ENERPAC TOOL GROUP CORP - Annual Report: 2012 (Form 10-K)

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UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-K

(Mark One)

OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the fiscal year ended August 31, 2012

OR

OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the Transition period from to                             to                             

Commission File No. 1-11288

ACTUANT CORPORATION

(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)

N86 W12500 WESTBROOK CROSSING

MENOMONEE FALLS, WISCONSIN 53051

Mailing address: P.O. Box 3241, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53201

(Address of principal executive offices)

(262) 293-1500

(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 checkmark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.        Yes    x          No    ¨

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15d of the Act.        Yes    ¨          No    x

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    x          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 (§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    x          No    ¨

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

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,” “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one): 

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

There were 72,880,380 shares of the Registrant’s Class A Common Stock outstanding as of September 30, 2012. The aggregate market value of the shares of Common Stock (based upon the closing price on the New York Stock Exchange on February 29, 2012) held by non-affiliates of the Registrant was approximately $1,887 million.

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

Portions of the definitive Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held on January 15, 2013 are incorporated by reference into Part III hereof.

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Actuant Corporation provides free-of-charge access to our annual report on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K, and all amendments thereto, through our website, www.actuant.com, as soon as reasonably practical after such reports are electronically filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

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FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS AND CAUTIONARY FACTORS

This annual report on Form 10-K contains certain statements that constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 that involve risks and uncertainties. The terms “may,” “should,” “could,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “expect,” “objective,” “plan,” “project” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements are subject to inherent risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results or events to differ materially from those contemplated by such forward-looking statements. In addition to the assumptions and other factors referred to specifically in connection with such statements, factors that may cause actual results or events to differ materially from those contemplated by such forward-looking statements include, without limitation, general economic conditions and market conditions in the industrial, oil & gas, energy, power generation, marine, solar, infrastructure, residential and commercial construction, retail Do-It-Yourself (“DIY”), truck, automotive, specialty vehicle and agriculture industries, market acceptance of existing and new products, successful integration of acquisitions and related restructuring, operating margin risk due to competitive pricing and operating efficiencies, supply chain risk, material, labor, or overhead cost increases, foreign currency risk, interest rate risk, commodity risk, the impact of geopolitical activity on the economy, the timing or strength of an economic recovery in the Company’s markets, litigation matters, the Company’s ability to access capital markets, and other factors that may be referred to or noted in the Company’s reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission from time to time. We disclaim any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements as a result of new information, future events or any other reason.

When used herein, the terms “Actuant,” “we,” “us,” “our,” and the “Company” refer to Actuant Corporation and its subsidiaries.

PART I

Item  1.    Business

General

Actuant Corporation, headquartered in Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin, is a Wisconsin corporation incorporated in 1910. We are a global diversified company that designs, manufactures and distributes a broad range of industrial products and systems to various end markets. The Company is organized into four operating and reportable segments as follows: Industrial, Energy, Electrical and Engineered Solutions.

The Industrial segment is primarily involved in the design, manufacture and distribution of branded hydraulic and mechanical tools to the maintenance, industrial, infrastructure and production automation markets. The Energy segment provides joint integrity products and services, as well as rope and cable solutions to the global oil & gas, power generation and other energy markets. The Electrical segment is primarily involved in the design, manufacture and distribution of a broad range of electrical products to the retail DIY, wholesale, original equipment manufacturer (“OEM”), solar, utility, marine and other harsh environment markets. The Engineered Solutions segment provides highly engineered position and motion control systems to OEMs in various on and off-highway vehicle markets, as well as, a variety of other products to the industrial and agricultural markets.

Our long-term goal is to grow annual diluted earnings per share (“EPS”), excluding unusual or non-recurring items, faster than most multi-industry peers. We intend to leverage our market positions to generate annual core sales growth (overall sales growth excluding the impact of acquisitions and foreign currency rate changes) that exceeds the annual growth rates of the gross domestic product in the geographic regions in which we operate. In addition to core sales growth, we are focused on acquiring complementary businesses. Following an acquisition, we seek to drive cost reductions, develop additional cross-selling opportunities and deepen customer relationships. We also focus on profit margin expansion and cash flow generation to achieve our financial objectives. Our LEAD (“Lean Enterprise Across Disciplines”) operational

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excellence process utilizes various continuous improvement techniques to reduce costs and improve efficiencies across all locations and functions worldwide, thereby expanding profit margins. Strong cash flow generation is achieved by maximizing returns on assets and minimizing primary working capital needs. Our LEAD efforts also support our Growth + Innovation (“G + I”) initiative, a process focused on improving core sales growth. The cash flow that results from efficient asset management and improved profitability is used to reduce debt and fund strategic acquisitions, treasury share repurchases and internal growth opportunities.

A significant portion of our growth has come from business acquisitions and this will continue to be an important part of our strategy in the future. For further information, see Note 2, “Acquisitions” in the notes to consolidated financial statements.

Description of Business Segments

Industrial

The Industrial segment is a leading global supplier of branded hydraulic and mechanical tools to a broad array of end markets, including general maintenance and repair, industrial, infrastructure and production automation. Its primary products include high-force hydraulic tools, highly engineered heavy lifting solutions, workholding (production automation) solutions and concrete stressing products. These hydraulic and mechanical tools are marketed primarily through our Enerpac, Simplex, Precision Sure-Lock and Milwaukee Cylinder brand names.

The high-force hydraulic and mechanical tools, including cylinders, pumps, valves, specialty tools and presses are designed to allow users to apply controlled force and motion to increase productivity, reduce labor costs and make work safer and easier to perform. Our hydraulic tools operate at very high pressures of approximately 5,000 to 12,000 pounds per square inch and are generally sold by a diverse group of industrial and specialty fluid power distributors to customers in the infrastructure, mining, steel mill, cement, rail, oil & gas and general maintenance industries. Key industrial distributors include W.W. Grainger, Applied Industrial Technologies and MSC.

In addition to providing a comprehensive line of industrial tools, the segment also provides high-force hydraulic systems (integrated solutions) to meet customer specific requirements for safe and precise control of movement and positioning. These customized heavy lifting solutions, which combine hydraulics, steel fabrication and electronic controls with engineering and application knowledge, are typically utilized in major infrastructure projects (bridges, stadiums, tunnels and offshore platforms) for heavy lifting, launching & skidding or synchronous lifting applications.

The Industrial segment has leveraged production and engineering capabilities to also offer a broad range of workholding products (work supports, swing cylinders and system components) that are marketed through distributors to the automotive, machine tool and fixture design markets. In addition, the segment designs, manufactures and distributes concrete pre- and post-tensioning products (chucks and wedges, stressing jacks and anchors) which are used by concrete tensioning system designers, fabricators and installers for the residential and commercial construction, railroad, bridge, infrastructure and mining markets.

Energy

The Energy segment provides technical products and services to the global energy markets, where safety, security, reliability and productivity are key value drivers. Products include joint integrity tools and connectors for oil & gas and power generation installations, as well as rope and cable solutions. In addition to these products, the Energy segment also provides manpower services, including machining, engineering and maintenance activities. The products and services of the Energy segment are distributed and marketed under various brand names (principally Hydratight, D.L. Ricci, Morgrip, Cortland, FibronBX, Puget Sound Rope, Biach, Selantic and Jeyco) to OEMs, maintenance and service organizations and energy producers in emerging and developed countries.

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Joint integrity products include hydraulic torque wrenches, bolt tensioners and portable machining equipment, which are either sold or rented to asset owners, service providers and end users. These products are used in the maintenance of bolted joints on oil rigs and platforms, wind turbines, refineries and pipelines, petrochemical installations, as well as fossil fuel and nuclear power plants to reduce customer downtime and provide increased safety and reliability. The Hydratight businesses also provide manpower services where our highly trained technicians perform bolting, machining and joint integrity work for customers. Our joint integrity business operates to world class safety standards while delivering products and services through a localized infrastructure of rental and maintenance depots. Service, product sales and rental revenue each generate approximately one-third of our joint integrity sales. This business maintains strong relationships with a variety of leading firms such as Statoil, Baker Hughes, Bechtel and Tig Tesco Intl.

The Energy segment also provides highly-engineered rope and cable solutions that maximize performance, safety and efficiency for customers in various markets including oil & gas, heavy marine, subsea, ROV and seismic. With its global design and manufacturing capabilities the Cortland business is able to provide customized synthetic ropes, heavy lift slings, specialized mooring, rigging and towing systems, electro-optical-mechanical cables and umbilicals to customers, including leading firms such as CGG Veritas, Expro and Sercel. These products are utilized in critical applications, often deployed in harsh operating conditions (sub-sea oil & gas production, maintenance and exploration) and are required to meet robust safety standards. Additional custom designed products are also sold into a variety of other niche markets including medical, security, aerospace and defense.

Electrical

The Electrical segment is involved in the design, manufacture and distribution of a broad range of electrical products to the retail DIY, OEM, electrical distribution, power transformation and harsh environment electrical markets. Our Electrical businesses share core competencies in product branding, distribution and channel management, global sourcing and managing the logistics of SKU intensive product lines. The Electrical segment sells its products through a combination of distributors, direct sales personnel and manufacturers’ representatives.

The Electrical segment provides the retail DIY market with a variety of electrical tools and consumables such as wire strippers, electrical meters, connectors, terminals, cable ties, staples and other wire management products and conduit bending equipment under the Gardner Bender, Del City and A.W. Sperry brands. These products are sold to leading retailers such as Lowe’s, The Home Depot, Menards, True Value and Ace Hardware, as well as numerous electrical distributors and OEM’s. This segment also sells power transformation products in North America including low voltage, single-phase dry type transformers and custom toroidal transformers under the Acme Electric brand name and high voltage switches under the Turner Electric brand name. These transformers are sold through electrical wholesale distributors, as well as directly to OEMs such as Rockwell Automation, Eaton, Yaskawa and General Electric. Product offerings also include electrical components and systems for the harsh environment and marine markets under the Ancor, Marinco, Guest, Mastervolt and B.E.P Marine brand names. These products are primarily sold to various customers in the industrial, marine, power generation, industrial and retail markets, including West Marine, Applied Materials and Kohler. The acquisition of Mastervolt in fiscal 2011 increased the Electrical segment’s product offerings, including batteries, generators, battery chargers, inverters, display panels, wiring and fully integrated systems, to the global marine and European solar markets. Solar products (primarily high efficiency solar inverters for residential and small commercial applications) are sold through local distributors and installers.

Engineered Solutions

The Engineered Solutions segment is a leading global designer and assembler of customized position and motion control systems and other industrial products to various transportation and other niche markets. This segment focuses on providing technical and highly engineered products, including actuation systems, mechanical power transmission products, engine air flow management solutions and rugged electronic instrumentation.

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Products in the Engineered Solutions segment are primarily marketed directly to OEMs through a technical sales organization. Within this segment, engineering capabilities, technical service, quality and established customer relationships are key competitive advantages.

Approximately 55% of this segment’s revenue comes from the vehicle systems product line (Power-Packer, Gits and Power Gear brands), which is sold to the truck, automotive, off-highway and specialty vehicle markets. Products include hydraulic cab-tilt and latching systems which are sold to global heavy duty truck OEMs such as Volvo, Iveco, Scania, Paccar-DAF and CNHTC and electro-hydraulic convertible top latching and actuation systems. The automotive convertible top actuation systems are utilized on both retractable soft and hard top vehicles manufactured by OEMs such as Daimler, Volkswagen, Renault, Peugeot, BMW, Volvo and Nissan. Our diesel engine air flow solutions, such as exhaust gas recirculation (“EGR”) systems, are used by diesel engine and turbocharger manufacturers to reduce emissions, improve fuel efficiency and increase horsepower. Primary end markets include heavy duty truck and off-highway equipment serving customers such as Caterpillar, Cummins, Honeywell and Borg Warner. We also sell actuation systems to various specialty vehicle OEMs (principally in the defense, recreational vehicle and off-highway markets) such as Oshkosh and Fleetwood.

The recent Maxima Technologies tuck-in acquisitions of Turotest Medidores Ltda and CrossControl AB, along with the fiscal 2011 acquisition of Weasler Engineering have further diversified the geographic presence, technologies and end markets of the Engineered Solutions segment. The broad range of products, technologies and engineered solutions of Weasler Engineering, Maxima Technologies, Elliott Manufacturing, Sanlo and Nielsen Sessions comprise the Other product line within the segment. Products include severe-duty electronic instrumentation (including displays and clusters, machine controls and sensors), power transmission products (highly engineered power transmission components including drive shafts, torque limiters, gearboxes, torsional dampers and flexible shafts), and a comprehensive line of case, container and industrial hardware. These products are sold to a variety of niche markets including agricultural implement, lawn & turf, construction, forestry, industrial, aerospace, material handling and security.

International Business

Our products and services are generally available worldwide, with our principal markets outside the United States being Europe and Asia. In fiscal 2012 we derived approximately 52% of our net sales from the United States, 34% from Europe and the Middle East, 9% from Asia and 5% from other areas. We have operations around the world and this geographic diversity allows us to draw on the skills of a global workforce, provides flexibility to our operations, allows us to drive economies of scale, provides revenue streams that may help offset economic trends that are specific to individual countries and offers us an opportunity to access new markets. In addition, we believe that our future growth depends, in part, on our ability to develop products and sales opportunities that successfully target developing countries. Although international operations are subject to certain risks, we continue to believe that a global presence is key to maintaining strong relationships with many of our global customers.

Product Development and Engineering

We conduct research and development activities to develop new products, enhance the functionality, effectiveness, ease of use and reliability of our existing products and expand the applications for our products. We believe that our engineering and research & development efforts have been key drivers of our success in the marketplace. Our advanced design and engineering capabilities contribute to the development of innovative and highly engineered products, maintain our technological leadership in each segment and enhance our ability to provide customers with unique and customized solutions and products. While much research and development activity supports improvements to existing products, our engineering staff engages in research for new products and product enhancements. We anticipate that we will continue to make significant expenditures for research and development as we seek to provide innovative products to maintain and improve our competitive position. Research and development costs are expensed as incurred, and approximated $23 million, $18 million and $15

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million in fiscal 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively. We also incur significant costs in connection with fulfilling custom orders and developing unique solutions for customer applications, which are not included in these research and development expense totals.

Through our advanced proprietary processes, with approximately 561 patents (excluding pending applications), we create products that satisfy specific customer needs and make tasks easier and more efficient for our customers. We own numerous United States and foreign patents and trademarks. No individual patent or trademark is believed to be of such importance that its termination would have a material adverse effect on our business.

Competition

The markets for all of our products are highly competitive. We provide a diverse and broad range of industrial products and systems to numerous global end markets, many of which are highly fragmented. Although we face larger competitors in several served markets, much of our competition is comprised of smaller companies that often lack the global footprint or financial resources to serve global customers. We compete for business principally on the basis of customer service, product quality and availability, engineering, research and development expertise, and price. In addition, we believe that our competitive cost structure, strategic global sourcing capabilities and global distribution support our competitive position.

Manufacturing and Operations

While we do have extensive manufacturing capabilities including machining, stamping, injection molding and fabrication, our manufacturing primarily consists of light assembly operations. We have implemented single piece flow methodology in most of our manufacturing plants, which reduces inventory levels, lowers “re-work” costs and shortens lead times to customers. We assemble the majority of the products we sell, but strategically source components and finished goods from an established global network of qualified suppliers. Components are purchased from a variety of suppliers, including those in low cost countries such as China, Turkey and Mexico. We have built strong relationships with our key suppliers and, while we single source certain of our components, we believe that in most cases there are several qualified alternative sources.

Raw Material Costs and Inflation

We source a wide variety of materials and components from a network of global suppliers. These items are typically available from numerous suppliers. Raw materials, such as steel, plastic resin and copper, are subject to price fluctuations, which could have a negative impact on our results. We strive to offset such cost inflation with price increases to customers and by driving operational cost reductions.

No meaningful measures of inflation are available because we have significant operations in countries with diverse rates of inflation and currency rate movements. However, we believe that the overall rate of inflation in recent years has been relatively low and has not had a significant effect on our results of operations, after factoring in price increases and other manufacturing cost reductions.

Order Backlogs and Seasonality

Our Industrial, Energy and Electrical segments have relatively short order-to-ship cycles, while our OEM oriented Engineered Solutions segment has a longer cycle, and therefore typically has a larger backlog. We had order backlogs of approximately $226 million and $260 million at August 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively. The decrease in backlog is primarily due to reduced production schedules and orders from auto and truck OEMs in our Engineered Solutions segment. Substantially all orders are expected to be completed in the next twelve months. While we typically enjoy a stronger second half of our fiscal year, our consolidated sales in total are not subject to significant seasonal fluctuations.

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Sales Percentages by Fiscal Quarter

Employees

At August 31, 2012, we employed approximately 6,700 individuals. Our employees are not subject to collective bargaining agreements, with the exception of approximately 400 U.S. production employees, as well as certain international employees covered by government mandated collective labor agreements. We believe we have a good working relationship with our employees.

Environmental Matters

Our operations, like those of most industrial businesses, are subject to federal, state, local and foreign laws and regulations relating to the protection of the environment, including those regulating discharges of hazardous materials into the air and water, the storage and disposal of such materials and the clean-up of soil and groundwater contamination. We believe that we are in substantial compliance with applicable environmental regulations. Compliance with these laws has and will require expenditures on an ongoing basis. However, environmental expenditures over the last three years have not been material. Soil and groundwater contamination has been identified at a few facilities that we operate or formerly owned or operated. We are also a party to certain state and local environmental matters, have provided environmental indemnifications for certain divested businesses, and retain responsibility for certain potential environmental liabilities. For further information, see Note 17, “Contingencies and Litigation” in the notes to consolidated financial statements.

Executive Officers of the Registrant

The names, ages and positions of all of the executive officers of the Company as of October 15, 2012 are listed below.

Robert C. Arzbaecher, President and Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board of Directors. Mr. Arzbaecher was named President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company in August 2000. He served as Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of the Company starting in 1994 and Senior Vice President in 1998. He served as Vice President, Finance of Tools & Supplies from 1993 to 1994. He joined the Company in 1992 as Corporate Controller. From 1988 through 1991, Mr. Arzbaecher was employed by Grabill Aerospace Industries LTD, where he last held the position of Chief Financial Officer.

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William L. Axline, Executive Vice President—Global Customer Relationships. In fiscal 2011, Mr. Axline was appointed to the newly created position of Executive Vice President—Global Customer Relationships. Mr. Axline joined Actuant in January 2008 as Executive Vice President of the Electrical Segment. Prior to Actuant, Mr. Axline held the role of Executive Vice President, Chief Operating Officer of Fluidmaster, Inc. from 2003 to 2007. Prior to joining Fluidmaster, he served as President, Chief Executive Officer, of Distribution America, Inc. from 2001 to 2003 and held the role of Vice President, General Manager at Alltrade, Inc. from 1999 to 2000. Mr. Axline also has over 27 years of leadership experience with The Stanley Works.

William S. Blackmore, Executive Vice President—Engineered Solutions Segment. Mr. Blackmore has been the Executive Vice-President—Engineered Solutions Segment since fiscal year 2004. He joined the Company as leader of the Engineered Solutions-Americas business in fiscal year 2002. Prior to joining Actuant, he served as President of Integrated Systems—Americas at APW Ltd. from 2000 to 2001 and as President, Rexnord Gear and Coupling Products from 1997 to 2000. Prior to 1997, Mr. Blackmore held various general management positions at Rexnord and Pillar Industries.

Gustav H.P. Boel, Executive Vice President and member of the Board of Directors. Mr. Boel has been associated with the Company for over 25 years, currently as a member of the Board of Directors and an Executive Vice President in charge of our LEAD initiatives. Following the spin-off of the Company’s Electronics segment in fiscal 2000, he left the Company as an employee but served as a member of the Board of Directors. During this time he was employed by APW Ltd., where he last held the position of Senior Vice President. In September 2002, he rejoined the Company as an employee and was named business leader of the European Electrical business in addition to his Board responsibilities. Prior to the spin-off, he held various positions with the Company, including President of the Industrial business segment, President of Engineered Solutions Europe and President of Enerpac.

Mark E. Goldstein, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. Mr. Goldstein has been Actuant’s Chief Operating Officer since fiscal 2007. He joined the Company in fiscal 2001 as the leader of the Gardner Bender business and was appointed Executive Vice President—Tools and Supplies in 2003. Prior to joining Actuant, he spent over 20 years in sales, marketing and operations management positions at The Stanley Works, most recently as President, Stanley Door Systems.

Sheri R. Grissom, Executive Vice President—Global Human Resources. Ms. Grissom joined Actuant in fiscal 2011, from Johnson Controls, where she was Vice President of Human Resources for the Service, Energy Solution and Global Workplace Solutions business. Prior to that, Ms. Grissom held human resource leadership positions with several leading global organizations including Johns Manville, McKechnie Group and General Electric. Ms. Grissom brings to Actuant over 20 years of global human resources experience.

Brian K. Kobylinski, Executive Vice President—Industrial and Energy Segments. Mr. Kobylinski joined the Company in 1993 and progressed through a number of management roles within the Electrical Segment. He became Vice President of Business Development for Actuant in 2002 and was named Global Business Leader, Hydratight in 2005. In 2007, he was promoted to the position of Industrial and Energy Segment Leader. Prior to joining the Company, Mr. Kobylinski was employed by Fort Howard Corporation and Federated Insurance.

Andrew G. Lampereur, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. Mr. Lampereur joined the Company in 1993 as Corporate Controller, a position he held until 1996 when he was appointed Vice President of Finance for Gardner Bender. In 1998, Mr. Lampereur was appointed Vice President, General Manager for Gardner Bender. He was appointed to his present position in August 2000. Prior to joining the Company, Mr. Lampereur held a number of financial management positions at Terex Corporation.

David L. Scheer, Executive Vice President—Electrical Segment. Mr. Scheer joined Actuant in his current role in fiscal 2011, bringing over 25 years of experience in retail and wholesale electrical businesses. Prior to joining Actuant, Mr. Scheer was Chief Operating Officer at GranQuartz and Sigma Electric Manufacturing from

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2005 through 2010. Mr. Scheer also previously held various management positions at Rexel USA, Thomas & Betts and Electroline Manufacturing.

Theodore C. Wozniak, Executive Vice President—Business Development. Mr. Wozniak joined Actuant in 2006 in his current position. Prior to joining Actuant, Mr. Wozniak held senior investment banking positions at Wachovia Securities, most recently as Managing Director of the Industrial Growth Corporate Finance Group. Mr. Wozniak was employed by Wachovia Securities for ten years. Prior to that, Mr. Wozniak held various investment banking positions at First Chicago Capital Markets and Riggs National Corporation.

Item  1A.    Risk Factors

The Company’s financial condition, results of operations, cash flows or liquidity may be adversely affected by a prolonged economic downturn or economic uncertainty.

Our businesses and operating results have been and will continue to be affected by worldwide economic conditions. The level of demand for our products depends, in part, on the general economic conditions that exist in our served end markets. A substantial portion of our revenues are derived from customers in cyclical industries (vehicles, industrial, oil & gas, marine and electrical) that typically are adversely affected by downward economic cycles. As global economic conditions weaken or economic uncertainty continues, our customers may experience deterioration of their businesses, which may delay or lengthen sales cycles. Unforeseen events may also require additional restructuring costs. Although we expect that the related cost savings and realization of efficiencies will offset the restructuring related costs over time, we may not achieve the net benefits. Like most industrial companies, our sensitivity to economic cycles may have a material effect on our financial condition, results of operations, cash flows and liquidity.

Our growth strategy includes strategic acquisitions. We may not be able to consummate future acquisitions or successfully integrate recent and future acquisitions.

A significant portion of our growth has come from strategic acquisitions of businesses. We plan to continue making acquisitions to enhance our global market position and broaden our product offerings. Our ability to successfully execute acquisitions will be impacted by a number of factors, including the availability of financing on terms acceptable to us, our ability to identify acquisition candidates and increased competition for acquisitions. The process of integrating acquired businesses into our existing operations may result in unforeseen operating difficulties and may require additional financial resources and attention from management that would otherwise be available for the ongoing development or expansion of our existing operations. Failure to effectively execute our acquisition strategy or successfully integrate the acquired businesses could have an adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations, cash flows and liquidity.

We may not be able to realize the anticipated benefits from acquired companies.

We may not be able to realize the anticipated benefits from acquired companies. Achieving those benefits depends on the timely, efficient and successful execution of a number of post-acquisition events, including integrating the acquired business into the Company. Factors that could affect our ability to achieve these benefits include:

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If acquired businesses do not operate as we anticipate, it could materially impact our business, financial condition and results of operations. In addition, acquired businesses may operate in niche markets in which we have little or no experience. In such instances, we will be highly dependent on existing managers and employees to manage those businesses, and the loss of any key managers or employees of the acquired business could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations, cash flows and liquidity.

The indemnification provisions of acquisition agreements by which we have acquired companies may not fully protect us and may result in unexpected liabilities.

Certain of the acquisition agreements from past acquisitions require the former owners to indemnify us against certain liabilities related to the operation of each of their companies before we acquired it. In most of these agreements, however, the liability of the former owners is limited and certain former owners may not be able to meet their indemnification responsibilities. These indemnification provisions may not fully protect us, and as a result we may face unexpected liabilities that adversely affect our profitability and financial position.

Our goodwill and other intangible assets represent a substantial amount of our total assets.

Our total assets reflect substantial intangible assets, primarily goodwill. At August 31, 2012, goodwill and other intangible assets totaled $1,312 million, or about 65% of our total assets. The goodwill results from our acquisitions, representing the excess of cost over the fair value of the net tangible and other identifiable intangible assets we have acquired. We assess annually whether there has been impairment in the value of our goodwill or indefinite-lived intangible assets. If future operating performance at one or more of our reporting units were to fall significantly below current levels, we could be required to recognize a non-cash charge to operating earnings for goodwill or other intangible asset impairment. Any significant goodwill or intangible asset impairment could negatively affect our financial condition and results of operations. During fiscal 2012, we recognized pre-tax goodwill and intangible asset impairment charges of $62 million related to our Mastervolt business. See Note 6, “Impairment Charges” in the notes to consolidated financial statements for more information regarding goodwill and intangible asset impairment charges.

If the Company fails to develop new products or its customers do not accept the new products it develops, the Company’s business could be adversely affected.

Our ability to develop new products based on innovation can affect our competitive position and often requires the investment of significant resources. Difficulties or delays in research, development or production of new products or failure to gain market acceptance of new products and technologies may reduce future sales and adversely affect our competitive position. We continue to invest in the development and marketing of new products through our G + I process. There can be no assurance that we will have sufficient resources to make such investments, that we will be able to make the technological advances necessary to maintain competitive advantages or that we can recover major research and development expenses. If we fail to make innovations, launch products with quality problems or the market does not accept our new products, then our financial condition, results of operations, cash flows and liquidity could be adversely affected. A lack of successful new product developments may also cause customers to buy from a competitor or may cause us to have to lower our prices to compete.

Our indebtedness could harm our operating flexibility and competitive position.

We have incurred, and may in the future incur, significant indebtedness in connection with acquisitions. We have, and will continue to have, a substantial amount of debt which requires interest and principal payments. Our level of debt and the limitations imposed on us by our debt agreements could adversely affect our operating flexibility and put us at a competitive disadvantage. Our substantial debt level may adversely affect our future performance.

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Our ability to make scheduled principal and interest payments, refinance our indebtedness and satisfy our other debt and lease obligations will depend upon our future operating performance and credit market conditions, which could be affected by factors beyond our control. In addition, there can be no assurance that future borrowings or equity financings will be available to us on favorable terms, or at all, for the payment or refinancing of our indebtedness. If we are unable to service our indebtedness, our business, financial condition and results of operations will be adversely affected.

Our ability to service our debt obligations would be harmed if we fail to comply with the financial and other covenants in our debt agreements.

Our senior credit agreement and our other debt agreements contain financial and other restrictive covenants. These covenants could adversely affect us by limiting our financial and operating flexibility as well as our ability to plan for and react to market conditions and to meet our capital needs. Our failure to comply with these covenants could result in events of default which, if not cured or waived, could result in us being required to repay indebtedness before its due date, and we may not have the financial resources or be able to arrange alternative financing to do so. Borrowings under our senior credit facility are secured by most domestic personal property assets and are guaranteed by most of our domestic subsidiaries and by a pledge of the stock of most of our domestic subsidiaries and certain foreign subsidiaries. If borrowings under our senior credit facility were declared or became due and payable immediately as the result of an event of default and we were unable to repay or refinance those borrowings, the lenders could foreclose on the pledged assets and stock. Any event that requires us to repay any of our debt before it is due could require us to borrow additional amounts at unfavorable borrowing terms, cause a significant decrease in our liquidity and impair our ability to pay amounts due on our indebtedness. Moreover, if we are required to repay any of our debt before it becomes due, we may be unable to borrow additional amounts or otherwise obtain the cash necessary to repay that debt, when due, which could seriously harm our business.

Our businesses operate in highly competitive markets, so we may be forced to cut prices or incur additional costs.

Our businesses generally face substantial competition in each of their respective markets. We may lose market share in certain businesses or be forced to reduce prices or incur increased costs. We compete on the basis of product design, quality, availability, performance, customer service and price. Present or future competitors may have greater financial, technical or other resources which could put us at a competitive disadvantage.

Our international operations pose currency and other risks.

We continue to focus on penetrating global markets as part of our overall growth strategy and expect sales from and into foreign markets to continue to represent a significant portion of our revenue. In addition, many of the Company’s manufacturing operations and suppliers are located outside the United States. Our international operations present special risks, primarily from currency exchange rate fluctuations, exposure to local economic and political conditions, export and import restrictions, controls on repatriation of cash and exposure to local political conditions. In particular, our results of operations have been significantly affected by fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates, especially the Euro and British pound. For example, since approximately one-third of our revenue is generated in Europe, the strengthing of the U.S. dollar against the Euro and British pound in fiscal 2012 unfavorably impacted our results of operations due to the translation of non-U.S. dollar denominated revenues. In addition, there have been several proposals to reform international taxation rules in the United States. We earn a substantial portion of our income from international operations and therefore changes to United States international tax rules may have a material adverse effect on future results of operations or liquidity. To the extent that we expand our international presence, these risks may increase.

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Geopolitical unrest and terrorist activities may cause the economic conditions in the U.S. or abroad to deteriorate, which could harm our business.

Terrorist attacks against targets in the U.S. or abroad, rumors or threats of war, other geopolitical activity or trade disruptions may impact our operations or cause general economic conditions in the U.S. and abroad to deteriorate. A prolonged economic slowdown or recession in the U.S. or in other areas of the world could reduce the demand for our products and, therefore, negatively affect our future sales. Any of these events could have a significant impact on our business, financial condition or results of operations.

Large or rapid increases in the costs of raw materials or substantial decreases in their availability could adversely affect our operations.

The primary raw materials that we use include steel, plastic resin, copper, brass, steel wire and rubber. Most of our suppliers are not currently parties to long-term contracts with us. Consequently, we are vulnerable to fluctuations in prices of such raw materials. If market prices for certain materials such as steel, plastic resin and copper rise, it could have a negative effect on our operating results and ability to manufacture our respective products on a timely basis. Factors such as supply and demand, freight costs and transportation availability, inventory levels, the level of imports and general economic conditions may affect the prices of raw materials that we need. If we experience a significant increase in raw material prices, or if we are unable to pass along increases in raw material prices to our customers, our results of operations could be adversely affected. In addition, an increasing portion of our products are sourced from low cost regions. Changes in export laws, taxes and disruptions in transportation routes could adversely impact our results of operations.

Regulatory and legal developments including changes to United States taxation rules, health care reform and governmental climate change initiatives could negatively affect our financial performance.

Our operations and the markets we compete in are subject to numerous federal, state, local and foreign governmental laws and regulations. Existing laws and regulations may be revised or reinterpreted and new laws and regulations, including with respect to taxation, health care reform and governmental climate change initiatives, may be adopted or become applicable to us or customers. These regulations are complex, change frequently and have tended to become more stringent over time. We cannot predict the form any such new laws or regulations will take or the impact any of these laws and regulations will have on our business or operations. Any significant change in any of these regulations could reduce demand for our products or increase our cost of producing these products.

Due to our global operations, we are subject to many laws governing international relations, including those that prohibit improper payments to government officials and commercial customers, and restrict where we can do business, what information or products we can supply to certain countries and what information we can provide to a non-U.S. government, including but not limited to the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act and the U.S. Export Administration Act. Violations of these laws, which are complex, may result in criminal penalties or sanctions that could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Environmental laws and regulations may result in additional costs.

We are subject to federal, state, local and foreign laws and regulations governing public and worker health and safety. Any violations of these laws by us could cause us to incur unanticipated liabilities that could harm our operating results. Pursuant to such laws, governmental authorities have required us to contribute to the cost of investigating or remediating certain matters at current or previously owned and operated sites. In addition, we provided environmental indemnities in connection with the sale of certain businesses and product lines. Liability as an owner or operator, or as an arranger for the treatment or disposal of hazardous substances, can be joint and several and can be imposed without regard to fault. There is a risk that our costs relating to these matters could be greater than what we currently expect or exceed our insurance coverage, or that additional remediation and compliance obligations could arise which require us to make material expenditures. In particular, more stringent

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environmental laws, unanticipated remediation requirements or the discovery of previously unknown conditions could materially harm our financial condition and operating results. We are also required to comply with various environmental laws and maintain permits, some of which are subject to discretionary renewal from time to time, for many of our businesses, and our business operations could be restricted if we are unable to renew existing permits or to obtain any additional permits that we may require.

Any loss of key personnel and the inability to attract and retain qualified employees could have a material adverse impact on our operations.

We are dependent on the continued services of key executives such as our Chief Executive Officer, Chief Operating Officer, Chief Financial Officer and executives in charge of our segments. We currently do not have employment agreements with most of these or other officers. The departure of key personnel without adequate replacement could severely disrupt our business operations. Additionally, we need qualified managers and skilled employees with technical and manufacturing industry experience to operate our businesses successfully. From time to time there may be shortages of skilled labor which may make it more difficult and expensive for us to attract and retain qualified employees. If we are unable to attract and retain qualified individuals or our costs to do so increase significantly, our operations would be materially adversely affected.

If our intellectual property protection is inadequate, others may be able to use our technologies and tradenames and thereby reduce our ability to compete, which could have a material adverse effect on us, our financial condition and results of operations.

We regard much of the technology underlying our services and products and the trademarks under which we market our products as proprietary. The steps we take to protect our proprietary technology may be inadequate to prevent misappropriation of our technology, or third parties may independently develop similar technology. We rely on a combination of patents, trademark, copyright and trade secret laws, employee and third-party non-disclosure agreements and other contracts to establish and protect our technology and other intellectual property rights. The agreements may be breached or terminated, and we may not have adequate remedies for any breach, and existing trade secrets, patent and copyright law afford us limited protection. Policing unauthorized use of our intellectual property is difficult. A third party could copy or otherwise obtain and use our products or technology without authorization. Litigation may be necessary for us to defend against claims of infringement or to protect our intellectual property rights and could result in substantial cost to us and diversion of our efforts. Further, we might not prevail in such litigation which could harm our business.

Our products could infringe on the intellectual property of others, which may cause us to engage in costly litigation and, if we are not successful, could cause us to pay substantial damages and prohibit us from selling our products.

Third parties may assert infringement or other intellectual property claims against us based on their patents or other intellectual property claims, and we may have to pay substantial damages, possibly including treble damages, if it is ultimately determined that our products infringe. We may have to obtain a license to sell our products if it is determined that our products infringe upon another party’s intellectual property. We might be prohibited from selling our products before we obtain a license, which, if available at all, may require us to pay substantial royalties. Even if infringement claims against us are without merit, defending these types of lawsuits takes significant time, may be expensive and may divert management attention from other business concerns.

Item  1B.    Unresolved Staff Comments

None.

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Item  2.    Properties

As of August 31, 2012, the Company operated the following facilities in its continuing operations (square footage in thousands):

We consider our facilities suitable and adequate for the purposes for which they are used and do not anticipate difficulty in renewing existing leases as they expire or in finding alternative facilities. Our largest locations are located in the United States, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands and China. We also maintain a presence in Australia, Azerbaijan, Brazil, Canada, Finland, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Hungary, India, Italy, Japan, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Russia, Singapore, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Turkey and the United Arab Emirates. See Note 10 “Leases” in the notes to the consolidated financial statements for information with respect to our lease commitments. In addition to the facilities above, we retain responsibility for approximately 9 owned or leased facilities that are now idle and available for sale or sublease.

Item  3.    Legal Proceedings

We are a party to various legal proceedings that have arisen in the normal course of business, including product liability, environmental, labor and patent claims.

We have recorded reserves for estimated losses based on the specific circumstances of each case. Such reserves are recorded when it is probable that a loss has been incurred as of the balance sheet date, the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated and the loss is not covered by insurance. In our opinion, the resolution of these contingencies is not likely to have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operation or cash flows. For further information refer to Note 17, “Contingencies and Litigation” in the notes to consolidated financial statements.

Item  4.    Mine Safety Disclosures

Not applicable.

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PART II

The Company’s common stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol ATU. At September 30, 2012, there were 1,776 shareholders of record of Actuant Corporation common stock. The high and low sales prices of the common stock were as follows for the previous two fiscal years:

Dividends

In fiscal 2012, the Company declared a dividend of $0.04 per common share payable on October 16, 2012 to shareholders of record on September 28, 2012. In fiscal 2011, the Company declared a dividend of $0.04 per common share payable on October 14, 2011 to shareholders of record on September 30, 2011.

Share Repurchases

In September 2011, the Company’s Board of Directors authorized a stock repurchase program to acquire up to 7,000,000 shares of the Company’s outstanding Class A common stock. Since the inception of the stock repurchase program 2,658,751 shares have been repurchased at a total cost of $63 million. The following table presents information regarding the repurchase of common stock by the Company during the three months ended August 31, 2012. All of the shares were repurchased as part of the publicly announced program.

Securities Authorized for Issuance under Equity Compensation Plans

The information required by Item 201(d) of Regulation S-K is provided under Item 12, Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters, which is incorporated herein by reference.

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Performance Graph:

The graph below compares the cumulative 5-year total return of Actuant Corporation’s common stock with the cumulative total returns of the S&P 500 index and the Dow Jones US Diversified Industrials index. The graph tracks the performance of a $100 investment in our common stock and in each of the indexes (with the reinvestment of all dividends) from August 31, 2007 to August 31, 2012.

COMPARISON OF 5 YEAR CUMULATIVE TOTAL RETURN

Among Actuant Corporation, the S&P 500 Index, and the Dow Jones US Diversified

Industrials Index

Copyright^© 2012 S&P, a division of The McGraw-Hill Companies Inc. All rights reserved.

The stock price performance included in this graph is not necessarily indicative of future stock price performance.

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Item 6.    Selected Financial Data

The following selected historical financial data have been derived from the consolidated financial statements of the Company. The data should be read in conjunction with these financial statements and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.”

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

Background

As Discussed in Item 1, “Business,” we are a global diversified company that manufactures a broad range of industrial products and systems and are organized into four reportable segments, Industrial, Energy, Electrical and Engineered Solutions. The Industrial segment is primarily involved in the design, manufacture and distribution of branded hydraulic and mechanical tools to the maintenance, industrial, infrastructure and production automation markets. The Energy segment provides joint integrity products and services, as well as rope and cable solutions to the global oil & gas, power generation and energy markets. The Electrical segment designs, manufactures and distributes a broad range of electrical products to the retail DIY, wholesale, OEM, solar, utility, marine and other harsh environment markets. The Engineered Solutions segment provides highly engineered position and motion control systems to OEMs in various vehicle markets, as well as a variety of other products to the industrial and agricultural markets.

Our businesses provide a vast array of products and services across multiple customers and geographies which results in significant diversification. The long-term sales growth and profitability of our segments will depend not only on improved demand in end markets and the overall economic environment, but also on our ability to identify, consummate and integrate strategic acquisitions, develop and market innovative new products, expand our business activity geographically and continuously improve operational excellence. We remain focused on maintaining our financial strength by adjusting our cost structure to reflect changes in demand levels and by proactively managing working capital and cash flow generation. Our priorities during fiscal 2013 include a continued focus on operational excellence, cash flow generation and growth initiatives (new product development, market share gains and strategic acquisitions).

Results of Operations

The comparability of operating results has been impacted by acquisitions, divestitures and the economic conditions that exist in the end markets we serve. The operating results of acquired businesses are included in our consolidated financial statements only since their respective acquisition date. Additionally, changes in foreign currency exchange rates also influence our financial results as approximately one-half of our sales are denominated in currencies other than the U.S. dollar. The year-over-year weakening of the Euro during fiscal 2012 unfavorably impacted our operating results due to the translation of Euro denominated results. Impairment charges, restructuring costs and the related benefits from previously completed restructuring projects also impact the comparability of operating results. Since the global recession in 2009 and 2010, we have taken significant actions to address our cost structure, including workforce reductions, consolidation of facilities and the centralization of certain selling and administrative functions.

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Historical Financial Data (in millions)

Consolidated net sales increased by approximately $160 million (11%) from $1,445 million in fiscal 2011 to $1,605 million in fiscal 2012. Excluding the $118 million of sales from acquired businesses and the $24 million unfavorable impact of foreign currency exchange rate changes, fiscal 2012 consolidated core sales increased 5%. Consolidated net sales increased by approximately $284 million (25%) from $1,161 million in fiscal 2010 to $1,445 million in fiscal 2011. Excluding the $119 million of sales from acquired businesses and the $23 million favorable impact of foreign currency exchange rate changes, fiscal 2011 consolidated core sales increased 13% compared to the prior year. Changes in net sales at the segment level are discussed in further detail below.

Consolidated operating profit for fiscal 2012 was $170 million, compared to $194 million and $122 million for fiscal 2011 and 2010, respectively. In addition to the impact of economic conditions, the comparability of results between periods is impacted by acquisitions, changes in foreign currency exchange rates, $17 million of debt refinancing charges in fiscal 2012, the $62 million non-cash impairment charge recognized in fiscal 2012 and the timing and amount of restructuring charges and related benefits. Changes in operating profit at the segment level are discussed in further detail below.

Segment Results

Industrial Segment

While core sales growth in the Industrial segment moderated throughout fiscal 2012 (due in-part to tougher prior year comparables), the segment delivered four consecutive quarters of year-over-year core sales growth in fiscal 2012, driven by elevated industrial manufacturing activities. This core sales growth and operational improvements drove segment profitability. The Industrial segment continues to focus on providing customers with innovative integrated solutions, the commercialization of new products and the expansion of its business in

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fast growing regions and vertical markets. The following table sets forth summary results of operations for the Industrial segment (in millions):

Fiscal 2012 compared to Fiscal 2011

Fiscal 2012 Industrial segment net sales increased by $26 million (7%) to $419 million, the result of strong industrial tool demand across most geographies. Excluding the unfavorable impact of foreign currency exchange rates ($7 million), core sales growth for fiscal 2012 was 9%. Growth + Innovation initiatives, including targeted vertical market strategies (mining, industrial, infrastructure) and increased global demand for heavy lift and hydraulic systems (Integrated Solutions), also contributed to sales growth. These higher sales volumes, operational efficiencies, favorable product mix and lower incentive compensation costs resulted in operating profit margin expansion during fiscal 2012. Operating profit was $115 million in fiscal 2012, compared to $98 million in fiscal 2011, a $17 million (17%) increase.

Fiscal 2011 compared to Fiscal 2010

Fiscal 2011 Industrial segment net sales increased by $93 million (31%) to $393 million. The acquisition of two Integrated Solutions businesses (Hydrospex and Team Hydrotec) contributed $36 million of sales for the twelve months ended August 31, 2011. Excluding sales from these acquisitions and the favorable impact of the weaker U.S. dollar ($8 million), core sales grew 19% in fiscal 2011. In addition to generally improved macroeconomic conditions, the increased sales were the result of new product introductions and increased demand from end users in the mining, oil & gas and general maintenance industries. Industrial segment operating profit increased to $98 million for the year ended August 31, 2011 compared to $66 million in fiscal 2010. Fiscal 2011 operating profit comparisons were favorably impacted by increased sales volumes and a $6 million reduction in restructuring costs. The expansion of the Industrial segment operating profit margin, despite unfavorable acquisition mix and additional costs associated with growth initiatives, was the result of a lower cost structure from past restructuring actions and increased production levels (higher absorption of fixed manufacturing costs).

Energy Segment

Worldwide requirements for energy and supportive oil prices have encouraged Energy segment customers and asset owners to invest in capital projects, improve output and efficiencies and complete previously deferred maintenance activities. As a result, we have experienced broad based strength across this segment which generated year-over-year double digit core sales growth throughout fiscal 2012. The following table sets forth summary results of operations for the Energy segment (in millions):

Fiscal 2012 compared to Fiscal 2011

Energy segment net sales for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2012 increased $56 million (19%) to $349 million from $293 million a year ago. Excluding $7 million of sales from the Jeyco acquisition in 2012 and

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the impact of foreign currency rate changes (which unfavorably impacted sales by $5 million), core sales grew 19% in 2012. The core sales growth reflects market share gains and continued strong demand for our products, rental assets and technical manpower services across the global energy market. Energy segment operating profit increased $13 million (27%) to $62 million in fiscal 2012 compared to $49 million in fiscal 2011. The year-over-year improvement in operating profit margins is primarily the result of continued productivity improvements, increased operating leverage (driven by higher sales volumes), reduced incentive compensation costs and a favorable $3 million adjustment to an acquisition earn-out provision.

Fiscal 2011 compared to Fiscal 2010

Energy segment net sales in fiscal 2011 were $293 million, a $57 million (24%) increase over the prior year. Excluding sales from acquired businesses and foreign currency changes (which favorably impacted fiscal 2011 sales by $23 million), core sales increased 15% during fiscal 2011. This increase was the result of higher activity levels across nearly all of the segment’s primary markets including capital project activity in the oil & gas market, maintenance related spending in North America and emerging markets and strong sales to the power generation market. Energy segment operating profit increased $18 million (58%) to $49 million in fiscal 2011 compared to $31 million in fiscal 2010. The year-over-year increase in operating profit margins is primarily the result of continued productivity improvements and significantly increased operating leverage, a $2 million reduction in restructuring charges and favorable acquisition mix, partially offset by higher incentive compensation costs.

Electrical Segment

During fiscal 2012, many of the end markets within the Electrical segment recovered modestly from recessionary lows. These improved end market conditions and certain pricing actions resulted in the Electrical segment delivering 7% core sales growth for the fiscal year. This segment continues to focus on driving cost savings from the recently completed manufacturing facility consolidation and being responsive to end market demand (including changes in European solar feed-in tariffs and end market demand in North America). The following table sets forth the summary results of operations for the Electrical segment (in millions):

Fiscal 2012 compared to Fiscal 2011

Electrical segment net sales increased $43 million (15%) in fiscal 2012 to $329 million. Excluding increased sales from the Mastervolt acquisition ($28 million) and changes in foreign currency exchange rates, core sales grew 7% in fiscal 2012. This was the result of price increases and modestly higher volumes in most sales channels. The Electrical segment generated a $35 million operating loss in fiscal 2012, compared to an operating profit of $21 million in fiscal 2011. Fiscal 2012 operating results were adversely impacted by a $62 million non-cash asset impairment charge related to the Mastervolt business. Despite unfavorable acquisition mix, higher incentive compensation costs and $4 million of restructuring costs incurred to consolidate transformer manufacturing facilities, adjusted operating profit margins expanded as a result of pricing actions, cost saving initiatives and favorable product mix.

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Fiscal 2011 compared to Fiscal 2010

Electrical segment net sales increased by $52 million (22%) to $286 million in fiscal 2011, with $49 million of sales growth due to the Mastervolt acquisition in December 2010. Excluding Mastervolt sales and favorable changes in foreign currency exchange rates, core sales were flat with fiscal 2010. Electrical segment operating profit increased by $1 million, to $21 million in fiscal 2011. Excluding restructuring costs, operating profit margins declined in fiscal 2011 primarily due to unfavorable mix resulting from the Mastervolt acquisition.

Engineered Solutions Segment

The Engineered Solutions segment experienced a core sales decline in fiscal 2012, reflecting lower production rates by truck and automotive OEMs. Despite strong demand during the first half of fiscal 2012, growth rates have since moderated in the global agriculture and North American truck and construction equipment end markets as major OEMs reduce production schedules. This segment continues to focus on integrating the recently acquired Turotest and CrossControl acquisitions and reducing its cost structure in line with reduced OEM build rates. The following table sets forth summary results of operations for the Engineered Solutions segment (in millions):

Fiscal 2012 compared to Fiscal 2011

Net sales in the Engineered Solutions segment increased $35 million (7%) to $508 million in fiscal 2012. Excluding the $84 million of sales from acquired businesses and the impact of the weaker Euro (which unfavorably impacted sales by $12 million), core sales declined 9% from the prior year. The core sales decline reflects sharply lower demand and reduced production schedules from vehicle OEM’s serving the convertible top auto and European and China heavy duty truck markets. Engineered Solutions segment operating profit was $61 million during fiscal 2012 compared to $64 million in the prior year. Segment operating profit declined from the prior year period, primarily the result of sales declines in some of its more profitable product lines, such as automotive and cab tilt trucks.

Fiscal 2011 compared to Fiscal 2010

Engineered Solutions segment net sales increased by $82 million (21%) to $473 million in fiscal 2011. Excluding the $8 million favorable impact of foreign currency rate changes and $26 million of sales from acquired businesses, core sales increased 12% in fiscal 2011. This growth reflects improved demand from vehicle OEMs in the global heavy-duty truck, agriculture and construction equipment markets. Engineered Solutions segment operating profit increased by $32 million from an operating profit of $32 million in fiscal 2010 to $64 million for fiscal 2011, primarily due to higher sales volume and favorable fixed cost leverage.

Restructuring Charges

In fiscal 2009 and 2010, in response to the dramatic downturn in the worldwide economy, we committed to various restructuring initiatives including workforce reductions, plant consolidations to reduce manufacturing capacity, the continued movement of production and product sourcing to low cost countries and the centralization of certain selling and administrative functions. These actions were substantially completed by August 31, 2010, with limited restructuring activity and expense in fiscal 2011 and 2012. Total restructuring costs were $4 million,

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$2 million and $17 million for the years ended August 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively. Restructuring charges in fiscal 2012 primarily relate to the closure of an Electrical segment manufacturing facility, including related severance and asset write-downs. We believe these restructuring actions better align our resources with strategic growth opportunities, optimize existing manufacturing capabilities, improve our overall cost structure and deliver increased free cash flow and profitability.

Impairment Charges

During the fourth quarter of fiscal 2012, we recognized a $62 million non-cash asset impairment charge related to the goodwill and indefinite lived intangible assets (tradename) of the Mastervolt business. The impairment was the result of business underperformance since its acquisition, reduced long-term Mastervolt profit and cash flow expectations, as well as weaker economic and credit conditions in Europe. While we believe the solar industry will continue to grow globally, we have reduced our long-term profitability expectations for Mastervolt (see Note 6, “Impairment Charges” for further information).

Financing Costs, Net

All debt is considered to be for general corporate purposes and therefore financing costs have not been allocated to our segments. Net financing costs were $30 million for the year ending August 31, 2012 and $32 million for each of the years ended August 31, 2011 and 2010. The reduction in interest expense in fiscal 2012 reflects the conversion of our 2% Convertible Notes into common stock, as well as the benefit of lower borrowing costs including the benefit of refinancing our Senior Notes.

Income Tax Expense

Our income tax expense is impacted by a number of factors, including the amount of taxable earnings derived in foreign jurisdictions with tax rates that are lower than the U.S. federal statutory rate, state tax rates in the jurisdictions where we do business, tax minimization planning and our ability to utilize various tax credits and net operating loss carryforwards. Income tax expense also includes the impact of provision to return adjustments and changes in valuation allowances and reserve requirements for unrecognized tax benefits. The effective income tax rate for fiscal 2012 was 27.5% (22.4% excluding the debt refinancing and impairment charges), compared to 21.8% and 21.1% in fiscal 2011 and 2010, respectively.

Discontinued Operations

Discontinued operations includes the results of the divested European Electrical business which was sold in fiscal 2010. See Note 3, “Discontinued Operations” in the notes to the consolidated financial statements for further information. The following table summarizes the results of discontinued operations (in millions):

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Liquidity and Capital Resources

The following table summarizes the cash flow attributable to operating, investing and financing activities (in millions):

Cash flows from operating activities in fiscal 2012 were a record $182 million, the result of strong cash earnings and effective working capital management, which were partially offset by the use of $30 million of cash related to the debt refinancing. This operating cash flow and the proceeds from the debt refinancing funded $63 million of share repurchases, $70 million of business acquisitions and the repayment of revolving credit facility borrowings. Proceeds from the sale of property, plant and equipment (which included the sale-leaseback of certain equipment and the sale of a vacant facility) were $9 million, while related capital expenditures were $23 million.

During fiscal 2011 we generated $172 million of cash flow from operations due to increased earnings from continuing operations and effective working capital management. We utilized this cash flow, borrowings under our Senior Credit Facility and the $4 million of proceeds from the sale of the European Electrical business to fund $313 million of acquisitions (Mastervolt and Weasler) and $23 million of capital expenditures.

In fiscal 2010, cash flows from operating activities totaled $121 million. Excluding the $37 million negative impact on working capital due to the expiration of our accounts receivable securitization program, net cash provided by operating activities increased relative to the prior year as a result of increased earnings from continuing operations, effective working capital management and the receipt of income tax refunds. This cash flow and the $8 million of proceeds from the sale of a portion of the European Electrical product line funded $46 million of acquisitions, $20 million of capital expenditures and $67 million of net debt repayments.

Primary Working Capital Management

We use primary working capital (“PWC”) as a percentage of sales as a key indicator of working capital management. We define this metric as the sum of net accounts receivable and net inventory less accounts payable, divided by the past three months sales annualized. The following table shows the components of the metric (amounts in millions):

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Liquidity

Our Senior Credit Facility, which matures on February 23, 2016, includes a $600 million revolving credit facility, a $100 million term loan and a $300 million expansion option. Quarterly principal payments of $1.25 million began on the $100 million term loan on March 31, 2012, increasing to $2.5 million per quarter beginning on March 31, 2013, with the remaining principal due at maturity. At August 31, 2012, we had $68 million of cash and cash equivalents and $598 million of unused capacity on the revolver (all of which was available for borrowings). We believe that the availability under the Senior Credit Facility, combined with our existing cash on hand and anticipated operating cash flows will be adequate to meet operating, debt service, stock buyback, acquisition funding and capital expenditure requirements for the foreseeable future.

See Note 8, “Debt” in the notes to the consolidated financial statements for further discussion on the Senior Credit Facility.

Seasonality and Working Capital

We have met our working capital and capital expenditure requirements through a combination of operating cash flow and availability under our Senior Credit Facility. Although there are modest seasonal factors within certain of our businesses, on a consolidated basis, we do not experience material changes in seasonal working capital or capital resource requirements.

Our receivables are derived from a diverse customer base in a number of industries. We have no single customer which generated 5% or more of fiscal 2012 net sales.

Capital Expenditures

The majority of our manufacturing activities consist of the assembly of components which are sourced from a variety of vendors. As a result, we believe that our capital expenditure requirements are not as extensive as many other industrial companies given the assembly nature of our operations. Capital expenditures (which have historically been funded by operating cash flows) were $23 million in both fiscal 2012, 2011 and $20 million in fiscal 2010. Capital expenditures for fiscal 2013 are expected to be approximately $30 million.

Commitments and Contingencies

We lease certain facilities, computers, equipment and vehicles under various operating lease agreements, generally over periods ranging from one to twenty years. Under most arrangements, we pay the property taxes, insurance, maintenance and expenses related to the leased property. Many of the leases include provisions that enable us to renew the lease based upon fair value rental rates on the date of expiration of the initial lease. See Note 10, “Leases,” in the notes to consolidated financial statements and the “Contractual Obligations” table below for further information.

We are contingently liable for certain lease agreements entered into by businesses that were part of our former Electronics segment, which was spun-off to shareholders in fiscal 2000. Some of these businesses were subsequently sold to third parties. If any of these businesses do not fulfill their obligations under the leases, we could be liable for such leases. The present value of future minimum lease payments for these leases was $3 million at August 31, 2012.

We had outstanding letters of credit totaling $8 million and $9 million at August 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively, the majority of which secure self-insured workers compensation liabilities.

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Contractual Obligations

The timing of payments due under our contractual commitments is as follows (in millions):

The above table includes deferred purchase price and contingent consideration related to acquisitions completed in fiscal 2012 and previous years.

Our operating lease obligations generally relate to amounts due under contracts with third party service providers. These contracts are primarily for real estate leases, information technology services (including software and hardware support services and leases) and telecommunications services. Those obligations that are not cancelable are included in the table.

We routinely issue purchase orders to numerous vendors for inventory and other supplies. These purchase orders are generally cancelable with reasonable notice to the vendor, and as such, are excluded from the contractual obligations table.

We have long-term obligations related to our deferred compensation, pension and postretirement plans at August 31, 2012 (excluded from the contractual obligations table). Our liabilities related to these plans are summarized in Note 11, “Employee Benefit Plans” in the notes to consolidated financial statements.

As discussed in Note 12, “Income Taxes” in the notes to consolidated financial statements, we have unrecognized tax benefits of $25 million at August 31, 2012. The liability for unrecognized tax benefits was not included in the table of contractual obligations because the timing of the potential settlements of these uncertain tax positions cannot be reasonably estimated.

Critical Accounting Policies

We prepare our consolidated financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”). This requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect reported amounts and related disclosures. Actual results could differ from those estimates. The following policies are considered by management to be the most critical in understanding the judgments that are involved in the preparation of our consolidated financial statements and the uncertainties that could impact our results of operations, financial position and cash flows.

Inventories:    Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market. Inventory cost is determined using the last-in, first-out (“LIFO”) method for a portion of U.S. owned inventory (approximately 19% and 18% of total inventories at August 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively). The first-in, first-out or average cost method is used for all other inventories. If the LIFO method were not used, the inventory balance would be higher than the amount in the consolidated balance sheet by approximately $7 million at August 31, 2012 and $5 million at August 31, 2011. We perform an analysis of the historical sales usage of the individual inventory items on hand and a reserve is recorded to adjust inventory cost to market value. The inventory valuation assumptions used are based on historical experience. We believe that such estimates are made based on consistent and appropriate methods; however, actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions.

Goodwill and Long-Lived Assets    Our business acquisitions typically result in recording goodwill and other intangible assets, which are a significant portion of our total assets and affect the amount of amortization expense

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and impairment charges that we could incur in future periods. On an annual basis, or more frequently if triggering events occur, we compare the estimated fair value of our reporting units to the carrying value to determine if a potential goodwill impairment exists. If the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying value, an impairment loss, if any, is recorded for the difference between the implied fair value and the carrying value of the reporting unit’s goodwill. The estimated fair value represents the amount at which a reporting unit could be bought or sold in a current transaction between willing parties on an arms-length basis. In estimating the fair value, we use a discounted cash flow model, which is dependent on a number of assumptions including estimated future revenues and expenses, weighted average cost of capital, capital expenditures and other variables. Indefinite lived intangible assets are also subject to annual impairment testing. On an annual basis, the fair value of the indefinite lived assets, based on a relief of royalty income approach, are evaluated to determine if an impairment charge is required. We also review long-lived assets for impairment when events or changes in business circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the assets may not be fully recoverable. If such indicators are present, we perform undiscounted operating cash flow analyses to determine if an impairment exists. If an impairment is determined to exist, any related impairment loss is calculated based on fair value.

A considerable amount of management judgment and assumptions are required in performing the impairment tests, principally in determining the fair value of each reporting unit and the indefinite lived intangible assets. While we believe our judgments and assumptions are reasonable, different assumptions could change the estimated fair values and, therefore, impairment charges could be required. Refer to Note 3, “Discontinued Operations” and Note 6, “Impairment Charges” in the notes to consolidated financial statements for further discussion on impairment charges.

Employee Benefit Plans:    We provide a variety of benefits to employees and former employees, including in some cases, pensions and postretirement health care. Plan assets and obligations are recorded based on an August 31 measurement date utilizing various actuarial assumptions such as discount rates, assumed rates of return and health care cost trend rates. We determine the discount rate assumptions by referencing high-quality long-term bond rates that are matched to the duration of our benefit obligations, with appropriate consideration of local market factors, participant demographics and benefit payment terms. At August 31, 2012 and 2011, the weighted-average discount rate on domestic benefit plans was 3.90% and 5.00%, respectively. In estimating the expected return on plan assets, we consider the historical returns on plan assets, forward-looking considerations, inflation assumptions and the impact of the management of the plans’ invested assets. Domestic benefit plan assets consist primarily of participating units in mutual funds, index funds and bond funds. The expected return on domestic benefit plan assets was 7.75% and 7.90% at August 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively. A 25 basis point change in the assumptions for the discount rate or expected return on plan assets would not materially change fiscal 2013 domestic benefit plan expense.

We review actuarial assumptions on an annual basis and make modifications based on current rates and trends when appropriate. As required by U.S. GAAP, the effects of the modifications are recorded currently or amortized over future periods. Based on information provided by independent actuaries and other relevant sources, we believe that the assumptions used are reasonable; however, changes in these assumptions could impact our financial position, results of operations or cash flows. See Note 11, “Employee Benefit Plans” in the notes to the consolidated financial statements for further discussion.

Income Taxes:    We recognize deferred tax assets and liabilities for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases and operating loss and other loss carryforwards. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. Income tax expense also reflects best estimates and assumptions regarding, among other things, the level of future taxable income and the effect of various tax planning strategies. Future tax authority rulings and changes in tax laws, changes in projected levels of taxable income and future tax planning strategies could affect the actual effective tax rate and tax balances recorded

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Use of Estimates:    We record reserves or allowances for customer rebates, returns and discounts, doubtful accounts, inventory, incurred but not reported medical claims, environmental matters, warranty claims, workers compensation claims, product and non-product litigation and incentive compensation. These reserves require the use of estimates and judgment. We base our estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. We believe that such estimates are made on a consistent basis and with appropriate assumptions and methods. However, actual results may differ from these estimates.

New Accounting Pronouncements

The information required by this Item is provided in Note 1, “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies” in the notes to consolidated financial statements contained in Item 8—Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.

Item  7A.    Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

We are exposed to market risk from changes in foreign currency exchange rates and interest rates and, to a lesser extent, commodities. To reduce such risks, we selectively use financial instruments and other proactive management techniques. All hedging transactions are authorized and executed pursuant to clearly defined policies and procedures, which strictly prohibit the use of financial instruments for trading or speculative purposes. A discussion of our accounting policies for derivative financial instruments is included within Note 1, “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies” in the notes to the consolidated financial statements.

Currency Risk—We have exposure to foreign currency exchange fluctuations. Approximately 50% of our revenues are denominated in currencies other than the U.S. dollar. Of those non-U.S. dollar denominated amounts, approximately 48% were denominated in Euro, with the remainder denominated in British pounds and various Asian and other currencies. Our identifiable foreign currency exchange exposure results primarily from the anticipated purchase of product from affiliates and third party suppliers and from the repayment of intercompany loans between subsidiaries denominated in foreign currencies. We periodically identify areas where we do not have naturally offsetting positions and then may purchase hedging instruments to protect against anticipated exposures.

Interest Rate Risk—We have earnings exposure related to interest rate changes on our outstanding floating rate debt instruments that are based on LIBOR interest rates. We have periodically utilized interest rate swap agreements to manage overall financing costs and interest rate risk. As discussed in Note 8, “Debt” in the notes to the consolidated financial statements, at August 31, 2011 we were a party to interest rate swap agreements that converted $100 million of floating rate debt to a fixed rate of interest. These swaps were terminated during fiscal 2012 as part of the debt refinancing transaction. A 25 basis point increase or decrease in the applicable interest rates on our variable rate debt as of August 31, 2012 would result in a change in financing costs, net of approximately $0.2 million on an annual basis.

Commodity Risk—We source a wide variety of materials and components from a network of global suppliers. While such materials are typically available from numerous suppliers, commodity raw materials, such as steel, plastic resin and copper, are subject to price fluctuations, which could have a negative impact on our results. We strive to pass along such commodity price increases to customers to avoid profit margin erosion and utilize LEAD initiatives to further mitigate the impact of commodity raw material price fluctuations as improved efficiencies across all locations are achieved.

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All other schedules are omitted because they are not applicable, not required or because the required information is included in the consolidated financial statements or notes thereto.

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Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

To the Board of Directors and Shareholders of Actuant Corporation:

In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements listed in the accompanying index present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Actuant Corporation and its subsidiaries at August 31, 2012 and 2011 and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended August 31, 2012 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. In addition, in our opinion, the financial statement schedule listed in the accompanying index presents fairly, in all material respects, the information set forth therein when read in conjunction with the related consolidated financial statements. Also in our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of August 31, 2012, 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 and financial statement schedule, for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting, appearing under Item 9a. Our responsibility is to express opinions on these financial statements, on the financial statement schedule, 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.

As described in “Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting,” management has excluded Jeyco Pty Ltd., Turotest Medidores Ltda and CrossControl AB from its assessment of internal control over financial reporting as of August 31, 2012 because they were acquired by the Company in purchase business combinations during fiscal 2012. We have also excluded Jeyco Pty Ltd., Turotest Medidores Ltda and CrossControl AB from our audit of internal control over financial reporting. These companies are wholly-owned by the Company and their total assets and revenue represent approximately 5% and 1% respectively, of the related consolidated financial statement amounts as of and for the year ended August 31, 2012.

/S/ PRICEWATERHOUSECOOPERS LLP

Milwaukee, Wisconsin

October 26, 2012

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ACTUANT CORPORATION

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EARNINGS

(in thousands, except per share amounts)