deferred tax assets. The assessment of the adequacy of our valuation allowance is based on our estimates of taxable income by jurisdiction in which we operate and the period over which our deferred tax assets will be recoverable.