UNITED STATESSECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSIONWashington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-K
Commission file number 1-12936
TITAN INTERNATIONAL, INC.(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes x No o
Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K. x
As of January 31, 2003, 20,900,728 shares of common stock of the registrant were outstanding. The aggregate market value of the shares of common stock of the registrant held by non-affiliates was $19,398,013 based upon the closing price of the common stock on the New York Stock Exchange on January 31, 2003.
DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
Part III incorporates information by reference from the registrant’s definitive proxy statement for its annual meeting of stockholders to be held May 15, 2003.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PART I
Item 1. Business
General
Titan International, Inc. (Titan or the Company) is a global manufacturer of off-highway wheels and tires for agricultural, earthmoving/construction and consumer equipment. Titan manufactures both wheels and tires for the majority of these applications, allowing the Company to provide the value-added service of delivering complete wheel and tire assemblies. The Company offers a broad range of products that are manufactured in relatively short production runs to meet the specifications of original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and/or the requirements of aftermarket customers.
As one of the very few companies dedicated to the off-highway wheel and tire market, Titan’s engineering and manufacturing resources are focused on addressing the real-life concerns of the end-users of our products. Titan’s commitment to product innovation is demonstrated by the development of the LSW series of wheel and tire assemblies, which considerably enhances the performance of off-highway vehicles.
In 2002, Titan’s agricultural market sales represented 60% of net sales, the earthmoving/construction market represented 31% and the consumer market represented 9%. For information concerning the revenues, certain expenses, income from operations and assets attributable to each of the segments in which the Company operates, see Note 26 to the consolidated financial statements of Titan International, Inc., included in Item 8 herein.
Agricultural Market
Titan’s agricultural wheels, rims and tires are manufactured for use on various agricultural and forestry equipment, including tractors, combines, skidders, plows, planters and irrigation equipment and are sold to OEMs and independent distributors. The wheels and rims range in diameter from 9” to 54” with the 54” diameter being the largest agricultural wheel manufactured in North America. Basic configurations are combined with distinct variations (such as different centers and a wide range of material thickness) allowing the Company to offer a broad line of product models to meet customer specifications. Titan’s agricultural tires range in diameter from 8” to 85” and in width from 4.8” to 44”. The Company offers the added value of delivering a complete wheel and tire assembly to customers. The aftermarket tires are marketed through a network of independent distributors, equipment dealers, and Titan’s own distribution centers.
Earthmoving/Construction Market
The Company manufactures wheels and rims for various types of earthmoving, mining and construction equipment, including skid steers, aerial lifts, cranes, graders and levelers, scrapers, self-propelled shovel loaders, load transporters, haul trucks and backhoe loaders. The Company provides customers with a broad range of earthmoving/construction wheels ranging in diameter from 20” to 63”, in width from 8” to 60” and in weight from 125 pounds to 7,000 pounds. The 63” diameter wheel is the largest manufactured in North America for the earthmoving/construction market. The majority of the earthmoving/ construction wheels produced by Titan are sold directly to OEMs. In addition, Titan produces a range of tires for the earthmoving/construction market. The Company offers the added value of wheel and tire assembly for many applications in the earthmoving/construction market. Also included in this market segment are the various wheels, tires and components Titan manufactures for the United States Government, primarily for certain military vehicles (i.e.; trucks, trailers, tanks and personnel carriers).
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Consumer Market
Titan builds a variety of products for all terrain vehicles (ATVs), turf, golf, and trailer applications. The Company exited the OEM business for lawn and garden equipment and ATVs in 2002, concentrating instead on the aftermarket for ATV and turf products. Consumer wheels and rims range in diameter from 4” to 16”. Likewise, Titan produces a variety of tires for the consumer market. New ATV tire tread patterns for the replacement market have been designed and introduced in the past few years. For the domestic boat, recreational and utility trailers markets, the Company produces wheels and tires, and assembles brakes, actuators and components. The Company also offers the value-added service of a wheel and tire system for the consumer market.
Market Conditions Outlook
Industry analysts are predicting that the market segments in which Titan does business will not improve dramatically during 2003. The agricultural market may strengthen somewhat during the second half of 2003, thanks in part to the stabilizing impact of the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act. The earthmoving/construction industry, however, is anticipated to experience continued adversity throughout the year. Consumer market performance is largely tied to recreational spending habits. Overall, these circumstances, combined with positive economic developments, may result in slightly improved market conditions for the Company in 2003 when compared to 2002.
Operations
Wheel Manufacturing Process
Most agricultural wheels are produced using a rim and a center disc. A rim is produced by first cutting large steel sheets to required width and length specifications. These steel sections are rolled and welded to form a circular rim, which is flared and formed in the rollform operation. The majority of discs are manufactured using presses that both blank and form the center to specifications in multiple stage operations. The Company e-coats wheels using a multi-step process prior to the final top coating.
Large earthmoving/construction steel wheels are manufactured from hot and cold rolled steel sections. Hot rolled sections are generally used to increase cross section thickness in high stress areas of large diameter wheels. A special cold forming process for 25” wheels is used to increase cross section thickness while eliminating two components. Rims are built from a series of hoops that are welded together to form a rim base. The complete rim base is made from either three or five separate parts that then lock together after the rubber tire has been fitted to the wheel and inflated.
Smaller wheels (usually 12” or less in diameter), the majority of which are produced for consumer markets, are manufactured by a process in which half-wheels are press-formed, then two half-wheel stampings are welded together to form a complete wheel. Generally, for larger wheels (12” or more in diameter) produced for the consumer market, the Company manufactures rims and centers, welds the rims to the centers and then paints the assembled product.
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Operations (continued)
Tire Manufacturing Process
The first step in tire production is the mixing of rubber, carbon black and chemicals to form various rubber compounds. These rubber compounds are then extruded and processed with textile or steel materials to make specific components. These components — beads (wire bundles that anchor the tire with the wheel), plies (layers of fabric that give the tire strength), belts (fabric or steel fabric wrapped under the tread in some tires), tread and sidewall - are then assembled into an uncured tire. The uncured tire is placed into a press that molds and vulcanizes the carcass under set time, temperature and pressure into a finished tire.
Wheel and Tire Assemblies
The Company’s position as a manufacturer of both wheels and tires allows Titan to mount and deliver one of the largest selections of off-highway assemblies in the world. Titan offers this value-added service of one-stop shopping for wheel and tire assemblies for the agricultural, earthmoving/construction and consumer markets. Customer orders are entered into the Company’s system either through electronic data interchange or manually. The appropriate wheel-tire assembly delivery schedule is formulated based on each customer’s requirements and the product is received by the customer just-in-time.
Quality Control
The Company is ISO 9000 certified at seven of its manufacturing facilities. The ISO 9000 series is a set of related and internationally recognized standards of management and quality assurance. The standards specify guidelines for establishing, documenting and maintaining a system to ensure quality. The ISO 9000 certifications are a testament to Titan’s dedication to providing quality products for its customers.
Raw Materials
Steel and rubber are the primary raw materials used by the Company in all segments. To ensure a consistent steel supply, Titan purchases raw steel from key steel mills and maintains relationships with steel processors for steel preparation. The Company is not dependent on any single producer for its steel supply. Rubber and other raw materials for tire manufacture are some of the Company’s largest commodity expenses. Titan buys rubber in markets where there are numerous supply sources. In addition to the development of key domestic suppliers, the Company’s strategic procurement plan includes international suppliers to assure competitive price and quality in the global marketplace. As is customary in the industry, the Company does not have long-term contracts for the purchase of steel or rubber and, therefore, purchases are subject to price fluctuations.
Customers
The Company’s 10 largest customers accounted for approximately 54% of net sales for the year ended December 31, 2002, compared to 51% for the year ended December 31, 2001. Net sales to Deere & Company in Titan’s agricultural, earthmoving/construction, and consumer markets represented 15% of the Company’s consolidated revenues for the year ended December 31, 2002. Net sales to CNH Global N.V. in Titan’s three markets represented 12% of the Company’s consolidated revenues for the year ended December 31, 2002. No other customer accounted for more than 10% of the Company’s net sales in 2002.
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Marketing and Distribution
The Company employees an internal sales force and utilizes several manufacturing representative firms for sales in the United States and Europe. In the United States, sales representatives are organized within geographical regions. The international sales force includes employees in France, Germany, Italy and the United Kingdom. Titan believes international sales efforts are enhanced when sales representatives sell primarily within their native countries.
Titan distributes wheels and tires directly to OEMs. The distribution of aftermarket tires occurs primarily through a network of independent and OEM dealers. The Company distributes wheel and tire assemblies directly to OEMs and aftermarket customers through its own distribution network consisting of nine facilities throughout the United States and Europe.
Research, Development and Engineering
The Company’s research, development and engineering staffs test new designs and technologies and develop new manufacturing methods to improve product performance. These services enhance the Company’s relationships with customers. The Company has spent $3.5 million, $3.1 million, and $4.7 million, on research and development for the years ended December 31, 2002, 2001 and 2000, respectively. These costs were primarily incurred in developing the LSW series of wheels and tires, which considerably enhances the performance of off-highway vehicles. The ongoing cost of research and development for the LSW has declined, although Titan continues to introduce new LSW wheel and tire assemblies for the agricultural, earthmoving/construction, and consumer markets.
The LSW wheel and tire assemblies reduce bounce, power hop, road lope and heat build-up and provide more stability and safety for operators, which in turn leads to greater productivity. The key to the success of the LSW is an increase in wheel diameter while maintaining the original outside tire diameter. This is accomplished by lowering the sidewall (LSW is an acronym for low sidewall) and increasing its strength. Maintaining the original outside diameter of the tire allows the LSW to improve the performance of agricultural, earthmoving/construction and consumer equipment without further modification.
Employees
At December 31, 2002, the Company employed approximately 2,900 people in the United States and Europe. Approximately 34% of the Company’s employees in the United States are covered by three collective bargaining agreements. The majority of employees at Titan’s foreign facilities are represented by collective bargaining agreements that are renewed from time to time depending on terms of the agreements and the laws of the foreign jurisdictions. The employees of the Company’s Walcott, Iowa, facility ratified a three-year contract in July of 2002. In September of 2001, employees of the Company’s Des Moines, Iowa, facility approved a new labor agreement effective through the year 2006. In December of 2001, former workers at the Company’s Natchez, Mississippi, facility approved a new labor agreement also effective through the year 2006. Before ratifying these contracts, the employees or former workers at the Des Moines and Natchez facilities had been on strike for 40 and 39 months, respectively. The Natchez, Mississippi, facility is not currently in operation. The strikes at these facilities had an adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, cash flows and results of operations in 2001 and 2000. The Company believes the resolution of these two strikes has improved employee relations at these facilities and that employee relations at the other facilities are generally good.
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International Operations
In addition to the Company’s facilities in the United States, Titan also operates distribution and wheel manufacturing facilities in Europe. For the year ended December 31, 2002, the Company generated $119.4 million, or 26% percent, of its net sales from foreign operations. International operations and exports to foreign markets are subject to a number of special risks, including, but not limited to, risks with respect to currency exchange rates, economic and political destabilization, other disruption of markets, and restrictive actions by foreign governments (such as restrictions on transfer of funds, export duties and quotas and foreign customs). Other risks include changes in foreign laws regarding trade and investment, difficulties in obtaining distribution and support, nationalization, reforms of laws and policies of the United States affecting trade, foreign investment and loans, and foreign tax laws. There can be no assurance that one, or a combination, of these factors will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s ability to increase or maintain its foreign sales or on its results of operations. The Company had total aggregate export sales of approximately $81.5 million, $70.8 million, and $79.4 million, for the years ended December 31, 2002, 2001 and 2000, respectively. For financial information regarding international operations, see Note 26 to the consolidated financial statements of Titan International, Inc., included in Item 8 herein.
The Company has significant manufacturing operations in foreign countries and purchases a portion of its raw materials from foreign suppliers. The production costs, profit margins and competitive position of the Company are affected by the strength of the currencies in countries where Titan manufactures or purchases goods, relative to the strength of the currencies in countries where products are sold. The Company’s results of operations, cash flows and financial position may be adversely affected by fluctuations in foreign currencies and by translation of the financial statements of the Company’s foreign subsidiaries from local currencies into United States dollars.
Order Backlog
As of January 31, 2003, Titan estimates $149 million in firm orders compared to $110 million at February 28, 2002. Orders are considered firm if the customer would be obligated to accept the product if manufactured and delivered pursuant to the terms of such orders. The Company believes that the majority of the current order backlog will be filled during the current year.
Patents and Trademarks
The Company owns various United States and foreign patents and trademarks and continues to apply for patent protection for many new products. While patents are considered significant to the operations of the business, Titan does not consider any one of them to be of such importance that the patent’s expiration or invalidity could materially affect the Company’s business.
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Environmental Compliance
In the ordinary course of business, like other industrial companies, the Company is subject to extensive and evolving federal, state, local and foreign environmental laws and regulations, and has made provisions for the estimated financial impact of environmental cleanup. The Company’s policy is to accrue environmental cleanup-related costs of a noncapital nature when those costs are believed to be probable and can be reasonably estimated. Expenditures that extend the life of the related property or mitigate or prevent future environmental contamination are capitalized. The Company does not currently anticipate any material capital expenditures for environmental control facilities. The quantification of environmental exposures requires an assessment of many factors, including changing laws and regulations, advancements in environmental technologies, the quality of information available related to specific sites, the assessment stage of the site investigation, preliminary findings and the length of time involved in remediation or settlement. The Company does not include anticipated recoveries from insurance carriers or other third parties in its accruals for environmental liabilities. Due to the difficult nature of predicting future environmental costs, the Company cannot anticipate or predict the material adverse effect on its operations, cash flows or financial condition as a result of efforts to comply with, or its liabilities under, environmental laws.
Competition
The Company competes with several domestic and international companies, some of which are larger and have greater financial and marketing resources than Titan. The Company believes it is the primary source of steel wheels and rims to the majority of its North American customers. Major competitors in the wheel market include GKN Wheels, Ltd. and Topy Industries, Ltd. Major competitors in the tire market include Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. and Bridgestone/Firestone. The Company competes primarily on the basis of price, quality, customer service, design capability and delivery time. The Company’s ability to compete with international competitors may be adversely affected by currency fluctuations. In addition, certain of the Company’s OEM customers could, under individual circumstances, elect to manufacture the Company’s products to meet their requirements or to otherwise compete with the Company. There can be no assurance that the Company will not be adversely affected by increased competition in the markets in which it operates, or that competitors will not develop products that are more effective, less expensive, or otherwise render certain of Titan’s products less competitive. From time to time, certain competitors of the Company have reduced their prices in particular product categories, which has prompted the Company to reduce prices as well. There can be no assurance that in the future, competitors of the Company will not further reduce prices or that any such reductions would not have a material adverse effect on the Company.
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Item 2. Properties
The Company maintains 14 manufacturing and warehousing/distribution facilities in the United States with a collective floor space of approximately 8.0 million square feet. Of these facilities, one is used primarily for the manufacture of agricultural products, one is dedicated primarily to the manufacture of earthmoving/construction products and four manufacture products for all three of the Company’s market segments. The remaining eight facilities are used for the warehousing/distribution of products in all of the Company’s segments.
The Company’s facility in Natchez, Mississippi, is not currently in operation. This facility could be used for the manufacture of agricultural, earthmoving/construction and consumer tires and comprises approximately 1.2 million square feet. There are no immediate plans to reopen this facility; however, this facility may be reopened in the future if the Company requires additional production capacity to meet demand. The Company’s facility in Greenwood, South Carolina, is not currently in operation. This facility encompasses approximately 0.1 million square feet. The Company is currently exploring strategies for this facility. The Company has assessed that the net realizable value of these facilities exceeds the net book value and, therefore, the Company believes the facilities are fairly stated. The Company has reorganized its distribution network and, as a part of this reorganization, several distribution facilities have been closed. The Company accrued $0.7 million for future minimum lease payments due on noncancellable leases for closed distribution facilities.
In Europe, Titan maintains six manufacturing and warehousing/distribution facilities with a collective floor space of approximately 1.5 million square feet. These facilities are located in Italy, the United Kingdom, France, and Germany. Of these facilities, one is used for the manufacture of earthmoving/construction products, four are used for the manufacture of agricultural, earthmoving/construction and consumer products, and one is used for warehousing and distribution of products for all of the Company’s segments.
Several of the Company’s facilities are leased through operating lease agreements. For information on these operating leases, see Note 23 to the consolidated financial statements of Titan International, Inc., included in Item 8 herein. The Company considers each of its facilities to be in good operating condition and adequate for present use. Management believes that the Company has sufficient capacity to meet current market demand.
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Item 3. Legal Proceedings
The Company is a party to routine legal proceedings arising out of the normal course of business. Although it is not possible to predict with certainty the outcome of these unresolved legal actions or the range of possible loss, the Company believes that none of these actions, individually or in the aggregate, will have a material adverse affect on the financial condition or results of operations of the Company.
Item 4. Submission of Matter to a Vote of Security Holders
Not applicable.
Item 4a. Executive Officers of the Registrant
The names, ages and positions of all executive officers of the Company are listed below, followed by a brief account of their business experience during the past five years. Officers are normally appointed annually by the Board of Directors at a meeting immediately following the Annual Meeting of Stockholders. The President and Secretary are brother and sister. There is no arrangement or understanding between any officer and any other person pursuant to which an officer was selected.
Maurice M. Taylor Jr., 58, has been President, Chief Executive Officer and a Director of the Company since 1990, when Titan was acquired in a management-led buyout by investors, including Mr. Taylor.
J.Michael A. Akers, 59, began organizing the start-up of Titan’s European Operations in 1990 and became a member of the management team in 1995. Mr. Akers was appointed Vice President in 1999.
Kent W. Hackamack, 44, served as Corporate Controller of the Company from 1994 to 1996. Mr. Hackamack was appointed Vice President of Finance and Treasurer in 1996.
Cheri T. Holley, 55, joined the Company in 1994 as General Counsel and Secretary. Ms. Holley was appointed Vice President in 1996.
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PART II
Item 5. Market for the Registrant’s Common Equity and Related Stockholder Matters
The Company’s common stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) under the symbol TWI. The following table sets forth the high and low sales prices per share of common stock as reported on the NYSE and information concerning per share dividends declared for the periods indicated.
On January 31, 2003, there were 1,036 holders of record of Titan common stock.
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Item 6. Selected Financial Data
The selected financial data presented below, as of and for the years ended December 31, 2002, 2001, 2000, 1999, and 1998, are derived from the Company’s consolidated financial statements, as audited by PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, independent accountants, and should be read in conjunction with the Company’s audited consolidated financial statements and notes thereto.
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Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results ofOperations
Results of Operations
The following table sets forth the Company’s statement of operations expressed as a percentage of net sales for the periods indicated. This table and subsequent discussions should be read in conjunction with the Company’s audited consolidated financial statements and notes thereto.
In addition, the following table sets forth components of the Company’s net sales classified by segment for the periods indicated (in thousands):
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MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSISOF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Critical Accounting Policies
Preparation of the financial statements and related disclosures in compliance with generally accepted accounting principles requires the application of appropriate technical accounting rules and guidance, as well as the use of estimates. The Company’s application of these policies involves judgments regarding many factors, which, in and of themselves, could materially impact the financial statements and disclosures. A future change in the assumptions or judgments applied in determining the following matters, among others, could have a material impact on future financial results.
Revenue Recognition
The Company records sales revenue and cost of sales when products are shipped to customers and both title and the risks and rewards of ownership are transferred. Provisions are established for sales returns and uncollectible accounts based on historical experience. Should these trends change, adjustments to the estimated provisions would be necessary.
Product Costing
Inventories are valued at the lower of cost or market. For operations in the United States, cost is determined using the last-in, first-out (LIFO) method for approximately 56% of inventories and the first-in, first-out (FIFO) method for the remainder of inventories. Inventory of foreign subsidiaries is valued using the FIFO method. Market is estimated based on current selling prices. Estimated provisions are established for excess and obsolete inventory, as well as inventory carried above market price based on historical experience. Should this experience change, adjustments to the estimated provisions would be necessary.
Impairment of Fixed Assets
The Company reviews fixed assets to assess recoverability from future operations whenever events and circumstances indicate that the carrying values may not be recoverable. Impairment losses are recognized in operating results when expected undiscounted future cash flows are less than the carrying value of the asset. Impairment losses are measured as the excess of the carrying value of the asset over the discounted expected future cash flows, or the fair value of the asset. Significant assumptions relating to future operations must be made when estimating future cash flows. Should unforeseen events occur or should operating trends change significantly, impairment losses could occur.
Valuation of Investments Accounted for Under the Equity Method
The Company assesses the carrying value of its equity investments whenever events and circumstances indicate that the carrying values may not be recoverable. Investment write-downs, if necessary, are recognized in operating results when expected undiscounted future cash flows are less than the carrying value of the asset. Any such write-downs are measured as the excess of the carrying value of the asset over the discounted expected future cash flows or the fair value of the asset. Significant assumptions relating to future investment results must be made when estimating the future cash flows associated with these investments. Should unforeseen events occur or should investment trends change significantly, impairment losses could occur.
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Impairment of Goodwill
The Company reviews goodwill to assess recoverability from future operations during the fourth quarter of each annual reporting period, and whenever events and circumstances indicate that the carrying values may not be recoverable. Significant assumptions relating to future operations must be made when estimating future cash flows in analyzing goodwill for impairment. Should unforeseen events occur or should operating trends change significantly, impairment losses could occur.
Retirement Benefit Obligations
Pension benefit obligations are based on various assumptions used by the Company’s actuaries in calculating these amounts. These assumptions include discount rates, expected return on plan assets, mortality rates and other factors. Revisions in assumptions and actual results that differ from the assumptions affect future expenses, cash funding requirements and obligations. For more information concerning these costs and obligations, see the additional discussion of the “Pensions” and Note 21 to the Company’s financial statements.
Strike Settlement
The cumulative impact of the 1998 through 2001 strikes at the Company’s Des Moines, Iowa, and Natchez, Mississippi, facilities, combined with a general downturn in the Company’s markets, resulted in costly and disruptive consequences for Titan. The employees and/or former workers at these facilities were on strike for 40 and 39 months, respectively. The strikes at these facilities had an adverse effect on the Company’s 2001 and 2000 financial position, cash flows and results of operations.
The Company recorded union strike settlement and other costs of $6.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2001. This amount is attributed to the union settlement with the Company’s Des Moines, Iowa, and Natchez, Mississippi, facilities as well as other costs to which the strike contributed. Included in these costs were union settlement payments, retraining costs, goodwill and prepaid write-downs of $4.9 million. These items of $4.9 million are presented in the selling, general and administrative line on the Consolidated Statements of Operations. The remaining $1.9 million in the union strike settlement and other costs were for inventory write-downs, which have been reclassified as a component of cost of sales.
In September of 2001, employees of the Company’s Des Moines, Iowa, facility approved a new labor agreement effective through the year 2006. In December of 2001, former workers at the Company’s Natchez, Mississippi, facility approved a new labor agreement also effective through the year 2006. Titan believes that the terms of the strike settlements are favorable and that competitive ongoing labor rates have been established. With the strikes settled, the Company is now concentrating its resources on accommodating an increased demand for the Titan product line when the markets recover.
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Sale of Assets
On April 14, 2000, the Company sold certain assets (primarily raw material inventory, work-in-process inventory, and property, plant and equipment) of two facilities located in Clinton, Tennessee, and Slinger, Wisconsin, to Carlisle Tire and Wheel Company, a subsidiary of Carlisle Companies Incorporated, for approximately $94.1 million in cash. In conjunction with this transaction, the Company eliminated goodwill related to these operations totaling $19.5 million. The Company recorded a pretax gain on this transaction of $38.7 million in the second quarter of 2000. This nonrecurring gain has not been included in the pro forma amounts described below. These two facilities were in the business of providing wheels and tires to the consumer market, primarily for original equipment manufacturers’ (OEM) lawn and garden equipment and all terrain vehicles (ATVs).
Had the transaction occurred on January 1, 2000, net sales for the year ended December 31, 2000, would have been $512.4 million. Loss from operations for the year ended December 31, 2000, would have been $(13.4) million. Net loss for the year ended December 31, 2000, would have been $(21.2) million. Loss per share for the year ended December 31, 2000, would have been $(1.02). There was no effect on net sales, net income or earnings per share for the years ended December 31, 2001, and December 31, 2002, as a result of this transaction.
Investment Exposures
The Company maintains financial interests in Wheels India Limited (WIL), a wheel manufacturer located in India. The Company owns 36% of WIL common stock. This investment is accounted for using the equity method. The carrying value of this investment was $12.8 and $11.9 million at December 31, 2002 and 2001, respectively. The increase in the carrying value was due to currency exchange fluctuations. Equity income of $0.7 million was recorded in 2001. Dividends received from this investment were $0.2 million for each of 2002 and 2001. WIL is publicly traded on the National Stock Exchange of India Ltd. (NSE). Based on the NSE quoted price, the calculated value of the Company’s shares was $6.0 million at December 31, 2002, and $5.1 million at December 31, 2001. Due to the carrying value of the Company’s investment in WIL exceeding the NSE quoted market value, the Company continues to assess the net realizable value of the WIL investment. Based on the current and expected operating results of WIL factored into this assessment, the Company believes the WIL investment is fairly stated. However, in order to prevent exceeding the estimated net realizable value of the WIL investment, the Company did not record its equity share of the WIL income, which would have been $1.3 million of income for 2002.
Titan also maintains financial interests in Polymer Enterprises, Inc. in the amount of $7.3 million or 14% of common stock. Polymer is a privately held company in Greensburg, Pennsylvania, which manufactures specialty tires and various rubber-related products for industrial applications. Dividends recorded and received from this investment were $0.8 million for each of 2002 and 2001.
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Loss on Investment
The Company maintains financial interests in Fabrica Uruguaya de Neumaticos S.A. (FUNSA), a tire manufacturer located in Uruguay, South America. FUNSA is not currently producing tires, however FUNSA is working with its investors, the government of Uruguay and the union to complete a reorganization plan and resume the manufacturing of tires. These plans have been significantly hindered by the major economic crisis that occurred in Uruguay during the third quarter of 2002, including a run on banks and the temporary closing of the banking system. Due to these events and the deterioration of economic conditions, social distress and resultant unrest in the country of Uruguay, the Company reserved its investment in FUNSA of $9.6 million. The expense of $9.6 million was taken in the third quarter of 2002 and is classified in the accompanying Consolidated Statement of Operations within “Loss on investments.” On the accompanying Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows, $3.7 million is classified within “Noncash portion of loss on investments” and the remaining $5.9 million is classified as a reduction in restricted cash deposits.
In addition, the Company maintains financial interests in AII Holding, Inc. in the amount of $2.8 million of preferred stock and accrued dividends. AII Holding, Inc. is a specialist in automated welding technology equipment. The privately held company is located in Danville, Illinois. Based on Titan’s analysis of the AII Holding, Inc. financial information, Titan reserved its investment in AII Holding, Inc. The expense of $2.8 million was taken in the fourth quarter of 2002 and is classified on the accompanying Consolidated Statement of Operations within “Loss on investments.”
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Fiscal year ended December 31, 2002, compared to fiscal year ended December 31, 2001
Net Sales
Net sales for the year ended December 31, 2002, were $462.8 million compared to $457.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2001.
The Company generated 26% of its net sales from foreign subsidiaries during the year ended December 31, 2002, as compared to 25% during the year ended December 31, 2001. The increase in the foreign net sales percentage during 2002 was primarily due to the fact that foreign sales increased slightly while domestic sales remained nearly constant.
Cost of Sales and Gross Profit
Cost of sales was $433.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2002, as compared to $438.8 million in 2001. Gross profit for the year 2002 was $29.7 million or 6.4% of net sales, compared to $18.7 million, or 4.1% of net sales for 2001. Gross profit, as a percentage of net sales, was positively impacted by the Company’s efforts to control costs. Cost reduction measures have included the closing of several distribution facilities as part of the Company’s reorganization of its domestic distribution network. Titan’s cost control efforts were partially offset by price increases for steel and rubber, the primary raw materials used by the Company.
The Company’s profit margins continue to be affected by the excess capacity at the idle Natchez, Mississippi facility. Depreciation on the fixed assets at this facility and minimal operating costs continue to be incurred. A third party appraisal indicates the fair value of the fixed assets of this facility is in excess of the carrying value of $20.1 million. The Company continually assesses its capacity requirements and makes necessary changes as dictated by customer demand.
Administrative Expenses
Selling, general and administrative (SG&A) and research and development (R&D) expenses were $43.8 million or 9.5% of net sales for the year ended December 31, 2002, as compared to $52.1 million or 11.4% of net sales for 2001. The decrease in SG&A and R&D expenses is primarily attributed to one-time expenses of $4.9 million incurred in 2001 attributed to the union settlement with the Company’s Des Moines, Iowa, and Natchez, Mississippi, facilities as well as other costs to which the strike contributed. Included in these costs were union settlement payments, retraining costs, goodwill and prepaid write-downs of $4.9 million. The Company also continues to streamline operations to reduce costs at each of its facilities. The Company’s streamlining efforts include headcount reductions.
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Fiscal year ended December 31, 2002, compared to fiscal year ended December 31, 2001 (continued)
Operating Results and Other
Loss from operations for the year ended December 31, 2002, was $(14.1) million, compared to $(33.5) million in 2001. Loss from operations was impacted by the items described in the preceding paragraphs.
Net interest expense for the year 2002 was $20.6 million compared to $20.9 million in 2001. The decreased interest expense was primarily due to a reduction in interest rates. Lower interest rates were partially offset by an increase in the average debt outstanding in 2002 as compared to 2001.
The $12.4 million loss on investments resulted from the Company’s decision to reserve its investment in Fabrica Uruguaya de Neumaticos S.A. (FUNSA), a tire manufacturer located in Uruguay, South America and AII Holding, Inc., a specialist in automated welding technology equipment located in Danville, Illinois.
Of the loss, $9.6 million is related to the FUNSA investment. FUNSA is not currently producing tires, however FUNSA is working with its investors, the government of Uruguay and the union to complete a reorganization plan and resume the manufacturing of tires. These plans have been significantly hindered by the major economic crisis that occurred in Uruguay during the third quarter of 2002, including a run on banks and the temporary closing of the banking system. Due to these events and the deterioration of economic conditions, social distress and resultant unrest in the country of Uruguay, the Company has reserved its investment in FUNSA of $9.6 million. The expense of $9.6 million was taken in the third quarter of 2002 and is classified in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations within “Loss on investments.” On the accompanying Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows, $3.7 million is classified within “Noncash portion of loss on investments” and the remaining $5.9 million is classified as a reduction in restricted cash deposits.
The additional loss on investment of $2.8 million resulted from the Company’s decision to reserve its investment in AII Holding, Inc. Based on Titan’s analysis of the AII Holding, Inc. financial information, Titan reserved its investment in AII Holding, Inc. The expense of $2.8 million was taken in the fourth quarter of 2002 and is classified on the accompanying Consolidated Statement of Operations within “Loss on investments.”
Gain on sale of assets in 2001 of $1.6 million was attributed to the sale of an airplane during the first quarter of 2001. The gain on early retirement of debt in 2001 of $4.4 million resulted from the early retirement of $13.3 million of the Company’s senior subordinated notes due 2007.
Other income was $2.7 million for the year 2002 as compared to $2.0 million in 2001. Interest income accounted for $3.0 million and $2.4 million of other income for the years ended December 31, 2002, and 2001, respectively. As a result of operating foreign subsidiaries, the Company is subject to fluctuations in foreign currencies. During the year ended December 31, 2002, the strength of foreign currencies against the dollar benefited Titan by $2.0 million. In comparison, the currency exchange loss was $(1.1) million for the year ended December 31, 2001.
The Company’s effective tax benefit on its net loss was 19% and 25% for the years ended December 31, 2002, and December 31, 2001, respectively.
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Net Loss
Net loss for the year ended December 31, 2002, was $(35.9) million, compared to $(34.8) million in 2001. Basic and diluted loss per share was $(1.73) for the year ended December 31, 2002, as compared to $(1.68) in 2001. Net loss and loss per share were impacted by the items described in the preceding paragraphs.
Agricultural Segment Results
Net sales in the agricultural market were $278.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2002, as compared to $256.2 million in 2001. Income from operations in the agricultural market was $8.1 million for the year 2002 as compared to loss from operations of $(2.2) million in 2001. The increase in net sales and income from operations in the agricultural market was primarily attributed to higher sales volumes resulting from an escalation in customer demand coupled with Titan’s efforts to expand market share. The heightened cost control efforts discussed previously also contributed to the improved operating results.
Earthmoving/Construction Segment Results
The Company’s earthmoving/construction market net sales were $144.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2002, as compared to $156.0 million in 2001. The Company’s earthmoving/construction market income from operations was $3.1 million for the year 2002 as compared to $1.2 million in 2001. The continuing economic uncertainty in 2002 negatively impacted sales in the earthmoving/construction market. Also, equipment rental agencies delayed purchases of new equipment as a result of decreased demand. Despite a decrease in sales, earthmoving/construction market income from operations was up due to increased cost control efforts.
Consumer Segment Results
Consumer market net sales were $39.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2002, as compared to $45.3 million in 2001. Consumer market income from operations was $0.1 million for the year 2002 as compared to loss from operations of $(5.5) million in 2001. Although consumer market net sales decreased, income from operations increased as a result of the Company’s previously discussed efforts to enhance efficiencies and management’s efforts to focus on the Company’s higher margin products.
Foreign Subsidiaries Sales
Net sales at foreign subsidiaries were $119.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2002, as compared to $113.7 million in 2001. Foreign sales were positively impacted by increased agricultural sales.
Corporate Expenses
Income from operations on a segment basis does not include corporate expenses or depreciation and amortization expense related to property, plant and equipment carried at the corporate level totaling $25.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2002, as compared to $27.0 million in 2001.
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Fiscal year ended December 31, 2001, compared to fiscal year ended December 31, 2000
Net sales for the year ended December 31, 2001, were $457.5 million compared to $543.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2000. Net sales decreased primarily due to a decrease in production by the Company’s major customers, as well as the sale of assets transaction as previously described. Many of the Company’s customers decreased production to reduce inventory as a result of decreased sales.
The Company generated 25% of its net sales from foreign subsidiaries during the year ended December 31, 2001, as compared to 22% during the year ended December 31, 2000. The increase in the foreign net sales percentage during 2001 was primarily due to the fact that while foreign sales decreased in 2001, domestic sales decreased more significantly.
Currency Fluctuation
As a result of operating foreign subsidiaries, the Company is subject to fluctuations in foreign currencies. The foreign currency fluctuations for the year ended December 31, 2001, had a minimal effect on the Company’s results of operations.
Cost of sales was $438.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2001, as compared to $502.9 million in 2000. Gross profit for the year ended December 31, 2001, was $18.7 million or 4.1% of net sales, compared to $40.1 million, or 7.4% of net sales for 2000. Gross profit, as a percentage of net sales, was negatively impacted by inefficiencies related to operating at a lower capacity utilization and to merging the returning union workforce with the current workers at the Company’s Des Moines, Iowa, facility.
Selling, general and administrative (SG&A) and research and development (R&D) expenses were $52.1 million or 11.4% of net sales for the year ended December 31, 2001, as compared to $48.8 million or 9.0% of net sales for 2000. The increase in SG&A and R&D expenses is primarily attributed to one-time expenses of $4.9 million incurred in 2001 related to the union settlement. This amount is attributed to the union settlement with the Company’s Des Moines, Iowa, and Natchez, Mississippi, facilities as well as other costs to which the strike contributed. Included in these costs were union settlement payments, retraining costs, goodwill and prepaid write-downs of $4.9 million. The Company continues to streamline operations to reduce costs at each of its facilities.
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Fiscal year ended December 31, 2001, compared to fiscal year ended December 31, 2000 (continued)
Loss from operations for the year ended December 31, 2001, was $(33.5) million, compared to $(8.6) million in 2000. Loss from operations was impacted by the items described in the preceding paragraphs.
Net interest expense for the year ended December 31, 2001, was $20.9 million compared to $22.6 million in 2000. The decreased interest expense was primarily due to a reduction in interest rates. Lower interest rates were partially offset by an increase in the average debt outstanding in 2001 as compared to 2000.
Gain on sale of assets in 2001 of $1.6 million was attributed to the sale of an airplane during the first quarter of 2001. The gain on sale of assets in 2000 of $38.7 million resulted from the sale of certain assets in April 2000 as previously described.
Gain on early retirement of debt in 2001 of $4.4 million resulted from the early retirement of $13.3 million of the Company’s senior subordinated notes due 2007.
Other income (expense) was $2.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2001, as compared to $1.2 million in 2000. Interest income accounted for $2.4 million and $2.5 million of other income for the years ended December 31, 2001, and 2000, respectively. The increase in other income (expense) is primarily attributed to a decrease in currency exchange loss, which was $(1.1) million and $(1.7) million for the years ended December 31, 2001, and 2000, respectively.
For the year ended December 31, 2001, the Company’s effective tax benefit on its net loss was 25%, compared to 48% effective tax rate on net earnings for the year ended December 31, 2000. The lower rate is primarily due to the inability of the Company to realize an income tax benefit from certain nondeductible items including goodwill amortization, as well as the amount of income generated in various state and foreign jurisdictions.
Net (Loss) Income
Net (loss) for the year ended December 31, 2001, was $(34.8) million, compared to net income of $4.5 million in 2000. Loss per share was $(1.68) for the year ended December 31, 2001, as compared to earnings per common share of $.22 in 2000. Net (loss) income and (loss) earnings per share were impacted by the items described in the preceding paragraphs.
Net sales in the agricultural market were $256.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2001, as compared to $283.1 million in 2000. Sales in the agricultural market were negatively impacted by decreased sales volume that resulted from a decrease in overall agricultural equipment sales and plant shutdowns by the major OEMs in this industry. Loss from operations in the agricultural market was $(2.2) million for the year ended December 31, 2001, as compared to income from operations of $11.7 million in 2000. The decrease in income from operations in the agricultural market was primarily attributed to decreased efficiencies due to decreased sales volume.
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The Company’s earthmoving/construction market net sales were $156.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2001, as compared to $162.6 million in 2000. Sales in the earthmoving/construction market were negatively impacted by a decrease in sales caused by economic uncertainty in 2001. Also, equipment rental agencies delayed purchases of new equipment as a result of decreased demand. The Company’s earthmoving/construction market income from operations was $1.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2001, as compared to $8.9 million in 2000. The decrease in income from operations in the earthmoving/construction market was primarily due to a change in product mix from larger to smaller diameter wheels and tires, which tend to command lower margins, and to a lesser extent the lower sales volumes in this market.
Consumer market net sales were $45.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2001, as compared to $97.4 million in 2000. Sales in the consumer market decreased primarily due to the Company exiting the OEM business for lawn and garden equipment and ATVs in April 2000. Also, the market for trailers has undergone a downturn during this period. Consumer market loss from operations was $(5.5) million for the year ended December 31, 2001, as compared to $(0.6) million in 2000. The decrease in income from operations in the consumer market was primarily due to the Company exiting the OEM business for lawn and garden equipment and ATVs and to a lesser degree the downturn in the trailer market.
Income from operations on a segment basis does not include: corporate expenses; depreciation and amortization expense related to property, plant and equipment; and goodwill carried at the corporate level, for a total of $27.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2001, as compared to $28.7 million in 2000.
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Liquidity and Capital Resources
Cash Flows
As of December 31, 2002, the Company had $22.0 million of unrestricted cash deposited within various bank accounts. This unrestricted cash balance increased by $12.8 million from December 31, 2001 due to the cash flows discussed below.
For the year ended December 31, 2002, positive cash flows from operating activities of $16.9 million resulted primarily from a federal income tax refund from fiscal 2001 of $16.3 million as well as depreciation and amortization of $33.6 million. The tax refund reduced deferred income tax assets, due to the reclassification of the balances to loss carryforwards, by $8.2 million and other current assets by $8.1 million. Cash inflows were partially offset by the net loss of $(35.9) million. Of this net loss, $6.5 million was a noncash item related to loss on investments previously discussed
Depreciation and amortization expenses were $33.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2002, compared to $37.3 million in 2001.
Net cash used by investing activities was $9.1 million in 2002, as compared to $16.5 million in 2001. Capital expenditures totaled $9.8 million in 2002, compared to $11.9 million in 2001. The capital expenditures represent various equipment purchases and building improvements to enhance production capabilities. Included in 2002 capital expenditures is $4.1 million used for equipment and other capital expenditures at the Company’s facilities located in Italy. The Company estimates that capital expenditures for 2003 could range between $10 million and $15 million.
The Company received proceeds of $5.2 million from the sale of an airplane in 2001. During 2000, the Company received proceeds of $94.1 million from the sale of assets. Titan utilized the majority of these proceeds to reduce its total debt to $233.4 million at December 31, 2000, from $303.7 million at March 31, 2000.
Net cash provided by financing activities in 2002 was $4.4 million. This cash inflow is primarily due to decreases in restricted cash deposits discussed below. Offsetting the inflow from restricted cash deposits was $4.8 million of principal repayments on long-term debt.
In 2001, the Company’s two $5.0 million subordinated notes to Pirelli Armstrong Tire Corporation were paid. The first $5.0 million subordinated note was paid in June 2001 and the second was paid in December 2001. In February 2000, the subordinated note for $19.7 million to Pirelli Armstrong Tire Corporation was paid.
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Liquidity and Capital Resources (continued)
Debt Funding
In December 2001, the Company replaced its former credit facility with a $99 million five-year term loan and a $20 million five-year revolving loan agreement. The term loan has an interest rate of LIBOR plus a margin that ranges from 4% to 41/2% and the revolving loan agreement allows Titan to borrow funds at an interest rate of LIBOR plus 2%, or at the prime rate. At December 31, 2002, $96.5 million was outstanding on the term loan. The interest rate on the term loan ranged from approximately 5.9% to 6.4% during 2002. At December 31, 2002, there were no amounts drawn on the $20 million revolving loan agreement.
The Company’s term loan and revolving loan agreements contain various covenants and restrictions. The financial covenants in these loan agreements require the (i) Company’s adjusted minimum tangible net worth be equal to or greater than $150 million, (ii) value of equipment, accounts receivable, and inventory be equal to or greater than three times the outstanding principal balance of the term loan, and (iii) value of accounts receivable and inventory be equal to or greater than $100 million. Restrictions include (i) limits on payments of dividends and repurchases of the Company’s stock, (ii) restrictions on the ability of the Company to make additional borrowings, or to consolidate, merge or otherwise fundamentally change the ownership of the Company, and (iii) limitations on investments, dispositions of assets and guarantees of indebtedness. These covenants and restrictions could limit the Company’s ability to respond to market conditions, to provide for unanticipated capital investments, to raise additional debt or equity capital, to pay dividends or to take advantage of business opportunities, including future acquisitions. If the Company were unable to meet these covenants, the Company would be in default on these loan agreements.
The Company is in compliance with these covenants and restrictions as of December 31, 2002. The Company’s adjusted minimum tangible net worth is required to be equal to or greater than $150 million and the Company computes it to be $176.3 million at December 31, 2002. The value of the equipment, accounts receivable and inventory are required to be equal to or greater than 3.00 times the outstanding principal balance of the term loan and is calculated to be 4.08 times this balance at year-end 2002. The value of the accounts receivable and inventory must be equal to or greater than $100 million and it is computed to be $191.7 million at December 31, 2002.
Other Issues
The Company’s business is subject to seasonal variations in sales that affect inventory levels and accounts receivable balances.
There have been no significant changes in interest rates, debt borrowings, or related covenants during 2002.
The Company had restricted cash of $26.8 million at December 31, 2002. Restricted cash of $15.0 million is held as collateral on the revolving loan agreement. The remaining $11.8 million is collateral on outstanding letters of credit for an industrial revenue bond of $9.6 million and another letter of credit for $2.2 million. Letters of credit were previously issued under the Company’s credit facility, which was replaced in December 2001. The restricted cash balance at December 31, 2001 was $34.7 million. The $7.9 million decrease primarily resulted from the $5.9 million restricted cash reduction for FUNSA.
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The Company’s Board of Directors has authorized Titan to repurchase up to 10.0 million shares of its common stock. The Company repurchased 0.1 million shares in each of 2002 and 2001. The Company repurchased 7.1 million shares in years prior to 2001 leaving the Company with authorization to repurchase an additional 2.7 million common shares.
Liquidity Outlook
Declines in the earthmoving/construction market and the continued slump in the large agricultural equipment market continue to have a negative effect on the profitability and the financial ratios of the Company. These market declines have created a difficult operating environment for Titan.
At December 31, 2002, the Company had unrestricted cash and cash equivalents of $22.0 million and no amounts were drawn on the $20 million revolving loan agreement. Scheduled principal payments on long-term debt total $10.6 million for 2003.
Cash on hand, anticipated internal cash flows from operations and utilization of remaining available borrowings are expected to provide sufficient liquidity for working capital needs, capital expenditures, and payments required on short-term debt for the near term. However, if the Company were to exhaust all currently available working capital sources, or were not to meet the financial covenants and conditions of its loan agreements, the Company might find it extremely difficult to secure additional funding in order to meet working capital requirements.
Market Risk Sensitive Instruments
Exchange Rate Sensitivity
The Company is exposed to fluctuations in the Euro, British pound and other world currencies. Titan views its investments in foreign subsidiaries as long-term commitments and does not hedge foreign currency transaction or translation exposures. The Company’s net investment in foreign subsidiaries translated into U.S. dollars at December 31, 2002, is $52.1 million. The hypothetical potential loss in value of the Company’s net investment in foreign subsidiaries resulting from a 10% adverse change in foreign currency exchange rates at December 31, 2002, would amount to $5.2 million.
Commodity Price Sensitivity
The Company does not generally enter into long-term commodity contracts and does not use derivative commodity instruments to hedge its exposures to commodity market price fluctuations. Therefore, the Company is exposed to price fluctuations of its key commodities, which consist primarily of steel and rubber. The Company attempts and, depending on market conditions, is able to pass on certain material price increases and decreases to its customers.
Interest Rate Sensitivity
At December 31, 2002, the fair value of the Company’s senior subordinated notes, based upon quoted market prices obtained through independent pricing sources for the same or similar types of borrowing arrangements, was $77.9 million, compared to the carrying value of $136.8 million. The Company believes the carrying value of its other debt reasonably approximates fair value at December 31, 2002.
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Outlook
Economic uncertainty makes it difficult to determine precisely when the Company will see significant increases in sales. To combat this uncertainty, the Company continues to lower costs and pursue new channels for increasing sales. The Company is working with equipment dealers to offer Titan wheels and tires directly through their dealerships. Also, Titan is cultivating relationships with many smaller companies that can benefit from the Company’s engineering expertise and commitment to the off-highway sector. Through these efforts, the Company is preparing to return to profitability when the Company’s markets and sales rebound.
Agricultural Segment
Agricultural market sales are expected to remain flat in the first half of 2003 with a predicted modest upturn in the second half. The Farm Security and Rural Investment Act, signed in May 2002 and extending six years, governs the farm payment program and provides countercyclical income support. Crop prices, while fluctuating during the past year, have had an overall upward trend. Eventually, the farm bill and increased crop prices should support an upturn in the agricultural market. However, dry weather in key areas and short-term cash flow pressures on farmers have pushed this expected increase into the latter part of 2003. Many variables, including weather, export markets, and future government policies and payments can greatly influence the overall health of the agricultural economy.
Earthmoving/Construction Segment
Sales for the earthmoving/construction market are expected to be slightly lower in 2003. Although housing has remained resilient through the economic downturn, there have been increasing pressures to postpone or cancel larger construction projects. States fund many of these larger projects and many states currently have large budget deficits. As they work to balance their budgets, these states can be expected to continue to curtail construction spending. Weakness also persists at equipment rental agencies, thereby decreasing their new equipment purchases.
Consumer Segment
Sales in the consumer market are expected to be flat in 2003. The ATV wheel and tire aftermarket is expected to continue to offer future growth opportunities. Many items affect the consumer market including weather, competitive pricing, energy prices, and consumer attitude, which remains cautious.
Euro Conversion
The Company adopted the Euro currency in operations affected by this change on January 1, 2002. The costs associated with the transition to the Euro were not material.
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Pensions
The Company has three defined benefit pension plans. These plans are described in Note 21 of the Company’s Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. The Company’s recorded liability for pensions is based on a number of assumptions, including discount rates, rates of return on investments, mortality rates and other factors. Certain of these assumptions are determined with the assistance of outside actuaries. Assumptions are based on past experience and anticipated future trends. These assumptions are reviewed on a regular basis and revised when appropriate. In 2002, the Company changed the discount rate used in its calculations from 71/4% to 63/4%. Revisions in assumptions and actual results that differ from the assumptions affect future expenses, cash funding requirements and the carrying value of the related obligations.
Titan’s projected benefit obligation at December 31, 2002, was $73.3 million as compared to $68.3 million for December 31, 2001. During 2002, the Company recorded net periodic pension cost of $0.7 million for pension expenses and settlement costs of $0.3 million as the result of purchasing a final annuity settlement contract for the Dico, Inc. pension plan. Due to the major decline in the equity markets during 2002, the fair value of the Company’s pension fund assets has significantly decreased since December 31, 2001. As a result, the minimum pension liability adjustment of the Company was increased from $6.2 million at December 31, 2001, to $19.1 million at December 31, 2002. The minimum liability adjustment is recorded as a direct charge to stockholders’ equity and does not affect net income, but is included in other comprehensive income. If current market conditions continue, Titan may be required to record additional net periodic pension cost in the future, which may affect the Company’s financial position, cash flows and results of operations.
New Accounting Standards
Statement of Financial Accounting Standards Number 142
On January 1, 2002, the Company adopted the provisions of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) No. 142, “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets.” SFAS No. 142 eliminates the amortization of goodwill and requires goodwill to be tested for impairment at least annually. The Company has determined the reporting units and has conducted transitional and annual tests of goodwill impairment of these units using the discounted cash flow method. The Company’s reporting units for the goodwill impairment tests are agricultural, earthmoving/construction and consumer. The Company’s tests showed no impairment of goodwill due to the estimated discounted future cash flows exceeding the current net carrying value of the related unit. In estimating the future cash flows, the Company assumes sales and profitability trends, which have declined in recent years, will return to levels previously experienced by the Company. The Company’s sales and profitability trends have been affected by downturns in the United States and world economy and the cumulative impact of the strikes at the Company’s Des Moines, Iowa, and Natchez, Mississippi, facilities that extended for 40 and 39 months, respectively. Should future information indicate such assumptions need to be revised downward, the carrying value could be impaired. Prospectively, the Company will evaluate goodwill for impairment in the fourth quarter of each fiscal year or whenever events or circumstances indicate impairment may exist. Refer to Note 7 of the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional goodwill disclosure.
Statement of Financial Accounting Standards Number 143
In August 2001, SFAS No. 143, “Accounting for Asset Retirement Obligations,” was issued. Statement 143 requires legal obligations associated with the retirement of long-lived assets to be recorded as increases in costs of the related assets. SFAS No. 143 was adopted in the second quarter of 2002 and had no material effect on the Company’s financial position, cash flows or results of operations.
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New Accounting Standards (continued)
Statement of Financial Accounting Standards Number 144
In July 2001, SFAS No. 144, “Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets,” was issued. This statement retains the previous cash flow test for impairment and broadens the presentation of discontinued operations. SFAS No. 144 was adopted in the first quarter of 2002 and had no material effect on the Company’s financial position, cash flows or results of operations.
Statement of Financial Accounting Standards Number 145
In April 2002, SFAS No. 145, “Rescission of FASB Statements No. 4, 44, and 64, Amendment of FASB Statement No. 13, and Technical Corrections,” was issued. This statement eliminates the requirement that gains and losses on the extinguishment of debt be classified as extraordinary items on the statement of operations. The Company has elected to adopt SFAS No. 145 early. Therefore, the gain on early retirement of debt recorded in the second quarter of 2001 has been reclassified. See Note 15 of the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.
Statement of Financial Accounting Standards Number 146
In June, 2002, SFAS No. 146, “Accounting for Exit or Disposal Costs” was issued. This statement requires companies to recognize liabilities and costs associated with exit or disposal activities when they are incurred rather than when management commits to a plan to exit an activity. Adoption of this standard is required for any exit or disposal activities initiated subsequent to December 31, 2002. The Company does not expect the adoption of this standard to have a material effect on its financial position, cash flows or results of operations.
Statement of Financial Accounting Standards Number 148
In December 2002, SFAS No. 148, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation-Transition and Disclosure-an amendment of FASB Statement No. 123,” was issued. This statement amends SFAS No. 123, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation,” to provide alternative methods of transition for a voluntary change to the fair value based method of accounting for stock-based employee compensation. In addition, SFAS No. 148 amends the disclosure requirements of SFAS No. 123 to require prominent disclosures in both annual and interim financial statements about the method of accounting for stock-based employee compensation and the effect of the method used on reported results. This statement is effective for fiscal years ending after December 15, 2002. The Company has adopted the disclosure requirements of SFAS No. 148 and the adoption of this standard had no material effect on the Company’s financial position, cash flows or results of operations.
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Safe Harbor Statement
This Form 10-K contains forward-looking statements, including statements regarding, among other items, (i) anticipated trends in the Company’s business, (ii) future expenditures for capital projects, (iii) the Company’s ability to continue to control costs and maintain quality, (iv) meeting financial covenants and conditions of its loan agreements, (v) the Company’s business strategies, including its intention to introduce new products, (vi) expectations concerning the performance and commercial success of the Company’s existing and new products and (vii) the Company’s intention to consider and pursue acquisitions. Readers of this Form 10-K should understand that these forward-looking statements are based on the Company’s expectations and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, certain of which are beyond the Company’s control.
Actual results could differ materially from these forward-looking statements as a result of certain factors, including, (i) changes in the Company’s end-user markets as a result of world economic or regulatory influences, (ii) changes in the competitive marketplace, including new products and pricing changes by the Company’s competitors, (iii) availability and price of raw materials, (iv) levels of operating efficiencies, (v) actions of domestic and foreign governments, (vi) results of investments, and (vii) ability to secure financing at reasonable terms. Any changes in such factors could lead to significantly different results. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. In light of these risks and uncertainties, there can be no assurance that the forward-looking information contained in this document will in fact transpire.
Item 7a. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
Reference is made to Item 7, Part II of this report.
Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data
Reference is made to Item 15, Part IV of this report.
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PART III
Item 10. Executive Officers and Directors
The information required by Item 10 regarding the Company’s directors is incorporated by reference to the Company’s 2003 Proxy Statement under the captions “Elections of Directors” and “Directors Continuing in Office.” The information required by Item 10 regarding the Company’s executive officers appears as Item 4a, Part I of this report.
Item 11. Executive Compensation
The information required by Item 11 is incorporated by reference to the Company’s 2003 Proxy Statement under the caption “Executive Officers Compensation.”
Except for the information concerning equity compensation plans, the information required by Item 12 is incorporated by reference to the Company’s 2003 Proxy Statement under the caption “Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management.”
The following table provides information about shares of Titan common stock that may be issued under Titan’s equity compensation plans, as of December 31, 2002:
For addition information regarding the Company’s stock option plans, please see Note 22 of the Company’s Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
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Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions
The information required by Item 13 is incorporated by reference to the Company’s 2003 Proxy Statement under the caption “Related Party Transactions” and also appears in Note 25 of the Company’s Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
Item 14. Controls and Procedures
Based on their most recent evaluation, which was completed within 90 days of the filing of this Form 10-K, the Company’s principal executive officer and principal financial officer believe the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-14 and 15d-14) are effective. There were not any significant changes in internal controls or in other factors that could significantly affect these controls subsequent to the date of their evaluation, including any corrective actions with regard to significant deficiencies and material weaknesses.
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PART IV
Item 15. Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedule, and Reports on Form 8-K
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SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of Sections 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.
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 and in the capacities indicated on February 27, 2003.
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CERTIFICATION
Each of the undersigned hereby certifies that, to the best of their knowledge, this report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and that information contained in this report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Registrant.
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I, Maurice M. Taylor Jr., certify that:
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I, Kent W. Hackamack, certify that:
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TITAN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Exhibit IndexForm 10-K2002
37
MANAGEMENT’S RESPONSIBILITY FOR FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The consolidated financial statements of Titan International, Inc. were prepared by management, which is responsible for their contents and integrity. They reflect amounts based upon management’s best estimates and informed judgements in conforming to accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
The Company maintains a system of internal accounting controls and procedures which is designed, consistent with reasonable cost, to provide reasonable assurance that transactions are executed as authorized and that they are properly recorded to produce reliable financial records and to safeguard assets against loss.
To further safeguard assets, the Company has established an Audit Committee, which is comprised entirely of outside directors. The Audit Committee meets with the independent accountants, with and without management present, to discuss audit and financial reporting matters and internal accounting controls.
The consolidated financial statements have been audited by PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, independent accountants. They have evaluated the Company’s internal accounting control structure and performed tests and other procedures necessary to express an opinion on the fairness of the consolidated financial statements.
F-1
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS
To the Board of Directorsand Stockholders ofTitan International, Inc.
In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements listed in the index appearing under Item 15(a)(1) on page 32 present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Titan International, Inc. and its subsidiaries at December 31, 2002 and 2001, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2002, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. In addition, in our opinion, the financial statement schedule listed in the index appearing under Item 15(a)(2) on page 32 presents fairly, in all material respects, the information set forth therein when read in conjunction with the related consolidated financial statements. These financial statements and the financial statement schedule are the responsibility of the Company’s management; our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements and the financial statement schedule based on our audits. We conducted our audits of these statements in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States of America, which require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, and evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
St. Louis, MissouriFebruary 14, 2003
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TITAN INTERNATIONAL, INC.CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS(All amounts in thousands, except per share data)
See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
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TITAN INTERNATIONAL, INC.CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS(All amounts in thousands, except share data)
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TITAN INTERNATIONAL, INC.CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY(All amounts in thousands, except share data)
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TITAN INTERNATIONAL, INC.CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS(All amounts in thousands)
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TITAN INTERNATIONAL, INC.NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
1.Summary of significant accounting policies
OperationsTitan International, Inc. (Titan or the Company), is a global manufacturer of off-highway wheels and tires for the agricultural, earthmoving/construction and consumer markets. The Company generally manufactures both wheels and tires for these markets and provides the value-added service of assembling the complete wheel-tire system. The primary materials utilized in the manufacturing process are steel and rubber, which are obtained from a broad base of suppliers.
Use of estimatesThe policies utilized by the Company in the preparation of the financial statements conform to generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America and require management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amount of assets and liabilities, and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities, at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual amounts could differ from these estimates and assumptions.
Basis of consolidationThe consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its wholly and majority-owned subsidiaries. Titan records its investment in each unconsolidated affiliated company (20% to 50% ownership) at its related equity in the net assets of such affiliate as adjusted for equity earnings and losses. Investments of less than 20% in other companies are carried at cost. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated.
Product costingInventories are valued at the lower of cost or market. For operations in the United States, cost is determined using the last-in, first-out (LIFO) method for approximately 56% of inventories and the first-in, first-out (FIFO) method for the remainder of inventories. Inventory of foreign subsidiaries is valued using the FIFO method. Market is estimated based on current selling prices. Estimated provisions are established for excess and obsolete inventory as well as inventory carried above market price based on historical experience.
Fixed assetsProperty, plant and equipment have been recorded at cost. Depreciation is provided using the straight-line method over the following estimated useful lives of the related assets:
Maintenance and repairs are expensed as incurred. When property, plant and equipment are retired or otherwise disposed of, the related cost and accumulated depreciation are eliminated and any gain or loss on disposition is included in income.
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Deferred financing costsDeferred financing costs are costs incurred in connection with the Company’s term loan, senior subordinated notes, and industrial revenue bonds. The costs associated with the term loan are being amortized over five years, the term of the loan. The discount and costs associated with the senior subordinated notes are amortized straight line over 10 years, the term of the notes. Such amortization approximates the effective interest rate method. The costs associated with the industrial revenue bonds are being amortized over 13 years, the term of the bonds.
Fair value of financial instrumentsThe Company records all financial instruments, including cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, notes receivable, accounts payable, other accruals and notes payable at cost, which approximates fair value. The senior subordinated notes due 2007 are the only significant financial instrument of the Company with a fair value different than the recorded value. At December 31, 2002, the fair value of the senior subordinated notes, based on quoted market prices obtained through independent pricing sources for the same or similar types of borrowing arrangements, was approximately $77.9 million, compared to a carrying value of $136.8 million.
Valuation of investments accounted for under the equity methodThe Company assesses the carrying value of its equity investments whenever events and circumstances indicate that the carrying values may not be recoverable. Investment write-downs, if necessary, are recognized in operating results when expected undiscounted future cash flows are less than the carrying value of the asset. These write-downs, if any, are measured as the excess of the carrying value of the asset over the discounted expected future cash flows or the fair value of the asset.
Impairment of fixed assetsThe Company reviews fixed assets to assess recoverability from future operations whenever events and circumstances indicate that the carrying values may not be recoverable. Impairment losses are recognized in operating results when expected undiscounted future cash flows are less than the carrying value of the asset. Impairment losses are measured as the excess of the carrying value of the asset over the discounted expected future cash flows or the fair value of the asset.
Impairment of goodwillThe Company reviews goodwill to assess recoverability from future operations during the fourth quarter of each annual reporting period, and whenever events and circumstances indicate that the carrying values may not be recoverable as required by the adoption of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) No. 142.
Revenue recognitionThe Company records sales revenue and cost of sales when products are shipped to customers and both title and the risks and rewards of ownership are transferred. Provisions are established for sales returns and uncollectible accounts based on historical experience. Should these trends change, adjustments would be necessary to the estimated provisions.
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Income taxesDeferred income tax provisions are determined using the liability method whereby deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized based upon temporary differences between the financial statement and income tax basis of assets and liabilities. The Company assesses the realizability of deferred tax asset positions to determine if a valuation allowance is necessary.
Foreign currency translationThe financial statements of the Company’s foreign subsidiaries are translated in United States currency in accordance with SFAS No. 52, “Foreign Currency Translation.” Assets and liabilities are translated to United States dollars at period-end exchange rates. Income and expense items are translated at average rates of exchange prevailing during the period. Translation adjustments are included in “Accumulated other comprehensive loss” in stockholders’ equity. Gains and losses that result from foreign currency transactions are included in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations.
Earnings per shareBasic earnings per share (EPS) is computed by dividing consolidated net earnings by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding. Diluted EPS is computed by dividing consolidated net earnings by the sum of the weighted average number of common shares outstanding and the weighted average number of potential common shares outstanding. Potential common shares consist solely of outstanding options under the Company’s stock option plans.
Statement of cash flowsFor purposes of the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows, the Company considers financial investments with an original maturity of three months or less to be cash equivalents.
Investing activities during the year ended December 31, 2000, including certain non-cash transactions, related to the Company’s sale of assets of two facilities located in Clinton, Tennessee, and Slinger, Wisconsin, involved the following (in thousands):
The Company paid $19.2 million, $19.7 million, and $20.9 million for interest; and $1.5 million, $5.9 million, and $6.2 million for income taxes in 2002, 2001 and 2000, respectively.
Environmental liabilitiesEnvironmental expenditures that relate to current operations are expensed or capitalized as appropriate. Expenditures that relate to an existing condition caused by past operations and that do not contribute to current or future revenue are expensed. Liabilities are recorded when environmental assessments and/or remedial efforts are probable and can be reasonably estimated.
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Stock-based compensationAt December 31, 2002, the Company has two stock-based compensation plans, which are described in Note 22. The Company applies the recognition and measurement principles of Accounting Principles Board (APB) Opinion No. 25, “Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees,” and related Interpretations in accounting for those plans. No stock-based compensation expense was reflected in the 2002, 2001, or 2000 net income (loss) as all options granted during those years had an exercise price equal to the market value of the underlying common stock on the date of the grant. The following table illustrates the effect on net income (loss) and earnings per share if the Company had applied the fair value recognition provisions of SFAS No. 123, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation,” to stock-based compensation (in thousands, except share data):
Foreign market riskThe Company manufactures and sells its products in the United States and foreign countries. The Company is potentially subject to foreign currency exchange risk relating to receipts from customers and payments to suppliers in foreign currencies. As a result, the Company’s financial results could be affected by factors such as changes in foreign currency exchange rates or weak economic conditions in the foreign markets in which the Company operates. Gains and losses arising from the settlement of foreign currency transactions are charged to the related period’s Consolidated Statement of Operations. Translation adjustments arising from the translation of foreign subsidiary financial statements are recorded as a part of accumulated other comprehensive loss in stockholders’ equity.
ReclassificationCertain amounts from prior years have been reclassified to conform to the current year’s presentation. These reclassifications include a reclassification relating to the union strike settlement and other cost of $6.8 million included in the prior year’s Consolidated Statement of Operations. Of this amount, $1.9 million has been reclassified to cost of goods sold and the remaining $4.9 million was reclassified to selling, general and administrative.
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New accounting standardsOn January 1, 2002, the Company adopted the provisions of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) No. 142, “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets.” SFAS No. 142 eliminates the amortization of goodwill and requires goodwill to be tested for impairment at least annually. The Company has determined the reporting units and has conducted transitional and annual tests of goodwill impairment of these units using the discounted cash flow method. The Company’s reporting units for the goodwill impairment tests are agricultural, earthmoving/construction and consumer. The Company’s tests showed no impairment of goodwill due to the estimated discounted future cash flows exceeding the current net carrying value of the related unit. In estimating the future cash flows, the Company assumes sales and profitability trends, which have declined in recent years, will return to levels previously experienced by the Company. The Company’s sales and profitability trends have been affected by downturns in the United States and world economy and the cumulative impact of the strikes at the Company’s Des Moines, Iowa, and Natchez, Mississippi, facilities that extended for 40 and 39 months, respectively. Should future information indicate such assumptions need to be revised downward, the carrying value could be impaired. Prospectively, the Company will evaluate goodwill for impairment in the fourth quarter of each fiscal year or whenever events or circumstances indicate impairment may exist. See Note 7 for additional goodwill disclosure.
In April 2002, SFAS No. 145, “Rescission of FASB Statements No. 4, 44, and 64, Amendment of FASB Statement No. 13, and Technical Corrections,” was issued. This statement eliminates the requirement that gains and losses on the extinguishment of debt be classified as extraordinary items on the statement of operations. The Company has elected to adopt SFAS No. 145 early. Therefore, the gain on early retirement of debt recorded in the second quarter of 2001 has been reclassified. See Note 15 for additional information.
In June 2002, SFAS No. 146, “Accounting for Exit or Disposal Costs,” was issued. This statement requires companies to recognize liabilities and costs associated with exit or disposal activities when they are incurred rather than when management commits to a plan to exit an activity. Adoption of this standard is required for any exit or disposal activities initiated subsequent to December 31, 2002. The Company does not expect the adoption of this standard to have a material effect on its financial position, cash flows or results of operations.
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New accounting standards (continued)In December 2002, SFAS No. 148, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation-Transition and Disclosure-an amendment of FASB Statement No. 123,” was issued. This statement amends SFAS No. 123, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation,” to provide alternative methods of transition for a voluntary change to the fair value based method of accounting for stock-based employee compensation. In addition, SFAS No. 148 amends the disclosure requirements of SFAS No. 123 to require prominent disclosures in both annual and interim financial statements about the method of accounting for stock-based employee compensation and the effect of the method used on reported results. This statement is effective for fiscal years ending after December 15, 2002. The Company has adopted the disclosure requirements of SFAS No. 148 and the adoption of this standard had no material effect on the Company’s financial position, cash flows or results of operations.
Inventories at December 31, 2002 and 2001, consisted of the following (in thousands):
Property, plant and equipment at December 31, 2002 and 2001, consisted of the following (in thousands):
Depreciation of fixed assets for the years 2002, 2001 and 2000 totaled $31.7 million, $33.7 million, and $34.3 million, respectively. Company facilities not currently in operation located in Natchez, Mississippi, and Greenwood, South Carolina, have net fixed assets of $20.1 million and $4.5 million, respectively. The Company continues to depreciate these fixed assets. The Company has assessed the idled assets and have determined that the net book value of assets does not exceed the fair market value.
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The Company had restricted cash of $26.8 million at December 31, 2002. Restricted cash of $15.0 million is collateral on the revolving loan agreement described in Note 11. The remaining $11.8 million is collateral on outstanding letters of credit for an industrial revenue bond of $9.6 million and another letter of credit for $2.2 million.
Other assets at December 31, 2002 and 2001, consisted of the following (in thousands):
See Note 6 for further discussion of equity investments
The Company maintains financial interests in Wheels India Limited (WIL), a wheel manufacturer located in India. The Company owns 36% of WIL common stock. This investment is accounted for using the equity method. The carrying value of this investment was $12.8 and $11.9 million at December 31, 2002 and 2001, respectively. The increase in the carrying value was due to currency exchange fluctuations. Equity income of $0.7 million was recorded in 2001. Dividends received from this investment were $0.2 million for each of 2002 and 2001. WIL is publicly traded on the National Stock Exchange of India Ltd. (NSE). Based on the NSE quoted price, the calculated value of the Company’s shares was $6.0 million at December 31, 2002 and $5.1 million at December 31, 2001. Due to the carrying value of the Company’s investment in WIL exceeding the NSE quoted market value, the Company continues to assess the net realizable value of the WIL investment. Based on the current and expected operating results of WIL factored into this assessment, the Company believes the WIL investment is fairly stated. However, in order to prevent exceeding the estimated net realizable value of the WIL investment, the Company did not record its equity share of the WIL income, which would have been $1.3 million of income for 2002.
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Goodwill, net reflects accumulated amortization of $5.6 million at December 31, 2002 and $5.5 million at December 31, 2001. The change in accumulated amortization is the result of currency exchange fluctuations. No goodwill amortization has been recorded in 2002, pursuant to the adoption of SFAS No. 142 as described in Note 1.
The carrying amount of goodwill by segment at December 31, 2002 was (i) agricultural of $9.8 million, (ii) earthmoving/construction of $6.3 million, and (iii) consumer of $1.7 million. The increase in goodwill, net from $17.0 million at December 31, 2001 to $17.8 million at December 31, 2002 is the result of currency exchange fluctuations.
The table below provides comparative net earnings and earnings per share information had the non-amortization provisions of SFAS No. 142 been adopted for all periods presented:
Other current liabilities at December 31, 2002 and 2001, consisted of the following (in thousands):
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The Company provides limited warranties on workmanship on its products in all market segments. The majority of the Company’s products have a limited warranty that ranges from zero to five years with certain products being prorated after the first year. The Company calculates a provision for warranty expense based on past warranty experience. Warranty accruals are included as a component of other current liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Changes in the warranty liability consisted of the following (in thousands):
Other noncurrent liabilities at December 31, 2002 and 2001, consisted of the following (in thousands):
Long-term debt at December 31, 2002 and 2001, consisted of the following (in thousands):
In March 1997, the Company issued $150 million principal amount of 83/4% senior subordinated notes, priced to the public at 99.5 percent, due 2007. During the second quarter of 2001, the Company retired $13.3 million of these notes. A pretax gain of $4.4 million was recognized on this early retirement of debt.
In December 2001, the Company replaced its former multicurrency credit agreement with a $99 million five-year term loan and a $20 million five-year revolving loan agreement.
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At December 31, 2002, $96.5 million was outstanding on the five-year term loan. The term loan is secured by certain receivables, inventory and fixed assets. The term loan, which expires in December 2006, has an interest rate of LIBOR plus a margin that ranges from 4% to 41/2%. The interest rate on the term loan ranged from approximately 5.9% to 6.4% during 2002. The term loan contains restrictions related to dividends, investments, guarantees, certain financial ratios and other customary affirmative and negative covenants. Principal payments of $5.8 million are due in 2003 on this term loan.
At December 31, 2002, no amounts were drawn on the $20 million revolving loan agreement. The loan agreement is secured by $15 million in restricted cash as well as certain receivables, inventory, and fixed assets. The loan agreement, which expires in December 2006, allows Titan to borrow funds at an interest rate of LIBOR plus 2%, or at the prime rate. The revolving loan agreement contains restrictions related to dividends, investments, guarantees, certain financial ratios and other customary affirmative and negative covenants.
Other debt primarily consists of industrial revenue bonds, loans from local and state entities and various other long-term notes. The increase in other debt consists primarily of currency translation on a $10.7 million term loan at the Company’s Italian facilities.
Aggregate maturities of long-term debt are as follows (in thousands):
Accumulated other comprehensive loss consisted of the following (in thousands):
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The Company repurchased 0.1 million, 0.1 million and 0.2 million shares of its common stock at a cost of $0.1 million, $0.4 million and $0.9 million in 2002, 2001 and 2000, respectively. The Company is authorized to repurchase an additional 2.7 million common shares. The Company paid cash dividends of $.02 per share of common stock during 2002, $.03 per share of common stock during 2001, and $.06 per share of common stock during 2000.
The Company recorded a gain on early retirement of debt of $4.4 million in the second quarter of 2001. This gain was previously classified as an extraordinary item in accordance with Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) Statement No. 4, “Reporting Gains and Losses from Extinguishment of Debt.” In accordance with FASB Statement No. 4, the gain was shown net of taxes of $1.8 million for a net amount of $2.6 million. In April 2002, SFAS No. 145 was issued rescinding FASB Statement No. 4. The Company has elected to adopt SFAS No. 145 early and has therefore reclassified the gain on early retirement of debt in accordance with SFAS No. 145.
Other income (expense) consisted of the following (in thousands):
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Income (loss) before income taxes, including the extraordinary gain on early retirement of debt, consisted of the following (in thousands):
The (benefit) provision for income taxes, including taxes related to the extraordinary gain on early retirement of debt, was as follows (in thousands):
The (benefit) provision for income taxes differs from the amount of income tax determined by applying the statutory U.S. federal income tax rate to pretax income (loss) as a result of the following:
Federal income taxes are provided on earnings of foreign subsidiaries except to the extent that such earnings are expected to be indefinitely reinvested abroad.
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Deferred tax assets (liabilities) at December 31, 2002 and 2001, respectively, consisted of the following (in thousands):
In September of 2001, employees of the Company’s Des Moines, Iowa, facility approved a new labor agreement effective through the year 2006. In December of 2001, former workers at the Company’s Natchez, Mississippi, facility approved a new labor agreement effective through the year 2006. The employees or former workers at these facilities had been on strike for 40 and 39 months, respectively. The Company recorded union strike settlement and other costs of $6.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2001. This amount is attributed to the union settlement with the Company’s Des Moines, Iowa, and Natchez, Mississippi, facilities as well as other costs to which the strike contributed. Included in these $6.8 million of costs were (i) inventory write-downs of $1.9 million, and (ii) union settlement payments, retraining costs, goodwill and prepaid write-downs of $4.9 million. The inventory write-downs of $1.9 million were reclassified to cost of sales. The union settlement payments, retraining costs, goodwill and prepaid write-downs of $4.9 million were reclassified as selling, general and administrative expenses.
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On April 14, 2000, the Company sold certain assets (primarily raw material inventory, work-in-process inventory, and property, plant and equipment) of two facilities located in Clinton, Tennessee, and Slinger, Wisconsin, to Carlisle Tire and Wheel Company, a subsidiary of Carlisle Companies Incorporated, for approximately $94.1 million in cash. In conjunction with this transaction, the Company eliminated goodwill related to these operations totaling $19.5 million. The Company recorded a pretax gain on this transaction of $38.7 million in the second quarter of 2000. This nonrecurring gain has not been included in the pro forma amounts described below. These two facilities were in the business of providing wheels and tires to the consumer market, primarily for original equipment manufacturers’ lawn and garden equipment and all terrain vehicles.
Had the transaction occurred on January 1, 2000, net sales for the year ended December 31, 2000, would have been $512.4 million. Net loss for the year ended December 31, 2000, would have been $(21.2) million. Loss per share for the year ended December 31, 2000, would have been $(1.02). There was no effect on net sales, net income or earnings per share for the years ended December 31, 2001, and December 31, 2002, as a result of this transaction.
Pension plansThe Company has a frozen defined benefit pension plan covering certain employees of Titan Tire Corporation. The Company has a frozen contributory defined benefit pension plan covering certain hourly employees of its Walcott, Iowa, facility. The Company sponsors a contributory defined benefit plan that covers former eligible bargaining employees of Dico, Inc. This plan purchased a final annuity settlement contract in October 2002. The Company’s policy is to fund pension costs as accrued, which is consistent with the funding requirements of federal laws and regulations.
The Company’s defined benefit plans have been aggregated in the following table. Included in the December 31, 2002, amounts are two plans with a projected benefit obligation and accumulated benefit obligation of $73.3 million, which exceeds the fair value of plan assets of $44.1 million at December 31, 2002. The projected benefit obligation and the accumulated benefit obligation are the same amount since the Plans are frozen and there are no future compensation levels to factor into the obligations. Included in the December 31, 2001, amounts are two plans with a projected benefit obligation and accumulated benefit obligation of $67.1 million, which exceeds the fair value of plan assets of $60.0 million at December 31, 2001. The Company has absolved itself from all liabilities associated to the Dico plan as of October 1, 2002. Therefore, the plan no longer maintains a projected or accumulated benefit obligation.
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The following table provides the change in benefit obligation, change in plan assets, funded status and amounts recognized in the consolidated balance sheet of the defined benefit pension plans as of December 31, 2002, and 2001 (in thousands):
Included in the consolidated balance sheets at December 31, 2002, and 2001 are the after tax minimum pension liabilities for the unfunded pension plans of $19.1 million and $6.2 million, respectively.
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The following table provides the components of net periodic pension costs for the plans, settlement costs and the assumptions used in the measurement of the Company’s benefit obligation for years ended December 31, 2002, 2001 and 2000 (in thousands):
401(k)The Company sponsors four 401(k) retirement savings plans. One plan is for the benefit of substantially all employees who are not covered by a collective bargaining arrangement. Titan provides a 50% matching contribution in the form of the Company’s common stock on the first 6% of the employee’s contribution in this plan. A second plan is for the employees covered by a collective bargaining arrangement at Titan Tire Corporation and, as of September 2001, does not include a Company matching contribution. Participants of both of these plans may contribute up to 17% of their annual compensation, up to a maximum of $11,000 in 2002. Employees are fully vested with respect to their contributions. The Company issued 182,248 shares, 160,937 shares, and 193,017 shares of treasury stock in connection with these 401(k) plans during 2002, 2001 and 2000, respectively. Expenses related to these 401(k) plans were $0.8 million, $0.8 million, and $1.1 million for 2002, 2001 and 2000, respectively.
In 1999, the Company adopted 401(k) plans for the employees of Titan Tire Corporation of Texas and the employees of Titan Tire Corporation of Natchez. These plan participants may contribute up to 20% of their annual compensation, up to a maximum of $11,000 in 2002. Employees are fully vested with respect to their contributions. The Company provides a 50% match in the form of cash contributions on the first 6% of the employee’s contribution in these plans up to a maximum of $500 per year. Expenses for the Company matching contribution were $0.1 million for each of 2002, 2001 and 2000.
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The Company adopted the 1993 Stock Incentive Plan (the Plan) in which a total of 1,125,000 shares of common stock are reserved. Under the Plan, stock options (both incentive and non-qualified), restricted stock awards and performance awards may be granted to key employees or consultants at an exercise price not less than 85% of the fair market value of the common stock on the date of grant. Options under the Plan vest and become exercisable at a rate of 40% on December 31 of the year following the date of grant, and an additional 20% each year thereafter.
The Company adopted the 1994 Non-Employee Director Stock Option Plan (the Director Plan) to provide for grants of stock options as a means of attracting and retaining highly qualified independent directors for the Company. The exercise price of stock options may not be less than the fair market value of the common stock on the date of grant. No more than 400,000 shares of Titan’s common stock may be issued under the Director Plan. Such options vest and become exercisable immediately. All options under both plans expire 10 years from date of grant.
The following is a summary of activity in the stock option plans for 2000, 2001 and 2002:
The exercise price for options outstanding at December 31, 2002, ranged from $4.54 to $18.00 per share and the weighted-average remaining contractual life of these options approximates five years. At December 31, 2002, a total of 983,624 options were exercisable at a weighted-average exercise price of $11.51.
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The Company applies the recognition and measurement principles of APB Opinion No. 25, “Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees,” and related Interpretations in accounting for those plans. No stock-based compensation expense was reflected in the 2002, 2001, or 2000 net income (loss) as all options granted during those years had an exercise price equal to the market value of the underlying common stock on the date of the grant.
The fair value of each option is calculated using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model with the following assumptions used for grants in 2002, 2001 and 2000:
The weighted-average fair value of options granted during 2002, 2001 and 2000 was $2.77, $2.38 and $3.19 per option, respectively.
The Company leases certain buildings and equipment under operating leases, including a lease for the building in Brownsville, Texas. Certain lease agreements provide for renewal options, fair value purchase options, and payment of property taxes, maintenance and insurance by the Company. Total rental expense was $6.5 million, $5.5 million and $5.6 million for the years ended December 31, 2002, 2001 and 2000, respectively. The rental expense for the year ended December 31, 2002, includes an accrual of $0.7 million for future minimum lease payments due on noncancellable leases for distribution facilities that the Company has closed.
At December 31, 2002, future minimum rental commitments under noncancellable operating leases with initial or remaining terms in excess of one year are as follows (in thousands):
Net sales to Deere & Company in Titan’s agricultural, earthmoving/construction, and consumer markets represented 15% of the Company’s consolidated revenues for the year ended December 31, 2002. Net sales to CNH Global N.V. in Titan’s three markets represented 12% of the Company’s consolidated revenues for the year ended December 31, 2002. No other customer accounted for more than 10% of the Company’s net sales in 2002.
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The Company sells products and pays commissions to companies controlled by persons related to the Chief Executive Officer of the Company. During 2002, 2001 and 2000, sales of Titan product to these companies were approximately $7.6 million, $7.7 million and, $10.7 million, respectively. On sales referred to Titan from these manufacturing representative companies, commissions were paid in the amounts of approximately $1.1 million, $0.9 million, and $1.2 million during 2002, 2001 and 2000, respectively. These sales and commissions were made in the ordinary course of business and were made on terms no less favorable to Titan than comparable sales and commissions to unaffiliated third parties. At December 31, 2002, Titan had trade receivables of $3.9 million due from these companies, as compared to $4.4 million at December 31, 2001. Titan had notes receivable due from these companies of $7.3 million and $7.4 million at December 31, 2002, and 2001, respectively.
The Company has aggregated its operating units into reportable segments based on its three customer markets: agricultural, earthmoving/construction and consumer. These segments are based on the management approach, which is the internal organization used by management in making operating decisions and assessing performance. The accounting policies of the segments are the same as those described in Note 1, “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies.” Sales between segments are priced at certain margins over the cost to manufacture and all intersegment revenues are eliminated in consolidation. Segment external revenues, expenses and income from operations are determined on the basis of the results of operations of operating units’ manufacturing facilities. Segment assets are generally determined on the basis of the tangible assets located at such operating units’ manufacturing facilities and the intangible assets associated with the acquisitions of such operating units. However, certain operating units’ goodwill and property, plant and equipment balances are carried at the corporate level.
Titan is organized primarily on the basis of products being included in three separate marketing units. The products within each reportable segment include wheels, tires and wheel and tire assemblies. The Company has manufacturing and distribution facilities worldwide.
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The table below presents information about certain revenues and expenses, income (loss) from operations and segment assets used by the chief operating decision maker of the Company as of and for the years ended December 31, 2002, 2001 and 2000 (in thousands):
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The table below presents information by geographic area as of and for the years ended December 31, 2002, 2001 and 2000 (in thousands):
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(Loss) earnings per share for 2002, 2001 and 2000, are as follows (amounts in thousands, except share and per share data):
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(All amounts in thousands, except per share data)
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SCHEDULE II — VALUATION RESERVES
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