BRIDGFORD FOODS CORP - Annual Report: 2004 (Form 10-K)

Table of Contents

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-K

ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d)

OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the fiscal year ended October 29, 2004

Commission file number: 0-2396

BRIDGFORD FOODS CORPORATION

(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)

1308 North Patt Street

Anaheim, California 92801

(Address of principal executive offices)

(714) 526-5533

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

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

Indicate 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. Yes ¨ No x

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is an accelerated filer (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act). Yes ¨ No x

The aggregate market value of voting stock held by non-affiliates of the registrant on April 16, 2004 was $21,804,000.

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the registrant’s classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date:

9,999,361 shares

As of January 27, 2005

Table of Contents

INDEX TO FORM 10K

1

Table of Contents

PART I

This Annual Report on Form 10-K contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and the Company intends that such forward-looking statements be subject to the safe harbors created thereby. These forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the following: general economic and business conditions; the impact of competitive product and pricing; success of operating initiatives; development and operating costs; advertising and promotional efforts; adverse publicity; acceptance of new product offerings; consumer trial and frequency; changes in business strategy or development plans; availability, terms and deployment of capital; availability of qualified personnel; commodity, labor, and employee benefit costs; changes in, or failure to comply with, government regulations; weather conditions; construction schedules; and other factors referenced in this Report.

The forward-looking statements included herein are based on current expectations that involve a number of risks and uncertainties. These forward-looking statements are based on assumptions regarding the Company’s business, which involve judgments with respect to, among other things, future economic and competitive conditions, and future business decisions, all of which are difficult or impossible to predict accurately and many of which are beyond the control of the Company. Although the Company believes that the assumptions underlying the forward-looking statements are reasonable, actual results may differ materially from those set forth in the forward-looking statements. In light of the significant uncertainties inherent in the forward-looking information included herein, the inclusion of such information should not be regarded as representation by the Company or any other person that the objectives or plans of the Company will be achieved. The forward-looking statements contained herein speak as of the date of this report and the Company undertakes no obligation to update such statements after the date hereof.

Background of Business

Bridgford Foods Corporation, a California corporation (collectively with its subsidiaries, the “Company”) was organized in 1952. The Company originally began its operations in 1932 as a retail meat market in San Diego, California, and evolved into a meat wholesaler for hotels and restaurants, a distributor of frozen food products, a processor and packer of meat and a manufacturer and distributor of frozen food products for sale on a retail and wholesale basis. For more than the past five years, the Company and its subsidiaries have been primarily engaged in the manufacturing, marketing and distribution of an extensive line of frozen, refrigerated and snack food products throughout the United States. The Company has not been involved in any bankruptcy, receivership or similar proceedings, nor has it been party to any merger, acquisition, etc. or acquired or disposed of any material amounts of assets during the past five years. Substantially all of the assets of the Company have been acquired in the ordinary course of business. The Company had no significant change in the type of products produced or distributed, nor in the markets or methods of distribution since the beginning of the fiscal year.

Description of Business

The Company operates in two business segments – the processing and distribution of frozen products, and, the processing and distribution of refrigerated and snack food products. The products manufactured and distributed by the Company consist of an extensive line of food products, including biscuits, bread dough items, roll dough items, dry sausage products and a variety of sandwiches and sliced luncheon meats. The products purchased by the Company for resale include a variety of jerky, cheeses, salads, party dips, Mexican foods, nuts and other delicatessen type food products.

2

Table of Contents

Although the Company has recently introduced several new products, none of these products have contributed significantly to the Company’s revenue growth for the fiscal year. The Company’s sales are not subject to material seasonal variations. Historically the Company has been able to respond quickly to the receipt of orders and, accordingly, the Company does not maintain a significant sales backlog. The Company and its industry generally have no unusual demands or restrictions on working capital items. During the last fiscal year the Company did not enter into any new markets or any significant contractual or other material relationships.

The Company has two classes of similar food products, each of which has accounted for 10% or more of consolidated sales in the prior three fiscal years listed below. The following table shows sales, as a percentage of consolidated sales, for each of these two classes of similar products for each of the last three fiscal years:

To date, federal, state and local environmental laws and regulations, including those relating to the discharge of materials into the environment, have not had a material effect on the Company’s business.

Major Product Classes

Frozen Food Products

The Company’s frozen food division serves both food service and retail customers. The Company sells approximately 200 unique frozen food products through wholesalers, cooperatives and distributors to approximately 17,000 retail outlets and 21,000 restaurants and institutions.

Frozen Food Products – Food Service Customers

The food service industry is composed of establishments that serve food outside the home and includes restaurants, the food operations of health care providers, schools, hotels, resorts, corporations, and other traditional and non-traditional food service outlets. Growth in this industry has been driven by the increase in away-from-home meal preparation, which has accompanied the expanding number of both dual income and single-parent households. Another trend within the food service industry is the growth in the number of non-traditional food service outlets such as convenience stores, retail stores and supermarkets. These non-traditional locations often lack extensive cooking, storage or preparation facilities, resulting in a need for pre-cooked and prepared foods similar to those provided by the Company. The expansion in the food service industry has also been accompanied by the continued consolidation and growth of broadline and specialty food service distributors, many of which are long-standing customers of the Company.

The Company supplies its food service customers generally through distributors that take title to the product and resell it. Among the Company’s customers are many of the country’s largest broadline and specialty food service distributors. For these and other large end purchasers, the Company’s products occasionally go through extensive qualification procedures and its manufacturing capabilities are subjected to thorough review by the end purchasers prior to the Company’s approval as a vendor. Large end purchasers typically select suppliers that can consistently meet increased volume requirements on a national basis during peak promotional periods. The Company believes that its manufacturing flexibility, national presence and long-standing customer relationships should pose barriers to entry for other manufacturers seeking to provide similar products to the Company’s current large food service end purchasers, although no assurances can be given.

Frozen Food Products – Retail Customers

The majority of the Company’s existing and targeted retail customers are involved in the resale of branded and private label packaged foods. The same trends which have contributed to the increase in away-from-home meal preparation have also fueled the growth in easy to prepare, microwaveable frozen and refrigerated convenience foods. Among the fastest growing segments is the frozen and refrigerated hand-held foods market. This growth

3

Table of Contents

has been driven by improved product quality and variety and the increasing need for inexpensive and healthy food items that require minimal preparation. Despite rapid growth, many categories of frozen and refrigerated hand-held foods have achieved minimal household penetration. The Company believes it has been successful in establishing and maintaining supply relationships with certain selected leading retailers in this market.

Frozen Food Products – Sales and Marketing

The Company’s frozen food business covers the United States and Canada. In addition to regional sales managers, the Company maintains a network of independent food service and retail brokers covering most of the states as well as Canada. Brokers are compensated on a commission basis. The Company believes that its broker relationships, in close cooperation with the regional sales managers, are a valuable asset providing significant new product and customer opportunities. The regional sales managers perform several significant functions for the Company, including identifying and developing new business opportunities and providing customer service and support to the Company’s distributors and end purchasers through the effective use of the Company’s broker network.

The Company’s annual advertising expenditures are directed towards retail and institutional customers. These customers participate in various special promotional and marketing programs and direct advertising allowances sponsored by the Company. The Company also invests in general consumer advertising in various newspapers and periodicals. The Company directs advertising at food service customers with campaigns in major industry publications and through Company participation in trade shows throughout the United States.

Refrigerated and Snack Food Products – Customers

The Company’s refrigerated and snack food products division sells approximately 310 different items through a direct store delivery network serving approximately 36,000 supermarkets, mass merchandise and convenience retail stores located in 49 states and Canada.

These customers are comprised of large retail chains and smaller “independent” operators. This part of the Company’s business is highly competitive. Proper placement of the Company’s product lines is critical to selling success since most items could be considered “impulse” items which are often consumed shortly after purchase. The Company’s ability to sell successfully to this distribution channel depends on aggressive marketing and maintaining relationships with key buyers.

Refrigerated and Snack Food Products – Sales and Marketing

The Company’s direct store delivery network consists of two separate divisions, refrigerated and non-refrigerated snack food products. Refrigerated snack food products are distributed through five different regions located in the southwest, primarily operating in California, Arizona and Nevada. Non-refrigerated snack food products are distributed in seventeen geographic regions across the United States and Canada, each managed by regional sales managers. The regional sales managers perform several significant functions for the Company including identifying and developing new business opportunities and providing customer service and support to the Company’s customers. The Company also utilizes the services of brokers where appropriate to support efficient product distribution and customer satisfaction.

Product Planning and Research and Development

The Company continually monitors the consumer acceptance of each product within its extensive product line. Individual products are regularly added to and deleted from the Company’s product line. The addition or deletion of any product has not had a material effect on the Company’s operations in the current fiscal year. The Company believes that a key factor in the success of its products is its system of carefully targeted research and testing of its products to ensure high quality and that each product matches an identified market opportunity. The emphasis in new product introductions in the past several years has been in single service items. The Company is constantly searching to develop new products to complement its existing product line and improved processing techniques and formulas for its existing product line. The Company utilizes in-house test kitchens to research and experiment with unique food preparation methods, improve quality control and analyze new ingredient mixtures. The Company’s

4

Table of Contents

refrigerated and snack food products segment has established a new major manufacturing line scheduled for completion in the second quarter of fiscal year 2005. The Company does not anticipate any significant change in product-mix as a result of its current research and development efforts.

Competition

The products of the Company are sold under highly competitive conditions. All food products can be considered competitive with other food products, but the Company considers its principal competitors to include national, regional and local producers and distributors of refrigerated, frozen and snack food products. Several of the Company’s competitors include large companies with substantially greater financial and marketing resources than those of the Company. Existing competitors may broaden their product lines and potential competitors may enter or increase their focus on the Company’s market, resulting in greater competition for the Company. The Company believes that its products compete favorably with those of the Company’s competitors. Such competitors’ products compete against those of the Company for retail shelf space, institutional distribution and customer preference.

Importance of Key Customers

One customer comprised approximately 14.6% of sales during the 2004 fiscal year.

Employees

The Company has approximately 780 employees, approximately 46% of whose employment relationship is governed by collective bargaining agreements. These agreements currently expire or expired (agreements covering 19 union employees) between March 2004 and March 2007. The Company believes that its relationship with employees is favorable.

General Risks of Food Industry

The food industry, and the markets within the food industry in which the Company competes, are subject to various risks, including: adverse changes in general economic conditions, evolving consumer preferences, nutritional and health-related concerns, federal, state and local food inspection and processing controls, consumer product liability claims, risks of product tampering, and the availability and expense of liability insurance. The meat and poultry industries have recently been subject to increasing scrutiny due to the association of meat and poultry products with recent outbreaks of illness, and on rare occasions even death, caused by food borne pathogens. Product recalls are sometimes required in the food industries to withdraw contaminated or mislabeled products from the market.

Risks Relating to Suppliers and Raw Materials

The Company purchases large quantities of commodity pork, beef and flour. Historically, market prices for products processed by the Company have fluctuated in response to a number of factors, including changes in the United States government farm support programs, changes in international agricultural and trading policies, weather and other conditions during the growing and harvesting seasons.

Risks Relating to Government Regulation

The operations of the Company are subject to extensive inspection and regulation by the United States Department of Agriculture (the “USDA”), the Food and Drug Administration (the “FDA”) and by other federal, state and local authorities, regarding the processing, packaging, storage, transportation, distribution and labeling of products that are manufactured, produced and processed by the Company. The Company’s processing facilities and products are subject to continuous inspection by USDA and/or other federal, state and local authorities. On July 25, 1996, the USDA issued strict new policies concerning contamination by food borne pathogens such as E. coli, Listeria Monocytogenes and Salmonella, and established a new system of regulation known as the Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points (“HACCP”) program. The HACCP program requires all meat and poultry processing plants to develop and implement sanitary operating procedures and other program requirements on or

5

Table of Contents

before January 26, 1998. The Company believes that it is currently in compliance with all material governmental laws and regulations (including the January 1998 HACCP requirements), and that it maintains all material permits and licenses relating to its operations.

On October 6, 2003, new USDA regulations regarding the control of Listeria Monocytogenes in Ready-To-Eat Meat and Poultry Products took effect. These regulations require environmental and/or finished product testing for harmful bacteria that may be present. This testing could result in products being retained, recalled or destroyed if Listeria Monocytogenes is detected. The Company believes that it is in full compliance with these regulations.

Risks Relating to Dependence on Key Management

The Company’s executive officers and certain other key employees have been primarily responsible for the development and expansion of the Company’s business, and the loss of the services of one or more of these individuals could have an adverse effect on the Company. The Company’s success will be dependent in part upon its continued ability to recruit, motivate and retain qualified personnel. There can be no assurance that the Company will be successful in this regard. The Company has no employment or non-competition agreements with key personnel.

Executive Officers of the Registrant

The names, ages and positions of all the executive officers of the Company as of January 1, 2005 are listed below. Messrs. Hugh Wm. Bridgford and Allan L. Bridgford are brothers. William L. Bridgford is the son of Hugh Wm. Bridgford and the nephew of Allan L. Bridgford. Officers are normally appointed annually by the board of directors at their meeting immediately following the annual meeting of shareholders. All executive officers are full-time employees of the Company, except for Allan L. Bridgford, who worked 80% of full-time.

The Company owns the following facilities:

6

Table of Contents

The foregoing plants are, in general, fully utilized by the Company for processing, warehousing, distributing and administrative purposes. The Company also leases warehouse and/or office facilities throughout the United States and Canada. The Company believes that its properties are generally adequate to satisfy its foreseeable needs. Additional properties may be acquired and/or plants expanded if favorable opportunities and conditions arise.

No material legal proceedings were pending at October 29, 2004 against the Company. The Company is likely to be subject to claims arising from time to time in the ordinary course of its business. In certain of such actions, plaintiffs may request punitive or other damages that may not be covered by insurance and, accordingly, no assurance can be given with respect to the ultimate outcome of any such possible future claims or litigation or their effect on the Company.

Annual Meeting of Shareholders

The 2005 annual meeting of shareholders will be held at the Four Points Sheraton, 1500 South Raymond Avenue, Fullerton, California at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, March 16, 2005.

No matters were submitted by the Company’s shareholders during the fourth quarter of the fiscal year ended October 29, 2004.

7

Table of Contents

PART II

Common Stock and Dividend Data

The common stock of the Company is traded in the national over-the-counter market and is authorized for quotation on The Nasdaq National Market under the symbol “BRID”. The following table reflects the high and low closing prices and cash dividends paid as quoted by Nasdaq for each of the last eight fiscal quarters.

The payment of any future dividends will be at the discretion of the Company’s Board of Directors and will depend upon future earnings, financial requirements and other factors. The Company repurchased 274,000 shares of common stock in the amount of $2,108,000 in fiscal year 2004 under the 1.5 million share repurchase plan previously authorized by the Board of Directors.

(In thousands, except percent and per share amounts)

(A) Reclassified to give effect to EITF 01-09.

(B) 53 weeks

8

Table of Contents

TO OUR SHAREHOLDERS

Bridgford Foods made good progress during 2004 in developing new products, improving our plants and increasing our selling efforts. Unfortunately, we experienced very high commodity costs in 2004 which have continued into the 2005 fiscal year. The prices for meat raw materials, especially pork, have reduced our operating margins to a break-even level overall, even with price increases on all of the branded products we sell. Fuel, energy, health care, pension and workers’ compensation costs all contributed to our high expense level in 2004.

SALES AND EARNINGS

Net of promotional costs, our sales in 2004 were $137,865,000, an increase of $1,614,000, or 1.2%, over sales recorded in the previous fiscal year. Increased sales of pepperoni and sausage party bites, in addition to sales of our new beef jerky shredder products, as shown on the cover of this report, contributed to our sales increase. Shipments of Bridgford Old South Buttermilk Biscuits are also recording greater sales volume. Sandwich sales increased in 2004 with our Ham & Cheese Meal Kits showing the best improvement. Net income in 2004 was $24,000, a disappointing result, which was greatly affected by the higher commodity costs we experienced. Higher selling prices were not enough to overcome the extraordinary increases in these costs.

OPERATIONS

Our new spiral freezer system, put into operation at the Dallas Frozen-Rite plant during late 2003, substantially improved efficiency in filling 2004 holiday orders and reducing advance production storage costs. During 2004, Superior Foods of Dallas developed technology and equipment to produce an exciting new product that will go into retail test markets in March of 2005. The Statesville, North Carolina bakery plant expanded its capacity to make specialty dough items for the food service trade. Bridgford’s Chicago dry sausage factory has established a new major product manufacturing line scheduled for completion in the second quarter of 2005, that will substantially increase Chicago plant production. We have also reorganized our Anaheim delicatessen foods production operations to improve productivity and profit margins.

FINANCIAL MATTERS

Working capital at October 29, 2004 totaled $31,736,000, $1,461,000 (4.4%) less than at the beginning of the fiscal year. The decline resulted from the Company’s purchase of 274,000 shares of common stock in the amount of $2,108,000 ($7.69 average cost per share) and capital expenditures of $3,444,000, partially offset by lower dividend payments. The working capital ratio declined slightly to 3.5 to 1 at October 29, 2004 compared to 3.7 to 1 a year earlier. The Company has remained free of interest bearing debt for eighteen consecutive years.

Shareholders’ equity totaled $48,664,000, a decrease of $3,669,000 (7.0%) compared to the end of the prior year. The decrease principally relates to common stock purchases noted previously and the recognition of an increase in the minimum pension liability, which is recorded in the Statement of Shareholders’ Equity under the “Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss” column. The increase in this liability results from the application of a lower discount rate used to measure the accumulated pension benefit obligation and less favorable investment results in recent years. The Board of Directors suspended the quarterly cash dividend at its May 2004 meeting in recognition of lower profitability levels in recent quarters. Approximately 130,000 shares remain available for purchase under the 1.5 million share repurchase plan previously authorized by the Board of Directors. Shareholders’ equity per share was $4.87 at October 29, 2004 compared to $5.09, a decrease of 4.3% compared to the prior fiscal year end.

SUMMARY

2004 was a difficult year because of the escalating costs outlined in this report. We are working hard to reduce these expenses in 2005. Commodity prices remain extremely high at this time. We believe that we can improve sales and earnings during 2005 through cost containment and sales emphasis on branded manufactured products. We appreciate the dedication of our employees and directors and the support of shareholders, customers and suppliers.

9

Table of Contents

Certain statements under “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and elsewhere in this report constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Securities Act of 1933 and the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Such forward looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance, or achievements of Bridgford Foods Corporation to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward looking statements. Such factors include, among others, the following; general economic and business conditions; the impact of competitive products and pricing; success of operating initiatives; development and operating costs; advertising and promotional efforts; adverse publicity; acceptance of new product offerings; consumer trial and frequency; changes in business strategy or development plans; availability, terms and deployment of capital; availability of qualified personnel; commodity, labor, and employee benefit costs; changes in, or failure to comply with, government regulations; weather conditions; construction schedules; and other factors referenced in this report.

The Company’s operating results are heavily dependent upon the prices paid for raw materials. The marketing of the Company’s value-added products does not lend itself to instantaneous changes in selling prices. Changes in selling prices are relatively infrequent and do not compare with the volatility of commodity markets. The impact of general price inflation on the Company’s financial position and results of operations has not been significant during the last three years.

Results of Operations (in thousands)

Fiscal Year Ended October 29, 2004 Compared to Fiscal Year Ended October 31, 2003

Sales

Sales in fiscal 2004 increased $1,614 (1.2%) when compared to the prior year. Sales in the Company’s frozen food segment declined 3.3%, as a result of lower unit volume partially offset by increased average unit selling prices. Promotional spending as a percentage of sales increased to 8.6% compared to 7.2% in the prior year contributing to the sales decline in the frozen food division. Sales in the Company’s refrigerated and snack food products segment increased 3.5% primarily as a result of higher unit selling prices on level unit volumes.

Gross Margin

The gross margin declined to 34.5% compared the prior year at 36.7%. Increased meat ingredient costs were the principal reason for this decline. When combining all divisions, net-selling prices increased approximately 5% on a unit volume decline of approximately 1.1 % compared to the prior fiscal year.

Selling, General, and Administrative

Selling, general and administrative expenses decreased $48 (0.1%) when compared to the prior year. Rising payroll, workers’ compensation insurance, fuel and finished goods storage costs were offset by a significant reduction in the provision for doubtful accounts receivable and the combined impact of aggressive cost control programs instituted by management. The Company recorded an asset impairment reserve against the net book value of machinery and equipment of $54 in fiscal year 2004 and no asset impairment reserve in the prior year. The effective income tax rate was 38% in 2004, consistent with the prior year.

Gain on Sale of Equity Securities

The Company sold 14,014 shares of stock received as a result of the bankruptcy of a significant customer on July 26, 2004. This transaction resulted in a pre-tax gain of $553.

10

Table of Contents

Fiscal Year ended October 31, 2003 compared to Fiscal Year Ended November 1, 2002

Sales

Sales in fiscal 2003 declined $2,951 (2.1%) when compared to the prior year. Sales in the Company’s frozen food segment declined 6.9%, as a result of continued weak demand and aggressive competition. Sales in the Company’s refrigerated and snack food products segment increase 0.5% primarily as a result of higher unit volumes.

Gross Margin

The gross margin remained relatively consistent with the prior year at 36.7%. Increased ingredient costs during the year were offset by lower unit overhead due to improved volume on items processed by the Company. Overall, net selling prices remained relatively consistent with the prior fiscal year.

Selling, General, and Administrative

Selling, general and administrative expenses decreased $487 (1.1%). A reduction in the provision for doubtful accounts receivable from fiscal years 2002 to 2003 contributed to this decrease. Rising costs for employee healthcare, workers’ compensation, property and liability insurance, transportation costs, product displays and pension expense mitigated the effect of the reduction in the provision for doubtful accounts receivable. The Company benefited from an effective income tax rate of 38% in 2003 compared to 49.9% in 2002. The rate in the prior year was abnormally high due to the revaluation of deferred tax assets due to a lower than expected state tax rate.

Fiscal Year ended November 1, 2002 compared to Fiscal Year Ended November 2, 2001

Sales

Sales in fiscal 2002 declined $13,262 (8.7%) when compared to the prior year. All segments of the Company’s business were adversely affected by the recession. Sales in the Company’s frozen food division declined 7.3%, as a result of continued weak demand and aggressive competition. Sales in the Company’s direct store delivery non-refrigerated meat snack division declined 10.8%, primarily as a result of the weak economy and the bankruptcy of a significant customer. Sales in the Company’s direct store delivery Deli division also declined 5.9% due to similar factors already noted above.

Gross Margin

The gross margin remained relatively consistent with the prior year at 36.5%. Higher unit costs resulting from lower production volumes were offset by more favorable pork commodity prices. Flour prices increased during the year offsetting lower pork commodity prices.

Selling, General, and Administrative

Selling, general and administrative expenses increased $2,637 (6.3%) when compared to the prior year. The provision for doubtful accounts receivable was increased by $3,750 due to the bankruptcy of a significant customer and collectibility issues related to other significant accounts. In addition, the Company expensed approximately $658 in non-recurring costs associated with the implementation of the Company’s new information systems during the fiscal year. After considering these factors, selling, general and administrative expenses decreased 4.3% due to lower sales offset by other factors adversely affecting this category including rising costs for employee healthcare, worker’s compensation, property and liability insurance, transportation costs and pension expense. The Company expects to continue the growth and modernization of facilities and equipment used in the business. Income before taxes declined 77.5% as a result of the loss of gross margin in the amount of $4,834 and the significant factors noted above. The effective tax rate increased to 49.9%, primarily as the result of the revaluation of deferred tax assets due to a lower than expected state tax rate.

Liquidity and Capital Resources (in thousands except per share amounts)

Net cash provided by operating activities was $908 and $7,929 in fiscal years 2004 and 2003, respectively. Gross accounts receivable balances decreased $1,346 in 2004 and increased $622 in 2003. The balance in 2004 decreased due to lower overall sales levels in the fourth quarter and improved collection trends compared to the prior year. The balance in 2003 increased as a result of strong fourth quarter sales compared to the prior year. Inventories increased $4,445 in fiscal year 2004 due to significant beef ingredient inventories being stored in

11

Table of Contents

anticipation of the start up of a new production line in the first half of fiscal year 2005 and higher valuations due to commodity cost increases. In fiscal year 2003, inventories increased $471 due to higher unit quantities needed to support increased sales activity beginning in the last quarter of the fiscal year. Accounts payable decreased $968 in 2004 primarily due to an increase in the rate of processing payments. The balance of accounts payable is consistent with the current business cycle. Accrued payroll, advertising and other expenses increased $930 in 2004 primarily as a result of higher workers’ compensation liability due to outstanding claims and the funding pattern of self-insured claims and an increase in accrued property taxes due to significant increases in property valuations. The current portion of non-current liabilities decreased $699 and $329 in 2004 and 2003, respectively, due to lower incentive compensation accruals as a result of lower profitability levels and slightly lower contribution requirements for the Company’s defined benefits pension plan. Included in the current portion of non-current liabilities is $991 related to the anticipated contribution required in fiscal 2005. The minimum pension liability related to the Company’s defined benefit pension plan increased to $4,509 at October 29, 2004 compared to $2,780 at October 31, 2003. The increase results from the application of a lower discount rate being applied to the accumulated pension benefit obligation and less favorable investment results in recent years. The net tax effected amount of this liability is included in shareholders’ equity as an “accumulated comprehensive loss” in the Statement of Shareholders’ Equity and Other Comprehensive Income (Loss).

The Company’s capital improvement expenditures increased $352 in 2004 and decreased $675 in 2003 compared to the prior year. Significant projects in process of $1,795 at October 29, 2004 included equipment to expand processing capabilities at the Chicago facility ($1,777). Cash and cash equivalents decreased $4,224 in 2004 and increased $1,891 in 2003. Net cash flow decreased in 2004 primarily as a result of lower operating results, higher investments in ingredient inventories and increased capital spending. Improved collections on accounts receivable and delayed funding of the Company’s self-insured workers’ compensation program helped off-set these decreases. Net cash flow improved in 2003 primarily as a result of lower income tax payments and collection of amounts refundable.

Working capital decreased $1,461 in 2004 and $1,416 in 2003. Working capital decreased in 2004 primarily due to the repurchase of 274,000 shares of common stock in the amount of $2,108, and a slight increase in capital expenditures and payments related incentive compensation and employee benefit plans. Off-setting these decreases were lower cash dividend payments compared to 2003. Working capital decreased in 2003 primarily due to the repurchase of 172,000 shares of common stock in the aggregate amount of $1,307. The Company has remained free of interest-bearing debt for eighteen consecutive years. The Company maintains a line of credit with Bank of America that expires April 30, 2006. Under the terms of this line of credit, the Company may borrow up to $2,000 at an interest rate equal to the bank’s reference rate, unless the Company elects an optional interest rate. The borrowing agreement contains various covenants, the more significant of which require the Company to maintain certain levels of shareholders’ equity and working capital. The Company was in compliance with all provisions of the agreement during the 2004 fiscal year and there were no borrowings under this line of credit during such period. Management is of the opinion that the Company’s strong financial position and its capital resources are sufficient to provide for its operating needs and capital expenditures for fiscal 2005.

Contractual Obligations (in thousands)

The Company remained free of interest bearing long-term debt for the eighteenth consecutive year and had no other long-term debt or other contractual obligations except for leases. The Company leases certain transportation and computer equipment under operating leases expiring in 2006. Future minimum lease payments are approximately (in thousands):

Critical Accounting Policies

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make certain estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported revenues and expenses during the respective reporting periods. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Amounts

12

Table of Contents

estimated related to liabilities for self-insured workers’ compensation, employee healthcare and pension benefits are especially subject to inherent uncertainties and these estimated liabilities may ultimately settle at amounts not originally estimated. Management believes its current estimates are reasonable and based on the best information available at the time.

The Company’s credit risk is diversified across a broad range of customers and geographic regions. Losses due to credit risk have historically been immaterial although losses in fiscal year 2002 were significant due to a bankruptcy of a significant customer. The provision for doubtful accounts receivable is based on historical trends and current collectibility risk. The Company has significant amounts receivable with a few large, well known customers which, although historically secure, could be subject to material risk should these customers’ operations suddenly deteriorate. The Company monitors these customers closely to minimize the risk of loss. One customer comprised 14.6% of revenues in fiscal years 2004 and 2003.

Revenues are recognized upon passage of title to the customer typically upon product pick-up, shipment or delivery to customers. Products are delivered to customers primarily through its own long-haul fleet or through a company owned direct store delivery system.

Amounts estimated related to liabilities for pension benefits are especially subject to inherent uncertainties and these estimated liabilities may ultimately settle at amounts not originally estimated. Management believes its current estimates are reasonable and based on the best information available at the time.

Deferred taxes are provided for items whose financial and tax bases differ. A valuation allowance is provided against deferred tax assets when it is expected that it is more likely than not that the related asset will not be fully realized.

The Company assesses the recoverability of its long-lived assets on an annual basis or whenever adverse events or changes in circumstances or business climate indicate that expected undiscounted future cash flows related to such long-lived assets may not be sufficient to support the net book value of such assets. If undiscounted cash flows are not sufficient to support the recorded assets, the Company recognizes an impairment to reduce the carrying value of the applicable long-lived assets to their estimated fair value.

Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements

SFAS No. 149, “Amendment of Statement No. 133 on Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities”

In April 2003, the FASB issued SFAS No. 149, “Amendment of Statement No. 133 on Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities.” The statement is effective for contracts entered into or modified after June 30, 2003 and for hedging relationships designated after June 30, 2003. This statement amends and clarifies financial accounting and reporting for derivative instruments, including certain derivative instruments embedded in other contracts and for hedging activities. This statement amends Statement 133 for decisions made as part of the Derivatives Impletion Group process that effectively required amendments to Statement 133, in connection with other Board projects dealing with financial instruments and in connection with implementation issues raised in relation to the application of the definition of a derivative. The adoption of SAFS 149 did not have a material impact on the Company’s financial condition and results of operations.

SFAS No. 150, “Certain Financial Instruments with Characteristics of Both Liabilities and Equity”

In May 2003, the FASB issued SFAS No. 150, “Certain Financial Instruments with Characteristics of Both Liabilities and Equity.” The statement establishes standards for how a company clarifies and measures certain financial instruments with characteristics of both liabilities and equity. It requires that a company classify such instruments as liabilities, whereas they previously may have been classified as equity. The standard is effective for all financial instruments entered into or modified after May 31, 2003, and otherwise is effective July 1, 2003. The adoption of SFAS 150 did not have a material impact on the Company’s financial condition and results of operations.

FIN 46, “Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities - an interpretation of ARB No. 51”

In January 2003, the FASB issued FIN 46, “Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities - an interpretation of ARB No. 51.” Fin 46 addresses consolidation by business enterprises of variable interest entities, which have one or

13

Table of Contents

both of the following characteristics: 1) the equity investment at risk is not sufficient to permit the entity to finance its activities without additional subordinated financial support from other parties, which is provided through other interests that will absorb some or all of the expected losses of the entity, and 2) the equity investors lack an essential characteristic of a controlling financial interest. FIN 46 applies to variable interest entities established after December 31, 2002. The adoption of FIN 46 did not have a significant impact on the Company’s financial position and results of operations.

The Company did not have significant overall currency exposure at October 29, 2004. The Company’s financial instruments consist of cash and cash equivalents and life insurance policies at October 29, 2004 and the carrying value of the Company’s financial instruments approximated their fair market values based on current market prices and rates. It is not the Company’s policy to enter into derivative financial instruments. The Company does not currently have any significant foreign currency exposure. The Company does not engage in buying or selling spot or futures commodity contracts. The Company’s investment portfolio is not subject to significant market risk or interest rate fluctuations.

Unaudited Interim Financial Information (in thousands, except per share amounts)

See Item 15(a) below and the index therein for a listing of the consolidated financial statements and supplementary data filed as a part of this report

On December 13, 2004, the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors of the Company dismissed PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP as the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm. PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP completed the audit of the Company’s financial statements for the year ended October 29, 2004 on January 27, 2005 completely terminating PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP’s appointment as the independent registered public accounting firm for the Company. The decision to change principal accountants was approved by the Audit Committee and the Board of Directors of the Company.

14

Table of Contents

The reports of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP on the consolidated financial statements of Bridgford Foods Corporation for the years ended October 29, 2004 and October 31, 2003, did not contain an adverse opinion or disclaimer of opinion, nor were they qualified or modified as to uncertainty, audit scope, or accounting principle.

During the year ended October 29, 2004, and through January 27, 2005, there were no disagreements with PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP on any matter of accounting principles or practices, financial statement disclosure, or auditing scope or procedure, which disagreements, if not resolved to the satisfaction of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, would have caused it to make reference thereto in its reports on the financial statements for such years.

During the years ended October 29, 2004, and October 31, 2003, and through January 27, 2005, there have been no reportable events (as defined in Item 304(a)(1)(v) of Regulation S-K).

On December 14, 2004, the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors of the Company appointed Haskell & White LLP as its new independent registered public accounting firm as of December 13, 2004 for the fiscal year beginning October 30, 2004 and ending October 28, 2005.

During the Company’s two most recent fiscal years ended October 29, 2004 and October 31, 2003, and through the subsequent interim period ended January 27, 2005, neither the Company nor anyone on its behalf consulted Haskell & White LLP regarding any of the matters or events set forth in Item 304(a)(2)(i) and (ii) of Regulation S-K.

An evaluation as of the end of the period covered by this annual report was carried out under the supervision and with the participation of the Company’s management, including the Company’s Chairman and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of the Company’s “disclosure controls and procedures”, as such term is defined under Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d -15(e) promulgated under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal controls over financial reporting. Based upon that evaluation, the Company’s Chairman and Chief Financial Officer concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective.

The Company’s management, including the Company’s Chairman and Chief Financial Officer, has evaluated any changes in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarterly period ended October 29, 2004, and has concluded that there was no change during the Company’s fourth quarter of its 2004 fiscal year that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

The Company maintains and evaluates a system of internal accounting controls, and a program of internal auditing designed to provide reasonable assurance that the Company’s assets are protected and that transactions are performed in accordance with proper authorization, and are properly recorded. This system of internal accounting controls is continually reviewed and modified in response to evolving business conditions and operations and to recommendations made by the independent auditors and internal auditor. The Company has established a code of conduct and employs an experienced full time internal auditor. The management of the Company believes that the accounting and internal control systems provide reasonable assurance that assets are safeguarded and financial information is reliable.

The Audit Committee of the Board of Directors meets regularly with the Company’s financial management and counsel, with the Company’s internal auditor and with the independent registered public accounting firm engaged by the Company. Internal accounting controls and the quality of financial reporting are discussed during these meetings. The Audit Committee has discussed with the independent registered public accounting firm matters required to be discussed by Statement of Auditing Standards No. 61 (Communication with Audit Committees). In addition, the independent registered public accounting firm’s independence from the Company and its management, including the matters in the written disclosures required by the Independence Standards Board Standards No. 1 (Independence Discussions with Audit Committees), has been discussed by the Committee and the independent registered public accounting firm.

15

Table of Contents

PART III

Information set forth in the sections entitled “Election of Directors” and “Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance” contained in the Company’s definitive proxy statement for the Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held on March 16, 2005 is incorporated herein by reference. Information concerning the executive officers of the Company is set forth in Part I hereof under the heading “Executive Officers of the Registrant”.

The Company adopted a Code of Ethics pursuant to Section 406 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 during the first quarter of 2004, which applies to the Company’s principal executive officer, principal financial officer, principal accounting officer or controller, or persons performing similar functions and other designated officers and employees. The Code of Ethics appears on the Company’s website at www.bridgford.com.

The Company is considered a “controlled company” within the meaning of Rule 4350(c)(5) of the National Association of Securities Dealers (NASD) and is therefore exempted from various NASD rules pertaining to certain “independence” requirements of its directors. Nevertheless, the Board of Directors has determined that Messrs. Andrews, Gilbert, Foster and Zippwald are all “independent directors” within the meaning of Rule 4200 of the National Association of Securities Dealers. The Audit Committee has been established in accordance with SEC rules and regulations, and each of the members of the Audit Committee are independent directors as defined under the NASD’s listing standards. The Board of Directors believes that Mr. Andrews qualifies as a “financial expert” as such term is used in the rules and regulations of the SEC.

Information set forth in the section entitled “Compensation of Executive Officers” contained in the Company’s definitive proxy statement for the 2005 Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held on March 16, 2005 is incorporated herein by reference.

Information set forth in the section entitled “Principal Shareholders and Management” contained in the Company’s definitive proxy statement for the 2005 Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held on March 16, 2005 is incorporated herein by reference.

Equity Compensation Plan Information

The following table sets forth information regarding outstanding options, warrants and rights and shares reserved for future issuance under the Company’s existing compensation plans as of October 29, 2004. The Company’s sole shareholder approved equity compensation plan is the 1999 Stock Incentive Plan. The Company does not have any non-stockholder approved equity compensation plans.

16

Table of Contents

Information set forth in the section entitled “Related Party Transactions” contained in the Company’s definitive proxy statement for the 2005 Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held on March 16, 2005 is incorporated herein by reference.

Information set forth in the section entitled “Proposal 2- Audit Fees” contained in the Company’s definitive proxy statement for the Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held on March 16, 2005 is incorporated herein by reference.

17

Table of Contents

PART IV

(a)(1) Financial Statements. The following documents are filed as a part of this report:

(2) Financial Statement Schedule

The following financial statement is filed herewith.

(3) Exhibits

The exhibits listed under Item 14(c) are filed or incorporated by reference herein.

(b) The exhibits below are filed or incorporated herein by reference.

18

Table of Contents

19

Table of Contents

SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

BRIDGFORD FOODS CORPORATION

Registrant

Date: January 27, 2005

POWER OF ATTORNEY

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 and on the dates indicated

We, the undersigned directors and officers of Bridgford Foods Corporation do hereby constitute and appoint Allan L. Bridgford and Raymond F. Lancy, or either of them, with full power of substitution and resubstitution, our true and lawful attorneys and agents, to do any and all acts and things in our name and behalf in our capacities as directors and officers and to execute any and all instruments for us and in our names in the capacities indicated below, which said attorneys and agents, or either of them, or their substitutes, may deem necessary or advisable to enable said corporation to comply with the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and any rules, regulations and requirements of the Securities and Exchange Commission in connection with this Annual Report on Form 10-K, including specifically, but without limitation, power and authority to sign for us or any of us in our names and in the capacities indicated below, any and all amendments; and we do hereby ratify and confirm all that the said attorneys and agents, or either of them, shall do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.

20

Table of Contents

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP

To the Board of Directors and Shareholders of Bridgford Foods Corporation

In our opinion, the accompanying consolidated balance sheets and the related consolidated statements of income, shareholders’ equity and comprehensive income and cash flows present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Bridgford Foods Corporation and its subsidiaries (the “Company”) at October 29, 2004 and October 31, 2003, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended October 29, 2004, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits. We conducted our audits of these statements in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, 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.

/s/ PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP

Orange County, California

January 27, 2005

21

Table of Contents

BRIDGFORD FOODS CORPORATION

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

October 29, 2004, and October 31, 2003

(in thousands, except per share amounts)

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

22

Table of Contents

BRIDGFORD FOODS CORPORATION

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

For the years ended October 29, 2004, October 31, 2003, and November 1, 2002

(in thousands, except share and per share amounts)

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

For the years ended October 29, 2004, October 31, 2003, and November 1, 2002

(in thousands, except per share amounts)

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

23

Table of Contents

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

For the years ended October 29, 2004, October 31, 2003, and November 1, 2002

(in thousands)