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HELEN OF TROY LTD - Quarter Report: 2019 May (Form 10-Q)


Table of Contents

 
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-Q
x QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the quarterly period ended May 31, 2019
or
¨ TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from ..... to …..
Commission file number: 001-14669
helenoftroylogoa12.jpg
HELEN OF TROY LIMITED
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
Bermuda
74-2692550
(State or other jurisdiction of
(I.R.S. Employer
incorporation or organization)
Identification No.)
 
 
Clarendon House
2 Church Street
Hamilton, Bermuda
 
(Address of principal executive offices)
 
 
 
1 Helen of Troy Plaza
El Paso, Texas
79912
(Registrant’s United States Mailing Address)
(Zip Code)

(915) 225-8000
Registrant's telephone number, including area code:

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act: 
Title of each class
 
Trading Symbol
 
Name of each exchange on which registered
Common Shares
 
HELE
 
The NASDAQ Stock Market, LLC
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 x      No ¨
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such files).      Yes x No ¨
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer”, “smaller reporting company” and “emerging growth company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large accelerated filer x
Accelerated filer ¨
Non-accelerated filer ¨
Smaller reporting company ¨
Emerging growth company ¨
If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ¨
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes ¨ No x
Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer’s classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date.
 
Class
 
Outstanding at July 8, 2019
 
Common Shares, $0.10 par value, per share
 
25,106,551 shares



Table of Contents

HELEN OF TROY LIMITED AND SUBSIDIARIES
FORM 10‐Q
TABLE OF CONTENTS
 
 
PAGE 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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PART I.   FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1.   FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
HELEN OF TROY LIMITED AND SUBSIDIARIES
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (Unaudited)
(in thousands, except shares and par value)
May 31, 2019
 
February 28, 2019
Assets
 
 
 
Assets, current:
 
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents
$
18,375

 
$
11,871

Receivables - principally trade, less allowances of $1,146 and $2,032
262,511

 
280,280

Inventory
335,344

 
302,339

Prepaid expenses and other current assets
19,764

 
10,369

Total assets, current
635,994


604,859

 
 
 
 
Property and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation of $126,621 and $123,744
130,058

 
130,338

Goodwill
602,320

 
602,320

Other intangible assets, net of accumulated amortization of $185,308 and $181,463
287,757

 
291,526

Operating lease assets
36,136

 

Deferred tax assets, net
8,937

 
7,991

Other assets, net of accumulated amortization of $2,138 and $2,115
1,629

 
12,501

Total assets
$
1,702,831


$
1,649,535

 
 
 
 
Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity
 

 
 

Liabilities, current:
 

 
 

Accounts payable, principally trade
$
139,060

 
$
143,560

Accrued expenses and other current liabilities
144,461

 
165,160

Income taxes payable
3,653

 
1,427

Long-term debt, current maturities
1,884

 
1,884

Total liabilities, current
289,058


312,031

 
 
 
 
Long-term debt, excluding current maturities
319,255

 
318,900

Lease liabilities, noncurrent
43,651

 

Deferred tax liabilities, net
7,670

 
5,748

Other liabilities, noncurrent
7,018

 
16,219

Total liabilities
666,652


652,898

 
 
 
 
Commitments and contingencies


 


 
 
 
 
Stockholders' equity:
 

 
 

Cumulative preferred stock, non-voting, $1.00 par. Authorized 2,000,000 shares; none issued

 

Common stock, $0.10 par. Authorized 50,000,000 shares; 25,100,725 and 24,946,046 shares issued and outstanding
2,510

 
2,495

Additional paid in capital
249,079

 
246,585

Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
(2,011
)
 
1,191

Retained earnings
786,601

 
746,366

Total stockholders' equity
1,036,179


996,637

Total liabilities and stockholders' equity
$
1,702,831


$
1,649,535

 
 
 
 
 
See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

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HELEN OF TROY LIMITED AND SUBSIDIARIES
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income (Unaudited) 
 
Three Months Ended May 31,
(in thousands, except per share data)
2019
 
2018
Sales revenue, net
$
376,335

 
$
354,679

Cost of goods sold
222,608

 
208,121

Gross profit
153,727


146,558

 
 
 
 
Selling, general and administrative expense ("SG&A")
105,901

 
101,506

Asset impairment charges

 

Restructuring charges
619

 
1,725

Operating income
47,207


43,327

 
 
 
 
Nonoperating income, net
132

 
75

Interest expense
(3,308
)
 
(2,687
)
Income before income tax
44,031


40,715

 
 
 
 
Income tax expense
3,337

 
2,542

Income from continuing operations
40,694


38,173

 
 
 
 
Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax

 
(381
)
Net income
$
40,694


$
37,792

 
 
 
 
Earnings (loss) per share - basic:
 

 
 

Continuing operations
$
1.63

 
$
1.44

Discontinued operations

 
(0.01
)
Total earnings per share - basic
$
1.63

 
$
1.42

 
 
 
 
Earnings (loss) per share - diluted:
 

 
 

Continuing operations
$
1.61

 
$
1.43

Discontinued operations

 
(0.01
)
Total earnings per share - diluted
$
1.61

 
$
1.42

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Weighted average shares of common stock used in computing earnings per share:
 
 
 

Basic
25,019

 
26,521

Diluted
25,245

 
26,614


See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

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HELEN OF TROY LIMITED AND SUBSIDIARIES
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Unaudited) 

 
Three Months Ended May 31,
(in thousands)
2019
 
2018
Net income
$
40,694

 
$
37,792

Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:
 
 
 
Cash flow hedge activity - interest rate swaps
(3,993
)
 
104

Cash flow hedge activity - foreign currency contracts
791

 
3,333

Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax
(3,202
)
 
3,437

Comprehensive income
$
37,492

 
$
41,229


See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

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HELEN OF TROY LIMITED AND SUBSIDIARIES
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Stockholders’ Equity

 
Common Stock
 
Additional Paid in Capital
 
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
 
Retained Earnings
 
Total Shareholders' Equity
(in thousands, including shares)
 Shares
Par
Value
 
 
 
 
Balances at February 28, 2018
26,576

$
2,658

 
$
230,676

 
$
631

 
$
780,494

 
$
1,014,459

 Income from continuing operations


 

 

 
38,173

 
38,173

 Loss from discontinued operations


 

 

 
(381
)
 
(381
)
 Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax


 

 
3,437

 

 
3,437

 Exercise of stock options
44

4

 
2,052

 

 

 
2,056

 Net issuance and settlement of restricted stock
137

14

 
(14
)
 

 

 

 Issuance of common stock related to stock purchase plan
17

2

 
1,333

 

 

 
1,335

 Common stock repurchased and retired
(457
)
(46
)
 
(6,585
)
 

 
(34,917
)
 
(41,548
)
 Share-based compensation


 
6,324

 

 

 
6,324

 Cumulative effect of accounting change

(3
)
 
(3
)
 

 
(152
)
 
(158
)
Balances at May 31, 2018
26,317

$
2,629

 
$
233,783

 
$
4,068

 
$
783,217

 
$
1,023,697

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Balances at February 28, 2019
24,946

$
2,495

 
$
246,585

 
$
1,191

 
$
746,366

 
$
996,637

 Income from continuing operations


 

 

 
40,694

 
40,694

 Loss from discontinued operations


 

 

 

 

 Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax


 

 
(3,202
)
 

 
(3,202
)
 Exercise of stock options
35

4

 
1,822

 

 

 
1,826

 Net issuance and settlement of restricted stock
173

17

 
(17
)
 

 

 

 Issuance of common stock related to stock purchase plan
15

1

 
1,407

 

 

 
1,408

 Common stock repurchased and retired
(68
)
(7
)
 
(8,322
)
 

 
(459
)
 
(8,788
)
 Share-based compensation


 
7,604

 

 

 
7,604

Balances at May 31, 2019
25,101

$
2,510

 
$
249,079

 
$
(2,011
)
 
$
786,601

 
$
1,036,179


See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.


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HELEN OF TROY LIMITED AND SUBSIDIARIES
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Unaudited)
 
Three Months Ended May 31,
(in thousands)
2019
 
2018
Cash provided by operating activities:
 

 
 

Net income
$
40,694

 
$
37,792

Less: Loss from discontinued operations

 
(381
)
Income from continuing operations
40,694


38,173

Adjustments to reconcile income from continuing operations to net cash provided by operating activities:
 

 
 

Depreciation and amortization
7,767

 
7,982

Amortization of financing costs
255

 
255

Non-cash operating lease asset amortization
654

 

Provision for doubtful receivables
54

 
369

Non-cash share-based compensation
7,604

 
6,324

Loss on the sale or disposal of property and equipment

 
32

Deferred income taxes and tax credits
1,941

 
3,098

Changes in operating capital, net of effects of acquisition of businesses:
 

 
 

Receivables
17,715

 
19,522

Inventories
(33,005
)
 
(4,757
)
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
(9,282
)
 
(2,344
)
Other assets and liabilities, net
9,138

 
305

Accounts payable
(4,500
)
 
(3,536
)
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities
(22,842
)
 
(35,253
)
Accrued income taxes
(517
)
 
(1,259
)
Net cash provided by operating activities - continuing operations
15,676


28,911

Net cash used by operating activities - discontinued operations

 
(381
)
Net cash provided by operating activities
15,676


28,530

 
 
 
 
Cash used by investing activities:
 

 
 

Capital and intangible asset expenditures
(3,718
)
 
(4,182
)
Proceeds from the sale of property and equipment

 

Net cash used by investing activities - continuing operations
(3,718
)

(4,182
)
Net cash used by investing activities - discontinued operations

 

Net cash used by investing activities
(3,718
)

(4,182
)
 
 
 
 
Cash used by financing activities:
 

 
 

Proceeds from line of credit
165,300

 
161,200

Repayment of line of credit
(163,300
)
 
(149,300
)
Repayment of long-term debt
(1,900
)
 
(1,900
)
Proceeds from share issuances under share-based compensation plans
3,234

 
3,391

Payments for repurchases of common stock
(8,788
)
 
(41,548
)
Net cash used by financing activities - continuing operations
(5,454
)

(28,157
)
Net cash used by financing activities - discontinued operations

 

Net cash used by financing activities
(5,454
)

(28,157
)
 
 
 
 
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents
6,504

 
(3,809
)
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning balance
11,871

 
20,738

Cash and cash equivalents, ending balance
18,375


16,929

Less: Cash and cash equivalents of discontinued operations, ending balance

 

Cash and cash equivalents of continuing operations, ending balance
$
18,375


$
16,929

 
 
 
 
Supplemental non-cash items not included above resulting from the adoption of ASC 842
 
 
 
  Initial recognition of operating lease asset
$
(37,082
)
 
$

  Initial recognition of lease liabilities
47,223

 

  Accrued expenses and other current liabilities
(2,873
)
 

  Other assets and liabilities, net
(7,311
)
 

  Prepaid expenses and other current assets
43

 

 
 
 
 
 
See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

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HELEN OF TROY LIMITED AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Unaudited)
May 31, 2019

Note 1 - Basis of Presentation and Related Information

The accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements contain all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring adjustments) necessary to present fairly our consolidated financial position as of May 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019, and the results of our consolidated operations for the interim periods presented.  We follow the same accounting policies when preparing quarterly financial data as we use for preparing annual data. These statements should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and the notes included in our latest annual report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019, and our other reports on file with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”).

When used in these notes, unless otherwise indicated or the context suggests otherwise, references to “the Company”, “our Company”, “Helen of Troy”, “we”, “us”, or “our” refer to Helen of Troy Limited and its subsidiaries. We refer to our common shares, par value $0.10 per share, as “common stock.” References to the "FASB” refer to the Financial Accounting Standards Board. References to “GAAP” refer to United States (“U.S.”) generally accepted accounting principles.  References to “ASU” refer to the codification of GAAP in the Accounting Standards Updates issued by the FASB.  References to "ASC" refer to the codification of GAAP in the Accounting Standards Codification issued by the FASB.

We incorporated as Helen of Troy Corporation in Texas in 1968 and were reorganized as Helen of Troy Limited in Bermuda in 1994.  We are a global designer, developer, importer, marketer, and distributor of an expanding portfolio of brand-name consumer products.  We have three segments: Housewares, Health & Home, and Beauty.  Our Housewares segment provides a broad range of innovative consumer products for the home.  Product offerings include food preparation tools and storage containers; cleaning, bath and garden tools and accessories; infant and toddler care products; and insulated beverage and food containers.  The Health & Home segment focuses on health care devices such as thermometers, humidifiers, blood pressure monitors, and heating pads; water filtration systems; and small home appliances such as portable heaters, fans, air purifiers, and insect control devices.  Our Beauty segment products include electric hair care, beauty care and wellness appliances; grooming tools and accessories; and liquid-, solid- and powder-based personal care and grooming products.

On December 20, 2017, we completed the divestiture of the Nutritional Supplements segment through the sale of Healthy Directions LLC and its subsidiaries to Direct Digital, LLC.  The results of the Nutritional Supplements operations have been reported as discontinued operations for all periods presented in the consolidated financial statements.  For additional information, see Note 5. All other footnotes present results from continuing operations.

On March 11, 2019, we announced a process to explore the divestiture of our Personal Care business, which is a component of our Beauty segment and includes our liquid, powder and aerosol products under brands such as Pert, Brut, Sure and Infusium.  On May 21, 2019, we announced that, after considering our alternatives, we discontinued the formal sale process and intend to continue to operate the Personal Care business to help fuel our Leadership Brand growth. 

Our business is seasonal due to different calendar events, holidays and seasonal weather patterns. Historically, our highest sales volume and operating income occur in our third fiscal quarter ending November 30.  We purchase our products from unaffiliated manufacturers, most of which are located in China, Mexico and the United States.


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Our condensed consolidated financial statements are prepared in U.S. Dollars.  All intercompany accounts and transactions are eliminated in consolidation.

The preparation of financial statements in accordance with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in our condensed consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes. Actual results may differ materially from those estimates.

We have reclassified, combined or separately disclosed certain amounts in the prior years’ condensed consolidated financial statements and accompanying footnotes to conform with the current period’s presentation.

Note 2 – New Accounting Pronouncements

Except for the changes discussed below, there have been no changes in the information provided in our Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.  

Adopted

In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842). The new guidance requires the recognition of lease liabilities, representing future minimum lease payments, on a discounted basis, and corresponding right-of-use assets on a balance sheet for most leases, along with requirements for enhanced disclosures to give financial statement users the ability to assess the amount, timing and uncertainty of cash flows arising from leasing arrangements. In July 2018, the FASB issued guidance which permits application of the new guidance at the beginning of the year of adoption, recognizing a cumulative-effect adjustment to the opening balance of retained earnings in the period of adoption, in addition to the method of applying the new guidance retrospectively to each prior reporting period presented. We adopted the standard in the first quarter of fiscal 2020 using the transition method introduced by ASU 2018-11, which does not require revisions to comparative periods. We elected to implement the transition package of practical expedients permitted within the new standard, which included (i) not reassessing whether expired or existing contracts contain leases, (ii) not reassessing lease classification, and (iii) not revaluing initial direct costs for existing leases. Adoption of the new standard resulted in the recording of initial lease assets and lease liabilities of approximately $37.1 million and $47.2 million, respectively, as of March 1, 2019. The difference between the lease assets and lease liabilities primarily relates to deferred rent and unamortized lease incentives recorded in accordance with the previous lease guidance. The new standard did not materially impact our condensed consolidated statements of income or cash flows (see Note 4).

In August 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-12, Derivatives and Hedging - Targeted Improvements to Accounting for Hedging Activities (Topic 815), which amends and simplifies hedge accounting with the intent of better aligning financial reporting for hedging relationships with an entity's risk management activities. In April 2019, the FASB issued ASU 2019-04, which provides clarifications and minor improvements related to Topic 815. Adoption of this guidance in the first quarter of fiscal 2020 did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.

Note 3 – Revenue Recognition

We adopted the provisions of ASU 2014-9 in the first quarter of fiscal 2019, and we elected to adopt the standard using the retrospective method. The core principle of the guidance is that a company should recognize revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. 


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Our revenue is primarily generated from the sale of non-customized consumer products to customers. Revenue is recognized when control of, and title to, the product sold transfers to the customer. Therefore, the timing and amount of revenue recognized was not materially impacted by the new guidance. The adoption of the guidance did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements. The provisions of the new guidance did however impact the classification of certain consideration paid to our customers. We therefore reclassified an immaterial amount of such payments from SG&A to a reduction of net sales revenue for all periods presented. Also, in accordance with the guidance, we reclassified an immaterial amount of estimated sales returns from a reduction of receivables to accrued expenses and other current liabilities for all periods presented.  We elected to adopt the guidance using the full retrospective method. 

We measure revenue as the amount of consideration for which we expect to be entitled, in exchange for transferring goods.  Certain customers may receive cash incentives such as customer discounts (including volume or trade discounts), advertising discounts and other customer-related programs, which are accounted for as variable consideration.  In some cases, we apply judgment, such as contractual rates and historical payment trends, when estimating variable consideration.  In accordance with the guidance, most variable consideration is classified as a reduction to net sales.

Sales taxes and other similar taxes are excluded from revenue.  We elected to account for shipping and handling activities as a fulfillment cost as permitted by the guidance.  We do not have unsatisfied performance obligations since our performance obligations are satisfied at a single point in time.

Note 4 – Leases

Adoption of the new lease standard resulted in the recording of lease assets and lease liabilities of approximately $37.1 million and $47.2 million, respectively, as of March 1, 2019. The difference between the lease assets and lease liabilities primarily relates to unamortized lease incentives and deferred rent recorded in accordance with the previous lease guidance. The new standard did not materially impact our consolidated statements of income or cash flows.
The Company primarily has leases for office space, which are classified as operating leases. Operating leases are included in operating lease assets, accrued expenses and other current liabilities, and lease liabilities, non-current in our consolidated balance sheets. Operating lease assets and operating lease liabilities are recognized based on the present value of the future lease payments over the lease term at commencement date. As most of our lease contracts do not provide an explicit interest rate, we use an estimated secured incremental borrowing rate based on the information available at commencement date in determining the present value of lease payments.
We include options to extend or terminate the lease in the lease term for accounting considerations, when it is reasonably certain that we will exercise that option. Our leases have remaining lease terms of 1 to 14 years.  Lease expense for lease payments is recognized on a straight-line basis over the lease term in a manner similar to previous accounting guidance. We do not recognize leases with an initial term of twelve months or less on the balance sheet and instead recognize the related lease payments as expense in the condensed consolidated statements of income on a straight-line basis over the lease term. We account for lease and non-lease components as a single lease component for all asset classes. Our lease agreements do not contain any material residual value guarantees or material restrictive covenants. Under the new guidance, operating lease expense recognized in the condensed consolidated statement of income during the three months ended May 31, 2019 was $1.6 million.  Short-term lease expense is excluded from this amount and is not material.  The non-cash component of lease expense is included as an adjustment to reconcile income from continuing operations to net cash provided by operating activities in the condensed consolidated statement of cash flows.

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A summary of supplemental lease information is as follows:
 
May 31, 2019
Weighted average remaining lease term (years)
11.02

Weighted average discount rate
6.05
%
Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities:
 
Operating cash flows from operating leases
$
979


A summary of our estimated lease payments, imputed interest and liabilities are as follows:
Fiscal Years Ended (in thousands)
 
2020
$
5,120

2021
6,593

2022
6,245

2023
5,121

2024
5,625

Thereafter
38,699

Total future lease payments
67,403

Less: imputed interest
(20,472
)
Present value of lease liability
$
46,931

 
May 31, 2019
Lease liabilities, current (1)
$
3,280

Lease liabilities, noncurrent
43,651

Total lease liability
$
46,931


(1) Included as part of "Accrued expenses and other current liabilities" on the condensed consolidated balance sheet.  

Note 5 – Discontinued Operations

In December 2017, we completed the divestiture of the Nutritional Supplements segment through the sale of Healthy Directions LLC and its subsidiaries ("Healthy Directions") to Direct Digital, LLC. The purchase price from the sale was comprised of $46.0 million in cash, which was paid at closing, and a supplemental payment with a target value of $25.0 million, payable on or before August 1, 2019.  During fiscal 2019, the final amount of the supplemental payment was adjusted to $10.8 million based on a settlement with respect to the calculation of the performance of Healthy Directions through February 28, 2018. The adjustment resulted in a corresponding pre-tax charge of $5.8 million ($4.4 million after tax) to discontinued operations. Also, during fiscal 2019, we recorded additional net charges of $1.5 million ($1.3 million after tax) to discontinued operations, resulting from the resolution of certain contingencies. In conjunction with the sale of the business, we have agreed to provide certain transition services that we expect to end in the second quarter of fiscal 2020.
               

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Note 6 – Supplemental Balance Sheet Information

PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT

A summary of property and equipment is as follows:
(in thousands)
Estimated
Useful Lives
(Years)
 
May 31, 2019
 
February 28, 2019
Land
 
-
 
 
$
12,644

 
$
12,644

Building and improvements
3
-
40
 
113,587

 
113,820

Computer, software, furniture and other equipment
3
-
15
 
85,614

 
84,711

Tools, molds and other production equipment
3
-
7
 
36,627

 
36,378

Construction in progress
 
-
 
 
8,207

 
6,529

Property and equipment, gross
 
 
 
 
256,679


254,082

Less accumulated depreciation
 
 
 
 
(126,621
)
 
(123,744
)
Property and equipment, net
 
 
 
 
$
130,058


$
130,338

 
ACCRUED EXPENSES AND OTHER CURRENT LIABILITIES 

A summary of accrued expenses and other current liabilities is as follows:
(in thousands)
May 31, 2019
 
February 28, 2019
Accrued compensation, benefits and payroll taxes
$
19,502

 
$
36,782

Accrued sales discounts and allowances
29,611

 
28,655

Accrued sales returns
20,793

 
23,316

Accrued advertising
26,770

 
26,549

Other
47,785

 
49,858

Total accrued expenses and other current liabilities
$
144,461

 
$
165,160


  

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Note 7 – Goodwill and Intangible Assets

We perform annual impairment tests each fiscal year during the fourth quarter and interim impairment tests, if and when necessary. We did not record any impairment charges during the first quarters of fiscal 2020 or 2019.

The following table summarizes the carrying amounts and accumulated amortization for all intangible assets by segment as of the end of the periods presented:

 
May 31, 2019
 
February 28, 2019
(in thousands)
Gross
Carrying
Amount
 
Cumulative
Goodwill
Impairments
 
Accumulated
Amortization
 
Net Book
Value
 
Gross
Carrying
Amount
 
Cumulative
Goodwill
Impairments
 
Accumulated
Amortization
 
Net Book
Value
Housewares:
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

Goodwill
$
282,056

 
$

 
$

 
$
282,056

 
$
282,056

 
$

 
$

 
$
282,056

Trademarks - indefinite
134,200

 

 

 
134,200

 
134,200

 

 

 
134,200

Other intangibles - finite
41,481

 

 
(19,885
)
 
21,596

 
41,417

 

 
(19,398
)
 
22,019

Subtotal
457,737

 

 
(19,885
)
 
437,852


457,673

 

 
(19,398
)
 
438,275

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Health & Home:
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

Goodwill
284,913

 

 

 
284,913

 
284,913

 

 

 
284,913

Trademarks - indefinite
54,000

 

 

 
54,000

 
54,000

 

 

 
54,000

Licenses - finite
17,050

 

 
(15,490
)
 
1,560

 
17,050

 

 
(15,402
)
 
1,648

Licenses - indefinite
7,400

 

 

 
7,400

 
7,400

 

 

 
7,400

Other intangibles - finite
117,979

 

 
(90,663
)
 
27,316

 
117,967

 

 
(87,953
)
 
30,014

Subtotal
481,342

 

 
(106,153
)
 
375,189


481,330

 

 
(103,355
)
 
377,975

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Beauty:
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

Goodwill
81,841

 
(46,490
)
 

 
35,351

 
81,841

 
(46,490
)
 

 
35,351

Trademarks - indefinite

 

 

 

 
30,407

 

 

 
30,407

Trademarks - finite
30,557

 

 
(566
)
 
29,991

 
150

 

 
(102
)
 
48

Licenses - indefinite
10,300

 

 

 
10,300

 
10,300

 

 

 
10,300

Licenses - finite
13,696

 

 
(12,562
)
 
1,134

 
13,696

 

 
(12,482
)
 
1,214

Other intangibles - finite
46,402

 

 
(46,142
)
 
260

 
46,402

 

 
(46,126
)
 
276

Subtotal
182,796

 
(46,490
)
 
(59,270
)
 
77,036


182,796

 
(46,490
)
 
(58,710
)
 
77,596

Total
$
1,121,875

 
$
(46,490
)
 
$
(185,308
)
 
$
890,077


$
1,121,799

 
$
(46,490
)
 
$
(181,463
)
 
$
893,846

 
After discontinuing the formal sale process and revising the strategic initiatives for our Personal Care business during the first quarter of fiscal year 2020, we changed trademarks related to the business with a net book value of $30.4 million from indefinite lived to finite lived assets. The amortization of these trademarks is now included in amortization expense for the three months ended May 31, 2019, and these assets are expected to be fully amortized by the end of fiscal year 2027.

The following table summarizes the amortization expense attributable to intangible assets recorded in SG&A in the condensed consolidated statements of income for the periods shown below, as well as our estimated amortization expense for fiscal 2020 through 2025:
Aggregate Amortization Expense 
 
For the three months ended (in thousands)
May 31, 2019
$
3,876

May 31, 2018
4,121



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Estimated Amortization Expense (in thousands)
 
Fiscal 2020
$
17,919

Fiscal 2021
16,151

Fiscal 2022
8,550

Fiscal 2023
8,254

Fiscal 2024
7,946

Fiscal 2025
6,896


Note 8 – Share-Based Compensation Plans

We have equity awards outstanding under several share-based compensation plans. During the three months ended May 31, 2019, we had the following share-based compensation activity:

We issued 1,256 shares to non-employee Board members with a total grant date fair value of $0.1 million and an average share price of $111.80.

We granted time-vested restricted stock units ("RSUs") that may be settled for 3,271 shares of common stock with a weighted average grant price of $111.41 per share for a total award fair value at date of grant of $0.4 million.

We granted time-vested restricted stock awards ("RSAs") that may be vested for 40,852 shares of common stock with a weighted average grant price of $110.98 per share and a total award fair value at date of grant of $4.5 million.

We granted performance-based stock units ("PSUs") that may be settled for 6,088 shares of common stock with a weighted average grant price of $110.85 per share and a total award fair value at date of grant of $0.7 million.

We granted performance-based restricted stock awards ("PSA's) that are targeted to be vested for 122,402 shares of common stock with a weighted average grant price of $110.85 per share and a total award fair value at date of grant of $13.6 million.

RSUs for 62,840 shares vested and settled, with a total fair value at settlement of $7.1 million, and an average share price of $112.83 per share.  

PSUs for 108,572 shares vested and settled with a total grant date fair value of $14.7 million, and an average share price of $135.85 per share.

Employees exercised stock options to purchase 35,397 shares of common stock.

Employees purchased 14,790 shares of common stock under the employee stock purchases plan at an average price of $95.29 per share.



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We recorded the following share-based compensation expense in SG&A for the periods shown below: 
 
Three Months Ended May 31,
(in thousands, except per share data)
2019
 
2018
Stock options
$
116

 
$
308

Directors stock compensation
140

 
123

Performance based and other stock awards
7,023

 
5,571

Employee stock purchase plan
325

 
322

Share-based compensation expense
7,604


6,324

Less income tax benefits
(577
)
 
(270
)
Share-based compensation expense, net of income tax benefits
$
7,027


$
6,054

 
 
 
 
Impact of share-based compensation on earnings per share from continuing operations:
 
 
 
Basic
$
0.28

 
$
0.23

Diluted
$
0.28

 
$
0.23


Note 9 – Repurchase of Helen of Troy Common Stock

On May 20, 2019, we announced that our Board of Directors had authorized the repurchase of up to $400 million of our outstanding common stock.  The authorization is effective May 8, 2019, for a period of three years, and replaced Helen of Troy’s previous repurchase authorization, of which approximately $107.4 million remained. These repurchases may include open market purchases, privately negotiated transactions, block trades, accelerated stock repurchase transactions, or any combination of such methods. The number of shares purchased and the timing of the purchases will depend on a number of factors, including share price, trading volume and general market conditions, working capital requirements, general business conditions, financial conditions, any applicable contractual limitations, and other factors, including alternative investment opportunities. As of May 31, 2019, our repurchase authorization allowed for the purchase of $394.4 million of common stock. 

Our current equity-based compensation plans include provisions that allow for the “net exercise” of share-settled awards by all plan participants.  In a net exercise, any required payroll taxes, federal withholding taxes and exercise price of the shares due from the equity holder can be paid for by having the equity holder tender back to the Company a number of shares at fair value equal to the amounts due.  Net exercises are treated as purchases and retirements of shares.

The following table summarizes our share repurchase activity for the periods shown:
 
Three Months Ended May 31,
(in thousands, except share and per share data)
2019
2018
Common stock repurchased on the open market:
 
 
Number of shares

407,025

Aggregate value of shares
$

$
37,067

Average price per share
$

$
91.07

 
 
 
Common stock received in connection with share-based compensation:
 

Number of shares
68,204

49,595

Aggregate value of shares
$
8,788

$
4,481

Average price per share
$
128.85

$
90.36


Note 10 – Restructuring Plan

In October 2017, we announced that we had approved a restructuring plan (referred to as “Project Refuel”). Project Refuel includes a reduction-in-force and the elimination of certain contracts and operating expenses.  We are targeting total annualized profit improvements of approximately $8.0 to $10.0 million over the duration of the plan.  We estimate the plan will be completed during fiscal 2020, and expect to incur total restructuring charges of approximately $7.0 million over the duration of the plan.

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Restructuring provisions are determined based on estimates prepared at the time the restructuring actions are approved by management and are revised periodically.

For the three months ended May 31, 2019, we incurred $0.6 million of pre-tax restructuring costs related to employee severance and termination benefits. Since implementing Project Refuel, we have incurred $6.0 million of pre-tax restructuring costs related to employee severance and termination benefits and contract termination costs as of May 31, 2019. For the three months ended May 31, 2019, we made total cash restructuring payments of $0.7 million and had a remaining liability of $1.2 million. Since implementing Project Refuel, we have made total cash restructuring payments of $4.9 million as of May 31, 2019.

Note 11 – Commitments and Contingencies

Legal Matters – On May 31, 2018, we settled a patent infringement dispute related to two forehead thermometer models sold by our subsidiary, Kaz USA, Inc., in the United States and made a settlement payment of $15.0 million, which was accrued in prior periods along with related legal fees and other costs.      

We are involved in various other legal claims and proceedings in the normal course of operations.  We believe the outcome of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial position, results of operations or liquidity.
Lease Commitments –  The implementation of the new lease guidance (ASC 842) using the effective date method requires the disclosure of our lease commitments from our latest annual report on Form 10-K for the interim periods during the first year of adoption (see Note 4). The lease commitments as of February 28, 2019 were as follows:
 
Fiscal Years Ended the Last Day of February:
 
 
2020
2021
2022
2023
2024
After
(in thousands)
Total
1 year
2 years
3 years
4 years
5 years
5 years
Operating leases
$
69,482

$
5,171

$
6,678

$
6,411

$
5,743

$
5,078

$
40,401


The minimum rental payments for operating leases presented above were determined in accordance with the previous lease guidance (ASC 840). The minimum lease payments as of May 31, 2019, as disclosed in Note 4, are determined in accordance with the new lease guidance (ASC 842).


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Note 12 – Long-Term Debt

We have a credit agreement (the “Credit Agreement”) with Bank of America, N.A., as administrative agent, and other lenders that provided for an unsecured total revolving commitment of $1.0 billion as of May 31, 2019. The commitment under the Credit Agreement terminates on December 7, 2021. Borrowings accrue interest under one of two alternative methods (based upon a base rate or LIBOR) as described in the Credit Agreement. With each borrowing against our credit line, we can elect the interest rate method based on our funding needs at the time.  We also incur loan commitment fees and letter of credit fees under the Credit Agreement.  Outstanding letters of credit reduce the borrowing availability under the Credit Agreement on a dollar-for-dollar basis.  As of May 31, 2019, the outstanding revolving loan principal balance was $303.2 million (excluding prepaid financing fees) and the face amount of outstanding letters of credit was $9.0 million. For the three months ended May 31, 2019, borrowings under the Credit Agreement incurred interest expense at rates ranging from 3.4% to 5.5%. For the three months ended May 31, 2018, borrowings under the Credit Agreement incurred interest expense at rates ranging from 2.8% to 5.0%. As of May 31, 2019, the amount available for borrowings under the Credit Agreement was $687.8 million. Covenants in our debt agreements limit the amount of total indebtedness we can incur.  As of May 31, 2019, these covenants effectively limited our ability to incur more than $565.8 million of additional debt from all sources, including our Credit Agreement, or $687.8 million in the event a qualified acquisition is consummated.  The following table summarizes our long-term debt as of the end of the periods shown:
 
LONG-TERM DEBT
(in thousands)
Original
Date
Borrowed
 
Interest
Rates
 
Matures
 
May 31, 2019
 
February 28, 2019
Mississippi Business Finance Corporation Loan (the "MBFC Loan") (1)
03/13
 
Floating
 
03/23
 
$
20,439

 
$
22,335

Credit Agreement (2)
01/15
 
Floating
 
12/21
 
300,700

 
298,449

Total long-term debt
 
 
 
 
 
 
321,139

 
320,784

Less current maturities of long-term debt
 
 
 
 
 
 
(1,884
)
 
(1,884
)
Long-term debt, excluding current maturities
 
 
 
 
 
 
$
319,255

 
$
318,900


 
(1)
The MBFC Loan is unsecured with an original balance of $37.6 million and incurs floating interest based on applicable LIBOR plus a margin of up to 2.0%, or a Base Rate plus a margin of up to 1.0%, as determined by the interest rate elected and the Leverage Ratio. The loan is subject to holder’s call on or after March 1, 2018.  The loan can be prepaid without penalty.  The remaining principal balance is payable as follows: $1.9 million annually on March 1, 2020 through 2022; and $14.8 million on March 1, 2023.  Any remaining outstanding principal and interest is due upon maturity on March 1, 2023.

(2)
Floating interest rates are hedged with interest rate swaps to effectively fix interest rates on $225 million of the outstanding principal balance under the Credit Agreement.  Notes 13 and 14 to these condensed consolidated financial statements provide additional information regarding the interest rate swaps.

At May 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019, our long-term debt has floating interest rates, and its book value approximates its fair value. 

All of our debt is unconditionally guaranteed, on a joint and several basis, by the Company and certain of its subsidiaries.  Our debt agreements require the maintenance of certain financial covenants, including a maximum leverage ratio and a minimum interest coverage ratio (as each of these terms is defined in the agreements).  Our debt agreements also contain other customary covenants.  We were in compliance with the terms of these agreements as of May 31, 2019.
 

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Note 13 – Fair Value 

We classify our various assets and liabilities recorded or reported at fair value under a hierarchy prescribed by GAAP that prioritizes inputs to fair value measurement techniques into three broad levels:

Level 1:
Observable inputs such as quoted prices for identical assets or liabilities in active markets;

Level 2:
Observable inputs other than quoted prices that are directly or indirectly observable for the asset or liability, including quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets; quoted prices for similar or identical assets or liabilities in markets that are not active; and model-derived valuations whose inputs are observable or whose significant value drivers are observable; and

Level 3:
Unobservable inputs that reflect the reporting entity’s own assumptions.

Assets and liabilities subject to classification are classified upon acquisition.  When circumstances dictate the transfer of an asset or liability to a different level, our policy is to recognize the transfer at the beginning of the reporting period in which the event resulting in the transfer occurred.

The following tables present the fair value of our financial assets and liabilities measured on a recurring basis as of the end of the periods shown:
 
Fair Values at
 
May 31, 2019
(in thousands)
(Level 2) (1)
Assets:
 

Money market accounts
$
1,069

Interest rate swaps

Foreign currency contracts
2,644

Total assets
$
3,713

 
 

Liabilities:
 

Floating rate debt
$
321,139

Interest rate swaps
5,027

Foreign currency contracts
17

Total liabilities
$
326,183

 
Fair Values at
 
February 28, 2019
(in thousands)
(Level 2) (1)
Assets:
 

Money market accounts
$
915

Interest rate swaps
512

Foreign currency contracts
1,692

Total assets
$
3,119

 
 

Liabilities:
 

Floating rate debt
$
320,784

Interest rate swaps
339

Foreign currency contracts
563

Total liabilities
$
321,686


(1)
Our financial assets and liabilities are classified as Level 2 because their valuation is dependent on observable inputs and other quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities, or model-derived valuations whose significant value drivers are observable.

The carrying amounts of cash and cash equivalents, receivables and accounts payable approximate fair value because of the short maturity of these items.

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Table of Contents


We use derivatives for hedging purposes and our derivatives are primarily interest rate swaps, foreign currency contracts and cross-currency debt swaps.  See Notes 12 and 14 to these condensed consolidated financial statements for more information on our hedging activities.

We classify our floating rate debt as a Level 2 item because the estimation of the fair market value requires the use of a discount rate based upon current market rates of interest for obligations with comparable remaining terms.  Such comparable rates are considered significant other observable market inputs.  The book value of the floating rate debt approximates its fair value as of the reporting date.

Our other non-financial assets include goodwill and other intangible assets, which we classify as Level 3 items.  These assets are measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis as part of our impairment testing.  Note 7 to these condensed consolidated financial statements contains additional information related to intangible asset impairments.

Note 14 – Financial Instruments and Risk Management

Foreign Currency Risk - Our functional currency is the U.S. Dollar. By operating internationally, we are subject to foreign currency risk from transactions denominated in currencies other than the U.S. Dollar (“foreign currencies”). Such transactions include sales, certain inventory purchases and operating expenses. As a result of such transactions, portions of our cash, trade accounts receivable and trade accounts payable are denominated in foreign currencies. During the three months ended May 31, 2019 and 2018, approximately 12% and 13% of our net sales revenue was denominated in foreign currency, respectively. These sales were primarily denominated in Euros, British Pounds, Canadian Dollars and Mexican Pesos. We make most of our inventory purchases from the Far East and primarily use the U.S. Dollar for such purchases. In our condensed consolidated statements of income, exchange gains and losses resulting from the remeasurement of foreign taxes receivable, taxes payable, deferred tax assets, and deferred tax liabilities are recognized in their respective income tax lines, and all other foreign exchange gains and losses are recognized in SG&A. We recorded net exchange gains (losses) from foreign currency fluctuations, including the impact of currency hedges and the cross-currency debt swap, of $0.8 million and $(1.7) million in SG&A during the three months ended May 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively.

We hedge against certain foreign currency exchange rate-risk by using a series of forward contracts and zero-cost collars designated as cash flow hedges and mark-to-market derivatives to protect against the foreign currency exchange risk inherent in our forecasted transactions denominated in currencies other than the U.S. Dollar. We do not enter into any forward exchange contracts or similar instruments for trading or other speculative purposes. The effective portion of the changes in fair value of these instruments is reported in OCI and reclassified into SG&A in the same period they are settled. The ineffective portion, which is not material for any year presented, is immediately recognized in SG&A.

Interest Rate Risk - Interest on our outstanding debt as of May 31, 2019 is based on floating interest rates.  If short-term interest rates increase, we will incur higher interest expense on any future outstanding balances of floating rate debt. Floating interest rates are hedged with interest rate swaps to effectively fix interest rates on $225.0 million of the outstanding principal balance under the Credit Agreement, which totaled $303.2 million (excluding prepaid finance fees) as of May 31, 2019.


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Table of Contents

The following table summarizes the fair values of our derivative instruments as of the end of the periods shown:
(in thousands)
May 31, 2019

Derivatives designated as hedging instruments
Hedge Type
 
Final
Settlement Date
 
Notional Amount
 
Prepaid
Expenses
and Other
Current Assets
 
Other Assets
 
Accrued
Expenses
and Other
Current Liabilities
 
Other
Liabilities, Non-current
Zero-cost collar - Euro
Cash flow
 
2/2020
 
9,500

 
$
105

 
$

 
$

 
$

Foreign currency contracts - sell Euro
Cash flow
 
1/2020
 
13,500

 
907

 

 

 

Foreign currency contracts - sell Canadian Dollars
Cash flow
 
2/2020
 
$
12,000

 
282

 

 

 

Zero-cost collar - Pounds
Cash flow
 
2/2020
 
£
4,500

 
52

 

 

 

Foreign currency contracts - sell Pounds
Cash flow
 
11/2020
 
£
13,250

 
797

 
110

 

 

Foreign currency contracts - sell Mexican Pesos
Cash flow
 
09/2019
 
$
20,000

 

 

 
17

 

Interest rate swaps
Cash flow
 
1/2024
 
$
225,000

 

 

 
997

 
4,030

Subtotal
 
 
 
 
 
 
2,143

 
110

 
1,014

 
4,030

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Derivatives not designated under hedge accounting
 
 
 
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

Foreign currency contracts - cross-currency debt swap - Euro
(1)
 
04/2020
 
5,280

 
331

 

 

 

Foreign currency contracts - cross-currency debt swaps - Pound
(1)
 
04/2020
 
£
6,395

 
60

 

 

 

Subtotal
 
 
 
 
 
 
391

 

 

 

Total fair value
 
 
 
 
 
 
$
2,534


$
110


$
1,014


$
4,030

(in thousands)
February 28, 2019

Derivatives designated as hedging instruments
Hedge Type
 
Final
Settlement Date
 
Notional Amount
 
Prepaid
Expenses
and Other
Current Assets
 
Other Assets
 
Accrued
Expenses
and Other
Current Liabilities
 
Other
Liabilities, Non-current
Zero-cost collar - Euro
Cash flow
 
02/2020
 
9,500

 
$
11

 
$

 
$

 
$

Foreign currency contracts - sell Euro
Cash flow
 
01/2020
 
29,000

 
1,047

 

 

 

Foreign currency contracts - sell Canadian Dollars
Cash flow
 
02/2020
 
$
16,000

 
168

 

 

 

Zero-cost collar - Pounds
Cash flow
 
05/2020
 
£
4,500

 

 

 
200

 

Foreign currency contracts - sell Pounds
Cash flow
 
05/2020
 
£
19,500

 
248

 

 

 
13

Foreign currency contracts - sell Mexican Pesos
Cash flow
 
09/2019
 
$
30,000

 

 

 
58

 

Interest rate swaps
Cash flow
 
01/2024
 
$
225,000

 
512

 

 

 
339

Subtotal
 
 
 
 
 
 
1,986

 

 
258

 
352

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Derivatives not designated under hedge accounting
 
 
 
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

Foreign currency contracts - cross-currency debt swap - Euro
(1)
 
04/2020
 
5,280

 

 
218

 

 

Foreign currency contracts - cross-currency debt swaps - Pound
(1)
 
04/2020
 
£
6,395

 

 

 

 
292

Subtotal
 
 
 
 
 
 


218




292

Total fair value
 
 
 
 
 
 
$
1,986


$
218


$
258


$
644


(1)
These are foreign currency contracts for which we have not elected hedge accounting.  We refer to them as “cross-currency debt swaps”. They, in effect, adjust the currency denomination of a portion of our outstanding debt to the Euro and British Pound, as applicable, for the notional amounts reported, creating an economic hedge against currency movements. 

The pre-tax effect of derivative instruments for the periods shown is as follows:
 
Three Months Ended May 31,
 
Gain (Loss)
Recognized in OCI
(effective portion)
 
Gain (Loss) Reclassified from
Accumulated Other Comprehensive
Income (Loss) into Income
 
Gain (Loss) Recognized
As Income
(in thousands)
2019
 
2018
 
Location
 
2019
 
2018
 
Location
 
2019
 
2018
Currency contracts - cash flow hedges
$
(186
)
 
$
4,576

 
SG&A
 
$
(1,218
)
 
$
687

 
 
 
$

 
$

Interest rate swaps - cash flow hedges
(5,200
)
 
(61
)
 
Interest expense
 

 

 
Interest expense
 
154

 
75

Cross-currency debt swaps - principal

 

 
 
 

 

 
SG&A
 
464

 
423

Cross-currency debt swaps - interest

 

 
 
 

 

 
Interest Expense
 
74

 
74

Total
$
(5,386
)
 
$
4,515

 
 
 
$
(1,218
)
 
$
687

 
 
 
$
692

 
$
572


We expect pre-tax net gains of $1.1 million associated with foreign currency contracts and interest rate swaps currently reported in accumulated other comprehensive income, to be reclassified into income

19


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over the next twelve months. The amount ultimately realized, however, will differ as exchange rates vary and the underlying contracts settle. 

Counterparty Credit Risk - Financial instruments, including foreign currency contracts and cross currency debt swaps, expose us to counterparty credit risk for nonperformance. We manage our exposure to counterparty credit risk by only dealing with counterparties who are substantial international financial institutions with significant experience using such derivative instruments. Although our theoretical credit risk is the replacement cost at the then-estimated fair value of these instruments, we believe that the risk of incurring credit losses is remote.

Note 15 – Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)

The following table summarizes changes in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) by component and related tax effects for periods shown:
(in thousands)
 
Interest
Rate Swaps
 
Foreign
Currency
Contracts
 
Total
Balance at February 28, 2018
 
$
1,705

 
$
(1,074
)
 
$
631

Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassification
 
(61
)
 
4,576

 
4,515

Amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income
 

 
(687
)
 
(687
)
Tax effects
 
165

 
(556
)
 
(391
)
Other comprehensive income (loss)
 
104

 
3,333

 
3,437

Balance at May 31, 2018
 
$
1,809

 
$
2,259

 
$
4,068

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Balance at February 28, 2019
 
$
132

 
$
1,059

 
$
1,191

Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassification
 
(5,200
)
 
(186
)
 
(5,386
)
Amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income
 

 
1,218

 
1,218

Tax effects
 
1,207

 
(241
)
 
966

Other comprehensive income (loss)
 
(3,993
)
 
791

 
(3,202
)
Balance at May 31, 2019
 
$
(3,861
)
 
$
1,850

 
$
(2,011
)
See Notes 12, 13 and 14 to these condensed consolidated financial statements for additional information regarding our hedging activities.

Note 16 – Segment Information
The following tables present segment information included in continuing operations for the periods shown:
 
Three Months Ended May 31, 2019
(in thousands)
Housewares
 
Health & Home
 
Beauty
 
Total
Sales revenue, net
$
144,942

 
$
154,943

 
$
76,450

 
$
376,335

Restructuring charges
88

 

 
531

 
619

Operating income
31,200

 
15,056

 
951

 
47,207

Capital and intangible asset expenditures
2,867

 
680

 
171

 
3,718

Depreciation and amortization
1,613

 
4,313

 
1,841

 
7,767


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Table of Contents

 
Three Months Ended May 31, 2018
(in thousands)
Housewares
 
Health & Home
 
Beauty
 
Total
Sales revenue, net
$
117,303

 
$
163,431

 
$
73,945

 
$
354,679

Restructuring charges
760

 
358

 
607

 
1,725

Operating income
22,183

 
19,657

 
1,487

 
43,327

Capital and intangible asset expenditures
1,654

 
2,189

 
339

 
4,182

Depreciation and amortization
1,484

 
4,148

 
2,350

 
7,982


We compute segment operating income based on net sales revenue, less cost of goods sold, SG&A, restructuring charges, and any asset impairment charges associated with the segment. The SG&A used to compute each segment’s operating income is directly associated with the segment, plus shared service and corporate overhead expenses that are allocable to the segment.  We do not allocate nonoperating income and expense, including interest or income taxes, to operating segments.

Note 17 – Income Taxes

Due to our organization in Bermuda and the ownership structure of our foreign subsidiaries, many of which are not owned directly or indirectly by a U.S. parent company, an immaterial amount of our foreign income is subject to U.S. taxation on a permanent basis under current law. Additionally, our intellectual property is largely owned by our foreign subsidiaries, resulting in proportionally higher earnings in jurisdictions with lower statutory tax rates, which decreases our overall effective tax rate.
For interim periods, our income tax expense and resulting effective tax rate are based upon an estimated annual effective tax rate adjusted for the effects of items required to be treated as discrete to the period, including changes in tax laws, changes in estimated exposures for uncertain tax positions and other items. 
For the three months ended May 31, 2019, income tax expense as a percentage of income before income tax was 7.6%. Income tax expense for the three months ended May 31, 2019 includes a $0.7 million benefit from the recognition of excess tax benefits from share-based compensation settlements, $1.7 million of expense from the remeasurement of deferred taxes due to tax rate changes, and a $2.8 million benefit from the resolution of an uncertain tax position.
For the three months ended May 31, 2018, income tax expense as a percentage of income before income tax was 6.2%. Income tax expense for the three months ended May 31, 2018 includes a $0.3 million benefit from the recognition of excess tax benefits from share-based compensation settlements, and a $0.8 million benefit from the lapse of the statue of limitations related to an uncertain tax position.
The year-over-year increase in the effective tax rate is primarily due to shifts in the mix of taxable income in our various tax jurisdictions and increases in certain statutory tax rates.
During fiscal 2017, we received an assessment from a state tax authority, which adjusted taxable income applicable to the particular state resulting from interpretations of certain state income tax provisions applicable to our legal structure.  We believe we have accurately reported our taxable income and are vigorously protesting the assessment through administrative processes with the state.  We believe it is unlikely that the outcome of these matters will have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial position, results of operations, or liquidity.
Our Macau subsidiary generates income from the sale of the goods that it has sourced and procured. This subsidiary is responsible for the sourcing and procurement of a large portion of the products that we sell. We currently have an indefinite tax holiday in Macau conditioned on the subsidiary meeting certain employment and investment thresholds. The Macau Offshore Law and its supplementary regulations that grant tax incentives to approved offshore institutions will be abolished on January 1, 2021. Existing

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approved offshore institutions such as ours can continue to operate under the offshore regime until the end of the calendar year 2020. Beginning in calendar year 2021, we believe our Macau subsidiary will become subject to a statutory corporate income tax of approximately 12%. The ultimate impact of this change, if any, on our overall effective tax rate will depend on a variety of factors including our mix of income by jurisdiction, transfer pricing considerations and the specific tax regulations applicable to us when we are no longer under the Macau Offshore regime. It is not practicable for us to determine the potential impact on our financial statements until the tax changes in Macau are fully established and our transfer pricing analysis is complete. Because our Macau subsidiary is not directly or indirectly owned by a U.S. parent, there is no U.S. tax liability associated with the income generated in Macau.

Note 18 – Earnings per Share

We compute basic earnings per share using the weighted average number of shares of common stock
outstanding during the period.  We compute diluted earnings per share using the weighted average
number of shares of common stock outstanding plus the effect of dilutive securities.  Dilutive securities at any given point in time may consist of outstanding options to purchase common stock and issued and contingently issuable unvested RSUs, PSUs, RSAs, PSAs and other stock based awards.  See Note 8 to these condensed consolidated financial statements for more information regarding stock-based awards.  Anti-dilutive securities are not included in the computation of diluted earnings per share under the treasury stock method.
 
The following table presents our weighted average basic and diluted shares for the periods shown:
 
Three Months Ended May 31,
(in thousands)
2019
 
2018
Weighted average shares outstanding, basic
25,019

 
26,521

Incremental shares from share-based compensation arrangements
226

 
93

Weighted average shares outstanding, diluted
25,245

 
26,614

 
 
 
 
Antidilutive securities
352

 
511



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ITEM 2.   MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

This Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (“MD&A”) contains a number of forward-looking statements, all of which are based on current expectations. Actual results may differ materially due to a number of factors, including those discussed in Part I, Item 3. “Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk” and “Information Regarding Forward-Looking Statements” in this report and “Risk Factors” in the Company’s most recent annual report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019 (“Form 10-K”) and its other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). This discussion should be read in conjunction with our condensed consolidated financial statements included under Part I, Item 1. of this report. When used in the MD&A, unless otherwise indicated or the context suggests otherwise, references to “the Company”, “our Company”, “Helen of Troy”, “we”, “us”, or “our” refer to Helen of Troy Limited and its subsidiaries. Throughout MD&A, we refer to our Leadership Brands, which are brands that have number-one and number-two positions in their respective categories and consist of the OXO, Honeywell, Braun, PUR, Hydro Flask, Vicks, and Hot Tools brands.

This MD&A, including the tables under the headings “Operating income, operating margin, adjusted operating income (non-GAAP) and adjusted operating margin (non-GAAP) by segment" and “Income from continuing operations, diluted EPS from continuing operations, adjusted income from continuing operations (non-GAAP), and adjusted diluted EPS from continuing operations (non-GAAP),” respectively, reports operating income, operating margin, income from continuing operations and diluted earnings per share (EPS) from continuing operations without the impact of non-cash asset impairment charges, restructuring charges, amortization of intangible assets, and non-cash share-based compensation for the periods presented, as applicable. These measures may be considered non-GAAP financial information as set forth in SEC Regulation G, Rule 100. The tables reconcile these measures to their corresponding GAAP-based measures presented in our condensed consolidated statements of income. We believe that adjusted operating income, adjusted operating margin, adjusted income from continuing operations, and adjusted diluted EPS from continuing operations provide useful information to management and investors regarding financial and business trends relating to our financial condition and results of operations. We believe that these non-GAAP financial measures, in combination with our financial results calculated in accordance with GAAP, provide investors with additional perspective regarding the impact of such charges on applicable income, margin and earnings per share measures. We also believe that these non-GAAP measures facilitate a more direct comparison of our performance to our competitors. We further believe that including the excluded charges would not accurately reflect the underlying performance of our continuing operations for the period in which the charges are incurred, even though such charges may be incurred and reflected in our GAAP financial results in the near future. The material limitation associated with the use of the non-GAAP financial measures is that the non-GAAP measures do not reflect the full economic impact of our activities. Our adjusted operating income, adjusted operating margin, adjusted income from continuing operations, and adjusted diluted EPS from continuing operations are not prepared in accordance with GAAP, are not an alternative to GAAP financial information and may be calculated differently than non-GAAP financial information disclosed by other companies. Accordingly, undue reliance should not be placed on non-GAAP information.

These measures are discussed further and reconciled to their applicable GAAP based measures contained in this MD&A beginning on page 31. 


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OVERVIEW

We incorporated as Helen of Troy Corporation in Texas in 1968 and were reorganized as Helen of Troy Limited in Bermuda in 1994.  We are a leading global consumer products company offering creative products and solutions for our customers through a diversified portfolio of well-recognized and widely-trusted brands.  We have built leading market positions through new product innovation, product quality and competitive pricing.  We currently operate in three segments consisting of Housewares, Health & Home, and Beauty.  

In fiscal 2015, we launched a five-year transformational strategy designed to improve the performance of our business segments and strengthen our shared service capabilities.  Fiscal 2019 marked the completion of Phase I of our multi-year transformation strategy, which delivered performance across a wide range of measures. We improved core sales growth by focusing on our Leadership Brands, made strategic acquisitions, became a more efficient operating company with strong global shared services, upgraded our organization and culture, improved inventory turns and return on invested capital, and returned capital to shareholders.

Fiscal 2020 begins Phase II of our transformation and is designed to drive the next five years of progress. The long-term objectives of Phase II include improved organic sales growth, continued margin expansion, and strategic and effective capital deployment. We expect Phase II will include continued investment in our Leadership Brands, with a focus on growing them through consumer-centric innovation, expanding them more aggressively outside the United States, and adding new brands through acquisition. We anticipate building further shared service capability and operating efficiency, as well as attracting, retaining, unifying and training the best people.
 
In December 2017, we completed the divestiture of the Nutritional Supplements segment through the sale of Healthy Directions LLC and its subsidiaries ("Healthy Directions") to Direct Digital, LLC. The purchase price from the sale was comprised of $46.0 million in cash, which was paid at closing, and a supplemental payment with a target value of $25.0 million, payable on or before August 1, 2019. The final amount of the supplemental payment was adjusted based on a settlement with respect to the calculation of the performance of Healthy Directions through February 28, 2018. During fiscal 2019, we reduced the estimated value of the supplemental payment to $10.8 million and recorded a corresponding pre-tax charge of $5.8 million ($4.4 million after tax) to discontinued operations. Also, during fiscal 2019, we recorded an additional charge of $1.5 million ($1.3 million after tax) to discontinued operations, resulting from the resolution of certain contingencies. Following the sale, we no longer consolidate our former Nutritional Supplements segment's operating results. In conjunction with the sale of the business, we have agreed to provide certain transition services that we expect to end in the second quarter of fiscal 2020. Unless otherwise indicated, all results presented are from continuing operations.

In fiscal 2018, we announced that we had approved a restructuring plan (“Project Refuel”). Project Refuel includes a reduction-in-force and the elimination of certain contracts and operating expenses. We estimate the plan will be completed during fiscal 2020, and expect to incur total restructuring charges of approximately $7.0 million over the duration of the plan. For the three months ended May 31, 2019, we incurred $0.6 million of pre-tax restructuring costs related to employee severance and termination benefits. Since implementing Project Refuel, we have incurred $6.0 million of pre-tax restructuring costs related to employee severance and termination benefits and contract termination costs as of May 31, 2019. For additional information regarding Project Refuel, see Note 10 to the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements.
On March 11, 2019, we announced a process to explore the divestiture of our Personal Care business, which is a component of our Beauty segment and includes our liquid, powder and aerosol products under brands such as Pert, Brut, Sure and Infusium.  On May 21, 2019, we announced that, after considering our

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alternatives, we discontinued the formal sale process and intend to continue to operate the Personal Care business to help fuel our Leadership Brand growth. 

As with all of our non-Leadership Brands, we will continue to evaluate the role of each of our brands and products in supporting our long-term plans and explore options that we believe are most beneficial to us and our shareholders.
  
Significant Trends Impacting the Business
 
Potential Impact of Tariffs
During fiscal 2019, the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (‘‘USTR’’) imposed additional tariffs on products imported from China. We purchase a high concentration of our products from unaffiliated manufacturers located in China. This concentration exposes us to risks associated with doing business globally, including changes in tariffs.

The tariff increases that have been implemented by the USTR began to impact our cost of goods sold in the third quarter of fiscal 2019. In total, the net unmitigated tariff impact that unfavorably impacted cost of sales was approximately $4.0 million during fiscal 2019. Our implemented pricing actions became partially effective during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2019 and continued into the first quarter of fiscal 2020. This was due to the negotiation and notice periods involved in taking pricing actions with our retail customers. In the first quarter of fiscal 2020, the USTR further increased tariffs on "List 3" products from 10% to 25%. We expect to mitigate the impact of this further increase with additional pricing actions. Although our pricing actions are intended to offset the full gross profit impact of tariff increases, there are no assurances that the pricing actions will not reduce retail consumption or customer orders in the short-term. Additionally, the USTR has proposed increasing tariffs on the remaining product categories imported from China, "List 4", by 25%. This proposal has been introduced for public comment, but is not yet in effect.

Potential Impact of Brexit and Offshore Receipts in Respect of Intangible Property Tax
The potential exit of the United Kingdom (the "U.K.") from European Union ("E.U.") membership (commonly referred to as "Brexit") could cause disruptions to and create uncertainty surrounding our business, including affecting our relationships with our existing and future customers, suppliers and employees, which could have an adverse effect on our business, financial results and operations. Negotiations are ongoing to determine the future terms of the U.K.’s relationship with the E.U., including the terms of trade between the U.K. and the E.U. The effects of Brexit will depend on any agreements the U.K. makes to retain access to E.U. markets either during a transitional period or more permanently. These measures could potentially disrupt the markets we serve and the tax jurisdictions in which we operate, adversely change tax benefits or liabilities in these or other jurisdictions, and cause us to lose customers, suppliers, and employees. In addition, Brexit could lead to legal uncertainty and potentially divergent national laws and regulations as the U.K. determines which E.U. laws to replace or replicate.

The U.K.’s Offshore Receipts in respect of Intangible Property (ORIP) rules were introduced by the Finance Act 2019 and came into effect on April 6, 2019. Under the ORIP rules, where intangible property (IP) is held in offshore companies, in a territory with which the U.K. does not have a full double taxation arrangement and the IP is used directly or indirectly to enable, facilitate or promote U.K. sales, income derived from that IP could be subject to a U.K. gross receipts tax at 20% of the gross amounts. Based on currently available information, the Company intends to treat this tax as a transactional tax included in operating expenses. Certain aspects of this legislation and its implementation remain unclear at this time and we expect that additional regulations or guidance may be issued and the accounting treatment of the new tax may be clarified.


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While we do not believe the ORIP tax will have a material adverse impact on our consolidated operating results, we do believe that it could be material to the profitability of our EMEA operating unit. As a result, the ORIP tax could cause us to evaluate different strategic choices with respect to our EMEA operating unit, including a rationalization of the product portfolio sold in the U.K. or an exit from the market, which could adversely impact our net sales revenue.

Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Fluctuations 
Due to the nature of our operations, we have exposure to the impact of fluctuations in exchange rates from transactions that are denominated in a currency other than our reporting currency (the U.S. Dollar). The most significant currencies affecting our operating results are the British Pound, Euro, Canadian Dollar, and Mexican Peso.  

For the three months ended May 31, 2019, changes in foreign currency exchange rates had an unfavorable impact on consolidated U.S. Dollar reported net sales revenue of approximately $2.5 million, or 0.7%, compared to a favorable impact of approximately $3.5 million, or 1.1%, for the same period last year.

Consumer Spending and Changes in Shopping Preferences
Our business depends upon discretionary consumer demand for most of our products and primarily operates within mature and highly developed consumer markets. The principal driver of our operating performance is the strength of the U.S. retail economy. Approximately 78% and 74% of our net sales were from U.S. shipments for the three months ended May 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively.

Additionally, the shift in consumer shopping preferences to online or multichannel shopping experiences has changed the concentration of our sales. For the three months ended May 31, 2019 and 2018, our net sales to retail customers fulfilling end-consumer online orders and online sales directly to consumers comprised approximately 23% and 19%, respectively, of our total consolidated net sales revenue, and grew approximately 28% and 42%, respectively, over the same period last year. With the continued growth in online sales across the retail landscape, many brick and mortar retailers are aggressively looking for ways to improve their customer delivery capabilities to be able to meet customer expectations.  As a result, it will become increasingly important for us to leverage our distribution capabilities in order to meet the changing demands of our customers, as well as to increase our online capabilities to support our direct-to-consumer sales channels and online channel sales by our retail customers.  
Variability of the Cough/Cold/Flu Season
Sales in several of our Health & Home segment categories are highly correlated to the severity of winter weather and cough/cold/flu incidence. In the U.S., the cough/cold/flu season historically runs from November through March, with peak activity normally in January to March. For the 2018-2019 season, fall and winter weather was generally milder than historical averages and cough/cold/flu incidence was significantly lower than the 2017-2018 season, which was an above average season.


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RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
 
The following tables provide selected operating data, in U.S. Dollars, as a percentage of net sales
revenue, and as a year-over-year percentage change:
 
Three Months Ended May 31,
 
 
 
 
 
% of Sales Revenue, net
(in thousands)
2019
 
2018
 
$ Change
 
% Change
 
2019
 
2018
Sales revenue by segment, net
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Housewares
$
144,942

 
$
117,303

 
$
27,639

 
23.6
 %
 
38.5
 %
 
33.1
 %
Health & Home
154,943

 
163,431

 
(8,488
)
 
(5.2
)%
 
41.2
 %
 
46.1
 %
Beauty
76,450

 
73,945

 
2,505

 
3.4
 %
 
20.3
 %
 
20.8
 %
Total sales revenue, net
376,335

 
354,679

 
21,656

 
6.1
 %
 
100.0
 %
 
100.0
 %
Cost of goods sold
222,608

 
208,121

 
14,487

 
7.0
 %
 
59.2
 %
 
58.7
 %
Gross profit
153,727

 
146,558

 
7,169

 
4.9
 %
 
40.8
 %
 
41.3
 %
Selling, general and administrative expense ("SGA")
105,901

 
101,506

 
4,395

 
4.3
 %
 
28.1
 %
 
28.6
 %
Asset impairment charges

 

 

 
 %
 
 %
 
 %
Restructuring charges
619

 
1,725

 
(1,106
)
 
(64.1
)%
 
0.2
 %
 
0.5
 %
Operating income
47,207

 
43,327

 
3,880

 
9.0
 %
 
12.5
 %
 
12.2
 %
Nonoperating income, net
132

 
75

 
57

 
76.0
 %
 
 %
 
 %
Interest expense
(3,308
)
 
(2,687
)
 
(621
)
 
23.1
 %
 
(0.9
)%
 
(0.8
)%
Income before income tax
44,031

 
40,715

 
3,316

 
8.1
 %
 
11.7
 %
 
11.5
 %
Income tax expense
3,337

 
2,542

 
795

 
31.3
 %
 
0.9
 %
 
0.7
 %
Income from continuing operations
40,694

 
38,173

 
2,521

 
6.6
 %
 
10.8
 %
 
10.8
 %
Loss from discontinued operations (1)

 
(381
)
 
381

 
*

 
 %
 
(0.1
)%
Net income
$
40,694

 
$
37,792

 
$
2,902

 
7.7
 %
 
10.8
 %
 
10.7
 %

(1)
During fiscal 2018, we divested our Nutritional Supplements segment, which is reported as discontinued operations for all periods presented. For more information see Note 5 to the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements.

* Calculation not meaningful.

First Quarter Fiscal 2020 Financial Results

Consolidated net sales revenue increased 6.1%, or $21.7 million, to $376.3 million for the three months ended May 31, 2019, compared to $354.7 million for the same period last year.

Consolidated operating income increased 9.0%, or $3.9 million, to $47.2 million for the three months ended May 31, 2019, compared to $43.3 million for the same period last year. Consolidated operating margin increased 0.3 percentage points to 12.5% of consolidated net sales revenue for the three months ended May 31, 2019, compared to 12.2% for the same period last year. The three months ended May 31, 2019 included pre-tax restructuring charges of $0.6 million compared to pre-tax restructuring charges of $1.7 million for the same period last year.  

Consolidated adjusted operating income increased 6.9%, or $3.8 million, to $59.3 million for the three months ended May 31, 2019, compared to $55.5 million for the same period last year. Consolidated adjusted operating margin increased 0.2 percentage points to 15.8% of consolidated net sales revenue for the three months ended May 31, 2019, compared to 15.6% for the same period last year.

Income from continuing operations increased 6.6%, or $2.5 million, to $40.7 million for the three months ended May 31, 2019, compared to $38.2 million for the same period last year. Diluted EPS from continuing operations increased 12.6%, to $1.61 for the three months ended May 31, 2019, compared to $1.43 for the same period last year.


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Adjusted income from continuing operations increased 4.6%, or $2.3 million, to $52.1 million for the three months ended May 31, 2019, compared to $49.8 million for the same period last year. Adjusted diluted EPS from continuing operations increased 10.2% to $2.06 for the three months ended May 31, 2019, compared to $1.87 for the same period last year.

There was no income or loss from discontinued operations for the three months ended May 31, 2019, compared to a loss of $0.4 million, for the same period last year.  Diluted loss per share from discontinued operations was $0.01 for the three months ended May 31, 2018.

Net income increased 7.7%, or $2.9 million, to $40.7 million for the three months ended May 31, 2019, compared to $37.8 million for the same period last year. Diluted EPS increased 13.4% to $1.61 for the three months ended May 31, 2019 compared to $1.42 for the same period last year.

Comparison of First Quarter Fiscal 2020 to First Quarter Fiscal 2019
 
Consolidated and Segment Net Sales

The following table summarizes the impact that core business, foreign exchange and acquisitions, as applicable, had on our net sales revenue by segment: 
 
Three Months Ended May 31,
(in thousands)
Housewares
 
Health & Home
 
Beauty
 
Total
Fiscal 2019 sales revenue, net
$
117,303

 
$
163,431

 
$
73,945

 
$
354,679

Core business growth (decline)
27,930

 
(6,593
)
 
2,840

 
24,177

Impact of foreign currency
(291
)
 
(1,895
)
 
(335
)
 
(2,521
)
Change in sales revenue, net
27,639

 
(8,488
)
 
2,505

 
21,656

Fiscal 2020 sales revenue, net
$
144,942

 
$
154,943

 
$
76,450

 
$
376,335

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total net sales revenue growth (decline)
23.6
 %
 
(5.2
)%
 
3.4
 %
 
6.1
 %
Core business growth (decline)
23.8
 %
 
(4.0
)%
 
3.8
 %
 
6.8
 %
Impact of foreign currency
(0.2
)%
 
(1.2
)%
 
(0.5
)%
 
(0.7
)%
 
In the above table, core business refers to our net sales revenue associated with product lines or brands after the first twelve months from the date the product line or brand is acquired, excluding the
impact that foreign currency had on reported net sales. Net sales revenue from internally developed brands or product lines is considered core business activity.

Leadership Brand and Other Net Sales

The following table summarizes our leadership brand and other net sales: 
 
Three Months Ended May 31,
(in thousands)
2019
 
2018
 
$ Change
 
% Change
Leadership Brand sales revenue, net
$
301,559

 
$
280,759

 
$
20,800

 
7.4
%
All other sales revenue, net
74,776

 
73,920

 
856

 
1.2
%
Total sales revenue, net
$
376,335

 
$
354,679

 
$
21,656

 
6.1
%
 

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Consolidated Net Sales Revenue

Consolidated net sales revenue increased $21.7 million, or 6.1%, to $376.3 million for the three months ended May 31, 2019, compared to $354.7 million for the same period last year.  The increase was primarily driven by a core business increase of $24.2 million, or 6.8%, reflecting:
an increase in brick and mortar sales in our Housewares segment;
growth in consolidated online sales; and
an increase in sales in the appliance category in the Beauty segment.

These factors were partially offset by:
lower international sales in our Health & Home segment;
a decline in the Personal Care category within the Beauty segment; and
the unfavorable impact from foreign currency fluctuations of approximately $2.5 million, or 0.7%.

Net sales from our Leadership Brands were $301.6 million for the three months ended May 31, 2019, compared to $280.8 million for the same period last year, representing growth of 7.4%.

Segment Net Sales Revenue 

Housewares
Net sales revenue in the Housewares segment increased $27.6 million, or 23.6%, to $144.9 million for the three months ended May 31, 2019, compared to $117.3 million for the same period last year. The growth was primarily driven by:
a core business increase of $27.9 million, or 23.8%, due to point of sale growth and incremental distribution with existing domestic brick and mortar customers;
an increase in overall online sales; and
new product introductions.

These factors were partially offset by lower international sales, lower club channel sales, and the unfavorable impact from foreign currency fluctuations of approximately $0.3 million, or 0.2%.
 
Health & Home
Net sales revenue in the Health & Home segment decreased $8.5 million, or 5.2%, to $154.9 million for the three months ended May 31, 2019, compared to $163.4 million for the same period last year. The decline was primarily driven by a core business decline of $6.6 million, or 4.0% and the unfavorable impact of net foreign currency fluctuations of $1.9 million, or 1.2%. The core business decline primarily reflects the unfavorable comparative impacts of international expansion and a strong cough/cold/flu season in the same period last year.

These factors were partially offset by incremental distribution with existing domestic customers and early replenishment of certain seasonal categories.
 
Beauty
Net sales revenue in the Beauty segment increased $2.5 million, or 3.4%, to $76.5 million for the three months ended May 31, 2019, compared to $73.9 million for the same period last year. The increase was primarily driven by growth in core business sales of $2.8 million, or 3.8%, reflecting;
growth in the online channel;
increased sales in the appliance category; and
growth in international sales.


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These factors were partially offset by a decrease in brick and mortar sales and a decline in the Personal Care category. Segment net sales were unfavorably impacted by net foreign currency fluctuations of approximately $0.3 million, or 0.5%.
 
Consolidated Gross Profit Margin

Consolidated gross profit margin for the three months ended May 31, 2019 decreased 0.5 percentage points to 40.8%, compared to 41.3% for the same period last year. The decrease in consolidated gross profit margin is primarily due to the impact of tariff increases, unfavorable foreign currency fluctuations and higher freight expense, partially offset by the favorable margin impact from growth in our Leadership Brands.

Consolidated SG&A

Our consolidated SG&A ratio decreased 0.5 percentage points to 28.1% for the three months ended May 31, 2019, compared to 28.6% for the same period last year.

The decrease in the consolidated SG&A ratio is primarily due to:
the impact from pricing actions taken with retail customers;
the favorable impact of foreign currency exchange and forward contract settlements;
the impact that higher overall net sales had on operating leverage; and
lower product liability claim expense.

These factors were partially offset by:
higher annual incentive and share-based compensation expense related to short and long term performance;
higher new product development expense; and
higher advertising expense.

Restructuring Charges

During the three months ended May 31, 2019, we incurred $0.6 million of pre-tax restructuring charges compared to $1.7 million for the same period last year. The charges related primarily to employee severance and termination benefits.


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Operating income, operating margin, adjusted operating income (non-GAAP), and adjusted operating margin (non-GAAP) by segment

In order to provide a better understanding of the comparative impact of certain items on operating income, the tables that follow report the comparative before tax impact of non-cash asset impairment charges, restructuring charges, amortization of intangible assets, and noncash sharebased compensation, as applicable, on operating income and operating margin for each segment and in total for the periods covered below.  Adjusted operating income and adjusted operating margin may be considered non-GAAP financial measures as contemplated by SEC Regulation G, Rule 100.  For additional information regarding management’s decision to present this non-GAAP financial information, see the introduction to this Item 2., “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operation.”
 
Three Months Ended May 31, 2019
(In thousands)
Housewares
 
Health & Home
 
Beauty
 
Total
Operating income, as reported (GAAP)
$
31,200

 
21.5
%
 
$
15,056

 
9.7
%
 
$
951

 
1.2
%
 
$
47,207

 
12.5
%
Asset impairment charges

 
%
 

 
%
 

 
%
 

 
%
Restructuring charges
88

 
0.1
%
 

 
%
 
531

 
0.7
%
 
619

 
0.2
%
Subtotal
31,288

 
21.6
%
 
15,056

 
9.7
%
 
1,482

 
1.9
%
 
47,826

 
12.7
%
Amortization of intangible assets
518

 
0.4
%
 
2,798

 
1.8
%
 
560

 
0.7
%
 
3,876

 
1.0
%
Non-cash share-based compensation
2,574

 
1.8
%
 
3,374

 
2.2
%
 
1,656

 
2.2
%
 
7,604

 
2.0
%
Adjusted operating income (non-GAAP)
$
34,380

 
23.7
%
 
$
21,228

 
13.7
%
 
$
3,698

 
4.8
%
 
$
59,306

 
15.8
%
 
Three Months Ended May 31, 2018
(In thousands)
Housewares
 
Health & Home
 
Beauty
 
Total
Operating income, as reported (GAAP)
$
22,183

 
18.9
%
 
$
19,657

 
12.0
%
 
$
1,487

 
2.0
%
 
$
43,327

 
12.2
%
Asset impairment charges

 
%
 

 
%
 

 
%
 

 
%
Restructuring charges
760

 
0.6
%
 
358

 
0.2
%
 
607

 
0.8
%
 
1,725

 
0.5
%
Subtotal
22,943

 
19.6
%
 
20,015

 
12.2
%
 
2,094

 
2.8
%
 
45,052

 
12.7
%
Amortization of intangible assets
474

 
0.4
%
 
2,704

 
1.7
%
 
943

 
1.3
%
 
4,121

 
1.2
%
Non-cash share-based compensation
1,986

 
1.7
%
 
2,326

 
1.4
%
 
2,012

 
2.7
%
 
6,324

 
1.8
%
Adjusted operating income (non-GAAP)
$
25,403

 
21.7
%
 
$
25,045

 
15.3
%
 
$
5,049

 
6.8
%
 
$
55,497

 
15.6
%

Consolidated Operating Income

Consolidated operating income was $47.2 million, or 12.5% of net sales, compared to $43.3 million, or 12.2% of net sales, for the same period last year.  The increase was driven by the following factors:
the net favorable comparative impact of pre-tax restructuring charges of $1.1 million;
the impact that higher overall net sales had on operating expense leverage;
lower product liability claim expense; and
the favorable margin impact from Leadership Brand growth and a higher mix of Housewares sales.

These factors were partially offset by:
the impact of tariff increases;
higher annual incentive and share-based compensation expense related to short and long term performance;
higher freight expense;
higher new product development expense; and
higher advertising expense.

Consolidated adjusted operating income increased 6.9% to $59.3 million, or 15.8% of net sales, compared to $55.5 million, or 15.6% of net sales, in the same period last year. 


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Housewares
Housewares operating income was $31.2 million, or 21.5% of segment net sales, compared to $22.2 million, or 18.9% of segment net sales, for the same period last year. The 2.6 percentage point increase in segment operating margin is primarily due to:
the margin impact of a more favorable product and channel mix;
the impact that higher overall net sales had on operating leverage; and
lower restructuring expense.

These factors were partially offset by:
higher advertising expense to support new product launches and expanded distribution;
higher annual incentive and share-based compensation expense related to short and long term performance; and
higher new product development expense.

Adjusted operating income increased 35.3% to $34.4 million, or 23.7% of segment net sales, compared to $25.4 million, or 21.7% of segment net sales, in the same period last year.

Health & Home
Health & Home operating income was $15.1 million, or 9.7% of segment net sales, compared to $19.7 million, or 12.0% of segment net sales in the same period last year. The 2.3 percentage point decrease in segment operating margin is primarily due to:
the impact of tariff increases;
higher new product development expense;
higher share-based compensation expense related to long-term performance;
unfavorable operating leverage from the decline in sales; and
the margin impact of a less favorable product and channel mix.

These factors were partially offset by the favorable impact of foreign currency exchange and forward contract settlements, and lower product liability claim expense.

Adjusted operating income decreased 15.2% to $21.2 million, or 13.7% of segment net sales, compared to $25.0 million, or 15.3% of segment net sales, in the same period last year.

Beauty
Beauty operating income was $1.0 million, or 1.2% of segment net sales, compared to $1.5 million, or 2.0% of segment net sales, in the same period last year. The 0.8 percentage point decrease in segment operating margin is primarily due to:
the impact of higher freight expense to meet strong demand in the appliance category;
the margin impact of a less favorable product and channel mix; and
higher new product development expense.

These factors were partially offset by lower advertising and amortization expense.

Adjusted operating income decreased 26.8% to $3.7 million, or 4.8% of segment net sales, compared to $5.0 million, or 6.8% of segment net sales, in the same period last year.

Interest Expense
 
Interest expense was $3.3 million for the three months ended May 31, 2019, compared to $2.7 million in the same period last year. The increase in interest expense was primarily due to higher average debt and a higher average interest rate compared to the same period last year.


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Income Tax Expense
 
The year-over-year comparison of our effective tax rate is impacted by the mix of taxable income in our various tax jurisdictions. Due to our organization in Bermuda and the ownership structure of our foreign subsidiaries, many of which are not owned directly or indirectly by a U.S. parent company, an immaterial amount of our foreign income is subject to U.S. taxation on a permanent basis under current law. Additionally, our intellectual property is largely owned by our foreign subsidiaries, resulting in proportionally higher earnings in jurisdictions with lower statutory tax rates, which decreases our overall effective tax rate.
For the three months ended May 31, 2019, income tax expense as a percentage of income before income tax was 7.6%, compared to 6.2% for the same period last year. Income tax expense for the three months ended May 31, 2019 includes a $0.7 million benefit from the recognition of excess tax benefits from share-based compensation settlements, a $2.8 million benefit from the resolution of an uncertain tax position, and $1.7 million of expense from the remeasurement of deferred taxes due to tax rate changes. Income tax expense for the three months ended May 31, 2018 included a $0.3 million benefit from the recognition of excess tax benefits from share-based compensation settlements and a $0.8 million benefit from the lapse of the statute of limitations related to an uncertain tax position. The year-over-year increase in the effective tax rate is primarily due to shifts in the mix of taxable income in our various tax jurisdictions and increases in certain statutory tax rates.
During fiscal 2017, we received an assessment from a state tax authority which adjusted taxable income applicable to the particular state resulting from interpretations of certain state income tax provisions applicable to our legal structure.  We believe we have accurately reported our taxable income and are vigorously protesting the assessment through administrative processes with the state.  We believe it is unlikely that the outcome of these matters will have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial position, results of operations, or liquidity.
Our Macau subsidiary generates income from the sale of the goods it has sourced and procured. This subsidiary is responsible for the sourcing and procurement of a large portion of the products that we sell. We currently have an indefinite tax holiday in Macau conditioned on the subsidiary meeting certain employment and investment thresholds. The Macau Offshore Law and its supplementary regulations that grant tax incentives to approved offshore institutions will be abolished on January 1, 2021. Existing approved offshore institutions such as ours can continue to operate under the offshore regime until the end of the calendar year 2020. Beginning in calendar year 2021, we believe our Macau subsidiary will become subject to a statutory corporate income tax of approximately 12%. The ultimate impact of this change, if any, on our overall effective tax rate will depend on a variety of factors including our mix of income by jurisdiction, transfer pricing considerations and the specific tax regulations applicable to us when we are no longer under the Macau Offshore regime. It is not practicable for us to determine the potential impact on our financial statements until the tax changes in Macau are fully established and our transfer pricing analysis is complete. Because our Macau subsidiary is not directly or indirectly owned by a U.S. parent, there is no U.S. tax liability associated with the income generated in Macau.


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Income from continuing operations, diluted EPS from continuing operations, adjusted income from continuing operations (non-GAAP), and adjusted diluted EPS from continuing operations (non-GAAP)
 
In order to provide a better understanding of the impact of certain items on our income and EPS from continuing operations, the analysis that follows reports the comparative after tax impact of noncash asset impairment charges, restructuring charges, amortization of intangible assets, and noncash sharebased compensation, as applicable, on income from continuing operations, and diluted EPS from continuing operations for the periods covered below. For additional information regarding management’s decision to present this non-GAAP financial information, see the introduction to this Item 2., “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operation.”

 
Three Months Ended May 31, 2019
 
Income From Continuing Operations
 
Diluted EPS From Continuing Operations
(in thousands, except per share data)
Before Tax
 
Tax
 
Net of Tax
 
Before Tax
 
Tax
 
Net of Tax
As reported (GAAP)
$
44,031

 
$
3,337

 
$
40,694

 
$
1.74

 
$
0.13

 
$
1.61

Asset impairment charges

 

 

 

 

 

Restructuring charges
619

 
2

 
617

 
0.02

 

 
0.02

Subtotal
44,650

 
3,339

 
41,311

 
1.77

 
0.13

 
1.64

Amortization of intangible assets
3,876

 
121

 
3,755

 
0.15

 

 
0.15

Non-cash share-based compensation
7,604

 
576

 
7,028

 
0.30

 
0.02

 
0.28

Adjusted (non-GAAP)
$
56,130

 
$
4,036

 
$
52,094

 
$
2.22

 
$
0.16

 
$
2.06

 
Weighted average shares of common stock used in computing diluted EPS
25,245

 
 
Three Months Ended May 31, 2018
 
Income From Continuing Operations
 
Diluted EPS From Continuing Operations
(in thousands, except per share data)
Before Tax
 
Tax
 
Net of Tax
 
Before Tax
 
Tax
 
Net of Tax
As reported (GAAP)
$
40,715

 
$
2,542

 
$
38,173

 
$
1.53

 
$
0.10

 
$
1.43

Asset impairment charges

 

 

 

 

 

Restructuring charges
1,725

 
142

 
1,583

 
0.06

 
0.01

 
0.06

Subtotal
42,440

 
2,684

 
39,756

 
1.59

 
0.10

 
1.49

Amortization of intangible assets
4,121

 
135

 
3,986

 
0.15

 
0.01

 
0.15

Non-cash share-based compensation
6,324

 
269

 
6,055

 
0.24

 
0.01

 
0.23

Adjusted (non-GAAP)
$
52,885

 
$
3,088

 
$
49,797

 
$
1.99

 
$
0.12

 
$
1.87

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Weighted average shares of common stock used in computing diluted EPS
 
26,614


Our income from continuing operations was $40.7 million for the three months ended May 31, 2019 compared to $38.2 million for the same period last year.  Our diluted EPS from continuing operations was $1.61 for the three months ended May 31, 2019 compared to $1.43 for the same period last year.

Adjusted income from continuing operations increased $2.3 million, or 4.6%, to $52.1 million for the three months ended May 31, 2019, compared to $49.8 million the same period last year.  Adjusted diluted EPS from continuing operations increased 10.2% to $2.06 for the three months ended May 31, 2019 compared to $1.87 for the same period last year.  Adjusted diluted EPS from continuing operations increased primarily due to the impact of higher adjusted operating income in our Housewares segment and the impact of lower weighted average diluted shares outstanding. This increase was partially offset by lower adjusted operating income in our Health & Home and Beauty segments.

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Financial Condition, Liquidity and Capital Resources

Selected measures of our liquidity and capital resources are shown for the periods below :  
 
Three Months Ended May 31,
 
2019
 
2018
Accounts Receivable Turnover (Days) (1)
66.8

 
62.6

Inventory Turnover (Times) (1)
3.2

 
3.1

Working Capital (in thousands)
$
346,936

 
$
285,105

Current Ratio
2.2:1

 
2.1:1

Ending Debt to Ending Equity Ratio
31.0
%
 
29.3
%
Return on Average Equity (1)
17.1
%
 
13.7
%
_____________________
(1)
Accounts receivable turnover, inventory turnover and return on average equity computations use 12 month trailing net sales revenue, cost of goods sold or net income components as required by the particular measure. The current and four prior quarters' ending balances of accounts receivable, inventory and equity are used for the purposes of computing the average balance component as required by the particular measure.

We rely principally on cash flow from operations and borrowings under our credit facility to finance our operations, acquisitions, and capital expenditures.  We believe our cash flows from operations and availability under our credit facility are sufficient to meet our working capital and capital expenditure needs. 

Operating Activities

Operating activities from continuing operations provided net cash of $15.7 million for the three months ended May 31, 2019 compared to $28.9 million for the same period last year. The decrease was primarily driven by an increase in cash used for inventory, due in part to additional inventory build for risk management, as we progress with supplier consolidations and complete a distribution center integration. This was partially offset by a decrease in cash from accrued expenses and other current liabilities resulting from the comparative impact of a dispute settlement payment of $15.0 million paid during the three months ended May 31, 2018.

Investing Activities

During the three months ended May 31, 2019, we invested in capital and intangible asset expenditures of $3.7 million compared to $4.2 million for the same period last year.

Financing Activities

Financing activities from continuing operations used $5.5 million of cash during the three months ended May 31, 2019, compared to $28.2 million for the same period last year.  The decrease was primarily driven by a reduction in payments for repurchases of common stock, which was partially offset by higher repayments on our line of credit for the first quarter of fiscal 2020 compared to same period last year.


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Credit Agreement and Other Debt Agreements

Credit Agreement

We have a credit agreement (the “Credit Agreement”) with Bank of America, N.A., as administrative agent, and other lenders that provides for an unsecured total revolving commitment of $1.0 billion as of May 31, 2019. The commitment under the Credit Agreement terminates on December 7, 2021. Borrowings accrue interest under one of two alternative methods (based on a base rate or LIBOR) as described in the Credit Agreement. With each borrowing against our credit line, we can elect the interest rate method based on our funding needs at the time. We also incur loan commitment and letter of credit fees under the Credit Agreement. Outstanding letters of credit reduce the borrowing availability under the Credit Agreement on a dollar-for-dollar basis. As of May 31, 2019, the outstanding revolving loan principal balance was $303.2 million (excluding prepaid financing fees) and the balance of outstanding letters of credit was $9.0 million. As of May 31, 2019, the amount available for borrowings under the Credit Agreement was $687.8 million. Covenants in our debt agreements limit the amount of total indebtedness we can incur.  As of May 31, 2019, these covenants effectively limited our ability to incur more than $565.8 million of additional debt from all sources, including our Credit Agreement, or $687.8 million in the event a qualified acquisition is consummated. 

Other Debt Agreements

We also have an aggregate principal balance of $20.5 million (excluding prepaid financing fees) under a loan agreement with the Mississippi Business Finance Corporation (the “MBFC Loan”) as of May 31, 2019. The borrowings were used to fund construction of our Olive Branch, Mississippi distribution facility. The remaining loan balance is payable as follows: $1.9 million annually on March 1, 2020 through 2022; and $14.8 million on March 1, 2023. Any remaining outstanding principal and interest is due upon maturity on March 1, 2023.

All of our debt is unconditionally guaranteed, on a joint and several basis, by the Company and certain of its subsidiaries. Our debt agreements require the maintenance of certain key financial covenants, defined in the table below. Our debt agreements also contain other customary covenants, including, among other things, covenants restricting or limiting us, except under certain conditions set forth therein, from (1) incurring debt, (2) incurring liens on our properties, (3) making certain types of investments, (4) selling certain assets or making other fundamental changes relating to mergers and consolidations, and (5) repurchasing shares of our common stock and paying dividends. Our debt agreements also contain customary events of default, including failure to pay principal or interest when due, among others. Our debt agreements are cross-defaulted to each other. Upon an event of default under our debt agreements, the holders or lenders may, among other things, accelerate the maturity of any amounts outstanding under our debt agreements. The commitments of the lenders to make loans to us under the Credit Agreement are several and not joint. Accordingly, if any lender fails to make loans to us, our available liquidity could be reduced by an amount up to the aggregate amount of such lender’s commitments under the Credit Agreement.

The table below provides the formulas currently in effect for certain key financial covenants as defined under our debt agreements:
Applicable Financial Covenant
Credit Agreement and MBFC Loan
Interest Coverage Ratio
EBIT (1) ÷ Interest Expense (1) 
Minimum Required:  3.00 to 1.00
 
Total Current and Long Term Debt (2) ÷
Maximum Leverage Ratio
EBITDA (1) + Pro Forma Effect of Acquisitions
 
Maximum Currently Allowed:  3.50 to 1.00 (3)
 

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Key Definitions:

EBIT:                 Earnings Before Non-Cash Charges, Interest Expense and Taxes
EBITDA:                EBIT + Depreciation and Amortization Expense + Share-based Compensation
Pro Forma Effect of Acquisitions:    For any acquisition, pre-acquisition EBITDA of the acquired business is included so that the
EBITDA of the acquired business included in the computation equals its twelve month trailing total.
Notes:

(1)
Computed using totals for the latest reported four consecutive fiscal quarters.  
(2)
Computed using the ending balances as of the latest reported fiscal quarter. 
(3)
In the event a qualified acquisition is consummated, the maximum leverage ratio is 4.25 to 1.00. 

Contractual Obligations

There have been no material changes in the information provided in our latest annual report on Form 10-K.  Additional information regarding contractual obligations can be found in Notes 11 and 12 to the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

We have no existing activities involving special purpose entities or off-balance sheet financing.

Current and Future Capital Needs

We expect our capital needs to stem primarily from the need to purchase sufficient levels of inventory and to carry normal levels of accounts receivable on our balance sheet. In addition, we continue to evaluate acquisition opportunities on a regular basis.  We may finance acquisition activity with available cash, the issuance of shares of common stock, additional debt, or other sources of financing, depending upon the size and nature of any such transaction and the status of the capital markets at the time of such acquisition.  We may also elect to repurchase additional shares of common stock up to the balance of our current authorization, subject to limitations contained in our debt agreements and based upon our assessment of a number of factors, including share price, trading volume and general market conditions, working capital requirements, general business conditions, financial conditions, any applicable contractual limitations, and other factors, including alternative investment opportunities. We may finance share repurchases with available cash, additional debt or other sources of financing. As of May 31, 2019, the amount of cash and cash equivalents held by our foreign subsidiaries was $15.6 million, of which an immaterial amount was held in foreign countries where the funds may not be readily convertible into other currencies.   

New Accounting Guidance

For information on recently adopted and issued accounting pronouncements, see Note 2 to the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements.

Information Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
 
Certain written and oral statements may constitute "forward-looking statements" as defined under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. This includes statements made in this report, in other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC"), in press releases, and in certain other oral and written presentations. Generally, the words "anticipates", "believes", "expects", "plans", "may", "will", "should", "seeks", "estimates", "project", "predict", "potential", "continue", "intends", and other similar words identify forward-looking statements. All statements that address operating results, events or developments that may occur in the future, including statements related to sales, earnings per share results, and statements expressing general expectations about future operating results, are forward-

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looking statements and are based upon our current expectations and various assumptions.  We believe there is a reasonable basis for our expectations and assumptions, but there can be no assurance that we will realize our expectations or that our assumptions will prove correct.  Forward-looking statements are subject to risks that could cause them to differ materially from actual results.  Accordingly, we caution readers not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.  We believe that these risks include but are not limited to the risks described in this report and that are otherwise described from time to time in our SEC reports as filed. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Such risks are not limited to, but may include:
our ability to deliver products to our customers in a timely manner and according to their fulfillment standards;
the costs of complying with the business demands and requirements of large sophisticated customers;
our relationships with key customers and licensors;
our dependence on the strength of retail economies and vulnerabilities to any prolonged economic downturn;
our dependence on sales to several large customers and the risks associated with any loss or substantial decline in sales to top customers;
expectations regarding Project Refuel and any other proposed restructuring;
expectations regarding recent and future acquisitions or divestitures, including our ability to realize anticipated cost savings, synergies and other benefits along with our ability to effectively integrate acquired businesses or separate divested businesses;
circumstances which may contribute to future impairment of goodwill, intangible or other long-lived assets;
the retention and recruitment of key personnel;
foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations;
risks associated with weather conditions, the duration and severity of the cold and flu season and other related factors;
our dependence on foreign sources of supply and foreign manufacturing, and associated operational risks including, but not limited to, long lead times, consistent local labor availability and capacity, and timely availability of sufficient shipping carrier capacity;
the impact of changing costs of raw materials, labor and energy on cost of goods sold and certain operating expenses;
the risks associated with significant tariffs or other restrictions on imports from China or any retaliatory trade measures taken by China;
the geographic concentration and peak season capacity of certain U.S. distribution facilities increases our exposure to significant shipping disruptions and added shipping and storage costs;
our projections of product demand, sales and net income are highly subjective in nature and future sales and net income could vary in a material amount from such projections;
the risks associated with the use of trademarks licensed from and to third parties;
our ability to develop and introduce a continuing stream of new products to meet changing consumer preferences;
trade barriers, exchange controls, expropriations, and other risks associated with U.S. and foreign operations;
the risks to our liquidity as a result of changes to capital market conditions and other constraints or events that impose constraints on our cash resources and ability to operate our business;
the costs, complexity and challenges of upgrading and managing our global information systems;
the risks associated with cybersecurity and information security breaches;
the risks associated with global legal developments regarding privacy and data security could result in changes to our business practices, penalties, increased cost of operations, or otherwise harm our business;

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the risks associated with product recalls, product liability, other claims, and related litigation against us;
the risks associated with accounting for tax positions, tax audits and related disputes with taxing authorities;
the risks of potential changes in laws in the U.S. or abroad, including tax laws, regulations or treaties, employment and health insurance laws and regulations, laws relating to environmental policy, personal data, financial regulation, transportation policy and infrastructure policy along with the costs and complexities of compliance with such laws; and
our ability to continue to avoid classification as a controlled foreign corporation.  


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Table of Contents

ITEM 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

There have been no material changes in the information provided in the section entitled “Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk” in our Form 10-K.  Additional information regarding risk management activities can be found in Notes 12, 13 and 14 to the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements.

ITEM 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

DISCLOSURE CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

Our management, under the supervision and with the participation of our Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”) and Chief Financial Officer (“CFO”), maintains disclosure controls and procedures as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) under the Exchange Act that are designed to provide reasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed in the reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms, and that such information is accumulated and communicated to management, including the CEO and CFO, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosures. Because of inherent limitations, disclosure controls and procedures, no matter how well designed and operated, can provide only reasonable, and not absolute, assurance that the objectives of disclosure controls and procedures are met.

Our management, including our CEO and CFO, has evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of the fiscal quarter ended May 31, 2019. Based upon that evaluation, the CEO and CFO concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective at a reasonable level of assurance as of May 31, 2019, the end of the period covered by this quarterly report on Form 10-Q.

CHANGES IN INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING

We have enhanced certain internal controls related to the adoption of the new lease standard as of March 1, 2019. In connection with the evaluation described above, we identified no other changes in our internal control over financial reporting as defined in Rule 13a-15(f) of the Exchange Act that occurred during our fiscal quarter ended May 31, 2019, that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

PART II. OTHER INFORMATION

ITEM 1. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS 

On May 31, 2018, we settled a patent infringement dispute related to two forehead thermometer models sold by our subsidiary, Kaz USA, Inc., in the United States and made a settlement payment of $15.0 million, which was accrued in prior periods along with related legal fees and other costs.      

We are involved in various legal claims and proceedings in the normal course of operations. We believe the outcome of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial position, results of operations or liquidity.  

ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS  

The ownership of our common stock involves a number of risks and uncertainties. When evaluating the Company and our business before making an investment decision regarding our securities, potential

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investors should carefully consider the risk factors and uncertainties described in Part 1, Item 1A. “Risk Factors” of our annual report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.  Since the filing of our annual report on Form 10-K, there have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed therein.

ITEM 2. UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS  

On May 8, 2019, our Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of up to $400 million of our outstanding common stock. The authorization is effective until May 2022 and replaced our former repurchase authorization, of which $107.4 million was outstanding at the time the new authorization was approved. These repurchases may include open market purchases, privately negotiated transactions, block trades, accelerated stock repurchase transactions, or any combination of such methods. The number of shares purchased and the timing of the purchases will depend on a number of factors, including share price, trading volume and general market conditions, working capital requirements, general business conditions, financial conditions, any applicable contractual limitations, and other factors, including alternative investment opportunities. See Note 9 to the accompanying consolidated financial statements for additional information.

Our current equity-based compensation plans include provisions that allow for the "net exercise" of share settled awards by all plan participants. In a net exercise, any required payroll taxes, federal withholding taxes and exercise price of the shares due from the option or other share-based award holders are settled by having the holder tender back to us a number of shares at fair value equal to the amounts due. Net exercises are treated as purchases and retirements of shares.

The following table summarizes our share repurchase activity for the periods shown:
Period
Total Number of
Shares Purchased (1)
 
Average Price
Paid per Share
 
Total Number of
Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly
Announced Plans
or Programs
 
Maximum Dollar Value of
Shares that May
Yet be Purchased
Under the Plans
or Programs
(in thousands) (2)
March 1 to March 31, 2019 (3)
21,949

 
$
112.49

 
21,949

 
$
108,060

April 1 to April 30, 2019 (3)
1,120

 
113.34

 
1,120

 
107,933

May 1 to May 8, 2019 (3)
3,900

 
141.02

 
3,900

 
107,383

May 9 to May 31, 2019 (4)
41,235

 
136.82

 
41,235

 
394,358

Total
68,204

 
$
128.85

 
68,204

 
 


(1)
Includes shares of common stock acquired from employees who tendered shares to: 1) satisfy the tax withholding on equity awards as part of our long-term incentive plans or 2) satisfy the exercise price on stock option exercises. For the three months ended May 31, 2019, 68,204 shares were acquired from employees at a weighted average per share price of $128.85.

(2)
Reflects the remaining dollar value of shares that could be purchased under our stock repurchase authorization through the expiration or termination of the plan. For additional information, see Note 9 to the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements.

(3)
The shares for the periods of March 1 to May 8, 2019 were under the previous repurchase authorization.

(4)
The shares for the period of May 9 to May 31, 2019 were under the current repurchase authorization.
 

n



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ITEM 6.
 
EXHIBITS
 
 
(a)
 
Exhibits
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
31.1*
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
31.2*
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
32**
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
101.INS *
 
XBRL Instance Document
 
 
 
 
101.SCH *
 
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema
 
 
 
 
101.CAL *
 
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase
 
 
 
 
101.DEF *
 
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase
 
 
 
 
101.LAB *
 
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase
 
 
 
 
101.PRE *
 
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
*     Filed herewith.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
**   Furnished herewith.




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SIGNATURES
 
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized. 



 
 
HELEN OF TROY LIMITED
 
 
(Registrant)
 
 
 
Date:
July 10, 2019
 /s/ Julien R. Mininberg
 
 
Julien R. Mininberg
 
 
  Chief Executive Officer,
  Director and Principal Executive Officer
 
 
 
Date:
July 10, 2019
/s/ Brian L. Grass
 
 
Brian L. Grass
 
 
Chief Financial Officer, Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer


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