GRIFFON CORP - Annual Report: 2009 (Form 10-K)

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

FORM 10-K

Commission File No. 1-06620

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

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

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

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

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

         Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (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 ý No o

         Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).    Yes o No o

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

         Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See definitions of "large accelerated filer", "accelerated filer" and "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 Act). Yes o    No ý

         The aggregate market value of the voting and non-voting common stock held by non-affiliates of the registrant as of the close of business March 31, 2009, the registrant's most recently completed second quarter, was approximately $254,000,000. The registrant's closing price as reported by the New York Stock Exchange-Composite Transactions for March 31, 2009 was $7.50

         The number of the registrant's outstanding shares was 59,573,983 as of October 30, 2009.

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE:

         Part III—(Items 10, 11, 12, 13 and 14). Registrant's definitive proxy statement to be filed pursuant to Regulation 14A of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

Special Notes Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

        This Annual Report on Form 10-K, especially "Management's Discussion and Analysis", contains certain "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such statements relate to, among other things, income, earnings, cash flows, revenue, changes in operations, operating improvements, industries in which Griffon Corporation (the "Company" or "Griffon") operates and the United States and global economies. Statements in this Form 10-K that are not historical are hereby identified as "forward-looking statements" and may be indicated by words or phrases such as "anticipates," "supports," "plans," "projects," "expects," "believes," "should," "would," "could," "hope," "forecast," "management is of the opinion," "may," "will," "estimates," "intends," "explores," "opportunities," the negative of these expressions, use of the future tense and similar words or phrases. Such forward-looking statements are subject to inherent risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in any forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, among others: current economic conditions and uncertainties in the housing, credit and capital markets; the Company's ability to achieve expected savings from cost control, integration and disposal initiatives; the ability to identify and successfully consummate and integrate value-adding acquisition opportunities; increasing competition and pricing pressures in the markets served by Griffon's operating companies; the ability of Griffon's operating companies to expand into new geographic and product markets and to anticipate and meet customer demands for new products and product enhancements and innovations; the government reduces military spending on projects supplied by Griffon's Telephonics Corporation; increases in cost of raw materials such as resin and steel; changes in customer demand; political events that could impact the worldwide economy; a downgrade in the Company's credit ratings; international economic conditions including interest rate and currency exchange fluctuations; the relative mix of products and services which impacts margins and operating efficiencies; short-term capacity constraints or prolonged excess capacity; unforeseen developments in contingencies such as litigation; unfavorable results of government agency contract audits of Griffon's subsidiary, Telephonics Corporation; protection and validity of patent and other intellectual property rights; the cyclical nature of the business of certain Griffon operating companies; and possible terrorist threats and actions, and their impact on the global economy. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date made. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

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PART I

Item 1.    Business

The Company

        Griffon Corporation (the "Company" or "Griffon"), is a diversified management and holding company that conducts business through wholly-owned subsidiaries. The Company oversees the operations of its subsidiaries, allocates resources among them and manages their capital structures. The Company provides direction and assistance to its subsidiaries in connectioin with acquisition and growth opportunities as well as in connection with divestitures. Griffon also seeks out, evaluates and, when appropriate, will acquire additional businesses that offer potentially attractive returns on capital to further diversify itself.

        Headquartered in New York, N.Y., the Company was incorporated in New York in 1959, and was reincorporated in Delaware in 1970. It changed its name to Griffon Corporation in 1995.

        Griffon currently conducts its operations through Telephonics Corporation, Clopay Building Products Company and Clopay Plastic Products Company.

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Telephonics Corporation ("Telephonics") high-technology engineering and manufacturing capabilities provide integrated information, communication and sensor system solutions to military and commercial markets worldwide. Telephonics' revenue was 32% of the Company's consolidated revenue in 2009, 29% in 2008 and 34% in 2007.



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Clopay Building Products Company ("Building Products") is a leading manufacturer and marketer of residential, commercial and industrial garage doors to professional installing dealers and major home center retail chains. Building Products' revenue was 33% of the Company's consolidated revenue in 2009, 34% in 2008 and 36% in 2007.



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Clopay Plastic Products Company ("Plastics") is an international leader in the development and production of embossed, laminated and printed specialty plastic films used in a variety of hygienic, health-care and industrial applications. Plastics' revenue was 35% of the Company's consolidated revenue in 2009, 37% in 2008 and 30% in 2007.

(Unless otherwise indicated, all references to years or year-end refer to the Company's fiscal period ending September 30)

        In 2008, the Company substantially strengthened its balance sheet by refinancing its senior debt and raising $248.6 million in gross proceeds through a common stock rights offering, along with an investment by GS Direct, L.L.C. ("GS Direct"), an affiliate of Goldman Sachs. The Company intends to use such proceeds for general corporate purposes and to fund growth both through investment in current segments and acquisitions of other businesses outside the current portfolio.

        At September 30, 2009, the Company had $79.4 million outstanding of its 4% convertible subordinated notes due 2023 (the "Notes"). If the common stock price remains below the conversion price of $22.41 per share, as adjusted for the September 2008 rights offering, the Company anticipates that the noteholders will require the Company to repurchase their outstanding notes in July 2010. As such, these notes are included in Notes payable and current portion of long-term debt in the September 30, 2009 Consolidated Balance Sheet. The Company believes its available cash and liquidity available under credit agreements will be adequate to effect the repurchase of the Notes in July 2010.

        As a result of the downturn in the residential housing market, in 2008, the Company exited substantially all of the operating activities of its Installation Services segment; this segment sold, installed and serviced garage doors, garage door openers, fireplaces, floor coverings, cabinetry and a range of related building products primarily for the new residential housing market. Operating results of substantially all of the Installation Services segment have been reported as discontinued operations in the consolidated statements of operations for all periods presented herein, and the Installation

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Services segment is excluded from segment reporting (see the Discontinued Operations footnote in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements).

        The Company makes available, free of charge through its website at www.griffoncorp.com, its annual report on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K and amendments to those reports filed or furnished pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 as soon as reasonably practicable after such material is filed with or furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission.

        For information regarding revenue, profit and total assets of each segment, see the Business Segments footnote in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

Reportable Segments:

Telephonics

        Telephonics specializes in advanced electronic information and communication systems for defense, aerospace, civil, industrial, and commercial applications for the United States and international markets. Telephonics designs, manufactures, sells, and provides logistical support for aircraft communication systems, radar, air traffic management, information and command and control systems, identification friend or foe ("IFF") equipment, Integrated Homeland Security Systems and custom, mixed-signal, application specific integrated circuits. Telephonics is a leading supplier of airborne maritime surveillance radar and aircraft intercommunication management systems, the segment's two largest product lines. In addition to its traditional defense products used predominantly by the United States Government and its agencies, Telephonics has adapted its core technologies to products used in international markets in an effort to further increase it presence in both non-defense government and commercial markets. In 2009, approximately 71% of the segment's sales were to the United States ("U.S.") Government and agencies thereof, as either a prime or subcontractor, 21% to international customers and 8% to U.S. commercial customers.

        Telephonics employs approximately 1,300 employees.

        The Company believes that Telephonics' advanced systems and sub-systems are well positioned to address the needs of an electronic battlefield with emphasis on the retrieval and dissemination of timely data for use by highly mobile ground, air and naval forces. Telephonics anticipates that the need for such systems will increase in connection with the increasingly active role that the military is playing in the war on terrorism, both at home and abroad. In recent years, Telephonics has increasingly focused its technologies and core competencies in the Homeland Security and Air Traffic Management markets.

Programs and Products

        Telephonics is generally a first-tier supplier to prime contractors in the defense industry such as Lockheed Martin, Boeing, Northrop Grumman, General Dynamics, BAE Systems, MacDonald Dettwiler, Sikorsky Aircraft, the U.S. Department of Defense and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. The significant contraction and consolidation in the U.S. and international defense industry provides opportunities for established, first-tier suppliers to capitalize on existing relationships with major prime contractors and play a larger role in defense systems development and procurement, for the foreseeable future.

        Telephonics, under a primary contract with Syracuse Research Corporation ("SRC"), had been manufacturing counter-IED devices to support the Warlock Duke program. The program entailed the achievement of high production rates, on an accelerated timetable, of equipment designed to defeat roadside bomb threats to U.S. armed forces. The SRC program resulted in revenue of $18 million in 2008 and $191 million in 2007 with no revenue in 2009. As a result of its performance on the SRC contract, in 2009, Telephonics received a subcontract award from Sierra Nevada Corporation for both production and support of counter-IED devices which resulted in $11 million of revenue in 2009.

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        Telephonics has directed resources towards Homeland Security Systems and was selected by Boeing Company in 2007 to participate in the Secure Border Initiative net (SBInet) program. Additionally, Telephonics has been fulfilling a contract from the U.S. Customs and Border Protection for mobile surveillance systems as part of the Homeland Security department's initiative to protect the U.S. borders. These two programs represent strategic advances for the Company by allowing it to expand its core technical expertise into the Homeland Security market. Significant future growth is expected in this Market.

Backlog

        The funded backlog for Telephonics was approximately $393 million at September 30, 2009, compared to $335 million at September 30, 2008. The increase in backlog is primarily attributable to additional funding received for the MH-60R program, a unique, fully integrated multi-mode radar and identification friend or foe interrogator system. Approximately 75% of the current backlog is expected to be filled during 2010.

Sales and Marketing

        Telephonics has technical business development personnel who act as the focal point for its marketing activities and sales representatives who introduce its products and systems to customers worldwide.

        The U.S. Government through its agencies, Lockheed Martin Corporation and the Boeing Company are significant customers of Telephonics. The loss of these customers would have a material adverse effect on the business; notwithstanding the significance of Lockheed Martin Corporation and Boeing Company, Telephonics sells to a diverse group of other defense industry contractors, and others who use Telephonics products for commercial use.

        Telephonics participates in a range of long-term defense and non-military government programs, both in the U.S. and internationally. Telephonics has developed a base of installed products that generate significant recurring revenue from retrofitting, spare parts and customer support. Due to the inherent complexity of defense electronics, Telephonics believes that its incumbent status on major platforms provides a competitive advantage in the selection process for upgrades and enhancements. Furthermore, Telephonics believes that its ability to leverage and apply its advanced technology into new platforms provides a competitive advantage when bidding for new business.

        In recent years, the segment has significantly expanded its customer base in international markets. Telephonics' international projects include a contract with MacDonald Dettwiler as part of Canada's CP-140 Aurora Aircraft Modernization program with General Dynamics for the Canadian Maritime Helicopter Program, and a number of contracts with the Civil Aviation Authority of China for air traffic management systems for Mainland China.

Manufacturing Facilities

        Telephonics' facilities are principally located in the United States, primarily in New York, with one facility in Sweden.

Research and Development

        In an effort to ensure customer satisfaction and loyalty, Telephonics seeks to anticipate the needs of core markets by investing in research and development to provide solutions well in advance of its competitors. As a result, Telephonics continually updates its core technologies through internally funded research and development while coordinating with its customers at the earliest stages of new program development. The selection of these R&D projects is based on available opportunities in the marketplace, as well as input from Telephonics' customers. Telephonics is a technological leader in its

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core markets and intends to pursue new growth opportunities by leveraging its systems design and engineering capabilities and incumbent position on key platforms.

        In addition to products for defense programs, Telephonics has also applied its technology to commercial applications such as airborne weather, search and rescue radar, and air traffic management systems. Telephonics' reputation for innovative product design and engineering capabilities, especially in the areas of voice and data communications, radio frequency design, digital signal processing, networking systems, inverse synthetic aperture radar and analog, digital and mixed-signal integrated circuits, will continue to enhance its ability to secure, retain and expand its participation in defense programs and commercial opportunities.

        Telephonics often designs its products to exceed customers' minimum specifications, providing its customers with greater performance and flexibility. Telephonics believes that early participation and communication with its customers in the requirements definition stages of new program development, increases the likelihood that its products will be selected and integrated as part of a total system solution.

Competition

        As one of the top companies in the industry, Telephonics competes with major manufacturers of electronic information and communication systems, as well as several smaller manufacturers of similar products. Telephonics endeavors to design products with greater performance and flexibility than its competitors while competing on the basis of technology, design, quality and price.

Building Products

        Building Products is the largest manufacturer and marketer of residential garage doors and among the largest manufacturers of commercial sectional doors in the United States. Products are sold under Clopay®, Ideal Door® and Holmes® brand names through an extensive distribution network throughout the United States and in Canada. The majority of Building Products' sales are from its garage doors sold for home remodeling, with the balance from new residential housing and commercial building markets. Sales into the home remodeling market are being driven by the continued aging of the housing stock and the trend of improving home appearance, as well as improved energy efficiency, leading to increased demand for insulated doors.

        Building Products employs approximately 1,400 employees.

        According to industry sources, the residential and commercial sectional garage door market for 2008 was estimated to be $1.5 billion, declining approximately $300 million from the prior year.

        The garage door industry has been negatively impacted by the recessionary affect on the residential housing market. Key statistics regarding housing sales, construction permits and starts in 2009 and 2008 were substantially lower than the prior decade; however, the housing market appears to be stabilizing. According to the National Association of Home Builders, current data compared to the prior year shows new home starts down 28% with new home sales down 8% and the inventory of new homes stands at a 7.5 month supply. Current year existing home sales are up 9% over the prior year and the inventory of existing homes now stands at a 7.8-month supply.

Products and Service

        Building Products manufactures a broad line of residential sectional garage doors with a variety of options at varying prices. Building Products offers garage doors made primarily from several materials, including steel, plastic composite and wood, and also sells related products, such as garage door openers manufactured by third parties.

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        Building Products also markets commercial sectional doors; which are similar to residential garage doors, but are designed to meet the more demanding performance specifications of a commercial application.

Sales and Marketing

        Building Products distributes its products through a wide range of distribution channels, including installing dealers, retailers and wholesalers. Building Products owns and operates a national network of 49 distribution centers. Additionally, products are sold to approximately 2,000 independent professional installing dealers and to major home center retail chains, including The Home Depot, Inc. ("Home Depot") and Menards, Inc. ("Menards"). Building Products maintains strong relationships with its installing dealers and believes it is the largest supplier of residential garage doors to the retail and professional installing channels.

        Over the past decade, a significant number of garage doors have been sold through home center retail chains such as Home Depot and Menards. These home centers sell garage doors to the do-it-yourself consumer, the small residential and commercial contractor, as well as installed residential doors and operators for the do-it-for-me consumer segment. Distribution through the retail channel requires different capabilities and skills than those traditionally utilized by garage door manufacturers. Factors such as immediately available inventory, national distribution, national installation services, point-of-sale merchandising and special packaging are all important to the retailer.

        Building Products is the principal supplier of residential garage doors throughout North America to Home Depot and Menards. The loss of either of these customers would have a material adverse effect on the Company's business. Building Products distributes its garage doors directly to customers from its manufacturing facilities and through its distribution centers located throughout the United States and Canada. These distribution centers allow Building Products to maintain an inventory of garage doors near installing dealers and provide quick-ship service to retail and professional dealer customers.

Manufacturing and Raw Materials

        As part of its cost structure review, in June 2009, the Company announced plans to consolidate facilities in its Building Products segment. These actions are scheduled to be completed in early calendar 2011, consistent with the plan. The consolidation is expected to produce annual cost savings of approximately $10 million. The Company estimates that it will incur pre-tax exit and restructuring costs of approximately $12 million, substantially all of which will be cash charges. These charges include $2 million for one-time termination benefits and other personnel costs, $1 million for excess facilities and related costs, and $9 million in other exit costs primarily in connection with production realignment. In addition, the Company expects to invest approximately $11 million in capital expenditures in order to effectuate the restructuring plan. These charges and expenditures will occur primarily in 2010 and 2011; Building Products spent $1.2 million and $2.0 million in 2009 in connection with the restructuring plan and related capital expenditures, respectively.

        The facility consolidation is part of Building Products' continuing efforts to improve and streamline its manufacturing processes. Building Products' engineering and technological expertise, combined with its capital investment programs, generally has enabled it to efficiently manufacture products in large volume and meet changing customer needs in a timely manner. Building Products uses proprietary manufacturing processes to produce the majority of its products. Certain machinery and equipment are internally modified to achieve manufacturing objectives. These manufacturing facilities produce a broad line of high quality garage doors for distribution to professional installer, retail and wholesale channels.

        The principal raw material used in Building Products' manufacturing is galvanized steel. Building Products also utilizes certain hardware components, as well as wood and insulated foam. All of these raw materials are generally available from a number of sources.

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Research and Development

        Building Products operates a technical development center where its research engineers work to design, develop and implement new products and technologies and perform durability and performance testing of new and existing products, materials and finishes. Also at this facility, the process engineering team works to develop new manufacturing processes and production techniques aimed at improving manufacturing efficiencies.

Competition and market conditions

        The garage door industry is characterized by several large national manufacturers and many smaller regional and local manufacturers. Building Products competes on the basis of service, quality, price, brand awareness and product design.

        Building Products' brand names are widely recognized in the building products industry. Building Products believes that it has earned a reputation among installing dealers, retailers and wholesalers for producing a broad range of innovative, high-quality doors. Building Products' market position and brand recognition are key marketing tools for expanding its customer base, leveraging its distribution network and increasing its market share.

Plastics

        Plastics develops and produces specialty plastic films and laminates for a variety of hygienic, health care and industrial uses in the United States and certain international markets. Products include thin gauge embossed and printed films, elastomeric films and laminates of film and non-woven fabrics. These products are used primarily as moisture barriers in disposable infant diapers, adult incontinence products and feminine hygiene products, as protective barriers in single-use surgical and industrial gowns, drapes and equipment covers, as packaging for hygienic products, house wrap and other products. Plastics' products are sold through a direct sales force primarily to multinational consumer and medical products companies.

        Plastics employs approximately 1,200 employees.

        Plastics has a long and successful relationship with its major customer, Procter & Gamble, Co. ("P&G"). Plastics supplies P&G with a variety of products used primarily for infant diapers, both in the U.S. and internationally.

        The markets in which Plastics participates have been affected by several key trends over the past five years. These trends include the increased use of disposable products in developing countries and favorable demographics, including increasing immigration in major global economies. Other trends representing significant opportunities for manufacturers include the continued demand for new advanced products such as cloth-like, breathable, laminated and printed products, and large consumer products companies' need for global supply partners. Notwithstanding the positive trends affecting the industry, design changes by the customer can change the products manufactured by Plastics and the associated demand.

        Plastics believes that its business development activities targeting major multinational and regional producers of hygiene, healthcare and related products and its investments in its technology development capability and capacity increases will lead to additional sales of new and related products, minimizing the impact of this reduction.

Products

        Plastics' specialty plastic film is a thin-gauge film (typically 0.0005" to 0.003") engineered to provide certain performance characteristics and manufactured from polymer resins. A laminate is the combination of a plastic film and a woven or non-woven fabric. These products are produced using both cast and blown extrusion and laminating processes. High speed, multi-color custom printing of

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films and customized embossing patterns further differentiate the products. Plastics' specialty plastic film products typically provide a unique combination of performance characteristics, such as breathability, barrier properties, elastic properties, processability and aesthetic appeal, that meet specific, proprietary customer needs.

Sales and Marketing

        Plastics sells its products primarily in North America, Europe, and South and Central America with additional sales in Asia Pacific. Plastics utilizes an internal direct sales force, organized by customer accounts, with Plastics' senior management actively participating in developing and maintaining close contacts with customers.

        Plastics' largest customer is P&G, which has accounted for more than 50% of its revenue over the last five years. The loss of this customer would have a material adverse effect on the business; notwithstanding the significance of P&G, Plastics sells to a diverse group of other leading consumer, health care and industrial companies.

        Plastics seeks to expand its market presence by capitalizing on technological and manufacturing expertise and on its relationships with major international consumer products companies. Specifically, Plastics believes that it can continue to increase its North American sales and expand internationally through ongoing product development and enhancement, and by marketing its technologically-advanced films, laminates and printed films for use in all of its markets; operations in Germany and Brazil provide a strong platform for additional sales growth in international markets, particularly in Europe and the Middle East.

Research and Development

        Plastics is an industry leader in the research, design and development of specialty plastic film and laminate products. Plastics operates a technical center where polymer chemists, scientists and engineers work independently and in strategic partnerships with customers to develop new technologies, products, processes and product applications.

        Plastics' research and development efforts have resulted in many inventions covering embossing patterns, improved processing methods, product formulations, product applications and other proprietary technology. Products developed include microporous breathable films and cost-effective printed films and laminates. Microporous breathability provides for moisture vapor transmission and airflow while maintaining barrier properties resulting in improved comfort and skin care. Elastic laminates provide the user with improved comfort and fit. Printed films and laminates provide consumers preferred aesthetics, such as softness and visual appeal. Plastics holds a number of patents for its current specialty film and laminate products and related manufacturing processes; while patents play a significant role, Plastics believes that its proprietary know-how and the knowledge, ability and experience of its employees are more significant to it long-term success.

International Operations

        Plastics has two operations in Germany from which it sells plastic films throughout Europe. Additionally, Plastics has operations in Sao Paulo, Brazil which manufacturers plastic hygienic and specialty films. Plastics' international operations provide a platform to broaden participation in Europe, the Middle East and South America and strengthen Plastics' position as a global supplier.

Manufacturing and Raw Materials

        Specialty plastic film and laminate products are manufactured using high-speed equipment designed to meet stringent tolerances. The manufacturing process consists of melting a mixture of polymer resins (primarily polyethylene) and additives, and forcing this mixture through a computer-controlled die and rollers to produce embossed films. In addition, the lamination process involves

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extruding the melted plastic films directly onto a non-woven fabric and bonding these materials to form a laminate. Plastics also manufactures multi-color printed films and laminates.

        Plastic resins, such as polyethylene and polypropylene, and non-woven fabrics are the basic raw materials used in the manufacture of substantially all Plastics' products, the price of which has fluctuated dramatically over the past five years. Resins are purchased in pellet form from several suppliers, under supply agreements that do not specify fixed pricing terms. Sources for raw materials are believed to be adequate for current and anticipated needs.

Competition

        Plastics has a number of competitors, some of which are larger, in the specialty plastic films and laminates market. Plastics competes on quality, service and price using its technical expertise, product development capabilities and broad international footprint to enhance its market position, build and maintain long-term customer relationships and meet changing customer needs.

Employees

        Griffon and its subsidiaries employ approximately 3,900 people located throughout the United States, Canada, Europe and Brazil. Approximately 140 of these employees are covered by a collective bargaining agreement, primarily with an affiliate of the AFL-CIO. The Company believes its relationships with its employees are satisfactory.

Executive Officers of the Registrant

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Regulation

        The Company's operations are subject to various environmental, health, and employee safety laws. The Company continues to invest to ensure compliance with applicable environmental, health and worker safety laws and government regulations, and believes that it generally complies. Historically, compliance with environmental laws has not materially affected, and is not expected in the future to materially affect, the Company's capital expenditures, earnings or competitive position. Nevertheless, the Company cannot guarantee that, in the future, it will not incur additional costs for compliance or that such costs will not be material.

        Telephonics, which sells directly and indirectly to the U.S. government, is subject to certain regulations, laws and standards set by the U.S. government. Additionally, Telephonics is subject to routine audits and investigations by U.S. Government Agencies such as the Defense Contract Audit Agency and other Inspectors General. These agencies review a contractor's performance under its contracts, cost structure and compliance with applicable laws, regulations and standards. These agencies also review the adequacy of, and a contractor's compliance with, its internal control systems and policies, including the contractor's management, purchasing, property, estimating, compensation, and accounting and information systems.

Seasonality

        Historically, the Company's revenue and earnings are lowest in its second quarter and highest in its fourth quarter.

Financial Information About Geographic Areas

        For geographic financial information, see the Business Segment footnote in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

        Griffon's non-U.S. businesses are primarily in Germany, Canada, Brazil and Sweden.

Research and Development

        Griffon's companies are encouraged to improve existing products as well as develop new products to satisfy customer needs; expand revenue opportunities; maintain or extend competitive advantages; increase market share and reduce production costs. Research and development costs, not recoverable under contractual arrangements, are charged to expense as incurred. Research and development costs for Griffon were $17.8 million in 2009, $17.5 million in 2008 and $16.4 million in 2007.

Item 1A.    Risk Factors

        Griffon's business, financial condition, operating results and cash flows can be impacted by a number of factors which could cause the Company's actual results to vary materially from recent or anticipated future results. The risk factors discussed in this section should be carefully considered with all of the information in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. These risk factors should not be considered the only risk factors facing the Company. Additional risks and uncertainties not presently known or that are currently deemed immaterial may also materially impact Griffon's business, financial condition, operating results and cash flows.

        In general, Griffon is subject to the same general risks and uncertainties that impact other diverse manufacturing companies including, but not limited to, general economic, industry and/or market conditions and growth rates; impact of natural disasters and their effect on global markets; continued events in the Middle East and possible future terrorist threats and their effect on the worldwide economy; and changes in laws or accounting rules. The Company has identified the following specific risks and uncertainties that it considers to have the potential to materially effect its business and financial condition.

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Current worldwide economic uncertainty and market volatility could adversely affect Griffon's businesses.

        The current worldwide economic uncertainty, market volatility and credit crisis will continue to have an adverse effect on Griffon during 2010, particularly in Building Products, which is substantially linked to the U.S. housing market. Additionally, the current condition of the credit markets could impact the Company's ability to refinance expiring debt, obtain additional credit for investments in current businesses or for acquisitions, with favorable terms, or there may be no financing available. The Company is also exposed to basic economic risks including a decrease in the demand for the products and services offered or a higher risk of default on its receivables.

Adverse trends in the housing sector and in general economic conditions will directly impact Griffon's business.

        Building Products' business is influenced by market conditions for new home construction and renovation of existing homes. For the year ended September 30, 2009, approximately 33% of Griffon's consolidated revenue was derived from the Building Products segment which is heavily dependent on new home construction and renovation of existing homes. The strength of the U.S. economy, the age of existing home stock, job growth, interest rates, consumer confidence and the availability of consumer credit, as well as demographic factors such as the migration into the United States and migration of the population within the United States also have an effect on Building Products. In that respect, the significant downturn in the housing market has had an adverse effect on the operating results of Building Products and this effect is likely to continue in 2010.

Griffon operates in highly competitive industries and may be unable to compete effectively.

        Griffon's operating companies face intense competition in each of the markets served. There are a number of competitors, some of which are larger and have greater resources than Griffon's operating companies. Griffon competes primarily on the basis of competitive prices, technical expertise, product differentiation, and quality of products and services. There can be no assurance that Griffon will not encounter increased competition in the future, which could have a material adverse effect on the Company's financial results.

The loss of large customers can harm financial results.

        A small number of customers account for, and are expected to continue to account for, a substantial portion of consolidated revenue. Approximately 19% of consolidated revenue and 54% of the Plastics segment revenue for the year ended September 30, 2009 was generated from P&G, the largest customer in the Plastics segment. Home Depot and Menards are significant customers of Building Products, and the U.S. Government and its agencies, Lockheed Martin Corporation and the Boeing Company are significant customers of Telephonics. Future operating results will continue to substantially depend on the success of Griffon's largest customers, as well as Griffon's relationship with them. Orders from these customers are subject to fluctuation and may be reduced materially due to changes in these customers' needs. Any reduction or delay in sales of products to one or more of these customers could significantly reduce Griffon's revenue. The Company's operating results will also depend on successfully developing relationships with additional key customers. Griffon cannot assure that the Company's largest customers will be retained or that additional key customers will be recruited.

Increases in raw material costs could adversely impact Griffon's financial condition and operating results.

        The Company purchases raw materials from various suppliers. While most key raw materials are generally available from numerous sources, raw materials are subject to fluctuations in price. Because raw materials in the aggregate constitute a significant component of the cost of goods sold, price fluctuations could have a material adverse effect on Griffon's results of operations. In recent years, there have been price increases in steel and plastic resins, which are the basic raw materials used in the

11

manufacture of Building Products and Plastics' products, respectively. The Company's ability to pass raw material price increases to customers is limited due to supply arrangements and competitive pricing pressure, and there is generally a time lag between increased costs and implementation of related price increases. In particular, sharp increases in raw material prices are more difficult to pass through to customers and may negatively affect short-term financial performance.

Trends in the baby diaper market will directly impact Griffon's business.

        Recent trends have been for baby diaper manufacturers to specify thinner plastic films for use in their products which reduces the amount of product sold and Plastics' revenue; this trend has generally resulted in Plastics incurring costs to redesign and reengineer products to accommodate the specification change. Such decreases, or the inability to meet changing customer specifications, could result in a decline in revenue and profit.

Telephonics' business depends heavily upon government contracts.

        Telephonics sells products to the U.S. government and its agencies both directly, and indirectly, as a first-tier supplier to prime contractors in the defense industry, such as Boeing, Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman. In the year ended September 30, 2009, U.S. government contracts and subcontracts accounted for approximately 23% of Griffon's consolidated revenue. Contracts involving the U.S. government may include various risks, including:

•

termination by the government;



•

reduction or modification in the event of changes in the government's requirements or budgetary constraints;



•

increased, or unexpected costs, causing losses or reduced profits under contracts where Telephonics' prices are fixed, or costs are not allowable under the government contract;



•

the failure or inability of the prime contractor to perform its contract in circumstances where Telephonics is a subcontractor;



•

failure to observe and comply with government business practice and procurement regulations such that Telephonics could be suspended or barred from bidding on or receiving awards of new government contracts;



•

the failure of the government to exercise options for additional work provided for in contracts; and



•

the government's right, in certain circumstances, to freely use technology developed under these contracts.

        The programs in which Telephonics participates may extend for several years, but are normally funded on an incremental basis. The U.S. government may not continue to fund programs to which development projects apply. Even if funding is continued, Telephonics may fail to compete successfully to obtain funding pursuant to such programs.

Telephonics' business could be adversely affected by a negative audit by the U.S. Government

        As a government contractor, and a subcontractor to government contractors, Telephonics is subject to audits and investigations by U.S. Government Agencies such as the Defense Contract Audit Agency, other Inspectors General and the Department of Justice. These agencies review a contractor's performance under its contracts, cost structure and compliance with applicable laws, regulations and standards. These agencies also review the adequacy of, and a contractor's compliance with, its internal control systems and policies, including the contractor's management, purchasing, property, estimating, compensation, and accounting and information systems. Any costs found to be misclassified or improperly allocated to a specific contract will not be reimbursed or must be refunded if already billed

12

and collected. The Company could incur significant expenses in complying with audits and subpoenas issued by the government in aid of inquiries and investigations. If an audit or an investigation uncovers improper or illegal activities, Telephonics may be subject to civil and criminal penalties and/or administrative sanctions, which could include contract termination, forfeiture of profit, suspension of payments, fines and suspension or prohibition from doing business with the U.S. Government. In addition, if allegations of impropriety are made, Telephonics and Griffon could suffer serious reputational harm.

Griffon's companies must continually improve existing products, design and sell new products and invest in research and development in order to compete effectively.

        The markets for Plastics and Telephonics are characterized by rapid technological change, evolving industry standards and continuous improvements in products. Due to constant changes in these markets, future success depends on their ability to develop new technologies, products, processes and product applications.

        Product and technological developments are accomplished both through internally-funded research and development projects, as well as through strategic partnerships with customers. Because it is not generally possible to predict the amount of time required and costs involved in achieving certain research and development objectives, actual development costs may exceed budgeted amounts and estimated product development schedules may be extended. Griffon's financial condition and results of operations may be materially and adversely affected if:

•

product improvements are not completed on a timely basis;



•

new products are not introduced on a timely basis or do not achieve sufficient market penetration;



•

there are budget overruns or delays in research and development efforts; or



•

new products experience reliability or quality problems.

Griffon may be unable to implement its acquisition growth strategy, which may result in added expenses without a commensurate increase in revenue and income and divert management's attention.

        Making strategic acquisitions is a significant part of Griffon's growth plans; such growth will depend on identifying and acquiring, on acceptable terms, companies that either complement or enhance currently held businesses or expand Griffon into new profitable businesses. Additionally, Griffon must properly integrate acquired businesses in order to maximize profitability. The competition for acquisition candidates is intense and Griffon cannot assure that it will successfully identify acquisition candidates and complete acquisitions at reasonable purchase prices, in a timely manner or at all. Further, there is a risk that acquisitions will not be properly integrated into Griffon's existing structure. In implementing an acquisition growth strategy, the following may be encountered:

•

costs associated with incomplete or poorly implemented acquisitions;



•

expenses, delays and difficulties of integrating acquired companies into Griffon's existing organization;



•

dilution of the interest of existing stockholders; or



•

diversion of management's attention.

        An unsuccessful implementation of Griffon's acquisition growth strategy could have an adverse impact on the results of operations, cash flows and financial condition.

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There may be unforeseen expenses in connection with the exit from substantially all operating activities of the Installation Services segment.

        As a result of the downturn in the residential housing market and the impact on the Installation Services segment, the Board of Directors of Griffon approved a plan to exit substantially all operating activities of the Installation Services segment in May 2008. The Company has substantially completed its disposal activities in the first half of 2009 and does not expect to incur significant expenses in the future. However, there are remaining obligations, primarily related to the guarantee of assigned leases that could affect future results of operations and net cash outflows.

The loss of certain key officers or employees could adversely affect Griffon's business.

        The success of Griffon is materially dependent upon the continued services of certain key officers and employees. The loss of such key personnel could have a material adverse effect on Griffon's operating results or financial condition.

Griffon's businesses are subject to seasonal variations.

        Griffon's revenue and income are typically lowest in the second quarter ending March 31 and highest in the fourth quarter ending September 30 primarily due to the seasonality of Building Products' business. Building Products' revenue is driven by residential renovation and construction which is generally at reduced levels during the winter months. Because a high percentage of manufacturing overhead and operating expenses are relatively fixed throughout the year, operating margins have historically been lower in quarters with lower revenue.

The Company is exposed to a variety of risks relating to non-U.S. sales and operations, including non-U.S. economic and political conditions and fluctuations in exchange rates.

        Griffon and its companies own properties and conduct operations in Europe, Canada and South America. Sales of products through non-U.S. subsidiaries accounted for approximately 31% of consolidated revenue for the year ended September 30, 2009. These sales could be adversely affected by changes in political and economic conditions, trade protection measures, differing intellectual property rights laws and changes in regulatory requirements that restrict the sales of products or increase costs. Currency fluctuations between the U.S. dollar and the currencies in the non-U.S. regions in which the Company does business may also have an impact on future reported financial results.

The Company may not be able to protect its proprietary rights.

        The Company relies on a combination of patent, copyright and trademark laws, trade secrets, confidentiality and non-disclosure agreements and other contractual provisions to protect proprietary rights. Such measures do not provide absolute protection and Griffon cannot give assurance that measures for protecting these proprietary rights are and will be adequate, or that competitors will not independently develop similar technologies.

The Company may inadvertently infringe on, or may be accused of infringing on, proprietary rights held by another party.

        The Company is regularly improving its technology and employing existing technologies in new ways. Though the Company takes reasonable precautions to ensure it does not infringe on the rights of others, it is possible that the Company may inadvertently infringe on, or may be accused of infringing on, proprietary rights held by others. If the Company is found to have infringed on the propriety rights held by others, any related settlement for such infringement may have a material effect on the Company's financial statements and financial condition.

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The Company is exposed to product liability claims.

        The Company may be the subject of product liability claims relating to the performance of its products or the performance of a product in which its products were a component part. There can be no assurance that future product liability claims will not be brought against the Company, either by an injured customer of an end product manufacturer who used one of the products as a component or by a direct purchaser. Moreover, no assurance can be given that indemnification from customers or coverage under insurance policies will be adequate to cover future product liability claims against the Company. In addition, product liability insurance can be expensive, difficult to maintain and may be unobtainable in the future on acceptable terms. The amount and scope of any insurance coverage may be inadequate if a product liability claim is successfully asserted. Furthermore, if any significant claims are made, the business and the related financial condition of the Company may be adversely affected by negative publicity.

The Company has been, and may in the future be, subject to claims and liabilities under environmental laws and regulations.

        The Company's operations and assets are subject to environmental laws and regulations pertaining to the discharge of materials into the environment, the handling and disposal of wastes, including solid and hazardous wastes, or otherwise relating to health, safety and protection of the environment in various jurisdictions in which it operates. The Company does not expect to make any expenditure with respect to ongoing compliance with or remediation under these environmental laws and regulations that would have a material adverse effect on its business, operating results or financial condition. However, the applicable requirements under the law may change at any time.

        The Company can incur environmental costs related to sites that are no longer owned or operated, as well as third-party sites to which hazardous materials are sent. It cannot be assured that material expenditures or liabilities will not be incurred in connection with such claims. See the Commitment and Contingencies footnote in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for further information on environmental contingencies. Based on facts presently known, the outcome of current environmental matters are not expected to have a material adverse effect on the Company's results of operations and financial condition. However, presently unknown environmental conditions, changes in environmental laws and regulations or other unanticipated events may give rise to claims that may involve material expenditures or liabilities.

Changes in income tax laws and regulations or exposure to additional income tax liabilities could adversely affect profitability.

        The Company is subject to federal, state and local income taxes in the United States and in various taxing jurisdictions outside the United States. Tax provisions and liabilities are subject to the allocation of income among various U.S. and international tax jurisdictions. The Company's effective tax rate could be adversely affected by changes in the mix of earnings in countries with differing statutory tax rates, changes in any valuation allowance for deferred tax assets or the amendment or enactment of tax laws. The amount of income taxes paid is subject to audits by U.S. Federal, state and local tax authorities, as well as tax authorities in the taxing jurisdictions outside the United States. If such audits result in assessments different from recorded income tax liabilities, the Company's future financial results may include unfavorable adjustments to its income tax provision.

Compliance with restrictions and covenants in the Company's debt agreements may limit its ability to take corporate actions and harm its business.

        The credit agreements entered into by certain of Griffon's subsidiaries contain covenants that restrict their ability to incur additional debt and to pay dividends. Under the respective credit agreements, these subsidiaries are also required to comply with specific financial ratios and tests. These subsidiaries may not be able to comply in the future with these covenants or restrictions as a result of

15

events beyond their control, such as prevailing economic, financial and industry conditions or a change in control of the Company. If a subsidiary defaults in maintaining compliance with the covenants and restrictions in its credit agreement, its lenders could declare all of the principal and interest amounts outstanding due and payable and terminate their commitments to extend credit to the subsidiary in the future. If the subsidiary or the Company is unable to secure credit in the future, business could be harmed.

The Company's inability to repurchase outstanding convertible notes as required under the indenture may cause an event of default under other agreements.

        On July 18, 2010, 2013, 2018, as well as upon a change in control, as defined in the indenture, noteholders will have the right to require repurchase of their notes. If the Company's common stock price is below the debenture's conversion price ($22.41 per share) on the earliest of these dates, it is anticipated that noteholders will require the repurchase of their notes. If sufficient funds are not available to pay the repurchase price for all of the notes tendered, an event of default under the indenture governing the notes would occur as a result of such failure, which could have a material adverse effect on the Company. At September 30, 2009, $79.4 million of convertible notes were outstanding.

Reported earnings per share may be more volatile because of the conversion contingency provision of the notes.

        The outstanding convertible notes are convertible when a "market price" condition is satisfied and also upon the occurrence of other circumstances as more fully described in the Notes Payable, Capitalized Leases and Long-Term Debt footnote in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. Upon conversion, noteholders will receive $1,000 in cash for each $1,000 principal amount of notes presented for conversion. The excess of the value of Griffon's common stock that would have been issuable upon conversion over the cash delivered will be settled in shares of common stock. These shares are considered in the calculation of diluted earnings per share and volatility in Griffon's stock price could cause these notes to be dilutive in one quarter and not in a subsequent quarter, increasing the volatility of fully diluted earnings per share.

Griffon may be unable to raise additional financing if needed

        Griffon may need to raise additional financing in the future in order to implement its business plan, refinance debt, or to acquire new businesses or products. Any required additional financing may be unavailable at favorable terms, or at all, due to uncertainties in the credit market. If Griffon raises additional funds by issuing equity securities, current holders of its common stock may experience significant ownership interest dilution and these securities may have rights senior to the rights associated with current outstanding common stock.

The Company's indebtedness and interest expense could limit cash flow and adversely affect operations and the Company's ability to make full payment on outstanding debt.

        The Company's indebtedness poses potential risks such as:

•

a substantial portion of cash flows from operations could be used to pay principal and interest on debt, thereby reducing the funds available for working capital, capital expenditures, acquisitions, product development and other general corporate purposes;



•

insufficient cash flows from operations may force the Company to sell assets, or seek additional capital, which the Company may not be able to accomplish on favorable terms, if at all; and



•

the level of indebtedness may make the Company more vulnerable to economic or industry downturns.

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The Company has the ability to issue additional equity securities, which would lead to dilution of issued and outstanding common stock.

        The issuance of additional equity securities or securities convertible into equity securities would result in dilution to existing stockholders' equity interests. The Company is authorized to issue, without stockholder vote or approval, 3,000,000 shares of preferred stock in one or more series, and has the ability to fix the rights, preferences, privileges and restrictions of any such series. Any such series of preferred stock could contain dividend rights, conversion rights, voting rights, terms of redemption, redemption prices, liquidation preferences or other rights superior to the rights of holders of Griffon's common stock. There is no present intention of issuing any such preferred stock, but the Company reserves the right to do so in the future. In addition, the Company is authorized to issue, without stockholder approval, up to 85,000,000 shares of common stock, of which approximately 59,573,983 shares, net of treasury shares, were outstanding as of September 30, 2009. Additionally, the Company is authorized to issue, without stockholder approval, securities convertible into either shares of common stock or preferred stock.

Item 1B.    Unresolved Staff Comments

        None.

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Item 2.    Properties

        The Company occupies approximately 4,800,000 square feet of general office, factory and warehouse space throughout the United States, Germany, Sweden and Brazil. For a description of the encumbrances on certain of these properties, see the Notes Payable, Capitalized Leases and Long-Term Debt footnote in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. The following table sets forth certain information related to the Company's major facilities:

        The Company also leases approximately 1,500,000 square feet of space for the Building Products distribution centers in numerous facilities throughout the United States and in Canada.

        In June 2009, the Company announced plans to consolidate facilities in its Building Products segment, which are expected to be completed in early 2011 and will result in the closure of the Baldwin, WI facilities.

        All facilities are generally well maintained and suitable for the operations conducted.

Item 3.    Legal Proceedings

        See the Commitments and Contingencies footnote in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for discussion on Legal Proceedings.

Item 4.    Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders

        No matters were submitted to a vote of security holders during the fourth quarter.

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PART II

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

        The Company's Common Stock is listed for trading on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol "GFF". The following table shows for the periods indicated the quarterly range in the high and low sales prices for the Company's Common Stock:

Dividends

        No cash dividends on Common Stock were declared or paid during the five years ended September 30, 2009.

Holders

        As of October 30, 2009, there were approximately 13,600 record holders of the Company's Common Stock.

Securities Authorized for Issuance Under Equity Compensation Plans

        Information regarding securities authorized for issuance under the Company's equity compensation plans is contained in Part III, Item 12 of this Form 10-K.

Recent Sales of Unregistered Securities

        None.

Issuer Purchase of Equity Securities

        The table below presents shares of the Company Stock which were acquired by the Company during the fourth quarter of 2009:

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Performance Graph

        The performance graph does not constitute soliciting material, is not deemed filed with the SEC and is not incorporated by reference in any of the Company's filings under the Securities Act of 1933 or the Exchange Act of 1934, whether made before or after the date of this Annual Report on Form 10-K and irrespective of any general incorporation language in any such filings, except to the extent the Company specifically incorporates this performance graph by reference therein.

        The following graph sets forth the cumulative total return to Griffon's stockholders during the five years ended September 30, 2009, as well as an overall stock market (S&P SmallCap 600 Index) and Griffon's peer group index (Dow Jones U.S. Diversified Industrials Index). Assumes $100 was invested on September 30, 2004, including the reinvestment of dividends, in each category.

COMPARISON OF 5 YEAR CUMULATIVE TOTAL RETURN*
Among Griffon Corporation, The S&P Smallcap 600 Index
And The Dow Jones US Diversified Industrials Index

* $100 invested on 9/30/04 in stock or index, including reinvestment of dividends.

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Item 6.    Selected Financial Data

21

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

(Unless otherwise indicated, all references to years or year-end refer to the Company's fiscal period ending September 30)

OVERVIEW

The Company

        Griffon Corporation (the "Company" or "Griffon"), is a diversified management and holding company that conducts business through wholly-owned subsidiaries. The Company oversees the operations of its subsidiaries, allocates resources among them and manages their capital structures. The Company provides direction and assistance to its subsidiaries in connectioin with acquisition and growth opportunities as well as in connection with divestitures. Griffon also seeks out, evaluates and, when appropriate, will acquire additional businesses that offer potentially attractive returns on capital to further diversify itself.

        Headquartered in New York, N.Y., the Company was incorporated in New York in 1959, and was reincorporated in Delaware in 1970. It changed its name to Griffon Corporation in 1995.

        Griffon currently conducts its operations through Telephonics Corporation, Clopay Building Products Company and Clopay Plastic Products Company.

•

Telephonics Corporation ("Telephonics") high-technology engineering and manufacturing capabilities provide integrated information, communication and sensor system solutions to military and commercial markets worldwide. Telephonics' revenue was 32% of the Company's consolidated revenue in 2009, 29% in 2008 and 34% in 2007.



•

Clopay Building Products Company ("Building Products") is a leading manufacturer and marketer of residential, commercial and industrial garage doors to professional installing dealers and major home center retail chains. Building Products' revenue was 33% of the Company's consolidated revenue in 2009, 34% in 2008 and 36% in 2007.



•

Clopay Plastic Products Company ("Plastics") is an international leader in the development and production of embossed, laminated and printed specialty plastic films used in a variety of hygienic, health-care and industrial applications. Plastics' revenue was 35% of the Company's consolidated revenue in 2009, 37% in 2008 and 30% in 2007.

        Telephonics revenue increased $21.6 million, or 6%, compared to the prior year. In 2008, Telephonics was awarded contracts of more than $400 million for the MH-60R program, a multi-mode radar and identification friend or foe interrogator system; $109 million was recognized in 2009 with the balance expected to be incrementally funded over the next several years, generating annual revenue approximating $100 million. Telephonics backlog at September 30, 2009 was $393 million, approximately 75% of which is expected to be fulfilled in 2010.

        Building Products results continued to be impacted by the sustained downturn in the residential housing and credit markets, with revenue and operating profits decreasing from the prior year. The segment remains committed to retaining its customer base and, where possible, growing market share. Additionally, Building Products' ongoing review of, and changes to, its cost structure resulted in a Segment profit for 2009.

        As part of it cost structure review, in June 2009, the Company announced plans to consolidate its Building Products facilities. On completion, the consolidation is expected to produce annual cost savings of $10 million; the plan is scheduled to be completed in early calendar 2011. The Company estimates that it will incur pre-tax exit and restructuring costs of $12 million, substantially all of which will be cash charges, including $2 million for one-time termination benefits and other personnel costs, $1 million for excess facilities and related costs, and $9 million in other exit costs primarily in connection with production realignment. In addition, the Company expects to invest approximately $11 million in capital expenditures in order to effectuate the restructuring plan. Building Products

22

recorded $1.2 million in charges in 2009 and $2.0 million in related capital expenditures, and expects to record the balance of the charges and expenditures in 2010 and 2011.

        Plastics' revenue decreased $54.9 million, or 12%, from the prior year due to lower volume in Europe, translation of European results into a stronger U.S dollar and the effect of the pass through of lower resin costs on customer selling prices; however, Segment operating profit increased 17% and profit margin increased 140 basis points to 5.8% primarily as a result of cost-savings initiatives, which more than offset the impact of lower volume. Over the past several years, the segment has successfully diversified its customer portfolio. The segment remains optimistic that progress on cost reduction programs and product mix should result in continued financial performance improvement.

CONSOLIDATED RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

2009 Compared to 2008

        Revenue for the year ended September 30, 2009 was $1.19 billion, compared to $1.27 billion in the prior year; the decline was due to lower revenue at both Building Products and Plastics, partially offset by increased revenue at Telephonics. 2009 gross profit was $257.1 million compared to $273.0 million in the prior year with gross margin of 21.5% remaining flat with 2008.

        Selling, General and Administrative ("SG&A") expenses decreased $14.7 million to $230.7 million in 2009 from $245.4 million in 2008 as a result of cost saving measures undertaken across all of the segments, particularly in Building Products and Plastics, to offset the impact of lower revenue. SG&A expenses as a percent of revenue for 2009 remained flat to 2008 at 19.3%.

        Interest expense in 2009 decreased by $2.8 million compared to the prior year, principally due to lower levels of outstanding borrowings and lower average borrowing rates.

        During 2009, the Company recorded a non-cash pre-tax gain from extinguishment of debt of $7.4 million, net of a proportionate write-off of deferred financing costs, which resulted from the purchase of $50.6 million of its outstanding convertible notes at a discount.

        Other income of $1.5 million in 2009 and $2.7 million in 2008 consists primarily of currency exchange transaction gains and losses from receivables and payables held in non functional currencies.

        The Company's effective tax rate for continuing operations for 2009 was a provision of 15.4% compared to 98.0% in the prior year. The 2009 tax rate benefitted from tax planning with respect to U.S. foreign tax credits and discrete tax benefits related to the reversal of previously recorded tax liabilities principally due to the closing of certain statutes for prior year returns. The 2008 rate was impacted by a non-deductible goodwill impairment charge, an increase in the valuation allowance regarding deferred tax assets and taxes on a non-U.S. dividend partially offset by discrete tax benefits related to the reversal of previously recorded tax liabilities principally due to the closing of certain statutes for prior year returns.

        Income from continuing operations was $22.0 million, or $0.37 per diluted share, for 2009 compared to $0.1 million or zero cents per diluted share in the prior year. The 2008 results were impacted by a $12.9 million impairment charge related to the write-off of all of Building Products' goodwill. Excluding the impairment charge, income from continuing operations would have been $13.0 million, or $0.40 per diluted share, in 2008. Income from discontinued operations for 2009 was $0.8 million, or $0.01 per diluted share, compared to a loss of $40.6 million, or $1.24 per diluted share in the prior year. Net income for 2009 was $22.8 million, or $0.39 per diluted share, compared to a loss of $40.5 million, or $1.24 per diluted share, in 2008. The 2009 diluted shares used for the earnings per share calculations were 59,002,000 shares in 2009 compared to 32,836,000 shares in 2008 primarily due to the 2008 rights offering.

2008 Compared to 2007

        Total revenue in 2008 was $1.27 billion, compared to $1.37 billion in the prior year; the decline was due to lower revenue at both Telephonics and Building Products, partially offset by revenue growth

23

in Plastics. Gross profit in 2008 was $273.0 million compared to $294.6 million in the prior year, with gross margin decreasing 10 basis points from the prior year; the decline in gross profit was mainly attributable to the decline in revenue.

        Selling, General and Administrative ("SG&A") expenses in 2008 increased to $245.4 million from $242.5 million in 2007 primarily due to increased research and development expenditures at Telephonics, and an increase in unallocated corporate expenses, partially offset by a $5.0 million decrease from cost savings initiatives at Building Products. SG&A expenses as a percent of revenue increased 150 basis point to 19.3% in 2008 compared to 17.8% in 2007; this increase was mainly due to the sales decline as reductions in SG&A expenses were not sufficient to offset the decline in revenue.

        Other income (expense) of $2.7 million in 2008, compared to $2.9 million in 2008, consists primarily of currency exchange transaction gains and losses from receivables and payables held in non functional currencies.

        The Company's effective tax rate for continuing operations for 2008 was a provision of 98.0% compared to 32.0% in the prior year. The 2008 rate was impacted by a non-deductible goodwill impairment charge, an increase in the valuation allowance relating to deferred tax assets and taxes on a non-U.S. dividend partially offset by discrete tax benefits related to the reversal of previously recorded tax liabilities principally due to the closing of certain statutes for prior year returns. The 2007 rate benefitted from discrete tax benefits related to the reversal of previously recorded tax liabilities principally due to the closing of certain statutes for prior year returns.

        Income from continuing operations was $0.1 million, or zero per diluted share, for 2008 compared to $28.2 million, or $0.84 per diluted share in the prior year. The 2008 results were impacted by a $12.9 million impairment charge related to the write-off of all of Building Product's goodwill. Excluding the impairment charge, income would have been $13.0 million or $0.40 per diluted share in 2008. The loss from discontinued operations for 2008 was $40.6 million, or $1.24 per diluted share, compared to a loss of $6.1 million, or $0.19 per diluted share in the prior year. The 2008 net loss was $40.5 million, or $1.24 per diluted share, compared to net income of $22.1 million, or $0.68 per diluted share in 2007.

BUSINESS SEGMENTS

Telephonics

2009 Compared to 2008

        In 2009, Telephonics' revenue increased $21.6 million, or 6%, compared to the prior year, mainly due to higher sales in the Radar Systems division.

        Segment operating profit increased $2 million to $34.9 million in 2008; segment operating profit margin remained at 9.0%, due to the strong sales performance and favorable program mix being offset by higher SG&A expenses. The increase in SG&A expenses was resulted from higher research and development expenditures and additional administrative expenses to support revenue growth.

2008 Compared to 2007

        Telephonics 2008 revenue decreased $106.3 million, or 22%, compared to the prior year. The decrease was due to the scheduled completion of the SRC contract, for which related revenue

24

decreased $173 million; the SRC contract effect was partially offset by core business revenue growth of $66.4 million, or 24%, related to new and expanded programs.

        Segment operating profit of $32.9 million decreased $13.0 million, or 28%, due to the completion of the SRC contract, partially offset by increased core business growth. The Segment operating profit margin decreased 70 basis points due to higher SG&A expenses from research and development, and increased sales and marketing efforts, partially offset by improved gross margin due to product mix, principally from the decline in lower margin SRC sales.

Building Products

2009 Compared to 2008

        In 2009, Building Products revenue decreased $41.9 million, or 10%, compared to the prior year, primarily due to the continuing effects of the weak housing market. The revenue decline was principally due to reduced unit volume, partially offset by a favorable shift in mix to higher priced products.

        Segment operating loss for 2009 was $11.3 million, an improvement of $6.1 million compared to the prior year. The 2008 result included the goodwill impairment charge of $12.9 million; excluding this charge, the 2008 operating results would have been a $4.5 million loss. Excluding the goodwill impairment charge from the 2008 comparative, the increased loss in 2009 was mainly due to the sharp decline in volume, and the resultant unfavorable impact on absorption of fixed operating expenses. Notwithstanding the total loss for 2009, Building Products segment operating profit improved sequentially during 2009, reaching $0.6 million and $4.3 million in the third and fourth quarters, respectively, a significant improvement over the segment operating losses incurred in the first two quarters of 2009.

2008 Compared to 2007

        Building Products revenue in 2008 decreased by $51.3 million, or 10.5%, compared to the prior year, primarily due to the effects of the weak residential housing market. The decline in unit sales was partially offset by higher selling prices to pass through rising material and freight costs, and favorable product mix.

        Segment operating loss of $17.4 million decreased $24.6 million compared to the prior year operating income of $7.1 million due to lower sales volume and the associated plant absorption impact of the weaker sales, and a goodwill impairment charge of $12.9 million, partially offset by a $5 million reduction in SG&A expenses due to operating efficiencies derived from the closure of the Tempe, AZ facility, and other headcount and cost reductions.

25

Plastics

2009 Compared to 2008

        In 2009, Plastics' revenue decreased $54.9 million, or 12%, compared to the prior year. The decrease was principally due to lower volume in Plastics' European business, translation of the European results into a stronger U.S. dollar and the pass through of lower resin costs in customer selling prices.

        Segment operating profit increased $3.5 million, or 17%, primarily due to the Company's cost-cutting initiatives and favorable product mix, partially offset by lower unit volume. Segment operating profit margin increased 140 basis points.

2008 Compared to 2007

        Plastics' 2008 revenue increased $61.1 million, or 15%, compared to the prior year. The increase was principally due to favorable product mix in North America, the benefit of increased selling prices due to the pass through of higher resin costs in customer selling prices and the favorable currency impact on translation of European results into a weaker U.S. dollar, partially offset by lower selling prices to a major customer associated with a multi-year contract and lower overall volumes in Europe.

        Segment operating profit increased $3.4 million, or 19%, compared to the prior year due to the factors affecting the revenue increase. Segment operating profit margin of 4.4% increased 20 basis points over the prior year due to SG&A expenses remaining flat and favorable product mix, partially offset by the effect of higher resin costs, and lower unit volumes and the related impact on plant absorption.

Discontinued operations—Installation Services

        As a result of the downturn in the residential housing market, in 2008, the Company exited substantially all of the operating activities of its Installation Services segment; this segment sold, installed and serviced garage doors, garage door openers, fireplaces, floor coverings, cabinetry and a range of related building products primarily for the new residential housing market. Operating results of substantially all of the segment has been reported as discontinued operations in the Consolidated Statements of Operations for all periods presented herein; the Installation Services segment is excluded from segment reporting.

        In May 2008, the Company's Board of Directors approved a plan to exit substantially all operating activities of the Installation Services segment in 2008. In the third quarter of 2008, the Company sold nine units to one buyer, closed one unit and merged two units into Building Products. In the fourth quarter of 2008, the Company sold its two remaining units in Phoenix and Las Vegas. The Company recorded aggregate disposal costs of $43.7 million in 2008.

        The Company substantially concluded its remaining disposal activities in the second quarter of 2009. There was no reported revenue in 2009. Revenue in 2008 was $109.4 million compared to $250.9 million in 2007; the sharp decline resulted from the overall weakness in the residential construction market and closure or sale of operating units during 2008. Installation Services Operating loss was $62.4 million and $9.8 million for 2008 and 2007, respectively.

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        The Company does not expect to incur significant expenses in the future. Future net cash outflows to satisfy liabilities related to disposal activities that were accrued as of September 30, 2009 are estimated to be $4.9 million. Substantially all of such liabilities are expected to be paid during 2010. Certain of the Company's subsidiaries are also contingently liable for approximately $3.3 million related to certain facilities leases with varying terms through 2011 that were assigned to the respective purchasers of certain of the Installation Services businesses. The Company does not believe it has a material exposure related to these contingencies.

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

        Management assesses the Company's liquidity in terms of its ability to generate cash to fund its operating, investing and financing activities. Significant factors affecting liquidity are: cash flows from operating activities, capital expenditures, acquisitions, dispositions, bank lines of credit and the ability to attract long-term capital with satisfactory terms. The Company remains in a strong financial position with sufficient liquidity available for reinvestment in existing businesses and strategic acquisitions while managing its capital structure on both a short-term and long-term basis.

        The following table is derived from the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows:

        Cash flows generated by operating activities for 2009 decreased $1.9 million to $84.1 million compared to $86.0 million in the prior year. Current assets net of current liabilities excluding short-term debt and cash decreased $23.4 million to $229.1 million at September 30, 2009 compared to $252.5 million at the prior year end, primarily due to lower inventory on hand at Building Products due to the restructuring and lower sales volumes.

        During 2009, the Company used cash from investing activities of $32.8 million compared to $49.4 million in the prior year. The Company had capital expenditures of $32.7 million; $20.4 million lower than the prior year.

        During 2009, cash used in financing activities was $43.2 million. The principal financing usage was for the repurchase of $50.6 million face value of convertible notes for $42.7 million and the purchase of common stock by the Company's Employee Stock Ownership Plan ("ESOP") of $4.4 million; these uses were partially offset by $7.3 million of rights offering proceeds (see below). Approximately 1.4 million shares of common stock are available for purchase pursuant to the Company's stock buyback program and additional purchases, including those pursuant to a 10b5-1 plan, may be made, depending upon market conditions and other factors, at prices deemed appropriate by management.

        Payments from revenue derived from the Telephonics segment are received in accordance with the terms of development and production subcontracts to which the Company is a party. Certain of the payments received in this segment are progress payments. Customers in the Plastics segment are generally substantial industrial companies whose payments have been steady, reliable and made in accordance with the terms governing such sales; sales in this segment are made to satisfy orders that are received in advance of production, where payment terms are established in advance of such production and sale. With respect to the Building Products segment, there have been no material adverse impacts on payment for sales.

        A small number of customers have accounted for a substantial portion of historical revenue, and the Company expects that a limited number of customers will continue to represent a substantial portion of revenue for the foreseeable future. Approximately 19% and 21% of total revenue for 2009

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and 2008, and 54% and 56% of Plastics' revenue for 2009 and 2008, is from Procter & Gamble, which is Plastics largest customer. Home Depot and Menards are significant customers of Building Products and Lockheed Martin Corporation and the Boeing Company are significant customers of Telephonics. Future operating results will continue to substantially depend on the success of large customers and the Company's relationships with them. Orders from these customers are subject to fluctuation and may be reduced materially. The loss of all or a portion of the sales volume from any one of these customers would likely have an adverse affect on the Company's liquidity and operations.

        At September 30, 2009, the Company had cash and equivalents, net of debt, as follows:

        In August 2008, the Company's Board of Directors authorized a 20 million share common stock rights offering to its shareholders in order to raise equity capital for general corporate purposes and to fund future growth. The rights had an exercise price of $8.50 per share. In conjunction with the offering, GS Direct agreed to back stop the rights offering by purchasing, on the same terms, any and all shares not subscribed through the exercise of rights. GS Direct also agreed to purchase additional shares of common stock at the rights offering price if it did not acquire a minimum of 10 million shares of common stock as a result of its back stop commitment. The Company received $248.6 million in gross proceeds from the rights offering as follows: (i) in September 2008, the Company received $241.3 million of gross proceeds from the first closing of its rights offering and related investments by GS Direct and by the Company's Chief Executive Officer; (ii) in October 2008, an additional $5.3 million of proceeds were received in connection with the second closing of the rights offering; (iii) and in April 2009, $2.0 million of rights offering proceeds were received.

        In March 2008, Telephonics entered into a credit agreement with JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as administrative agent, and the lenders party thereto, pursuant to which the lenders agreed to provide a five-year, revolving credit facility of $100 million (the "Telephonics Credit Agreement"). At September 30, 2009, $38.0 million was outstanding under the Telephonics Credit Agreement and approximately $57.0 million was available for borrowing.

        In June 2008, Building Products and Plastics entered into a credit agreement for their domestic operations with JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as administrative agent, and the lenders party thereto, pursuant to which the lenders agreed to provide a five-year, senior secured revolving credit facility of $100 million (the "Clopay Credit Agreement"). At September 30, 2009, $35.9 million was outstanding under the Clopay Credit Agreement and approximately $32.4 million was available for borrowing.

        The Telephonics Credit Agreement and the Clopay Credit Agreement include various sublimits for standby letters of credit. At September 30, 2009, there were approximately $16.7 million of aggregate standby letters of credit outstanding under these credit facilities. These credit agreements limit dividends and advances that these subsidiaries may pay to the parent. The agreements permit the payment of income taxes, overhead and expenses, with dividends or advances in excess of these amounts being limited based on (a) with respect to the Clopay Credit Agreement, maintaining certain minimum availability under the loan agreement or (b) with respect to the Telephonics Credit Agreement, compliance with certain conditions and limited to an annual maximum. At September 30, 2009, the Company was not, nor was it reasonably likely to be, in breach of covenants under its respective credit facilities. The Clopay Credit Agreement provides for credit availability primarily based on working capital assets and imposes only one ratio compliance requirement, which becomes operative

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only in the event that utilization of that facility were to reach a defined level significantly beyond the September 30, 2009 level. The Telephonics Credit Agreement is a "cash flow based" facility and compliance with required ratios at September 30, 2009 was well within the parameters set forth in that agreement. Further, the covenants within such credit facilities do not materially affect the Company's ability to undertake additional debt or equity financing for Griffon, the parent company, as such credit facilities are at the subsidiary level and are not guaranteed by Griffon.

        The Company had $79.4 million outstanding of 4% convertible subordinated notes due 2023 (the "Notes") as of September 30, 2009. Holders of the Notes may require the Company to repurchase all or a portion of their Notes on July 18, 2010, 2013 and 2018, as well as upon a change in control. If Griffon's common stock price is below the conversion price of the Notes on the earliest of these dates, management anticipates that noteholders will require Griffon to repurchase their outstanding Notes. As such, these notes are classified under Notes payable and current portion of long-term debt in the fourth quarter of 2009. The fair value is approximately $79 million, which is based on quoted market price (level 1 inputs).

        During 2009, the Company purchased $50.6 million face value of the Notes from certain noteholders for $42.7 million. The Company recorded a pre-tax gain from debt extinguishment of approximately $7.8 million, offset by a $0.5 million proportionate reduction in the related deferred financing costs for a net gain of $7.3 million.

        At September 30, 2008, the Company had $130 million outstanding of Notes.

        The Company's ESOP has a loan agreement, guaranteed by the Company, which requires payments of principal and interest through the expiration date of September 2012 at which time the $3.9 million balance of the loan, and any outstanding interest, will be payable. The primary purpose of this loan, and it predecessor loans which were refinanced by this loan in October 2008, was to purchase 547,605 shares of the Company's stock in October 2008. The loan bears interest at rates based upon the prime rate or LIBOR. The loan balance was $5.6 million as of September 30, 2009, and the outstanding balance approximates fair value.

        During the year ended September 30, 2009, the Company used cash for discontinued operations of $1.3 million related to settling remaining Installation Services liabilities.

Contractual Obligations

        At September 30, 2009, payments to be made pursuant to significant contractual obligations are as follows:

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Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

        Except for operating leases and purchase obligations as disclosed herein, the Company is not a party to any off-balance sheet arrangements.

ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND PRONOUNCEMENTS

Critical Accounting Policies

        The preparation of Griffon's consolidated financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America ("GAAP") requires the use of estimates, assumptions, judgments and subjective interpretations of accounting principles that have an impact on assets, liabilities, revenue and expenses. These estimates can also affect supplemental information contained in public disclosures of the Company, including information regarding contingencies, risk and its financial condition. These estimates, assumptions and judgments are evaluated on an ongoing basis and based on historical experience, current conditions and various other assumptions, and form the basis for estimating the carrying values of assets and liabilities, as well as identifying and assessing the accounting treatment for commitments and contingencies. Actual results may materially differ from these estimates.

        An estimate is considered to be critical if it is subjective and if changes in the estimate using different assumptions would result in a material impact on the Company's financial position or results of operations. The following have been identified as the most critical accounting policies and estimates:

Revenue Recognition

        Revenue is recognized when the following circumstances are satisfied: a) persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, b) delivery has occurred or services are rendered, c) price is fixed and determinable and d) collectability is reasonably assured. Goods are sold on terms which transfer title and risk of loss at a specified location, typically shipping point. Revenue recognition from product sales occurs when all factors are met, including transfer of title and risk of loss, which occurs either upon shipment or upon receipt by customers at the location specified in the terms of sale. Other than standard product warranty provisions, sales arrangements provide for no other significant post-shipment obligations. From time to time and for certain customers rebates and other sales incentives, promotional allowances or discounts are offered, typically related to customer purchase volumes, all of which are fixed or

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determinable and are classified as a reduction of revenue and recorded at the time of sale. Griffon provides for sales returns allowances based upon historical returns experience.

        Telephonics earns a substantial portion of its revenue as either a prime or subcontractor from contract awards with the U.S. Government, as well as non-U.S. governments and other commercial customers. These formal contracts are typically long-term in nature, usually greater than one year. Revenue and profits from these long-term fixed price contracts are recognized under the percentage-of-completion method of accounting. Revenue and profits on fixed-price contracts that contain engineering as well as production requirements are recorded based on the ratio of total actual incurred costs to date to the total estimated costs for each contract (cost-to-cost method). Using the cost-to-cost method, revenue is recorded at amounts equal to the ratio of actual cumulative costs incurred divided by total estimated costs at completion, multiplied by the total estimated contract revenue, less the cumulative revenue recognized in prior periods. The profit recorded on a contract using this method is equal to the current estimated total profit margin multiplied by the cumulative revenue recognized, less the amount of cumulative profit previously recorded for the contract in prior periods. As this method relies on the substantial use of estimates, these projections may be revised throughout the life of a contract. Components of this formula and ratio that may be estimated include gross profit margin and total costs at completion. The cost performance and estimates to complete on long-term contracts are reviewed, at a minimum, on a quarterly basis, as well as when information becomes available that would necessitate a review of the current estimate. Adjustments to estimates for a contract's estimated costs at completion and estimated profit or loss often are required as experience is gained, and as more information is obtained, even though the scope of work required under the contract may or may not change, or if contract modifications occur. The impact of such adjustments or changes to estimates is made on a cumulative basis in the period when such information has become known. Gross profit is affected by a variety of factors, including the mix of products, systems and services, production efficiencies, price competition and general economic conditions.

        Revenue and profits on cost-reimbursable type contracts are recognized as allowable costs are incurred on the contract, at an amount equal to the allowable costs plus the estimated profit on those costs. The estimated profit on a cost-reimbursable contract may be fixed or variable based on the contractual fee arrangement. Incentive and award fees on these contracts are recorded as revenue when the criteria under which they are earned are reasonably assured of being met and can be estimated.

        For contracts whose anticipated total costs exceed the total expected revenue, an estimated loss is recognized in the period when identifiable. A provision for the entire amount of the estimated loss is recorded on a cumulative basis.

        Amounts representing contract change orders or claims are included in revenue only when they can be reliably estimated and their realization is probable, and are determined on a percentage-of-completion basis measured by the cost-to-cost method.

Warranty Accruals

        Direct customer and end-user warranties are provided on certain products. These warranties cover manufacturing defects that would prevent the product from performing in line with its intended and marketed use. The terms of these warranties vary by product line and generally provide for the repair or replacement of the defective product. Warranty claims data is collected and analyzed with a focus on the historical amount of claims, the products involved, the amount of time between the warranty claims and the products' respective sales and the amount of current sales. Based on these analyses, warranty accruals are recorded as an increase to cost of sales and regularly reviewed for adequacy.

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Stock-based Compensation

        Griffon has issued stock-based compensation to certain employees, officers and directors in the form of stock options and non-vested restricted stock. For stock option grants made on or after October 1, 2005, expense is recognized over the awards' expected vesting period based on their fair value as calculated using the Black-Scholes pricing model. The Black-Scholes pricing model uses estimated assumptions for a forfeiture rate, the expected life of the options and a volatility rate using historical data.

        Compensation expense for non-vested restricted stock is recognized ratably over the service period based on the fair value of the grant calculated as the number of shares granted multiplied by the stock price on the date of grant.

Allowances for Discount, Doubtful Account and Returns

        Trade receivables are recorded at the stated amount, less allowances for discounts, doubtful accounts and returns. The allowances represent estimated uncollectible receivables associated with potential customer defaults on contractual obligations (usually due to customers' potential insolvency), discounts related to early payment of accounts receivables by customers and estimates for returns. The allowance for doubtful accounts includes amounts for certain customers where a risk of default has been specifically identified, as well as an amount for customer defaults based on a general formula when it is determined the risk of some default is probable and estimable, but cannot yet be associated with specific customers. Allowance for discounts and returns are recorded as a reduction of revenue and the provision related to the allowance for doubtful accounts is recorded in Selling, general and administrative expenses.

Goodwill, Long-Lived Intangible and Tangible Assets, and Impairment

        Griffon has significant intangible and tangible long lived assets on its balance sheet which includes goodwill and other intangible assets related to acquisitions. Goodwill represents the excess of the cost of net assets acquired in business combinations over the fair value of the identifiable tangible and intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed in a business combination. As required under GAAP, goodwill and indefinite lived intangibles are reviewed for impairment annually, for Griffon in September, or more frequently whenever events or circumstances change that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of a reporting unit below its carrying amount. The testing of goodwill and indefinite lived intangibles for impairment involves the significant use of judgment and assumptions in the determination of a reporting unit's fair market value.

        Long-lived amortizable intangible assets, such as customer relationships and software, and tangible assets, which is primarily made up of Property, Plant and Equipment, are amortized over their expected useful lives, which involves significant assumptions and estimates. Long-lived intangible and tangible assets are tested for impairment by comparing estimated future undiscounted cash flows to the carrying value of the asset when an impairment indicator, such as change in business, customer loss or obsolete technology, exists.

        Fair value estimates are based on assumptions believed to be reasonable at the time, but such assumptions are subject to inherent uncertainty. Actual results may differ materially from those estimates. Any changes in key assumptions or management judgment with respect to a reporting unit or its prospects, which may result from a decline in Griffon's stock price, a change in market conditions, market trends, interest rates or other factors outside of Griffon's control, or significant underperformance relative to historical or projected future operating results, could result in a significantly different estimate of the fair value of Griffon's reporting units, which could result in an impairment charge in the future.

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Restructuring reserves

        From time to time, the Company will establish restructuring reserves at an operation. These reserves for both termination and other exit costs require the use of estimates. Though Griffon believes the estimates made are reasonable, they could differ materially from the actual costs.

Income Taxes

        Griffon's effective tax rate is based on income, statutory tax rates and tax planning opportunities available in the various jurisdictions in which the Company operates. For interim financial reporting, the annual tax rate is estimated based on projected taxable income for the full year and a quarterly income tax provision is recorded in accordance with the anticipated annual rate. As the year progresses, the estimates are refined based on the year's taxable income as new information becomes available, including year-to-date financial results. This continual estimation process often results in a change to the effective tax rate throughout the year. Significant judgment is required in determining the effective tax rate and in evaluating tax positions.

        Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized based on the differences between the financial statement carrying amounts and the tax basis of assets and liabilities. Deferred tax assets represent items to be used as a tax deduction or credit in future tax returns for which a tax benefit has been recorded in the income statement. The likelihood that the deferred tax asset balance will be recovered from future taxable income is assessed at least quarterly, and the valuation allowance, if any, is adjusted accordingly.

        Tax benefits are recognized for an uncertain tax position when, in management's judgment, it is more likely than not that the position will be sustained upon examination by a taxing authority. For a tax position that meets the more-likely-than-not recognition threshold, the tax benefit is measured as the largest amount that is judged to have a greater than 50% likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement with a taxing authority. The liability associated with unrecognized tax benefits is adjusted periodically due to changing circumstances, such as the progress of tax audits, case law developments and new or emerging legislation. Such adjustments are recognized entirely in the period in which they are identified. The effective tax rate includes the net impact of changes in the liability for unrecognized tax benefits and subsequent adjustments as considered appropriate by management. A number of years may elapse before a particular matter for which Griffon has recorded a liability related to an unrecognized tax benefit is audited and finally resolved. The number of years with open tax audits varies by jurisdiction. While it is often difficult to predict the final outcome or the timing of resolution of any particular tax matter, Griffon believes its liability for unrecognized tax benefits is adequate. Favorable resolution of an unrecognized tax benefit could be recognized as a reduction in Griffon's tax provision and effective tax rate in the period of resolution. Unfavorable settlement of an unrecognized tax benefit could increase the tax provision and effective tax rate and may require the use of cash in the period of resolution. The liability for unrecognized tax benefits is generally presented as noncurrent. However, if it is anticipated that a cash settlement will occur within one year, that portion of the liability is presented as current. Interest and penalties recognized on the liability for unrecognized tax benefits is recorded as income tax expense.

Pension Benefits

        Griffon sponsors two defined benefit pension plans for certain employees and retired employees. Annual amounts relating to these plans are recorded based on actuarial projections, which include various actuarial assumptions, including discount rates, assumed rates of return, compensation increases and turnover rates. The actuarial assumptions used to determine pension liabilities and assets, as well as pension expense, are reviewed on an annual basis when modifications to assumptions are made based on current economic conditions and trends. The expected return on plan assets is determined based on the nature of the plans' investments and expectations for long-term rates of return. The discount rate used to measure obligations is based on a corporate bond spot-rate yield curve that

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matches projected future benefit payments with the appropriate spot rate applicable to the timing of the projected future benefit payments. The assumptions utilized in recording the Company's obligations under the defined benefit pension plans are believed to be reasonable based on experience and advice from independent actuaries; however, differences in actual experience or changes in the assumptions may materially affect Griffon's financial position or results of operations.

        The qualified defined benefit plan has been frozen to new entrants since December 2000. Certain employees who were part of the plan prior to December 2000 continue to accrue a service benefit for an additional 10 years, at which time all plan participants will stop accruing service benefits.

Newly issued but not yet effective accounting pronouncements

        In December 2007, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued new accounting guidance related to the accounting for business combinations. The purpose of the new guidance is to better represent the economic value of a business combination transaction. The new guidance retains the fundamental requirement of the old guidance where the acquisition method of accounting is to be used for all business combinations and for an acquirer to be identified for each business combination. In general the new guidance 1) broadens the existing guidance by extending its applicability to all events where one entity obtains control over one or more businesses, 2) broadens the use of the fair value measurements used to recognize the assets acquired and liabilities assumed, 3) changes the accounting for acquisition related fees and restructuring costs incurred in connection with an acquisition and 4) increases required disclosure. The Company anticipates that the adoption of the new guidance, effective for Griffon for any business combinations that occur after October 1, 2009, will have an impact on the way in which business combinations are accounted for; however, the impact can only be assessed as each acquisition is consummated.

        In December 2007, the FASB issued new accounting guidance related to the accounting for noncontrolling interests in consolidated financial statements. The new guidance was issued to improve the relevance, comparability, and transparency of financial information provided to investors by requiring all entities to report noncontrolling (minority) interests in subsidiaries in the same way, that is, as equity in the consolidated financial statements. Moreover, the new guidance eliminates the diversity that currently exists in accounting for transactions between an entity and noncontrolling interests by requiring they be treated as equity transactions. This new guidance is effective for the Company as of October 1, 2009. The Company is evaluating the potential impact, if any, of the adoption of the new guidance on its consolidated financial statements.

        In March 2008, the FASB issued new guidance which enhances required disclosures regarding derivatives and hedging activities, including enhanced disclosures regarding how: 1) an entity uses derivative instruments, 2) derivative instruments and related hedged items are accounted and 3) derivative instruments and related hedged items affect an entity's financial position, financial performance and cash flows. Although early adoption is encouraged, the new guidance is effective for the Company as of October 1, 2009. The Company is evaluating the potential impact, if any, of the new guidance on its consolidated financial statements.

        In April 2008, the FASB issued new guidance which amends the factors that should be considered in developing renewal or extension assumptions that are used to determine the useful life of a recognized intangible asset and requires enhanced related disclosures. The new guidance must be applied prospectively to all intangible assets acquired as of and subsequent to years beginning after December 15, 2008, which is the Company's 2010. The Company is evaluating the potential impact, if any, of the adoption of the new guidance on its consolidated financial statements.

        In May 2008, the FASB issued new guidance to clarify that the liability and equity components of convertible debt instruments that may be settled in cash upon conversion (including partial cash settlement) must be separately accounted for in a manner that will reflect the entity's nonconvertible debt borrowing rate when interest cost is recognized in subsequent periods. The new guidance is effective for the Company as of October 1, 2009. The Company has convertible debt instruments that

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will be affected by this guidance and is evaluating the impact of the adoption of the guidance on its consolidated financial statements.

        In October 2009, the FASB issued new guidance on accounting for multiple-deliverable arrangements to enable vendors to account for products and services separately rather than as a combined unit. The guidance addresses how to separate deliverables and how to measure and allocate arrangement consideration to one or more units of accounting. The new guidance will be effective as of the beginning of the annual reporting period commencing after June 15, 2010, and will be adopted by the Company as of October 1, 2010. Early adoption is permitted. The Company is evaluating the potential impact, if any, of the adoption of the new guidance on its consolidated financial statements.

Recently issued effective accounting pronouncements

        In April 2009, the FASB issued new guidance which requires disclosure about fair value of financial instruments for interim periods of publicly traded companies as well as in annual financial statements. This statement was effective for the Company starting with the interim period ending June 30, 2009, and was applied prospectively as required. The Company has included the required disclosure in this Form 10-K. The adoption of this guidance did not have a material effect on Griffon's consolidated financial statements.

        In June 2009, the FASB issued new guidance which establishes principles and requirements for subsequent events regarding: 1) the period after the balance sheet date during which management shall evaluate events and transactions that may occur for potential recognition or disclosure in the financial statements; 2) the circumstances under which an entity shall recognize events or transactions occurring after the balance sheet date in its financial statements; and 3) the disclosure that an entity shall make about events or transactions that occurred after the balance sheet date. This statement was effective for the Company starting with the interim period ending June 30, 2009, and was applied prospectively as required. The Company has included the required disclosure in this Form 10-K. The adoption of this guidance did not have a material effect on Griffon's consolidated financial statements.

        In June 2009, the FASB issued new guidance which established the FASB Accounting Codification as the source of authoritative accounting principles recognized by the FASB to be applied by nongovernmental entities in the preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP. The new guidance became effective for financial statements issued for interim periods ended after September 15, 2009, and were adopted by the Company for this Form 10-K. The adoption of this guidance did not have a material effect on Griffon's consolidated financial statements.

Item 8.    Financial Statements and Supplementary Data

        The financial statements of the Company and its subsidiaries and the report thereon of Grant Thornton LLP are included herein:

•

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm.



•

Consolidated Balance Sheets at September 30, 2009 and 2008.



•

Consolidated Statements of Operations for the years ended September 30, 2009, 2008 and 2007.



•

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended September 30, 2009, 2008 and 2007.



•

Consolidated Statements of Shareholders' Equity and Comprehensive Income (Loss) for the years ended September 30, 2009, 2008 and 2007.



•

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.



•

Schedule I—Condensed Financial Information of Registrant.



•

Schedule II—Valuation and Qualifying Accounts.

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REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

Board of Directors and Shareholders
Griffon Corporation

        We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Griffon Corporation (a Delaware corporation) and subsidiaries (the "Company") as of September 30, 2009 and 2008, and the related consolidated statements of operations, shareholders' equity and comprehensive income (loss), and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended September 30, 2009. Our audits of the basic financial statements included the financial statement schedules listed in the index appearing under Item 15(a)(2). These financial statements and financial statement schedules are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements and financial statement schedules based on our audits.

        We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

        In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Griffon Corporation and subsidiaries as of September 30, 2009 and 2008, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended September 30, 2009 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Also in our opinion, the related financial statement schedules, when considered in relation to the basic financial statements taken as a whole, present fairly, in all material respects, the information set forth therein.

        As discussed in Note 1 of the notes to the consolidated financial statements, effective October 1, 2007, the Company adopted new accounting guidance related to the accounting for uncertainty in income tax reporting.

        As discussed in Note 11 of the notes to the consolidated financial statements, the Company adopted accounting amendments on September 30, 2007 related to the recognition of the funded status of defined benefit postretirement plans in the consolidated balance sheets.

        We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), Griffon Corporation and subsidiaries' internal control over financial reporting as of September 30, 2009 based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO) and our report dated November 24, 2009 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.

/s/ GRANT THORNTON LLP

New York, New York
November 24, 2009

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GRIFFON CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(in thousands, except per share data)

The accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements are an integral part of these statements.

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GRIFFON CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

(in thousands, except per share data)

The accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements are an integral part of these statements.

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GRIFFON CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(in thousands)