CHASE CORP - Annual Report: 2010 (Form 10-K)

Table of Contents

UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-K

ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15 (d)
OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the fiscal year ended August 31, 2010

Commission File Number: 1-9852

CHASE CORPORATION
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

26 Summer Street, Bridgewater, Massachusetts 02324
(Address of Principal Executive Offices, Including Zip Code)

(508) 279-1789
(Registrant's Telephone Number, Including Area Code)

Securities registered pursuant to section 12(b) of the Act:

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

         Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer (as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act). YES o    NO ý

         Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Exchange Act. YES o    NO ý

         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, and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. YES ý    NO o

         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 (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). YES o    NO o

         Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant's knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K. o

         Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, or a non-accelerated filer. See the definitions of "large accelerated filer", "accelerated filer" and "smaller reporting company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

         Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). YES o    NO ý

         The aggregate market value of the common stock held by non-affiliates of the registrant, as of February 28, 2010 (the last business day of the registrant's second quarter of fiscal 2010), was approximately $73,674,997.

         As of October 31, 2010, the Company had outstanding 8,946,701 shares of common stock, $.10 par value, which is its only class of common stock.

Documents Incorporated By Reference:

         Portions of the registrant's definitive proxy statement for the Annual Meeting of Shareholders, which is expected to be filed within 120 days after the registrant's fiscal year ended August 31, 2010, are incorporated by reference into Part III hereof.

Table of Contents

CHASE CORPORATION

INDEX TO ANNUAL REPORT ON FORM 10-K

For the Year Ended August 31, 2010

2

Table of Contents

PART I

ITEM 1—BUSINESS

Primary Operating Divisions and Facilities and Industry Segment

        Chase Corporation (the "Company," "Chase," "we," or "us") is a global manufacturer of tapes, laminates, sealants, and coatings for high reliability applications. Our strategy is to maximize the performance of our core businesses and brands while seeking future opportunities through strategic acquisitions. We are currently organized into one operating segment with multiple facilities. A summary of our operating structure as of August 31, 2010 is as follows:

3

Table of Contents

4

Table of Contents

Other Business Developments

Sale of Chase Electronic Manufacturing Services ("Chase EMS") Business

        On June 30, 2010, we completed the sale of our contract electronic manufacturing services business, Chase EMS, to MC Assembly. As part of this sale, we sold all of the assets relating to the Chase EMS business, excluding cash and certain other enumerated assets, and MC Assembly assumed certain of the liabilities. The purchase price received at the closing was $13.0 million plus an additional $1.5 million to be received subsequent to the closing due to the value of the net working capital of the business sold (as calculated under the Asset Purchase Agreement) exceeding $4.5 million. The proceeds from the sale are available for debt reduction and continued investment in our core tapes and coatings businesses.

Acquisition of ServiWrap Product Lines

        In December 2009, we acquired the full range of ServiWrap pipeline protection products ("ServiWrap") from Grace Construction Products Limited, a UK based unit of W.R. Grace & Co. (the "Seller"). ServiWrap / ServiShield anti-corrosion systems provide protection for new and refurbished oil, gas and water pipelines in projects around the world. The acquisition of ServiWrap complements the portfolio of our pipeline protection tapes, coatings and accessories and extends our global customer base. The total purchase price for this acquisition was £5.98 million (approximately US $9.7 million at the time of acquisition). The purchase was funded through a combination of cash on hand and a term loan in the amount of $7.0 million from RBS Citizens.

Acquisition of C.I.M. Industries Inc. ("CIM")

        In September 2009, we acquired all of the outstanding capital stock of CIM, which is based in Peterborough, NH and has a manufacturing facility in Houston, TX. CIM is a specialized manufacturer of high performance coating and lining systems used worldwide in the liquid storage and containment industry. With a primary focus on the water and wastewater industry, CIM has the preferred products that complement our product line of high performance tapes and coatings. The total purchase price for this acquisition was $18.9 million (net of cash acquired).

Products and Markets

        Our principal products are specialty tapes, laminates, sealants and coatings that are sold by our salespeople, manufacturers' representatives and distributors. These products consist of:

(i)

insulating and conducting materials for the manufacture of electrical and telephone wire and cable, electrical splicing, and terminating and repair tapes, which are marketed to wire and cable manufacturers;



(ii)

protective pipe coating tapes and other protectants for valves, regulators, casings, joints, metals, concrete and wood, which are sold to oil companies, gas utilities and pipeline companies;

5

Table of Contents

(iii)

protectants for highway bridge deck metal supported surfaces, which are sold to municipal transportation authorities;



(iv)

fluid applied coating and lining systems for use in the water and wastewater industry;



(v)

moisture protective coatings, which are sold to the electronics industry including circuitry used in automobiles and home appliances;



(vi)

laminated durable papers, including laminated paper with an inner security barrier used in personal and mail-stream privacy protection, which are sold primarily to the envelope converting and commercial printing industries;



(vii)

flexible composites and laminates for the wire & cable, aerospace, packaging and industrial laminate markets; and



(viii)

expansion and control joint systems designed for roads, bridges, stadiums and airport runways.

        There is some seasonality with our product offerings sold into the construction market as increased demand is often experienced when temperatures are warmer (April through October) with less demand occurring when temperatures are colder (typically our second fiscal quarter). We did not introduce any new products or segments requiring an investment of a material amount of our assets during fiscal year 2010.

Employees

        As of October 31, 2010, we employed approximately 305 people (including union employees). We consider our employee relations to be good. In the U.S., we offer our employees a wide array of company-paid benefits, which we believe are competitive relative to others in our industry. In our operations outside the U.S., we offer benefits that may vary from those offered to our U.S. employees due to customary local practices and statutory requirements.

Backlog, Customers and Competition

        As of October 31, 2010, the backlog of customer orders believed to be firm was approximately $11,451,000. This compared with a total of $4,776,000 as of October 31, 2009. The increase in backlog over the prior year amount is due to an overall increase in order activity across the majority of our product lines, as well as increased orders from the fiscal 2010 acquisitions of CIM and ServiWrap. The backlog of orders has some seasonality due to the construction season. During fiscal 2010, 2009 and 2008, no customer accounted for more than 10% of sales. No material portion of our business is subject to renegotiation or termination of profits or contracts at the election of the United States Federal Government.

        There are other companies that manufacture or sell products and services similar to those made and sold by us. Many of those companies are larger and have greater financial resources than we have. We compete principally on the basis of technical performance, service reliability, quality and price.

Raw Materials

        We obtain raw materials from a wide variety of suppliers with alternative sources of most essential materials available within reasonable lead times.

Patents, Trademarks, Licenses, Franchises and Concessions

        We own the following trademarks that we believe are of material importance to our business: Chase Corporation®, C-Spray (Logo), a trademark used in conjunction with most of the Company's business segment and product line marketing material and communications; HumiSeal®, a trademark for moisture protective coatings sold to the electronics industry; Chase & Sons® and Chase Facile®, trademarks for barrier and insulating tapes sold to the wire and cable industry; Chase BLH₂OCK®, a trademark for a water blocking compound sold to the wire and cable industry; Rosphalt50®, a trademark for an asphalt additive used predominantly on bridge decks for waterproofing protection; Insulfab®, a trademark for insulation material used in the aerospace industry; PaperTyger®, a trademark for laminated durable papers sold to the envelope converting and commercial printing industries, Tapecoat®, a trademark for corrosion preventative surface coatings and primers; Royston®, a trademark for corrosion inhibiting coating composition for use on pipes; Eva-Pox® and Ceva®, trademarks for epoxy pastes/gels/mortars and

6

Table of Contents

elastomeric concrete used in the construction industry; CIM® trademark for fluid applied coating and lining systems used in the water and wastewater industry; and ServiWrap® trademarks for pipeline protection tapes, coatings and accessories. We do not have any other material trademarks, licenses, franchises, or concessions. While we do hold various patents, at this time, we do not believe that they are material to the success of our business.

Working Capital

        We fund our business operations through a combination of available cash and cash equivalents, short-term investments and cash flows generated from operations. In addition, our revolving credit facility is available for additional working capital needs or investment opportunities.

Research and Development

        Approximately $1,748,000, $1,632,000 and $1,698,000 was spent for Company-sponsored research and development during fiscal 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively. Research and development increased by $116,000 in fiscal 2010 as compared to the prior period primarily due to increased research and development expenses from the CIM business that was acquired in September 2009.

Available Information

        Chase maintains a website at http://www.chasecorp.com. Our annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K and amendments to such reports filed or furnished pursuant to section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as well as section 16 reports on Form 3, 4, or 5, are available free of charge on this site as soon as is reasonably practicable after they are filed or furnished with the SEC. Our Financial Code of Ethics and the charters for the Audit Committee, the Nominating and Governance Committee and the Compensation and Management Development Committee of our Board of Directors are also available on our Internet site. The Code of Ethics and charters are also available in print to any shareholder upon request. Requests for such documents should be directed to Paula Myers, Shareholder and Investor Relations Department, at 26 Summer Street, Bridgewater, Massachusetts 02324. Our Internet site and the information contained on it or connected to it are not part of or incorporated by reference into this Form 10-K. Our filings with the SEC are also available on the SEC's website at http://www.sec.gov.

Financial Information About Segment and Geographic Areas

        Please see Notes 11 and 12 to the Company's Consolidated Financial Statements for financial information about the Company's industry segments and domestic and foreign operations for each of the last three fiscal years.

ITEM 1A—RISK FACTORS

        The following risk factors should be read carefully in connection with evaluating our business and the forward-looking information contained in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. We feel that any of the following risks could materially adversely affect our business, operations, industry, financial position or our future financial performance. While we believe that we have identified and discussed below the key risk factors affecting our business, there may be additional risks and uncertainties that are not presently known or that are not currently believed to be significant that may adversely affect our business, operations, industry, financial position and financial performance in the future.

We currently operate in mature markets where increases or decreases in market share could be significant.

        Our sales and net income are largely dependent on recurring sales from a consistent and well established customer base. Organic growth opportunities are minimal; however, we have and will continue to use strategic acquisitions as a means to build and grow the business. In this business environment, increases or decreases in market share could have a material effect on our business condition or results of operation. We face intense competition from a diverse range of competitors, including operating divisions of companies much larger and with far greater resources than we have. If we are unable to maintain our market share, our business could suffer.

7

Table of Contents

Our business strategy includes the pursuit of strategic acquisitions, which may not be successful if they happen at all.

        From time to time, we engage in discussions with potential target companies concerning potential acquisitions. In executing our acquisition strategy, we may be unable to identify suitable acquisition candidates. In addition, we may face competition from other companies for acquisition candidates, making it more difficult to acquire suitable companies on favorable terms.

        Even if we do identify a suitable acquisition target and are able to negotiate and close a transaction, the integration of an acquired business into our operations involves numerous risks, including potential difficulties in integrating an acquired company's product line with ours; the diversion of our resources and management's attention from other business concerns; the potential loss of key employees; limitations imposed by antitrust or merger control laws in the United States or other jurisdictions; risks associated with entering a new geographical or product market; and the day-to-day management of a larger and more diverse combined company.

        We may not realize the synergies, operating efficiencies, market position or revenue growth we anticipate from acquisitions and our failure to effectively manage the above risks and other problems associated with acquisitions could have a material adverse effect on our business, growth prospects and financial performance.

General economic factors, domestically and internationally, may adversely affect our financial performance through increased raw material costs or other expenses and by making access to capital more difficult.

        The cumulative effect of higher interest rates, energy costs, inflation, levels of unemployment, healthcare costs, unsettled financial markets, and other economic factors could adversely affect our financial condition by increasing our manufacturing costs and other expenses at the same time that our customers may be scaling back demand for our products. Prices of certain commodity products, including oil and petroleum-based products, are historically volatile and are subject to fluctuations arising from changes in domestic and international supply and demand, labor costs, competition, weather events, market speculation, government regulations and periodic delays in delivery. Rapid and significant changes in commodity prices may affect our sales and profit margins. These factors can also increase our merchandise costs and/or selling, general and administrative expenses, and otherwise adversely affect our operations and results. Recent turmoil in the credit markets may limit our ability to access debt capital for use in acquisitions or other purposes on advantageous terms or at all. If we are unable to manage our expenses in response to general economic conditions and margin pressures, or if we are unable to obtain capital for strategic acquisitions or other needs, then our results of operations would be negatively affected.

Fluctuations in the supply and prices of raw materials may negatively impact our financial results.

        We obtain raw materials needed to manufacture our products from a number of suppliers. Many of these raw materials are petroleum-based derivatives. Under normal market conditions, these materials are generally available on the open market and from a variety of producers. From time to time, however, the prices and availability of these raw materials fluctuate, which could impair our ability to procure necessary materials, or increase the cost of manufacturing our products. If the prices of raw materials increase, and we are unable to pass these increases on to our customers, we could experience reduced profit margins.

If our products fail to perform as expected, or if we experience product recalls, we could incur significant and unexpected costs and lose existing and future business.

        Our products are complex and could have defects or errors presently unknown to us, which may give rise to claims against us, diminish our brands or divert our resources from other purposes. Despite testing, new and existing products could contain defects and errors and may in the future contain manufacturing or design defects, errors or performance problems when first introduced, or even after these products have been used by our customers for a period of time. These problems could result in expensive and time-consuming design modifications or warranty charges, changes to our manufacturing processes, product recalls, significant increases in our maintenance costs, or exposure to liability for damages, any of which may result in substantial and unexpected expenditures, require significant management attention, damage our reputation and customer relationships, and adversely affect our business, our operating results and our cash flow.

8

Table of Contents

We are dependent on key personnel.

        We depend significantly on our executive officers including Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Peter R. Chase, and on other key employees. The loss of the services of any of these key employees could have a material impact on our business and results of operations. In addition, our acquisition strategy will require that we attract, motivate and retain additional skilled and experienced personnel. The inability to satisfy such requirements could have a negative impact on our ability to remain competitive in the future.

If we cannot successfully manage the unique challenges presented by international markets, we may not be successful in expanding our international operations.

        Our strategy includes expansion of our operations in existing and new international markets by selective acquisitions and strategic alliances. Our ability to successfully execute our strategy in international markets is affected by many of the same operational risks we face in expanding our U.S. operations. In addition, our international expansion may be adversely affected by our ability to identify and gain access to local suppliers as well as by local laws and customs, legal and regulatory constraints, political and economic conditions and currency regulations of the countries or regions in which we currently operate or intend to operate in the future. Risks inherent in our international operations also include, among others, the costs and difficulties of managing international operations, adverse tax consequences and greater difficulty in enforcing intellectual property rights. Additionally, foreign currency exchange rates and fluctuations may have an impact on future costs or on future cash flows from our international operations.

Our results of operations could be adversely affected by uncertain economic and political conditions and the effects of these conditions on our customers' businesses and levels of business activity.

        Global economic and political conditions can affect the businesses of our customers and the markets they serve. A severe or prolonged economic downturn or a negative or uncertain political climate could adversely affect the levels of business activity of our customers and the industries they serve, including the automotive, housing, construction, transportation infrastructure and electronics manufacturing industries. This may reduce demand for our products or depress pricing of those products, either of which may have a material adverse effect on our results of operations. Changes in global economic conditions could also shift demand to products for which we do not have competitive advantages, and this could negatively affect the amount of business that we are able to obtain. In addition, if we are unable to successfully anticipate changing economic and political conditions, we may be unable to effectively plan for and respond to those changes and our business could be negatively affected.

Financial market performance may have a material adverse effect on our pension plan assets and require additional funding requirements.

        Significant and sustained declines in the financial markets may have a material adverse effect on the fair market value of our pension plan assets. While these pension plan assets are considered non-financial assets since they are not carried on our balance sheet, the fair market valuation of these assets could impact our funding requirements, funded status or net periodic pension cost. Any significant and sustained declines in the fair market value of these pension assets could require us to increase our funding requirements which would have an impact on our cash flow, and could also lead to additional pension expense.

Changes in accounting standards and subjective assumptions, estimates and judgments by management related to complex accounting matters could significantly affect our financial results.

        Generally accepted accounting principles and related accounting pronouncements, implementation guidelines and interpretations with regard to a wide range of matters that are relevant to our business, such as revenue recognition, asset impairment, inventories, pensions valuation and tax matters, are highly complex and involve many subjective assumptions, estimates and judgments. Changes in these rules or their interpretation or changes in underlying assumptions, estimates, or judgments could significantly change our reported or expected financial performance or financial condition.

ITEM 1B—UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS

None

9

Table of Contents

ITEM 2—PROPERTIES

        We own and lease office and manufacturing properties as outlined in the table below.

        The above facilities range in age from new to about 100 years, are generally in good condition and, in the opinion of management, adequate and suitable for present operations. We also own equipment and machinery that is in good repair and, in the opinion of management, adequate and suitable for present operations. We could significantly add to our capacity by increasing shift operations. Availability of machine hours through additional shifts would provide expansion of current product volume without significant additional capital investment.

10

Table of Contents

ITEM 3—LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

        We are one of over 100 defendants in a lawsuit pending in Ohio which alleges personal injury from exposure to asbestos contained in certain Chase products. The case is captioned Marie Lou Scott, Executrix of the Estate of James T. Scott v. A-Best Products, et al., No. 312901 in the Court of Common Pleas for Cuyahoga County, Ohio. The plaintiff in the case issued discovery requests to us in August 2005, to which we timely responded in September 2005. The trial had initially been scheduled to begin on April 30, 2007. However, that date had been postponed and no new trial date has been set. As of October 2010, there have been no new developments as this Ohio lawsuit has been inactive with respect to us.

        We were named as one of the defendants in a complaint filed on June 25, 2009, in a lawsuit captioned Lois Jansen, Individually and as Special Administrator of the Estate of Thomas Jansen v. Beazer East, Inc., et al., No: 09-CV-6248 in the Milwaukee County (Wisconsin) Circuit Court. The plaintiff alleges that her husband suffered and died from malignant mesothelioma resulting from exposure to asbestos in his workplace. The plaintiff has sued seven alleged manufacturers or distributors of asbestos-containing products, including Royston Laboratories (formerly an independent company and now a division of Chase Corporation). We have filed an answer to the claim denying the material allegations in the complaint. The parties are currently engaged in discovery.

        In addition to the matters described above, we are involved from time to time in litigation incidental to the conduct of our business. Although we do not expect that the outcome in any of these matters, individually or collectively, will have a material adverse effect on our financial condition or results of operations, litigation is inherently unpredictable. Therefore, judgments could be rendered or settlements entered, that could adversely affect our operating results or cash flows in a particular period. We routinely assess all of our litigation and threatened litigation as to the probability of ultimately incurring a liability, and record our best estimate of the ultimate loss in situations where we assess the likelihood of loss as probable.

ITEM 4—[REMOVED AND RESERVED]

ITEM 4A—EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT

        The following table sets forth information concerning our Executive Officers as of August 31, 2010. Each of our Executive Officers is selected by our Board of Directors and holds office until his successor is elected and qualified.

11

Table of Contents

PART II

ITEM 5—MARKET FOR THE REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES

        Our common stock is traded on the NYSE Amex under the symbol CCF. As of October 31, 2010, there were 454 shareholders of record of our Common Stock and approximately 3,048 beneficial shareholders who held shares in nominee name. On that date, the closing price of our common stock was $15.86 per share as reported by the NYSE Amex.

        The following table sets forth the high and low daily sales prices for our common stock as reported by the NYSE Amex for each quarter in the fiscal years ended August 31, 2010 and 2009:

        Single annual cash dividend payments were declared and paid subsequent to year end in the amounts of $0.35, $0.20, and $0.35 per common share, for the years ended August 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively. Certain borrowing facilities of ours contain financial covenants which may have the effect of limiting the amount of dividends that we can pay.

Comparative Stock Performance

        The following line graph compares the yearly percentage change in our cumulative total shareholder return on the Common Stock for the last five fiscal years with the cumulative total return on the Standard & Poor's 500 Stock Index (the "S&P 500 Index"), and a composite peer index that is weighted by market equity capitalization (the "Peer Group Index"). The companies included in the Peer Group Index are American Biltrite Inc., Material Sciences Corporation, H.B. Fuller Company, Quaker Chemical Corporation and RPM International, Inc. Cumulative total returns are calculated assuming that $100 was invested on August 31, 2005 in each of the Common Stock, the S&P 500 Index and the Peer Group Index, and that all dividends were reinvested.

Comparison of 5 Year Cumulative Total Return
Assumes Initial Investment of $100 on August 31, 2005

        The information under the caption "Comparative Stock Performance" above is not deemed to be "filed" as part of this Annual Report, and is not subject to the liability provisions of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Such information will not be deemed to be incorporated by reference into any filing we make under the Securities Act of 1933 unless we explicitly incorporate it into such a filing at the time.

12

Table of Contents

ITEM 6—SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

        The following selected financial data should be read in conjunction with "Item 7—Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" and "Item 8—Financial Statements and Supplementary Data."

        As further detailed in Note 15 to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Report, the Electronic Manufacturing Services business was sold in June 2010 and the financial results of this previously reported segment are classified as discontinued operations. We have reflected the results of this business as discontinued operations in the consolidated statement of operations for all periods presented.

        Note: Information related to our acquisitions and dispositions can be found in the Recent Developments and Overview sections of "Item 7—Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations."

13

Table of Contents

ITEM 7—MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

        The following discussion provides an analysis of our financial condition and results of operations and should be read in conjunction with the Consolidated Financial Statements and notes thereto included in Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Selected Relationships within the Consolidated Statements of Operations

Overview

        The positive results in fiscal 2010 were mainly attributable to our continued focus on our key strategies and initiatives: continuous improvement and dedication to our key brands, strategic acquisitions, long term consolidation and diligent cost management practices. Despite the economic challenges that negatively impacted fiscal 2009 and continue to impact our business, a strong second half to fiscal 2010 led to significant revenue and profit increases in fiscal 2010 over the prior year results. Our revenue growth was primarily attributable to sales generated from the acquisitions of CIM in September 2009 and ServiWrap in December 2009. The continued recovery in the automotive sector worldwide and protective products used in domestic infrastructure applications, as well as increased sales of specialty products and pipeline & construction contributed to the increase in revenues over the prior year. The revenue growth in fiscal 2010 is being partially offset by the negative impact of the weakened pound sterling and euro whose values against the dollar have decreased 5% and 11%, respectively, from August 2009 to August 2010.

        This past fiscal year we have been diligent in our efforts to consolidate and streamline our existing processes and related expenses. As part of these efforts, we ceased operations at our Paterson, NJ plant in December 2009 and the products previously produced in that facility are now being produced in our Webster, MA and Taylorsville, NC plants. In March 2010, we closed our Taunton, MA and Albany, NY offices and consolidated those sales, research and development and administrative functions into our Westwood, MA Global Operations Center. Development of the property purchased in Oxford, MA continues and the coatings plant in Pittsburgh, PA is now fully operational. In

14

Table of Contents

fiscal 2011, we will continue to perform the necessary building and equipment improvements required to integrate the ServiWrap product lines into our facility in Rye, East Sussex, England.

        In June 2010, we sold our Electronic Manufacturing Services business in an all cash transaction, structured as a sale of substantially all of the assets of the Chase EMS business. The sale was completed in accordance with our long term strategy to focus on our core protective materials technologies. Proceeds from the sale are available for debt reduction and continued investment in the Company's core tapes and coatings businesses.

        We maintained strong positive cash flows throughout fiscal 2010 and ended the fiscal year with our healthiest balance sheet ever, including $17.3 million in cash. We are in the midst of a strategic restructuring which includes new investment in product development and marketing. Our goal is to balance growth between internal resources and acquisitions. In fiscal 2011, we will continue to integrate CIM and ServiWrap while maximizing our existing resources and remaining focused on our key strategies and initiatives.

        The Company has one reportable segment summarized below:

        As further detailed in Note 15 to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Report, the Electronic Manufacturing Services business was sold in June 2010 and the financial results of this previously reported segment are classified as discontinued operations. We have reflected the results of this business as discontinued operations in the consolidated statement of operations for all periods presented.

Results of Operations

Total Revenues

        Total revenues in fiscal 2010 increased $27,507,000 or 30% to $118,743,000 from $91,236,000 in the prior year. The increase in revenues in fiscal 2010 was primarily due to the following: (a) sales of $12,354,000 from CIM which we acquired in September 2009; (b) increased sales of $7,450,000 from specialty and construction products; (c) increased sales of $6,672,000 in the electronic coatings product line from both the worldwide automotive sector and protective products used in domestic infrastructure applications; and (d) sales of $4,991,000 from ServiWrap which was acquired in December 2009. These increases were partially offset by decreased sales of $4,050,000 in the transportation market.

        Royalties and commissions were $1,664,000, $1,077,000 and $1,775,000 for the years ended August 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively. The increase in royalties and commissions in fiscal 2010 from the prior year was due to increased sales of electronic coatings by our licensed manufacturer in Asia as demand returned to levels comparable to those observed in fiscal 2008.

        Export sales from domestic operations to unaffiliated third parties were $17,946,000, $14,611,000 and $15,818,000 for the years ended August 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively. The growth in our export sales in fiscal 2010 was primarily due to the CIM acquisition.

        Total revenues in fiscal 2009 decreased $21,941,000 or 19% to $91,236,000 from $113,177,000 in fiscal 2008. The decrease in revenues in fiscal 2009 was primarily due to the following: (a) decreased sales of $6,263,000 in the electronic coatings product lines due to reduced demand in the electronic and automotive markets; (b) decreased sales of $7,546,000 in the wire & cable market primarily due to less demand in the energy and communications markets; (c) decreased sales of $2,392,000 in the pipeline and construction product lines; and (d) decreased sales of $5,014,000 in specialty products.

15

Table of Contents

Cost of Products and Services Sold

        Cost of products and services sold increased $12,567,000 or 20% to $74,828,000 for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2010 compared to $62,261,000 in fiscal 2009. As a percentage of revenues, cost of products and services sold decreased to 63% in fiscal 2010 compared to 68% for fiscal 2009. The percentage of revenues decrease in the cost of products and services sold was primarily due to increased sales of higher margin products, management's ability to leverage its fixed overhead costs on a higher revenue base, and the favorable impact of ongoing cost reduction efforts.

        Cost of products and services sold decreased $11,507,000 or 16% to $62,261,000 for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2009 compared to $73,768,000 in fiscal 2008. As a percentage of revenues, cost of products and services sold increased to 68% in fiscal 2009 compared to 65% for fiscal 2008. The percentage of revenues increase in the cost of products and services sold was primarily due to decreased sales of our higher margin products and the resulting larger share of total sales that were made up of lower margin products, coupled with the impact of fixed manufacturing overhead costs on a lower revenue base. These increases were partially offset by the favorable impact of ongoing cost reduction efforts and continued focus on raw material costs through supply chain management.

Selling, General and Administrative Expenses

        Selling, general and administrative expenses increased $6,337,000 or 30% to $27,151,000 during fiscal 2010 compared to $20,814,000 in fiscal 2009. As a percentage of revenues, selling, general and administrative expenses remained flat at 23% in both fiscal 2010 and 2009. The dollar increase in fiscal 2010 is primarily attributable to incremental expenses from the CIM and ServiWrap acquisitions, including acquisition costs of $434,000 and amortization of intangible assets of $1,170,000. Additionally, increased revenues and profitability in the current year compared to the prior year have led to increased sales commissions and other selling related expenses and increased incentive compensation expense. These increases were partially offset by our continued emphasis on controlling costs, including reduced travel and external consulting costs.

        During fiscal 2009, selling, general and administrative expenses decreased $1,887,000 or 8% to $20,814,000, compared to $22,701,000 in fiscal 2008. As a percentage of revenues, selling, general and administrative expenses increased to 23% in fiscal 2009 compared to 20% for fiscal 2008. The dollar decrease in fiscal 2009 related primarily to our continued emphasis on controlling costs, including reduced incentive compensation, travel and external consulting costs. Additionally, lower revenues in fiscal 2009 compared to the prior year led to decreased sales commissions and other selling related expenses.

        Bad debt expense, net of recoveries, increased $219,000 to $178,000 in fiscal 2010 compared to a net gain of $41,000 in fiscal 2009 that was due to recoveries of previously identified bad debt that exceeded additions to bad debt expense for the fiscal year. This gain of $41,000 in fiscal 2009 compared to bad debt expense of $53,000 in fiscal 2008. The increase in bad debt expense in fiscal 2010 is primarily due to financial difficulties for several of our customers as well as overall increased receivable balances due to higher sales. We continue to monitor these developments and maintain a strict adherence to our established credit policies as well as closely monitoring the accounts receivable function and taking a proactive approach to the collections process.

Loss on Impairment of Goodwill

        In fiscal 2009, based on the decrease in sales activity in the fiscal year and the completion of the fiscal 2010 budget, we determined that the carrying value of goodwill associated with our Northeast Quality Products ("NEQP") division may not be recoverable. Accordingly, we performed a goodwill impairment analysis. Based on the present value of future cash flows utilizing projected results for the balance of fiscal year 2009 and projections for future years based on the fiscal year 2010 budgeting process, the goodwill impairment analysis yielded results that did not support the current book value of the goodwill associated with this division. As a result, we concluded that the carrying amount of goodwill for the NEQP division was not fully recoverable and an impairment charge of $237,000 was recorded as of May 31, 2009. Goodwill related to NEQP, having a pre-impairment book value of $349,000, was written down to its fair value of $112,000 in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. The NEQP division was sold on August 14, 2009, and the adjusted fair value of $112,000 was realized upon the sale.

16

Table of Contents

Loss on Impairment of Fixed Assets

        In fiscal 2009, we recorded a $262,000 charge related to the impairment of real property (land and building) located in West Bridgewater, MA which was being leased to Sunburst Electronics Manufacturing Solutions, Inc. The real property, having a pre-impairment book value of $1,632,000, was written down to its fair value of $1,370,000, which was realized upon the June 24, 2009 sale of the property.

Interest Expense

        Interest expense was $360,000 in fiscal 2010 compared to $17,000 and $40,000 in fiscal 2009 and 2008, respectively. The increase in interest expense in fiscal 2010 compared to the previous two fiscal years is a direct result of the $10 million term note and $3 million promissory notes related to the acquisition of CIM, and the $7 million term loan related to the acquisition of ServiWrap.

Other Income

        Other income decreased $406,000 to $52,000 in fiscal 2010 compared to $458,000 and $477,000 in fiscal 2009 and 2008, respectively. Other income primarily includes bank interest and foreign exchange gains (losses) caused by changes in exchange rates on transactions or balances denominated in currencies other than the functional currency of our subsidiaries. The decrease in other income as compared to the prior year periods is primarily due to foreign exchange losses caused by the weakening of both the sterling and the euro. Additionally, we no longer receive rental income on previously owned real property sold in June 2009.

Income Taxes

        The effective tax rate for fiscal 2010 was 34.8% compared to 34.4% and 35.5% in fiscal 2009 and 2008, respectively. In all three years, we have received the benefit of the domestic production deduction and foreign rate differential. The increase in the effective tax rate in fiscal 2010 as compared to fiscal 2009 is primarily due to a less favorable foreign tax rate differential and research credit in fiscal 2010 as compared to the prior year. The effective tax rate of 34.4% for fiscal 2009 compares favorably to 2008 due to a more favorable effective state income tax rate in 2009.

Net Income

        Consolidated net income in fiscal 2010 increased $6,131,000 or 96% to $12,516,000 compared to $6,385,000 in fiscal 2009. Income from continuing operations increased $5,411,000 or 102% to $10,726,000 for the year ended August 31, 2010 compared to $5,315,000 in fiscal 2009. The increase in net income from continuing operations in the current year is a result of the revenue growth discussed previously. Income from discontinued operations increased $720,000 or 67% to $1,790,000 for the year ended August 31, 2010 compared to $1,070,000 in fiscal 2009. The increase in income from discontinued operations in the current year is primarily a result of the $429,000 gain on the sale of the Chase EMS business as well as the overall growth in sales in fiscal 2010.

        Consolidated net income in fiscal 2009 decreased $5,989,000 or 48% to $6,385,000 compared to $12,374,000 in fiscal 2008. Income from continuing operations decreased $5,746,000 or 52% to $5,315,000 for the year ended August 31, 2009 compared to $11,061,000 in fiscal 2008. The decrease in income from continuing operations in fiscal 2009 was a direct result of decreased revenue across all of our core product lines as discussed previously. Additionally, net income was negatively impacted in fiscal 2009 by the impairment of our West Bridgewater, MA real property and the impairment of goodwill from NEQP. Income from discontinued operations decreased $243,000 or 19% to $1,070,000 for the year ended August 31, 2009 compared to $1,313,000 in fiscal 2008. The decrease in income from discontinued operations in fiscal 2009 was primarily a result of decreased customer orders and projects in this business as many of our key customers were assessing their inventory levels and closely monitoring their own customers' demand during the economic downturn.

Liquidity and Sources of Capital

        Our overall cash balance increased $5,697,000 to $17,340,000 at August 31, 2010 from $11,643,000 at August 31, 2009. The increased cash balance at August 31, 2010 was a result of the June sale of our Electronic Manufacturing Services business as well as cash flows generated from operations during the year, offset by cash

17

Table of Contents

used for acquisitions. Our overall cash balance increased $7,726,000 to $11,643,000 at August 31, 2009 from $3,917,000 at August 31, 2008. The increased cash balance at August 31, 2009 was a result of cash flow generated from operations during the year as well as the sale of the West Bridgewater property.

        Cash flow provided by operations was $11,322,000 for the year ended August 31, 2010 compared to $16,907,000 in fiscal 2009 and $15,562,000 in fiscal 2008. Cash provided by operations during fiscal 2010 was primarily due to operating income and decreased accounts payable and accrued expense balances, offset by increased accounts receivable and inventory balances. Cash provided by operations during fiscal 2009 was primarily due to operating income and decreased accounts receivable and inventory balances, offset by reduced accounts payable balances. Cash provided by operations during fiscal 2008 was primarily due to operating income and increased accounts payable and accrued expenses, offset by purchases of raw materials.

        The ratio of current assets to current liabilities was 2.6 as of August 31, 2010 compared to 3.2 as of August 31, 2009. The decrease in our current ratio at August 31, 2010 was primarily attributable to the increase in the current portion of long-term debt that was used to finance the CIM and ServiWrap acquisitions along with increases in accounts payable and accrued expenses. This was partially offset by an increase in our cash balance as a result of the proceeds received from the sale of our Chase EMS business, as well as increases in accounts receivable and inventory due to increased demand and overall sales volume.

        Cash flow used in investing activities was $17,305,000 for the year ended August 31, 2010 compared to $5,234,000 in fiscal 2009 and $5,796,000 in fiscal 2008. During fiscal 2010, cash flow used in investing activities was primarily due to $25,592,000 payments for the acquisitions of CIM and ServiWrap, and $3,572,000 paid for purchases of machinery and equipment at our other manufacturing locations during fiscal 2010. This was partially offset by the $12,689,000 of net proceeds received from the sale of our discontinued operations. During fiscal 2009, cash flow used in investing activities was primarily due to $2,509,000 used to pay for the purchase of real property in Oxford, MA, $1,280,000 paid for purchases related to the build out of our manufacturing facility in Pittsburgh, PA, and purchases of machinery and equipment at our other manufacturing locations. During fiscal 2008, cash flow used in investing activities was primarily due to $1,490,000 paid for the assets acquired by Chase Protective Coatings Ltd., purchases related to the build out of our manufacturing facility in Pittsburgh of $934,000, contingent payments related to previous acquisitions of $1,041,000, and cash paid for purchases of machinery and equipment at our other manufacturing locations.

        Cash flow provided by financing activities was $11,664,000 for the year ended August 31, 2010 as compared to cash flow used in financing activities of $3,856,000 in fiscal 2009 and $7,909,000 in fiscal 2008. During fiscal 2010, cash flow provided by financing activities primarily resulted from a total of $17,000,000 million in term debt used to finance our acquisitions of CIM and ServiWrap. These were partially offset by payments made on the acquisition loans and our line of credit arrangement, as well as our annual dividend. During fiscal 2009, cash flow used in financing activities reflected the payment of the annual dividend and payments of statutory minimum taxes on restricted stock. During fiscal 2008, cash flow used in financing activities reflected the annual dividend payment and our ability to use excess cash generated from operating results to pay off existing long-term debt, including $4,033,000 to pay the total outstanding balances of the term notes used to finance our acquisitions of Concoat Holdings Limited (acquired in October 2005) and Capital Services of New York, Inc. (acquired in September 2006).

        On October 15, 2009, we announced a cash dividend of $0.20 per share (totaling $1,759,000) to shareholders of record on October 31, 2009 and paid on December 3, 2009.

        On October 14, 2010, we announced a cash dividend of $0.35 per share (totaling approximately $3,131,000), comprised of $0.30 related to earnings from continuing operations and $0.05 related to earnings from discontinued operations, to shareholders of record on October 31, 2010 and payable on December 3, 2010.

        We continue to have long-term unsecured credit available up to $10 million with Bank of America at the bank's base lending rate or, at the option of the Company, at the effective London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) plus 150 basis points. On June 8, 2010, we executed an amendment to this credit facility, extending its maturity to March 31, 2013. As part of this amendment, the interest rate was increased by 25 basis points, from its original rate of LIBOR plus 125 basis points. All other terms of the credit facility remain the same. As of August 31, 2010 and October 31, 2010, the entire amount of $10 million was available for use. We plan to use this availability to help finance our cash needs, including potential acquisitions, in fiscal 2011 and future periods.

18

Table of Contents

        Under the terms of our credit facility, we must comply with certain debt covenants related to (a) the ratio of total liabilities to tangible net worth and (b) the ratio of operating cash flow to debt service on a rolling twelve month basis. We were in compliance with our debt covenants as of August 31, 2010.

        We borrowed $10.0 million from Bank of America in September 2009 in order to fund our acquisition of CIM. This borrowing involved an unsecured, three year term note (the "Term Note") with interest and principal payments due monthly. Interest is calculated at the applicable LIBOR rate plus a margin of 175 basis points, with interest payments due on the last day of each month. At August 31, 2010, the applicable interest rate was 2.01% per annum and the outstanding principal amount was $8.0 million. In addition to monthly interest payments, we are repaying the principal in equal installments of $167,000 per month, beginning on September 30, 2009, and on the last day of each month thereafter, ending on August 31, 2012, when we will repay the remaining principal balance plus any interest then due. The Term Note is subject to the same debt covenants as our line of credit discussed above. Prepayment of the Term Note is allowed at any time during the term of the loan.

        As part of the CIM acquisition in September 2009, we also delivered $3,000,000 in non-negotiable promissory notes (the "Notes") payable to five CIM shareholders, who were the holders of all of the issued and outstanding shares of capital stock of CIM as of the acquisition date. The principal of the Notes will be paid in three consecutive annual installments of $1,000,000 each, with the initial payment due on September 4, 2010. Interest on the unpaid principal balance of the Notes is accruing at a rate per annum equal to the applicable Federal rate, and will be paid annually with each principal payment. At August 31, 2010, the applicable interest rate was 0.84% per annum. We paid the first installment on the Notes in September 2010.

        In December 2009, we borrowed $7.0 million from RBS Citizens in order to fund our acquisition of the ServiWrap product lines. This borrowing involved an unsecured, three year term note (the "Term Loan") with interest and principal payments due monthly. Interest is calculated at the applicable LIBOR rate plus a margin of 190 basis points, with interest payments due on the last day of each month. In addition to monthly interest payments, we are repaying the principal in equal installments of $117,000 each, beginning on January 15, 2010, and on the 15th day of each month thereafter, ending on December 15, 2012, when we will repay the remaining principal balance plus any interest then due. The Term Loan is subject to the same debt covenants as our line of credit discussed above. Prepayment of the Term Loan is allowed at any time. At August 31, 2010, the applicable interest rate was 2.18% per annum, and the outstanding principal amount was approximately $6.1 million.

        We are currently renovating our facility (land and building) in Oxford, MA, purchased in 2008, to provide capacity for storage needs and future growth; and assessing building and equipment improvements needed in order to integrate ServiWrap production into our existing operations in England. Machinery and equipment will also be added as needed to increase capacity or enhance operating efficiencies in our other manufacturing plants.

        We may consider the acquisition of companies or other assets this year or in future periods which are complementary to our business. We believe that our existing resources, including cash on hand and our line of credit, together with cash generated from operations and additional bank borrowings, will be sufficient to fund our cash flow requirements through at least the next twelve months. However, there can be no assurances that additional financing will be available on favorable terms, if at all.

        To the extent that interest rates increase in future periods, we will assess the impact of these higher interest rates on the financial and cash flow projections of our potential acquisitions.

        We have no significant off balance sheet arrangements.

19

Table of Contents

Contractual Obligations

        The following table summarizes our contractual cash obligations at August 31, 2010 and the effect such obligations are expected to have on our liquidity and cash flow in future periods.

Recently Issued Accounting Standards

        In June 2009, the Financial Accounting Standards Board's (FASB) approved the "FASB Accounting Standards Codification" ("ASC" or the "Codification") as the single source of authoritative nongovernmental U.S. GAAP. The Codification does not change current U.S. GAAP, but is intended to simplify user access to all authoritative U.S. GAAP by providing all the authoritative literature related to a particular topic in one place. All existing accounting standard documents will be superseded and all other accounting literature not included in the Codification will be considered nonauthoritative. The Codification became effective for us in the quarter ending November 30, 2009 and the adoption did not have an effect on our consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

        In December 2007, the FASB issued new guidance under ASC Topic 805, "Business Combinations" ("ASC 805"). The new guidance under ASC 805 establishes principles and requirements for how an acquirer in a business combination recognizes and measures in its financial statements the identifiable assets acquired, the liabilities assumed and any noncontrolling interest in the acquiree; recognizes and measures the goodwill acquired in the business combination or a gain from a bargain purchase; expenses acquisition related costs as incurred; and determines what information to disclose to enable users of the financial statements to evaluate the nature and financial effects of the business combination. We adopted the new guidance under ASC 805 as of September 1, 2009, and our recent acquisitions of CIM and ServiWrap were both accounted for under this standard.

        In June 2008, the FASB issued guidance within ASC Topic 260, "Earnings Per Share" ("ASC 260"), to clarify that unvested share-based payment awards with a right to receive nonforfeitable dividends are participating securities. The standard provides guidance on how to allocate earnings to participating securities and compute earnings per share using the two-class method. We adopted the provisions of this standard on September 1, 2009 and the disclosures required by ASC 260 have been made in Note 19 to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Report.

        In December 2008, the FASB issued ASC Topic 715, "Compensation—Retirement Benefits" ("ASC 715"). ASC 715 provides additional guidance on an employer's disclosures about plan assets of a defined benefit pension or other post-retirement plan enabling users of the financial statements to assess the inputs and valuation techniques used to develop fair value measurements of plan assets at the annual reporting date. The guidance requires more detailed disclosures about the assets of a defined benefit pension or other post-retirement plan and is effective for fiscal years ending after December 15, 2009. Since the guidance only requires enhanced disclosures, the adoption of ASC 715 did not have an impact on our consolidated financial position and results of operations. See Note 9 to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Report for more information on the additional disclosures required for our adoption of ASC 715.

20

Table of Contents

        In January 2010, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") No. 2010-06, "Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures (ASC Topic 820) — Improving Disclosures about Fair Value Measurements" ("ASU 2010-06"). The updated standard requires new disclosures around transfers into and out of Levels 1 and 2 in the fair value hierarchy and separate disclosures about purchases, sales, issuances, and settlements related to Level 3 measurements. ASU 2010-06 is effective for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2009 with early adoption permitted, except for the disclosures about purchases, sales, issuances, and settlements in the rollforward of Level 3 activity. Those disclosures are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2010 and for interim periods within those fiscal years with early adoption permitted. We adopted all of the provisions of ASU 2010-06 effective March 1, 2010 and the adoption did not have any effect on our consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Critical Accounting Policies, Judgments, and Estimates

        The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") requires companies to provide additional disclosure and commentary on their most critical accounting policies. The SEC has defined the most critical accounting policies as the ones that are most important to the portrayal of a company's financial condition and operating results, and requires management to make its most significant estimates and judgments in the preparation of its consolidated financial statements. Our critical accounting policies are described below.

Accounts Receivable

        We evaluate the collectability of accounts receivable balances based on a combination of factors. In cases where we are aware of circumstances that may impair a specific customer's ability to meet its financial obligations to us, a specific allowance against amounts due to us is recorded, and thereby reduces the net recognized receivable to the amount we reasonably believe will be collected. For all other customers, we recognize allowances for doubtful accounts based on the length of time the receivables are past due, industry and geographic concentrations, the current business environment and our historical experience. If the financial condition of our customers deteriorates or if economic conditions worsen, additional allowances may be required in the future, which could have an adverse impact on our future operating results.

Inventories

        We value inventory at the lower of cost or market using the first-in, first-out (FIFO) method. Management assesses the recoverability of inventory based on types and levels of inventory held, forecasted demand and changes in technology. These assessments require management judgments and estimates, and valuation adjustments for excess and obsolete inventory may be recorded based on these assessments. We estimate excess and obsolescence exposures based upon assumptions about future demand, product transitions, and market conditions and record reserves to reduce inventories to their estimated net realizable value. The failure to accurately forecast demand may lead to additional excess and obsolete inventory and future charges.

Business Combinations

        We assign the value of the consideration transferred to acquire a business to the tangible assets and identifiable intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed on the basis of their fair values at the date of acquisition. We assess the fair value of assets, including intangible assets, using a variety of methods and each asset is measured at fair value from the perspective of a market participant. The method used to estimate the fair values of intangible assets incorporates significant assumptions regarding the estimates a market participant would make in order to evaluate an asset, including a market participant's use of the asset and the appropriate discount rates for a market participant. Assets recorded from the perspective of a market participant that are determined to not have economic use for us are expensed immediately. Any excess purchase price over the fair value of the net tangible and intangible assets acquired is allocated to goodwill. Transaction costs and restructuring costs associated with a transaction to acquire a business are expensed as incurred.

Goodwill, Intangible Assets, and Other Long-Lived Assets

        Long-lived assets consist of goodwill, identifiable intangible assets, trademarks, patents and agreements and property, plant, and equipment. Intangible assets and property, plant, and equipment, excluding goodwill, are amortized using the straight-line method over their estimated useful life. We review long-lived assets and all

21

Table of Contents

intangible assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying amount of such assets may not be recoverable. Goodwill is also reviewed at least annually for impairment. Factors which we consider important and that could trigger an impairment review include significant underperformance relative to expected historical or projected future operating results and significant negative industry or economic trends. We determine whether an impairment has occurred based on gross expected future cash flows and measure the amount of the impairment based on the related future discounted cash flows. The cash flow estimates used to determine impairment, if any, contain management's best estimates, using appropriate and customary assumptions and projections at the time. (See notes to consolidated financial statements.)

        The estimates of expected cash flows require us to make significant judgments regarding future periods that are subject to some factors outside of our control. Changes in these estimates can result in significant revisions to the carrying value of these assets and may result in material charges to the results of operations.

Revenue Recognition

        We recognize revenue when persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, performance of our obligation is complete, our price to the buyer is fixed or determinable, and we are reasonably assured of collecting. This is typically at the time of shipment. If a loss is anticipated on any contract, a provision for the entire loss is made immediately. Revenue recognition involves judgments and assessments of expected returns, and the likelihood of nonpayment due to insolvent customers. We analyze various factors, including a review of specific customer contracts and shipment terms, historical experience, creditworthiness of customers and current market and economic conditions in determining when to recognize revenue. Changes in judgments on these factors could impact the timing and amount of revenue recognized with a resulting impact on the timing and amount of associated income. Commissions are recognized when earned and payments are received from the manufacturers represented. Royalty revenue is recognized based on licensee production statements received from the authorized manufacturers. Billed shipping and handling fees are recorded as sales revenue with the associated costs recorded as costs of products and services sold.

Contingent Income Tax Liabilities

        We are subject to routine income tax audits that occur periodically in the normal course of business. Our contingent income tax liabilities are estimated based on the methodology prescribed in the guidance for accounting for uncertain tax positions, which we adopted as of the beginning of fiscal 2008. The guidance prescribes a minimum recognition threshold a tax position is required to meet before being recognized in the financial statements. Our liabilities related to uncertain tax positions require an assessment of the probability of the income-tax-related exposures and settlements and are influenced by our historical audit experiences with various state and federal taxing authorities as well as by current income tax trends. If circumstances change, we may be required to record adjustments that could be material to our reported financial condition and results of operations. See Note 7 to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Report for more information on our accounting for uncertain tax positions.

Deferred Income Taxes

        We evaluate the need for a valuation allowance to reduce our deferred tax assets to the amount that is more likely than not to be realized. We have considered future taxable income and ongoing prudent and feasible tax planning strategies in assessing the need for a valuation allowance. Should we determine that we would not be able to realize all or part of our net deferred tax asset in the future, an adjustment to the deferred tax asset would be charged to income in the period such determination was made.

Stock Based Compensation

        We measure compensation cost for share-based compensation at fair value, including estimated forfeitures, and recognize the expense over the period that the recipient is required to provide service in exchange for the award, which generally is the vesting period. We use the Black-Scholes option pricing model to measure the fair value of stock options. This model requires significant estimates related to the award's expected life and future stock price volatility of the underlying equity security. In determining the amount of expense to be recorded, we are also required to estimate forfeiture rates for awards, based on the probability that employees will complete the

22

Table of Contents

required service period. We estimate the forfeiture rate based on historical experience. If actual forfeitures differ significantly from our estimates, additional adjustments to compensation expense may be required in future periods.

Pension Benefits

        We sponsor a non-contributory defined benefit pension plan covering substantially all employees of certain divisions of the Company. In calculating our retirement plan obligations and related expense, we make various assumptions and estimates. These assumptions include discount rates, benefits earned, expected return on plan assets, mortality rates, and other factors. While we believe that the assumptions used are appropriate, differences in actual experience or changes in assumptions may affect our pension obligations and future expense.

        Effective December 1, 2008, the defined benefit pension plan was amended to include a soft freeze whereby any employee hired after the effective date of December 1, 2008 will not be admitted to the plan. The only exception relates to employees of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers Union. All participants who were previously admitted to the plan prior to the December 1, 2008 soft freeze will continue to accrue benefits as detailed in the plan agreements.

        We account for our pension plan following the requirements of ASC Topic 715, "Compensation—Retirement Benefits" ("ASC 715"). ASC 715 requires an employer to: (a) recognize in its statement of financial position the funded status of a benefit plan; (b) measure defined benefit plan assets and obligations as of the end of the employer's fiscal year (with limited exceptions); and (c) recognize as a component of other comprehensive income, net of tax, the gains or losses and prior service costs or credits that arise but are not recognized as components of net periodic benefit costs pursuant to prior existing guidance.

Impact of Inflation

        Inflation has not had a significant long-term impact on our earnings. In the event of significant inflation, our efforts to recover cost increases would be hampered as a result of the competitive nature of the industries in which we operate.

Forward-Looking Information

        From time to time, we may publish, verbally or in written form, forward-looking statements relating to such matters as anticipated financial performance, business prospects, technological developments, new products, acquisition or consolidation strategies, anticipated sources of capital, research and development activities and similar matters. In fact, this Form 10-K (or any other periodic reporting documents required by the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended) may contain forward-looking statements reflecting our current views concerning potential or anticipated future events or developments, including our strategic goals for future fiscal periods. The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 (the "Act") provides a "safe harbor" for forward-looking statements. We caution investors that any forward-looking statements made by us are not guarantees of future performance and that a variety of factors could cause our actual results and experience to differ materially from the anticipated results or other expectations expressed in our forward-looking statements. The risks and uncertainties which may affect the operations, performance, development and results of our business include, but are not limited to, the following: uncertainties relating to economic conditions; uncertainties relating to customer plans and commitments; the pricing and availability of equipment, materials and inventories; the impact of acquisitions on our business and results of operations; technological developments; performance issues with suppliers and subcontractors; our ability to renew existing credit facilities or to obtain new or additional financing as needed; economic growth; delays in testing of new products; rapid technology changes and the highly competitive environment in which we operate. These risks and uncertainties also include those risks outlined under Item 1A (Risk Factors) of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date the statement was made.

ITEM 7A—QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

        We limit the amount of credit exposure to any one issuer. At August 31, 2010, other than our restricted investments (which are restricted for use in a non-qualified retirement savings plan for certain key employees and members of the Board of Directors), all of our funds were either in demand deposit accounts or investment instruments that meet high credit quality standards such as money market funds, government securities, or commercial paper.

23

Table of Contents

        Our domestic operations have limited currency exposure since substantially all transactions are denominated in U.S. dollars. However, our European operations are subject to currency exchange fluctuations. We continue to review our policies and procedures to reduce this exposure while maintaining the benefit from these operations and sales to other European customers. As of August 31, 2010, we had cash balances in the United Kingdom for our UK operations denominated primarily in pounds sterling and equal to US $4,884,000 and cash balances in France for our HumiSeal Europe SARL division denominated primarily in euros and equal to US $414,000. We will continue to review our current cash balances denominated in foreign currency in light of current tax guidelines and potential acquisitions.

        We incurred a foreign currency translation loss for the year ended August 31, 2010 in the amount of $1,049,000 related to our European operations which is recorded in other comprehensive income (loss) within our Statement of Stockholders' Equity. We do not have or utilize any derivative financial instruments.

24

Table of Contents

ITEM 8—FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA

        The following Consolidated Financial Statements of Chase Corporation are filed as part of this Annual Report on Form 10-K:

        Index to Consolidated Financial Statements:

25

Table of Contents

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

To the Board of Directors and Shareholders of Chase Corporation:

        In our opinion, the accompanying consolidated balance sheets and the related consolidated statements of operations, stockholders' equity and cash flows present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Chase Corporation and its subsidiaries at August 31, 2010 and 2009, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended August 31, 2010 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Also in our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of August 31, 2010, based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). The Company's management is responsible for these financial statements, for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting included in Item 9A, "Management's Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting." Our responsibility is to express opinions on these financial statements and on the Company's internal control over financial reporting based on our integrated 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 and whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audits of the financial statements included examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, and evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. Our audit of internal control over financial reporting included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our audits also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinions.

        A company's internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company's internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (i) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (ii) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (iii) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company's assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

        Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

        As described in "Management's Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting," management has excluded C.I.M. Industries, Inc. and the ServiWrap product lines from its assessment of internal control over financial reporting as of August 31, 2010, because they were acquired by the Company in purchase business combinations during the fiscal year ended August 31, 2010. Total assets and revenues excluded represents 9% and 15%, respectively, of the related consolidated financial statement amounts as of and for the year ended August 31, 2010. Our audit of internal control over financial reporting of Chase Corporation also excluded an evaluation of the internal control over financial reporting of C.I.M Industries, Inc. and the ServiWrap product lines.

/s/ PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP

PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP (signed)
Boston, MA
November 15, 2010

26

Table of Contents

CHASE CORPORATION

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

In thousands, except share and per share amounts

See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements.

27

Table of Contents

CHASE CORPORATION

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

In thousands, except share and per share amounts

See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements.

28

Table of Contents

CHASE CORPORATION

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY

In thousands, except share and per share amounts