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NATURES SUNSHINE PRODUCTS INC - Quarter Report: 2019 June (Form 10-Q)

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UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549 
_________________________________________________________________
 
FORM 10-Q 
(Mark One)
 
ý      QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 
For the quarterly period ended June 30, 2019
 
OR
 
o         TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 
For the transition period from            to            .
 
Commission File Number: 001-34483
logoa06.jpg 
 
NATURE’S SUNSHINE PRODUCTS, INC.
(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter) 
Utah
 
87-0327982
(State or other jurisdiction of
 
(IRS Employer
incorporation or organization)
 
Identification No.)
 
2901 Bluegrass Boulevard, Suite 100
Lehi, Utah 84043
(Address of principal executive offices and zip code)
 
(801) 341-7900
(Registrant’s telephone number including area code)

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
Title of each class
Trading Symbol(s)
Name of each exchange on which registered
Common Stock, no par value
NATR
Nasdaq Capital Market

 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.  Yes  ý  No  o
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§ 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).  Yes  ý  No  o
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company.  See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” “smaller reporting company” and an “emerging growth company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large accelerated filer  o
 
Accelerated filer  x
 
 
 
Non-accelerated filer  o
 
Smaller reporting company  x
 
 
 
 
 
Emerging growth company  o
 
If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. o


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Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act).  Yes  o  No  ý.
 
The number of shares of Common Stock, no par value, outstanding on August 2, 2019, was 19,302,281 shares.
 


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NATURE’S SUNSHINE PRODUCTS, INC.
FORM 10-Q
 
For the Quarter Ended June 30, 2019
 
Table of Contents
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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CAUTIONARY NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
 
Certain information included or incorporated herein by reference in this report may be deemed to be “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements may include, but are not limited to, statements relating to our objectives, plans and strategies. All statements (other than statements of historical fact) that address activities, events or developments that we intend, expect, project, believe or anticipate will or may occur in the future are forward-looking statements. These statements are often characterized by terminology such as “believe,” “hope,” “may,” “anticipate,” “should,” “intend,” “plan,” “will,” “expect,” “estimate,” “project,” “positioned,” “strategy” and similar expressions, and are based on assumptions and assessments made in light of our experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions, expected future developments and other factors we believe to be appropriate. For example, information appearing under “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” includes forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to risks and uncertainties. Important factors that could cause actual results, developments and business decisions to differ materially from forward-looking statements are more fully described in this report, including the risks set forth under “Risk Factors” in Item 1A, and in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2018, but include the following:

laws and regulations regarding direct selling may prohibit or restrict our ability to sell our products in some markets or require us to make changes to our business model in some markets.
extensive government regulations to which the Company's products, business practices and manufacturing activities are subject;
legal challenges to the Company's direct selling program or to the classification of its independent distributors;
impact of anti-bribery laws, including the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act;
the Company’s ability to attract and retain independent distributors;
the loss of one or more key independent distributors who have a significant sales network;
the full implementation of the Company’s joint venture for operations in China with Fosun Industrial Co., Ltd.;
registration of products for sale in foreign markets, or difficulty or increased cost of importing products into foreign markets;
cybersecurity threats and exposure to data loss;
the storage, processing, and use of data, some of which contain personal information, are subject to complex and evolving privacy and data protection laws and regulations
reliance on information technology infrastructure;
the effect of fluctuating foreign exchange rates;
liabilities and obligations arising from improper activity by the Company’s independent distributors;
failure of the Company’s independent distributors to comply with advertising laws;
changes to the Company’s independent distributor compensation plans;
geopolitical issues and conflicts;
negative consequences resulting from difficult economic conditions, including the availability of liquidity or the willingness of the Company’s customers to purchase products;
risks associated with the manufacturing of the Company's products;
uncertainties relating to the application of transfer pricing, duties, value-added taxes, and other tax regulations, and changes thereto;
changes in tax laws, treaties or regulations, or their interpretation;
actions on trade relations by the U.S. and foreign governments.
product liability claims; and
the sufficiency of trademarks and other intellectual property rights.

All forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this report and are expressly qualified in their entirety by the cautionary statements included in or incorporated by reference into this report. Except as is required by law, we expressly disclaims any obligation to publicly release any revisions to forward-looking statements to reflect events after the date of this report. Throughout this report, we refer to Nature’s Sunshine Products, Inc., together with our subsidiaries, as "we," "us," "our," "our Company" or “the Company.”


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PART I FINANCIAL INFORMATION
 
Item 1.  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
NATURE’S SUNSHINE PRODUCTS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(Amounts in thousands)
(Unaudited)
 
June 30,
2019
 
December 31,
2018
Assets
 

 
 

Current assets:
 

 
 

Cash and cash equivalents
$
46,341

 
$
50,638

Accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $454 and $460, respectively
8,727

 
7,751

Inventories
43,928

 
42,048

Prepaid expenses and other
6,593

 
6,388

Total current assets
105,589

 
106,825

 
 
 
 
Property, plant and equipment, net
61,911

 
64,061

Operating lease right-of-use assets
26,361

 

Investment securities - trading
1,432

 
1,308

Intangible assets, net
616

 
618

Deferred income tax assets
8,724

 
9,056

Other assets
11,618

 
11,148

Total assets
$
216,251

 
$
193,016

 
 
 
 
Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity
 

 
 

Current liabilities:
 

 
 

Accounts payable
$
3,998

 
$
5,219

Accrued volume incentives and service fees
20,296

 
20,562

Accrued liabilities
28,077

 
34,801

Deferred revenue
2,235

 
1,197

Related party note payable
1,585

 
1,530

Income taxes payable
2,173

 
3,378

Current portion of operating lease liabilities
5,241

 

Total current liabilities
63,605

 
66,687

 
 
 
 
Liability related to unrecognized tax benefits
2,157

 
2,192

Long-term portion of operating lease liabilities
22,418

 

Deferred compensation payable
1,432

 
1,308

Long-term deferred income tax liabilities
1,556

 
1,556

Other liabilities
345

 
705

Total liabilities
91,513

 
72,448

 
 
 
 
Shareholders’ equity:
 

 
 

Common stock, no par value, 50,000 shares authorized, 19,302 and 19,204 shares issued and outstanding, respectively
134,342

 
133,684

Retained earnings (accumulated deficit)
2,374

 
(2,072
)
Noncontrolling interest (deficit)
(25
)
 
63

Accumulated other comprehensive loss
(11,953
)
 
(11,107
)
Total shareholders’ equity
124,738

 
120,568

Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity
$
216,251

 
$
193,016

 
See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.


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NATURE’S SUNSHINE PRODUCTS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
(Amounts in thousands, except per share information)
(Unaudited) 
 
Three Months Ended
June 30,
 
2019
 
2018
Net sales
$
90,724

 
$
91,266

Cost of sales
23,865

 
24,278

Gross profit
66,859

 
66,988

 
 
 
 
Operating expenses:
 

 
 

Volume incentives
31,302

 
31,492

Selling, general and administrative
31,019

 
33,310

Operating income
4,538

 
2,186

Other income (loss), net
306

 
(1,807
)
Income before provision for income taxes
4,844

 
379

Provision for income taxes
2,215

 
441

Net income (loss)
2,629

 
(62
)
Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests
(60
)
 
(129
)
Net income attributable to common shareholders
$
2,689

 
$
67

 
 
 
 
Basic and diluted net income per common share:
 

 
 

 
 
 
 
Basic earnings per share attributable to common shareholders
$
0.14

 
$

 
 
 
 
Diluted earnings per share attributable to common shareholders
$
0.14

 
$

 
 
 
 
Weighted average basic common shares outstanding
19,291

 
19,105

Weighted average diluted common shares outstanding
19,602

 
19,402

 
See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.


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NATURE’S SUNSHINE PRODUCTS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
(Amounts in thousands, except per share information)
(Unaudited) 
 
Six Months Ended
June 30,
 
2019
 
2018
Net sales
$
181,996

 
$
178,608

Cost of sales
47,294

 
46,991

Gross profit
134,702

 
131,617

 
 
 
 
Operating expenses:
 

 
 

Volume incentives
62,315

 
62,854

Selling, general and administrative
64,871

 
65,696

Operating income
7,516

 
3,067

Other income (loss), net
258

 
(1,067
)
Income before provision for income taxes
7,774

 
2,000

Provision for income taxes
3,416

 
1,729

Net income
4,358

 
271

Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests
(88
)
 
(294
)
Net income attributable to common shareholders
$
4,446

 
$
565

 
 
 
 
Basic and diluted net income per common share:
 

 
 

 
 
 
 
Basic earnings per share attributable to common shareholders
$
0.23

 
$
0.03

 
 
 
 
Diluted earnings per share attributable to common shareholders
$
0.23

 
$
0.03

 
 
 
 
Weighted average basic common shares outstanding
19,280

 
19,058

Weighted average diluted common shares outstanding
19,596

 
19,408


See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

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NATURE’S SUNSHINE PRODUCTS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)
(Amounts in thousands)
(Unaudited) 
 
Three Months Ended
June 30,
 
2019
 
2018
Net income (loss)
$
2,629

 
$
(62
)
Foreign currency translation loss, net of tax
(530
)
 
(53
)
Total comprehensive income (loss)
$
2,099

 
$
(115
)
 
 
Six Months Ended
June 30,
 
2019
 
2018
Net income
$
4,358

 
$
271

Foreign currency translation loss (net of tax)
(846
)
 
(266
)
Total comprehensive income
$
3,512

 
$
5

 
See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

 
NATURE’S SUNSHINE PRODUCTS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
(Amounts in thousands)
(Unaudited) 
 
Common Stock
 
Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit)
 
Noncontrolling
Interest (Deficit)
 
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Loss
 
Total
 
Shares
 
Amount
 
 
 
 
Balance at December 31, 2018
19,204

 
$
133,684

 
$
(2,072
)
 
$
63

 
$
(11,107
)
 
$
120,568

Share-based compensation expense

 
851

 

 

 

 
851

Shares issued from the exercise of stock options and vesting of restricted stock units, net of shares exchanged for withholding tax
98

 
(193
)
 

 

 

 
(193
)
Net income (loss)

 

 
4,446

 
(88
)
 

 
4,358

Other comprehensive loss

 

 

 

 
(846
)
 
(846
)
Balance at June 30, 2019
19,302

 
$
134,342

 
$
2,374

 
$
(25
)
 
$
(11,953
)
 
$
124,738

 
See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

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NATURE’S SUNSHINE PRODUCTS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(Amounts in thousands)
(Unaudited) 
 
Six Months Ended
June 30,
 
2019
 
2018
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
 

 
 

Net income
$
4,358

 
$
271

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash (used in) provided by operating activities:
 

 
 

Provision for doubtful accounts
30

 
255

Depreciation and amortization
4,987

 
5,012

Non-cash lease expense
2,792

 

Share-based compensation expense
851

 
1,124

Loss (gain) on sale of property, plant and equipment
3

 
(2,267
)
Deferred income taxes
365

 
(744
)
Purchase of trading investment securities
(57
)
 
(96
)
Proceeds from sale of trading investment securities
105

 
566

Realized and unrealized gains on investments
(173
)
 
(11
)
Foreign exchange (gains) losses
(205
)
 
834

Changes in assets and liabilities:
 

 
 

Accounts receivable
(1,035
)
 
369

Inventories
(2,052
)
 
2,317

Prepaid expenses and other current assets
(259
)
 
(1,471
)
Other assets
(767
)
 
(164
)
Accounts payable
(1,226
)
 
(28
)
Accrued volume incentives and service fees
(235
)
 
673

Accrued liabilities
(6,203
)
 
4,762

Deferred revenue
1,039

 
(1,795
)
Lease liabilities
(2,340
)
 

Income taxes payable
(1,207
)
 
197

Liability related to unrecognized tax benefits
(40
)
 
68

Deferred compensation payable
125

 
(435
)
Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities
(1,144
)
 
9,437

CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
 

 
 

Purchases of property, plant and equipment
(2,774
)
 
(2,671
)
Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment

 
2,558

Net cash used in investing activities
(2,774
)
 
(113
)
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
 

 
 

Principal payments of revolving credit facility
(547
)
 
(33,483
)
Proceeds from revolving credit facility
547

 
27,512

Proceeds from related party borrowing

 
500

Proceeds from the exercise of stock awards

 
410

Tax benefit from stock awards
(193
)
 
(465
)
Net cash used in financing activities
(193
)
 
(5,526
)
Effect of exchange rates on cash and cash equivalents
(186
)
 
190

Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents
(4,297
)
 
3,988

Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the period
50,638

 
42,910

Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the period
$
46,341

 
$
46,898

SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION:
 

 
 

Cash paid for income taxes, net of refunds
$
3,895

 
$
2,272

Cash paid for interest
63

 
160

 
See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

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NATURE’S SUNSHINE PRODUCTS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Unaudited)
 
(1)    Basis of Presentation
 
We are a natural health and wellness company primarily engaged in the manufacturing and direct selling of nutritional and personal care products. We are a Utah corporation with our principal place of business in Lehi, Utah, and sell our products to a sales force of independent distributors who uses the products themselves or resells them to consumers.
 
Principles of Consolidation
 
The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles for interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X. Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and footnotes required by generally accepted accounting principles for complete financial statements. The unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its subsidiaries. All intercompany accounts and transactions are eliminated in consolidation. In the opinion of management, the accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements contain all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring accruals), considered necessary for a fair presentation of our financial information as of June 30, 2019, and for the three and six-month periods ended June 30, 2019 and 2018. The results of operations of any interim period are not necessarily indicative of the results of operations to be expected for the year ending December 31, 2019.
 
It is suggested that these condensed consolidated financial statements be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2018.

Noncontrolling Interests

Noncontrolling interests decreased as a result of the net loss attributable to the noncontrolling interests by $0.1 million and $0.3 million during the six months ended June 30, 2019 and 2018, respectively. As of June 30, 2019 and December 31, 2018, noncontrolling deficits were $25,000 and noncontrolling interests were $0.1 million, respectively.

Restructuring Related Accruals and Expenses

We recorded $0.4 million and $2.0 million of restructuring related expenses during the three and six months ended June 30, 2019, respectively. We recorded no restructuring related expenses during the three and six months ended June 30, 2018. Accrued severance and restructuring related costs were $1.0 million and $0.3 million as of June 30, 2019 and December 31, 2018, respectively.

During the second quarter of 2018, we announced the retirement of our Chief Executive Officer. As a result, we recorded $1.5 million of transition-related expenses during the three and six months ended June 30, 2018. As of June 30, 2019 and December 31, 2018, accrued transition costs were $0.6 million and $1.0 million, respectively.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements
 
We adopted the requirements of Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") No. 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842): Accounting for Leases effective January 1, 2019. This update requires that lessees recognize right-of-use assets and lease liabilities that are measured at the present value of the future lease payments at lease commencement date. See Note 8 - Leases for additional disclosure of the adoption of Topic 842.

In February 2018, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued ASU 2018-02, Income Statement - Reporting Comprehensive Income (Topic 220): Reclassification of Certain Effects from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income. This update allows a reclassification of stranded tax effects, resulting from the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act 2017, from accumulated other comprehensive income to retained earnings. This ASU is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2018 with early adoption permitted. The adoption of ASU 2018-02 did not have a material effect on our results of operations, consolidated financial statements and footnote disclosures.

In August 2018, the FASB issued ASU No. 2018-13, Fair Value Measurement (Topic 820): Disclosure Framework - Changes to the Disclosure Requirements for Fair Value Measurement. This ASU modifies the disclosure requirements on fair

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value measurements in Topic 820 based on the consideration of costs and benefits to promote the appropriate exercise and discretion by entities when considering fair value measurement disclosures and to clarify that materiality is an appropriate consideration of entities and their auditors when evaluating disclosure requirements. The amendments in this update are effective for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2019, with early adoption permitted. We are evaluating the potential impact of this adoption on our consolidated financial statements.

(2)    Inventories
 
The composition of inventories is as follows (dollar amounts in thousands):
 
 
June 30,
2019
 
December 31,
2018
Raw materials
$
11,605

 
$
10,410

Work in progress
1,286

 
1,524

Finished goods
31,037

 
30,114

Total inventories
$
43,928

 
$
42,048


(3)    Investment Securities - Trading
 
Our trading securities portfolio totaled $1.4 million at June 30, 2019, and $1.3 million at December 31, 2018, and generated gains of $40,000 and $34,000 for the three months ended June 30, 2019 and 2018, respectively, and $173,000 and $11,000 for the six months ended June 30, 2019 and 2018, respectively.
 
(4)    Revolving Credit Facility

On July 11, 2017, we entered into a revolving credit agreement with Bank of America, N.A., with a borrowing limit of $25.0 million, that matures on July 11, 2020 (the “Credit Agreement”). We pay interest on any borrowings under the Credit Agreement at LIBOR plus 1.25 percent (3.65 percent and 3.73 percent as of June 30, 2019 and December 31, 2018), and an annual commitment fee of 0.2 percent on the unused portion of the commitment. We are required to settle our net borrowings under the Credit Agreement only upon maturity, and as a result, have classified our outstanding borrowings as non-current on our condensed consolidated balance sheet as of June 30, 2019. At June 30, 2019, there was no outstanding balance under the Credit Agreement.

The Credit Agreement contains customary financial covenants, including financial covenants relating to our solvency, leverage, and minimum EBITDA. In addition, the Credit Agreement restricts certain capital expenditures, lease expenditures, other indebtedness, liens on assets, guarantees, loans and advances, dividends, and merger, consolidation and the transfer of assets except as permitted in the Credit Agreement. The Credit Agreement is collateralized by our manufacturing facility, accounts receivable balance, inventory balance and other assets. As of June 30, 2019, we were in compliance with the debt covenants set forth in the Credit Agreement.

(5)    Net Income Per Share
 
Basic net income per common share (“Basic EPS”), is computed by dividing net income by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted net income per common share (“Diluted EPS”) reflects the potential dilution that could occur if stock options or other contracts to issue common stock were exercised or converted into common stock. The computation of Diluted EPS does not assume exercise or conversion of securities that would have an anti-dilutive effect on net income per common share.


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Following is a reconciliation of the numerator and denominator of Basic EPS to the numerator and denominator of Diluted EPS for the three and six months ended June 30, 2019 and 2018 (dollar and share amounts in thousands, except for per share information): 
 
Three Months Ended
June 30,
 
Six Months Ended
June 30,
 
2019
 
2018
 
2019
 
2018
Net income attributable to common shareholders
$
2,689

 
$
67

 
$
4,446

 
$
565

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Basic weighted average shares outstanding
19,291

 
19,105

 
19,280

 
19,058

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Basic earnings per share attributable to common shareholders
$
0.14

 
$

 
$
0.23

 
$
0.03

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Diluted shares outstanding:
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

Basic weighted-average shares outstanding
19,291

 
19,105

 
19,280

 
19,058

Stock-based awards
311

 
297

 
316

 
350

Diluted weighted-average shares outstanding
19,602

 
19,402

 
19,596

 
19,408

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Diluted earnings per share attributable to common shareholders
$
0.14

 
$

 
$
0.23

 
$
0.03

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Dilutive shares excluded from diluted-per-share amounts:
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

Stock options
445

 
330

 
445

 
330

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Anti-dilutive shares excluded from diluted-per-share amounts:
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

Stock options
838

 
1,160

 
862

 
1,160


Potentially dilutive shares excluded from diluted-per-share amounts include performance-based options to purchase shares of common stock for which certain earnings metrics have not been achieved. Potentially anti-dilutive shares excluded from diluted-per-share amounts include both non-qualified stock options and unearned performance-based options to purchase shares of common stock with exercise prices greater than the weighted-average share price during the period and shares that would be anti-dilutive to the computation of diluted net income per share for each of the periods presented.
 
(6)    Capital Transactions
 
Share-Based Compensation
 
During the year ended December 31, 2012, our shareholders adopted and approved the Nature’s Sunshine Products, Inc. 2012 Stock Incentive Plan (the “2012 Incentive Plan”).  The 2012 Incentive Plan provides for the grant of incentive stock options, non-statutory stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock, restricted stock units, dividend equivalent rights, performance awards, stock awards and other stock-based awards.  The Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors has authority and discretion to determine the type of award, as well as the amount, terms and conditions of each award under the 2012 Incentive Plan, subject to the limitations of the 2012 Incentive Plan. A total of 1,500,000 shares of our common stock were originally authorized for the granting of awards under the 2012 Incentive Plan. In 2015, our shareholders approved an amendment to the 2012 Incentive Plan, to increase the number of shares of Common Stock reserved for issuance by 1,500,000 shares. The number of shares available for awards, as well as the terms of outstanding awards, are subject to adjustment as provided in the 2012 Incentive Plan for stock splits, stock dividends, recapitalizations and other similar events.
 
We also maintain a stock incentive plan, which was approved by shareholders in 2009 (the “2009 Incentive Plan”). The 2009 Incentive Plan also provided for the grant of incentive stock options, non-statutory stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock, restricted stock units, dividend equivalent rights, performance awards, stock awards and other stock-based awards.  Under the 2012 Incentive Plan, any shares subject to award, or awards forfeited or reacquired by the Company issued under the 2009 Incentive Plan are available for award up to a maximum of 400,000 shares.
 

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Stock Options
 
Our outstanding stock options include time-based stock options, which vest over differing periods of time ranging from the date of issuance to up to 48 months from the option grant date, and performance-based stock options, which have already vested upon achieving operating income margins of six, eight and ten percent as reported in four of five consecutive quarters over the term of the options.
 
Stock option activity for the six-month period ended June 30, 2019, is as follows (amounts in thousands, except per share information):
 
Number of
Shares
 
Weighted Average
Exercise
Price Per Share
Options outstanding at December 31, 2018
1,114

 
$
12.23

Granted

 

Forfeited or canceled
(173
)
 
12.76

Exercised
(1
)
 
2.35

Options outstanding at June 30, 2019
940

 
12.15


Share-based compensation expense from time-based stock options for the three-month periods ended June 30, 2019 and 2018, was approximately $0 and $0.1 million, respectively. Share-based compensation expense from time-based stock options for the six-month periods ended June 30, 2019 and 2018, was approximately $0 and $0.1 million, respectively. As of June 30, 2019 and December 31, 2018, there was no unrecognized share-based compensation expense related to the grants described above.
 
At June 30, 2019, the aggregate intrinsic value of outstanding and exercisable stock options to purchase 940,000 shares of common stock was $0.3 million. At December 31, 2018, the aggregate intrinsic value of outstanding and exercisable options to purchase 1,114,000 shares of common stock was $0.2 million.

For the six-month periods ended June 30, 2019 and 2018, we issued 1,000 and 69,000 shares of common stock upon the exercise of stock options at an average exercise price of $2.35 and $5.11 per share, respectively. The aggregate intrinsic value of options exercised during the six-month periods ended June 30, 2019 and 2018, was $10,000 and $0.4 million, respectively. For the six-month periods ended June 30, 2019 and 2018, the Company recognized $3,000 and $0.1 million of tax benefits from the exercise of stock options, respectively.

As of June 30, 2019 and December 31, 2018, we did not have any unvested performance-based stock options outstanding.
 
Restricted Stock Units
 
Our outstanding restricted stock units (“RSUs”), include time-based RSUs, which vest over differing periods of time ranging from 12 months to up to 36 months from the RSU grant date, as well as performance-based RSUs, which vest upon achieving targets relating to growth, earnings-per-share, and/or stock price levels. RSUs granted to members of the Board of Directors contain a restriction period in which the shares are not issued until two years after vesting. At June 30, 2019 and December 31, 2018, there were 78,000 and 80,000 vested RSUs, respectively, given to the Board of Directors that had a restriction period.

 Restricted stock unit activity for the six-month period ended June 30, 2019, is as follows (amounts in thousands, except per share information):
 
Number of
Shares
 
Weighted Average
Grant Date
Fair Value
Restricted Stock Units outstanding at December 31, 2018
1,058

 
$
8.87

Granted
333

 
7.23

Forfeited
(371
)
 
9.92

Issued
(109
)
 
10.69

Restricted Stock Units outstanding at June 30, 2019
911

 
7.62


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During the six-month period ended June 30, 2019, we granted 333,000 RSUs under the 2012 Incentive Plan to the Board of Directors, executive officers and other employees, which were comprised of both time-based RSUs and share-priced performance-based RSUs. The time-based RSUs were issued with a weighted-average grant date fair value of $8.59 per share and vest in annual installments over a three-year period from the grant date or according to the restrictions for the Board of Directors noted above. The share-priced performance-based RSUs were issued with a weighted-average grant date fair value of $4.38 per share and vest upon achieving share-priced targets over a three-year period from the grant date.
 
Except for share-priced performance RSUs, RSUs are valued at market value on the date of grant, which is the grant date share price discounted for expected dividend payments during the vesting period. For RSUs with post-vesting restrictions, a Finnerty Model was utilized to calculate a valuation discount from the market value of common shares reflecting the restriction embedded in the RSUs preventing the sale of the underlying shares over a certain period of time. Using assumptions previously determined for the application of the option pricing model at the valuation date, the Finnerty Model discount for lack of marketability is approximately 13.4 percent for a common share.

Share-price performance-based RSUs were estimated using the Monte Carlo simulation model. The Monte Carlo simulation model utilizes multiple input variables to estimate the probability that market conditions will be achieved. Our assumptions include a performance period of three years, expected volatility of 50 percent, and a range of risk free rates between 2.1 percent and 2.9 percent.

Share-based compensation expense for RSUs for the three-month periods ended June 30, 2019 and 2018, was approximately $0.5 million and $0.5 million, respectively. Share-based compensation expense from RSUs for the six-month periods ended June 30, 2019 and 2018, was approximately $0.6 million and $1.0 million, respectively. As of June 30, 2019 and December 31, 2018, the unrecognized share-based compensation expense related to the grants described above, excluding incentive awards discussed below, was $2.1 million and $1.8 million, respectively. The remaining compensation expense is expected to be recognized over the weighted average period of approximately 0.9 years.
 
Share-based compensation expense related to performance-based RSUs for the three-month periods ended June 30, 2019 and 2018, was $0.1 million and $0, respectively. Share-based compensation expense related to performance-based RSUs for the six-month periods ended June 30, 2019 and 2018, was $0.2 million and $0, respectively. Should we attain all of the metrics related to performance-based RSU grants, we would recognize up to $2.1 million of potential share-based compensation expense. We currently expect to recognize an additional $1.1 million of that potential share-based compensation expense.
 
The number of shares issued upon vesting of RSUs granted pursuant to our share-based compensation plans is net of the minimum statutory withholding requirements that we pay on behalf of our employees, which was 23,000 and 40,000 shares for the six-month periods ended June 30, 2019 and 2018, respectively. Although shares withheld are not issued, they are treated as common share repurchases for accounting purposes, as they reduce the number of shares that would have been issued upon vesting. These shares do not count against the authorized capacity under the repurchase program described above. 

(7)    Segment Information
 
We have four business segments (Asia, Europe, North America and Latin America and Other) based primarily upon the geographic region where each segment operates, as well as the internal organization of our officers and their responsibilities. Each of the geographic segments operate under the Nature’s Sunshine Products and Synergy® WorldWide brands. The Latin America and Other segment includes our wholesale business in which we sell products to various locally-managed entities independent of the Company that we have granted distribution rights for the relevant market.

Historically, our operating segments were based on brand, customer base, geographical operations with three operating business segments under the Nature’s Sunshine Products brand (NSP Americas; NSP Russia, Central and Eastern Europe; and NSP China), and one operating business segment under the Synergy® WorldWide brand.

During the second quarter of 2019, we realigned into geographic focused operating business segments across brands to further align regional strategies and drive synergies in product, organizational and go-to-market strategies in local markets. Our internal reporting structure was reorganized to support the new reporting segments and the chief operating decision maker now reviews the operating results of the four segments utilizing a geographic focused format. The presentation of the comparative information has been recast to conform to the 2019 presentation.


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Net sales for each segment have been reduced by intercompany sales as they are not included in the measure of segment profit or loss reviewed by the chief executive officer. We evaluate performance based on contribution margin (loss) by segment before consideration of certain inter-segment transfers and expenses.

Reportable business segment information is as follows (dollar amounts in thousands):
 
 
Three Months Ended
June 30,
 
Six Months Ended
June 30,
 
2019
 
2018
 
2019
 
2018
Net sales:
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

Asia
$
35,162

 
$
35,767

 
$
68,758

 
$
63,530

Europe
15,075

 
13,922

 
30,672

 
28,525

North America
34,620

 
35,518

 
71,143

 
73,623

Latin America and Other
5,867

 
6,059

 
11,423

 
12,930

Total net sales
90,724

 
91,266

 
181,996

 
178,608

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Contribution margin (1):
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

Asia
16,291

 
17,275

 
32,402

 
29,641

Europe
4,822

 
4,648

 
9,827

 
9,709

North America
12,026

 
11,180

 
25,418

 
24,592

Latin America and Other
2,418

 
2,393

 
4,740

 
4,821

Total contribution margin
35,557

 
35,496

 
72,387

 
68,763

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Selling, general and administrative expenses (2)
31,019

 
33,310

 
64,871

 
65,696

Operating income
4,538

 
2,186

 
7,516

 
3,067

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Other income (loss), net
306

 
(1,807
)
 
258

 
(1,067
)
Income before provision for income taxes
$
4,844

 
$
379

 
$
7,774

 
$
2,000

_________________________________________

(1)   Contribution margin consists of net sales less cost of sales and volume incentives expense.

(2)  Service fees in China totaled $2.3 million and $4.5 million for the three and six-month periods ended June 30, 2019, respectively, compared to $2.5 million and $4.0 million for the three and six-month periods ended June 30, 2018. These service fees are included in selling, general and administrative expenses.

From an individual country perspective, the United States and South Korea comprise 10 percent or more of consolidated net sales for the three and six-month periods ended June 30, 2019 and 2018, as follows (dollar amounts in thousands):
 
 
Three Months Ended
June 30,
 
Six Months Ended
June 30,
 
2019
 
2018
 
2019
 
2018
Net sales:
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

United States
$
32,194

 
$
32,914

 
$
66,155

 
$
68,140

South Korea
18,923

 
19,608

 
37,451

 
34,192

Other
39,607

 
38,744

 
78,390

 
76,276

 
$
90,724

 
$
91,266

 
$
181,996

 
$
178,608



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Net sales generated by each of our product lines is set forth below (dollar amounts in thousands):
 
 
Three Months Ended
June 30,
 
Six Months Ended
June 30,
 
2019
 
2018
 
2019
 
2018
Asia
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

General health
$
10,752

 
$
8,519

 
$
18,836

 
$
14,753

Immune
199

 
133

 
357

 
434

Cardiovascular
11,561

 
13,496

 
23,394

 
23,398

Digestive
7,333

 
6,274

 
12,108

 
11,698

Personal care
1,820

 
3,086

 
6,087

 
5,268

Weight management
3,497

 
4,259

 
7,976

 
7,979

 
35,162

 
35,767

 
68,758

 
63,530

Europe
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

General health
$
5,372

 
$
5,424

 
$
11,120

 
$
10,928

Immune
1,090

 
832

 
2,363

 
1,776

Cardiovascular
2,766

 
2,806

 
5,617

 
5,863

Digestive
3,550

 
3,134

 
7,181

 
6,362

Personal care
1,661

 
1,048

 
3,160

 
2,211

Weight management
636

 
678

 
1,231

 
1,385

 
15,075

 
13,922

 
30,672

 
28,525

North America
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

General health
$
14,934

 
$
15,731

 
$
30,682

 
$
31,830

Immune
3,340

 
3,344

 
7,558

 
8,279

Cardiovascular
4,935

 
4,870

 
10,011

 
9,671

Digestive
8,523

 
8,521

 
17,244

 
17,497

Personal care
1,598

 
1,268

 
2,946

 
2,843

Weight management
1,290

 
1,784

 
2,702

 
3,503

 
34,620

 
35,518

 
71,143

 
73,623

Latin America and Other
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

General health
$
1,783

 
$
1,794

 
$
3,395

 
$
3,878

Immune
602

 
567

 
1,210

 
1,267

Cardiovascular
361

 
288

 
700

 
766

Digestive
2,645

 
2,931

 
5,181

 
5,883

Personal care
260

 
302

 
517

 
613

Weight management
216

 
177

 
420

 
523

 
5,867

 
6,059

 
11,423

 
12,930

 
$
90,724

 
$
91,266

 
$
181,996

 
$
178,608


From an individual country perspective, only the United States comprised 10 percent or more of consolidated property, plant and equipment as follows (dollar amounts in thousands):
 
 
June 30,
2019
 
December 31,
2018
Property, plant and equipment:
 

 
 

United States
$
57,608

 
$
60,606

Other
4,303

 
3,455

Total property, plant and equipment
$
61,911

 
$
64,061



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Total assets per segment is set forth below (dollar amounts in thousands):

 
June 30,
2019
 
December 31,
2018
Assets:
 

 
 

Asia
$
72,752

 
$
59,983

Europe
17,683

 
16,414

North America
117,182

 
109,091

Latin America and Other
8,634

 
7,528

Total assets
$
216,251

 
$
193,016


8) Leases

Adoption of ASU Topic 842

We adopted ASU No. 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842): Accounting for Leases, as of January 1, 2019. This update requires lessees to recognize right-of-use assets and lease liabilities arising from leases. We elected certain practical expedients permitted under the transition guidance. We elected the optional transition method that allows for a cumulative-effect adjustment and will not restate prior periods. Under the new guidance, all leases will continue to be classified as operating.

Adoption of the new standard resulted in recording of additional net operating lease right-of-use assets and lease liabilities of approximately $23.1 million and $24.0 million, respectively, as of January 1, 2019. The difference between the operating lease right-of-use assets and lease liabilities reflects deferred rent balances at the time of adoption. The standard did not materially impact consolidated net earnings and cash flows.

We lease certain retail stores, warehouses, distribution centers, and office spaces. Leases with an initial term of 12 months or less are not recorded on the balance sheet; we recognize lease expense for these leases on a straight-line basis over the lease term. For leases beginning in 2019 and later, we account for lease components including rent, real estate taxes and insurance costs separately from non-lease components like common-area maintenance fees. Most of our leases include one or more options to renew, with renewal terms that can extend the lease term for one or more years. The exercise of the lease option to renew is solely at our discretion.

Operating lease right-of-use assets and lease liabilities are as follows (dollar amounts in thousands):

 
June 30,
2019
 
January 1,
2019
Assets:
 
 
 
Operating lease right-of-use assets
$
26,361

 
$
23,143

 
 
 
 
Liabilities:
 
 
 
Current
$
5,241

 
$
4,426

Long-term
22,418

 
19,566

Total operating lease liabilities
$
27,659

 
$
23,992


Operating lease costs were approximately $1.7 million for the three-months ended June 30, 2019. Short-term lease costs were approximately $45,000 for the three-months ended June 30, 2019. Operating lease costs were approximately $3.4 million for the six-months ended June 30, 2019. Short-term lease costs were approximately $0.1 million for the six-months ended June 30, 2019. Short-term lease costs represent our costs with respect to leases with a duration of 12 months or less and are not reflected on our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Supplemental cash flow information related to operating leases for the six-months ended June 30, 2019 was as follows:

Payments of $2.9 million against amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities.

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Lease assets obtained in exchange for lease liabilities totaled $29.6 million, offset by cancellation of leases that resulted in the reduction of lease assets obtained in exchange for leases liabilities which totaled $0.4 million.

The weighted-average remaining lease term for operating leases was 7.2 years. The weight-average discount rate for operating leases was 4.22 percent as of June 30, 2019.

There were no material operating leases that we have entered into and that were yet to commence as of June 30, 2019.

The approximate aggregate commitments under non-cancelable operating leases in effect at June 30, 2019 and December 31, 2018, were as follows (dollar amounts in thousands):

 
June 30,
2019
 
December 31,
2018
2019
$
3,232

 
$
5,646

2020
5,888

 
4,692

2021
4,954

 
3,864

2022
3,527

 
2,367

2023
3,038

 
2,162

Thereafter
11,668

 
10,296

Total lease payments
$
32,307

 
$
29,027

Less: Imputed interest (1)
4,648

 
 
Present value of lease liabilities
$
27,659

 
 

(1) Calculated using our corporate borrowing rate based on the term of each lease ranging from 4.09 percent to 4.29 percent.

(9)    Income Taxes
 
For the three months ended June 30, 2019 and 2018, our provision for income taxes, as a percentage of income before income taxes was 45.7 percent and 116.4 percent, respectively, compared with a U.S. federal statutory rate of 21.0 percent. For the six months ended June 30, 2019 and 2018, our provision for income taxes, as a percentage of income before income taxes was 43.9 percent and 86.5 percent, respectively, compared with a U.S. federal statutory rate of 21.0 percent.
 
The difference between the effective tax rate and the U.S. federal statutory tax rate for the three and six months ended June 30, 2019, was primarily attributed to current year foreign losses that presently do not provide future tax benefit, as well as net unfavorable foreign tax related items.

The difference between the effective tax rate and the U.S. federal statutory tax rate for the three and six months ended June 30, 2018, was primarily attributed to foreign losses during those periods, largely related to China, that were not expected to provide future tax benefit, as well as net unfavorable foreign tax related items.

As the U.S. Department of the Treasury is working on finalizing Treasury Regulations with respect to the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (Tax Reform Act), future changes could likewise affect recorded deferred tax assets and liabilities in later periods. Management is not aware of any such additional changes that would have a material effect on our results of operations, cash flows or financial position.

Our U.S. federal income tax returns for 2015 through 2017 are open to examination for federal tax purposes. We have several foreign tax jurisdictions that have open tax years from 2012 through 2018. The Internal Revenue Service has notified us they will be conducting an audit of our U.S. federal income tax return for the 2017 tax year.
 
As of June 30, 2019 and December 31, 2018, we had accrued $2.2 million and $2.2 million, respectively, related to unrecognized tax positions.
 
Interim income taxes are based on an estimated annualized effective tax rate applied to the respective quarterly periods, adjusted for discrete tax items in the period in which they occur. Although we believe our tax estimates are reasonable, we can make no assurance that the final tax outcome of these matters will not be different from that which we have reflected in our

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historical income tax provisions and accruals. Such differences could have a material impact on our income tax provision and operating results in the period in which we make such determination.
 
(10)    Commitments and Contingencies
 
Legal Proceedings
 
We are party to various legal proceedings. Management cannot predict the ultimate outcome of these proceedings, individually or in the aggregate, or their resulting effect on our business, financial position, results of operations or cash flows as litigation and related matters are subject to inherent uncertainties, and unfavorable rulings could occur. Were an unfavorable outcome to occur, there exists the possibility of a material adverse impact on our business, financial position, results of operations, or cash flows for the period in which the ruling occurs and/or future periods. We maintain product liability, general liability and excess liability insurance coverage. However, no assurances can be given that such insurance will continue to be available at an acceptable cost to us, that such coverage will be sufficient to cover one or more large claims, or that the insurers will not successfully disclaim coverage as to a pending or future claim.
 
Non-Income Tax Contingencies
 
We have reserved for certain state sales and use tax and foreign non-income tax contingencies based on the likelihood of an obligation in accordance with accounting guidance for probable loss contingencies. Loss contingency provisions are recorded for probable losses at management’s best estimate of a loss, or when a best estimate cannot be made, a minimum loss contingency amount is recorded. We provide provisions for potential payments of tax to various tax authorities for contingencies related to non-income tax matters, including value-added taxes and sales tax. We provide provisions for U.S. state sales taxes in each of the states where we have nexus. At June 30, 2019 and December 31, 2018, accrued liabilities were $0.3 million and $0.3 million, respectively, related to non-income tax contingencies. While we believe that the assumptions and estimates used to determine contingent liabilities are reasonable, the ultimate outcome of these matters cannot presently be determined. We believe future payments related to these matters could range from $0 to approximately $3.5 million.
 
Other Litigation
 
We are a party to various other legal proceedings in the United States and several foreign jurisdictions related to value-added tax assessments and other civil litigation. As of June 30, 2019 and December 31, 2018, accrued liabilities were $2.0 million and $1.7 million, respectively, related to the estimated outcome of these proceedings. In addition, we are a party to other litigation where there is a reasonable possibility that a loss may be incurred, either the losses are not considered to be probable or we cannot at this time estimate the loss, if any; therefore, no provision for losses has been provided. We believe future payments related to these matters could range from $0 to approximately $0.4 million.
 
(11)     Related Party Transactions

During the three and six months ended June 30, 2019, NSP China did not borrow any amounts from the Company or our joint venture partner. During the three and six months ended June 30, 2018, NSP China borrowed $0 and $2.0 million from the Company and $0 and $0.5 million from our joint venture partner, respectively. These notes are payable in one year and bear interest of 3.0 percent. As of June 30, 2019 and December 31, 2018 outstanding borrowings by NSP China from the Company were $6.2 million and $6.0 million, respectively. As of June 30, 2019 and December 31, 2018 outstanding borrowings by NSP China from our joint venture partner were $1.5 million and $1.5 million, respectively. The notes between NSP China and the Company eliminate in consolidation.

(12)    Fair Value Measurements
 
The fair value of a financial instrument is the amount that could be received upon the sale of an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. Financial assets are marked to bid prices and financial liabilities are marked to offer prices. Fair value measurements do not include transaction costs. A fair value hierarchy is used to prioritize the quality and reliability of the information used to determine fair values of each financial instrument. Categorization within the fair value hierarchy is based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. The fair value hierarchy is defined into the following three categories:
 
Level 1: Quoted market prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.
 
Level 2: Observable market based inputs or unobservable inputs that are corroborated by market data.

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Level 3: Unobservable inputs that are not corroborated by market data.
 
The following table presents our hierarchy for our assets, measured at fair value on a recurring basis, as of June 30, 2019 (dollar amounts in thousands):
 
 
Level 1
 
Level 2
 
Level 3
 
 
 
Quoted Prices
in Active
Markets for
Identical Assets
 
Significant
Other
Observable
Inputs
 
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
 
Total
Investment securities - trading
$
1,432

 
$

 
$

 
$
1,432

Total assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis
$
1,432

 
$

 
$

 
$
1,432

 
The following table presents our hierarchy for our assets, measured at fair value on a recurring basis, as of December 31, 2018 (dollar amounts in thousands):
 
 
Level 1
 
Level 2
 
Level 3
 
 
 
Quoted Prices
in Active
Markets for
Identical Assets
 
Significant
Other
Observable
Inputs
 
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
 
Total
Investment securities - trading
$
1,308

 
$

 
$

 
$
1,308

Total assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis
$
1,308

 
$

 
$

 
$
1,308

 
Investment securities - trading — Our trading portfolio consists of various marketable securities that are valued using quoted prices in active markets.
 
For the six months ended June 30, 2019, and for the year ended December 31, 2018, there were no fair value measurements using significant other observable inputs (Level 2) or significant unobservable inputs (Level 3).
 
The carrying amounts reflected on the condensed consolidated balance sheets for cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, and accounts payable approximate fair value due to their short-term nature. The carrying amount reflected on the condensed consolidated balance sheets for the revolving credit facility approximates fair value due to it being variable-rate debt. During the six months ended June 30, 2019 and 2018, we did not have any re-measurements of non-financial assets at fair value on a nonrecurring basis subsequent to their initial recognition.

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(13)    Revenue Recognition

Revenue Recognition

Net sales include products and shipping and handling charges, net of estimates for product returns and any related sales incentives or rebates based upon historical information and current trends. Revenue is measured as the amount of consideration we expect to receive in exchange for transferring products. All revenue is recognized when the Company satisfies its performance obligations under the contract. We recognize revenue by transferring the promised products to the customer, with revenue recognized at shipping point, the point in time the customer obtains control of the products. The majority of our contracts have a single performance obligation and are short term in nature. Contracts with multiple performance obligations are insignificant. Sales taxes and value added taxes in the United States and foreign jurisdictions that are collected from customers and remitted to governmental authorities are accounted for on a net basis and therefore are excluded from net sales. Amounts received for unshipped merchandise are recorded as deferred revenue.

A reserve for product returns is recorded based upon historical experience and current trends. We allow independent Managers or Distributors to return the unused portion of products within ninety days of purchase if they are not satisfied with the product. In some of our markets, the requirements to return product are more restrictive.

From time to time, our U.S. operations extend short-term credit associated with product promotions. In addition, for certain of our international operations, we offers credit terms consistent with industry standards within the country of operation.

Volume incentives, and other sales incentives or rebates are a significant part of our direct sales marketing program, and represent commission payments made to independent distributors. These payments are designed to provide incentives for reaching higher sales levels. The amount of volume incentive expense recognized is determined based upon the amount of qualifying purchases in a given month and recorded as volume incentive expense. Payments to independent Managers and Distributors for sales incentives or rebates related to their own purchases are recorded as a reduction of revenue. Payments for sales incentives and rebates are calculated monthly based upon qualifying sales.

Contract Liabilities - Customer Loyalty Programs

We record contract liabilities for loyalty point programs in deferred revenue. These programs are accounted for as a reduction in the transaction price and are generally recognized as points that are redeemed for additional products.

The following table presents changes in these contract liability balances for the six-month period ended June 30, 2019 (U.S. dollars in thousands):
Outstanding at December 31, 2018
$
1,079

Increase (decrease) attributed to:
 

Customer loyalty net deferrals 
3,041

Customer loyalty redemptions 
(3,011
)
Outstanding at June 30, 2019
$
1,109

The table above excludes liability for sales returns, as they are insignificant.

Disaggregation of Revenue

Our products are grouped into six principal categories: general health, immune, cardiovascular, digestive, personal care and weight management. We have four business segments that are based primarily upon the geographic region where each segment operates. Each of the geographic segments operate under the Nature’s Sunshine Products and Synergy® WorldWide brands. See Note 7, Segment Information, for further information on our reportable segments and presentation of disaggregated revenue by reportable segment and product category.


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Practical Expedients and Exemptions

We have made the accounting policy election to treat shipping and handling as a fulfillment activity rather than a promised service under Topic 606.

We generally expense volume incentives when incurred because the amortization period would have been one year or less.

All of our contracts with customers have a duration of less than one year. The value of any unsatisfied performance obligations is insignificant.

Item 2.                            MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
 
The following Management’s Discussion and Analysis should be read in conjunction with the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included in this report, as well as the consolidated financial statements, the notes thereto, and management’s discussion and analysis included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2018, and our other reports filed since the date of such Form 10-K. During the second quarter of 2019, we realigned into geographic focused operating business segments across brands. The presentation of the comparative information has been recast to conform to the 2019 presentation.
 
OVERVIEW
 
We are a natural health and wellness company primarily engaged in the manufacture and sale of nutritional and personal care products. We are a Utah corporation with our principal place of business in Lehi, Utah, and sell our products to a sales force of independent distributors who uses the products themselves or resells them to consumers.

Our independent distributors market and sell our products to customers and sponsor other independent distributors who also market our products to customers. Our sales are highly dependent upon the number and productivity of our independent distributors. Growth in sales volume generally requires an increase in the productivity of our independent distributors and/or growth in the total number of independent distributors. We seek to motivate and provide incentives to our independent distributors by offering high quality products and providing independent distributors with product support, training seminars, sales conventions, travel programs and financial incentives.

In the second quarter of 2019, we experienced a decrease in our consolidated net sales of 0.6 percent (or 2.3 percent increase in local currencies) compared to the same period in 2018. Asia net sales decreased approximately 1.7 percent (or 4.1 percent increase in local currencies) compared to the same period in 2018. Europe net sales increased approximately 8.3 percent (or 11.1 percent in local currencies) compared to the same period in 2018. North America net sales decreased approximately 2.5 percent (or 2.3 percent in local currencies) compared to the same period in 2018. Latin America and Other net sales decreased approximately 3.2 percent (or 1.6 percent in local currencies) compared to the same period in 2018. The weakening of the U.S. dollar versus the local currencies, primarily in our Asian and European markets, resulted in an approximate 2.3 percent, or $2.6 million, decrease of our net sales during the quarter.

Selling, general and administrative expenses during the three months ended June 30, 2019 decreased $2.3 million compared to the same period in 2018, and decreased as a percentage of net sales to 34.2 percent from 36.5 percent in 2018. The decrease in expenses was primarily the result of restructuring efforts implemented in prior periods in order to improve operating results.

We distribute our products to consumers through an independent sales force comprised of independent Managers and Distributors, many of whom also consume our products. Typically a person who joins our independent sales force begins as a Distributor. An independent Distributor may earn Manager status by attaining certain product sales levels. On a worldwide basis, active independent Managers were approximately 12,900 and 13,100 and active independent Distributors and customers were approximately 232,000 and 217,200 at June 30, 2019 and 2018, respectively.

As an international business, we have significant sales and costs denominated in currencies other than the U.S. Dollar. Sales in international markets denominated in foreign currencies are expected to continue to represent a substantial portion of our sales. Likewise, we expect foreign markets with functional currencies other than the U.S. Dollar will continue to represent a substantial portion of our overall sales and related operating expenses. Accordingly, changes in foreign currency exchange rates

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could materially affect sales and costs or the comparability of sales and costs from period to period as a result of translating foreign markets financial statements into our reporting currency.

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
 
The following table summarizes our unaudited consolidated operating results from continuing operations in U.S. dollars and as a percentage of net sales for the three months ended June 30, 2019 and 2018 (dollar amounts in thousands):
 
 
Three Months Ended
June 30, 2019
 
Three Months Ended
June 30, 2018
 
Change
 
Total
dollars
 
Percent of
net sales
 
Total
dollars
 
Percent of
net sales
 
Total
dollars
 
Percentage 
Net sales
$
90,724

 
100.0
%
 
$
91,266

 
100.0
 %
 
$
(542
)
 
(0.6
)%
Cost of sales
23,865

 
26.3

 
24,278

 
26.6

 
(413
)
 
(1.7
)
 
66,859

 
73.7

 
66,988

 
73.4

 
(129
)
 
(0.2
)
Volume incentives
31,302

 
34.5

 
31,492

 
34.5

 
(190
)
 
(0.6
)
SG&A expenses
31,019

 
34.2

 
33,310

 
36.5

 
(2,291
)
 
(6.9
)
Operating income
4,538

 
5.0

 
2,186

 
2.4

 
2,352

 
107.6

Other income (loss), net
306

 
0.3

 
(1,807
)
 
(2.0
)
 
2,113

 
116.9

Income before income taxes
4,844

 
5.3

 
379

 
0.4

 
4,465

 
1,178.1

Provision for income taxes
2,215

 
2.4

 
441

 
0.5

 
1,774

 
402.3

Net income (loss)
$
2,629

 
2.9
%
 
$
(62
)
 
(0.1
)%
 
$
2,691

 
4,340.3
 %

The following table summarizes our unaudited consolidated operating results from continuing operations in U.S. dollars and as a percentage of net sales for the six months ended June 30, 2019 and 2018 (dollar amounts in thousands):
 
 
Six Months Ended
June 30, 2019
 
Six Months Ended
June 30, 2018
 
Change
 
Total
dollars
 
Percent of
net sales
 
Total
dollars
 
Percent of
net sales
 
Total
dollars
 
Percentage 
Net sales
$
181,996

 
100.0
%
 
$
178,608

 
100.0
 %
 
$
3,388

 
1.9
 %
Cost of sales
47,294

 
26.0

 
46,991

 
26.3

 
303

 
0.6

 
134,702

 
74.0

 
131,617

 
73.7

 
3,085

 
2.3

Volume incentives
62,315

 
34.2

 
62,854

 
35.2

 
(539
)
 
(0.9
)
SG&A expenses
64,871

 
35.6

 
65,696

 
36.8

 
(825
)
 
(1.3
)
Operating income
7,516

 
4.1

 
3,067

 
1.7

 
4,449

 
145.1

Other income (loss), net
258

 
0.1

 
(1,067
)
 
(0.6
)
 
1,325

 
124.2

Income before income taxes
7,774

 
4.3

 
2,000

 
1.1

 
5,774

 
288.7

Provision for income taxes
3,416

 
1.9

 
1,729

 
1.0

 
1,687

 
97.6

Net income
$
4,358

 
2.4
%
 
$
271

 
0.2
 %
 
$
4,087

 
1,508.1
 %

 Net Sales
 
International operations have provided, and are expected to continue to provide, a significant portion of our total net sales. As a result, total net sales will continue to be affected by fluctuations in the U.S. dollar against foreign currencies. In order to provide a framework for assessing how our underlying businesses performed excluding the effect of foreign currency fluctuations, in addition to comparing the percent change in net sales from one period to another in U.S. dollars, we present net sales excluding the impact of foreign exchange fluctuations. We compare the percentage change in net sales from one period to another period by excluding the effects of foreign currency exchange as shown below. Net sales excluding the impact of foreign exchange fluctuations is not a U.S. GAAP financial measure and removes from net sales in U.S. dollars the impact of changes in exchange rates between the U.S. dollar and the functional currencies of our foreign subsidiaries, by translating the current period net sales into U.S. dollars using the same foreign currency exchange rates that were used to translate the net sales for the previous comparable period. We believe presenting the impact of foreign currency fluctuations is useful to investors because it allows a more meaningful comparison of net sales of our foreign operations from period to period. However, net sales

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excluding the impact of foreign currency fluctuations should not be considered in isolation or as an alternative to net sales in U.S. dollar measures that reflect current period exchange rates, or to other financial measures calculated and presented in accordance with U.S. GAAP. Throughout the last five years, foreign currency exchange rates have fluctuated significantly. See Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk.

During the second quarter of 2019, we realigned into geographic focused operating business segments across brands to further align regional strategies and drive synergies in product, organizational and go-to-market strategies in local markets. Our internal reporting structure was reorganized to support the new reporting segments and the chief operating decision maker now reviews the operating results of the four segments utilizing a geographic focused format. The presentation of the comparative information has been recast to conform to the 2019 presentation.

The following table summarizes the changes in net sales by operating segment with a reconciliation to net sales excluding the impact of currency fluctuations for the three months ended June 30, 2019 and 2018 (dollar amounts in thousands):
 
 
Net Sales by Operating Segment
 
Three Months Ended
June 30, 2019
 
Three Months Ended
June 30, 2018
 
Percent
Change
 
Impact of
Currency
Exchange
 
Percent
Change
Excluding
Impact of
Currency
Asia
$
35,162

 
$
35,767

 
(1.7
)%
 
$
(2,061
)
 
4.1
 %
Europe
15,075

 
13,922

 
8.3

 
(388
)
 
11.1

North America
34,620

 
35,518

 
(2.5
)
 
(88
)
 
(2.3
)
Latin America and Other
5,867

 
6,059

 
(3.2
)
 
(95
)
 
(1.6
)
 
$
90,724

 
$
91,266

 
(0.6
)%
 
$
(2,632
)
 
2.3
 %

The following table summarizes the changes in net sales by operating segment with a reconciliation to net sales excluding the impact of currency fluctuations for the six months ended June 30, 2019 and 2018 (dollar amounts in thousands):
 
 
Net Sales by Operating Segment
 
Six Months Ended
June 30, 2019
 
Six Months Ended
June 30, 2018
 
Percent
Change
 
Impact of
Currency
Exchange
 
Percent
Change
Excluding
Impact of
Currency
Asia
$
68,758

 
$
63,530

 
8.2
 %
 
$
(3,531
)
 
13.8
 %
Europe
30,672

 
28,525

 
7.5

 
(955
)
 
10.9

North America
71,143

 
73,623

 
(3.4
)
 
(222
)
 
(3.1
)
Latin America and Other
11,423

 
12,930

 
(11.7
)
 
(219
)
 
(10.0
)
 
$
181,996

 
$
178,608

 
1.9
 %
 
$
(4,927
)
 
4.7
 %
 
Consolidated net sales for the three and six months ended June 30, 2019, were $90.7 million and $182.0 million, respectively, compared to $91.3 million and $178.6 million for the same period in 2018, which represents a decrease of 0.6 percent and an increase of 1.9 percent, respectively. The decrease for the three months ended June 30, 2019, was primarily related to declines in the Asia, North America and Latin America and Other markets. Declines in these markets were partially offset by product sales growth in the Europe market. The increase for the six months ended June 30, 2019, was primarily related to product sales growth in the Asia and Europe markets. Growth in these markets was offset by declines in the North America and Latin America and Other markets. Excluding the unfavorable impact of foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations, consolidated net sales for the three and six months ended June 30, 2019, increased by 2.3 percent and 4.7 percent, respectively, from the same periods in 2018.

Asia

Net sales related to Asia for the three and six months ended June 30, 2019, were $35.2 million and $68.8 million, respectively, compared to $35.8 million and $63.5 million for the same periods in 2018, or a decrease of 1.7 percent and an increase of 8.2 percent. In local currency, net sales for the three and six months ended June 30, 2019, increased 4.1 percent and

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13.8 percent, respectively, compared to the same periods in 2018. The growth for the Asia business is further discussed in the South Korea, Japan and China commentary below. Active independent Managers within Asia totaled approximately 3,000 and 3,200 at June 30, 2019 and 2018, respectively. Active independent Distributors and customers within Asia totaled approximately 38,300 and 35,800 at June 30, 2019 and 2018, respectively.

Notable activity in the following markets contributed to the results of Asia:

In our South Korea market, net sales decreased $0.7 million and increased $3.3 million, or decreased 3.5 percent and increased 9.5 percent, for the three and six months ended June 30, 2019, respectively, compared to the same periods in 2018. In local currency, net sales for the three and six months ended June 30, 2019, increased 4.2 percent and 16.6 percent, respectively, compared to the same periods in 2018. The increase in local currency net sales was the result of increased distributor involvement and a renewed focus on core products for the market.

In our Japan market, net sales increased $0.3 million and $0.8 million, or 6.1 percent and 7.1 percent, for the three and six months ended June 30, 2019, respectively, compared to the same periods in 2018. In local currencies, net sales for the three and six months ended June 30, 2019, increased 7.0 percent and 8.4 percent, respectively, compared to the same periods in 2018. We attribute the growth in net sales primarily to the introduction of new products and the implementation of programs intended to stimulate activity which had a positive impact on market sales volume.

In our China market, net sales decreased $0.3 million and increased $1.9 million, or decreased 4.3 percent and increased 17.1 percent, for the three and six months ended June 30, 2019, respectively, compared to the same periods in 2018. In local currencies, net sales for the three and six months ended June 30, 2019, increased 1.9 percent and 24.4 percent, respectively, compared to the same periods in 2018. Although growth has been impacted current market conditions, China continues to show local currency growth primarily due to initiatives designed to increase independent service providers’ engagement levels and gain market share.

Europe

Net sales related to Europe for the three and six months ended June 30, 2019, were $15.1 million and $30.7 million, respectively, compared to $13.9 million and $28.5 million for the same periods in 2018, or increases of 8.3 percent and 7.5 percent. In local currency, net sales for the three and six months ended June 30, 2019, increased 11.1 percent and 10.9 percent, respectively, compared to the same periods in 2018. The functional currency for many of these markets is the U.S. Dollar which reduces the effect from foreign currency fluctuations. Fluctuations in foreign exchange rates had a $0.4 million and $1.0 million unfavorable impact on net sales for the three and six months ended June 30, 2019, respectively. Net sales increased primarily as a result of the relative stabilization of the Russian ruble against the U.S. dollar and product promotions that have improved distributor engagement. Active independent Managers within Europe totaled approximately 4,000 and 3,700 at June 30, 2019 and 2018, respectively. Active independent Distributors and customers within Europe totaled approximately 85,200 and 74,600 at June 30, 2019 and 2018, respectively.

North America

Net sales related to North America for the three and six months ended June 30, 2019, were $34.6 million and $71.1 million, respectively, compared to $35.5 million and $73.6 million for the same periods in 2018, or a decreases of 2.5 percent and 3.4 percent. In local currency, net sales for the three and six months ended June 30, 2019, decreased 2.3 percent and 3.1 percent, respectively, compared to the same periods in 2018. The declines for the North America business are further discussed in United States commentary below. Active independent Managers within North America totaled approximately 4,700 and 5,000 at June 30, 2019 and 2018, respectively. Active independent Distributors and customers within North America totaled approximately 78,400 and 78,200 at June 30, 2019 and 2018, respectively. A decrease in our Distributor recruiting and retention in the U.S. resulted in a decline in the number of independent Managers by 6.0 percent compared to the prior year.

Notable activity in the following markets contributed to the results of North America:

In the United States, net sales decreased $1.0 million and $2.7 million, or 3.3 percent and 4.3 percent, for the three and six months ended June 30, 2019, respectively, compared to the same periods in 2018. The decline in the market is mainly due to a decrease in Distributor recruiting and retention. We continue to work with leaders in the U.S. to improve recruiting and retention results.


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Latin America and Other

Net sales related to Latin America and Other for the three and six months ended June 30, 2019, were $5.9 million and $11.4 million, respectively, compared to $6.1 million and $12.9 million for the same periods in 2018, or decreases of 3.2 percent and 11.7 percent. In local currency, net sales for the three and six months ended June 30, 2019, decreased 1.6 percent and 10.0 percent, respectively, compared to the same periods in 2018. Currency devaluation had a $0.1 million and $0.2 million unfavorable impact on net sales for the three and six months ended June 30, 2019, respectively. The decline in the market is mainly due to decreases in Distributor retention and average purchase size. Active independent Managers totaled approximately 1,200 and 1,200 at June 30, 2019 and 2018, respectively. Active independent Distributors and customers totaled approximately 30,100 and 28,600 at June 30, 2019 and 2018, respectively.

Further information related to our Asia, Europe, North America and Latin America and Other business segments is set forth in Note 7 to the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements in Part 1, Item 1 of this report.

 Cost of Sales
 
Cost of sales as a percent of net sales was 26.3 percent and 26.0 percent for the three and six months ended June 30, 2019, compared to 26.6 percent and 26.3 percent for the same periods in 2018. The decrease in cost of sales percentage is driven by favorable changes in market mix and decreases in inventory write-offs.
 
Volume Incentives

Volume incentives expense as a percent of net sales was 34.5 percent and 34.2 percent for the three and six months ended June 30, 2019, respectively, compared to 34.5 percent and 35.2 percent for the same periods in 2018. These payments are designed to provide incentives for reaching higher sales levels. Volume incentives vary slightly, on a percentage basis, by product due to pricing policies and commission plans in place in the various operations. We do not pay volume incentives in China, instead we pay independent service fees, which are included in selling, general and administrative expenses. Volume incentives as a percentage of net sales can fluctuate based on promotional activity and mix of sales by market. The decrease in volume incentives as a percent of net sales for the six months ended June 30, 2019 is primarily due to changes in market mix, reflecting growth in markets where volume incentives as a percentage of net sales are lower than the consolidated average, and the growth in NSP China.
 
Selling, General and Administrative
 
Selling, general and administrative expenses represent operating expenses, components of which include labor and benefits, sales events, professional fees, travel and entertainment, marketing, occupancy costs, communications costs, bank fees, depreciation and amortization, independent services fees paid in China, and other miscellaneous operating expenses.

Selling, general and administrative expenses decreased by $2.3 million and $0.8 million, respectively, to $31.0 million and $64.9 million for the three and six months ended June 30, 2019, respectively, compared to the same periods in 2018. Selling, general and administrative expenses were 34.2 percent and 35.6 percent of net sales for the three and six months ended June 30, 2019, respectively, compared to 36.5 percent and 36.8 percent for the same periods in 2018. The decrease in selling, general and administrative expenses was primarily related to a reduction of headcount in the U.S. and Latin America, as well as other cost reductions.

Other Income (Loss), Net
 
Other income (loss) net, for the three and six months ended June 30, 2019, were gains of $0.3 million and $0.3 million, respectively, compared to losses of $1.8 million and $1.1 million during the same periods in 2018, respectively. Other income (loss) for the three and six months ended June 30, 2019 primarily consisted of foreign exchange gains in 2019 as a result of changes in foreign currencies.
 
Income Taxes

For the three months ended June 30, 2019 and 2018, our provision for income taxes, as a percentage of income before income taxes was 45.7 percent and 116.4 percent, respectively, compared with a U.S. federal statutory rate of 21.0 percent. For the six months ended June 30, 2019 and 2018, our provision for income taxes, as a percentage of income before income taxes was 43.9 percent and 86.5 percent, respectively, compared with a U.S. federal statutory rate of 21.0 percent.
 

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The difference between the effective tax rate and the U.S. federal statutory tax rate for the three and six months ended June 30, 2019, was primarily attributed to current year foreign losses that presently do not provide future tax benefit, as well as net unfavorable foreign tax related items.

The difference between the effective tax rate and the U.S. federal statutory tax rate for the three and six months ended June 30, 2018, was primarily attributed to foreign losses during these periods, largely related to China, that were not projected to provide future tax benefit, as well as net unfavorable foreign tax related items.

Our U.S. federal income tax returns for 2015 through 2017 are open to examination for federal tax purposes. We have several foreign tax jurisdictions that have open tax years from 2012 through 2018. The Internal Revenue Service has notified us that they will be conducting an audit of our U.S. federal income tax return for the 2017 tax year.
 
As of June 30, 2019 and December 31, 2018, we had had accrued $2.2 million and $2.2 million, respectively, related to unrecognized tax positions.

Product Categories
 
Our line of over 700 products includes several different product classifications, such as immune, cardiovascular, digestive, personal care, weight management and other general health products. We purchase herbs and other raw materials in bulk and, after rigorous quality control testing, we formulate, encapsulate, tablet or concentrate them, label and package them for shipment. Most of our products are manufactured at our facility in Spanish Fork, Utah. Contract manufacturers produce some of our products in accordance with our specifications and standards. We have implemented stringent quality control procedures to verify that our contract manufacturers have complied with our specifications and standards.

See Note 7, Segment Information, for a summary of the U.S. dollar amounts from the sale of general health, immune, cardiovascular, digestive, personal care and weight management products for the three and six months ended June 30, 2019 and 2018, by business segment.
 
Distribution and Marketing
 
Our independent distributors, also known as Managers and Distributors, market our products to customers through direct selling techniques and sponsor other independent distributors who also market our products to customers. We seek to motivate and provide incentives to our independent distributors by offering high quality products and providing independent distributors with product support, training seminars, sales conventions, travel programs and financial incentives.

Our products sold in the United States are shipped directly from our manufacturing and warehouse facilities located in Spanish Fork, Utah, as well as from our regional warehouses located in Georgia, Ohio and Texas. Many of our international operations maintain warehouse facilities and inventory to supply their independent Managers, Distributors and customers. However, in foreign markets where we do not maintain warehouse facilities, we have contracted with third-parties to distribute our products and provide support services to our independent sales force of independent Managers and Distributors.

As of June 30, 2019, we had approximately 232,000 active independent Distributors and customers (as defined below). A person who joins our independent sales force begins as an independent distributor. Many independent distributors sell our products on a part-time basis to friends or associates or use the products themselves. An independent distributor may earn Manager status by attaining certain product sales levels. As of June 30, 2019, we had approximately 12,900 active independent Managers (as defined below) worldwide. In many of our markets, our independent Managers and Distributors are primarily retailers of our products, including practitioners, proprietors of retail stores and other health and wellness specialists.

In the United States, we generally sell our products on a cash or credit card basis. From time to time, our U.S. operations extend short-term credit associated with product promotions. For certain of our international operations, we use independent distribution centers and offer credit terms that are generally consistent with industry standards within each respective country.

We pay sales commissions, or “volume incentives” to our independent Managers and Distributors based upon their own product sales and the product sales of their sales organization. As an exception, in NSP China, we do not pay volume incentives; rather, we pay independent service fees, which are included in selling, general and administrative expense. These volume incentives are recorded as an expense in the year earned. The amounts of volume incentives that we expensed during the quarters ended June 30, 2019 and 2018, are set forth in the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 1 of this report. In addition to the opportunity to receive volume incentives, independent Managers who attain certain levels of monthly

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product sales are eligible for additional incentive programs including automobile allowances, sales convention privileges and travel awards.
 
Distributor Information
 
Our revenue is highly dependent upon the number and productivity of our independent Managers and Distributors. Growth in sales volume requires an increase in the productivity and/or growth in the total number of independent Managers and Distributors.

Within the Company, there are a number of different distributor compensation plans and qualifications, which generate active independent Managers and Distributors with different sales values in our different business segments. Within Synergy WorldWide, the sales qualifications required for active independent Managers and Distributors varies by market according to local economic factors. As sales grow in markets with higher qualification values, and decline in those with lower qualification values, the resultant mix change influences the active counts for independent Managers and Distributors. As a result, from time-to-time, changes in overall active counts for independent Managers and Distributors may not be indicative of actual sales trends for the segment.

In China, we do not sell our products through Managers and Distributors, but rather through independent service providers who are compensated for marketing, sales support, and other services.

The following table provides information concerning the number of total independent Managers, Distributors and customers by segment, as of the dates indicated:
 
Total Managers, Distributors and Customers by Segment as of June 30,
 
 
2019
 
2018
 
Distributors
& Customers
 
Managers
 
Distributors
& Customers
 
Managers
Asia
87,500

 
3,000

 
95,100

 
3,200

Europe
174,800

 
4,000

 
164,700

 
3,700

North America
162,800

 
4,700

 
172,800

 
5,000

Latin America and Other
64,100

 
1,200

 
65,400

 
1,200

 
489,200

 
12,900

 
498,000

 
13,100

 
“Total Managers” includes independent Managers under our various compensation plans that have achieved and maintained specified and personal groups sale volumes as of the date indicated. To maintain Manager status, an individual must continue to meet certain product sales volume levels. As such, all Managers are considered to be “Active Managers”.
 
“Total Distributors and customers” includes our independent Distributors and customers who have purchased products directly from the Company for resale and/or personal consumption during the previous twelve months ended as of the date indicated. This includes independent Manager, Distributor and customer accounts that may have become inactive since such respective dates.
 

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The following table provides information concerning the number of active Distributors and customers by segment, as of the dates indicated:
 
Active Distributors and Customers by Segment as of June 30,
 
 
2019
 
2018
 
Distributors
& Customers
 
Managers
 
Distributors
& Customers
 
Managers
Asia
38,300

 
3,000

 
35,800

 
3,200

Europe
85,200

 
4,000

 
74,600

 
3,700

North America
78,400

 
4,700

 
78,200

 
5,000

Latin America and Other
30,100

 
1,200

 
28,600

 
1,200

 
232,000

 
12,900

 
217,200

 
13,100

 
“Active Distributors and customers” include our independent Distributors and customers who have purchased products directly from the Company for resale and/or personal consumption during the previous three months ended as of the date indicated.
 
The following table provides information concerning the number of new independent Managers, Distributors and customers by segment, for the periods indicated:
 
New Managers, Distributors and Customers by Segment for the Three Months Ended June 30,
 
 
2019
 
2018
 
New Distributors
& Customers
 
New Managers
 
New Distributors
& Customers
 
New Managers
Asia
16,400

 
700

 
15,000

 
1,100

Europe
17,500

 
300

 
14,500

 
200

North America
17,200

 
400

 
14,700

 
400

Latin America and Other
7,900

 
100

 
6,000

 
100

 
59,000

 
1,500

 
50,200

 
1,800

 
“New Managers” includes independent Managers under our various compensation plans that first achieved the rank of Manager during the previous three months ended as of the date indicated.

“New Distributors and Customers” include our independent Distributors and customers who have made their initial product purchase directly from the Company for resale and/or personal consumption during the previous three months ended as of the date indicated.
 
The following table provides information concerning the number of new Managers, Distributors and customers by segment, for the periods indicated:
 
New Managers, Distributors and Customers by Segment for the Six Months Ended June 30,
 
 
2019
 
2018
 
New Distributors
& Customers
 
New Managers
 
New Distributors
& Customers
 
New Managers
Asia
61,600

 
2,600

 
57,300

 
3,100

Europe
69,200

 
1,200

 
47,400

 
1,000

North America
63,500

 
1,600

 
61,100

 
1,600

Latin America and Other
27,700

 
500

 
22,400

 
400

 
222,000

 
5,900

 
188,200

 
6,100

 

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“New Managers” includes independent Managers under our various compensation plans that first achieved the rank of Manager during the previous twelve months ended as of the date indicated.
 
“New Distributors and Customers” include our independent Distributors and customers who have made their initial product purchase directly from the Company for resale and/or personal consumption during the previous twelve months ended as of the date indicated.
 
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
 
Our principal use of cash is to pay for operating expenses, including volume incentives, inventory and raw material purchases, capital assets and funding of international expansion. As of June 30, 2019, working capital was $42.0 million, compared to $40.1 million as of December 31, 2018.  At June 30, 2019, we had $46.3 million in cash, of which $7.8 million was held in the U.S. and $38.5 million was held in foreign markets and may be subject to various withholding taxes and other restrictions related to repatriation before becoming available to be used along with the normal cash flows from operations to fund any unanticipated shortfalls in future cash flows.
 
Our net consolidated cash inflows (outflows) are as follows (in thousands):
 
 
Six Months Ended June 30,
 
2019
 
2018
Operating activities
$
(1,144
)
 
$
9,437

Investing activities
(2,774
)
 
(113
)
Financing activities
(193
)
 
(5,526
)
 
Operating Activities
 
For the six months ended June 30, 2019, operating activities used cash in the amount of $1.1 million, compared to providing $9.4 million in the same period in 2018. Operating cash flows decreased primarily due to the timing of payments for inventories, accounts payable, accrued liabilities, lease liabilities, income taxes payable and receipts in accounts receivable, partially offset by the timing of payments for deferred revenue.

Investing Activities
 
For the six months ended June 30, 2019, investing activities used $2.8 million, compared to using $0.1 million for the same period in 2018. Capital expenditures related to the purchase of equipment, computer systems and software for the six months ended June 30, 2019 and 2018, were $2.8 million and $2.7 million, respectively. During the six months ended June 30, 2018, we had proceeds of $2.6 million relating to the sale of an office building in one of our foreign markets.

Financing Activities
 
For the six months ended June 30, 2019, financing activities used $0.2 million in cash, compared to $5.5 million in cash used for the same period in 2018. For the six months ended June 30, 2019, we had $0 net borrowings due to improvements in our overall cash position compared to the same period in 2018. During the six months ended June 30, 2018, we made principal payments of $6.0 million.
  
On July 11, 2017, we entered into a revolving credit agreement with Bank of America, N.A., with a borrowing limit of $25.0 million, that matures on July 11, 2020 (the “Credit Agreement”). We pay interest on any borrowings under the Credit Agreement at LIBOR plus 1.25 percent (3.65 percent and 3.73 percent as of June 30, 2019 and December 31, 2018), and an annual commitment fee of 0.2 percent on the unused portion of the commitment. We are required to settle our net borrowings under the Credit Agreement only upon maturity, and as a result, have classified our outstanding borrowings as non-current on our condensed consolidated balance sheet as of June 30, 2019. At June 30, 2019, there was no outstanding balance under the Credit Agreement.

The Credit Agreement contains customary financial covenants, including financial covenants relating to our solvency, leverage, and minimum EBITDA. In addition, the Credit Agreement restricts certain capital expenditures, lease expenditures, other indebtedness, liens on assets, guarantees, loans and advances, dividends, and merger, consolidation and the transfer of assets except as permitted in the Credit Agreement. The Credit Agreement is collateralized by our manufacturing facility,

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accounts receivable balance, inventory balance and other assets. Effective June 30, 2018, the Company and Bank of America amended the Credit Agreement to modify certain financial covenants. As of June 30, 2019, we were in compliance with the debt covenants set forth in the Credit Agreement.

We believe that cash generated from operations, along with available cash and cash equivalents, will be sufficient to fund our normal operating needs, including capital expenditures, on both a short- and long-term basis. However, among other things, a prolonged economic downturn, a decrease in demand for our products, an unfavorable settlement of our unrecognized tax positions or non-income tax contingencies could adversely affect our long-term liquidity.

OFF-BALANCE SHEET ARRANGEMENTS

We have no off-balance sheet arrangements.
 
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES
 
Our consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP and form the basis for the following discussion and analysis on critical accounting policies and estimates. The preparation of these financial statements requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses, and related disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. On a regular basis, we evaluate our estimates and assumptions. We base our estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results could differ from these estimates and those differences could have a material effect on our financial position and results of operations. We have discussed the development, selection and disclosure of these estimates with the Board of Directors and our Audit Committee.

A summary of our significant accounting policies is provided in Note 1 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 8 of the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2018. We believe the critical accounting policies and estimates described below reflect our more significant estimates and assumptions used in the preparation of the consolidated financial statements. The impact and any associated risks on our business that are related to these policies are also discussed throughout this “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” where such policies affect reported and expected financial results.
 
Revenue Recognition
 
Our revenue recognition practices are discussed in Note 13, Revenue Recognition, to its Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 1, Part 1 of this report.
 
Accounts Receivable Allowances
 
Accounts receivable have been reduced by an allowance for amounts that may be uncollectible in the future. This estimated allowance is based primarily on the aging category, historical trends and management’s evaluation of the financial condition of the customer. This reserve is adjusted periodically as information about specific accounts becomes available.
 
Inventories
 
Inventories are adjusted to lower of cost and net realizable value, using the first-in, first-out method. The components of inventory cost include raw materials, labor and overhead. To estimate any necessary adjustments, various assumptions are made in regard to excess or slow-moving inventories, non-conforming inventories, expiration dates, current and future product demand, production planning and market conditions. If future demand and market conditions are less favorable than our assumptions, additional inventory adjustments could be required.

Self-Insurance Liabilities
 
We self-insure for certain employee medical benefits. The recorded liabilities for self-insured risks are calculated using actuarial methods and are not discounted. The liabilities include amounts for actual claims and claims incurred but not reported. Actual experience, including claim frequency and severity as well as health care inflation, could result in actual liabilities being more or less than the amounts currently recorded. We have secured commercial insurance for product liability related claims.


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Property, Plant and Equipment

Property, plant and equipment are recorded at cost less accumulated depreciation and amortization. Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the related assets. Estimated useful lives for buildings range from 20 to 50 years; building improvements range from 7 to 10 years; machinery and equipment range from 2 to 10 years; computer software and hardware range from 3 to 10 years; and furniture and fixtures range from 2 to 5 years. Leasehold improvements are amortized over the shorter of the lease term or the estimated useful lives of the related assets. Maintenance and repairs are expensed as incurred and major improvements are capitalized.
 
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets
 
We review our long-lived assets, such as property, plant and equipment and intangible assets for impairment when events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value of an asset may not be recoverable. It may use an estimate of future undiscounted net cash flows of the related assets or groups of assets over their remaining lives in measuring whether the assets are recoverable. An impairment loss is calculated by determining the difference between the carrying values and the fair values of these assets.

Incentive Trip Accrual
 
We accrue for expenses associated with our direct sales program, which rewards independent Managers and Distributors with paid attendance for incentive trips, including our conventions and meetings. Expenses associated with incentive trips are accrued over qualification periods as they are earned. We specifically analyze incentive trip accruals based on historical and current sales trends as well as contractual obligations when evaluating the adequacy of the incentive trip accrual. Actual results could generate liabilities more or less than the amounts recorded.
  
Contingencies
 
We are involved in certain legal proceedings. When a loss is considered probable in connection with litigation or non-income tax contingencies and when such loss can be reasonably estimated with a range, we record our best estimate within the range related to the contingency. If there is no best estimate, we record the minimum of the range. As additional information becomes available, we assess the potential liability related to the contingency and revise the estimates. Revision in estimates of the potential liabilities could materially affect our results of operations in the period of adjustment. Our contingencies are discussed in further detail in Note 10, “Commitments and Contingencies”, to the Notes of our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements, of Item 1, Part 1 of this report.
 
Income Taxes
 
Income tax expense, deferred tax assets and liabilities and contingent reserves reflect management’s best assessment of estimated future taxes to be paid. We are subject to income taxes in both the United States and numerous foreign jurisdictions. Significant judgments and estimates are required in determining our consolidated income tax expense.

Deferred income taxes arise from temporary differences between the tax and financial statement recognition of revenue and expense. In evaluating our ability to recover its deferred tax assets, management considers all available positive and negative evidence, including scheduled reversals of deferred tax liabilities, projected future taxable income, tax planning strategies and recent financial operations. In projecting future taxable income, we develop assumptions including the amount of future state, federal and foreign pretax operating income, the reversal of temporary differences, and the implementation of feasible and prudent tax planning strategies. These assumptions require significant judgment about the forecasts of future taxable income, and are consistent with the plans and estimates that we are using to manage the underlying businesses. Valuation allowances are recorded as reserves against net deferred tax assets by us when it is determined that net deferred tax assets are not likely to be realized in the foreseeable future.

Changes in tax laws and rates could also affect recorded deferred tax assets and liabilities in the future. Management is not aware of any such changes that would have a material effect on our results of operations, cash flows or financial position.

The calculation of our tax liabilities involves dealing with uncertainties in the application of complex tax laws and regulations in a multitude of jurisdictions across our global operations. Income tax positions must meet a more-likely-than-not recognition threshold to be recognized.


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Share-Based Compensation
 
We recognize all share-based payments to the Board of Directors and employees, including grants of stock options and restricted stock units, in the statement of operations based on their grant-date fair values. We record compensation expense over the vesting period of the stock options based on the fair value of the stock options on the date of grant.

Item 3            QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
 
We conduct business in several countries and intend to grow our international operations. Net sales, operating income and net income are affected by fluctuations in currency exchange rates, interest rates and other uncertainties inherent in doing business and selling product in more than one currency. In addition, our operations are exposed to risks associated with changes in social, political and economic conditions inherent in international operations, including changes in the laws and policies that govern international investment in countries where we have operations, as well as, to a lesser extent, changes in U.S. laws and regulations relating to international trade and investment. For further information, see Part II, Item 7A of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2018.
 
Item 4.         CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
 
Disclosure Controls and Procedures
 
Our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) under the Exchange Act) are designed to provide reasonable assurance that the information required to be disclosed in reports filed or submitted under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in rules and forms adopted by the SEC, and that such information is accumulated and communicated to management, including the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosures. Our management, under the supervision and with the participation of the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, evaluated the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures as of June 30, 2019. Based on this evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of June 30, 2019, at the reasonable assurance level.
 
Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting
 
There were no other changes in our internal controls over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 13a-15(f) under the Exchange Act) during the quarter ended June 30, 2019, that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.


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PART II OTHER INFORMATION
 
Item 1.                     LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
 
None.
 
Item 1A.            RISK FACTORS
 
In addition to the information set forth in this report, you should carefully consider the risks discussed under the heading “Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2018, which could have a material adverse effect on our business or consolidated financial statements, results of operations, and cash flows. Additional risks not currently known, or risks that are currently believed to be not material, may also impair business operations. There have been no material changes to our risk factors since the filing of its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2018.

Item 2.                     UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS
 
None
 
Item 3.                     DEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES
 
None.
 
Item 4.                     MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES

Not applicable.
 
Item 5.                     OTHER INFORMATION
 
None.

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Item 6.                     EXHIBITS
 
a)             Index to Exhibits
 
Item No.
 
Exhibit
3.1(1)
 
3.2(2)
 
31.1(3)
 
31.2(3)
 
32.1(3)
 
32.2(3)
 
101.INS
 
XBRL Instance Document
101.SCH
 
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document
101.CAL
 
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document
101.LAB
 
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document
101.PRE
 
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document
101.DEF
 
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document
_________________________________________

(1)
Previously filed as Exhibit 3.1 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on March 14, 2016, and incorporated herein by reference.
(2)
Previously filed as Exhibit 3.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on June 1, 2017, and incorporated herein by reference.
(3)
Filed currently herewith.


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SIGNATURES
 
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
 
Natures Sunshine Products, Inc.
 
 
 
Date:
August 8, 2019
/s/ Terrence O. Moorehead
 
 
Terrence O. Moorehead,
 
 
President and Chief Executive Officer
 
 
 
 
 
 
Date:
August 8, 2019
/s/ Joseph W. Baty
 
 
Joseph W. Baty,
 
 
Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer



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