Wolverine World Wide
WWW
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โ‚ฌ1.12 B
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Wolverine World Wide - 10-Q quarterly report FY


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SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-Q

[X] QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE
SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the second twelve week accounting period ended June 14, 1997

OR

[ ] TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE
SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from ___________ to __________

Commission File Number 1-6024

WOLVERINE WORLD WIDE, INC.
(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in its Charter)


DELAWARE 38-1185150
(State or Other Jurisdiction of (IRS Employer Identification No.)
Incorporation or Organization)

9341 COURTLAND DRIVE, ROCKFORD, MICHIGAN 49351
(Address of Principal Executive Offices) (Zip Code)


(616) 866-5500
(Registrant's Telephone Number, including Area Code)


Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports
required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act
of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period
that the registrant was required to file such reports) and (2) has been
subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.

Yes __X___ No _____

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer's classes
of common stock as of the latest practicable date.

There were 42,804,785 shares of Common Stock, $1 par value,
outstanding as of July 25, 1997, of which 584,038 shares are held
as Treasury Stock. The shares outstanding, excluding shares held
in treasury, have been adjusted for the 3-for-2 stock split paid
on May 23, 1997, on shares outstanding at the close of business
on May 2, 1997.
PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.

WOLVERINE WORLD WIDE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
<TABLE>
CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED BALANCE SHEETS
(THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS)
<CAPTION>
JUNE 14, DECEMBER 28, JUNE 15,
1997 1996 1996
(UNAUDITED) (AUDITED) (UNAUDITED)
----------- ------------ -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
ASSETS

CURRENT ASSETS
Cash and cash equivalents $ 3,979 $ 8,534 $ 8,444
Accounts receivable, less allowances
June 14, 1997 - $6,277
December 28, 1996 - $5,634
June 15, 1996 - $4,648 108,516 125,999 81,204
Inventories:
Finished products 125,598 71,346 85,699
Raw materials and work in process 50,147 46,081 43,081
--------- -------- ---------
175,745 117,427 128,780

Other current assets 11,176 12,668 9,372
--------- -------- ---------

TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS 299,416 264,628 227,800

PROPERTY, PLANT & EQUIPMENT
Gross cost 140,994 130,779 117,706
Less accumulated depreciation 70,270 67,776 65,473
--------- -------- ---------
70,724 63,003 52,233

OTHER ASSETS 37,326 33,967 28,450
--------- -------- ---------

TOTAL ASSETS $ 407,466 $361,598 $ 308,483
========= ======== =========
</TABLE>



See notes to consolidated condensed financial statements.

-2-
WOLVERINE WORLD WIDE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
<TABLE>
CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED BALANCE SHEETS - CONTINUED
(THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS)
<CAPTION>
JUNE 14, DECEMBER 28, JUNE 15,
1997 1996 1996
(UNAUDITED) (AUDITED) (UNAUDITED)
----------- ------------ -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS'
EQUITY

CURRENT LIABILITIES
Notes payable to banks $ 3,566 $ 1,026 $ 2,969
Accounts payable and other accrued
liabilities 57,606 68,708 39,034
Current maturities of long-term debt 54 76 73
--------- --------- ---------
TOTAL CURRENT LIABILITIES 61,226 69,810 42,076

LONG-TERM DEBT (less current maturities) 84,235 41,233 42,555

OTHER NONCURRENT LIABILITIES 10,129 11,263 10,370

STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Common Stock - par value $1, authorized
80,000,000 shares; shares issued
(including shares in treasury):
June 14, 1997 - 42,739,721 shares
December 28, 1996 - 42,256,145 shares
June 15, 1996 - 42,532,450 42,739 42,256 42,532
Additional paid-in capital 58,457 53,404 50,587
Retained earnings 163,711 153,475 130,945
Accumulated translation adjustments (333) 79 (351)
Unearned compensation (5,353) (2,908) (3,504)
Cost of shares in treasury:
June 14, 1997 - 583,838 shares
December 28, 1996 - 557,323 shares
June 15, 1996 - 547,591 shares (7,345) (7,014) (6,727)
--------- --------- ---------

TOTAL STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY 251,876 239,292 213,482
--------- --------- ---------
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND
STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY $ 407,466 $ 361,598 $ 308,483
========= ========= =========
</TABLE>
( ) - Denotes deduction.
See notes to consolidated condensed financial statements.
-3-
WOLVERINE WORLD WIDE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
<TABLE>
CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED STATEMENTS
OF OPERATIONS
(THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)
(UNAUDITED)
<CAPTION>
12 WEEKS ENDED 24 WEEKS ENDED
--------------------- ----------------------
JUNE 14, JUNE 15, JUNE 14, JUNE 15,
1997 1996 1997 1996
-------- -------- -------- --------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
NET SALES AND OTHER
OPERATING INCOME $ 127,789 $ 94,153 $ 257,090 $ 177,995
Cost of products sold 86,972 62,836 177,884 121,355
---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
GROSS MARGIN 40,817 31,317 79,206 56,640
Selling and administrative expenses 28,681 23,162 59,339 43,651
---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
OPERATING INCOME 12,136 8,155 19,867 12,989

OTHER EXPENSES (INCOME):
Interest expense 1,286 833 2,263 1,459
Interest income (123) (149) (291) (556)
Other - net 145 (382) 159 (705)
---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
1,308 302 2,131 198
---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
EARNINGS BEFORE INCOME TAXES 10,828 7,853 17,736 12,791
Income taxes 3,460 2,420 5,675 3,965
---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
NET EARNINGS $ 7,368 $ 5,433 $ 12,061 $ 8,826
========== ========== ========== ==========
EARNINGS PER SHARE:
Primary $ .17 $ .13 $ .28 $ .21
========== ========== ========== ==========
Fully diluted $ .17 $ .13 $ .28 $ .21
========== ========== ========== ==========
CASH DIVIDENDS PER SHARE $ .0217 $ .0178 $ .0434 $ .0356
========== ========== ========== ==========
SHARES USED FOR NET
EARNINGS PER SHARE COMPUTATION:
Primary 43,542,526 42,667,869 43,436,539 42,496,710
========== ========== ========== ==========
Fully diluted 43,619,613 42,784,623 43,568,068 42,677,578
========== ========== ========== ==========
</TABLE>
See notes to consolidated condensed financial statements.
-4-
WOLVERINE WORLD WIDE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
<TABLE>
CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS)
(UNAUDITED)
<CAPTION>
24 WEEKS ENDED
------------------------
JUNE 14, JUNE 15,
1997 1996
-------- --------
<S> <C> <C>
OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Net earnings $ 12,061 $ 8,826
Depreciation, amortization and other non-cash items 1,327 (161)
Unearned compensation 575 356
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Accounts receivable 17,483 12,676
Inventories (58,318) (31,275)
Other current assets 1,492 1,275
Accounts payable and other accrued liabilities (11,102) 2,074
----------- -----------
NET CASH USED IN OPERATING ACTIVITIES (36,482) (6,229)
FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Proceeds from long-term borrowings 54,003 12,000
Payments of long-term borrowings (11,023) (50)
Proceeds from short-term borrowings 2,540 630
Cash dividends (1,825) (1,474)
Proceeds from shares issued under employee stock plams 2,185 1,587
----------- -----------
NET CASH PROVIDED BY FINANCING ACTIVITIES 45,880 12,693
INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Purchase of business product line (22,750)
Additions to property, plant and equipment (11,858) (5,841)
Net (increase) decrease in notes receivable (382) 3,796
Other (1,713) (313)
----------- -----------
NET CASH USED IN INVESTING ACTIVITIES (13,953) (25,108)
----------- -----------
DECREASE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS (4,555) (18,644)

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year 8,534 27,088
----------- -----------
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT END OF
SECOND ACCOUNTING PERIOD $ 3,979 $ 8,444
=========== ===========
</TABLE>
( ) - Denotes reduction in cash and cash equivalents.
See notes to consolidated condensed financial statements.

-5-
WOLVERINE WORLD WIDE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
JUNE 14, 1997

NOTE A - BASIS OF PRESENTATION

The accompanying unaudited consolidated condensed financial statements have
been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles for
interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Rule
10-01 of Regulation S-X. Accordingly, they do not include all of the informa-
tion and footnotes required by generally accepted accounting principles for
complete financial statements. In the opinion of management, all adjustments
(consisting solely of normal recurring accruals) considered necessary for fair
presentation have been included. For further information, refer to the consoli-
dated financial statements and footnotes included in the Company's Annual
Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 28, 1996. Certain
amounts in 1996 have been reclassified to conform with the presentation used in
1997.

NOTE B - FLUCTUATIONS

The Company's sales are seasonal, particularly in its major divisions, The
Hush Puppies Company, the Wolverine Footwear Group, the Caterpillar
Footwear Group, the Wolverine Slipper Group and the Wolverine Leather Division.
Seasonal sales patterns and the fact that the fourth quarter has sixteen or
seventeen weeks as compared to twelve weeks in each of the first three quarters
cause significant differences in sales and earnings from quarter to quarter.
These differences, however, follow a consistent pattern each year.

NOTE C - COMMON STOCK

On April 17, 1997 and July 11, 1996, the Company announced 3-for-2 stock
splits on shares outstanding on May 2, 1997 and July 26, 1996 and paid May 23,
1997 and August 16, 1996, respectively. All share and per share data have
been retroactively adjusted for the increased shares resulting from the
stock splits.

In February 1997, The Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Statement
of Financial Accounting Standards No. 129, "Disclosure of Information about
Capital Structure" ("FAS No. 129"). FAS No. 129 consolidates existing
guidance relating to disclosure about a company's capital structure and will
be effective for the Company's fiscal year ending January 3, 1998. The
effect of adopting FAS No. 129 is not expected to have a material effect on
previously reported amounts.

NOTE D - EARNINGS PER SHARE

Primary earnings per share are computed based on the weighted average shares
of common stock outstanding during each period assuming that the stock splits
described in Note C had been completed at the beginning of the earliest
-6-
period presented.  Common stock equivalents (stock options) are included in
the computation of primary and fully diluted earnings per share.

In February 1997, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Statement
of Financial Accounting Standards No. 128, "Earnings Per Share" ("FAS No.
128"). FAS No. 128 changes the method for computing and presenting earnings
per share and will be effective for the Company's fiscal year ending January
3, 1998. The effect of adopting FAS No. 128 is not expected to have a
material effect on previously reported earnings per share amounts.

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

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - COMPARISONS OF SECOND QUARTER AND YEAR-TO-DATE 1997
TO SECOND QUARTER AND YEAR-TO-DATE 1996

Second quarter net sales and other operating income of $127.8 million for
1997 exceeded the 1996 level by $33.6 million (a 35.7% increase), and 1997
year-to-date net sales of $257.1 million compares to $178.0 million
recorded for the comparable period of 1996 (a 44.4% increase). All
divisions recorded an increase in net sales and other operating income for
the second quarter of 1997. The Wolverine Footwear Group accounted for $7.0
million (19.2%) of the increase in quarterly net sales and other operating
income and $21.1 million (31.6%) of the year-to-date increase. The
Caterpillar Footwear Group continued its strong growth rate showing a $5.7
million (88.6%) increase over the 1996 second quarter net sales and other
operating income and a $10.7 million (77.6%) increase for year-to-date 1997
over year-to-date 1996. The Hush Puppies Company, excluding Hush Puppies UK,
Ltd., recorded a net sales and other operating income increase of $2.6
million (7.1%) for second quarter 1997 and a $12.8 million (18.4%) increase
for year-to-date 1997. Hush Puppies UK Ltd. reported $11.7 million in net
sales for the second quarter of 1997. The Hush Puppies UK Ltd. results of
operations were first included in the fourth quarter of 1996. The Wolverine
Leather Division recognized a $5.3 million (87.7%) increase in net sales and
other operating income for the second quarter of 1997 and a $9.9 million
(93.3%) improvement for the year-to-date 1997. The Hush Puppies Retail
Division net sales and other operating income was up $1.3 million or 19.4%
for the second quarter and $2.3 million or 19.6% for the year-to-date 1997.
The Wolverine Slipper Group showed improvement with increased net sales and
other operating income of $2.2 million for the quarter and recorded a
decrease in net sales and other operating income for the year-to-date 1997
of $1.3 million.

Year-to-date net sales and other operating income for The Hush Puppies
Wholesale Division increased $8.9 million or 18.1% over the 1996 level. The
Hush Puppies Wholesale Division growth continues to be fueled by expanded
distribution to major U.S. retailers. Net sales and other operating income
for the Hush Puppies International Division increased $0.6 million or 11.8%
year-to-date 1997 over the respective period of 1996. Despite the sluggish

-7-
retail market, the Hush Puppies Retail Division's net sales and other
operating income increased $2.3 million (19.6%) year-to-date as strong
product offerings helped boost sales. Hush Puppies UK Ltd. performed in
line with expectations reporting $26.4 million in net sales for year-to-date
1997. The Hush Puppies UK Ltd. operations were first included in the fourth
quarter of 1996.

The Wolverine Footwear Group reported a 1997 year-to-date increase in net
sales and other operating income of $21.1 million or 31.6% over the
respective period of 1996. The DuraShocks SR<Trademark> product continued to
be strong, helping Wolverine Brand Division report a $10.0 million (21.1%)
increase in net sales and other operating income. Hy-Test reported a $0.3
million increase in net sales and other operating income for the second
quarter of 1997. Bates Division net sales increased $1.5 million or 12.8%
year-to-date 1997 as compared to year-to-date 1996 reflecting penetration
into military and export markets.

The Caterpillar Footwear Group recognized a $10.7 million or 77.6% increase
for year-to-date 1997 as compared to year-to-date 1996. Continued
establishment of the domestic wholesale business and exceptional brand appeal
around the world continue to drive this business.

The Wolverine Slipper Group is showing improvement with an increase in net
sales and other operating income of $2.2 million over the second quarter
1996 and a decrease of $1.3 million year-to-date 1997 as compared to the same
period of 1996. The branded slipper initiatives continue to perform
consistent with the Company's plan as retail sell through has been good.

The Wolverine Leathers Division boasted a $9.8 million (91.7%) net sales
and other operating income increase over year-to-date 1996 with licensee
and domestic accounts both contributing to the increase. Strong demand for
performance leather and sueded products continue to drive the volume
increases.

Gross margin as a percentage of net sales and other operating income for
the second quarter of 1997 was 31.9% compared to 33.3% for the second quarter
of 1996. Year-to-date gross margin of 30.8% for 1997 compared to 31.8% for
the same period in 1996. The decline in gross margin was primarily a result
of a planned change in business mix. The addition of Hush Puppies UK Ltd.,
and significant growth of the Wolverine Leathers Division ($1.9 million gross
margin increase), both of which operate at lower gross margin levels, had a
dilutive impact on the Company's gross margin. Improved margins of 5.5
percentage points were recognized in the Hush Puppies Wholesale Division
through improved initial pricing margins, increased licensing revenues and
manufacturing and sourcing efficiencies. The Hush Puppies Retail Division
reported a 2.4 percentage point increase in gross margin. The Wolverine
Footwear Group's gross margin remained relatively flat. The Wolverine
Leather Division gross margin level remains in line with recent history which
approximates 20.0%.

-8-
Selling and administrative expenses of $28.7 million for the second quarter
of 1997 increased $5.5 million over the 1996 second quarter level of $23.2
million and as a percentage of net sales and other operating income decreased
to 22.4% in the second quarter of 1997 from 24.6% in the second quarter of
1996. Year-to-date selling and administrative expenses for 1997 of $59.3
million increased $15.6 million over the $43.7 million year-to-date level for
1996 and as a percentage of net sales and other operating income decreased to
23.1% for the year-to-date 1997 from 24.5% in 1996. Investments in branded
marketing initiatives, information system upgrades and costs associated with
fringe benefit and retirement programs all contributed to the increase. If
the acquisitions of Hy-Test, Inc. and Hush Puppies UK Ltd. are eliminated,
selling and administrative expenses as a percentage of net sales and other
operating income would have been 23.7% for the second quarter of 1997 and
24.5% year-to-date.

Interest expense for the second quarter of 1997 was $1.3 million, compared
to $0.8 million for the same period of 1996. Year-to-date interest expense
for 1997 and 1996 was $2.3 million and $1.5 million, respectively. The
increase in interest expense for the second quarter and year-to-date 1997 as
compared to 1996 reflects an increase in borrowings over the 1996 level
resulting from the 1996 acquisitions and working capital requirements.

The 1997 effective income tax rate of 32.0% increased from 31.0% in 1996.
The effective tax rate increased as the non-taxable net earnings of foreign
subsidiaries became a smaller percentage of total consolidated earnings in
1997 as compared to 1996.

Net earnings of $7.4 million for the twelve weeks ended June 14, 1997
compared favorably to earnings of $5.4 million for the respective period of
1996 (a 35.6% increase). Year-to-date net earnings of $21.1 million in
1997 compared with earnings of $8.8 million for the same period of 1996 (a
36.7% increase). Earnings per share of $0.17 post split for the second
quarter 1997 compares to $0.13 post split for the same period of 1996.
Year-to-date earnings per share of $0.28 post split compare to $0.21 post
split for the same period of 1996. Increased earnings are primarily a result
of the items noted above.

FINANCIAL CONDITION, LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

Net cash used by operating activities was $36.5 million in 1997 compared to
$6.2 million in 1996. Cash of $50.4 million for 1997 and $15.3 million for
1996 was used to fund working capital requirements. Accounts receivable of
$108.5 million at June 14, 1997 reflect an increase of $27.3 million
(33.6%) over the balance at June 15, 1996 and decreased $17.5 million
(13.9%) from the December 28, 1996 balance. Inventories of $175.7 million
at June 14, 1997 reflect increases of $47.0 million (36.5%) and $58.3
million (49.7%) over the balances at June 15, 1996 and December 28, 1996,
respectively. A portion of the increase in accounts receivable and
inventories was due to the 1996 acquisitions of the assets of Hy-Test, Inc.

-9-
from The Florsheim Shoe Company and Hush Puppies UK Ltd., which on a
combined basis contributed 33.2% and 37.0% of the respective accounts
receivable and inventory increases from June 15, 1996. On a comparable
basis, accounts receivable and inventories at June 14, 1997 increased 35.7%
and 29.6%, respectively, over the amounts at December 28, 1996, which
compares to a year-to-date increase of 23.6% in net sales and other operating
income. Order backlog was approximately 29% higher at June 14, 1997, when
compared to the previous years' second quarter, supporting the need for
increased inventories to meet anticipated future demand in both wholesale and
manufacturing operations. Accounts payable of $57.6 million at June 14,
1997 reflect a $18.6 million (47.6%) increase over the $39.0 million
balance at June 15, 1996 and a $11.1 million (16.2%) decrease over the
$68.7 million balance at December 28, 1996.

Other current assets of $11.2 million at June 14, 1997 compares to $9.4
million at June 15, 1996. The change in deferred taxes accounts for $.8
million of this difference.

Additions to property, plant and equipment of $11.9 million in the second
quarter of 1997 compares to $5.8 million reported during the same period in
1996. The majority of these expenditures are related to the construction
of a new corporate business center, modernization of existing corporate
buildings, expansion of warehouse facilities and purchases of manufacturing
equipment necessary to continue to upgrade the Company's footwear and
leather manufacturing facilities. Depreciation and amortization of $4.7
million in the first half of 1997 compares to $2.9 million in the first
half of 1996. This increase was a result of the capital investments noted
above and the amortization of goodwill related to the two 1996
acquisitions.

The Company maintains short-term borrowing and commercial letter-of-credit
facilities of $84.7 million, of which $38.5 million, $28.5 million and $13.9
million were outstanding at June 14, 1997, December 28, 1996 and June 15,
1996, respectively. Long-term debt, excluding current maturities, of $84.2
million at June 14, 1997 compares to $42.6 million and $41.2 million at
June 15, 1996 and December 28, 1996, respectively. The increase since
December 28, 1996 was a result of the seasonal working capital requirements
of the Company.

It is expected that continued growth of the Company will require increases
in capital funding over the next several years. In the fourth quarter of
1996, the Company renegotiated its long-term revolving debt agreement and
increased the amount available under its credit facilities. The combination
of cash flows from operations and available credit facilities are expected
to be sufficient to meet future capital needs.

The 1997 second quarter dividend declared of $.0217 per share (post split)
of common stock represents approximately a 21.9% increase over the $.0178
per share (post split) declared for the second quarter of 1996. The

-10-
second quarter 1997 dividend is payable August 1, 1997 to stockholders of
record on July 1, 1997. Additionally, shares issued under stock incentive
plans provided cash of $2.2 million in 1997 compared to $1.6 million in 1996.

During 1996, the Company completed two acquisitions. The Company purchased
the work, safety and occupational footwear business of Hy-Test, Inc. from
The Florsheim Shoe Company and the rights to and certain assets of the Hush
Puppies wholesale shoe business in the United Kingdom and Ireland from
British Shoe Corporation, a subsidiary of Sears Plc. The combined purchase
price of these acquisitions was $31.5 million, of which $29.2 million was
paid in cash in 1996. The Company has an active program to evaluate
strategic business acquisitions on a global basis and may, from time to
time, make additional acquisitions.

The current ratio at June 14, 1997 was 4.9 to 1.0 in 1997 compared with 5.4
to 1.0 in 1996. The Company's total debt to total capital ratio increased
to .26 to 1.0 in 1997 from .18 to 1.0 in 1996.

































-11-
PART II. OTHER INFORMATION

ITEM 2. CHANGES IN SECURITIES.

On April 16, 1997, the Company held its 1997 Annual Meeting of
Stockholders. At the meeting, the stockholders voted to approve an
amendment to the Company's Certificate of Incorporation to increase the
Company's authorized capital from 40,000,000 shares of Common Stock, $1.00
par value per share ("Common Stock"), to 80,000,000 shares of Common Stock.

All of the additional shares resulting from the increase in the Company's
authorized Common Stock are of the same class, with the same dividend,
voting and liquidation rights, as shares of Common Stock previously
outstanding. The Company's authorized capital also includes 2,000,000
shares of preferred stock, none of which is currently outstanding.

The newly authorized shares of Common Stock are unreserved and available
for issuance. No further stockholder authorization is required prior to
the issuance of such shares by the Company. Stockholders have no
preemptive rights to acquire shares issued by the Company under its
Certificate of Incorporation, and stockholders did not acquire any such
rights with respect to such additional shares of Common Stock under the
amendment to the Company's Certificate of Incorporation. Under some
circumstances, the issuance of additional shares of Common Stock could
dilute the voting rights, equity and earnings per share of existing
stockholders.

ITEM 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS.

On April 16, 1997, the Company held its 1997 Annual Meeting of
Stockholders. The purposes of the meeting were: to elect four directors
for three-year terms expiring in 2000; to consider and approve an amendment
to the Company's Certificate of Incorporation to increase the amount of
authorized capital from 40,000,000 shares of Common Stock to 80,000,000
shares of Common Stock; to consider and approve the 1997 Stock Incentive
Plan; to consider and approve the Executive Short-Term Incentive Plan
(Annual Bonus Plan); to consider and approve the Executive Long-Term
Incentive Plan (3-Year Bonus Plan); and to consider and ratify the
appointment of Ernst & Young LLP as the Company's independent auditors for
the current fiscal year.

Four candidates nominated by management were elected by the stockholders to
serve as Directors of the Company at the meeting. The following sets forth
the results of the voting with respect to each candidate:






-12-
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
NAME OF CANDIDATE SHARES VOTED
----------------- ------------
<S> <C> <C>
Alberto L. Grimoldi For 24,134,053
Authority Withheld 98,695
Broker Non-Votes 0

Joseph A. Parini For 24,131,025
Authority Withheld 101,723
Broker Non-Votes 0

Joan Parker For 24,133,542
Authority Withheld 99,206
Broker Non-Votes 0

Elizabeth A. Sanders For 24,134,740
Authority Withheld 98,008
Broker Non-Votes 0
</TABLE>

The following persons remained as directors of the Company with terms
expiring in 1998: Geoffrey B. Bloom, David T. Kollat, David P. Mehney and
Timothy J. O'Donovan. The following persons remained as directors of the
Company with terms expiring in 1999: Daniel T. Carroll and Phillip D.
Matthews.

The stockholders also voted to approve the amendment to the Certificate of
Incorporation to increase the amount of authorized capital stock as
described in Item 2 of Part II of this Report on Form 10-Q. The following
sets forth the results of the voting with respect to that matter:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SHARES VOTED
------------
<S> <C> <C>
For 22,776,814
Against 1,429,804
Abstentions 26,131
Broker Non-votes 0
</TABLE>

The stockholders also voted to approve the 1997 Stock Incentive Plan. The
following sets forth the results of the voting with respect to that matter:





-13-
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SHARES VOTED
------------
<S> <C> <C>
For 19,729,726
Against 4,461,796
Abstentions 41,226
Broker Non-Votes 0
</TABLE>

The stockholders also voted to approve the Executive Short-Term Incentive
Plan (Annual Bonus Plan). The following sets forth the results of the
voting with respect to that matter:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SHARES VOTED
------------
<S> <C> <C>
For 23,842,358
Against 343,256
Abstentions 47,134
Broker Non-Votes 0
</TABLE>

The stockholders also voted to approve the Executive Long-Term Incentive
Plan (3-Year Bonus Plan). The following sets forth the results of the
voting with respect to that matter:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SHARES VOTED
------------
<S> <C> <C>
For 23,849,191
Against 336,565
Abstentions 46,992
Broker Non-Votes 0
</TABLE>

The stockholders also voted to ratify the appointment of Ernst & Young LLP
by the Board of Directors as independent auditors of the Company for the
current fiscal year. The following sets forth the results of the voting
with respect to that matter:







-14-
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SHARES VOTED
------------
<S> <C> <C>
For 24,173,899
Against 20,833
Abstentions 38,016
Broker Non-votes 0
</TABLE>

ITEM 6. EXHIBITS AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K.

(a) EXHIBITS. The following documents are filed as exhibits to this
Report on Form 10-Q:

EXHIBIT
NUMBER DOCUMENT

3.1 Certificate of Incorporation, as amended.

3.2 Amended and Restated Bylaws. Previously filed as Exhibit
3.2 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the
fiscal year ended December 30, 1995. Here incorporated by
reference.

4.1 Certificate of Incorporation, as amended. See Exhibit 3.1
above.

4.2 Rights Agreement dated as of April 17, 1997. Previously
filed with the Company's Form 8-A filed April 12, 1997.
Here incorporated by reference.

4.3 Credit Agreement dated as of October 11, 1996 with NBD Bank,
NA as Agent. Previously filed as Exhibit 4.3 to the
Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year
ended December 28, 1996. Here incorporated by reference.

4.4 Note Agreement dated as of August 1, 1994 relating to 7.81%
Senior Notes. Previously filed as Exhibit 4(d) to the
Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended
September 10, 1994. Here incorporated by reference.

4.5 The Registrant has several classes of long-term debt
instruments outstanding in addition to that described in
Exhibits 4.3 and 4.4 above. The amount of none of these
classes of debt outstanding on June 14, 1997 exceeded 10% of
the Company's total consolidated assets. The Company agrees


-15-
to furnish copies of any agreement defining the rights of
holders of any such long-term indebtedness to the Securities
and Exchange Commission upon request.

10.1 1997 Stock Incentive Plan. Previously filed as Appendix A
to the Company's Definitive Proxy Statement with respect to
the Company's Annual Meeting of Stockholders held on April
16, 1997. Here incorporated by reference.

10.2 Executive Short-Term Incentive Plan (Annual Bonus Plan).
Previously filed as Appendix B to the Company's Definitive
Proxy Statement with respect to the Company's Annual Meeting
of Stockholders held on April 16, 1997. Here incorporated
by reference.

10.3 Executive Long-Term Incentive Plan (3-Year Bonus Plan).
Previously filed as Appendix C to the Company's Definitive
Proxy Statement with respect to the Company's Annual Meeting
of Stockholders held on April 16, 1997. Here incorporated
by reference.

27 Financial Data Schedule.

(b) REPORTS ON FORM 8-K. The Company filed a report on Form 8-K on
April 22, 1997 to report under Item 5, "Other Events," that on April 16,
1997, the Board of Directors of the Company declared a dividend of one and
one-half (1.5) Rights for each outstanding share of the Company's common
stock (the "Common Stock") outstanding on May 8, 1997. After the payment
of the Company's 3 for 2 stock split paid on May 23, 1997, one Right is
associated with each outstanding share of Common Stock. Each Right
entitles the registered holder to purchase from the Company one one-hundredth
of a share of Series B Junior Participating Preferred Stock, $1.00 par value
per share, at a price of $120 per Unit, subject to adjustment upon the
occurrence of certain events specified in the Rights Agreement filed as
Exhibit 4.2 to this report on Form 10-Q.















-16-
SIGNATURES


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

WOLVERINE WORLD WIDE, INC.
AND SUBSIDIARIES



JULY 29, 1997 /S/STEPHEN L. GULIS, JR.
Date Stephen L. Gulis, Jr.
Executive Vice President, Chief Financial
Officer and Treasurer (Duly Authorized
Signatory for Registrant and Principal Financial
Officer and Duly Authorized Signatory for
Registrant)































-17-
EXHIBIT INDEX


EXHIBIT
NUMBER DOCUMENT

3.1 Certificate of Incorporation, as amended.

3.2 Amended and Restated Bylaws. Previously filed as Exhibit
3.2 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the
fiscal year ended December 30, 1995. Here incorporated by
reference.

4.1 Certificate of Incorporation, as amended. See Exhibit 3.1
above.

4.2 Rights Agreement dated as of April 17, 1997. Previously
filed with the Company's Form 8-A filed April 12, 1997.
Here incorporated by reference.

4.3 Credit Agreement dated as of October 11, 1996 with NBD Bank,
NA as Agent. Previously filed as Exhibit 4.3 to the
Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year
ended December 28, 1996. Here incorporated by reference.

4.4 Note Agreement dated as of August 1, 1994 relating to 7.81%
Senior Notes. Previously filed as Exhibit 4(d) to the
Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended
September 10, 1994. Here incorporated by reference.

4.5 The Registrant has several classes of long-term debt
instruments outstanding in addition to that described in
Exhibits 4.3 and 4.4 above. The amount of none of these
classes of debt outstanding on June 14, 1997 exceeded 10% of
the Company's total consolidated assets. The Company agrees
to furnish copies of any agreement defining the rights of
holders of any such long-term indebtedness to the Securities
and Exchange Commission upon request.

10.1 1997 Stock Incentive Plan. Previously filed as Appendix A
to the Company's Definitive Proxy Statement with respect to
the Company's Annual Meeting of Stockholders held on April
16, 1997. Here incorporated by reference.

10.2 Executive Short-Term Incentive Plan (Annual Bonus Plan).
Previously filed as Appendix B to the Company's Definitive
Proxy Statement with respect to the Company's Annual Meeting
of Stockholders held on April 16, 1997. Here incorporated
by reference.
10.3      Executive Long-Term Incentive Plan (3-Year Bonus Plan).
Previously filed as Appendix C to the Company's Definitive
Proxy Statement with respect to the Company's Annual Meeting
of Stockholders held on April 16, 1997. Here incorporated
by reference.

27 Financial Data Schedule.