10-K
FORM 10-K
UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
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(Mark One) |
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[X]
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ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO
SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
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For the fiscal year ended
December 31, 2006
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OR
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[ ]
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TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO
SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
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For the transition period
from to
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Commission File Number 0-17506
UST Inc.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
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Delaware |
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06-1193986 |
(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)
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(I.R.S. Employer
Identification No.)
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100 West Putnam Avenue
Greenwich, Connecticut |
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06830 |
(Address of principal executive
offices)
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(Zip Code)
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(203) 661-1100
(Registrants telephone number, including area code)
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the
Act:
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Name of each exchange on |
Title of each class |
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which registered |
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Common Stock
$.50 par value |
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New York Stock
Exchange |
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the
Act:
None
(Title of Class)
Indicate by check mark if the Registrant is a well-known
seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities
Act. Yes [X] No [ ]
Indicate by check mark if the Registrant is not required to file
reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the
Act. Yes [ ] No [X]
Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant (1) has filed
all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of
the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding
12 months (or for such shorter period that the Registrant
was required to file such reports), and (2) has been
subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.
Yes [X] No [ ]
Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers
pursuant to Item 405 of
Regulation S-K is
not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of
Registrants knowledge, in definitive proxy or information
statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this
Form 10-K or any
amendment to this
Form 10-K. [ ]
Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant is a large
accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, or a non-accelerated
filer. See definition of accelerated filer and large
accelerated filer in
Rule 12b-2 of the
Exchange Act. (Check one):
Large accelerated filer [X] Accelerated filer [ ]
Non-accelerated filer [ ]
Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant is a shell company
(as defined in
Rule 12b-2 of the
Exchange Act). Yes [ ] No [X]
As of June 30, 2006, the aggregate market value of
Registrants Common Stock, $.50 par value, held by
non-affiliates of Registrant (which for this purpose does not
include directors or officers) was $7,192,463,311.
As of February 14, 2007, there were 160,623,408 shares
of Registrants Common Stock, $.50 par value,
outstanding.
DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
Certain pages of the Registrants 2007 Notice of Annual
Meeting and Proxy
Statement Part III
FORM 10-K
TABLE OF CONTENTS
2
PART I
Item 1 Business
General
UST Inc. was formed on December 23, 1986 as a Delaware
corporation to serve as a new publicly-held holding company for
United States Tobacco Company (USTC), which was
formed in 1911. Pursuant to a reorganization approved by
stockholders at the 1987 Annual Meeting, USTC became a
wholly-owned subsidiary of UST Inc. on May 5, 1987, and UST
Inc. continued in existence as a holding company. Effective
January 1, 2001, USTC changed its name to
U.S. Smokeless Tobacco Company (USSTC). UST
Inc., through its direct and indirect subsidiaries (collectively
Registrant or the Company unless the
context otherwise requires), is engaged in the manufacturing and
marketing of consumer products in the following business
segments:
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Smokeless Tobacco Products: The Companys
primary activities are the manufacturing and marketing of
smokeless tobacco products. |
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Wine: The Company produces and markets premium
varietal and blended wines, and imports and distributes wines
from Italy. |
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All Other Operations: The Companys
international operations, which market moist smokeless tobacco,
are included in all other operations. |
Available Information
The Companys website address is www.ustinc.com. The
Company makes available free of charge through its website its
annual reports on
Form 10-K,
quarterly reports on
Form 10-Q, current
reports on
Form 8-K and all
amendments to those reports as soon as reasonably practicable
after such material is electronically filed with or furnished to
the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). A free
copy of these materials can also be requested via correspondence
addressed to the Secretary at UST Inc., 100 West Putnam
Avenue, Greenwich, Connecticut 06830. The public may read and
copy any materials the Company has filed with the SEC at the
SECs Public Reference Room at 100 F Street, NE,
Washington, DC 20549. The public may also obtain information on
the operation of the Public Reference Room by calling the SEC at
1-800-SEC-0330. The SEC
maintains an Internet site (www.sec.gov) that contains
reports, proxy and information statements, and other information
regarding issuers, including the Company, that file
electronically with the SEC.
Operating Segment Data
The Company hereby incorporates by reference the consolidated
Segment Information pertaining to the years 2004 through 2006
set forth herein in Part II, Item 8, Notes to
Consolidated Financial Statements Note 16,
Segment Information.
3
SMOKELESS TOBACCO PRODUCTS
Principal Products
The Companys principal smokeless tobacco products and
brand names are as follows:
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Moist:
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COPENHAGEN, SKOAL, RED
SEAL, HUSKY, ROOSTER |
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Dry:
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BRUTON, CC, RED
SEAL |
Reports with respect to the health risks of tobacco products
have been publicized for many years, and the sale, promotion and
use of tobacco continue to be subject to increasing governmental
regulation. In 1986, a Surgeon Generals Report reached the
judgment that smokeless tobacco use can cause cancer
and can lead to nicotine dependence or addiction.
Also in 1986, Congress passed the Comprehensive Smokeless
Tobacco Health Education Act of 1986, which requires the
following warnings on smokeless tobacco packages and
advertising: WARNING: THIS PRODUCT MAY CAUSE MOUTH
CANCER, WARNING: THIS PRODUCT MAY CAUSE GUM DISEASE
AND TOOTH LOSS, WARNING: THIS PRODUCT IS NOT A SAFE
ALTERNATIVE TO CIGARETTES. In light of the scientific
research taken as a whole, the Company does not believe that
smokeless tobacco has been shown to be a cause of any human
disease, but the Company does not take the position that
smokeless tobacco is safe.
Over the last several years, smokeless tobacco has been the
subject of discussion in the scientific and public health
community in connection with the issue of tobacco harm
reduction. Tobacco harm reduction is generally described as a
public health strategy aimed at reducing the health risks to
cigarette smokers who have not quit and is frequently discussed
in the context of proposals for an overall tobacco regulatory
regime. It is reported that approximately 45 million adult
Americans continue to smoke, and many have made repeated
attempts to quit, including with the use of medicinal nicotine
products. There has been an ongoing debate in the scientific and
public health community as to what to do for these smokers. One
idea that has been raised is to suggest that they switch
completely to smokeless tobacco. Many believe that certain
smokeless tobacco products pose significantly less risk than
cigarettes and therefore could be a potential reduced risk
alternative to cigarette smoking. There are others, however, who
believe that there is insufficient scientific basis to encourage
switching to smokeless tobacco and that such a strategy may
result in unintended public health consequences.
Data from some surveys indicate that at least 80 percent of
smokers believe smokeless tobacco is as dangerous as cigarette
smoking. The Company believes that adult cigarette smokers
should be provided accurate and relevant information on these
issues so that they may make informed decisions about tobacco
products. This is especially so in light of data from some
surveys that indicate that at least half of the approximately
45 million adult smokers are looking for an alternative.
The Company believes that there is an opportunity for smokeless
tobacco products to have a significant role in a tobacco harm
reduction strategy.
As indicated above, in 1986, federal legislation was enacted
regulating smokeless tobacco products by, inter alia,
requiring health warning notices on smokeless tobacco
packages and advertising and prohibiting the advertising of
smokeless tobacco products on any medium of electronic
communications subject to the jurisdiction of the Federal
Communications Commission. A federal excise tax was imposed in
1986, which was increased in 1991, 1993, 1997, 2000 and 2002.
Also, in recent years, proposals have been made at the federal
level for additional regulation of tobacco products including,
among other things, the requirement of additional warning
notices, the disallowance of advertising and promotion expenses
as deductions under federal tax law, a ban or further
restriction of all advertising and promotion, regulation of
environmental tobacco smoke and increased regulation of the
manufacturing and marketing of tobacco products by new or
existing federal agencies. Similar proposals will likely be
considered in the future.
On August 28, 1996, the U.S. Food and Drug
Administration (the FDA) published regulations
asserting unprecedented jurisdiction over nicotine in tobacco as
a drug and purporting to regulate smokeless tobacco
products as a medical device. The Company and other
smokeless tobacco manufacturers filed suit against the FDA
seeking a judicial declaration that the FDA has no authority to
regulate smokeless tobacco products. On March 21, 2000, the
United States Supreme Court ruled that the FDA lacks
jurisdiction to regulate tobacco products. Following this
ruling, proposals for federal legislation for comprehensive
regulation of tobacco products continue to be considered.
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Over the years, various state and local governments have
continued to regulate tobacco products, including, among other
things, the imposition of significantly higher taxes, increases
in the minimum age to purchase tobacco products, adult sampling
and advertising bans or restrictions, ingredient and constituent
disclosure requirements, regulation of environmental tobacco
smoke and significant tobacco control media campaigns.
Additional state and local legislative and regulatory actions
will likely be considered in the future, including, among other
things, restrictions on the use of flavorings. The Company is
unable to assess the future effects these various actions may
have on its smokeless tobacco business. The Company believes
that any proposals for additional regulation at the federal,
state or local level should recognize the distinct differences
between smokeless tobacco products and cigarettes.
On November 23, 1998, the Company entered into the
Smokeless Tobacco Master Settlement Agreement (the
STMSA) with attorneys general of various states and
U.S. territories to resolve the remaining health care cost
reimbursement cases initiated by various attorneys general
against the Company. The STMSA required the Company to adopt
various marketing and advertising restrictions and make payments
potentially totaling $100 million, subject to a minimum
3 percent inflationary adjustment per annum, over a minimum
of ten years for programs to reduce youth usage of tobacco and
combat youth substance abuse and for enforcement purposes. The
period over which the payments are to be made is subject to
various indefinite deferral provisions based upon the
Companys share of the smokeless tobacco segment of the
overall tobacco market (as defined in the STMSA).
On October 22, 2004, the Fair and Equitable Tobacco
Reform Act of 2004 (the Tobacco Reform Act or
the FETRA) was enacted in connection with a
comprehensive federal corporate reform and jobs creation bill.
The Tobacco Reform Act effectively repeals all aspects of the
U.S. federal governments tobacco farmer support
program, including marketing quotas and nonrecourse loans. As a
result of the Tobacco Reform Act, the Secretary of Agriculture
will impose quarterly assessments on tobacco manufacturers and
importers, not to exceed a total of $10.1 billion over a
ten-year period from the date of enactment. Amounts assessed by
the Secretary will be impacted by a number of allocation
factors, as defined in the Tobacco Reform Act. These quarterly
assessments will be used to fund a trust to compensate, or
buy out, tobacco quota farmers, in lieu of the
repealed federal support program. The Company does not believe
that the assessments imposed under the Tobacco Reform Act will
have a material adverse impact on its consolidated financial
position, results of operations or cash flows in any reporting
period.
Raw Materials
Except as noted below, raw materials essential to the
Companys smokeless tobacco business are generally
purchased in domestic markets under competitive conditions.
The Company purchased all of its leaf tobacco from domestic
suppliers in 2006, as it has for the last several years. Various
factors, including the level of domestic tobacco production, can
affect the amount of tobacco purchased by the Company from
domestic sources. Tobaccos used in the manufacture of smokeless
tobacco products are processed and aged by the Company for a
period of two to three years prior to their use.
The Company or its suppliers purchase certain flavoring
components from foreign sources, which are used in the
Companys smokeless tobacco products.
At the present time, the Company has no reason to believe that
future raw material requirements for its tobacco products will
not be satisfied. However, the continuing availability and the
cost of tobacco is dependent upon a variety of factors which
cannot be predicted, including, but not limited to, weather,
growing conditions, local planting decisions, overall market
demands and other factors.
In addition, with the enactment of the Tobacco Reform Act and
its repeal of federal tobacco price support and quota programs,
tobacco can be grown anywhere in the United States with no
volume limitations or price protection or guarantees. As a
result, the Tobacco Reform Act has favorably impacted the
Companys cost of leaf tobacco purchases since its
enactment. Grower contracting for the 2007 tobacco buying season
is not yet complete; however, the Company believes that costs
incurred for leaf tobacco purchases will approximate those
incurred in 2006.
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Working Capital
The principal portion of the Companys operating cash
requirements relates to its need to maintain significant
inventories of leaf tobacco, primarily for the manufacturing of
smokeless tobacco products, to ensure an aging process of two to
three years prior to use.
Customers
The Company markets its moist smokeless tobacco products
throughout the United States principally to wholesalers and
retail chain stores. Approximately 34 percent of the
Companys gross sales of tobacco products are made to four
customers, one of which, McLane Co. Inc., a national
distributor, accounts for approximately 17 percent of the
Companys consolidated revenue. The Company has maintained
satisfactory relationships with its customers over the years and
expects that such relationships will continue.
Competitive Conditions
The tobacco manufacturing industry in the United States is
composed of at least four domestic companies larger than the
Company and many smaller ones. The larger companies primarily
concentrate on the manufacture and marketing of cigarettes;
however, in 2006, a major cigarette company entered the
smokeless tobacco category through its acquisition of one of the
Companys competitors. In addition, certain cigarette
companies have begun test marketing smokeless tobacco products
and have indicated the intent to continue to expand this
activity. The Company is a well established and major factor in
the smokeless tobacco sector of the overall tobacco market.
Consequently, the Company competes actively with both larger and
smaller companies in the marketing of its tobacco products.
Competition also includes both domestic and international
companies marketing and selling price-value and sub-price-value
smokeless tobacco products. The Companys principal methods
of competition in the marketing of its tobacco products include
quality, advertising, promotion, sampling, price, product
recognition, product innovation and distribution.
WINE
The Company is an established producer of premium varietal and
blended wines. CHATEAU STE. MICHELLE and COLUMBIA CREST varietal
table wines and DOMAINE STE. MICHELLE sparkling wine are
produced by the Company in the State of Washington and marketed
and distributed throughout the United States. In addition, the
Company produces and markets two California premium wines under
the labels of VILLA MT. EDEN and CONN CREEK and Oregon premium
wines under the ERATH label. The Company is also the exclusive
United States importer and distributor of the portfolio of wines
produced by the Italian winemaker Antinori, which includes such
labels as TIGNANELLO, SOLAIA, TORMARESCA, MONTENISA and HARAS DE
PIRQUE. Approximately 50 percent of the Companys wine
segment gross sales are made to two distributors, with one of
these distributors accounting for approximately 36 percent
of total wine segment gross sales. Substantially all wines are
sold through state-licensed distributors with whom the Company
maintains satisfactory relationships.
It has been claimed that the use of alcohol beverages may be
harmful to health. In 1988, federal legislation was enacted
regulating alcohol beverages by requiring health warning notices
on such beverages. Still wines containing not more than
14 percent alcohol by volume, such as the majority of the
Companys wines, are subject to a federal excise tax of
$1.07 per gallon for manufacturers, such as the Company,
that produce more than 250,000 gallons a year. In recent years,
proposals have been made at the federal level for additional
regulation of alcohol beverages, including, but not limited to,
increases in excise tax rates, modification of the required
health warning notices and further regulation of advertising,
labeling and packaging. Substantially similar proposals will
likely be considered in 2007. Also in recent years, increased
regulation of alcohol beverages by various states included, but
was not limited to, the imposition of higher excise taxes and
advertising restrictions. Additional state and local legislative
and regulatory actions affecting the marketing of alcohol
beverages will likely be considered during 2007. The Company is
unable to assess the future effects these regulatory and other
actions may have on the sale of its wines.
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The Company uses grapes harvested from its own vineyards, as
well as grapes purchased from independent growers located in
Washington, California and Oregon and purchases bulk wine from
other sources. Total grape tonnage harvested and purchased in
2006 is adequate to meet expected demand.
The Companys principal competition comes from many larger,
well-established national and international companies, as well
as many smaller wine producers. The Companys principal
methods of competition include quality, price, consumer and
trade wine tastings, competitive wine judging and advertising.
ALL OTHER OPERATIONS
All Other Operations consists of the Companys
international operations, which market moist smokeless tobacco
products in select markets. Prior to June 18, 2004, All
Other Operations also included a cigar operation which
manufactured and marketed the premium cigar brands of DON
TOMÁS, ASTRAL and HELIX. The cigar operation was
transferred to a smokeless tobacco competitor on June 18,
2004, in connection with an agreement to resolve an antitrust
action. Neither of the above, singly, constituted a material
portion of the Companys operations in any of the years
presented.
ADDITIONAL BUSINESS INFORMATION
Environmental Regulations
Compliance with federal, state and local provisions regulating
the discharge of materials into the environment or otherwise
relating to the protection of the environment has not had a
material effect upon the capital expenditures, earnings or
competitive position of the Company.
Number of Employees
The Companys average number of employees during 2006 was
5,008.
Trademarks and Patents
The Company markets its consumer products under a number of
trademarks and patents. All of the Companys trademarks and
patents either have been registered or applications therefore
are pending with the United States Patent and Trademark Office.
Seasonal Business
No material portion of the business of any operating segment of
the Company is seasonal.
Backlog of Orders
Backlog of orders is not a material factor in any operating
segment of the Company.
Item 1A Risk Factors
Set forth below is a description of certain risk factors which
the Company believes may be relevant to an understanding of the
Company and its businesses. Stockholders are cautioned that
these and other factors may affect future performance and cause
actual results to differ from those which may, from time to
time, be anticipated. See Cautionary Statement Regarding
Forward-Looking Information included in Part II,
Item 7 of this
Form 10-K.
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The Companys product sales and results of operations
are subject to economic conditions and other factors beyond the
Companys control. In addition, such conditions and other
factors could affect the timing or amount of anticipated cost
savings related to Project Momentum. |
The Companys future results will be affected by the growth
in the smokeless tobacco and wine marketplaces and the demand
for the Companys smokeless tobacco and wine products.
Factors affecting demand for the Companys products
include, among other things, general economic conditions and
actions by competitors, as well as the cost of the products to
consumers which, in turn, is affected, in part, by the
Companys costs in
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manufacturing such products and the excise taxes payable. Sales
volumes of the Companys smokeless tobacco products,
particularly premium products, may be impacted by fluctuations
in gasoline prices, which have a direct impact on adult consumer
disposable income. The impact of fluctuations in gasoline prices
on smokeless tobacco product sales volume may be exacerbated due
to the fact that a significant amount of the Companys
products are sold at locations which also sell gasoline. The
Companys quarterly results may also be affected by
wholesaler order patterns. Many of these factors are beyond the
control of the Company which makes results of operations
difficult to predict.
In addition, the Companys ability to achieve its results
of operations target is tied in part to successful
implementation of its cost reduction initiative, called Project
Momentum, which is designed to create additional resources for
growth via operational, productivity and efficiency
enhancements. Project Momentum, which commenced during the third
quarter of 2006, is expected to result in targeted savings of at
least $100 million over its first three years. While the
Company believes its targeted cost reductions will be achieved,
the Company cannot guarantee the success of the initiative. If
Project Momentum is not successful, the Companys results
of operations could be adversely affected.
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Fire, violent weather conditions and other disasters may
adversely affect the Companys operations. |
A major fire, violent weather conditions or other disasters that
affect the Companys manufacturing facilities, or its
suppliers or vendors, could have a material adverse effect on
the Companys operations. Although the Company believes it
has adequate amounts of available insurance coverage and sound
contingency plans for these events, a prolonged interruption in
the Companys manufacturing operations could have a
material adverse effect on its ability to effectively operate
its business.
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Company product sales are subject to customer
concentration risk. |
Over the past three years, sales to one customer in the
Smokeless Tobacco segment have averaged approximately
16.6 percent of annual Smokeless Tobacco segment sales,
while sales to two customers in the Wine segment have averaged
46.9 percent of annual Wine segment sales. No other
customer accounted for 10 percent or more of Smokeless
Tobacco segment or Wine segment sales over the three-year
period. The loss of any of these customers, or a significant
decline in sales orders from any of these customers, could have
an adverse affect on the Companys results of operations or
financial condition.
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Ingredient or product adulteration could harm the
integrity and quality of the Companys products, which
could negatively impact consumer perception of the
Companys brands and have an adverse effect on the sale of
the Companys products. |
The success of the Companys brands is dependent upon the
quality of those brands and the positive perception that
consumers have of such brands. Adulteration, whether arising
accidentally or through deliberate third party action, could
harm the quality of the Companys products and may result
in reduced sales of the affected products, or have an adverse
ancillary effect on the Companys other products, which
could have an adverse affect on the Companys results of
operations or financial condition.
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The smokeless tobacco category is highly competitive and
the Companys volumes and profitability may be adversely
affected by continued consumer down-trading from premium brands
to price-value brands or by new entrants into the
marketplace. |
The Company faces significant competition in the smokeless
tobacco category, both from existing category competitors and
new entrants, which may reduce its market share and put pressure
on its gross margins. The Companys premium unit volume
trends have recently improved, with a shift from declining
premium net unit volume to modest growth; however, its premium
net unit volume growth rate still lags the growth rate of the
overall smokeless tobacco category. The Company recognizes the
need to continue to expand the smokeless category, strengthen
brand loyalty and develop innovative products to ensure
continued growth in its results of operations.
The Company has been implementing plans which focus on the
growth of the smokeless tobacco category by building awareness
and social acceptability of smokeless tobacco products among
adults and by promoting the convenience of smokeless tobacco
relative to cigarettes to attract new adult consumers to the
category.
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In light of the growth of price-value products, the Company has
also been implementing plans to increase sales volume of its
premium brands by building and strengthening premium brand
loyalty through various promotional programs, including
implementation of price-based programs to provide improved value
in price sensitive areas of the United States, and through the
introductions of new, differentiated premium products. However,
while the Company believes that it is pursuing the right course
of action, the Company cannot guarantee the success of these
action plans. If the Companys strategy is not successful,
total premium unit volume may decline and results of operations
could be adversely affected.
In 2006, a major cigarette company entered the smokeless tobacco
category through its acquisition of one of the Companys
competitors. In addition, certain cigarette companies have begun
test marketing smokeless tobacco products and have indicated the
intent to continue to expand this activity. If smokers continue
to switch from cigarettes to smokeless tobacco products, these
competitors may strengthen their presence in the smokeless
tobacco category, or other competitors with substantial
resources may test or enter the smokeless tobacco category and
introduce new products that are designed to compete directly
with the Companys products. While there is the possibility
that such actions may have the effect of expanding the smokeless
tobacco category, which could be beneficial to the Company, it
is also possible that such actions could be detrimental since it
may require the Company to expend significant resources to
maintain its premium unit volume. The Company cannot, at this
time, predict with any certainty what effect, if any, such
actions may have on the Company and its results of operations.
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Fluctuations in the price and availability of tobacco leaf
could adversely affect the Companys results of
operations. |
Tobacco is the most important raw material in the manufacture of
the Companys smokeless tobacco products. The Company is
not directly involved in the cultivation of tobacco leaf and is
dependent on third parties to produce tobacco and other raw
materials that it requires to manufacture its smokeless tobacco
products. As with other agricultural commodities, the price of
tobacco leaf tends to depend upon variations in weather
conditions, growing conditions, local planting decisions,
overall market demands or other factors. The Companys
inability to purchase tobacco leaf of the desired quality from
U.S. suppliers on commercially reasonable terms, or an
interruption in the supply of these materials, in the absence of
readily available alternative sources, could have a negative
impact on the Companys business and its results of
operations.
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The Companys continuing ability to hire and retain
qualified employees is important to the future success of the
Company. |
The environment in which the Company operates, as a smokeless
tobacco company, presents challenges not faced by other consumer
products companies. Accordingly, the continuing ability to hire
and retain qualified employees who are capable of working in
this challenging environment is critical to the Companys
success.
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The tobacco industry is subject to governmental regulation
and other restrictions. In particular, restrictions on tobacco
marketing and advertising limit the options available to the
Company to market smokeless tobacco products. |
Advertising, promotion and brand building continue to play a key
role in the Companys business, with significant
expenditure on programs to support key brands and to develop new
products. As described above, in 1986, federal legislation was
enacted regulating smokeless tobacco products by, among other
things, requiring health warning notices on smokeless tobacco
packages and advertising and prohibiting the advertising of
smokeless tobacco products on any medium of electronic
communications subject to the jurisdiction of the Federal
Communications Commission. Since 1986, other proposals have been
made at both the federal and state level for additional
regulation of smokeless tobacco products. These proposals have
included, among other things, increased regulation of the
manufacturing and marketing of tobacco products by federal and
state agencies (including, without limitation, the FDA), the
requirement of additional warning notices, a ban or further
restriction on advertising and promotion, ingredients and
constituent disclosure requirements, restrictions on the use of
flavorings, adult sampling bans or restrictions, tax stamping,
increasing the minimum purchase age and the disallowance of
advertising and promotion expenses as deductions under federal
tax law. The regulatory environment in which the Company
operates can also be affected by general social and political
factors.
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Proposals for comprehensive federal regulation of tobacco
products will continue to be considered. The Company is not
opposed to FDA regulation that addresses public health concerns
and takes into account the distinct differences between
smokeless tobacco and cigarettes while permitting the Company to
continue to communicate responsibly with tobacco-interested
adults and responsibly manufacture, market and sell quality
smokeless tobacco products to adult consumers.
In addition to increased regulatory restrictions, the Company is
subject to various marketing and advertising restrictions under
the STMSA, which the Company entered into in 1998 with the
attorneys general of various states and U.S. territories to
resolve the remaining health care cost reimbursement cases
initiated by various attorneys general. The Company is the only
smokeless tobacco manufacturer to sign the STMSA. See
Item 1 Business Smokeless
Tobacco Products Principal Products. The
Company also receives from time to time inquiries from various
attorneys general relating to the STMSA and other state
regulations in connection with various aspects of the
Companys business.
Present regulations and any further regulations, depending on
the nature of the regulations and their applicability to the
Company and its future plans, could have an adverse effect on
the Companys ability to advertise, promote and build its
brands and/or to promote and introduce new brands and products
and, as such, have an adverse effect on its results of
operations.
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The excise taxes on smokeless tobacco products could
affect consumer preferences and have an adverse effect on the
sale of the Companys products. |
Smokeless tobacco products are subject to significant federal
and state excise taxes, which may continue to increase over
time. Any increase in the level of federal excise taxes or the
enactment of new or increased state or local excise taxes would
have the effect of increasing the cost of smokeless tobacco
products to consumers and, as such, could affect the demand for,
and consumption levels of, smokeless tobacco products in general
and premium brands in particular. Furthermore, the current ad
valorem method of taxation, which is utilized by most
states, bases the amount of taxes payable on a fixed percentage
of the wholesale price, as opposed to some states which tax
premium and price-value brands equitably based on weight.
Therefore, the ad valorem method of taxation has the
inequitable effect of increasing the taxes payable on premium
brands to a greater degree than the taxes payable on price-value
brands, which further exacerbates the price gap between premium
and price-value brands. To the extent that any such actions
adversely affect the sale of the Companys products, such
actions could have an adverse effect on the Companys
results of operations and cash flows.
|
|
|
The Company has ongoing payment obligations under the Fair
and Equitable Tobacco Reform Act, the STMSA and other state
settlement agreements. |
In 2006, the Company incurred expenses of approximately
$3.2 million, $16.7 million and $4.3 million
under the FETRA, the STMSA and other state settlement
agreements, respectively. The Company presently expects to
continue to incur expenses under the FETRA, the STMSA and other
related settlement agreements. Based on information presently
available to the Company, the Company does not anticipate that
any increases in such expenses to be incurred in the future will
have a material adverse effect on the Company. However, the
amounts payable in the future cannot be predicted with certainty
and may increase based upon, among other things, the relative
share of the overall tobacco market held by smokeless tobacco
and the Companys share of the moist smokeless tobacco
marketplace. It is also possible that the amounts payable under
the FETRA may be offset, in part, through reductions in the cost
of tobacco, which may result from the competitive setting of
prices expected to occur as a result of the FETRA.
|
|
|
The Company is subject, from time to time, to smokeless
tobacco and health litigation, which, if adversely determined,
could subject the Company to substantial charges and
liabilities. |
The Company is currently subject to various legal actions,
proceedings and claims arising out of the sale, use,
distribution, manufacture, development, advertising, marketing
and claimed health effects of its smokeless tobacco products.
See Item 3 Legal Proceedings. The
Company believes, and has been so advised by counsel handling
the respective cases, that it has a number of meritorious
defenses to all such pending litigation. Except as to the
Companys willingness to consider alternative solutions for
resolving certain litigation issues, all such cases are, and
will continue to be, vigorously defended. The Company believes
that the ultimate outcome of such pending litigation will not
have a material adverse effect on its consolidated
10
financial results or its consolidated financial position.
However, if plaintiffs in these actions were to prevail, the
effect of any judgment or settlement could have a material
adverse impact on the Companys consolidated financial
results in the particular reporting period in which any such
litigation is resolved and, depending on the size of any such
judgment or settlement, a material adverse effect on the
Companys consolidated financial position. In addition,
similar litigation and claims relating to the Companys
smokeless tobacco products may continue to be filed against the
Company in the future. An increase in the number of pending
claims, in addition to the risks posed as to outcome, could
increase the Companys costs of litigating and
administering product liability claims.
|
|
|
The Company could be subject to additional charges and
liabilities as it seeks to resolve the remaining antitrust
related lawsuits. |
In March of 2000, in an action brought by one of the
Companys competitors, Conwood Company L.P. (Conwood
Litigation), alleging violations of the antitrust laws, a
significant verdict was rendered against the Company. See
Item 3 Legal Proceedings. Following
the commencement of this lawsuit, actions were also brought on
behalf of direct and indirect purchasers of the Companys
products. While the Company has paid the verdict and settled the
actions brought on behalf of direct purchasers and many of the
actions brought on behalf of indirect purchasers, a number of
actions on behalf of indirect purchasers brought in a limited
number of states are still ongoing. Further, the Company has
been served in a purported class action attempting to challenge
certain aspects of a settlement agreement reached with indirect
purchasers in multiple states and seeking additional amounts
purportedly consistent with subsequent settlements of similar
actions, estimated by plaintiffs to be between $8.9 million
and $214.2 million, as well as punitive damages and
attorneys fees. The Company intends to continue to pursue
settlement of the remaining indirect purchaser actions on terms
substantially similar to the settlements previously entered into
by the Company in connection with other indirect purchaser
actions, with the exception of a purported class action in the
State of Pennsylvania, for which the Company believes there is
insufficient basis for such a claim. As discussed in
Item 3 Legal Proceedings, the
Company believes that the ultimate outcome of these actions will
not have a material adverse effect on its consolidated financial
results or its consolidated financial position. However, if
plaintiffs were to prevail, beyond the amounts previously
accrued, the effect of any judgment or settlement could have a
material adverse impact on the Companys consolidated
financial results in the particular reporting period in which
such action is resolved and, depending on the size of any such
judgment or settlement, a material adverse effect on the
Companys consolidated financial position.
|
|
|
The Companys wine business is subject to significant
competition, including from many large, well-established
national and international organizations. |
While the Company believes that it is well positioned to compete
based on the quality of its wines and the dedication of its
workforce, its overall success may be subject to the actions of
competitors in the wine category. Many of these competitors are
large, well-established national and international companies
with significant resources to support distribution and retail
sales. In addition, sales of the Companys wines can be
affected by the quality and quantity of imports.
|
|
|
The Companys wine business may be adversely affected
by its ability to grow and/or acquire enough high quality grapes
for its wines, which could result in a supply shortage.
Conversely, the Companys wine business may also be
adversely impacted by grape and bulk wine oversupply. |
The adequacy of the Companys grape supply is influenced by
consumer demand for wine in relation to industry-wide production
levels. While the Company believes that it can grow and/or
otherwise secure, through contracts with independent growers,
sufficient regular supplies of high quality grapes, it cannot be
certain that grape supply shortages will not occur. As grapes
grown in the State of Washington account for approximately
95 percent of the Companys harvested and contracted
grapes, if eastern Washington state experiences adverse weather
conditions, widespread vine disease or other crop damage, fruit
availability may be compromised, quality may be negatively
impacted and production costs may increase. An increase in
production cost could lead to an increase in the Companys
wine prices, which may ultimately have a negative impact on its
sales.
In cases of significant grape and bulk wine oversupply in the
marketplace, the Companys ability to increase or even
sustain existing sales prices may be limited.
11
|
|
|
The Companys wine business may be negatively
impacted by an increase in excise taxes or governmental
regulations related to the alcohol beverages. |
Significant increases in excise or other taxes on alcohol
beverages could adversely affect sales of the Companys
wine products. Federal, state and local governmental agencies
regulate the alcohol beverage industry through various means,
including licensing requirements, pricing, labeling and
advertising restrictions, and distribution and production
policies. New regulations, or revisions to existing regulations,
resulting in further restrictions or taxes on the manufacture
and sale of alcohol beverages may have an adverse affect on the
Companys wine business.
Item 1B Unresolved Staff Comments
Not applicable.
Item 2 Properties
All of the principal properties in the Companys operations
were utilized only in connection with the Companys
business operations. The Company believes that the properties
described below at December 31, 2006 were suitable and
adequate for the purposes for which they were used, and were
operated at satisfactory levels of capacity. All principal
properties are owned by the Company.
Smokeless Tobacco Products
The Company owns and operates three principal smokeless tobacco
manufacturing and processing facilities located in Franklin
Park, Illinois; Hopkinsville, Kentucky; and Nashville, Tennessee.
Wine
The Company owns and operates nine wine-making
facilities seven in Washington state, one in
California and one in Oregon. In addition, it owns and operates
vineyards in Washington state and California.
Item 3 Legal Proceedings
The Company has been named in certain health care cost
reimbursement/third party recoupment/class action litigation
against the major domestic cigarette companies and others
seeking damages and other relief. The complaints in these cases
on their face predominantly relate to the usage of cigarettes;
within that context, certain complaints contain a few
allegations relating specifically to smokeless tobacco products.
These actions are in varying stages of pretrial activities.
The Company believes that these pending litigation matters will
not result in any material liability for a number of reasons,
including the fact that the Company has had only limited
involvement with cigarettes and the Companys current
percentage of total tobacco industry sales is relatively small.
Prior to 1986, the Company manufactured some cigarette products
which had a de minimis market share. From May 1,
1982 to August 1, 1994, the Company distributed a small
volume of imported cigarettes and is indemnified against claims
relating to those products.
Smokeless Tobacco Litigation
The Company is named in certain actions in West Virginia brought
on behalf of individual plaintiffs against cigarette
manufacturers, smokeless tobacco manufacturers, and other
organizations seeking damages and other relief in connection
with injuries allegedly sustained as a result of tobacco usage,
including smokeless tobacco products. Included among the
plaintiffs are six individuals alleging use of the
Companys smokeless tobacco products and alleging the types
of injuries claimed to be associated with the use of smokeless
tobacco products. The actions for three of these individuals
have been dismissed; one in September 2006 which was dismissed
without prejudice and two in October 2006 which were dismissed
with prejudice. All three remaining individuals also allege the
use of other tobacco products.
In Matthew Vassallo v. United States Tobacco Company,
et al., Circuit Court of the 11th Judicial
District, Miami-Dade County, Florida (Case
No. 02-28397
CA-20), this action by
an individual plaintiff against various smokeless tobacco
manufacturers including the Company and certain other
organizations alleges personal injuries, including cancer, oral
lesions, leukoplakia, gum loss and other injuries allegedly
resulting from the use
12
of defendants smokeless tobacco products. Plaintiff also
claims nicotine addiction and seeks unspecified
compensatory damages and certain equitable and other relief,
including, but not limited to, medical monitoring.
In Susan Smith, as Guardian for William Cole Cooper, a
Minor v. UST Inc., et al., United States District
Court for the District of Idaho
(Civ.04-170-E-BLW),
this action was brought against the Company on behalf of a minor
child alleging that his father died of cancer of the
throat as a result of his use of the Companys
smokeless tobacco product. Plaintiff also alleges
addiction to nicotine and seeks unspecified
compensatory damages and other relief.
In Kelly June Hill, Executrix and Fiduciary of the Estate of
Bobby Dean Hill, et al. v. U.S. Smokeless Tobacco
Company, Connecticut Superior Court, Judicial District of
Stamford (Docket
No. FST-X05-CV-05-4003788-S)
this action was brought by a plaintiff individually, as
Executrix and Fiduciary of the Estate of Bobby Dean Hill, and on
behalf of their minor children for injuries, including
squamous cell carcinoma of the tongue, allegedly
sustained by decedent as a result of his use of the
Companys smokeless tobacco products. The Complaint also
alleges addiction to smokeless tobacco. The
Complaint seeks compensatory and punitive damages in excess of
$15,000 and other relief.
The Company believes, and has been so advised by counsel
handling the foregoing cases, that it has a number of
meritorious defenses to all such pending litigation. Except as
to the Companys willingness to consider alternative
solutions for resolving certain litigation issues, all such
cases are, and will continue to be, vigorously defended.
Antitrust Litigation
The Company is named as a defendant in a number of purported
class actions, as well as class actions in the states of
California, Massachusetts and Wisconsin. On February 27,
2006, the Company was served with a Summons and
Class Action Complaint in an action entitled Gregory
Hunt, et al. v. United States Tobacco Company,
et al., United States District Court for the Eastern
District of Pennsylvania (Case
No. 06-CV-1099).
Each of these actions are brought by indirect purchasers
(consumers and retailers) of the Companys smokeless
tobacco products during various periods of time ranging from
January 1990 to the date of certification or potential
certification of the proposed class. Plaintiffs in those actions
allege that, individually and on behalf of putative class
members in a particular state or individually and on behalf of
class members in the states of California, Massachusetts and
Wisconsin, the Company violated the antitrust laws, unfair and
deceptive trade practices statutes and/or common law of those
states. Plaintiffs seek to recover compensatory and statutory
damages in an amount not to exceed $75,000 per class
member, or per putative class member, and certain other relief.
The indirect purchaser actions are similar in all material
respects.
The Company has entered into a settlement with indirect
purchasers, which has been approved by the court, in the states
of Arizona, Florida, Hawaii, Iowa, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota,
Mississippi, Nevada, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota,
South Dakota, Tennessee, Vermont and West Virginia and in the
District of Columbia (Settlement). Pursuant to the
approved Settlement, adult consumers receive coupons redeemable
on future purchases of the Companys moist smokeless
tobacco products. The Company will pay all administrative costs
of the Settlement and plaintiffs attorneys fees. The
Company also intends to pursue settlement of other indirect
purchaser actions not covered by the Settlement on substantially
similar terms, with the exception of Pennsylvania, for which the
Company believes there is insufficient basis for such a claim.
On March 8, 2006, the court entered final approval of the
settlement of the Kansas class action and New York action. An
evidentiary hearing on plaintiffs motion for an additional
amount of approximately $8.5 million in attorneys
fees, expenses and costs, plus interest, beyond the previously
agreed-upon amounts already paid by the Company was held April
4-5, 2006. To date, the court has not ruled on the motion. The
Company believes, and has been so advised by counsel handling
this case, that it has meritorious defenses in this regard, and
will continue to vigorously defend against this motion. (See
Form 10-Q for the
period ended September 30, 2005 for additional information.)
In Robert A. Martin, et al. v. Gordon Ball,
et al., United States District Court for the Northern
District of West Virginia (No. 5:06-CV-85), the Company
deemed service of the complaint to have been effective as of
July 17, 2006 and filed an Answer. This action was brought
by fifteen individual plaintiffs on behalf of themselves and a
purported class of persons who filed claims for coupons as part
of the Companys settlement of the action
13
entitled Philip Edward Davis, et al. v. United
States Tobacco Company, et al., Circuit Court of
Jefferson County, Tennessee. The Martin plaintiffs allege
that the Company breached the Settlement Agreement in the
Davis action, and has been unjustly enriched, because it
failed to distribute to each of the purported class members a
denomination of coupons with an aggregate value equal to the
aggregate value of the coupons distributed as part of the
settlement in another indirect purchaser action. Plaintiffs also
allege claims for breach of fiduciary duty, unjust enrichment,
and conversion against the counsel who represented the class
members in the Davis action. Plaintiffs seek additional
amounts purportedly consistent with subsequent settlements of
similar actions, estimated by plaintiffs to be between
$8.9 million and $214.2 million, as well as punitive
damages and attorneys fees.
Each of the foregoing actions is derived directly from the
previous antitrust action brought against the Company by a
competitor, Conwood Company L.P. For the plaintiffs in the
putative class actions to prevail, they will have to obtain
class certification. The plaintiffs in the above actions also
will have to obtain favorable determinations on issues relating
to liability, causation and damages. The Company believes, and
has been so advised by counsel handling these cases, that it has
meritorious defenses in this regard, and they are, and will
continue to be, vigorously defended.
Other Litigation
In People of the State of California, ex rel. Bill Lockyer,
Attorney General of the State of California v.
U.S. Smokeless Tobacco Company, Superior Court of
California, County of San Diego (Case No. G1C851376),
this action alleges that the Companys sponsorship relating
to the National Hot Rod Association violates various provisions
of the STMSA and the related Consent Decree entered in
connection with the STMSA. The complaint seeks declaratory and
injunctive relief, unspecified monetary sanctions,
attorneys fees and costs, and a finding of civil contempt.
The Company believes, and has been so advised by counsel
handling the foregoing case, that it has a number of meritorious
defenses. Except as to the Companys willingness to
consider alternative solutions for resolving certain litigation
issues, the foregoing case is, and will continue to be,
vigorously defended.
Item 4 Submission of Matters to a Vote of
Security Holders
Not applicable.
14
PART II
Item 5 Market for Registrants Common
Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of
Equity Securities
Market for Registrants Common Equity
The Companys common stock is listed on the New York Stock
Exchange (NYSE) under the symbol UST. As of
January 31, 2007, there were approximately 7,065
stockholders of record of the Companys common stock. The
table below sets forth the high and low sales prices per share
of the Companys common stock, as reported by the NYSE
Composite Tape, and the cash dividends per share declared and
paid in each quarter during fiscal years 2006 and 2005. The
Company has paid cash dividends without interruption since 1912.
While the Company expects to continue its policy of paying cash
dividends in the future, such policy is subject to annual review
and approval by the Companys Board of Directors. Factors
that are taken into consideration with regard to the level of
dividend payments include the Companys net earnings,
capital requirements and financial condition.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2006 |
|
2005 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
High |
|
Low |
|
Dividends |
|
High |
|
Low |
|
Dividends |
|
|
|
|
|
First Quarter
|
|
$ |
43.14 |
|
|
$ |
37.96 |
|
|
$ |
0.57 |
|
|
$ |
56.90 |
|
|
$ |
47.71 |
|
|
$ |
0.55 |
|
|
|
|
|
Second Quarter
|
|
|
45.78 |
|
|
|
41.10 |
|
|
|
0.57 |
|
|
|
54.85 |
|
|
|
42.90 |
|
|
|
0.55 |
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter
|
|
|
55.06 |
|
|
|
44.61 |
|
|
|
0.57 |
|
|
|
47.62 |
|
|
|
39.81 |
|
|
|
0.55 |
|
|
|
|
|
Fourth Quarter
|
|
|
59.49 |
|
|
|
52.34 |
|
|
|
0.57 |
|
|
|
42.50 |
|
|
|
37.59 |
|
|
|
0.55 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Year
|
|
$ |
59.49 |
|
|
$ |
37.96 |
|
|
$ |
2.28 |
|
|
$ |
56.90 |
|
|
$ |
37.59 |
|
|
$ |
2.20 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
15
Performance Graph
The following graph compares the total returns for an investment
in the Companys common stock over the last five years to
the Standard and Poors (S&P) 500 Stock
Index and the S&P Tobacco Index assuming a $100 investment
made on December 31, 2001. Each of the three measures of
cumulative total return assumes reinvestment of dividends. The
stock performance shown on the graph below is not necessarily
indicative of future price performance.
COMPARISON OF 5 YEAR CUMULATIVE TOTAL RETURN
Among UST Inc., The S&P 500 Index
And The S&P Tobacco Index
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
December 31, |
|
|
|
|
|
2001 |
|
2002 |
|
2003 |
|
2004 |
|
2005 |
|
2006 |
|
|
|
UST Inc.
|
|
$ |
100.00 |
|
|
$ |
101.02 |
|
|
$ |
114.47 |
|
|
$ |
162.74 |
|
|
$ |
145.16 |
|
|
$ |
217.06 |
|
|
|
|
|
S & P 500
|
|
|
100.00 |
|
|
|
77.90 |
|
|
|
100.24 |
|
|
|
111.15 |
|
|
|
116.61 |
|
|
|
135.03 |
|
|
|
|
|
S & P Tobacco
|
|
|
100.00 |
|
|
|
93.20 |
|
|
|
131.67 |
|
|
|
157.78 |
|
|
|
197.52 |
|
|
|
241.30 |
|
Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
The following table presents the monthly share repurchases by
the Company during the fourth quarter of the fiscal year ended
December 31, 2006:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Maximum |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total |
|
Number of |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Number of |
|
Shares that |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Shares |
|
May Yet Be |
|
|
Total |
|
Average |
|
Purchased as |
|
Purchased |
|
|
Number |
|
Price |
|
Part of the |
|
Under the |
|
|
of Shares |
|
Paid Per |
|
Repurchase |
|
Repurchase |
|
|
Purchased |
|
Share |
|
Programs(1) |
|
Programs(1) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
October 1 31, 2006
|
|
|
305,500 |
|
|
$ |
55.07 |
|
|
|
305,500 |
|
|
|
13,534,052 |
|
|
|
|
|
November 1 30, 2006
|
|
|
309,400 |
|
|
$ |
54.95 |
|
|
|
309,400 |
|
|
|
13,224,652 |
|
|
|
|
|
December 1 31, 2006
|
|
|
281,600 |
|
|
$ |
57.33 |
|
|
|
281,600 |
|
|
|
12,943,052 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total
|
|
|
896,500 |
|
|
$ |
55.74 |
|
|
|
896,500 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(1) |
In December 2004, the Companys Board of Directors
authorized a program to repurchase up to 20 million shares
of its outstanding common stock. Share repurchases under this
program commenced in June 2005. |
16
Item 6 Selected Financial Data
CONSOLIDATED SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA FIVE
YEARS
(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2006 |
|
2005 |
|
2004 |
|
2003 |
|
2002 |
|
|
|
Summary of Operations For the
Year Ended December 31
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net sales
|
|
$ |
1,850,911 |
|
|
$ |
1,851,885 |
|
|
$ |
1,838,238 |
|
|
$ |
1,731,862 |
|
|
$ |
1,674,403 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cost of products sold (includes
excise taxes)
|
|
|
466,088 |
|
|
|
443,131 |
|
|
|
412,641 |
|
|
|
384,487 |
|
|
|
358,931 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Selling, advertising and
administrative expenses
|
|
|
525,990 |
|
|
|
518,797 |
|
|
|
513,570 |
|
|
|
470,740 |
|
|
|
447,709 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Restructuring charges
|
|
|
21,997 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Antitrust litigation
|
|
|
2,025 |
|
|
|
11,762 |
|
|
|
(582 |
) |
|
|
280,000 |
|
|
|
1,260,510 |
|
|
|
|
|
Operating income (loss)
|
|
|
834,811 |
|
|
|
878,195 |
|
|
|
912,609 |
|
|
|
596,635 |
|
|
|
(392,747 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
Interest, net
|
|
|
41,785 |
|
|
|
50,578 |
|
|
|
75,019 |
|
|
|
76,905 |
|
|
|
46,146 |
|
|
|
|
|
Earnings (loss) from continuing
operations before income taxes
|
|
|
793,026 |
|
|
|
827,617 |
|
|
|
837,590 |
|
|
|
519,730 |
|
|
|
(438,893 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
Income tax expense (benefit)
|
|
|
291,060 |
|
|
|
293,349 |
|
|
|
299,538 |
|
|
|
197,681 |
|
|
|
(170,980 |
) |
|
|
|
|
Earnings (loss) from continuing
operations
|
|
|
501,966 |
|
|
|
534,268 |
|
|
|
538,052 |
|
|
|
322,049 |
|
|
|
(267,913 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
Income (loss) from discontinued
operations (including income tax effect)
|
|
|
3,890 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(7,215 |
) |
|
|
(3,260 |
) |
|
|
(3,556 |
) |
|
|
|
|
Net earnings (loss)
|
|
$ |
505,856 |
|
|
$ |
534,268 |
|
|
$ |
530,837 |
|
|
$ |
318,789 |
|
|
$ |
(271,469 |
) |
|
|
|
Per Share Data
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net earnings (loss) per basic share:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Earnings (loss) from continuing
operations
|
|
$ |
3.13 |
|
|
$ |
3.26 |
|
|
$ |
3.26 |
|
|
$ |
1.93 |
|
|
$ |
(1.59 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income (loss) from discontinued
operations
|
|
|
0.02 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(0.05 |
) |
|
|
(0.02 |
) |
|
|
(0.02 |
) |
|
|
|
|
Net earnings (loss) per basic share
|
|
|
3.15 |
|
|
|
3.26 |
|
|
|
3.21 |
|
|
|
1.91 |
|
|
|
(1.61 |
) |
|
|
|
|
Net earnings (loss) per diluted
share:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Earnings (loss) from continuing
operations
|
|
|
3.10 |
|
|
|
3.23 |
|
|
|
3.23 |
|
|
|
1.92 |
|
|
|
(1.59 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income (loss) from discontinued
operations
|
|
|
0.02 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
(0.04 |
) |
|
|
(0.02 |
) |
|
|
(0.02 |
) |
|
|
|
|
Net earnings (loss) per diluted
share
|
|
$ |
3.12 |
|
|
$ |
3.23 |
|
|
$ |
3.19 |
|
|
$ |
1.90 |
|
|
$ |
(1.61 |
) |
|
|
|
|
Dividends per share
|
|
$ |
2.28 |
|
|
$ |
2.20 |
|
|
$ |
2.08 |
|
|
$ |
2.00 |
|
|
$ |
1.92 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Market price per share:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
High
|
|
$ |
59.49 |
|
|
$ |
56.90 |
|
|
$ |
48.97 |
|
|
$ |
37.79 |
|
|
$ |
41.35 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Low
|
|
|
37.96 |
|
|
|
37.59 |
|
|
|
34.00 |
|
|
|
26.73 |
|
|
|
25.30 |
|
|
|
|
|
Financial Condition at
December 31
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash and cash equivalents
|
|
$ |
254,393 |
|
|
$ |
202,025 |
|
|
$ |
450,202 |
|
|
$ |
433,040 |
|
|
$ |
382,003 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Current assets
|
|
|
998,110 |
|
|
|
889,554 |
|
|
|
1,173,133 |
|
|
|
1,247,966 |
|
|
|
2,291,267 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Current liabilities
|
|
|
300,077 |
|
|
|
258,778 |
|
|
|
618,873 |
|
|
|
521,093 |
|
|
|
1,462,442 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Working capital
|
|
|
698,033 |
|
|
|
630,776 |
|
|
|
554,260 |
|
|
|
726,873 |
|
|
|
828,825 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Ratio of current assets to current
liabilities
|
|
|
3.3:1 |
|
|
|
3.4:1 |
|
|
|
1.9:1 |
|
|
|
2.4:1 |
|
|
|
1.6:1 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total assets
|
|
|
1,440,348 |
|
|
|
1,366,983 |
|
|
|
1,659,483 |
|
|
|
1,726,494 |
|
|
|
2,765,275 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Long-term debt
|
|
|
840,000 |
|
|
|
840,000 |
|
|
|
840,000 |
|
|
|
1,140,000 |
|
|
|
1,140,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total debt
|
|
|
840,000 |
|
|
|
840,000 |
|
|
|
1,140,000 |
|
|
|
1,140,000 |
|
|
|
1,140,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Stockholders equity (deficit)
|
|
|
65,826 |
|
|
|
75,098 |
|
|
|
9,565 |
|
|
|
(115,187 |
) |
|
|
(46,990 |
) |
|
|
|
|
Other Data
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Stock repurchased
|
|
$ |
200,003 |
|
|
$ |
200,038 |
|
|
$ |
200,031 |
|
|
$ |
150,095 |
|
|
$ |
50,262 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Dividends paid
|
|
$ |
367,499 |
|
|
$ |
361,208 |
|
|
$ |
344,128 |
|
|
$ |
322,986 |
|
|
$ |
324,233 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Dividends paid as a percentage of
net earnings
|
|
|
72.6 |
% |
|
|
67.6 |
% |
|
|
64.8 |
% |
|
|
104.5 |
% |
|
|
N/M |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Return on net sales
|
|
|
27.3 |
% |
|
|
28.8 |
% |
|
|
28.9 |
% |
|
|
18.4 |
% |
|
|
N/M |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Return on average assets
|
|
|
36.0 |
% |
|
|
35.3 |
% |
|
|
31.4 |
% |
|
|
14.2 |
% |
|
|
N/M |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Average number of shares (in
thousands) basic
|
|
|
160,772 |
|
|
|
163,949 |
|
|
|
165,164 |
|
|
|
166,572 |
|
|
|
168,786 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Average number of shares (in
thousands) diluted
|
|
|
162,280 |
|
|
|
165,497 |
|
|
|
166,622 |
|
|
|
167,376 |
|
|
|
168,786 |
|
N/ M: Not meaningful due to net loss.
See Managements Discussion and Analysis and Notes to
Consolidated Financial Statements.
17
Item 7 Managements Discussion and
Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
UST INC.
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
(MD&A)
The following discussion and analysis of the Companys
consolidated results of operations and financial condition
should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial
statements and notes thereto, included in Part II,
Item 8 of this
Form 10-K. In
MD&A, the Company makes forward-looking statements that
involve risks, uncertainties, and assumptions. Actual results
may differ materially from those anticipated in these
forward-looking statements as a result of various factors,
including, but not limited to, those presented under the
Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking
Information section presented at the end of MD&A. In
addition, the Company has presented certain risk factors
relevant to the Companys business in Item 1A in
Part I of this
Form 10-K.
Introduction
MD&A is provided as a supplement to the accompanying
consolidated financial statements and notes thereto, to assist
individuals in their review of such statements. MD&A has
been organized as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
OVERVIEW This section provides a general
description of the Companys overall business, a
description of the Companys business segments and a
high-level summary of the Companys consolidated financial
results for the most recently completed fiscal year. |
|
|
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS This section provides
an analysis of the Companys results of operations for the
three years ended December 31, 2006. This section is
organized using a layered approach, beginning with a discussion
of consolidated results at a summary level, followed by more
detailed discussions of business segment results and unallocated
corporate items, including interest and income taxes. |
|
|
OUTLOOK This section provides information
regarding the Companys current expectations, mainly with
regard to the next fiscal year. This section is organized to
provide information by business segment and on a consolidated
basis. |
|
|
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES This section
provides an analysis of the Companys financial condition,
including cash flows for the three years ended December 31,
2006, the Companys sources of liquidity, capital
expenditures, debt outstanding, share repurchase programs and
dividends paid on the Companys common stock and the
Companys aggregate contractual obligations as of
December 31, 2006. |
|
|
OFF-BALANCE SHEET ARRANGEMENTS This section
provides information regarding any off-balance sheet
arrangements that are material to the Companys results of
operations or financial condition. |
|
|
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES
This section discusses accounting policies that are considered
by the Company to be significant to the Companys financial
condition and results of operations, require significant
judgment and require estimates on the part of management in
application. |
|
|
NEW ACCOUNTING STANDARDS This section
provides information regarding any newly issued accounting
standards which have not yet been adopted by the Company. |
OVERVIEW
BUSINESS
UST Inc. is a holding company for its wholly-owned subsidiaries:
U.S. Smokeless Tobacco Company and International
Wine & Spirits Ltd. U.S. Smokeless Tobacco Company
is a leading manufacturer and marketer of moist smokeless
tobacco products including brands such as Copenhagen, Skoal, Red
Seal and Husky. International Wine & Spirits Ltd.,
through its Ste. Michelle Wine Estates subsidiary, produces
and markets premium wines sold nationally under labels such as
Chateau Ste. Michelle, Columbia Crest, Red Diamond,
14 Hands and Snoqualmie. In the third quarter of 2006,
through an acquisition, the Company added the Erath label to its
portfolio of premium wines. The Company also produces and
markets sparkling wine under the
18
Domaine Ste. Michelle label. In addition, the Company is
the exclusive United States importer and distributor of the
portfolio of wines produced by the Italian winemaker Antinori,
which includes such labels as Tignanello, Solaia, Tormaresca,
Montenisa and Haras de Pirque.
The Company conducts its business principally in the United
States, and its operations are divided primarily into two
segments: Smokeless Tobacco and Wine. The Companys
international smokeless tobacco operations, which are not
significant, are reported as All Other Operations.
SMOKELESS TOBACCO SEGMENT
Category Growth
The Companys primary objective in the Smokeless Tobacco
segment is to continue to grow the moist smokeless tobacco
category by building awareness and social acceptability of
smokeless tobacco products among adults, with a secondary
objective of being competitive in every segment of the moist
smokeless tobacco category. Over the past several years,
industry trends have shown that some adult consumers have
migrated from premium brands to brands in the price-value and
sub-price-value segments. As such, a key to the Companys
future growth and profitability is attracting growing numbers of
adult consumers, primarily smokers, to the smokeless tobacco
category, as approximately every one percent of adult smokers
who convert to moist smokeless tobacco represents a
7 percent to 8 percent increase in the categorys
adult consumer base, and consumer research indicates that the
majority of new adult consumers enter the category in the
premium segment.
In addition to advertising initiatives focused on category
growth, the Company has utilized its direct mail marketing
program to promote the discreetness and convenience of smokeless
tobacco relative to cigarettes to over four million adult
smokers. The direct mail program, which the Company believes has
been successful over the past two years, continued during 2006
and the Company intends to continue the program in 2007. Also
crucial to the success of the Smokeless Tobacco segments
category growth initiatives is product innovation, as evidenced
by the contribution that new products have made to the Smokeless
Tobacco segments results over the past several years.
Premium Brand Loyalty
While category growth remains the Companys priority, it
has significantly increased its focus on efforts to increase
adult consumer loyalty within the premium segment of the moist
smokeless tobacco category. In connection with these efforts,
during 2006 the Company implemented a plan under which it
incurred significant incremental spending to stabilize premium
net unit volume by strengthening premium brand loyalty. The
premium brand loyalty plan is designed to deliver value to adult
consumers through promotional spending and other price-focused
initiatives implemented on a state-by-state basis. Based on
sequential trend improvements in net unit volume for premium
products throughout 2006, the Company believes the premium brand
loyalty efforts have proven successful and, therefore, intends
to build upon this success by increasing spending above 2006
levels on such initiatives during 2007, with the goal of growing
underlying premium net unit volume approximately one percent in
2007.
WINE SEGMENT
The Companys focus in the Wine segment is to become one of
the premier fine wine companies of the world, to elevate
Washington state wines to the quality and prestige of the top
regions of the world, and to be known for superior products,
innovation and customer focus. In order to achieve these goals,
attention is directed towards traditional style wines in the
super premium to luxury-priced categories. Achievements in 2006
were well aligned with these goals. According to ACNielsen, in
2006, the Companys wines comprised 6.2 percent of
total domestic 750ml units; in 2005, such share was
5.9 percent. The alliance with Antinori, to become its
exclusive United States importer and distributor, and the
purchase of the Erath label and winery broadened the Wine
segments position with respect to the two key wine regions
represented by Antinori and Erath. The addition of the Italian
wines positions the Wine segment as a leader in
U.S. distribution of Tuscan wines, while the addition of
Erath establishes the Companys Wine segment as one of the
largest producers of Oregon Pinot Noir. The Company continued to
be the category leader for Riesling; comprising 30 percent
of the
19
Managements Discussion and Analysis
(Continued)
market based on ACNielsen data. Overall, the Wine segment
maintained its strong leadership position in Washington state.
Recent ACNielsen wine industry data indicate that full-year 2006
case volume for the Companys wines grew approximately
17 percent compared to 2005, outpacing industry-wide
domestic case volume growth for 750ml varietals of approximately
13 percent during the same period, reflecting expanded
distribution of the Companys wines. The Company remains
focused on the continued expansion of its sales force and
category management staff to further broaden the distribution of
its wines in the domestic market, especially in certain account
categories such as restaurants, wholesale chains and mass
merchandisers. Sustained growth in the Wine segment will also be
dependent on third party acclaim and ongoing category growth.
CONSOLIDATED
The Companys results for 2006, while lower than 2005,
reflected the impact of the strategic initiatives undertaken in
2006. Net sales and net earnings declined in 2006, tracing to
the previously announced incremental costs incurred in the
Smokeless Tobacco segment to stabilize premium net unit volume
by strengthening premium brand loyalty and on additional
category growth initiatives. These efforts produced the desired
effect, as premium net unit volume for moist smokeless tobacco
products stabilized for the full year in 2006, as compared to
the prior year, and increased 1.7 percent during the fourth
quarter of 2006, as compared to the comparative prior year
period. In addition, during the third quarter of 2006, the
Company commenced implementation of a cost-reduction initiative
called Project Momentum, with targeted savings of at
least $100 million over its first three years. Results for
2006 also reflect the impact of restructuring charges incurred
in connection with Project Momentum. The Company believes that
such an effort is prudent from a long-term growth perspective,
as it is designed to provide additional financial flexibility in
the increasingly competitive smokeless tobacco category. Results
for 2006 were favorably impacted by the performance of the Wine
segment, which once again had record net sales and operating
profit. The results of 2006 also reflected increased net sales
and operating income from All Other Operations.
Discussion of the Companys plans and initiatives in the
Smokeless Tobacco and Wine segments is included in the
Outlook section of MD&A.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
(In thousands, except per share amounts or where otherwise noted)
CONSOLIDATED RESULTS
2006 compared with 2005
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Year Ended |
|
Increase/ |
|
|
December 31, |
|
(Decrease) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2006 |
|
2005 |
|
Amount |
|
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net sales
|
|
$ |
1,850,911 |
|
|
$ |
1,851,885 |
|
|
$ |
(974 |
) |
|
|
(0.1 |
) |
|
|
|
|
Net earnings
|
|
|
505,856 |
|
|
|
534,268 |
|
|
|
(28,412 |
) |
|
|
(5.3 |
) |
|
|
|
|
Basic earnings per share
|
|
|
3.15 |
|
|
|
3.26 |
|
|
|
(0.11 |
) |
|
|
(3.4 |
) |
|
|
|
|
Diluted earnings per share
|
|
|
3.12 |
|
|
|
3.23 |
|
|
|
(0.11 |
) |
|
|
(3.4 |
) |
Net Earnings
Consolidated net earnings decreased in 2006, as compared to
2005, as a result of lower operating income, partially offset by
lower net interest and income tax expenses, as well as income
from discontinued operations. The Company reported operating
income of $834.8 million for 2006, representing
45.1 percent of consoli-
20
dated net sales, compared to operating income of
$878.2 million, or 47.4 percent of consolidated net
sales, in 2005. The decrease in operating income was primarily
due to the following:
|
|
|
|
|
Lower net revenue realization per premium unit in the Smokeless
Tobacco segment; |
|
|
Increased costs of products sold in the Wine segment, mainly
related to increased case volume; |
|
|
The impact of $22 million in restructuring charges incurred
in connection with Project Momentum (see Restructuring
Charges section below), which adversely impacted the
operating margin percentage by approximately 1.2 percentage
points; and, |
|
|
Increased selling, advertising and administrative
(SA&A) expenses. |
These factors were partially offset by:
|
|
|
|
|
Increased case and net can volume in the Wine and Smokeless
Tobacco segments, respectively; |
|
|
Cost savings realized in connection with Project Momentum, along
with the intended ancillary benefit derived from an enhanced
focus on cost containment in other areas; and, |
|
|
Lower charges related to certain states indirect purchaser
antitrust actions. |
Net earnings for 2006 included after-tax income of
$3.9 million from discontinued operations, which resulted
from the reversal of an accrual for an income tax-related
contingency originally recorded in connection with the June 2004
transfer of the Companys former cigar operations to a
smokeless tobacco competitor. This reversal resulted from a
change in facts and circumstances, as the income tax
consequences of the Companys anticipated sale of its
corporate headquarters in connection with Project Momentum have
eliminated the need for the aforementioned contingency.
Basic and diluted earnings per share for 2006 were $3.15 and
$3.12, respectively, a decrease of 3.4 percent for each
measure as compared to the corresponding comparative measures in
2005. Average basic shares outstanding were lower in 2006 than
in 2005 primarily as a result of share repurchases, partially
offset by the exercise of stock options. Average diluted shares
outstanding in 2006 were lower than those in 2005 due to the
impact of share repurchases and a lower level of dilutive
outstanding options, partially offset by the impact of a higher
average stock price in 2006, as compared to 2005, which has the
effect of increasing diluted shares outstanding.
Net Sales
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Year Ended |
|
Increase/ |
|
|
December 31, |
|
(Decrease) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2006 |
|
2005 |
|
Amount |
|
% |
|
|
|
|
|
Net Sales by Segment:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Smokeless Tobacco
|
|
$ |
1,522,686 |
|
|
$ |
1,561,667 |
|
|
$ |
(38,981 |
) |
|
|
(2.5 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
Wine
|
|
|
282,403 |
|
|
|
248,342 |
|
|
|
34,061 |
|
|
|
13.7 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
All Other Operations
|
|
|
45,822 |
|
|
|
41,876 |
|
|
|
3,946 |
|
|
|
9.4 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Consolidated Net Sales
|
|
$ |
1,850,911 |
|
|
$ |
1,851,885 |
|
|
$ |
(974 |
) |
|
|
(0.1 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
For the year ended December 31, 2006, consolidated net
sales of $1.851 billion were effectively level with those
in 2005 reflecting the following:
|
|
|
|
|
Lower net revenue realization per premium unit in the Smokeless
Tobacco segment in connection with the implementation of the
Companys premium brand loyalty initiatives; |
|
|
Increased net unit volume for moist smokeless tobacco products,
including a slight increase in premium net unit volume; |
|
|
Improved case volume for premium wine; and, |
|
|
Increased international sales of moist smokeless tobacco
products. |
21
Managements Discussion and Analysis
(Continued)
Segment Net Sales as a Percentage of Consolidated Net
Sales
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2006
|
|
2005
|
Gross Margin
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Year Ended |
|
Increase/ |
|
|
December 31, |
|
(Decrease) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2006 |
|
2005 |
|
Amount |
|
% |
|
|
|
|
|
Gross Margin by
Segment:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Smokeless Tobacco
|
|
$ |
1,256,156 |
|
|
$ |
1,289,212 |
|
|
$ |
(33,056 |
) |
|
|
(2.6 |
) |
|
|
|
|
Wine
|
|
|
99,418 |
|
|
|
92,618 |
|
|
|
6,800 |
|
|
|
7.3 |
|
|
|
|
|
All Other Operations
|
|
|
29,249 |
|
|
|
26,924 |
|
|
|
2,325 |
|
|
|
8.6 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Consolidated Gross Margin
|
|
$ |
1,384,823 |
|
|
$ |
1,408,754 |
|
|
$ |
(23,931 |
) |
|
|
(1.7 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The consolidated gross margin decline, as compared to the prior
year, was primarily due to lower net sales in the Smokeless
Tobacco segment and higher cost of products sold for the Wine
segment and All Other Operations, partially offset by higher
Wine segment and All Other Operations net sales.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Year Ended |
|
|
|
|
December 31, |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Increase/ |
|
|
2006 |
|
2005 |
|
(Decrease) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Gross Margin as a % of Net Sales
by Segment:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Smokeless Tobacco
|
|
|
82.5% |
|
|
|
82.6% |
|
|
|
(0.1 |
) |
|
|
|
|
Wine
|
|
|
35.2% |
|
|
|
37.3% |
|
|
|
(2.1 |
) |
|
|
|
|
All Other Operations
|
|
|
63.8% |
|
|
|
64.3% |
|
|
|
(0.5 |
) |
|
|
|
|
Consolidated
|
|
|
74.8% |
|
|
|
76.1% |
|
|
|
(1.3 |
) |
The decline in the consolidated gross margin, as a percentage of
net sales, was mainly due to the following:
|
|
|
|
|
Higher case volume for wine, which sells at lower margins than
moist smokeless tobacco products; and |
|
|
Lower net revenue realization per premium unit in the Smokeless
Tobacco segment. |
Partially offset by:
|
|
|
|
|
Lower unit costs in the Smokeless Tobacco segment. |
Restructuring Charges
The Company recognized $22 million in restructuring charges
during 2006 in connection with the implementation of Project
Momentum, the Companys previously announced cost-reduction
initiative. The initiative is designed to create additional
resources for growth via operational productivity and efficiency
enhancements. The Company believes that such an effort is
prudent as it is designed to provide additional flexibility in
the increasingly competitive smokeless tobacco category. The
following table provides a summary of restructuring
22
charges incurred to date, as well as the total amount of charges
expected to be incurred, related to the aforementioned
$100 million in savings, in connection with Project
Momentum for each major type of cost associated with the
initiative:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Restructuring |
|
|
|
|
Charges Incurred |
|
Total Charges |
|
|
Year Ended |
|
Expected to be |
|
|
December 31, 2006 |
|
Incurred(1) |
|
|
|
One-time termination benefits
|
|
$ |
15,625 |
|
|
$ |
16,000 - $17,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
Contract termination costs
|
|
|
390 |
|
|
|
400 - 500 |
|
|
|
|
|
Other restructuring costs
|
|
|
5,982 |
|
|
|
11,000 - 12,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total
|
|
$ |
21,997 |
|
|
$ |
27,400 - $29,500 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(1) |
|
The total cost of one-time termination benefits expected to be
incurred under Project Momentum reflects the initiatives
overall anticipated elimination of approximately 10 percent
of the Companys salaried, full-time non-union positions
across various functions and operations, primarily at the
Companys corporate headquarters. The majority of the total
one-time termination benefit costs expected to be incurred were
recognized in 2006, with the remainder to be recognized in 2007.
The majority of total contract termination costs expected to be
incurred were recognized in 2006, with the remainder anticipated
to be recognized in 2007. Approximately half of the total other
restructuring charges expected to be incurred were recognized in
2006, with the remainder expected to be recognized in 2007. The
estimate of total restructuring charges expected to be incurred
reflects an increase of $5 million from the estimate
previously provided in the Companys
Form 10-Q for the
quarterly period ended September 30, 2006. The increase
relates to higher anticipated charges for professional fees
directly related to the implementation of Project Momentum.
While the Company believes that its estimates of total
restructuring charges expected to be incurred are appropriate
and reasonable based upon the information available, actual
results could differ from such estimates. Total restructuring
charges expected to be incurred currently represent the
Companys best estimates of the ranges of such charges;
although there may be additional charges recognized as
additional actions are identified and finalized. |
One-time termination benefits relate to severance-related costs
and outplacement services for employees terminated in connection
with Project Momentum, as well as enhanced retirement benefits
for qualified individuals. Contract termination costs relate to
charges for the termination of operating leases incurred in
conjunction with the consolidation and relocation of facilities.
Other restructuring costs are mainly comprised of other costs
directly related to the implementation of Project Momentum,
primarily professional fees. All of the restructuring charges
expected to be incurred will result in cash expenditures,
although approximately $4 million of such charges relate to
pension enhancements offered to applicable employees, all of
which will be paid directly from the respective pension
plans assets. As of December 31, 2006, the liability
balance associated with restructuring charges amounted to
$4.6 million. Refer to Part II, Item 8,
Financial Statements and Supplementary Data
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 20, Restructuring, for further information
regarding accrued restructuring charges.
2005 compared with 2004
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Year Ended |
|
Increase/ |
|
|
December 31, |
|
(Decrease) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2005 |
|
2004 |
|
Amount |
|
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net sales
|
|
$ |
1,851,885 |
|
|
$ |
1,838,238 |
|
|
$ |
13,647 |
|
|
|
0.7 |
|
|
|
|
|
Net earnings
|
|
|
534,268 |
|
|
|
530,837 |
|
|
|
3,431 |
|
|
|
0.6 |
|
|
|
|
|
Basic earnings per share
|
|
|
3.26 |
|
|
|
3.21 |
|
|
|
0.05 |
|
|
|
1.6 |
|
|
|
|
|
Diluted earnings per share
|
|
|
3.23 |
|
|
|
3.19 |
|
|
|
0.04 |
|
|
|
1.3 |
|
Net Earnings
Consolidated net earnings increased in 2005, as compared to
2004, as a result of lower net interest expense and income tax
expense and the absence of the 2004 net loss from
discontinued operations associated with
23
Managements Discussion and Analysis
(Continued)
the transfer of the Companys cigar operations to a
smokeless tobacco competitor, partially offset by lower
operating income. The Company reported operating income of
$878.2 million for 2005, representing 47.4 percent of
consolidated net sales, compared to operating income of
$912.6 million, or 49.6 percent of consolidated net
sales, in 2004. The decrease in operating income was primarily
due to the following:
|
|
|
|
|
Higher costs of products sold; |
|
|
Higher SA&A expenses; and, |
|
|
The impact of an $11.8 million net pre-tax charge recorded
in connection with the settlement of certain states
indirect purchaser antitrust actions that were for amounts in
excess of those previously reserved. |
Partially offset by:
|
|
|
|
|
Increased net sales, as detailed below. |
Net earnings for 2005 benefited from the absence of an after-tax
loss of $7.2 million from discontinued operations
recognized in 2004, related to the results of the Companys
former cigar operation, which was transferred to a smokeless
tobacco competitor in June 2004, in connection with the
agreement to resolve an antitrust action. The 2004 results from
discontinued operations include a loss from the cigar operation
and the recognition of expenses, including a $3.9 million
accrual for an income tax contingency.
Basic and diluted earnings per share for 2005 increased
1.6 percent and 1.3 percent, respectively, from the
corresponding comparative measures in 2004. Average basic shares
outstanding were lower in 2005 than those in 2004 primarily as a
result of share repurchases in late 2004, partially offset by
the exercise of stock options. Average diluted shares
outstanding in 2005 were lower than those in 2004 due to the
impact of the share repurchases and a lower level of dilutive
options outstanding in 2005.
Net Sales
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Year Ended |
|
Increase/ |
|
|
December 31, |
|
(Decrease) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2005 |
|
2004 |
|
Amount |
|
% |
|
|
|
|
|
Net Sales by Segment:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Smokeless Tobacco
|
|
$ |
1,561,667 |
|
|
$ |
1,575,254 |
|
|
$ |
(13,587 |
) |
|
|
(0.9 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
Wine
|
|
|
248,342 |
|
|
|
226,650 |
|
|
|
21,692 |
|
|
|
9.6 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
All Other Operations
|
|
|
41,876 |
|
|
|
36,334 |
|
|
|
5,542 |
|
|
|
15.3 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Consolidated Net Sales
|
|
$ |
1,851,885 |
|
|
$ |
1,838,238 |
|
|
$ |
13,647 |
|
|
|
0.7 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
For the year ended December 31, 2005, consolidated net
sales of $1.852 billion were higher than 2004, reflecting
the following:
|
|
|
|
|
Higher selling prices for moist smokeless tobacco products; |
|
|
Improved case volume for premium wine; and, |
|
|
Increased international sales of moist smokeless tobacco
products. |
Partially offset by:
|
|
|
|
|
Lower net unit volume for moist smokeless tobacco products; and, |
|
|
An unfavorable shift in overall product mix for moist smokeless
tobacco products. |
24
Segment Net Sales as a Percentage of Consolidated Net
Sales
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2005
|
|
2004
|
Gross Margin
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Year Ended |
|
Increase/ |
|
|
December 31, |
|
(Decrease) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2005 |
|
2004 |
|
Amount |
|
% |
|
|
|
|
|
Gross Margin by
Segment:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Smokeless Tobacco
|
|
$ |
1,289,212 |
|
|
$ |
1,317,365 |
|
|
$ |
(28,153 |
) |
|
|
(2.1 |
) |
|
|
|
|
Wine
|
|
|
92,618 |
|
|
|
85,913 |
|
|
|
6,705 |
|
|
|
7.8 |
|
|
|
|
|
All Other Operations
|
|
|
26,924 |
|
|
|
22,319 |
|
|
|
4,605 |
|
|
|
20.6 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Consolidated Gross Margin
|
|
$ |
1,408,754 |
|
|
$ |
1,425,597 |
|
|
$ |
(16,843 |
) |
|
|
(1.2 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The consolidated gross margin decrease, as compared to the
corresponding 2004 period, was primarily due to lower net unit
volume, including an unfavorable change in overall product mix,
and higher unit costs for moist smokeless tobacco products in
the Smokeless Tobacco segment, partially offset by higher moist
smokeless tobacco selling prices, higher Wine segment net sales
and improved net sales in All Other Operations.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Year Ended |
|
|
|
|
December 31, |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2005 |
|
2004 |
|
Increase/ |
|
|
|
|
(Decease) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Gross Margin as a % of Net Sales
by Segment:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Smokeless Tobacco
|
|
|
82.6% |
|
|
|
83.6% |
|
|
|
(1.0 |
) |
|
|
|
|
Wine
|
|
|
37.3% |
|
|
|
37.9% |
|
|
|
(0.6 |
) |
|
|
|
|
All Other Operations
|
|
|
64.3% |
|
|
|
61.4% |
|
|
|
2.9 |
|
|
|
|
|
Consolidated
|
|
|
76.1% |
|
|
|
77.6% |
|
|
|
(1.5 |
) |
The decline in consolidated gross margin, as a percentage of net
sales, was mainly due to the following:
|
|
|
|
|
Higher unit costs and the negative shift in overall product mix
for moist smokeless tobacco; and, |
|
|
Higher case volume for wine, which sells at lower margins than
moist smokeless tobacco products. |
Partially offset by:
|
|
|
|
|
Higher selling prices for moist smokeless tobacco products. |
SMOKELESS TOBACCO SEGMENT
2006 compared with 2005
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Year Ended |
|
Increase/ |
|
|
December 31, |
|
(Decrease) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2006 |
|
2005 |
|
Amount |
|
% |
|
|
|
|
|
Net sales
|
|
$ |
1,522,686 |
|
|
$ |
1,561,667 |
|
|
$ |
(38,981 |
) |
|
|
(2.5 |
) |
|
|
|
|
Restructuring charges
|
|
|
19,542 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
19,542 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Antitrust litigation
|
|
|
2,025 |
|
|
|
11,762 |
|
|
|
(9,737 |
) |
|
|
(82.8 |
) |
|
|
|
|
Operating profit
|
|
|
805,130 |
|
|
|
852,478 |
|
|
|
(47,348 |
) |
|
|
(5.6 |
) |
25
Managements Discussion and Analysis
(Continued)
Net Sales
Net sales for the Smokeless Tobacco segment decreased in 2006,
as compared to 2005, primarily due to the effects of the
Companys premium brand loyalty initiative, which began in
the first quarter of 2006. The Company believes that costs
incurred in connection with this initiative, inclusive of
adjustments from its originally announced spending under the
initiative, such as increased spending, reallocations of
spending and changes in price-based incentives, have been
effectively utilized to increase the focus in states that were
experiencing premium volume deterioration at, and subsequent to,
the plans inception. Overall, the costs incurred under
this initiative produced the desired effect of stabilizing
premium net unit volume, which increased slightly by
0.1 percent in 2006, as compared to the prior year. The
segments net sales declined despite an increase in
premium, as well as overall, net unit volume for moist smokeless
tobacco products, as a result of lower net revenue realization
per premium unit, reflecting the aforementioned impact of the
premium brand loyalty initiative, due to the following:
|
|
|
|
|
An unfavorable shift in product mix, with lower net unit volume
for straight stock premium products more than offset by an
increase in net unit volume for value pack premium products; and, |
|
|
Increased sales incentive costs, primarily retail buydowns. |
Partially offset by:
|
|
|
|
|
Higher wholesale list selling prices. |
Also contributing to the decline in net sales, despite higher
overall net unit volume for moist smokeless tobacco products,
was a shift in product mix from premium to price-value products.
This shift reflected an increase in net sales of price-value
products, which accounted for 8.1 percent of total
Smokeless Tobacco segment net sales in 2006, as compared to
7.4 percent in 2005.
Percentage of Smokeless Tobacco Segment Net Sales by
Product Category
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2006
|
|
2005
|
|
|
* |
Moist smokeless tobacco products |
** |
Includes dry snuff and tobacco seeds |
Net sales results for both premium and price-value products
include net can sales for standard products, which consist of
straight stock, and pre-pack promotional products. Premium
standard products also include value pack products. Straight
stock refers to single cans sold at wholesale list prices. Value
packs, which were introduced to more effectively compete for and
retain value-conscious adult consumers, are premium two-can
packages sold year-round reflecting lower per-can wholesale list
prices than wholesale list prices for straight stock single-can
premium products. Pre-pack promotions refer to those products
that are bundled and packaged in connection with a specific
promotional pricing initiative for a limited period of time.
26
MSTP Net Unit Volume
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Year Ended |
|
Increase/ |
|
|
December 31, |
|
(Decrease) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2006 |
|
2005 |
|
Amount |
|
% |
|
|
|
|
|
Net Unit Volume (millions of
cans):
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Premium
|
|
|
541.4 |
|
|
|
541.0 |
|
|
|
0.4 |
|
|
|
0.1 |
|
|
|
|
|
Price-Value
|
|
|
91.3 |
|
|
|
84.4 |
|
|
|
6.9 |
|
|
|
8.2 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total
|
|
|
632.7 |
|
|
|
625.4 |
|
|
|
7.3 |
|
|
|
1.2 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Percentage of Total Moist Smokeless Tobacco Products Net
Unit Volume by Category Segment
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2006
|
|
2005
|
Overall net unit volume for moist smokeless tobacco products
increased 1.2 percent in 2006, as compared to prior year
net unit volume, driven mainly by price-value products. Net unit
volume for premium products increased by 0.1 percent in
2006, which was slightly ahead of the Companys stated goal
of being stable as compared to corresponding 2005 levels by the
second half of 2006. During the fourth quarter of 2006, net unit
volume for premium products and price-value products increased
1.7 percent to 134 million cans and 7.8 percent
to 23.4 million cans, respectively, as compared to the
corresponding 2005 period, with an increase in overall net unit
volume for moist smokeless tobacco products of 2.5 percent
to 157.4 million cans. The premium net unit volume growth
of 1.7 percent in the fourth quarter of 2006 continues to
reflect a sequential improvement in premium net unit volume
trends, indicative of the Companys increased focus on
category growth and premium brand loyalty throughout the year,
and represents the strongest quarterly premium volume growth
recorded since 1997.
As previously reported, the Company estimates that approximately
3.7 million premium cans were shifted from the first
quarter of 2005 to the fourth quarter of 2004 as some wholesale
and retail customers increased inventories in advance of the
January 1, 2005 price increase for premium products. The
following graph illustrates the sequential improvement during
the last five quarters, as adjusted, beginning with the fourth
quarter of 2005 which was the quarter immediately preceding the
implementation of the Companys premium brand loyalty
initiative:
Premium Net Unit Volume % Change from Prior Year Period
|
|
* |
Adjusted for 3.7 million can shift |
27
Managements Discussion and Analysis
(Continued)
The Company is encouraged by this continued trend improvement in
net unit volume for premium products, with a return to quarterly
year-over-year net unit volume growth beginning in the third
quarter of 2006, resulting in full year net unit volume growth
for premium products. The Company believes this improvement in
premium net unit volume performance is attributable to the
following factors:
|
|
|
|
|
Implementation of the Companys premium brand loyalty
initiative, which was adjusted throughout the year as deemed
necessary, and has narrowed the price gaps between premium and
price-value products on a state-by-state basis, varying in
degree; |
|
|
|
Continued spending on category growth initiatives; and, |
|
|
|
The impact of lower gasoline prices on consumers
disposable income, particularly during the fourth quarter of
2006, as compared to the prior year. |
Net unit volume for price-value products includes Red Seal, the
Companys traditional price-value product, and Husky, the
Companys sub-price-value product. Full year 2006 net
unit volume for Red Seal decreased slightly, as compared to the
prior year, although fourth quarter 2006 net unit volume
stabilized as compared to the prior year, reflecting the impact
of increased sales incentives. Net unit volume for Husky
increased for both the full year and fourth quarter of 2006, as
compared to the corresponding prior year periods.
The Company remains committed to the development of new products
and packaging that cover both core product launches and other
possible innovations. Net can sales for 2006 included
approximately 74.3 million cans of new products launched
within the last three years, representing 11.7 percent of
the Companys total moist smokeless tobacco net unit volume
for the period. These new products included:
|
|
|
|
|
Three varieties of Skoal Long Cut |
|
|
Three varieties of Skoal Pouches |
|
|
Skoal Bandits (new and improved)* |
|
|
Copenhagen Long Cut Straight* |
|
|
Two varieties of Red Seal Long Cut |
|
|
Two varieties of Husky Fine Cut |
|
|
Various varieties of Husky Long Cut |
|
|
|
|
* |
Product introduced during 2006. |
In connection with the Companys objective to grow the
moist smokeless tobacco category by building awareness and
social acceptability of smokeless tobacco products among adult
consumers, primarily smokers, the Companys premium pouch
products have demonstrated continued growth. Net unit volume for
the aforementioned Skoal Pouches, combined with Copenhagen
Pouches, increased 28 percent in 2006, compared to 2005,
and increased 32.4 percent in the fourth quarter of 2006,
as compared to the corresponding prior year period. In order to
build upon this pouch strategy, the Company introduced new and
improved Skoal Bandits moist smokeless tobacco pouches in the
third quarter of 2006. New and improved Skoal Bandits provide a
compact pouch, which is designed to be more comfortable in the
mouth than original Skoal Bandits and easier to use by adult
consumers. The combined portion pack business, which includes
Copenhagen and Skoal Pouches, as well as Skoal Bandits,
increased 20.6 percent and 20.7 percent in 2006 and
the fourth quarter, respectively, as compared to the
corresponding prior year periods. In 2006, portion packs
represented 8.5 percent of the Companys premium net
unit volume.
The Company began test marketing a new product, Skoal Dry, in
two markets in July 2006. In keeping with the objective to
improve smokeless tobaccos social acceptability, this
product, also aimed at converting adult smokers, is designed to
be spit-free.
The following provides information from the Companys
Retail Account Data Share & Volume Tracking System
(RAD-SVT), as provided by Management Science Associates, Inc.,
which measures shipments from wholesale to retail. This
information, for the
26-week period ending
December 23, 2006, reflects a significant trend
improvement, as compared to the RAD-SVT data presented in the
2005 compared with 2004 section
28
contained herein. The Company believes that this improvement
reflects the impact of the full implementation of its premium
brand loyalty initiative during 2006.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Percentage Point |
|
|
Can-Volume % |
|
|
|
|
Increase/(Decrease) |
|
|
Change from Prior |
|
|
% |
|
from Prior Year |
|
|
Year Period |
|
|
Share |
|
Period |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Category Data:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Moist Smokeless Category
|
|
|
8.1 |
% |
|
|
|
N/A |
|
|
|
N/A |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Premium Segment
|
|
|
1.7 |
% |
|
|
|
56.9 |
%* |
|
|
(3.6 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
Total Value Segments
|
|
|
17.9 |
% |
|
|
|
43.0 |
%* |
|
|
3.6 |
|
|
|
|
|
Company Data:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Moist Smokeless Category
|
|
|
3.1 |
% |
|
|
|
61.2 |
% |
|
|
(3.0 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
Total Premium Segment
|
|
|
2.3 |
% |
|
|
|
90.5 |
% |
|
|
0.5 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Value Segments
|
|
|
7.5 |
% |
|
|
|
22.6 |
% |
|
|
(2.2 |
) |
|
|
* |
Amounts reported do not add to 100 percent, as this table
does not reflect the herbal segment of the total moist smokeless
category. |
When applying retail pricing data from ACNielsen to the
26-week periods
RAD-SVT shipment data, moist smokeless tobacco category revenues
grew 5.6 percent in 2006 over the comparable 2005 period.
The Companys revenue share over that same period was
73.9 percent, down 2.1 percentage points from the
corresponding 2005 period. Moist smokeless tobacco category
revenue growth was below unit volume growth primarily due to the
Companys implementation of its price-focused premium brand
loyalty initiative and the faster growth of the price-value
segment.
As disclosed in the Companys 2005
Form 10-K, the
aforementioned premium brand loyalty initiative is being
executed on a state-by-state basis, with varying levels of
spending based upon a states designation as a focus,
emerging concern or premium growth state. During the planning
period, focus states were characterized by relatively low per
capita income and higher price-value consumption and represented
the majority of the Companys premium unit volume losses in
2005. Emerging concern states were defined as those in which the
Companys premium unit volume declines were more moderate,
and premium growth states were those in which the Companys
premium unit volumes were increasing.
As discussed in the Companys
Form 10-Q for the
quarterly period ended March 31, 2006, there was a shift
among certain states originally identified as emerging concern
states, as the underlying premium net unit volume results
subsequent to the planning stages deteriorated causing some
states originally identified as emerging concern states to shift
to focus states. As a result, the Company made what it believes
were appropriate adjustments to its plans, including increased
spending, reallocations of spending and changes in pricing
incentives.
The Company believes that due to these subsequent plan
adjustments, a useful measurement of the Companys premium
brand loyalty initiative is the number of states for which
premium net unit volume is growing. According to RAD-SVT data
utilized during the planning stages, premium net unit volume was
growing in 20 states, representing approximately
25 percent of the Companys overall premium net unit
volume. During the most recent
26-week period ended
December 23, 2006, these statistics improved to
35 states for which premium net unit volume was growing,
representing approximately 73.4 percent of the
Companys overall premium net unit volume.
RAD-SVT information is provided as an indication of current
domestic moist smokeless tobacco trends from wholesale to retail
and is not intended as a basis for measuring the Companys
financial performance. This information can vary significantly
from the Companys actual results due to the fact that the
Company reports net shipments to wholesale, while RAD-SVT
measures shipments from wholesale to retail. In addition,
differences in the time periods measured, as well as differences
as a result of new product introductions and promotions, affect
comparisons of the Companys actual results to those from
RAD-SVT. The Company believes the difference in trend between
RAD-SVT and its own net shipments is due to such factors.
Furthermore, Management Science Associates, Inc. periodically
reviews and adjusts RAD-SVT information, in
29
Managements Discussion and Analysis
(Continued)
order to improve the overall accuracy of the information for
comparative and analytical purposes, by incorporating
refinements to the extrapolation methodology used to project
data from a statistically representative sample. Adjustments are
typically made for static store counts and new reporting
customers.
The Company is currently in the process of reviewing preliminary
2006 and 2005 RAD-SVT adjustments provided by Management Science
Associates, Inc. While these adjustments are not expected to be
material to the Companys outlook, some revisions to
previously reported RAD-SVT results are expected and will be
provided when the Company reports its first quarter 2007 results.
Cost of Products Sold
Cost of products sold decreased 2.2 percent in 2006,
compared to 2005, as the impact of lower unit costs was
partially offset by overall increased net unit volume for moist
smokeless tobacco products. In addition, the cost of products
sold comparison was favorably impacted by impairment charges,
recorded in 2005, related to certain manufacturing equipment,
lower charges recorded in connection with the tobacco quota
buyout legislation, and lower charges for inventory
obsolescence. The decreased moist smokeless tobacco unit costs
were primarily due to lower leaf tobacco and other costs,
partially offset by higher labor and overhead.
Gross Margin
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Year Ended |
|
Increase/ |
|
|
December 31, |
|
(Decrease) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2006 |
|
2005 |
|
Amount |
|
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Gross Margin
|
|
$ |
1,256,156 |
|
|
$ |
1,289,212 |
|
|
$ |
(33,056 |
) |
|
|
(2.6 |
) |
|
|
|
|
Gross Margin as a % of Net Sales
|
|
|
82.5 |
% |
|
|
82.6 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Gross margin decreased 2.6 percent in 2006 compared to
2005, primarily as a result of the aforementioned decrease in
net sales, partially offset by lower costs of products sold. The
gross margin, as a percentage of net sales, was relatively flat
year-over-year, as the aforementioned decrease in net sales was
largely offset by the positive impact of the lower costs of
products sold.
SA&A Expenses
SA&A expenses increased 1.1 percent in 2006 to
$429.5 million, compared to $425 million in 2005,
reflecting the following:
|
|
|
|
|
Higher expenses related to direct marketing, print advertising
and one-on-one
marketing efforts, the majority of which related to the
Companys category growth and premium brand loyalty
initiatives; |
|
|
Increased spending on market research to support premium brand
loyalty initiatives and product innovation; |
|
|
Higher legal and government relations expenses, as well as
increased other professional fees; |
|
|
Higher share-based compensation expense; |
|
|
Costs incurred in connection with efforts to defeat ballot
initiatives, primarily a November 2006 ballot initiative in
California; |
|
|
Absence of the recovery of amounts due in connection with a
bankrupt smokeless tobacco customer, which had a favorable
impact in 2005; and, |
|
|
Absence of the gain recognized in 2005 from the sale of the
Companys corporate aircraft. |
These increases were significantly offset by:
|
|
|
|
|
Lower salaries and related costs associated with certain
positions eliminated in the restructuring under Project Momentum; |
|
|
Lower costs associated with retail shelving systems used to
promote the moist smokeless tobacco categorys products, as
the prior year included charges related to a physical inventory
of previously installed units; |
|
|
Funds received with respect to litigation relating to the proper
other tobacco products excise tax base; |
|
|
Lower costs related to trade promotional materials and
point-of-sale
advertising; |
30
|
|
|
|
|
The absence of $3.3 million in impairment charges recorded
in 2005 for goodwill and intangible assets at F.W. Rickard
Seeds, Inc.; and, |
|
|
The absence of certain tobacco settlement-related charges
recognized in 2005. |
The Companys SA&A expenses include legal expenses,
which incorporate, among other things, costs of administering
and litigating product liability claims. For the years ended
December 31, 2006 and 2005, outside legal fees and other
internal and external costs incurred in connection with
administering and litigating product liability claims were
$14.3 million and $13.9 million, respectively. These
costs reflect a number of factors, including the number of
claims, and the legal and regulatory environments affecting the
Companys products. The Company expects these factors to be
the primary influence on its future costs of administering and
litigating product liability claims. The Company does not expect
these costs to increase significantly in the future; however, it
is possible that adverse changes in the aforementioned factors
could have a material adverse effect on such costs, as well as
on results of operations and cash flows in the periods such
costs are incurred.
Antitrust Litigation
Results for the Smokeless Tobacco Segment in 2006 were favorably
impacted by the absence of $11.8 million in charges related
to the 2005 resolution of certain states indirect
purchaser antitrust actions that were for amounts in excess of
those previously recorded. This favorable variance was partially
offset by a $2 million pre-tax charge recognized in 2006,
reflecting a change in the estimated redemption rate and an
administrative fee adjustment for coupons in connection with the
resolution of certain states indirect purchaser antitrust
actions (see Part II, Item 8, Notes to
Consolidated Financial Statements Note 21,
Contingencies, for additional details).
Restructuring Charges
Smokeless Tobacco segment results for 2006 reflect
$19.5 million of the restructuring charges discussed in the
Consolidated Results section above.
2005 compared with 2004
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Year Ended December 31, |
|
Increase/(Decrease) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2005 |
|
2004 |
|
Amount |
|
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net sales
|
|
$ |
1,561,667 |
|
|
$ |
1,575,254 |
|
|
$ |
(13,587 |
) |
|
|
(0.9 |
) |
|
|
|
|
Antitrust litigation
|
|
|
11,762 |
|
|
|
(582 |
) |
|
|
12,344 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Operating profit
|
|
|
852,478 |
|
|
|
897,991 |
|
|
|
(45,513 |
) |
|
|
(5.1 |
) |
Net Sales
Net sales for the Smokeless Tobacco segment decreased in 2005,
as compared to 2004, mainly due to lower net unit volume for
moist smokeless tobacco products, including an unfavorable shift
in product mix, partially offset by higher selling prices, lower
cash discounts and lower sales incentive spending. The decrease
in sales incentive spending in 2005 reflected:
|
|
|
|
|
Decreases in traditional trade discounting initiatives,
primarily retail buydowns; and, |
|
|
Lower costs associated with the Companys former
performance-based customer incentive plan, the STEPS Rewards
program, resulting from the decrease in net unit volume. |
These decreases were partially offset by:
|
|
|
|
|
Higher expenses related to coupons. |
Overall, net unit volume for moist smokeless tobacco products
decreased 2.5 percent in 2005 to 625.4 million cans as
compared to 641.3 million cans in 2004, while net unit
volume decreased 3.3 percent to 153.5 million cans in
the fourth quarter of 2005. Sales of dry snuff products and
tobacco seeds each accounted for less than one percent of 2005
segment net sales.
31
Managements Discussion and Analysis
(Continued)
MSTP Unit Volume
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Year Ended |
|
|
|
|
December 31, |
|
Increase/(Decrease) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2005 |
|
2004 |
|
Amount |
|
% |
|
|
|
|
|
Net Unit Volume (millions of
cans):
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Premium
|
|
|
541.0 |
|
|
|
570.2 |
|
|
|
(29.2 |
) |
|
|
(5.1 |
) |
|
|
|
|
Price-Value
|
|
|
84.4 |
|
|
|
71.2 |
|
|
|
13.2 |
|
|
|
18.5 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total
|
|
|
625.4 |
|
|
|
641.4 |
|
|
|
(16.0 |
) |
|
|
(2.5 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Percentage of Total Moist Smokeless Tobacco Products Net
Unit Volume by Category Segment
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2005
|
|
2004
|
Overall, net unit volume for premium products declined in 2005,
as compared to 2004, due to the following:
|
|
|
|
|
Unfavorable impact of widening price gaps at retail between
premium and price-value products; |
|
|
The negative impact of higher gasoline prices in 2005, compared
to 2004, on adult consumers disposable income, which
served to magnify the effects of the price gap at retail; |
|
|
Wholesale and retail customers increasing inventories in the
fourth quarter of 2004 in advance of the January 1, 2005
price increase for premium products, with an estimated impact of
approximately 3.7 million cans; and, |
|
|
A decline in premium pre-pack promotional net unit volume. |
Partially offset by:
|
|
|
|
|
An increase in net unit volume for value packs. |
Net unit volume for price-value products increased in 2005
primarily as a result of the continued expansion of the
Companys sub-price-value product, Husky, which included
increased straight stock and pre-pack promotional net unit
volume.
The following provides information from RAD-SVT, for the
26-week period ended
December 24, 2005:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Percentage Point |
|
|
Can-Volume % Change |
|
|
% |
|
Increase/(Decrease) |
|
|
from Prior Year Period |
|
|
Share |
|
from Prior Year Period |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Category Data:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Moist Smokeless Category
|
|
|
4.4 |
% |
|
|
|
N/A |
|
|
|
N/A |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Premium Segment
|
|
|
(6.2 |
)% |
|
|
|
60.4 |
%* |
|
|
(6.9 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
Total Value Segments
|
|
|
26.6 |
% |
|
|
|
39.4 |
%* |
|
|
6.9 |
|
|
|
|
|
Company Data:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Moist Smokeless Category
|
|
|
(2.4 |
)% |
|
|
|
64.2 |
% |
|
|
(4.5 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
Total Premium Segment
|
|
|
(5.7 |
)% |
|
|
|
90.0 |
% |
|
|
0.4 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Value Segments
|
|
|
21.9 |
% |
|
|
|
24.8 |
% |
|
|
(0.9 |
) |
|
|
* |
Amounts reported do not add to 100 percent, as this table
does not reflect the herbal segment of the total moist smokeless
category. |
32
When applying retail pricing data from ACNielsen to the
26-week periods
RAD-SVT shipment data, the moist smokeless tobacco category
revenues grew 3.5 percent in 2005 over the comparable 2004
period. The Companys revenue share over that same period
was 76.1 percent, down 1.9 percentage points from the
corresponding 2004 period.
Cost of Products Sold
Cost of products sold increased 5.6 percent in 2005,
primarily as a result of higher unit costs, impairment charges
related to certain manufacturing equipment and $3.2 million
in incremental charges recorded in connection with the tobacco
quota buyout legislation enacted late in 2004. Cost of products
sold in 2005 was favorably affected by lower comparative
inventory write-downs at F.W. Rickard Seeds, Inc. The increased
moist smokeless tobacco unit costs were primarily the result of
higher costs for certain packaging and production materials, and
higher salaries and related costs for direct labor and overhead.
Gross Margin
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Year Ended December 31, |
|
Increase/(Decrease) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2005 |
|
2004 |
|
Amount |
|
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Gross Margin
|
|
$ |
1,289,212 |
|
|
$ |
1,317,365 |
|
|
$ |
(28,153 |
) |
|
|
(2.1 |
) |
|
|
|
|
Gross Margin as a % of Net Sales
|
|
|
82.6 |
% |
|
|
83.6 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Gross margin decreased 2.1 percent in 2005 compared to
2004, primarily as a result of the decrease in net sales, as
previously described, as well as by the aforementioned cost of
products sold variance. The gross margin, as a percentage of net
sales, also declined as a result of these factors.
SA&A Expenses
SA&A expenses increased 1.2 percent in 2005 to
$425 million, compared to $420 million in 2004,
reflecting the following:
|
|
|
|
|
Higher costs related to retail shelving systems, which included
charges resulting from a physical inventory of previously
installed units; |
|
|
Higher salaries and related costs incurred in support of the
Companys moist smokeless tobacco category growth
initiatives; |
|
|
Increased administrative and other expenses, including higher
legal-related spending and compensation costs; and, |
|
|
A $3.3 million impairment charge recorded for goodwill and
intangible assets at F.W. Rickard Seeds, Inc. |
These increases were partially offset by:
|
|
|
|
|
Lower costs for print advertising, sponsorships, and trade
promotional materials; |
|
|
A gain recognized from the sale of the Companys corporate
aircraft; and, |
|
|
The recovery of amounts due in connection with a bankrupt
smokeless tobacco customer. |
For the years ended December 31, 2005 and 2004, outside
legal fees and other internal and external costs incurred in
connection with administering and litigating product liability
claims were $13.9 million and $9.5 million,
respectively. These costs reflect a number of factors, including
the number of claims, and the legal and regulatory environments
affecting the Companys products.
Antitrust Litigation
Results for the Smokeless Tobacco segment included a net pre-tax
charge of $11.8 million recorded in connection with the
settlement of certain states indirect purchaser antitrust
actions that were for amounts in excess of those previously
reserved (see Part II, Item 8, Notes to
Consolidated Financial Statements Note 21,
Contingencies, for additional details).
33
Managements Discussion and Analysis
(Continued)
WINE SEGMENT
2006 compared with 2005
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Year Ended |
|
|
|
|
December 31, |
|
Increase/(Decrease) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2006 |
|
2005 |
|
Amount |
|
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net sales
|
|
$ |
282,403 |
|
|
$ |
248,342 |
|
|
$ |
34,061 |
|
|
|
13.7 |
|
|
|
|
|
Restructuring charges
|
|
|
322 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
322 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Operating profit
|
|
|
44,080 |
|
|
|
37,764 |
|
|
|
6,316 |
|
|
|
16.7 |
|
Net Sales
The Wine segment reported record net sales for the year ended
December 31, 2006, driven by an 11.4 percent increase
in premium case volume, as compared to 2005. The increase in
case volume was attributable to the following factors:
|
|
|
|
|
Favorable third party acclaim and product ratings, reflecting
some of the highest scores ever received by the Company,
including 50 wines scoring ratings of 90 or higher and two wines
on the Wine Spectator Top 100 Wines of 2006; |
|
|
The broadening of the distribution of the Companys wines
as a direct result of the Companys continued efforts to
increase distribution through the expansion of its sales force; |
|
|
The addition of the Antinori and Erath brands in 2006, which the
Company began selling in the third quarter of 2006; and, |
|
|
New product introductions, which included expansion of Chateau
Ste. Michelles Indian Wells product category, the addition
of Orphelin, which is a blended red wine from Chateau Ste.
Michelle, and the introduction of Columbia Crest 1.5 liter
varietals. |
Case Volume
Percentage of Total Case Volume by Brand
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2006
|
|
2005
|
Chateau Ste. Michelle and Columbia Crest, the
Companys two leading wine brands, accounted for
72.5 percent of total premium case volume in 2006. Case
volume for Chateau Ste. Michelle was strong throughout 2006,
with increases of 10.6 percent and 13.2 percent for
the fourth quarter and full year 2006, respectively, as compared
to the corresponding 2005 periods, with the increases primarily
due to higher case volume for white wine varietals, as well as
the recently introduced Indian Wells products. Case volume for
Columbia Crest accelerated in the fourth quarter of 2006, with
an increase of 18.8 percent over the fourth quarter of
2005, resulting in full year case growth of 2.9 percent as
compared to 2005, primarily due to increased case volume for the
red varietals of the Two Vines products and Grand Estates
Cabernet. Overall case volume for Grand Estates Merlot was lower
than the prior year as 2005 reflected strong case volume that
resulted from favorable acclaim, which was not repeated in 2006
for the 2002 vintage. However, case volume for Grand Estates
Merlot improved in the second half of 2006 primarily due to the
introduction of the 2003 vintage, which has also received
favorable acclaim. Case volume increased in 2006 despite being
negatively impacted by a reduction in orders by a significant
indirect customer for both Chateau Ste. Michelle and Columbia
Crest. Case volume
34
for 2006 was also favorably impacted by the addition of the
Antinori and Erath brands, which the Company began selling in
the third quarter of 2006, with volume from these brands
accounting for approximately 3.8 percentage points of the
overall 11.4 percent case volume increase. Case volume for
Domaine Ste. Michelle, as well as 14 Hands and Red Diamond, two
of the Companys newer labels, also contributed to the
increase in case volume for 2006.
Cost of Products Sold
Segment cost of products sold in 2006 increased
17.5 percent from 2005, which was primarily attributable to
the costs associated with Antinori products in connection with
the aforementioned distribution agreement, as well as overall
increased case volume and the impact of higher costs per case.
Gross Margin
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Year Ended |
|
|
|
|
December 31, |
|
Increase/(Decrease) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2006 |
|
2005 |
|
Amount |
|
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Gross Margin
|
|
$ |
99,418 |
|
|
$ |
92,618 |
|
|
$ |
6,800 |
|
|
|
7.3 |
|
|
|
|
|
Gross Margin as a % of Net Sales
|
|
|
35.2 |
% |
|
|
37.3 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The increase in gross margin, as compared to 2005, was due to
the increase in net sales, partially offset by the increased
cost per case in 2006. The decrease in gross margin, as a
percentage of net sales, was mainly due to the increased case
costs and an unfavorable shift in case mix toward lower priced
varietals. In addition, the decline in the gross margin
percentage for 2006 was partially attributable to case sales
associated with the distribution of Antinori brands, which
generate a lower gross margin than varietals produced by the
Company.
SA&A Expenses
SA&A expenses of $55 million in 2006 were relatively
level with 2005, reflecting the following:
|
|
|
|
|
Higher salaries and related costs, due to the continued sales
force expansion associated with broadening distribution of the
Companys wines throughout the domestic market; |
|
|
Increased direct and indirect selling and advertising expenses
related to costs for marketing and
point-of-sale
advertising for the Chateau Ste. Michelle, Columbia Crest and
Red Diamond brands; and, |
|
|
Higher administrative spending, primarily professional fees and
share-based compensation expense. |
These increases were mainly offset by:
|
|
|
|
|
The positive impact of income from the Companys Col Solare
joint venture; |
|
|
The favorable impact of a cooperative arrangement for
advertising and promotional expenses related to the
Companys distribution of Antinori wines; and, |
|
|
A $2.5 million pre-tax gain recognized in the first quarter
of 2006 in connection with the sale of winery property located
in California. |
2005 compared with 2004
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Year Ended |
|
|
|
|
December 31, |
|
Increase/(Decrease) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2005 |
|
2004 |
|
Amount |
|
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net sales
|
|
$ |
248,342 |
|
|
$ |
226,650 |
|
|
$ |
21,692 |
|
|
|
9.6 |
|
|
|
|
|
Operating profit
|
|
|
37,764 |
|
|
|
32,382 |
|
|
|
5,382 |
|
|
|
16.6 |
|
Net Sales
The net sales increase for the Wine segment in 2005, as compared
to 2004, was primarily the result of an 8.8 percent
increase in premium case volume as a result of the Company
continuing its efforts to increase distribution through
expansion of its sales force. Net sales in 2005 were also
favorably impacted by a shift in total case sales toward higher
priced varietals. This increase was partially offset by higher
sales incentives.
35
Managements Discussion and Analysis
(Continued)
Case Volume
Percentage of Total Case Volume by Brand
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2005
|
|
|
2004
|
The Companys two leading brands accounted for
75.3 percent of total premium case volume in 2005. Sales in
2005 were positively impacted as a result of continued media
acclaim and editorial coverage for Ste. Michelle Wine Estates,
including the 2005 American Winery of the Year award
from both Restaurant Wine magazine and Wine &
Spirits magazine. The increase in net sales in 2005 was also
partially attributable to the success of Red Diamond, Distant
Bay and 14 Hands, along with certain product line extensions.
Cost of Products Sold
Segment cost of products sold in 2005 increased
10.6 percent from 2004, primarily as a result of increased
case volume and a higher cost per case.
Gross Margin
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Year Ended |
|
|
|
|
December 31, |
|
Increase/(Decrease) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2005 |
|
2004 |
|
Amount |
|
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Gross Margin
|
|
$ |
92,618 |
|
|
$ |
85,913 |
|
|
$ |
6,705 |
|
|
|
7.8 |
|
|
|
|
|
Gross Margin as a % of Net Sales
|
|
|
37.3 |
% |
|
|
37.9 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The increase in gross margin in 2005, as compared to 2004, was
due to the increase in net sales, partially offset by the
increased cost per case. The decrease in gross margin, as a
percentage of net sales, was primarily a result of increased
case costs and higher sales incentives for Chateau Ste. Michelle
and Columbia Crest products, partially offset by the shift
towards higher priced varietals.
SA&A Expenses
SA&A expenses increased 2.5 percent to
$54.9 million in 2005, reflecting the following:
|
|
|
|
|
Higher salaries and related costs, due to the continued sales
force expansion associated with broadening distribution of the
Companys wines throughout the domestic market. |
Partially offset by:
|
|
|
|
|
Lower advertising costs, predominately print advertising
costs; and |
|
|
Slightly lower administrative and other spending. |
36
ALL OTHER OPERATIONS
2006 compared with 2005
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Year Ended |
|
Increase/ |
|
|
December 31, |
|
(Decrease) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2006 |
|
2005 |
|
Amount |
|
% |
|
|
|
|
|
Net sales
|
|
$ |
45,822 |
|
|
$ |
41,876 |
|
|
$ |
3,946 |
|
|
|
9.4 |
|
|
|
|
|
Restructuring charges
|
|
|
151 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
151 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Operating profit
|
|
|
15,952 |
|
|
|
14,338 |
|
|
|
1,614 |
|
|
|
11.3 |
|
Net sales and operating profit for All Other Operations
increased in 2006, as compared to 2005, primarily due to higher
unit volume for moist smokeless tobacco products sold by the
Companys international operations in Canada, partially
offset by the impact of a decline in unit volume for moist
smokeless tobacco products in the Companys other
international markets. In addition, the increase for both
measures also included the impact of favorable foreign exchange
rates. Gross margin, as a percentage of net sales, decreased
slightly in 2006 to 63.8 percent, from 64.3 percent in
2005, primarily due to increased unit costs.
2005 compared with 2004
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Year Ended |
|
Increase/ |
|
|
December 31, |
|
(Decrease) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2005 |
|
2004 |
|
Amount |
|
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net sales
|
|
$ |
41,876 |
|
|
$ |
36,334 |
|
|
$ |
5,542 |
|
|
|
15.3 |
|
|
|
|
|
Operating profit
|
|
|
14,338 |
|
|
|
10,266 |
|
|
|
4,072 |
|
|
|
39.7 |
|
Net sales and operating profit for All Other Operations
increased in 2005, as compared to 2004, primarily due to higher
unit volume for moist smokeless tobacco products sold by the
Companys international operations, mainly in Canada. In
addition, the increase for both measures also included the
impact of favorable foreign exchange rates. Gross margin, as a
percentage of net sales, increased in 2005 to 64.3 percent,
from 61.4 percent in 2004, as an increase in cost of
products sold, due to the higher unit volume, was more than
offset by the impact of the favorable foreign exchange rate on
net sales.
UNALLOCATED CORPORATE
2006 compared with 2005
Administrative Expenses
Unallocated corporate administrative expenses increased
7.5 percent in 2006, as compared to 2005, primarily due to
costs associated with an executive retention agreement related
to the Companys succession planning process and higher
share-based compensation expense. The increase in share-based
compensation expense was partially due to the acceleration of
expense recognition upon the retirement of certain individuals
during 2006. These increases were partially offset by lower
legal and other professional fees in 2006.
Restructuring Charges
Unallocated restructuring charges incurred in connection with
Project Momentum amounted to $2 million in 2006. The
unallocated restructuring charges consisted of one-time
termination benefit charges, as well as other professional fees
directly related to the implementation of Project Momentum.
Interest Expense
Net interest expense decreased $8.8 million, or
17.4 percent, in 2006, as compared to the prior year,
primarily as a result of lower levels of debt outstanding during
2006 due to the $300 million repayment of senior notes
which matured in March 2005. The decrease in net interest
expense was also attributable to higher income
37
Managements Discussion and Analysis
(Continued)
from cash equivalent and short-term investments due to higher
interest rates, partially offset by lower average levels of
investments.
Income Tax Expense
The Company recorded income tax expense on earnings from
continuing operations of $291.1 million in 2006 compared to
$293.3 million in 2005. Income tax expense in both 2006 and
2005 reflect the favorable impact of the net reversal of income
tax accruals of $4.7 million and $18 million, net of
federal income tax benefit, respectively. The reversal of income
tax accruals resulted from changes in facts and circumstances,
including the settlement of various income tax audits by the
Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and other taxing
authorities and lapses of statutes of limitation. The
Companys effective tax rate was 36.7 percent in 2006,
compared to 35.4 percent in 2005. The increase in the
effective tax rate was primarily as a result of the
aforementioned reversal of accruals recognized in the prior year
period.
2005 compared with 2004
Administrative Expenses
Unallocated corporate administrative expenses decreased
5.9 percent in 2005, as compared to 2004, primarily due to
lower costs associated with employee bonuses and lower
debt-related costs, partially offset by higher compensation
costs for non-employee directors and other administrative costs.
Interest Expense
Net interest expense decreased $24.4 million or
32.6 percent in 2005, as compared to 2004, primarily as a
result of lower levels of debt outstanding due to the
aforementioned $300 million repayment of senior notes which
matured in March 2005. The net decrease in 2005 was also the
result of higher interest income earned from cash equivalent and
short-term investments due to higher interest rates, partially
offset by lower average levels of investments.
Income Tax Expense
The Company recorded income tax expense on earnings from
continuing operations of $293.3 million in 2005 compared to
$299.5 million in 2004. Results in 2005 and 2004 included
reversals of income tax accruals of $18 million and
$20 million, net of federal income tax benefit,
respectively. The reversal of income tax accruals resulted from
changes in facts and circumstances, including the settlement of
various income tax audits by the IRS and other taxing
authorities and lapses of statutes of limitation. The
Companys effective tax rate decreased slightly to
35.4 percent in 2005 from 35.8 percent in 2004. The
effective tax rate for both years was favorably impacted by the
$8 million tax benefit from the deduction available for
qualified domestic production activities, which was enacted by
the American Jobs Creation Act of 2004.
OUTLOOK
SMOKELESS TOBACCO SEGMENT
Category Growth
The Company remains committed to its category growth
initiatives, which continue to be successful, demonstrated by a
strong growth rate in 2006, according to
RAD-SVT data. According
to recent data from ACNielsen, moist smokeless tobacco is one of
the fastest growing consumer package goods categories at retail.
In addition, consumer research indicates in 2006, the number of
new adult consumers entering the moist smokeless tobacco
category continued to increase, bringing the total adult
consumer base to over 6 million from 4.7 million in
2001, a majority of which entered in the premium segment. In
light of the success of the Companys category growth
initiatives achieved to date, as well as the favorable impact to
the category from the Companys premium brand loyalty
initiative (discussed further below), going forward the Company
expects that these initiatives will continue to expand the adult
consumer base and attract new adult
38
consumers, primarily smokers, to the category and to premium
brands. The Company will continue to utilize its direct mail
marketing program to promote the discreetness and convenience of
smokeless tobacco relative to cigarettes to adult smokers, as
well as product innovation, which the Company believes have both
contributed to category growth in the last few years. The
Company expects category growth in the range of 5 percent
to 6 percent in 2007.
Premium Brand Loyalty
The Company intends to expand upon its premium brand loyalty
initiative during 2007, with a focus on growth of underlying
premium net unit volume. The Company expects to benefit from the
presence of an extra billing day in the fourth quarter of 2007.
Excluding the impact of the extra billing day, premium net unit
volume is anticipated to grow by approximately 1 percent
for the year. Based on the success of the initiative in 2006,
which resulted in premium volume stabilization, the Company
plans to spend an additional $31 million in 2007, above the
amount spent in 2006.
State Excise Taxes
The Company intends to continue its efforts to promote tax
equity in the forty states that currently impose excise taxes on
smokeless tobacco products expressed as a percentage of the
wholesale price (ad valorem) rather than on the
basis of weight. As a result of these efforts, three additional
states recently converted to a tax based on weight, bringing the
total number of tax equity states to 10, along with the
federal government. In addition, the State of Washington
Department of Revenue intends to work towards the enactment of a
weight-based tax to avoid the risk of litigation inherent in the
current ad valorem system. The Company believes that ad valorem
excise taxes on smokeless tobacco products artificially drive
consumer behavior and create market distortions by providing a
tax preference for lower priced products. Weight-based excise
taxes or specific taxes on smokeless tobacco products would, in
the Companys opinion, allow products to compete fairly in
the marketplace on the basis of price and product attributes,
not the relative tax burden. The Company believes its support of
weight-based state excise taxes on smokeless tobacco products is
in the best interest of the Company, its wholesaler customers,
adult consumers of the Companys moist smokeless tobacco
products and the state governments.
Cost Savings
With the category growth and premium brand loyalty initiatives
providing the desired results during 2006, the Company increased
its focus on identifying opportunities for operational
efficiencies and cost savings, the result of which was the
Companys previously discussed cost-reduction initiative,
Project Momentum. The Company realized approximately
$15 million in savings related to Project Momentum during
2006. The overall savings achieved from the implementation of
Project Momentum, which are targeted to be at least
$100 million over its first three years, are expected to
create additional resources for the Companys growth, as
well as additional flexibility in the increasingly competitive
smokeless tobacco category. The potential resources for growth
and flexibility will be further enhanced in 2007 by the sale of
the building in which the Companys corporate headquarters
are currently located. The $100 million targeted savings
does not include the pre-tax gain of approximately
$105 million, and net cash proceeds of approximately
$85 million, expected to be realized in connection with the
closing of such sale. The closing is anticipated to occur in the
first quarter of 2007. The Company expects to discuss the
intended use of such proceeds when it releases its results for
the first quarter of 2007. Excluding the impact from the
anticipated sale of the headquarters building, the Company
expects to realize savings related to Project Momentum of at
least $45 million in 2007, with a potential for up to an
additional $20 million, which is reflected in the
Companys 2007 estimated range for diluted earnings per
share.
WINE SEGMENT
The Wine segment enters 2007 coming off another year of record
performance for both net sales and operating profit during 2006.
The Wine segment forecasts continued strong growth for both net
sales and operating profit in 2007. Favorable acclaim received
for products late in 2006 are expected to benefit net sales into
2007. In addition, revenues for the Wine segment are expected to
continue to be favorably impacted by
39
Managements Discussion and Analysis
(Continued)
the aforementioned strategic alliance with Antinori, with a more
significant impact expected in the first half of 2007, since the
first half of 2006 did not reflect net sales of the Antinori
brands. However, due to planned reinvestment of incremental
profits generated from the Antinori alliance for advertising and
promotion during its first two years, the impact to Wine segment
operating profit is expected to be somewhat lower. Revenues are
also expected to be favorably impacted from sales of the
recently acquired Erath label, primarily Pinot Noir from Oregon,
which the Company began selling late in the third quarter of
2006, resulting in a favorable impact to segment net sales and
operating profit in 2007.
CONSOLIDATED
The Companys previously communicated 2007 estimate of
diluted earnings per share reflected a range of $3.25 to $3.40,
with a target of $3.30. This estimate excluded the impact of the
sale of the building in which its corporate headquarters are
currently located, as well as additional restructuring charges
associated with Project Momentum, as management was not able, in
good faith, to make a determination of the estimated amounts or
range of amounts, to be recognized in connection with these
items. On February 1, 2007, the Company entered into a
definitive agreement to sell its headquarters building, for
which it expects to recognize an estimated pre-tax gain of
approximately $105 million, or $.41 per diluted share,
upon closing in the first quarter of 2007. The impact on
full-year 2007 results related to this transaction is expected
to be approximately $.39 per diluted share, reflecting the
impact of a short-term lease with an imputed fair market value
of approximately $6.7 million. On or before the date of its
first quarter 2007 earnings release, the Company will provide an
update to its full-year 2007 estimate of diluted earnings per
share, reflecting the impact of the headquarters sale, along
with any additional restructuring charges under Project
Momentum, once any related actions are finalized and committed
to by the Company. Diluted earnings per share are anticipated to
reflect larger percentage increases in the first and fourth
quarters of 2007, as compared to the corresponding prior year
periods, due to the expected gain from the sale of the
Companys headquarters building and the presence of the
aforementioned extra billing day in the Smokeless Tobacco
segment, respectively. Over the long-term, the Companys
goal is to provide a total shareholder return of at least
10 percent, including diluted earnings per share growth and
a strong dividend yield.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
(In thousands, except per share amounts or where otherwise noted)
SUMMARY
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2006 |
|
2005 |
|
2004 |
|
|
|
Cash and cash equivalents
|
|
$ |
254,393 |
|
|
$ |
202,025 |
|
|
$ |
450,202 |
|
|
|
|
|
Short-term investments
|
|
|
20,000 |
|
|
|
10,000 |
|
|
|
60,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
Working capital
|
|
|
698,033 |
|
|
|
630,776 |
|
|
|
554,260 |
|
|
|
|
|
Total debt
|
|
|
840,000 |
|
|
|
840,000 |
|
|
|
1,140,000 |
|
Historically, the Company has relied upon cash flows from
operations supplemented by debt issuance and credit facility
borrowings, as needed, to finance its working capital
requirements, the payment of dividends, stock repurchases and
capital expenditures. The Companys cash equivalent
investments are generally liquid, short-term investment grade
securities.
Short-term investments at December 31, 2006 and 2005 were
comprised of auction-rate securities (ARS), which
are long-term variable (floating) rate bonds that are tied
to short-term interest rates. The stated maturities for these
securities are generally 20 to 30 years, but their floating
interest rates are reset at seven, 28 or
35-day intervals via a
Dutch Auction process. It is not the Companys intention to
hold ARS until the stated maturities. Given the fact that ARS
are floating rate investments, they are typically traded at par
value, with interest paid at each auction.
40
CASH FLOWS
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Year Ended December 31, |
|
|
|
|
|
2006 |
|
2005 |
|
2004 |
|
|
|
Net cash provided by (used
in):
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Operating activities
|
|
$ |
596,856 |
|
|
$ |
560,699 |
|
|
$ |
565,415 |
|
|
|
|
|
Investing activities
|
|
|
(55,063 |
) |
|
|
(17,005 |
) |
|
|
(118,370 |
) |
|
|
|
|
Financing activities
|
|
|
(489,425 |
) |
|
|
(791,871 |
) |
|
|
(429,883 |
) |
|
|
|
Increase (decrease) in cash and
cash equivalents
|
|
$ |
52,368 |
|
|
$ |
(248,177 |
) |
|
$ |
17,162 |
|
|
|
|
Operating Activities
In 2006, 2005 and 2004, the primary source of cash from
operating activities was net earnings generated mainly by the
Smokeless Tobacco segment, adjusted for the effects of non-cash
items. The increase in cash provided by operating activities, as
compared to 2005, was primarily due to the timing of payments
related to accounts payable and accrued expenses and federal
income taxes, as well as the collection of accounts receivable,
partially offset by lower earnings.
The primary uses of cash in operating activities in 2006 were as
follows:
|
|
|
|
|
Purchase of leaf tobacco of $68.5 million; and, |
|
|
Grape and bulk wine purchases and grape harvest costs of
$72.5 million. |
The primary uses of cash in operating activities in 2005 were as
follows:
|
|
|
|
|
Purchase of leaf tobacco of $76.4 million; and, |
|
|
Grape and bulk wine purchases and grape harvest costs of
$64.5 million. |
The primary uses of cash in operating activities in 2004 were as
follows:
|
|
|
|
|
A $200 million cash payment as part of the resolution of an
antitrust action brought by a smokeless tobacco competitor; |
|
|
Purchase of leaf tobacco of $86.7 million; and, |
|
|
Grape and bulk wine purchases and grape harvest costs of
$58.5 million. |
Investing Activities
Net cash used in investing activities of $55.1 million in
2006 was higher than the net cash used in investing activities
in 2005 primarily due to a net amount of $10 million used
for the purchase of short-term investments in 2006, as compared
to proceeds of $50 million in 2005 from the sale of certain
short-term investments. The increase was also attributable to
cash used for the purchase of the Erath winery and lower
proceeds from dispositions of property, plant and equipment.
These increases were partially offset by a lower level of
expenditures related to the purchase of property, plant and
equipment in 2006, as compared to 2005. The following provides
details of net cash used in investing activities in 2006:
|
|
|
|
|
Purchases of property, plant and equipment of $37 million; |
|
|
Acquisition of the Erath winery for $10.6 million; |
|
|
Net purchases of short-term investments of $10 million; and, |
|
|
Investment in Col Solare joint venture of $3.6 million,
related to the construction of a new winery facility. |
Reduced by:
|
|
|
|
|
Proceeds from the disposition of property, plant and equipment
of $6.2 million. |
Net cash used in investing activities of $17 million in
2005 reflected the following:
|
|
|
|
|
Purchase of property, plant and equipment of $89.9 million,
including the replacement of Company aircraft. |
41
Managements Discussion and Analysis
(Continued)
Reduced by:
|
|
|
|
|
Net proceeds of $50 million from the sale of certain
short-term investments; and, |
|
|
Proceeds from the disposition of property, plant and equipment
of $22.9 million, primarily related to proceeds from the
sale of the Companys former aircraft. |
Net cash used in investing activities of $118.4 million in
2004 reflected the following:
|
|
|
|
|
Purchase of property, plant and equipment of $70.3 million,
including initial payment for the replacement of Company
aircraft; and, |
|
|
Net purchases of short-term investments of $55 million. |
Reduced by:
|
|
|
|
|
Proceeds from the disposition of property, plant and equipment
of $7 million. |
Financing Activities
Net cash used in financing activities of $489.4 million in
2006 was lower than the net cash used in financing activities in
2005, mainly due to the aforementioned $300 million
repayment of senior notes in 2005. The amount of dividends paid
during 2006 increased $6.3 million, as compared to 2005, as
the impact of a 3.6 percent dividend increase in 2006 was
partially offset by a lower level of shares outstanding as a
result of repurchases of common stock under the Companys
share repurchase program. The following provides details of net
cash used in financing activities in 2006:
|
|
|
|
|
Cash dividends of $367.5 million paid during the year; |
|
|
Payments for the repurchase of Company common stock of
$200 million; |
|
|
Proceeds from the issuance of stock of $68.2 million
related to stock option exercise activity; and, |
|
|
The actual tax benefit realized by the Company related to the
exercise of stock options, in excess of the tax deduction that
would have been recorded had the fair value method of accounting
for stock options been applied to all stock option grants,
amounting to $9.9 million. In accordance with
SFAS No. 123(R), this amount is presented as a
financing inflow, with an equal amount reported as an outflow in
cash flows from operating activities. |
The following provides details of net cash used in financing
activities in 2005:
|
|
|
|
|
$300 million repayment of senior notes, upon maturity, in
March 2005; |
|
|
Cash dividends of $361.2 million paid during the year; |
|
|
Payments for the repurchase of Company common stock of
$200 million; and, |
|
|
Proceeds from the issuance of stock of $69.4 million
related to stock option exercise activity. |
The following provides details of net cash used in financing
activities in 2004:
|
|
|
|
|
Cash dividends of $344.1 million paid during the year; |
|
|
Payments for the repurchase of Company common stock of
$200 million; and, |
|
|
Proceeds from the issuance of stock of $114.3 million
related to stock option exercise activity. |
SOURCES OF LIQUIDITY
Funds generated by operating activities, available cash and cash
equivalents, and short-term investments continue to be the
Companys most significant sources of liquidity. The
Company believes funds generated from the expected results of
operations, available cash and cash equivalents, and short-term
investments will be sufficient to finance strategic initiatives
in 2007. In addition, the Companys credit facility and its
access to capital markets may be used to supplement these
sources for additional working capital needs.
The Companys cash requirements in 2007 and beyond will be
primarily for the payment of dividends, repurchase of common
stock, purchases of inventory, capital expenditures and
repayment of borrowings (refer to the table under
Aggregate Contractual Obligations for details of
certain future cash requirements). The Company estimates that
amounts expended in 2007 for tobacco leaf purchases for moist
smokeless tobacco products will be slightly lower than amounts
expended in 2006, while grape and bulk wine purchases and grape
harvest costs for wine products will be greater than amounts in
the corresponding 2006 period.
42
The Company is subject to various threatened and pending
litigation and claims, as disclosed in Part II,
Item 8, Financial Statements and Supplementary
Data Notes to Consolidated Financial
Statements Note 21, Contingencies. The
Company believes that the ultimate outcome of such litigation
and claims will not have a material adverse effect on its
consolidated results or its consolidated financial position,
although if plaintiffs in these actions were to prevail, the
effect of any judgment or settlement could have a material
adverse impact on its consolidated financial results in the
particular reporting period in which resolved and, depending on
the size of any such judgment or settlement, a material adverse
effect on its consolidated financial position.
Working Capital
The Companys working capital, which is the excess of
current assets over current liabilities, increased to
$698 million at December 31, 2006 as compared to
$630.8 million at December 31, 2005. The working
capital increase in 2006 was mainly attributable to higher
levels of cash and cash equivalents, inventories and short-term
investments. In addition, assets held for sale were higher as of
December 31, 2006 due to the planned disposal of certain
corporate assets in connection with Project Momentum, including
the building in which the Companys corporate headquarters
are currently located. The ratio of current assets to current
liabilities (current ratio) decreased slightly to 3.3 to 1
from 3.4 to 1, as the percentage increase in current
liabilities was higher than that of current assets, mainly due
to increased accounts payable and accrued expenses due to timing
of payments.
Credit Facility
The Company has a $300 million three-year credit facility
(the Credit Facility) which expires in July 2007.
The Company expects to replace the Credit Facility with a
similar facility on or before its expiration. The Credit
Facility requires the maintenance of certain financial ratios,
the payment of commitment and administrative fees and includes
affirmative and negative covenants customary for facilities of
this type. The commitment fee payable on the unused portion of
the Credit Facility is determined based on an interest rate,
within a range of rates, dependent upon the Companys
senior unsecured debt rating. The commitment fee currently
payable is .15 percent per annum. This Credit Facility was
executed primarily to support commercial paper borrowings. The
Company had no direct borrowings under the Credit Facility or
commercial paper borrowings at December 31, 2006. For
additional information see Part II, Item 8,
Financial Statements and Supplementary Data
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 9, Borrowing Arrangements.
Credit Ratings
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Rating Agency |
|
Rating |
|
Outlook |
|
|
|
|
|
Moodys
|
|
|
A3 |
|
|
|
Stable |
|
|
|
|
|
Standard & Poors
|
|
|
A |
|
|
|
Stable |
|
Factors that can impact the Companys credit ratings
include changes in operating performance, the economic
environment, conditions in the tobacco and alcoholic beverage
industries, changes in the Companys financial condition
and changes in the Companys business strategy. If a
downgrade were to occur, it could adversely impact, among other
things, the Companys future borrowing costs and access to
capital markets.
A rating only reflects the view of a rating agency and is not a
recommendation to buy, sell or hold the Companys debt. Any
rating can be revised upward or downward or withdrawn at anytime
by a rating agency, if the rating agency decides that the
circumstances warrant the change. The rating information is
being provided for informational purposes only; the Company is
not incorporating any report of any rating agency in this
Form 10-K.
CAPITAL EXPENDITURES
Over the last three years, capital expenditures for property,
plant and equipment have averaged approximately
$65.8 million per year.
43
Managements Discussion and Analysis
(Continued)
Major areas of capital spending from 2004 through 2006 by
segment were:
Smokeless Tobacco segment:
|
|
|
|
|
Manufacturing, processing and packaging equipment; |
|
|
Retail marketing display fixtures; |
|
|
Computer equipment and software; |
|
|
Building improvements and renovations; and, |
|
|
Company aircraft. |
Wine segment:
|
|
|
|
|
Wine barrels and storage tanks; |
|
|
Wine making and processing equipment; and, |
|
|
Facilities expansion and renovations. |
2004 - 2006 Average Capital Expenditure
As of December 31, 2006, the Companys planned capital
expenditures for 2007 are expected to be approximately
$82 million, for a range of projects, including
manufacturing, processing and packaging equipment for the
smokeless tobacco business and barrels and storage tanks for the
wine business, as well as expenditures related to the relocation
of the Companys headquarters later in the year. In
addition, the Company expects to receive approximately
$85 million in net proceeds in the first quarter of 2007
upon the closing of the sale of the building in which the
Companys corporate headquarters are currently located.
DEBT
In July 2002, the Company issued $600 million aggregate
principal amount of 6.625 percent senior notes at a price
of 99.53 percent of the principal amount. The notes mature
on July 15, 2012, with semiannual interest payments.
In March 2000, the Company issued $300 million aggregate
principal amount of 8.8 percent fixed rate senior notes,
with interest payable semiannually. As previously noted, these
notes were redeemed at maturity on March 15, 2005.
In May 1999, the Company issued $240 million aggregate
principal amount of senior notes, of which $200 million is
7.25 percent fixed rate debt and $40 million is
floating rate debt, which bears interest at the three-month
LIBOR plus 90 basis points. The Company effectively fixed
the interest rate on the $40 million in long-term floating
rate senior notes at 7.25 percent through the execution of
an interest rate swap. These notes mature on June 1, 2009,
with interest payable semiannually and quarterly on the fixed
and floating rate notes, respectively.
SHARE REPURCHASES AND DIVIDENDS
In December 2004, the Companys Board of Directors
authorized a program under which the Company may repurchase up
to 20 million shares of its outstanding common stock. The
plan was approved to allow for the repurchase of additional
shares, as the number of shares repurchased under a previous
program were nearing the maximum authorized amount. The maximum
allowable repurchase of 20 million shares under this
previous
44
program was reached during 2005, at which time the Company began
repurchasing outstanding shares of its common stock under the
December 2004 program. Through December 31, 2006,
approximately 7.1 million shares have been repurchased at a
cost of approximately $317 million under the December 2004
program. During each of the years 2006, 2005 and 2004, the
Company spent $200 million under its share repurchase
programs for the repurchase of Company common stock. The Company
expects to spend $200 million again in 2007 to repurchase
its common shares. Stock prices, market conditions and other
factors will determine the actual number of shares repurchased.
During 2006, the Company paid quarterly cash dividends to
stockholders of 57 cents per share, for an annual total of
$2.28 per share, or an aggregate amount of
$367.5 million. The dividend paid per share during 2006
represented an increase of 3.6 percent over the dividend
paid in 2005. In December 2006, the Board of Directors increased
the Companys first quarter 2007 dividend to stockholders
to 60 cents per share, with an indicated annual rate of
$2.40 per share. This represents a 5.3 percent
increase over the dividend paid in 2006.
During 2006, the Company returned a total of $567.5 million
to stockholders through share repurchases and dividend payments.
On average, over the past three years the Company has returned
approximately 97 percent of cash flow from operating
activities to stockholders through share repurchases and
dividend payments.
AGGREGATE CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Payments Due by Period |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Less |
|
|
|
More |
|
|
|
|
Than |
|
1 to 3 |
|
3 to 5 |
|
Than |
|
|
Total |
|
1 Year |
|
Years |
|
Years |
|
5 Years |
|
Contractual
Obligations
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Long-term debt
|
|
$ |
840,000 |
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
240,000 |
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
600,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
Interest on long-term debt
|
|
|
282,002 |
|
|
|
57,151 |
|
|
|
105,601 |
|
|
|
79,500 |
|
|
|
39,750 |
|
|
|
|
|
Operating leases
|
|
|
103,634 |
|
|
|
8,612 |
|
|
|
16,933 |
|
|
|
11,469 |
|
|
|
66,620 |
|
|
|
|
|
Open purchase
orders(1)
|
|
|
17,745 |
|
|
|
17,745 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Unconditional purchase obligations
|
|
|
460,737 |
|
|
|
82,105 |
|
|
|
131,381 |
|
|
|
122,240 |
|
|
|
125,011 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
1,704,118 |
|
|
$ |
165,613 |
|
|
$ |
493,915 |
|
|
$ |
213,209 |
|
|
$ |
831,381 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(1) |
Amount represents contractual obligations for materials and
services on order at December 31, 2006, but not yet
delivered. These represent short-term obligations made in the
ordinary course of business. |
The above table represents the Companys total contractual
obligations as of December 31, 2006. Unconditional purchase
obligations relate primarily to contractual commitments for the
purchase of grapes for use in the production of wine. Purchase
commitments under contracts to purchase grapes for periods
beyond one year are subject to variability resulting from
potential changes in market price indices. In the table above,
unconditional purchase obligations of less than one year include
$15.3 million for the purchase of leaf tobacco used in the
production of moist smokeless tobacco products. There are no
contractual obligations to purchase leaf tobacco with terms
beyond one year.
OFF-BALANCE SHEET ARRANGEMENTS
The Company does not have any off-balance sheet arrangements
that are material to its results of operations or financial
condition.
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES
Estimates and Assumptions
The preparation of financial statements, in accordance with
accounting principles generally accepted in the United States,
requires management to make assumptions and estimates that
affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities as of the
balance sheet date and revenues and expenses recognized and
incurred during the reporting period then ended. In addition,
estimates affect the determination of contingent assets and
45
Managements Discussion and Analysis
(Continued)
liabilities and their related disclosure. The Company bases its
estimates on a number of factors, including historical
information and other assumptions that it believes are
reasonable under the circumstances. Actual results may differ
from these estimates in the event there are changes in related
conditions or assumptions. The development and selection of the
disclosed estimates have been discussed with the Audit Committee
of the Board of Directors. The following accounting policies are
deemed to be critical, as they require accounting estimates to
be made based upon matters that are highly uncertain at the time
such estimates are made.
The Companys management believes that no one item that
includes an assumption or estimate made by management could have
a material effect on the Companys financial position or
results of operations, with the exception of litigation matters
and income taxes, if actual results are different from that
assumption or estimate.
The Company exercises judgment when evaluating the use of
assumptions and estimates, which may include the use of
specialists and quantitative and qualitative analysis.
Management believes that all assumptions and estimates used in
the preparation of these financial statements are reasonable
based on information currently available.
Inventory
The Company carries significant amounts of leaf tobacco, as well
as bulk and bottled wine, as a result of the aging process
required in the production of its moist smokeless tobacco and
wine products, respectively. The carrying value of these
inventories includes managements assessment of their
estimated net realizable values. Management reviews these
inventories to make judgments for potential write-downs for
slow-moving, unsaleable or obsolete inventories, to reflect such
inventories at the lower of cost or market. Factors considered
in managements assessment include, but are not limited to,
evaluation of cost trends, changes in customer demands, product
pricing, physical deterioration and overall product quality.
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans
Amounts recognized in the financial statements for the
Companys noncontributory defined benefit pension plans are
determined using actuarial valuations. Inherent in these
valuations are key assumptions, including those for the expected
long-term rate of return on plan assets and the discount rate
used in calculating the applicable benefit obligation. The
Company evaluates these assumptions on an annual basis and
considers adjustments to the applicable long-term factors based
upon current market conditions, including changes in interest
rates, in accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting
Standards (SFAS) No. 87, Employers
Accounting for Pensions (SFAS No. 87).
The Company adopted SFAS No. 158, Employers
Accounting for Defined Benefit Pension and Other Postretirement
Plans, an amendment of FASB Statements No. 87, 88, 106 and
132(R) (SFAS No. 158), the provisions
of which did not impact its evaluation of assumptions in
accordance with SFAS No. 87. Changes in the related
pension expense and benefit obligation may occur in the future
as a result of changes in these assumptions. Pension expense was
approximately $33.7 million, $27.6 million and
$27.8 million for the years ended December 31, 2006,
2005 and 2004, respectively. On average, over the past three
years, excluding special termination charges recognized in 2006
in connection with Project Momentum, approximately
79 percent of pension expense was reflected in selling,
advertising and administrative expenses, while the remainder was
included in cost of products sold. The increase in pension
expense for 2006 was primarily the result of $4 million in
special termination benefits provided to certain individuals
terminated in connection with Project Momentum, which was
reflected in restructuring charges. The Company believes the
long-term rate of return of 7.5 percent is reasonable based
upon the plans asset composition and information available
at the time, along with consideration of historical trends. The
Company used a discount rate of 6 percent to calculate its
pension liabilities at December 31, 2006. This rate
approximates the rate at which current pension liabilities could
effectively be settled. At December 31, 2006, actuarial
losses recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income,
including those associated with pension plan asset performance,
were approximately $81.7 million. These losses will be
amortized over the applicable remaining service period which is
approximately 11 years. The Company made a discretionary
contribution of $0.4 million to one of its qualified
pension plans in 2006. In addition, during 2006, the Company
made contributions of $6 million to its non-qualified
pension plans. The Company expects to contribute
$7.2 million to these non-qualified pension plans in 2007.
The impact of a higher discount rate, as well as lower
amortization of actuarial losses, is expected to result in lower
pension expense for 2007. The
46
following provides a sensitivity analysis, which demonstrates
the effects that adverse changes in actuarial assumptions would
have had on 2006 pension expense. A 50 basis point decrease
in the expected long-term rate of return on plan assets would
increase pension expense by approximately $1.5 million,
while the same basis point decrease in the discount rate would
result in an increase of approximately $4.3 million.
The Company maintains a number of other postretirement welfare
benefit plans which provide certain medical and life insurance
benefits to substantially all full-time employees who have
completed specified age and service requirements upon
retirement. Amounts recognized in the financial statements in
connection with these other postretirement benefit plans are
determined utilizing actuarial valuations. Expense related to
these plans was approximately $9 million for each of the
years ended December 31, 2006 and 2005 and
$5.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2004. The
key assumptions inherent in these valuations include health care
cost trend rates and the discount rate used in calculating the
applicable postretirement benefit obligation, each of which are
evaluated by the Company on an annual basis, in accordance with
SFAS No. 106, Employers Accounting for
Postretirement Benefits Other Than Pensions (SFAS
No. 106). Future changes in the related
postretirement benefit expense may be impacted by changes in
these assumptions. The Companys aforementioned adoption of
SFAS No. 158 did not impact its evaluation of
assumptions in accordance with SFAS No. 106. The
Company used a discount rate of 6 percent to calculate its
postretirement benefit obligation at December 31, 2006,
which approximates the rate at which current postretirement
benefit liabilities could effectively be settled. The health
care cost trend increase used in calculating the postretirement
benefit obligation at December 31, 2006 is assumed to be
8 percent in 2007 and is expected to decrease gradually to
4.5 percent by 2013 and remain level thereafter. The
following provides a sensitivity analysis demonstrating the
impact that a 100 basis point increase or decrease in the
assumed health care cost trend rate would have on both the
postretirement benefit obligation and the related expense. A
100 basis point increase in the assumed health care cost
trend rate would increase the accumulated postretirement benefit
obligation and related expense by approximately
$12.4 million and $1.8 million, respectively. A
100 basis point decrease in the assumed health care cost
trend rate would decrease the accumulated postretirement benefit
obligation and related expense by approximately
$10.9 million and $1.5 million, respectively.
Sales Returns
The Companys primary business, which is the manufacture
and sale of moist smokeless tobacco, sells products with
expiration dates relative to freshness. It is the Companys
policy to accept sales returns from its customers for products
that have exceeded such dates. The Companys assumptions
regarding sales return accruals are based on historical
experience, current sales trends and other factors, and there
has not been a significant fluctuation between assumptions and
actual return activity on a historical basis. Actual sales
returns represented approximately 6.3 percent,
5.6 percent and 5 percent of annual moist smokeless
tobacco can gross sales for the years ended December 31,
2006, 2005 and 2004, respectively. The increase in returned
goods as a percentage of gross sales over the past three years
was predominantly due to the growth of new products, including
line extensions, which tend to have higher levels of returns
than well-established, core brands. Higher levels of promotional
activity associated with the implementation of the premium brand
loyalty initiative also contributed to the increase from 2005 to
2006. Significant increases or decreases in moist smokeless
tobacco can sales, promotional activities, new product
introductions, product quality issues and competition could
affect sales returns in the future. Accrued sales returns at
December 31, 2006 and 2005 totaled $17.6 million and
$16.6 million, respectively.
Contingencies
The Company is subject to various threatened and pending
litigation claims and discloses those matters in which the
probability of an adverse outcome is other than remote, in the
notes to its consolidated financial statements. The assessment
of probability with regards to the outcome of litigation matters
is made with the consultation of external counsel. Litigation is
subject to many uncertainties, and it is possible that some of
the legal actions, proceedings or claims could ultimately be
decided against the Company. An unfavorable outcome of such
actions could have a material adverse effect on the
Companys results of operations, cash flows or financial
position. See Part II, Item 8, Notes to the
Consolidated Financial Statements Note 21,
Contingencies, for disclosure of the Companys
assessment related to pending litigation matters.
47
Managements Discussion and Analysis
(Continued)
Income Taxes
The Companys income tax provision takes into consideration
pretax income, statutory tax rates and the Companys tax
profile in the various jurisdictions in which it operates. The
tax bases of the Companys assets and liabilities reflect
its best estimate of the future tax benefit and costs it expects
to realize when such amounts are included in its tax returns.
Quantitative and probability analysis, which incorporates
managements judgment, is required in determining the
Companys effective tax rate and in evaluating its tax
positions. Notwithstanding the fact that all of the
Companys tax filing positions are supported by the
requisite tax and legal authority, accruals are established in
accordance with SFAS No. 5, Accounting for
Contingencies (SFAS No. 5), when the
Company believes that these positions are likely to be subject
to challenge by a tax authority. The Internal Revenue Service
and other tax authorities audit the Companys income tax
returns on a continuous basis. Depending on the tax
jurisdiction, a number of years may elapse before a particular
matter for which the Company has established an accrual is
audited and ultimately resolved. While it is often difficult to
predict the timing of tax audits and their final outcome, the
Company believes that its accruals reflect the probable outcome
of known tax contingencies. However, the final resolution of any
such tax audits could result in either a reduction in the
Companys accruals or an increase in its income tax
provision, both of which could have a significant impact on the
results of operations in any given period. The Company
continually and regularly evaluates, assesses and adjusts these
accruals in light of changing facts and circumstances, which
could cause the effective tax rate to fluctuate from period to
period. In June 2006, the Financial Accounting Standards
Board (FASB) issued FASB Interpretation No. 48,
Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes an
interpretation of FASB Statement No. 109
(FIN 48), which clarifies the accounting
and disclosure for uncertainty in tax positions, as defined.
FIN 48 seeks to reduce the diversity in practice associated
with certain aspects of the recognition and measurement related
to accounting for income taxes. In that regard, FIN 48
amends SFAS No. 5 to eliminate its applicability to
income taxes. This interpretation is effective for fiscal years
beginning after December 15, 2006. The Company does not
expect the interpretation will have a material impact on its
results from operations or financial position.
NEW ACCOUNTING STANDARDS
The Company reviews new accounting standards to determine the
expected financial impact, if any, that the adoption of each
such standard will have. As of the filing of this
Form 10-K, there
were no new accounting standards issued that were projected to
have a material impact on the Companys consolidated
financial position, results of operations or liquidity. Refer to
Part II, Item 8, Financial Statements and
Supplementary Data Notes to Consolidated Financial
Statements Note 2, Recent Accounting
Pronouncements, for further information regarding new
accounting standards.
CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING
INFORMATION
The disclosure and analysis in this report, as well as in other
reports filed with or furnished to the SEC or statements made by
the Company, may contain forward-looking statements that
describe the Companys current expectations or forecasts of
future events. One can usually identify these statements by the
fact that they do not relate strictly to historical or current
facts. Forward-looking statements often include words such as
anticipate, estimate,
expect, project, intend,
plan, believe and other similar words or
terms in connection with any discussion of future operating or
financial performance. These include statements relating to
future actions, performance or results related to current or
future products or product approvals, sales efforts, expenses,
the outcome of contingencies such as legal proceedings and
financial results. From time to time, the Company may provide
oral or written forward-looking statements in other public
materials.
The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995
(the Act) provides a safe harbor for
forward-looking information made on behalf of the Company. All
statements, other than statements of historical facts, which
address activities or actions that the Company expects or
anticipates will or may occur in the future, and growth of the
Companys operations and other such matters are
forward-looking statements. To take advantage of the safe harbor
provided by the Act, the Company is identifying certain factors
that could cause actual results to differ materially from those
expressed in any forward-looking statements made by the Company.
48
Any one, or a combination, of these factors could materially
affect the results of the Companys operations. These risks
and uncertainties include uncertainties associated with:
|
|
|
|
|
The risk factors described under Part I, Item 1A,
Risk Factors, of this
Form 10-K; |
|
|
Ongoing and future litigation relating to product liability,
antitrust and other matters and legal and other regulatory
initiatives; |
|
|
Federal and state legislation, including actual and potential
excise tax increases, and marketing restrictions relating to
matters such as warning notices, ingredients and constituent
disclosure requirements, flavorings, advertising and promotion,
adult sampling and minimum age of purchase; |
|
|
Competition from other companies, including any new entrants
into the marketplace; |
|
|
Wholesaler ordering patterns; |
|
|
Consumer preferences, including those relating to premium and
price-value brands and receptiveness to new product
introductions and marketing and other promotional programs; |
|
|
The cost of tobacco leaf and other raw materials; |
|
|
Global supply of grapes; |
|
|
Conditions in capital markets; and, |
|
|
Other factors described in the Companys annual reports on
Form 10-K,
quarterly reports on
Form 10-Q and
current reports on
Form 8-K to the
SEC. |
Furthermore, forward-looking statements made by the Company are
based on knowledge of its business and the environment in which
it operates, but because of the factors listed above, as well as
other factors beyond the control of the Company, actual results
may differ from those in the forward-looking statements. The
forward-looking statements speak only as to the date when they
are made. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or
revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new
information, future events or otherwise. However, the public is
advised to review any future disclosures the Company makes on
related subjects in its annual reports on
Form 10-K,
quarterly reports on
Form 10-Q, and
current reports on
Form 8-K to the
SEC.
Item 7A Quantitative and Qualitative
Disclosures About Market Risk
Interest Rate Risk
In the normal course of business, the Company is exposed to
market risk, primarily in the form of interest rate risk. The
Company routinely monitors this risk, and has instituted
policies and procedures to minimize the adverse effects of
changes in interest rates on its net earnings and cash flows. To
manage borrowing costs, the Company uses a combination of fixed
rate and floating rate debt, as well as derivative instruments,
primarily interest rate swaps and treasury locks. All derivative
contracts are for non-trading purposes, and are entered into
with major reputable financial institutions with investment
grade credit ratings, thereby minimizing counterparty risk.
At December 31, 2006 and 2005, the Company had
$800 million in fixed rate senior notes and
$40 million in floating rate senior notes outstanding. The
fixed rate senior notes outstanding at December 31, 2006
and 2005 were comprised of long-term notes of $600 million
and $200 million bearing interest rates of
6.625 percent and 7.25 percent, respectively. In order
to hedge the interest rate risk on the $40 million floating
rate senior notes, the Company entered into an interest rate
swap to pay a fixed rate of interest (7.25 percent) and
receive a floating rate of interest on the notional amount of
$40 million. This swap fixes the interest rate on the
$40 million in long-term floating rate senior notes at
7.25 percent. The fair value of the interest rate swap at
December 31, 2006 was a net liability of $1.1 million,
based on a dealer quote, and considering current market rates.
The Company has completed a sensitivity analysis of interest
rate risk and the effects of hypothetical sudden changes in the
applicable market conditions on this fair value, based upon
2006 year-end positions. Computations of the potential
effects of the hypothetical market changes are based upon
various assumptions, involving interest rate changes, keeping
all other variables constant. Based upon an immediate
100 basis point increase in the applicable interest rate at
December 31, 2006, the fair value of the interest rate swap
would increase by approximately $0.9 million to a net
liability of $0.2 million. Conversely, a 100 basis
point decrease in that rate would decrease the fair value of the
swap by $0.9 million to a net liability of $2 million.
The fair value of the Companys fixed rate senior notes at
December 31, 2006 was $841.4 million, reflecting the
application of current interest rates offered for debt with
similar terms and maturities. This fair value is subject to
fluctuations resulting from changes in the applicable market
interest rates. As an indication of these notes
sensitivity to changes in interest rates, based upon an
immediate 100 basis point increase in the
49
Managements Discussion and Analysis
(Continued)
applicable interest rates at December 31, 2006, the fair
value of the Companys fixed rate senior notes would
decrease by approximately $33 million. Conversely, a
100 basis point decrease in that rate would increase the
fair value of these notes by $34.8 million.
During 2006, the Company entered into a forward starting
interest rate swap to hedge against the variability of
forecasted interest payments attributable to changes in interest
rates through the date of an anticipated debt issuance in 2009.
The forward starting interest rate swap has a notional amount of
$100 million and the terms call for the Company to receive
interest quarterly at a variable rate equal to the London
InterBank Offered Rate (LIBOR) and to pay interest
semi-annually at a fixed rate of 5.715 percent. The Company
expects that the forward starting swap will be perfectly
effective in offsetting the variability in the forecasted
interest rate payments, as, at inception, the critical terms of
the forward starting swap exactly match the critical terms of
the expected debt issuance. This forward starting swap has the
effect of fixing the interest rate on an anticipated
$100 million debt issuance in 2009. The fair value of the
forward starting interest rate swap at December 31, 2006
was a net liability of $3.1 million, based on a dealer
quote, and considering current market rates. As an indication of
the forward starting swaps sensitivity to changes in
interest rates, based upon an immediate 100 basis point
increase in the applicable interest rate at December 31,
2006, the fair value of the forward starting swap would increase
by approximately $6.5 million to a net asset of
$3.4 million. Conversely, a 100 basis point decrease
in that rate would decrease the fair value of these notes by
$7.5 million to a net liability of $10.6 million.
Taking into account the Companys floating rate senior
notes payable and interest rate swap outstanding at
December 31, 2006, each 100 basis point increase or
decrease in the applicable market rates of interest, with all
other variables held constant, would not have any effect on
interest expense. This is due to the full correlation of the
terms of the notes with those of the swap, which results in
interest rates on all debt outstanding being fixed at
December 31, 2006.
These hypothetical changes and assumptions may be different from
what actually takes place in the future, and the computations do
not take into account managements possible actions if such
changes actually occurred over time. Considering these
limitations, actual effects on future earnings could differ from
those calculated above.
Foreign Currency Risk
The Company occasionally enters into foreign currency forward
contracts, designated as cash flow hedges, in order to hedge the
risk of variability in cash flows associated with foreign
currency payments required in connection with forecasted
transactions to purchase oak barrels for its wine operations and
firm commitments to purchase certain equipment for its tobacco
operations. There were no foreign currency forward contracts
outstanding at December 31, 2006.
Concentration of Credit Risk
The Company routinely invests portions of its cash in short-term
instruments deemed to be cash equivalents. It is the
Companys policy to ensure that these instruments are
comprised of only investment grade securities (as determined by
a third-party rating agency) which mature in three months or
less. These factors, along with continual monitoring of the
credit status of the issuer companies and securities, reduce the
Companys exposure to investment risk associated with these
securities. At December 31, 2006, the Company had
approximately $249.8 million invested in these instruments.
Short-term investments at December 31, 2006 of
$20 million were comprised of auction rate securities
(ARS), which are long-term variable
(floating) rate bonds that are tied to short-term interest
rates. The stated maturities for these securities are generally
20 to 30 years, but their floating interest rates are reset
at seven, 28 or 35-day
intervals via a Dutch Auction process. Given the fact that ARS
are floating rate investments, they are typically traded at par
value, with interest paid at each auction.
Commodity Price Risk
The Company has entered into unconditional purchase obligations
in the form of contractual commitments to purchase leaf tobacco
for use in manufacturing smokeless tobacco products and grapes
and bulk wine for use in producing wine. See Aggregate
Contractual Obligations in Item 7 for additional
details.
50
Item 8 Financial Statements and
Supplementary Data
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED
PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the Board of Directors and Stockholders of UST Inc.:
We have audited the accompanying consolidated statement of
financial position of UST Inc. as of December 31, 2006 and
2005, and the related consolidated statements of operations,
cash flows and changes in stockholders equity for each of
the three years in the period ended December 31, 2006. Our
audits also included the financial statement schedule listed on
Schedule II in Item 15. These financial statements and
schedule are the responsibility of the Companys
management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these
financial statements and schedule based on our audits.
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the
Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those
standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain
reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are
free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a
test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in
the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the
accounting principles used and significant estimates made by
management, as well as evaluating the overall financial
statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a
reasonable basis for our opinion.
In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above
present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated
financial position of UST Inc. at December 31, 2006 and
2005, and the consolidated results of their operations and their
cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended
December 31, 2006, in conformity with U.S. generally
accepted accounting principles. Also, in our opinion, the
related financial statement schedule, when considered in
relation to the basic financial statements taken as a whole,
presents fairly in all material respects the information set
forth therein.
As discussed in Note 1 to the consolidated financial
statements, effective January 1, 2006, the Company adopted
Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 123(R),
Share-Based Payment. Also, as discussed in Note 14 to the
consolidated financial statements, effective December 31,
2006, the Company adopted the provisions of Statement of
Financial Accounting Standards No. 158, Employers
Accounting for Defined Benefit Pension and Other Postretirement
Plans.
We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the
Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the
effectiveness of UST Inc.s internal control over financial
reporting as of December 31, 2006, based on criteria
established in Internal Control Integrated Framework
issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the
Treadway Commission and our report dated February 22, 2007
expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.
Stamford, Connecticut
February 22, 2007
51
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED
PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the Board of Directors and Stockholders of UST Inc.:
We have audited managements assessment, included in the
accompanying Managements Report on Internal Control over
Financial Reporting, that UST Inc. maintained effective internal
control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2006,
based on criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated
Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of
the Treadway Commission (the COSO criteria). UST Inc.s
management is responsible for maintaining effective internal
control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the
effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting. Our
responsibility is to express an opinion on managements
assessment and an opinion on the effectiveness of the
companys internal control over financial reporting based
on our audit.
We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the
Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those
standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain
reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control
over financial reporting was maintained in all material
respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of
internal control over financial reporting, evaluating
managements assessment, testing and evaluating the design
and operating effectiveness of internal control, and performing
such other procedures as we considered necessary in the
circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable
basis for our opinion.
A companys internal control over financial reporting is a
process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the
reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of
financial statements for external purposes in accordance with
generally accepted accounting principles. A companys
internal control over financial reporting includes those
policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance
of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly
reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the
company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions
are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial
statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting
principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company
are being made only in accordance with authorizations of
management and directors of the company; and (3) provide
reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of
unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the
companys assets that could have a material effect on the
financial statements.
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over
financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements.
Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future
periods are subject to the risk that controls may become
inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree
of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
In our opinion, managements assessment that UST Inc.
maintained effective internal control over financial reporting
as of December 31, 2006, is fairly stated, in all material
respects, based on the COSO criteria. Also, in our opinion, UST
Inc. maintained, in all material respects, effective internal
control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2006
based on the COSO criteria.
We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the
Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the
consolidated statement of financial position of UST Inc. as of
December 31, 2006 and 2005 and the related consolidated
statements of operations, cash flows and changes in
stockholders equity for each of the three years in the
period ended December 31, 2006 of UST Inc. and our report
dated February 22, 2007 expressed an unqualified opinion
thereon.
Stamford, Connecticut
February 22, 2007
52
UST INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS
(In thousands, except per share amounts)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Year Ended December 31 |
|
|
|
|
|
2006 |
|
2005 |
|
2004 |
|
|
|
Net sales
|
|
$ |
1,850,911 |
|
|
$ |
1,851,885 |
|
|
$ |
1,838,238 |
|
|
|
|
|
Costs and expenses:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cost of products sold
|
|
|
412,971 |
|
|
|
392,670 |
|
|
|
363,357 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Excise taxes
|
|
|
53,117 |
|
|
|
50,461 |
|
|
|
49,284 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Selling, advertising and
administrative
|
|
|
525,990 |
|
|
|
518,797 |
|
|
|
513,570 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Restructuring charges
|
|
|
21,997 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Antitrust litigation
|
|
|
2,025 |
|
|
|
11,762 |
|
|
|
(582 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
Total costs and
expenses
|
|
|
1,016,100 |
|
|
|
973,690 |
|
|
|
925,629 |
|
|
|
|
|
Operating income
|
|
|
834,811 |
|
|
|
878,195 |
|
|
|
912,609 |
|
|
|
|
|
Interest, net
|
|
|
41,785 |
|
|
|
50,578 |
|
|
|
75,019 |
|
|
|
|
Earnings from continuing
operations before income taxes
|
|
|
793,026 |
|
|
|
827,617 |
|
|
|
837,590 |
|
|
|
|
|
Income tax expense
|
|
|
291,060 |
|
|
|
293,349 |
|
|
|
299,538 |
|
|
|
|
Earnings from continuing
operations
|
|
|
501,966 |
|
|
|
534,268 |
|
|
|
538,052 |
|
|
|
|
|
Income (loss) from discontinued
operations, including income tax effect
|
|
|
3,890 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(7,215 |
) |
|
|
|
Net earnings
|
|
$ |
505,856 |
|
|
$ |
534,268 |
|
|
$ |
530,837 |
|
|
|
|
Net earnings per basic
share:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Earnings from continuing operations
|
|
$ |
3.13 |
|
|
$ |
3.26 |
|
|
$ |
3.26 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income (loss) from discontinued
operations
|
|
|
0.02 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(0.05 |
) |
|
|
|
Net earnings per basic
share:
|
|
$ |
3.15 |
|
|
$ |
3.26 |
|
|
$ |
3.21 |
|
|
|
|
Net earnings per diluted
share:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Earnings from continuing operations
|
|
$ |
3.10 |
|
|
$ |
3.23 |
|
|
$ |
3.23 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income (loss) from discontinued
operations
|
|
|
0.02 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(0.04 |
) |
|
|
|
Net earnings per diluted
share:
|
|
$ |
3.12 |
|
|
$ |
3.23 |
|
|
$ |
3.19 |
|
|
|
|
Dividends per share
|
|
$ |
2.28 |
|
|
$ |
2.20 |
|
|
$ |
2.08 |
|
|
|
|
|
Average number of
shares:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Basic
|
|
|
160,772 |
|
|
|
163,949 |
|
|
|
165,164 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Diluted
|
|
|
162,280 |
|
|
|
165,497 |
|
|
|
166,622 |
|
The accompanying notes are integral to the Consolidated
Financial Statements.
53
UST INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION
(In thousands)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
December 31 |
|
|
|
|
|
2006 |
|
2005 |
|
|
|
Assets:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Current assets:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash and cash equivalents
|
|
$ |
254,393 |
|
|
$ |
202,025 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Short-term investments
|
|
|
20,000 |
|
|
|
10,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Accounts receivable
|
|
|
52,501 |
|
|
|
54,186 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Inventories
|
|
|
601,258 |
|
|
|
583,407 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Deferred income taxes
|
|
|
11,370 |
|
|
|
11,622 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income taxes receivable
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2,400 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Assets held for sale
|
|
|
31,452 |
|
|
|
3,433 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Prepaid expenses and other current
assets
|
|
|
27,136 |
|
|
|
22,481 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total current assets
|
|
|
998,110 |
|
|
|
889,554 |
|
|
|
|
|
Property, plant and equipment,
net
|
|
|
389,810 |
|
|
|
431,168 |
|
|
|
|
|
Deferred income taxes
|
|
|
26,239 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Other assets
|
|
|
26,189 |
|
|
|
46,261 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total assets
|
|
$ |
1,440,348 |
|
|
$ |
1,366,983 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Liabilities and
Stockholders Equity:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Current liabilities:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Accounts payable and accrued
expenses
|
|
$ |
268,254 |
|
|
$ |
231,061 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income taxes payable
|
|
|
18,896 |
|
|
|
12,566 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Litigation liability
|
|
|
12,927 |
|
|
|
15,151 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total current
liabilities
|
|
|
300,077 |
|
|
|
258,778 |
|
|
|
|
|
Long-term debt
|
|
|
840,000 |
|
|
|
840,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
Postretirement benefits other
than pensions
|
|
|
86,413 |
|
|
|
85,819 |
|
|
|
|
|
Pensions
|
|
|
142,424 |
|
|
|
92,159 |
|
|
|
|
|
Deferred income taxes
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
11,972 |
|
|
|
|
|
Other liabilities
|
|
|
5,608 |
|
|
|
3,157 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total liabilities
|
|
|
1,374,522 |
|
|
|
1,291,885 |
|
|
|
|
Contingencies (see
Note 21)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Stockholders
equity:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Capital
stock(1)
|
|
|
104,956 |
|
|
|
103,810 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Additional paid-in capital
|
|
|
1,036,237 |
|
|
|
945,466 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Retained earnings
|
|
|
635,272 |
|
|
|
497,389 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
|
|
|
(56,871 |
) |
|
|
(17,802 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
1,719,594 |
|
|
|
1,528,863 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Less treasury
stock(2)
|
|
|
1,653,768 |
|
|
|
1,453,765 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total stockholders
equity
|
|
|
65,826 |
|
|
|
75,098 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total liabilities and
stockholders equity
|
|
$ |
1,440,348 |
|
|
$ |
1,366,983 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(1) |
Common Stock par value $.50 per share:
Authorized 600 million shares;
Issued 209,912,510 shares in 2006 and
207,620,439 shares in 2005. Preferred Stock par value
$.10 per share: Authorized 10 million
shares; Issued None. |
|
(2) |
49,319,673 shares and 45,049,378 shares of treasury
stock at December 31, 2006 and December 31, 2005,
respectively. |
The accompanying notes are integral to the Consolidated
Financial Statements.
54
UST INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
(In thousands)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Year Ended December 31 |
|
|
|
|
|
2006 |
|
2005 |
|
2004 |
|
|
|
Operating Activities:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net earnings
|
|
$ |
505,856 |
|
|
$ |
534,268 |
|
|
$ |
530,837 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Adjustments to reconcile net
earnings to net cash provided by operating activities:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Depreciation and amortization
|
|
|
45,839 |
|
|
|
46,438 |
|
|
|
47,647 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Share-based compensation expense
|
|
|
10,403 |
|
|
|
5,976 |
|
|
|
3,181 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Excess tax benefits from
share-based compensation
|
|
|
(9,863 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Goodwill and intangible impairment
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
3,313 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(Gain) loss on disposition of
property, plant and equipment
|
|
|
(327 |
) |
|
|
8,911 |
|
|
|
2,946 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Deferred income taxes
|
|
|
(16,922 |
) |
|
|
19,167 |
|
|
|
100,767 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Changes in operating assets and
liabilities:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Accounts receivable
|
|
|
1,685 |
|
|
|
(12,724 |
) |
|
|
25,951 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Inventories
|
|
|
(15,780 |
) |
|
|
(16,247 |
) |
|
|
(22,780 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Prepaid expenses and other assets
|
|
|
14,703 |
|
|
|
16,255 |
|
|
|
13,573 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Accounts payable, accrued expenses,
pensions and other liabilities
|
|
|
40,541 |
|
|
|
6,757 |
|
|
|
51,172 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income taxes
|
|
|
22,945 |
|
|
|
(39,977 |
) |
|
|
27,918 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Litigation liability
|
|
|
(2,224 |
) |
|
|
(11,438 |
) |
|
|
(215,797 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net cash provided by operating
activities
|
|
|
596,856 |
|
|
|
560,699 |
|
|
|
565,415 |
|
|
|
|
Investing Activities:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Short-term investments, net
|
|
|
(10,000 |
) |
|
|
50,000 |
|
|
|
(55,000 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
Purchases of property, plant and
equipment
|
|
|
(37,044 |
) |
|
|
(89,947 |
) |
|
|
(70,326 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
Proceeds from dispositions of
property, plant and equipment
|
|
|
6,179 |
|
|
|
22,942 |
|
|
|
6,956 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Acquisition of business
|
|
|
(10,578 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Investment in joint venture
|
|
|
(3,620 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net cash used in investing
activities
|
|
|
(55,063 |
) |
|
|
(17,005 |
) |
|
|
(118,370 |
) |
|
|
|
Financing Activities:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Repayment of debt
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(300,000 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Excess tax benefits from
share-based compensation
|
|
|
9,863 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Proceeds from the issuance of stock
|
|
|
68,214 |
|
|
|
69,375 |
|
|
|
114,276 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Dividends paid
|
|
|
(367,499 |
) |
|
|
(361,208 |
) |
|
|
(344,128 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
Stock repurchased
|
|
|
(200,003 |
) |
|
|
(200,038 |
) |
|
|
(200,031 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net cash used in financing
activities
|
|
|
(489,425 |
) |
|
|
(791,871 |
) |
|
|
(429,883 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Increase (decrease) in cash and
cash equivalents
|
|
|
52,368 |
|
|
|
(248,177 |
) |
|
|
17,162 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash and cash equivalents at
beginning of year
|
|
|
202,025 |
|
|
|
450,202 |
|
|
|
433,040 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash and cash equivalents at end
of the period
|
|
$ |
254,393 |
|
|
$ |
202,025 |
|
|
$ |
450,202 |
|
|
|
|
Supplemental disclosure of cash
flow information:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash paid during the period for:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income taxes
|
|
$ |
283,618 |
|
|
$ |
314,735 |
|
|
$ |
175,972 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Interest
|
|
$ |
57,151 |
|
|
$ |
70,351 |
|
|
$ |
83,551 |
|
The accompanying notes are integral to the Consolidated
Financial Statements.
55
UST INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS
EQUITY
(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Accumulated |
|
|
|
Total |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Additional |
|
|
|
Other |
|
|
|
Stockholders |
|
|
|
|
Common |
|
Paid-In |
|
Retained |
|
Comprehensive |
|
Treasury |
|
(Deficit) |
|
Comprehensive |
|
|
Stock |
|
Capital |
|
Earnings |
|
Loss |
|
Stock |
|
Equity |
|
Income |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Balance at December 31, 2003
|
|
$ |
103,750 |
|
|
$ |
752,549 |
|
|
$ |
306,091 |
|
|
$ |
(23,458 |
) |
|
$ |
(1,254,119 |
) |
|
$ |
(115,187 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Comprehensive income:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net earnings
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
530,837 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
530,837 |
|
|
$ |
530,837 |
|
|
|
|
|
Other comprehensive income, net of
tax:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net deferred gain on cash flow
hedges
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
837 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
837 |
|
|
|
837 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Foreign currency translation
adjustment
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1,751 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1,751 |
|
|
|
1,751 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Minimum pension liability adjustment
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
959 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
959 |
|
|
|
959 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Other comprehensive income
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
3,547 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Comprehensive income
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
534,384 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash dividends
$2.08 per share
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(344,128 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(344,128 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Exercise of stock
options 3,849,000 shares and issuance of
restricted stock 205,560 shares
|
|
|
2,027 |
|
|
|
109,191 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
111,218 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income tax benefits and decrease in
receivables from exercise of stock options
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
23,309 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
23,309 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Stock repurchased
4,939,400 shares
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(200,031 |
) |
|
|
(200,031 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Balance at December 31, 2004
|
|
|
105,777 |
|
|
|
885,049 |
|
|
|
492,800 |
|
|
|
(19,911 |
) |
|
|
(1,454,150 |
) |
|
|
9,565 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Comprehensive income:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net earnings
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
534,268 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
534,268 |
|
|
$ |
534,268 |
|
|
|
|
|
Other comprehensive income (loss),
net of tax:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net deferred gain on cash flow
hedges
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1,400 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1,400 |
|
|
|
1,400 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Foreign currency translation
adjustment
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1,161 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1,161 |
|
|
|
1,161 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Minimum pension liability adjustment
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(452 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(452 |
) |
|
|
(452 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Other comprehensive income
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2,109 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Comprehensive income
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
536,377 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash dividends
$2.20 per share
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(361,208 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(361,208 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Exercise of stock
options 2,179,000 shares; issuance of stock and
restricted stock 199,409 shares; issuance of
stock upon conversion of restricted stock units
24,359 shares
|
|
|
1,202 |
|
|
|
69,779 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
70,981 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income tax benefits and decrease in
receivables from exercise of stock options
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
19,421 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
19,421 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Stock repurchased
4,438,642 shares
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(200,038 |
) |
|
|
(200,038 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Retirement of treasury
stock 6,337,275 shares
|
|
|
(3,169 |
) |
|
|
(28,783 |
) |
|
|
(168,471 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
200,423 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Balance at December 31, 2005
|
|
|
103,810 |
|
|
|
945,466 |
|
|
|
497,389 |
|
|
|
(17,802 |
) |
|
|
(1,453,765 |
) |
|
|
75,098 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Comprehensive income:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net earnings
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
505,856 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
505,856 |
|
|
$ |
505,856 |
|
|
|
|
|
Other comprehensive income (loss),
net of tax:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net deferred loss on cash flow
hedges
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(1,417 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(1,417 |
) |
|
|
(1,417 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
Foreign currency translation
adjustment
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
639 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
639 |
|
|
|
639 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Minimum pension liability adjustment
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
924 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
924 |
|
|
|
924 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Other comprehensive income
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
146 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Comprehensive income
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
506,002 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Adjustment to initially apply
SFAS No. 158, net of tax
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(39,215 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(39,215 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash dividends
$2.28 per share
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(367,499 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(367,499 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Dividend equivalents on share-based
awards
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(474 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(474 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Exercise of stock
options 2,112,200 shares
|
|
|
1,056 |
|
|
|
65,670 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
66,726 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Share-based compensation, net of
forfeitures:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Stock and restricted stock
awards 158,549 shares
|
|
|
79 |
|
|
|
7,465 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
7,544 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Stock options
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
185 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
185 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Restricted stock units
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2,869 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2,869 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Issuance of stock upon conversion
of restricted stock units 21,322 shares
|
|
|
11 |
|
|
|
(1,039 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(1,028 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income tax benefits and decrease in
receivables from exercise of stock options
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
15,621 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
15,621 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Stock repurchased
4,270,295 shares
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(200,003 |
) |
|
|
(200,003 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Balance at December 31, 2006
|
|
$ |
104,956 |
|
|
$ |
1,036,237 |
|
|
$ |
635,272 |
|
|
$ |
(56,871 |
) |
|
$ |
(1,653,768 |
) |
|
$ |
65,826 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The accompanying notes are integral to the Consolidated
Financial Statements.
56
UST INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts or where
otherwise noted)
1 SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Nature of Operations
UST Inc. (the Company), is a holding company for its
wholly-owned subsidiaries: U.S. Smokeless Tobacco Company
and International Wine & Spirits Ltd.
U.S. Smokeless Tobacco Company is a leading manufacturer
and marketer of moist smokeless tobacco products and
International Wine & Spirits Ltd., through its Ste.
Michelle Wine Estates subsidiary, produces and markets premium
wines sold nationally. The Company conducts its business
principally in the United States.
Basis of Presentation
The consolidated financial statements have been prepared in
accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the
United States and, as such, include amounts based on judgments
and estimates made by management. Management believes that the
judgments and estimates used in the preparation of the
consolidated financial statements are appropriate, however,
actual results may differ from these estimates. The consolidated
financial statements include the accounts of the Company and all
of its subsidiaries after the elimination of intercompany
accounts and transactions. Certain prior year amounts have been
reclassified to conform to the 2006 financial statement
presentation.
The estimated fair values of amounts reported in the
consolidated financial statements have been determined by using
available market information or appropriate valuation
methodologies. All current assets and current liabilities are
carried at their fair values, which approximate market values,
because of their short-term nature. The fair values of long-term
assets and long-term liabilities approximate their carrying
values, with the exception of the Companys senior notes
(see Note 9, Borrowing Arrangements).
As a result of the transfer of the Companys cigar
operation to a smokeless tobacco competitor in 2004, pursuant to
an agreement to resolve an antitrust action, the results related
to this operation are presented as Discontinued Operations (see
Note 19, Discontinued Operations).
Revenue Recognition
Revenue from the sale of moist smokeless tobacco products is
recognized, net of any discounts or rebates granted, when title
passes, which corresponds with the arrival of such products at
customer locations. Revenue from the sale of wine is recognized,
net of allowances, at the time products are shipped to
customers. Revenue from the sale of all other products is
predominantly recognized when title passes, which occurs at the
time of shipment to customers.
The Company records an accrual for estimated future sales
returns of smokeless tobacco products based upon historical
experience, current sales trends and other factors, in the
period in which the related products are shipped.
Costs associated with the Companys sales incentives,
consisting of consideration offered to any purchasers of the
Companys products at any point along the distribution
chain, are recorded as a reduction to net sales on
the Consolidated Statement of Operations.
Shipping and handling costs incurred by the Company in
connection with products sold are included in cost of
products sold on the Consolidated Statement of Operations.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash equivalents are amounts invested in investment grade
instruments with maturities of three months or less when
acquired.
57
UST INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Continued)
Short-Term Investments
Short-term investments at December 31, 2006 and 2005 were
comprised of auction-rate securities (ARS), which
are long-term variable (floating) rate bonds that are tied
to short-term interest rates. The stated maturities for these
securities are generally 20 to 30 years, but their floating
interest rates are reset at seven, 28 or
35-day intervals via a
Dutch Auction process. Given the fact that ARS are floating rate
investments, they are typically traded at par value, with
interest paid at each auction.
Inventories
Inventories are stated at lower of cost or market. Elements of
cost included in products in process and finished goods
inventories include raw materials, comprised primarily of leaf
tobacco and grapes, direct labor and manufacturing overhead. The
majority of leaf tobacco costs is determined using the
last-in, first-out
(LIFO) method. The cost of the remaining inventories is
determined using the
first-in, first-out
(FIFO) and average cost methods. Leaf tobacco and wine
inventories are included in current assets as a standard
industry practice, notwithstanding the fact that such
inventories are carried for several years for the purpose of
curing and aging.
Property, Plant and Equipment
Property, plant and equipment are carried at cost, less
accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is computed by the
straight-line method based on estimated salvage values, where
applicable, and the estimated useful lives of the assets.
Improvements are capitalized if they extend the useful lives of
the related assets, while repairs and maintenance costs are
expensed when incurred. The Company capitalizes interest related
to capital projects that qualify for such treatment under
Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS)
No. 34, Capitalization of Interest Costs.
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets
In accordance with SFAS No. 144, Accounting for the
Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets, the carrying
values of long-lived assets, including property, plant and
equipment and finite-lived intangible assets, are reviewed for
impairment whenever facts and circumstances indicate that the
carrying amount may not be fully recoverable.
Assets Held for Sale
Long-lived assets are classified as held for sale when certain
criteria are met. These criteria include managements
commitment to a plan to sell the assets; the availability of the
assets for immediate sale in their present condition; an active
program to locate buyers and other actions to sell the assets
has been initiated; the sale of the assets is probable and their
transfer is expected to qualify for recognition as a completed
sale within one year; the assets are being marketed at
reasonable prices in relation to their fair value; and the
unlikelihood that significant changes will be made to the plan
to sell the assets. The Company measures long-lived assets to be
disposed of by sale at the lower of carrying amount or fair
value, less cost to sell. See Note 4, Assets Held for
Sale, for further information.
Income Taxes
Income taxes are provided on all revenue and expense items
included in the Consolidated Statement of Operations, regardless
of the period in which such items are recognized for income tax
purposes, adjusted for items representing permanent differences
between pretax accounting income and taxable income. Deferred
58
income taxes result from the future tax consequences associated
with temporary differences between the carrying amounts of
assets and liabilities for tax and financial reporting purposes.
Valuation allowances are recorded to reduce deferred tax assets
when it is more likely than not that a tax benefit will not be
realized.
The Companys income tax provision takes into consideration
pretax income, statutory tax rates and the Companys tax
profile in the various jurisdictions in which it operates. The
tax bases of the Companys assets and liabilities reflect
its best estimate of the future tax benefit and costs it expects
to realize when such amounts are included in its tax returns.
Quantitative and probability analysis, which incorporates
managements judgment, is required in determining the
Companys effective tax rate and in evaluating its tax
positions. Notwithstanding the fact that all of the
Companys tax filing positions are supported by the
requisite tax and legal authority, accruals are established in
accordance with SFAS No. 5, Accounting for
Contingencies, when the Company believes that these
positions are likely to be subject to challenge by a tax
authority.
The Internal Revenue Service and other tax authorities audit the
Companys income tax returns on a continuous basis.
Depending on the tax jurisdiction, a number of years may elapse
before a particular matter for which the Company has established
an accrual is audited and ultimately resolved.
While it is often difficult to predict the timing of tax audits
and their final outcome, the Company believes that its accruals
reflect the probable outcome of known tax contingencies.
However, the final resolution of any such tax audit could result
in either a reduction in the Companys accruals or an
increase in its income tax provision, both of which could have a
significant impact on the results of operations in any given
period. The Company continually and regularly evaluates,
assesses and adjusts these accruals in light of changing facts
and circumstances, which could cause the effective tax rate to
fluctuate from period to period.
Advertising Costs
The Company expenses the production costs of advertising in the
period in which they are incurred. Advertising expenses, which
include print and point of sale advertising and certain trade
and marketing promotions, were $71.2 million in 2006,
$66.7 million in 2005 and $75.5 million in 2004. At
December 31, 2006 and 2005, $4.3 million of
advertising-related materials were included in prepaid expenses
and other current assets.
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets
In accordance with the provisions of SFAS No. 142,
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets, the Company tests
goodwill and other intangible assets with indefinite lives for
impairment on an annual basis (or on an interim basis if an
event occurs that might reduce the fair value of the reporting
unit below its carrying value). The Company conducts testing for
impairment during the fourth quarter of its fiscal year.
Intangible assets that do not have indefinite lives are
amortized based on average lives, which range from
3-20 years.
Share-Based Compensation
On January 1, 2006, the Company adopted the provisions of
SFAS No. 123(R), Share-based Payment,
(SFAS No. 123(R)). The approach in
SFAS No. 123(R) is similar to the approach described
in SFAS No. 123, Accounting for Stock Based
Compensation (SFAS No. 123); however,
SFAS No. 123(R) requires all share-based payments
issued to acquire goods or services, including grants of
employee stock options, to be recognized in the statement of
operations based on their fair values, net of estimated
forfeitures. SFAS No. 123(R) requires forfeitures to
be estimated at the time of grant and revised, if necessary, in
subsequent periods if actual forfeitures differ from those
estimates. In the Companys pro forma disclosure required
under SFAS No. 123 for the periods prior to adoption
of SFAS No. 123(R), the Company accounted for
forfeitures as they occurred. Pro forma disclosure, as allowed
under SFAS 123, is no longer an alternative. See
Note 12, Share-Based Compensation, for further
information.
Prior to adoption of SFAS No. 123(R), the Company
accounted for share-based compensation awards to employees and
non-employee directors in accordance with the intrinsic
value-based method prescribed by APB Opinion No. 25,
Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees (APB
Opinion No. 25), as permitted under
SFAS No. 123. Under the intrinsic value-based method,
no share-based compensation expense was reflected
59
UST INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Continued)
in net earnings as a result of stock option grants, as all
options granted under these plans had an exercise price equal to
the fair value of the underlying common stock on the date of
grant. Compensation expense was recognized in net earnings
during the years ended December 31, 2005 and 2004, as a
result of restricted stock granted to employees and non-employee
directors and restricted stock units granted to employees.
Foreign Currency Translation
In connection with foreign operations with functional currencies
other than the U.S. dollar, assets and liabilities are
translated at current exchange rates, while income and expenses
are translated at the average rates for the period. The
resulting translation adjustments are reported as a component of
accumulated other comprehensive loss.
Net Earnings Per Share
Basic earnings per share is computed by dividing net earnings by
the weighted-average number of shares of common stock
outstanding during the period. Diluted earnings per share is
computed by dividing net earnings by the weighted-average number
of shares of common stock outstanding during the period,
increased to include the number of shares of common stock that
would have been outstanding had the potential dilutive shares of
common stock been issued. The dilutive effect of outstanding
options, restricted stock and restricted stock units is
reflected in diluted earnings per share by applying the treasury
stock method under SFAS No. 128, Earnings per
Share. Under the treasury stock method, an increase in the
fair value of the Companys common stock can result in a
greater dilutive effect from outstanding options, restricted
stock and restricted stock units. Furthermore, the exercise of
options and the vesting of restricted stock and restricted stock
units can result in a greater dilutive effect on earnings per
share. See Note 18, Net Earnings Per Share, for
additional information.
Excise Taxes
The Company accounts for excise taxes on a gross basis,
reflecting the amount of excise taxes recognized in both net
sales and costs. Accordingly, amounts reported in net
sales on the Consolidated Statement of Operations for each
year include an amount equal to that reported in the
excise taxes line item.
2 RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS
In September 2006, the Financial Accounting Standards Board
(FASB) issued SFAS No. 157, Fair Value
Measurements (SFAS No. 157).
SFAS No. 157 provides a common definition of fair
value to be applied to existing GAAP requiring the use of fair
value measures, establishes a framework for measuring fair value
and enhances disclosure about fair value measures under other
accounting pronouncements, but does not change existing guidance
as to whether or not an asset or liability is carried at fair
value. SFAS No. 157 is effective for fiscal years
beginning after November 15, 2007, and, as such, the
Company plans to adopt the provisions of SFAS No. 157
on January 1, 2008. The Company is in the process of
evaluating the impact that the adoption of this pronouncement
will have on its results of operations and financial condition.
In June 2006, the FASB issued Interpretation No. 48,
Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes, an interpretation
of FASB Statement No. 109, Accounting for Income Taxes
(FIN 48), to create a single model to
address accounting for uncertainty in tax positions. FIN 48
clarifies the accounting for income taxes, by prescribing a
minimum threshold that a tax position is required to meet before
being recognized in the financial statements. FIN 48 also
provides guidance on derecognition, measurement, classification,
interest and penalties, accounting in interim periods,
disclosure and transition. FIN 48 is effective for fiscal
years beginning after December 15, 2006, and, as such, the
Company has adopted the provisions of FIN 48 as of
60
January 1, 2007, as required. The cumulative effect of
adopting FIN 48 will be recorded in retained earnings. The
Company does not expect that the adoption of FIN 48 will
have a significant impact on the Companys financial
position or results of operations.
In February 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 159, The Fair
Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial
Liabilities Including an Amendment of FASB Statement
No. 115 (SFAS No. 159). SFAS
No. 159 permits entities to choose to measure many
financial instruments and certain other items at fair value.
SFAS No. 159 is effective for fiscal years beginning after
November 15, 2007. The Company is in the process of
evaluating the impact this pronouncement may have on its results
of operations and financial condition.
There were no other recently issued accounting pronouncements
with delayed effective dates that would currently have a
material impact on the consolidated financial statements of the
Company.
3 INVENTORIES
Inventories at December 31, 2006 and 2005 were as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
December 31 |
|
|
|
|
|
2006 |
|
2005 |
|
|
|
Leaf tobacco
|
|
$ |
201,035 |
|
|
$ |
202,553 |
|
|
|
|
|
Products in process
|
|
|
233,741 |
|
|
|
203,396 |
|
|
|
|
|
Finished goods
|
|
|
145,820 |
|
|
|
156,343 |
|
|
|
|
|
Other materials and supplies
|
|
|
20,662 |
|
|
|
21,115 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
601,258 |
|
|
$ |
583,407 |
|
|
|
|
At December 31, 2006 and 2005, $221.4 million and
$230.2 million, respectively, of leaf tobacco inventories
were valued using the LIFO method. The average costs of these
inventories were greater than the amounts at which these
inventories were carried in the Consolidated Statement of
Financial Position by $73.4 million and $74.4 million,
respectively. The reduction in leaf tobacco inventories during
2006 resulted in a liquidation of LIFO inventory layers, the
effect of which was not material to the Companys results
of operations. At December 31, 2006 and 2005, leaf tobacco
of $53 million and $46.8 million, respectively, was
valued using the average cost method, reflecting the cost of
those leaf tobacco purchases made subsequent to the previous
crop year end.
4 ASSETS HELD FOR SALE
The Company had $31.5 million classified as assets
held for sale at December 31, 2006, which includes a
building located in Greenwich, Connecticut, in which the
Companys corporate headquarters are located, a corporate
conference center located in Watch Hill, Rhode Island, and a
winery property located in the State of Washington. The
properties met the criteria to be considered held for sale under
SFAS No. 144 at December 31, 2006. As the net
carrying values of the assets were lower than their respective
estimated fair value less costs to sell, there were no
impairment charges recorded in 2006, upon managements
commitment to dispose of the properties.
Of the $31.5 million classified as assets held for sale,
$28.5 million relates to the Companys corporate
headquarters, $1.9 million relates to the Watch Hill
conference center and $1.1 million relates to the
Washington winery property. Management, having proper authority,
initiated the disposal of the Companys corporate
headquarters building and the corporate conference center in
connection with the Companys cost-reduction initiative
called Project Momentum (see Note 20,
Restructuring for additional information regarding
this initiative). Management, having proper authority, initiated
the disposal of the Washington winery property in connection
with the overall strategic objectives of the Companys
winery operations. In January 2007, the Company sold the winery
property for net proceeds of $3.1 million, resulting in a
pre-tax gain of $2 million. In February 2007, the Company
entered into a definitive purchase and sale agreement providing
for the sale of the Companys corporate headquarters for
cash proceeds of $130 million, as well as a below-market,
short-term lease with an imputed fair market value of
approximately $6.7 million. This sale is expected to close
in the first quarter of 2007, and will result in a pre-tax gain
of approximately $105 million. The Company currently
anticipates that the sale of the Watch Hill conference center
will occur later in 2007.
61
UST INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Continued)
On March 30, 2006, the Company sold a winery property
located in California with a carrying value of $3.4 million
for net proceeds of $5.9 million, resulting in a pre-tax
gain of $2.5 million which was recorded as a reduction to
selling, advertising and administrative (SA&A)
expenses in the Consolidated Statement of Operations. Prior to
this transaction, the carrying value of the property was
included as assets held for sale on the
December 31, 2005 Consolidated Statement of Financial
Position.
5 PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT, NET
Property, plant and equipment are reported at cost less
accumulated depreciation. Property, plant and equipment at
December 31, 2006 and 2005 are as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
December 31 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2006 |
|
2005 |
|
|
Lives(Years) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Land
|
|
|
- |
|
|
$ |
15,100 |
|
|
$ |
18,417 |
|
|
|
|
|
Buildings and building improvements
|
|
|
1 - 40* |
|
|
|
195,522 |
|
|
|
242,025 |
|
|
|
|
|
Vineyards
|
|
|
25 |
|
|
|
23,739 |
|
|
|
23,614 |
|
|
|
|
|
Machinery and equipment
|
|
|
3 - 20 |
|
|
|
531,525 |
|
|
|
525,242 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
765,886 |
|
|
|
809,298 |
|
|
|
|
|
Less accumulated depreciation
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
376,076 |
|
|
|
378,130 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
389,810 |
|
|
$ |
431,168 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
* |
The life of buildings is generally between 10 and 40 years,
whereas the life of building improvements is generally between
one and seven years. |
Depreciation expense was $44.8 million for 2006,
$45.3 million for 2005 and $45.4 million for 2004.
6 COMMITMENTS
Purchase Agreements
At December 31, 2006, the Company had entered into
unconditional purchase obligations in the form of contractual
commitments. Unconditional purchase obligations are commitments
that are either noncancelable or cancelable only under certain
predefined conditions.
The Company is obligated to make payments in the upcoming year
of approximately $15.3 million for leaf tobacco to be used
in the production of moist smokeless tobacco products. The
decrease from the December 31, 2005 commitment of
$19.1 million is primarily a result of the timing on
delivery of tobacco.
Purchase commitments under contracts to purchase grapes for
periods beyond one year are subject to variability resulting
from potential changes in market price indices. The Company is
obligated to make future payments for purchases and processing
of grapes for use in the production of wine, based on estimated
yields and market conditions, as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2007 |
|
2008 |
|
2009 |
|
2010 |
|
2011 |
|
Thereafter |
|
Total |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Grape commitments
|
|
$ |
66,805 |
|
|
$ |
65,605 |
|
|
$ |
65,776 |
|
|
$ |
63,193 |
|
|
$ |
59,047 |
|
|
$ |
125,011 |
|
|
$ |
445,437 |
|
Payments made in connection with unconditional purchase
obligations for grapes were $61.9 million,
$54.6 million and $47.6 million in 2006, 2005 and
2004, respectively.
62
Operating Leases
The Company leases certain property and equipment under various
operating lease arrangements. Certain leases contain escalation
clauses as well as renewal options, whereby the Company can
extend the lease term for periods ranging up to five years. The
following is a schedule of future minimum lease payments for
operating leases as of December 31, 2006:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2007 |
|
2008 |
|
2009 |
|
2010 |
|
2011 |
|
Thereafter |
|
Total |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Lease commitments
|
|
$ |
7,789 |
|
|
$ |
8,772 |
|
|
$ |
8,161 |
|
|
$ |
6,420 |
|
|
$ |
5,049 |
|
|
$ |
66,620 |
|
|
$ |
102,811 |
|
Rent expense was $12.1 million for 2006, $12.5 million
for 2005 and $13.8 million for 2004.
7 OTHER ASSETS
Other assets at December 31, 2006 and 2005 consisted of the
following:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
December 31 |
|
|
|
|
|
2006 |
|
2005 |
|
|
|
Prepaid pension costs
|
|
$ |
1,138 |
|
|
$ |
32,422 |
|
|
|
|
|
Capitalized debt costs
|
|
|
3,332 |
|
|
|
4,343 |
|
|
|
|
|
Goodwill
|
|
|
6,547 |
|
|
|
2,649 |
|
|
|
|
|
Other
|
|
|
15,172 |
|
|
|
6,847 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
26,189 |
|
|
$ |
46,261 |
|
|
|
|
The decrease in prepaid pension costs in 2006, as compared to
2005, is related to the adoption of SFAS No. 158,
Employers Accounting for Defined Benefit Pension and
Other Postretirement Plans, an amendment of FASB Statements
No. 87, 88, 106 and 132(R)
(SFAS No. 158), which required the
Company to recognize the funded status of each of its defined
benefit pension plans on its Consolidated Statement of Financial
Position (see Note 14, Employee Benefit and
Compensation Plans). As such, prepaid pension costs at
December 31, 2006 relate to a plan for which the fair value
of plan assets exceeded the respective projected benefit
obligation as of that date.
Capitalized debt costs as of December 31, 2006 and 2005
included applicable fees incurred in connection with the
Companys senior notes outstanding and credit facilities in
place as of such dates. These costs are being amortized over the
applicable terms of the related senior notes and credit
facilities (see Note 9, Borrowing Arrangements).
The Company accounts for its goodwill and intangible assets in
accordance with SFAS No. 142, Goodwill and Other
Intangible Assets (SFAS No. 142). Under
SFAS No. 142, goodwill and other intangible assets not
subject to amortization must be tested for impairment annually,
or more frequently if certain indicators exist. During the
fourth quarter of 2005, as a result of its annual impairment
testing, the Company recorded an impairment charge of
approximately $2.4 million related to goodwill for F.W.
Rickard Seeds, Inc., a second-tier subsidiary included in the
Smokeless Tobacco segment. This testing included consideration
of information available at the time, including deterioration in
sales trends, as well as the future expectations for the seed
business and industry. The fair value of the entity, which was
used in computing the impairment charge, was calculated based
upon both comparable market multiples and discounted expected
cash flows. In addition, in 2005, the Company recorded an
impairment charge of approximately $0.9 million related to
certain seed technology-related intangible assets, also at
F.W. Rickard Seeds, Inc. There were no goodwill or other
intangible asset impairment charges recognized in 2006 or 2004.
In the third quarter of 2006, the Company completed the
acquisition of Erath Vineyards Winery, LLC (Erath),
in the form of an asset purchase, for a total purchase price of
$11.6 million. Erath is a leading producer of the Pinot
Noir varietal in Oregon. The total consideration of
$11.6 million included a cash payment of $10.6 million
and a promissory note of $1 million, payable in equal
annual installments over a five-year period beginning in the
third quarter of 2007. In connection with the acquisition, the
Company recorded goodwill of
63
UST INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Continued)
approximately $3.9 million, which is included in
Goodwill in the table above, as well as
$3.7 million of other intangible assets, which are included
in Other in the table above.
8 ACCOUNTS PAYABLE AND ACCRUED EXPENSES
Accounts payable and accrued expenses at December 31, 2006
and 2005 consisted of the following:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
December 31 |
|
|
|
|
|
2006 |
|
2005 |
|
|
|
Trade accounts payable
|
|
$ |
93,729 |
|
|
$ |
78,947 |
|
|
|
|
|
Employee compensation and benefits
|
|
|
73,742 |
|
|
|
61,340 |
|
|
|
|
|
Interest payable on debt
|
|
|
19,669 |
|
|
|
19,669 |
|
|
|
|
|
Smokeless tobacco
settlement-related charges
|
|
|
20,433 |
|
|
|
17,997 |
|
|
|
|
|
Returned goods accrual
|
|
|
17,631 |
|
|
|
16,612 |
|
|
|
|
|
Restructuring(1)
|
|
|
4,593 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Other accrued expenses
|
|
|
38,457 |
|
|
|
36,496 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
268,254 |
|
|
$ |
231,061 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(1) |
Represents liability for restructuring charges as of
December 31, 2006. For additional information see
Note 20, Restructuring. |
9 BORROWING ARRANGEMENTS
Long-term debt consisted of the following:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
December 31 |
|
|
|
|
|
2006 |
|
2005 |
|
|
Carrying |
|
Fair |
|
Carrying |
|
Fair |
|
|
Value |
|
Value(1) |
|
Value |
|
Value(1) |
|
|
|
7.25% Senior notes, due
June 1, 2009
|
|
$ |
240,000 |
|
|
$ |
248,400 |
|
|
$ |
240,000 |
|
|
$ |
248,960 |
|
|
|
|
|
6.625% Senior notes, due
July 15, 2012
|
|
|
600,000 |
|
|
|
633,000 |
|
|
|
600,000 |
|
|
|
621,480 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
840,000 |
|
|
$ |
881,400 |
|
|
$ |
840,000 |
|
|
$ |
870,440 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(1) |
The fair value of the Companys long-term debt is estimated
based upon the application of current interest rates offered for
debt with similar terms and maturities. |
On July 9, 2004, the Company entered into a
$300 million three-year credit facility (the Credit
Facility). The Credit Facility was executed primarily to
support commercial paper borrowings. In addition, under the
terms of the Credit Facility, the Company may borrow directly
from the financial institutions that are parties therein. The
Company did not have any direct borrowings under the Credit
Facility or commercial paper borrowings at December 31,
2006 or 2005.
Costs of approximately $0.9 million associated with the
establishment of the Credit Facility were capitalized in 2004
and are being amortized over the applicable term. Approximately
$0.3 million of these costs were recognized each year in
2006 and 2005 and $0.2 million were recognized in 2004. The
Credit Facility requires the maintenance of certain financial
ratios, the payment of commitment and administrative fees and
includes affirmative and negative covenants customary for
facilities of this type. The commitment fee payable on the
unused portion of the Credit Facility is determined based on an
interest rate, within a range of rates, dependent upon the
Companys senior unsecured debt rating. The commitment fee
currently payable is
64
0.15 percent per annum. Commitment fees incurred for the
Credit Facility approximated $0.5 million each year in 2006
and 2005 and $0.2 million in 2004. As of December 31,
2006, the Company was in compliance with all covenants under the
terms of the Credit Facility. During 2004, the Company also
recognized $0.7 million and $0.5 million related to
the amortization of capitalized origination costs and commitment
fees, respectively, in connection with a previous credit
facility.
In July 2002, the Company issued $600 million aggregate
principal amount of 6.625 percent senior notes at a price
of 99.53 percent of the principal amount. These notes
mature on July 15, 2012, with interest payable
semiannually. Approximately $4.8 million of the costs
associated with the issuance of the notes were capitalized and
are being amortized over the term of the notes. Approximately
$0.5 million of these costs have been recognized in each of
the three years ended December 31, 2006, 2005 and 2004.
In May 1999, the Company issued $240 million aggregate
principal amount of senior notes, of which $200 million is
7.25 percent fixed rate debt and $40 million is
floating rate debt, which bears interest at the three-month
LIBOR plus 90 basis points. These notes mature on
June 1, 2009, with interest payable semiannually and
quarterly on the fixed and floating rate notes, respectively. To
hedge the interest rate risk on the $40 million floating
rate debt, the Company executed an interest rate swap,
effectively fixing the rate at 7.25 percent (See
Note 10, Derivative Instruments and Hedging
Activities).
10 DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS AND HEDGING ACTIVITIES
The Company monitors and manages risk associated with changes in
interest rates and foreign currency exchange rates. The purpose
of the Companys risk management policy is to maintain the
Companys financial flexibility by reducing or transferring
risk exposure at appropriate costs. The Company does so, from
time to time, by entering into derivative financial instruments
to hedge against exposure to these risks. The Company has
implemented risk management controls and limits to monitor its
risk position and ensure that hedging performance is in line
with Company objectives.
The Companys risk management policy does not permit the
use of complex multifaceted derivative instruments or compound
derivative instruments without the approval of the Board of
Directors. In addition, the policy does not permit the use of
leveraged financial instruments. The Company does not use
derivatives for trading or speculative purposes. The Company
mitigates the risk of nonperformance by a counterparty by using
only major reputable financial institutions with investment
grade credit ratings.
All derivatives are recognized as either assets or liabilities
in the Consolidated Statement of Financial Position with
measurement at fair value, and changes in the fair values of
derivative instruments are reported in either net earnings or
other comprehensive income depending on the designated use of
the derivative and whether it meets the criteria for hedge
accounting. The fair value of each of these instruments reflects
the net amount required to settle the position. The accounting
for gains and losses associated with changes in the fair value
of derivatives and the related effects on the consolidated
financial statements is subject to their hedge designation and
whether they meet effectiveness standards.
During 2006, the Company entered into a forward starting
interest rate swap to hedge against the variability of
forecasted interest payments attributable to changes in interest
rates through the date of an anticipated debt issuance in 2009.
The forward starting interest rate swap has a notional amount of
$100 million and the terms call for the Company to receive
interest quarterly at a variable rate equal to the London
InterBank Offered Rate (LIBOR) and to pay interest
semi-annually at a fixed rate of 5.715 percent. The Company
expects that the forward starting swap will be perfectly
effective in offsetting the variability in the forecasted
interest rate payments, as, at inception, the critical terms of
the forward starting swap exactly match the critical terms of
the expected debt issuance. In accordance with the provisions of
SFAS No. 133, Accounting for Derivative Instruments
and Hedging Activities (SFAS No. 133),
the Company will use the Hypothetical Derivative Method to
measure hedge effectiveness. The fair value of the forward
starting interest rate swap at December 31, 2006 was a net
liability of $3.1 million, based on a dealer quote, and
considering current market rates, and was included in
other liabilities on the Consolidated Statement of
Financial Position. Accumulated other comprehensive loss at
December 31, 2006 included the accumulated loss on the cash
flow hedge (net of taxes) of $2 million, which reflects the
comprehensive loss recognized for the year ended
December 31, 2006, in connection with the change in fair
value of the swap.
65
UST INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Continued)
The Company has hedged the interest rate risk on its
$40 million aggregate principal amount of floating rate
senior notes with a ten-year interest rate swap having a
notional amount of $40 million and quarterly settlement
dates over the term of the contract. The Company pays a fixed
rate of 7.25 percent and receives a floating rate of
three-month LIBOR plus 90 basis points on the notional
amount. This interest rate swap has been designated as an
effective cash flow hedge, whereby changes in the cash flows
from the swap perfectly offset the changes in the cash flows
associated with the floating rate of interest on the
$40 million debt principal (see Note 9,
Borrowing Arrangements). The fair value of the swap
at December 31, 2006 and 2005 was a net liability of
$1.1 million and $1.9 million, respectively, based on
dealer quotes, considering current market rates, and was
included in other liabilities on the Consolidated
Statement of Financial Position. Accumulated other comprehensive
loss at December 31, 2006 and 2005 included the accumulated
loss on the cash flow hedge (net of taxes) of $0.7 million
and $1.2 million, respectively. This reflects
$0.5 million and $1.4 million (net of taxes) of other
comprehensive income recognized for the year ended
December 31, 2006 and 2005, respectively, in connection
with the change in fair value of the swap.
During 2006, the Company entered into foreign currency forward
contracts, designated as effective cash flow hedges, in order to
hedge the risk of variability in cash flows associated with
foreign currency payments required in connection with forecasted
transactions and firm commitments to purchase oak barrels for
its wine operations and certain equipment for its tobacco
operations. At December 31, 2006, there were no foreign
currency forward contracts outstanding, as all contracts were
settled during 2006. The amounts recognized upon settlement of
these contracts was not material.
Other derivative contracts at December 31, 2006 included
forward contracts to purchase leaf tobacco for use in
manufacturing smokeless tobacco products and grapes and bulk
wine for use in wine production. These forward contracts meet
the normal purchases exception, exempting them from the
accounting and reporting requirements under
SFAS No. 133.
11 CAPITAL STOCK
The Company has two classes of capital stock: preferred stock,
with a par value of $.10 per share, and common stock, with
a par value of $.50 per share. Authorized preferred stock
is 10 million shares and authorized common stock is
600 million shares. There have been no shares of the
Companys preferred stock issued. Events causing changes in
the issued and outstanding shares of common stock are described
in the Consolidated Statement of Changes in Stockholders
Equity.
Common stock issued at December 31, 2006 and 2005 was
209,912,510 shares and 207,620,439 shares,
respectively. Treasury shares held at December 31, 2006 and
2005 were 49,319,673 shares and 45,049,378 shares,
respectively.
The Company repurchased a total of 4.3 million and
4.4 million shares during 2006 and 2005, respectively, at a
cost of approximately $200 million each year. Included in
the shares repurchased during 2005 were 64,000 shares that
the Company repurchased at prevailing market prices directly
from the trust established for the Companys qualified
defined benefit pension plans. The shares repurchased during
2006 and a portion of the shares repurchased during 2005 were
made pursuant to the Companys authorized program, approved
in December 2004 by the Companys Board of Directors, to
repurchase up to 20 million shares of its outstanding
common stock. Through December 31, 2006, approximately
7.1 million shares have been repurchased at a cost of
approximately $317 million under this program. Of the total
shares repurchased in 2005, approximately 1.6 million
shares were repurchased pursuant to the Companys previous
authorized program, approved in October 1999, to repurchase its
outstanding common stock up to a maximum of 20 million
shares. Repurchases under this program resulted in a total cost
of $646.2 million.
In May 2005, the Company authorized that 10 million shares
of its common stock be reserved for issuance under the 2005 Long
Term Incentive Plan (2005 LTIP), which was approved
by stockholders at the
66
Companys Annual Meeting on May 3, 2005. Of the total
shares reserved, 6.3 million shares of the Companys
treasury stock were retired for this purpose. The remaining
3.7 million shares, which had been retired in previous
years from the Companys treasury stock, in connection with
the establishment of the UST Inc. Amended and Restated Stock
Incentive Plan, the Nonemployee Directors Stock Option
Plan and the Nonemployee Directors Restricted Stock Award
Plan, are available for issuance under the 2005 LTIP (See
Note 12, Share-Based Compensation, for details
on awards made under this plan).
12 SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION
On January 1, 2006, the Company adopted the provisions of
SFAS No. 123(R). The approach in
SFAS No. 123(R) is similar to the approach described
in SFAS No. 123; however, SFAS No. 123(R)
requires all share-based payments issued to acquire goods or
services, including grants of employee stock options, to be
recognized in the statement of operations based on their fair
values, net of estimated forfeitures. SFAS No. 123(R)
requires forfeitures to be estimated at the time of grant and
revised, if necessary, in subsequent periods if actual
forfeitures differ from those estimates. In the Companys
pro forma disclosure required under SFAS No. 123 for
the periods prior to adoption of SFAS No. 123(R), the
Company accounted for forfeitures as they occurred. Upon the
adoption of SFAS No. 123(R), pro forma disclosure, as
allowed under SFAS No. 123, was no longer an
alternative. The Company has elected the modified prospective
transition method as permitted by SFAS No. 123(R), in
which compensation cost is recognized beginning with the
effective date, based on the requirements of
SFAS No. 123(R), for all share-based payments granted
after January 1, 2006, and based on the requirements of
SFAS No. 123 for all awards granted to employees prior
to that date that remained unvested upon adoption of
SFAS No. 123(R). Compensation expense related to
share-based awards is recognized over the requisite service
period, which is generally the vesting period. For shares
subject to graded vesting, the Companys policy is to apply
the straight-line method in recognizing compensation expense.
The amount of incremental compensation expense recognized
relating to stock options as a result of the adoption of
SFAS No. 123(R) for the year ended December 31,
2006 was not material.
Prior to the adoption of SFAS No. 123(R), the Company
presented all tax benefits for deductions resulting from the
exercise of stock options as operating cash flows on its
Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows. SFAS No. 123(R)
requires the benefits of tax deductions in excess of recognized
compensation expense, or the pro forma compensation expense that
would have been recognized under SFAS No. 123 in the
case of stock options granted prior to January 1, 2006, to
be reported as a financing cash inflow, rather than as an
operating cash inflow. This requirement reduces net operating
cash flows and increases net financing cash flows. Total cash
flows do not differ from what would have been reported under
prior accounting guidance.
Prior to the adoption of SFAS No. 123(R), the Company
accounted for share-based compensation awards to employees and
non-employee directors in accordance with the intrinsic
value-based method prescribed by APB Opinion No. 25, as
permitted under Statement No. 123. Under the intrinsic
value-based method, no share-based compensation expense was
reflected in net earnings as a result of stock option grants, as
all options granted under these plans had an exercise price
equal to the fair market value of the underlying common stock on
the date of grant. Compensation expense was recognized in net
earnings during the years ended December 31, 2005 and 2004,
as a result of restricted stock granted to employees and
non-employee directors and restricted stock units granted to
employees.
67
UST INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Continued)
As the Company did not account for share-based compensation
awards under the fair value method prior to January 1,
2006, the following table illustrates the effect of applying the
fair value method on net earnings and net earnings per share for
the years ended December 31, 2005 and 2004 as prescribed in
SFAS No. 123:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2005 |
|
2004 |
|
|
|
Net earnings:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
As reported
|
|
$ |
534,268 |
|
|
$ |
530,837 |
|
|
|
|
|
Add: Total share-based employee
compensation expense included in reported net income, net of
related tax effect
|
|
|
3,884 |
|
|
|
2,138 |
|
|
|
|
|
Less: Total share-based employee
compensation expense determined under the fair value method for
all awards, net of related tax effect
|
|
|
(8,948 |
) |
|
|
(5,258 |
) |
|
|
|
Pro forma
|
|
$ |
529,204 |
|
|
$ |
527,717 |
|
|
|
|
Basic earnings per share:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
As reported
|
|
$ |
3.26 |
|
|
$ |
3.21 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Pro forma
|
|
$ |
3.23 |
|
|
$ |
3.20 |
|
|
|
|
|
Diluted earnings per share:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
As reported
|
|
$ |
3.23 |
|
|
$ |
3.19 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Pro forma
|
|
$ |
3.20 |
|
|
$ |
3.18 |
|
The following table provides a breakdown by line item of the
pre-tax share-based compensation expense recognized in the
Consolidated Statement of Operations for the three years ended
December 31, 2006, 2005 and 2004, respectively, as well as
the related income tax benefit and amounts capitalized as a
component of inventory for each period.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Year Ended December 31, |
|
|
|
|
|
2006 |
|
2005 |
|
2004 |
|
|
|
Selling, advertising and
administrative expense
|
|
$ |
9,440 |
|
|
$ |
5,976 |
|
|
$ |
3,289 |
|
|
|
|
|
Cost of products sold
|
|
|
486 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Restructuring
charges(1)
|
|
|
477 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total pre-tax share-based
compensation expense
|
|
$ |
10,403 |
|
|
$ |
5,976 |
|
|
$ |
3,289 |
|
|
|
|
Income tax benefit
|
|
$ |
3,774 |
|
|
$ |
2,092 |
|
|
$ |
1,151 |
|
|
|
|
|
Capitalized as inventory
|
|
$ |
115 |
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
|
(1) |
Represents share-based compensation expense recognized in
connection with one-time termination benefits provided to
employees affected by the Companys previously announced
cost-reduction initiative called Project Momentum.
See Note 20 Restructuring for
additional information regarding Project Momentum. |
The Company maintains the following five equity compensation
plans (1) the UST Inc. 2005 Long Term Incentive
Plan (2005 LTIP), (2) the UST Inc. Amended and
Restated Stock Incentive Plan, (3) the UST Inc. 1992 Stock
Option Plan, (4) the Nonemployee Directors Stock
Option Plan, and (5) the Nonemployee Directors
Restricted Stock Award Plan. In May 2005, the Company authorized
that 10 million shares of its common stock be reserved for
issuance under the 2005 LTIP, which was approved by stockholders
at the Companys Annual Meeting on May 3, 2005.
Subsequent to that date, all share-based awards were issued from
the 2005 LTIP, as the UST Inc. Amended and Restated Stock
Incentive Plan, the Nonemployee Directors Stock Option
Plan and the Nonemployee Directors Restricted Stock Award
Plan are considered to be inactive.
68
Forfeitures of share-based awards granted from these inactive
plans are transferred into the 2005 LTIP as they occur, and are
considered available for future issuance under the 2005 LTIP.
Share-based awards are generally in the form of common shares,
stock options, restricted stock or restricted stock units.
Share-based awards granted under the 2005 LTIP vest over a
period determined by the Compensation Committee of the Board of
Directors (Compensation Committee) and in the case
of stock option awards, may be exercised up to a maximum of ten
years from the date of grant. Under the UST Inc. Amended and
Restated Stock Incentive Plan and the UST Inc. 1992 Stock Option
Plan, share-based awards vest, in ratable installments or
otherwise, over a period of one to five years from the date of
grant and, in the case of stock option awards, may be exercised
up to a maximum of ten years from the date of grant using
various payment methods. Under the Nonemployee Directors
Stock Option Plan, options first become exercisable six months
from the date of grant and may be exercised up to a maximum of
ten years from the date of grant. In certain instances, awards
of restricted stock are subject to performance conditions
related to the Companys dividend payout ratio and/or
earnings per share, which impact the number of shares of
restricted stock that will ultimately vest. For restricted stock
awards subject to performance conditions, the
SFAS No. 123(R) grant date is the earliest date at
which all of the following have occurred, (1) the
Compensation Committee has authorized the award, (2) the
Compensation Committee has established the performance goals
that will be used to measure actual performance, and
(3) the Company and the employee have a mutual
understanding of the key terms and conditions of the award. The
Company recognizes compensation expense for awards subject to
performance conditions based on the estimated number of shares
of restricted stock that will ultimately vest, and adjusts this
estimate, as necessary, based on actual performance. Upon the
exercise of stock options or vesting of restricted stock units,
the Company issues new shares of common stock from the shares
reserved for issuance under its equity compensation plans.
Stock Options
On December 8, 2005, the Board of Directors of the Company,
upon the recommendation of its Compensation Committee, approved
the acceleration of vesting of all outstanding, unvested stock
options previously awarded to the Companys employees and
officers, including executive officers, under the UST Inc.
Amended and Restated Stock Incentive Plan and the UST Inc. 1992
Stock Option Plan. As a result of the acceleration, stock
options to acquire approximately 1.1 million shares of the
Companys common stock became exercisable on
December 31, 2005. In order to prevent unintended personal
benefits to the Companys officers, the accelerated vesting
was conditioned on such officers entering into amendments to
their original option award agreements providing that such
officers will not, subject to limited exceptions, sell,
transfer, assign, pledge or otherwise dispose of any shares
acquired upon exercising the accelerated portion of the options
before the earlier of the date on which that portion of options
would have otherwise vested under the original terms of the
applicable option agreements or separation from service. All
other terms related to these stock options were not affected by
this acceleration. As a result of the acceleration of these
options, the Company is not required to recognize pre-tax
incremental compensation expense in its Consolidated Statements
of Operations associated with these options of approximately
$3 million in 2006 and $0.5 million in 2007.
69
UST INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Continued)
The following table presents a summary of the Companys
stock option activity and related information for the year ended
December 31, 2006 (options in thousands):
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Year Ended December 31, 2006 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Weighted- |
|
Weighted-Average |
|
|
|
|
Number of |
|
Average Exercise |
|
Remaining |
|
Aggregate |
|
|
Options |
|
Price |
|
Contractual Term |
|
Intrinsic Value |
|
|
|
Outstanding at January 1, 2006
|
|
|
6,845.6 |
|
|
$ |
32.13 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Granted
|
|
|
200.0 |
|
|
$ |
53.47 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Exercised
|
|
|
(2,112.2 |
) |
|
$ |
31.53 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Forfeited
|
|
|
(5.4 |
) |
|
$ |
33.21 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Expired
|
|
|
(14.0 |
) |
|
$ |
34.01 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Outstanding at December 31,
2006
|
|
|
4,914.0 |
|
|
$ |
33.25 |
|
|
|
4.93 years |
|
|
$ |
123.1 million |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Exercisable at December 31,
2006
|
|
|
4,664.0 |
|
|
$ |
32.33 |
|
|
|
4.68 years |
|
|
$ |
121.1 million |
|
The fair value of each option grant was estimated on the date of
grant using the Black-Scholes-Merton option pricing model, which
incorporates various assumptions including expected volatility,
expected dividend yield, expected life and applicable interest
rates. The expected volatility is based upon the historical
volatility of the Companys common stock over the most
recent period commensurate with the expected life of the
applicable stock options, adjusted for the impact of unusual
fluctuations not reasonably expected to recur. The expected life
of stock options is estimated based upon historical exercise
data for previously awarded options, taking into consideration
the vesting period and contractual lives of the applicable
options. The expected dividend yield is derived from analysis of
historical dividend rates, anticipated dividend rate increases
and the estimated price of the Companys common stock over
the estimated option life. The risk-free rate is based upon the
interest rate on U.S. Treasury securities with maturities
that best correspond with the expected life of the applicable
stock options.
The following provides a summary of the weighted-average
assumptions used in valuing stock options granted during the
years ended December 31:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2006 |
|
2005 |
|
2004 |
|
|
|
Expected dividend yield
|
|
|
4.4% |
|
|
|
4.9% |
|
|
|
5.0% |
|
|
|
|
|
Risk-free interest rate
|
|
|
4.6% |
|
|
|
4.5% |
|
|
|
3.9% |
|
|
|
|
|
Expected volatility
|
|
|
20.2% |
|
|
|
24.2% |
|
|
|
13.2% |
|
|
|
|
|
Expected life of the option
|
|
|
6.5 years |
|
|
|
7.3 years |
|
|
|
7.5 years |
|
The following table provides additional information regarding
the Companys stock options for the years ended
December 31:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2006 |
|
2005 |
|
2004 |
|
|
|
Weighted-average grant date fair
value per option
|
|
$ |
8.35 |
|
|
$ |
6.86 |
|
|
$ |
2.76 |
|
|
|
|
|
Total intrinsic value of options
exercised
|
|
$ |
38,239 |
|
|
$ |
43,234 |
|
|
$ |
39,811 |
|
|
|
|
|
Tax benefit realized for deduction
from stock option exercises
|
|
$ |
14,215 |
|
|
$ |
15,860 |
|
|
$ |
17,070 |
|
|
|
|
|
Cash received from option exercises
|
|
$ |
68,214 |
|
|
$ |
69,375 |
|
|
$ |
114,276 |
|
70
Receivables from the exercise of stock options in the amount of
$6.9 million in 2006, $8.3 million in 2005 and
$11.9 million in 2004 have been deducted from
stockholders equity.
Restricted Stock/ Restricted Stock Units/ Common
Stock
A summary of the status of restricted stock and restricted stock
units as of December 31, 2006, and changes during the year
ended December 31, 2006, is presented below:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Restricted Stock |
|
Restricted Stock Units |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Weighted-Average |
|
|
|
Weighted-Average |
|
|
Number of |
|
Grant-Date Fair |
|
Number of |
|
Grant-Date Fair |
|
|
Shares |
|
Value per Share |
|
Shares |
|
Value per Share |
|
|
|
|
|
Nonvested at January 1, 2006
|
|
|
442,190 |
|
|
$ |
39.66 |
|
|
|
171,390 |
|
|
$ |
38.68 |
|
|
|
|
|
Granted
|
|
|
55,000 |
|
|
$ |
50.14 |
|
|
|
109,930 |
|
|
$ |
44.58 |
|
|
|
|
|
Forfeited
|
|
|
(7,018 |
) |
|
$ |
39.92 |
|
|
|
(18,678 |
) |
|
$ |
40.77 |
|
|
|
|
|
Vested
|
|
|
(29,734 |
) |
|
$ |
35.64 |
|
|
|
(32,167 |
) |
|
$ |
39.39 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Nonvested at December 31, 2006
|
|
|
460,438 |
|
|
$ |
41.17 |
|
|
|
230,475 |
|
|
$ |
41.23 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
In addition to the table above, the Company awarded 97,000
restricted shares during 2006 for which the performance targets
had not been established as of December 31, 2006. In
accordance with SFAS No. 123(R), a grant date, for
purposes of measuring compensation expense, cannot occur until
the performance measures are established, as that is when both
the Company and the award recipients would have a mutual
understanding of the key terms and conditions of the award.
Of the 460,438 shares of restricted stock above,
278,000 shares are subject to certain performance
conditions related to the Companys dividend payout ratio
and/or earnings per share. The weighted-average grant date fair
values of restricted stock granted during the years ended
December 31, 2005 and 2004 were $38.67 and $39.65,
respectively. The total fair value of shares vested during the
years ended December 31, 2006, 2005 and 2004 was
$1.6 million, $0.3 million and $0.2 million,
respectively.
During the year ended December 31, 2006, 25,884 shares
of common stock were awarded outright to non-employee directors
as compensation for their annual retainer and meeting
attendance, resulting in $1.2 million in compensation
expense.
As of December 31, 2006, there is $9.6 million and
$6 million of total unrecognized pre-tax compensation
expense, net of estimated forfeitures, related to nonvested
restricted stock and restricted stock units, respectively,
granted under the Companys incentive plans. This cost is
expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of
2.0 years for both restricted stock and restricted stock
units.
13 ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE LOSS
The components of comprehensive income that relate to the
Company are net earnings, foreign currency translation
adjustments, the change in the fair value of derivatives
designated as effective cash flow hedges, and, prior to the
adoption of SFAS No. 158, minimum pension liability
adjustments. On December 31, 2006, the Company adopted the
provisions of SFAS No. 158, which requires companies
to recognize the funded status of its defined benefit pension
and other postretirement benefit plans as an asset or liability
in its statement of financial position, with a corresponding
adjustment to accumulated other comprehensive loss,
71
UST INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Continued)
net of tax. See Note 14, Employee Benefit and
Compensation Plans, for additional information regarding
amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive loss upon
adoption of SFAS No. 158.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total |
|
|
Foreign |
|
Minimum |
|
|
|
Fair Value of |
|
Accumulated |
|
|
Currency |
|
Pension |
|
Adjustment to |
|
Derivative |
|
Other |
|
|
Translation |
|
Liability |
|
Initially Apply |
|
Instruments |
|
Comprehensive |
|
|
Adjustment |
|
Adjustment |
|
SFAS No. 158 |
|
Adjustment |
|
(Loss) Income |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Balance at December 31, 2003
|
|
$ |
(2,801 |
) |
|
$ |
(16,937 |
) |
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
(3,720 |
) |
|
$ |
(23,458 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
Net change for the year
|
|
|
1,751 |
|
|
|
959 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
837 |
|
|
|
3,547 |
|
|
|
|
Balance at December 31, 2004
|
|
|
(1,050 |
) |
|
|
(15,978 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(2,883 |
) |
|
|
(19,911 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
Net change for the year
|
|
|
1,161 |
|
|
|
(452 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
1,400 |
|
|
|
2,109 |
|
|
|
|
Balance at December 31, 2005
|
|
|
111 |
|
|
|
(16,430 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(1,483 |
) |
|
|
(17,802 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
Net change for the year
|
|
|
639 |
|
|
|
924 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(1,417 |
) |
|
|
146 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Impact of adoption of
SFAS No. 158
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
15,506 |
|
|
|
(54,721 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(39,215 |
) |
|
|
|
Balance at December 31, 2006
|
|
$ |
750 |
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
(54,721 |
) |
|
$ |
(2,900 |
) |
|
$ |
(56,871 |
) |
|
|
|
The net change for the years ended December 31, 2006, 2005
and 2004, respectively, for the following components of
accumulated other comprehensive loss, is reflected net of tax
(expense) benefit of:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2006 |
|
2005 |
|
2004 |
|
|
|
Foreign currency translation
adjustment
|
|
$ |
(344 |
) |
|
$ |
(625 |
) |
|
$ |
(943 |
) |
|
|
|
|
Minimum pension liability adjustment
|
|
|
(498 |
) |
|
|
244 |
|
|
|
(516 |
) |
|
|
|
|
Adjustment to initially apply
SFAS No. 158
|
|
|
21,116 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Fair value of derivative
instruments adjustment
|
|
|
763 |
|
|
|
(754 |
) |
|
|
(451 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
21,037 |
|
|
$ |
(1,135 |
) |
|
$ |
(1,910 |
) |
|
|
|
14 EMPLOYEE BENEFIT AND COMPENSATION PLANS
The Company and its subsidiaries maintain a number of
noncontributory defined benefit pension plans covering
substantially all employees over age 21 with at least one
year of service. The Companys funded plan for salaried
employees provides pension benefits based on their highest
three-year average compensation. All other funded plans base
benefits on an individual employees compensation in each
year of employment. The Companys funding policy for its
funded plans is to contribute an amount sufficient to meet or
exceed Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA)
minimum requirements. The Company also maintains unfunded plans
providing pension and additional benefits for certain employees.
The Company and certain of its subsidiaries also maintain a
number of postretirement welfare benefit plans which provide
certain medical and life insurance benefits to substantially all
full-time employees who have attained certain age and service
requirements upon retirement. The health care benefits are
subject to deductibles, co-insurance and in some cases flat
dollar contributions which vary by plan, age and service at
retirement. All life insurance coverage is noncontributory.
72
On December 31, 2006, the Company adopted the provisions of
SFAS No. 158, which requires companies to recognize
the funded status of defined benefit pension and other
postretirement benefit plans (measured as the difference between
the fair value of plan assets and the benefit obligation) as an
asset or liability in its statement of financial position, with
a corresponding adjustment to accumulated other comprehensive
income, net of tax. The adjustment to accumulated other
comprehensive income at adoption represents the net unrecognized
actuarial losses, unrecognized prior service costs and
unrecognized transition asset remaining from the initial
adoption of SFAS No. 87, Employers Accounting
for Pensions (SFAS No. 87), and
SFAS No. 106, Employers Accounting for
Postretirement Benefits Other than Pensions
(SFAS No. 106), for the Companys
defined benefit pension and other postretirement benefit plans,
respectively. These amounts will be subsequently recognized as
net periodic benefit cost pursuant to the Companys
historical method for amortizing such amounts. Actuarial gains
and losses that arise in subsequent periods and are not
recognized as net periodic benefit cost in the same periods will
be recognized as a component of other comprehensive income and
will be subsequently recognized as a component of net periodic
benefit cost on the same basis as the amounts recognized in
accumulated other comprehensive income upon adoption of
SFAS No. 158.
The incremental effects of adopting the provisions of
SFAS No. 158 on the Companys consolidated
statement of financial position at December 31, 2006 are
presented in the tables below. The adoption of
SFAS No. 158 had no effect on the Companys
consolidated statement of operations.
Effects of Adopting SFAS No. 158:
Pensions
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
December 31, 2006 |
|
|
|
|
|
Prior to Adopting |
|
Effect of Adopting |
|
|
|
|
SFAS No. 158(1) |
|
SFAS No. 158 |
|
As Reported |
|
|
|
Prepaid pension costs
|
|
$ |
11,781 |
|
|
$ |
(10,643 |
) |
|
$ |
1,138 |
|
|
|
|
|
Intangible asset
|
|
|
750 |
|
|
|
(750 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Accrued pension cost
|
|
|
(102,806 |
) |
|
|
(46,638 |
) |
|
|
(149,444 |
) |
|
|
|
|
Deferred income taxes
|
|
|
8,349 |
|
|
|
20,311 |
|
|
|
28,660 |
|
|
|
|
|
Accumulated other comprehensive
loss, after taxes
|
|
|
15,506 |
|
|
|
37,720 |
|
|
|
53,226 |
|
|
|
|
|
Accumulated other comprehensive
loss, before taxes
|
|
|
23,855 |
|
|
|
58,031 |
|
|
|
81,886 |
|
|
|
(1) |
Represents amounts that would have been recognized under the
provisions of SFAS No. 87. |
Other Postretirement Benefits
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
December 31, 2006 |
|
|
|
|
|
Prior to Adopting |
|
Effect of Adopting |
|
|
|
|
SFAS No. 158(2) |
|
SFAS No. 158 |
|
As Reported |
|
|
|
Accrued benefit cost
|
|
$ |
(90,290 |
) |
|
$ |
(2,300 |
) |
|
$ |
(92,590 |
) |
|
|
|
|
Deferred income taxes
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
805 |
|
|
|
805 |
|
|
|
|
|
Accumulated other comprehensive
loss, after taxes
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1,495 |
|
|
|
1,495 |
|
|
|
|
|
Accumulated other comprehensive
loss, before taxes
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2,300 |
|
|
|
2,300 |
|
|
|
(2) |
Represents amounts that would have been recognized under the
provisions of SFAS No. 106. |
73
UST INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Continued)
The Company uses a December 31 measurement date for all of
its plans. The following table represents a reconciliation of
the plans at December 31, 2006 and 2005, respectively:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Postretirement |
|
|
|
|
Benefits Other |
|
|
Pension Plans |
|
than Pensions |
|
|
|
|
|
2006 |
|
2005 |
|
2006 |
|
2005 |
|
|
|
Change in Benefit
Obligation
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Benefit obligation at beginning of
year
|
|
$ |
534,704 |
|
|
$ |
493,334 |
|
|
$ |
84,984 |
|
|
$ |
92,631 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Service cost
|
|
|
18,940 |
|
|
|
18,332 |
|
|
|
5,346 |
|
|
|
5,659 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Interest cost
|
|
|
30,436 |
|
|
|
28,744 |
|
|
|
4,928 |
|
|
|
5,340 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Plan participants
contributions
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
393 |
|
|
|
353 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Plan amendments
|
|
|
202 |
|
|
|
340 |
|
|
|
(774 |
) |
|
|
(20,800 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
Plan curtailment
|
|
|
(4,607 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
2,290 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Actuarial (gain) loss
|
|
|
(6,008 |
) |
|
|
14,863 |
|
|
|
(2,216 |
) |
|
|
7,176 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Special termination benefits
|
|
|
4,035 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2,576 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Benefits paid
|
|
|
(22,559 |
) |
|
|
(20,909 |
) |
|
|
(4,937 |
) |
|
|
(5,375 |
) |
|
|
|
|
Benefit obligation at end of
year
|
|
$ |
555,143 |
|
|
$ |
534,704 |
|
|
$ |
92,590 |
|
|
$ |
84,984 |
|
|
|
|
Change in Plan Assets
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Fair value of plan assets at
beginning of year
|
|
$ |
370,036 |
|
|
$ |
355,891 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Actual return on plan assets
|
|
|
54,020 |
|
|
|
18,886 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Employer contributions
|
|
|
6,343 |
|
|
|
17,371 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Benefits paid
|
|
|
(22,559 |
) |
|
|
(20,909 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Administrative expenses
|
|
|
(1,003 |
) |
|
|
(1,203 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Fair value of plan assets at end
of year
|
|
$ |
406,837 |
|
|
$ |
370,036 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Funded Status
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Funded status at end of year
|
|
$ |
(148,306 |
) |
|
$ |
(164,668 |
) |
|
$ |
(92,590 |
) |
|
$ |
(84,984 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
Unrecognized actuarial loss
|
|
|
81,682 |
|
|
|
125,565 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
23,737 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Unrecognized prior service cost
(credit)
|
|
|
213 |
|
|
|
36 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(24,572 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
Unrecognized transition asset
|
|
|
(9 |
) |
|
|
(17 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Accrued benefit cost
|
|
$ |
(66,420 |
) |
|
$ |
(39,084 |
) |
|
$ |
(92,590 |
) |
|
$ |
(85,819 |
) |
|
|
|
Amounts Recognized in the
Consolidated Statement of Financial Position
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Before Adoption of
SFAS 158
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Prepaid benefit cost
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
32,422 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Accrued benefit liability
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(97,902 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(85,819 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
Intangible asset
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1,118 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
25,278 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net amount recognized
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
(39,084 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
(85,819 |
) |
|
|
|
74
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Postretirement |
|
|
|
|
Benefits Other |
|
|
Pension Plans |
|
than Pensions |
|
|
|
|
|
2006 |
|
2005 |
|
2006 |
|
2005 |
|
|
|
|
After Adoption of
SFAS 158
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Noncurrent assets
|
|
$ |
1,138 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Current liabilities
|
|
|
(7,020 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(6,177 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Noncurrent liabilities
|
|
|
(142,424 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(86,413 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net amount recognized
|
|
$ |
(148,306 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
(92,590 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Amounts Recognized in
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net actuarial loss
|
|
$ |
81,682 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
20,113 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Prior service cost (credit)
|
|
|
213 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(17,813 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Unrecognized transition asset
|
|
|
(9 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total, before taxes
|
|
$ |
81,886 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2,300 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
During 2007, $3.3 million, $73 thousand and $8 thousand of
amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive loss for
actuarial losses, prior service cost and transition asset,
respectively, are expected to be recognized in net periodic
benefit cost.
Assumptions
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Postretirement |
|
|
|
|
Benefits Other |
|
|
Pension Plans |
|
than Pensions |
|
|
|
|
|
2006 |
|
2005 |
|
2006 |
|
2005 |
|
|
|
The weighted-average assumptions
used to determine benefit obligations
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Discount rate
|
|
|
6.00 |
% |
|
|
5.75 |
% |
|
|
6.00 |
% |
|
|
5.75 |
% |
|
|
|
|
Rate of compensation increase
|
|
|
4.80 |
% |
|
|
4.80 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The weighted-average assumptions
used to determine net periodic benefit cost
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Discount rate
|
|
|
5.75 |
% |
|
|
6.00 |
% |
|
|
5.75 |
% |
|
|
6.00 |
% |
|
|
|
|
Expected return on plan assets
|
|
|
7.50 |
% |
|
|
7.50 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Rate of compensation increase
|
|
|
4.80 |
% |
|
|
4.80 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The rate of increase in per capita costs of covered health care
benefits is assumed to be 8 percent for 2007 and is assumed
to decrease gradually to 4.5 percent by the year 2013 and
remain at that level thereafter.
75
UST INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Continued)
Net periodic benefit cost for the years ended December 31,
2006, 2005 and 2004, respectively, includes the following
components:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Postretirement Benefits |
|
|
Pension Plans |
|
Other than Pensions |
|
|
|
|
|
2006 |
|
2005 |
|
2004 |
|
2006 |
|
2005 |
|
2004 |
|
|
|
Service cost
|
|
$ |
18,940 |
|
|
$ |
18,332 |
|
|
$ |
16,688 |
|
|
$ |
5,346 |
|
|
$ |
5,659 |
|
|
$ |
4,734 |
|
|
|
|
|
Interest cost
|
|
|
30,436 |
|
|
|
28,744 |
|
|
|
27,493 |
|
|
|
4,928 |
|
|
|
5,340 |
|
|
|
4,854 |
|
|
|
|
|
Expected return on plan assets
|
|
|
(26,136 |
) |
|
|
(25,100 |
) |
|
|
(23,282 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Amortization of unrecognized
transition asset
|
|
|
(8 |
) |
|
|
(8 |
) |
|
|
(8 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Amortization of prior service cost
(credit)
|
|
|
18 |
|
|
|
(1 |
) |
|
|
(43 |
) |
|
|
(5,456 |
) |
|
|
(3,153 |
) |
|
|
(4,374 |
) |
|
|
|
|
Recognized actuarial loss
|
|
|
6,388 |
|
|
|
5,620 |
|
|
|
6,935 |
|
|
|
1,406 |
|
|
|
1,120 |
|
|
|
339 |
|
|
|
|
|
Curtailment and special termination
benefits
|
|
|
4,042 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2,789 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net periodic benefit cost
|
|
$ |
33,680 |
|
|
$ |
27,587 |
|
|
$ |
27,783 |
|
|
$ |
9,013 |
|
|
$ |
8,966 |
|
|
$ |
5,553 |
|
|
|
|
In connection with restructuring activities discussed further in
Note 20, Restructuring, the Company recorded
special termination benefit charges of approximately
$4 million related to its defined benefit plans and
$2.8 million of net curtailment and special termination
benefit charges related to its other postretirement benefits
plans for the year ended December 31, 2006. These charges
relate to enhanced retirement benefits provided to qualified
individuals impacted by the restructuring activities and are
reported on the restructuring charges line in the
Consolidated Statement of Operations. The $2.8 million net
curtailment and special termination benefit charge recognized
for the Companys other postretirement benefits plans is
comprised of a $2.6 million special termination benefit
charge and a $2.3 million curtailment charge, partially
offset by a $2.1 million benefit for acceleration of a
prior service credit applicable to employees terminated under
the restructuring activities.
A plans projected benefit obligation (PBO) represents
the present value of the pension obligation assuming salary
increases. A plans accumulated benefit obligation
(ABO) represents this obligation based upon current salary
levels.
The ABO, PBO and fair value of plan assets for all funded and
unfunded plans as of December 31 are as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2006 |
|
2005 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Plans in |
|
|
|
Plans in |
|
|
Plans in |
|
Which |
|
Plans in |
|
Which |
|
|
Which |
|
Accumulated |
|
Which |
|
Accumulated |
|
|
Assets Exceed |
|
Benefits |
|
Assets Exceed |
|
Benefits |
|
|
Accumulated |
|
Exceed |
|
Accumulated |
|
Exceed |
|
|
Benefits |
|
Assets |
|
Benefits |
|
Assets |
|
|
|
|
|
Accumulated benefit obligation
|
|
$ |
295,068 |
|
|
$ |
192,427 |
|
|
$ |
277,098 |
|
|
$ |
180,823 |
|
|
|
|
|
Projected benefit obligation
|
|
|
352,618 |
|
|
|
202,525 |
|
|
|
338,183 |
|
|
|
196,521 |
|
|
|
|
|
Fair value of plan assets
|
|
|
316,709 |
|
|
|
90,128 |
|
|
|
286,751 |
|
|
|
83,285 |
|
The accumulated benefit obligation for all defined benefit
pension plans was $487.5 million and $457.9 million at
December 31, 2006 and 2005, respectively. The
Companys unfunded plans, maintained to provide
76
additional benefits for certain employees, accounted for
$98.3 million and $106.7 million of the ABO and PBO,
respectively, at December 31, 2006.
The assumed health care cost trend rates have a significant
effect on the amounts reported for the welfare benefit plans. To
illustrate, a one-percentage point increase in the assumed
health care cost trend rate would increase the accumulated
postretirement benefit obligation as of December 31, 2006
by approximately $12.4 million and increase the service and
interest cost components of expense by approximately
$1.8 million. A one-percentage point decrease in the
assumed health care cost trend rate would have decreased the
accumulated postretirement benefit obligation at
December 31, 2006 by approximately $10.9 million and
decreased the service and interest components of expense by
approximately $1.5 million.
Plan assets of the Companys pension plans include
marketable equity securities, which had included common stock of
the Company, as well as corporate and government debt
securities. At December 31, 2006, the fund did not hold any
shares of the Companys common stock, as the fund sold its
remaining 0.4 million shares in August 2006. At
December 31, 2005, the fund held 0.4 million shares of
the Companys common stock having a market value of
$16.1 million. Although there were no repurchases made from
the trust during 2006, in 2005, the Company repurchased
64,000 shares at prevailing market prices directly from the
trust established for the Companys defined benefit pension
plans. These repurchases were made in connection with the
Companys objective to diversify the investments held by
the trust. Dividends paid on shares held by the fund were
$0.5 million and $0.9 million in 2006 and 2005,
respectively.
Weighted-Average Asset Allocations by Asset
Category
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Pension Plans |
|
|
|
|
Allocation of Plan |
|
|
|
|
Assets at |
|
|
|
|
December 31 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Target |
|
2006 |
|
2005 |
AssetCategory |
|
Alloction |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Equity securities
|
|
|
55-70% |
|
|
68% |
|
73%
|
|
|
|
|
Debt securities
|
|
|
25-40% |
|
|
32% |
|
27%
|
|
|
|
|
Other
|
|
|
0-5% |
|
|
0% |
|
0%
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
100% |
|
100%
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The Company believes that in 2007 and beyond, its pension
investments will earn a nominal return of 7.50 percent over
the long term. The Company bases this belief upon the results of
analyses that it has made of the asset categories in which it
has pension investments and their weight in the overall pension
investment portfolio. The primary analysis conducted by the
Company estimates the expected long-term rate of return from a
review of historical returns, using the longest return data
available for each asset class. Minor modifications to the
long-term return data are made to reflect reversion to the mean
for equity securities, and to the current yield curve for
fixed-income investments.
The overall objective of the Companys pension investment
program is to achieve a rate of return on plan assets that, over
the long term, will fund retirement liabilities and provide for
required Plan benefits in a manner that satisfies the fiduciary
requirements of ERISA. The Company believes that over the
long-term, asset allocation is the key determinant of the
returns generated by the Plan and the associated volatility of
returns. In determining its investment strategies for Plan
assets, the Company considers a number of specific factors that
may affect its allocation of investments in different asset
categories. The Company monitors these variables and Plan
performance within targeted asset allocation ranges, and may
periodically reallocate assets consistent with its long-term
objectives to reflect changing conditions.
During 2006, an outside consultant completed an asset liability
management study for the Companys funded ERISA retirement
plans. The results of that study indicated that the efficiency
of the Companys investment portfolio could be improved by
a minor reallocation of Plan assets. Overall the new
distribution increases the portfolios targeted allocation
to fixed-income investments from 30 percent to
35 percent, with a corresponding reduction in the targeted
allocation to equity investments from 70 percent to
65 percent. The Company expects that this allocation target
will be generally maintained subject to a corridor of five
percentage points. No Plan assets are currently invested in
other asset classes. However, the Company periodically assesses
the
77
UST INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Continued)
appropriateness of other asset classes for the Plan and could
decide to make a limited investment in other asset classes in
the future. At the end of the year, Plan assets were invested
32 percent in fixed income securities and 68 percent
in equity securities.
Cash Flows
During 2006 and 2005, the Company made discretionary
contributions of $0.4 million and $11.6 million,
respectively, to its qualified defined benefit pension plans.
During 2006 and 2005, the Company made contributions of
$6.0 million and $5.8 million, respectively, to its
non-qualified defined benefit pension plans. The Company expects
to contribute $7.2 million to its non-qualified defined
benefit pension plans in 2007.
In August 2006, the Pension Protection Act of 2006 (the
Act) was enacted into law. As the provisions of the
Act include additional funding requirements for sponsors of
certain qualified defined benefit plans, the Company is
currently evaluating the impact that such provisions may have on
the timing and level of future contributions.
The following table illustrates estimated future benefit
payments to be made in each of the next five fiscal years and in
the aggregate for the five fiscal years thereafter for the
Companys defined benefit pension plans and postretirement
welfare benefit plans. These results have been calculated using
the same assumptions used to measure the Companys benefit
obligation and are based upon expected future service.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2007 |
|
2008 |
|
2009 |
|
2010 |
|
2011 |
|
2012-2016 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Pension plans
|
|
$ |
25,014 |
|
|
$ |
26,518 |
|
|
$ |
27,691 |
|
|
$ |
29,233 |
|
|
$ |
30,510 |
|
|
$ |
178,274 |
|
|
|
|
|
Postretirement benefits other than
pensions
|
|
$ |
6,358 |
|
|
$ |
6,343 |
|
|
$ |
6,654 |
|
|
$ |
6,955 |
|
|
$ |
7,208 |
|
|
$ |
41,399 |
|
Additional Information
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Pension Plans |
|
|
|
|
|
2006* |
|
2005 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(Decrease) increase in minimum
pension liability included in other comprehensive loss, net of
tax
|
|
$ |
(16,430 |
) |
|
$ |
452 |
|
|
|
* |
2006 amount reflects the elimination of the additional minimum
liability in connection with the adoption of
SFAS No. 158, which is not a component of
comprehensive income. |
In October 2005, in light of the prescription drug benefits
offered under Medicare Part D, the Company announced that,
effective January 1, 2006, its welfare benefit plans would
no longer include prescription drug coverage for substantially
all Medicare-eligible retirees or their Medicare-eligible
spouses or dependents. In accordance with FASB Staff Position
No. 106-2,
Accounting and Disclosure Requirements Related to the
Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement and Modernization Act of
2003, this amendment to reduce coverage to levels that are
no longer deemed actuarially equivalent did not impact the
actuarial experience gain the Company had previously recognized
in connection with the subsidy. However, the combined impact of
the amendment and the effective elimination of the subsidy are
reflected as a credit to prior service cost.
In accordance with SFAS No. 106, the impact of the
October 2005 plan amendment effectively eliminating prescription
drug benefits, along with the impact of other amendments to
retiree health and welfare plans, all communicated in the same
October announcement, were recognized beginning in the fourth
quarter of 2005. The impact of these amendments is included in
the Plan amendments line item in the Change in
Benefit Obligation table presented in this note. These
amendments will continue to reduce net periodic postretirement
benefit cost over the estimated remaining service period of
affected participants. The impact of these
78
amendments to the Companys 2006 consolidated statements of
operations and financial position was not material.
The Company sponsors a defined contribution plan (the
Employees Savings Plan) covering substantially
all of its employees. Employees are eligible to participate in
the Employees Savings Plan from the commencement of their
employment provided they are scheduled to work at least
1,000 hours per year. Company contributions are based upon
participant contributions and begin upon completion of one year
of service. The expense associated with Company contributions
was $6.5 million, $6.2 million and $5.9 million
in 2006, 2005 and 2004, respectively.
The Company has an Incentive Compensation Plan (ICP)
which provides for bonus payments to designated employees based
on stated percentages of earnings before income taxes as defined
in the ICP. The ICP also allows for discretionary reductions to
this calculated amount. Expenses under the ICP amounted to
$41.5 million in 2006, $41.3 million in 2005 and
$43.6 million in 2004.
15 INCOME TAXES
The income tax provision (benefit) consists of the following:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2006 |
|
2005 |
|
2004 |
|
|
|
Current:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Federal
|
|
$ |
276,967 |
|
|
$ |
251,001 |
|
|
$ |
193,073 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
State and local
|
|
|
31,015 |
|
|
|
23,181 |
|
|
|
5,698 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total current
|
|
|
307,982 |
|
|
|
274,182 |
|
|
|
198,771 |
|
|
|
|
Deferred:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Federal
|
|
|
(12,049 |
) |
|
|
10,618 |
|
|
|
86,686 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
State and local
|
|
|
(4,873 |
) |
|
|
8,549 |
|
|
|
14,081 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total deferred
|
|
|
(16,922 |
) |
|
|
19,167 |
|
|
|
100,767 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
291,060 |
|
|
$ |
293,349 |
|
|
$ |
299,538 |
|
|
|
|
The tax provisions do not reflect $14.2 million,
$15.9 million and $17.1 million for 2006, 2005 and
2004, respectively, of tax benefits arising from the exercise of
stock options. These amounts were credited directly to
additional paid-in capital.
The deferred tax provision (benefit) amounts do not reflect the
tax effects resulting from changes in accumulated other
comprehensive loss (see Note 14, Accumulated Other
Comprehensive Loss).
Deferred income taxes arise from temporary differences between
the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial
reporting purposes and the amounts used for income tax purposes.
79
UST INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Continued)
Components of deferred tax assets and liabilities as of
December 31 are as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2006 |
|
2005 |
|
|
|
Deferred tax assets:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Postretirement benefits other than
pensions
|
|
$ |
31,382 |
|
|
$ |
29,378 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Accrued pension liabilities
|
|
|
52,240 |
|
|
|
33,324 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Antitrust litigation
|
|
|
5,011 |
|
|
|
5,869 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Other accrued liabilities
|
|
|
23,105 |
|
|
|
13,592 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net operating loss, tax credit and
capital loss carryforwards
|
|
|
19,745 |
|
|
|
20,866 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
All other, net
|
|
|
786 |
|
|
|
1,394 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
132,269 |
|
|
|
104,423 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Valuation allowance
|
|
|
15,915 |
|
|
|
16,295 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total deferred tax assets
|
|
|
116,354 |
|
|
|
88,128 |
|
|
|
|
Deferred tax liabilities:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Depreciation
|
|
|
67,610 |
|
|
|
69,798 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Prepaid pension asset
|
|
|
802 |
|
|
|
11,348 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Capitalized debt costs
|
|
|
74 |
|
|
|
428 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Inventory-related adjustments
|
|
|
10,259 |
|
|
|
6,904 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total deferred tax liabilities
|
|
|
78,745 |
|
|
|
88,478 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net deferred tax (assets)
liabilities
|
|
($ |
37,609 |
) |
|
$ |
350 |
|
|
|
|
Pre-tax state net operating loss and tax credit carryforwards
totaled $356.3 million and $367.3 million at
December 31, 2006 and 2005, respectively. The valuation
allowance was recorded to fully offset the tax benefit of
certain state net operating loss carryforwards, due to
uncertainty regarding their utilization. During 2006, the
valuation allowance decreased $0.4 million due to the
utilization of prior year operating losses to offset current
year operating income. The net operating loss carryforwards
fully offset with a valuation allowance expire through 2025. The
Company expects to utilize remaining carryforwards, for which a
valuation reserve has not been recorded, prior to their
expiration between 2007 and 2022. In addition, the Company had a
pre-tax federal capital loss carryforward of $2.2 million
at December 31, 2005 and a foreign tax credit carryforward
of $0.8 million at December 31, 2006. The Company
expects to utilize the foreign tax credit carryforward prior to
its expiration in 2011.
Differences between the Companys effective tax rate and
the U.S. federal statutory income tax rate are explained as
follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2006 |
|
2005 |
|
2004 |
|
|
|
U.S. federal statutory income
tax rate
|
|
|
35.0 |
% |
|
|
35.0 |
% |
|
|
35.0 |
% |
|
|
|
|
State and local taxes, net of
federal tax benefit
|
|
|
2.7 |
|
|
|
2.8 |
|
|
|
2.6 |
|
|
|
|
|
Manufacturing deduction
|
|
|
(1.0 |
) |
|
|
(1.0 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Reversals of income tax accruals
|
|
|
(0.6 |
) |
|
|
(2.2 |
) |
|
|
(2.3 |
) |
|
|
|
|
Other, net
|
|
|
0.6 |
|
|
|
0.8 |
|
|
|
0.5 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
36.7 |
% |
|
|
35.4 |
% |
|
|
35.8 |
% |
|
|
|
80
The Company recorded reversals of income tax accruals of
$4.7 million, $18 million and $20 million, net of
federal income tax benefit, in 2006, 2005 and 2004, respectively.
The effective tax rate in 2006 and 2005 was favorably impacted
by the $8 million tax benefit from the deduction available
for qualified domestic production activities, which was enacted
by the American Jobs Creation Act of 2004.
At December 31, 2006 and 2005, the Company has not provided
federal income taxes on earnings of approximately
$1.7 million and $21.3 million, respectively, from its
international subsidiaries. The decrease in the balance at
December 31, 2006, as compared to the prior year, was due
to the remittance of earnings to the Company in the form of
dividend payments from one of its foreign subsidiaries.
16 SEGMENT INFORMATION
The Companys reportable segments are Smokeless Tobacco and
Wine. Through its subsidiaries, the Company operates
predominantly in the tobacco industry as a manufacturer and
marketer of moist smokeless tobacco products and also produces,
imports and markets premium wines. Those business units that do
not meet quantitative reportable thresholds are included in All
Other Operations. This caption is comprised of the
Companys international operations, which market moist
smokeless tobacco products in select markets, primarily Canada.
The Company operates primarily in the United States. Foreign
operations and export sales are not significant.
Smokeless Tobacco segment sales are principally made to a large
number of wholesalers and several retail chain stores which are
widely dispersed throughout the United States. Over the past
three years, sales to one customer have averaged approximately
16.6 percent of annual Smokeless Tobacco segment sales.
Wine segment sales are principally made to wholesalers, which
are located throughout the United States. Over the past three
years, sales to two customers have averaged approximately
46.9 percent of annual Wine segment gross sales.
Net sales and operating profit are reflected net of intersegment
sales and profits. Operating profit is comprised of net sales
less operating expenses and an allocation of corporate expenses.
The increase in identifiable Corporate assets in 2006 was
primarily due to an increase in cash and cash equivalents and
deferred tax assets, partially offset by a reduction in other
assets. The increase in deferred tax assets and reduction in
prepaid pension costs were primarily attributable to the
adoption of SFAS No. 158 (see Note 14,
Employee Benefit and Compensation Plans). The
decrease in identifiable assets in All Other Operations in 2006
was primarily due to a decrease in cash and cash equivalents
primarily related to a cash dividend from one of the
Companys foreign subsidiaries (see Note 15,
Income Taxes). Corporate assets consist mainly of
cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments which
reflect the aforementioned increase in 2006. Corporate capital
expenditures and depreciation expense are net of amounts which
have been allocated to each reportable segment and All Other
Operations for purposes of reporting operating profit and
identifiable assets. Interest, net and income taxes are not
allocated and reported by segment, since they are excluded from
the measure of segment performance reviewed by management.
81
UST INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Continued)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Year Ended December 31 |
|
|
|
|
|
2006 |
|
2005 |
|
2004 |
|
|
|
Net Sales to Unaffiliated
Customers
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Smokeless Tobacco
|
|
$ |
1,522,686 |
|
|
$ |
1,561,667 |
|
|
$ |
1,575,254 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Wine
|
|
|
282,403 |
|
|
|
248,342 |
|
|
|
226,650 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
All Other
|
|
|
45,822 |
|
|
|
41,876 |
|
|
|
36,334 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net sales
|
|
$ |
1,850,911 |
|
|
$ |
1,851,885 |
|
|
$ |
1,838,238 |
|
|
|
|
Operating
Profit(1)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Smokeless Tobacco
|
|
$ |
805,130 |
|
|
$ |
852,478 |
|
|
$ |
897,991 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Wine
|
|
|
44,080 |
|
|
|
37,764 |
|
|
|
32,382 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
All Other
|
|
|
15,952 |
|
|
|
14,338 |
|
|
|
10,266 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Operating profit
|
|
|
865,162 |
|
|
|
904,580 |
|
|
|
940,639 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Corporate expenses
|
|
|
(30,351 |
) |
|
|
(26,385 |
) |
|
|
(28,030 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
Interest, net
|
|
|
(41,785 |
) |
|
|
(50,578 |
) |
|
|
(75,019 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
Earnings from continuing
operations before income taxes
|
|
$ |
793,026 |
|
|
$ |
827,617 |
|
|
$ |
837,590 |
|
|
|
|
Identifiable Assets at
December 31
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Smokeless Tobacco
|
|
$ |
587,490 |
|
|
$ |
632,438 |
|
|
$ |
631,531 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Wine
|
|
|
527,310 |
|
|
|
494,320 |
|
|
|
488,904 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
All Other
|
|
|
10,126 |
|
|
|
31,283 |
|
|
|
25,819 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Corporate
|
|
|
315,422 |
|
|
|
208,942 |
|
|
|
513,229 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total assets
|
|
$ |
1,440,348 |
|
|
$ |
1,366,983 |
|
|
$ |
1,659,483 |
|
|
|
|
Capital Expenditures
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Smokeless Tobacco
|
|
$ |
18,456 |
|
|
$ |
76,825 |
|
|
$ |
60,047 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Wine
|
|
|
17,547 |
|
|
|
12,207 |
|
|
|
9,283 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
All Other
|
|
|
93 |
|
|
|
193 |
|
|
|
358 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Corporate
|
|
|
948 |
|
|
|
722 |
|
|
|
638 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Capital expenditures
|
|
$ |
37,044 |
|
|
$ |
89,947 |
|
|
$ |
70,326 |
|
|
|
|
Depreciation
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Smokeless Tobacco
|
|
$ |
30,005 |
|
|
$ |
31,302 |
|
|
$ |
31,108 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Wine
|
|
|
13,840 |
|
|
|
13,103 |
|
|
|
13,205 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
All Other
|
|
|
194 |
|
|
|
175 |
|
|
|
389 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Corporate
|
|
|
721 |
|
|
|
761 |
|
|
|
731 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Depreciation
|
|
$ |
44,760 |
|
|
$ |
45,341 |
|
|
$ |
45,433 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(1) |
Operating profit for each reportable segment and corporate
expenses reflects the impact of restructuring charges. See
Note 20, Restructuring for additional
information. |
82
17 INTEREST, NET
The components of net interest expense on the Companys
Consolidated Statement of Operations are as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2006 |
|
2005 |
|
2004 |
|
|
|
Interest expense on debt
|
|
$ |
57,484 |
|
|
$ |
62,984 |
|
|
$ |
83,884 |
|
|
|
|
|
Interest income from cash
equivalents
|
|
|
(15,363 |
) |
|
|
(10,558 |
) |
|
|
(7,859 |
) |
|
|
|
|
Capitalized interest
|
|
|
(336 |
) |
|
|
(1,848 |
) |
|
|
(1,006 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
41,785 |
|
|
$ |
50,578 |
|
|
$ |
75,019 |
|
|
|
|
18 NET EARNINGS PER SHARE
The following table presents the computation of basic and
diluted earnings per share:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2006 |
|
2005 |
|
2004 |
|
|
|
Numerator:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Earnings from continuing operations
|
|
$ |
501,966 |
|
|
$ |
534,268 |
|
|
$ |
538,052 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income (loss) from discontinued
operations, net
|
|
|
3,890 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(7,215 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
Net earnings
|
|
$ |
505,856 |
|
|
$ |
534,268 |
|
|
$ |
530,837 |
|
|
|
|
Denominator:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Denominator for basic earnings per
share weighted-average shares
|
|
|
160,772 |
|
|
|
163,949 |
|
|
|
165,164 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Dilutive effect of potential common
shares
|
|
|
1,508 |
|
|
|
1,548 |
|
|
|
1,458 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Denominator for diluted earnings
per share
|
|
|
162,280 |
|
|
|
165,497 |
|
|
|
166,622 |
|
|
|
|
Net earnings per basic
share:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Earnings from continuing operations
|
|
$ |
3.13 |
|
|
$ |
3.26 |
|
|
$ |
3.26 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income (loss) from discontinued
operations
|
|
|
0.02 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(0.05 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
Net earnings per basic
share
|
|
$ |
3.15 |
|
|
$ |
3.26 |
|
|
$ |
3.21 |
|
|
|
|
Net earnings per diluted
share:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Earnings from continuing operations
|
|
$ |
3.10 |
|
|
$ |
3.23 |
|
|
$ |
3.23 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income (loss) from discontinued
operations
|
|
|
0.02 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(0.04 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
Net earnings per diluted
share
|
|
$ |
3.12 |
|
|
$ |
3.23 |
|
|
$ |
3.19 |
|
|
|
|
As of December 31, 2006 and 2004, all options outstanding
were dilutive as their exercise prices were lower than the
average market price of Company common shares. Options to
purchase 0.6 million shares of common stock outstanding as
of December 31, 2005 were not included in the computation
of diluted earnings per share because their exercise prices were
greater than the average market price of Company common shares
and, therefore, would be antidilutive.
19 DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS
On June 18, 2004, the Company completed the transfer of its
cigar operation to a smokeless tobacco competitor, in connection
with the resolution of an antitrust action. This transfer was
completed to satisfy the Companys obligation under a
litigation settlement, and therefore no cash consideration was
received from the smokeless tobacco competitor. Prior to the
transfer, the cigar operation had been included within All Other
Operations for segment reporting purposes. As a result of the
transfer, the results related to this operation are presented
within income (loss) from discontinued operations
for all periods presented on the
83
UST INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Continued)
Consolidated Statement of Operations. No loss on disposal was
recorded in 2004, as a charge for the fair value of the cigar
operation was previously recorded in 2003 as a component of the
antitrust litigation loss.
The operating results of the cigar operation, for the year ended
December 31, 2004 were as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net sales
|
|
$ |
4,215 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Loss before income taxes
|
|
|
(4,899 |
) |
|
|
|
|
Income tax expense
|
|
|
(2,316 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
Loss from discontinued operations
|
|
$ |
(7,215 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
Results for the year ended December 31, 2004 included a
loss from the cigar operation and the recognition of expenses,
including a $3.9 million accrual for an income tax
contingency. In 2006, the Company recognized $3.9 million
of after-tax income from discontinued operations due to the
reversal of the aforementioned income tax contingency. This
reversal resulted from a change in facts and circumstances, as
the income tax consequences of the Companys announced sale
of its corporate headquarters in connection with Project
Momentum have eliminated the need for the contingency.
20 RESTRUCTURING
During the third quarter of 2006, the Company announced and
commenced implementation of a cost-reduction initiative called
Project Momentum, with targeted savings of at least
$100 million over its first three years. This initiative
was designed to create additional resources for growth via
operational productivity and efficiency enhancements. The
Company believes that such an effort is prudent as it will
provide additional flexibility in the increasingly competitive
smokeless tobacco category.
In connection with Project Momentum, restructuring charges of
$22 million, related to the aforementioned
$100 million in savings, were recognized for the year ended
December 31, 2006 and are reported on the
restructuring charges line in the Consolidated
Statement of Operations. These charges were incurred in
connection with the formal plans undertaken by management and
are accounted for in accordance with SFAS No. 146,
Accounting for Costs Associated with Exit or Disposal
Activities. The recognition of restructuring charges
involves the use of judgments and estimates regarding the
nature, timing and amount of costs to be incurred under Project
Momentum. While the Company believes that its estimates are
appropriate and reasonable based upon the information available,
actual results could differ from such estimates. The following
table provides a summary of restructuring charges incurred to
date, as well as the total amount of charges
84
expected to be incurred, in connection with Project Momentum for
each major type of cost associated with the initiative:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Restructuring Charges |
|
|
|
|
Incurred for the |
|
Total Charges |
|
|
Year Ended |
|
Expected to be |
|
|
December 31, 2006 |
|
Incurred(1) |
|
|
|
One-time termination benefits
|
|
$ |
15,625 |
|
|
$ |
16,000 $17,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
Contract termination costs
|
|
|
390 |
|
|
|
400 500 |
|
|
|
|
|
Other restructuring costs
|
|
|
5,982 |
|
|
|
11,000 12,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total
|
|
$ |
21,997 |
|
|
$ |
27,400 $29,500 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(1) |
The total cost of one-time termination benefits expected to be
incurred under Project Momentum reflects the initiatives
overall anticipated elimination of approximately 10 percent
of the Companys salaried, full-time non-union positions
across various functions and operations, primarily at the
Companys corporate headquarters. The majority of the total
restructuring costs expected to be incurred were recognized in
2006, with the remainder anticipated to be recognized in 2007.
Total restructuring charges expected to be incurred currently
represent the Companys best estimates of the ranges of
such charges; although there may be additional charges
recognized as additional actions are identified and finalized. |
One-time termination benefits relate to severance-related costs
and outplacement services for employees terminated in connection
with Project Momentum, as well as enhanced retirement benefits
for qualified individuals. Contract termination costs relate to
charges for operating leases incurred in conjunction with the
consolidation and relocation of facilities. Other restructuring
costs are mainly comprised of other costs directly related to
the implementation of Project Momentum, primarily professional
fees.
The following table provides a summary of restructuring charges
incurred to date, as well as the total amount of charges
expected to be incurred, in connection with Project Momentum, by
reportable segment:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Restructuring |
|
|
|
|
Charges Incurred |
|
|
|
|
for the |
|
Total Charges |
|
|
Year Ended |
|
Expected to be |
|
|
December 31, 2006 |
|
Incurred |
|
|
|
Smokeless Tobacco
|
|
$ |
19,542 |
|
|
$ |
24,800 $26,500 |
|
|
|
|
|
Wine
|
|
|
322 |
|
|
|
400 500 |
|
|
|
|
|
All Other Operations
|
|
|
151 |
|
|
|
200 300 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total reportable
segments
|
|
|
20,015 |
|
|
$ |
25,400 $27,300 |
|
|
|
|
|
Corporate (unallocated)
|
|
|
1,982 |
|
|
|
2,000 2,200 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total
|
|
$ |
21,997 |
|
|
$ |
27,400 $29,500 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Accrued restructuring charges are included on the accounts
payable and accrued expenses line in the Consolidated
Statement of Financial Position. A reconciliation of the changes
in the liability balance since January 1, 2006 is presented
below:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
One-Time |
|
Contract |
|
Other |
|
|
|
|
Termination |
|
Termination |
|
Restructuring |
|
|
|
|
Benefits |
|
Costs |
|
Costs |
|
Total |
|
|
|
Balance as of January 1, 2006
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Add: restructuring charges incurred
|
|
|
15,625 |
|
|
|
390 |
|
|
|
5,982 |
|
|
|
21,997 |
|
|
|
|
|
Less: payments
|
|
|
(3,968 |
) |
|
|
(198 |
) |
|
|
(5,930 |
) |
|
|
(10,096 |
) |
|
|
|
|
Less: reclassified liabilities
(1)
|
|
|
(7,308 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(7,308 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Balance as of December 31, 2006
|
|
$ |
4,349 |
|
|
$ |
192 |
|
|
$ |
52 |
|
|
$ |
4,593 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(1) |
Represents liabilities associated with restructuring charges
that have been recorded within other line items on the
Consolidated Statement of Financial Position at
December 31, 2006. The $7.3 million consists of
$6.8 million associated with enhanced retirement benefits,
which is reflected in the accrued liabilities for pensions and
other postretirement benefits, (See Note 14, Employee
Benefit and Compensation Plans) and $0.5 million
associated with share-based compensation, which is reflected in
additional paid-in capital. |
85
UST INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Continued)
21 CONTINGENCIES
The Company has been named in certain health care cost
reimbursement/third party recoupment/class action litigation
against the major domestic cigarette companies and others
seeking damages and other relief. The complaints in these cases
on their face predominantly relate to the usage of cigarettes;
within that context, certain complaints contain a few
allegations relating specifically to smokeless tobacco products.
These actions are in varying stages of pretrial activities. The
Company believes these pending litigation matters will not
result in any material liability for a number of reasons,
including the fact that the Company has had only limited
involvement with cigarettes and the Companys current
percentage of total tobacco industry sales is relatively small.
Prior to 1986, the Company manufactured some cigarette products
which had a de minimis market share. From May 1, 1982 to
August 1, 1994, the Company distributed a small volume of
imported cigarettes and is indemnified against claims relating
to those products.
Smokeless Tobacco Litigation
The Company is named in certain actions in West Virginia brought
on behalf of individual plaintiffs against cigarette
manufacturers, smokeless tobacco manufacturers, and other
organizations seeking damages and other relief in connection
with injuries allegedly sustained as a result of tobacco usage,
including smokeless tobacco products. Included among the
plaintiffs are six individuals alleging use of the
Companys smokeless tobacco products and alleging the types
of injuries claimed to be associated with the use of smokeless
tobacco products. The actions for three of these individuals
have been dismissed; one in September 2006 which was dismissed
without prejudice and two in October 2006 which were dismissed
with prejudice. All three remaining individuals also allege the
use of other tobacco products.
The Company is named in an action in Florida by an individual
plaintiff against various smokeless tobacco manufacturers
including the Company and other organizations for personal
injuries, including cancer, oral lesions, leukoplakia, gum loss
and other injuries allegedly resulting from the use of the
Companys smokeless tobacco products. The plaintiff also
claims nicotine addiction and seeks unspecified
compensatory damages and certain equitable and other relief,
including, but not limited to, medical monitoring.
The Company is named in an action in Idaho brought on behalf of
a minor child alleging that his father died of cancer of
the throat as a result of his use of the Companys
smokeless tobacco product. Plaintiff also alleges
addiction to nicotine and seeks unspecified
compensatory damages and other relief.
The Company has been named in an action in Connecticut brought
by a plaintiff individually, as executrix and fiduciary of her
deceased husbands estate and on behalf of their minor
children for injuries, including squamous cell carcinoma
of the tongue, allegedly sustained by decedent as a result
of his use of the Companys smokeless tobacco products. The
Complaint also alleges addiction to smokeless
tobacco. The Complaint seeks compensatory and punitive damages
in excess of $15,000 and other relief.
The Company believes, and has been so advised by counsel
handling these cases, that it has a number of meritorious
defenses to all such pending litigation. Except as to the
Companys willingness to consider alternative solutions for
resolving certain regulatory and litigation issues, all such
cases are, and will continue to be, vigorously defended. The
Company believes that the ultimate outcome of such pending
litigation will not have a material adverse effect on its
consolidated financial results or its consolidated financial
position, although if plaintiffs were to prevail, the effect of
any judgment or settlement could have a material adverse
86
impact on its consolidated financial results in the particular
reporting period in which resolved and, depending on the size of
any such judgment or settlement, a material adverse effect on
its consolidated financial position. Notwithstanding the
Companys assessment of the potential financial impact of
these cases, the Company is not able to estimate with any
certainty the amount of loss, if any, which would be associated
with an adverse resolution.
Antitrust Litigation
The Company has been named as a defendant in a number of
purported class actions brought by indirect purchasers
(consumers and retailers), and class actions brought by indirect
purchasers of its moist smokeless tobacco products in the states
of California, Massachusetts and Wisconsin. In the first quarter
of 2006, the Company was named as a defendant in a purported
class action brought by indirect purchasers in the state of
Pennsylvania.
As indirect purchasers of the Companys smokeless tobacco
products during various periods of time ranging from January
1990 to the date of certification or potential certification of
the proposed class, plaintiffs in those actions allege,
individually and on behalf of putative class members in a
particular state or individually and on behalf of class members
in the states of California, Massachusetts and Wisconsin, that
the Company has violated the antitrust laws, unfair and
deceptive trade practices statutes and/or common law of those
states. Plaintiffs seek to recover compensatory and statutory
damages in an amount not to exceed $75,000 per class member
or per putative class member, and certain other relief. The
indirect purchaser actions are similar in all material respects.
The Company has entered into a settlement with indirect
purchasers, which has been approved by the court, in the states
of Arizona, Florida, Hawaii, Iowa, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota,
Mississippi, Nevada, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota,
South Dakota, Tennessee, Vermont and West Virginia and in the
District of Columbia (Settlement). Pursuant to the
approved Settlement, adult consumers receive coupons redeemable
on future purchases of the Companys moist smokeless
tobacco products. The Company will pay all administrative costs
of the Settlement and plaintiffs attorneys fees. The
Company also intends to pursue settlement of other indirect
purchaser actions not covered by the Settlement on substantially
similar terms, with the exception of Pennsylvania, for which the
Company believes there is insufficient basis for such a claim.
In this regard, the Company continues to make progress. On
March 8, 2006, the court entered final approval of the
settlement of the Kansas class action and New York action. An
evidentiary hearing on plaintiffs motion for an additional
amount of approximately $8.5 million in attorneys
fees, expenses and costs, plus interest, beyond the previously
agreed-upon amounts already paid by the Company was held April
4-5, 2006. To date, the court has not ruled on the motion. The
Company believes, and has been so advised by counsel handling
this case, that it has meritorious defenses in this regard, and
will continue to vigorously defend against this motion. As such,
the Company has not recognized a liability for the additional
amounts sought in this motion. The Company has had settlements
approved by the respective courts in connection with indirect
purchaser actions in approximately 80 percent of the states
in which they were filed.
The Company has been served with a purported class action
complaint filed in federal court in West Virginia attempting to
challenge certain aspects of the Settlement and seeking
additional amounts purportedly consistent with subsequent
settlements of similar actions, estimated by plaintiffs to be
between $8.9 million and $214.2 million, as well as
punitive damages and attorneys fees. The Company believes,
and has been so advised by counsel handling this case, that it
has meritorious defenses in this regard, and will continue to
vigorously defend against this complaint. As such, the Company
has not recognized a liability for the additional amounts sought
in this complaint.
The Company recorded a charge of $40 million in 2003, which
represented its best estimate of the total costs to resolve
indirect purchaser actions. The corresponding liability is
periodically reviewed and adjusted, when appropriate, for a
number of factors, including differences between actual and
estimated settlements, and changes in estimated participation
and coupon redemption rates. In 2006, the Company recorded
$2 million in pre-tax charges due to a change in the
estimated coupon redemption rate for coupons in connection with
the resolution of certain states indirect purchaser
antitrust actions and higher than anticipated administrative
expenses. In 2005, the Company recorded a $12.5 million net
pre-tax charge related to costs to resolve, subject to court
approval, certain states indirect purchaser actions less
favorably than originally anticipated. At December 31,
2006, the liability associated with the resolution of these
indirect purchaser actions decreased
87
UST INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Continued)
to $12.9 million from $15.1 million at
December 31, 2005, primarily as a result of actual coupon
redemption and payments of administrative costs, partially
offset by the aforementioned pre-tax charges in 2006.
Each of the foregoing actions is derived from the previous
antitrust action brought against the Company by a competitor,
Conwood Company L.P. For the plaintiffs in the putative class
actions to prevail, they will have to obtain class
certification. The plaintiffs in the above actions also will
have to obtain favorable determinations on issues relating to
liability, causation and damages. The Company believes, and has
been so advised by counsel handling these cases, that it has
meritorious defenses in this regard, and they are and will
continue to be vigorously defended. The Company believes that
the ultimate outcome of these purported class actions and the
California, Massachusetts and Wisconsin class actions will not
have a material adverse effect on its consolidated financial
results or its consolidated financial position, although if
plaintiffs were to prevail, beyond the amounts accrued, the
effect of any judgment or settlement could have a material
adverse impact on its consolidated financial results in the
particular reporting period in which resolved and, depending on
the size of any such judgment or settlement, a material adverse
effect on its consolidated financial position. Notwithstanding
the Companys assessment of the financial impact of these
actions, management is not able to estimate the amount of loss,
if any, beyond the amounts accrued, which could be associated
with an adverse resolution.
Other Litigation
The Company has been named in an action in California brought by
the People of the State of California, in the name of the
Attorney General of the State of California, alleging that the
Companys sponsorship relating to the National Hot Rod
Association violates various provisions of the Smokeless Tobacco
Master Settlement Agreement (STMSA) and the related
Consent Decree entered in connection with the STMSA (see
Note 22, Other Matters for additional
information regarding the STMSA). The complaint seeks
declaratory and injunctive relief, unspecified monetary
sanctions, attorneys fees and costs, and a finding of
civil contempt.
The Company believes, and has been so advised by counsel
handling the foregoing case, that it has a number of meritorious
defenses. Except as to the Companys willingness to
consider alternative solutions for resolving certain litigation
issues, the foregoing case is, and will continue to be,
vigorously defended.
22 OTHER MATTERS
On October 22, 2004, the Fair and Equitable Tobacco
Reform Act of 2004 (the Tobacco Reform Act)
was enacted in connection with a comprehensive federal corporate
reform and jobs creation bill. The Tobacco Reform Act
effectively repeals all aspects of the U.S. federal
governments tobacco farmer support program, including
marketing quotas and nonrecourse loans. Under the Tobacco Reform
Act, the Secretary of Agriculture imposes quarterly assessments
on tobacco manufacturers and importers, not to exceed a total of
$10.1 billion over a ten-year period from the date of
enactment. Amounts assessed by the Secretary are impacted by a
number of allocation factors, as defined in the Tobacco Reform
Act. These quarterly assessments are used to fund a trust to
compensate, or buy out, tobacco quota farmers, in
lieu of the repealed federal support program. The Company does
not believe that the assessments imposed under the Tobacco
Reform Act will have a material adverse impact on its
consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash
flows in any reporting period. In 2006, 2005 and 2004, the
Company recognized charges of approximately $3.2 million,
$4.2 million and $1 million, respectively, associated
with assessments required by the Tobacco Reform Act.
In November 1998, the Company entered into the STMSA with the
attorneys general of various states and U.S. territories to
resolve the remaining health care cost reimbursement cases
initiated against the Company. The STMSA required the Company to
adopt various marketing and advertising restrictions and make
payments potentially totaling $100 million, subject to a
minimum 3 percent inflationary adjustment per annum, over a
minimum of 10 years for programs to reduce youth usage of
tobacco and combat youth substance abuse and for enforcement
purposes. The period over which the payments are to be made is
subject to
88
various indefinite deferral provisions based upon the
Companys share of the smokeless tobacco segment of the
overall tobacco market (as defined in the STMSA). As a result of
these provisions, the Company cannot reasonably estimate the
value of the total remaining payments, given that these
provisions require annual determination of the Companys
segment share. As such, the balance of the future potential
payments, based on these segment share determinations, will be
charged to expense in the period that the related shipments
occur, with disbursements made in the following year. The total
charges recorded in selling, advertising and administrative
expenses by the Company in connection with the STMSA were
$16.7 million, $14.8 million and $13.2 million in
2006, 2005 and 2004, respectively.
In the first quarter of 2004, the Company paid $200 million
as part of the resolution of an antitrust action brought by a
smokeless tobacco competitor.
23 QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA
(Unaudited)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
First |
|
Second |
|
Third |
|
Fourth |
|
Year |
|
|
|
2006
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net sales
|
|
$ |
433,641 |
|
|
$ |
472,900 |
|
|
$ |
458,649 |
|
|
$ |
485,721 |
|
|
$ |
1,850,911 |
|
|
|
|
|
Gross profit
|
|
|
329,431 |
|
|
|
360,486 |
|
|
|
342,794 |
|
|
|
352,112 |
|
|
|
1,384,823 |
|
|
|
|
|
Net earnings
|
|
|
115,913 |
|
|
|
134,655 |
|
|
|
118,085 |
|
|
|
137,203 |
|
|
|
505,856 |
|
|
|
|
|
Basic earnings per share*
|
|
|
0.72 |
|
|
|
0.84 |
|
|
|
0.74 |
|
|
|
0.86 |
|
|
|
3.15 |
|
|
|
|
|
Diluted earnings per share*
|
|
|
0.71 |
|
|
|
0.83 |
|
|
|
0.73 |
|
|
|
0.85 |
|
|
|
3.12 |
|
|
|
|
|
2005
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net sales
|
|
$ |
440,527 |
|
|
$ |
480,116 |
|
|
$ |
456,830 |
|
|
$ |
474,412 |
|
|
$ |
1,851,885 |
|
|
|
|
|
Gross profit
|
|
|
340,123 |
|
|
|
370,090 |
|
|
|
346,319 |
|
|
|
352,222 |
|
|
|
1,408,754 |
|
|
|
|
|
Net earnings
|
|
|
121,832 |
|
|
|
136,525 |
|
|
|
132,234 |
|
|
|
143,677 |
|
|
|
534,268 |
|
|
|
|
|
Basic earnings per share*
|
|
|
0.74 |
|
|
|
0.83 |
|
|
|
0.81 |
|
|
|
0.88 |
|
|
|
3.26 |
|
|
|
|
|
Diluted earnings per share*
|
|
|
0.73 |
|
|
|
0.82 |
|
|
|
0.80 |
|
|
|
0.88 |
|
|
|
3.23 |
|
|
|
* |
Quarterly earnings per share amounts are based on average shares
outstanding during each quarter and, therefore, may not equal
the total calculated for the full year. |
Results for the third and fourth quarters of 2006 included
pre-tax restructuring charges of $17.5 million and
$4.5 million, respectively. These charges were incurred in
connection with the Companys cost-reduction initiative,
Project Momentum.
Results for the fourth quarter of 2006, included the reversal of
$4.7 million of tax accruals attributable to completed
income tax audits and the expiration of certain statutes of
limitation.
Results for the second quarter of 2005 included a
$12.5 million pre-tax charge related to costs to resolve
certain states indirect purchaser actions less favorably
than originally anticipated.
Results for the fourth quarter of 2005 included the reversal of
$9.3 million of tax accruals attributable to completed
income tax audits and the expiration of certain statutes of
limitation.
89
Item 9 Changes in and Disagreements with
Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure
Not applicable.
Item 9A Controls and Procedures
Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures
The Company, under the direction of the Chief Executive Officer
(CEO) and Chief Financial Officer (CFO),
has reviewed and evaluated the effectiveness of its disclosure
controls and procedures (as such term is defined in
Rules 13a-15(e)
and 15d-15(e) under the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the Exchange
Act)) as of the end of the period covered by this report.
Based on such evaluation, the Companys CEO and CFO
believe, as of the end of such period, that the Companys
disclosure controls and procedures are effective.
Report of Management on Internal Control over Financial
Reporting
The Companys management is responsible for establishing
and maintaining adequate internal control over financial
reporting, as such term is defined in Exchange Act
Rules 13a-15(f)
and 15d-15(f). Under
the supervision and with the participation of management,
including the Companys Chief Executive Officer and Chief
Financial Officer, the Company conducted an evaluation of the
effectiveness of the Companys internal control over
financial reporting as of December 31, 2006 based on the
framework in Internal Control Integrated Framework
issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the
Treadway Commission (COSO). Based on that evaluation, management
concluded that the Companys internal control over
financial reporting was effective as of December 31, 2006.
Internal control systems, no matter how well designed, may have
inherent limitations. As such, internal control policies and
procedures over financial reporting established by the Company
may not prevent or detect misstatements. Therefore, even those
systems designed to be effective can provide only reasonable
assurance with respect to the reliability of financial statement
preparation, presentation and reporting.
Managements assessment of the effectiveness of the
Companys internal control over financial reporting as of
December 31, 2006 has been audited by Ernst &
Young LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, as
stated in their report included in Part II,
Item 8 Financial Statements and
Supplementary Data.
Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting
There have not been any changes in the Companys internal
control over financial reporting (as such term is defined in
Rules 13a-15(f)
and 15(d)-15(f) under the Exchange Act) during the fourth
quarter of the fiscal year ended December 31, 2006 that
have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially
affect, the Companys internal control over financial
reporting.
Item 9B Other Information
Not applicable.
PART III
Item 10 Directors, Executive Officers and
Corporate Governance
The Company hereby incorporates by reference the disclosure of
delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of
Regulation S-K
which is contained under the section entitled
Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting
Compliance in its Notice of 2007 Annual Meeting and Proxy
Statement.
The Company hereby incorporates by reference the information
with respect to the names, ages and business experience of the
directors of the Company which is contained in the table and the
accompanying text set forth under the caption Election of
Directors in its Notice of 2007 Annual Meeting and Proxy
Statement.
90
Executive Officers of the Registrant
The name, current position with the Company, age and business
experience of each executive officer of the Company as of
January 31, 2007 is set forth below:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Name |
|
Current Position |
|
Age |
|
|
|
|
Murray S. Kessler
|
|
President and Chief Executive
Officer
|
|
|
47 |
|
|
|
|
|
Robert T. DAlessandro
|
|
Senior Vice President and Chief
Financial Officer
|
|
|
53 |
|
|
|
|
|
Richard A. Kohlberger
|
|
Senior Vice President, General
Counsel and Chief
|
|
|
61 |
|
|
|
Administrative Officer
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Theodor P. Baseler
|
|
President International
Wine & Spirits Ltd.
|
|
|
52 |
|
|
|
|
|
Daniel W. Butler
|
|
President
U.S. Smokeless Tobacco Company
|
|
|
47 |
|
None of the executive officers of the Company has any family
relationship to any other executive officer, director of the
Company or nominee for election as director.
After election, all executive officers of the Company serve
until the next annual organization meeting of the Board of
Directors or until their successors are elected and qualified.
All of the executive officers of the Company have been employed
continuously by it for more than five years, except for
Mr. Butler who joined the Company in 2004.
Mr. Kessler has served as President and Chief Executive
Officer of the Company since January 1, 2007 and served as
its President and Chief Operating Officer from November 3,
2005 to December 31, 2006. Mr. Kessler has served as a
member of the Companys Board of Directors since
November 3, 2005. He served as President of
U.S. Smokeless Tobacco Company (USSTC) from
April 6, 2000 to November 2, 2005. He served as Senior
Vice President of USSTC from January 3, 2000 to
April 5, 2000. He has been employed by the Company since
January 3, 2000.
Mr. DAlessandro has served as Senior Vice President
and Chief Financial Officer of the Company since January 3,
2000. He served as Senior Vice President and Controller from
January 1, 1996 until January 2, 2000. He has been
employed by the Company since May 4, 1981.
Mr. Kohlberger has served as Senior Vice President, General
Counsel and Chief Administrative Officer of the Company since
January 1, 2007, and served as its Senior Vice President,
General Counsel and Secretary from January 10, 2005 to
December 31, 2006. He served as Senior Vice President from
October 29, 1990 to January 9, 2005. He has been
employed by the Company since October 9, 1978.
Mr. Baseler has served as President of International
Wine & Spirits Ltd. since January 1, 2001. He
served as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer
of International Wine & Spirits Ltd. from July 28,
2000 to December 31, 2000 and as Senior Vice President from
January 1, 1996 to July 27, 2000. He has been employed
by the Company since August 30, 1984.
Mr. Butler has served as President of USSTC since
November 3, 2005. He served as Executive Vice President and
General Manager of USSTC from September 1, 2004 to
November 2, 2005. He was employed at Kraft Foods from 1987
to 2004 and held several executive positions of increasing
responsibility. From 2002 to 2004, Mr. Butler served as
Executive Vice President and General Manager of the Nabisco
Biscuit Division of Kraft Foods. From 2000 to 2002, he served as
Executive Vice President and General Manager of Kraft Canada. He
has been employed by USSTC since September 1, 2004.
Code of Ethics
The Company has adopted a Code of Ethics for senior officers
(the Code) that applies to its principal executive
officer, principal financial officer and principal accounting
officer (Controller). The Code is available on the
Companys website, www.ustinc.com, under the heading
Investors/ Corporate Governance/ Codes of Conduct. A
free copy of the Code will be made available to any stockholder
upon oral or written request addressed to the Secretary at UST
Inc., 100 West Putnam Avenue, Greenwich, Connecticut 06830.
The Company will post promptly on its website any amendment to
the Code or waiver of a provision thereunder, rather than filing
with the SEC any such amendment or waiver as part of a Current
Report on
Form 8-K. The
91
Company has also adopted a Directors Code of
Responsibility and a Code of Corporate Responsibility applicable
to all employees. These codes are also posted on the
Companys website and are similarly available from the
Company.
Director Nomination Procedures
The Company hereby incorporates by reference the information
with respect to director nomination procedures which is
contained under the caption Director Nomination
Procedures in its Notice of 2007 Annual Meeting and Proxy
Statement.
Audit Committee Matters
The Company hereby incorporates by reference the information
with respect to its Audit Committee and the Audit
Committee Financial Expert which is contained under the
caption Committees of the Board in its Notice of
2007 Annual Meeting and Proxy Statement.
Item 11 Executive Compensation
The Company hereby incorporates by reference the information
with respect to executive compensation contained in the tables,
related notes thereto and the accompanying text set forth under
the caption Executive Compensation, and the
information with respect to Compensation Committee interlocks
and insider participation which is contained under the caption
Committees of the Board. The information contained
under the caption Compensation Committee Report in
its Notice of 2007 Annual Meeting and Proxy Statement is
incorporated herein by reference in response to this Item.
Item 12 Security Ownership of Certain
Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder
Matters
The Company hereby incorporates by reference the information
with respect to the security ownership of management which is
contained in the table and the accompanying text set forth under
the caption Election of Directors in its Notice of
2007 Annual Meeting and Proxy Statement.
In addition, the Company hereby incorporates by reference the
information with respect to the security ownership of persons
known to the Company to beneficially own more than
5 percent of the Companys outstanding stock, which is
contained under the caption Beneficial Ownership of Common
Stock in its Notice of 2007 Annual Meeting and Proxy
Statement.
Equity Compensation Plan Information
The following table summarizes the equity compensation plans
under which securities may be issued as of December 31,
2006. The securities which may be issued consist solely of UST
Inc. Common Stock.
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|
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|
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Number of |
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|
|
|
|
|
Securities |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Remaining |
|
|
Number of |
|
Weighted |
|
Available for |
|
|
Securities to be |
|
Average |
|
Future Issuance |
|
|
Issued Upon |
|
Exercise |
|
Under Equity |
|
|
Exercise of |
|
Price of |
|
Compensation |
|
|
Outstanding |
|
Outstanding |
|
Plans (Excluding |
|
|
Options, |
|
Options, |
|
Securities |
|
|
Warrants and |
|
Warrants and |
|
Reflected in |
|
|
Rights |
|
Rights |
|
Column (a)) |
Plan Category |
|
(a) |
|
(b)(3) |
|
(c) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Equity compensation plans approved
by security holders
|
|
|
5,730,732 |
(1) |
|
$ |
34.43 |
|
|
|
9,250,464 |
|
|
|
|
|
Equity compensation plans not
approved by security
holders(2)
|
|
|
9,610 |
|
|
$ |
43.40 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total
|
|
|
5,740,342 |
|
|
$ |
34.45 |
|
|
|
9,250,464 |
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|
(1) |
Consists of 250,000 shares issuable upon exercise of
outstanding stock options, 301,522 shares issuable upon
vesting of outstanding restricted stock, 202,150 shares
issuable upon conversion of outstanding restricted stock units
and 23,727 shares issuable upon conversion of outstanding
deferred stock under the UST Inc. 2005 Long-Term Incentive Plan
(2005 LTIP). In addition, 1,542,900 shares
issuable upon exercise of outstanding stock options,
261,013 shares issuable upon vesting of outstanding
restricted |
92
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|
|
stock and 28,325 shares
issuable upon conversion of outstanding restricted stock units
under the UST Inc. Amended and Restated Stock Incentive Plan
(formerly the UST Inc. 2001 Stock Option Plan) are included in
the above total. Also included in the total are
3,075,100 shares and 45,995 shares issuable upon
exercise of outstanding stock options under the 1992 Stock
Option Plan and the Nonemployee Directors Stock Option
Plan, respectively.
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(2) |
Includes the Nonemployee
Directors Restricted Stock Award Plan.
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(3) |
Represents the weighted-average
grant date fair value of restricted stock and restricted stock
units and the weighted-average exercise price of options
outstanding at December 31, 2006.
|
Item 13 Certain Relationships and Related
Transactions, and Director Independence
The Company hereby incorporates by reference information with
respect to indebtedness of management which is contained in the
table and the accompanying text set forth under the caption
Indebtedness of Management, and with respect to the
Companys policies and procedures for the review and
approval of transactions in which a related party is known to
have a direct or indirect interest, the information under the
caption Policy Governing Related Party Transactions
in its Notice of 2007 Annual Meeting and Proxy Statement.
In addition, the Company hereby incorporates by reference
information with respect to the independence of directors which
is contained under the caption Director Independence
in its Notice of 2007 Annual Meeting and Proxy Statement.
Item 14 Principal Accountant Fees and
Services
The Company hereby incorporates by reference the information
required herein which is contained under the captions entitled
Audit and Non-Audit Fees and Audit Committee
Pre-Approval Policies and Procedures in its Notice of 2007
Annual Meeting and Proxy Statement.
93
PART IV
Item 15 Exhibits and Financial Statement
Schedules
Documents filed as part of this Report:
UST Inc. Schedule II Valuation and Qualifying
Accounts For the Years 2006, 2005 and 2004
(Dollars in thousands)
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Balance at |
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Balance at |
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Beginning |
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End of |
|
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of Period |
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Additions |
|
Deductions |
|
Period |
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|
|
Year ended December 31, 2006:
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|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Deducted from accounts receivable:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Allowance for doubtful accounts
|
|
$ |
79 |
|
|
$ |
26 |
|
|
$ |
(6) |
|
|
$ |
99 |
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|
|
|
|
Deducted from inventories:
|
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|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
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|
|
|
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|
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Reserve for inventory obsolescence
|
|
|
2,995 |
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|
|
2,053 |
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|
|
(2,318) |
|
|
|
2,730 |
|
|
Year ended December 31, 2005:
|
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|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Deducted from accounts receivable:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
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Allowance for doubtful accounts
|
|
|
513 |
|
|
|
236 |
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|
|
(670) |
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|
79 |
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|
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|
Deducted from inventories:
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|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
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Reserve for inventory obsolescence
|
|
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2,424 |
|
|
|
3,567 |
|
|
|
(2,996) |
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|
|
2,995 |
|
|
Year ended December 31, 2004:
|
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|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Deducted from accounts receivable:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Allowance for doubtful accounts
|
|
|
1,375 |
|
|
|
7 |
|
|
|
(869) |
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|
|
513 |
|
|
|
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|
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Deducted from inventories:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
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|
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Reserve for inventory obsolescence
|
|
|
7,190 |
|
|
|
4,089 |
|
|
|
(8,855) |
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|
|
2,424 |
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All other schedules for which provision is made in the
applicable accounting regulation of the Securities and Exchange
Commission are not required under the related instructions or
are inapplicable, and therefore have been omitted.
The following exhibits are filed by the Company pursuant to
Item 601 of
Regulation S-K:
3.1 Restated Certificate of Incorporation dated
May 5, 1992, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1
to Form 10-Q for
the quarter ended March 31, 1992.
3.2 By-Laws adopted on December 23, 1986,
amended and restated effective October 22, 1998, amended
August 4, 2005, amended and restated effective
January 1, 2007, incorporated by Reference to
Exhibit 3.1 to
Form 8-K dated
November 2, 2006.
4.1 Indenture dated as of May 27, 1999, between
UST Inc. and State Street Bank and Trust Company, incorporated
by reference to Exhibit 4 to
Form 10-Q for the
quarter ended June 30, 1999.
4.2 Form of certificate of 7.25% Senior Note,
incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to
Form S-4
Registration Statement Filed on August 16, 1999.
4.3 Form of certificate of Floating Rate Senior
Note, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.3 to
Form S-4
Registration Statement filed on August 16, 1999.
4.4 Form of certificate of 8.80% Senior Note,
incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.3 to
Form S-4
Registration Statement Filed on May 12, 2000.
94
4.5 Form of certificate of 6.625% Senior Note,
incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to
Form S-4
Registration Statement Filed on November 6, 2002.
10.1* Employment Agreement entered into on
July 23, 1987 between the Company and Vincent A.
Gierer, Jr., an Executive Officer, incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 10.1 to
Form 10-Q for the
quarter ended September 30, 1986.
10.2* Employment Agreement entered into on
December 14, 2000 between the Company and Richard H.
Verheij, a former Executive Officer, incorporated by reference
to Exhibit 10.2 to
Form 10-K for the
fiscal year ended December 31, 2000.
10.3* Employment Agreement entered into on
June 30, 2000 between the Company and Richard A.
Kohlberger, an Executive Officer, incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 10.3 to
Form 10-K for the
fiscal year ended December 31, 2000.
10.4* Form of Severance Agreement dated
October 27, 1986 between the Company and certain officers,
incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to
Form 10-Q for the
quarter ended September 30, 1986.
10.5* 1992 Stock Option Plan, as amended and
restated as of December 9, 1999, and incorporated by
reference to Exhibit A to 2000 Notice of Annual Meeting and
Proxy Statement dated March 20, 2000.
10.6* 2001 Stock Option Plan, as amended and
restated and renamed the Stock Incentive Plan, as of
February 20, 2003, incorporated by reference to
Appendix II to 2003 Notice of Annual Meeting and Proxy
Statement dated March 27, 2003.
10.7* UST Inc. Incentive Compensation Plan, as
amended and restated as of January 1, 2003, incorporated by
reference to Appendix I to 2003 Notice of Annual Meeting
and Proxy Statement dated March 27, 2003.
10.8* Amendment to UST Inc. Incentive Compensation
Plan adopted on October 15, 2003, incorporated by reference
to Exhibit 10.8 to
Form 10-K for the
fiscal year ended December 31, 2003.
10.9* Officers Supplemental Retirement Plan,
as amended and restated as of January 1, 2003, incorporated
by reference to Exhibit 10.9 to
Form 10-K for the
fiscal year ended December 31, 2003.
10.10* Nonemployee Directors Retirement Plan,
as amended and restated as of January 1, 2002, incorporated
by reference to Exhibit 10.10 to
Form 10-K for the
fiscal year ended December 31, 2001.
10.11* Directors Supplemental Medical Plan, as
amended and restated as of February 16, 1995, incorporated
by reference to Exhibit 10.10 to
Form 10-K for the
fiscal year ended December 31, 1994.
10.12* Nonemployee Directors Stock Option Plan
effective May 2, 1995, incorporated by reference to
Exhibit A to 1995 Notice of Annual Meeting and Proxy
Statement dated March 24, 1995.
10.13* Amendment to Nonemployee Directors
Stock Option Plan, effective June 30, 2000, incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 10.13 to
Form 10-K for the
fiscal year ended December 31, 2000.
10.14* Nonemployee Directors Restricted Stock
Award Plan effective January 1, 1999, and incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 10.11 to
Form 10-K for the
fiscal year ended December 31, 1998.
10.15* Form of Notice of Grant and Nonstatutory
Stock Option Agreement between the Company and certain officers,
incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to
Form 8-K filed
September 16, 2004.
10.16* Restricted Stock Agreement, by and between
the Company and Murray S. Kessler, an Executive Officer, as
amended and restated effective September 13, 2004,
incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to
Form 8-K filed
September 16, 2004.
10.17* Severance Agreement, dated September 13,
2004, by and among the Company, U.S. Smokeless Tobacco
Company and Murray S. Kessler, incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 10.3 to
Form 8-K filed
September 16, 2004.
95
10.17(a)* Amendment dated November 3, 2005 to
Agreement, dated September 13, 2004, by and among the
Company, U.S. Smokeless Tobacco Company and Murray S.
Kessler, an Executive Officer, incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 10.2 to
Form 8-K filed
November 8, 2005.
10.18* Form of Notice of Grant and Restricted Stock
Agreement between the Company and certain officers dated
October 27, 2004, incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 10.1 to
Form 8-K filed
November 2, 2004.
10.19* Form of Notice of Grant and Restricted Stock
Agreement between the Company and Murray S. Kessler dated
January 3, 2005, incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 10.1 to
Form 8-K filed
January 7, 2005.
10.20* Subsequent Agreement, dated February 8,
2005, by and between the Company and Richard H. Verheij, a
former Executive Officer, incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 10.1 to
Form 8-K filed
February 9, 2005.
10.21* Summary of Nonemployee Director Compensation,
dated February 17, 2005, incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 10.1 to
Form 8-K filed
February 22, 2005.
10.22* Form of Nonemployee Director Stock Option
Agreement dated February 16, 2005, incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 10.2 to
Form 8-K filed
February 22, 2005.
10.23* Retention Bonus Agreement, dated
November 3, 2005, by and between the Company and Vincent A.
Gierer, Jr., an Executive Officer, incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 10.1 to
Form 8-K filed
November 8, 2005.
10.24* Form of Amendment to Option Award Agreement,
dated December 31, 2005, by and between the Company and
certain officers of the Company or its subsidiaries,
incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to
Form 8-K filed
December 13, 2005.
10.25* UST Inc. Long-Term Incentive Plan, as amended
and restated effective December 7, 2005, incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 10.2 to
Form 8-K filed
December 13, 2005.
10.26* Amendment to the UST Inc. Long-Term Incentive
Plan, dated December 7, 2006.
10.27* Form of Notice of Grant and Restricted Stock
Agreement between the Company and certain officers, incorporated
by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to
Form 8-K filed
December 13, 2005.
10.28* Form of Notice of Grant and Stock Option
Agreement between the Company and Daniel W. Butler, incorporated
by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to
Form 8-K filed
December 13, 2005.
10.29* Form of Indemnification Agreement,
incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to
Form 8-K filed
August 10, 2005.
10.30* UST Inc. Director Deferral Program,
incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to
Form 8-K filed
April 10, 2006.
10.31* Severance Agreement, dated June 23,
2006, by and between UST Inc. and Robert T. DAlessandro,
incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to
Form 8-K filed
June 27, 2006.
10.32* Severance Agreement, dated June 23,
2006, by and among UST Inc., U.S. Smokeless Tobacco Company
and Daniel W. Butler, incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 10.2 to
Form 8-K filed
June 27, 2006.
10.33* Severance Agreement, dated June 23,
2006, by and among UST Inc., International Wine &
Spirits Ltd. and Theodor P. Baseler, incorporated by reference
to Exhibit 10.3 to
Form 8-K filed
June 27, 2006.
10.34* Employment Agreement, dated December 7,
2006, by and between UST Inc. and Murray S. Kessler,
incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to
Form 8-K filed
December 11, 2006.
10.35* Form of Notice of Grant and Restricted Stock
Agreement between the Company and Daniel W. Butler, incorporated
by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to
Form 8-K filed
December 11, 2006.
10.36 Purchase and Sale Agreement, by and between
UST Inc. and Antares 100WP LLC, incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 10.1 to
Form 8-K filed
February 2, 2007.
96
21 Subsidiaries of UST Inc.
23 Consent of Independent Registered Public
Accounting Firm.
31.1 Certification of Chief Executive Officer
pursuant to
Rule 13a-14(a) and
Rule 15d-14(a) of
the Securities Exchange Act, as amended.
31.2 Certification of Chief Financial Officer
pursuant to
Rule 13a-14(a) and
Rule 15d-14(a) of
the Securities Exchange Act, as amended.
32 Certification of Chief Executive Officer and
Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C.
§ 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the
Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
|
|
* |
Management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement required
to be filed as an exhibit pursuant to Item 15(b) of the
rules governing the preparation of this Report. |
97
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Company has duly caused
this Report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned,
thereunto duly authorized.
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UST Inc.
|
Date: February 23, 2007
|
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By:
|
|
/s/
MURRAY S. KESSLER
Murray
S. Kessler
President and
Chief Executive Officer
|
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of
1934, this Report has been signed below by the following persons
on behalf of the Company and in the capacities and on the dates
indicated.
|
|
|
|
|
February 23, 2007
|
|
Director, Chairman of the Board
|
|
/s/
VINCENT A. GIERER, JR.
Vincent
A. Gierer, Jr.
|
February 23, 2007
|
|
Director, President and
Chief Executive Officer
(Principal Executive Officer)
|
|
/s/
MURRAY S. KESSLER
Murray
S. Kessler
|
|
February 23, 2007
|
|
Senior Vice President
and Chief Financial Officer
(Principal Financial Officer)
|
|
/s/
ROBERT T.
DALESSANDRO
Robert
T. DAlessandro
|
|
February 23, 2007
|
|
Vice President and Controller
(Principal Accounting Officer)
|
|
/s/
JAMES D. PATRACUOLLA
James
D. Patracuolla
|
|
February 23, 2007
|
|
Director
|
|
/s/
JOHN D. BARR
John
D. Barr
|
|
February 23, 2007
|
|
Director
|
|
/s/
JOHN P. CLANCEY
John
P. Clancey
|
|
February 23, 2007
|
|
Director
|
|
/s/
PATRICIA DIAZ DENNIS
Patricia
Diaz Dennis
|
|
February 23, 2007
|
|
Director
|
|
/s/
JOSEPH E. HEID
Joseph
E. Heid
|
|
February 23, 2007
|
|
Director
|
|
/s/
PATRICK J. MANNELLY
Patrick
J. Mannelly
|
|
February 23, 2007
|
|
Director
|
|
/s/
PETER J. NEFF
Peter
J. Neff
|
|
February 23, 2007
|
|
Director
|
|
/s/
ANDREW J. PARSONS
Andrew
J. Parsons
|
|
February 23, 2007
|
|
Director
|
|
/s/
RONALD J. ROSSI
Ronald
J. Rossi
|
98