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BRIDGFORD FOODS CORP - Annual Report: 2014 (Form 10-K)



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 31, 2014

 

Commission file number: 0-2396 

BRIDGFORD FOODS CORPORATION

(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter) 

California

95-1778176

(State of incorporation)

(I.R.S. Employer

  

Identification No.)

 1308 North Patt Street

Anaheim, California 92801

(Address of principal executive offices)

 

(714) 526-5533

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)  


     Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act: Common Stock, par value $1.00 per share, the NASDAQ Stock Market LLC.

     Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None

     Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. Yes   No 

     Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act. Yes   No 

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

     Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files.  Yes    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.

     Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See definition of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):

 Large accelerated filer   

Accelerated filer   

 Non-accelerated filer    (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)

Smaller reporting company   

     Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act. Yes No

     The aggregate market value of voting stock held by non-affiliates of the registrant on April 18, 2014 was $17,183,000.

 

     As of January 13, 2015, there were 9,112,165 shares of common stock outstanding.

 

     Portions of the registrant’s Proxy Statement for the registrant’s Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held March 18, 2015 are incorporated by reference into Part III, Items 10-14 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.



 

 
 

 

  

INDEX TO FORM 10K

 

 

 

Page

PART I

3

Item 1. Business

3

Item 1A. Risk Factors

7

Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments

8

Item 2. Properties

9

Item 3. Legal Proceedings

9

Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures

9

 

 

PART II

10

Item 5. Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

10

Item 6. Selected Financial Data

11

Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

12

Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

17

Item 8. Consolidated Financial Statements and Supplementary Data

17

Item 9. Changes in and Disagreements With Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure

17

Item 9A. Controls and Procedures

18

Item 9B. Other Information

19

 

 

PART III

20

Item 10. Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance

20

Item 11. Executive Compensation

20

Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters

20

Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence

20

Item 14. Principal Accountant Fees and Services

20

 

 

PART IV

21

Item 15. Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules

21

SIGNATURES

22

  

 
2

 

 

PART I

 

Item 1.          Business

 

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 Bridgford Foods Corporation intends that such forward-looking statements be subject to the safe harbors created thereby. Readers are cautioned that such statements, which may be identified by words including anticipates,” “believes,” “intends,” “estimates,” “expects,” and similar expressions, are only predictions or estimations and are subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties. 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 our 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 our control. Although we believe 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 us or any other person that the objectives or plans of our company will be achieved. The forward-looking statements contained herein speak as of the date of this Report and we undertake no obligation to update such statements after the date hereof.

 

Background of Business

 

Bridgford Foods Corporation (collectively with its subsidiaries, “Bridgford”, the “Company”, “we”, “our”), a California corporation, was organized in 1952. We originally began 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 we and our 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. Bridgford Foods Corporation has not been involved in any bankruptcy, receivership, or similar proceedings since inception nor have we 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 our assets have been acquired in the ordinary course of business. We have had no significant change in the type of products produced or distributed, nor in the markets we serve.

 

Description of Business

 

Bridgford Foods Corporation operates in two business segments - the processing and distribution of frozen products and the processing and distribution of refrigerated and snack food products.  For information regarding the separate financial performance of the business segments refer to Note 7 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

 

The following table shows sales, as a percentage of consolidated sales, for each of these segments for each of the last two fiscal years:

 

   

2014

   

2013

 

Frozen Food Products

    38

%

    40

%

Refrigerated and Snack Food Products

    62

%

    60

%

      100

%

    100

%

 

We manufacture and distribute an extensive line of food products, including biscuits, bread dough items, roll dough items, dry sausage products, beef jerky, and a variety of sandwiches and sliced luncheon meats. The products we purchase for resale include a variety of cheeses, salads, party dips, Mexican foods, pastries, and other delicatessen type food products.

 

   

2014

   

2013

 

Products manufactured, processed or packaged by Bridgford

    96

%

    93

%

Products manufactured or processed by third parties for distribution

    4

%

    7

%

      100

%

    100

%

  

 
3

 

  

Although we have recently introduced several new products, most of these products have not contributed significantly to our revenue growth for the 2014 fiscal year. Our sales are not subject to material seasonal variations. Historically we have been able to respond quickly to the receipt of orders and, accordingly, do not maintain a significant sales backlog. Bridgford Foods Corporation and its industry generally have no unusual demands or restrictions on working capital items. During the last fiscal year we did not enter into any new markets or any significant contractual or other material relationships.

 

Availability of SEC Filings and Code of Conduct on Internet Website

 

We maintain an Internet website at http://www.bridgford.com.  Available on this website, free of charge, are annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, and reports filed under Section 16 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 which we file with the Securities and Exchange Commission.  Our Code of Conduct is also available on the website.

 

Product Distribution Methods

 

Our products are delivered to customers using several distinct distribution channels.  The distribution channel utilized is dependent upon the needs of our customers, the most efficient proximity to the delivery point, trade customs, operating segment as well as product type, life and stability.  Among our customers are many of the country’s largest broadline and specialty food service distributors. These and other large end purchasers occasionally go through extensive qualification procedures and our manufacturing capabilities are subjected to thorough review by the end purchasers prior to our 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. We believe that our manufacturing flexibility, national presence, and long-standing customer relationships should allow us to compete effectively with other manufacturers seeking to provide similar products to our current large food service end purchasers, although no assurances can be given.

 

The factors that contribute to higher or lower margins generated from each method of distribution depend upon the accepted selling price, level of involvement by our employees in setting up and maintaining displays, distance traveled and fuel consumed by our company-owned fleet as well as freight and shipping costs depending on the distance the product travels to the delivery point.  Management is continually evaluating the profitability of product delivery methods, analyzing alternate methods and weighing economic inputs to determine the most efficient and cost effective method of delivery to fulfill the needs of our customers.

 

Major Product Classes

 

Frozen Food Products

 

Our frozen food products division serves both food service and retail customers. Approximately 160 unique frozen food products are sold through wholesalers, cooperatives, and distributors to approximately 21,000 retail outlets and 24,000 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 we provide. 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.

 

Frozen Food Products – Retail Customers

 

The majority of our 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 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.  We believe we have been successful in establishing and maintaining supply relationships with certain selected leading retailers in this market.

  

 
4

 

 

Frozen Food Products – Sales and Marketing

 

Our frozen food business covers the United States and Canada.  Products produced by the Frozen Food Products segment are generally supplied to food service and retail distributors who take title to the product upon shipment receipt through company leased long-haul vehicles.  In addition to regional sales managers, we maintain a network of independent food service and retail brokers covering most of the United States as well as Canada. Brokers are compensated on a commission basis. We believe that our broker relationships, in close cooperation with our regional sales managers, are a valuable asset providing significant new product and customer opportunities. Regional sales managers perform several significant functions for us, including identifying and developing new business opportunities and providing customer service and support to our distributors and end purchasers through the effective use of our broker network.

 

Our annual advertising expenditures are directed towards retail and institutional customers. These customers participate in various special promotional and marketing programs and direct advertising allowances we sponsor. We also invest in general consumer advertising in various newspapers and periodicals including free standing inserts and coupons to advertise in major markets. We direct advertising toward food service customers with campaigns in major industry publications and through our participation in trade shows throughout the United States.

 

Refrigerated and Snack Food Products

 

         Through the end of fiscal 2014, our direct store delivery network consisted of two separate divisions, refrigerated and non-refrigerated snack food products. Refrigerated snack food products were distributed through eight different regions located in the southwest, primarily operating in California, Arizona, and Nevada. By the end of fiscal 2014, we ceased refrigerated snack food product distribution because of continued net losses.

 

During fiscal 2014, our refrigerated and snack food products division sold approximately 220 different items through customer owned distribution centers and a direct store delivery network serving approximately 18,000 supermarkets, mass merchandise and convenience retail stores located in 49 states and Canada. By the end of fiscal 2014, we also ceased our route distribution operations in Canada as a cost cutting measure to concentrate on our core route business in the United States.

 

Products produced or distributed by the Refrigerated and Snack Food segment are supplied to customers through either direct delivery to customer warehouses or direct-store-delivery to retail locations. We utilize customer managed warehouse distribution centers to lower distribution cost. Product delivered to the customer’s warehouse is then distributed to the store where it is resold to the end consumer.   Our direct-store-delivery system focus emphasizes high quality service of our premium branded product to our customers. We also provide the service of setting up and maintaining the display and restocking our products.   

 

Refrigerated and Snack Food Products — Customers

 

Our customers are comprised of large retail chains and smaller “independent” operators. This part of our business is highly competitive. Proper placement of our product lines is critical to selling success since most items could be considered “impulse” items which are often consumed shortly after purchase. Our 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

 

Non-refrigerated snack food products are distributed across the United States. Regional sales managers perform several significant functions including identifying and developing new business opportunities and providing customer service and support to our customers. We also utilize the services of brokers, where appropriate, to support efficient product distribution and customer satisfaction.

   

Product Planning and Research and Development

 

We continually monitor the consumer acceptance of each product within our extensive product line. Individual products are regularly added to and deleted from our product line. Historically, the addition or deletion of any individual product has not had a material effect on our operations in the current fiscal year. We believe that a key factor in the success of our products is our system of carefully targeted research and testing of our 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. We are constantly searching to develop new products to complement our existing product lines and improve processing techniques and formulas. We utilize an in-house test kitchen and consultants to research and experiment with unique food preparation methods, improve quality control and analyze new ingredient mixtures.

  

 
5

 

 

Competition

 

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

 

Effect of Government Regulations

 

Our operations 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 we manufacture, produce and process.  Our processing facilities and products are subject to continuous inspection by the USDA and/or other federal, state, and local authorities.  The USDA has issued strict regulations concerning the control of listeria monocytogenes in ready-to-eat meat and poultry products and contamination by food borne pathogens such as E. coli and salmonella, and implemented a 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.  We believe that we are currently in compliance with governmental laws and regulations and that we maintain the necessary permits and licenses relating to our meat operations.

 

The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration ("OSHA") oversees safety compliance and establishes certain employer responsibilities to help "assure safe and healthful working conditions" and keep the workplace free of recognized hazards or practices likely to cause death or serious injury.   Failure to comply with regulations of OSHA could adversely affect our results of operations. We resolved prior OSHA matters favorably and no unpaid OSHA penalties are outstanding as of October 31, 2014.

 

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 our business.

 

Importance of Key Customers

 

Sales to Wal-Mart® comprised 28.8% of revenues in fiscal 2014 and 31.8% of total accounts receivable was due from Wal-Mart® at October 31, 2014. Sales to Wal-Mart® comprised 19.6% of revenues in fiscal 2013 and 17.0% of total accounts receivable was due from Wal-Mart® at November 1, 2013. Sales to Dollar General® comprised 9.9% of revenues for fiscal year 2013 and 20.7% of total accounts receivable was due from Dollar General at November 1, 2013.

 

Sources and Availability of Raw Materials

 

We purchase large quantities of pork, beef, and flour.  These ingredients are generally available from a number of different suppliers although the availability of these ingredients is subject to seasonal variation.  We build ingredient inventories to take advantage of downward trends in seasonal prices or anticipated supply limitations.

  

Most flour purchases are made at market price without contracts. The Company also purchases bulk flour under short-term fixed price contracts at current market prices.  The contracts are usually effective for a month or less and are not material to our operations.  These contracts are settled within a month’s time and no significant contracts remain open at the close of the reporting period.  We monitor and manage our ingredient costs to help negate volatile daily swings in market prices when possible.  The Company does not participate in the commodity futures market or hedging to limit commodity exposure.

 

Employees

 

We had 487 employees at October 31, 2014, approximately 41% of whose employment relationship is governed by collective bargaining agreements. These agreements currently expire between March 2014 and March 2017.  We believe that our relationship with all of our employees is favorable and contracts will be settled favorably. During the fourth quarter of fiscal 2014, we closed the refrigerated snack food products division and withdrew from the Western Conference of Teamsters Pension Plan, terminating approximately 44 employees.

 

 
6

 

 

Executive Officers of the Registrant

 

The names, ages, and positions of all our executive officers as of January 16, 2015 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. Three executive officers are full-time employees of our company, Allan L. Bridgford and Hugh Wm Bridgford worked 60% of full time during fiscal 2014. Allan L. Bridgford reduced his schedule to 50% of full time effective November 1, 2014.

 

Name

 

Age

 

Position(s) with our company

Allan L. Bridgford

 

79

 

Vice President and member of the Executive Committee

Hugh Wm. Bridgford

 

83

 

Vice President and Chairman of the Executive Committee

William L. Bridgford

 

60

 

Chairman and member of the Executive Committee

John V. Simmons

 

59

 

President and member of the Executive Committee

Raymond F. Lancy

 

61

 

Chief Financial Officer, Executive Vice President, Treasurer and member of the Executive Committee

 

 

Item 1A.          Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other matters set forth in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, the continuing operations and the price of our common stock are subject to the following risks, each of which could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition, and results of operations.  The risks described below are only the risks that we currently believe are material to our business.  However, additional risks not presently known, or risks that are currently believed to be immaterial, may also impair our business operations.

 

We are subject to general risks in the food industry, including, among other things, risk relating to changes in consumer preferences and product contamination as well as general economic conditions, any of which risks, if realized, could negatively impact our operating results and financial position.

 

The food industry, and the markets within the food industry in which we compete, are subject to various risks, including the following: 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 are subject to 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 industry to withdraw contaminated or mislabeled products from the market.  Additionally, the failure to identify and react appropriately to changes in consumer trends, demands and preferences could lead to, among other things, reduced demand and price reduction for our products.  Further, we may be adversely affected by changes in domestic or foreign economic conditions, including inflation or deflation, interest rates, availability of capital markets, consumer spending rates, and energy availability and costs (including fuel surcharges).  These and other general risks related to the food industry, if realized by us, could have a significant adverse effect on demand for our products, as well as the costs and availability of raw materials, ingredients and packaging materials, thereby negatively affecting our operating results and financial position.

 

Fluctuations in the prices that we pay for raw materials could negatively impact our financial results.

 

We purchase large quantities of commodity pork, beef, and flour. Historically, market prices for products we process 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. Our operating results are heavily dependent upon the prices paid for raw materials. The marketing of our 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.   While fluctuations in significant cost structure components, such as ingredient commodities and fuel prices, have had a significant impact on profitability over the last three years, the impact of general price inflation on our financial position and results of operations has not been significant. Future volatility of general price inflation or deflation and raw material cost and availability could adversely affect our financial results.

 

We are subject to extensive government regulations and a failure to comply with such regulations could negatively impact our financial results.

 

Our operations 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 us. Our processing facilities and products are subject to continuous inspection by the USDA and/or other federal, state, and local authorities. The USDA has issued strict policies concerning the control of listeria monocytogenes in ready-to-eat meat and poultry products and contamination by food borne pathogens such as E. coli and salmonella, and established a 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. We believe that we are currently in compliance with governmental laws and regulations and that we maintain necessary permits and licenses relating to our meat operations.

  

 
7

 

 

A failure to obtain or a loss of necessary permits and licenses could delay or prevent us from meeting current product demand and could adversely affect our operating performance.  Furthermore, we are routinely subject to new or modified laws, regulations and accounting standards.  If found to be out of compliance with applicable laws and regulations in these or other areas, we could be subject to civil remedies, including fines, injunctions, recalls, or asset seizures, as well as potential criminal sanctions, any of which could have a significant adverse effect on our financial results.

 

We depend on our key management, the loss of which could negatively impact our operations.

 

Our executive officers and certain other key employees have been primarily responsible for the development and expansion of our business, and the loss of the services of one or more of these individuals could adversely affect us.  Our success will be dependent in part upon our continued ability to recruit, motivate, and retain qualified personnel. We cannot assure that we will be successful in this regard. We have no employment or non-competition agreements with key personnel.

 

We depend on our major customers and any loss of such customers could have a negative impact on our profitability.

 

We could suffer significant reductions in revenues and operating incomes if we lost one or more of our largest customers, including Wal-Mart®, which accounted for 28.8% of sales in fiscal year 2014.  Many of our customers, such as supermarkets, warehouse clubs, and food distributors have consolidated in recent years.  Such consolidation has produced large, sophisticated customers with increased buying power who are more capable of operating with reduced inventories while demanding lower pricing and increased promotional programs. These customers also may use their shelf space for their own private label products.  Failure to respond to these trends could reduce our volume and cause us to lower prices or increase promotional spending for our product lines which could adversely affect our profitability.

 

With more than 80% concentration of beneficial ownership of our stock held by the Bridgford family, there are risks that they can exert significant influence or control over our corporate matters.

 

Members of the Bridgford family beneficially own, in the aggregate, more than 80% of our outstanding stock. In addition, three members of the Bridgford family currently serve on the Board of Directors.  As a result, members of the Bridgford family have the ability to exert substantial influence or actual control over our management and affairs and over substantially all matters requiring action by our shareholders, including amendments to by-laws, election and removal of directors, any proposed merger, consolidation or sale of all or substantially all of our assets and other corporate transactions.  This concentration of ownership may also delay or prevent a change in control otherwise favored by our other shareholders and could depress our stock price. Additionally, as a result of the Bridgford family’s significant ownership of the outstanding voting stock, we have relied on the “controlled company” exemption from certain corporate governance requirements of the NASDAQ stock market. Therefore, among other things, we have elected not to implement the rule that provides for a nominating committee to identify and recommend nominees to the Board of Directors and have instead elected to have the full Board of Directors perform such function.  Additionally, pursuant to this exemption, our compensation committee, which is made up of independent directors, does not have sole authority to determine the compensation of our executive officers, including our Chairman of the Board.

 

We participate in Multiemployer Pension Plans which could negatively impact our operations and profitability.

 

We participate in “multiemployer” pension plans administered by labor unions on behalf of their employees. We pay union dues monthly, a portion of which is used to fund pension benefit obligations to plan participants. The contribution amount may change depending upon the ability of participating companies to fund these pension liabilities as well as the actual and expected returns on pension plan assets. Should we withdraw from the union and cease participation in a union plan, federal law could impose a penalty for additional contributions to the plan. The penalty would be recorded as an expense in the consolidated statement of operations. The ultimate amount of the withdrawal liability is dependent upon several factors including the funded status of the plan and contributions made by other participating companies. During fiscal 2014, we withdrew from the Western Conference of Teamsters Pension Plan and recorded an estimated pension expense and a corresponding non-current liability of $798 related to this plan. The ultimate amount paid may differ from this estimate due to the factors stated above. We continue to participate in other multiemployer union plans. In the event of a full or partial withdrawal from these plans, the impact to our financial statements could be material.

 

Item 1B.          Unresolved Staff Comments

 

Not applicable.

 

 
8

 

 

Item 2.            Properties

 

We own the following properties:

 

Property Location

 

Building

Square

Footage

   

Acreage

 

Anaheim, California ***

    100,000       5.0  

Dallas, Texas *

    94,000       4.0  

Dallas, Texas *

    30,000       2.0  

Dallas, Texas *

    16,000       1.0  

Dallas, Texas *

    3,200       1.5  

Statesville, North Carolina *

    42,000       8.0  

Chicago, Illinois **

    156,000       1.5  

 


 

*    - property used by Frozen Food Products Segment

 

**  - property used by Refrigerated and Snack Products Food Segment

 

***- property used by both Frozen Food Products and Refrigerated and Snack Food Products Segments.

 

We utilize the foregoing properties for processing, warehousing, distributing and administrative purposes.  The Company also leases warehouse and/or office facilities throughout the United States and Canada through month-to-month rental agreements.  We believe that our properties are generally adequate to satisfy our foreseeable needs. Additional properties may be acquired and/or plants expanded if favorable opportunities and conditions arise. 

 

Item 3.          Legal Proceedings

 

No material legal proceedings were pending against us at October 31, 2014 or as of the date of filing of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. We are likely to be subject to claims arising from time to time in the ordinary course of our 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 us. Any adverse litigation trends and outcomes could significantly and negatively affect our financial results.

 

Item 4.          Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not applicable.

 

 
9

 

 

PART II

 

Item 5.           Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

 

Common Stock and Dividend Data

 

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

 

Fiscal Year 2014

 

High

   

Low

   

Cash

Dividends

Paid

 

First Quarter

  $ 10.16     $ 9.36     $ 0.00  

Second Quarter

  $ 10.20     $ 9.55     $ 0.00  

Third Quarter

  $ 10.00     $ 7.79     $ 0.00  

Fourth Quarter

  $ 8.58     $ 7.77     $ 0.00  

 

Fiscal Year 2013

 

High

   

Low

   

Cash

Dividends

Paid

First Quarter

  $ 7.10     $ 6.46     $ 0.05  

Second Quarter

  $ 8.65     $ 6.50     $ 0.00  

Third Quarter

  $ 8.25     $ 7.04     $ 0.00  

Fourth Quarter

  $ 12.39     $ 7.31     $ 0.00  

 

On November 12, 2012, Bridgford Foods Corporation issued a press release announcing that its Board of Directors had approved a one-time cash dividend of $0.05 per share of common stock which was distributed on December 24, 2012 to shareholders of record on November 27, 2012.

 

On January 13, 2015, the closing sale price for our common stock on the Nasdaq Global Market was $7.21 per share. As of January 13, 2015, there were 839 shareholders of record in our common stock.

 

The payment of any future dividends will be at the discretion of our Board of Directors and will depend upon future earnings, financial requirements, and other factors.

 

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities

 

During the period covered by this Report we did not sell or issue any equity securities that were not registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.

 

 
10

 

 

Repurchases of Equity Securities by the Issuer

 

During fiscal year 2014, we repurchased an aggregate of 19,688 shares of our common stock for $184,117 pursuant to our repurchase plan previously authorized by the Board of Directors.  The following table provides information regarding our repurchases of common stock in each of the four periods comprising the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2014.

 

Period (1)  

Total Number of Shares

Purchased

    Average Price Paid Per Share    

Total Number of

Shares Purchased

As Part of Publicly

Announced Plans or

Programs (2)

   

Maximum Number of

Shares that May Yet

Be Purchased

Under the Plans or

Programs (2)

 

July 12, 2014 – August 8, 2014

    0     $ 0       0       163,110  

August 9, 2014 – September 5, 2014

    3,120       8.09       3,120       159,990  

September 6, 2014 – October 3, 2014

    1,670       8.06       1,670       158,320  

October 4, 2014 – October 31, 2014

    620       8.52       620       157,700  

Total

    5,410     $ 8.13       5,410          

 


 

(1)

The periods shown are our fiscal periods during the sixteen-week quarter ended October 31, 2014.

 

(2)

All repurchases reflected in the foregoing table were made on the open market.  Our stock repurchase program was approved by the Board of Directors in November 1999 (1,500,000 shares authorized, disclosed in a Form 10-K filed on January 26, 2000) and was expanded in June 2005 (500,000 additional shares authorized, disclosed in a press release and Form 8-K filed on June 17, 2005).  Under the stock repurchase program, we are authorized, at the discretion of management and the Board of Directors, to purchase up to an aggregate of 2,000,000 shares of our common stock on the open market.  Our Stock Purchase Plan (“Purchase Plan”) is administered by Citigroup Global Markets Inc. (“CGM”) for purchase of shares of common stock (“Stock”) issued by us in compliance with the requirements of Rule 10b5-1 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (“Exchange Act”).  Commencing on October 15, 2014 and continuing through and including October 14, 2015, CGM shall act as our exclusive agent to purchase Stock under the Purchase Plan.  This Purchase Plan supplements any purchases of stock by us “outside” of the Purchase Plan, which may occur from time to time, in open market transactions pursuant to Rule 10b-18 of the Exchange Act. The daily purchase quantity is defined as a number of shares up to, but not to exceed, each day’s applicable Rule 10b-18 maximum volume limit (i.e. 25% of the prior four calendar weeks’ average daily trading volume); however, once per week a block of stock may be purchased that exceeds the Rule 10b-18 average daily trading volume condition, provided that no other Purchase Plan purchases are made on any day on which such a block is purchased.  As of October 31, 2014, the total maximum number of shares that may be purchased under the Purchase Plan is 157,700 at a purchase price not to exceed $10.00 per share for a total maximum aggregate price (exclusive of commission) of $1,577,000.

 

Item 6.          Selected Financial Data

 

Not applicable to smaller reporting company.  

 

 
11

 

 

Item 7.           Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

 

For a complete understanding, this Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations should be read in conjunction with the Consolidated Financial Statements and Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements contained in this Report.

 

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.

 

Results of Operations (in thousands except percentages)

 

Fiscal Year Ended October 31, 2014 (52 weeks) Compared to Fiscal Year Ended November 1, 2013 (52 weeks)

 

Net Sales-Consolidated

 

Net sales in fiscal 2014 increased $4,398 (3.4%) when compared to the prior year.  The changes in net sales were comprised as follows:

 

Impact on Net Sales - Consolidated

               

Selling price per pound

    -0.4

%

  $ (590

)

Unit volume in pounds

    5.8

%

    8,255  

Returns activity

    -1.0

%

    (1,419

)

Promotional activity

    -1.0

%

    (1,848

)

Increase in net sales

    3.4

%

  $ 4,398  

 

Unit sales volume in pounds in fiscal 2014 increased significantly in the Refrigerated and Snack Food Products segment. Overall, the decrease in selling price per pound in fiscal 2014 primarily relates to product mix changes as discussed in the segment analysis below. Returns activity and promotional spending increased compared to the prior year on a consolidated basis.

 

Net Sales-Frozen Food Products Segment

 

Net sales in the Frozen Food Products segment in fiscal 2014 decreased $709 (1.4%) compared to the prior year.  The changes in net sales were comprised as follows:

 

Impact on Net Sales - Frozen Food Products Segment

               

Selling price per pound

    0.0

%

  $ (19

)

Unit volume in pounds

    0.0

%

    (904

)

Returns activity

    0.1

%

    35  

Promotional activity

    -1.5

%

    179  

Decrease in net sales

    -1.4

%

  $ (709

)

 

The decrease in net sales for fiscal 2014 primarily relates to an unfavorable change in product mix. Returns were slightly lower compared to the prior year. Higher promotional activity compared to fiscal 2013 added to the impact of relatively no change in unit volume or selling price per pound within the Frozen Food Products segment.

  

 
12

 

 

Net Sales-Refrigerated and Snack Food Products Segment

 

Net sales, excluding intersegment sales, in the Refrigerated and Snack Food Products segment in fiscal 2014 increased $5,107 (6.6%) compared to the prior year. The changes in net sales were comprised as follows:

  

Impact on Net Sales - Refrigerated and Snack Food Products Segment

               

Selling price per pound

    -0.7

%

  $ (570

)

Unit volume in pounds

    10.9

%

    9,159  

Returns activity

    -1.5

%

    (1,455

)

Promotional activity

    -2.1

%

    (2,027

)

Increase in net sales

    6.6

%

  $ 5,107  

 

The increase in net sales in fiscal 2014 was attributable to higher unit volume (in pounds) compared to the prior year. The volume increase resulted from large seasonal programs that did not occur in the prior year. The combined selling price per pound in fiscal 2014 decreased despite price increases instituted in the non-refrigerated snack food products division in the last half of fiscal year 2014. Lower selling prices in the discontinued refrigerated snack food products division also negatively affected per pound selling prices. Selling prices for large seasonal program items were significantly lower than prices per pound obtained for other Company products. Higher promotional activity and returns related to these programs partially offset the unit sales volume increases.

 

Cost of Products Sold and Gross Margin-Consolidated

 

Cost of products sold in fiscal 2014 increased $11,178 (13.4%) compared to the prior year.  Changes in unit sales volumes and record high meat commodity costs are described in the segment analysis below and were the primary contributing factors to the increase in cost of products sold. The gross margin decreased to 29.0% in fiscal year 2014 compared to 35.2% in fiscal year 2013.

 

Cost of Products Sold and Gross Margin–Frozen Food Products Segment

 

Cost of products sold in the Frozen Food Products segment in fiscal 2014 decreased $647 (2.0%) compared to the prior year primarily as result of lower sales volume and lower commodity costs. The cost of purchased flour decreased approximately $78 in fiscal 2014 compared to the prior year. The gross margin in the Frozen Food Products segment increased slightly from 37.0% in fiscal 2013 to 37.3% in fiscal 2014 due to lower commodity costs.

 

Cost of Products Sold and Gross Margin–Refrigerated and Snack Food Products Segment

 

Cost of products sold in the Refrigerated and Snack Food Products segment increased by $11,285 (21.7%) during the 2014 fiscal year compared to the prior year due to higher unit sales volume. The cost of significant meat commodities increased approximately $5,504 during fiscal 2014 compared to the prior year. The gross margin earned in this segment decreased from 34.1% to 23.8% due primarily to higher meat commodity costs and high volume low margin product sales.

 

Selling, General and Administrative Expenses-Consolidated

 

Selling, general and administrative expenses ("SG&A") in fiscal 2014 increased $737 (1.7%) when compared to the prior year.  The increase in this category did not directly correspond to the change in sales.

 

The table below summarizes the primary expense variances in this category:

 

  52 weeks Ended   Expense/Loss  
  October 31, 2014   November 1, 2013   Increase (Decrease)  

Teamster pension withdrawal liability

$ 798   $ -   $ 798  

Pension expense

  646     1,373     (727

)

Healthcare cost

  2,491     2,121     370  

Depreciation

  1,122     754     368  

Fuel

  2,422     2,763     (341

)

Cash surrender value gain

  (514

)

  (825

)

  311  

Wages and bonus

  15,361     15,661     (300

)

Insurance

  992     721     271  

Repairs and maintenance

  753     1,025     (272

)

Workers’ compensation

  772     1,040     (268

)

Outside consultants

  1,530     1,380     150  

Other SG&A

  16,716     16,339     377  
                   

Total

$ 43,089   $ 42,352   $ 737  

     

 
13

 

  

During the fourth quarter of fiscal 2014, we closed the refrigerated snack food products division (a division within the Refrigerated and Snack Food Segment involving primarily deli products) and withdrew from the Western Conference of Teamsters Pension Plan. According to the Multi-employer Pension Plan Act of 1980 we are subject to the Western Conference of Teamsters Pension Trust Fund Withdrawal Liability. The decrease in pension expense (non-Teamster) was caused by an increase in the pension liability discount rate. Healthcare costs have increased due to recent unfavorable claim activity. The increase in depreciation expense was due to significant vehicle purchases in recent years. The decrease in fuel expense was driven by lower cost per gallon as compared to the prior year. The cash surrender value gain on life insurance policies decreased due to less favorable changes in the underlying equities that support them compared to fiscal 2013. Lower profits and profit sharing accruals resulted in lower wages and bonus in fiscal year 2014 compared to the prior year and the closing of our refrigerated snack food products division. Higher insurance expense relates to unfavorable trends in renewal rates. Repairs and maintenance decreased due to replacement of vehicles in the Company’s fleet as well as closing the delivery route business concentrated in California. The Company’s workers’ compensation expense decreased in fiscal 2014 as a result of favorable claim trends compared to the prior year. The increase in outside consultants related primarily to legal fees and settlements with former employees. None of the changes individually or as a group of expenses in “Other SG&A” were significant enough in value to merit separate disclosure. The major components comprising the decrease of “Other SG&A” were higher outside storage and postage expenses.

 

Selling, General and Administrative Expenses-Frozen Food Products Segment

 

SG&A expenses in the Frozen Food Products segment decreased by $920 (5.5%) in fiscal year 2014 compared to the prior fiscal year.  The overall decrease in SG&A expenses was mainly due to lower product advertising and lower pension cost.

 

Selling, General and Administrative Expenses-Refrigerated and Snack Food Products Segment

 

SG&A expenses in the Refrigerated and Snack Food Products segment increased by $1,657 (6.4%) in fiscal year 2014 compared to the prior fiscal year.  Higher payments under labor commissions and licensing agreements, higher property and liability insurance, higher product advertising costs and depreciation for new vehicles led to the increase in SG&A expenses compared to the prior year. The increase in SG&A expenses was also related to the increase in sales, increased cost for healthcare and higher outside storage costs.

 

Income Taxes

 

The effective income tax rate was 2.0% and 5.5% in fiscal years 2014 and 2013, respectively.  The 2014 tax benefit of $88 relates to the reduction in the liability on unrecognized tax benefits related to research and development tax credits being carried forward due to utilization of a net operating loss. In fiscal year 2014, the effective income tax rate differed from the applicable mixed statutory rate of approximately 39.6% primarily due to recording a full valuation allowance of $1,598 (refer to Note 4 of Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements) on our deferred tax assets.  The 2013 provision for taxes on income of $169 consists of minimum federal and state income taxes.

 

The Company policy outlines measurable objective criteria that must be met before a release of the valuation allowance will occur.  The three criteria set forth in the policy must all be satisfied before the valuation allowance can be reversed.  The criteria are as follows: first, the Company’s available federal tax net operating loss ("NOL") must be zero; second, the prior thirty-six month cumulative book basis pre-tax income (loss), after considering “one-time” events, is positive; third, the Company considers its outlook of near term continued profitable operations and assesses any material negative and positive trends or events on the immediate horizon.  As of October 31, 2014, the Company (1) has a federal tax NOL of $6,160, (2) has positive thirty-six month cumulative book income and (3) volatility and recent record highs in commodity costs create uncertainty about the Company's ability to generate future earnings.  Only the second criterion has been satisfied, therefore, the Company will maintain a full valuation allowance against its deferred tax assets as of October 31, 2014.

 

Due to the degree of judgment involved, actual taxable income could differ materially from management's estimates, or the timing of taxable income could be such that the net operating losses could expire prior to their utilization.  Management could determine in the future that the assets are realizable, materially increasing net income in one or many periods. Following recognition, management could reinstate a full valuation allowance should operating performance decline.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources (in thousands except share amounts)

 

The principal source of our operating cash flow is cash receipts from the sale of our products, net of costs to manufacture, store, market and deliver to customers. The Company temporarily borrowed on the line of credit during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2014 to provide capital to pay for operating expenses including payments to meat suppliers with seven or less day terms. The Company paid approximately $7.4 million more dollars for the same commodities in fiscal 2014 as compared to their cost in fiscal 2013. There were no borrowings outstanding under this line of credit as of October 31, 2014. The Company is currently in compliance with all provisions of the line of credit agreement. We typically fund our operations from cash balances and cash flow generated from operations.  We normally expect positive operating cash flows in the first quarter of our fiscal year from the liquidation of inventory and accounts receivable balances related to holiday season sales.  We typically build inventories in the third quarter for anticipated holiday season sales that occur in the fourth and first quarters.  Anticipated commodity price trends may also affect cash balances.  Certain commodities may be purchased in advance of our immediate needs to lower the ultimate cost of processing.

  

 
14

 

 

Cash flows from operating activities:

 

   

52 Weeks

 
   

2014

   

2013

 
                 

Net (loss) income

  $ (4,344

)

  $ 2,916  

Adjustments to reconcile net (loss) income to net cash (used in) provided by operating activities:

               

Depreciation

    2,827       2,236  

Provision for losses on accounts receivable

    28       23  
                 

Gain on sale of property, plant and equipment

    (152

)

    (66

)

Deferred income taxes, net

    1,598       (1,214

)

Tax valuation allowance

    (1,598

)

    1,214  

Changes in operating working capital

    (2,380

)

    (1,349

)

Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities

  $ (4,021

)

  $ 3,760  

 

For the fifty-two weeks ended October 31, 2014, net cash used in operating activities was $4,021, a decrease of $7,781 compared to the fifty-two weeks ended November 1, 2013.  The decrease is primarily related to an increase in inventory in the Refrigerated and Snack Food Products segment as well as an increase in accrued payroll, advertising and other expenses.   During fiscal year 2014 we funded $1,587 towards our defined benefit pension plan.  Plan funding strategies may be adjusted depending upon economic conditions, investment options, tax deductibility, or recent legislative changes in funding requirements.

 

Our cash conversion cycle (defined as days of inventory and trade receivables less days of trade payables outstanding) is relatively quick, and was equal to 57 days for the fifty-two weeks ended October 31, 2014 and 61 days for the fifty-two weeks ended November 1, 2013.  Compared with the prior year, the favorable impact on the 2014 cash conversion cycle resulted from lower days of inventory, primarily due to a selloff of inventory in the Refrigerated and Snack Food Products segment to provide a source of cash to cover payments to meat commodity suppliers at record high prices.

 

For the fifty-two weeks ended November 1, 2013, net cash provided by our operating activities was $3,760.  The increase was primarily related to net income. During fiscal year 2013, we funded $1,922 towards our defined benefit pension plan.

 

Cash used in investing activities:

 

   

52 Weeks

 
   

2014

   

2013

 

Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment

  $ 163     $ 72  

Additions to property, plant and equipment

    (3,877

)

    (4,378

)

Net cash used in investing activities

  $ (3,714

)

  $ (4,306

)

 

Expenditures for property, plant and equipment include the acquisition of new equipment, upgrading of facilities to maintain operating efficiency and investments in cost effective technologies to lower costs.  In general, we capitalize the cost of additions and improvements and expense the cost for repairs and maintenance.  The Company may also capitalize costs related to improvements that extend the life, increase the capacity, or improve the efficiency of existing machinery and equipment.  Specifically, capitalization of upgrades of facilities to maintain operating efficiency include acquisitions of machinery and equipment used on packaging lines and refrigeration equipment used to process food products.

 

 
15

 

 

The table below highlights the additions to property, plant and equipment for the fifty-two weeks ended:

 

   

52 Weeks

 
   

October 31,

2014

   

November 1,

2013

 

Temperature control

  $ 10     $ 38  

Processing equipment

    2,228       1,516  

Packaging lines

    250       763  

Office and building improvements

    438       142  

Vehicles for sales and/or delivery

    963       1,712  

Computer software and hardware

    6       264  

Forklifts

    51       -  

Decrease in projects in process

    (69

)

    (57

)

Additions to property, plant and equipment

  $ 3,877     $ 4,378  

 

 

Cash used in financing activities:

 

   

52 Weeks

 
   

2014

   

2013

 

Shares repurchased

  $ (184

)

  $ (209

)

Payments of capital lease obligations

    (214

)

    (206

)

Dividends paid

    -       (458

)

Net cash used in financing activities

  $ (398

)

  $ (873

)

 

Our stock repurchase program was approved by the Board of Directors in November 1999 and was expanded in June 2005.  Under the stock repurchase program, we are authorized, at the discretion of management and the Board of Directors, to purchase up to an aggregate of 2,000,000 shares of our common stock on the open market.  As of the end of fiscal year 2014, 157,700 shares were still authorized for repurchase under the program.  A one-time cash dividend of five cents per share of common stock was approved on November 12, 2012 to shareholders of record on November 27, 2012, payable on December 24, 2012.  

 

We invested in transportation equipment during fiscal 2012 financed by a capital lease obligation in the amount of $1,848.  The term of the lease is six years.  The total capital lease obligation remaining as of October 31, 2014 is $1,345.  The capital lease arrangement replaces the long-standing month-to-month leases of transportation equipment.

 

We maintain a line of credit with Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. that expires on March 1, 2015. During the fourth quarter of fiscal 2014, we converted our line of credit to a borrowing base line collateralized by accounts receivable. Under the terms of this line of credit, we may borrow up to $6,500 at an interest rate equal to the bank’s prime rate. The borrowing agreement contains various covenants, the more significant of which require us to maintain a minimum tangible net worth and a minimum net income after tax and total capital expenditures less than $3,000. The Company was in violation of the capital expenditure covenant which was waived (letter dated December 17, 2013) at October 31, 2014. The Company was also in violation of the tangible net worth and net income covenants which were waived (letter dated December 24, 2014) at October 31, 2014. The Company temporarily borrowed on the line of credit during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2014 to pay for working capital purposes. There were no borrowings under this line of credit as of October 31, 2014. Other than noted above, the Company is currently in compliance with all provisions of the agreement.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Our operating results are heavily dependent upon the prices paid for raw materials.  The marketing of our 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.  While fluctuations in significant cost structure components, such as ingredient commodities and fuel prices, have had a significant impact on profitability over the last two fiscal years, the impact of general price inflation on our financial position and results of operations has not been significant.  However, future volatility of general price inflation or deflation and raw material cost and availability could adversely affect our financial results.

  

 
16

 

 

The impact of inflation on the Company’s financial position and results of operations has not been significant. 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 2015. 

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

We do not currently have any off balance sheet arrangements within the meaning of Item 303(a)(4) of Regulation S-K.

 

Contractual Obligations

 

We temporarily utilized interest bearing debt (excluding capital leases) during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2014 to provide capital to pay for operating expenses including payments to meat suppliers with seven or less day terms. As of October 31, 2014 we had no outstanding balance on the line of credit or any other debt or other contractual obligations.

 

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 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.  We record promotional and returns allowances and bad debt and inventory allowances based on recent and historical trends. Management believes its current estimates are reasonable and based on the best information available at the time.

 

Disclosure concerning our policies on credit risk, revenue recognition, cash surrender or contract value for life insurance policies, deferred income tax and the recoverability of our long-lived assets are provided in Notes 1 and 4 of Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements and Regulations

 

Various accounting standard-setting bodies have been active in soliciting comments and issuing statements, interpretations and exposure drafts. For information on new accounting pronouncements and the impact, if any, on our financial position or results of operations, see Note 1 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

Item 7A.          Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

Not applicable for smaller reporting company.

 

Item 8.          Consolidated Financial Statements and Supplementary Data

 

The consolidated financial statements required by this Item are set forth under Item 15.

 

Item 9.          Changes in and Disagreements With Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure

 

Not applicable. 

 

 
17

 

 

Item 9A.          Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of disclosure controls and procedures

 

Our management, with the participation and under the supervision of our Chairman and Chief Financial Officer, has evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(e))  as of the end of the period covered by this Report. Based on this evaluation, the Chairman and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of the end of the period covered by this Report in their design and operation to provide reasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed by us in the reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to management, including our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, and recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified by the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosures.

 

Our management, including our Chairman and Chief Financial Officer, does not expect that our disclosure controls and internal controls will prevent all error and all fraud. A control system, no matter how well conceived and operated, can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurance that the objectives of the control system are met. Further, the design of a control system must reflect the fact that there are resource constraints, and the benefits of controls must be considered relative to their costs. Because of inherent limitations in all control systems, no evaluation of controls can provide absolute assurance that all control issues and instances of fraud, if any, within the Company have been detected. These inherent limitations include the realities that judgments in decision-making can be faulty, and that breakdowns can occur because of simple error or mistake. Additionally, controls can be circumvented by the individual acts of some persons, by collusion of two or more people, or by management override of the control.

 

The design of any system of controls is also based in part upon certain assumptions about the likelihood of future events, and there can be no assurance that any design will succeed in achieving our stated goals under all potential future conditions; over time, a control may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate. Because of inherent limitations in a cost-effective control system, misstatements due to error or fraud may occur and not be detected.

 

We maintain and evaluate a system of internal accounting controls, and a program designed to provide reasonable assurance that our 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 our independent registered public accounting firm.  We have established a code of conduct.  Our management 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 our financial management and counsel, and with the independent registered public accounting firm engaged by us.  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. 114 (Communication with Audit Committees). In addition, the Audit Committee and the independent registered public accounting firm have discussed the independent registered public accounting firm’s independence from our Company and its management, including the matters in the written disclosures required by Public Company Accounting Oversight Board Rule 3526 “Communicating with Audit Committees Concerning Independence”.

  

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reports

 

There has been no change in our internal control over financial reporting during the last fiscal quarter covered by this Report that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

 

Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

 

In order to comply with the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (the “Act”), we have undertaken and continue a comprehensive effort, which includes the documentation and review of our internal controls. In order to comply with the Act, we centralized most accounting and many administrative functions at our corporate headquarters in an effort to control the cost of maintaining our control systems.

 

The Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act, signed into law by the President on July 21, 2010, permanently exempts small public companies with less than $75 million in market capitalization, such as the Company, from the requirement to obtain an external audit on the effectiveness of internal financial reporting controls provided in Section 404(b) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act. As a result, an attestation report on internal controls over financial reporting by an independent registered public accounting firm has not been presented. Section 404(a) is still effective for smaller public companies and requires the disclosure of management attestations on internal controls over financial reporting.  

  

 
18

 

 

Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

 

Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting.  Our internal control over financial reporting is designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.

 

Management conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of the internal controls over financial reporting based on the framework in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (1992) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission and related COSO guidance. Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Therefore, even those systems determined to be effective can provide only reasonable assurance with respect to financial statement preparation and presentation. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

 

Management assessed the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting for our fiscal year ended October 31, 2014.  Based on management’s assessment and the above-referenced criteria, management believes that the internal control over financial reporting for our fiscal year ended October 31, 2014 was effective.

 

Item 9B.           Other Information

 

Not applicable. 

 

 
19

 

 

PART III

 

Item 10.          Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance

 

Information set forth in the sections entitled “Proposal 1 – Election of Directors” and “Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance” contained in our definitive proxy statement for the 2015 Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held on March 18, 2015 is incorporated herein by reference. Information concerning our executive officers is set forth in Part I, Item 1, hereof under the heading “Executive Officers of the Registrant”.

 

Item 11.          Executive Compensation

 

Information set forth in the section entitled “Compensation of Executive Officers” contained in our definitive proxy statement for the 2015 Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held on March 18, 2015 is incorporated herein by reference.

 

Item 12.          Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters

 

Information set forth in the section entitled “Principal Shareholders and Management” contained in our definitive proxy statement for the 2015 Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held on March 18, 2015 is incorporated herein by reference.

 

Equity Compensation Plan Information

 

Not applicable, as we do not have any compensation plans under which our equity securities are authorized for issuance.

 

Item 13.          Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence

 

Information set forth in the sections entitled “Proposal 1 – Election of Directors” and “Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions” contained in our definitive proxy statement for the 2015 Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held on March 18, 2015 is incorporated herein by reference.

 

We are considered a “controlled company” within the meaning of Rule 5615(c)(1) of the NASDAQ Listing Rules based on the more than 80% beneficial ownership of  our outstanding common stock by Bridgford Industries Incorporated and are therefore exempted from various NASDAQ Listing Rules pertaining to certain “independence” requirements of our directors. Nevertheless, the Board of Directors has determined that Messrs. Andrews, Scott and Zippwald, who together comprise the Audit Committee, are all “independent directors” within the meaning of Rule 5605 of the NASDAQ Listing Rules.

 

Our general legal counsel is the son of the former senior chairman of the board of directors.  As legal counsel to the board, he currently is paid a fee of one thousand eight hundred dollars for each meeting attended. Total fees paid under this arrangement for fiscal year 2014 were approximately twenty-one thousand dollars. Legal services are performed on our behalf and billed by a firm in which he is a partner.  Total fees billed under this arrangement for fiscal year 2014 were approximately one thousand dollars.

 

Director Allan Bridgford Jr., son of the former senior chairman of the board of directors, is providing consulting services to the Chicago plant and management.  The contract on behalf of the Company with Allan Bridgford Jr. is for consulting services at twelve hundred dollars per day.  Total fees billed under this arrangement for fiscal year 2014 were approximately $173,000.  As a member of the board of directors, he was paid a fee of one thousand eight hundred dollars for each meeting attended during fiscal 2014. Total fees paid under this arrangement for fiscal year 2014 were $8,800. He was reappointed as Director as of January 12, 2015.

 

 

Item 14.          Principal Accountant Fees and Services

 

Information set forth in the sections entitled “Principal Accountant Fees and Services” and “Policy on Audit Committee Pre-Approval of Audit Services And Permissible Non-Audit Services of Independent Accountants”   contained in our definitive proxy statement for the 2015 Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held on March 18, 2015 is incorporated herein by reference.

 

 
20

 

 

PART IV

 

Item 15.          Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules

 

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

 

  

Page

Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

19

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

23

Consolidated Balance Sheets as of October 31, 2014 and November 1, 2013

24

Consolidated Statements of Operations for years ended October 31, 2014 and November 1, 2013

25

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) for years ended October 31, 2014 and November 1, 2013

26

Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity for years ended October 31, 2014 and November 1, 2013

26

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for years ended October 31, 2014 and November 1, 2013

27

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements                                                                                                  

28

 

(2)  Financial Statement Schedules

 

Not applicable for smaller reporting company.

 

(3)  Exhibits

 

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

 

Exhibit

Number

 

Description

3.5

 

Restated Articles of Incorporation, dated December 29, 1989 (filed as Exhibit 3.5 to Form 10-K on January 28, 1993 and incorporated herein by reference).

3.6

 

Amendment to Articles of Incorporation, dated July 27, 1990 (filed as Exhibit 3.6 to Form 10-K on January 28, 1993 and incorporated herein by reference).

3.7

 

By-laws, as amended (filed as Exhibit 2 to Form 10-K on January 28, 1993 and incorporated herein by reference).

3.8

 

Certificate of Amendment to By-laws (filed as Exhibit 99.1 to Form 8-K on October 10, 2007 and incorporated herein by reference).

10.1

 

Bridgford Foods Corporation Defined Benefit Pension Plan (filed as Exhibit 10.1 to Form 10-K on January 28, 1993 and incorporated herein by reference).*

10.2

 

Bridgford Foods Corporation Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan (filed as Exhibit 10.2 to Form 10-K on January 28, 1993 and incorporated herein by reference).*

10.3

 

Bridgford Foods Corporation Deferred Compensation Savings Plan (filed as Exhibit 10.3 to Form 10-K on January 28, 1993 and incorporated herein by reference).*

21.1

 

Subsidiaries of the Registrant.

24.1

 

Power of Attorney (included as part of the signature page)

31.1

 

Certification of Principal Executive Officer, Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

31.2

 

Certification of Principal Financial Officer, Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

32.1

 

Certification Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (Principal Executive Officer).

32.2

 

Certification Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (Principal Financial Officer).

101.INS

 

XBRL Instance Document.**

101.SCH

 

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.**

101.CAL

 

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.**

101.DEF

 

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.**

101.LAB

 

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.**

101.PRE

 

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.**

  


           * Each of these Exhibits constitutes a management contract, compensatory plan or arrangement.

** The XBRL information is being furnished and not filed or a part of a registration statement or prospectus for purposes of Section 11 or 12 of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, is deemed not filed for purposes of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and otherwise is not subject to liability under these Sections or otherwise incorporated by reference.

  

 
21

 

 

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

 

 

 

  

By:

/s/  WILLIAM L. BRIDGFORD

  

  

William L. Bridgford

  

  

Chairman of the Board

Date: January 16, 2015

 

POWER OF ATTORNEY

 

We, the undersigned directors and officers of Bridgford Foods Corporation, do hereby constitute and appoint William 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.

 

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.

 

Signature

  

Title

  

Date

  

  

  

  

  

/s/ WILLIAM L. BRIDGFORD

  

Chairman of the Board

  

January 16, 2015

William L. Bridgford

  

(Principal Executive Officer)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

/s/ BRUCE H. BRIDGFORD  

  

Director

  

January 16, 2015

Bruce H. Bridgford

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

/s/ JOHN V. SIMMONS

  

President & Director

  

January 16, 2015

John V. Simmons

  

  

  

  

         

/s/ RAYMOND F. LANCY

  

Chief Financial Officer, Vice President, Treasurer & Director

  

January 16, 2015

Raymond F. Lancy

  

(Principal Financial and Accounting  Officer)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

/s/ TODD C. ANDREWS

  

Director

  

January 16, 2015

Todd C. Andrews

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

/s/ ALLAN BRIDGFORD JR.   Director   January 16, 2015
Allan Bridgford Jr.        
         

/s/ D. GREGORY SCOTT

  

Director

  

January 16, 2015

D. Gregory Scott

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

/s/ PAUL R. ZIPPWALD

  

Director

  

January 16, 2015

Paul R. Zippwald

  

  

  

  

 

 
22

 

 

Report Of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

 

To the Board of Directors and Shareholders

Bridgford Foods Corporation

 

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Bridgford Foods Corporation (the "Company") as of October 31, 2014 and November 1, 2013 and the related consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive income (loss), shareholders’ equity and cash flows for the years then ended. 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 in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audits to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. The Company is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform an audit of its internal control over financial reporting. Our audits included consideration of internal control over financial reporting as a basis for designing audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company's internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion. An audit also 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, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

 

In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of Bridgford Foods Corporation as of October 31, 2014 and November 1, 2013 and the results of its consolidated operations and its cash flows for the years then ended, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

 

/s/ Squar, Milner, Peterson, Miranda & Williamson, LLP

 

Newport Beach, California

January 16, 2015

 

 
23

 

 

BRIDGFORD FOODS CORPORATION

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

October 31, 2014 and November 1, 2013

(in thousands, except per share amounts)

 

   

2014

   

2013

 

ASSETS

               

Current assets:

               

Cash and cash equivalents

  $ 192     $ 8,325  

Accounts receivable, less allowance for doubtful accounts of $144 and $119, respectively and promotional allowances of $5,810 and $3,156, respectively

    10,302       12,146  

Inventories, less reserves of $601 and $558, respectively

    21,292       18,919  

Prepaid expenses

    346       333  

Refundable income taxes

    133       683  

Deferred income taxes, less valuation allowance of $2,113 and $2,276, respectively

    -       -  

Total current assets

    32,265       40,406  
                 

Property, plant and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation and amortization of $58,450 and $57,352, respectively

    12,251       11,212  

Other non-current assets

    13,660       13,146  

Deferred income taxes, less valuation allowance of $8,486 and $5,671, respectively

    -       -  

Total assets

  $ 58,176     $ 64,764  
                 

LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

               

Current liabilities:

               

Accounts payable

  $ 5,780     $ 4,815  

Accrued payroll, advertising and other expenses

    6,029       7,631  

Current portion of non-current liabilities

    2,596       3,200  

Total current liabilities

    14,405       15,646  
                 

Non-current liabilities

    18,521       15,663  

Total liabilities

    32,926       31,309  
                 

Contingencies and commitments (Notes 3, 5 and 6)

               
                 

Shareholders’ equity:

               

Preferred stock, without par value Authorized, - 1,000 shares; issued and outstanding – none

    -       -  

Common stock, $1.00 par value Authorized, - 20,000 shares; issued and outstanding – 9,113 and 9,134

    9,171       9,191  

Capital in excess of par value

    8,584       8,748  

Retained earnings

    24,861       29,205  

Accumulated other comprehensive loss

    (17,366

)

    (13,689

)

Total shareholders’ equity

    25,250       33,455  

Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity

  $ 58,176     $ 64,764  

 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

 

 
24

 

 

BRIDGFORD FOODS CORPORATION

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

For the fiscal years ended October 31, 2014 and November 1, 2013

(in thousands, except share and per share amounts)

 

   

52 Weeks

 
   

2014

   

2013

 
                 

Net sales

  $ 133,401     $ 129,003  
                 

Cost of products sold

    94,744       83,566  
                 

Gross margin

    38,657       45,437  
                 

Selling, general and administrative expenses

    43,089       42,352  
                 

(Loss) income before taxes

    (4,432

)

    3,085  
                 

(Benefit) provision for income taxes

    (88

)

    169  
                 

Net (loss) income

  $ (4,344

)

  $ 2,916  
                 

Basic (loss) earnings per share

  $ (0.48

)

  $ 0.32  
                 

Shares used to compute basic earnings per common share

    9,123,593       9,151,939  

 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements

 

 
25

 

 

BRIDGFORD FOODS CORPORATION

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)

For the fiscal years ended October 31, 2014 and November 1, 2013

(in thousands)

 

   

52 Weeks

 
   

2014

   

2013

 

Net (loss) income

  $ (4,344

)

  $ 2,916  

Defined benefit pension plans:

               

Actuarial (loss) gain unrecognized

    (3,454

)

    10,458  

Prior service cost

    1       1  

Other comprehensive (loss) income from defined benefit plans

    (3,453

)

    10,459  

Other postretirement benefit plans:

               

Actuarial (loss) gain

    (321

)

    395  

Prior service cost

    97       208  

Other comprehensive (loss) income from other postretirement benefit plans

    (224

)

    603  
                 

Other comprehensive (loss) income, before taxes

    (3,677

)

    11,062  
                 

Tax (provision) benefit on other comprehensive loss

    1,054       (4,204

)

Valuation allowance on tax benefit from items of other comprehensive income

    (1,054

)

    4,204  
                 

Change in other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax

    (3,677

)

    11,062  
                 

Comprehensive (loss) income

  $ (8,021

)

  $ 13,978  

  

 

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

For the fiscal years ended October 31, 2014 and November 1, 2013

(in thousands)

 

 

   

Shares

   

Amount

   

Capital in

excess of

par value

   

Retained

earnings

   

Accumulated

other

comprehensive

loss

   

Total

shareholders’

equity

 

Balance, November 2, 2012

    9,159     $ 9,216     $ 8,932     $ 26,747     $ (24,751

)

  $ 20,144  

Shares repurchased and retired

    (25

)

    (25

)

    (184

)

                    (209

)

Net income

                            2,916               2,916  

Cash dividends paid

                            (458

)

            (458

)

Net change in defined benefit plans and other benefit plans

                                    11,062       11,062  

Balance, November 1, 2013

    9,134     $ 9,191     $ 8,748     $ 29,205     $ (13,689

)

  $ 33,455  

Shares repurchased and retired

    (21

)

    (20

)

    (164

)

                    (184

)

Net loss

                            (4,344

)

            (4,344

)

Net change in defined benefit plans and other benefit plans

                                    (3,677

)

    (3,677

)

Balance, October 31, 2014

    9,113     $ 9,171     $ 8,584     $ 24,861     $ (17,366

)

  $ 25,250  

 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

 

 
26

 

 

BRIDGFORD FOODS CORPORATION

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

For the fiscal years ended October 31, 2014 and November 1, 2013

(in thousands)

 

   

52 Weeks

 
   

2014

   

2013

 
                 

Cash flows from operating activities:

               

Net (loss) income

  $ (4,344

)

  $ 2,916  

Adjustments to reconcile net (loss) income to net cash (used in) provided by operating activities:

               

Depreciation

    2,827       2,236  

Provision (recovery) for losses on accounts receivable

    28       23  

Gain on sale of property, plant and equipment

    (152

)

    (66

)

Deferred income taxes, net

    1,598       (1,214

)

Tax valuation allowance

    (1,598

)

    1,214  

Changes in operating assets and liabilities:

               

Accounts receivable

    1,816       (411

)

Inventories

    (2,373

)

    (1,564

)

Prepaid expenses

    (12

)

    176  

Refundable income taxes

    549       104  

Other non-current assets

    (514

)

    (825

)

Accounts payable

    965       401  

Accrued payroll, advertising and other expenses

    (1,602

)

    1,169  

Current portion of non-current liabilities

    (627

)

    (708

)

Non-current liabilities

    (582

)

    309  

Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities

    (4,021

)

    3,760  

Cash used in investing activities:

               

Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment

    163       72  

Additions to property, plant and equipment

    (3,877

)

    (4,378

)

Net cash used in investing activities

    (3,714

)

    (4,306

)

Cash used in financing activities:

               

Shares repurchased

    (184

)

    (209

)

Payment of capital lease obligations

    (214

)

    (206

)

Cash dividends paid

    -       (458

)

Net cash used in financing activities

    (398

)

    (873

)

Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents

    (8,133

)

    (1,419

)

                 

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year

    8,325       9,744  

Cash and cash equivalents at end of year

  $ 192     $ 8,325  
                 

Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information:

               

Cash paid for income taxes

  $ -     $ 70  

 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

 

 
27

 

 

BRIDGFORD FOODS CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands except share and per share amounts, time periods and percentages)

 

NOTE 1- The Company and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies:

 

Bridgford Foods Corporation was organized in 1952. We originally began 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 we and our 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. We have had no significant change in the type of products produced or distributed, nor in the markets we serve.

 

The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its subsidiaries, all of which are wholly-owned. All inter-company transactions have been eliminated.

 

Use of estimates and assumptions

 

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, as well as the reported revenues and expenses during the respective reporting periods. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Amounts estimated related to liabilities for pension benefits, self-insured workers’ compensation and employee healthcare benefits are subject to inherent uncertainties and these estimated liabilities may ultimately settle at amounts which may vary from current estimates. Other areas with underlying estimates include realization of deferred tax assets, cash surrender or contract value of life insurance policies, promotional allowances and the allowance for doubtful accounts and inventory reserves.  Management believes its current estimates are reasonable and based on the best information available at the time.

 

We test long-lived assets for recoverability whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable. If an impairment is indicated, we measure the fair value of assets to determine if and when adjustments are recorded.

 

Subsequent events

 

Management has evaluated events subsequent to October 31, 2014 through the date the accompanying consolidated financial statements were filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission for transactions and other events that may require adjustment of and/or disclosure in such financial statements. Based on its review, no material events were identified that require adjustment to the financial statements or additional disclosure.

 

Concentrations of credit risk

 

Our credit risk is diversified across a broad range of customers and geographic regions. Losses due to credit risk have recently been immaterial. The carrying amount of cash equivalents, accounts and other receivables, accounts payable and accrued liabilities approximate fair market value due to the short maturity of these instruments. We maintain cash balances at financial institutions, which may at times exceed the amounts insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation.  Management does not believe there is significant credit risk associated with these financial institutions. The provision for doubtful accounts receivable is based on historical trends and current collectability risk. We have significant accounts receivable with a few large, well known customers which, although historically secure, could be subject to material risk should these customers’ operations suddenly deteriorate. Sales to Wal-Mart® comprised 28.8% of revenues in fiscal 2014 and 31.8% of total accounts receivable was due from Wal-Mart® at October 31, 2014. Sales to Wal-Mart® comprised 19.6% of revenues in fiscal 2013 and 17.0% of total accounts receivable was due from Wal-Mart® at November 1, 2013. Sales to Dollar General® comprised 9.9% of revenues for fiscal year 2013 and 20.7% of total accounts receivable was due from Dollar General at November 1, 2013.

 

Business segments

 

Our Company and its subsidiaries operate in two business segments - the processing and distribution of frozen foods, and the processing and distribution of refrigerated and snack food products.  See Note 7 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for further information.

 

Fiscal year

 

We maintain our accounting records on a 52-53 week fiscal basis ending on the Friday closest to October 31. As part of the regular accounting cycle, fiscal years 2014 and 2013 each included 52 weeks.

 

 
28

 

 

Revenues

 

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 our own long-haul fleet or through a Company owned direct store delivery system. These delivery costs, $5,045 and $5,214 for 2014 and 2013, respectively, are included in selling, general and administrative expenses in the accompanying consolidated financial statements

 

We record promotional and returns allowances based on recent and historical trends.  Revenue is recognized as the net amount estimated to be received after deducting estimated amounts for discounts, trade allowances and product returns.  Promotional allowances, including customer incentive and trade promotion activities, are recorded as a reduction to sales based on amounts estimated being due to customers, based primarily on historical utilization and redemption rates.  Promotional allowances deducted from sales for fiscal years 2014 and 2013 were $10,868 and $8,988, respectively.

 

Advertising expenses

 

Advertising and other promotional expenses are recorded as selling, general and administrative expenses.  Advertising expenses for fiscal years 2014 and 2013 were $3,093 and $3,325, respectively.

 

Cash and cash equivalents

 

We consider all investments with original maturities of three months or less to be cash equivalents. Cash equivalents include money market funds and treasury bills. Cash equivalents totaled $192 at October 31, 2014 and $8,325 at November 1, 2013. All cash and cash equivalents at October 31, 2014 were held at either BB&T or Citibank. All cash and cash equivalents at November 1, 2013 were held at Wells Fargo Bank N.A.

 

Fair value measurements

 

We classify levels of inputs to measure the fair value of financial assets as follows:

 

Level 1 inputs: Level 1 inputs are quoted market prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that are accessible at the measurement date.

 

Level 2 inputs: Level 2 inputs are from other than quoted market prices included in Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly.

 

Level 3 inputs: Level 3 inputs are unobservable and should be used to measure fair value to the extent that observable inputs are not available.

 

The hierarchy noted above requires us to minimize the use of unobservable inputs and to use observable market data, if available, when determining fair value.

 

Inventories

 

Inventories are valued at the lower of cost (which approximates actual cost on a first-in, first-out basis) or market.  Costs related to warehousing, transportation and distribution to customers are considered when computing market value.  Inventories include the cost of raw materials, labor and manufacturing overhead.  We regularly review inventory quantities on hand and write down any excess or obsolete inventories to net realizable value.  An inventory reserve is created when potentially slow-moving or obsolete inventories are identified in order to reflect the appropriate inventory value.  Changes in economic conditions, production requirements, and lower than expected customer demand could result in additional obsolete or slow-moving inventory that cannot be sold or must be sold at reduced prices and could result in additional reserve provisions.

 

Property, plant and equipment

 

Property, plant and equipment are carried at cost less accumulated depreciation. Major renewals and improvements are charged to the asset accounts while the cost of maintenance and repairs is charged to expense as incurred. When assets are sold or otherwise disposed of, the cost and accumulated depreciation are removed from the respective accounts and the resulting gain or loss is credited or charged to income. Depreciation is computed on a straight-line basis over 10 to 20 years for buildings and improvements, 5 to 10 years for machinery and equipment, and 3 to 5 years for transportation equipment.

 

 
29

 

 

Capital Leases

 

Leased property and equipment that meet capital lease criteria are capitalized at the lower of the present value of the minimum payments required under the lease or the fair value of the asset at inception of the lease and are included within Property, plant and equipment on the consolidated balance sheet. Obligations under capital leases are accounted for as current and noncurrent liabilities on the consolidated balance sheet. Amortization is calculated on a straight-line method based upon the shorter of the estimated useful life of the asset or the lease term.

 

Life insurance policies

 

We record the cash surrender value or contract value for life insurance policies as an adjustment of premiums paid in determining the expense or income to be recognized under the contract for the period. The cash surrender value is included in other noncurrent assets in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.

 

Income taxes

 

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. During the fourth quarter of fiscal 2008, management recorded a full valuation allowance with respect to its deferred tax assets.  The determination as to whether or not a deferred tax asset can be fully realized is subject to a significant degree of judgment, based at least partially upon a projection of future taxable income, which takes into consideration past and future trends in profitability, customer demand, supply costs, and multiple other factors, none of which are predictable.  

 

We provide tax accruals for federal, state, local and international exposures relating to audit results, tax planning initiatives and compliance responsibilities. The development of these accruals requires judgments about tax issues, potential outcomes and timing. (See Note 4 to the Consolidated Financial Statements). Although the outcome of these tax audits is uncertain, in management’s opinion adequate provisions for income taxes have been made for potential liabilities emanating from these reviews. If actual outcomes differ materially from these estimates, they could have a material impact on our results of operations.

 

Stock-based compensation

 

We measure and recognize compensation expense for all share-based payments to employees, including grants of employee stock options, in the financial statements based on the fair value at the date of the grant.  We have not issued, awarded, granted or entered into any stock-based payment agreements since April 29, 1999.

  

Foreign currency transactions

 

Our foreign branch located in Canada enters into transactions that are denominated in a foreign currency. The related transaction gains and losses arising from changes in exchange rates are not material and are included in selling, general and administrative expenses in the consolidated statements of operations in the period the transaction occurred. Our Canadian branch was closed at the end of fiscal year 2014.

 

Comprehensive income (loss)

 

Comprehensive income (loss) consists of net income and additional minimum pension liability adjustments.

 

Recently issued accounting pronouncements and regulations

 

           In April 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-08 “Presentation of Financial Statements and Property, Plant, and Equipment: Reporting Discontinued Operations and Disclosures of Disposals of Components of an Entity.” The guidance modified the definition of a discontinued operation to include disposals that qualify as a strategic shift that has or will have a major effect on an entity’s operations and financial results. The guidance becomes effective for fiscal years and interim reporting periods beginning on or after December 14, 2014, with early adoption permitted. The Company does not expect this statement will have a material impact on its results of operations or financial position.

 

          In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-09 “Revenue from Contracts with Customers” to supersede previous revenue recognition guidance under current U.S. GAAP. The guidance presents steps for comprehensive revenue recognition that requires an entity to recognize revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. The guidance becomes effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016, including interim periods within that reporting period, with no early adoption permitted. The Company is currently evaluating this statement and its impact on its results of operations or financial position.

  

 
30

 

 

NOTE 2- Composition of Certain Financial Statement Captions:

 

   

2014

   

2013

 

Inventories:

               

Meat, ingredients and supplies

  $ 4,716     $ 4,291  

Work in process

    1,447       1,290  

Finished goods

    15,129       13,338  
    $ 21,292     $ 18,919  

Property, plant and equipment:

               

Land

  $ 1,802     $ 1,807  

Buildings and improvements

    14,254       13,845  

Machinery and equipment

    47,352       44,832  

Asset impairment

    (234

)

    (234

)

Capital leased trucks

    1,848       1,848  

Transportation equipment

    5,522       6,246  

Construction in process

    157       220  
      70,701       68,564  

Accumulated depreciation and amortization

    (58,450

)

    (57,352

)

    $ 12,251     $ 11,212  
                 

Other non-current assets:

               

Cash surrender value benefits

  $ 13,654     $ 13,140  

Other

    6       6  
    $ 13,660     $ 13,146  

Accrued payroll, advertising and other expenses:

               

Payroll, vacation, payroll taxes and employee benefits

  $ 4,007     $ 5,400  

Accrued advertising and broker commissions

    1,278       1,246  

Property taxes

    327       326  

Other

    417       659  
    $ 6,029     $ 7,631  
                 

Current portion of non-current liabilities (Note 3):

               

Defined benefit retirement plan

  $ 1,127     $ 1,693  

Executive retirement plans

    467       509  

Incentive compensation

    718       724  

Capital lease obligation

    241       231  

Postretirement healthcare

    43       43  
    $ 2,596     $ 3,200  
                 

Non-current liabilities (Note 3):

               

Defined benefit retirement plan

  $ 10,830     $ 8,337  

Executive retirement plans

    4,227       4,012  

Capital lease obligation

    1,104       1,328  

Incentive compensation

    640       1,149  

Teamster pension withdrawal liability

    798       -  

Postretirement healthcare

    922       837  
    $ 18,521     $ 15,663  

 

 
31

 

 

NOTE 3- Retirement and Other Benefit Plans:

 

Noncontributory-Trusteed Defined Benefit Retirement Plans for Sales, Administrative, Supervisory and Certain Other Employees

 

We have noncontributory-trusteed defined benefit retirement plans for sales, administrative, supervisory and certain other employees. In the third quarter of fiscal 2006, we froze future benefit accruals under this plan for employees classified within the administrative, sales or supervisory job classifications or within any non-bargaining class. The benefits under these plans are primarily based on years of service and compensation levels. The funding policy of the plan is to make contributions which are at least equal to the minimum required contributions needed to avoid a funding deficiency. The measurement date for the plan is our fiscal year end.

 

Net pension cost consisted of the following:

 

   

52 Weeks

 
   

2014

   

2013

 

Service cost

  $ 135     $ 174  

Interest cost

    2,226       2,019  

Expected return on plan assets

    (3,131

)

    (2,674

)

Amortization of unrecognized loss

    830       1,688  

Amortization of unrecognized prior service costs

    1       1  

Net pension cost

  $ 61     $ 1,208  

 

Net pension costs and benefit obligations are determined using assumptions as of the beginning of each fiscal year. Weighted average assumptions for each fiscal year are as follows:

 

   

2014

   

2013

 

Discount rate

    4.05

%

    4.65

%

Rate of increase in salary levels

 

 

N/A       N/A  

Expected return on plan assets

    8.00

%

    8.00

%

 

The benefit obligation, plan assets, and funded status of these plans as of the fiscal years ended are as follows:

 

   

52 Weeks

 
   

2014

   

2013

 

Change in plan assets:

               

Fair value of plan assets - beginning of year

  $ 39,124     $ 33,266  

Employer contributions

    1,587       1,922  

Actual return on plan assets

    2,939       5,163  

Benefits paid

    (1,330

)

    (1,227

)

Fair value of plan assets - end of year

  $ 42,320     $ 39,124  

Change in benefit obligations:

               

Benefit obligations - beginning of year

  $ 49,154     $ 54,468  

Service cost

    135       174  

Interest cost

    2,226       2,019  

Actuarial (gain) loss

    4,093       (6,280

)

Benefits paid

    (1,331

)

    (1,227

)

Benefit obligations - end of year

    54,277       49,154  

Funded status of the plans

    (11,957

)

    (10,030

)

Unrecognized prior service costs

    0       1  

Unrecognized net actuarial loss

    18,319       14,865  

Net amount recognized

  $ 6,362     $ 4,836  

 

The Company performs an internal rate of return analysis when making the discount rate selection.  The discount rates were based on Citigroup Pension Liability Index as of October 31, 2014 and November 1, 2013 respectively.

 

Plan assets are primarily invested in marketable equity securities, corporate and government debt securities and are administered by an investment management company. The plans’ long-term return on assets is based on the weighted-average of the plans’ investment allocation as of the measurement date and the published historical returns for those types of asset categories, taking into consideration inflation rate forecasts. Our expected employer contribution to the plan in fiscal year 2015 is $1,127.

  

 
32

 

 

The actual and target allocation for plan assets are as follows:

 

Asset Class

 

2014

   

Target

Asset

Allocation

   

2013

   

Target

Asset

Allocation

 

Large Cap Equities

    30.9

%

    30.0

%

    33.6

%

    30.0

%

Mid Cap Equities

    0

%

    0.0

%

    0

%

    0.0

%

Small Cap Equities

    15.6

%

    15.0

%

    13.8

%

    15.0

%

International (equities only)

    18.4

%

    20.0

%

    19.7

%

    20.0

%

Fixed Income

    29.2

%

    31.0

%

    28.1

%

    31.0

%

Other (Government/Corporate, Bonds)

    2.8

%

    2.0

%

    1.5

%

    2.0

%

Cash

    3.1

%

    2.0

%

    3.3

%

    2.0

%

Total

    100.0       100       100.0       100.0  

 

The fair value of our pension plan assets and the level under which fair values were determined, using the hierarchy described in Note 1, is as follows:

 

   

Year Ended 2014

 
   

Level 1

   

Level 2

   

Level 3

   

Total

 
                                 

Total plan assets

  $ 42,320       -       -     $ 42,320  

 

Expected payments for the pension benefits are as follows:

 

Fiscal Years

 

Pension

Benefits

 

2015

  $ 1,762  

2016

  $ 1,838  

2014

  $ 1,997  

2018

  $ 2,105  

2019

  $ 2,234  

2020-2024

  $ 13,653  

 

Executive Retirement Plans

 

Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation

 

Effective January 1, 1991 we adopted a deferred compensation savings plan for certain key employees. Under this arrangement, selected employees contribute a portion of their annual compensation to the plan. We contribute an amount to each participant’s account by computing an investment return equal to Moody’s Average Seasoned Bond Rate plus 2%. Employees receive vested amounts upon death, termination or attainment of retirement age. No benefit expense was recorded under these plans for fiscal years 2014 and 2013.

 

Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan

 

In fiscal year 1991, we adopted a non-qualified supplemental retirement plan for certain key employees.  Benefits provided under the plan are equal to 60% of the employee’s final average earnings, less amounts provided by our defined benefit pension plan and amounts available through Social Security.

 

Benefits payable related to these plans and included in the accompanying consolidated financial statements were $4,694 and $4,521 at October 31, 2014 and November 1, 2013, respectively. In connection with this arrangement we are the beneficiary of life insurance policies on the lives of certain key employees and retirees. The aggregate cash surrender value of these policies, included in non-current assets, was $13,654 and $13,140 at October 31, 2014 and November 1, 2013, respectively.

 

 
33

 

 

Expected payments for executive postretirement benefits are as follows:

 

Fiscal Years

 

Executive

Postretirement

Benefits

 

2014

  $ 470  

2015

  $ 274  

2016

  $ 69  

2017

  $ 111  

2018

  $ 287  

2019-2023

  $ 2,518  

 

Incentive Compensation Plan for Certain Key Executives

 

We provide an incentive compensation plan for certain key executives, which is based upon our pretax income. The payment of these amounts is generally deferred over three or five-year periods. The total amount payable related to this arrangement was $1,359 and $1,873 at October 31, 2014 and November 1, 2013, respectively. Future payments are approximately $719, $395, $112, $79 and $42 for fiscal years 2015 through 2019, respectively.

 

Postretirement Healthcare Benefits for Selected Executive Employees

 

We provide postretirement health care benefits for selected executive employees.   Net periodic postretirement healthcare cost is determined using assumptions as of the beginning of each fiscal year, except for the total actual benefit payments and the discount rate used to develop the net periodic postretirement benefit expense, which is determined at the end of the fiscal year.

 

Net periodic postretirement healthcare cost consisted of the following:

 

   

52 Weeks

 
   

2014

   

2013

 

Service cost

  $ 18     $ 19  

Interest cost

    37       31  

Amortization of prior service cost

    -       -  

Amortization of actuarial gain

    (65

)

    (55

)

Net periodic postretirement healthcare (benefit) cost

  $ (10

)

  $ (5

)

 

Weighted average assumptions for the fiscal years ended October 31, 2014 and November 1, 2013 are as follows:

 

   

2014

   

2013

 

Discount rate

    3.83

%

    4.35

%

Medical trend rate next year

    8.50

%

    8.50

%

Ultimate trend rate

    5.00

%

    5.00

%

Year ultimate trend rate is achieved

 

2021

   

2020

 

 

The table below shows the estimated effect of a 1% increase in healthcare cost trend rate on the following:

 

   

2014

   

2013

 

Interest cost plus service cost

  $ 5     $ 5  

Accumulated postretirement healthcare obligation

  $ 78     $ 69  

 

The table below shows the estimated effect of a 1% decrease in healthcare cost trend rate on the following:

 

   

2014

   

2013

 

Interest cost plus service cost

  $ (4

)

  $ (4

)

Accumulated postretirement healthcare obligation

  $ (64

)

  $ (58

)

  

 
34

 

 

The healthcare obligation and funded status of this plan as of the fiscal years ended are as follows:

 

   

2014

   

2013

 

Change in accumulated postretirement healthcare obligation:

               

Healthcare obligation - beginning of year

  $ 880     $ 909  

Service cost

    18       19  

Interest cost

    37       31  

Actuarial loss (gain)

    52       (55

)

Benefits paid

    (22

)

    (24

)

Healthcare obligation – end of year

  $ 965     $ 880  
                 

Funded status of the plans

    965       880  

Unrecognized prior service costs

    -       -  

Unrecognized net actuarial gain

    (212

)

    (329

)

Unrecognized amounts recorded in other comprehensive income

    212       329  

Postretirement healthcare liability

  $ 965     $ 880  

 

Expected payments for the postretirement benefits are as follows:

 

Fiscal Years

 

Postretirement

Heathcare

Benefits

 

2015

  $ 43  

2016

  $ 43  

2017

  $ 43  

2018

  $ 42  

2019

  $ 41  

2020-2024

  $ 427  

 

401(K) Plan for Sales, Administrative, Supervisory and Certain Other Employees

 

During the fiscal year ended November 3, 2006, we implemented a qualified 401(K) retirement plan (the “Plan”) for our sales, administrative, supervisory and certain other employees. During fiscal years 2014 and 2013, we made total employer contributions to the Plan in the amounts of $500 and $452, respectively.

 

 

Teamster Pension Withdrawal Liability

 

During the fourth quarter of fiscal 2014, we closed the refrigerated snack food products division (a division within the Refrigerated and Snack Food Segment involving primarily deli products) and withdrew from the Western Conference of Teamsters Pension Plan. According to the Multi-employer Pension Plan Act of 1980 we are subject to the Western Conference of Teamsters Pension Trust Fund Withdrawal Liability. We recorded a liability in the amount of $798 as of October 31, 2014. This amount was recorded in other selling and administrative expenses for fiscal 2014. Such amount is not expected to be paid in the near term.

 

 
35

 

 

NOTE 4- Income Taxes:

 

The provision (benefit) for taxes on income includes the following:

 

   

52 Weeks

 
   

2014

   

2013

 
                 

Current:

               

Federal

  $ (91

)

  $ 47

 

State

    3       122  
      (88

)

    169  

Deferred:

               

Federal

    -       -  

State

    -       -  
                 
    $ (88

)

  $ 169  

 

The total tax provision differs from the expected amount computed by applying the statutory federal income tax rate to income before income taxes as follows:

 

   

52 Weeks

 
   

2014

   

2013

 

Provision (benefit) for federal income taxes at the applicable statutory rate

  $ (1,477

)

  $ 1,049  

Increase in provision (benefit) resulting from state income taxes, net of federal income tax benefit

    61

 

    488  

Research & development tax credit

    (25

)

    (33

)

Non-taxable life insurance gain

    (175

)

    (280

)

Change in valuation allowance

    1,598       (1,214

)

Other, net

    (70

)

    159  
    $ (88

)

  $ 169  

 

Deferred income taxes result from differences in the bases of assets and liabilities for tax and accounting purposes.

 

   

2014

   

2013

 

Receivables allowance

  $ 58     $ 50  

Returns allowance

    163       165  

Inventory packaging reserve

    165       209  

Inventory overhead capitalization

    452       391  

Incentive compensation

    272       178  

State taxes

    8       49  

Employee benefits

    911       1,232  

Other

    84       2  

Valuation allowance

    (2,113

)

    (2,276

)

Current tax assets, net

  $ -     $ -  
                 

State taxes

  $ 263     $ 186  

Incentive compensation

    257       487  

Pension and health care benefits

    6,366       5,356  

Depreciation

    (1,280

)

    (1,623

)

Net operating loss carry-forward and credits

    2,880       1,265  

Valuation allowance

    (8,486

)

    (5,671

)

Non-current tax assets, net

  $ -     $ -  

 

The Company policy outlines measurable objective criteria that must be met before a release of the valuation allowance will occur.  The three criteria set forth in the policy must all be satisfied before the valuation allowance can be reversed.  The criteria are as follows: first, the Company’s available federal tax net operating loss ("NOL") must be zero; second, the prior thirty-six month cumulative book basis pre-tax income (loss), after considering “one-time” events, is positive; third, the Company considers its outlook of near term continued profitable operations and assesses any material negative and positive trends or events on the immediate horizon.  As of October 31, 2014, the Company (1) has a federal tax NOL of $6,160, (2) has positive thirty-six month cumulative book income and (3) volatility and recent record highs in commodity costs create uncertainty about the Company's ability to generate future earnings. Only the second criterion has been satisfied, therefore, the Company will maintain a full valuation allowance against its deferred tax assets as of October 31, 2014. The weight of negative factors and level of economic uncertainty in our current business continued to support the conclusion that the realization of our deferred tax assets does not meet the more likely than not standard.  Therefore, a full valuation allowance will remain against the net deferred tax assets.

  

 
36

 

 

As of October 31, 2014, the Company had federal and state net operating loss carryforwards of approximately $6,160 and $4,006 respectively.  These loss carryforwards will expire at various dates from 2018 through 2033.

 

In July 2006, the FASB issued guidance to clarify the accounting for uncertainty in income taxes recognized in an enterprise’s financial statements. This interpretation prescribed a recognition threshold and measurement attribute for the financial statement recognition and measurement of a tax position taken or expected to be taken in a tax return. The guidance also discussed derecognition, classification, interest and penalties, accounting in interim periods, disclosure, and transition. The provisions of this guidance have been incorporated into Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC") 740-10.

 

As of October 31, 2014, we have provided a liability of $100 for unrecognized tax benefits related to various federal and state income tax matters. A significant portion of this amount would generally reduce our effective income tax rate if recognized in future reporting periods. However, due to the valuation allowance against its deferred tax assets, the unrecognized tax benefit would not have an effect on the Company’s effective income tax rate if recognized in future periods. We have not identified any new unrecognized tax benefits.

  

As of November 1, 2014, we have provided a liability of $100 for unrecognized tax benefits related to various federal and state income tax matters. A significant portion of this amount would generally reduce our effective income tax rate if recognized in future reporting periods. We have not identified any new unrecognized tax benefits.

  

A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amounts of unrecognized tax benefits is as follows:

 

   

52 Weeks

 
   

2014

   

2013

 
                 

Balance at beginning of year

  $ 100     $ 97  

Additions based on tax positions related to the current year

    -       -  

Additions for tax positions of prior years

    1

 

    3  

Reductions for tax positions of prior years

    (1

)

    -  

Settlements

    -       -  
                 

Balance at end of year

  $ 100     $ 100  

 

We recognize any future accrued interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits in income tax expense.  As of October 31, 2014, we had approximately $5 in accrued interest and penalties which is included as a component of the $100 unrecognized tax benefit noted above.

 

Our federal income tax returns are open to audit under the statute of limitations for the years ended October 31, 2011 through 2013. 

 

We are subject to income tax in California and various other state taxing jurisdictions. Our state income tax returns are open to audit under the statute of limitations for the fiscal years ended October 31, 2009 through 2012.

 

We do not anticipate a significant change to the total amount of unrecognized tax benefits within the next 12 months.

 

NOTE 5- Line of Credit:

 

We maintain a line of credit with Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. that expires on March 1, 2015. During the fourth quarter of fiscal 2014, we converted our line of credit to a borrowing base line collateralized by accounts receivable. Under the terms of this line of credit, we may borrow up to $6,500 at an interest rate equal to the bank’s prime rate. The borrowing agreement contains various covenants, the more significant of which require us to maintain a minimum tangible net worth and a minimum net income after tax and total capital expenditures less than $3,000. The Company was in violation of the capital expenditure covenant which was waived (letter dated December 17, 2013) at October 31, 2014. The Company was also in violation of the tangible net worth and net income covenants which were waived (letter dated December 24, 2014) at October 31, 2014. The Company temporarily borrowed on the line of credit during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2014 to pay for working capital purposes. There were no borrowings under this line of credit as of October 31, 2014. Other than noted above, the Company is currently in compliance with all provisions of the agreement.

   

 
37

 

 

 

NOTE 6- Contingencies and Commitments:

 

The Company leases warehouse and/or office facilities throughout the United States and Canada through month-to-month rental agreements.  

 

Leases for semi-truck trailers expire in 2015 and are classified as operating leases.  Six year leases for semi-trucks expire in 2018 and are classified as capital leases.  Rental payments including prior leases were $574 in 2014 and $581 in 2013. Amortization of equipment under capital lease was $284 in 2014.

 

The following is a schedule by years of future minimum lease payments for transportation leases:

 

Fiscal Year

 

Capital

Leases

   

Operating

Leases

   

Financing

Obligations

 

2015

    379       51       430  

2016

    379       -       379  

2017

    379       -       379  

2018

    723       -       723  

Total Minimum Lease Payments(a)

  $ 1,860     $ 51     $ 1,911  

Less: Amount representing executory costs

    (380

)

               

Less: Amount representing interest(b)

    (135

)

               

Present value of future minimum lease payments(c)

  $ 1,345                  

 

(a) Minimum payments exclude contingent rentals based on actual mileage and adjustments of rental payments based on the Consumer Price Index. Contingent rentals amounted to $116 in 2014 and $127 in 2013 including prior lease arrangements.

(b) Amount necessary to reduce net minimum lease payments to present value calculated at the Company’s incremental borrowing rate at the inception of the leases.

(c) Reflected in the Note 2, as current and noncurrent obligations under capital leases of $241 and $1,104, respectively.

 

 
38

 

 

 

NOTE 7- Segment Information:

 

We have two reportable operating segments, Frozen Food Products (the processing and distribution of frozen products), and Refrigerated and Snack Food Products (the processing and distribution of refrigerated meat and other convenience foods).

 

We evaluate each segment’s performance based on revenues and operating income. Selling, general and administrative expenses include corporate accounting, information systems, human resource and marketing management at the corporate level. These activities are allocated to each operating segment based on revenues and/or actual usage.

 

The following segment information is for the fiscal years ended October 31, 2014 (52 weeks) and November 1, 2013 (52 weeks):

 

Segment Information

         

2014

 

Frozen Food

Products

   

Refrigerated

and Snack Food

Products

   

Other

   

Elimination

   

Totals

   

Refrigerated

Products Division*

 

Sales

  $ 50,740       82,661       -       -     $ 133,401       6,650  

Intersegment sales

            446       -       446       -       -  

Net sales

    50,740       83,107       -       446       133,401       6,650  

Cost of products sold

    31,790       63,400       -       446       94,744       4,704  

Gross margin

    18,950       19,707       -       -       38,657       1,946  

SG&A

    15,715       27,374       -       -       43,089       5,002  

Income before taxes

    3,235       (7,667

)

    -       -       (4,432

)

    (3,056

)

                                                 

Total assets

  $ 11,332       32,427       14,417       -     $ 58,176          

Additions to PP&E

  $ 201       3,601       75       -     $ 3,877          

 

 

 

Segment Information

         

2013

 

Frozen Food

Products

   

Refrigerated

and Snack Food

Products

   

Other

   

Elimination

   

Totals

   

Refrigerated

Products Division*

 

Sales

  $ 51,449       77,554       -       -     $ 129,003       11,527  

Intersegment sales

            986       -       986       -       -  

Net sales

    51,449       78,540       -       986       129,003       11,527  

Cost of products sold

    32,437       52,115       -       986       83,566       6,790  

Gross margin

    19,012       26,425       -       -       45,437       4,737  

SG&A

    16,635       25,717       -       -       42,352       6,154  

Income before taxes

    2,377       708       -       -       3,085       (1,417

)

                                                 

Total assets

  $ 13,009       29,821       21,934       -     $ 64,764          

Additions to PP&E

  $ 1,032       3,164       182       -     $ 4,378          

 

 

* = At the end of fiscal year 2014, the Company discontinued operation of the refrigerated snack food products division which was reported under the Refrigerated and Snack Food Products segment involving primarily deli products.

 

 

NOTE 8- Unaudited Interim Financial Information:

 

Not applicable to smaller reporting company

 

 

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