JanOne Inc. - Annual Report: 2017 (Form 10-K)

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-K

For the fiscal year ended December 30, 2017

or

Commission File No. 000-19621

APPLIANCE RECYCLING CENTERS OF AMERICA, INC.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code:  952-930-9000

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

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

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

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

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. ý Yes o No

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

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

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

If any 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 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

The aggregate market value of the voting and non-voting common equity held by non-affiliates of the registrant, based on the closing price of $1.03 per share, as of September 30, 2017 (the last business day of the registrant’s most recently completed third fiscal quarter) was $6,855,025.

As of June 11, 2018, there were outstanding 6,875,365 shares of the registrant’s Common Stock, par value $0.001 per share.

PART I

General

Appliance Recycling Centers of America, Inc. and subsidiaries (collectively, “we,” the “Company,” or “ARCA”) are in the business of recycling major household appliances in North America by providing turnkey appliance recycling and replacement services for utilities and other sponsors of energy efficiency programs through our subsidiaries ARCA Recycling, Inc. and ARCA Canada Inc.  In addition, through our GeoTraq Inc. (“GeoTraq”) subsidiary, a development stage company, we are engaged in the development, design and, ultimately, we expect the sale of, cellular transceiver modules, also known as Cell-ID modules. Prior to December 30, 2017, we sold new major household appliances in the United States though a chain of seventeen Company-owned retail stores operating under the name ApplianceSmart^®. On December 30, 2017, we, together with our subsidiary ApplianceSmart, Inc. (“ApplianceSmart”), entered into a Stock Purchase Agreement (the “Stock Purchase Agreement”) with ApplianceSmart Holdings LLC (the “Purchaser”), a wholly owned subsidiary of Live Ventures Incorporated (“Live”), pursuant to which we sold to the Purchaser all of the issued and outstanding shares of capital stock (the “ApplianceSmart Stock”) of ApplianceSmart in exchange for $6,500,000. Effective April 1, 2018, Purchaser issued the Company a promissory note with a three-year term in the original principal amount of $3,919,494 for the balance of the purchase price. ApplianceSmart is guaranteeing the repayment of this promissory note. In addition, we had a 50% interest in a joint venture, ARCA Advanced Processing, LLC (“AAP”), which recycles appliances in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions of the United States, which we sold on August 15, 2017. See “Item 1 – Business - Recent Developments” for more information regarding the transactions involving GeoTraq, ApplianceSmart, and AAP.

As a leading recycler of major household appliances, we generate revenues from:

Through December 30, 2017, we generated revenues from the retail sales of appliances at our ApplianceSmart stores.

We were incorporated in Minnesota in 1983, although through our predecessors we began our appliance retail and recycling business in 1976. On March 12, 2018, we reincorporated into the State of Nevada. Our principal office is located at 175 Jackson Avenue North, Suite 102, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55343-4565.

Industry Background

Recycling and Retail

Major household appliances in the United States include:

Improper disposal of old appliances threatens air, ground and water resources because many types of major appliances contain substances that can damage the environment. These harmful materials include:

The U.S. federal government requires the recovery of refrigerants upon appliance disposal and also regulates the management of hazardous materials found in appliances. Most state and local governments have also enacted laws affecting how their residents dispose of unwanted appliances. For example, many areas restrict landfills and scrap metal processors from accepting appliances unless the units have been processed to remove environmentally harmful materials.  As a result, old appliances usually cannot be discarded directly through ordinary solid waste systems.

In addition to these solid waste management and environmental issues, energy conservation is another compelling reason for proper disposal of old appliances. The U.S. Department of Energy’s updated appliance energy efficiency standards that took effect in September 2014 require new refrigerators to be 25 to 30 percent more efficient than those manufactured only one year earlier. Refrigerators manufactured today use about one-fifth as much electricity as units made in the mid-1970s.

While new refrigerators can save a significant amount of energy in the home, more than 20 percent of all U.S. households have a second refrigerator in the basement or garage. These units are typically 15-25 years old and consume about 750 to 1500 kilowatt-hours per year, driving electric bills up by more than $150 annually per household.

Utilities have become important participants in dealing with energy inefficient appliances as a way of reducing peak demand on their systems and avoiding the capital and environmental costs of adding new generating capacity. To encourage the permanent removal of energy inefficient appliances from use, many electric utility companies sponsor programs through which their residential customers can retire working refrigerators, freezers and room air conditioners.  Utility companies often provide assistance and incentives for consumers to discontinue use of a surplus appliance or to replace their old, inefficient appliances with newer, more efficient models. To help accomplish this, some utilities offer appliance replacement programs for some segments of their customers, through which older model kitchen and laundry appliances are recycled and new highly efficient ENERGY STAR^® units are installed.

The EPA has been supportive of efforts by electric utilities and other entities that sponsor appliance recycling programs to ensure that the collected units are managed in an environmentally sound manner. In October 2006, the EPA launched the Responsible Appliance Disposal (“RAD”) Program, a voluntary partnership program designed to help protect the ozone layer and reduce emissions of greenhouse gases. Through the program, RAD partners use best practices to recover ozone-depleting chemicals and other harmful materials from old refrigerators, freezers, room air conditioners and dehumidifiers. In 2010, ApplianceSmart became the first independent retailer in the country to become a RAD partner. Because of our appliance recycling expertise, we were active participants in helping to design the RAD program and currently submit annual reports to the EPA to document the environmental benefits our utility customers that are RAD partners have achieved through their recycling programs.

Technology

GeoTraq is a development stage company in the business of acquiring new technologies for development and marketing. GeoTraq is a location-based service (“LBS”) technology provider planning to manufacture and sell cellular transceiver modules and associated services specifically enabled by Cell-ID. GeoTraq addresses the large LBS market segment that is currently under served with existing solutions due to high deployment costs (hardware, service, logistics), limited battery life and large form factor.

We believe that there is a large under-served portion of the LBS market that is not addressed by existing solutions. RFID and Wi-Fi require close proximity for asset tracking, while GPS is too bulky and power hungry for many needs. GeoTraq addresses the white space in-between by exclusively using Cell-ID technology. GeoTraq’s technology allows for a substantially lower cost solution, extended service life, a small form factor and even disposable devices, which we believe can significantly reduce return logistics costs.

Company Background

Recycling

We started our business in 1976 as a used appliance retailer that reconditioned old appliances to sell in our stores.  Under contracts with national and regional retailers of new appliances, such as Sears and Montgomery Ward, we collected the replaced appliance from the retailer's customer’s residence when one of their stores delivered a new appliance in the Minneapolis/St. Paul, Miami or Atlanta market. Any old appliances that we could not sell in our stores were sold to scrap metal processors. In the late 1980s, stricter environmental regulations began to affect the disposal of unwanted appliances, and we were no longer able to take appliances that contained hazardous components to a scrap metal processor. At that time, we began to develop systems and equipment to remove the harmful materials so that metal processors would accept the appliance shells for processing. We then offered our services for disposing of appliances in an environmentally sound manner to appliance manufacturers and retailers, waste hauling companies, rental property managers, local governments and the public.

In 1989, we began contracting with electric utility companies to provide turnkey appliance recycling services to support their energy conservation efforts. Since that time, we have provided our services to approximately 400 utilities and other providers of energy efficiency programs throughout North America.

We currently have contracts to recycle, or to replace and recycle, appliances for approximately 180 utilities across North America.

We have seen continued interest from sponsors of energy efficiency initiatives that recognize the effectiveness of recycling and replacing energy inefficient appliances.  We are aggressively pursuing electric, water and gas utilities, public housing authorities and energy efficiency management companies going forward and expect that we will continue to submit proposals for various new appliance recycling and replacement programs accordingly. However, for a variety of reasons, we still have a limited ability to project revenues from utility programs.  We cannot predict recycling volumes or if we will be successful in obtaining new contracts in 2018.

We operate thirteen recycling centers in the U.S. and Canada to process and recycle old appliances according to all federal, state, provincial and local rules and regulations. ARCA uses U.S. EPA RAD-compliant methods to remove and properly manage hazardous components and materials, including CFC refrigerants, mercury, polyurethane foam insulation and recyclable materials, such as ferrous and nonferrous metals, plastics and glass. All of our facilities comply with licensing and permitting requirements, and employees who process appliances receive extensive safety and hazardous materials training.

We entered into a Joint Venture Agreement with 4301 Operations, LLC, (“4301”) to establish and operate a regional processing center (“RPC”). 4301 has significant experience in the recycling of major household appliances and they contributed their existing business to the joint venture. Under the Joint Venture Agreement, the parties formed a new entity known as ARCA Advanced Processing, LLC (“AAP”) and each party has a 50% interest in AAP. We contributed $2.0 million to the joint venture and 4301 contributed their equipment and existing business to the joint venture. The joint venture commenced operations on February 8, 2010. We sold our interest in AAP on August 15, 2017. See “Item 1 – Business - Recent Developments.”

We purchased and installed a UNTHA Recycling Technology ("URT") materials recovery system, for which we are the exclusive North American distributor, to enhance the capabilities of the RPC in Philadelphia. We completed the installation of the URT materials recovery system in the third quarter of 2011. The URT materials recovery system recovers approximately 95 percent of the foam insulation from refrigerators; reduces typical landfill waste of the refrigerator by 83 percent by weight; lowers greenhouse gas and ozone-depleting substance emissions recovered from insulating foam compared with what typically happens in the industry today; and recovers high-quality plastics, aluminum, copper, steel and pelletized foam from refrigerators that can be used to make new products or for other beneficial use.

Geotraq

In a move to diversify our offering beyond our current appliance and other capabilities, on August 18, 2017, we acquired GeoTraq. GeoTraq is a development stage company in the business of acquiring new technologies for development and marketing. GeoTraq is a location-based service (“LBS”) technology provider planning to manufacture and sell cellular transceiver modules and associated services specifically enabled by Cell-ID. GeoTraq addresses the large LBS market segment that is currently under served with existing solutions due to high deployment costs (hardware, service, logistics), limited battery life and large form factor, We believe that there is a large under-served portion of the LBS market that is not addressed by existing solutions. RFID and Wi-Fi require close proximity for asset tracking, while GPS is too bulky and power hungry for many needs. GeoTraq addresses the white space in-between by exclusively using Cell-ID technology. GeoTraq’s technology allows for a substantially lower cost solution, extended service life, a small form factor and even disposable devices, which we believe can significantly reduce return logistics costs.

The GeoTraq acquisition allows us the ability to deploy Internet of Things devices to locate, monitor and track the movement of inventory and other assets.

ApplianceSmart

At December 30, 2017, ApplianceSmart operated seventeen stores: six in the Minneapolis/St. Paul market; one in Rochester, Minn.; one in St. Cloud, Minn.; three in the Columbus, Ohio market; four in the Atlanta, Georgia market; and two in the San Antonio, Texas market.  ApplianceSmart is a major household appliance retailer with two product categories: one consisting of typical and commonly available, innovative appliances, and the other consisting of affordable value-priced, niche offerings, such as close-outs, factory overruns, discontinued models and special-buy appliances, including out-of-carton merchandise and others.  One example of a special-buy appliance may be due to manufacturer product redesign, in which a current model is updated to include a few new features and is then assigned a new model number. Because the major manufacturers—primarily Whirlpool, General Electric and Electrolux—ship only the latest models to retailers, a large quantity of the previous models often remain in the manufacturers’ inventories. Special-buy appliances typically are not integrated into the manufacturers’ normal distribution channels and require a different method of management, which we provide.

For many years, manufacturers relied on small appliance dealers to buy these specialty products to sell in their stores.  However, many small retailers are struggling to compete with large appliance chains as the five largest retailers of major appliances account for nearly 75% of the sales volume.  At the same time, expansion of big-box retailers that sell appliances has created an increase in the number of special-buy units, further straining the traditional outlet system for these appliances. Because these special-buy appliances have value, manufacturers and retailers need an efficient management system to recover their worth.

See “Item 1 – Business - Recent Developments.”

Manufacturer Supply

We have entered into contracts or other arrangements for purchasing appliances that we sell in our ApplianceSmart stores or provide for utility appliance replacement programs.  These contracts and arrangements are with the following six major manufacturers:

1.       Electrolux

2.       GE Appliances

3.       LG

4.       Samsung

5.       Whirlpool

6.        AGA/Marvel

There are no guarantees on the number of units any of the manufacturers will sell us. However, we believe purchases from these six manufacturers will provide an adequate supply of high-quality appliances for our ApplianceSmart stores and our appliance replacement programs.

Subsidiaries

GeoTraq Inc., a Nevada corporation, is a wholly-owned subsidiary that was initially incorporated in Nevada on October 20, 2016. GeoTraq is a development stage company engaged in the development, design and, ultimately, we expect the sale of, cellular transceiver modules, also known as Cell-ID modules. We acquired GeoTraq on August 18, 2017. See “Item 1 – Business - Recent Developments.”

ARCA Canada Inc., a Canadian corporation, is a wholly-owned subsidiary formed in September 2006 to provide turnkey recycling and replacement services for electric utility energy efficiency programs.

ARCA Recycling, Inc., a California corporation, is a wholly-owned subsidiary formed in November 1991 to provide turnkey recycling and appliance replacement services for energy efficiency programs.

Customer Connexx, LLC, a Nevada limited liability company, is wholly owned subsidiary formed in October 13, 2016 to provide call center services for electric utility programs.

ApplianceSmart, a Minnesota corporation, was a wholly-owned subsidiary formed through a corporate reorganization in July 2011 to hold our business of selling new major household appliances through a chain of Company-owned retail stores. See “Item 1 – Business - Recent Developments.”

ARCA Advanced Processing, LLC, a Minnesota limited liability company, is a variable interest entity that we consolidate in our financial statements. AAP was formed in October 2009 to operate a regional processing and recycling center and commenced operations on February 8, 2010. We sold our interest in AAP on August 15, 2017. See “Item 1 – Business - Recent Developments.”

Recent Developments

Acquisition of GeoTraq

On August 18, 2017, the Company entered into that certain Agreement and Plan of Merger with GeoTraq pursuant to which it acquired GeoTraq by way of merger. As a result of this transaction, GeoTraq became a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company. In connection with this transaction, the Company tendered to the owners of GeoTraq $200,000, issued to them an aggregate of 288,588 shares of the Company’s Series A Convertible Preferred Stock valued at $14,963,288 inclusive of the beneficial conversion feature, and entered into one-year unsecured promissory notes for an aggregate original principal amount of $800,000. In addition, there was $10,133,366 deferred tax liability associated with the purchase of the intangible assets of GeoTraq. The total value of the intangible assets purchased is $26,096,654 including the deferred tax liability.

Sale of ApplianceSmart

On December 30, 2017, ARCA and ApplianceSmart entered into the Stock Purchase Agreement with Purchaser, a wholly owned subsidiary of Live. Pursuant to the Agreement, ARCA sold to the Purchaser all of the issued and outstanding shares of the ApplianceSmart Stock in exchange for $6,500,000. Effective April 1, 2018, Purchaser issued the Company a promissory note with a three-year term in the original principal amount of $3,919,494 for the balance of the purchase price. ApplianceSmart is guaranteeing the repayment of this note.

Sale of AAP

On August 15, 2017, ARCA entered into an Equity Purchase Agreement with 4301 Operations, LLC (“4301”) and sold its 50% joint venture interest in AAP to 4301, ARCA’s joint venture partner in AAP, in consideration of $800,000 in cash. The gain recorded by ARCA was $81,000. In a separate related transaction on the same date, ARCA entered into an Asset Purchase Agreement with Recleim LLC (“licensee”) and parent company of Recleim PA, LLC and agreed to license certain intellectual property practiced by patent No. 8,931,289 to licensee for use at 4301 North Delaware Avenue, Philadelphia, PA or any successor facility within 15 miles where licensee conducts business. On August 15, 2017 Recleim PA, LLC paid in full all BB&T indebtedness owed by AAP in the amount of $3,454,000 and terminated and released all security interests in AAP and ARCA’s equipment as part of Recleim PA LLC’s purchase of certain equipment and assets from AAP on the same date. Recleim PA LLC is also assuming approximately $768,000 in AAP liabilities and assuming all of ARCA’s liabilities to Haier US Appliance Solutions, Inc, dba GE Appliances (“GEA”).

Customers and Source of Supply

We also provide services for electric utility companies and other sponsors of energy efficiency initiatives that offer their customers appliance recycling and replacement programs as energy conservation measures. ApplianceSmart offers reverse logistics services to manufacturers and retailers needing an efficient way to manage appliances that fall outside their normal distribution and sales channels.

Utility Companies: We contract with utility companies or their program administrators and other sponsors of energy efficiency programs to provide a full range of appliance recycling and replacement services to help them achieve their energy savings goals. The contracts usually have terms of one to three years, with provisions for renewal at the option of the utility. Under some contracts, we manage all aspects, including advertising of the appliance recycling or replacement program. Under other contracts, we provide only specified services, such as collection and recycling.

Our contracts with utility customers prohibit us from repairing and selling appliances or appliance parts we receive through their programs. Because the intent of these programs is to conserve electricity, we have instituted tracking and auditing procedures to assure our customers that those appliances do not return to use.

Our pricing for energy efficiency program contracts is generally on a per-appliance basis and depends upon several factors, including:

1.       Total number of appliances expected to be processed and/or replaced.

2.       Length of the contract term.

3.       Specific services the utility requires us to provide.

4.       Market factors, including labor rates and transportation costs.

5.       Anticipated revenue associated with the sale of recycled appliance byproducts.

6.        Competitive bidding scenarios.

GeoTraq: GeoTraq is a development stage company and currently has no customers. GeoTraq sources its raw materials, including electronic chips, computers and software from various third parties. GeoTraq is not dependent on any single supplier for its modules.

Appliance Manufacturers: We work with appliance manufacturers, including Electrolux, GE Appliances, LG, Samsung and Whirlpool, to acquire the appliances we sell in our ApplianceSmart stores. We purchase new, special-buy appliances, such as discontinued models, out-of-carton units and factory overruns, and sell them at a significant discount to full retail prices. In addition, our participation in a national buying cooperative enables us to purchase the latest models of new appliances to fill out our product mix. Although we believe our current sources for appliances are adequate to supply our retail stores and allow us to grow our sales, we face the risk that one or more of these sources could be lost.

Company Operations

In our recycling operations, our Company-trained technicians first inspect and categorize each appliance to identify the types of hazardous materials, if any, it contains. We then process the appliances to remove and manage the environmentally hazardous substances according to federal, state and local regulations. Plastics and other recyclable components are managed by materials recyclers, and we deliver the processed appliance shells to local scrap processing facilities, where they shred and recycle the metals. We are aggressively pursuing additional utility customers but have a limited ability to project revenues from new utility programs in 2018 and thereafter. We cannot predict recycling or replacement volumes. However, we were successful in obtaining new contracts in 2017 with new and former customers across the country.

Many of the appliances we receive from manufacturers are still in the factory carton and ready to sell. Other appliances need repair or cosmetic work before we deliver them to our ApplianceSmart stores. All appliances we sell are new, under factory warranty and covered by a 100% money-back guarantee. We also offer extended warranties, appliance delivery, factory-trained technician service and recycling of customers replaced appliances.

Appliances that do not meet our quality standards for sale at our ApplianceSmart stores and appliances collected through utility customers’ energy conservation programs are recycled to prevent re-use. We process and recycle these units using environmentally sound systems and techniques.

GeoTraq is a development stage company in the business of acquiring new technologies for development and marketing. GeoTraq is continuing to develop its technology and has recently entered into pilot test agreements with various third parties.

ApplianceSmart provided a full range of appliance recycling support services for energy efficiency programs in North America. We also purchase major appliances, primarily from appliance manufacturers, to sell through our ApplianceSmart stores.

Principal Products and Services

At December 30, 2017, we generated revenues from three sources: retail, recycling and byproduct, including carbon offsets. Recycling revenues were generated by charging fees for collecting and recycling appliances for utilities and other sponsors of energy efficiency programs and through the sale of new ENERGY STAR^® appliances to utility companies for installation in the homes of a specific segment of their customers. Byproduct revenues were generated by selling scrap materials, such as metal and plastics, from appliances we collected and recycled, including those from our ApplianceSmart stores and those processed at AAP. Carbon offset revenues were created by the destruction of ozone-depleting refrigerants acquired through various recycling programs from our ApplianceSmart stores and through processing of refrigerators and freezers at AAP. Retail revenues were generated through the sale of appliances at our ApplianceSmart stores. Our technology segment is comprised of a development stage company and did not generate any revenues in 2017.

During fiscal year 2017, we operated three reportable segments: retail, recycling and technology (commencing on August 18, 2017). During fiscal year 2016, we operated two reportable segments: retail and recycling. The retail segment is comprised of sales generated through our ApplianceSmart stores. Our recycling segment includes all fees charged for collecting, recycling and installing appliances for utilities and other customers and includes byproduct revenue, which is generated primarily through the recycling of appliances. Our technology segment is comprised of a development stage company, we are engaged in the development, design and, ultimately, we expect the sale of, cellular transceiver modules, also known as Cell-ID modules. In 2017, through August 15, 2017 and 2016, we consolidated AAP in our financial statements. Sales generated by AAP are included in byproduct revenues in our recycling segment. Financial information about our segments is included in “Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and Note 6 of “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.”

Sales and Marketing

We use a variety of methods to promote awareness of our products and services. We believe that we are recognized as a leader in the appliance recycling and replacement industry and, prior to our sale of ApplianceSmart, in special-buy appliance retailing.

We market our appliance recycling and replacement services to utility companies and other sponsors of energy efficiency programs by contacting prospective end user customers directly, delivering educational presentations at conferences for energy efficiency professionals, participating in utility industry trade shows, networking with key affiliates of electric power and environmental associations, and promoting on our corporate website at www.ARCAInc.com.  We submit sales proposals for our services to interested parties and in response to requests for bid.

GeoTraq is a development stage company in the business of acquiring new technologies for development and marketing and had no sales during 2017.

Our ApplianceSmart concept included establishing large showrooms in metropolitan locations where we offer consumers a selection of hundreds of appliances at each of our stores. Our visual branding consists of ample display of product, manufacturers’ signage and custom-designed ApplianceSmart materials. We advertise our stores through television, radio, print media, social media and direct mail. Through www.ApplianceSmart.com, consumers can also search our inventory and purchase appliances online.

Seasonality

Promotional activities for programs in which the utility sponsor conducts all advertising are generally strong during the second and third calendar quarters, leading to higher customer demand for services during that time period.  As a result, we experience a surge in business during the second and third calendar quarters, which generally declines through the fourth and first calendar quarters until advertising activities resume.

GeoTraq currently has no customers and therefore does not currently experience seasonality.

Prior to our sale of ApplianceSmart, we experienced some seasonality in retail revenues, with revenues in the second and third calendar quarters being slightly higher than revenues in the first and fourth calendar quarters.

Competition

Many factors, including obtaining adequate resources to create and support the infrastructure required to operate large-scale appliance recycling and replacement programs, affect competition in the industry. We generally compete for contracts with several other appliance recycling businesses, energy services management companies and new-appliance retailers. We also compete with small hauling or recycling companies based in the program’s service territory. Many of these companies, including used-appliance dealers that call themselves “appliance recyclers,” resell in the secondary market a percentage of the used appliances they accept for recycling. The unsalable units may not be properly processed to remove environmentally harmful materials because these companies do not have the capability to offer the full range of services we provide.

We expect our primary competition for appliance recycling and replacement contracts with existing and new customers to come from a variety of sources, including:

1.       Existing recycling companies.

2.       Entrepreneurs entering the appliance recycling business.

3.       Management consultants.

4.       Major waste hauling companies.

5.       Scrap metal processors.

6.       National and regional new appliance retailers.

In addition, utility companies and other customers may choose to provide all or some of the services required to operate their appliance recycling and replacement programs internally rather than contracting with outside vendors. We have no assurance that we will be able to compete profitably in any of our chosen markets.

The industry in which GeoTraq plans on operating is extremely competitive and constantly changing. Within the location-based services industry, there are a significant number of companies that are competing for customers, recurring fees, administrative fees and many other unique opportunities for revenue. GeoTraq’s principal competitors are GPS and RFID companies.

Prior to our sale of ApplianceSmart, our retail competition comes mainly from new-appliance and other special-buy retailers. Each ApplianceSmart store competes with local and national retail appliance chains, as well as with independently owned retailers. Many of these retailers have been in business longer than us and may have significantly greater assets.

Government Regulation

Federal, state and local governments regulate appliance collection, recycling and sales activities. While some requirements apply nationwide, others vary by market. The many laws and regulations that affect appliance recycling include landfill disposal restrictions, hazardous waste management requirements and air quality standards. For example, the 1990 Amendments to the Clean Air Act prohibit the venting of all Refrigerants while servicing or disposing of appliances.

Each of our recycling facilities maintains the appropriate registrations, permits and licenses for operating at its location. We register our recycling centers as hazardous waste generators with the EPA and obtain all appropriate regional and local licenses for managing hazardous wastes. Licensed hazardous waste companies transport and recycle or dispose of the hazardous materials we generate. Our collection vehicles and our transportation employees are required to comply with all U.S. Department of Transportation (“DOT”) licensing requirements.

We have been recognized for our work in protecting the environment from the harmful effects of improper appliance disposal. In 2004, the EPA awarded us, along with our former customer Southern California Edison Company (“SCE”), the Stratospheric Ozone Protection Award for the environmentally responsible manner in which we collect and dispose of appliances. In 2007, we were again recognized by the EPA with a Best of the Best Stratospheric Ozone Protection Award as part of an appliance recycling team responsible for “the most exceptional global contributions in the first two decades of the Montreal Protocol.” We were recognized by SCE as the sole recipient of the 2010 Environmental Excellence Award for our “exemplary support and service of SCE’s Appliance Recycling Program” and commitment to providing “the highest levels of performance and service to SCE and program participants while maintaining the strong values and ethics that exemplify a value-added supplier.” ARCA has provided services for SCE since 1994.

In 2009, our then President and Chief Executive Officer, Edward R. (Jack) Cameron, was selected to represent the appliance recycling industry in the Climate Action Reserve’s 23-member workgroup that was tasked with developing the U.S. Ozone-Depleting Substances Project Protocol for the Destruction of Domestic High Global Warming Potential Ozone-Depleting Substances. The Climate Action Reserve is a national offsets program working to ensure integrity, transparency and financial value in the U.S. carbon market. The protocol was issued on February 3, 2010, and provides guidance to account for, report and verify greenhouse gas emission reductions associated with destruction of high global warming potential ozone-depleting substances that would have otherwise been released to the atmosphere, including those used in both foam and refrigerant applications.

In January 2013, through the authority of the California Air Resources Board, California launched a greenhouse gas (“GHG”) cap-and-trade program that will encompass 85% of the state’s emissions and affect all businesses operating in California by 2020; in 2017, the state legislature extended the program through 2030. The first compliance period enforcing the GHG emissions limits for capped business sectors began January 1, 2013. Entities may meet up to eight percent of their compliance obligations with freely sold or traded offset credits, such as those created through the voluntary destruction of ozone-depleting refrigerants. We have been an active participant in California’s developing carbon offset market and anticipate increased involvement as the program expands.

Our retail stores obtain business licenses, sales tax licenses and permits required for their locations. Our distribution and service vehicles comply with all DOT licensing requirements. In addition, in 2010, ApplianceSmart became the first independent retailer in the country to partner with the EPA in the Responsible Appliance Disposal (“RAD”) Program. Through RAD, partners commit to employing best environmental practices to reduce emissions of ozone-depleting substances and greenhouse gases through the proper disposal of refrigeration appliances at end of life. RAD partners report program results to the EPA annually to help quantify climate protection efforts.

Although we believe that further governmental regulation of the appliance recycling industry could have a positive effect on us, we cannot predict the direction of future legislation. Under some circumstances, for example, further regulation could materially increase our operational costs or reduce environmental requirements for disposing of appliances at end of life. In addition, under some circumstances we may be subject to contingent liabilities because we handle hazardous materials. We believe we are in compliance with all government regulations regarding the handling of hazardous materials, and we have environmental insurance to mitigate the impact of any potential contingent liability.

GeoTraq is required to comply with all Federal Communication Commission rules and regulations with respect to its modules.

Employees

On June 11, 2018, we had 160 full-time employees and 5 part-time employees.

An investment in our common stock involves a high degree of risk. You should carefully consider the risks described below with respect to an investment in our shares. If any of the following risks actually occur, our business, financial condition, operating results or cash provided by operations could be materially harmed. As a result, the trading price of our common stock could decline, and you might lose all or part of your investment. When evaluating an investment in our common stock, you should also refer to the other information in this report, including our consolidated financial statements and related notes.

Risks Relating to Our Recycling Business and Our Business Generally

Our revenues, earnings and cash flows will fluctuate based on changes in commodity prices.

Our recycling operations process for sale certain recyclable materials, including steel, aluminum and copper, all of which are subject to significant market price fluctuations. The majority of the recyclables we process for sale are steel and non-ferrous metals. The fluctuations in the market prices or demand for such commodity items, particularly demand from China and Turkey, can affect our future operating income and cash flows negatively, such as we experienced in 2015 and 2014. As we have increased the size of our recycling operations, we have also increased our exposure to commodity price fluctuations.

In the past we have also earned a significant amount of revenue from the sale of carbon credits under the California Cap-and-Trade Program. The creation of carbon offsets involves a consultant's establishment of a project that includes the successful destruction of the Company's ozone-depleting refrigerants. The project process involves a significant degree of regulatory compliance and only a limited number of facilities are approved to destroy ozone-depleting refrigerants. The uncertainty of regulatory project approval after carbon offsets have been produced results in unpredictable assurance of or timing for revenue recognition. If we are unable to find businesses that can effectively dispose of ozone-depleting refrigerants or if we do not receive project approval for the resulting carbon offsets, we could experience a material adverse effect to our operating results.

We could incur charges due to impairment of long-lived assets.

At December 30, 2017, we had long-lived asset balances of $26 million, which are subject to periodic testing for impairment. A significant amount of judgment is involved in the periodic testing. Failure to achieve sufficient levels of cash flow within our Geotraq business, or sales of our branded products or cash flow generated from operations at individual store locations could result in impairment charges for goodwill and intangible assets or fixed asset impairment for long-lived assets, which could have a material adverse effect on our reported results of operations. Impairment charges, if any, resulting from the periodic testing are non-cash. A significant decline in the property fair values could result in long-lived asset impairment charges. A significant and sustained decline in our stock price could result in goodwill and intangible asset impairment charges. During times of financial market volatility, significant judgment is used to determine the underlying cause of the decline and whether stock price declines are short-term in nature or indicative of an event or change in circumstances. See Note 2 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for further information.

If we fail to implement our business strategy or if our business strategy is ineffective, our financial performance could be materially and adversely affected.

Our future financial performance and success are dependent in large part upon the effectiveness of our business strategy and our ability to implement our business strategy successfully. Implementation of our strategy will require effective management of our operational, financial and human resources and will place significant demands on those resources.

There are risks involved in pursuing our strategy, including the following:

In addition to the risks set forth above, effectiveness of and the successful implementation of our business strategy could also be affected by a number of factors beyond our control, such as increased competition, legal developments, government regulation, general economic conditions, increased operating costs or expenses and changes in industry trends. We may decide to alter or discontinue certain aspects of our business strategy at any time. If we are not able to implement our business strategy successfully, our long-term growth and profitability may be adversely affected. Even if we are able to implement some or all of the initiatives of our business strategy successfully, our operating results may not improve and could decline substantially.

If our third-party collection or delivery services are unable to meet our promised pickup and delivery schedules, our net sales may decline due to a decline in customer satisfaction.

We offer appliance pickup and delivery services, which are significantly outsourced to third-party providers. Our third-party services are subject to risks that are beyond our control. If appliances are not picked up on time, or at all, or products are not delivered on time, our clients and customers may cancel their orders, or we may lose business from our clients and customers in the future. As a result, our net sales and profitability may decline.

A cybersecurity incident could negatively impact our business and our relationships with customers.

We use computers and transact, receive, transmit and store electronic data in substantially all aspects of our business operations. We also use mobile devices, social networking and other online activities to communicate with our employees and our customers. Such uses give rise to cybersecurity risks, including security breach, espionage, system disruption, theft and inadvertent release of information. Our business involves the storage and transmission of numerous classes of sensitive and/or confidential information, including customers’ personal information, private information about employees, and financial and strategic information about the Company and its business partners. We also rely on a Payment Card Industry compliant third party to protect our customers’ credit card information. If we fail to assess and identify cybersecurity risks associated with new initiatives, we may become increasingly vulnerable to such risks. Additionally, while we have implemented measures to prevent security breaches and cyber incidents, our preventative measures and incident response efforts may not be entirely effective. The theft, destruction, loss, misappropriation, or release of sensitive and/or confidential information or intellectual property, or interference with our information technology systems or the technology systems of third parties on which we rely, could result in business disruption, negative publicity, brand damage, violation of privacy laws, loss of customers, potential liability and competitive disadvantage.

There is no guarantee that the procedures that we have implemented to protect against unauthorized access to secured data are adequate to safeguard against all data security breaches. Any such compromise of our security or the security of information residing with our business associates or third parties could have a material adverse effect on our reputation and may expose us to material costs, penalties, compensation claims, lost sales, fines and lawsuits. In addition, any compromise of our data security may materially increase the costs we incur to protect against such breaches and could subject us to additional legal risk.

Failure to effectively manage our costs could have a material adverse effect on our profitability.

Certain elements of our cost structure are largely fixed in nature. The negative impact that sales and/or margin declines have on our business could make it more challenging for us to maintain or increase our operating income. The competitiveness in our industry and increasing price transparency means that the focus on achieving efficient operations is greater than ever. As a result, we must continuously focus on retaining and growing sales, maintaining and improving margins and managing our cost structure. Failure to manage our labor and benefit rates, advertising and marketing expenses, operating leases, other facility expenses or indirect spending could materially adversely affect our profitability.

Any failure of our information technology infrastructure or management information systems could cause a disruption in our business and our results of operations could be materially adversely impacted.

Our ability to operate our business from day to day largely depends on the efficient operation of our information technology infrastructure and management information systems. We use our management information systems to conduct our operations and plan critical corporate and business functions, including store operations, recycling operations, sales management, supply chain and inventory management, financial reporting and accounting, delivery and other customer services and various administrative functions. Our systems are subject to damage or interruption from power outages, computer and telecommunications failures, computer viruses, security breaches, catastrophic events such as fires, tornadoes and hurricanes, and usage errors by our employees. Operating legacy systems subject us to inherent costs and risks associated with maintaining, upgrading and replacing these systems and retaining sufficiently skilled personnel to maintain and operate the systems which may also place demands on management time, as well as create other risks and costs. Any failure that is not covered by our disaster recovery plan could cause an interruption in our operations and adversely affect our results of operations.

Our sales may not be an indication of our future results of operations because they fluctuate significantly.

Our current and historical sales figures have fluctuated significantly from quarter to quarter. A number of factors have historically affected, and will continue to affect, our sales results and profitability, including:

Our business is dependent on the general economic conditions in our markets.

In general, our sales depend on general economic factors and other conditions that may affect our business, include periods of slow economic growth or recession, political factors including uncertainty in social or fiscal policy, an overly anti-business climate or sentiment, volatility and/or lack of liquidity from time to time in U.S. and world financial markets and the consequent reduced availability and/or higher cost of borrowing for us and our customers, slower rates of growth in real disposable personal income, sustained high rates of unemployment, high consumer debt levels, increasing fuel and energy costs, inflation or deflation of commodity prices, natural disasters, and acts of terrorism and developments in the war against terrorism. Additionally, any of these circumstances concentrated in a region of the U.S. in which we operate could have a material adverse effect on our net sales and results of operations. General economic conditions and discretionary spending are beyond our control and are affected by, among other things:

Volatility in financial markets may cause some of the above factors to change with an even greater degree of frequency and magnitude. The above factors could result in slowdown in the economy or an uncertain economic outlook, which could have a material adverse effect on our business and results of operations.

If we fail to hire, train and retain key management, qualified managers, other employees and subcontracted agents, we could have difficulty implementing our business strategy, which may result in reduced net sales, operating margins and profitability.

If we are unable to attract and retain qualified personnel as needed in the future, our level of customer service may decline, which may decrease our net sales and profitability. Other factors that impact our ability to maintain sufficient levels of qualified employees and agents in all areas of the business include, but are not limited to, the Company’s reputation, worker morale, the current macroeconomic environment, competition from other employers, and our ability to offer adequate compensation packages. Adverse changes in health care costs could also adversely impact our ability to achieve our operational and financial goals and to offer attractive benefit programs to our employees. Our ability to control labor costs, which may impact our ability to hire and retain qualified personnel, is subject to numerous external factors, including prevailing wage rates, the impact of legislation or regulations governing healthcare benefits or labor relations and health and other insurance costs. If our labor and/or benefit costs increase, we may not be able to hire or maintain qualified personnel to the extent necessary to execute our competitive strategy, which could adversely affect our results of operations.

We are subject to certain statutory, regulatory and legal developments that could have a material adverse impact on our business.

Our statutory, regulatory and legal environment exposes us to complex compliance and litigation risks that could materially adversely affect our operations and financial results. The most significant compliance and litigation risks we face are:

We are involved in a number of legal proceedings that arise from time to time in the ordinary course of business. Litigation is inherently unpredictable, and the outcome of some of these proceedings and other contingencies could require us to take or refrain from taking action which, in either case, could adversely affect our operations or reduce our net income. There can be no assurance that any litigation to which we are a party will be resolved in our favor. Any claim that is successfully decided against us may cause us to pay substantial damages, including punitive damages. Additionally, defending against regulatory changes, lawsuits and proceedings may involve significant expense and diversion of management’s attention and resources from other matters which could adversely affect our results of operations.

Significant shortages in diesel fuel supply or increases in diesel fuel prices will increase our operating expenses.

The price and supply of diesel fuel can fluctuate significantly based on international, political and economic circumstances, as well as other factors outside our control, such as actions by the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (“OPEC”) and other oil and gas producers, regional production patterns, weather conditions and environmental concerns. Our collection and delivery agents need diesel fuel to run a significant portion of our collection and delivery of appliance activities in both our retail and recycling segments. Supply shortages could substantially increase our operating expenses. Additionally, if fuel prices increase, our direct operating expenses will increase and many of our vendors may raise their prices as a means to offset their rising costs. We may not be able to pass through all of our increased costs to our customers and some contracts prohibit any pass-through of the increased costs.

We are subject to risks associated with leasing substantial amounts of space, including future increases in occupancy costs.

We lease most of our corporate headquarters and recycling centers. Our continued growth and success depends in part on our ability to locate desirable property for new recycling centers and renew leases for existing locations. Because there is no assurance that we will be able to locate acceptable real estate for new recycling centers; or re-negotiate leases for existing locations at similar or favorable terms at the end of the lease term, we could be forced to move or exit a market if another favorable arrangement cannot be made. Furthermore, a significant rise in real estate prices or real property taxes could result in an increase in lease expense as we open new locations and renew leases for existing locations, thereby negatively impacting the Company's results of operations. The inability of the Company to renew, extend or replace expiring leases could have an adverse effect on the Company's results of operations.

We depend on cash flow from operations to pay our lease expenses. If our business does not generate sufficient cash flow from operating activities to fund these expenses, we may not be able to service our lease expenses, which could materially harm our business.

If an existing recycling center is not profitable, and we decide to close it, we may nonetheless be committed to perform our obligations under the applicable lease including, among other things, paying the base rent for the balance of the lease term. Moreover, even if a lease has an early cancellation clause, we may not satisfy the contractual requirements for early cancellation under that lease. Our inability to enter into new leases or renew existing leases on terms acceptable to us or be released from our obligations under leases for stores or recycling centers that we close could materially adversely impact our business, financial condition, operating results or cash flows.

Our failure to maintain an effective system of internal controls could result in inaccurate reporting of financial results and harm our business.

We are required to comply with a variety of reporting, accounting and other rules and regulations. As such, we maintain a system of internal control over financial reporting, but there are limitations inherent in internal control systems. A control system can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurance that the objectives of the control system are met. In addition, the design of a control system must reflect the fact that there are resource constraints and the benefit of controls must be appropriate relative to their costs. Furthermore, compliance with existing requirements is expensive and we may need to implement additional finance and accounting and other systems, procedures and controls to satisfy our reporting requirements. If our internal control over financial reporting continues to be evaluated as ineffective, such failure could cause investors to lose confidence in our reported financial information, negatively affect the market price of our common stock, subject us to regulatory investigations and penalties, and adversely impact our business and financial condition.

Our revenues from recycling and appliance replacement contracts are very difficult to project and the loss or modification of major recycling and appliance replacement contracts could adversely impact our profits.

Our business is dependent largely upon our ability to obtain new contracts and continue existing contracts for appliance recycling services and appliance replacement programs with utility companies and other sponsors of energy efficiency programs. Contracts with these entities generally have initial terms of one to three years, with renewal options and early termination clauses. However, some contracts are for programs that are non-recurring. Although we continue to respond to utility companies and other sponsors of energy efficiency programs requesting bids for upcoming recycling services, we are still dependent on certain customers for a large portion of our revenues. The loss or material reduction of business from any of these major customers could adversely affect our revenues and profitability. While we wish to add new recycling and appliance replacement contracts in 2018 and beyond, we cannot assure you that our existing contracts will continue, that they will be sufficiently profitable, that existing customers will continue to use our services at current levels or we will be successful in obtaining new recycling and replacement contracts going forward.

Our revenues from recycling contracts are subject to seasonal fluctuations and are dependent on the utilities’ advertising and promotional activities for contracts in which we do not provide advertising services.

In our business with utility companies, we experience seasonal fluctuations that impact our operating results.  Our recycling revenues are generally higher during the second and third calendar quarters and lower in the first and fourth calendar quarters, due largely to the promotional activity schedules of which we have no control in advertising programs managed by the utilities. Our staff communicates client-driven advertising activities internally in an effort to achieve an operational balance. We expect that we will continue to experience such seasonal fluctuations in recycling revenues.

We may need new capital to fully execute our growth strategy.

Our business involves providing comprehensive, integrated appliance recycling and replacement services and operating a chain of retail stores. This commitment will require a significant continuing investment in capital equipment and leasehold improvements and could require additional investment in real estate.

Our total capital requirements will depend on, among the other things discussed in this annual report, the number of recycling centers and the number and size of retail stores operating during 2018 and thereafter. Currently, we have thirteen recycling centers in operation. If our revenues are lower than anticipated, our expenses are higher than anticipated or our line of credit cannot be maintained, we will require additional capital to finance our operations. Even if we are able to maintain our line of credit, we may need additional equity or other capital in the future.  Sources of additional financing, if needed in the future, may include further debt financing or the sale of equity (including the issuance of preferred stock) or other securities. We cannot assure you that any additional sources of financing or new capital will be available to us, available on acceptable terms or permitted by the terms of our current debt agreements. In addition, if we sell additional equity to raise funds, all outstanding shares of common stock will be diluted.

Changes in governmental regulations relating to our recycling business could increase our costs of operations and adversely affect our business.

Our appliance recycling centers are subject to various federal, state and local laws, regulations and licensing requirements related to providing turnkey services for energy efficiency programs. These requirements vary by market location and include, for example, laws concerning the management of hazardous materials and the 1990 Amendments to the Clean Air Act, which require us to recapture CFC refrigerants from appliances to prevent their release into the atmosphere.

Our ability to generate revenue from the sale of carbon offsets created through the voluntary destruction of ozone-depleting refrigerants could also be adversely affected by governmental regulations as the market develops. Should the federal government mandate the destruction of ozone-depleting refrigerants in the future, we would be required to destroy these substances without the benefit of generating carbon offsets, which would increase the cost of our operations.

We have registered our centers with the EPA as hazardous waste generators and have obtained required licenses from appropriate state and local authorities. We have agreements with approved and licensed hazardous waste companies for transportation and recycling or disposal of hazardous materials generated through our recycling processes. As is the case with all companies handling hazardous materials, under some circumstances we may be subject to contingent liability. We believe we are in compliance with all government regulations regarding the handling of hazardous materials, and we have environmental insurance to mitigate the impact of any potential contingent liability.

In addition, changes and proposed changes by the Trump Administration and the head of the EPA indicate that the regulation of the emission of certain gases, commonly referred to as “greenhouse gases,” and other ozone-depleting substances may be less of a priority. In addition, the Trump Administration and head of the EPA have announced that they intend to rescind or have already rescinded various environmental regulations established and enforced by previous administrations. As a result, further regulatory, legislative and judicial developments are difficult to predict. Even if federal environmental efforts slow, states may continue pursuing new regulations. These changes by the Trump Administration and the EPA, together with other purposed changes, could adversely affect our results of operations.

Risks Relating to Our Technology Business

GeoTraq has incurred significant operating losses since inception and expects the losses will continue into the future. If the losses continue GeoTraq may have to suspend operations or cease operations.

GeoTraq has no operating history upon which an evaluation of its future success or failure can be made. GeoTraq has incurred significant operating losses since inception and has limited financial resources to support it until such time that it is able to generate positive cash flow from operations. GeoTraq’s ability to achieve and maintain profitability and positive cash flow is dependent upon its ability to (i) develop its technology and (ii) generate revenues from its planned business operations. Based upon current plans, GeoTraq expects to continue to incur operating losses in future periods. Failure to generate revenues may cause GeoTraq to suspend or cease operations 

GeoTraq is in the early stages of development.

GeoTraq is developing a new technology and may encounter difficulties including unanticipated problems relating to the development and testing of its product, initial and continuing regulatory compliance, vendor manufacturing costs, production and assembly of its product, and the competitive and regulatory environments in which the company intends to operate. It is uncertain, at this stage of its development, if GeoTraq is unable to effectively resolve any such problems, should they occur. If GeoTraq cannot resolve an unanticipated problem, it may be forced to modify or abandon its business plan.

GeoTraq does not have sufficient funds to complete each phase of its proposed plan of operation and as a result may have to suspend operations.

Each of the phases of GeoTraq’s plan of operation is limited and restricted by the amount of working capital that GeoTraq has and is able to raise from financings and generate from business operations. GeoTraq currently does not have sufficient funds to complete each phase of its proposed plan of operation and management expects that GeoTraq will not satisfy its cash requirements for the next 12 months. As a result, GeoTraq may have to suspend or cease its operations on one or more phases of its proposed plan of operation.

Until such time as GeoTraq is able to generate any consistent and significant revenue, it will be required to raise the required funds by way of equity or debt financing. GeoTraq intends to finance its plan of operation with private loans and equity financing initially and then with revenues generated from its business operations. If GeoTraq cannot raise the funds necessary to proceed it may have to suspend operations until it has sufficient capital.

GeoTraq plans to outsource the research and development of its technology, and as a result it will be dependent upon those third-party developers to develop our products in a timely and cost-efficient manner while maintaining a minimum level of quality.

GeoTraq does not have internal manufacturing capabilities and relies on contract manufacturers to manufacture its products. GeoTraq cannot be certain that it will not experience operational difficulties with its future manufacturers, including reductions in the availability of production capacity, errors in complying with product specifications, insufficient quality control, failures to meet production deadlines, increases in manufacturing costs and increased lead times. Additionally, GeoTraq’s future manufacturers may experience disruptions in their manufacturing operations due to equipment breakdowns, labor strikes or shortages, component or material shortages, cost increases or other similar problems. Further, in order to minimize their inventory risk, GeoTraq’s future manufacturers might not order components from third-party suppliers with adequate lead time, thereby impacting its ability to meet demand forecasts. Therefore, if GeoTraq fails to manage its relationship with its manufacturers effectively, or if they experience operational difficulties, GeoTraq’s ability to ship products could be impaired and its competitive position and reputation could be harmed.

In the event that GeoTraq receives shipments of products that fail to comply with its technical specifications or that fail to conform to its quality control standards, and it is not able to obtain replacement products in a timely manner, GeoTraq risks revenue losses from the inability to sell those products, increased administrative and shipping costs, and lower profitability. Additionally, if defects are not discovered until after customers purchase its products, GeoTraq customers could lose confidence in the technical attributes of its products and its business could be harmed.

GeoTraq will not control its future contract manufacturers or suppliers, including their labor, environmental or other practices, or require them to comply with a formal code of conduct. However, GeoTraq intends to conduct periodic audits of its contract manufacturers’ and suppliers’ compliance with applicable laws and good industry practices, these audits may not be frequent or thorough enough to detect non-compliance. A violation of labor, environmental or other laws by its contract manufacturers or suppliers, or a failure of these parties to follow ethical business practices, could lead to negative publicity and harm GeoTraq’s reputation. In addition, GeoTraq may choose to seek alternative manufacturers or suppliers if these violations or failures were to occur. Identifying and qualifying new manufacturers or suppliers can be time consuming and GeoTraq may not be able to substitute suitable alternatives in a timely manner or at an acceptable cost. Other consumer products companies have faced significant criticism for the actions of their manufacturers and suppliers, and GeoTraq could face such criticism as well. Any of these events could adversely affect its brand, harm its reputation, reduce demand for its products and harm its ability to meet demand if it needs to identify alternative manufacturers or suppliers.

GeoTraq’s success depends on sales and adoption of its technology for asset tracking and theft recovery.

GeoTraq’s revenue will be derived from module sales and recurring fees that GeoTraq receives from resellers that support end users who purchase and activate a Cell-ID product using the company’s technology. Depending on the products created by companies that use our Cell-ID module, GeoTraq will receive recurring revenue based on the number of activations and ongoing monthly service. GeoTraq’s short term success depends heavily on achieving significantly increased customer adoption of its Technology either through stand alone or integrated products. GeoTraq’s success also depends on achieving widespread deployment of the Technology by attracting and retaining additional manufacturing partners. The use of the Technology will depend on the pricing, quality and features of the Cell-ID module to be integrated into location-based products which may vary by market, as well as the level of subscriber turnover experienced by cellular subscriptions. If subscriber turnover increases more than management anticipates, GeoTraq’s financial results could be adversely affected.

Cellular service providers on which GeoTraq’s technology is dependent may change the terms by which the technology is used on their networks, which could result in lower revenue and adverse effects on our business.

If the cellular service providers on which GeoTraq’s technology is to be used changes the terms of use or eliminates the ability to use products that incorporate GeoTraq’s technology, GeoTraq could lose customers as they would no longer be able to use GeoTraq’s technology in their products. In addition, GeoTraq could be required to change its fee structure to retain customers, which could negatively affect GeoTraq’s gross margins. The cellular service providers may also decide to raise prices, impose usage caps or fees, or discontinue certain application bundles, which could adversely affect end users who use GeoTraq’s technology. If imposed, these pricing changes or usage restrictions could make GeoTraq’s technology less attractive and could result in current end users abandoning GeoTraq’s technology. If end user turnover increased, the number of GeoTraq’s end users and GeoTraq’s revenue would decrease and its business would be harmed.

GeoTraq’s ability to increase or maintain its customer base and revenue will be impaired if cellular service providers do not allow GeoTraq Technology access to their networks.

GeoTraq’s technology requires cellular service to operate. The products produced by manufactures will require end users to maintain service with cellular service providers. If cellular service providers do not permit end users to purchase the cellular connectivity the product requires, GeoTraq may have difficulty attracting manufacturing customers because of the lack of, or difficulty in purchasing and provisioning a service plan. If the end user is unable to provide seamless provisioning or the carrier cancels their subscriptions, GeoTraq’s business may be harmed.

GeoTraq may not be able to enhance its technology to keep pace with technological and market developments or develop new technology in a timely manner or at competitive prices.

The market for location-based products and services is characterized by rapid technological change, evolving industry standards, frequent new product introductions and short product life cycles. To keep pace with technological developments, satisfy increasing customer requirements and achieve product acceptance, GeoTraq’s future success depends upon its ability to enhance its current technology and to continue to develop and introduce new technology and enhanced performance features and functionality on a timely basis at competitive prices. GeoTraq’s inability, for technological or other reasons, to enhance, develop, introduce or deliver compelling technology in a timely manner, or at all, in response to changing market conditions, technologies or consumer expectations could have a material adverse effect on GeoTraq’s operating results or could result in its Technology becoming obsolete. GeoTraq’s ability to compete successfully will depend in large measure on its ability to maintain a technically skilled development and engineering team and to adapt to technological changes and advances in the industry, including providing for the continued compatibility of its technology with evolving industry standards and protocols and competitive network operating environments. Development and delivery schedules for newly developed technology are difficult to predict. GeoTraq in the past, and may in the future, fail to deliver new versions of its technology in a timely fashion. If new releases of GeoTraq’s Technology are delayed or not integrated into products upon their initial commercial release, the manufactures may curtail their efforts to market and promote GeoTraq’s technology and may switch to competing products or services, any of which would result in a delay or loss of revenue and could harm GeoTraq’s business. In addition, GeoTraq cannot provide any assurance that the technology it develops will be brought to market as quickly as anticipated or that the technology will achieve broad acceptance among wireless carriers or consumers.

If GeoTraq is unable to develop or modify its technology for new customer products, GeoTraq’s revenue growth may be adversely affected and its net income could decline.

If GeoTraq does not develop or modify its technology for new products envisioned or introduced by our customers to increase the number of customer end users who use GeoTraq’s technology, GeoTraq may not be able to increase its revenue in the longer term. GeoTraq’s sales and marketing efforts may not be successful in establishing relationships with new customers. If GeoTraq fails to develop or modify its technology to attract new customers and new subscribers or its new Technology is not successful, GeoTraq may be unable to increase its revenue and its operating results may be adversely affected.

GeoTraq’s business may suffer if it is alleged or determined that its technology or another aspect of its business infringes the intellectual property rights of others.

The markets in which GeoTraq competes are characterized by the existence of a large number of patents and trade secrets and also by litigation based on allegations of infringement or other violations of intellectual property rights. Moreover, in recent years, individuals and groups have purchased patents and other intellectual property assets for the purpose of making claims of infringement to extract settlements from companies like GeoTraq. Also, third parties may make infringement claims against GeoTraq that relate to technology developed and owned by one of its suppliers for which its suppliers may or may not indemnify GeoTraq. Even if GeoTraq is indemnified against such costs, the indemnifying party may be unable to uphold its contractual obligations and determining the scope of these obligations could require additional litigation. Claims of intellectual property infringement against GeoTraq or its suppliers might require GeoTraq to redesign its products, rebrand its services, enter into costly settlement or license agreements, pay costly damage awards or face a temporary or permanent injunction prohibiting GeoTraq from marketing or selling its products or services. If GeoTraq cannot or does not license the infringed intellectual property on reasonable terms or at all, or substitute similar intellectual property from another source, its revenue and operating results could be adversely impacted. Additionally, GeoTraq’s customers, distributors and retailers may not purchase its offerings if they are concerned that they may infringe third-party intellectual property rights. Responding to such claims, regardless of their merit, can be time consuming, costly to defend in litigation, divert management’s attention and resources, damage GeoTraq’s reputation and brand and cause it to incur significant expenses. The occurrence of any of these events may have an adverse effect on GeoTraq’s business, financial condition and operating results.

GeoTraq faces significant competition and failure to successfully compete in the industry with established companies may result in GeoTraq’s inability to continue with its business operations.

There are other companies that provide similar products and services. Management expects competition in this market to increase significantly as new companies enter the market and current competitors expand their products and services. GeoTraq’s competitors may develop or offer technology or products that are better than GeoTraq’s or that achieve greater market acceptance. It is also possible that new competitors may emerge and acquire significant market share. Competitive pressures created by any one of these companies, or by GeoTraq’s competitors collectively, could have a negative impact on GeoTraq’s business, results of operations and financial condition and as a result, GeoTraq may not be able to continue with its business operations. In addition, if GeoTraq is unable to develop and introduce new or enhanced products and services quickly enough to respond to market or user requirements or to comply with emerging industry standards, or if these products do not achieve market acceptance, GeoTraq may not be able to compete effectively.

Many of GeoTraq’s competitors have greater name recognition, larger customer bases and significantly greater financial, technical, marketing, public relations, sales, distribution and other resources than GeoTraq. Some of GeoTraq’s competitors’ and its potential competitors’ advantages over GeoTraq, either globally or in particular geographic markets, include the following: (a) offering their services at no or low cost to customers; (b) significantly greater revenue and financial resources; (c) stronger brand and consumer recognition regionally or worldwide; (d) the capacity to leverage their marketing expenditures across a broader portfolio of location based technologies and products; (e) access to core technology and intellectual property, including more extensive patent portfolios; (f) access to custom or proprietary content; (g) quicker pace of innovation; (h) stronger wireless carrier relationships; (i) greater resources to make and integrate acquisitions; (j) lower labor and development costs; and (k) broader global distribution and presence.

Changes in government regulation of the wireless communications industry may adversely affect GeoTraq’s business.

Currently, other than business and operations licenses applicable to most commercial ventures, GeoTraq is not required to obtain any governmental approval for its business operations. However, there can be no assurance that current or new laws or regulations will not, in the future, impose additional fees and taxes on GeoTraq and its business operations.

It is possible that a number of laws and regulations may be adopted in the United States and elsewhere that could restrict the wireless communications industry, including laws and regulations regarding lawful interception of personal data, privacy, taxation, content suitability, copyright and antitrust. Management anticipates that regulation of the industry will increase and that GeoTraq will be required to devote legal and other resources to address this regulation. Changes in current laws or regulations or the imposition of new laws and regulations in the United States or elsewhere regarding the wireless communications industries may lessen the growth of wireless communications services and may adversely impact the financial results of GeoTraq’s business operations.

GeoTraq may be subject to legal proceedings involving its technology that could result in substantial costs and which could materially harm GeoTraq’s business operations.

From time to time, GeoTraq may be subject to legal proceedings and claims in the ordinary course of its business, including claims of alleged infringement of the trademarks and other intellectual property rights of third parties by GeoTraq. These types of claims could result in increased costs of doing business through legal expenses, adverse judgments or settlements or require GeoTraq to change its business practices in expensive ways. Additional litigation may be necessary in the future to enforce GeoTraq’s technology rights, to protect its trade secrets or to determine the validity and scope of the proprietary rights of others. Any litigation, regardless of outcome or merit, could result in substantial costs and diversion of management and technical resources, any of which could materially harm GeoTraq’s business.

GeoTraq may not be able to attract and retain qualified personnel necessary for the development of its technology and implementation of its proposed plan of operations.

GeoTraq’s future success depends largely upon the continued service of its board members, executive officers and other key personnel. GeoTraq’s success also depends on its ability to continue to attract, retain and motivate qualified personnel. Key personnel represent a significant asset, and the competition for these personnel is intense in the communications industry.

GeoTraq may have particular difficulty attracting and retaining key personnel in initial phases of its proposed plan of operations. GeoTraq does not maintain key person life insurance on any of its personnel. The loss of one or more of its key employees or its inability to attract, retain and motivate qualified personnel could negatively impact GeoTraq’s ability to complete any proposed phase of its plan of operations.

GeoTraq’s management lacks any formal training or experience in offshore manufacturing and supply chain management, and as a result management may make mistakes, which could have a negative impact on GeoTraq’s business operations.

GeoTraq’s management is inexperienced in researching and developing technology. Management has no direct training or experience in these areas and, as a result, may not be fully aware of all of the specific requirements related to working within this industry. Management’s decisions and choices may not take into account standard managerial approaches technology companies commonly use. Consequently, GeoTraq’s operations, earnings, and ultimate financial success could suffer irreparable harm due to management’s lack of experience in this industry. As a result, GeoTraq may have to suspend or cease operations and GeoTraq’s business operations may be negatively impacted.

GeoTraq’s business and products are subject to a variety of additional U.S. and foreign laws and regulations that are central to our business and its failure to comply with these laws and regulations could harm our business or our operating results.

GeoTraq is or may become subject to a variety of laws and regulations in the United States and abroad that involve matters central to its business, including laws and regulations regarding consumer protection, advertising, privacy, intellectual property, manufacturing, anti-bribery and anti-corruption, and economic or other trade prohibitions or sanctions.

GeoTraq’s modules are subject to regulation by various U.S. state and federal and foreign agencies, including the Federal Communications Commission. If GeoTraq fails to comply with any of these regulations, it could become subject to enforcement actions or the imposition of significant monetary fines, other penalties, or claims, which could harm its operating results or its ability to conduct its business.

Risks Relating to Our Common Stock

Our principal shareholders own a large percentage of our voting stock, which will allow them to control substantially all matters requiring shareholder approval.

Currently, Edward R. (Jack) Cameron, the former President of our recycling segment, beneficially owns approximately 9.3% of our common stock. In addition, Isaac Capital Group, LLC, Abacab Capital Management LLC and Energy Efficiency Investments LLC own approximately 8.6%, 6.4% and 9.7%, respectively, of our outstanding common shares. Three of our current directors are also on the board of directors of Live Ventures Incorporated, a publicly held corporation controlled by Isaac Capital Group, LLC and led by Jon Isaac as its President and Chief Executive Officer. Because of such ownership, our principal shareholders may be able to significantly, and possibly adversely, affect our corporate decisions, including the election of the board of directors.

Future sales of shares of our common stock in the public market may negatively affect our stock price.

Future sales of our common stock, or the perception that these sales could occur, could have a significant negative effect on the market price of our common stock.  In addition, upon exercise of outstanding options, the number of shares outstanding of our common stock could increase substantially.  This increase, in turn, could dilute future earnings per share, if any, and could depress the market value of our common stock. Dilution and potential dilution, the availability of a large amount of shares for sale, and the possibility of additional issuances and sales of our common stock may negatively affect both the trading price of our common stock and the liquidity of our common stock. These sales also might make it more difficult for us to raise capital through the sale of equity securities or equity-related securities in the future at a time and price that we would deem appropriate.

The trading volumes in our common stock are highly variable, which could adversely affect the value and liquidity of your investment in our common stock.

There is only a limited trading market for our common stock, which is listed on the NASDAQ Capital Markets.  Transactions in our common stock may lack the volume and liquidity necessary to maintain an orderly trading market and this could result in both depressed and highly variable trading prices. Sales of substantial amounts of common stock into the public market at the same time could adversely affect the market price of our common stock. The trading volume and market price of our common stock could also be adversely affected if we do not maintain our listing on the NASDAQ Capital Markets.

Our stock price may fluctuate and be volatile.

The market price of our common stock may be subject to significant fluctuations due to the following factors, among others:

The stock market in recent years has experienced extreme price and volume fluctuations that have often been unrelated or disproportionate to the operating performance of affected companies. These broad market fluctuations may cause the price of our common stock to fall abruptly or remain significantly depressed.

In the past, securities class action litigation has often been brought against a company following periods of volatility in the market price of its securities. Such lawsuits generally result in the diversion of management's time and attention away from business operations, which could harm our business. In addition, the costs of defense and any damages resulting from litigation, a ruling against us, or a settlement of the litigation could adversely affect our financial results.

We do not intend to declare dividends on our stock in the foreseeable future.

We have never declared or paid cash dividends on our common stock. We currently intend to retain all future earnings, if any, for the operation and expansion of our business and, therefore, do not anticipate declaring or paying cash dividends on our common stock in the foreseeable future.  Any payment of cash dividends on our common stock will be at the discretion of our board of directors, will require approval by our lender and will depend upon our results of operations, earnings, capital requirements, financial condition, future prospects, contractual restrictions and other factors deemed relevant by our board of directors.  Therefore, dividend income should not be expected from shares of our common stock.

The Nevada Revised Statute contains provisions that could discourage, delay or prevent a change in control of our company, prevent attempts to replace or remove current management and reduce the market price of our stock.

Provisions in our articles of incorporation and bylaws may discourage, delay or prevent a merger or acquisition involving us that our stockholders may consider favorable. For example, our articles of incorporation authorizes our board of directors to issue up to two million shares of “blank check” preferred stock. As a result, without further stockholder approval, the board of directors has the authority to attach special rights, including voting and dividend rights, to this preferred stock. With these rights, preferred stockholders could make it more difficult for a third party to acquire us.

We are also subject to the anti-takeover provisions of the NRS. Depending on the number of residents in the state of Nevada who own our shares, we could be subject to the provisions of Sections 78.378 et seq. of the Nevada Revised Statutes which, unless otherwise provided in the Company’s articles of incorporation or by-laws, restricts the ability of an acquiring person to obtain a controlling interest of 20% or more of our voting shares. Our articles of incorporation and by-laws do not contain any provision which would currently keep the change of control restrictions of Section 78.378 from applying to us.

We are subject to the provisions of Sections 78.411 et seq. of the Nevada Revised Statutes. In general, this statute prohibits a publicly held Nevada corporation from engaging in a “combination” with an “interested stockholder” for a period of three years after the date of the transaction in which the person became an interested stockholder, unless the combination or the transaction by which the person became an interested stockholder is approved by the corporation’s board of directors before the person becomes an interested stockholder. After the expiration of the three-year period, the corporation may engage in a combination with an interested stockholder under certain circumstances, including if the combination is approved by the board of directors and/or stockholders in a prescribed manner, or if specified requirements are met regarding consideration. The term “combination” includes mergers, asset sales and other transactions resulting in a financial benefit to the interested stockholder. Subject to certain exceptions, an “interested stockholder” is a person who, together with affiliates and associates, owns, or within three years did own, 10% or more of the corporation’s voting stock. A Nevada corporation may “opt out” from the application of Section 78.411 et seq. through a provision in its articles of incorporation or by-laws. We have not “opted out” from the application of this section.

Our executive offices are located in Minneapolis, Minnesota, in a leased facility consisting of 15,071 square feet of office space.

Recycling Centers

We lease a total of fifteen recycling center facilities. We generally attempt to negotiate 24 to 36 month lease terms, to coincide with the term of our utility customer contracts in a particular center geography. We operate fifteen processing and recycling centers. All of our processing and recycling centers are leased facilities. Our recycling centers typically range in size from 3,000 to 32,000 square feet. We believe that we may require additional facilities to respond to future needs of ARCA.

Geotraq

We lease 2,987 square foot of office space in Las Vegas, Nevada for Geotraq.

Customer Connexx

We rent approximately 9,000 square feet of office space in Las Vegas, Nevada from Live, a related party.

On March 6, 2015, a complaint was filed in United States District Court for the Central District of California by Jason Feola, individually and as a representative of a putative class consisting of purchasers of the Company’s common stock between March 15, 2012 and February 11, 2015, against Appliance Recycling Centers of America, Inc. and certain current and former officers of the Company. Mr. Feola, pursuant to terms of his retainer agreement with The Rosen Law Firm, certified that he purchased 240 shares of the Company’s common stock for $984 in total consideration. On May 7, 2015, the Company and the individual defendants were served the complaint. In July 2015, the Company and the individual defendants received an amended complaint. The complaint alleges that misstatements and omissions occurred in press releases and filings by the Company with the Securities and Exchange Commission and that these misstatements or omissions constitute violations of Section 20 (a) and Section 10(b) of, and Rule 10b-5 under, the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. In October 2015, the court held a hearing on the Company's motion to dismiss the complaint. On November 24, 2015, the United States District Court for the Central District of California entered an order granting the motion to dismiss the amended complaint. The Court’s order provided that the dismissal was without prejudice and that the plaintiffs could file an amended complaint within 21 days of the issuance of the order. On December 15, 2015, the Company and the individual defendants were served with a second amended complaint. In May 2016, the court held a hearing on the Company’s motion to dismiss the second amended complaint. On October 21, 2016 the court entered a final judgement to dismiss the class action complaint with prejudice.

On November 6, 2015, a complaint was filed in the Minnesota District Court for Hennepin County, Minnesota, by David Gray and Michael Boller, purporting to bring suit derivatively on behalf of the Company against twelve current and former officers and directors of the Company. The complaint alleged that the defendants breached their fiduciary duties to the Company, and that the defendants have been unjustly enriched as a result thereof. The complaint sought damages, disgorgement, an award of attorneys’ fees and other expenses, and an order compelling changes to the Company’s corporate governance and internal procedures. The Company and the other defendants vigorously denied plaintiffs’ allegations and have not admitted any liability or wrongdoing as part of the settlement. The court made no findings or determinations with respect to the merit of plaintiffs’ claims, and no payment is being made by the Company or the other defendants. The parties have reached a settlement that fully resolves plaintiffs’ claims and provides for the release of all claims asserted in the litigation. On August 2, 2017, the court entered an order granting preliminary approval of the settlement. On September 29, 2017, the court issued an order granting final approval of the settlement. As a condition of the settlement, the Company has agreed to provide certain training to employees in the Company’s accounting department within one year of the settlement. The court also granted an application by plaintiffs’ counsel for attorneys’ fees, to be paid by the Company’s insurance carrier. Other than this award of attorneys’ fees, no payment or other consideration was paid by the Company nor its officers or directors in connection with the settlement.

On December 29, 2016, ARCA served a Minnesota state court complaint for breach of contract on Skybridge Americas, Inc. (“SA”), ARCA’s primary call center vendor throughout 2015 and most of 2016. ARCA seeks damages in the millions of dollars as a result of alleged overcharging by SA and lost client contracts. On January 25, 2017, SA served a counterclaim for unpaid invoices in the amount of approximately $460,000 plus interest and attorneys’ fees. On March 29, 2017, the Hennepin County district court dismissed ARCA’s breach of contract claim based on SA’s overuse of its Canadian call center but permitted ARCA’s remaining claims to proceed. On October 24, 2017, ARCA filed a motion for partial summary judgment; SA cross-motioned on November 6, 2017. On January 8, 2018, judgment was entered in SA’s favor, which was amended as of February 28, 2018 for a total amount of $613,566.32 including interest and attorneys’ fees. On March 2, 2018, ARCA appealed the judgment to the Minnesota Court of Appeals. The appeal is in progress.

On November 15, 2016, ARCA served an arbitration demand on Haier US Appliance Solutions, Inc., dba GE Appliances (“GEA”), alleging breach of contract and interference with prospective business advantage. ARCA seeks over $2 million in damages. On April 18, 2017, GEA served a counterclaim for approximately $337,000 in alleged obligations under the parties’ recycling agreement. Simultaneously with serving its counterclaim in the arbitration, which is venued in Chicago, GEA filed a complaint in the United States District Court for the Western District of Kentucky seeking damages of approximately $530,000 plus interest and attorneys’ fees allegedly owed under a previous agreement between the parties. On December 12, 2017, the court stayed GEA’s complaint in favor of the arbitration. Under the terms of ARCA’s transaction with Recleim LLC, Recleim LLC is obligated to pay GEA on ARCA’s behalf the amounts claimed by GEA in the arbitration and in the lawsuit pending in Kentucky. Those amounts have been paid into escrow pending the outcome of the arbitration. The parties have selected an arbitrator and the arbitration was deemed to have commenced as of May 29, 2018.

AMTIM Capital, Inc. (“AMTIM”) acts as our representative to market our recycling services in Canada under an arrangement that pays AMTIM for revenues generated by recycling services in Canada as set forth in the agreement between the parties. A dispute has arisen between AMTIM and us with respect to the calculation of amounts due to AMTIM pursuant to the agreement. In a lawsuit filed in the province of Ontario, AMTIM claims a discrepancy in the calculation of fees due to AMTIM by us of approximately $2.0 million. Although the outcome of this claim is uncertain, we believe that no further amounts are due under the terms of the agreement and that we will continue to defend our position relative to this lawsuit.

We are party from time to time to other ordinary course disputes that we do not believe to be material.

None.

PART II

Market for Common Stock

Our common stock trades under the symbol “ARCI” on the NASDAQ Capital Market. The following table sets forth for the periods indicated the high and low prices for our common stock, as reported by the NASDAQ Capital Market. These quotations reflect the daily close prices.

On June 8, 2018, the reported sale price of our common stock on the NASDAQ Capital Market was $0.81 per share. As of June 8, 2018, there were 112 stockholders of record, which excludes stockholders whose shares were held in nominee or street name by brokers.

We have not paid dividends on our common stock and do not presently plan to pay dividends on our common stock for the foreseeable future. Our credit agreement prohibits payment of dividends.

Information concerning securities authorized for issuance under equity compensation plans is included in Part III, Item 12 of this report.

Not applicable.

For a description of our significant accounting policies and an understanding of the significant factors that influenced our performance during the year ended December 30, 2017, this “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” (hereafter referred to as “MD&A”) should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements, including the related notes, appearing in Part I, Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K (this “Form 10-K”) for the fiscal year ended December 30, 2017.

Note about Forward-Looking Statements

This Form 10-K includes statements that constitute “forward-looking statements.” These forward-looking statements are often characterized by the terms “may,” “believes,” “projects,” “intends,” “plans,” “expects,” or “anticipates,” and do not reflect historical facts. Specific forward-looking statements contained in this portion of the Form 10-K include, but are not limited to: (i) statements that are based on current projections and expectations about the markets in which we operate, (ii) statements about current projections and expectations of general economic conditions, (iii) statements about specific industry projections and expectations of economic activity, (iv) statements relating to our future operations and prospects, (v) statements about future results and future performance, (vi) statements that the cash on hand and additional cash generated from operations together with potential sources of cash through issuance of debt or equity will provide the Company with sufficient liquidity for the next 12 months, and (vii) statements that the outcome of pending legal proceedings will not have a material adverse effect on business, financial position and results of operations, cash flow or liquidity.

Forward-looking statements involve risks, uncertainties and other factors, which may cause our actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Factors and risks that could affect our results, future performance and capital requirements and cause them to materially differ from those contained in the forward-looking statements include those identified in this Form 10-K under Item 1A “Risk Factors”, as well as other factors that we are currently unable to identify or quantify, but that may exist in the future.

In addition, the foregoing factors may generally affect our business, results of operations and financial position. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date the statements were made. We do not undertake and specifically decline any obligation to update any forward-looking statements. Any information contained on our website www.arcainc.com or any other websites referenced in this Form 10-K are not part of this Form 10-K.

Our Company

Appliance Recycling Centers of America, Inc. and subsidiaries (collectively, “we,” the “Company,” or “ARCA”) are in the business of recycling major household appliances in North America by providing turnkey appliance recycling and replacement services for utilities and other sponsors of energy efficiency programs through our subsidiaries ARCA Recycling, Inc. and ARCA Canada Inc.  In addition, through our GeoTraq Inc. (“GeoTraq”) subsidiary, a development stage company, we are engaged in the development, design and, ultimately, we expect the sale of, cellular transceiver modules, also known as Cell-ID modules. Prior to December 30, 2017, we sold new major household appliances in the United States though a chain of seventeen Company-owned retail stores operating under the name ApplianceSmart^®.

We operate two reportable segments:

Reporting Period. We report on a 52-or 53-week fiscal year. Our 2017 fiscal year (“2017”) ended on December 30, 2017 and included 52 weeks. Our 2016 fiscal year (“2016”) ended on December 31, 2016 and included 52 weeks.

Application of Critical Accounting Policies

Our discussion of the financial condition and results of operations is based upon our consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States. The preparation of our consolidated financial statements requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, revenues and expenses, and related disclosure of any contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements. Management regularly reviews its estimates and assumptions, which are based on historical factors and other factors believed to be relevant under the circumstances. Actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions, estimates or conditions.

Critical accounting policies are defined as those that are reflective of significant judgments and uncertainties and potentially result in materially different results under different assumptions and conditions. See Note 2 of “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” for additional disclosure of the application of these and other accounting policies.

Results of Operations

The following table sets forth certain statement of income items from continuing operations and as a percentage of revenue, for the periods indicated:

The following tables set forth revenues for key product and service categories, percentages of total revenue and gross profits earned by key product and service categories and gross profit percent as compared to revenues for each key product category indicated:

Revenue

Revenue increased $1,085 or 2.7% for the 52 weeks ended December 30, 2017 as compared to the 52 weeks ended December 31, 2016.

Revenue increased in the following category as compared to the prior year period:

Recycling, Byproducts and Carbon offset increased $2,710 or 11.7%

The revenue increase was partially offset by the following decrease in revenue as compared to the prior year period:

Replacement Appliances decreased $1,625 or 9.4%, due to budget limitations with the Company’s two largest customers.

Cost of Revenue

Cost of revenue increased $299, or 1.1% for the 52 weeks ended December 30, 2017 as compared to the 52 weeks ended December 31, 2016, primarily as a result of the change in revenue discussed above as well as the changes in gross profit discussed below.

Gross Profit

Gross profit increased $786 or 6.4%, for the 52 weeks ended December 30, 2017 as compared to the 52 weeks ended December 31, 2016.

Gross profit increased in the following category as compared to the prior year period:

Recycling, Byproducts and Carbon Offset $1,019 or 15.1%.

Gross profit increase was partially offset by the following decrease in gross profit as compared to the prior year period.

Replacement Appliances decreased $233 or 4.2%.

Gross profit margin as a percentage of sales were improved for Recycling, Byproducts and Carbon Offset 30.0% vs. 29.1% and Replacement Appliances 34.4% vs. 32.5%.

Selling, General and Administrative Expense

Selling, general and administrative expense increased $2,136 or 19.0%, for the 52 weeks ended December 30, 2017 as compared to the 52 weeks ended December 31, 2016. The increase in selling, general and administrative expense was primarily attributable to Geotraq of $1,531. Geotraq expense represents ongoing expenses of $1,398 of amortization expense, $108 of personnel expense and $25 of facilities and general office expense.

Operating Income

As a result of the factors described above, operating loss of $231 for the 52 weeks ended December 30, 2017, represented a decrease of $1,350 over the comparable prior 52 week period of $1,119.

Interest Expense, net

Interest expense net decreased $274 or 23.5%, for the 52 weeks ended December 30, 2017 as compared to the 52 weeks ended December 31, 2016 primarily due to increased rates of interest paid on the PNC and MidCap Financial lines of credit and decreased utilization of the lines of credit.

Other Income and Expense

Other income and expense increased $5,183 for the 52 weeks ended December 30, 2017 as compared to the 52 weeks ended December 31, 2016. The increase in other income and expense was primarily the result of the gain on sale of property $5,163, gain on sale of AAP interest of $81, and change in other income and expense of $61.

Benefit for Income Taxes

Benefit for income taxes increased $1,756 or 412.2%, for the 52 weeks ended December 30, 2017 as compared to the 52 weeks ended December 31, 2016. The increase in provision for income taxes is primarily attributable to the increase in pre-provision taxable income and the change in statutory tax rates.

Net Income

Net income before noncontrolling interest increased $5,863, for the 52 weeks ended December 30, 2017 as compared to the 52 weeks ended December 31, 2016.

Loss attributed to noncontrolling interest increased $182, for the 52 weeks ended December 30, 2017 as compared to the 52 weeks ended December 31, 2016. Please note that AAP operating results were consolidated for the period of January 1, 2016 through the date of sale and deconsolidation of August 15, 2017.

Loss from discontinued operations and sale of ApplianceSmart, net of tax, increased $4,476 for the 52 weeks ended December 30, 2017, the date of sale of ApplianceSmart, as compared to the 52 weeks ended December 31, 2016.

The factors described above led to net income of $118 for the 52 weeks ended December 30, 2017, from a net loss of $1,451 for the 52 weeks ended December 31, 2016.

Segment Performance

We report our business in the following segments: Recycling and Technology. We identified these segments based on a combination of business type, customers serviced and how we divide management responsibility. Our revenues and profits are driven through our recycling centers, e-commerce, individual sales reps and our internet services.

Operating income by operating segment, is defined as income (loss) before net interest expense, other income and expense, provision for income taxes and income (loss) attributable to non-controlling interest.

Recycling Segment

Segment results for ARCA Recycling, Customer Connexx, ARCA Canada and AAP (through August 15, 2017). Revenue for the 52 weeks ended December 30, 2017 decreased by $1,085, or 2.7%, as compared to the prior year period, as a result of an increase in Recycling, Byproducts, Carbon Offset Revenue of $2,710 or 11.7%; partially offset by a decrease in Replacement Appliances of $1,625 or 9.4%.

Cost of revenue for the 52 weeks ended December 30, 2017 increased $299 or 1.1%, as compared to the prior year period; as a result of an increase in Recycling, Byproducts, Carbon Offset $1,691 or 10.3%; partially offset by a decrease in Replacement Appliances $1,392 or 12.0%.

Operating income for the 52 weeks ended December 30, 2017 increased $181, as compared to the prior year period; as a result of increased gross profit of $786; offset by increased selling, general and administrative expense of $605.

Technology Segment

Segment results for Technology include GeoTraq. Results for the 52 weeks ended December 30, 2017 include selling, general and administrative expense of $1,531. No prior year period results as this acquisition was completed August 18, 2017.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

Overview

Based on our current operating plans, we believe that available cash balances, cash generated from our operating activities, sale of assets and or other refinancing of existing indebtedness will provide sufficient liquidity to fund our operations, our continued investments in recycling centers for at least the next 12 months. The Company refinanced and replaced the PNC Bank Revolver loan facility with the MidCap Revolver in May 2017. On March 22, 2018, the Company paid off the MidCap Revolver.

On September 20, 2017 the Company received a written default notice from MidCap Funding Trust X, the Agent representing the Lenders for the MidCap Revolver. The Company strongly disagreed with the Lenders that any Event of Default has occurred and is reserving all of its options with respect to the Loan Agreement. The Company and the Agent were in active discussions for forbearance and resolution of the default. The Company and the Agent could not agree on terms of forbearance and resolution of the default. The Company paid off the MidCap Revolver on March 22, 2018. The Company is classifying the MidCap Revolver as a current liability until paid.

As of December 30, 2017, we had total cash on hand of $3,313 and an additional $1,031 of available borrowing under the MidCap Revolver. As we continue to pursue strategic transactions to expand and grow our business, we regularly monitor capital market conditions and may raise additional funds through borrowings or public or private sales of debt or equity securities. The amount, nature and timing of any borrowings or sales of debt or equity securities will depend on our operating performance and other circumstances; our then-current commitments and obligations; the amount, nature and timing of our capital requirements; any limitations imposed by our current credit arrangements; and overall market conditions.

Cash Flows

During the 52 weeks ended December 30, 2017, cash provided by operating activities was $1,226, compared to cash provided by operating activities of $2,659 during the 52 weeks ended December 31, 2016. The decrease in cash provided by operating activities of $1,433 as compared to the prior period; was primarily due to decreases from an decrease in net loss attributable to Company of $1,387, gain on sale of property $5,163, gain on sale of variable interest entity equity $81, gain on sale of property and equipment $134, change in deferred rent $85, change in other assets $870, change in deferred income taxes $1,536, change in working capital accounts $4,350; partially offset by increases in loss attributable to noncontrolling interest $182, in loss from discontinued operations $4,476, depreciation and amortization $1,188, amortization of debt issuance costs $68, stock based compensation expense $27, change in deferred compensation expense $28 and proceeds from assets held for sale discontinued operations $3,605.

Cash provided by investing activities was $7,329 and used by investing activities of $412 for the 52 weeks ended December 30, 2017 and the 52 weeks ended December 31, 2016, respectively. The $7,741 increase in cash provided by investing activities, as compared to the prior period, is primarily attributable to a proceeds from the sale of property of $6,785, sale of the 50% variable interest in AAP $800 less $35 of cash decrease on deconsolidation of $765, decrease in purchases of property and equipment of $353, a decrease in other investing activities $37; partially offset by the cash payment of intangible assets, associated with the acquisition of GeoTraq Inc. net of debt and series A preferred stock issued of $199.

Cash used by financing activities was $6,268 and $3,224 for the 52 weeks ended December 30, 2017 and the 52 weeks ended December 31, 2016, respectively. The $3,044 increase in cash used by financing activities, as compared to the prior period, was attributable to increased payments on the PNC line of credit $7,998, increased payments on debt obligations $790, payments on short term notes payable $500, increase in payment of debt issuance costs of $398; partially offset by net borrowing on the MidCap Financial Trust Revolver of $5,605 and proceeds from the issuance of debt obligations of $1,037.

Sources of Liquidity

We utilize cash on hand and cash generated from operations and, until March 22, 2018 funds available to us under our revolving loan facility with MidCap Financial Trust, to cover normal and seasonal fluctuations in cash flows and to support our various growth initiatives. Our cash and cash equivalents are carried at cost and consist primarily of demand deposits with commercial banks.

MidCap Revolver

On December 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016, our available borrowing capacity under the Credit Agreement is $1,031 and $0, respectively. The weighted average interest rate for the period of May 10, 2017 through September 30, 2017 was 8.29%. We borrowed $62,845 and repaid $57,240 on the Credit Agreement during the period of May 10, 2017 through December 30, 2017, leaving an outstanding balance on the Credit Agreement of $5,605 and $0 at December 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively. We paid off the MidCap Revolver on March 22, 2018.

Future Sources of Cash; New Acquisitions, Products and Services

We may require additional debt financing and/or capital to finance new acquisitions, refinance existing indebtedness or other strategic investments in our business. Other sources of financing may include stock issuances and additional loans, or other forms of financing. Any financing obtained may further dilute or otherwise impair the ownership interest of our existing stockholders.

Off Balance Sheet Arrangements and Contractual Obligations

Other than operating leases, we do not have any off-balance sheet financing.  A summary of our operating lease obligations by fiscal year is included in “Note 18. Commitments and Contingencies” of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in “Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.”

Market Risk and Impact of Inflation

Interest Rate Risk. We do not believe there is any significant risk related to interest rate fluctuations on our long-term fixed rate debt. The PNC term loan was paid in full on January 25, 2017. The Susquehanna term loans were paid in full on August 15, 2017. A credit agreement with Midcap Financial Trust was established on May 10, 2017. The credit agreement provides a $12,000 revolving line of credit. The interest rate on the revolving line of credit is the one-month LIBOR rate plus four and one-half percent (4.50%) plus a default interest rate (5.00%). In addition, 0.5% interest is incurred on the un-borrowed line amount. The minimum interest paid, if no money is borrowed, is $60 annually. The average outstanding loan balance for 2017 was $452. On December 30, 2017, the outstanding balance on the Midcap loan was $5,605.

Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Risk. We currently generate revenues in Canada. The reporting currency for our consolidated financial statements is U.S. dollars. It is not possible to determine the exact impact of foreign currency exchange rate changes; however, the effect on reported revenue and net earnings can be estimated. We estimate that the overall strength of the U.S. dollar against the Canadian dollar had an immaterial impact on the revenues and net income for the fiscal year ended December 30, 2017. We do not currently hedge foreign currency fluctuations and do not intend to do so for the foreseeable future.

We do not hold any derivative financial instruments, nor do we hold any securities for trading or speculative purposes.

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

To the Shareholders and Board of Directors

Appliance Recycling Centers of America, Inc.

175 Jackson Ave. N. Ste. 102

Minneapolis, Minnesota 55343

Report on the Financial Statements

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheet of Appliance Recycling Centers of America, Inc. (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2016, and the related consolidated statements of operations, changes in stockholders’ equity, and cash flows for the year then ended, and the related notes to the consolidated financial statements.

Management’s Responsibility for the Financial Statements

Management is responsible for the preparation and fair presentation of these consolidated financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America; this includes the design, implementation, and maintenance of internal control relevant to the preparation and fair presentation of consolidated financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.

Auditor’s Responsibility

Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements based on our audit.

We conducted our audit in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States of America. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated financial statements are free from material misstatement.

An audit involves performing procedures to obtain audit evidence about the amounts and disclosures in the consolidated financial statements. The procedures selected depend on the auditor’s judgment, including the assessment of the risks of material misstatement of the consolidated financial statements, whether due to fraud or error. In making those risk assessments, the auditor considers internal control relevant to the entity’s preparation and fair presentation of the consolidated financial statements in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the entity’s internal control. Accordingly, we express no such opinion. An audit also includes evaluating the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of significant accounting estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the consolidated financial statements.

We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our audit opinion.

Opinion

In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company, at December 31, 2016, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for the year then ended in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

Audit Committee

Appliance Recycling Centers of America, Inc.

Opinion on the Financial Statements

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheet of Appliance Recycling Centers of America, Inc. and subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of December 30, 2017, and the related consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive loss, changes in stockholders’ equity, and cash flows for the years then ended, and the related notes to the consolidated financial statements (collectively, the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of December 30, 2017, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for the years then ended, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

Basis for Opinion

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

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

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

/s/ SingerLewak LLP

We have served as the Company's auditor since 2017.

Los Angeles, California

June 12, 2018

APPLIANCE RECYCLING CENTERS OF AMERICA, INC.

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(In Thousands)

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

APPLIANCE RECYCLING CENTERS OF AMERICA, INC.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

(In Thousands)

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

APPLIANCE RECYCLING CENTERS OF AMERICA, INC.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY

(In Thousands)

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

APPLIANCE RECYCLING CENTERS OF AMERICA, INC.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(In Thousands)

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

APPLIANCE RECYCLING CENTERS OF AMERICA, INC.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(In Thousands)

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

APPLIANCE RECYCLING CENTERS OF AMERICA, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(In thousands Except Per Share Amounts)

Note 1:        Background and Basis of Presentation

The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Appliance Recycling Centers of America, Inc., a Nevada corporation, and its subsidiaries (collectively the “Company” or “ARCA”). The Company has three operating segments for fiscal year 2017 – Retail, Recycling and Technology, and two operating segments for fiscal year 2016 – Retail, and Recycling.

ARCA is in the business of providing turnkey appliance recycling and replacement services for electric utilities and other sponsors of energy efficiency programs. Through our GeoTraq Inc. (“GeoTraq”) subsidiary, a development stage company, we are engaged in the development, design and, ultimately, we expect the sale of cellular transceiver modules, also known as Cell-ID modules. GeoTraq is part of a new reporting segment for our Company – Technology.

ARCA’s Recycling segment is comprised of three entities, ARCA Recycling Inc., ARCA Canada Inc., and Customer Connexx, LLC.

ARCA Recycling, Inc., a California corporation, is a wholly owned subsidiary that was formed in November 1991 to provide turnkey recycling services for electric utility efficiency programs.

ARCA Canada Inc., a Canadian corporation, is a wholly owned subsidiary that was formed in September 2006 to provide turnkey recycling services for electric utility energy efficiency programs.

Customer Connexx, LLC, a Nevada limited liability company, is a wholly owned subsidiary formed in October 2016 to provide call center services for electric utility programs.

On August 15, 2017, we sold our 50% interest in a joint venture operating under the name ARCA Advanced Processing, LLC (AAP”), which recycles appliances from twelve states in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions of the United States. AAP was a joint venture that was formed in October 2009 between ARCA and 4301 Operations, LLC (“4301”). Both ARCA and 4301 had a 50% interest in AAP. AAP established a regional processing center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, at which the recyclable appliances were processed. AAP commenced operations in February 2010. The financial position and results of operations of AAP have been consolidated in our financial statements since AAP was formed in October 2009 through August 15, 2017, based on our conclusion that AAP is a variable interest entity due to our contribution in excess of 50% of the total equity, subordinated debt and other forms of financial support. We had a controlling financial interest in AAP during the period of October 2009 through August 15, 2017, whereby we provided substantially all of the financial support to fund the operations of AAP.

On December 30, 2017, we sold our 100% interest in Appliancesmart Inc. ApplianceSmart, Inc., a Minnesota corporation, was a wholly owned subsidiary that was formed through a corporate reorganization in July 2011 to hold our retail business of selling new major household appliances through a chain of Company-owned retail stores under the name ApplianceSmart^®.

We report on a 52- or 53-week fiscal year. Both our 2017 fiscal year (“2017”) ended on December 30, 2017, and our fiscal year (“2016”) ended on December 31, 2016, included 52 weeks.

Note 2:       Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

Principles of Consolidation

The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Appliance Recycling Centers of America, Inc. and our wholly-owned subsidiaries. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

ARCA Recycling, Inc., a California corporation, is a wholly owned subsidiary that was formed in November 1991 to provide turnkey recycling services for electric utility energy efficiency programs. ARCA Canada Inc., a Canadian corporation, is a wholly owned subsidiary that was formed in September 2006 to provide turnkey recycling services for electric utility energy efficiency programs. Customer Connexx, LLC, a Nevada Corporation, is a wholly owned subsidiary that was formed in formed in October 2016 to provide call center services for electric utility programs.

On August 15, 2017, ARCA sold it’s 50% interest in AAP and is no longer consolidating the results of AAP in its consolidated financial statements as of that date. AAP was a joint venture formed in October 2009 between ARCA and 4301 Operations, LLC (“4301”). ARCA and 4301 owned a 50% interest in AAP through August 15, 2017. The financial position and results of operations of AAP were consolidated in our financial statements through August 15, 2017, based on our conclusion that AAP is a variable interest entity due to our contribution in excess of 50% of the total equity, subordinated debt and other forms of financial support. See Note 6 – Sale and deconsolidation of variable interest entity AAP to these consolidated financial statements.

On August 18, 2017, we acquired GeoTraq. GeoTraq is a development stage company that is engaged in the development, design, and, ultimately, we expect, sale of cellular transceiver modules, also known as Cell-ID modules. GeoTraq has created a dedicated Cell-ID transceiver module that we believe can enable the design of extremely small, inexpensive products that can operate for years on a single charge, powered by standardly available batteries of diminutive size without the need of recharge. Accordingly, and utilizing Cell-ID technology exclusively, we believe that GeoTraq will provide an exclusive, low-cost solution and service life that will enable new global markets for location-based services (LBS). As a result of this transaction, GeoTraq became a wholly-owned subsidiary and, therefore, the results of GeoTraq are included in our consolidated results as of August 18, 2017.

On December 30, 2017, we sold our 100% interest in ApplianceSmart, Inc., a Minnesota corporation. Appliancesmart Inc. was formed through a corporate reorganization in July 2011 to hold our business of selling new major household appliances through a chain of Company-owned retail stores.

Use of Estimates

The preparation of the consolidated financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumption that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

Significant estimates made in connection with the accompanying consolidated financial statements include the estimated reserve for doubtful current and long-term trade and other receivables, the estimated reserve for excess and obsolete inventory, estimated fair value and forfeiture rates for stock-based compensation, fair values in connection with the analysis of goodwill, other intangibles and long-lived assets for impairment, current portion of notes payable, valuation allowance against deferred tax assets and estimated useful lives for intangible assets and property and equipment.

Financial Instruments

Financial instruments consist primarily of cash equivalents, trade and other receivables, advances to affiliates and obligations under accounts payable, accrued expenses and notes payable. The carrying amounts of cash equivalents, trade receivables and other receivables, accounts payable, accrued expenses and short-term notes payable approximate fair value because of the short maturity of these instruments. The fair value of the long-term debt is calculated based on interest rates available for debt with terms and maturities similar to the Company’s existing debt arrangements, unless quoted market prices were available (Level 2 inputs). The carrying amounts of long-term debt at December 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016 approximate fair value.

Cash and Cash Equivalents

Cash and Cash equivalents consist of highly liquid investments with a maturity of three months or less at the time of purchase. Fair value of cash equivalents approximates carrying value.

Trade Receivables and Allowance for Doubtful Accounts

We carry unsecured trade receivables at the original invoice amount less an estimate made for doubtful accounts based on a monthly review of all outstanding amounts. Management determines the allowance for doubtful accounts by regularly evaluating individual customer receivables and considering a customer’s financial condition, credit history and current economic conditions. We write off trade receivables when we deem them uncollectible. We record recoveries of trade receivables previously written off when we receive them. We consider a trade receivable to be past due if any portion of the receivable balance is outstanding for more than ninety days. We do not charge interest on past due receivables. Our management considers the allowance for doubtful accounts of $61 and $54 to be adequate to cover any exposure to loss as of December 30, 2017, and December 31, 2016, respectively.

Inventories

Inventories, consisting primarily of Appliances, are stated at the lower of cost, determined on a specific identification basis, or market. We provide estimated provisions for the obsolescence of our appliance inventories, including adjustment to market, based on various factors, including the age of such inventory and our management’s assessment of the need for such provisions. We look at historical inventory aging reports and margin analyses in determining our provision estimate. A revised cost basis is used once a provision for obsolescence is recorded. The Company does not have a reserve for obsolete inventory at December 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016.

Property and Equipment

Property and Equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation. Expenditures for repairs and maintenance are charged to expense as incurred and additions and improvements that significantly extend the lives of assets are capitalized. Upon sale or other retirement of depreciable property, the cost and accumulated depreciation are removed from the related accounts and any gain or loss is reflected in operations. Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets. The useful lives of building and improvements are three to thirty years, transportation equipment is three to fifteen years, machinery and equipment are five to ten years, furnishings and fixtures are three to five years and office and computer equipment are three to five years. Depreciation expense was $750 and $959 for the years ended December 30, 2017, and December 31, 2016, respectively.

We periodically review our property and equipment when events or changes in circumstances indicate that their carrying amounts may not be recoverable or their depreciation or amortization periods should be accelerated. We assess recoverability based on several factors, including our intention with respect to our stores and those stores projected undiscounted cash flows. An impairment loss would be recognized for the amount by which the carrying amount of the assets exceeds their fair value, as approximated by the present value of their projected discounted cash flows.

Goodwill

The Company accounts for purchased goodwill and intangible assets in accordance with ASC 350, Intangibles—Goodwill and Other. Under ASC 350, purchased goodwill are not amortized; rather, they are tested for impairment on at least an annual basis. Goodwill represents the excess of consideration paid over the fair value of underlying identifiable net assets of business acquired.

We test goodwill annually on July 1 of each fiscal year or more frequently if events arise or circumstances change that indicate that goodwill may be impaired. The Company assesses whether goodwill impairment exists using both the qualitative and quantitative assessments. The qualitative assessment involves determining whether events or circumstances exist that indicate it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, including goodwill. If based on this qualitative assessment the Company determines it is not more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount or if the Company elects not to perform a qualitative assessment, a quantitative assessment is performed using a two-step approach required by ASC 350 to determine whether a goodwill impairment exists.

The first step of the quantitative test is to compare the carrying amount of the reporting unit's assets to the fair value of the reporting unit. If the fair value exceeds the carrying value, no further evaluation is required, and no impairment loss is recognized. If the carrying amount exceeds the fair value, then the second step is required to be completed, which involves allocating the fair value of the reporting unit to each asset and liability using the guidance in ASC 805 (“Business Combinations, Accounting for Identifiable Intangible Assets in a Business Combination”), with the excess being applied to goodwill. An impairment loss occurs if the amount of the recorded goodwill exceeds the implied goodwill. The determination of the fair value of our reporting units is based, among other things, on estimates of future operating performance of the reporting unit being valued. We are required to complete an impairment test for goodwill and record any resulting impairment losses at least annually. Changes in market conditions, among other factors, may have an impact on these estimates and require interim impairment assessments.

When performing the two-step quantitative impairment test, the Company's methodology includes the use of an income approach which discounts future net cash flows to their present value at a rate that reflects the Company's cost of capital, otherwise known as the discounted cash flow method ("DCF"). These estimated fair values are based on estimates of future cash flows of the businesses. Factors affecting these future cash flows include the continued market acceptance of the products and services offered by the businesses, the development of new products and services by the businesses and the underlying cost of development, the future cost structure of the businesses, and future technological changes. The Company also incorporates market multiples for comparable companies in determining the fair value of our reporting units. Any such impairment would be recognized in full in the reporting period in which it has been identified.

Intangible Assets

The Company’s intangible assets consist of customer relationship intangibles, trade names, licenses for the use of internet domain names, Universal Resource Locators, or URL’s, software, and marketing and technology related intangibles. Upon acquisition, critical estimates are made in valuing acquired intangible assets, which include but are not limited to: future expected cash flows from customer contracts, customer lists, and estimating cash flows from projects when completed; tradename and market position, as well as assumptions about the period of time that customer relationships will continue; and discount rates. Management's estimates of fair value are based upon assumptions believed to be reasonable, but which are inherently uncertain and unpredictable and, as a result, actual results may differ from the assumptions used in determining the fair values. All intangible assets are capitalized at their original cost and amortized over their estimated useful lives as follows: domain name and marketing – 3 to 20 years; software – 3 to 5 years, customer relationships – 7 to 15 years. Intangible amortization expense is $1,397 and $0 for the years ended December 30, 2017, and December 31, 2016, respectively.

Revenue Recognition

We record revenue in the period when all of the following requirements have been met: (i) there is persuasive evidence of an arrangement, (ii) the sales price is fixed or determinable, (iii) title, ownership and risk of loss have been transferred to the customer, and (iv) collectability is reasonably assured. We recognize revenue from appliance sales and appliance accessories in the period the consumer purchases appliance(s), net of an allowance for estimated returns. We recognize revenue from appliance recycling services when we collect and process the old appliance. We recognize revenue generated from appliance replacement programs when we deliver the new appliance, collect and process the old appliance. The delivery, collection and processing activities under our replacement programs typically occur within one business day and are required to complete the earnings process; there are typically no other performance obligations. We recognize revenue on extended warranties with retained service obligations on a straight-line basis over the period of the warranty. For extended warranty arrangements that we sell but others service for a fixed portion of the warranty sales price, we recognize revenue for the net amount retained at the time of sale of the extended warranty to the consumer. We include shipping and handling charges to customers in revenue.

We recognize the revenue from the sale of carbon offsets and ozone-depleting refrigerants upon having in writing a mutually agreed upon price per pound, confirmed delivery, verification of volume and purity of the refrigerant by the buyer and collectability is reasonably assured. Other recycling byproduct revenue (the sale of copper, steel, plastic and other recoverable non-refrigerant byproducts) is recorded as revenue upon delivery to the third-party recycling customer for processing, having a mutually agreed upon price per pound and collection reasonably assured.

Shipping and Handling

The Company classifies shipping and handling charged to customers as revenues and classifies costs relating to shipping and handling as cost of revenues.

Advertising Expense

Advertising expense is charged to operations as incurred. Advertising expense totaled $1,667 and $1,109 for the years ended December 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively.

Fair Value Measurements

ASC Topic 820, “Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures,” requires disclosure of the fair value of financial instruments held by the Company. ASC topic 825, “Financial Instruments,” defines fair value, and establishes a three-level valuation hierarchy for disclosures of fair value measurement that enhances disclosure requirements for fair value measures. The three levels of valuation hierarchy are defined as follows: Level 1 - inputs to the valuation methodology are quoted prices for identical assets or liabilities in active markets. Level 2 – to the valuation methodology include quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets, and inputs that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly, for substantially the full term of the financial instrument. Level 3 – inputs to the valuation methodology are unobservable and significant to the fair value measurement.

Income Taxes

The Company accounts for income taxes using the asset and liability method. The asset and liability method requires recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities for expected future tax consequences of temporary differences that currently exist between tax bases and financial reporting bases of the Company's assets and liabilities. Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which these temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date. A valuation allowance is provided on deferred taxes if it is determined that it is more likely than not that the asset will not be realized. The Company recognizes penalties and interest accrued related to income tax liabilities in the provision for income taxes in its Consolidated Statements of Income.

Significant management judgment is required to determine the amount of benefit to be recognized in relation to an uncertain tax position. The Company uses a two-step process to evaluate tax positions. The first step requires an entity to determine whether it is more likely than not (greater than 50% chance) that the tax position will be sustained. The second step requires an entity to recognize in the financial statements the benefit of a tax position that meets the more-likely-than-not recognition criterion. The amounts ultimately paid upon resolution of issues raised by taxing authorities may differ materially from the amounts accrued and may materially impact the financial statements of the Company in future periods.

Lease Accounting

We lease warehouse facilities and office space. These assets and properties are generally leased under noncancelable agreements that expire at various dates through 2022 with various renewal options for additional periods. The agreements, which have been classified as operating leases, generally provide for minimum and, in some cases percentage rent and require us to pay all insurance, taxes and other maintenance costs. Leases with step rent provisions, escalation clauses or other lease concessions are accounted for on a straight-line basis over the lease term and includes “rent holidays” (periods in which we are not obligated to pay rent). Cash or lease incentives received upon entering into certain store leases (“tenant improvement allowances”) are recognized on a straight-line basis as a reduction to rent expense over the lease term. We record the unamortized portion of tenant improvement allowances as a part of deferred rent. We do not have leases with capital improvement funding.

Stock-Based Compensation

The Company from time to time grants restricted stock awards and options to employees, non-employees and Company executives and directors. Such awards are valued based on the grant date fair-value of the instruments, net of estimated forfeitures. The value of each award is amortized on a straight-line basis over the vesting period.

Foreign Currency

The financial statements of the Company’s non-U.S. subsidiary are translated into U.S. dollars in accordance with ASC 830, Foreign Currency Matters. Under ASC 830, if the assets and liabilities of the Company are recorded in certain non-U.S. functional currencies other than the U.S. dollar, they are translated at current rates of exchange. Revenue and expense items are translated at the average monthly exchange rates. The resulting translation adjustments are recorded directly into accumulated other comprehensive income (loss).

Earnings Per Share

Earnings per share is calculated in accordance with ASC 260, “Earnings Per share”. Under ASC 260 basic earnings per share is computed using the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period except that it does not include unvested restricted stock subject to cancellation. Diluted earnings per share is computed using the weighted average number of common shares and, if dilutive, potential common shares outstanding during the period. Potential common shares consist of the incremental common shares issuable upon the exercise of warrants, options, restricted shares and convertible preferred stock. The dilutive effect of outstanding restricted shares, options and warrants is reflected in diluted earnings per share by application of the treasury stock method. Convertible preferred stock is reflected on an if-converted basis.

Segment Reporting

ASC Topic 280, “Segment Reporting,” requires use of the “management approach” model for segment reporting. The management approach model is based on the way a Company’s management organizes segments within the Company for making operating decisions and assessing performance. The Company determined it has two reportable segments (See Note 24).

Concentration of Credit Risk

The Company maintains cash balances at several banks in several states including, Ohio, Minnesota, California, Nevada, Georgia and Texas within the United States. Accounts are insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation up to $250,000 per institution as of December 30, 2017. At times, balances may exceed federally insured limits.

Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements

In May 2014, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers ASU 2014-09, which supersedes nearly all existing revenue recognition guidance under U.S. GAAP. The core principle of ASU 2014-09 is to recognize revenues when promised goods or services are transferred to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which an entity expects to be entitled for those goods or services. ASU 2014-09 defines a five-step process to achieve this core principle and, in doing so, more judgment and estimates may be required within the revenue recognition process than are required under existing U.S. GAAP. The standard is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2016, and interim periods therein, using either of the following transition methods: (i) a full retrospective approach reflecting the application of the standard in each prior reporting period with the option to elect certain practical expedients, or (ii) a retrospective approach with the cumulative effect of initially adopting ASU 2014-09 recognized at the date of adoption (which includes additional footnote disclosures). Early adoption is not permitted. In August 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-04, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Deferral of the Effective Date. The amendment in this ASU defers the effective date of ASU No. 2014-09 for all entities for one year. Public business entities should apply the guidance in ASU 2014-09 to annual reporting periods beginning December 15, 2017, including interim reporting periods within that reporting period. Earlier application is permitted only as of annual reporting periods beginning after December 31, 2016, including interim reporting periods within that reporting period.

In March 2016, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) No. 2016-08, Revenue from Contracts with Customers. The standard addresses the implementation guidance on principal versus agent considerations in the new revenue recognition standard. The ASU clarifies how an entity should identify the unit of accounting (i.e. the specified good or service) for the principal versus agent evaluation and how it should apply the control principle to certain types of arrangements.

Subsequently, the FASB has issued the following standards related to ASU 2014-09 and ASU No. 2016-08: ASU No. 2016-10, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Identifying Performance Obligations and Licensing (“ASU 2016-10”); ASU No. 2016-12, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Narrow-Scope Improvements and Practical Expedients (“ASU 2016-12”); ASU No. 2016-20, Technical Corrections and Improvements to Topic 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (“ASU 2016-20”); and, ASU 2017-05—Other Income—Gains and Losses from the Derecognition of Nonfinancial Assets (Subtopic 610-20): Clarifying the Scope of Asset Derecognition Guidance and Accounting for Partial Sales of Nonfinancial Assets (“ASU 2017-05). The Company must adopt ASU 2016-10, ASU 2016-12, ASU 2016-20 and ASU 2017-05 with ASU 2014-09 (collectively, the “new revenue standards”). The Company has evaluated the provisions of the new revenue standards. We will transition to the new revenue standards using the modified retrospective method. We do not anticipate the new revenue standards will have a significant impact on our consolidated results of operations, financial condition and cash flows.

In September, 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-15, Presentation of Financial Statements – Going Concern (Subtopic 205-40): Disclosure of Uncertainties about an Entity’s Ability to Continue as a Going Concern. The standard requires an entity’s management to determine whether substantial doubt exists regarding the entity’s ability to continue as a going concern. The amendments denote how and when companies are obligated to disclose going concern uncertainties, which are required to be evaluated every interim and annual period. If management determines that substantial doubt exists, particular disclosures are required. The extent of these disclosures are dependent upon management’s evaluation of mitigation of the going concern uncertainty. ASU 2014-15 applies prospectively to annual periods ending after December 15, 2016 and to interim and annual periods thereafter. The Company has adopted this guidance during its 2017 fiscal year and it did not have a significant impact on its consolidated results of operations, financial condition and cash flows.

In September, 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-16, Business Combinations (Topic 805). Topic 805 requires that an acquirer retrospectively adjust provisional amounts recognized in a business combination, during the measurement period. To simplify the accounting for adjustments made to provisional amounts, the amendments in the update require that the acquirer recognize adjustments to provisional amounts that are identified during the measurement period in the reporting period in which the adjustment amount is determined. The acquirer is required to also record, in the same period’s financial statements, the effect on earnings of changes in depreciation, amortization, or other income effects, if any, as a result of the change to the provisional amounts, calculated as if the accounting had been completed at the acquisition date. In addition, an entity is required to present separately on the face of the income statement or disclose in the notes to the financial statements the portion of the amount recorded in current-period earnings by line item that would have been recorded in previous reporting periods if the adjustment to the provisional amounts had been recognized as of the acquisition date. ASU 2015-16 is effective for fiscal years beginning December 15, 2015. The Company has adopted this guidance during its 2017 fiscal year and it did not have a significant impact on its consolidated results of operations, financial condition and cash flows.

ASU 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842). The standard requires a lessee to recognize a liability to make lease payments and a right-of-use asset representing a right to use the underlying asset for the lease term on the balance sheet. The ASU is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2018, with early adoption permitted. We are currently evaluating the impact that this standard will have on our consolidated financial statements.

ASU 2016-04, Recognition of Breakage for Certain Prepaid Stored-Value Products. The standard specifies how prepaid stored-value product liabilities should be derecognized, thereby eliminating the current and potential future diversity in practice. The ASU is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2017, with early adoption permitted. We are currently evaluating the impact that this standard will have on our consolidated financial statements.

ASU 2016-09, Compensation- Stock Compensation (Topic 718) Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting, introduces targeted amendments intended to simplify the accounting for stock compensation. Specifically, the ASU requires all excess tax benefits and tax deficiencies (including tax benefits of dividends on share-based payment awards) to be recognized as income tax expense or benefit in the income statement. The tax effects of exercised or vested awards should be treated as discrete items in the reporting period in which they occur. An entity also should recognize excess tax benefits, and assess the need for a valuation allowance, regardless of whether the benefit reduces taxes payable in the current period. That is, off balance sheet accounting for net operating losses stemming from excess tax benefits would no longer be required and instead such net operating losses would be recognized when they arise. Existing net operating losses that are currently tracked off balance sheet would be recognized, net of a valuation allowance if required, through an adjustment to opening retained earnings in the period of adoption. Entities will no longer need to maintain and track an “APIC pool.” The ASU also requires excess tax benefits to be classified along with other income tax cash flows as an operating activity in the statement of cash flows. In addition, the ASU elevates the statutory tax withholding threshold to qualify for equity classification up to the maximum statutory tax rates in the applicable jurisdiction(s). The ASU also clarifies that cash paid by an employer when directly withholding shares for tax withholding purposes should be classified as a financing activity. The ASU provides an optional accounting policy election (with limited exceptions), to be applied on an entity-wide basis, to either estimate the number of awards that are expected to vest (consistent with existing U.S. GAAP) or account for forfeitures when they occur. The ASU is effective for public business entities for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2016, and interim periods within those annual periods. Early adoption is permitted in any interim or annual period for which the financial statements have not been issued or made available to be issued. Certain detailed transition provisions apply if an entity elects to early adopt. We are currently evaluating the impact that this standard will have on our consolidated financial statements.

ASU 2016-15, Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230): Restricted Cash (a consensus of the FASB Emerging Issues Task Force). ASU 2016-15 clarifies whether the following items should be categorized as operating, investing or financing in the statement of cash flows: (i) debt prepayments and extinguishment costs, (ii) settlement of zero-coupon debt, (iii) settlement of contingent consideration, (iv) insurance proceeds, (v) settlement of corporate-owned life insurance (COLI) and bank-owned life insurance (BOLI) policies, (vi) distributions from equity method investees, (vii) beneficial interests in securitization transactions, and (viii) receipts and payments with aspects of more than one class of cash flows. ASU 2016-15 takes effect in 2018 for public companies. If an entity elects early adoption, it must adopt all of the amendments in the same period. We are currently evaluating the impact that this standard will have on our consolidated financial statements.

ASU 2017-01, Business Combinations (Topic 805): Clarifying the Definition of a Business. Under the current implementation guidance in Topic 805, there are three elements of a business—inputs, processes, and outputs. While an integrated set of assets and activities (collectively referred to as a “set”) that is a business usually has outputs, outputs are not required to be present. In addition, all the inputs and processes that a seller uses in operating a set are not required if market participants can acquire the set and continue to produce outputs, for example, by integrating the acquired set with their own inputs and processes. The amendments in this Update provide a screen to determine when a set is not a business. The screen requires that when substantially all of the fair value of the gross assets acquired (or disposed of) is concentrated in a single identifiable asset or a group of similar identifiable assets, the set is not a business. This screen reduces the number of transactions that need to be further evaluated by public business entities applying the amendments in this Update to annual periods beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within those periods.

ASU 2017-04, Intangibles- Goodwill and Other (Topic 350) Simplifying the Test for Goodwill Impairment, eliminates step 2 from the goodwill impairment test. As amended, the goodwill impairment test will consist of one step comparing the fair value of a reporting unit with its carrying amount. An entity should recognize a goodwill impairment charge for the amount by which the carrying amount exceeds the reporting unit’s fair value. An entity may still perform the optional qualitative assessment for a reporting unit to determine if it is more likely than not that goodwill is impaired. A public business entity that is an SEC filer should prospectively adopt the ASU for its annual or any interim goodwill impairment tests in fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019. Early adoption is permitted for interim or annual goodwill impairment tests performed on testing dates after January 1, 2017. We have adopted this standard effective with our goodwill impairment test date of July 1, 2017.

ASU 2017-09, Compensation- Stock Compensation (Topic 718): Scope of Modification Accounting, clarifies such that an entity must apply modification accounting to changes in the terms or conditions of a share-based payment award unless all of the following criteria are met: (1) the fair value of the modified award is the same as the fair value of the original award immediately before the modification. The ASU indicates that if the modification does not affect any of the inputs to the valuation technique used to value the award, the entity is not required to estimate the value immediately before and after the modification; (2) the vesting conditions of the modified award are the same as the vesting conditions of the original award immediately before the modification; and (3) the classification of the modified award as an equity instrument or a liability instrument is the same as the classification of the original award immediately before the modification. The ASU is effective for all entities for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within those years. Early adoption is permitted, including adoption in an interim period. We are currently evaluating the impact that this standard will have on our consolidated financial statements.

In July, 2017, the FASB issued ASU No. 2017-11, Earnings Per Share (Topic 260), Distinguishing Liabilities from Equity (Topic 480) and Derivative and Hedging (Topic 815). The standard is intended to simplify the accounting for certain financial instruments with down round features. This ASU changes the classification analysis of particular equity-linked financial instruments (e.g. warrants, embedded conversion features) allowing the down round feature to be disregarded when determining whether the instrument is to be indexed to an entity’s own stock. Because of this, the inclusion of a down round feature by itself exempts an instrument from having to be remeasured at fair value each earnings period. The standard requires that entities recognize the effect of the down round feature on EPS when it is triggered (i.e., when the exercise price is adjusted downward due to the down round feature) equivalent to the change in the fair value of the instrument instantly before and after the strike price is modified. An adjustment to diluted EPS calculation may be required. The standard does not change the accounting for liability-classified instruments that occurred due to a different feature or term other than a down round feature. Additionally, entities must disclose the presence of down round features in financial instruments they issue, when the down round feature triggers a strike price adjustment, and the amount of the adjustment necessary. ASU 2017-11 is effective for all fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018. The Company has decided to early adopt ASU 2017-11 and it did not have a significant impact on its consolidated results of operations, financial condition and cash flows.

Note 3:       Comprehensive Income

Comprehensive income is the sum of net income and other items that must bypass the income statement because they have not been realized, including items like an unrealized holding gain or loss from available for sale securities and foreign currency translation gains or losses. For our Company, for years ended December 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016, our comprehensive income includes foreign currency translation gains and losses. 

Note 4:       Reclassifications

Certain amounts in the prior year consolidated financial statements have been reclassified to conform to the current year presentation. These reclassifications had no effect on the previously reported net income or stockholders’ equity. On March 12, 2018, the Company changed its state of incorporation from Minnesota to Nevada. Nevada requires a stated par value, which the company stated at .001 per share. Amounts for Common stock and additional paid in capital for fiscal years 2017 and 2016 have been reclassified to reflect this subsequent event.

Note 5:       Acquisition of GeoTraq, Inc.

On August 18, 2017, the Company, entered into a series of transactions, acquiring all of the assets and capital stock of GeoTraq by way of merger. GeoTraq is a development stage company that is engaged in the development, design, and, ultimately, the sale of cellular transceiver modules, also known as Cell-ID modules. As of August 18, 2017, GeoTraq became a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company.

The final fair value of the single identifiable intangible asset acquired in the GeoTraq acquisition is a U.S. patent application USPTO reference No. 14724039 titled “Locator Device with Low Power Consumption” together with the assignment of intellectual property that included historical know-how, designs and related manufacturing procedures is $26,097, which includes the deferred income tax liability associated with the intangible asset. Total consideration paid for GeoTraq included cash $200, unsecured promissory notes bearing interest at the annual rate of 1.29%, and maturing on August 18, 2018 in the aggregate principal of $800, and 288,588 shares (exact number) of convertible series A preferred stock with a final fair value of $14,963. See Note 19 – Series A Preferred Stock to these consolidated financial statements. In connection with the acquisition, an additional amount was recorded in the amount of $10,134 and an offsetting deferred tax liability recorded of the same amount, $10,134 to reflect the future tax liability attributable to the Geotraq asset acquired. There were no other assets acquired or liabilities assumed.

At the time of the acquisition of GeoTraq, GeoTraq was a shell company with no business operations, one intangible asset and historical know-how and designs. GeoTraq is in the development stage. The Company elected to early adopt ASU 2017-01, which clarifies the definition of a business for purposes of applying ASC 805. The Company has determined that GeoTraq is a single or group of related assets, not a business as clarified by ASU 2017-01 at the time of acquisition.

Note 6:       Sale and deconsolidation of variable interest entity - AAP

The financial position and results of operations of AAP have been consolidated in our financial statements since AAP’s inception based on our conclusion that AAP was a variable interest entity that we controlled due to our contribution in excess of 50% of the total equity, subordinated debt and other forms of financial support. Since inception we provided substantial financial support to fund the operations of AAP. The financial position and results of operations for AAP are reported in our recycling segment. On August 15, 2017, we sold our 50% interest in AAP, and therefore, as of August 15, 2017, no longer consolidate the results of AAP in our financial statements.

The following table summarizes the assets and liabilities of AAP consolidated in our financial position as of December 31, 2016:

(a)    Other liabilities represent loans and advances between ARCA and AAP that are eliminated in consolidation.

The following table summarizes the operating results of AAP consolidated in our financial results for the 52 weeks ended December 30, 2017, and December 31, 2016, respectively:

(b)    Operating results for AAP were consolidated in the Company’s operating results from inception of AAP through August 15, 2017, the date of our 50% equity sale in AAP. We recorded a gain of $81 on the sale and deconsolidation of our 50% equity interest in AAP. Net Cash outflow arising from deconsolidation of AAP was $35. The Company received $800 in cash consideration for its 50% equity interest in AAP.

Note 7:       Assets of held for sale – discontinued operations

On December 30, 2017, we signed an agreement to dispose of our Appliancesmart retail appliance segment. ApplianceSmart Holdings LLC (the “Purchaser”), a wholly owned subsidiary of Live Ventures Incorporated, entered into a Stock Purchase Agreement (the “Agreement”) with the Company and ApplianceSmart, Inc. (“ApplianceSmart”), a subsidiary of the Company. ApplianceSmart is a 17-store chain specializing in new and out-of-the-box appliances with annualized revenues of approximately $65,000. Pursuant to the Agreement, the Purchaser purchased from the Company all the issued and outstanding shares of capital stock (the “Stock”) of ApplianceSmart in exchange for $6,500 (the “Purchase Price”). See Note 25. The Purchase Price per agreement is due and payable on or before March 31, 2018. As of December 30, 2017, the Company has an amount due from ApplianceSmart Holdings LLC a subsidiary of Live Ventures Incorporated in the sum of $6,500 recorded as a current asset.

Discontinued operations and assets held for sale include our retail appliance business Appliancesmart. Results of operations, financial position and cash flows for this business are separately reported as discontinued operations for all periods presented. The Company made the decision to sell Appliancesmart to eliminate losses and poor financial performance from our retail segment, decrease existing leverage, assign and eliminate long term lease liabilities for store leases, increase cash balances, enhance shareholder value and focus Company resources on its’ two remaining segments, Recycling and Technology.

FINANCIAL INFORMATION FOR HELD FOR SALE AND DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS (In Thousands)

ASSETS HELD FOR SALE AND DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS (In Thousands)

As of December 30, 2017 (date of sale), and December 31, 2016

Note 8:       Inventory

Inventories of continuing operations, consisting principally of appliances, are stated at the lower of cost, determined on a specific identification basis, or market and consist of the following as of December 30, 2017, and December 31, 2016:

We provide estimated provisions for the obsolescence of our appliance inventories, including adjustments to market, based on various factors, including the age of such inventory and our management’s assessment of the need for such provisions. We look at historical inventory aging reports and margin analyses in determining our provision estimate. A revised cost basis is used once a provision for obsolescence is recorded.

Note 9:       Prepaids and other current assets

Prepaids and other current assets as of December 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016 consist of the following:

Note 10:       Property and equipment

Property and equipment of continuing operations as of December 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016 consist of the following:

Property and equipment are stated at cost. We compute depreciation using straight-line method over a range of estimated useful lives from 3 to 30 years. We amortize leasehold improvements on a straight-line basis over the shorter of their estimated useful lives or the underlying lease term. Repair and maintenance costs are charged to operations as incurred.

Depreciation and amortization expense for continuing operations was $750 and $959 for fiscal years 2017 and 2016, respectively.

Note 11:       Intangible assets

Intangible assets of continuing operations as of December 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016 consist of the following:

The useful life and amortization period of the GeoTraq intangible acquired is seven years. Intangible amortization expense for continuing operations was $1,397 and $0 for fiscal years 2017 and 2016, respectively.

Note 12:       Deposits and other assets

Deposits and other assets of continuing operations as of December 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016 consist of the following:

Deposits are primarily refundable security deposits with landlords the Company leases property from.

Note 13:       Accrued liabilities

Accrued liabilities of continuing operations as of December 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016 consist of the following: