FLEXIBLE SOLUTIONS INTERNATIONAL INC - Annual Report: 2020 (Form 10-K)

united states

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-K

(Mark One)

Commission File No. 001-31540

FLEXIBLE SOLUTIONS INTERNATIONAL, INC.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Registrant’s telephone number, including Area Code: (403) 223-2995

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

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

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.

Yes [  ] No [X]

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act.

Yes [  ] No [X]

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

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically 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. [X]

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

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. [  ]

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has filed a report on and attestation to its management’s assessment of the effectiveness of its internal control over financial reporting under Section 404(b) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act by the registered public accounting firm that prepared or issued its audit report. [  ] Yes [X] No

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

As of June 30, 2020 the aggregate market value of the Company’s common stock held by non-affiliates was $15,684,836 based on the closing price for shares of the Company’s common stock on the NYSE American for that date.

As of March 30, 2021, the Company had 12,312,545 issued and outstanding shares of common stock.

Documents incorporated by reference: None

CAUTIONARY NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2020 (“Annual Report”), including the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements, contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements include, without limitation, those statements relating to development of new products, our financial condition and our ability to increase distribution of our products. Forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology, such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “continue,” “plans,” “intends,” or other similar terminology. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions that are difficult to predict. Therefore, actual outcomes and results may differ materially from what is anticipated or forecasted in these forward-looking statements due to numerous factors, including, but not limited to, our ability to generate or obtain sufficient working capital to continue our operations, changes in demand for our products, the timing of customer orders and deliveries and the impact of competitive products and pricing. In addition, such statements could be affected by general industry and market conditions and growth rates, and general domestic and international economic conditions.

Although we believe that the expectations reflected in these forward-looking statements are reasonable and achievable, such statements involve risks and uncertainties and no assurance can be given that our actual results will be consistent with these forward-looking statements. Except as otherwise required by applicable securities laws, we undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, changed circumstances or any other reason, after the date this Annual Report is filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

PART I

We were incorporated as Flexible Solutions Ltd., a British Columbia corporation on January 26, 1991. On May 12, 1998, we merged Flexible Solutions Ltd. into Flexible Solutions International, Inc., a Nevada corporation. In connection with this merger, we issued 7,000,000 shares of common stock to the former shareholders of Flexible Solutions Ltd. in exchange for all of the outstanding shares of Flexible Solutions Ltd.

In June 2004 we purchased 52 U.S. and 139 International patents, as well as a 56,780 sq. ft. manufacturing plant near Chicago, Illinois from the bankruptcy estate of Donlar Corporation (“Donlar”) for $6.15 million. The IP we acquired from Donlar relates to water-soluble chemicals (“TPAs”) which prevent corrosion and scaling in water pipes used in the petroleum, chemical, utility and mining industries. TPAs are also used to enhance fertilizers and improve crop yields and as additives for household laundry detergents, consumer care products and pesticides. These assets are held in our wholly owned NanoChem Solutions Inc. subsidiary which has become our largest revenue generator.

In October 2018, we purchased 65% of ENP Investments LLC, a manufacturing and distribution company active in the areas of golf, turf and ornamental agriculture products.

In January 2019, we purchased 50 % of a profitable limited liability company engaged in international sales of fertilizer additives. This purchase is accounted for as an investment.

In 2019, we changed our corporate domicile from Nevada to Alberta, Canada.

In January 2020, ENP Realty, LLC became a wholly owned subsidiary of ENP Investments, LLC.

We operate through a number of wholly-owned subsidiaries which are mentioned in Note 1 to the consolidated financial statements included as part of this report. Unless otherwise indicated, all references to our business include the operations of these subsidiaries.

Our website is www.flexiblesolutions.com

Our Products

Thermal Polyaspartates (“TPAs”)

We manufacture TPAs in our Peru, Illinois plant using a thermal polymerizing process. The multiple variants produced are optimized for individual market verticals and sold for end use or through distribution.

TPAs for Oilfields. TPAs are used to reduce scale and corrosion in various “topside” water systems. They are used in place of traditional phosphonate and other products when biodegradability is required by environmental regulations. We have the ability to custom manufacture TPAs depending on the specific water conditions associated with any oil well. TPAs are also used in fracking fluids to reduce the toxicity while maintaining equal function.

TPAs for the Agricultural Industry. TPAs have the ability to reduce fertilizer crystallization before, during and after application and can also delay crystal formation between fertilizer and minerals present in the soil. Once crystallized, fertilizer and soil minerals are not able to provide plant nourishment. As a result, in select conditions the use of TPAs either blended with fertilizer or applied directly to crops can increase yields significantly. TPAs are designated for crop nutrient management programs and should not be confused with crop protection and pesticides or other agricultural chemical applications. Depending on the application, TPA products are marketed under a variety of brands including EX-10TM, AmisorbTM, LYNXTM, MAGNETTM, AmGroTM and VOLTTM. Markets of significance include corn, wheat, soybeans, rice, potatoes, sugar beets, cotton, tomatoes, almonds and other high value per acre crops.

TPAs for Irrigation. The crystallization prevention ability of TPAs can also be useful in select irrigation conditions. By reducing calcium carbonate scale propagation, TPAs can prevent early plugging of drip irrigation ports, reduce maintenance costs and lengthen the life of equipment. TPAs compete with acid type scale removers, but have the advantage of a positive yield effect on the plant, as well as an easier deployment formulation with liquid fertilizers when used as part of a “fertigation” program. Our TPAs for drip irrigation scale prevention are marketed and sold through the same channels as TPAs used by the agricultural industry.

TPAs in Cleaning Products. TPA can replace polyacrylates in cleaning products which is valuable because TPA is biodegradable while polyacrylates are not. In a cleaning product formulation, TPA prevents the re-deposition of dirt onto the surfaces to be cleaned allowing dirt to be rinsed away.

Nitrogen conservation products for agriculture. We manufacture and sell two conservation products and mixtures used for slowing nitrogen loss from fields. One significant loss route for nitrogen fertilizer is enzymatic degradation by bacteria naturally present in soil. Our product, SUN 27TM inhibits the bacterial action and keeps the nitrogen fertilizer available for plant growth. The second significant nitrogen loss mechanism is de-nitrification. This is also caused by bacterial activity in soil resulting in oxygen being stripped from the fertilizer leaving nitrogen gas. The gas can’t be used by the plants and escapes into the atmosphere. Our N Savr 30TM product uses the most effective active ingredients available to combat this cause of fertilizer loss. We sell SUN 27TM and N Savr 30TM through distributors in North and South America under our trade names and under private labels.

HEATSAVR®

Our studies indicate that approximately 70% of the energy lost from a swimming pool occurs through water evaporation. HEATSAVR® is a chemical product for use in swimming pools and spas that forms a thin, transparent layer on the water’s surface. The transparent layer slows the evaporation of water, allowing the water to retain a higher temperature for a longer period of time and thereby reducing the energy required to maintain the desired temperature of the water. We have received reports from our commercial customers documenting energy savings of between $2,400 and $6,000 per year when using HEATSAVR®.

In outdoor pools, the HEATSAVR® also provides convenience compared to pool blankets. It is often inconvenient to use conventional pool blankets because a pool blanket must be removed and stored before the pool can be used. Pool blankets do not provide any energy savings when not on the pool. Conversely, HEATSAVR® eliminates the need to install, remove and store the blanket and works 24 hours a day. In addition, the use of HEATSAVR® in an indoor pool results in even greater energy savings since indoor pool locations use energy not only to heat the pool water, but also to air condition the pool environment. By slowing the transfer of heat and water vapor from the pool to the atmosphere of the pool enclosure, less energy is required to maintain a pool at the desired temperature and there is a reduced load on the air-conditioning system. We also manufacture and sell products which automatically dispense HEATSAVR® into commercial size swimming pools or spas at the rate of one ounce per 400 sq. ft. of water surface per day.

WATERSAVR®

This product utilizes a patented variation of our HEATSAVR technology to reduce water evaporation in reservoirs, potable water storage tanks, livestock watering ponds, aqueducts, canals and irrigation ditches. WATERSAVR may also be used for lawn and turf care and potted and bedding plants.

WATERSAVR® is sold in granulated form and can be applied by hand, by fully automated scheduled metering, or by an automatic dispenser.

Tests have indicated that WATERSAVR®:

We have one part-time employee involved in the sales and marketing of WATERSAVR®.

Principal Customers

The table below presents our revenue resulting from purchases by our three major customers for the periods presented.

Customers with balances greater than 10% of our receivable balances (with the exception of Company A) as of each of the fiscal year ends presented are shown in the following table:

Competition

TPAs: Our TPA products have direct competition with Lanxess AG (spun out of Bayer AG) (“Lanxess”), a German manufacturer of TPAs, which uses a patented process different from ours. We have cross-licensed each other’s processes and either company can use either process for the term of the patents involved. We believe that Lanxess has approximately the same production capacity and product costs as we do. We believe that we can compete effectively with Lanxess by offering excellent customer service in oilfield sales, superior distributor support in the agricultural marketplace and flexibility due to our relative size. In addition, we intend to continue to seek market niches that are not the primary targets of Lanxess. There are other competitors based in Asia.

Our TPA products face indirect competition from other chemicals in every market in which we are active. For purposes of oilfield scale prevention, phosphonates, phosphates and molibdonates provide the same effect. For crop enhancement, increased fertilizer levels can serve as a substitute for TPAs. In irrigation scale control, acid washes are our prime competitor. Notwithstanding the above, we believe our competitive advantages include:

HEATSAVR®: Although we are aware of two other companies that manufacture products that compete with HEATSAVR®, we believe our products are more effective and safer. We maintain fair pricing equal to or lower than our competitors and protect our intellectual property carefully. Our products are expected to maintain market share in the competitive pool market. HEATSAVR® also competes with plastic pool blanket products. However, we believe that HEATSAVR® is more effective and convenient than pool blankets.

WATERSAVR®: WATERSAVR® competes with solid and floating covers. We believe our WATERSAVR® product is superior for the following reasons: it is less expensive, requires little capital expenditure to deploy and can be started and stopped as water scarcity escalates or declines. As water conservation is an important priority throughout the world, numerous researchers are working to develop solutions that may compete with, or be superior to, WATERSAVR.

Manufacturing

Our HEATSAVR® products and dispensers are made from chemicals, plastics and other materials and parts that are readily available from multiple suppliers. We have never experienced any shortage in the availability of raw materials and parts for these products and we do not have any long term supply contracts for any of these items. We have these products made by outside parties without long term contracts.

Our WATERSAVR® products are manufactured by a third party. We are not required to purchase any minimum quantity of this product.

Our 56,780 sq. ft. facility in Peru, Illinois manufactures our TPA products. Raw materials for TPA production are sourced from various manufacturers throughout the world and we believe they are available in sufficient quantities for any increase in sales. Raw materials are, however, derived from crude oil and are subject to price fluctuations related to world oil prices.

In January 2020, ENP Investments, LLC acquired a 100% interest in ENP Realty, LLC and the 14,000 sq. ft manufacturing facility in Mendota, Illinois owned by this entity.

Government Regulations

TPAs: In the industrial oil field and agricultural markets, we have received government approval for all TPAs currently sold.

Nitrogen conservation product: We have obtained all government approvals for the markets in which we sell these products.

HEATSAVR®: Chemical products for use in swimming pools are covered by a variety of governmental regulations in all countries where we sell these products. These regulations cover packaging, labeling, and product safety. We believe our products are in compliance with these regulations.

WATERSAVR®: Our WATERSAVR® product is subject to regulation in most countries, particularly for agricultural and drinking water uses. We do not anticipate that governmental regulations will be an impediment to marketing WATERSAVR® because the components in WATERSAVR® have historically been used in agriculture for many years for other purposes. Nevertheless, we may require county or state approval on a case by case basis to sell WATERSAVR® in the United States for agricultural and drinking water uses. We have received National Sanitation Foundation approval for the use of WATERSAVR® in drinking water in the United States.

Proprietary Rights

Our success is dependent, in part, upon our proprietary technology. We rely on a combination of patent, copyright, trademarks, trade secrets and nondisclosure agreements to protect our proprietary technology. We currently hold many U.S. and International patents which expire at various dates up to 2022. We have applied for additional patents in new areas of invention and may extend these patents, if granted to other jurisdictions. There can be no assurance that our patent applications will be granted or that any issued patent will be upheld as valid or prevent the development of competitive products, which may be equivalent to or superior to our products. We have not received any claims alleging infringement of the intellectual property rights of others, but there can be no assurance that we may not be subject to such claims in the future.

Research and Development

We spent $81,422 during the year ended December 31, 2020 and $123,660 during year ended December 31, 2019 on research and development. This work relates primarily to the development of our water and energy conservation products, as well as new research in connection with our TPA products.

Employees

As of December 31, 2020, we had 42 employees, including one officer, 14 sales and customer support personnel, and 27 manufacturing personnel. None of our employees is represented by a labor union and we have not experienced any work stoppages to date.

Item 1A. Risk Factors

This Form 10-K contains forward-looking information based on our current expectations. Because our actual results may differ materially from any forward-looking statements made by us, this section includes a discussion of important factors that could affect our future operations and result in a decline in the market price of our common stock.

We have in the past incurred significant operating losses and may not sustain profitability in the future.

We have in the past experienced operating losses and negative cash flow from operations. If our revenues decline, our results of operations and liquidity may be materially and adversely affected. If we experience slower than anticipated revenue growth or if our operating expenses exceed our expectations, we may not be profitable. We may not remain profitable in future periods.

Fluctuations in our operating results may cause our stock price to decline.

Given the nature of the markets in which we operate, we cannot reliably predict future revenues and profitability. Changes in competitive, market and economic conditions may cause us to adjust our operations. A high proportion of our costs are fixed, due in part to our sales, research and development and manufacturing costs. Thus, small declines in revenue could disproportionately affect our operating results. Factors that may affect our operating results and the market price of our common stock include:

Our operations are subject to seasonal fluctuation.

Our TPA business is the least seasonal, however there is a small increase in the spring related to inventory building for the crop season in the United States and a small slowdown in December as oilfield customers run down stock in advance of year end, but otherwise, there is little seasonal variation. We believe we are able to adequately respond to these seasonal fluctuations by reducing or increasing production as needed. The foregoing is equally true of our nitrogen conservation products. The use of our swimming pool products increases in summer months in most markets and results in our sales from January to June being greater than in July through December. Markets for our WATERSAVR® product are also seasonal, depending on the wet versus dry seasons in particular countries. We attempt to sell into a variety of countries with different seasons on both sides of the equator in order to minimize seasonality.

Interruptions in our ability to purchase raw materials and components may adversely affect our profitability.

We purchase certain raw materials and components from third parties pursuant to purchase orders placed from time to time. Because we do not have guaranteed long-term supply arrangements with our suppliers, any material interruption in our ability to purchase necessary raw materials or components could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Our WATERSAVR® product has not proven to be a revenue producing product and we may never recoup the cost associated with its development.

The marketing efforts of our WATERSAVR® product may result in continued losses. We introduced our WATERSAVR® product in June 2002 and, to date, we have delivered quantities for testing by potential customers, but only a few customers have ordered the product for commercial use. This product can achieve success only if it is ordered in substantial quantities by commercial customers who have determined that the water saving benefits of the product exceed the costs of purchase and deployment of the product. We can offer no assurance that we will receive sufficient orders of this product to achieve profits or cover the expenses incurred to manufacture and market this product. We have received National Sanitation Foundation approval for the use WATERSAVR® in drinking water in the United States. Nevertheless, we may require county or state approval on a case by case basis. We expect to spend $50,000 on the marketing and production of our WATERSAVR® product in fiscal 2021.

If we do not introduce new products in a timely manner, our products could become obsolete and our operating results would suffer.

Without the timely introduction of new products and enhancements, our products could become obsolete over time, in which case our revenue and operating results would suffer. The success of our new product offerings will depend upon several factors, including our ability to:

In developing any new product, we may be required to make a substantial investment before we can determine the commercial viability of the new product. If we fail to accurately foresee our customers’ needs and future activities, we may invest heavily in research and development of products that do not lead to significant revenues.

We are dependent upon certain customers.

Among our current customers, we have identified three that are sizable enough that the loss of any one would be significant. Any loss of one or more of these customers could result in a substantial reduction in our revenues.

Economic, political and other risks associated with international sales and operations could adversely affect our sales.

Revenues from shipments made outside of the United States accounted for approximately 32% of our revenues in the year ended December 31, 2020, 45% in the year ended December 31, 2019 and 46% in the year ended December 31, 2018. Since we sell our products worldwide, our business is subject to risks associated with doing business internationally. We anticipate that revenues from international operations will continue to represent a sizable portion of our total revenue. Accordingly, our future results could be harmed by a variety of factors, including:

We are subject to credit risk and may be subject to substantial write-offs if one or more of our significant customers default on their payment obligations to us.

We currently allow our major customers between 30 and 90 days to pay for each sale. This practice, while customary, presents an accounts receivable write-off risk if one or more of our significant customers defaulted on their payment obligations to us. Any such write-off, if substantial, would have a material adverse effect on our business and results of operations.

Our products can be hazardous if not handled, stored and used properly; litigation related to the handling, storage and safety of our products would have a material adverse effect on our business and results of operations.

Some of our products are flammable and must be stored properly to avoid fire risk. Additionally, some of our products may cause irritation to a person’s eyes if they are exposed to the concentrated product. Although we label our products to warn of such risks, our sales could be reduced if our products were considered dangerous to use or if they are implicated in causing personal injury or property damage. We are not currently aware of any circumstances in which our products have caused harm or property damage to consumers. Nevertheless, litigation regarding the handling, storage and safety of our products would have a material adverse effect on our business and results of operations.

Our failure to comply with environmental regulations may create significant environmental liabilities and force us to modify our manufacturing processes.

We are subject to various federal, state and local environmental laws, ordinances and regulations relating to the use, storage, handling and disposal of chemicals. Under such laws, we may become liable for the costs of removal or remediation of these substances that have been used by our consumers or in our operations. Such laws may impose liability without regard to whether we knew of, or caused, the release of such substances. Any failure by us to comply with present or future regulations could subject us to substantial fines, suspension of production, alteration of manufacturing processes or cessation of operations, any of which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Our failure to protect our intellectual property could impair our competitive position.

While we own certain patents and trademarks, some aspects of our business cannot be protected by patents or trademarks. Accordingly, in these areas there are few legal barriers that prevent potential competitors from copying certain of our products, processes and technologies or from otherwise entering into operations in direct competition with us. In particular, we have been informed that our former exclusive agent for the sale of our products in North America is now competing with us in the swimming pool and personal spa markets. As a former distributor, they were given access to many of our sales, marketing and manufacturing techniques.

Our products may infringe on the intellectual property rights of others, and resulting claims against us could be costly and prevent us from making or selling certain products.

Third parties may seek to claim that our products and operations infringe on their patents or other intellectual property rights. We may incur significant expense in any legal proceedings to protect our proprietary rights or to defend infringement claims by third parties. In addition, claims of third parties against us could result in awards of substantial damages or court orders that could effectively prevent us from making, using or selling our products in the United States or internationally.

A product liability claim for damages could materially and adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations.

Our business exposes us to potential product liability risks. There are many factors beyond our control that could lead to liability claims, including the failure of our products to work properly and the chance that consumers will use our products incorrectly or for purposes for which they were not intended. There can be no assurance that the amount of product liability insurance that we carry will be sufficient to protect us from product liability claims. A product liability claim in excess of the amount of insurance we carry could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Our ongoing success is dependent upon the continued availability of certain key employees.

Our business would be adversely affected if the services of Daniel B. O’Brien ceased to be available to us since we currently do not have any other employee with an equivalent level of expertise in and knowledge of our industry. If Mr. O’Brien no longer served as our President and Chief Executive Officer, we would have to recruit one or more new executives, with no real assurance that we would be able to engage a replacement executive with the required skills on satisfactory terms. The market for skilled employees is highly competitive, especially for employees in the fields in which we operate. While our compensation programs are intended to attract and retain qualified employees, there can be no assurance that we will be able to retain the services of all our key employees or a sufficient number to execute our plans, nor can there be any assurances that we will be able to continue to attract new employees as required.

Not applicable.

We lease a 6,400 sq. ft. facility in Naperville, Illinois which we use for offices and laboratories at a cost of $5,520 per month with a lease effective to December 2025 and 61,200 sq. ft. of warehouse space in Peru, Illinois used for storage and extra capacity at a cost of $27,000 per month with a lease effective to October 2021. We also lease a 1,300 sq. ft. facility in Mendota, IL used for offices at a cost of $860 per month with a lease effective to September, 2023.We own a 56,780 sq. ft. facility in Peru, Illinois and a 14,000 sq. ft facility in Mendota, Illinois which is used to manufacture our TPA line of products. In 2017, we purchased a 3,000 sq ft building on 1 acre of land in Taber, Alberta. We also own 3.3 acres of cleared and undeveloped land in Taber, Alberta.

None.

Not applicable.

PART II

Our common stock is traded on the NYSE American under the symbol “FSI”. The following is the range of high and low closing prices for our common stock for the periods indicated:

As of March 30, 2021, we had approximately 2,300 shareholders.

Our common stock also trades on the Frankfurt stock exchange under the symbol “FXT.”

The Company declared a special dividend of $0.05 per share on February 25, 2019, paid on March 15, 2019 to shareholders of record on March 6, 2019. On March 12, 2019 the Company announced an annual dividend of $0.15 per share to be paid in two tranches. Shareholders of record on March 31, 2019 were paid $0.075 on April 15, 2019 and shareholders of record on October 1, 2019 were paid the same amount on October 15, 2019. On March 18, 2020, the Company suspended the dividend until further notice due to the uncertainty surrounding the COVID-19 virus.

None of our officers or directors, nor any of our principal shareholders purchased, on our behalf, any shares of our common stock from third parties either in a private transaction or as a result of purchases in the open market during the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019

As of March 30, 2021, we had 12,312,545 outstanding shares of common stock. The following table lists additional shares of our common stock, including shares issuable upon the exercise of options which have not yet vested, which may be issued as of March 30, 2021:

A. Options are exercisable at prices ranging from $0.75 to $4.13 per share. See Item 11 of this report for more information concerning these options.

Not applicable.

Results of Operations

We have three product lines.

The first is a chemical (“EWCP”) used in swimming pools and spas. The product forms a thin, transparent layer on the water’s surface. The transparent layer slows the evaporation of water, allowing the water to retain a higher temperature for a longer period of time thereby reducing the energy required to maintain the desired temperature of the water. A modified version of EWCP can also be used in reservoirs, potable water storage tanks, livestock watering pods, canals, and irrigation ditches for the purpose of reducing evaporation.

The second product, biodegradable polymers (“TPAs”), is used by the petroleum, chemical, utility and mining industries to prevent corrosion and scaling in water piping. TPAs can also be used to increase biodegradability in detergents and in the agriculture industry to increase crop yields by enhancing fertilizer uptake.

The third product line is nitrogen conservation products for the agriculture industry. These products decrease the loss of nitrogen fertilizer after application to the field and allow less fertilizer to be used. These products are considered TPA products and are made and sold by our TPA division.

Material changes in the line items in our Statement of Income and Comprehensive Income for the year ended December 31, 2020 as compared to the same period last year, are discussed below:

The factors that will most significantly affect future operating results will be:

Other than the foregoing we do not know of any trends, events or uncertainties that have had, or are reasonably expected to have, a material impact on our revenues or expenses.

Capital Resources and Liquidity

Our sources and (uses) of cash for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019 are shown below:

We have sufficient cash resources to meets our future commitments and cash flow requirements for the coming year. As of December 31, 2020, our working capital was $11,146,211 (2019 - $10,713,115) and we have no substantial commitments that require significant outlays of cash over the coming fiscal year.

We are committed to minimum rental payments for property and premises aggregating approximately $632,340 over the term of five leases, the last expiring on December 31, 2025.

Commitments for rent in the next five years are as follows:

Other than as disclosed above, we do not anticipate any material capital requirements for the twelve months ending December 31, 2021.

Other than as disclosed above, we do not know of any trends, demands, commitments, events or uncertainties that will result in, or that are reasonable likely to result in, our liquidity increasing or decreasing in any material way.

Other than as disclosed above, we do not know of any significant changes in our expected sources and uses of cash.

We do not have any commitments or arrangements from any person to provide us with any equity capital.

See Note 2 to the consolidated financial statements included as part of this report for a description of our significant accounting policies.

Critical Accounting Policies And Estimates

Allowances for Product Returns. We grant certain of our customers the right to return product which they are unable to sell. Upon sale, we evaluate the need to record a provision for product returns based on our historical experience, economic trends and changes in customer demand.

Allowances for Doubtful Accounts Receivable. We evaluate our accounts receivable to determine if they will ultimately be collected. This evaluation includes significant judgments and estimates, including an analysis of receivables aging and a review of large accounts. If, for example, the financial condition of a customer deteriorates resulting in an impairment of its ability to pay or a pattern of late payment develops, an allowance may be required.

Provisions for Inventory Obsolescence. We may need to record a provision for estimated obsolescence and shrinkage of inventory. Our estimates would consider the cost of inventory, the estimated market value, the shelf life of the inventory and our historical experience. If there are changes to these estimates, provisions for inventory obsolescence may be necessary.

Valuation of goodwill and intangible assets. We consider goodwill and intangible assets to determine if there are qualitative factors which exist which may indicate that the carrying value exceeds the fair value. Our estimates are based upon an assessment of market conditions and expected future cash flows to be generated by the reporting units and related assets. If factors exist which indicate that the carrying value exceeds the fair value, an impairment charge against the goodwill and intangible assets could be required.

Useful lives of Property, Equipment and Leaseholds and Intangible Assets. We amortize and depreciate our property, equipment and leaseholds and intangible assets based on their estimated useful lives. We estimate the expected useful lives based on the expected term over which the asset is expected to continue to generate economic benefit for the company. If there are differences between the expected useful lives and the actual useful lives of the asset, impairment of property, equipment and leaseholds or intangible assets could be necessary.

Revenue Recognition. We follow a five-step model for revenue recognition. The five steps are: (1) identification of the contract(s) with the customer, (2) identification of the performance obligation(s) in the contract(s), (3) determination of the transaction price, (4) allocation of the transaction price to the performance obligation, and (5) recognition of revenue when (or as) the performance obligation is satisfied. We fulfill our performance obligations when control transfers to the customer, which is generally at the time the product is shipped since risk of loss is transferred to the purchaser upon delivery to the carrier. We recognize revenue when there are no significant remaining performance obligations. When significant post-delivery obligations exist, revenue is deferred until such obligations are fulfilled. To date, there have been no such significant post-delivery obligations.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

We have evaluated recent accounting pronouncements issued since January 1, 2020 and determined that the adoption of these recent accounting pronouncements will not have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements.

Not applicable.

FLEXIBLE SOLUTIONS INTERNATIONAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

To the Stockholders and the Board of Directors of Flexible Solutions International, Inc.

Opinion on the Consolidated Financial Statements

We have audited the accompanying consolidated financial statements of Flexible Solutions International, Inc. (the “Company”) which comprise the consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2020 and 2019, and the related consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income, cash flows and stockholders’ equity for the years then ended, and the related notes (collectively referred to as the “consolidated financial statements”).

In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of December 31, 2020 and 2019, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for the years then ended, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

Basis for Opinion

These consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s consolidated financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (“PCAOB”) and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. The Company is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of its internal control over financial reporting. As part of our audits, we are required to obtain an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion.

Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the consolidated financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the consolidated financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the consolidated financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

Critical Audit Matter

The critical audit matter communicated below is a matter arising from the current period audit of the consolidated financial statements that were communicated or required to be communicated to the audit committee and that: (1) relate to accounts or disclosures that are material to the consolidated financial statements and (2) involved our especially challenging, subjective, or complex judgments. The communication of this critical audit matter does not alter in any way our opinion on the consolidated financial statements, taken as a whole, and we are not, by communicating the critical audit matter below, providing a separate opinion on the critical audit matter or on the accounts or disclosures to which it relates.

Valuation of inventory

At December 31, 2020, the Company’s inventory balance was $8,372,476. As discussed in Note 2 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company records inventory at the lower of cost on a first-in, first-out or weighted average basis and net realizable value. To determine inventory valuation, management conducts regular reviews of overhead costs and the calculation to allocate these expenditures to inventory cost.

We identified the assessment of valuation of inventory as a critical audit matter. Auditing management’s inventory valuation involved significant judgment because the estimates are based on several factors. In particular, in estimating inventory cost inputs, management developed assumptions such as the allocation of overhead expenditures to inventory cost.

The following are the primary procedures we performed to address this critical audit matter. We obtained an understanding and reviewed the appropriateness over the Company’s costing of inventory. We performed substantive procedures over the inputs of costing of inventory, including overhead allocation by agreeing inputs to third party source documentation. We tested management’s allocation of overhead costs between inventory products by assessing the appropriateness of the allocation method and recalculated the formula used to determine computational accuracy. We performed analytical procedures to obtain an understanding of the impact of economic conditions and market competition. We compared the inventory on hand to related unit sales to assess the net realizable value of inventory and held discussions with management and operational personnel to help identify any slow-moving obsolete inventory.

Chartered Professional Accountants

Vancouver, Canada

March 31, 2021

We have served as the Company’s auditor since 2019.

FLEXIBLE SOLUTIONS INTERNATIONAL, INC.

Consolidated Balance Sheets

As at December 31

(U.S. Dollars)

Subsequent events (See Note 19)

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

FLEXIBLE SOLUTIONS INTERNATIONAL, INC.

Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income

For the Years Ended December 31

(U.S. Dollars)

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

FLEXIBLE SOLUTIONS INTERNATIONAL, INC.

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

For Years Ended December 31

(U.S. Dollars)

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

FLEXIBLE SOLUTIONS INTERNATIONAL, INC.

Consolidated Statements of Stockholders’ Equity

For the Years Ended December 31, 2020 and 2019

(U.S. Dollars)

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

FLEXIBLE SOLUTIONS INTERNATIONAL, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2020 and 2019

(U.S. Dollars)

1. Basis of Presentation.

These consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Flexible Solutions International, Inc. (the “Company”), its wholly-owned subsidiaries Flexible Fermentation Ltd. , NanoChem Solutions Inc. (“NanoChem”), Flexible Solutions Ltd., Flexible Biomass LP, FS Biomass Inc., NCS Deferred Corp., Conserve H2O Ltd., Natural Chem SEZC Ltd., and InnFlex Holdings Inc. and its 65% interest in ENP Investments, LLC (“ENP Investments”) and ENP Realty, LLC (“ENP Realty”). All inter-company balances and transactions have been eliminated upon consolidation. The Company was incorporated on May 12, 1998 in the State of Nevada and had no operations until June 30, 1998. In 2019, the Company redomiciled into Alberta, Canada.

In 2018, NanoChem, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company, completed the purchase of a 65% interest in ENP Investments for an aggregate purchase price of $5,110,560. An unrelated party owns the remaining 35% interest in ENP Investments, and ENP Investments is consolidated into the financial statements. The outside investor’s ownership interest in ENP Investments is included in noncontrolling interests in these consolidated financial statements from the acquisition date onward. In 2020, ENP Investments increased their investment in ENP Realty from 24% to 100%, making ENP Realty a wholly-owned subsidiary of ENP Investments. ENP Realty is consolidated into the financial statements.

The Company and its subsidiaries develop, manufacture and market specialty chemicals which slow the evaporation of water. One product, HEATSAVR®, is marketed for use in swimming pools and spas where its use, by slowing the evaporation of water, allows the water to retain a higher temperature for a longer period of time and thereby reduces the energy required to maintain the desired temperature of the water in the pool. Another product, WATERSAVR®, is marketed for water conservation in irrigation canals, aquaculture, and reservoirs where its use slows water loss due to evaporation. In addition to the water conservation products, the Company also manufactures and markets water-soluble chemicals utilizing thermal polyaspartate biopolymers (hereinafter referred to as “TPAs”), which are beta-proteins manufactured from the common biological amino acid, L-aspartic. TPAs can be formulated to prevent corrosion and scaling in water piping within the petroleum, chemical, utility and mining industries. TPAs are also used as proteins to enhance fertilizers in improving crop yields and can be used as additives for household laundry detergents, consumer care products and pesticides. The TPA division also manufactures two nitrogen conservation products for agriculture that slows nitrogen loss from fields.

The outbreak of the novel strain of coronavirus, specifically identified as “COVID-19”, has resulted in a widespread health crisis that has affected economies and financial markets around the world resulting in an economic downturn. This outbreak may also cause staff shortages, reduced customer demand, increased government regulations or interventions, all of which may negatively impact the business, financial condition or results of options of the Company. The duration and impact of the COVID-19 outbreak is unknown at this time and it is not possible to reliably estimate the length and severity of these developments.

2. Significant Accounting Policies.

These consolidated financial statements have been prepared on a historical cost basis, except where otherwise noted, in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States applicable to a going concern and reflect the policies outlined below.

(a) Cash and Cash Equivalents

The Company considers all highly liquid investments purchased with an original or remaining maturity of less than three months at the date of purchase to be cash equivalents. Cash and cash equivalents are maintained with several financial institutions.

(b) Inventories and Cost of Sales

The Company has three major classes of inventory: completed goods, work in progress and raw materials and supplies. In all classes, inventories are stated at the lower of cost and net realizable value. The Company applies the first-in, first-out or weighted average cost formulae to inventories in different subsidiaries. Cost of sales includes all expenditures incurred in bringing the goods to the point of sale. Inventory costs and costs of sales include direct costs of the raw material, inbound freight charges, warehousing costs, handling costs (receiving and purchasing) and utilities and overhead expenses related to the Company’s manufacturing and processing facilities. Shipping and handling charges billed to customers are included in revenue (2020 - $427,920; 2019 – $519,359). Shipping and handling costs incurred are included in cost of goods sold (2020 - $1,051,588; 2019 – $1,061,961).

(c) Allowance for Doubtful Accounts

The Company provides an allowance for doubtful accounts when management estimates collectability to be uncertain. Accounts receivable are continually reviewed to determine which, if any, accounts are doubtful of collection. In making the determination of the appropriate allowance amount, the Company considers current economic and industry conditions, relationships with each significant customer, overall customer credit-worthiness and historical experience.

(d) Property, Equipment, Leaseholds and Intangible Assets

The following assets are recorded at cost and depreciated using the methods and annual rates shown below:

(e) Impairment of Long-Lived Assets

In accordance with FASB Codification Topic 360, Property, Plant and Equipment (ASC 360), the Company reviews long-lived assets, including, but not limited to, property, equipment and leaseholds, patents and other assets, for impairment annually or whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying amounts of assets may not be recoverable. The carrying value of long-lived assets is assessed for impairment by evaluating operating performance and future undiscounted cash flows of the underlying assets. If the expected future cash flows of an asset are less than its carrying value, an impairment measurement is indicated. Long-lived assets are written down to net realizable value when management determines there has been a change in circumstances which indicates their carrying amounts may not be recoverable. Impairment charges are recorded to the extent that an asset’s carrying value exceeds its fair value. Accordingly, actual results could vary significantly from such estimates. There were no impairment charges during the periods presented.

(f) Foreign Currency

The functional currency of the Company is the U.S. dollar. The functional currency of three of the Company’s subsidiaries is the Canadian Dollar. The translation of the Canadian Dollar to the reporting currency of the Company, the U.S. Dollar, is performed for assets and liabilities using exchange rates in effect at the balance sheet date. Revenue and expense transactions are translated using average exchange rates prevailing during the year. Translation adjustments arising on conversion of the Company’s financial statements from the subsidiary’s functional currency, Canadian Dollars, into the reporting currency, U.S. Dollars, are excluded from the determination of income (loss) and are disclosed as other comprehensive income in the consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income.

Foreign exchange gains and losses relating to transactions not denominated in the applicable local currency are included in operating income (loss) if realized during the year and in comprehensive income (loss) if they remain unrealized at the end of the year.

(g) Revenue Recognition

The Company generates revenue primarily from energy and water conservation products and biodegradable polymer, as further discussed in Note 19.

The Company follows a five-step model for revenue recognition. The five steps are: (1) identification of the contract(s) with the customer, (2) identification of the performance obligation(s) in the contract(s), (3) determination of the transaction price, (4) allocation of the transaction price to the performance obligation, and (5) recognition of revenue when (or as) the performance obligation is satisfied. The Company has fulfilled its performance obligations when control transfers to the customer, which is generally at the time the product is shipped since risk of loss is transferred to the purchaser upon delivery to the carrier. For shipments which are F.O.B. shipping point, the Company has elected to account for shipping and handling activities as a fulfillment cost rather than as an additional promised service and performance obligation.

The Company recognizes revenue when there are no significant remaining performance obligations. When significant post-delivery obligations exist, revenue is deferred until such obligations are fulfilled. To date, there have been no such significant post-delivery obligations.

Since the Company’s inception, product returns have been insignificant; therefore, no provision has been established for estimated product returns.

Deferred revenues consist of products sold to distributors with payment terms greater than the Company’s customary business terms due to lack of credit history or operating in a new market in which the Company has no prior experience. The Company defers the recognition of revenue until the criteria for revenue recognition has been met, and payments become due or cash is received from these distributors.

(h) Stock Issued in Exchange for Services

The Company’s common stock issued in exchange for services is valued at estimated fair market value based upon trading prices of the Company’s common stock on the dates of the stock transactions. The corresponding expense of the services rendered is recognized over the period that the services are performed.

(i) Stock-based Compensation

The Company recognizes compensation expense for all share-based payments in accordance with FASB Codification Topic 718, Compensation — Stock Compensation, (ASC 718). Under the fair value recognition provisions of ASC 718, the Company recognizes share-based compensation expense, net of an estimated forfeiture rate, over the requisite service period of the award.

The fair value at grant date of stock options is estimated using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model. Compensation expense is recognized on a straight-line basis over the stock option vesting period based on the estimated number of stock options that are expected to vest. Shares are issued from treasury upon exercise of stock options.

(j) Other Comprehensive Income

Other comprehensive income refers to revenues, expenses, gains and losses that under generally accepted accounting principles are included in comprehensive income, but are excluded from net income as these amounts are recorded directly as an adjustment to stockholders’ equity. The Company’s other comprehensive income is comprised only of unrealized foreign exchange gains and losses.

(k) Income Per Share

Basic earnings per share is computed by dividing income available to common stockholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding in the period. Diluted earnings per share is calculated giving effect to the potential dilution of the exercise of options and warrants. Common equivalent shares, composed of incremental common shares issuable upon the exercise of stock options and warrants are included in diluted net income per share to the extent that these shares are dilutive. Common equivalent shares that have an anti-dilutive effect on net income per share have been excluded from the calculation of diluted weighted average shares outstanding for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019.

(l) Use of Estimates

The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates and would impact the results of operations and cash flows.

Estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed at each period end. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognized in the period in which the estimates are revised and in any future periods affected.

Significant areas requiring the use of management estimates include assumptions and estimates relating to the valuation of goodwill and intangible assets, asset impairment analysis, share-based payments and warrants, valuation allowances for deferred income tax assets, determination of useful lives of property, equipment and leaseholds and intangible assets, recoverability of accounts receivable, recoverability of investments, discount rates for right of use assets and the valuation of inventory.

(m) Fair Value of Financial Instruments

Fair value is defined as the exchange price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability (an exit price) in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. Valuation techniques used to measure fair value must maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs. The standard describes a fair value hierarchy based on three levels of inputs described below, of which the first two are considered observable and the last unobservable, that may be used to measure fair value.

The fair values of cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, accounts payable, accrued liabilities and the short term line of credit for all periods presented approximate their respective carrying amounts due to the short term nature of these financial instruments.

The fair value of the long term debt for all periods presented approximate their respective carrying amounts due to these financial instruments being at market rates.

(n) Contingencies

Certain conditions may exist as of the date the consolidated financial statements are issued which may result in a loss to the Company but which will only be resolved when one or more future events occur or fail to occur. The Company’s management and its legal counsel assess such contingent liabilities, and such assessment inherently involves an exercise of judgment. In assessing loss contingencies related to legal proceedings that are pending against the Company or unasserted claims that may result in such proceedings, the Company’s legal counsel evaluates the perceived merits of any legal proceedings or unasserted claims as well as the perceived merits of the amount of relief sought or expected to be sought therein.

If the assessment of a contingency indicates that it is probable that a material loss has been incurred and the amount of the liability can be estimated, the estimated liability would be accrued in the Company’s consolidated financial statements. If the assessment indicates that a potential material loss contingency is not probable, but is reasonably possible, or is probable but cannot be estimated, then the nature of the contingent liability, together with an estimate of the range of possible loss if determinable and material, would be disclosed.

Loss contingencies considered remote are generally not disclosed unless they involve guarantees, in which case the guarantees would be disclosed. Legal fees associated with loss contingencies are expensed as incurred.

(o) Income Taxes

Income taxes are accounted for under the asset and liability method. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the expected future tax consequences attributable to temporary differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases and operating loss and tax credit 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. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date. Deferred tax assets are reduced by a valuation allowance so that the assets are recognized only to the extent that when, in the opinion of management, it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will be realized.

Per FASB ASC 740 “Income taxes” under the liability method, it is the Company’s policy to provide for uncertain tax positions and the related interest and penalties based upon management’s assessment of whether a tax benefit is more likely than not to be sustained upon examination by tax authorities. At December 31, 2020, the Company believes it has appropriately accounted for any unrecognized tax benefits. To the extent the Company prevails in matters for which a liability for an unrecognized benefit is established or is required to pay amounts in excess of the liability, the Company’s effective tax rate in a given financial statement period may be affected. Interest and penalties associated with the Company’s tax positions are recorded as interest expense in the consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income.

(p) Risk Management

The Company’s credit risk is primarily attributable to its accounts receivable. The amounts presented in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets are net of allowances for doubtful accounts, estimated by the Company’s management based on prior experience and the current economic environment. The Company is exposed to credit-related losses in the event of non-payment by customers. Credit exposure is minimized by dealing with only credit worthy counterparties. Revenue for the Company’s three primary customers totaled $14,713,127 (47%) for the year ended December 31, 2020 (2019 - $12,814,506 or 47%). Accounts receivable for the Company’s three primary customers totaled $3,986,284 (68%) at December 31, 2020 (2019 - $2,708,825 or 61%).

The credit risk on cash and cash equivalents is limited because the Company limits its exposure to credit loss by placing its cash and cash equivalents with major financial institutions. The Company maintains cash balances at financial institutions which at times exceed federally insured amounts. The Company has not experienced any losses in such accounts.

The Company is exposed to foreign exchange risk to the extent that market value rate fluctuations materially differ from financial assets and liabilities, subject to fixed long-term rates.

In order to manage its exposure to foreign exchange risks, the Company is closely monitoring the fluctuations in the foreign currency exchange rates and the impact on the value of cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, and accounts payable and accrued liabilities. The Company has not hedged its exposure to currency fluctuations.

The Company is exposed to interest rate risk to the extent that the fair value or future cash flows for financial liabilities will fluctuate as a result of changes in market interest rates. The Company is exposed to interest rate risk on its long-term debt.

In order to manage its exposure to interest rate risk, the Company is closely monitoring fluctuations in market interest risks and will refinance its long-term debt where possible to obtain more favourable rates.

(q) Equity Method Investment

The Company accounts for investments using the equity method of accounting if the investment provides the Company the ability to exercise significant influence, but not control, over the investee. Significant influence is generally deemed to exist if the Company’s ownership interest in the voting stock of the investee ranges between 20% and 50%, although other factors, such as representation on the investee’s board of directors, are considered in determining whether the equity method of accounting is appropriate. Under the equity method of accounting, the investment is recorded at cost in the consolidated balance sheets under other assets and adjusted for dividends received and the Company’s share of the investee’s earnings or losses together with other-than-temporary impairments which are recorded through other income (loss), net in the consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income.

(r) Goodwill and intangible assets

Goodwill represents the excess of the purchase price of an acquired entity over the amounts assigned to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed. Goodwill is not amortized, but is reviewed for impairment annually or more frequently if certain impairment conditions arise. The Company performs an annual goodwill impairment review in the fourth quarter of each year at the reporting unit level. The evaluation begins with a qualitative assessment of the factors that could impact the significant inputs used to estimate fair value. If after performing the qualitative assessment, it is determined that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is greater than its carrying amount, including goodwill, then no further analysis is necessary. However, if the results of the qualitative test are unclear, the Company performs a quantitative test, which involves comparing the fair value of a reporting unit with its carrying amount, including goodwill. The Company uses an income-based valuation method, determining the present value of future cash flows, to estimate the fair value of a reporting unit. If the fair value of a reporting unit exceeds its positive carrying amount, goodwill of the reporting unit is considered not impaired, and no further analysis is necessary. If the fair value of the reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, goodwill impairment would be recognized equal to the amount of the carrying value in excess of the reporting unit’s fair value, limited to the total amount of goodwill allocated to the reporting unit.

Intangible assets primarily include trademarks and trade secrets with indefinite lives and customer-relationships with finite lives. Intangible assets with indefinite lives are not amortized but are tested for impairment on an annual basis, or more frequently if indicators of impairment are present. Indefinite lived intangible assets are assessed using either a qualitative or a quantitative approach. The qualitative assessment evaluates factors including macro-economic conditions, industry and company-specific factors, legal and regulatory environments, and historical company performance are evaluated in assessing fair value. If it is determined that it is more likely than not that the fair value of the intangible asset is less than its carrying value, a quantitative test is then performed. Otherwise, no further testing is required. When using a quantitative approach, the Company compares the fair value of the intangible asset to its carrying amount, including goodwill. If the estimated fair value of the intangible asset is less than the carrying amount of the intangible asset, impairment is indicated, requiring recognition of an impairment charge for the differential.

Qualitative assessments of goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets were performed in 2020 and 2019. Based on the results of assessment, it was determined that it is more likely than not the reporting unit, customer lists and trademarks had a fair value in excess of their carrying value.

Finite-lived intangible assets are amortized on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives. The Company reviews for impairment indicators of finite-lived intangibles and other long-lived assets as described in the “Impairment of Long Lived Assets” significant accounting policy.

(s) Recent Accounting Pronouncements

The Company has implemented all applicable new accounting pronouncements that are in effect. Those pronouncements did not have any material impact on the consolidated financial statements unless otherwise disclosed, and the Company does not believe that there are any other new accounting pronouncements that have been issued that might have a material impact on its financial position or results of operations.

3. Leases

Accounting and reporting guidance for leases requires that leases be evaluated and classified as either operating or finance leases by the lessee and as either operating, sales-type or direct financing leases by the lessor. For leases with terms greater than 12 months, the Company records the related right-of-use (“ROU”) asset and lease obligation at the present value of lease payments over the term. Leases may include fixed rental escalation clauses, renewal options and / or termination options that are factored into the determination of lease payments when appropriate. The Company’s operating leases are included in ROU assets, lease liabilities-current portion and lease liability-less current portion in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. ROU assets represent the Company’s right to use an underlying asset for the lease term, and lease liabilities represent the obligation to make lease payments arising from the lease. The Company’s leases do not usually provide a readily determinable implicit rate; therefore, an estimate of the Company’s incremental borrowing rate is used to discount the lease payments based on information available at the lease commencement date. The discount rate used was 5.5%.

The table below summarizes the right-of-use asset and lease liability for the period ended December 31, 2020:

Undiscounted rent payments for the next five years are as follows:

4. Accounts Receivable

5. Inventories

6. Property, Equipment and Leaseholds

Amount of depreciation expense for 2020: $659,233 (2019: $427,826) and is included in cost of sales in the consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income.

During the year, equipment with a cost of $79,517 and accumulated depreciation of $64,218 was disposed for proceeds of $24,789. The Company recognized a gain of $9,490 on the disposal.

7. Patents

Increase in 2020 cost was due to currency conversion. 2020 cost in Canadian dollars - $265,102 (2019 - $265,102 in Canadian dollars).

Amount of amortization for 2020: $16,439 (2019: $16,438) and is included in cost of sales in the consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income.

Estimated amortization expense over the next five years is as follows:

8. Goodwill and Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets

Goodwill relates to the acquisition of ENP Investments. Indefinite lived intangible assets consist of trade secrets and trademarks related to the acquisition of ENP Investments.

Definite life intangible assets consist of customer relationships and software related to the acquisition of ENP Investments. Customer relationships and software are amortized over their estimated useful life of 15 years and 3 years, respectively.

Estimated amortization expense over the next five years is as follows:

9. Long Term Deposits

The Company has security deposits that are long term in nature which consist of damage deposits held by landlords and security deposits held by various vendors.

10. Investments

(a) The Company has a 50% ownership interest in ENP Peru Investments LLC (“ENP Peru”), which was acquired in fiscal 2016. ENP Peru is located in Illinois and leases warehouse space. The Company accounts for this investment using the equity method of accounting. A summary of the Company’s investment follows:

During the year ended December 31, 2020, the Company received $66,518 from ENP Peru. At the time of the receipt of this payment, the investment balance was $nil and the payment was not recorded against the investment balance but was included in gain on investments.

Summarized profit and loss information related to the equity accounted investment is as follows:

(b) In fiscal 2018, the Company acquired a 24% ownership interest in ENP Realty LLC (“ENP Realty”). ENP Realty is located in Illinois and leases warehouse space. During the year ended December 31, 2020, the other partners of ENP Realty withdrew from the partnership, resulting in ENP Realty becoming a wholly owned subsidiary of ENP Investments. As a result, ENP Realty is consolidated in the financial statements of the Company and a 35% non-controlling interest is recognized from the acquisition date onwards.

It was determined that ENP Realty did not meet the definition of a business in accordance with FASB Codification Topic 805, Business Combinations (ASC 805), and the acquisition was accounted for as an asset acquisition. The following table summarizes the final purchase price allocation of the consideration paid to the respective fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed in ENP Realty as of the acquisition date.

The income tax expense arising from the deferred income tax liability is net against gain on acquisition of ENP Realty in the consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income.

A summary of the Company’s investment follows:

Summarized profit and loss information related to the equity accounted investment is as follows:

(c) In December 2018 the Company invested $200,000 in Applied Holding Corp. (“Applied”). Applied is a captive insurance company and the Company received a promissory note for its investment which becomes due in 2021 but may be extended with notice for a maximum of two years. In accordance with FASB Codification Topic 323, Investments – Equity Method and Joint Ventures (ASC 323), the Company has elected to account for this investment at cost.

(d) In December 2018 the Company invested $500,000 in Trio Opportunity Corp. (“Trio”), a privately held entity. Trio is a real estate investment vehicle and the Company received 50,000 non-voting Class B shares at $10.00/share. In accordance with ASC 323, the Company has elected to account for this investment at cost.

(e) In January 2019, the Company invested $1,001,000 in a Florida based LLC that is engaged in international sales of fertilizer additives. The Company accounts for this investment using the equity method of accounting. According to the operating agreement, the Company has a 50% interest in the profit and loss of the Florida based LLC but does not have control. A summary of the Company’s investment follows:

Further to the original investment amount, the Company had placed $1,000,000 in trust, which was released upon the Florida based LLC reaching a milestone related to earnings before interest, taxes and depreciation (“EBITDA”) targets. This amount was accounted for as restricted cash on the balance sheet as at December 31, 2019. During the year ended December 31, 2020, this amount was released. The additional payments of $2,518,684 made during the year ended December 31, 2020 related to contingent consideration which was dependent on the Florida based LLC meeting certain performance millstones during the year. Summarized profit and loss information related to the equity accounted investment is as follows:

(f) In December 2020, the Company invested $500,000 in Lygos Inc., a privately held entity. Both companies intend to work together in pursuit of sustainable aspartic acid through synthetic biology. The Company has elected to account for this investment at cost. A summary of the Company’s investment follows:

11. Short-Term Line of Credit

(a) In September 2018, the Company signed a new agreement with Harris Bank (“Harris”) to renew the expiring credit line. The revolving line of credit is for an aggregate amount of up to the lesser of (i) $2,500,000, or (ii) 80% of eligible domestic accounts receivable and certain foreign accounts receivable plus 60% of inventory. The loan had an annual interest rate of 4.75% and a balance of $1,641,085 at December 31, 2019. The revolving line of credit at Harris was paid in October 2020, upon the opening of the revolving line of credit at Midland States Bank (“Midland”).

(b) In April, 2020, ENP Investments signed a new agreement with Midland to renew the expiring credit line. The revolving line of credit is for an aggregate amount up to $3,000,000. The interest rate of this loan is subject to change from time to time based on changes in an independent index which is the 1 month LIBOR as published in the Wall Street Journal (the “Index”). Interest on the unpaid principal balance of this loan will be calculated using a rate of 4.050 percentage points over the Index. Under no circumstances will the interest rate of this loan be less than 4.500% per annum or more than the maximum rate allowed by applicable law. The interest rate at December 31, 2020 is 4.5% (December 31, 2019 – 6.075%).

The revolving line of credit contains customary affirmative and negative covenants, including the following: compliance with laws, provisions of financial statements and periodic reports, payment of taxes, maintenance of inventory and insurance, maintenance of operating accounts at Midland, Midland’s access to collateral, formation or acquisition of subsidiaries, incurrence of indebtedness, dispositions of assets, granting liens, changes in business, ownership or business locations, engaging in mergers and acquisitions, making investments or distributions and affiliate transactions. NanoChem is a guarantor of 65% of all the principal and other loan costs not to exceed $1,625,000. As of December 31, 2020, ENP Investments was in compliance with all loan covenants.

To secure the repayment of any amounts borrowed under the revolving line of credit, ENP Investments granted Midland a security interest in all inventory, equipment and fixtures and acknowledges a separate commercial security agreement from guarantor to Midland dated February 15, 2011.

Short-term borrowings outstanding under the revolving line as of December 31, 2020 were $541,456 (2019 – $748,897).

(c) In October 2020, the Company signed a new agreement with Midland to replace the expiring credit line at Harris. The revolving line of credit is for an aggregate amount of up to the lesser of (i) $2,500,000, or (ii) 80% of eligible domestic accounts receivable and certain foreign accounts receivable plus 50% of inventory with a rate of prime plus 0.5%. The loan has an annual interest rate of 3.75% at December 31, 2020.

The revolving line of credit contains customary affirmative and negative covenants, including the following: compliance with laws, provision of financial statements and periodic reports, payment of taxes, maintenance of inventory and insurance, maintenance of operating accounts at Midland, Midland’s access to collateral, formation or acquisition of subsidiaries, incurrence of indebtedness, dispositions of assets, granting liens, changes in business, ownership or business locations, engaging in mergers and acquisitions, making investments or distributions and affiliate transactions. The covenants also require that the Company maintain a minimum ratio of qualifying financial assets to the sum of qualifying financial obligations. As of December 31, 2020, Company was in compliance with all loan covenants.

To secure the repayment of any amounts borrowed under the revolving line of credit, the Company granted Midland a security interest in substantially all of the assets of NanoChem, exclusive of intellectual property assets.

Short-term borrowings outstanding under the revolving line as of December 31, 2020 were $1,574,617 (2019 - $nil).

12. Long Term Debt

(a) In September 2014, NanoChem signed a $1,005,967 promissory note with Harris with a rate of prime plus 0.5% (September 30, 2019 – 5.75%) to be repaid over 5 years with equal monthly installments plus interest. Loan proceeds were used to retire the previously issued and outstanding debt obligations. The final payment was made in September 2019. Interest expense for the year ended December 31, 2019 was $3,294.

(b) In October 2018, NanoChem signed a $4,100,000 term loan with Harris with a rate of prime (December 31, 2019 – 4.75%) to be repaid over 7 years with equal monthly installments plus interest along two payments consisting of 25% prior year cash flow recapture, capped at $300,000, due May 31, 2019 and 2020. The money was used to purchase a 65% interest in ENP Investments. Interest expense for the year ended December 31, 2020 was $75,874 (2019 - $191,738). This loan was paid in October 2020 upon opening of credit facilities at Midland. The balance owing at December 31, 2019 was $3,116,667.

(c) In April 2019, NanoChem signed a loan for $1,100,000 with Harris with a rate of prime plus 0.5% (December 31, 2019 – 5.25%) for the purchase of new manufacturing equipment. The Company paid interest monthly until February 2020, when equal monthly installments of the principal and interest were due until January 2024. Interest expense for the year ended December 31, 2020 was $36,272 (2019 – $36,333). This loan was paid in October 2020 upon opening of credit facilities at Midland. The balance owing at December 31, 2019 was $1,100,000.

(d) In January 2018, ENP Investments signed a $200,000 promissory note with Midland with a rate of 5.250% to be repaid over 7 years with equal monthly installments plus interest. This money was used to purchase production equipment. Interest expense for the year ended December 31, 2020 was $7,588 (2019 - $8,734). The principal balance owing at December 31, 2020 is $125,543 (2019 - $152,241).

The Company has committed to the following repayments:

(e) In March 2016, ENP Investments signed a $45,941 promissory note with Ford Motor Credit Company with a rate of 0.00% interest to be repaid over 5 years with equal monthly installments. In August 2020, the loan was paid off in full. The balance owing at December 31, 2019 was $11,485.

f) In April 2020, NanoChem received a two year loan of $322,000 through the Paycheck Protection Program with a rate of 1%. Management expects the full amount of the loan to be forgiven but as the forgiveness application has yet to be accepted, the Company has chosen to present the loan as a long term debt. Eighteen equal installments of principal and interest are due if the loan amount is not forgiven in full.

(g) In April 2020, ENP Investments received a two year loan of $215,960 through the Paycheck Protection Program with a rate of 1%. Management expects the full amount of the loan to be forgiven but at this time, it cannot be proven and has chosen to list the loan as a long term debt. Eighteen equal installments of principal and interest are due if the loan amount is not forgiven in full.

(h) In October 2020, NanoChem signed a $1,980,947 term loan with Midland with a rate of 3.85% to be repaid over 5 years with equal monthly payments including interest. The money was used to retire the debt at Harris related to the loan to purchase a 65% interest in ENP Investments. Interest expense for the year ended December 31, 2020 was $13,389 (2019 - $nil). The balance owing at December 31, 2020 is $1,920,976 (2019 - $nil).

The Company has committed to the following repayments:

(i) In October 2020, NanoChem signed a loan for $894,253 with Midland with an interest rate 3.85% to be repaid over two years with equal monthly payments including interest. The funds were used to replace the loan at Harris for the purchase of new manufacturing equipment. Interest expense for the year ended December 31, 2020 was $6,218 (2019 – $nil). The balance owing at December 31, 2020 is $822,380 (2019 - $nil).

(j) In January 2020, ENP Realty refinanced its mortgage and signed a loan for $450,000 with Stock Yards Bank & Trust to be repaid over 10 years with monthly installments plus interest. Interest for the first five years is at 4.35% and it will be adjusted for the last five years to the Cincinnati Federal Home Bank Loan 5 year fixed index plus 2.5%. Interest expense for the year ended December 31, 2020 was $18,049 (2019 – $nil). The balance owing at December 31, 2020 is $440,779 (2019 – $nil).

As of December 31, 2020, Company was in compliance with all loan covenants.

13. Convertible Note Payable

In October 2018, the Company issued a convertible note payable in the amount of $1,000,000 in connection with the acquisition of EnP Investments LLC. The convertible note is due on or before September 30, 2023 with 5% interest due per year. At the option of the holder, the Note may be converted into 400,000 shares in the Company’s common stock.

In June 2019, the holder opted to convert $500,000 of the convertible note payable into 200,000 shares of the Company’s common stock.

In April 2020, the Company repaid the remaining principal balance of $500,000 and accrued interest of $13,046.

14. Income Taxes

The provision for income tax expense (benefit) is comprised of the following:

The following table reconciles the income tax expense at the U.S. Federal statutory rate to income tax expense at the Company’s effective tax rates.