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Hostess Brands, Inc. - Quarter Report: 2020 September (Form 10-Q)


UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-Q
(Mark One)
QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the three months ended
September 30, 2020
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 001-37540
twnk-20200930_g1.jpg
HOSTESS BRANDS, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
Delaware
47-4168492
(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)

(I.R.S. Employer
Identification No.)
7905 Quivira Road
66215
Lenexa,
KS
(Zip Code)
(Address of principal executive offices)
(816) 701-4600
Registrant’s telephone number, including area code

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Title of each ClassTicker Symbol Name of each exchange on which registered
Class A Common Stock, Par Value of $0.0001 per shareTWNKThe Nasdaq Stock Market LLC
Warrants, each exercisable for a half share of Class A Common StockTWNKWThe 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  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 (§229.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such files). Yes  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 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
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 Act). Yes  No 
Shares of Class A common stock outstanding - 126,211,761 shares at November 5, 2020
Shares of Class B common stock outstanding - 4,568,497 shares at November 5, 2020



HOSTESS BRANDS, INC.
FORM 10-Q
For the Quarter Ended September 30, 2020

INDEX
Page
Item 1.
Item 2.
Item 3.
Item 4.
Item 1.
Item 1A.
Item 2.
Item 3.
Item 4.
Item 5.
Item 6.










Cautionary Note Regarding Forward Looking Statements
This Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q contains statements reflecting our views about our future performance that constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”) and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), that involve substantial risks and uncertainties. All statements contained in this Quarterly Report other than statements of historical fact, including statements regarding our future results of operations and financial position, our business strategy and plans, and our objectives for future operations, are forward-looking statements. Statements that constitute forward-looking statements are generally identified through the inclusion of words such as “believes,” “expects,” “intends,” “estimates,” “projects,” “anticipates,” “will,” “plan,” “may,” “should,” or similar language. Statements addressing our future operating performance and statements addressing events and developments that we expect or anticipate will occur are also considered forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements included herein are made only as of the date hereof. It is routine for our internal projections and expectations to change throughout the year, and any forward-looking statements based upon these projections or expectations may change prior to the end of the next quarter or year. Readers of this Quarterly Report are cautioned not to place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements. As a result of a number of known and unknown risks and uncertainties, our actual results or performance may be materially different from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. Risks and uncertainties are identified under “Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2019 and herein, as updated by subsequent filings. The impact of COVID-19 may also exacerbate these risks, any of which could have a material effect on us. This situation is changing rapidly and additional impacts may arise that the Company is not aware of currently. All subsequent written or oral forward-looking statements attributable to us or persons acting on our behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by these risk factors. We undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.






3



HOSTESS BRANDS, INC.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(Unaudited, amounts in thousands, except shares and per share data)

September 30,December 31,
20202019
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents$152,297 $285,087 
Accounts receivable, net136,930 104,892 
Inventories47,710 47,608 
Prepaids and other current assets20,116 15,569 
Total current assets357,053 453,156 
Property and equipment, net284,118 242,384 
Intangible assets, net1,974,081 1,853,315 
Goodwill707,132 535,853 
Other assets, net17,459 12,993 
Total assets$3,339,843 $3,097,701 
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Current liabilities:
Long-term debt and lease obligations payable within one year$13,097 $11,883 
Tax receivable agreement payments payable within one year9,100 12,100 
Accounts payable 60,096 68,566 
Customer trade allowances57,059 45,715 
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities57,020 21,661 
Total current liabilities196,372 159,925 
Long-term debt and lease obligations1,106,374 975,405 
Tax receivable agreement obligations128,355 126,096 
Deferred tax liability298,387 256,051 
Other long-term liabilities1,340 — 
Total liabilities1,730,828 1,517,477 
Commitments and Contingencies (Note 13)
Class A common stock, $0.0001 par value, 200,000,000 shares authorized, 125,149,257 and 122,108,086 shares issued and outstanding at September 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively
12 12 
Class B common stock, $0.0001 par value, 50,000,000 shares authorized, 5,622,149 and 8,409,834 shares issued and outstanding at September 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively
Additional paid in capital1,185,003 1,152,055 
Accumulated other comprehensive loss(11,004)(756)
Retained earnings375,603 334,480 
Stockholders’ equity1,549,615 1,485,792 
Non-controlling interest59,400 94,432 
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity$3,339,843 $3,097,701 
See accompanying notes to the unaudited consolidated financial statements.
4


HOSTESS BRANDS, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(Unaudited, amounts in thousands, except shares and per share data)
Three Months EndedNine Months Ended
September 30, 2020September 30, 2019September 30, 2020September 30, 2019
Net revenue$260,855 $227,211 $760,566 $691,009 
Cost of goods sold169,700 156,791 500,700 461,951 
Gross profit91,155 70,420 259,866 229,058 
Operating costs and expenses:
Advertising and marketing
11,762 10,627 32,983 30,186 
Selling expense
8,675 6,992 39,173 23,822 
General and administrative
21,913 17,736 71,261 54,483 
Amortization of customer relationships
6,739 5,755 20,333 17,749 
Business combination transaction costs— — 4,282 — 
Other operating expense729 5,739 756 6,256 
Total operating costs and expenses49,818 46,849 168,788 132,496 
Operating income 41,337 23,571 91,078 96,562 
Other expense:
Interest expense, net10,265 9,813 32,570 30,351 
Other expense818 — 2,503 1,286 
Total other expense11,083 9,813 35,073 31,637 
Income before income taxes30,254 13,758 56,005 64,925 
Income tax expense6,281 3,029 12,022 10,915 
Net income 23,973 10,729 43,983 54,010 
Less: Net income attributable to the non-controlling interest1,368 1,944 2,860 12,615 
Net income attributable to Class A stockholders$22,605 $8,785 $41,123 $41,395 
Earnings per Class A share:
Basic$0.18 $0.08 $0.33 $0.39 
Diluted$0.18 $0.07 $0.33 $0.37 
Weighted-average shares outstanding:
Basic124,905,538 115,196,195 123,901,333 106,904,733 
Diluted127,586,881 121,122,895 126,090,645 110,804,367 


See accompanying notes to the unaudited consolidated financial statements.
5


HOSTESS BRANDS, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
(Unaudited, amounts in thousands)

Three Months EndedNine Months Ended
September 30, 2020September 30, 2019September 30, 2020September 30, 2019
Net income$23,973 $10,729 $43,983 $54,010 
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Unrealized gain (loss) on interest rate swap contracts designated as cash flow hedges155 (741)(14,462)(5,912)
Tax benefit (expense)(39)172 3,611 1,255 
Comprehensive income24,089 10,160 33,132 49,353 
Less: Comprehensive income attributed to non-controlling interest1,375 1,858 2,034 11,447 
Comprehensive income attributed to Class A stockholders$22,714 $8,302 $31,098 $37,906 


See accompanying notes to the unaudited consolidated financial statements.


6


HOSTESS BRANDS, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
(Unaudited, amounts in thousands except share data)

Class A Voting
Common Stock
Class B Voting
Common Stock
Additional
Paid-in Capital
Accumulated
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Retained
Earnings
Total
Stockholders’
Equity
Non-controlling
Interest
SharesAmountSharesAmount
Balance–December 31, 2019122,108,086 $12 8,409,834 $$1,152,055 $(756)$334,480 $1,485,792 $94,432 
Comprehensive income (loss)— — — — — (8,810)2,348 (6,462)(437)
Share-based compensation, including income taxes of $103
106,770 — — — 2,180 — — 2,180 — 
Exchanges969,247 — (969.247)— 11,819 (17)— 11,802 (11,802)
Distributions— — — — — — — — (1,613)
Exercise of employee stock options and warrants2,205 — — — 155 — — 155 — 
Payment of taxes for employee stock awards— — — — (1,004)— — (1,004)— 
Tax receivable agreement arising from exchanges, net of income taxes of $1,341
— — — — (1,942)— — (1,942)— 
Balance–March 31, 2020123,186,308 12 7,440,587 1,163,263 (9,583)336,828 1,490,521 80,580 
Comprehensive income (loss)— — — — — (1,324)16,170 14,846 1,096 
Share-based compensation, net of income taxes of $496
46,304 — — — 1,929 — — 1,929 — 
Exchanges1,139,302 — (1,139,302)— 13,803 (127)— 13,676 (13,676)
Distributions— — — — — — — — (365)
Exercise of employee stock options and warrants36,700 — — — 408 — — 408 — 
Payment of taxes for employee stock awards— — — — (32)— — (32)— 
Tax receivable agreement arising from exchanges, net of income taxes of $952
— — — (2,556)— — (2,556)— 
Balance–June 30, 2020124,408,614 12 6,301,285 1,176,815 (11,034)352,998 1,518,792 67,635 
Comprehensive income (loss)— — — — — 109 22,605 22,714 1,375 
Share-based compensation, net of income taxes of $361
60,781 — — — 1,720 — — 1,720 — 
Exchanges679,136 — (679,136)— 8,244 (79)— 8,165 (8,165)
Distributions— — — — — — — — (1,445)
Exercise of employee stock options and warrants726 — — — — — — 
Payment of taxes for employee stock awards— — — — (347)— — (347)— 
Tax receivable agreement arising from exchanges, net of income taxes of $754
— — — — (1,431)— — (1,431)— 
Balance–September 30, 2020125,149,257 $12 5,622,149 $$1,185,003 $(11,004)$375,603 $1,549,615 $59,400 














7




HOSTESS BRANDS, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
(Unaudited, amounts in thousands except share data)
Class A Voting
Common Stock
Class B Voting
Common Stock
Additional
Paid-in Capital
Accumulated
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Retained
Earnings
Total
Stockholders’
Equity
Non-controlling
Interest
SharesAmountSharesAmount
Balance–December 31, 2018100,046,392 $10 30,255,184 $$925,902 $2,523 $271,365 $1,199,803 $350,454 
Comprehensive income (loss)— — — — — (1,216)21,126 19,910 4,984 
Share-based compensation, net of income taxes of $613
— — — — 1,668 — — 1,668 — 
Distributions— — — — — — — — (457)
Exercise of public warrants50 — — — — — — — — 
Balance–March 31, 2019100,046,442 10 30,255,184 927,570 1,307 292,491 1,221,381 354,981 
Comprehensive income (loss)— — — — — (1,789)11,483 9,694 4,605 
Share-based compensation, net of income taxes of $563
20,241 — — — 1,936 — — 1,936 — 
Distributions— — — — — — — — (4,459)
Exercise of employee stock options1,788 — — — 23 — — 23 — 
Payment of taxes for employee stock awards— — — — (124)— — (124)— 
Exchanges9,255,400 (9,255,400)(1)110,734 292 — 111,026 (111,026)
Tax receivable agreement arising from exchanges, net of income taxes of $10,109
— — — — (17,610)— — (17,610)— 
Balance-June 30, 2019109,323,871 11 20,999,784 1,022,529 (190)303,974 1,326,326 244,101 
Comprehensive income (loss)— — — — — (483)8,785 8,302 1,858 
Share-based compensation, net of income taxes of $228
78,610 — — — 2,149 — — 2,149 — 
Distributions— — — — — — — — (1,743)
Payment of taxes for employee stock awards— — — — (483)— — (483)— 
Exchanges11,544,600 (11,544,600)(1)139,169 (14)— 139,155 (139,155)
Tax receivable agreement arising from exchanges, net of income taxes of $17,185
— — — — (23,238)— — (23,238)— 
Balance–September 30, 2019120,947,081 $12 9,455,184 $$1,140,126 $(687)$312,759 $1,452,211 $105,061 
See accompanying notes to the unaudited consolidated financial statements.
8


HOSTESS BRANDS, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(Unaudited, amounts in thousands)
Nine Months Ended
Operating activitiesSeptember 30, 2020September 30, 2019
Net income43,983 $54,010 
Depreciation and amortization40,999 32,678 
Impairment of property, goodwill and intangibles— 1,005 
Debt discount (premium) amortization977 (803)
Tax receivable agreement remeasurement610 1,296 
Non-cash fees on disposal of assets— 1,414 
Unrealized foreign exchange losses1,392 — 
Non-cash lease expense358 — 
Share-based compensation6,583 7,157 
Deferred taxes8,575 9,519 
Loss on sale of assets317 471 
Change in operating assets and liabilities, net of acquisitions and dispositions:
Accounts receivable(7,106)(13,536)
Inventories7,462 (3,451)
Prepaids and other current assets (4,334)(3,793)
Accounts payable and accrued expenses2,186 18,305 
Customer trade allowances5,989 3,080 
Net cash provided by operating activities107,991 107,352 
Investing activities
Purchases of property and equipment(33,382)(28,421)
Acquisition of business, net of cash acquired(316,013)— 
Proceeds from sale of business, net of cash— 63,353 
Acquisition and development of software assets(4,994)(4,298)
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities(354,389)30,634 
Financing activities
Repayments of long-term debt and lease obligations(8,375)(7,470)
Proceeds from long-term debt origination, net of fees paid136,888 — 
Distributions to non-controlling interest(3,423)(6,659)
Tax payments related to issuance of shares to employees(1,383)(607)
Cash received from exercise of options and warrants565 23 
Payments on tax receivable agreement(10,327)(2,779)
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities113,945 (17,492)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents(337)— 
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents(132,790)120,494 
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period285,087 146,377 
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period$152,297 $266,871 

Supplemental Disclosures of Cash Flow Information:
Cash paid during the period for:
Interest$31,883 $33,602 
Net taxes paid$5,403 $2,416 
Supplemental disclosure of non-cash investing:
Accrued capital expenditures$3,124 $1,468 
See accompanying notes to the unaudited consolidated financial statements.
9


HOSTESS BRANDS, INC.
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

Description of Business
Hostess Brands, Inc. is a Delaware corporation headquartered in Lenexa, Kansas. The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Hostess Brands, Inc. and its subsidiaries (collectively, the “Company”). The Company is a leading packaged food company focused on developing, manufacturing, marketing, selling and distributing snack products, including sweet baked goods, cookies and wafers in North America.
The Company’s operations are conducted through indirect operating subsidiaries that are wholly-owned by Hostess Holdings, L.P. (“Hostess Holdings”), a direct subsidiary of Hostess Brands, Inc. Hostess Brands, Inc. holds 100% of the general partnership interest in Hostess Holdings and a majority of the limited partnership interests therein and consolidates Hostess Holdings in the Company’s consolidated financial statements. The remaining limited partnership interests in Hostess Holdings are held by the holders of the outstanding shares of Class B common stock of Hostess Brands, Inc. These limited partnership interests in Hostess Holdings are reflected in the consolidated financial statements as a non-controlling interest. In January 2020, the Company acquired Voortman Cookies Limited (“Voortman”), a manufacturer of premium, branded wafers as well as sugar-free and specialty cookies.

Basis of Presentation
The consolidated financial statements included herein have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”) and the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). In the opinion of management, the unaudited consolidated financial statements include all adjustments necessary for the fair presentation of the Company’s financial position and of the results of operations and cash flows for the periods presented, and all such adjustments were of a normal and recurring nature. The results of operations are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the full fiscal year. The accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements and notes thereto should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements and notes thereto for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019.

For the periods presented, the Company had two reportable segments: Snacking and In-Store Bakery. The Company sold its In-Store Bakery operations on August 30, 2019. Subsequent to the sale, Snacking remains as the Company’s single reportable segment.
Adoption of New Accounting Standards
In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-13, Financial Instruments-Credit Losses: Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments (“Topic 326”). This ASU requires entities to measure the impairment of certain financial instruments, including trade receivables, based on expected losses rather than incurred losses. ASU 2016-13 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019, including interim periods within those fiscal years. The Company adopted the standard effective January 1, 2020. Adoption of Topic 326 did not have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

Principles of Consolidation
The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its majority-owned or controlled subsidiaries (including those for which the Company is the primary beneficiary of a variable interest entity). All intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.    
10


HOSTESS BRANDS, INC.
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Use of Estimates
The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and for the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Management utilizes estimates, including, but not limited to, valuation and useful lives of tangible and intangible assets, valuation of expected future payments under the tax receivable agreement, and reserves for trade and promotional allowances. Actual results could differ from these estimates.
Accounts Receivable
Accounts receivable represents amounts invoiced to customers for performance obligations which have been satisfied. As of September 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019, the Company’s accounts receivable were $136.9 million and $104.9 million, respectively, which have been reduced by an allowance for damages occurring during shipment, quality claims and doubtful accounts in the amount of $5.1 million and $2.7 million, respectively.
Inventories
Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or net-realizable value on a first-in first-out basis. Abnormal amounts of idle facility expense, freight, handling costs, and wasted material (spoilage) are expensed in the period they are incurred.
The components of inventories are as follows:
(In thousands)
September 30,
2020
December 31,
2019
Ingredients and packaging$23,937 $21,439 
Finished goods21,043 22,513 
Inventory in transit to customers2,730 3,656 
$47,710 $47,608 
Software Costs

Capitalized software is included in “Other assets, net” in the consolidated balance sheets in the amount of $14.7 million and $10.9 million at September 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively. Capitalized software costs are amortized over their estimated useful life of five years commencing when such assets are ready for their intended use. Software amortization expense included in general and administrative operating expense was $1.4 million and $4.0 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020, respectively, compared to $0.7 million and $2.1 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2019, respectively.
Disaggregation of Revenue
Net revenue consists of sales of packaged food products in the United States primarily within the Sweet Baked Goods category. Beginning with the acquisition of Voortman on January 3, 2020 (see Note 2. Business Combinations), the Company also sells products in the United States and Canada within the Cookies category.
The following tables disaggregate revenue by geographical market and category.
Three Months Ended September 30, 2020
(In thousands)
Sweet Baked GoodsIn-Store BakeryCookiesTotal
United States$234,103 $— $22,328 $256,431 
Canada— — 4,424 4,424 
$234,103 $— $26,752 $260,855 
11


HOSTESS BRANDS, INC.
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Three Months Ended September 30, 2019
(In thousands)
Sweet Baked GoodsIn-Store BakeryCookiesTotal
United States$220,156 $7,055 $— $227,211 
Canada— — — — 
$220,156 $7,055 $— $227,211 

Nine Months Ended September 30, 2020
(In thousands)
Sweet Baked GoodsIn-Store BakeryCookiesTotal
United States$693,085 $— $56,094 $749,179 
Canada— — 11,387 11,387 
$693,085 $— $67,481 $760,566 
    
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2019
(In thousands)
Sweet Baked GoodsIn-Store BakeryCookiesTotal
United States$662,307 $28,702 $— $691,009 
Canada— — — — 
$662,307 $28,702 $— $691,009 

Concentrations
The Company has one customer (together with its affiliates) that accounted for 10% or more of the Company’s total net revenue. The percentage of total net revenues for this customer is presented below by segment:
Three Months EndedNine Months Ended
(% of Consolidated Net Revenues)
September 30, 2020September 30, 2019September 30, 2020September 30, 2019
Snacking
19.7 %22.3 %21.0 %23.0 %
In-Store Bakery0.0 %0.3 %0.0 %0.5 %
Total19.7 %22.6 %21.0 %23.5 %

Foreign Currency Remeasurement

Certain Voortman sales and costs are denominated in the Canadian dollar (“CAD”). CAD transactions have been remeasured into U.S. dollars (“USD”) on the consolidated statement of operations using the average exchange rate for the reporting period. Balances expected to be settled in CAD have been remeasured into USD on the consolidated balance sheet using the exchange rate at the end of the period. During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020, the Company recognized losses on remeasurement of $0.4 million and $1.1 million, respectively, reported within other expense on the consolidated statement of operations.

12


HOSTESS BRANDS, INC.
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
2. Business Combinations

On January 3, 2020, the Company completed the acquisition of all of the shares of the parent company of Voortman, a manufacturer of premium, branded wafers as well as sugar-free and specialty cookies for approximately $328.7 million ($427.0 million CAD), reflecting final working capital and other closing statement adjustments finalized in the three months ended September 30, 2020. Net cash outflow related to the purchase price through September 30, 2020 was $316.0 million. This net cash outflow reflects a net gain on a related foreign currency contract of $6.9 million, cash acquired of $1.6 million and a liability outstanding as of September 30, 2020 for certain purchase price adjustments of $4.2 million.

The acquisition of Voortman diversifies and expands the Company’s product offerings and manufacturing capabilities in the adjacent cookie category. The acquisition also leverages the Company’s customer reach and lean and agile business model. The combined Company expects to realize additional benefits of scale via sharing established, efficient infrastructure and strengthening collaborative retail partnerships in the United States and Canada.

An aggregate of $10.8 million CAD was deposited into an escrow account to satisfy amounts in respect of post-closing adjustments and to provide for payment to the Company of indemnity claims, if any. During the three months ended September 30, 2020, the post-closing working capital adjustment was finalized and in connection therewith, $3.1 million CAD was released from escrow. During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020, working capital and other adjustments of $4.2 million and $5.2 million were made to goodwill, respectively. The Company continues to evaluate contractual rights it has under the transaction documents.

Included in other non-current liabilities in the table below is a $1.3 million liability for pre-acquisition uncertain tax positions. It is offset by a non-current receivable balance of $1.3 million representing expected recovery through seller or insurance policy indemnification.

The Company recorded a preliminary allocation of the purchase price to tangible and identified intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed, based on their fair values as of the closing date. The final allocation of the purchase price is pending the final valuation of certain assets acquired and liabilities assumed. The Company expects to finalize the allocation of the purchase consideration as soon as practicable. The preliminary purchase price allocation is as follows:

(In thousands)
Cash$1,639 
Accounts receivable24,848 
Inventory7,564 
Income tax receivable7,522 
Other current assets420 
Property and equipment32,028 
Customer relationships11,100 
Trade names130,000 
Goodwill171,279 
Other non-current assets1,320 
Accounts payable and accrued expenses(6,173)
Customer trade allowances(5,428)
Lease liabilities(6,420)
Deferred taxes(39,665)
Other non-current liabilities(1,320)
Assets acquired and liabilities assumed$328,714 


13


HOSTESS BRANDS, INC.
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Goodwill is attributed to intangible assets which do not qualify for separate recognition.

During the nine months ended September 30, 2020, the Company incurred $4.3 million of expenses related to this acquisition. These expenses are classified as business combination transaction costs on the consolidated statement of operations.

The following unaudited pro forma combined financial information presents the Company’s results as though the acquisition of Voortman had occurred at January 1, 2019. The unaudited pro forma consolidated financial information has been prepared using the acquisition method of accounting in accordance with U.S. GAAP:

Three Months EndedNine Months Ended
(In thousands)
September 30, 2020September 30, 2019September 30, 2020September 30, 2019
(unaudited, pro forma)(unaudited, pro forma)
Net revenue$260,855 $259,040 $760,566 $771,182 
Net income$23,973 $12,476 $43,983 $54,535 

3. Exit Costs
Subsequent to the Company’s acquisition of Voortman, activities were initiated to transition Voortman’s distribution model to the Company’s direct-to-warehouse distribution model. The Company has incurred costs to exit Voortman’s direct-store-delivery model, including severance and contract termination costs related to third-party distributor and leasing relationships. Total costs are expected to be approximately $13.0 million through completion of the transition in 2020. During the nine months ended September 30, 2020, contract termination costs of $8.3 million were recognized in selling expense on the consolidated statement of operations. No contract termination costs were recognized during the three months ended September 30, 2020. During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020, severance costs of $0.1 million and $4.3 million, respectively, were recognized within general and administrative expenses on the consolidated statement of operations.

Reserves for these activities are reported within accrued expenses on the consolidated balance sheet and had the following activity during the nine months ended September 30, 2020:
(In thousands)SeveranceContract TerminationTotal
Charges recorded$4,290 $8,278 $12,568 
Payments made(3,560)(7,617)(11,177)
Impact of change in exchange rates on CAD denominated liability(89)(365)(454)
Reserve balance as of September 30, 2020$641 $296 $937 

14


HOSTESS BRANDS, INC.
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
4. Property and Equipment
Property and equipment consists of the following:
(In thousands)
September 30,
2020
December 31,
2019
Land and buildings$58,778 $53,683 
Right of use assets, operating21,711 23,771 
Machinery and equipment245,941 209,382 
Construction in progress18,754 5,878 
345,184 292,714 
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization(61,066)(50,330)
$284,118 $242,384 

Depreciation expense was $6.3 million and $16.6 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020, compared to $4.3 million and $12.9 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2019.

5. Segment Reporting
For the periods presented, the Company had two reportable segments: Snacking and In-Store Bakery. As of January 3, 2020, the Company added the newly acquired Voortman operations into the reportable segment previously known as Sweet Baked Goods and renamed the segment as “Snacking”. The Company’s Snacking segment consists of sweet baked goods, cookies, wafers and bread products that are sold under the Hostess®, Dolly Madison®, Cloverhill®, Big Texas®, and Voortman® brands. The In-Store Bakery segment consisted primarily of Superior on Main® branded and private label products sold through the in-store bakery section of grocery and club stores. The Company divested its In-Store Bakery operations on August 30, 2019. Subsequent to the sale, Snacking is the Company’s single reportable segment.
15


HOSTESS BRANDS, INC.
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The Company evaluates performance and allocates resources based on net revenue and gross profit. Information regarding the operations of these reportable segments is as follows:
Three Months EndedNine Months Ended
(In thousands)
September 30, 2020September 30, 2019September 30, 2020September 30, 2019
  Net revenue:
Snacking
$260,855 $220,156 $760,566 $662,307 
In-Store Bakery— 7,055 — 28,702 
Net revenue$260,855 $227,211 $760,566 $691,009 
Depreciation and amortization:
Snacking
$14,522 $10,514 $40,999 $31,076 
In-Store Bakery— 224 — 1,602 
Depreciation and amortization $14,522 $10,738 $40,999 $32,678 
Gross profit:
Snacking
$91,155 $68,804 $259,866 $222,872 
In-Store Bakery— 1,616 — 6,186 
Gross profit$91,155 $70,420 $259,866 $229,058 
  Capital expenditures (1):
Snacking
$12,072 $14,284 $37,460 $26,062 
In-Store Bakery— — 182 
Capital expenditures$12,072 $14,286 $37,460 $26,244 

(1)Capital expenditures consists of purchases of property and equipment and acquisition and development of software assets paid in cash or acquired through accounts payable. For the nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, capital expenditures in accounts payable decreased by $0.9 million and $6.4 million, respectively.

After the August 30, 2019 divestiture of the In-Store Bakery operations, the Company retained no assets related to the In-Store Bakery segment. All assets at September 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019 were attributed to the Snacking segment.

16


HOSTESS BRANDS, INC.
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
6. Goodwill and Intangible Assets
The Company recognized goodwill in January of 2020 related to its acquisition of Voortman based on a preliminary valuation performed to determine the fair value of the acquired assets. During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020, the preliminary valuation was adjusted, resulting in an increase to goodwill of $4.2 million and $5.2 million, respectively. The Voortman-related goodwill was incorporated into the Company’s Snacking reporting segment. At September 30, 2020, there is no goodwill associated with the In-Store Bakery reporting segment, which the Company divested in August 2019. Goodwill activity is presented below.

(In thousands)
Snacking
Balance as of December 31, 2019$535,853 
Acquisition of Voortman171,279 
Balance as of September 30, 2020$707,132 

Intangible assets consist of the following:
(In thousands)
September 30,
2020
December 31,
2019
Intangible assets with indefinite lives (Trademarks and Trade names)$1,538,631 $1,408,630 
Intangible assets with definite lives (Customer Relationships)526,812 515,713 
Less accumulated amortization (Customer Relationships)(91,362)(71,028)
Intangible assets, net$1,974,081 $1,853,315 

The Company recognized additional trade names and customer relationships intangible assets during the nine months ended September 30, 2020 related to the acquisition of Voortman. See Note 2. Business Combinations for additional details.
Amortization expense was $6.7 million and $20.3 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020, respectively, and $5.8 million and $17.7 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2019, respectively. The unamortized portion of customer relationships will be expensed over their remaining useful lives, from 1 to 19 years. The weighted-average amortization period as of September 30, 2020 for customer relationships was 19.0 years.

7. Accrued Expenses and Other Current Liabilities
Included in accrued expenses and other current liabilities are the following:
(In thousands)September 30,
2020
December 31,
2019
Interest rate swap contract$15,164 $704 
Incentive compensation12,788 6,840 
Payroll, vacation and other compensation9,994 3,389 
Other19,074 10,728 
$57,020 $21,661 

17


HOSTESS BRANDS, INC.
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
8. Debt and Lease Obligations
In January 2020, the Company originated a $140.0 million incremental term loan through an amendment to its existing credit agreement. The Company received proceeds of $136.9 million, net of fees incurred of $3.1 million. The proceeds, together with cash on hand, financed the purchase of Voortman (see Note 2. Business Combinations). The terms, conditions and covenants applicable to the incremental term loan are the same as the terms, conditions and covenants applicable to the existing term loans. The term loan requires quarterly payments of interest at a rate of the greater of the applicable LIBOR or 0.75% per annum plus a margin of 2.25% per annum and principal payments at a rate of 0.25% of the aggregate principal balance per quarter with the remaining principal amount due upon maturity on August 3, 2025.
A summary of the carrying value of the debt and lease obligations is as follows:
(In thousands)
September 30,
2020
December 31,
2019
Term Loan (3.0% as of September 30, 2020)
Principal$1,105,555 $973,930 
Unamortized debt premium and issuance costs(5,230)(3,094)
1,100,325 970,836 
Lease obligations19,146 16,452 
Total debt and lease obligations1,119,471 987,288 
Less: Current portion of long term debt and lease obligations(13,097)(11,883)
Long-term portion$1,106,374 $975,405 

At September 30, 2020, minimum debt repayments under the term loan are due as follows:

(In thousands)
2020$2,792 
202111,167 
202211,167 
202311,167 
202411,167 
20251,058,095 

9. Derivative Contracts

To reduce the effect of interest rate fluctuations on its variable-rate Term Loan, in 2017 the Company entered into an interest rate swap contract with a counter party to make a series of payments based on a fixed interest rate of 1.78% and receive a series of payments based on the greater of LIBOR or 0.75%. Both the fixed and floating payment streams are based on a notional amount of $500 million at the inception of the contract and are reduced by $100 million each year of the five-year contract. As of September 30, 2020 and September 30, 2019, the notional amount was $200 million and $300 million, respectively. At September 30, 2020, the effective interest rate on the long-term debt hedged by this contract was 4.03%.
In February 2020, the Company entered into additional five-year interest rate swap contracts to further reduce the effect of interest rate fluctuations on its variable-rate Term Loan. The notional value of these contracts was $500 million. Under the terms of the contracts, the Company will make quarterly payments based on fixed interest rates ranging from 1.11% to 1.64% and receive quarterly payments based on the greater of LIBOR or 0.75%. These contracts became effective as of April 30, 2020. At September 30, 2020, the effective interest rate on the long-term debt hedged by these interest rate swap contracts was 3.76%.
18


HOSTESS BRANDS, INC.
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The Company entered into these transactions to reduce its exposure to changes in cash flows associated with its variable rate debt and has designated these derivatives as cash flow hedges.
As of September 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019, the fair values of the interest rate swap contracts of $15.2 million and $0.7 million, respectively, were reported within accrued expenses and other current liabilities on the consolidated balance sheet. The fair value of the interest rate swap contracts are measured on a recurring basis by netting the discounted future fixed cash payments and the discounted expected variable cash receipts. The variable cash receipts are based on the expectation of future interest rates (forward curves) derived from observable market interest rate curves (Level 2).
In connection with the agreement to purchase Voortman as described in Note 2. Business Combinations, the Company entered into a foreign currency contract to hedge $440 million CAD to be used for the forecasted purchase price and a portion of the subsequent expected conversion costs. At December 31, 2019, the contract had a value of $7.1 million recognized within other current assets on the consolidated balance sheet based on available market information on similar contracts (Level 2).Through settlement of the contracts in January of 2020, a loss of $0.2 million was recognized within other expense on the consolidated statement of operations for the nine months ended September 30, 2020.

10. Earnings per Share

Basic earnings per share is calculated by dividing net income attributable to the Company’s Class A stockholders for the period by the weighted average number of shares of Class A common stock outstanding for the period excluding non-vested share-based awards. In computing diluted earnings per share, basic earnings per share is adjusted for the assumed issuance of all applicable potentially dilutive share-based awards including public and private placement warrants, RSUs, restricted stock awards and stock options.

Below are basic and diluted net income per share:
Three Months EndedNine Months Ended
September 30, 2020September 30, 2019September 30, 2020September 30, 2019
Numerator:
Net income attributable to Class A stockholders (in thousands)$22,605 $8,785 $41,123 $41,395 
Denominator:
Weighted-average Class A shares outstanding - basic 124,905,538 115,196,195 123,901,333 106,904,733 
Dilutive effect of warrants2,394,619 5,327,319 1,967,741 3,454,899 
Dilutive effect of RSUs286,724 599,381 221,571 444,735 
Weighted-average shares outstanding - diluted127,586,881 121,122,895 126,090,645 110,804,367 
Net income per Class A share - basic$0.18 $0.08 $0.33 $0.39 
Net income per Class A share - diluted$0.18 $0.07 $0.33 $0.37 

For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, the dilutive effect of stock options was excluded from the computation of diluted earnings per share because the assumed proceeds from the awards’ exercise were greater than the average market price of the common shares.

Weighted average Class A shares outstanding reflect the weighted impact of exchanges of Class B shares for Class A shares.

19


HOSTESS BRANDS, INC.
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
11. Income Taxes

The Company is subject to U.S. federal, state and local taxes on its allocable portion of the income of Hostess Holdings, a partnership for U.S. federal and most applicable state and local taxes. As a partnership, Hostess Holdings is itself not subject to U.S. federal and certain state and local income taxes. The operations of Hostess Holdings include those of its controlled foreign corporation subsidiaries. The Company intends to indefinitely reinvest earnings outside the United States and, thus, is not recording deferred taxes on its investment in foreign subsidiaries.
The Company’s estimated annual effective tax rate is 24.1% prior to taking into account any discrete items. The effective tax rate was 20.8% and 22.0% for the three months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively. During the three months ended September 30, 2020, the effective tax rate was impacted by a tax law change which resulted in a discrete tax benefit of $1.2 million. During the three months ended September 30, 2019, the effective tax rate was impacted by a discrete tax benefit of $0.5 million related to the divestiture of the In-Store Bakery operations.
The Company’s effective tax rate for the nine months ended September 30, 2020 was 21.5% compared to 16.8% for the nine months ended September 30, 2019. The current year effective tax rate was impacted by an adjustment to deferred taxes related to Voortman and a tax law change, which collectively resulted in a discrete tax benefit of $1.7 million. The prior year effective tax rate was impacted by a net discrete tax benefit of $3.7 million primarily related to the remeasurement of deferred tax balances arising from changes in estimated state apportionment factors and rates due to business operation changes.

12. Tax Receivable Agreement Obligations

The following table summarizes activity related to the Tax Receivable Agreement for the nine months ended September 30, 2020:
(In thousands)
Balance December 31, 2019$138,196 
Exchange of Class B units for Class A shares8,976 
Remeasurement due to tax law change610 
Payments(10,327)
Balance September 30, 2020$137,455 

As of September 30, 2020 the future expected payments under the tax receivable agreement are as follows:
(In thousands)
2020$1,800 
20218,600 
20227,800 
20237,800 
20247,900 
Thereafter103,555 

20


HOSTESS BRANDS, INC.
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
13.     Commitments and Contingencies
Liabilities related to legal proceedings are recorded when it is probable that a liability has been incurred and the associated amount can be reasonably estimated. Where the estimated amount of loss is within a range of amounts and no amount within the range is a better estimate than any other amount, the minimum amount is accrued. As additional information becomes available, potential liabilities are reassessed and the estimates revised, if necessary. Any accrued liabilities are subject to change in the future based on new developments in each matter, or changes in circumstances, which could have a material effect on the Company’s financial condition and results of operations.
Leases
The Company entered into operating leases for the buildings in which it operates that expire at various times through 2026, including those entered by Voortman. The Company determines if an arrangement is a lease at inception.
At September 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019, right of use assets related to operating leases are included in property and equipment, net on the consolidated balance sheet (see Note 4. Property and Equipment). As of September 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019, the Company has no outstanding financing leases. Lease liabilities for operating leases are included in the current and non-current portions of long-term debt and lease obligations on the consolidated balance sheet (see Note 8. Debt and Lease Obligations).
The table below shows the composition of lease expenses:
Three Months EndedNine Months Ended
(In thousands)
September 30, 2020September 30, 2019September 30, 2020September 30, 2019
Amortization of right of use asset, financing lease$— $33 $— $133 
Interest, financing lease— — 16 
Operating lease expense1,209 752 4,273 2,009 
Short-term lease expense456 202 2,014 884 
Variable lease expense445 188 1,466 565 
$2,110 $1,179 $7,753 $3,607 

14. Subsequent Events

In November 2020 the Company’s Board of Directors approved a stock repurchase authorization of up to $100 million in shares of Class A common stock. As of November, 5, 2020, no shares have been repurchased under this authorization.
21


Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

The following discussion summarizes the significant factors affecting the consolidated operating results, financial condition, liquidity and capital resources of Hostess Brands, Inc. This discussion should be read in conjunction with our unaudited consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included herein, and our audited consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2019. The terms “our”, “we,” “us,” and “Company” as used herein refer to Hostess Brands, Inc. and its consolidated subsidiaries.

Overview

We are a leading North America packaged food company, currently operating in one reportable segment: Snacking, which includes sweet baked goods (“SBG”) as well as our cookie and wafer products. Our direct-to-warehouse (“DTW”) product distribution system allows us to deliver to our customers’ warehouses. Our customers in turn distribute to the retail stores.
Hostess® is the second leading brand by market share within the SBG category, according to Nielsen U.S. total universe. For the 13-week period ended September 26, 2020, our branded SBG products (which include Hostess®, Dolly Madison®, Cloverhill® and Big Texas®) market share was 19.7% per Nielsen’s U.S. SBG category data.
Historically, we operated in two reportable segments: SBG and In-Store Bakery (“ISB”), which we sold in August of 2019.

Factors Impacting Recent Results
Acquisition
On January 3, 2020, we completed the acquisition of all of the shares of the parent company of Voortman Cookies Limited (“Voortman”), a manufacturer of premium, branded wafers as well as sugar-free and specialty cookies. By adding the Voortman® brand, we expect to have greater growth opportunities provided by a more diverse portfolio of brands and products. Our consolidated statement of operations includes the operation of these assets from January 3, 2020 through September 30, 2020. During the year, we transitioned Voortman from its legacy direct-store-delivery distribution model into our centralized DTW model.
Divestiture
On August 30, 2019, the Company sold the ISB operations, including relevant trademarks and licensing agreements, to an unrelated party. The ISB operations provided products that were primarily sold in the in-store bakery section of U.S. retail channels. The Company divested the operations to focus on areas of our business that better leverage our core competencies.
COVID-19
The acute and far-reaching impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and actions taken by governments to contain the spread of the virus have impacted our operations during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020. As consumers prepared for extended stays at home, we experienced an increase in consumption in the last few weeks of the first quarter, particularly in our multi-pack products sold through grocery and mass retailer channels. Conversely, we experienced lower consumption of single-serve products, often consumed away from home. This trend has moderated during the second and third quarters, however, we cannot predict if these trends will sustain or reverse in future periods.
We have established a task force to monitor the rapidly evolving situation and recommend risk mitigation actions as deemed necessary. To date, we have experienced minimal disruption to our supply chain or distribution network, including the supply of our ingredients, packaging or other sourced materials, though it is possible that more significant disruptions could occur if the COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact markets around the world. We are also working closely with all of our contract manufacturers, distributors and other external business partners. As a food producer, we are an essential service and our production and distribution facilities continue to operate. To protect our employees and ensure continuity of operations, we have implemented additional security and sanitation
22


measures in all of our facilities. We are monitoring our employees’ health and providing additional resources and protocols to enable effective social distancing and adherence to our stringent internal food safety guidelines, industry best practices and evolving CDC guidelines. Many non-production team members, including sales, marketing and corporate employees, are adhering to social distancing guidelines by working from home and reducing person-to-person contact while supporting our ability to bring products to consumers.
We have adequate liquidity to pay for the costs associated with these additional measures while servicing our on-going operating and capital needs. However, we continue to actively monitor and will take action, as necessary, to preserve adequate liquidity and ensure that our business can continue to operate in this dynamic environment.
On March 27, 2020, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (“CARES”) Act was signed into law. The CARES Act provides a substantial stimulus and assistance package intended to address the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, including tax relief and government loans, grants and investments. Apart from their impact on the general economy, including the labor market and consumer demand, neither the CARES Act nor any other government program intended to address COVID-19 had any material impact on our consolidated financial statements for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020. We continue to monitor any effects that may result from the CARES Act and other stimulus programs.

Operating Results
Three Months EndedNine Months Ended
(In thousands, except per share data)
September 30, 2020September 30, 2019September 30, 2020September 30, 2019
Net revenue$260,855 $227,211 $760,566 $691,009 
Gross profit91,155 70,420 259,866 229,058 
As a % of net revenue35.0 %31.0 %34.2 %33.2 %
Operating costs and expenses49,818 46,849 168,788 132,496 
Operating income 41,337 23,571 91,078 96,562 
Other expense 11,083 9,813 35,073 31,637 
Income tax expense6,281 3,029 12,022 10,915 
Net income 23,973 10,729 43,983 54,010 
Net income attributable to Class A stockholders$22,605 $8,785 $41,123 $41,395 
Earnings per Class A share:
Basic$0.18 $0.08 $0.33 $0.39 
Diluted$0.18 $0.07 $0.33 $0.37 

Results of Operations
Net Revenue
Net revenue for the three months ended September 30, 2020 was $260.9 million, an increase of 14.8%, or $33.7 million, compared to $227.2 million for the three months ended September 30, 2019. Excluding ISB, net revenue increased $40.8 million or 18.5%. The increase was driven primarily by the acquisition of Voortman which contributed $26.8 million of net revenue. Sweet baked goods net revenue increased $13.9 million, primarily driven by higher volume of core Hostess® branded products partially offset by lower sales of private label and non-Hostess branded products. Additionally during the current year period, we increased the reserve for customer credits related to the recall of certain Raspberry Zinger® products, which was established in the previous quarter. Net revenue was negatively impacted in the prior-year period by the temporary shutdown of certain production lines to perform maintenance and operating enhancements.

23


Net revenue for the nine months ended September 30, 2020 was $760.6 million, an increase of 10.1%, or $69.6 million, compared to $691.0 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2019. Excluding ISB, net revenue increased $98.3 million or 14.8%. The acquisition of Voortman contributed $67.5 million of net revenue. The remaining increase was attributed to higher volume of Hostess® branded multi-pack products due to strong demand, particularly in the grocery and dollar channels, partially offset by lower sales of private label and non-Hostess branded products and lower sales of Hostess® branded single-serve products.
Gross Profit
Gross profit for the three months ended September 30, 2020 was $91.2 million, or 35.0% of net revenue, compared to $70.4 million, or 31.0% of net revenue for the three months ended September 30, 2019. Excluding ISB, gross profit increased 32.6% resulting from the accretion from Voortman supported by achievement of synergies, lower promotional activity and and higher pro+ductivity efficiencies, partially offset by higher operating costs due to COVID-19.
Gross profit for the nine months ended September 30, 2020 was $259.9 million, or 34.2% of net revenue, compared to $229.1 million, or 33.2% of net revenue for the nine months ended September 30, 2019. Excluding ISB, gross profit increased 16.6%. The increase resulted primarily from the accretion from Voortman and efficiencies from higher sales volume, partially offset by transition costs related to Voortman operations and higher operating costs due to COVID-19.
Operating Costs and Expenses
Operating costs and expenses for the three months ended September 30, 2020 were $49.8 million, compared to $46.8 million for the three months ended September 30, 2019. The increase was primarily attributed to the addition of Voortman's on-going operating costs, partially offset by prior-year charges related to the sale of the In-Store Bakery business, debt refinancing costs, remeasurement of the tax receivable agreement and costs related to the transition of the Company's primary distribution center.
Operating costs and expenses for the nine months ended September 30, 2020 were $168.8 million, compared to $132.5 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2019. The increase was attributed to costs related to the transition of Voortman's operations as well as Voortman's on-going operating costs, partially offset by prior-year charges related to the transition of the Company’s distribution center, a prior-year nonrecurring payment under the Company's long-term incentive plan, costs related to the sale of the In-Store Bakery business and debt refinancing costs.
Other Expense
Other expense for the three months ended September 30, 2020 was $11.1 million compared to $9.8 million for the three months ended September 30, 2019, in each case consisting primarily of interest expense. Interest expense on our term loans was $10.0 million and $10.8 million for the three months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively.

Other expense for the nine months ended September 30, 2020 was $35.1 million compared to $31.6 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2019, in each case consisting primarily of interest expense. Interest expense on our term loans was $31.9 million and $32.8 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively.

Income Taxes
Our effective tax rate for the three months ended September 30, 2020 was 20.8% compared to 22.0% for the three months ended September 30, 2019. Our current year effective tax rate was impacted by a discrete tax benefit of $1.2 million related to a tax law change. During the three months ended September 30, 2019, the effective tax rate benefited by a discrete tax benefit of $0.5 million related to the divestiture of the In-Store Bakery operations.

24


Our effective tax rate for the nine months ended September 30, 2020 was 21.5% compared to 16.8% for the nine months ended September 30, 2019. The current year effective tax rate was impacted by an adjustment to deferred taxes related to Voortman and a tax law change, which collectively resulted in a discrete tax benefit of $1.7 million. Our prior year effective tax rate was impacted by a discrete tax benefit of $3.7 million primarily related to the remeasurement of deferred tax balances arising from changes in estimated state apportionment factors and rates due to business operation changes.

Segments
For the reporting periods presented, we had two reportable segments: Snacking and In-Store Bakery. In January of 2020, we added the newly acquired Voortman operations into the reportable segment previously known as Sweet Baked Goods and renamed the segment as “Snacking”. Our Snacking segment consists of baked goods, cookies, wafers and bread products that are sold under the Hostess®, Dolly Madison®, Cloverhill®, Big Texas® and Voortman® brands. The In-Store Bakery segment consisted primarily of Superior on Main® branded and private label products sold through the in-store bakery section of grocery and club stores. We divested our In-Store Bakery operations on August 30, 2019.

We evaluate performance and allocate resources based on net revenue and gross profit. Information regarding the operations of these reportable segments is as follows:
Unaudited Segment Financial Data
Three Months EndedNine Months Ended
(In thousands)
September 30, 2020September 30, 2019September 30, 2020September 30, 2019

  Net revenue:
Snacking$260,855 $220,156 $760,566 $662,307 
In-Store Bakery— 7,055 — 28,702 
Net revenue$260,855 $227,211 $760,566 $691,009 
Gross profit:
Snacking$91,155 $68,804 $259,866 $222,872 
In-Store Bakery— 1,616 — 6,186 
Gross profit$91,155 $70,420 $259,866 $229,058 

Liquidity and Capital Resources
Our primary sources of liquidity are from cash on hand, future cash flow generated from operations, and availability under our revolving credit agreement (“Revolver”). We believe that cash flows from operations and the current cash and cash equivalents on the balance sheet will be sufficient to satisfy the anticipated cash requirements associated with our existing operations for at least the next 12 months. Our ability to generate sufficient cash from our operating activities depends on our future performance, which is subject to general economic, political, financial, competitive and other factors beyond our control. In addition, our future acquisitions and other cash requirements could be higher than we currently expect as a result of various factors, including any expansion of our business that we undertake, including acquisitions. We consider all highly liquid investments purchased with an original maturity of three months or less to be cash equivalents.
We had working capital, excluding cash, as of September 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019 of $8.4 million and $8.1 million, respectively. We have the ability to borrow under the Revolver to meet obligations as they come due. As of September 30, 2020, we had approximately $94.5 million available for borrowing, net of letters of credit, under the Revolver.
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Cash Flows from Operating Activities
Cash flows provided by operating activities for the nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019 were $108.0 million and $107.4 million, respectively. Operating cash flow benefited from the incremental profits generated by Voortman as well as higher sales volume and profits from core Hostess® branded products. The increase was also driven by a reduction of net working capital due to the transition of Voortman to our warehouse distribution model. This was offset by cash used to fund Voortman’s transaction expenses and non-capitalizable warehouse transition costs.
Cash Flows from Investing Activities
Cash used in investing activities for the nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019 were $354.4 million and $30.6 million, respectively. During the nine months ended September 30, 2020, we funded the CAD $423 million purchase price of Voortman with cash on hand and the proceeds from an incremental term loan on our existing credit facility. Cash used for purchase of property and equipment reflects planned investments in our bakeries, including Voortman, and our centralized distribution center.
Cash Flows from Financing Activities
Cash flows from financing activities were an inflow of $113.9 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2020 and an outflow of $17.5 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2019. During 2020, cash proceeds of $140.0 million from the incremental term loan used to finance the purchase of Voortman were offset by related charges of $3.1 million. Tax receivable agreement payments increased in the current-year period due to timing of the scheduled annual payment.
Long-Term Debt
We had no outstanding borrowings under our Revolver as of September 30, 2020.
In January 2020, we entered into $140.0 million of incremental term loans through an amendment to our existing credit agreement. The proceeds, together with cash on hand were used to settle a forward purchase contract for Canadian Dollars utilized to finance the CAD $425 million purchase of Voortman.
As of September 30, 2020, $1,105.6 million aggregate principal amount of the Term Loan was outstanding and letters of credit worth up to $5.5 million aggregate principal amount were available, reducing the amount available under the Revolver. We had no outstanding borrowings under our Revolver as of September 30, 2020. As of September 30, 2020, we were in compliance with the covenants under the Term Loan and the Revolver.
Share Repurchase Program
In November 2020 our Board of Directors approved a stock repurchase authorization of up to $100 million in shares of our Class A common stock. The actual timing, number and value of shares to be purchased under the program will be determined at our discretion and will depend on a number of factors, including the performance of the Company's stock price, general market and other conditions, applicable legal requirements, and compliance with the terms of our outstanding indebtedness.
Contractual Obligations and Commitments
There were no material changes, outside the ordinary course of business, in our outstanding contractual obligations from those disclosed within “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2019.

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Item 3.    Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk
For quantitative and qualitative disclosures about market risk, see Item 7A “Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk” of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2019. Our exposures to market risk have not changed materially since December 31, 2019.

Item 4. Controls and Procedures
Under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and our Chief Financial Officer, we evaluated the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e)) under the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the Exchange Act)) as of September 30, 2020, the end of the period covered by this report. Based on that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of September 30, 2020 to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports filed or submitted under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the rules and forms of the Securities and Exchange Commission, and that information relating to the Company is accumulated and communicated to management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

During the nine months ended September 30, 2020, there was no change in our internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 13a-15(f) under the Exchange Act) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.


PART II
Item 1. Legal Proceedings
We are involved from time to time in lawsuits, claims and proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business. These matters typically involve personnel and employment issues, personal injury, contract and other proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business. Although we do not expect the outcome of these matters to have a material adverse effect on our financial condition or results of operations, litigation is inherently unpredictable. Therefore, we could incur judgments, or enter into settlements or be subject to claims that could materially impact our results.

Item 1A. Risk Factors
Our risk factors are set forth in the “Risk Factors” section of our Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on February 26, 2020. Other than as noted below, there have been no material changes to our risk factors since the filing of the Form 10-K.
The current COVID-19 pandemic, or the future outbreak of other highly infectious or contagious diseases, could adversely impact or cause disruption to our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. Further, the COVID-19 pandemic has caused severe disruptions in the U.S. and global economy, may further disrupt financial markets and could potentially create widespread business continuity issues.

With novel coronavirus (“COVID-19”) infections reported throughout the world, certain governmental authorities have issued stay-at-home orders, proclamations and/or directives aimed at minimizing the spread of the pandemic. Additional, more restrictive proclamations and/or directives may be issued in the future. As a food producer, we are an essential service and the majority of our employees continue to work within our production and distribution facilities. However, we have had increased labor costs resulting from the payment of overtime to certain of our employees while other employees have been on paid sick leave or unpaid leaves of absence. We have also incurred expenses related to additional sanitization and safety measures we have instituted throughout our facilities. Although the temporary reductions in production at our facilities to enable sanitization and implementation of our other safety and employee welfare programs have not materially affected our operations, other food producers have experienced
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significant shutdowns of production. We cannot assure you that our health and safety measures will prevent a widespread outbreak of COVID-19 at our facilities. Such an outbreak could lead to a suspension of production or increased labor and other costs, each of which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

We are also actively monitoring the potential impact of the pandemic on our supply chain, operations and distribution. Our products are manufactured in North America and we source the significant majority of our ingredients, raw materials and packaging within North America. However, global supply may become constrained, which may cause the price of certain ingredients, raw materials and packaging used in our products to increase, such ingredients may become unavailable and/or we may experience disruptions to our operations. While we do not expect that the virus will have a material adverse effect on our business or financial results at this time, we are unable to accurately predict the impact that the coronavirus will have due to various uncertainties, including the severity of the disease, the duration of the outbreak, the economic impact on our customers, and actions that may be taken by governmental authorities. We also cannot predict the effects of another wave of COVID-19 or any future outbreak of other highly infectious or contagious diseases.

Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds
Not applicable.

Item 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities
None.

Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures
Not applicable.

Item 5. Other Information
None.
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Item 6. Exhibits
Exhibit No. Description
   
31.1
31.2
32.1
32.2
101.INSXBRL Instance Document - the instance document does not appear in the interactive data file because its XBRL tags are embedded within the Inline XBRL document
101.SCHXBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document
101.CALXBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document
101.DEFXBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document
101.LABXBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document
101.PREXBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document
104The cover page from the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2020, formatted in Inline XBRL





Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) 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, in Lenexa, Kansas on November 5, 2020.

HOSTESS BRANDS, INC.
By/s/ Brian T. Purcell
Brian T. Purcell
Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer