UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D. C. 20549
Form 10-K
☑ ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the fiscal year ended May 31, 2024
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 No. 1-14187
RPM INTERNATIONAL INC.
(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in its Charter)
Delaware
02-0642224
(State or Other Jurisdiction of
Incorporation or Organization)
(IRS Employer
Identification No.)
2628 Pearl Road, Medina, Ohio
44256
(Address of Principal Executive Offices)
(Zip Code)
Registrant’s telephone number, including area code:
(330) 273-5090
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Title of Each Class
Trading Symbol(s)
Name of Each Exchange on Which Registered
Common Stock, par value $0.01
RPM
New York Stock Exchange
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:
None
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. Yes ☑ 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 ☑
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 ☑ No ☐
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such files). Yes ☑ No ☐
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” “smaller reporting company,” and “emerging growth company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large accelerated filer
☑
Accelerated filer
☐
Non-accelerated filer
Smaller reporting company
Emerging growth company
If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ☐
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has filed a report on and attestation to its management’s assessment of the effectiveness of its internal control over financial reporting under Section 404(b) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (15 U.S.C. 7262(b)) by the registered public accounting firm that prepared or issued its audit report. ☑
If securities are registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act, indicate by check mark whether the financial statements of the registrant included in the filing reflect the correction of an error to previously issued financial statements. ☐
Indicate by check mark whether any of those error corrections are restatements that required a recovery analysis of incentive-based compensation received by any of the registrant's executive officers during the relevant recovery period pursuant to §240.10D-1(b). ☐
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes ☐ No ☑
The aggregate market value of the Common Stock held by non-affiliates of the Registrant at November 30, 2023 was approximately $13,091,662,068.
As of July 22, 2024, 128,797,008 shares of Common Stock were outstanding.
DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
Portions of the definitive Proxy Statement to be used in connection with the Registrant’s Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held on October 3, 2024 (the “2024 Proxy Statement”) are incorporated by reference into Part III of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Except as otherwise stated, the information contained in this Annual Report on Form 10-K is as of May 31, 2024.
PART I
Item 1.
Business
3
Item 1A.
Risk Factors
11
Item 1B.
Unresolved Staff Comments
18
Item 1C.
Cybersecurity
19
Item 2.
Properties
Item 3.
Legal Proceedings
21
Item 4.
Mine Safety Disclosures
PART II
Item 5.
Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
22
Item 7.
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
23
Item 7A.
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
34
Item 8.
Financial Statements and Supplementary Data
36
Item 9.
Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure
84
Item 9A.
Controls and Procedures
Item 9B.
Other Information
Item 9C.
Disclosure Regarding Foreign Jurisdictions that Prevent Inspections
PART III
Item 10.
Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance
85
Item 11.
Executive Compensation
86
Item 12.
Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters
Item 13.
Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence
Item 14.
Principal Accountant Fees and Services
PART IV
Item 15.
Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedule
87
Exhibit Index
88
SIGNATURES
93
Schedule II
94
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Item 1. Business.
THE COMPANY
RPM International Inc., a Delaware corporation, succeeded to the reporting obligations of RPM, Inc., an Ohio corporation, following a 2002 reincorporation transaction. RPM, Inc. was originally incorporated in 1947 under the name Republic Powdered Metals, Inc. and changed its name to RPM, Inc. in 1971.
As used herein, the terms “RPM,” the “Company,” “we,” “our” and “us” refer to RPM International Inc. and all our consolidated subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. Our principal executive offices are located at 2628 Pearl Road, Medina, Ohio 44256, and our telephone number is (330) 273-5090.
BUSINESS
Our subsidiaries manufacture, market and sell various specialty chemical product lines, including high-quality specialty paints, infrastructure rehab and repair products, protective coatings, roofing systems, sealants and adhesives, focusing on the maintenance and improvement needs of the industrial, specialty and consumer markets. Our family of products includes those marketed under brand names such as API, Carboline, CAVE, DAP, Day-Glo, Dri-Eaz, Dryvit, Euclid, EUCO, Fibergrate, Fibregrid, Fibrecrete, Flecto, Flowcrete, Gator, Grupo PV, Hummervoll, illbruck, Kemtile, Key Resin, Nudura, Mohawk, Prime Resins, Rust-Oleum, Specialty Polymer Coatings, Stonhard, Strathmore, TCI, Toxement, Tremco, Tuf-Strand, Universal Sealants, Viapol, Watco and Zinsser. As of May 31, 2024, our subsidiaries marketed products in approximately 159 countries and territories and operated manufacturing facilities in approximately 119 locations in Argentina, Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, France, Germany, India, Italy, Malaysia, Mexico, The Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Approximately 30% of our sales are generated in international markets through a combination of exports to and direct sales in foreign countries. For the fiscal year ended May 31, 2024, we recorded net sales of $7.3 billion.
Available Information
Our Internet website address is www.rpminc.com. We make available free of charge on or through our website our Annual Reports on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and Current Reports on Form 8-K, and amendments to these reports, as soon as reasonably practicable after such reports are electronically filed with, or furnished to, the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Segment Information
Our business is divided into four reportable segments: the Construction Products Group (“CPG”) reportable segment, Performance Coatings Group (“PCG”) reportable segment, Consumer Group (“Consumer”) reportable segment and Specialty Products Group (“SPG”) reportable segment. These four reportable segments also represent our operating segments.
Within each operating segment, we manage product lines and businesses which generally address common markets, share similar economic characteristics, utilize similar technologies and can share manufacturing or distribution capabilities. The table below describes the breakdown of the percentage of consolidated net sales and description of the product lines/business for each of our four reportable segments:
Name of ReportableSegment
Percentage ofConsolidated Net Sales
Description of Product Lines/Businesses
CPG
Approximately 37%
Construction sealants and adhesives, coatings and chemicals, roofing systems, concrete admixture and repair products, building envelope solutions, parking decks, insulated cladding, firestopping, flooring systems, and weatherproofing solutions
PCG
Approximately 20%
High-performance flooring systems, corrosion control and fireproofing coatings, infrastructure repair systems, fiberglass reinforced plastic ("FRP") structures, and raised-flooring systems for outdoor environments
Consumer
Approximately 33%
Rust-preventative, special purpose, and decorative paints, caulks, sealants, primers, contact cement, cleaners, flooring systems and sealers, woodcare coatings, abrasives and other branded consumer products
SPG
Approximately 10%
Restoration services equipment, colorants, nail enamels, factory applied industrial coatings, preservation products and edible coatings and specialty glazes for pharmaceutical and food industries.
See Note R, “Segment Information,” to the Consolidated Financial Statements, for financial information relating to our four reportable segments and financial information by geographic area.
CPG Segment
Our CPG segment products and services are sold throughout North America and also account for the majority of our international sales. Our construction product lines and services are sold directly to manufacturers, contractors, distributors and end-users, including industrial manufacturing facilities, concrete and cement producers, public institutions and other commercial customers. Our CPG segment generated $2.7 billion in net sales for the fiscal year ended May 31, 2024 and includes the following major product lines and brand names:
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PCG Segment
Our PCG segment products and services are sold throughout North America, as well as internationally, and are sold directly to contractors, distributors and end-users, such as industrial manufacturing facilities, public institutions and other commercial customers. Our PCG segment generated $1.5 billion in net sales for the fiscal year ended May 31, 2024 and includes the following major product lines and brand names:
Consumer Segment
Our Consumer segment manufactures and markets professional use and do-it-yourself (“DIY”) products for a variety of mainly residential applications, including home improvement and personal leisure activities. Our Consumer segment’s major manufacturing and distribution operations are located primarily in North America, along with a few locations in Europe, Australia and South America. Consumer segment products are sold directly to mass merchandisers, home improvement centers, hardware stores, residential construction suppliers, paint stores, craft shops and to other customers through distributors. Our Consumer segment generated $2.5 billion in net sales in the fiscal year ended May 31, 2024 and is composed of the following major product lines and brand names:
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SPG Segment
Our SPG segment products are sold throughout North America and internationally, primarily in Europe. Our SPG product lines are sold directly to contractors, distributors and end-users, such as industrial manufacturing facilities, public institutions and other commercial customers. The SPG segment generated $0.7 billion in net sales for the fiscal year ended May 31, 2024 and includes the following major product lines and brand names:
Foreign Operations
For the fiscal year ended May 31, 2024, our foreign operations accounted for approximately 29.3% of our total net sales, excluding any direct exports from the United States. Our direct exports from the United States were approximately 0.8% of our total net sales for the fiscal year ended May 31, 2024. In addition, we receive license fees and royalty income from numerous international license agreements, and we also have several joint ventures, which are accounted for under the equity method, operating in various foreign countries. We have foreign manufacturing facilities in Argentina, Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, France, Germany, India, Italy, Malaysia, Mexico, The Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, the United Arab Emirates and the United Kingdom. We also have foreign sales offices or warehouse facilities in China, Costa Rica, the Czech Republic, the Dominican Republic, Estonia, Finland, Guatemala, Hong Kong, Hungary, Indonesia, Ireland, Namibia, Pakistan, Panama, Peru, Philippines, Puerto Rico, Qatar, Singapore, Slovakia, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, Turkey and Vietnam. Information concerning our foreign operations is set forth in Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Results of Operations and Financial Condition.
Competition
We conduct our business in highly competitive markets, and all of our major products face competition from local, regional, national and multi-national firms. Our markets, however, are fragmented, and we do not face competition across all of our products from any one competitor in particular. Several of our competitors have access to greater financial resources and larger sales organizations than we do. While third-party figures are not necessarily available with respect to the size of our position in the market for each of our products, we believe that we are a major producer of caulks, sealants, insulating foams, patch-and-repair products for the general consumer as well as for the residential building trade; roofing systems; urethane sealants and waterproofing materials; aluminum coatings; cement-based coatings; hobby paints; small project paints; industrial-corrosion-control products; firestopping; fireproofing; consumer rust-preventative coatings; polymer floorings; fluorescent coatings and pigments; fiberglass-reinforced-plastic gratings; nail polish; water and fire damage restoration products; carpet cleaning truck-mount systems and shellac-based coatings. However, we do not believe that we have a significant share of the total protective coatings market (on a world-wide basis). The following is a summary of the competition that our key products face in the various markets in which we compete:
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Paints, Coatings, Adhesives and Sealants Products
The market for paints, coatings, adhesives and sealants has experienced significant consolidation over the past several decades. However, the market remains fragmented, which creates further consolidation opportunities for industry participants. Many leading suppliers tend to focus on coatings, while other companies focus on adhesives and sealants. Barriers to market entry are relatively high for new market entrants due to the lengthy intervals between product development and market acceptance, the importance of brand identity and the difficulty in establishing a reputation as a reliable supplier of these products. Most of the suppliers, including us, who provide these items have a portfolio of products that span across a wide variety of applications.
Consumer Home Improvement Products. Within our Consumer reportable segment, we generally serve the home improvement market with products designed for niche architectural, rust-preventative, decorative and special purpose paint and caulking and sealing applications. The products we sell for home improvement include those sold under our Rust-Oleum, Varathane, Watco, Zinsser, DAP, Touch’N Foam and Gator brand names. As a leading manufacturer of home improvement-related coatings, adhesives and sealants, we market products to DIY users and contractors through a wide range of distribution channels. These distribution channels include direct sales to home improvement centers, mass merchandisers, hardware and paint stores, and sales through distributors and sales representative organizations. Competitors in this market generally compete for market share by marketing and building upon brand recognition, providing customer service and developing new products based on customer needs.
Industrial Protective Coatings Products. Anti-corrosion protective coatings and fireproofing must withstand the destructive elements of nature and operating processes under harsh environments and conditions. Our protective industrial coating products are marketed primarily under our Carboline, Specialty Polymer Coatings, Plasite, Nullifire, Firefilm, Charflame, A/D Fire, Strathmore, Thermo-lag, Perlifoc, Epoplex, Farbocustic, and Southwest brand names. Some of the larger consumers of high-performance protective and corrosion control coatings, fireproofing and intumescent steel coatings are the oil and gas, pulp and paper, petrochemical, shipbuilding, high-rise building construction, public utility and bridge and highway industries, water and wastewater treatment plants, and electronics manufacturing facilities. These markets are highly fragmented. We and our competitors compete for market share by supplying a wide variety of high-quality products and by offering customized solutions.
Roofing Systems Products
In the roofing industry, re-roofing applications have historically accounted for over three-quarters of U.S. demand, with the remainder generated by new roofing applications. Our primary roofing brand, Tremco, was founded in 1928 on the principle of “keeping good roofs good,” and then, by extension, ensuring “roofing peace of mind” for our customers. We define the market in three segments: (a) restoration (b) re-cover and (c) new construction. We create and drive the market through our innovative solutions that provide exceptional value for the customer. Our roofing systems and services provide high performance and value. High performance ensures a long service life and ease of maintenance. High value ensures low total cost of ownership due to ease of installation, landfill avoidance, roof longevity, elimination of facility and occupant disruption, and utilization of sustainable materials and systems. Whether a project is a restoration, re-cover or new construction, our goal is always to help create a facility that is safe, dry, comfortable, and energy efficient for its occupants.
Construction Products
Flooring Systems Products. Polymer flooring systems are used in industrial, commercial and, to a lesser extent, residential applications to provide a smooth, seamless surface that is impervious to penetration by water and other substances while being easy to clean and maintain. These systems are particularly well-suited for clean environments such as pharmaceutical, food and beverage and healthcare facilities. In addition, the fast installation time and long-term durability of these systems and products make them ideal for industrial floor repair and restoration. Polymer flooring systems are based on epoxy, polyurethane and methyl methacrylate resins. Most of these flooring systems are applied during new construction, but there is also a significant repair and renovation market. Key performance attributes in polymer flooring systems that distinguish competitors for these applications include static control, chemical resistance, contamination control, durability and aesthetics. We market our flooring systems under the Stonhard, Flowcrete, Key Resin, Euclid, Liquid Elements, Hummervoll, Kemtile, API and Dudick brand names.
FRP Grating and Structural Composites. FRP grating and railings are used primarily in industrial and, to a lesser extent, commercial applications. FRP exhibits many specialized features, which make it a beneficial alternative to traditional steel or aluminum. These include a high strength-to-weight ratio, high corrosion resistance, electrical and thermal non-conductivity, and molded-in color, which eliminates the need for repainting. FRP is used for rooftop safety, platforms, walkways and stairs for a variety of applications, including those in the food and beverage, chemical processing, water and wastewater, pulp and paper, commercial roofing, commercial sealants and waterproofing, and offshore oil and gas industries. Structural composites include high-density polypropylene pedestal systems for raised flooring applications in outdoor environments. Key attributes that differentiate competitors in these markets include product quality, depth of product line, and design-and-fabrication services. Our products for these applications are sold under our Fibergrate, Chemgrate, Corgrate, Fibregrid, Safe-T-Span and Bison brand names.
Sealants, Waterproofing, Concrete and Masonry Products. Sealants, which include urethane, silicone, latex, butyl and hybrid technology products, are designed to be installed in construction joints for the purpose of providing a flexible air and water-tight seal. Waterproof coatings, usually urethane or asphalt based, are installed in exposed and buried applications to waterproof and protect
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concrete. Structural and traffic tolerant membranes, expansion joints and bearings are used in a variety of applications for bridge deck construction and restoration and the protection and preservation of balconies, pedestrian walkways and parking structures. In the concrete and masonry additives market, a variety of chemicals and fibers can be added to concrete and masonry to improve the processability, performance, or appearance of these products. Chemical admixtures for concrete are typically grouped according to their functional characteristics, such as water-reducers, set controllers, superplasticizers and air-entraining agents. Curing and sealing compounds, structural grouts, epoxy adhesives, injection resins, floor hardeners and toppings, joint fillers, industrial and architectural coatings, decorative color/stains/stamps, and a comprehensive selection of restoration materials are used to protect, repair or improve new or existing concrete structures used in the construction industry, and rehabilitation and repair of roads, highways, bridges, pipes and other infrastructure. The key attributes that differentiate competitors for these applications include quality assurance, on-the-job consultation and value-added, highly engineered products. We primarily offer products marketed under our Tremco, EUCO, Toxement, Viapol, Betumat, CAVE, Vandex, illbruck, Tamms, AlphaGuard, AlphaGrade, OneSeal, PowerPly, TremPly, TremLock, Vulkem, TREMproof, Dymonic, Increte, TUFF-N-DRI, Nufins, Pitchmastic PMB, Visul, Fibrecrete, Texacrete, Fibrejoint, Samiscreed, Prime Rez, Prime Gel, Prime Guard, Prime Coat, Prime Bond, Prime Flex, Logiball, Watchdog Waterproofing, PSI, Tuf-Strand, Sealtite and HydroStop brand names for this line of business.
Building Wall, Cladding and Envelope Systems. CPG's collective products and systems are a single source for new construction, renovation and restoration. We take a fully tested systems approach in standing behind its whole building warranty, providing a single point of responsibility for customer peace of mind.
Intellectual Property
Our intellectual property portfolios include valuable patents, trade secrets and know-how, domain names, trademarks, trade and brand names. In addition, through our subsidiaries, we continue to conduct significant research and technology development activities. Among our most significant intangibles are our Rust-Oleum®, Carboline®, DAP®, illbruck® and Tremco® trademarks.
Rust-Oleum Corporation and some of our other subsidiaries own more than 890 trademark registrations or applications in the United States and numerous other countries for the trademark “Rust-Oleum®” and other trademarks covering a variety of rust-preventative, decorative, general purpose, specialty, industrial and professional products sold by Rust-Oleum Corporation and related companies.
Carboline Global, Inc. and some of our other subsidiaries own more than 500 trademark registrations or applications in the United States and numerous other countries covering the products sold by the Carboline Global Inc. and related companies, including two United States trademark registrations for the trademark “Carboline®”.
DAP Global, Inc. and other subsidiaries of the Company own nearly 400 trademark registrations or applications in the United States and numerous other countries for the “DAP®” trademark, the “Putty Knife design” trademark and other trademarks covering products sold under the DAP brand and related brands.
Tremco CPG Inc. and some of our other subsidiaries own more than 90 registrations or applications for the trademark “Tremco®” in the United States and numerous countries covering a variety of roofing, sealants and coating products. There are also many other trademarks of Tremco CPG Inc. and some of our other subsidiaries that are the subject of registrations or applications in the United States and numerous other countries, bringing the total number of registrations and applications covering products sold under the Tremco brand and related brands to more than 1,000.
Our other principal product trademarks include: 2X Ultra Cover®, AlphaGuard®, Alumanation®, Betumat™, B-I-N®, Bitumastic®, Bulls Eye 1-2-3®, Chemgrate®, Dri-Eaz®, Dymonic®, EnerEDGE®, Enviro-Dri®, EUCO®, ExoAir®, Flecto™, Fibergrate®, Floquil™, Paraseal®, Permaroof®, Plasite®, Proglaze®, Sanitile®, Sealtite™, Solargard®, Spectrem®, Stonblend®, Stonclad®, Stonhard®, Stonlux®, Stonshield®, Testors®, TREMproof®, TUFF-N-DRI®, Varathane®, Viapol™, Vulkem®, Watchdog Waterproofing®, Woolsey®, Zinsser® and Z-Spar®; and, in Europe, API®, Perlifoc®, Hummervoll®, Nufins®, Pitchmastic PMB®, Visul®, Flowcrete®, Nullifire®, Radglo® and Martin Mathys™. Our trademark registrations are valid for a variety of different terms of up to 15 years, and may be renewable as long as the trademarks continue to be used and all other local conditions for renewal are met. Our trademark registrations are maintained and renewed on a regular basis as required.
Raw Materials
The cost and availability of raw materials, including packaging, materially impact our financial results. We obtain raw materials from a number of suppliers. Many of our raw materials are petroleum-based derivatives, minerals and metals. The cost of raw materials has in the past experienced, and likely will continue to experience, periods of volatility which could increase the cost of manufacturing our products. Under normal market conditions, these materials are generally available on the open market from a variety of producers; however, shortages have occurred and continue to be a possibility. Interruptions in the supply of raw materials could have a significant impact on our ability to produce products.
Throughout fiscal 2024, we experienced modest deflation in many of our raw materials. While costs of raw materials have generally stabilized, we expect that inflation of some materials will potentially create headwinds impacting our results in fiscal 2025.
Additionally, changes in international trade duties and other aspects of international trade policy, both in the United States and abroad, could materially impact the cost and availability of raw materials. Any increase in material costs that are not offset by an increase in our prices could have an adverse effect on our business, financial position, results of operations or cash flows.
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Seasonal Factors
Our business is dependent, to a significant extent, on external weather factors. We historically experience stronger sales and operating results in our first, second and fourth fiscal quarters, which are the three-month periods ending August 31, November 30 and May 31, respectively, while we have experienced weaker performance in our third fiscal quarter.
Customers
Sales to our ten largest Consumer segment customers, such as DIY home centers, on a combined basis represented approximately 24%, 25%, and 22% of our total net sales for each of the fiscal years ended May 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022, respectively. Except for sales to these customers, our business is not dependent upon any one customer or small group of customers but is largely dispersed over a substantial number of customers.
Research and Development
Our research and development work is performed at various laboratory locations. During fiscal years 2024, 2023 and 2022, approximately $92.2 million, $86.6 million and $80.5 million, respectively, was charged to expense for research and development activities. In addition to this laboratory work, we view our field technical service as being integral to the success of our research activities. Our research and development activities and our field technical service costs are both included as part of our selling, general and administrative expenses.
Environmental Matters
Our Building a Better World program is the core of our sustainability strategy that helps us create sustainable solutions that add value to our businesses, drive growth, and prioritize the people and communities where we live and work. It is structured around three pillars of Our Products, Our People and Our Processes and is built on a foundation of Our Governance.
Our Building a Better World Oversight Committee supports our ongoing commitment to responsibly serve and engage our associates, customers and stakeholders on critical sustainability matters. Oversight Committee members report to the Governance and Nominating Committee of the Board of Directors. The Oversight Committee includes, among others, Vice President – Corporate Benefits & Risk Management; Vice President – Environmental, Health and Safety; and Vice President – Operations. The Building a Better World Oversight Committee is chaired by the Vice President – Investor Relations and Sustainability.
The Oversight Committee reviews and identifies sustainability and climate-related risks and the processes for developing and managing sustainability related goals. The Chair of the Building a Better World Oversight Committee reports to the Governance and Nominating Committee of the Board to seek insight with respect to important sustainability and climate-related issues. Dedicated teams of subject matter experts focus on addressing and managing risks, opportunities and strategies as well as developing initiatives and programming in support of our Building a Better World program pillars.
We are subject to a broad range of laws and regulations dealing with environmental, health and safety issues for the various locations around the world in which we conduct our business. These laws and regulations include, but are not limited to, the following major areas:
For information regarding environmental accruals, see Note P, “Contingencies and Accrued Losses,” to the Consolidated Financial Statements. For more information concerning certain environmental matters affecting us, see “Item 3 — Legal Proceedings — Environmental Proceedings” in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Human Capital
We understand that our company is only as strong as the team behind it. With the consistent support and dedication of leadership at all levels, we foster a workplace that supports our associates as individuals and helps them thrive in their current positions and strive to accomplish their future aspirations. Our human capital management strategy includes sustainable best practices in professional development, benefits, health and safety, and community involvement in an effort to continue to hire the best associates and retain them throughout the course of their careers. We measure satisfaction through our annual Engagement Survey, through which participants are able to express their opinion and provide comments and suggestions.
Talent Development
It is critical to our long-term success to develop our internal talent. Our Global Organizational Leadership Development (“GOLD”) Team is charged with creating a leadership-led learning culture across RPM. The GOLD Team has developed several training programs
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to support development which include Leadership Accelerator, Leaders of the Future, RPM University, Strategic Leader Staff Rides, and partnering with the Center for Creative Leadership.
Benefits
Our leadership has long understood that to attract and retain top talent, and to share the benefits of a successful business, we must maintain a premium benefits program for our associates. For U.S. associates, we offer an attractive benefits package, including defined benefit pension plans, medical, telehealth, tuition reimbursement and an employer-matched 401(k). We also offer an Employee Assistance Program (“EAP”) which focuses on behavioral health and provides resources for financial and legal matters. Mental health support is key to associates, who may get support through the EAP as well as through telehealth and our health plans.
Similar ancillary benefits are offered to our Canadian associates, and associates of our other foreign subsidiaries receive benefits coverage, to the extent deemed appropriate, through plans that meet local requirements.
Diversity & Inclusion
At RPM, we are committed to fostering, cultivating and preserving a culture of diversity and inclusion. We support this commitment and provide associate resources through Respect at RPM, a program that reinforces our core values of operating with transparency, trust and respect. The program emphasizes the importance of diversity and inclusion at RPM and across all our operations; and supports associate growth and development. We have built our workforce with a commitment to create a diverse and inclusive culture. We recruit, select, hire and develop individuals based on their qualifications and skills. All associates and other parties involved in the employment relationship are required to comply with RPM’s Code of Conduct and are prohibited from discriminating against individuals during all stages of employment or hiring, including decisions involving recruitment, promotion, transfer, assignment, training, termination and lay-offs, working conditions, wage and salary administration, associate benefits and application of policies. We prohibit any inappropriate conduct or behavior against others, including discrimination perpetrated by associates, supervisors, customers or vendors, and strictly prohibit retaliation and harassment, as set forth in our Code of Conduct and Hotline and Non-Retaliation Policy.
Health & Safety
We follow many best practices to ensure our associates come to work feeling empowered to safely do their jobs. As part of our EH&S management system, we continuously educate and train to institutionalize our health and safety values, set and monitor health and safety objectives, conduct regular risk assessments and process hazard and root cause analysis, and actively enforce incident prevention and reporting policies. In addition, we conduct EH&S compliance audits annually that are prioritized based on high-risk processes, facilities with recent expansion or process changes and to cover any new acquisitions.
Associates
As of May 31, 2024, we employed 17,207 persons. Approximately 347 U.S. employees were represented by unions under contracts which expire at varying times in the future. We believe that all relations with associates and their unions are good.
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Item 1A. Risk Factors.
As a global company of paint, coatings, roofing, construction and related products, we operate in a business environment that includes risks. Each of the risks described in this section could adversely affect the results of our operations, our financial position and/or our liquidity. Additionally, while the following factors are considered to be the more significant risk factors, no such list should be considered to be a complete statement of all potential risks and uncertainties. Unlisted risk factors may present significant additional obstacles which may adversely affect our businesses and our results. Therefore, you should carefully consider these risk factors, as well as the other information contained in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, in evaluating us, our business and your investment in us as they could cause our actual results or financial condition to differ materially from those projected in our forward-looking statements.
ECONOMIC AND STRATEGIC RISKS
Our operations and financial condition have been and could continue to be adversely affected by global and regional economic conditions in ways we may not be able to predict or control.
Our operations and financial condition have been and could continue to be adversely affected by global or regional economic conditions and trends if markets decline in the future in ways we may not be able to predict or control, whether related to a public health crisis similar to the Covid pandemic, civil unrest similar to the Russian invasion of Ukraine, higher inflation or interest rates, economic recession, natural disasters, impacts of and issues related to climate change, business disruptions, our ability to adequately staff operations or otherwise. Commercial building utilization and the continued shift in consumer spending to online shopping and remote work may negatively impact residential and commercial construction. Additionally, escalation in interest rates, in conjunction with banking failures, may lead to financial institutions being more prudent with capital deployment and tightening lending, especially in relation to construction and real estate development. As a result, future construction activity could decrease due to a lack of financing availability. Financial distress in this sector could be further exacerbated by a lack of refinancing options available for existing real estate loans when they mature. Any future economic declines may result in decreased revenue, gross margins, earnings or growth rates or difficulty in managing inventory levels or collecting customer receivables. We also have experienced, and could continue to experience, labor inflation, increased competitive pricing pressure, raw material inflation and availability issues resulting in difficulties meeting customer demand. In addition, customer difficulties in the future could result from economic declines, decreased purchasing power, public health crisis similar to the Covid pandemic, the cyclical nature of their respective businesses, such as in the oil and gas industry, or otherwise and, in turn, result in decreases in product demand, increases in bad debt write-offs, decreases in timely collection of accounts receivable and adjustments to our allowance for credit losses, resulting in material reductions to our revenues and net earnings.
Global economic and capital market conditions may cause our access to capital to be more difficult in the future and/or costs to secure such capital more expensive.
In the future, we may need new or additional financing to provide liquidity to conduct our operations, expand our business or refinance existing indebtedness. Any sustained weakness in general economic conditions and/or U.S. or global capital markets could adversely affect our ability to raise capital on favorable terms or at all. From time to time we have relied, and we may also rely in the future, on access to financial markets as a source of liquidity for working capital requirements, acquisitions and general corporate purposes. Our access to funds under our credit facility is dependent on the ability of the financial institutions that are parties to that facility to meet their funding commitments. Those financial institutions may not be able to meet their funding commitments if they experience shortages of capital and liquidity or if they experience excessive volumes of borrowing requests within a short period of time. Moreover, the obligations of the financial institutions under our credit facility are several and not joint and, as a result, a funding default by one institution does not need to be made up by the others. Longer term volatility and continued disruptions in the capital and credit markets as a result of uncertainty, changing or increased regulation of financial institutions, reduced alternatives or failures of significant financial institutions could adversely affect our access to the liquidity needed for our businesses in the longer term. Such disruptions could require us to take measures to conserve cash until the markets stabilize or until alternative credit arrangements or other funding for our business needs can be arranged.
Volatility in the equity markets or interest rates could substantially increase our pension costs and required pension contributions.
We sponsor qualified defined benefit pension plans and various other nonqualified postretirement plans. The qualified defined benefit pension plans are funded with trust assets invested in a diversified portfolio of debt and equity securities and other investments. Among other factors, changes in interest rates, investment returns and the market value of plan assets can (i) affect the level of plan funding; (ii) cause volatility in the net periodic pension cost; and (iii) increase our future contribution requirements. A significant decrease in investment returns or the market value of plan assets or a significant change in interest rates could increase our net periodic pension costs and adversely affect our results of operations. A significant increase in our contribution requirements with respect to our qualified defined benefit pension plans could have an adverse impact on our cash flow.
A public health crisis could cause disruptions to our operations which could adversely affect our business in the future.
A significant public health crisis could cause disruptions to our operations similar to the effects of the Covid pandemic. The Covid pandemic had a negative effect on our business, results of operations, cash flows and financial condition. The effect on our business was a result of the overall impact on the global economy, including its effects on transportation networks, raw material availability, worker availability, production efforts and customer demand for our products. Our ability to predict and respond to future changes resulting from potential health crisis is uncertain. Even after any future public health crisis subsides, there may be long-term effects on our business practices and customers in economies in which we operate that could severely disrupt our operations and could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, cash flows and financial condition.
Terrorist activities and other acts of violence or war and other disruptions have negatively impacted in the past, and could negatively impact in the future, the United States and foreign countries, the financial markets, the industries in which we compete, and our operations and profitability.
Terrorist activities, acts of violence or war and other disruptions have contributed to economic instability in the United States and elsewhere, and acts of terrorism, cyber-terrorism, violence or war could negatively affect the industries in which we compete, our ability to purchase raw materials, adequately staff our operations, manufacture products or sell or distribute products, which could have a material adverse impact on our financial condition and results of operations.
Severe weather conditions and natural disasters, including those related to the impacts of climate change, may reduce the demand for some of our products, impair our ability to meet our demand for such products or cause supply chain disruptions which could have a negative effect on our operations and sales.
From time to time, severe weather conditions, including natural disasters, and those related to the impacts of climate change, have had a negative effect on our operations and sales. Events such as destructive wildfires, tornados, extreme storms or temperatures and increased flooding or other natural disasters could and have in the past caused damage to our facilities, leading to production or distribution challenges which have in the past and could in the future have a negative effect on our sales. Unusually cold or rainy weather, especially during the general construction and exterior painting season, may also have an adverse effect on sales. Furthermore, the impacts of these risks to our suppliers may have a detrimental effect on the sales, manufacturing, and distribution of our products, including supply chain disruptions, raw material shortages and increased costs.
As a result, we have historically experienced weaker sales and net income in our third fiscal quarter (December through February) in comparison to our performance during our other fiscal quarters. Any such effect on sales may result in a reduction in earnings or cash flow.
Significant foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations may harm our financial results.
We conduct business in various regions throughout the world and are therefore subject to market risk due to changes in the exchange rates of foreign currencies in relation to the U.S. dollar. Because our Consolidated Financial Statements are presented in U.S. dollars, increases or decreases in the value of the U.S. dollar relative to other currencies in which we transact business have in the past and could in the future have a materially adverse effect on our net revenues and earnings, and the carrying values of our assets located outside the United States.
FINANCIAL RISKS
The use of accounting estimates involves judgment and could impact our financial results.
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in the U.S. (“GAAP”) requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect reported amounts of assets and liabilities, disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Our most critical accounting estimates are described in Item 7 under Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations under “Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates.” Additionally, as discussed in Note P, “Contingencies and Accrued Losses,” of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, we make certain estimates, including decisions related to legal proceedings and various loss reserves. These estimates and assumptions involve the use of judgment, and therefore, actual financial results may differ.
The results of our annual and, as-required, interim testing of goodwill and other long-lived assets have required, and in the future may result in additional substantial impairment charges.
As of May 31, 2024, we had approximately $1.8 billion in goodwill and other intangible assets. The Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) section 350, "Intangibles – Goodwill and Other," requires that goodwill be tested at least on an annual basis, or more frequently as impairment indicators arise, using either a qualitative assessment or a fair-value approach at the reporting unit level. We perform our annual required impairment tests, which involve the use of estimates related to the fair market values of the reporting units with which goodwill is associated, as of the first day of our fourth fiscal quarter. The evaluation of our long-lived assets for impairment includes determining whether indicators of impairment exist, this is a subjective process that considers both internal and external factors. The impairment assessment evaluation requires the use of significant judgment regarding estimates and assumptions surrounding future results of operations and cash flows.
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For discussion of the approach for, and results of, our interim and annual impairment testing for goodwill and indefinite lived intangible assets for all periods presented, please refer to the headings entitled “Goodwill” and “Other Long-Lived Assets” within the “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and “Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates” sections located in “Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operation” as well as Note A(11), "Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets," and Note C, "Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets," to our Consolidated Financial Statements as presented below.
In the future, if global economic conditions were to decline significantly, or if our reporting units experience significant declines in business, we may incur additional, substantial goodwill and other intangible asset impairment charges. The amount of any such impairment charge could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations.
Our significant amount of indebtedness could have a material adverse impact on our business.
Our total debt was approximately $2.1 billion and $2.7 billion at May 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively, which compares with $2.5 billion and $2.1 billion in stockholders’ equity at May 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. Our level of indebtedness could adversely impact out business. For example, it could:
We cannot guarantee that our business will always be able to make timely or sufficient payments of our debt. Should we fail to comply with covenants in our debt instruments, such failure could result in an event of default which, if not cured or waived, would have a material adverse effect on us.
OPERATIONAL RISKS
Operating improvement initiatives could cause us to incur significant expenses and impact the trading value of our common stock.
On May 31, 2021, we formally concluded our 2020 Margin Acceleration Plan ("MAP to Growth") operating improvement program, which resulted in significant changes in our organizational and operational structure impacting most of our companies. In August 2022, we approved and announced our Margin Achievement Plan 2025 ("MAP 2025"). MAP 2025 is a multi-year restructuring plan to build on the achievements of MAP to Growth. Our MAP 2025 operating improvement program is designed to result in significant changes in our organizational and operational structure. We have taken actions and may continue to take additional actions during future periods, in furtherance of these or other operating improvement initiatives. We may incur further expenses as a result of these actions, and we also may experience disruptions in our operations, decreased productivity and unanticipated associate turnover. Further, the objectives of our operating improvement initiatives may not be achieved. The occurrence of any of these, our failure to succeed in our MAP 2025 operating improvement plan, or other related events associated with our operating improvement initiatives could adversely affect our operating results and financial condition.
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Fluctuations in the supply and cost of raw materials may negatively impact our financial results.
The cost and availability of raw materials, including packaging, has in the past and could in the future materially impact our financial results. We obtain raw materials from many suppliers. Many of our raw materials are petroleum-based derivatives, minerals and metals. The cost of raw materials has in the past experienced, and likely will continue to experience, periods of volatility which have, and could in the future, increase the cost of manufacturing our products. Under normal market conditions, raw materials are generally available on the open market from a variety of sources; however, our suppliers may be impacted by social and environmental regulations and expectations, including regulations related to climate change, adverse weather conditions, pandemics, trade policy, labor, energy availability or civil unrest, which could result in shortages and price volatility. Interruptions in the supply of raw materials or sources of energy have in the past and could in the future have a significant impact on our ability or cost to produce products.
Cost and adequate supply of raw materials is managed by establishing contracts, procuring from multiple sources, and identifying alternative materials or technology; however, the unavailability of raw materials or increased prices of raw materials that we are unable to pass along to our customers could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations or cashflows.
Additionally, changes in international trade duties, tariffs, sanctions and other aspects of international trade policy, both in the United States and abroad, has in the past and could in the future materially impact the cost of raw materials. Any increase in materials that is not offset by an increase in our prices could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.
The markets in which we operate are highly competitive and some of our competitors are much larger than we are and may have greater financial resources than we do.
The markets in which we operate are fragmented, and we do not face competition from any one company across all our product lines. However, any significant increase in competition, resulting from the consolidation of competitors or otherwise, may cause us to lose market share or compel us to reduce prices to remain competitive, which could result in reduced gross profit margins. Increased competition may also impair our ability to grow or to maintain our current levels of revenues and earnings. Some companies that compete in our markets include Akzo Nobel, Axalta Coating Systems Ltd., Carlisle Companies Inc., H.B. Fuller, Masco Corporation, PPG Industries, Inc., The Sherwin-Williams Company and Sika AG. Several of these companies are much larger than we are and may have greater financial resources than we do. Increased competition with these or other companies could prevent the institution of price increases or could require price reductions or increased spending to maintain our market share, any of which could adversely affect our results of operations.
Our success depends upon our ability to identify, attract, retain and develop key associates and the succession of senior management.
Our success largely depends on the performance of our management team and other key associates. If we are unable to identify, attract, retain, and develop talented, highly qualified senior management and other key associates (including the ability to identify, attract, retain and develop key international associates), our business, results of operations, cash flows and financial condition could be adversely affected. In addition, if we are unable to effectively provide for the succession of senior management, including our Chief Executive Officer, our business, results of operations, cash flows and financial condition may be adversely affected. While we follow a disciplined, ongoing succession planning process and have succession plans in place for senior management and other key associates, these do not guarantee that the services of qualified senior executives will continue to be available to us at particular moments in time.
We depend on a few key customers for a significant portion of our net sales and, therefore, significant declines in the level of purchases by any of these key customers could harm our business.
Some of our operating companies, particularly in the Consumer reportable segment, face a substantial amount of customer concentration. For example, our key customers in the Consumer reportable segment include Ace Hardware, Amazon, Do It Best, The Home Depot, Inc., Lowe’s, Menards, Orgill, True Value, W.W. Grainger, and Wal-Mart. Within our Consumer segment, sales to these customers accounted for approximately 67%, 67% and 64% of net sales for the fiscal years ended May 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022, respectively. On a consolidated basis, sales to these customers across all of our reportable segments accounted for approximately 24%, 25% and 22% of our consolidated net sales for the fiscal years ended May 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022, respectively. Sales to The Home Depot, Inc. represented less than 10% of our consolidated net sales for fiscal 2024, 2023, and 2022, and 23%, 23% and 25% of our Consumer segment net sales for fiscal 2024, 2023 and 2022, respectively. If we were to lose one or more of our key customers, experience a delay or cancellation of a significant order, incur a significant decrease in the level of purchases, or experience difficulty in collecting amounts due from any of our key customers, our net revenues could decline materially and our operating results could be reduced materially.
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If our efforts in acquiring and integrating other companies or product lines fail or we encounter difficulties associated with divestitures our business may not grow or realize anticipated benefits from these acquisitions or divestitures.
As an important part of our growth strategy, we intend to continue pursuing acquisitions of complementary businesses or products and creating joint ventures. Our ability to continue to grow in this manner depends upon our ability to identify, negotiate and finance suitable acquisitions or joint venture arrangements. Execution of our acquisition strategy with respect to some companies or product lines could fail or could result in unanticipated costs to us that were not apparent despite our due diligence efforts, either of which could hinder our growth or adversely impact our results of operations. In addition, acquisitions and their subsequent integration involve many risks, including, but not limited to:
Furthermore, we may make strategic divestitures because of portfolio rationalization which may impact our future growth. Divestitures may result in continued financial involvement in the divested business, such as through indemnities or retained liabilities, which could result in financial obligations imposed upon us and could affect our future financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
We derive a significant amount of our revenues from foreign markets, which subjects us to additional business risks that could adversely affect our results of operations.
Our foreign manufacturing operations accounted for approximately 29.3% of our net sales for the fiscal year ended May 31, 2024, not including exports directly from the United States which accounted for approximately 0.8% of our net sales for fiscal 2024. We plan to continue to grow our international operations and the growth and maintenance of such operations could be adversely affected by a public health crisis, civil unrest, invasions and conflicts like the Russian invasion of Ukraine, war, changes in social, political and economic conditions, inflation rates, trade protection measures, restrictions on foreign investments and repatriation of earnings, changing intellectual property rights, difficulties in staffing and managing foreign operations, changes in regulatory requirements, and other events that restrict the sales of our products or increase our costs. Our ability to effectively manage our foreign operations may pose significant risks that could adversely affect our results of operations, cash flow, liquidity or financial condition.
Cybersecurity, data privacy and artificial intelligence considerations could impact our business.
We rely on information technology systems, products and applications to conduct our business, including recording and processing transactions, administering human resource activities and associate benefits, manufacturing, marketing, and selling our products, researching and developing new products, maintaining and growing our businesses, and supporting and communicating with our associates, customers, suppliers and other stakeholders. The importance of such systems has increased due to many of our associates working remotely. Some of these systems and applications are operated by third parties. If we do not allocate and effectively manage the resources necessary to build, sustain, and protect an appropriate information technology infrastructure, we do not effectively implement system upgrades in a timely manner, or our due diligence regarding third-party providers fails our businesses, our business or financial results could be negatively impacted.
Additionally, we, ourselves and through our third parties, digitally collect and process different types of information including personal, confidential, proprietary, and sensitive data about our business, which may include information about our customers, associates, suppliers, distributors and others. Some of this data is stored, accessible or transferred internationally.
The interpretation and application of cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, biometric, and privacy laws, rules and regulations around the world applicable to our business (collectively, the “Data Protection Laws”) are uncertain and evolving. It is possible that the Data Protection Laws may be interpreted and applied in a manner that is inconsistent with our data practices. Complying with these various laws is difficult and could cause us to incur substantial costs or require us to change our business practices in a manner adverse to our business. In addition, some of our systems, tools and resources use, integrate or will integrate some form of artificial intelligence which has the potential to result in bias, miscalculations, data errors, intellectual property infringement and other unintended consequences. It is possible that the information technology tools we use may negatively affect our reputation, disrupt our operations, or have a material impact on our financial results.
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Further, although we have implemented internal controls and procedures designed to manage compliance with the Data Protection Laws and protect our data, there can be no assurance that our controls will prevent a breach or that our procedures will enable us to be fully compliant with all Data Protection Laws. Cyber-attacks or breaches due to security vulnerabilities, associate error, supplier or third-party error, malfeasance or other disruptions may still occur. We have been and may in the future be subject to attempts to gain unauthorized access to our data, information technology systems and/or applications.
We have in the past experienced data security incidents that have disrupted our operations, but which did not have a material impact on our financial results.
These risks have and may in the future be increased as a result of remote work, a public health crisis similar to the Covid pandemic or foreign affairs such as war or civil unrest. Future loss, inaccessibility, alteration or misappropriation of information related to us, our associates, former associates, customers, suppliers or others may have a negative impact on our business. A violation of, or failure to comply with, the Data Protection Laws by us, our suppliers, or other third parties, a cyber-attack or a security breach of our systems or that of one of our key suppliers or third parties could lead to negative publicity, legal claims, extortion, ransom, theft, modification or destruction of proprietary information or key information, damage to or inaccessibility of critical systems, manufacture of defective products, production downtimes, operational disruptions, data breach claims, privacy violations and other significant costs, which could adversely affect our reputation, financial condition and results of operations.
Our business and financial condition could be adversely affected if we are unable to protect our material intellectual property and other proprietary information or there is a loss in the actual or perceived value of our brands.
We have numerous valuable patents, trade secrets and know-how, domain names, trademarks, trade dress, and trade names, including certain marks that are significant to our business, which are identified under Item 1 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Despite our efforts to protect our intellectual property and other proprietary information and rights from unauthorized use or disclosure, other parties may attempt to obtain, disclose or use them without our authorization; such unauthorized action, use or disclosure could negatively impact our business and financial condition.
Similarly, the value of our brands may be impacted by reputational damage. The reputations of our branded products depend on numerous factors, including the successful advertising and marketing of our brand names, consumer acceptance, continued trademark validity, the availability of similar products from our competitors, and our ability to maintain product quality, technological advantages and claims of superior performance. Furthermore, the prevalence of social media, online reviews and other digital public forums increases our risk of receiving negative commentary that could damage the perception of our brands resulting in a decreased perception of value. A loss of a brand or in the actual or perceived value of our brands could limit or reduce the demand for our products and could negatively impact our business and financial condition.
Although we have insurance, it may not cover every potential risk associated with our operations.
Although we maintain insurance of various types to cover many of the risks and hazards that apply to our operations, our insurance may not cover every potential risk associated with our operations. The occurrence of a significant event, the risks of which are not fully covered by insurance, could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations. Moreover, no assurance can be given that we will be able to maintain adequate insurance in the future.
If our efforts to achieve stated sustainability goals, targets or objectives fail, or we fail to effectively respond to changing regulatory requirements related to climate change, our business and reputation may be adversely affected.
We might fail to effectively address increased attention or expectations from the media, stockholders, activists and other stakeholders on climate change and related environmental or other sustainability matters. Such failure, or the perception that we have failed to act responsibly with respect to such matters or to effectively respond to new or additional regulatory requirements related to climate change, whether or not valid, could result in adverse publicity and negatively affect our business and reputation. In addition, we have established and publicly announced goals to reduce our impact on the environment and, in the future may establish and publicly announce other goals or commitments associated with our sustainability initiatives. Our ability to achieve any stated goal, target or objective is subject to numerous factors and conditions, many of which are outside of our control, including evolving regulatory requirements. Furthermore, standards for tracking and reporting such matters continue to evolve. Our selection of voluntary disclosure frameworks and standards, and the interpretation or application of those frameworks and standards, may change from time to time or differ from those of others. Methodologies for reporting this data may be updated and previously reported data may be adjusted to reflect improvement in availability and quality of data, changing assumptions, changes in the nature and scope of our operations and other changes in circumstances, which could result in significant revisions to our current goals, reported progress in achieving such goals, or ability to achieve such goals in the future. If we fail to achieve, are perceived to have failed, or are delayed in achieving these goals and commitments, it could negatively affect investor confidence in us, as well as expose us to government enforcement actions and private litigation.
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LEGAL AND REGULATORY RISKS
The industries in which we operate expose us to inherent risks of legal and warranty claims and other litigation-related costs, which could adversely impact our business.
We face an inherent risk of legal claims if the exposure to, or the failure, use, or misuse of our products results, or is alleged to result, in bodily injury and/or property damage. In the course of our business, we are subject to a variety of inquiries and investigations by regulators, as well as claims and lawsuits by private parties, including those related to product liability, product claims regarding asbestos or other chemicals or materials that are or were in our products, whether intentionally added or resulting from contamination, warranties, the environment, employment matters, contracts, intellectual property and commercial matters, which due to their uncertain nature may result in losses, some of which may be material. We are defending claims and class action lawsuits, and could be subject to future claims and lawsuits, in which significant financial damages are alleged. These matters could consume material financial resources to defend and be a distraction to management. Some, but not all, of such matters are insured. We offer warranties on many of our products, as well as long term warranty programs at certain of our businesses and, as a result, from time to time we may experience higher levels of warranty expense, which is typically reflected in selling, general and administrative expenses. The nature and extent to which we use reactive chemistry or hazardous or flammable materials in our manufacturing processes creates risk of damage to persons and property that, if realized, could be material.
Compliance with environmental, sustainability, health and safety and other laws and regulations could subject us to unforeseen future expenditures or liabilities, which could have a material adverse effect on our business.
We are subject to numerous, complicated and often increasingly stringent environmental, health and safety laws and regulations, including those developed in response to climate change, in the jurisdictions where we conduct business and sell our products. Governmental and regulatory authorities impose various laws and regulations on us that relate to environmental protection, the use, sale, transportation, import and export of certain chemicals or hazardous materials, and various health and safety matters, including the preparation, storage, and sale of food products, discharge of pollutants into the air and water, the handling, use, treatment, storage and clean-up of solid and hazardous wastes, the use of certain chemicals in product formulations, and the investigation and remediation of soil and groundwater affected by hazardous substances and those related to climate change. These laws and regulations include the Clean Air Act, the Clean Water Act, RCRA, CERCLA, TSCA, DSL, REACH and many other federal, state, provincial, local and international statutes. These laws and regulations often impose strict, retroactive and joint and several liability for the costs of, and damages resulting from, not addressing our, or our predecessors’ past or present facilities and third-party disposal sites. We are currently undertaking remedial activities at a number of our properties and could be subject to future liability as yet unknown, but that could be material.
We have not always been and may not always be in full compliance with all environmental, health and safety laws and regulations in every jurisdiction in which we conduct our business. In addition, if we violate or fail to comply with environmental, health and safety laws (including related to permitting), we could be fined or otherwise sanctioned by regulators, including enjoining or curtailing operations or sales, remedial or corrective measures, installing pollution control equipment, or other actions. We have been and could in the future be liable for consequences arising out of human exposure to hazardous substances or chemicals of concern relating to our products or operations. We may be required to make additional expenditures to remain in or to achieve compliance with environmental, health or safety laws or changes in stakeholder preferences or expectations in the future and any such additional expenditures may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows. If regulatory permits or registrations are delayed, restricted, or rejected, subsequent operations at our businesses could be delayed or restricted, which could have an adverse effect on our results of operations.
Our businesses are subject to varying domestic and foreign laws and regulations that may restrict or adversely impact our ability to conduct our business.
Our businesses are subject to varying domestic and foreign laws and regulations that may restrict or adversely impact our ability to conduct our business. These include securities, environmental, sustainability, health, safety, tax, competition and anti-trust, insurance, service contract and warranty, trade controls, data security, anti-corruption, anti-money laundering, labor, wage and hour employment and privacy laws and regulations. These laws and regulations change from time to time and thus may result in increased risk and costs to us related to our compliance therewith. From time-to-time regulators review our compliance with applicable laws. We have not always been, and may not always be, in full compliance with all laws and regulations applicable to our business and, thus enforcement actions, fines and private litigation claims and damages, which could be material, may occur, notwithstanding our belief that we have in place appropriate risk management and compliance programs to mitigate these risks.
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We could be adversely affected by violations of the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act and similar anti-bribery laws of other countries, as well as trade sanctions administered by the office of Foreign Assets Control and the Department of Commerce.
The U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act and similar anti-bribery laws of other countries generally prohibit companies and their intermediaries from making or receiving improper payments to governmental officials or others for the purpose of obtaining or retaining business or for other unfair advantage. Our policies mandate compliance with anti-bribery laws. We operate in many parts of the world that have experienced corruption to some degree and, in certain circumstances, strict compliance with anti-bribery laws may conflict with local customs and practices.
We are required to comply with U.S. regulations on trade sanctions and embargoes administered by the U.S. Department of the Treasury, Office of Foreign Assets Control, the Commerce Department and similar multi-national bodies and governmental agencies worldwide, which are complex and often changing. A violation thereof could subject us to regulatory enforcement actions, including a loss of export privileges and significant civil and criminal penalties and fines.
Although we have internal controls and procedures designed to ensure compliance with these laws, there can be no assurance that our controls and procedures will prevent a violation of these laws. Violations of these laws, or allegations of such violations, could disrupt our business and result in a material adverse effect on our results of operations, financial condition, and cash flows.
We could be adversely affected by or incur liability for the actions or inaction of our third parties.
We vet and monitor our customers, suppliers, services providers and other parties that we engage in an effort to ensure that the business practices of those third parties are in compliance with applicable laws and regulations and industry best practices, including applying appropriate technical security measures, safeguarding data privacy and human rights and preventing illegal trade and corruption. In the event one of our third parties experiences a data breach, is found to have violated applicable laws or regulations, or the business practices of the third party come under scrutiny, we could be subject to legal claims, fines and reputational damage related to the third-party relationship. In the event any third-party claim, legal violation or business practice requires us to sever the third-party relationship, we could also experience an impact on our services, operations or our ability to obtain raw materials for our products.
Our operations are subject to the effect of global tax law changes, some of which have been, and may be in the future, retroactive in application.
Our operations are subject to various federal, state, local and foreign tax laws and regulations which govern, among other things, taxes on worldwide income. Any potential tax law changes may, for example, increase applicable tax rates, have retroactive application, or impose stricter compliance requirements in the jurisdictions in which we operate, which could reduce our consolidated net earnings.
In response to, for instance, an economic crisis or recession, governments may revise tax laws, regulations or official interpretations in ways that could have a significant impact on us, including modifications that could, for example, reduce the profits that we can effectively realize from our non-U.S. operations, or that could require costly changes to those operations, or the way in which they are structured. If changes in tax laws, regulations or interpretations were to significantly increase the tax rates on non-U.S. income, our effective tax rate could increase, our profits could be reduced, and if such increases were a result of our status as a U.S. company, could place us at a disadvantage to our non-U.S. competitors if those competitors remain subject to lower local tax rates.
We could be adversely affected by failure to comply with federal, state and local government procurement regulations and requirements.
Some of our companies have contracts with and supply product to federal, state and local governmental entities and their contractors, and are required to comply with specific procurement regulations and other requirements relating to those contracts and sales. Requirements in our contracts and those requirements flowed down to us in our capacity as a subcontractor or supplier, although customary in government contracts, may impact our performance and compliance costs. Failure to comply with these regulations and requirements or to make required disclosures under contract could result in reductions of the value of contracts, contract modifications or termination for cause, adverse past performance ratings, actions under a federal or state false claims statutes, suspension or debarment from government contracting or subcontracting for a period of time and the assessment of penalties and fines, any of which could negatively impact our results of operations and financial condition and could have a negative impact on our reputation and ability to procure other government contracts in the future.
Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments.
Not Applicable.
Item 1C. Cybersecurity.
Our cyber-security risk strategy includes policies and procedures for assessing, identifying and managing material cybersecurity threats. Our program is based on the U.S. National Institute for Standards and Technology (NIST) cybersecurity framework and other applicable industry frameworks. Our cybersecurity posture is risk based, focused on the areas of higher risk to the company and associates. Our cybersecurity policies, standards and practices are integrated into our enterprise risk management approach, and cybersecurity risks are among the enterprise risks that are subject to oversight by the Board of Directors acting through the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors.
We use third party vendors to perform ongoing security monitoring, reporting and forensic analysis, as necessary including annual external penetration testing. Security standards are established and defined with respect to administrator accounts, backups, encryption, passwords, website certifications, antivirus software, endpoint management, firewalls, wi-fi networks, vulnerability scanning, server protection, patching, privacy by design, and data breach reporting. We perform ongoing employee cybersecurity awareness and training activities, which includes frequent phishing testing, and we maintain cyber insurance to provide coverage in the event a material cybersecurity incident arises.
We conduct annual internal audits to ensure compliance with its technology policies, security procedures and controls. Our third-party technology providers, consultants and vendors are vetted by our information security teams to assess cybersecurity risk and mitigation measures, where applicable.
We have significantly increased our cybersecurity investments over the last few years and continue to implement additional cybersecurity safeguards designed to detect and prevent cybersecurity incidents. Notwithstanding our increased cybersecurity investments and preparedness activities, threat actors and cybersecurity incidents still pose a risk to the security of our systems, facilities, and networks and to the confidentiality, availability and integrity of our data, including but not limited to intellectual property, confidential information and personal data. For more information on how a cybersecurity incident may impact the Company, refer to the risk factor titled “Data privacy, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence considerations could impact our business,” in Item 1A of this Form 10-K.
While we have experienced data security incidents that have disrupted our operations in the past, to date, no data security incidents have had or are materially likely to have, a material impact on RPM.
Cybersecurity incidents are investigated and remediated in accordance with our incident response procedures and other policies and procedures. Cybersecurity is overseen by the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors. The Senior Director - Information Security coordinates with and directs cybersecurity initiatives through information technology and cybersecurity personnel throughout RPM.
The Senior Director - Information Security has over 15 years’ experience in the information technology and cybersecurity field, including previous roles in security architecture, audit and governance. The Senior Director - Information Security recently completed a CISO Academy Workshop, where he gained valuable insights to help improve our cybersecurity posture and program while also better aligning it to our overall business strategy and operating model. He received a BA in math and computer science from Ohio Wesleyan University and holds an Information Systems Auditor certification.
The Audit Committee regularly receives information and reports from the Senior Director - Information Security and other executives responsible for identifying and assessing the scope, nature and impact of cybersecurity risks, incidents and mitigation efforts.
In addition to the Audit Committee, the full Board of Directors receives regular annual reports on the status of our cybersecurity risk, incidents and mitigation efforts. We utilize a technology-based reporting system to identify and log data-related events.
Cybersecurity incidents are assessed for actual or potential impact on the business and any relevant data subjects. Materiality of cybersecurity incidents is assessed and determined by the Cybersecurity Team, which has been assigned this responsibility by our Disclosure Committee. The Cybersecurity Team consists of the Chief Financial Officer, the General Counsel, the Vice President - Commercial Excellence, the Vice President - Global Systems and the Senior Director - Information Security. The Senior Director - Information Security reports regularly to our Disclosure Committee. In the event a cybersecurity incident is determined to have, or is likely to have, a material impact on RPM, the Chair of the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors is directly notified by the General Counsel in coordination with the Chief Financial Officer and Senior Director - Information Security.
Item 2. Properties.
Our corporate headquarters and a plant and offices for one subsidiary are located on approximately 180 acres, which we own in Medina, Ohio. As of May 31, 2024, our operations occupied a total of approximately 19.9 million square feet, with the majority, approximately 16.7 million square feet, devoted to manufacturing, assembly and storage. Of the approximately 19.9 million square feet occupied, approximately 9.5 million square feet are owned and approximately 10.4 million square feet are occupied under operating leases.
Set forth below is a description, as of May 31, 2024, of our principal owned facilities which we believe are material to our operations:
Approximate
Square Feet Of
Location
Business/Segment
Floor Space
Hertogenbosch, Netherlands
Rust-Oleum (Consumer)
517,627
Cacapava, Brazil
Euclid (CPG)
383,777
Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin
261,000
Fairborn, Ohio
258,886
Cleveland, Ohio
Day-Glo (SPG)
224,624
LaFayette, Georgia
201,109
Corsicana, Texas
Tremco (CPG)
185,578
Dayton, Nevada
Carboline (PCG)
185,400
180,378
Zelem, Belgium
172,137
160,300
Bodenwoehr, Germany
CPG Europe (CPG)
156,184
Lierstranda, Norway
151,300
Coaldale, Alberta, Canada
Nudura (CPG)
150,705
Baltimore, Maryland
DAP (Consumer)
144,200
Hagerstown, Maryland
143,000
Tipp City, Ohio
140,000
Arkel, Netherlands
138,542
El Marques, Mexico
Fibergrate (PCG)
136,950
Attleboro, Massachusetts
133,650
Hudson, North Carolina
Wood Finishes Group (SPG)
132,300
Ellaville, Georgia
TCI (SPG)
129,600
Wigan, Lancashire, United Kingdom
122,000
Tocancipa, Columbia
114,849
Johannesburg, South Africa
Stonhard (PCG)
112,956
Birtley, United Kingdom
112,231
Lesage, West Virginia
112,000
Somerset, New Jersey
110,000
Lake Charles, Louisiana
109,617
Candeias, Brazil
107,792
Richmond, Missouri
91,911
Maple Shade, New Jersey
80,606
Kirkland, Illinois
78,825
Tultitlan, Mexico
75,422
Dallas, Texas
74,000
Medina, Ohio
72,300
66,100
Alghero, Italy
62,776
Pacific, Missouri
60,000
Woodlake, California
Dryvit (CPG)
41,475
Vallirana, Spain
39,439
Columbus, Georgia
39,200
Saint Apollinaire, France
37,619
Sand Springs, Oklahoma
36,998
Twistringen, Germany
32,873
Fort Wayne, Indiana
26,700
Pasadena, Texas
23,360
20
Set forth below is a description, as of May 31, 2024, of our principal leased facilities which we believe are material to our operations:
Martinsburg, West Virginia
921,712
Kenosha, Wisconsin
850,243
583,565
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
400,551
340,292
Riverside, California
309,535
Vaughan, Ontario, Canada
272,767
Granby, Quebec, Canada
246,926
244,495
216,129
North Kingstown, Rhode Island
162,735
Elgin, Illinois
Profile Foods (SPG)
135,490
Gateshead, Tyne, United Kingdom
135,000
Garland, Texas
130,900
Serendah, Malaysia
Platform (PCG)
121,245
Burlington, Washington
Legend Brands (SPG)
113,875
100,035
Leicester, Leicestershire, United Kingdom
95,977
Sriperumbudur, India
68,000
Louisa, Virginia
We lease certain of our properties under long-term leases. Some of these leases provide for increased rent based on an increase in the cost-of-living index. For information concerning our rental obligations, see Note M, “Leases,” to the Consolidated Financial Statements. Under many of our leases, we are obligated to pay certain varying insurance costs, utilities, real property taxes and other costs and expenses.
We believe that our manufacturing plants and office facilities are well maintained and suitable for our operations.
Item 3. Legal Proceedings.
Like other companies participating in similar lines of business, some of our subsidiaries are identified as a “potentially responsible party” under the federal Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act and similar local environmental statutes or are participating in the cost of certain clean-up efforts or other remedial actions relating to environmental matters. Our share of such costs to date, however, has not been material and management believes that these environmental proceedings will not have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial condition or results of operations. See “Item 1 — Business — Environmental Matters,” in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
As permitted by SEC Rules and given the size of our operations, we have elected to adopt a quantitative disclosure threshold for environmental proceedings of $1 million. As of the date of this filing, we are not aware of any matters that exceed this threshold and meet the definition for disclosure.
Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures
Not applicable.
Item 5. Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities.
The following table presents information about repurchases of RPM International Inc. Common Stock made by us during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2024:
Period
Total Numberof SharesPurchased (1)
AveragePrice PaidPer Share
Total Numberof SharesPurchased asPart of PubliclyAnnouncedPlans or Programs
MaximumDollar Amount thatMay Yet bePurchasedUnder thePlans or Programs (2)
March 1, 2024 through March 31, 2024
2,268
$
118.95
—
April 1, 2024 through April 30, 2024
690
107.15
May 1, 2024 through May 31, 2024
177,177
111.45
157,242
Total - Fourth Quarter
180,135
111.53
Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES
Our financial statements include all our majority-owned and controlled subsidiaries. Investments in less-than-majority-owned joint ventures over which we have the ability to exercise significant influence are accounted for under the equity method. Preparation of our financial statements requires the use of estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of our assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. We continually evaluate these estimates, including those related to our allowances for doubtful accounts; reserves for excess and obsolete inventories; allowances for recoverable sales and/or value-added taxes; uncertain tax positions; useful lives of property, plant and equipment; goodwill and other intangible assets; environmental, warranties and other contingent liabilities; income tax valuation allowances; pension plans; and the fair value of financial instruments. We base our estimates on historical experience, our most recent facts and other assumptions that we believe to be reasonable under the circumstances. These estimates form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of our assets and liabilities. Actual results, which are shaped by actual market conditions, may differ materially from our estimates.
We have identified below the accounting policies and estimates that are the most critical to our financial statements.
Goodwill
We test our goodwill balances at least annually, or more frequently as impairment indicators arise, at the reporting unit level. Our annual impairment assessment date has been designated as the first day of our fourth fiscal quarter. Our reporting units have been identified at the component level, which is one level below our operating segments.
We follow the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) guidance found in ASC 350 that simplifies how an entity tests goodwill for impairment. It provides an option to first assess qualitative factors to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, and whether it is necessary to perform a quantitative goodwill impairment test.
We assess qualitative factors in each of our reporting units that carry goodwill. Among other relevant events and circumstances that affect the fair value of our reporting units, we assess individual factors such as:
We assess these qualitative factors to determine whether it is necessary to perform the quantitative goodwill impairment test. The quantitative process is required only if we conclude that it is more likely than not that a reporting unit’s fair value is less than its carrying amount. However, we have an unconditional option to bypass a qualitative assessment and proceed directly to performing the quantitative analysis. We applied the quantitative process during our annual goodwill impairment assessments performed during the fourth quarters of fiscal 2024, 2023 and 2022.
In applying the quantitative test, we compare the fair value of a reporting unit to its carrying value. If the calculated fair value is less than the current carrying value, then impairment of the reporting unit exists. Calculating the fair value of a reporting unit requires our use of estimates and assumptions. We use significant judgment in determining the most appropriate method to establish the fair value of a reporting unit. We estimate the fair value of a reporting unit by employing various valuation techniques, depending on the availability and reliability of comparable market value indicators, and employ methods and assumptions that include the application of third-party market value indicators and the computation of discounted future cash flows determined from estimated cashflow adjustments to a reporting unit’s annual projected earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”), or adjusted EBITDA, which adjusts for one-off items impacting revenues and/or expenses that are not considered by management to be indicative of ongoing operations. Our fair value estimations may include a combination of value indications from both the market and income approaches, as the income approach considers the future cash flows from a reporting unit’s ongoing operations as a going concern, while the market approach considers the current financial environment in establishing fair value.
In applying the market approach, we use market multiples derived from a set of similar companies. In applying the income approach, we evaluate discounted future cash flows determined from estimated cashflow adjustments to a reporting unit’s projected EBITDA. Under this approach, we calculate the fair value of a reporting unit based on the present value of estimated future cash flows. In applying the discounted cash flow methodology utilized in the income approach, we rely on a number of factors, including future business plans, actual and forecasted operating results, and market data. The significant assumptions employed under this method include discount rates; revenue growth rates, including assumed terminal growth rates; and operating margins used to project future cash flows for a reporting unit. The discount rates utilized reflect market-based estimates of capital costs and discount rates adjusted for management’s
assessment of a market participant’s view with respect to other risks associated with the projected cash flows of the individual reporting unit. Our estimates are based upon assumptions we believe to be reasonable, but which by nature are uncertain and unpredictable.
Conclusion on Annual Goodwill Impairment Tests
As a result of the annual impairment assessments performed for fiscal 2024, 2023 and 2022, there were no goodwill impairments. Our fiscal 2024 annual impairment test for our Color Group reporting unit in our SPG Segment, which has approximately $11.0 million of goodwill, resulted in an excess of fair value over carrying value of approximately 18%. The lower fair value of this reporting unit is related to declining volumes in OEM markets. If planned sales growth initiatives for this business are not achieved, impairment of intangible assets, including goodwill, and other long-lived assets, could result.
Changes in the Composition of our Segments and Reporting Units in the First Quarter of Fiscal 2024
Effective June 1, 2023, in connection with our MAP 2025 operating improvement program, we realigned certain businesses and management structures within our CPG, PCG and SPG segments. As outlined in Note R, “Segment Information,” our CPG APAC and CPG India businesses, formerly of our Sealants reporting unit within our CPG segment, were transferred to our Platform component within our PCG segment. As a result of this change, we designated the Platform component as a separate reporting unit within our PCG segment. Within our SPG segment, two new reporting units were formed as our former DayGlo and Kirker reporting units were combined into one reporting unit: The Color Group, and our former Wood Finishes, Kop-Coat Protection Products, TCI and Modern Recreational Technologies reporting units were combined into one reporting unit: The Industrial Coatings Group.
Additionally, effective June 1, 2023, certain businesses of our Universal Sealants ("USL") reporting unit were transferred to our Fibergrate, Carboline and Stonhard reporting units within our PCG segment. As a result of this change, USL was no longer designated as a separate reporting unit and any remaining goodwill was transferred to the reporting units noted above.
During the first quarter of fiscal 2024, we performed a goodwill impairment test for the reporting units affected by the USL restructuring and the changes in the composition of our segments and reporting units using either a qualitative or a quantitative assessment. We concluded that the estimated fair values exceeded the carrying values for these reporting units, and accordingly, no indications of impairment were identified as a result of these changes.
Given these USL restructuring actions, we performed an interim impairment assessment of a remaining USL indefinite-lived tradename. Calculating the fair value of the tradename required the use of various estimates and assumptions. We estimated the fair value by applying a relief-from-royalty calculation, which included discounted future cash flows related to projected revenues impacted by this decision. In applying this methodology, we relied on a number of factors, including actual and forecasted revenues and market data. As the carrying amount of the tradename exceeded its fair value, an impairment loss of $3.3 million was recorded for the three months ended August 31, 2023. This impairment loss was classified as restructuring expense within our PCG segment.
Impairment Charge Recorded in the Third Quarter of Fiscal 2023
Although no impairment charge was recorded during fiscal 2024, 2023 and 2022 related to the annual impairment test, we did record a goodwill impairment charge in fiscal 2023. We announced our MAP 2025 operational improvement initiative in August 2022. Due to the challenged macroeconomic environment, we evaluated certain business restructuring actions, specifically our go to market strategy for operating in Europe. During the third quarter ended February 28, 2023, due to declining profitability and regulatory headwinds, management decided to restructure the USL reporting unit within our PCG segment and explored strategic alternatives for our infrastructure services business within the U.K., which represented approximately 30% of annual revenues of the reporting unit.
Due to this decision, we determined that an interim goodwill impairment assessment was required, as well as an impairment assessment for our other long-lived assets. Accordingly, we recorded an impairment loss totaling $36.7 million for the impairment of goodwill in our USL reporting unit during fiscal 2023. Refer to Note C, “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets,” to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional details on this goodwill impairment charge.
Changes in the Composition of Reporting Units in the Fourth Quarter of Fiscal 2023
Subsequent to our annual impairment assessment, in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2023 and in connection with our MAP 2025 initiative, the Viapol business within our CPG segment was realigned from our Sealants reporting unit to our Euclid reporting unit. We performed an interim goodwill impairment assessment for both of the impacted reporting units using a quantitative assessment. Based on this assessment, we concluded that the estimated fair values exceeded the carrying values for these reporting units, and accordingly, no goodwill impairment was identified as a result of this realignment.
24
Other Long-Lived Assets
We assess identifiable, amortizable intangible and other long-lived assets for impairment whenever events or changes in facts and circumstances indicate the possibility that the carrying values of these assets may not be recoverable over their estimated remaining useful lives. Factors considered important in our assessment, which might trigger an impairment evaluation, include the following:
Measuring a potential impairment of amortizable intangible and other long-lived assets requires the use of various estimates and assumptions, including the determination of which cash flows are directly related to the assets being evaluated, the respective useful lives over which those cash flows will occur and potential residual values, if any. If we determine that the carrying values of these assets may not be recoverable based upon the existence of one or more of the above-described indicators or other factors, any impairment amounts would be measured based on the projected net cash flows expected from these assets, including any net cash flows related to eventual disposition activities. The determination of any impairment losses would be based on the best information available, including internal estimates of discounted cash flows; market participant assumptions; quoted market prices, when available; and independent appraisals, as appropriate, to determine fair values. Cash flow estimates would be based on our historical experience and our internal business plans, with appropriate discount rates applied.
Additionally, we test all indefinite-lived intangible assets for impairment at least annually during our fiscal fourth quarter. We follow the guidance provided by ASC 350 that simplifies how an entity tests indefinite-lived intangible assets for impairment. It provides an option to first assess qualitative factors to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of an indefinite-lived intangible asset is less than its carrying amount before applying traditional quantitative tests. We applied quantitative processes during our annual indefinite-lived intangible asset impairment assessments performed during the fourth quarters of fiscal 2024, 2023 and 2022.
The annual impairment assessment involves estimating the fair value of each indefinite-lived asset and comparing it with its carrying amount. If the carrying amount of the intangible asset exceeds its fair value, we record an impairment loss equal to the difference. Calculating the fair value of the indefinite-lived assets requires our significant use of estimates and assumptions. We estimate the fair values of our intangible assets by applying a relief-from-royalty calculation, which includes discounted future cash flows related to each of our intangible asset’s projected revenues. In applying this methodology, we rely on a number of factors, including actual and forecasted revenues and market data.
Our annual impairment test of our indefinite-lived intangible assets performed during fiscal 2024 resulted in a $1.0 million impairment charge for an indefinite-lived tradename in our Consumer segment. This impairment loss was classified as selling, general and administrative ("SG&A") expenses within our Consumer segment. Our annual impairment test of our indefinite-lived intangible assets performed during fiscal 2023 and 2022 did not result in an impairment charge.
Although no impairment losses were recorded during fiscal 2023 and 2022 related to the annual impairment test, we did record an intangible asset impairment charge during the third quarter of fiscal 2023. In connection with MAP 2025 and related to the goodwill impairment charge noted above, we determined that an interim impairment assessment for our other long-lived assets was required following management's decision to restructure the USL reporting unit within our PCG segment. Accordingly, we recorded an impairment loss totaling $2.5 million for the impairment of an indefinite-lived tradename in our USL reporting unit during fiscal 2023. We did not record any impairments for our definite-lived long-lived assets as a result of this assessment. Refer to Note C, "Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets," to the Consolidated Financial Statements for further discussion.
Income Taxes
Our provision for income taxes is calculated using the asset and liability method, which requires the recognition of deferred income taxes. Deferred income taxes reflect the net tax effect of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and the amounts used for income tax purposes and certain changes in valuation allowances. We provide valuation allowances against deferred tax assets if, based on available evidence, it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized.
In determining the adequacy of valuation allowances, we consider cumulative and anticipated amounts of domestic and international earnings or losses of the appropriate character, anticipated amounts of foreign source income, as well as the anticipated taxable income resulting from the reversal of future taxable temporary differences. We intend to maintain any recorded valuation allowances until sufficient positive evidence (for example, cumulative positive foreign earnings or capital gain income) exists to support a reversal of the tax valuation allowances.
Further, at each interim reporting period, we estimate an effective income tax rate that is expected to be applicable for the full year. Significant judgment is involved regarding the application of global income tax laws and regulations and when projecting the
25
jurisdictional mix of income. Additionally, interpretation of tax laws, court decisions or other guidance provided by taxing authorities influences our estimate of the effective income tax rates. As a result, our actual effective income tax rates and related income tax liabilities may differ materially from our estimated effective tax rates and related income tax liabilities. Any resulting differences are recorded in the period they become known.
Additionally, our operations are subject to various federal, state, local and foreign tax laws and regulations that govern, among other things, taxes on worldwide income. The calculation of our income tax expense is based on the best information available, including the application of currently enacted income tax laws and regulations, and involves our significant judgment. The actual income tax liability for each jurisdiction in any year can ultimately be determined, in some instances, several years after the financial statements have been published.
Our provision for income tax expense is allocated between continuing operations and other income categories, such as other comprehensive income (loss). We release the income tax effects from accumulated other comprehensive income ("AOCI") to income from continuing operations at the current tax rates when the related pretax changes are recognized. Disproportionate tax effects in AOCI are released to income tax expense only when circumstances upon which they are based cease to exist.
We also maintain accruals for estimated income tax exposures for many different jurisdictions. Tax exposures are settled primarily through the resolution of audits within each tax jurisdiction or the closing of a statute of limitation. Tax exposures and actual income tax liabilities can also be affected by changes in applicable tax laws, retroactive tax law changes or other factors, which may cause us to believe revisions of past estimates are appropriate. Although we believe that appropriate liabilities have been recorded for our income tax expense and income tax exposures, actual results may differ materially from our estimates.
Contingencies
We are party to various claims and lawsuits arising in the normal course of business. Although we cannot precisely predict the amount of any liability that may ultimately arise with respect to any of these matters, we record provisions when we consider the liability probable and estimable. Our provisions are based on historical experience and legal advice, reviewed quarterly and adjusted according to developments. In general, our accruals, including our accruals for environmental and warranty liabilities, discussed further below, represent the best estimate of a range of probable losses. Estimating probable losses requires the analysis of multiple factors that often depend on judgments about potential actions by third parties, such as regulators, courts, and state and federal legislatures. Changes in the amounts of our loss provisions, which can be material, affect our Consolidated Statements of Income. To the extent there is a reasonable possibility that potential losses could exceed the amounts already accrued, we believe that the amount of any such additional loss would be immaterial to our results of operations, liquidity and consolidated financial position. We evaluate our accruals at the end of each quarter, or sometimes more frequently, based on available facts, and may revise our estimates in the future based on any new information that becomes available.
Our environmental-related accruals are similarly established and/or adjusted as more information becomes available upon which costs can be reasonably estimated. Actual costs may vary from these estimates because of the inherent uncertainties involved, including the identification of new sites and the development of new information about contamination. Certain sites are still being investigated; therefore, we have been unable to fully evaluate the ultimate costs for those sites. As a result, accruals have not been estimated for certain of these sites and costs may ultimately exceed existing estimated accruals for other sites. We have received indemnities for potential environmental issues from purchasers of certain of our properties and businesses and from sellers of some of the properties or businesses we have acquired. If the indemnifying party fails to, or becomes unable to, fulfill its obligations under those agreements, we may incur environmental costs in addition to any amounts accrued, which may have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.
We offer warranties on many of our products, as well as long-term warranty programs at certain of our businesses, and thus have established corresponding warranty liabilities. Warranty expense is impacted by variations in local construction practices, installation conditions, and geographic and climate differences. Although we believe that appropriate liabilities have been recorded for our warranty expense, actual results may differ materially from our estimates.
Pension and Postretirement Plans
We sponsor qualified defined benefit pension plans and various other nonqualified postretirement plans. The qualified defined benefit pension plans are funded with trust assets invested in a diversified portfolio of debt and equity securities and other investments. Among other factors, changes in interest rates, investment returns and the market value of plan assets can (i) affect the level of plan funding, (ii) cause volatility in the net periodic pension cost and (iii) increase our future contribution requirements. A significant decrease in investment returns or the market value of plan assets or a significant change in interest rates could increase our net periodic pension costs and adversely affect our results of operations. A significant increase in our contribution requirements with respect to our qualified defined benefit pension plans could have an adverse impact on our cash flow.
26
Changes in our key plan assumptions would impact net periodic benefit expense and the projected benefit obligation for our defined benefit and various postretirement benefit plans. Based upon May 31, 2024 information, the following tables reflect the impact of a 1% change in the key assumptions applied to our defined benefit pension plans in the United States and internationally:
U.S.
International
1% Increase
1% Decrease
(In millions)
Discount Rate
(Decrease) increase in expense in FY 2024
(4.9
)
5.8
(1.1
1.5
(Decrease) increase in obligation as of May 31, 2024
(51.6
60.0
(18.3
22.5
Expected Return on Plan Assets
(6.0
6.0
(1.7
1.7
N/A
Compensation Increase
Increase (decrease) in expense in FY 2024
5.5
1.0
(0.9
Increase (decrease) in obligation as of May 31, 2024
22.7
(20.5
3.3
(3.0
Based upon May 31, 2024 information, the following table reflects the impact of a 1% change in the key assumptions applied to our various postretirement health care plans:
-
(0.7
0.7
(0.1
0.1
(3.7
4.7
27
BUSINESS SEGMENT INFORMATION
We operate a portfolio of businesses and product lines that manufacture and sell a variety of specialty paints, protective coatings, roofing systems, flooring solutions, sealants, cleaners and adhesives. We manage our portfolio by organizing our businesses and product lines into four reportable segments as outlined below, which also represent our operating segments. Within each operating segment, we manage product lines and businesses which generally address common markets, share similar economic characteristics, utilize similar technologies and can share manufacturing or distribution capabilities. Our four operating segments represent components of our business for which separate financial information is available that is utilized on a regular basis by our chief operating decision maker in determining how to allocate the assets of the company and evaluate performance. These four operating segments are each managed by an operating segment manager, who is responsible for the day-to-day operating decisions and performance evaluation of the operating segment’s underlying businesses. We evaluate the profit performance of our segments primarily based on income before income taxes, but also look to earnings (loss) before interest and taxes (“EBIT”), and/or adjusted EBIT, which adjusts for one-off items impacting revenues and/or expenses that are not considered by management to be indicative of ongoing operations, as a performance evaluation measure because interest income (expense), net is essentially related to corporate functions, as opposed to segment operations.
Effective June 1, 2023, certain Asia Pacific businesses and management structure, formerly of our CPG segment, were transferred to our PCG segment to create operating efficiencies and a more unified go-to-market strategy in Asia Pacific. This realignment is reflected in our reportable segments beginning with fiscal 2022. As such, historical segment results have been recast to reflect the impact of this change.
Our CPG reportable segment products and services are sold throughout North America and also account for a significant portion of our international sales. Our construction product lines are sold directly to manufacturers, contractors, distributors and end-users, including industrial manufacturing facilities, concrete and cement producers, public institutions and other commercial customers. Products and services within this reportable segment include construction sealants and adhesives, coatings and associated chemicals, roofing systems, concrete admixture and repair products, building envelope solutions, parking decks, insulated cladding, firestopping, flooring systems, and weatherproofing solutions.
Our PCG reportable segment products and services are sold throughout North America, as well as internationally, and are sold directly to contractors, distributors and end-users, such as industrial manufacturing facilities, public institutions and other commercial customers. Products and services within this reportable segment include high-performance flooring solutions, corrosion control and fireproofing coatings, infrastructure repair systems and FRP structures.
Our Consumer reportable segment manufactures and markets professional use and DIY products for a variety of mainly residential applications, including home improvement and personal leisure activities. Our Consumer reportable segment’s major manufacturing and distribution operations are located primarily in North America, along with a few locations in Europe, Australia and South America. Our Consumer reportable segment products are primarily sold directly to mass merchandisers, home improvement centers, hardware stores, paint stores, craft shops and to other customers through distributors. The Consumer reportable segment offers products that include specialty, hobby and professional paints; caulks; adhesives; cleaners, sandpaper and other abrasives; silicone sealants and wood stains.
Our SPG reportable segment products are sold throughout North America and internationally, primarily in Europe. Our SPG product lines are sold directly to contractors, distributors and end-users, such as industrial manufacturing facilities, public institutions and other commercial customers. The SPG reportable segment offers products that include restoration services equipment, colorants, nail enamels, factory applied industrial coatings, preservation products, and edible coatings and specialty glazes for pharmaceutical and food industries.
In addition to our four reportable segments, there is a category of certain business activities and expenses, referred to as corporate/other, that does not constitute an operating segment. This category includes our corporate headquarters and related administrative expenses, results of our captive insurance companies, gains or losses on investments and other expenses not directly associated with any reportable segment. Assets related to the corporate/other category consist primarily of investments, prepaid expenses and headquarters’ property and equipment. These corporate and other assets and expenses reconcile reportable segment data to total consolidated income before income taxes and identifiable assets.
We reflect income from our joint ventures on the equity method and receive royalties from our licensees.
The following table reflects the results of our reportable segments consistent with our management philosophy, and represents the information we utilize, in conjunction with various strategic, operational and other financial performance criteria, in evaluating the performance of our portfolio of product lines.
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SEGMENT INFORMATION
(In thousands)
Year Ended May 31,
2024
2023
2022
Net Sales
2,702,466
2,508,805
2,402,497
1,462,460
1,433,634
1,272,368
2,457,949
2,514,770
2,242,047
712,402
799,205
790,816
Total
7,335,277
7,256,414
6,707,728
Income Before Income Taxes (a)
385,339
300,971
389,443
Interest (Expense), Net (b)
(5,170
(8,580
(6,540
EBIT (c)
390,509
309,551
395,983
199,951
142,469
146,134
Interest Income, Net (b)
4,642
1,630
442
195,309
140,839
145,692
408,200
378,157
175,084
Interest Income (Expense), Net (b)
2,561
(3,372
266
405,639
381,529
174,818
43,784
103,279
121,937
204
68
(86
43,580
103,211
122,023
Corporate/Other
(Loss) Before Income Taxes (a)
(249,437
(275,494
(225,799
(75,232
(99,013
(89,605
(174,205
(176,481
(136,194
Consolidated
Net Income
589,442
479,731
492,466
Add: (Provision) for Income Taxes
(198,395
(169,651
(114,333
787,837
649,382
606,799
Interest (Expense)
(117,969
(119,015
(87,928
Investment Income (Expense), Net
44,974
9,748
(7,595
860,832
758,649
702,322
29
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
The following discussion includes a comparison of Results of Operations and Liquidity and Capital Resources for the years ended May 31, 2024 and 2023. For comparisons of the years ended May 31, 2023 and 2022, see Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations in Part II, Item 7 of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended May 31, 2023 as filed on July 26, 2023.
Fiscal year ended May 31,
(In millions, except percentages)
TotalGrowth (Decline)
OrganicGrowth (Decline)(1)
Acquisition & DivestitureImpact
Foreign CurrencyExchange Impact
2,702.5
2,508.8
7.7
%
6.6
0.6
0.5
1,462.5
1,433.6
2.0
3.4
(0.4
%)
(1.0
2,457.9
2,514.8
(2.3
(1.8
0.0
(0.5
712.4
799.2
(10.9
(9.6
(1.6
0.3
7,335.3
7,256.4
1.1
1.3
(1) Organic growth includes the impact of price and volume.
Our CPG segment generated significant organic sales growth during the current year in all the major business units in the segment when compared to the prior year. Performing particularly well were providers of restoration systems for roofing, facades and parking structures, which benefited from a strategic focus on repair and maintenance and its differentiated service model. Concrete admixtures and repair businesses also generated growth from increased demand for engineered solutions serving infrastructure and reshoring-related projects, including those that lower the carbon footprint of projects, in addition to businesses serving high-performance building construction and remodeling. This increase was also facilitated by growth in Latin America.
Our PCG segment generated sales growth during fiscal 2024 when compared to the prior year. Performing particularly well were businesses that provide engineered solutions for reshoring-related projects. This increase was also facilitated by improved pricing and strong demand in emerging markets, which was partially offset by unfavorable foreign exchange translation and the divestiture of USL's Bridgecare services division in the first quarter of fiscal 2024.
Our Consumer segment experienced organic sales declines in the current year driven by reduced inventory levels at retailers, the rationalization of lower-margin products and reduced DIY takeaway at retail as consumers focused spending on travel and entertainment and housing turnover hit multi-year lows. This decline is in comparison to a strong prior year, when sales grew 12.2%. These pressures were partially offset by market share gains, strength in international markets and improved pricing to catch up with cost inflation.
Our SPG segment experienced sales declines during the current year, driven by lower volumes at businesses supplying OEM markets which have been negatively impacted by a slowdown in the residential housing market. The divestiture of the non-core furniture warranty business in the third quarter of fiscal year 2023 also reduced sales versus the prior year. Finally, the segment's disaster restoration business declined due to a lack of inclement weather in comparison to the strong prior year results, which included the response to Hurricane Ian and other inclement weather. Improved pricing partially offset these volume declines.
Gross Profit Margin Our consolidated gross profit margin of 41.1% of net sales for fiscal 2024 compares to a consolidated gross profit margin of 37.9% for the comparable period a year ago. This gross profit margin increase of approximately 320 basis points ("bps") resulted primarily from our MAP 2025 initiatives, which resulted in incremental benefits in procurement, manufacturing and commercial excellence that favorably impacted our gross margin, in conjunction with benefits generated from the commodity cycle. Selling price increases also aided in the margin expansion.
While costs of raw materials have generally stabilized, we expect that inflation of some materials will potentially create headwinds impacting our results in fiscal 2025.
SG&A Expenses Our consolidated SG&A expense increased by approximately $157.5 million during fiscal 2024 versus fiscal 2023 and increased to 28.8% of net sales for fiscal 2024 from 27.0% of net sales for fiscal 2023. Variable costs associated with improved results, such as commission expense and bonuses, were primary drivers, along with merit increases, investments in growth initiatives and increased benefits, insurance and healthcare costs. In addition, as described further below in Note P, "Contingencies and Other Accrued Losses," to the Consolidated financial statements, there was an $8.9 million decrease in the gain on business interruption insurance proceeds received during the current year at our Consumer segment compared to the prior year. These were partially offset by reduced professional fees and reduced SG&A related to divestitures.
Our CPG segment SG&A was approximately $108.2 million higher for fiscal 2024 versus fiscal 2023 and increased by 210 bps as a percentage of net sales. The increase in expense was mainly due to variable costs associated with improved results such as commissions and bonuses, along with merit increases, increased benefits and investments in growth initiatives.
30
Our PCG segment SG&A was approximately $35.0 million higher for fiscal 2024 versus fiscal 2023 and increased by 180 bps as a percentage of net sales. The increase in expense as compared to the prior year period is mainly due to increased commissions as a result of improved results as well as merit increases, increased insurance costs and bad debt expense and the $4.5 million loss on the sale of USL's Bridgecare services division during the period as described below in Note C, "Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets," to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
Our Consumer segment SG&A increased by approximately $17.3 million during fiscal 2024 versus fiscal 2023 and increased by 110 bps as a percentage of net sales. The year-over-year increase in SG&A was primarily attributable to merit increases and insurance costs, in addition to the $8.9 million decrease in gain on business interruption insurance proceeds received in the current year, partially offset by a reduction in variable distribution costs and a $3.6 million gain that is associated with the sale of a facility.
Our SPG segment SG&A was approximately $1.6 million higher during fiscal 2024 versus fiscal 2023 and increased by 340 bps as a percentage of sales. The increase in SG&A expense is attributable to higher research and development costs, pay inflation and investments in strategic growth initiatives, partially offset by the divestiture of the non-core furniture warranty business in the third quarter of fiscal 2023, along with a reduction in incentive compensation.
SG&A expenses in our corporate/other category of $163.4 million during fiscal 2024 decreased by $4.6 million from $168.0 million recorded during fiscal 2023. This was mainly due to reduced professional fees related to our MAP 2025 operational improvement initiatives and reduced stock compensation, partially offset by increased compensation, healthcare costs and IT expenses.
The following table summarizes the retirement-related benefit plans’ impact on income before income taxes for the fiscal years ended May 31, 2024 and 2023, as the service cost component has a significant impact on our SG&A expense:
Change
Service cost
49.4
49.1
Interest cost
45.3
36.8
8.5
Expected return on plan assets
(44.7
(6.9
Amortization of:
Prior service (credit)
(0.2
Net actuarial losses recognized
17.6
18.4
(0.8
Curtailment/settlement losses
Total Net Periodic Pension & Postretirement Benefit Costs
60.5
59.5
We expect that pension and postretirement expense will fluctuate on a year-to-year basis, depending upon the investment performance of plan assets and potential changes in interest rates, both of which are difficult to predict in light of the lingering macroeconomic uncertainties associated with inflation, but which may have a material impact on our consolidated financial results in the future. A decrease of 1% in the discount rate or the expected return on plan assets assumptions would result in $8.0 million and $7.7 million higher expense, respectively. The assumptions and estimates used to determine the discount rate and expected return on plan assets are more fully described in Note N, “Pension Plans,” and Note O, “Postretirement Benefits,” to our Consolidated Financial Statements. Further discussion and analysis of the sensitivity surrounding our most critical assumptions under our pension and postretirement plans is discussed above in “Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates — Pension and Postretirement Plans.”
Restructuring Expense
The following table summarizes restructuring charges recorded during the years ended May 31, 2024 and 2023, related to our MAP 2025 initiative, which is a multi-year restructuring plan to build on the achievements of MAP to Growth and designed to improve margins by streamlining business processes, reducing working capital, implementing commercial initiatives to drive improved mix, pricing discipline and salesforce effectiveness and improving operating efficiency:
Severance and benefit costs
24.0
Facility closure and other related costs
1.4
Other restructuring costs
4.6
2.5
Total Restructuring Costs
30.0
11.7
Most activities under MAP 2025 are anticipated to be completed by the end of fiscal 2025; however, we expect some costs to extend beyond this date. We currently expect to incur approximately $39.8 million of future additional charges related to the implementation of MAP 2025. In addition, we incurred $3.8 million of restructuring costs associated with MAP to Growth for the year ended May 31, 2023.
For further information and details about MAP 2025, see Note B, “Restructuring,” to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
31
Interest Expense
Interest expense
118.0
119.0
Average interest rate (1)
4.73
4.08
(1) The interest rate increase was a result of higher market rates on the variable cost borrowings.
Change in interestexpense
Acquisition-related borrowings
1.2
Non-acquisition-related average borrowings
(17.9
Change in average interest rate
15.7
Total Change in Interest Expense
Investment (Income) Expense, Net
See Note A(15), "Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Investment (Income) Expense, Net," to the Consolidated Financial Statements for details.
(Gain) on Sales of Assets and Business, Net
See Note A(3), "Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Acquisitions/Divestitures," and Note M, "Leases," to the Consolidated Financial Statements for details.
Other Expense (Income), Net
See Note A(16), "Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Other Expense (Income), Net," to the Consolidated Financial Statements for details.
Income Before Income Taxes (“IBT”)
% of netsales
385.3
14.3
301.0
12.0
199.9
13.7
142.5
9.9
408.2
16.6
378.1
15.0
43.8
6.1
103.3
12.9
Non-Op Segment
(249.4
(275.5
787.8
649.4
On a consolidated basis, our results reflect MAP 2025 benefits, in conjunction with benefits generated from the commodity cycle. Our CPG segment results reflect volume growth, which resulted in improved fixed-cost utilization, and MAP 2025 benefits. Our PCG segment results reflect MAP 2025 benefits and improved pricing, partially offset by the $4.5 million loss on the sale of USL's Bridgecare services division during the year, the impairment of an indefinite-lived intangible asset, and increased bad debt expense. Our prior year PCG segment results include the $39.2 million goodwill and intangible asset impairment charges. Our Consumer segment results reflect improved operating efficiencies related to MAP 2025 and improved pricing and a $3.6 million gain that is associated with the sale of a facility, partially offset by the $8.9 million decrease in gain on business interruption insurance proceeds received during the year and negative fixed-cost absorption due to lower volumes. Our SPG segment results reflect the divestiture of the non-core furniture warranty business in the third quarter of fiscal 2023, unfavorable sales mix, incremental costs from investments in growth initiatives, and reduced fixed cost leverage at plants as a result of reduced volumes. In addition, our prior year SPG segment results reflect the $24.7 million gain on the sale of its non-core furniture warranty business. Our Non-Op segment results reflect the favorable swing in investment returns and decreased professional fees, partially offset by increased healthcare and IT expenses.
Income Tax Rate The effective income tax rate was 25.2% for fiscal 2024 compared to an effective income tax rate of 26.1% for fiscal 2023. Refer to Note H, “Income Taxes,” to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the components of the effective income tax rates.
(In millions, except percentages and per share amounts)
Net income
589.4
8.0
479.7
Net income attributable to RPM International Inc. stockholders
588.4
478.7
Diluted earnings per share
4.56
3.72
32
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
Operating Activities
Approximately $1.12 billion of cash was provided by operating activities during fiscal 2024, compared with $577.1 million of cash provided by operating activities during fiscal 2023. The net change in cash from operations includes the change in net income, which increased by $109.7 million year over year.
The change in accounts receivable during fiscal 2024 provided approximately $177.5 million more cash than fiscal 2023. This was primarily due to the timing of sales in our PCG and Consumer segments and improved cash collections in the current period. Average days sales outstanding (“DSO”) at May 31, 2024 decreased to 63.0 days from 66.9 days at May 31, 2023.
During fiscal 2024, the change in inventory used approximately $113.0 million less cash compared to our spending during fiscal 2023 as a result of our operating segments continuing to reduce inventory purchases and use safety stock built up in prior periods in response to supply chain outages and raw material inflation. Average days inventory outstanding (“DIO”) at May 31, 2024 decreased to 91.1 days from 106.0 days at May 31, 2023.
The change in accounts payable during fiscal 2024 used approximately $91.6 million less cash than during fiscal 2023. This is associated with significant payments made in the prior year related to inventory builds and raw material inflation. Additionally, we have reduced inventory purchases because of improved forecasting and coordination between sales and operations. Average days payables outstanding (“DPO”) at May 31, 2024 increased to 83.0 days from 80.5 days at May 31, 2023.
Investing Activities
For fiscal 2024, cash used for investing activities decreased by $43.3 million to $206.4 million as compared to $249.7 million in the prior year period. This year-over-year decrease in cash used for investing activities was mainly driven by a $40.5 million decrease in capital expenditures and a $32.0 million decrease in cash used for business acquisitions, partially offset by a $51.4 million decrease in proceeds from sales of assets and businesses, net.
We paid for capital expenditures of $214.0 million and $254.4 million during the periods ended May 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. This reduction was the result of decreased capacity expansion projects in comparison to the prior period. Our capital expenditures facilitate our continued growth, allow us to achieve production and distribution efficiencies, expand capacity, introduce new technology, improve environmental health and safety capabilities, improve information systems, and enhance our administration capabilities. We continued to invest capital spending in growth initiatives and to improve operational efficiencies in fiscal 2024.
Our captive insurance companies invest their excess cash in marketable securities in the ordinary course of conducting their operations, and this activity will continue. Differences in the amounts related to these activities on a year-over-year basis are primarily attributable to the rebalancing of the portfolio, along with differences in the timing and performance of their investments balanced against amounts required to satisfy claims. At May 31, 2024 and 2023, the fair value of our investments in marketable securities totaled $154.3 million and $148.3 million, respectively.
As of May 31, 2024, approximately $215.2 million of our consolidated cash and cash equivalents were held at various foreign subsidiaries, compared with approximately $196.8 million as of May 31, 2023. Undistributed earnings held at our foreign subsidiaries that are considered permanently reinvested will be used, for instance, to expand operations organically or for acquisitions in foreign jurisdictions. Further, our operations in the United States generate sufficient cash flow to satisfy U.S. operating requirements. Refer to Note H, “Income Taxes,” to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information regarding unremitted foreign earnings.
Financing Activities
For fiscal 2024, cash used for financing activities increased by $588.8 million to $890.0 million as compared to $301.2 million used for financing activities in the prior year period. The overall increase in cash used for financing activities was driven principally by debt-related activities, as we repaid $273.4 million on our revolving credit facility, $250.0 million on our term loan, and $45.0 million on our accounts receivable securitization program ("AR Program") during fiscal 2024. Refer to Note G, “Borrowings,” to the Consolidated Financial Statements for a discussion of significant debt-related activity that occurred in fiscal 2024 and 2023, significant components of our debt, and our available liquidity.
33
The following table summarizes our financial obligations and their expected maturities at May 31, 2024, and the effect such obligations are expected to have on our liquidity and cash flow in the periods indicated.
Contractual Obligations
Total Contractual
Payments Due In
Payment Stream
2025
2026-27
2028-29
After 2029
Long-term debt obligations
2,125,092
130,212
400,148
694,732
900,000
Finance lease obligations
14,723
5,957
6,269
1,271
1,226
Operating lease obligations
416,834
78,528
126,943
77,201
134,162
Other long-term liabilities (1):
Interest payments on long-term debt obligations
840,050
68,275
136,550
106,550
528,675
Contributions to pension and postretirement plans (2)
513,000
5,900
13,000
117,000
377,100
3,909,699
288,872
682,910
996,754
1,941,163
The U.S. dollar fluctuated throughout the year and was weaker against other major currencies where we conduct operations at May 31, 2024 versus May 31, 2023, causing a favorable change in the accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (refer to Note K, “Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss),” to the Consolidated Financial Statements) component of stockholders’ equity of $3.5 million this year versus an unfavorable change of $69.9 million last year. The change in fiscal 2024 was in addition to a favorable net change of $64.1 million related to adjustments required for minimum pension and other postretirement liabilities.
Stock Repurchase Program
Refer to Note I, “Stock Repurchase Program,” to the Consolidated Financial Statements for a discussion of our stock repurchase program.
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
We do not have any off-balance sheet financings. We have no subsidiaries that are not included in our financial statements, nor do we have any interests in, or relationships with, any special-purpose entities that are not reflected in our financial statements.
Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk.
QUALITATIVE AND QUANTITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
We are exposed to market risk from changes in interest rates and foreign currency exchange rates because we fund our operations through long- and short-term borrowings and denominate our business transactions in a variety of foreign currencies. We utilize a sensitivity analysis to measure the potential loss in earnings based on a hypothetical 1% increase in interest rates and a 10% change in foreign currency rates. A summary of our primary market risk exposures follows.
Interest Rate Risk
Our primary interest rate risk exposure results from our floating rate debt, including various revolving and other lines of credit (refer to Note G, “Borrowings,” to the Consolidated Financial Statements). If there was a 100-bps increase or decrease in interest rates it would have resulted in an increase or decrease in interest expense of $7.9 million and $10.8 million for fiscal 2024 and 2023, respectively. Our primary exposure to interest rate risk is movements in the Secured Overnight Financing Rate (SOFR) and European Short-Term Rate (ESTR). At May 31, 2024, approximately 22.3% of our debt was subject to floating interest rates.
Foreign Currency Risk
Our foreign sales and results of operations are subject to the impact of foreign currency fluctuations (refer to Note A(4), “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Foreign Currency,” to the Consolidated Financial Statements). Because our Consolidated Financial Statements are presented in U.S. dollars, increases or decreases in the value of the U.S. dollar relative to other currencies in which we transact business could materially adversely affect our net revenues, net income and the carrying values of our assets located outside the United States. Global economic uncertainty continues to exist. Strengthening of the U.S. dollar relative to other currencies may adversely affect our operating results.
If the U.S. dollar were to strengthen, our foreign results of operations would be unfavorably impacted, but the effect is not expected to be material. A 10% change in foreign currency exchange rates would not have resulted in a material impact to net income for the years ended May 31, 2024 and 2023. We do not currently use financial derivative instruments for trading purposes, nor do we engage in foreign currency, commodity or interest rate speculation.
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
The foregoing discussion includes forward-looking statements relating to our business. These forward-looking statements, or other statements made by us, are made based on our expectations and beliefs concerning future events impacting us and are subject to uncertainties and factors (including those specified below), which are difficult to predict and, in many instances, are beyond our control. As a result, our actual results could differ materially from those expressed in or implied by any such forward-looking statements. These uncertainties and factors include (a) global and regional markets and general economic conditions, including uncertainties surrounding the volatility in financial markets, the availability of capital and the viability of banks and other financial institutions; (b) the prices, supply and availability of raw materials, including assorted pigments, resins, solvents, and other natural gas- and oil-based materials; packaging, including plastic and metal containers; and transportation services, including fuel surcharges; (c) continued growth in demand for our products; (d) legal, environmental and litigation risks inherent in our businesses and risks related to the adequacy of our insurance coverage for such matters; (e) the effect of changes in interest rates; (f) the effect of fluctuations in currency exchange rates upon our foreign operations; (g) the effect of non-currency risks of investing in and conducting operations in foreign countries, including those relating to domestic and international political, social, economic and regulatory factors; (h) risks and uncertainties associated with our ongoing acquisition and divestiture activities; (i) the timing of and the realization of anticipated cost savings from restructuring initiatives, the ability to identify additional cost savings opportunities, and the risks of failing to meet any other objectives of our improvement plans; (j) risks related to the adequacy of our contingent liability reserves; (k) risks relating to a public health crisis similar to the Covid pandemic; (l) risks related to acts of war similar to the Russian invasion of Ukraine; (m) risks related to the transition or physical impacts of climate change and other natural disasters or meeting sustainability-related voluntary goals or regulatory requirements; (n) risks related to our or our third parties' use of technology including artificial intelligence, data breaches and data privacy violations; (o) the shift to remote work and online purchasing and the impact that has on residential and commercial real estate construction; and (p) other risks detailed in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including the risk factors set forth in our Form 10-K for the year ended May 31, 2024, as the same may be updated from time to time. We do not undertake any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements to reflect future events, information or circumstances that arise after the filing date of this document.
35
Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.
RPM INTERNATIONAL INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Consolidated Balance Sheets
(In thousands, except per share amounts)
May 31,
Assets
Current Assets
Cash and cash equivalents
237,379
215,787
Trade accounts receivable (less allowances of $48,763 and $49,482, respectively)
1,419,445
1,503,040
Inventories
956,465
1,135,496
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
282,059
329,845
Total current assets
2,895,348
3,184,168
Property, Plant and Equipment, at Cost
2,515,847
2,332,916
Allowance for depreciation
(1,184,784
(1,093,440
Property, plant and equipment, net
1,331,063
1,239,476
Other Assets
1,308,911
1,293,588
Other intangible assets, net of amortization
512,972
554,991
Operating lease right-of-use assets
331,555
329,582
Deferred income taxes
33,522
15,470
Other
173,172
164,729
Total other assets
2,360,132
2,358,360
Total Assets
6,586,543
6,782,004
Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity
Current Liabilities
Accounts payable
649,650
680,938
Current portion of long-term debt
136,213
178,588
Accrued compensation and benefits
297,249
257,328
Accrued losses
32,518
26,470
Other accrued liabilities
350,434
347,477
Total current liabilities
1,466,064
1,490,801
Long-Term Liabilities
Long-term debt, less current maturities
1,990,935
2,505,221
Operating lease liabilities
281,281
285,524
Other long-term liabilities
214,816
267,111
121,222
90,347
Total long-term liabilities
2,608,254
3,148,203
Contingencies and Accrued Losses (Note P)
Stockholders' Equity
Preferred stock, par value $0.01; authorized 50,000 shares; none issued
Common stock, par value $0.01; authorized 300,000 shares; issued 145,779 and outstanding 128,629 as of May 2024; issued 145,124 and outstanding 128,766 as of May 2023
1,286
1,288
Paid-in capital
1,150,751
1,124,825
Treasury stock, at cost
(864,502
(784,463
Accumulated other comprehensive (loss)
(537,290
(604,935
Retained earnings
2,760,639
2,404,125
Total RPM International Inc. stockholders' equity
2,510,884
2,140,840
Noncontrolling Interest
1,341
2,160
Total equity
2,512,225
2,143,000
Total Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity
The accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements are an integral part of these statements.
Consolidated Statements of Income
Cost of Sales
4,320,688
4,508,370
4,274,675
Gross Profit
3,014,589
2,748,044
2,433,053
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses
2,113,585
1,956,040
1,788,284
30,008
15,465
6,276
Goodwill Impairment
36,745
117,969
119,015
87,928
(44,974
(9,748
7,595
(28,632
(51,983
10,164
9,777
(11,846
Income Before Income Taxes
Provision for Income Taxes
198,395
169,651
114,333
Less: Net Income Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests
1,045
1,040
985
Net Income Attributable to RPM International Inc. Stockholders
588,397
478,691
491,481
Average Number of Shares of Common Stock Outstanding:
Basic
127,767
127,507
127,948
Diluted
128,340
128,816
129,580
Earnings per Share of Common Stock Attributable to RPM International Inc. Stockholders:
4.58
3.74
3.81
3.79
37
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income
Year Ended May 31
Other comprehensive income (loss)
Foreign currency translation adjustments, net of tax
3,547
(69,918
(95,214
Pension and other postretirement benefit liability adjustments, net of tax
64,117
4,619
37,227
Unrealized (loss) on securities and other, net of tax
(549
(1,725
Unrealized (loss) gain on derivatives, net of tax
(1,766
37,153
Total other comprehensive income (loss)
67,664
(67,614
(22,559
Total Comprehensive Income
657,106
412,117
469,907
Less: Comprehensive Income Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests
1,064
1,024
879
Comprehensive Income Attributable to RPM International Inc. Stockholders
656,042
411,093
469,028
38
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
Cash Flows From Operating Activities:
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization
171,251
154,949
153,074
Restructuring charges, net of payments
(2,516
Goodwill impairment
Fair value adjustments to contingent earnout obligations
3,253
(5,638
6,236
(25,067
Stock-based compensation expense
25,925
28,673
40,114
Net (gain) loss on marketable securities
(19,914
2,086
17,706
Net (gain) on sales of assets and businesses
(971
2,226
1,683
(66
Changes in assets and liabilities, net of effect from purchases and sales of businesses:
Decrease (increase) in receivables
82,895
(94,585
(187,299
Decrease (increase) in inventory
179,843
66,805
(304,197
Decrease (increase) in prepaid expenses and other current and long-term assets
23,426
1,364
(13,040
(Decrease) increase in accounts payable
(24,439
(116,053
101,223
Increase (decrease) in accrued compensation and benefits
39,891
(2,643
9,737
Increase (decrease) in accrued losses
5,958
2,231
(3,956
Increase (decrease) in other accrued liabilities
52,410
38,515
(50,718
Cash Provided By Operating Activities
1,122,305
577,105
178,731
Cash Flows From Investing Activities:
Capital expenditures
(213,970
(254,435
(222,403
Acquisition of businesses, net of cash acquired
(15,549
(47,542
(127,457
Purchase of marketable securities
(32,981
(18,674
(15,032
Proceeds from sales of marketable securities
46,689
12,731
21,533
Proceeds from sales of assets and businesses
6,921
58,288
76,590
2,450
(72
7,222
Cash (Used For) Investing Activities
(206,440
(249,704
(259,547
Cash Flows From Financing Activities:
Additions to long-term and short-term debt
341,720
437,564
Reductions of long-term and short-term debt
(575,408
(355,463
(101,505
Cash dividends
(231,883
(213,912
(204,394
Repurchase of common stock
(54,978
(50,000
(52,500
Shares of common stock returned for taxes
(24,548
(17,047
(11,549
Payments of acquisition-related contingent consideration
(1,142
(3,765
(5,774
(2,075
(2,689
(4,452
Cash (Used For) Provided By Financing Activities
(890,034
(301,156
57,390
Effect of Exchange Rate Changes on Cash and Cash Equivalents
(4,239
(12,130
(21,606
Net Change in Cash and Cash Equivalents
21,592
14,115
(45,032
Cash and Cash Equivalents at Beginning of Period
201,672
246,704
Cash and Cash Equivalents at End of Period
Supplemental Disclosures of Cash Flows Information:
Cash paid during the year for:
Interest
116,650
113,953
81,838
Income taxes, net of refunds
203,607
134,436
172,254
Supplemental Disclosures of Noncash Investing Activities:
Capital expenditures accrued within accounts payable at year-end
24,632
34,470
27,237
39
Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity
Common Stock
Accumulated
Number
Total RPM
of
Par/Stated
Paid-In
Treasury
Comprehensive
Retained
Noncontrolling
Shares
Value
Capital
Stock
Income (Loss)
Earnings
Inc. Equity
Interests
Equity
Balance at June 1, 2021
129,573
1,295
1,055,400
(653,006
(514,884
1,852,259
1,741,064
1,961
1,743,025
Other comprehensive (loss)
(22,453
(106
Dividends declared and paid ($1.58 per share)
Other noncontrolling interest activity
(1,441
Share repurchases under repurchase program
(601
(6
Stock compensation expense and other deferred compensation, shares granted less shares returned for taxes
227
40,741
(11,513
29,231
Balance at May 31, 2022
129,199
1,292
1,096,147
(717,019
(537,337
2,139,346
1,982,429
1,399
1,983,828
(67,598
(16
Dividends declared and paid ($1.66 per share)
(263
(598
165
28,672
(17,444
11,230
Balance at May 31, 2023
128,766
Other comprehensive income
67,645
Dividends declared and paid ($1.80 per share)
(1,883
Share repurchases under repurchase program and related excise tax
(526
(5
(55,002
389
25,921
(25,037
887
Balance at May 31, 2024
128,629
The accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements are an integral part of these financial statements.
40
NOTE A — SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
1) Consolidation, Noncontrolling Interests and Basis of Presentation
The accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements have been prepared in accordance with GAAP and the instructions to Form 10-K. In our opinion, all adjustments (consisting of normal, recurring accruals) considered necessary for fair presentation have been included for the periods ended May 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022.
Our financial statements include all of our majority-owned subsidiaries. We account for our investments in less-than-majority-owned joint ventures, for which we have the ability to exercise significant influence, under the equity method. Effects of transactions between related companies are eliminated in consolidation.
Noncontrolling interests are presented in our Consolidated Financial Statements as if parent company investors (controlling interests) and other minority investors (noncontrolling interests) in partially owned subsidiaries have similar economic interests in a single entity. As a result, investments in noncontrolling interests are reported as equity in our Consolidated Financial Statements. Additionally, our Consolidated Financial Statements include 100% of a controlled subsidiary’s earnings, rather than only our share. Transactions between the parent company and noncontrolling interests are reported in equity as transactions between stockholders, provided that these transactions do not create a change in control.
Our business is dependent on external weather factors. Historically, we have experienced strong sales and net income in our first, second and fourth fiscal quarters comprising the three-month periods ending August 31, November 30 and May 31, respectively, with weaker performance in our third fiscal quarter (December through February).
2) Use of Estimates
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect reported amounts of assets and liabilities, disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
3) Acquisitions/Divestitures
We account for business combinations and asset acquisitions using the acquisition method of accounting and, accordingly, the assets and liabilities of the acquired entities are recorded at their estimated fair values at the acquisition date.
During the fiscal year ended May 31, 2024, we completed a total of two acquisitions which are included in our CPG reportable segment.
During the fiscal year ended May 31, 2023, we completed a total of six acquisitions across our four reportable segments. Most notably, within our Consumer reportable segment, we acquired a distributor of branded chalk paints, primarily targeting the upscale décor market in the U.K. and Ireland.
In addition, on January 20, 2023, we completed the divestiture of our non-core furniture warranty business, Guardian, for proceeds of approximately $49.2 million, net of cash disposed. In connection with the divestiture, we recognized a gain of $24.7 million during fiscal 2023, which is included in (gain) on sales of assets and business, net in our Consolidated Statements of Income.
Guardian, headquartered in Hickory, North Carolina, was a reporting unit included in our SPG segment and is a seller of furniture protection plans and protection products for fabric, leather, and wood applications. The sale of Guardian did not represent a strategic shift that had a major effect on our operations and therefore was not presented as discontinued operations in our financial results.
The purchase price for each acquisition has been allocated to the estimated fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed as of the date of acquisition. We have finalized the purchase price allocation for our fiscal 2023 acquisitions. For acquisitions completed during fiscal 2024, the valuations of consideration transferred, total assets acquired, and liabilities assumed are substantially complete. The primary areas that remain open relate to working capital adjustments. Acquisitions are aggregated by year of purchase in the following table:
Fiscal 2024 Acquisitions
Fiscal 2023 Acquisitions
Weighted-AverageIntangible AssetAmortization Life (In Years)
Weighted-AverageIntangible AssetAmortization Life(In Years)
Current assets
6,010
17,508
Property, plant and equipment
1,427
3,605
11,993
25,407
Trade names - indefinite lives
3,168
Other intangible assets
2,562
14,965
Other long-term assets
1,647
Total Assets Acquired
21,996
66,300
Liabilities assumed
(5,712
(12,287
Net Assets Acquired
16,284
(1)
54,013
(2)
41
Our Consolidated Financial Statements reflect the results of operations of acquired businesses as of their respective dates of acquisition. Pro-forma results of operations for the years ended May 31, 2024 and 2023 were not materially different from reported results and, consequently, are not presented.
4) Foreign Currency
The functional currency for each of our foreign subsidiaries is its principal operating currency. Accordingly, for the periods presented, assets and liabilities have been translated using exchange rates at year end, while income and expense for the periods have been translated using a weighted-average exchange rate.
The resulting translation adjustments have been recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), a component of stockholders’ equity, and will be included in net earnings only upon the sale or liquidation of the underlying foreign investment, neither of which is contemplated at this time. For the periods ended May 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022, transactional losses approximated $6.6 million, $8.9 million and $4.3 million, respectively.
5) Cash and Cash Equivalents
We consider all highly liquid debt instruments purchased with a maturity of three months or less to be cash equivalents. We do not believe we are exposed to any significant credit risk on cash and cash equivalents. The carrying amounts of cash and cash equivalents approximate fair value.
6) Property, Plant & Equipment
Land
93,842
92,954
Buildings and leasehold improvements
674,580
552,775
Machinery and equipment
1,747,425
1,687,187
Total property, plant and equipment, at cost
Less: allowance for depreciation and amortization
1,184,784
1,093,440
We review long-lived assets for impairment when circumstances indicate that the carrying values of these assets may not be recoverable. For assets that are to be held and used, an impairment charge is recognized when the estimated undiscounted future cash flows associated with the asset or group of assets are less than their carrying value. If impairment exists, an adjustment is made to write the asset down to its fair value, and a loss is recorded for the difference between the carrying value and the fair value. Fair values are determined based on quoted market values, discounted cash flows, internal appraisals or external appraisals, as applicable. Assets to be disposed of are carried at the lower of their carrying value or estimated net realizable value.
Depreciation is computed primarily using the straight-line method over the following ranges of useful lives:
1 to 50 years
1 to 40 years
Total depreciation expense for each fiscal period includes the charges to income that result from the amortization of assets recorded under finance leases. For the periods ended May 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022, we recorded depreciation expense of $129.8 million, $108.4 million, and $104.3 million, respectively.
7) Revenue Recognition
Revenue is recognized upon transfer of control of promised products or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration we expect to receive in exchange for those products or services. The majority of our revenue is recognized at a point in time. However, we also record revenues generated under construction contracts, mainly in connection with the installation of specialized roofing and flooring systems and related services. For certain polymer flooring installation projects, we account for our revenue using the output method, as we consider square footage of completed flooring to be the best measure of progress toward the complete satisfaction of the performance obligation. In contrast, for certain of our roofing installation projects, we account for our revenue using the input method, as that method is the best measure of performance as it considers costs incurred in relation to total expected project costs, which essentially represents the transfer of control for roofing systems to the customer. In general, for our construction contracts, we record contract revenues and related costs as our contracts progress on an over-time model.
8) Shipping Costs
We identify shipping and handling costs as costs paid to third-party shippers for transporting products to customers, and we include these costs in cost of sales in our Consolidated Statements of Income.
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9) Allowance for Credit Losses
Our primary allowance for credit losses is the allowance for doubtful accounts. The allowance for doubtful accounts reduces the trade accounts receivable balance to the estimated net realizable value equal to the amount that is expected to be collected. The allowance is established using assessments of current creditworthiness of customers, historical collection experience, the aging of receivables and other currently available evidence. Trade accounts receivable balances are written-off against the allowance if a final determination of uncollectibility is made. All provisions for allowances for doubtful collection of accounts are included in SG&A expenses. Actual collections of trade receivables could differ from our estimates due to changes in future economic or industry conditions or specific customers' financial conditions.
For the periods ended May 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022, bad debt expense approximated $18.4 million, $13.6 million and $4.3 million, respectively.
10) Inventories
Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or net realizable value, cost being determined on a first-in, first-out (FIFO) basis and net realizable value being determined on the basis of replacement cost. Inventory costs include raw materials, labor and manufacturing overhead. We review the net realizable value of our inventory in detail on an on-going basis, with consideration given to various factors, which include our estimated reserves for excess, obsolete, slow-moving or distressed inventories. If actual market conditions differ from our projections, and our estimates prove to be inaccurate, write-downs of inventory values and adjustments to cost of sales may be required. Historically, our inventory reserves have approximated actual experience.
During fiscal 2024, we did not record any significant inventory charges related to product line rationalization. During fiscal 2023, we recorded $7.6 million of inventory charges within our SPG Segment related to product line and SKU rationalization and related obsolete inventory identification.
Inventories were composed of the following major classes:
Raw materials and supplies
354,428
451,504
Finished goods
602,037
683,992
Total Inventory
11) Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets
We account for goodwill and other intangible assets in accordance with the provisions of ASC 350 and account for business combinations using the acquisition method of accounting and, accordingly, the assets and liabilities of the entities acquired are recorded at their estimated fair values at the acquisition date.
Goodwill represents the excess of the purchase price paid over the fair value of net assets acquired, including the amount assigned to identifiable intangible assets. Goodwill is assigned to reporting units that are expected to benefit from the synergies of the business combination as of the acquisition date. Once goodwill has been allocated to the reporting units, it no longer retains its identification with a particular acquisition and becomes identified with the reporting unit in its entirety. Accordingly, the fair value of the reporting unit as a whole is available to support the recoverability of its goodwill. We evaluate our reporting units when changes in our operating structure occur, and if necessary, reassign goodwill using a relative fair value allocation approach.
We follow the FASB guidance found in ASC 350 that simplifies how an entity tests goodwill for impairment. It provides an option to first assess qualitative factors to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, and whether it is necessary to perform a quantitative goodwill impairment test.
We assess qualitative factors in each of our reporting units that carry goodwill. We assess these qualitative factors to determine whether it is necessary to perform the quantitative goodwill impairment test. The quantitative process is required only if we conclude that it is more likely than not that a reporting unit’s fair value is less than its carrying amount. However, we have an unconditional option to bypass a qualitative assessment and proceed directly to performing the quantitative analysis. We applied the quantitative process during our annual goodwill impairment assessments performed during the fourth quarters of fiscal 2024, 2023 and 2022.
In applying the quantitative test, we compare the fair value of a reporting unit to its carrying value. If the calculated fair value is less than the current carrying value, then impairment of the reporting unit exists. Calculating the fair value of a reporting unit requires our use of estimates and assumptions. We use significant judgment in determining the most appropriate method to establish the fair value
43
of a reporting unit. We estimate the fair value of a reporting unit by employing various valuation techniques, depending on the availability and reliability of comparable market value indicators, and employ methods and assumptions that include the application of third-party market value indicators and the computation of discounted future cash flows determined from estimated cashflow adjustments to a reporting unit’s annual projected EBITDA, or adjusted EBITDA, which adjusts for one-off items impacting revenues and/or expenses that are not considered by management to be indicative of ongoing operations. Our fair value estimations may include a combination of value indications from both the market and income approaches, as the income approach considers the future cash flows from a reporting unit’s ongoing operations as a going concern, while the market approach considers the current financial environment in establishing fair value.
In applying the market approach, we use market multiples derived from a set of similar companies. In applying the income approach, we evaluate discounted future cash flows determined from estimated cashflow adjustments to a reporting unit’s projected EBITDA. Under this approach, we calculate the fair value of a reporting unit based on the present value of estimated future cash flows. In applying the discounted cash flow methodology utilized in the income approach, we rely on a number of factors, including future business plans, actual and forecasted operating results, and market data. The significant assumptions employed under this method include discount rates; revenue growth rates, including assumed terminal growth rates; and operating margins used to project future cash flows for a reporting unit. The discount rates utilized reflect market-based estimates of capital costs and discount rates adjusted for management’s assessment of a market participant’s view with respect to other risks associated with the projected cash flows of the individual reporting unit. Our estimates are based upon assumptions we believe to be reasonable, but which by nature are uncertain and unpredictable. We believe we incorporate ample sensitivity ranges into our analysis of goodwill impairment testing for a reporting unit, such that actual experience would need to be materially out of the range of expected assumptions in order for an impairment to remain undetected.
Additionally, effective June 1, 2023, certain businesses of our USL reporting unit were transferred to our Fibergrate, Carboline and Stonhard reporting units within our PCG segment. As a result of this change, USL was no longer designated as a separate reporting unit and any remaining goodwill was transferred to the reporting units noted above.
Although no impairment charge was recorded during fiscal 2024, 2023 and 2022 related to the annual impairment test, we did record a goodwill impairment charge in fiscal 2023. As previously reported, we announced our MAP 2025 operational improvement initiative in August 2022. Due to the challenged macroeconomic environment, we evaluated certain business restructuring actions, specifically our go to market strategy for operating in Europe. During the third quarter ended February 28, 2023, due to declining profitability and regulatory headwinds, management decided to restructure the USL reporting unit within our PCG segment, and explored strategic alternatives for our infrastructure services business within the U.K., which represented approximately 30% of annual revenues of the reporting unit.
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Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets
Our annual impairment test of our indefinite-lived intangible assets performed during fiscal 2024 resulted in a $1.0 million impairment charge for an indefinite-lived tradename in our Consumer segment. This impairment loss was classified as SG&A expenses within our Consumer segment. Our annual impairment test of our indefinite-lived intangible assets performed during fiscal 2023 and 2022 did not result in an impairment charge.
Although no impairment losses were recorded during fiscal 2023 and 2022 related to the annual impairment test, we did record an intangible asset impairment charge in the third quarter of fiscal 2023. In connection with MAP 2025 and related to the goodwill impairment charge noted above, we determined that an interim impairment assessment for our other long-lived assets was required following management's decision to restructure the USL reporting unit within our PCG segment. Accordingly, we recorded an impairment loss totaling $2.5 million for the impairment of an indefinite-lived tradename in our USL reporting unit during fiscal 2023. We did not record any impairments for our definite-lived long-lived assets as a result of this assessment. Refer to Note C, "Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets," to the Consolidated Financial Statements for further discussion.
Definite-Lived Intangible Assets
In accordance with the guidance provided by ASC 360, "Property, Plant, and Equipment," we assess identifiable, amortizable intangible assets for impairment whenever events or changes in facts and circumstances indicate the possibility that the carrying values of these assets may not be recoverable over their estimated remaining useful lives. Factors considered important in our assessment, which might trigger an impairment evaluation, include the following:
Measuring a potential impairment of amortizable intangible assets requires the use of various estimates and assumptions, including the determination of which cash flows are directly related to the assets being evaluated, the respective useful lives over which those cash flows will occur and potential residual values, if any. If we determine that the carrying values of these assets may not be recoverable based upon the existence of one or more of the above-described indicators or other factors, any impairment amounts would be measured based on the projected net cash flows expected from these assets, including any net cash flows related to eventual disposition activities. The determination of any impairment losses would be based on the best information available, including internal estimates of discounted cash flows; market participant assumptions; quoted market prices, when available; and independent appraisals, as appropriate, to determine fair values. Cash flow estimates would be based on our historical experience and our internal business plans, with appropriate discount rates applied.
We did not record any impairment charges related to our definite-lived intangible assets during fiscal 2024, 2023 and 2022.
45
12) Advertising Costs
Advertising costs are charged to operations when incurred and are included in SG&A expenses. For the years ended May 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022, advertising costs were $64.7 million, $62.0 million and $45.4 million, respectively.
13) Research and Development
Research and development costs are charged to operations when incurred and are included in SG&A expenses. The amounts charged to expense for the years ended May 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022 were $92.2 million, $86.6 million and $80.5 million, respectively.
14) Stock-Based Compensation
Stock-based compensation represents the cost related to stock-based awards granted to our associates and directors, which may include restricted stock and stock appreciation rights (“SARs”). We measure stock-based compensation cost at the date of grant, based on the estimated fair value of the award. We recognize the cost as expense on a straight-line basis (net of estimated forfeitures) over the related vesting period. Refer to Note J, “Stock-Based Compensation,” to the Consolidated Financial Statements for further information.
15) Investment (Income) Expense, Net
Investment (income) expense, net, consists of the following components:
Interest (income)
(20,947
(9,250
(4,435
Dividend (income)
(4,113
(2,584
(5,676
Investment (income) expense, net
Net (Gain) Loss on Marketable Securities
Unrealized (gains) losses on marketable equity securities
(19,703
2,667
19,164
Realized (gains) on marketable equity securities
(290
(551
(1,488
Realized losses (gains) on available-for-sale debt securities
79
(30
16) Other Expense (Income), Net
Other expense (income), net, consists of the following components:
Pension non-service costs (credits)
11,046
10,381
(10,581
(882
(604
(1,265
Other expense (income), net
17) Income Taxes
The provision for income taxes is calculated using the asset and liability method. Under the asset and liability method, deferred income taxes are recognized for the tax effect of temporary differences between the financial statement carrying amount of assets and liabilities and the amounts used for income tax purposes and for certain changes in valuation allowances. Valuation allowances are recorded to reduce certain deferred tax assets when, in our estimation, it is more likely than not that a tax benefit will not be realized.
18) Earnings Per Share of Common Stock
Earnings per share (EPS) is computed using both the treasury stock and two-class method, as our unvested share-based payment awards contain rights to receive non-forfeitable dividends and, therefore, are considered participating securities. We calculate both Basic and Diluted EPS under each method and compare the results, reporting the method that is most dilutive.
Basic EPS of common stock is computed by dividing net income by the weighted-average number of shares of common stock outstanding for the period. Diluted EPS of common stock is computed on the basis of the weighted-average number of shares of common stock, plus the effect of dilutive potential shares of common stock outstanding during the period using the treasury stock method. Dilutive potential shares of common stock include outstanding SARS and restricted stock awards. The treasury stock method also assumes that we use the proceeds from the hypothetical exercise of the stock compensation awards to repurchase common stock at the average market price during the period.
The two-class method determines EPS for each class of common stock and participating securities according to dividends and dividend equivalents and their respective participation rights in undistributed earnings.
See Note L, “Earnings Per Share,” to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.
46
19) Supply Chain Financing
During the fourth quarter of 2024, we began offering a supplier finance program with a financial institution, in which suppliers may elect to receive early payment from the financial institution on invoices issued to RPM. The financial institution enters into separate arrangements with suppliers directly to participate in the program. We do not determine the terms or conditions of such arrangements or participate in the transactions between the suppliers and the financial institution. There are no assets pledged by RPM under the supplier finance program. Our responsibility is limited to making payments to the financial institution based on payment terms originally negotiated with the suppliers, regardless of whether the financial institution pays the supplier in advance of the original due date. The range of payment terms RPM negotiates with suppliers are consistent, regardless of whether a supplier participates in the supply chain finance program. RPM or the financial institution may terminate participation in the program upon at least 30 days’ notice.
The total amount due to the financial institution to settle supplier invoices under the supply chain finance program was $32.9 million as of May 31, 2024. We did not have any amounts due under the program as of May 31, 2023. These amounts are included within accounts payable on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
20) Recent Accounting Pronouncements
New Pronouncements Adopted
In September 2022, the FASB issued Accounting Standard Update ("ASU") 2022-04, "Liabilities - Supplier Finance Programs (Subtopic 405-50)," which is intended to establish disclosures that enhance the transparency of a supplier finance program used by an entity in connection with the purchase of goods and services. This guidance requires annual and interim disclosure of the key terms of outstanding supplier finance programs, the amount outstanding under such programs including where they are recorded on the balance sheet, and a roll-forward of the related obligations. The new standard does not affect the recognition, measurement, or financial statement presentation of the supplier finance program obligations. These amendments are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2022, except for the amendment on roll-forward information, which is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2023. We adopted the new standard on June 1, 2023, on a retrospective basis other than the roll-forward guidance, which we plan to adopt on a prospective basis beginning with our fiscal 2025 annual financial statements. As of adoption on June 1, 2023, we did not have any material supplier finance program obligations; however, we began such an arrangement during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2024. Refer to Note A(19), “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies – Supply Chain Financing,” to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
New Pronouncements Issued
In December 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-09, "Income Taxes (Topic 740): Improvements to Income Tax Disclosures," which requires a public business entity to disclose specific categories in its annual effective tax rate reconciliation and disaggregated information about significant reconciling items by jurisdiction and by nature. The ASU also requires entities to disclose their income tax payments (net of refunds) to international, federal, and state and local jurisdictions. The guidance makes several other changes to income tax disclosure requirements. This guidance is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2024, and requires prospective application with the option to apply it retrospectively. Early adoption is permitted. We are currently evaluating this ASU to determine its impact on our disclosures.
In November 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-07, "Segment Reporting (Topic 280): Improvements to Reportable Segment Disclosures," which expands disclosures about a public business entity's reportable segments and provides for more detailed information about a reportable segment's expenses. This guidance is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2023, and interim periods within fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2024, and requires retrospective application to all prior periods presented in the financial statements. Early adoption is permitted. We are currently evaluating this ASU to determine its impact on our disclosures.
NOTE B — RESTRUCTURING
We record restructuring charges associated with management-approved restructuring plans to either reorganize one or more of our business segments, or to remove duplicative headcount and infrastructure associated with our businesses. Restructuring charges can include severance costs to eliminate a specified number of associates, infrastructure charges to vacate facilities and consolidate operations, contract cancellation costs and other costs. We record the short-term portion of our restructuring liability in other accrued liabilities and the long-term portion, if any, in other long-term liabilities in our Consolidated Balance Sheets.
During 2018, we approved and implemented the initial phases of a multi-year restructuring plan, which is referred to as MAP to Growth. We incurred $3.8 million and $6.3 million of restructuring costs associated with this plan for the years ended May 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. We did not incur any restructuring costs for the year ended May 31, 2024, and we do not expect to incur any further costs associated with this plan.
In August 2022, we approved and announced MAP 2025, which is a multi-year restructuring plan to build on the achievements of MAP to Growth and designed to improve margins by streamlining business processes, reducing working capital, implementing commercial initiatives to drive improved mix, pricing discipline and salesforce effectiveness and improving operating efficiency. Most activities under MAP 2025 are anticipated to be completed by the end of fiscal 2025; however, we expect some costs to extend beyond this date.
47
The current total expected costs associated with this plan are outlined below and increased approximately $21.9 million compared to our prior quarter estimate, attributable to an increase in expected severance and benefit charges of $19.5 million and an increase in expected facility closure and other related costs of $2.4 million. Throughout our MAP 2025 initiative, we will continue to assess and find areas of improvement and cost savings. As such, the final implementation of the aforementioned phases and total expected costs are subject to change.
Following is a summary of the charges recorded in connection with MAP 2025 by reportable segment for the years ended May 31, 2024 and 2023, as well as the total expected costs related to projects identified to date:
Year Ended
CumulativeCosts
TotalExpected
May 31, 2024
May 31, 2023
to Date
Costs
CPG Segment:
9,111
6,092
15,203
20,114
608
16,942
Total Charges
9,719
15,811
37,056
PCG Segment:
2,711
1,148
3,859
4,777
172
643
Other restructuring costs (1)
4,555
2,537
7,092
7,438
3,685
11,123
12,512
Consumer Segment:
9,266
507
9,773
17,087
156
621
777
3,675
9,422
1,128
10,550
20,762
SPG Segment:
2,894
805
3,699
4,672
535
6,557
3,429
4,234
11,229
Corporate/Other Segment:
Severance and benefit (credits)
(50
Consolidated:
23,982
8,502
32,484
46,600
1,471
2,092
27,817
11,660
41,668
81,509
A summary of the activity in the restructuring reserves related to MAP 2025 is as follows:
Severance andBenefits Costs
FacilityClosureand OtherRelated Costs
Other AssetWrite-Offs
Balance at June 1, 2022
Additions charged to expense
Cash payments charged against reserve
(5,486
(121
(5,607
Non-cash charges and other adjustments
(299
(500
(2,537
(3,336
2,717
(9,381
(1,423
(10,804
(4,555
(4,552
17,351
17,369
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NOTE C — GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS
The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill, by reportable segment, for the years ended May 31, 2024 and 2023, are as follows:
Segment
Balance as of June 1, 2022
453,651
201,815
515,597
166,805
1,337,868
Acquisitions
7,306
868
16,952
281
Divestitures
(15,723
Impairments
(36,745
Translation adjustments & other
(10,402
(4,206
(1,322
(1,289
(17,219
Balance as of May 31, 2023
450,555
161,732
531,227
150,074
Transfers
(11,414
11,414
333
670
1,751
576
3,330
Balance as of May 31, 2024
451,467
173,816
532,978
150,650
Total accumulated goodwill impairment losses were $193.0 million at May 31, 2024. Of the accumulated balance, $141.4 million is included in our SPG segment, $14.9 million is included in our CPG segment, and $36.7 million is included in our PCG segment. There were no impairment losses recorded during fiscal 2024.
Changes in the Composition of our Segments in the First Quarter of Fiscal 2024
Effective June 1, 2023, certain Asia Pacific businesses and management structure, formerly of our CPG segment, were transferred to our PCG segment to create operating efficiencies and a more unified go-to-market strategy in Asia Pacific. As a result of this business realignment, $11.4 million of goodwill was reassigned from the CPG segment to the PCG segment using a relative fair value allocation approach.
USL Restructuring in the First Quarter of Fiscal 2024
Effective June 1, 2023, certain businesses of our USL reporting unit were transferred to our Fibergrate, Carboline and Stonhard reporting units within our PCG segment. As a result of this change, USL was no longer designated as a separate reporting unit and any remaining goodwill was transferred to the reporting units noted above. Additionally, during the three-month period ended August 31, 2023, we recognized a loss on sale of $4.5 million in connection with the divestiture of Universal Sealants' (USL) Bridgecare services division, which is a contracting business focused on the installation of joints and waterproofing in the U.K. The loss on this sale is included in SG&A in our Consolidated Statements of Income and net (gain) on sales of assets and businesses in our Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows.
USL Impairment Charges Recorded in the Third Quarter of Fiscal 2023
As part of our MAP 2025 operational improvement initiative and given the challenged macroeconomic environment, we evaluated certain business restructuring actions, specifically our go to market strategy for operating in Europe. During the third quarter ended February 28, 2023, due to declining profitability and regulatory headwinds, management decided to restructure the USL reporting unit within our PCG segment and correspondingly explored strategic alternatives for our USL infrastructure services business within the U.K., which represented approximately 30% of annual revenues of the reporting unit.
Due to this decision, we determined that an interim goodwill impairment assessment was required, as well as an impairment assessment for our other long-lived assets. Accordingly, we recorded an impairment loss totaling $36.7 million for the impairment of goodwill and $2.5 million for the impairment of an indefinite-lived tradename in our USL reporting unit during the third quarter of fiscal 2023. We did not record any impairments for our definite-lived long-lived assets as a result of this assessment.
Our goodwill impairment assessment included estimating the fair value of our USL reporting unit and comparing it with its carrying amount at February 28, 2023. Since the carrying amount of the USL reporting unit exceeded its fair value, we recognized an impairment loss. We estimated the fair value of the USL reporting unit using both the income and the market approaches. For the income approach, we estimated the fair value of our USL reporting unit by applying a discounted future cash flow calculation to USL’s projected EBITDA. In applying this methodology, we relied on a number of factors, including actual and forecasted operating results, future operating margins, and market data. The discounted cash flow used in the goodwill impairment test for USL assumed discrete period revenue
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growth through fiscal 2027 for the ongoing USL businesses in the U.K. and North America as well as probability-weighted cash flows that were dependent on the methodology utilized in determining strategic alternatives for the U.K. infrastructure services business. In applying the market approach, we used market multiples derived from a set of companies similar to USL.
After recording the goodwill impairment charge of $36.7 million, $1.1 million of goodwill remained on the USL balance sheet as of May 31, 2023.
Calculating the fair value of the USL’s indefinite-lived tradenames required the use of various estimates and assumptions. We estimated the fair value of USL’s indefinite-lived tradenames by applying a relief-from-royalty calculation, which included discounted future cash flows related to projected revenues for those USL tradenames impacted by this decision. In applying this methodology, we relied on a number of factors, including actual and forecasted revenues and market data. As the carrying amount of one of the tradenames exceeded its fair value, an impairment loss of $2.5 million was recorded during fiscal 2023. This impairment loss was classified in restructuring expense within our PCG segment.
The impairment assessment for our long-lived assets, such as property and equipment and purchased intangibles subject to amortization, involved estimating the fair value of USL’s long-lived assets and comparing it with its carrying amount. Measuring a potential impairment of long-lived assets requires the use of various estimates and assumptions, including the determination of which cash flows are directly related to the assets being evaluated, the respective useful lives over which those cash flows will occur and potential residual values, if any. The results of our testing indicated that the carrying values of these assets were recoverable, as such we did not record an impairment of our long-lived assets during fiscal 2023.
Other intangible assets consist of the following major classes:
Gross
Net Other
Amortization
Carrying
Intangible
Period (In Years)
Amount
As of May 31, 2024
Amortized intangible assets
Formulae
9 to 33
238,671
(200,846
37,825
Customer-related intangibles
5 to 33
508,398
(302,783
205,615
Trademarks/names
5 to 40
35,476
(24,848
10,628
3 to 30
25,060
(23,200
1,860
Total Amortized Intangibles
807,605
(551,677
255,928
Indefinite-lived intangible assets
257,044
Total Other Intangible Assets
1,064,649
As of May 31, 2023
236,486
(190,981
45,505
506,618
(275,369
231,249
35,374
(23,792
11,582
32,583
(27,329
5,254
811,061
(517,471
293,590
261,401
1,072,462
The aggregate intangible asset amortization expense for the fiscal years ended May 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022 was $39.1 million, $43.5 million and $45.7 million, respectively. For the next five fiscal years, we estimate annual intangible asset amortization expense related to our existing intangible assets to approximate the following: fiscal 2025 — $43.3 million, fiscal 2026 — $30.3 million, fiscal 2027 — $28.7 million, fiscal 2028 — $26.3 million and fiscal 2029 — $25.1 million.
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NOTE D — MARKETABLE SECURITIES
The following tables summarize available-for-sale debt securities held at May 31, 2024 and 2023 by asset type:
Available-For-Sale Debt Securities
AmortizedCost
GrossUnrealizedGains
GrossUnrealizedLosses
Fair Value(Net CarryingAmount)
Fixed maturity:
U.S. treasury and other government
28,338
(1,784
26,559
Corporate bonds
146
(12
138
Total available-for-sale debt securities
28,484
(1,796
26,697
28,841
(1,843
27,021
147
141
28,988
(1,855
27,162
Marketable securities are composed of available-for-sale debt securities and marketable equity securities and all marketable securities are reported at fair value. We carry a portion of our marketable securities portfolio in long-term assets since they are generally held for the settlement of our general and product liability insurance claims processed through our wholly owned captive insurance subsidiaries.
Available-for-sale debt securities are included in other current and long-term assets totaling $6.5 million and $20.2 million at May 31, 2024, respectively, and included in other current and long-term assets totaling $5.1 million and $22.1 million at May 31, 2023, respectively. Realized gains and losses on sales of available-for-sale debt securities are recognized in net income on the specific identification basis. Changes in the fair values of available-for-sale debt securities that are determined to be holding gains or losses are recorded through accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of applicable taxes, within stockholders' equity. In assessing whether a credit loss exists, we evaluate our ability to hold the investment, the strength of the underlying collateral and the extent to which the investment's amortized cost or cost, as appropriate, exceeds it related fair value.
As of May 31, 2024 and 2023, we held approximately $127.6 million and $121.2 million in marketable equity securities, respectively. Realized and unrealized gains and losses on marketable equity securities are included in Investment (Income) Expense, Net in the Consolidated Statements of Income. Refer to Note A(15), “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Investment (Income) Expense, Net,” to the Consolidated Financial Statements for further details.
Summarized below are the available-for-sale debt securities we held at May 31, 2024 and 2023 that were in an unrealized loss position and that were included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), aggregated by the length of time the investments had been in that position:
Fair Value
Total investments with unrealized losses
25,464
24,245
Unrealized losses with a loss position for less than 12 months
4,866
(36
6,285
Unrealized losses with a loss position for more than 12 months
20,598
(1,760
17,960
(1,783
We have reviewed all the securities included in the table above and have concluded that we have the ability and intent to hold these investments until their cost can be recovered, based upon the severity and duration of the decline. The decline in fair value is largely due to changes in interest rates and other market conditions. We have evaluated these securities and have determined no allowance for credit losses is necessary for these investments.
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The net carrying values of available-for-sale debt securities at May 31, 2024, by contractual maturity, are shown below. Expected maturities may differ from contractual maturities because the issuers of the securities may have the right to prepay obligations without prepayment penalties.
Amortized Cost
Due:
Less than one year
6,589
6,502
One year through five years
16,548
15,816
Six years through ten years
2,929
2,638
After ten years
2,418
1,741
NOTE E — FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS
Financial instruments recorded in the Consolidated Balance Sheets include cash and cash equivalents, trade accounts receivable, marketable securities, notes and accounts payable, and debt.
An allowance for credit losses is established for trade accounts receivable using assessments of current creditworthiness of customers, historical collection experience, the aging of receivables and other currently available evidence. Trade accounts receivable balances are written-off against the allowance if a final determination of uncollectibility is made. All provisions for allowance for doubtful collection of accounts are included in SG&A.
All derivative instruments were recognized in our Consolidated Balance Sheets and measured at fair value. Changes in the fair values of derivative instruments that did not qualify as hedges and/or any ineffective portion of hedges were recognized as a gain or (loss) in our Consolidated Statements of Income in the current period. Changes in the fair value of derivative instruments used effectively as cash flow hedges were recognized in other comprehensive income (loss), along with the change in the value of the hedged item. We do not hold or issue derivative instruments for speculative purposes.
The valuation techniques utilized for establishing the fair values of assets and liabilities are based on observable and unobservable inputs. Observable inputs reflect readily obtainable data from independent sources, while unobservable inputs reflect management’s market assumptions. The fair value hierarchy has three levels based on the reliability of the inputs used to determine fair value, as follows:
Level 1 Inputs — Quoted prices for identical instruments in active markets.
Level 2 Inputs — Quoted prices for similar instruments in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar instruments in markets that are not active; and model-derived valuations whose inputs are observable or whose significant value drivers are observable.
Level 3 Inputs — Instruments with primarily unobservable value drivers.
The following tables present our assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis and are categorized using the fair value hierarchy. In addition, with respect to our derivative assets and liabilities measured at fair value, refer to Note F, "Derivatives and Hedging," to the Consolidated Financial Statements for discussion of their classification within the fair value hierarchy.
Quoted Pricesin ActiveMarkets forIdentical Assets(Level 1)
SignificantOtherObservableInputs (Level 2)
SignificantUnobservableInputs (Level 3)
Fair Value atMay 31, 2024
Available-for-sale debt securities:
U.S. Treasury and other government
Marketable equity securities:
Stocks-foreign
1,518
Stocks-domestic
9,028
Mutual funds - foreign
39,114
Mutual funds - domestic
77,966
Total marketable equity securities
10,546
117,080
127,626
Contingent consideration
(2,229
143,777
152,094
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Fair Value atMay 31, 2023
786
5,009
40,074
75,284
5,795
115,358
121,153
(2,686
142,520
145,629
Our investments in available-for-sale debt securities and marketable equity securities are valued using a market approach. The availability of inputs observable in the market varies from instrument to instrument and depends on a variety of factors, including the type of instrument, whether the instrument is actively traded and other characteristics particular to the transaction. For most of our financial instruments, pricing inputs are readily observable in the market, the valuation methodology used is widely accepted by market participants, and the valuation does not require significant management discretion. For other financial instruments, pricing inputs are less observable in the market and may require management judgment.
The contingent consideration represents the estimated fair value of the additional variable cash consideration payable in connection with recent acquisitions that is contingent upon the achievement of certain performance milestones. We estimated the fair value using expected future cash flows over the period in which the obligation is expected to be settled which is considered to be a Level 3 input. During fiscal 2024, we paid approximately $1.1 million to satisfy contingent consideration obligations relating to certain performance milestones that were established in prior periods and achieved during the year. During fiscal 2023, we increased our accrual by $2.6 million related to fair value adjustments and paid approximately $10.4 million for settlements of contingent consideration obligations relating to certain performance milestones that were established in prior periods and achieved during fiscal 2023. In the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows, payments of acquisition-related contingent consideration for the amount recognized at fair value as of the acquisition date are reported in cash flows from financing activities, while payment of contingent consideration in excess of fair value as of the acquisition date, are reported in cash flows from operating activities within accrued liabilities.
The carrying value of our current financial instruments, which include cash and cash equivalents, marketable securities, trade accounts receivable, accounts payable and short-term debt, approximates fair value because of the short-term maturity of these financial instruments. At May 31, 2024 and 2023, the fair value of our long-term debt was estimated using active market quotes, based on our current incremental borrowing rates for similar types of borrowing arrangements, which are Level 2 inputs. Based on the analysis performed, the fair value and the carrying value of our financial instruments and long-term debt as of May 31, 2024 and 2023 are as follows:
At May 31, 2024
Carrying Value
Long-term debt, including current portion
2,127,148
1,979,359
At May 31, 2023
2,683,809
2,490,863
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NOTE F — DERIVATIVES AND HEDGING
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities
We are exposed to market risks, such as changes in foreign currency exchange rates and interest rates. To manage the volatility related to these exposures, from time to time, we enter into various derivative transactions. We use various types of derivative instruments, including forward contracts and swaps. We formally assess, designate and document, as a hedge of an underlying exposure, each qualifying derivative instrument that will be accounted for as an accounting hedge at inception. Additionally, we assess, both at inception and at least quarterly thereafter, whether the financial instruments used in the hedging transaction are effective at offsetting changes in either the fair values or cash flows of the underlying exposures.
Derivatives Designated as Hedges
In February 2020, as a means of mitigating the impact of currency fluctuations on our Euro investments in foreign entities, we executed a cash flow hedge and two cross currency swap agreements, in which we paid fixed rate interest in Euros and received variable rate interest in U.S. Dollars with a combined notional amount of approximately €277.73 million ($300 million U.S. Dollar equivalent), and which had a maturity date of February 2023. This effectively converted our U.S. Dollar denominated variable rate debt to Euro denominated fixed rate debt. The cash flow hedge was recognized at fair value in our Consolidated Balance Sheets, while changes in the fair value of the hedge were recognized in AOCI when the hedged items affected earnings. Amounts recognized in AOCI were recognized in earnings in interest expense when the hedged interest payment was accrued. We designated the swaps as net investment hedges of our net investment in our European operations under ASU 2017-12 and applied the spot method to these hedges. The changes in fair value of the derivative instruments that were designated and qualified as hedges of net investments in foreign operations were recognized in AOCI to offset the changes in the values of the net investments being hedged.
In addition, in February 2020, as a means of mitigating the variability of the functional-currency-equivalent cash flows associated with the U.S. Dollar denominated term loan facility (referred to as Foreign Borrower’s Term Loan), we executed a cash flow hedge, in which we paid fixed rate interest in Euros and received variable rate interest in U.S. Dollars with a notional amount of approximately €92.52 million ($100 million U.S. Dollar equivalent), and which had a maturity date of February 2023. This effectively converted our U.S. Dollar denominated variable rate debt to Euro denominated fixed rate debt. The cash flow hedge was recognized at fair value in our Consolidated Balance Sheets, while changes in the fair value of the hedge were recognized in AOCI when the hedged items affected earnings. Amounts recorded in AOCI were recognized in earnings in interest expense when the hedged interest payment was accrued. In addition, since this currency swap was a hedge of variability of the functional-currency-equivalent cash flows of a recognized liability to be remeasured at spot exchange rates under ASC 830, "Foreign Currency Matters," an amount that offset the gain or loss arising from the remeasurement of the hedged liability was reclassified each period from AOCI to earnings as foreign exchange gain/(loss), which is a component of SG&A expenses.
In May 2022, the cash flow hedges and cross-currency swaps were terminated, and we received cash in the amount of $11.6 million, representing the fair value of the swap and interest accrued through the date of termination. Accordingly, hedge accounting was discontinued. For the cash flow hedges, a hedge accounting reserve balance within AOCI of $1.9 million remained and was amortized to interest expense in the Consolidated Statements of Income through the original termination date of the underlying hedged debt in February 2023. Changes in the fair value of the cross-currency swaps were recorded as cumulative translation adjustment within AOCI and will remain in AOCI until either the sale or substantially complete liquidation of the hedged subsidiaries. As such, there were no assets or liabilities recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheets as of May 31, 2024 and May 31, 2023 for derivatives designated as hedges.
The following table summarizes the location and effects of our derivatives instruments on the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income and Consolidated Statements of Income for gains or losses initially recognized in AOCI in the Consolidated Balance Sheets:
Pretax gain/(loss) recognizedin AOCI
Pretax gain/(loss) reclassifiedfrom AOCI into Income
Derivatives in hedgingrelationships
Income Statement Location
Interest Rate Swap (Cash Flow)
4,508
Interest (Expense) Income
(3,272
Cross Currency Swap (Cash Flow)
15,494
Interest Income
1,766
611
Foreign Exchange (Loss)
14,758
Cross Currency Swap (Net Investment)
40,471
Gain or (loss) on sale of subsidiary
60,473
12,097
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Derivatives Not Designated as Hedges
At May 31, 2024 and 2023, we held one foreign currency forward contract at each period end designed to reduce our exposure to changes in the cash flows of intercompany foreign-currency-denominated loans related to changes in foreign currency exchange rates by fixing the functional currency cash flows. These contracts have not been designated as hedges; therefore, the changes in fair value of the contracts are recognized in earnings as a component of SG&A expenses. Amounts recognized in earnings and in the Consolidated Balance Sheets did not have a material impact on our Consolidated Financial Statements for any period presented. As of May 31, 2024, and May 31, 2023, the notional amounts of the forward contract held to purchase foreign currencies was $113.7 million and $43.6 million, respectively.
Disclosure About Derivative Instruments
All of our derivative assets and liabilities measured at fair value are classified as Level 2 within the fair value hierarchy. We determine the fair value of our derivatives based on valuation methods, which project future cash flows and discount the future amounts to present value using market-based observable inputs, including interest rate curves, foreign currency rates, as well as future and basis point spreads, as applicable. Cash flows related to derivatives that are designated as hedges are classified in the same manner as the item being hedged.
NOTE G — BORROWINGS
A description of long-term debt follows:
Revolving credit facility with a syndicate of banks, through August 1, 2027 (1)
342,630
610,947
Accounts receivable securitization program with two banks, through May 19, 2025 (2)
129,813
174,885
Unsecured term loan due August 1, 2025 (3)
249,772
Unsecured 3.75% notes due March 15, 2027 (4)
398,728
398,292
Unsecured 4.55% senior notes due March 1, 2029 (5)
348,082
347,686
Unsecured 2.95% notes due January 15, 2032 (6)
297,176
296,815
Unsecured 5.25% notes due June 1, 2045 (7)
298,987
298,913
Unsecured 4.25% notes due January 15, 2048 (8)
297,080
296,962
Other obligations, including finance leases and unsecured notes payable at various rates of interest due in installments through 2033
14,652
9,537
Less: current portion
Total Long-Term Debt, Less Current Maturities
Interest as of May 31, 2023 was 6.2600% for the USD denominated swingline account, which is tied to SOFR; 6.3600% for the USD denominated revolver, which is tied to SOFR; 4.2926% on EUR denominated debt which is tied to ESTR; 5.5607% on GBP denominated debt, which is tied to the Sterling Overnight Index Average; and 4.9200% on AUD denominated debt, which is tied to the Reserve Bank of Australia rate. The debt balances outstanding, excluding deferred financing fees, as of May 31, 2023 for the USD denominated swingline, USD denominated revolver, EUR denominated revolver, GBP denominated debt, and AUD denominated debt were as follows: $8.2 million, $30.0 million, $527.6 million, $46.7 million, and $1.2 million.
As of May 31, 2024 and 2023, the revolving credit facility is adjusted for debt issuance costs, net of amortization, for approximately $2.1 million and $2.8 million, respectively.
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The aggregate maturities of long-term debt for the five years subsequent to May 31, 2024 are as follows: fiscal 2025 — $136.2 million; fiscal 2026 — $4.2 million; fiscal 2027 — $402.2 million; fiscal 2028 — $345.6 million; fiscal 2029 — $350.4 million and thereafter $901.2 million. Additionally, at May 31, 2024, we had unused lines of credit totaling $1,125.3 million.
Our available liquidity, including our cash and cash equivalents and amounts available under our committed credit facilities, stood at $1,362.6 million at May 31, 2024. Our debt-to-capital ratio was 45.9% at May 31, 2024, compared with 55.5% at May 31, 2023.
Revolving Credit Agreement
During the quarter ended August 31, 2022, we amended our $1.3 billion unsecured syndicated revolving credit facility (the "Revolving Credit Facility"), which was set to expire on October 31, 2023. The amendment extended the expiration date to August 1, 2027 and increased the borrowing capacity to $1.35 billion. The Revolving Credit Facility bears interest at either the base rate or the adjusted SOFR, as defined, at our option, plus a spread determined by our debt rating. The Revolving Credit Facility includes sublimits for the issuance of swingline loans, which are comparatively short-term loans used for working capital purposes and letters of credit. The Revolving Credit Facility is available to refinance existing indebtedness, to finance working capital and capital expenditures, and for general corporate purposes.
The Revolving Credit Facility requires us to comply with various customary affirmative and negative covenants, including a leverage covenant (i.e. Net Leverage Ratio) and interest coverage ratio, which are calculated in accordance with the terms as defined by the Revolving Credit Facility. Under the terms of the leverage covenant, we may not permit our leverage ratio for total indebtedness to consolidated EBITDA for the four most recent fiscal quarters to exceed 3.75 to 1.00. During certain periods and per the terms of the Revolving Credit Facility, this ratio may be increased to 4.25 to 1.00 upon delivery of a notice to our lender requesting an increase to our maximum leverage or in connection with certain “material acquisitions.” The minimum required consolidated interest coverage ratio for EBITDA to interest expense is 3.50 to 1.00. The interest coverage ratio is calculated at the end of each fiscal quarter for the four fiscal quarters then ended using EBITDA as defined in the Revolving Credit Facility.
As of May 31, 2024, we were in compliance with all financial covenants contained in our Revolving Credit Facility, including the leverage and interest coverage ratio covenants. At that date, our leverage ratio was 1.61 to 1, while our interest coverage ratio was 10.18 to 1. Our available liquidity under our Revolving Credit Facility stood at $1,005.3 million at May 31, 2024.
Our access to funds under our Revolving Credit Facility is dependent on the ability of the financial institutions that are parties to the Revolving Credit Facility to meet their funding commitments. Those financial institutions may not be able to meet their funding commitments if they experience shortages of capital and liquidity or if they experience excessive volumes of borrowing requests within a short period of time. Moreover, the obligations of the financial institutions under our Revolving Credit Facility are several and not joint and, as a result, a funding default by one or more institutions does not need to be made up by the others.
Accounts Receivable Securitization Program
On May 9, 2014, we entered into a $200.0 million accounts receivable securitization facility (the “AR Program”). On March 18, 2021, we amended the AR Program to a maximum availability of $250 million during all borrowing periods and an extended facility termination date of May 21, 2024, which was subsequently extended to May 19, 2025. The AR Program was entered into pursuant to
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(1) a second amended and restated receivables sales agreement, dated as of May 9, 2014, and subsequently amended on August 29, 2014; November 3, 2015; December 31, 2016; March 31, 2017; and June 5, 2020 (the “Sale Agreement”), among certain of our subsidiaries (the “Originators”), and RPM Funding Corporation, a special purpose entity (the “SPE”) whose voting interests are wholly owned by us, and (2) an amended and restated receivables purchase agreement, dated as of May 9, 2014 and subsequently amended on February 25, 2015 and May 2, 2017, May 22, 2020, March 18, 2021, and March 23, 2023 (the “Purchase Agreement”), among the SPE, certain purchasers from time to time party thereto (the “Purchasers”), and PNC Bank, National Association as administrative agent.
Under the Sale Agreement, the Originators may, during the term thereof, sell specified accounts receivable to the SPE, which may in turn, pursuant to the Purchase Agreement, transfer an undivided interest in such accounts receivable to the Purchasers. Once transferred to the SPE, such receivables are owned in their entirety by the SPE and are not available to satisfy claims of our creditors or creditors of the originating subsidiaries until the obligations owing to the participating banks have been paid in full. We indirectly hold a 100% economic interest in the SPE and will, along with our subsidiaries, receive the economic benefit of the AR Program. The transactions contemplated by the AR Program do not constitute a form of off-balance sheet financing and will be fully reflected in our financial statements.
The maximum availability under the AR Program is $250.0 million. Availability is further subject to changes in the credit ratings of our customers, customer concentration levels or certain characteristics of the accounts receivable being transferred and, therefore, at certain times, we may not be able to fully access the $250.0 million of funding available under the AR Program. As of May 31, 2024, there was $130.0 million outstanding under the AR Program, which compares with the maximum availability on that date of $250.0 million.
The interest rate under the Purchase Agreement through May 31, 2023 was based on the Alternate Base Rate, LIBOR Market Index Rate, one-month LIBOR or LIBOR for a specified tranche period, as selected by us, plus in each case, a margin of 0.85%. Effective June 1, 2023, as set forth in Amendment No. 8 to the Purchase Agreement dated March 23, 2023, the interest rate was amended from LIBOR to be based on the SOFR. In addition, as set forth in an Amended and Restated Fee Letter, dated March 18, 2021 (the “Fee Letter”), the SPE is obligated to pay a monthly unused commitment fee to the Purchasers based on the daily amount of unused commitments under the Agreement, which ranges from 0.30% to 0.50% based on usage. The AR Program contains various customary affirmative and negative covenants and also contains customary default and termination provisions.
As set forth in Amendment No. 9 to the Purchase Agreement effective May 20, 2024, we extended the AR Program termination date from May 21, 2024 to May 19, 2025. As a result of Amendment No. 9, there were no changes to the interest rate or the monthly unused commitment fee to the Purchasers.
Our failure to comply with the covenants described in the Revolving Credit Facility section above could result in an event of default under that agreement, entitling the lenders to, among other things, declare the entire amount outstanding under the Revolving Credit Facility to be due and payable. The instruments governing our other outstanding indebtedness generally include cross-default provisions that provide that, under certain circumstances, an event of default that results in acceleration of our indebtedness under the Revolving Credit Facility will entitle the holders of such other indebtedness to declare amounts outstanding immediately due and payable.
Term Loan Facility Credit Agreement
On February 21, 2020, we and our subsidiary, RPM Europe Holdco B.V. (formerly “RPM New Horizons Netherlands, B.V”) (the “Foreign Borrower”), entered into an unsecured syndicated term loan facility credit agreement (the “New Credit Facility”) with the lenders party thereto and PNC Bank, National Association, as administrative agent for the lenders. The New Credit Facility provided for a $300.0 million term loan to us and a $100.0 million term loan to the Foreign Borrower (together, the “Term Loans”), each of which was fully advanced on the closing date. In May of 2022, we paid down the $100.0 million term loan to the Foreign Borrower.
On August 1, 2022, we amended the New Credit Facility and paid down the borrowings outstanding on the term loan to $250.0 million. On December 27, 2023, we prepaid the $250.0 million of principal outstanding on our term loan which had a maturity date of August 1, 2025.
5.250% Notes due 2045 and 3.750% Notes due 2027
On March 2, 2017, we issued $50.0 million aggregate principal amount of 5.250% Notes due 2045 (the “2045 Notes”) and $400.0 million aggregate principal amount of 3.750% Notes due 2027 (the “2027 Notes”). The 2045 Notes are a further issuance of the $250.0 million aggregate principal amount of 5.250% Notes due 2045 initially issued by us on May 29, 2015. Interest on the 2045 Notes is payable semiannually in arrears on June 1st and December 1st of each year at a rate of 5.250% per year. The 2045 Notes mature on June 1, 2045. Interest on the 2027 Notes is payable semiannually in arrears on March 15th and September 15th of each year, at a rate of 3.750% per year. The 2027 Notes mature on March 15, 2027. The indenture governing this indebtedness includes cross-acceleration provisions. Under certain circumstances, where an event of default under our other instruments results in acceleration of the indebtedness under such instruments, holders of the indebtedness under the indenture are entitled to declare amounts outstanding immediately due and payable.
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4.550% Notes due 2029
On February 27, 2019, we closed an offering for $350.0 million aggregate principal amount of 4.550% Notes due 2029 (the “2029 Notes”). The proceeds from the 2029 Notes were used to repay a portion of the outstanding borrowings under our revolving credit facility and for general corporate purposes. Interest on the 2029 Notes accrues from February 27, 2019 and is payable semiannually in arrears on March 1st and September 1st of each year, beginning September 1, 2019, at a rate of 4.550% per year. The 2029 Notes mature on March 1, 2029. The indenture governing this indebtedness includes cross-acceleration provisions. Under certain circumstances, where an event of default under our other instruments results in acceleration of the indebtedness under such instruments, holders of the indebtedness under the indenture are entitled to declare amounts outstanding immediately due and payable.
2.950% Notes due 2032
On January 25, 2022, we closed an offering for $300.0 million aggregate principal amount of 2.950% Notes due 2032. The proceeds from the 2032 notes were used to repay a portion of the outstanding borrowings under our revolving credit facility and for general corporate purposes. Interest on the Notes accrues from January 25, 2022 and will be payable semiannually in arrears on January 15 and July 15 of each year, beginning July 15, 2022, at a rate of 2.950% per year. The notes mature on January 15, 2032. The indenture governing this indebtedness includes cross-acceleration provisions. Under certain circumstances, where an event of default under our other instruments results in acceleration of the indebtedness under such instruments, holders of the indebtedness under the indenture are entitled to declare amounts outstanding immediately due and payable.
4.250% Notes due 2048
On December 20, 2017, we closed an offering for $300.0 million aggregate principal amount of 4.250% Notes due 2048 (the “2048 Notes”). The proceeds from the 2048 Notes were used to repay $250.0 million in principal amount of unsecured 6.50% senior notes due February 15, 2018, and for general corporate purposes. Interest on the 2048 Notes accrues from December 20, 2017 and is payable semiannually in arrears on January 15th and July 15th of each year, beginning July 15, 2018, at a rate of 4.250% per year. The 2048 Notes mature on January 15, 2048. The indenture governing this indebtedness includes cross-acceleration provisions. Under certain circumstances, where an event of default under our other instruments results in acceleration of the indebtedness under such instruments, holders of the indebtedness under the indenture are entitled to declare amounts outstanding immediately due and payable.
NOTE H — INCOME TAXES
The provision for income taxes is calculated in accordance with ASC 740, "Income Taxes," which requires the recognition of deferred income taxes using the asset and liability method.
Income before income taxes as shown in the Consolidated Statements of Income is summarized below for the periods indicated.
United States
625,167
557,401
342,834
Foreign
162,670
91,981
263,965
Provision (benefit) for income taxes consists of the following for the periods indicated:
Current:
U.S. federal
109,869
91,749
60,818
State and local
31,996
25,972
19,495
62,168
45,694
59,087
Total Current
204,033
163,415
139,400
Deferred:
(2,263
16,969
(24,025
618
4,359
2,489
(3,993
(15,092
(3,531
Total Deferred
58
The significant components of deferred income tax assets and liabilities as of May 31, 2024 and 2023 were as follows:
Deferred income tax assets related to:
17,772
18,811
17,649
18,331
Accrued other expenses
19,058
21,037
Deferred income and other long-term liabilities
31,204
30,239
Credit, net operating, interest and capital loss carryforwards
87,590
75,366
Net unrealized loss on securities
3,373
Research and development
33,076
17,360
Pension and other postretirement benefits
11,813
Total Deferred Income Tax Assets
206,349
196,330
Less: valuation allowances
(30,021
(30,033
Net Deferred Income Tax Assets
176,328
166,297
Deferred income tax (liabilities) related to:
Depreciation
(132,007
(123,421
Amortization of intangibles
(125,553
(116,763
Unremitted foreign earnings
(4,055
(990
Net unrealized gain on securities
(1,305
(1,108
Total Deferred Income Tax (Liabilities)
(264,028
(241,174
Deferred Income Tax Assets (Liabilities), Net
(87,700
(74,877
As of May 31, 2024, we had foreign tax credit carryforwards of $38.3 million, which expire at various dates through fiscal 2034. Additionally, as of May 31, 2024, we had approximately $0.7 million of net tax benefits associated with state net operating loss carryforwards and state tax credit carryforwards, some of which expire at various dates beginning in fiscal 2025.
As of May 31, 2024, we had foreign net operating losses of approximately $95.0 million and interest deduction carryforwards of approximately $74.1 million, totaling approximately $169.1 million. Of these carryforward amounts, approximately $17.2 million will expire at various dates beginning in fiscal 2025 and approximately $151.9 million have an indefinite carryforward period. Additionally, as of May 31, 2024, we had foreign capital loss carryforwards of approximately $24.1 million that can be carried forward indefinitely.
When evaluating the realizability of deferred income tax assets, we consider, among other items, whether a jurisdiction has experienced cumulative pretax losses and whether a jurisdiction will generate the appropriate character of income to recognize a deferred income tax asset. More specifically, if a jurisdiction experiences cumulative pretax losses for a period of three years, including the current fiscal year, or if a jurisdiction does not have sufficient income of the appropriate character in the relevant carryback or projected carryforward periods, we generally conclude that it is more likely than not that the respective deferred tax asset will not be realized unless factors such as expected operational changes, availability of prudent and feasible tax planning strategies, reversal of taxable temporary differences or other information exists that would lead us to conclude otherwise. If, after we have evaluated these factors, the deferred income tax assets are not expected to be realized within the carryforward or carryback periods allowed for that jurisdiction, we would conclude that a valuation allowance is required.
Total valuation allowances approximating $30.0 million have been recorded as of May 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. These recorded valuation allowances relate primarily to certain foreign interest expense deductions and foreign net operating losses, certain state net operating losses, and net foreign deferred tax assets.
59
The following table reconciles income tax expense (benefit) computed by applying the U.S. statutory federal income tax rate against income (loss) before income taxes to the provision (benefit) for income taxes:
(In thousands, except percentages)
Income tax expense at the U.S. statutory federal income tax rate
165,446
136,370
127,428
Foreign rate differential and other foreign tax adjustments
4,342
1,535
6,278
State and local income taxes, net
28,000
22,017
20,393
Impact of GILTI provisions
3,548
4,217
1,709
Nondeductible business expense
1,944
1,257
532
Valuation allowance
(754
1,199
(32,720
Deferred tax liability for unremitted foreign earnings
3,658
(10,686
Changes in unrecognized tax benefits
2,209
(3,334
(1,682
Equity-based compensation
(5,496
(3,482
(1,776
Nondeductible goodwill impairment
7,264
(4,502
2,608
4,857
Provision for Income Tax Expense
Effective Income Tax Rate
25.2
26.1
18.8
Uncertain income tax positions are accounted for in accordance with ASC 740. The following table summarizes the activity related to unrecognized tax benefits:
Balance at June 1
2.9
5.7
7.5
Additions for tax positions of prior years
Reductions for tax positions of prior years
(1.4
(2.8
Settlements
Foreign currency translation
Balance at May 31
4.4
The total amount of unrecognized tax benefits that would impact the effective tax rate, if recognized, at May 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022 was $4.4 million, $2.9 million and $5.6 million, respectively.
We recognize interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits in income tax expense. At May 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022, the accrual for interest and penalties was $3.0 million, $2.2 million and $3.2 million, respectively. Unrecognized tax benefits, including interest and penalties, have been classified as other long-term liabilities unless expected to be paid in one year.
We file income tax returns in the United States and in various state, local and foreign jurisdictions. With limited exceptions, we are subject to federal, state and local, or non-U.S. income tax examinations by tax authorities for fiscal 2017 through 2024. We are currently under examination, or have been notified of an upcoming tax examination, for various non-U.S. and domestic state and local jurisdictions. Although it is possible that certain tax examinations could be resolved during the next 12 months, the timing and outcomes are uncertain.
Our deferred tax liability for unremitted foreign earnings was $4.1 million as of May 31, 2024, which represents our estimate of the net tax cost associated with the deemed remittance of $285.6 million of foreign earnings that are not considered to be permanently reinvested.
We have not provided for U.S. income taxes or foreign withholding taxes on the remaining $1.2 billion of foreign unremitted earnings because such earnings have been retained and reinvested by the foreign subsidiaries as of May 31, 2024. Accordingly, no provision has been made for U.S. income taxes or foreign withholding taxes, which may become payable if the remaining unremitted earnings of foreign subsidiaries were distributed to the United States. Due to the uncertainties and complexities involved in the various options for repatriation of foreign earnings, it is not practical to calculate the deferred taxes associated with the remaining foreign earnings.
The Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) has proposed a framework comprised of rules and models, collectively referred to as Pillar Two (P2), that are designed to ensure that certain multi-national enterprises pay a minimum tax rate of 15% on reported profits arising in each jurisdiction where they operate. Although the OECD provided a framework for applying the minimum tax, individual countries have and may continue to enact P2 rules that are different than the OECD framework. Generally, P2 will have first effect for us in fiscal 2026. While we continue to monitor P2 developments, we do not anticipate that P2 will have a material impact on our long-term financial position.
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NOTE I — STOCK REPURCHASE PROGRAM
On January 8, 2008, we announced our authorization of a stock repurchase program under which we may repurchase shares of RPM International Inc. common stock at management’s discretion. As announced on November 28, 2018, our goal was to return $1.0 billion in capital to stockholders by May 31, 2021 through share repurchases and the retirement of our convertible note during fiscal 2019. On April 16, 2019, after taking into account share repurchases under our existing stock repurchase program to date, our Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of the remaining $600.0 million in value of RPM International Inc. common stock by May 31, 2021.
As previously announced, given macroeconomic uncertainty resulting from the Covid pandemic, we had suspended stock repurchases under the program, but in January 2021, our Board of Directors authorized the resumption of the stock repurchases. At the time of resuming the program, $469.7 million of shares of common stock remained available for repurchase. The Board of Directors also extended the stock repurchase program beyond its original May 31, 2021 expiration date until such time that the remaining $469.7 million of capital has been returned to our stockholders.
As a result, we may repurchase shares from time to time in the open market or in private transactions at various times and in amounts and for prices that our management deems appropriate, subject to insider trading rules and other securities law restrictions. The timing of our purchases will depend upon prevailing market conditions, alternative uses of capital and other factors. We may limit or terminate the repurchase program at any time.
During the fiscal year ended May 31, 2024, we repurchased 526,113 shares of our common stock at a cost of approximately $55.0 million, or an average cost of $104.50 per share, under this program. During the fiscal year ended May 31, 2023, we repurchased 598,653 shares of our common stock at a cost of approximately $50.0 million, or an average cost of $83.52 per share, under this program. During the fiscal year ended May 31, 2022, we repurchased 601,155 shares of our common stock at a cost of approximately $52.5 million, or an average cost of $87.33 per share, under this program. The maximum dollar amount that may yet be repurchased under our stock repurchase program was approximately $262.3 million at May 31, 2024.
NOTE J — STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION
Stock-based compensation represents the cost related to stock-based awards granted to our associates and directors; these awards include restricted stock, restricted stock units, performance stocks, performance stock units and SARs. We grant stock-based incentive awards to our associates and our directors under various share-based compensation plans. The plan that is active or provides for stock option grants or share-based payment awards is the Amended and Restated 2014 Omnibus Equity and Incentive Plan (the “2014 Omnibus Plan”), which includes provisions for grants of restricted stock, restricted stock units, performance stock, performance stock units and SARs. Other plans, which provide for restricted stock grants only, include the 2003 Restricted Stock Plan for Directors (the “2003 Plan”) and the 2007 Restricted Stock Plan (the “2007 Plan”). The shares available for grant out of the 2003 Plan and the 2007 Plan have been exhausted, and all future grants will be issued from the 2014 Omnibus Plan.
We measure stock-based compensation cost at the date of grant, based on the estimated fair value of the award. We recognize the cost as expense on a straight-line basis (net of estimated forfeitures) over the related vesting period.
The following table represents total stock-based compensation expense included in our Consolidated Statements of Income:
Stock-based compensation expense, included in SG&A
28,723
Stock-based compensation expense, included in restructuring expense
630
Total stock-based compensation cost
40,744
Income tax (benefit)
(3,627
(4,234
(5,621
Total stock-based compensation cost, net of tax
22,298
24,439
35,123
SARs
SARs are awards that allow our associates to receive shares of our common stock at a fixed price. We grant SARs at an exercise price equal to the stock price on the date of the grant. The fair value of SARs granted is estimated as of the date of grant using a Black-Scholes option-pricing model. The Black-Scholes option-pricing model was developed for use in estimating the fair value of traded options that have no vesting restrictions and are fully transferable. The risk-free rate for periods within the contractual life of the option is based on the U.S. Treasury yield curve in effect at the time of grant. The expected life of options granted is derived from the input of the option-pricing model and represents the period of time that options granted are expected to be outstanding. Expected volatility rates are based on historical volatility of shares of our common stock.
61
The following is a summary of our weighted-average assumptions related to SARs grants made during the last three fiscal years:
Risk-free interest rate
3.9
3.0
0.9
Expected life of option - years
Expected dividend yield
1.8
Expected volatility rate
24.6
23.6
24.1
The 2014 Omnibus Plan was approved by our stockholders on October 9, 2014, and amendments to the 2014 Omnibus Plan were subsequently approved by our stockholders in 2018 and 2019. The 2014 Omnibus Plan provides us with the flexibility to grant a wide variety of stock and stock-based awards, as well as dollar-denominated performance-based awards, and is intended to be the primary stock-based award program for covered associates. SARs are issued at fair value at the date of grant, have up to ten-year terms and have graded-vesting terms over four years. Compensation cost for these awards is recognized on a straight-line basis over the related vesting period. Currently all SARs outstanding are to be settled with stock. As of May 31, 2024, there were 1,989,900 SARs outstanding.
The following tables summarize option and share-based payment activity (including SARs) under these plans during the fiscal year ended May 31, 2024:
Share-Based Payments
Weighted Average Exercise Price
Number of Shares Under Option
(Shares in thousands)
Balance at June 1, 2023
68.19
2,288
Options granted
93.51
300
Options exercised
56.42
75.54
1,990
Exercisable at May 31, 2024
67.98
1,180
Weighted-average grant-date fair value per SAR
24.04
18.09
16.72
Fair value of SARS vested
15.28
14.19
13.49
Intrinsic value of options exercised
12.37
11.26
13.77
Tax benefit from options exercised
6,049
3,292
At May 31, 2024, the aggregate intrinsic value and weighted-average remaining contractual life of options outstanding was $72.7 million and 6.39 years, respectively, while the aggregate intrinsic value and weighted-average remaining contractual life of options exercisable was $52.1 million and 5.21 years, respectively.
At May 31, 2024, the total unamortized stock-based compensation expense related to SARs that were previously granted was $10.7 million, which is expected to be recognized over 2.48 years. We anticipate that approximately 2.0 million shares at a weighted-average exercise price of $75.52 and a weighted-average remaining contractual term of 6.38 years are vested or expected to vest under these plans.
Restricted Stock Plans
We also grant stock-based awards, which may be made in the form of restricted stock, restricted stock units, performance stock and performance stock units. These awards are granted to eligible associates or directors and entitle the holder to shares of our common stock as the award vests. The fair value of the awards is determined and fixed based on the stock price at the date of grant. A description of our restricted stock plans follows.
Under the 2014 Omnibus Plan, a total of 6,000,000 shares of our common stock may be subject to awards. Of those issuable shares, up to 3,000,000 shares of common stock may be subject to “full-value” awards. In October 2019, shareholders approved an amendment to the 2014 Omnibus Plan making an additional 5,000,000 shares of common stock subject to awards. Of those additional issuable shares, 2,250,000 shares may be subject to “full-value” awards similar to those issued under the 2014 Omnibus Plan.
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The following table summarizes the share-based performance-earned restricted stock (“PERS”) and performance stock units (“PSUs”) activity during the fiscal year ended May 31, 2024:
Weighted-Average
Grant-Date
83.17
906
Shares granted
93.74
344
Shares forfeited
85.97
(17
Shares vested
81.07
(357
88.13
876
The weighted-average grant-date fair value was $93.74, $81.03 and $86.88 for the fiscal years ended May 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022, respectively. The restricted stock and performance stock cliff vest after three years. Nonvested restricted shares of common stock under the 2014 Omnibus Plan are eligible for dividend payments, while performance stock units are not eligible for dividend payments. At May 31, 2024, remaining unamortized deferred compensation expense for performance-earned restricted stock totaled $13.1 million. The remaining amount is being amortized over the applicable vesting period for each participant.
The Performance Stock Units (“PSU”) have been granted to certain executives and the awards are contingent upon the level of attainment of performance goals for the three-year performance period. Vesting of 50% of the PSUs relates to compounded annualized growth rates in adjusted revenue for the period, and the vesting of the remaining 50% relates to an increase in EBIT margin, measured at the end of the three-year performance period. The number of PSUs that may vest with respect to the achievement of the performance goals may range from 0% to 200% of the PSUs granted under this program. Compensation cost for these awards has been recognized on a straight-line basis over the related performance period, with consideration given to the probability of attaining the performance goals.
The following table sets forth such awards for the year ended May 31, 2024:
Performance Stock Units ("PSUs")
Shares Granted
Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value
Shares Outstanding as of May 31, 2024
Unamortized Expense, as of May 31, 2024
2021 PSUs (1)
158
86.93
134
2022 PSU's (2)
162
81.01
151
1,584
2023 PSU's (3)
176
174
8,212
The 2003 Plan was approved on October 10, 2003 by our stockholders and was established primarily for the purpose of recruiting and retaining directors and to align the interests of directors with the interests of our stockholders. Only directors who are not our associates are eligible to participate. Under the 2003 Plan, up to 500,000 shares of our common stock may be awarded, with awards cliff vesting over a three-year period. The shares available for grant out of the 2003 Plan have been exhausted, and all future grants will be issued from the 2014 Omnibus Plan. The following table summarizes the share-based activity under the 2003 Plan and 2014 Omnibus Plan related to directors during fiscal 2024:
87.75
Shares granted to directors
98.61
87.35
(19
91.70
63
The weighted-average grant-date fair value was $98.61, $92.87 and $81.53 for the fiscal years ended May 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022, respectively. Unamortized deferred compensation expense relating to restricted stock grants for directors of $2.4 million at May 31, 2024, is being amortized over the applicable remaining vesting period for each director. Nonvested restricted shares of common stock under the 2003 Plan are eligible for dividend payments. The shares available for grant out of the 2003 Plan have been exhausted, and all future grants will be issued from the 2014 Omnibus Plan.
During fiscal 2024, a total of 25,643 shares were awarded under the 2014 Omnibus Plan to certain associates as supplemental retirement benefits, generally subject to forfeiture. The shares vest upon the latter of attainment of age 55 and the fifth anniversary of the May 31st immediately preceding the date of the grant. The following table sets forth such awards for the year ended May 31, 2024:
41.37
390
Shares exercised
43.78
(32
44.82
384
The weighted-average grant-date fair value was $93.51, $81.01 and $86.93 for the fiscal years ended May 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022, respectively. As noted above, no shares remain available for future grant under the 2007 Plan, and future issuances of shares as supplemental retirement benefits are made under the 2014 Omnibus Plan. At May 31, 2024, unamortized stock-based compensation expense of $4.6 million relating to the 2014 Omnibus Plan is being amortized over the applicable vesting period associated with each participant.
The following table summarizes the activity for all nonvested restricted shares during the year ended May 31, 2024:
Grant-Date Fair
Number of
81.66
1,078
Granted
93.95
388
Vested
77.86
(421
Forfeited
87.80
1,028
The fair value of the nonvested restricted share awards have been calculated using the market value of the shares on the date of issuance. Total unrecognized compensation cost related to all nonvested awards of restricted shares of common stock was $29.9 million as of May 31, 2024. The remaining weighted-average contractual term of nonvested restricted shares at May 31, 2024 is the same as the period over which the remaining cost of the awards will be recognized, which is approximately 2.47 years. We did not receive any cash from associates as a result of associate vesting and release of restricted shares for the year ended May 31, 2024.
The following table summarizes the grant date and vested values of restricted shares during the last three fiscal years:
Fair Value of Restricted Shares Vested
Shares of Restricted Stock Vested
Intrinsic Value of Restricted Shares Vested
86.68
27,163
441
33,032
81.95
28,553
432
33,186
32,842
421
38,608
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NOTE K — ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) consists of the following components:
Pension And
Postretirement
Unrealized
Currency
Benefit
Gain
Gain (Loss)
Translation
Liability
(Loss) On
On
Adjustments
Adjustments (1)
Derivatives (2)
Securities
Balance at May 31, 2021
(300,365
(190,610
(23,982
73
Current period comprehensive (loss) income
(98,834
31,802
60,669
(1,785
(8,148
Income taxes associated with current period comprehensive (loss) income
3,726
(7,763
(14,491
(18,525
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
17,276
(12,097
5,238
Income taxes reclassified into earnings
(4,088
3,072
(2
(1,018
(395,473
(153,383
13,171
(1,652
(71,772
(12,242
(482
(84,496
1,870
2,785
4,659
18,363
(67
16,530
(4,287
(4
(4,291
(465,375
(148,764
11,405
(2,201
Current period comprehensive income (loss)
3,276
66,592
205
70,073
Income taxes associated with current period comprehensive income (loss)
252
(15,769
(56
(15,573
17,416
(165
17,251
(4,122
(4,106
(461,847
(84,647
65
NOTE L — EARNINGS PER SHARE
The following table sets forth the reconciliation of the numerator and denominator of basic and diluted earnings per share for the years ended May 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022:
Numerator for earnings per share:
Less: Allocation of earnings and dividends to participating securities
(2,630
(2,156
(3,924
Net income available to common shareholders - basic
585,767
476,535
487,557
Reverse: Allocation of earnings and dividends to participating securities
2,156
3,924
Add: Undistributed earnings reallocated to unvested shareholders
Net income available to common shareholders - diluted
585,775
Denominator for basic and diluted earnings per share:
Basic weighted average common shares
Average diluted options and awards
573
1,309
1,632
Total shares for diluted earnings per share (1)
Earnings Per Share of Common Stock Attributable to
RPM International Inc. Stockholders:
Basic Earnings Per Share of Common Stock
Method used to calculate basic earnings per share
Two-Class
Diluted Earnings Per Share of Common Stock
Method used to calculate diluted earnings per share
NOTE M — LEASES
We have leases for manufacturing facilities, warehouses, office facilities, equipment, and vehicles, which are primarily classified and accounted for as operating leases. Some leases include one or more options to renew, generally at our sole discretion, with renewal terms that can extend the lease term from one to five years or more. In addition, certain leases contain termination options, where the rights to terminate are held by either us, the lessor, or both parties. These options to extend or terminate a lease are included in the lease terms when it is reasonably certain that we will exercise that option. We have made an accounting policy election not to recognize right-of-use ("ROU") assets and lease liabilities for leases with a term of twelve months or less, with no renewal option that we are reasonably certain to exercise. ROU assets and lease liabilities are recognized based on the present value of the fixed and in-substance fixed lease payments over the lease term at the commencement date. The ROU assets also include any initial direct costs incurred and lease payments made at or before the commencement date and are reduced by lease incentives. We use our incremental borrowing rate as the discount rate to determine the present value of the lease payments for leases, as our leases do not have readily determinable implicit discount rates. Our incremental borrowing rate is the rate of interest that we would have to borrow on a collateralized basis over a similar term and amount in a similar economic environment. We determine the incremental borrowing rates for our leases by adjusting the local risk-free interest rate with a credit risk premium corresponding to our credit rating.
Operating lease expense is recognized on a straight-line basis over the lease term. For a small portfolio of finance leases, lease expense is recognized as a combination of the amortization expense for the ROU assets and interest expense for the outstanding lease liabilities using the discount rate discussed above. The depreciable life of assets and leasehold improvements are limited by the expected lease term, unless there is a transfer of title or purchase option reasonably certain of exercise. Our lease agreements do not contain any significant residual value guarantees or material restrictive covenants. Income from subleases was not significant for any period presented.
66
The following represents our lease costs as of May 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022:
Operating lease expense
87,225
78,783
78,479
Variable lease expense
15,305
13,550
10,795
Short-term lease expense
2,104
1,960
2,132
The following represents our supplemental cash flow, balance sheet, and other required disclosures as of May 31, 2024 and 2023:
Operating cash outflows from operating leases
81,540
74,251
Leased assets obtained in exchange for operating lease obligations
69,749
90,399
Current portion of operating leases within other accrued liabilities
66,298
59,590
Weighted average remaining lease term for operating leases (in years)
Weighted average discount rate for operating leases
4.2
The following represents our future undiscounted cash flows for each of the next five years and thereafter and reconciliation to the lease liabilities, as of May 31, 2024:
Year ending May 31,
Operating Leases
2026
69,604
2027
57,339
2028
44,471
2029
32,730
Thereafter
Total lease payments
Less imputed interest
69,255
Total present value of lease liabilities
347,579
Sale Leaseback Agreement
During the fiscal year ended May 31, 2022, we recognized net gains of $52.0 million on the sales of certain real property assets. Most significantly, certain real property assets for the Toronto, Ontario location, within our CPG segment, were sold on September 15, 2021 for $49.8 million. We received $48.0 million of net proceeds after adjustments and expenses and recognized a gain on sale of $41.9 million. The purpose of the transaction was to generate cash by monetizing a real estate market opportunity.
In conjunction with the sale, we executed a leaseback agreement commencing September 15, 2021 and expiring on September 14, 2024. During the second quarter of fiscal 2022, the lease was classified as an operating lease with total future minimum payments during the initial term of the lease of approximately $3.4 million. An incremental borrowing rate of 1.3% was used to determine the ROU asset. We recorded a $3.7 million operating lease right-of-use asset and corresponding liabilities in our Consolidated Balance Sheets during the second quarter of fiscal 2022. During the second quarter of fiscal 2024, the lease was renewed through September 14, 2026.
NOTE N — PENSION PLANS
We sponsor several pension plans for our associates, including our principal plan (the “Retirement Plan”), which is a non-contributory defined benefit pension plan covering substantially all domestic non-union associates. Pension benefits are provided for certain domestic union associates through separate plans. Associates of our foreign subsidiaries receive pension coverage, to the extent deemed appropriate, through plans that are governed by local statutory requirements.
The Retirement Plan provides benefits that are based upon years of service and average compensation with accrued benefits vesting after five years. Benefits for union associates are generally based upon years of service, or a combination of years of service and average compensation. Our pension funding policy considers contributions in an amount on an annual basis that can be deducted for federal income tax purposes, using a different actuarial cost method and different assumptions from those used for financial reporting. For the fiscal year ending May 31, 2025, we are required, based on minimum funding rules, to contribute approximately $5.7 million to our foreign plans. Required contributions, based on minimum funding rules, to the retirement plans in the United States for fiscal 2025 are immaterial. During the year, we will evaluate whether to make contributions in excess of the minimum required amounts. During fiscal
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2024, we contributed $41.9 million to the pension plans in the United States which was in excess of the required contribution of $0.7 million but serves to improve the funded status of the plans.
Net periodic pension cost consisted of the following for the year ended May 31:
U.S. Plans
Non-U.S. Plans
43,652
43,558
47,655
3,534
3,633
5,023
35,967
28,692
15,366
7,667
6,619
4,948
(42,072
(38,144
(41,544
(9,588
(6,581
(7,691
Prior service cost (credit)
1
(127
(116
(139
16,822
17,948
16,900
833
473
465
Curtailment/settlement (gains) losses
(3
188
Net Pension Cost
54,371
52,052
38,398
2,269
4,216
2,613
The changes in benefit obligations and plan assets, as well as the funded status of our pension plans at May 31, 2024 and 2023, were as follows:
Benefit obligation at beginning of year
697,173
703,735
158,812
182,534
Benefits paid
(40,540
(44,604
(8,102
(8,676
Participant contributions
1,149
1,221
Plan amendments
(97
Plan settlements/curtailments
(137
(1,090
(2,852
Actuarial (gains) losses
(16,589
(34,075
3,461
(16,004
Premiums paid
(83
(108
Currency exchange rate changes
714
(7,458
Benefit Obligation at End of Year
719,663
166,060
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year
631,486
616,960
166,120
193,375
Actual gain (loss) on plan assets
87,205
(4,294
9,973
(15,239
Employer contributions
41,928
63,561
5,449
6,647
844
(8,248
Fair Value of Plan Assets at End of Year
720,079
174,260
Surplus/(Deficit) of plan assets versus benefit obligations at end of year
416
(65,687
8,200
7,308
Net Amount Recognized
Accumulated Benefit Obligation
618,413
598,094
156,571
148,635
The fair value of the assets held by our pension plans has increased at May 31, 2024 since our previous measurement date at May 31, 2023, due to contributions and market returns. Total plan liabilities increased slightly due to an increase in interest cost caused by an increase in the discount rate, as well as a smaller actuarial gain than in the prior year. We have recorded an overfunded position for the net status of our pension plans. We expect pension expense in fiscal 2025 to be lower than our fiscal 2024 expense level due to an increase in expected return on plan assets and a reduction in the amortization of the net actuarial loss to be recognized. Any future declines in the value of our pension plan assets or increases in our plan liabilities could require us to increase our recorded liability for the net underfunded status of our pension plans and could also require accelerated and higher cash contributions to our pension plans.
Amounts recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheets for the years ended May 31, 2024 and 2023 are as follows:
Noncurrent assets
1,294
279
16,681
15,641
Current liabilities
(8
(362
(659
Noncurrent liabilities
(870
(65,958
(8,119
(7,674
The following table summarizes the relationship between our plans' benefit obligations and assets:
BenefitObligation
Plan Assets
Plans with projected benefit obligations in excess of plan assets
712,123
711,245
696,280
630,315
Plans with accumulated benefit obligations in excess of plan assets
Plans with assets in excess of projected benefit obligations
7,540
8,834
893
1,171
Plans with assets in excess of accumulated benefit obligations
618,372
598,050
28,469
19,988
26,918
18,585
25,001
17,730
24,837
17,839
137,591
154,272
131,894
147,535
131,570
156,530
123,798
148,281
The following table presents the pretax net actuarial loss and prior service (cost) credits recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) not affecting retained earnings:
Net actuarial loss
(126,481
(205,025
(32,209
(29,764
Prior service (costs) credits
(10
424
530
Total recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income not affecting retained earnings
(126,489
(205,035
(31,785
(29,234
The following table includes the changes recognized in other comprehensive income:
Changes in plan assets and benefit obligations recognized in other comprehensive income:
(1
(98
Net (gain) loss arising during the year
(61,722
8,363
3,075
5,816
Effect of exchange rates on amounts included in AOCI
133
(1,405
Amounts recognized as a component of net periodic benefit cost:
Amortization or curtailment recognition of prior service (cost) benefit
127
115
Amortization or settlement recognition of net (loss)
(16,822
(17,945
(783
(660
Total recognized in other comprehensive (income) loss
(78,546
(9,579
2,551
3,768
In measuring the projected benefit obligation and net periodic pension cost for our plans, we utilize actuarial valuations. These valuations include specific information pertaining to individual plan participants, such as salary, age and years of service, along with certain assumptions. The most significant assumptions applied include discount rates, expected return on plan assets and rate of compensation increases. We evaluate these assumptions, at a minimum, on an annual basis, and make required changes, as applicable. In developing our expected long-term rate of return on pension plan assets, we consider the current and expected target asset allocations of the pension portfolio, as well as historical returns and future expectations for returns on various categories of plan assets. Expected return on assets is determined by using the weighted-average return on asset classes based on expected return for the target asset allocations of the principal asset categories held by each plan. In determining expected return, we consider both historical performance and an estimate of future long-term rates of return. Actual experience is used to develop the assumption for compensation increases.
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The following weighted-average assumptions were used to determine our year-end benefit obligations and net periodic pension cost under the plans:
Year-End Benefit Obligations
Discount rate
5.58
5.26
4.81
4.88
Rate of compensation increase
3.39
2.98
2.97
Net Periodic Pension Cost
4.43
2.76
4.02
2.72
7.00
6.50
5.79
3.58
3.46
3.21
3.19
2.94
2.91
The following tables illustrate the weighted-average actual and target allocation of plan assets:
Target Allocation
Actual Asset Allocation
(Dollars in millions)
as of May 31, 2024
Equity securities
399.0
340.1
Fixed income securities
151.2
129.2
Multi-class
141.2
125.3
Cash
28.5
36.6
0.2
Total assets
100
720.1
631.5
60.4
61.8
82.9
81.5
Property and other
30.8
174.3
166.1
The following tables present our pension plan assets as categorized using the fair value hierarchy at May 31, 2024 and 2023:
53,751
State and municipal bonds
210
Foreign bonds
2,480
Mortgage-backed securities
14,922
14,904
Stocks - large cap
44,392
Mutual funds - equity
354,599
Mutual funds - multi-class
141,183
Mutual funds - fixed
2,317
28,523
Limited partnerships
74
Futures contracts
120
Investments measured at NAV (1)
62,604
72,915
584,366
194
70
Pooled equities
60,455
Pooled fixed income
81,798
1,066
Insurance contracts
20,283
Mutual funds - Real Estate
10,483
175
153,802
49,297
450
8,515
17,376
35,467
304,590
125,345
2,553
36,573
170
112
50,348
72,040
508,816
282
61,827
80,650
774
19,136
3,587
146,838
The following table includes the activity that occurred during the years ended May 31, 2024 and 2023 for our Level 3 assets:
Actual Return on Plan Assets For:
Balance at
Assets Still Held
Assets Sold
Purchases, Sales and
Beginning of Period
at Reporting Date
During Year
Settlements, net (1)
End of Period
Year ended May 31, 2024
19,418
1,051
20,477
Year ended May 31, 2023
23,179
(2,399
(1,362
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The primary objective for the investments of the Retirement Plan is to provide for long-term growth of capital without undue exposure to risk. This objective is accomplished by utilizing a diversified portfolio strategy of equities, fixed-income securities and cash equivalents in a mix that is conducive to participation in a rising market, while allowing for adequate protection in a falling market. Our Investment Committee oversees the investment allocation process, which includes the selection and evaluation of investment managers, the determination of investment objectives and risk guidelines, and the monitoring of actual investment performance. In order to manage investment risk properly, Plan policy prohibits short selling, securities lending, financial futures, options and other specialized investments, except for certain alternative investments specifically approved by the Investment Committee. The Investment Committee reviews, on a quarterly basis, reports of actual Plan investment performance provided by independent third parties, in addition to its review of the Plan investment policy on an annual basis. The investment objectives are similar for our plans outside of the United States, subject to local regulations.
The goals of the investment strategy for pension assets include: the total return of the funds shall, over an extended period of time, surpass an index composed of the MSCI World Stock Index (equity), the Barclays Long-Term Government/Credit Index (fixed income), and 30-day Treasury Bills (cash), weighted appropriately to match the asset allocation of the plans. The equity portion of the funds shall surpass the MSCI World Stock Index over a full market cycle, while the fixed-income portion shall surpass Barclays Long-Term Government/Credit Index over a full market cycle. The purpose of the fixed-income fund is to reduce the overall volatility of the plan liabilities and provide a hedge against interest rate fluctuations. Therefore, the primary objective of the fixed-income portion is to match the Barclays Long-Term Government/Credit Index.
We expect to pay the following estimated pension benefit payments in the next five years (in millions): $67.0 in 2025, $73.4 in 2026, $76.3 in 2027, $80.0 in 2028 and $86.5 in 2029. In the five years thereafter (2030-2034), we expect to pay $432.5 million.
In addition to the defined benefit pension plans discussed above, we also sponsor associate savings plans under Section 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code, which cover most of our associates in the United States. We record expense for defined contribution plans for any employer-matching contributions made in conjunction with services rendered by associates. The majority of our plans provide for matching contributions made in conjunction with services rendered by associates. Matching contributions are invested in the same manner that the participants invest their own contributions. Matching contributions charged to income were $29.8 million, $27.6 million and $24.7 million for the years ending May 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
NOTE O — POSTRETIREMENT BENEFITS
We sponsor several unfunded-healthcare-benefit plans for certain of our retired associates, as well as postretirement life insurance for certain former associates. Eligibility for these benefits is based upon various requirements. The following table illustrates the effect on operations of these plans for the three years ended May 31, 2024:
2,259
1,951
1,623
1,550
1,374
1,124
(161
Net actuarial (gains) losses
(15
(49
(51
121
Net Postretirement Benefit Cost (Income)
72
(59
3,760
3,274
2,868
The changes in benefit obligations of the plans at May 31, 2024 and 2023 were as follows:
Accumulated postretirement benefit obligation at beginning of year
1,768
2,260
31,037
30,645
Benefit payments
(149
(207
(674
(557
Actuarial (gains)
(85
(369
(7,983
(276
(131
(2,100
Accumulated and accrued postretirement benefit obligation at end of year
1,621
26,058
In determining the postretirement benefit amounts outlined above, measurement dates as of May 31 for each period were applied.
(194
(895
(989
(1,427
(1,561
(25,163
(30,048
(1,621
(1,768
(26,058
(31,037
The following table presents the pretax net actuarial gain recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) not affecting retained earnings:
Net actuarial gain
99
11,785
3,838
The following table includes the changes recognized in other comprehensive loss (income):
Changes in plan assets and benefit obligations recognized in other comprehensive loss (income):
Net (gain) arising during the year
(13
265
Amortization or curtailment recognition of prior service credit
Amortization or settlement recognition of net gain (loss)
(44
Total recognized in other comprehensive loss (income)
(70
(292
(7,947
The following weighted-average assumptions were used to determine our year-end benefit obligations and net periodic postretirement benefit costs under the plans:
5.50
5.20
5.03
5.10
Current healthcare cost trend rate
8.90
6.00
5.21
5.53
Ultimate healthcare cost trend rate
4.04
4.03
3.70
Year ultimate healthcare cost trend rate will be realized
2049
2045
2040
Net Periodic Postretirement Cost
4.36
2.47
5.13
3.51
6.23
6.07
5.68
2037
We expect to pay approximately $1.1 million to $1.4 million in estimated postretirement benefits in each of the next five years. In the five years thereafter (2030-2034), we expect to pay a cumulative total of $8.1 million.
NOTE P — CONTINGENCIES AND ACCRUED LOSSES
Accrued loss reserves consist of the following:
Accrued product liability and other loss reserves
23,353
16,995
Accrued warranty reserves
8,017
8,448
Accrued environmental reserves
1,027
Total Accrued Loss Reserves - Current
Accrued product liability and other loss reserves - noncurrent
25,289
22,849
Accrued warranty liability - noncurrent
3,604
3,328
Accrued environmental reserves - noncurrent
2,574
6,173
Total Accrued Loss Reserves - Noncurrent
31,467
32,350
Product Liability Matters
We provide, through our wholly owned insurance subsidiaries, certain insurance coverage, primarily product liability coverage, to our other subsidiaries. Excess coverage is provided by third-party insurers. Our product liability accruals provide for these potential losses, as well as other uninsured claims. Product liability accruals are established based upon actuarial calculations of potential liability using industry experience, actual historical experience and actuarial assumptions developed for similar types of product liability claims, including development factors and lag times. To the extent there is a reasonable possibility that potential losses could exceed the amounts already accrued, we believe that the amount of any such additional loss would be immaterial to our results of operations, liquidity and consolidated financial position.
Warranty Matters
We also offer warranties on many of our products, as well as long-term warranty programs at certain of our businesses, and have established product warranty liabilities. We review these liabilities for adequacy on a quarterly basis and adjust them as necessary. The primary factors that could affect these liabilities may include changes in performance rates, as well as costs of replacement. Provision for estimated warranty costs is recorded at the time of sale and periodically adjusted, as required, to reflect actual experience. It is probable that we will incur future losses related to warranty claims we have received but that have not been fully investigated and related to claims not yet received. While our warranty liabilities represent our best estimates at May 31, 2024, we can provide no assurances that we will not experience material claims in the future or that we will not incur significant costs to resolve such claims beyond the amounts accrued or beyond what we may recover from our suppliers. Based upon the nature of the expense, product warranty expense is recorded as a component of cost of sales or within SG&A.
Also, due to the nature of our businesses, the amount of claims paid can fluctuate from one period to the next. While our warranty liabilities represent our best estimates of our expected losses at any given time, from time to time we may revise our estimates based on our experience relating to factors such as weather conditions, specific circumstances surrounding product installations and other factors.
The following table includes the changes in our accrued warranty balances:
Beginning Balance
11,776
10,905
13,175
Deductions (1)
(34,388
(27,851
(26,332
Provision charged to expense
34,233
28,722
24,062
Ending Balance
11,621
Like other companies participating in similar lines of business, some of our subsidiaries are involved in environmental remediation matters. It is our policy to accrue remediation costs when the liability is probable and the costs are reasonably estimable, which generally is not later than at completion of a feasibility study or when we have committed to an appropriate plan of action. We also take into consideration the estimated period of time over which payments may be required. The liabilities are reviewed periodically and, as investigation and remediation activities continue, adjustments are made as necessary. Liabilities for losses from environmental remediation obligations do not consider the effects of inflation and anticipated expenditures are not discounted to their present value. The liabilities are not offset by possible recoveries from insurance carriers or other third parties but do reflect anticipated allocations among potentially responsible parties at federal superfund sites or similar state-managed sites, third party indemnity obligations, and an assessment of the likelihood that such parties will fulfill their obligations at such sites.
Other Contingencies
One of our former subsidiaries in our SPG reportable segment has been the subject of a proceeding in which one of its former distributors brought suit against the subsidiary for breach of contract. Following a June 2017 trial, a jury determined that the distributor was not entitled to any damages on the distributor’s claims. On appeal, the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals ordered a new trial with respect to certain issues. On December 10, 2021, a new jury awarded $6.0 million in damages to the distributor. Per the parties’ contracts, the distributor was also entitled to seek recovery of some portion of its attorneys’ fees and costs. On July 3, 2023, the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals issued its decision rejecting the distributor's arguments and denying all appellate relief to the distributor, which also rendered our cross-appeal moot. On November 15, 2023, the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of California issued an order awarding the distributor approximately $4.4 million in connection with attorney's fees and costs the distributor allegedly incurred throughout the duration of this legal action. As a result of this order, we increased our accrual to $10.4 million as of November 30, 2023. On December 27, 2023, we paid the $6.0 million judgment, and then decreased our accrual to approximately $4.4 million. However, because we strongly disagree with the District Court's order awarding attorneys’ fees and costs to the distributor, we timely filed an appeal of this order with the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, which remains pending. We incurred SG&A expense of $4.4 million during fiscal 2024 related to this matter. This contingency remains a liability of the Company.
One of our subsidiaries in our Consumer reportable segment has been the subject of a proceeding in which a former supplier of that subsidiary alleges, among other claims, that the subsidiary breached certain contractual obligations. The jury trial in this matter is currently scheduled to occur in September 2024. While we continue to vigorously contest all the former supplier’s claims and alleged damages, the outcome of any legal proceeding is inherently unpredictable and subject to significant uncertainties. Given the stage of the litigation and based upon information presently known to management, we are not currently able to estimate the outcome of this proceeding or a possible range of loss, if any.
Gain on Business Interruption Insurance
In April 2021, there was a significant plant explosion at a key alkyd resin supplier which caused severe supply chain disruptions. As a result of this disruption, the Consumer segment incurred incremental costs and lost sales during fiscal 2021 and 2022. A claim for these losses was submitted under our business interruption insurance policy. The Consumer segment recovered $11.1 million and $20.0 million from insurance during the years ended May 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. The insurance gain is recorded as a reduction to SG&A expenses in our Consolidated Statements of Income, and the proceeds are included within cash flows from operating activities in our Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows for the years ended May 31, 2024 and 2023.
NOTE Q — REVENUE
We operate a portfolio of businesses that manufacture and sell a variety of product lines that include specialty paints, protective coatings, roofing systems, sealants and adhesives, among other things. We disaggregate revenues from the sales of our products and services based upon geographical location by each of our reportable segments, which are aligned by similar economic factors, trends and customers, which best depict the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows arising from contracts with customers. See Note R, “Segment Information,” to the Consolidated Financial Statements for further details regarding our disaggregated revenues, as well as a description of each of the unique revenue streams related to each of our four reportable segments.
We have elected to apply the practical expedient to recognize revenue net of allowances for returns and any taxes collected from customers, which are subsequently remitted to governmental authorities. Payment terms and conditions vary by contract type, although our customers’ payment terms generally include a requirement to pay within 30 to 60 days of fulfilling our performance obligations. In instances where the timing of revenue recognition differs from the timing of invoicing, we have determined that our contracts generally do not include a significant financing component. We have elected to apply the practical expedient to treat all shipping and handling costs as fulfillment costs, as a significant portion of these costs are incurred prior to control transfer.
Significant Judgments
Our contracts with customers may include promises to transfer multiple products and/or services to a customer. Determining whether products and services are considered distinct performance obligations that should be accounted for separately versus together may require significant judgment. For example, judgment is required to determine whether products sold in connection with the sale of installation services are considered distinct and accounted for separately, or not distinct and accounted for together with installation services and recognized over time.
We provide customer rebate programs and incentive offerings, including special pricing and co-operative advertising arrangements, promotions and other volume-based incentives. These customer programs and incentives are considered variable consideration and recognized as a reduction of net sales. Up-front consideration provided to customers is capitalized as a component of other assets and amortized over the estimated life of the contractual arrangement. We include in revenue variable consideration only to the extent that it is probable that a significant reversal in the amount of cumulative revenue recognized will not occur when the variable consideration is resolved. In general, this determination is made based upon known customer program and incentive offerings at the time of sale, and expected sales volume forecasts as it relates to our volume-based incentives. This determination is updated each reporting period. Certain of our contracts include contingent consideration that is receivable only upon the final inspection and acceptance of a project. We include estimates of such variable consideration in our transaction price. Based on historical experience, we consider the probability-based expected value method appropriate to estimate the amount of such variable consideration.
Our products are generally sold with a right of return, and we may provide other credits or incentives, which are accounted for as variable consideration when estimating the amount of revenue to recognize. Returns and credits are estimated at contract inception and updated at the end of each reporting period as additional information becomes available. We record a right of return liability to accrue for expected customer returns. Historical actual returns are used to estimate future returns as a percentage of current sales. Obligations for returns and refunds were not material individually or in the aggregate.
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We offer assurance type warranties on our products as well as separately sold warranty contracts. Revenue related to warranty contracts that are sold separately is recognized over the life of the warranty term. Warranty liabilities for our assurance type warranties are discussed further in Note P, “Contingencies and Accrued Losses,” to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
Contract Balances
Timing of revenue recognition may differ from the timing of invoicing customers. Our contract assets are recorded for products and services that have been provided to our customer but have not yet been billed and are included in prepaid expenses and other current assets in our Consolidated Balance Sheets. Our short-term contract liabilities consist of advance payments, or deferred revenue, and are included in other accrued liabilities in our Consolidated Balance Sheets.
Trade accounts receivable, net of allowances, and net contract assets consisted of the following:
$ Change
% Change
(In thousands, except percents)
Trade accounts receivable, less allowances
(83,595
(5.6
Contract assets
57,833
49,188
8,645
Contract liabilities - short-term
(44,996
(42,396
(2,600
Net Contract Assets
12,837
6,792
6,045
The $6.0 million increase in our net contract assets from May 31, 2023 to May 31, 2024, resulted primarily due to the timing and volume of construction jobs in progress at May 31, 2024 versus May 31, 2023. During the years ended May 31, 2024 and May 31, 2023 we recognized $38.8 million and $26.6 million of revenue, which was included in contract liabilities as of May 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
We also record long-term deferred revenue, which amounted to $81.7 million and $76.6 million as of May 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. The long-term portion of deferred revenue is related to warranty contracts and is included in other long-term liabilities in our Consolidated Balance Sheets.
We have elected to adopt the practical expedient to not disclose the aggregate amount of transaction price allocated to performance obligations that are unsatisfied as of the end of the reporting period for performance obligations that are part of a contract with an original expected duration of one year or less.
We recognize an asset for the incremental costs of obtaining a contract with a customer if we expect the benefit of those costs to be longer than one year. As our contract terms are primarily one year or less in duration, we have elected to apply a practical expedient to expense costs as incurred for costs to obtain a contract with a customer when the amortization period would have been one year or less. These costs include our internal sales force compensation program and certain incentive programs as we have determined annual compensation is commensurate with annual sales activities.
Allowance for Credit Losses
Our primary allowance for credit losses is the allowance for doubtful accounts. The allowance for doubtful accounts reduces the trade accounts receivable balance to the estimated net realizable value equal to the amount that is expected to be collected. The allowance was based on assessments of current creditworthiness of customers, historical collection experience, the aging of receivables and other currently available evidence. Trade accounts receivable balances are written-off against the allowance if a final determination of uncollectibility is made. All provisions for allowances for doubtful collection of accounts are included in SG&A expenses.
The following tables summarize the activity for the allowance for credit losses for the fiscal year ended May 31, 2024:
49,482
Bad debt provision
18,375
Uncollectible accounts written off, net of recoveries
(19,160
Translation adjustments
48,763
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NOTE R — SEGMENT INFORMATION
We operate a portfolio of businesses and product lines that manufacture and sell a variety of specialty paints, protective coatings, roofing systems, flooring solutions, sealants, cleaners and adhesives. We manage our portfolio by organizing our businesses and product lines into four reportable segments as outlined below, which also represent our operating segments. Within each operating segment, we manage product lines and businesses which generally address common markets, share similar economic characteristics, utilize similar technologies and can share manufacturing or distribution capabilities. Our four operating segments represent components of our business for which separate financial information is available that is utilized on a regular basis by our chief operating decision maker in determining how to allocate the assets of the company and evaluate performance. These four operating segments are each managed by an operating segment manager, who is responsible for the day-to-day operating decisions and performance evaluation of the operating segment’s underlying businesses. We evaluate the profit performance of our segments primarily based on income before income taxes, but also look to EBIT, as a performance evaluation measure because interest (income) expense, net is essentially related to corporate functions, as opposed to segment operations.
Effective June 1, 2023, certain Asia Pacific businesses and management structure, formerly of our CPG segment, were transferred to our PCG segment to create operating efficiencies and a more unified go-to-market strategy in Asia Pacific. As a result of this business realignment, $11.4 million of goodwill was transferred from the CPG segment to the PCG segment. Additionally, this realignment is reflected in our reportable segments beginning with fiscal 2022. As such, historical segment results have been recast to reflect the impact of this change.
Our CPG reportable segment products and services are sold throughout North America and also account for a significant portion of our international sales. Our construction product lines are sold directly to manufacturers, contractors, distributors and end-users, including industrial manufacturing facilities, concrete and cement producers, public institutions and other commercial customers. Products and services within this reportable segment include construction sealants and adhesives, coatings and chemicals, roofing systems, concrete admixture and repair products, building envelope solutions, parking decks, insulated cladding, firestopping, flooring systems, and weatherproofing solutions.
Our Consumer reportable segment manufactures and markets professional use and DIY products for a variety of mainly residential applications, including home improvement and personal leisure activities. Our Consumer reportable segment’s major manufacturing and distribution operations are located primarily in North America, along with a few locations in Europe, Australia and South America. Our Consumer reportable segment products are primarily sold directly to mass merchandisers, home improvement centers, hardware stores, paint stores, craft shops and through distributors. The Consumer reportable segment offers products that include specialty, hobby and professional paints; caulks; adhesives; cleaners; sandpaper and other abrasives; silicone sealants and wood stains. Sales to The Home Depot, Inc. represented less than 10% of our consolidated net sales for fiscal 2024, 2023 and 2022, respectively. Furthermore, sales to The Home Depot, Inc. represented 23%, 23% and 25% of our Consumer segment net sales for each of the fiscal years ended May 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
In addition to our four reportable segments, there is a category of certain business activities and expenses, referred to as corporate/other, that does not constitute an operating segment. This category includes our corporate headquarters and related administrative expenses, results of our captive insurance companies, gains or losses on the sales of investments and other expenses not directly associated with any reportable segment. Assets related to the corporate/other category consist primarily of investments, prepaid expenses and headquarters’ property and equipment. These corporate and other assets and expenses reconcile reportable segment data to total consolidated income before income taxes and identifiable assets.
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The following tables present a disaggregation of revenues by geography, and the results of our reportable segments consistent with our management philosophy, by representing the information we utilize, in conjunction with various strategic, operational and other financial performance criteria, in evaluating the performance of our portfolio of businesses.
Income (Loss) Before Income Taxes
Identifiable Assets
2,160,352
2,206,403
2,075,213
1,164,165
1,209,819
1,200,638
2,283,370
2,384,782
2,405,764
733,646
804,762
839,419
245,010
176,238
186,672
6,707,706
Capital Expenditures
77,796
109,878
92,566
48,813
30,353
29,648
47,679
61,500
70,227
29,720
49,801
26,939
7,868
1,979
585
211,876
253,511
219,965
Depreciation and Amortization
61,427
49,089
47,067
24,787
23,968
23,229
55,199
52,081
50,857
25,510
24,897
26,718
4,328
4,914
5,203
78
Year Ended May 31, 2024
CPGSegment
PCGSegment
ConsumerSegment
SPGSegment
Net Sales (based on shipping location) (1)
1,695,403
875,713
2,014,689
599,812
5,185,617
Canada
265,287
90,801
165,222
5,015
526,325
Europe
483,318
231,009
233,280
79,706
1,027,313
Latin America
258,458
36,675
25,072
2,576
322,781
Asia Pacific
124,627
19,686
25,293
169,606
Other Foreign
103,635
Total Foreign
1,007,063
586,747
443,260
112,590
2,149,660
Year Ended May 31, 2023
1,572,060
861,190
2,078,519
680,159
5,191,928
243,608
85,812
178,678
4,084
512,182
469,064
233,872
212,558
81,260
224,073
39,395
26,315
1,720
291,503
123,301
18,700
31,982
173,983
90,064
936,745
572,444
436,251
119,046
2,064,486
Year Ended May 31, 2022
1,423,473
739,731
1,829,384
647,660
4,640,248
265,933
76,085
144,032
7,208
493,258
509,891
235,678
221,280
99,324
1,066,173
203,135
29,792
29,940
1,772
264,639
107,424
17,411
34,852
159,687
83,658
83,723
979,024
532,637
412,663
143,156
2,067,480
Long-Lived Assets (2)
2,591,282
2,551,717
2,533,568
238,027
244,182
223,793
383,320
357,359
324,001
United Kingdom
241,788
245,411
259,956
203,256
183,697
195,665
1,066,391
1,030,649
1,003,415
3,657,673
3,582,366
3,536,983
Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financials Reporting
The management of RPM International Inc. is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting for the Company, as such term is defined in Rule 13a-15(f) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. RPM’s internal control system was designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of the Consolidated Financial Statements.
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements and even when determined to be effective, can only provide reasonable assurance with respect to financial statements preparation and presentation. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may be inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
Management assessed the effectiveness of RPM’s internal control over financial reporting as of May 31, 2024. In making this assessment, management used criteria set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission in Internal Control-Integrated Framework (2013 Framework). Based on this assessment, management concluded that, as of May 31, 2024, RPM’s internal control over financial reporting is effective.
The independent registered public accounting firm Deloitte & Touche LLP, has also audited the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of May 31, 2024, and their report thereon is included below.
/s/ Frank C. Sullivan
/s/ Russell L. Gordon
Frank C. Sullivan
Russell L. Gordon
Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer
Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
July 25, 2024
80
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
To the Board of Directors and Stockholders of RPM International Inc.
Opinion on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
We have audited the internal control over financial reporting of RPM International Inc. and subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of May 31, 2024, based on criteria established in Internal Control — Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). In our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of May 31, 2024, based on criteria established in Internal Control — Integrated Framework (2013) issued by COSO.
We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), the consolidated financial statements as of and for the year ended May 31, 2024, of the Company and our report dated July 25, 2024, expressed an unqualified opinion on those financial statements.
Basis for Opinion
The Company’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, included in the accompanying Management's Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. 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, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.
Definition and Limitations of Internal Control over Financial Reporting
A company’s 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 company’s 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 company’s 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.
/s/ Deloitte & Touche LLP
81
Opinion on the Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of RPM International Inc. and subsidiaries (the "Company") as of May 31, 2024 and 2023, the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, cash flows, and stockholders’ equity, for each of the three years in the period ended May 31, 2024, and the related notes and schedule listed in the Index at Item 15 (collectively referred to as the "financial statements"). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of May 31, 2024 and 2023, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended May 31, 2024, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), the Company's internal control over financial reporting as of May 31, 2024, based on criteria established in Internal Control— Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission and our report dated July 25, 2024, expressed an unqualified opinion on the Company's internal control over financial reporting.
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company's financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
Critical Audit Matter
The critical audit matter communicated below is a matter arising from the current-period audit of the financial statements that was communicated or required to be communicated to the audit committee and that (1) relates to accounts or disclosures that are material to the financial statements and (2) involved our especially challenging, subjective, or complex judgments. The communication of critical audit matters does not alter in any way our opinion on the financial statements, taken as a whole, and we are not, by communicating the critical audit matter below, providing a separate opinion on the critical audit matter or on the accounts or disclosures to which it relates.
Goodwill – Certain Reporting Units - Refer to Note C to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Critical Audit Matter Description
The Company's goodwill is tested annually on March 1st, or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that the assets might be impaired. The Company’s evaluation of goodwill for impairment involves the comparison of the fair value of each reporting unit to their carrying values. The Company determines the fair value of its reporting units using a combination of the income and the market approach. The determination of the fair value using the income approach requires management to make significant estimates and assumptions related to forecasts of future revenues, operating margins, and discount rates. The determination of the fair value using the market approach requires management to make significant assumptions related to earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) and EBITDA multiples. Changes in these assumptions could have significant impacts on either the fair value, the amount of any goodwill impairment charge, or both. The fair value of all reporting units exceeded the carrying values as of the annual measurement date and, therefore, no further impairment was recognized.
We identified goodwill of certain reporting units as a critical audit matter because of the significant judgments made by management to estimate the fair value of the reporting units and the difference between its fair value and carrying value. This required a high degree of auditor judgment and an increased extent of effort, including the need to involve our fair value specialists, when performing audit procedures to evaluate the reasonableness of management’s estimates and assumptions related to selection of the discount rate and forecasts of future revenue and operating margin, EBITDA and EBITDA multiples.
82
How the Critical Audit Matter Was Addressed in the Audit
Our audit procedures related to the forecasts of future revenues, operating margin, discount rate, EBITDA and the selection of EBITDA multiples for the certain reporting units included the following, amongst others:
We have served as the Company's auditor since 2016.
83
Item 9. Changes in and Disagreements With Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure.
None.
Item 9A. Controls and Procedures.
(a) Evaluation of disclosure controls and procedures.
Our management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, after evaluating the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rule 13a-15) as of May 31, 2024 (the “Evaluation Date”), have concluded that as of the Evaluation Date, our disclosure controls and procedures were effective in ensuring that information required to be disclosed by us in the reports we file or submit under the Exchange Act (1) is recorded, processed, summarized and reported, within the time periods specified in the Commission’s rules and forms, and (2) is accumulated and communicated to our management, including the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate to allow for timely decisions regarding required disclosure.
(b) Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting.
Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting and the attestation report of Deloitte & Touche LLP, our independent registered public accounting firm, are set forth above.
(c) Changes in internal control over financial reporting.
There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the fourth fiscal quarter ended May 31, 2024 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
Item 9B. Other Information.
(b) Trading Arrangements.
During the year ended May 31, 2024, no Director or Section 16 officer adopted or terminated any Rule 10b5-1 trading arrangements or non-Rule 10b5-1 trading arrangements, nor do any of the Directors or Section 16 officers currently maintain any such arrangements.
Item 9C. Disclosure Regarding Foreign Jurisdictions that Prevent Inspections.
Item 10. Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance.
Information required by this Item 10 as to our Directors appears under the caption “Proposal One - Election of Directors” in our 2024 Proxy Statement, which information is incorporated herein by reference. Information required by Item 405 of Regulation S-K is set forth in the 2024 Proxy Statement under the heading “Delinquent Section 16(a) Reports,” which information is incorporated herein by reference. Information required by Items 406, 407(c)(3), 407(d)(4) and 407(d)(5) of Regulation S-K is set forth in the 2024 Proxy Statement under the heading “Information Regarding Meetings and Committees of the Board of Directors,” which information is incorporated herein by reference. Information required by Item 408(b) of Regulation S-K is set forth in the 2024 Proxy Statement under the heading "Executive Compensation - Insider Trading Policy," which information is incorporated herein by reference.
The Charters of the Audit Committee, Compensation Committee and Governance and Nominating Committee, the Corporate Governance Guidelines and “The Values & Expectations of 168” (our code of business conduct and ethics) are available on our website at www.rpminc.com and in print to any stockholder who requests a copy. Requests for copies should be directed to Vice President - Investor Relations and Sustainability, RPM International Inc., 2628 Pearl Road, Medina, Ohio 44256. We intend to disclose any amendments to our code of business conduct and ethics, and any waiver of our code of business conduct and ethics granted to any of our Directors or Executive Officers on our website.
The name, age and positions of each of our Executive Officers as of July 25, 2024 are as follows:
Name
Age
Position and Offices Held
Edward W. Moore
Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Chief Compliance Officer
Janeen B. Kastner
Vice President - Corporate Benefits and Risk Management
Matthew T. Ratajczak
Vice President - Global Tax and Treasurer
Timothy R. Kinser
Vice President - Operations
Michael J. Laroche
Vice President, Controller and Chief Accounting Officer
Frank C. Sullivan was elected Chairman of the Board in 2008 and Chief Executive Officer in 2002. From 1999 to 2008, Mr. Sullivan served as our President, and again was elected President in 2018, and was Chief Operating Officer from 2001 to 2002. From 1995 to 1999, Mr. Sullivan served as Executive Vice President, and was Chief Financial Officer from 1993 to 1999. Mr. Sullivan served as a Vice President from 1991 to 1995. Prior thereto, he served as our Director of Corporate Development from 1989 to 1991. Mr. Sullivan served as Regional Sales Manager from 1987 to 1989 of AGR Company, an Ohio General Partnership formerly owned by us. Prior thereto, Mr. Sullivan was employed by First Union National Bank from 1985 to 1987 and Harris Bank from 1983 to 1985.
Russell L. Gordon was elected Vice President and Chief Financial Officer in 2012. Prior to that time, Mr. Gordon was the Company’s Vice President – Corporate Planning from 2007 to 2012. Mr. Gordon joined the Company as Director of Corporate Development in 1995. Prior to joining the Company, Mr. Gordon held various financial positions in corporate treasury and control as well as in the Specialty Chemicals Division of Goodrich Corporation. He previously was an industrial engineer at VLSI Technology Inc.
Edward W. Moore was elected Senior Vice President, General Counsel, Chief Compliance Officer and Secretary in 2013. He had been the Company’s Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary since 2007, adding the title of Chief Compliance Officer in 2011. From 1982 to 1989, Mr. Moore was an associate attorney, and from 1990 to 2006, a partner at Calfee, Halter & Griswold LLP. While at Calfee, Mr. Moore served in various capacities, including as a member of the Executive Committee, Chair of the Associates Committee, and Co-Chair of the Securities and Capital Markets Group.
Janeen B. Kastner was elected Vice President ― Corporate Benefits and Risk Management in 2007. Ms. Kastner had been our Director of Human Resources and Administration since 2000. Ms. Kastner joined the Company in 1997 as Manager of Benefits and Insurance. Prior to joining the Company, Ms. Kastner was a pension plan consultant with Watson Wyatt & Co.
Matthew T. Ratajczak was elected Vice President – Global Tax and Treasurer in 2012. Mr. Ratajczak joined the Company as director of taxes in 2004 and was elected Vice President – Global Taxes in 2005. Prior to joining the Company, he was Director of Global Tax for Noveon, Inc., a specialty chemicals company, and began his career with Ernst & Young LLP.
Timothy R. Kinser was elected Vice President - Operations in October 2021. He leads the Company's manufacturing, supply chain and environmental, health and safety functions across all business segments. Mr. Kinser most recently held the title of vice president of procurement since June 2018. He previously served as the executive vice president of operations at DAP Global Inc., an RPM operating company. Prior to joining DAP in 2007, he was executive director of manufacturing at a leading North American roofing manufacturer.
Michael J. Laroche was elected Vice President, Controller and Chief Accounting Officer in 2021. Prior to that time, Mr. Laroche was the Chief Financial Officer of the Company's Specialty Products Group. Mr. Laroche joined the Company as Controller of the Specialty Products Group in 2016. Prior to joining the Company, he was a senior manager at PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP.
Item 11. Executive Compensation.
The information required by this item is set forth in the 2024 Proxy Statement under the headings “Executive Compensation” and “Director Compensation,” which information is incorporated herein by reference.
Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters.
The information required by this item is set forth in the 2024 Proxy Statement under the headings “Stock Ownership of Principal Holders and Management” and “Equity Compensation Plan Information,” which information is incorporated herein by reference.
Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence.
The information required by this item is set forth in the 2024 Proxy Statement under the headings “Related Person Transactions” and “Information Regarding Meetings and Committees of the Board of Directors,” which information is incorporated herein by reference.
Item 14. Principal Accountant Fees and Services.
The information required by this item is set forth in the 2024 Proxy Statement under the heading “Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm Services and Related Fee Arrangements,” which information is incorporated herein by reference.
Item 15. Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedule.
(a) The following documents are filed as part of this report:
1. Financial Statements. The following financial statements are included in Part II, Item 8:
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm (PCAOB ID No. 34)
Consolidated Balance Sheets —
May 31, 2024 and 2023
Consolidated Statements of Income —
fiscal years ended May 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income —
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows —
Consolidated Statements of Stockholders’ Equity —
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
2. Financial Statement Schedule. Schedule II Valuation and Qualifying Accounts and Reserves for each of the three years in the period ended May 31, 2024
All other schedules have been omitted because they are not applicable or not required, or because the required information is included in the Consolidated Financial Statements or notes thereto.
3. Exhibits. The Exhibits listed on the accompanying index to exhibits are filed as part of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Exhibit
Incorporated by reference herein
Description
Form
Date
3.1
Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of the Company
Registration Statement on
Form S-8 (File No. 333-101501)
November 27, 2002
3.2
Amended and Restated By-Laws of the Company
Current Report on Form 8-K
(File No. 001-14187)
January 30, 2024
4.1
Specimen Certificate of Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share, of the Company
Indenture, dated as of April 8, 2014, between the Company and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association
Registration Statement on Form
S-3 (File No. 333-195132)
April 8, 2014
4.3
Officers’ Certificate and Authentication Order dated May 29, 2015 for the 5.250% Notes due 2045 (which includes the form of Note) issued pursuant to the Indenture dated as of April 8, 2014, between the Company and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association
May 29, 2015
Officers’ Certificate and Authentication Order dated March 2, 2017 for the 5.250% Notes due 2045 (which includes the form of Note) issued pursuant to the Indenture dated as of April 8, 2014, between the Company and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association
March 3, 2017
4.5
Officers’ Certificate and Authentication Order dated March 2, 2017 for the 3.750% Notes due 2027 (which includes the form of Note) issued pursuant to the Indenture dated as of April 8, 2014, between the Company and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association
Officers’ Certificate and Authentication Order dated December 20, 2017 for the 4.250% Notes due 2048 (which includes the form of Note) issued pursuant to the Indenture dated as of April 8, 2014, between the Company and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association
December 20, 2017
Officers’ Certificate and Authentication Order dated February 27, 2019 for the 4.550% Notes due 2029 (which includes the form of Note) issued pursuant to the Indenture dated as of April 8, 2014 between the Company and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.
February 28, 2019
4.8
Officers’ Certificate and Authentication Order dated January 25, 2022 for the 2.950% Notes due 2032 (which includes the form of Note) issued pursuant to the Indenture dated as of April 8, 2014 between the Company and Computershare Trust Company, N.A, as successor to Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.
January 27, 2022
4.9
Description of Securities
Annual Report on Form 10-K
July 24, 2019
10.1
Credit Agreement among RPM International Inc., the Borrowers party thereto, the Lenders party thereto and PNC Bank, National Association, as Administrative Agent, dated October 31, 2018
November 6, 2018
10.1.1
First Amendment to Credit Agreement among RPM International Inc., the Borrowers party thereto, the Lenders party thereto and PNC Bank, National Association, as Administrative Agent, dated April 30, 2020
July 27, 2020
10.102
Second Amendment to Credit Agreement among RPM International Inc., the Borrowers party thereto, the Lenders party thereto and PNC Bank, National Association, as Administrative Agent, dated December 16, 2021
July 25, 2022
10.103
Third Amendment to Credit Agreement among RPM International Inc., the Borrowers party thereto, the Lenders party thereto and PNC Bank, National Association, as Administrative Agent, dated December 30, 2021
10.104
Fourth Amendment to Credit Agreement among RPM International Inc., the Borrowers party thereto, the Lenders party thereto and PNC Bank, National Association, as Administrative Agent, dated August 1, 2022
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q
October 5, 2022
10.105
Fifth Amendment to Credit Agreement among RPM International Inc., the Borrowers party thereto, the Lenders party thereto and PNC Bank, National Association, as Administrative Agent, dated December 19, 2022
April 6, 2023
10.106
Sixth Amendment to Credit Agreement among RPM International Inc., the Borrowers party thereto, the Lenders party thereto and PNC Bank, National Association, as Administrative Agent, dated as of June 27, 2024 (x)
10.2
Credit Agreement among RPM International Inc., RPM New Horizons Netherlands B.V., the Lenders party thereto, and PNC Bank, National Association, as Administrative Agent, dated February 21, 2020
February 27, 2020
10.2.1
First Amendment to Credit Agreement among RPM International Inc., RPM New Horizons Netherlands B.V., the Lenders party thereto, and PNC Bank, National Association, as Administrative Agent, dated April 30, 2020
10.2.2
Second Amendment to Credit Agreement among RPM International Inc., RPM New Horizons Netherlands B.V., the Lenders party thereto, and PNC Bank, National Association, as Administrative Agent, dated April 15, 2021
July 26, 2021
10.2.3
Third Amendment to Credit Agreement among RPM International Inc., RPM New Horizons Netherlands B.V., the Lenders party thereto, and PNC Bank, National Association, as Administrative Agent, dated December 16, 2021
Previously shown as Exhibit 10.103 to Annual Report on Form 10-K
10.2.4
Fourth Amendment to Credit Agreement among RPM International Inc., RPM New Horizons Netherlands B.V., the Lenders party thereto, and PNC Bank, National Association, as Administrative Agent, dated August 1, 2022
10.3
Second Amended and Restated Receivables Sales Agreement dated May 9, 2014
May 15, 2014
10.3.1
Amendment No. 1 to Second Amended and Restated Receivables Sale Agreement, dated as of August 29, 2014
January 6, 2016
10.3.2
Amendment No. 2 to Second Amended and Restated Receivables Sale Agreement, dated as of November 3, 2015
89
10.3.3
Amendment No. 3 to Second Amended and Restated Receivables Sale Agreement, dated as of December 31, 2016
April 6, 2017
10.3.4
Amendment No. 4 to Second Amended and Restated Receivables Sale Agreement, dated as of March 31, 2017
10.3.5
Amendment No. 5 to Second Amended and Restated Receivables Sale Agreement, dated as of June 18, 2018
10.3.6
Amendment No. 6 to Second Amended and Restated Receivables Sale Agreement, dated as of December 26, 2019
April 8, 2020
10.3.7
Amendment No. 7 to Second Amended and Restated Receivables Sale Agreement, dated as of June 5, 2020
10.38
Amendment No. 8 to Second Amended and Restated Receivables Sale Agreement, dated as of September 14, 2021
10.39
Amendment No. 9 to Second Amended and Restated Receivables Sale Agreement, dated as of September 30, 2021
10.310
Amendment No. 10 to Second Amended and Restated Receivables Sale Agreement, dated as of March 1, 2022
10.311
Amendment No. 11 to Second Amended and Restated Receivables Sale Agreement, dated as of May 20, 2024 (x)
10.4
Amended and Restated Receivables Purchase Agreement, dated May 9, 2014
10.4.1
Amendment No. 1 to Amended and Restated Receivables Purchase Agreement, dated as of February 25, 2015
April 8, 2015
10.4.2
Amendment No. 2 to Amended and Restated Receivables Purchase Agreement, dated as of May 2, 2017
May 8, 2017
10.4.3
Amendment No. 3 to Amended and Restated Receivables Purchase Agreement, dated as of June 18, 2018
10.4.4
Amendment No. 4 to Amended and Restated Receivables Purchase Agreement, dated as of May 8, 2020
10.4.5
Amendment No. 5 to Amended and Restated Receivables Purchase Agreement, dated as of May 22, 2020
10.4.6
Amendment No. 6 to Amended and Restated Receivables Purchase Agreement, dated as of March 18, 2021
March 24, 2021
10.47
Amendment No. 7 to Amended and Restated Receivables Purchase Agreement, dated as of March 1, 2022
10.48
Amendment No. 8 to Amended and Restated Receivables Purchase Agreement, dated as of March 23, 2023
July 26, 2023
10.49
Amendment No. 9 to Amended and Restated Receivables Purchase Agreement, dated as of May 20, 2024 (x)
10.5
Amended and Restated Fee Letter, dated May 9, 2014
*10.6
Amended and Restated Employment Agreement, effective December 31, 2008, by and between the Company and Frank C. Sullivan, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer
April 9, 2009
90
*10.7
Amended and Restated Employment Agreement, by and between the Company and Edward W. Moore, Vice President, General Counsel and Chief Compliance Officer
October 7, 2011
*10.8
Form of Indemnification Agreement entered into by and between the Company and each of its Directors and Executive Officers
January 13, 2003
*10.9
RPM International Inc. Deferred Compensation Plan, as Amended and Restated Generally, effective February 1, 2021
*10.9.1
Master Trust Agreement for RPM International Inc. Deferred Compensation Plan
August 29, 2002
10.10
Second Amendment and Restated Collection Account Agreement, dated July 29, 2010
October 6, 2010
*10.11
RPM International Inc. 2014 Omnibus Equity and Incentive Plan, effective October 10, 2014
Definitive Proxy Statement
August 26, 2014
*10.11.1
Amended and Restated RPM International Inc. 2014 Omnibus Equity and Incentive Plan, effective October 4, 2018
August 30, 2018
*10.11.2
Amended and Restated RPM International Inc. 2014 Omnibus Equity and Incentive Plan, effective October 3, 2019
August 27, 2019
*10.113
Form of Performance Stock Unit (PSU) and Escrow Agreement (for awards since 2014) (x)
*10.114
Form of Performance-Earned Restricted Stock (PERS) and Escrow Agreement (for awards since 2014) (x)
*10.115
Form of Stock Appreciation Rights Agreement (for awards since 2014) (x)
*10.116
Form of Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan Restricted Stock Agreement (for awards since 2019) (x)
*10.12
RPM International Inc. Amended and Restated Incentive Compensation Plan
October 9, 2007
*10.13
Amended and Restated Employment Agreement, effective December 31, 2008, by and between the Company and Russell L. Gordon, Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
July 24, 2013
10.14
Settlement Term Sheet, dated July 26, 2014, by and among the Company, Bondex, SPHC, Republic, the Asbestos Claimants’ Committee, counsel for each member of the Asbestos Claimant’s Committee in its individual capacity and on behalf of such member, and Eric Green, in his capacity as the Future Claimants’ Representative
July 31, 2014
10.15
Plan of Reorganization
December 23, 2014
*10.16
Amended and Restated Employment Agreement, effective December 31, 2008, by and between the Company and Janeen B. Kastner, Vice President – Corporate Benefits and Risk Management
October 7, 2015
10.17
Cooperation Agreement, dated as of June 27, 2018, by and among the Company, Elliott Associates, L.P., Elliott
June 28, 2018
91
International, L.P., and Elliott International Capital Advisors Inc.
*10.18
Employment Agreement by and between the Company and Timothy R. Kinser, Vice President – Operations
19.1
RPM International Inc. Insider Trading Policy (x)
21.1
Subsidiaries of the Company (x)
23.1
Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm (x)
31.1
Rule 13a-14(a) Certification of the Company’s Chief Executive Officer (x)
31.2
Rule 13a-14(a) Certification of the Company’s Chief Financial Officer (x)
32.1
Section 1350 Certification of the Company’s Chief Executive Officer (xx)
32.2
Section 1350 Certification of the Company Chief Financial Officer (xx)
97.1
RPM International Inc. Incentive-Based Compensation Clawback Policy (x)
101.INS
Inline XBRL Instance Document – the instance document does not appear in the Interactive Data File because its XBRL tags are embedded within the Inline XBRL document.
101.SCH
Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.
101.PRE
Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.
101.DEF
Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.
101.CAL
Incline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.
101.LAB
Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.
104
Cover page Interactive Data File
* Management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement.
(x) Filed herewith.
(xx) Furnished herewith.
92
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
By:
Date: July 25, 2024
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 Registrant in the capacities indicated this 25th day of July, 2024.
Signature
Title
Chairman, President, Chief Executive Officer and a Director
(Principal Executive Officer)
(Principal Financial Officer)
/s/ Michael J. Laroche
(Principal Accounting Officer)
/s/ Kirkland B. Andrews
Director
Kirkland B. Andrews
/s/ John M. Ballbach
John M. Ballbach
/s/ Bruce A. Carbonari
Bruce A. Carbonari
/s/ Jenniffer D. Deckard
Jenniffer D. Deckard
/s/ Salvatore D. Fazzolari
Salvatore D. Fazzolari
/s/ Robert A. Livingston
Robert A. Livingston
/s/ Frederick R. Nance
Frederick R. Nance
/s/ Ellen M. Pawlikowski
Ellen M. Pawlikowski
/s/ William B. Summers, Jr.
William B. Summers, Jr.
/s/ Elizabeth F. Whited
Elizabeth F. Whited
RPM International Inc. and Subsidiaries
Valuation And Qualifying Accounts and Reserves (Schedule II)
(Disposals)
Additions
of Businesses
Beginning
Charged to
and
(Deductions)
End
of Period
Expense
Reclassifications
Allowance for credit losses
(19,094
19,991
(13,633
380
325
(584
Noncurrent:
8,803
(6,363
582
(325
(3,856
46,669
13,557
(10,744
16,003
10,056
(9,140
1,055
932
(960
26,226
3,055
(6,432
6,254
271
(352
55,922
4,326
(13,579
18,297
8,358
(10,652
1,329
674
(948
26,614
10,760
(11,148
6,267
318
(331