NATURES SUNSHINE PRODUCTS INC - Quarter Report: 2021 March (Form 10-Q)

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UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

_________________________________________________________________

FORM 10-Q

(Mark One)

☒ QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the quarterly period ended March 31, 2021

☐ 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

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 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 ☒

						Emerging growth company ☐

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. 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 ☐ No ý.

The number of shares of Common Stock, no par value, outstanding on April 30, 2021, was 19,946,557 shares.

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NATURE’S SUNSHINE PRODUCTS, INC.

FORM 10-Q

For the Quarter Ended March 31, 2021

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Part I. Financial Information			4

	Item 1.	Financial Statements (Unaudited)	4

		Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets	4
		Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income	5
		Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income	6
		Condensed Consolidated Statement s of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity	7
		Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows	8
		Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements	9

	Item 2.	Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations	20

	Item 3.	Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk	27

	Item 4.	Controls and Procedures	27

Part II. Other Information			28

	Item 1.	Legal Proceedings	28

	Item 1A.	Risk Factors	28

	Item 2.	Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds	28

	Item 3.	Defaults Upon Senior Securities	28

	Item 4.	Mine Safety Disclosures	28

	Item 5.	Other Information	28

	Item 6.	Exhibits	29

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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, 2020, 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;

•registration of products for sale in foreign markets, or difficulty or increased cost of importing products into foreign markets;

•legal challenges to the Company's direct selling program or to the classification of its independent consultants;

•liabilities and obligations arising from improper activity by the Company’s independent consultants;

•product liability claims;

•our cannabidiol (CBD) product line is subject to varying, rapidly changing laws, regulations, and rules;

•actions on trade relations by the U.S. and foreign governments;

•impact of anti-bribery laws, including the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act;

•the Company’s ability to attract and retain independent consultants;

•the loss of one or more key independent consultants who have a significant sales network;

•the Company’s joint venture for operations in China with Fosun Industrial Co., Ltd.;

•the effect of fluctuating foreign exchange rates;

•failure of the Company’s independent consultants to comply with advertising laws;

•changes to the Company’s independent consultants compensation plans;

•geopolitical issues and conflicts;

•we may be adversely affected by the ongoing coronavirus pandemic;

•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;

•world-wide slowdowns and delays related to supply chain, ingredient shortages and logistical challenges;

•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;

•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; 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)


	March 31, 2021		December 31, 2020
Assets
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$	91,253	$	92,069
Accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $451 and $454, respectively	9,858		7,375


Inventories	46,510		47,683
Prepaid expenses and other	7,178		6,938
Total current assets	154,799		154,065

Property, plant and equipment, net	52,552		54,355
Operating lease right-of-use assets	18,884		20,210
Investment securities - trading	971		989

Deferred income tax assets	7,915		8,693
Other assets	10,710		11,186
Total assets	$	245,831	$	249,498

Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable	$	6,939	$	6,486
Accrued volume incentives and service fees	20,808		19,481
Accrued liabilities	25,104		31,710
Accrued dividends payable	19,858		—
Deferred revenue	1,673		2,092

Related party notes payable	1,221		1,200
Income taxes payable	1,678		2,387
Current portion of operating lease liabilities	4,629		4,992
Current portion of note payable	1,216		1,306
Total current liabilities	83,126		69,654

Liability related to unrecognized tax benefits	82		92
Long-term portion of operating lease liabilities	15,577		16,412

Long-term note payable	2,110		2,418
Deferred compensation payable	971		989
Deferred income tax liabilities	1,241		1,391
Other liabilities	1,226		1,308
Total liabilities	104,333		92,264



Shareholders’ equity:
Common stock, no par value, 50,000 shares authorized, 19,915 and 19,697 shares issued and outstanding, respectively	139,402		139,311
Retained earnings	10,188		26,030
Noncontrolling interest	1,984		1,848
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	(10,076)		(9,955)
Total shareholders’ equity	141,498		157,234
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity	$	245,831	$	249,498

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 March 31,
	2021		2020
Net sales	$	102,421	$	95,926
Cost of sales	26,979		24,681
Gross profit	75,442		71,245

Operating expenses:
Volume incentives	34,255		33,018
Selling, general and administrative	33,552		31,065
Operating income	7,635		7,162
Other loss, net	(1,933)		(2,410)
Income before provision for income taxes	5,702		4,752
Provision for income taxes	1,550		1,746
Net income	4,152		3,006
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests	136		44
Net income attributable to common shareholders	$	4,016	$	2,962

Basic and diluted net income per common share:




Basic earnings per share attributable to common shareholders	$	0.20	$	0.15




Diluted earnings per share attributable to common shareholders	$	0.20	$	0.15

Weighted average basic common shares outstanding	19,794		19,453
Weighted average diluted common shares outstanding	20,236		19,589

Dividends declared per common share	$	1.00	$	—

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

(Amounts in thousands)

(Unaudited)


	Three Months Ended March 31,
	2021		2020
Net income	$	4,152	$	3,006
Foreign currency translation loss (net of tax)	(121)		(109)



Total comprehensive income	$	4,031	$	2,897

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

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NATURE’S SUNSHINE PRODUCTS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

(Amounts in thousands)

(Unaudited)


	Common Stock			Retained Earnings		Noncontrolling Interest		Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss		Total
	Shares	Amount
Balance at January 1, 2021	19,697	$	139,311	$	26,030	$	1,848	$	(9,955)	$	157,234
Share-based compensation expense	—	1,005		—		—		—		1,005
Shares issued from the exercise of stock options and vesting of restricted stock units, net of shares exchanged for withholding tax	218	(914)		—		—		—		(914)
Cash dividends ($1.00 per share)	—	—		(19,858)		—		—		(19,858)
Net income	—	—		4,016		136		—		4,152
Other comprehensive loss	—	—		—		—		(121)		(121)
Balance at March 31, 2021	19,915	$	139,402	$	10,188	$	1,984	$	(10,076)	$	141,498


	Common Stock			Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit)		Noncontrolling Interest		Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss		Total
	Shares	Amount
Balance at January 1, 2020	19,410	$	135,741	$	4,693	$	227	$	(11,225)	$	129,436
Share-based compensation expense	—	394		—		—		—		394
Shares issued from the exercise of stock options and vesting of restricted stock units, net of shares exchanged for withholding tax	60	(159)		—		—		—		(159)
Net income	—	—		2,962		44		—		3,006
Other comprehensive loss	—	—		—		—		(109)		(109)
Balance at March 31, 2020	19,470	$	135,976	$	7,655	$	271	$	(11,334)	$	132,568

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)


	Three Months Ended March 31,
	2021		2020
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
Net income	$	4,152	$	3,006
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Provision for doubtful accounts	—		17
Depreciation and amortization	2,736		2,602
Non-cash lease expense	1,311		1,270
Share-based compensation expense	1,005		394
Tax benefit from the exercise of stock options	—		159
Loss on sale of property, plant and equipment	—		6
Deferred income taxes	561		249
Purchase of trading investment securities	(16)		(11)
Proceeds from sale of trading investment securities	175		73
Realized and unrealized (gains) losses on investments	(16)		96
Foreign exchange losses	1,529		2,400

Changes in assets and liabilities:
Accounts receivable	(2,689)		1,318
Inventories	536		234
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	(272)		165
Other assets	24		31
Accounts payable	598		704
Accrued volume incentives and service fees	1,644		4,356
Accrued liabilities	(6,248)		(2,206)
Deferred revenue	(394)		406
Lease liabilities	(1,170)		(1,187)
Income taxes payable	(699)		(335)
Liability related to unrecognized tax positions	(10)		(73)
Deferred compensation payable	(22)		(158)
Net cash provided by operating activities	2,735		13,516
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
Purchases of property, plant and equipment	(983)		(1,209)



Net cash used in investing activities	(983)		(1,209)
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:




Principal payments of long-term debt	(397)		—

Payments related to tax withholding for net-share settled equity awards	(914)		—
Tax benefit from exercise of stock options	—		(159)
Net cash used in financing activities	(1,311)		(159)
Effect of exchange rates on cash and cash equivalents	(1,257)		(1,632)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	(816)		10,516
Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the period	92,069		53,629
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the period	$	91,253	$	64,145
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION:
Cash paid for income taxes, net of refunds	$	2,026	$	1,224
Cash paid for interest	50		3

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 consultants 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 March 31, 2021, and for the three-month periods ended March 31, 2021 and 2020. 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, 2021.

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, 2020.

Use of Estimates

The preparation of consolidated financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“GAAP”) requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses, and related disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities, in these financial statements and accompanying notes. Actual results could differ from these estimates due to the uncertainty around the magnitude and duration of the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as other factors and those differences could have a material effect on our financial position and results of operations.

The significant accounting estimates inherent in the preparation of our financial statements include estimates associated with our determination of liabilities related to independent consultant incentives, the determination of income tax assets and liabilities, certain other non-income tax and value-added tax contingencies, and legal contingencies. In addition, significant estimates form the basis for allowances with respect to inventory valuations. Various assumptions and other factors enter into the determination of these significant estimates. The process of determining significant estimates takes into account historical experience and current and expected economic conditions.

Noncontrolling Interests

Noncontrolling interest changed as a result of the net income attributable to noncontrolling interest of $0.1 million and $44,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. As of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, noncontrolling interest was $2.0 million and $1.8 million, respectively.

Restructuring Related Accruals and Expenses

We recorded $48,000 and $0.1 million of restructuring related expenses during the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. Accrued severance and restructuring related costs were $0.1 million and $0.4 million as of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, respectively.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

In December 2019, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") No. 2019-12, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Simplifying the Accounting for Income Taxes. This ASU eliminates certain exceptions related to the approach for intraperiod tax allocation, the methodology for calculating taxes during the quarters and

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the recognition of deferred tax liabilities for outside basis differences. The amendments in this update are effective for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2020, with early adoption permitted. The adoption of this ASU did not have a significant impact on our Consolidated Financial Statements.

In March 2020, the FASB issued ASU No. 2020-04, Reference Rate Reform (Topic 848): Facilitation of the Effects of Reference Rate Reform on Financial Reporting. This ASU provides optional guidance for a limited period of time to ease the potential burden in accounting for (or recognizing the effects of) reference rate reform on financial reporting. The amendments in this update are elective and subject to meeting certain criteria, that have contracts, hedging relationships, and other transactions that reference LIBOR or another reference rate expected to be discontinued because of reference rate reform. This could affect balances of right of use assets, lease liabilities, and notes payables. The amendments in this update are effective as of March 12, 2020 through December 21, 2022. The adoption of this ASU is not expected to have a significant impact on our Consolidated Financial Statements.

(2) Inventories

The composition of inventories is as follows (dollar amounts in thousands):


	March 31, 2021		December 31, 2020
Raw materials	$	14,075	$	13,956
Work in progress	1,783		1,351
Finished goods	30,652		32,376
Total inventories	$	46,510	$	47,683

(3) Investment Securities - Trading

Our trading securities portfolio totaled $1.0 million at March 31, 2021, and $1.0 million at December 31, 2020; and generated gains of $16,000 and generated losses $0.1 million for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively.

(4) Revolving Credit Facility and Other Obligations

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 (the “Credit Agreement”). On June 11, 2020, the credit agreement was amended to extend the term to mature on July 1, 2023. The amendment also allows for additional borrowings of $15.0 million or up to three separate increases of no less than $5.0 million each. On March 8, 2021, we signed an amendment to the credit agreement that eliminates the Index floor from the calculation of interest. We pay interest on any borrowings under the Credit Agreement, which through March 8, 2021, was at LIBOR, or the Index floor of 0.75 percent, plus 2.25 percent (3.00 percent as of December 31, 2020), and an annual commitment fee of 0.25 percent on the unused portion of the commitment. Interest under the amended Credit Agreement is at LIBOR, plus 2.25 percent (2.36 percent as of March 31, 2021), and an annual commitment fee of 0.25 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 prior outstanding borrowings as non-current on our condensed consolidated balance sheet. At March 31, 2021, there was no outstanding balance under the Credit Agreement.

The Credit Agreement contains customary financial covenants, including financial covenants relating to our solvency and leverage. In addition, the Credit Agreement restricts certain capital expenditures, lease expenditures, other indebtedness, liens on assets, guarantees, loans and advances, dividends, mergers, consolidations and transfers 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 March 31, 2021, we were in compliance with the debt covenants set forth in the Credit Agreement.

On April 21, 2020, we entered into a credit agreement with Banc of America Leasing and Capital, LLC, with a borrowing limit of $6.0 million (the "Capital Credit Agreement"). On November 19, 2020, we executed on the Capital Credit Agreement and borrowed $3.7 million. We do not expect to make any additional borrowings under the Capital Credit Agreement. We pay interest on any borrowings under the Capital Credit Agreement at a fixed rate of 3.00 percent and are required to settle our borrowings under the Capital Credit Agreement in thirty-six monthly payments, of $0.1 million The Capital Credit Agreement is collateralized by any new equipment purchased under the agreement. As of March 31, 2021, there was $3.3 million outstanding under the Capital Credit Agreement, $1.2 million of which was classified as current.

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(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.

Following is a reconciliation of the numerator and denominator of Basic EPS to the numerator and denominator of Diluted EPS for the Three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020 (dollar and share amounts in thousands, except for per share information):


	Three Months Ended March 31,
	2021		2020



Net income attributable to common shareholders	$	4,016	$	2,962

Basic weighted average shares outstanding	19,794		19,453




Basic earnings per share attributable to common shareholders	$	0.20	$	0.15

Diluted shares outstanding:
Basic weighted-average shares outstanding	19,794		19,453
Stock-based awards	442		136
Diluted weighted-average shares outstanding	20,236		19,589




Diluted earnings per share attributable to common shareholders	$	0.20	$	0.15

Dilutive shares excluded from diluted-per-share amounts:
Stock options	629		850

Anti-dilutive shares excluded from diluted-per-share amounts:
Stock options	—		214

Potentially dilutive shares excluded from diluted-per-share amounts include performance-based restricted stock units ("RSU"), 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.

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We have also maintained a stock incentive plan, which was approved by shareholders in 2009 (the “2009 Incentive Plan"), which 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. As of March 31, 2021, there were no outstanding awards under the 2009 Incentive Plan.

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 three-month period ended March 31, 2021, is as follows (amounts in thousands, except per share information):


	Number of Shares	Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Share		Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Options outstanding at January 1, 2021	226	$	12.10	$	5.42
Granted	—	—		—
Forfeited or canceled	—	—		—
Exercised	(2)	11.98		6.16
Options outstanding at March 31, 2021	224	12.10		5.41

There was no share-based compensation expense for the three-month periods ended March 31, 2021 and 2020. As of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, there was no unrecognized share-based compensation expense related to the stock option grants described above.

At March 31, 2021, the aggregate intrinsic value of outstanding and exercisable stock options to purchase 224,000 shares of common stock was $1.8 million. At December 31, 2020, the aggregate intrinsic value of outstanding and exercisable options to purchase 226,000 shares of common stock was $0.7 million.

For the three-month period ended March 31, 2021, we issued 2,500 shares of common stock upon the exercise of stock options at an average exercise price of $11.98 per share. The aggregate intrinsic value of options exercised during the three-month periods ended March 31, 2021 was $19,000. For the three-month period ended March 31, 2021, the Company recognized $9,000 of tax benefits from the exercise of stock options. There were no stock options exercised during the three-month period ended March 31, 2020.

As of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, there were no unvested 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 up to 36 months from the RSU grant date, as well as performance-based RSUs, which vest upon achieving targets relating to revenue and earnings 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 March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, there were 92,000 and 82,000 vested RSUs, respectively, granted to the Board of Directors with a restriction period.

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Restricted stock unit activity for the three-month period ended March 31, 2021, is as follows (amounts in thousands, except per share information):


	Number of Shares	Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Restricted Stock Units outstanding at January 1, 2021	1,179	$	6.18
Granted	229	15.89
Forfeited	(30)	11.25
Issued	(291)	6.52
Restricted Stock Units outstanding at March 31, 2021	1,087	8.00

During the three-month period ended March 31, 2021, we granted 229,000 RSUs under the 2012 Incentive Plan to the 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 $18.34 per share and vest in annual installments over a three-year period from the grant date. The share-priced performance-based RSUs were issued with a weighted-average grant date fair value of $13.87 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 12.7 percent for a common share.

Share-price-performance RSU's market-value was 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 between 50.0 percent and 54.7 percent, and a range of risk-free rates of between 0.3 percent and 2.9 percent.

Share-based compensation expense for RSUs for the three-month periods ended March 31, 2021 and 2020, was approximately $0.4 million and $0.3 million, respectively. As of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, the unrecognized share-based compensation expense related to the grants described above, excluding incentive awards discussed below, was $2.7 million and $1.3 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 March 31, 2021 and 2020, was $0.4 million and $0.1 million, respectively. Should we attain all of the metrics related to performance-based RSU grants, we would recognize up to $2.7 million of potential share-based compensation expense. We currently expect to recognize an additional $2.6 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 75,000 and 22,000 shares for the three-month periods ended March 31, 2021 and 2020, 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.

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 by segment before consideration of certain inter-segment transfers and expenses.

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Reportable business segment information is as follows (dollar amounts in thousands):


	Three Months Ended March 31,
	2021		2020
Net sales:
Asia	$	35,755	$	30,958
Europe	22,200		20,627
North America	37,762		38,757
Latin America and Other	6,704		5,584
Total net sales	102,421		95,926

Contribution margin (1):
Asia	15,319		14,527
Europe	6,796		6,831
North America	15,440		14,419
Latin America and Other	3,632		2,450
Total contribution margin	41,187		38,227

Selling, general and administrative expenses (2)	33,552		31,065
Operating income	7,635		7,162

Other loss, net	(1,933)		(2,410)
Income before provision for income taxes	$	5,702	$	4,752

_________________________________________

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

(2) Service fees in China totaled $2.8 million and $1.9 million for the three-month periods ended March 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. 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-month periods ended March 31, 2021 and 2020, as follows (dollar amounts in thousands):


	Three Months Ended March 31,
	2021		2020
Net sales:
United States	$	34,920	$	35,839
South Korea	14,809		16,389
Other	52,692		43,698
	$	102,421	$	95,926

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Net sales generated by each of our product lines is set forth below (dollar amounts in thousands):


	Three Months Ended March 31,
	2021		2020
Asia
General health	$	11,292	$	9,046
Immune	203		201
Cardiovascular	9,903		9,339
Digestive	6,871		6,156
Personal care	2,524		3,005
Weight management	4,962		3,211
	35,755		30,958
Europe
General health	$	9,472	$	7,961
Immune	2,016		2,444
Cardiovascular	2,992		2,897
Digestive	5,540		4,931
Personal care	1,426		1,751
Weight management	754		643
	22,200		20,627
North America
General health	$	16,270	$	15,464
Immune	4,874		7,798
Cardiovascular	4,225		4,167
Digestive	9,463		8,241
Personal care	1,819		1,929
Weight management	1,111		1,158
	37,762		38,757
Latin America and Other
General health	$	1,976	$	1,614
Immune	811		809
Cardiovascular	478		378
Digestive	2,870		2,362
Personal care	345		252
Weight management	224		169
	6,704		5,584
	$	102,421	$	95,926

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):


	March 31, 2021		December 31, 2020
Property, plant and equipment:
United States	$	48,693	$	50,025
Other	3,859		4,330
Total property, plant and equipment, net	$	52,552	$	54,355

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


	March 31, 2021		December 31, 2020
Assets:
Asia	$	84,668	$	82,572
Europe	16,533		16,398
North America	135,710		142,324
Latin America and Other	8,920		8,204
Total assets	$	245,831	$	249,498

(8) Income Taxes

For the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020, our provision for income taxes, as a percentage of income before income taxes was 27.2 percent and 36.7 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 months ended March 31, 2021, was primarily attributed to transfer pricing adjustments and non-deductible executive compensation, partially offset by favorable deductions for stock compensation.

The difference between the effective tax rate and the U.S. federal statutory tax rate for the three months ended March 31, 2020, was primarily attributed to foreign losses during that period that were not expected to provide future tax benefit, as well as net unfavorable foreign tax related items.

The difference between the effective tax rate for the three months ended March 31, 2021 compared to March 31, 2020 is primarily caused by a decrease in tax liability associated with foreign losses during each period and favorable deductions for stock compensation.

Our U.S. federal income tax returns for 2017 through 2019 are open to examination for federal tax purposes. We have several foreign tax jurisdictions that have open tax years from 2015 through 2020.

As of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, we had accrued $0.1 million and $0.1 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 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.

(9) Commitments and Contingencies

Legal Proceedings

We are party to various legal proceedings and disputes. Management cannot predict the ultimate outcome of these matters, 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, insurance may not continue to be available at an acceptable cost to us, such coverage may not be sufficient to cover one or more large claims, or the insurers may 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

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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. As of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, accrued liabilities were $0.2 million and $0.2 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 $2.4 million.

Other Litigation

We are a party to various other legal proceedings and disputes in the United States and foreign jurisdictions. As of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, accrued liabilities were $0.5 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 $0.2 million.

(10) Related Party Transactions

During the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020, our joint venture in China, owned 80 percent by us and 20 percent by a wholly owned subsidiary of Fosun Pharma, did not borrow any amounts from the Company or our joint venture partner. As of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020 our joint venture in China held a note payable to the Company of $4.9 million and $4.8 million, respectively. As of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020 our joint venture held a note payable to our joint venture partner of $1.2 million and $1.2 million, respectively. These notes are payable in less than one year and bear interest of 3.0 percent. The note between the joint venture and the Company eliminates in consolidation.

(11) 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.

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 March 31, 2021 (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	$	971	$	—	$	—	$	971
Total assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis	$	971	$	—	$	—	$	971

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The following table presents our hierarchy for our assets, measured at fair value on a recurring basis, as of December 31, 2020 (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	$	989	$	—	$	—	$	989
Total assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis	$	989	$	—	$	—	$	989

Investment securities - trading — Our trading portfolio consists of various marketable securities that are valued using quoted prices in active markets.

For the three months ended March 31, 2021, and for the year ended December 31, 2020, 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 value of our debt approximates fair value due to its recent acquisition and short maturity. During the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020, we did not have any re-measurements of non-financial assets at fair value on a nonrecurring basis subsequent to their initial recognition.

(12) 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 we satisfy our 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 consultants 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 offer 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 consultants. 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 consultants for sales incentives or rebates related to their own purchases are recorded as a reduction of revenue. Some payments for sales incentives are processed daily; while others, including 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.

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The following table presents changes in these contract liability balances for the three-month period ended March 31, 2021 (U.S. dollars in thousands):


Outstanding at January 1, 2021	$	983
Increase (decrease) attributed to:
Customer loyalty net deferrals	258
Customer loyalty redemptions	(257)
Outstanding at March 31, 2021	$	984

The table above excludes liability for sales returns, as they are not significant.

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.

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.

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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, 2020, and our other reports filed since the date of such Form 10-K.

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 consultants who use the products themselves or resell them to consumers.

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

In or about December 2019, a novel strain of coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2 "COVID-19", began aggressively spreading throughout the world, including all the primary markets where we conduct business. As COVID-19 has spread throughout the world, it has impacted our markets differently. At various times during the course of the pandemic and throughout our markets, governments have issued orders and restrictions that have limited the ability of our consultants to meet with consumers, put downward pressure on our sales in many of our markets and added substantial uncertainties to our global supply chain. However, despite such restrictions, we experienced an increase in sales during the first quarter due primarily to increased demand for nutritional supplements. Although we are taking appropriate actions to mitigate the effects COVID-19 may have on our business, such actions may ultimately be insufficient to avoid substantial impact on the consolidated financial statement or material health of the Company. At this time, the duration of any business disruption and related financial impact cannot be reasonably estimated.

In the first quarter of 2021, we experienced an increase in our consolidated net sales of 6.8 percent (or 4.0 percent in local currencies) compared to the same period in 2020. Asia net sales increased approximately 15.5 percent (or 9.1 percent in local currencies) compared to the same period in 2020. Europe net sales increased approximately 7.6 percent (or 4.6 percent in local currencies) compared to the same period in 2020. North America net sales decreased approximately 2.6 percent (or 3.0 percent in local currencies) compared to the same period in 2020. Latin America and Other net sales increased approximately 20.1 percent (or 21.1 percent in local currencies) compared to the same period in 2020. The weakening of the U.S. dollar versus the local currencies, primarily in our Asian and European markets, resulted in an approximate 2.8 percent, or $2.7 million, increase of our net sales during the quarter.

Selling, general and administrative expenses during the three months ended March 31, 2021, increased $2.5 million compared to the same period in 2020, and increased as a percentage of net sales to 32.8 percent from 32.4 percent in 2020. The increase was primarily related to increased selling costs intended to drive growth, as well as growth in markets with higher variable costs.

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 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.

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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 March 31, 2021 and 2020 (dollar amounts in thousands):


	Three Months Ended March 31, 2021				Three Months Ended March 31, 2020				Change
	Total dollars		Percent of net sales		Total dollars		Percent of net sales		Total dollars		Percentage
Net sales	$	102,421	100.0	%	$	95,926	100.0	%	$	6,495	6.8	%
Cost of sales	26,979		26.3		24,681		25.7		2,298		9.3
Gross profit	75,442		73.7		71,245		74.3		4,197		5.9
Volume incentives	34,255		33.4		33,018		34.4		1,237		3.7
SG&A expenses	33,552		32.8		31,065		32.4		2,487		8.0
Operating income	7,635		7.5		7,162		7.5		473		6.6
Other income (loss), net	(1,933)		(1.9)		(2,410)		(2.5)		477		19.8
Income before income taxes	5,702		5.6		4,752		5.0		950		20.0
Provision (benefit) for income taxes	1,550		1.5		1,746		1.8		(196)		(11.2)
Net income	$	4,152	4.1	%	$	3,006	3.1	%	$	1,146	38.1	%

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 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.

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 March 31, 2021 and 2020 (dollar amounts in thousands):


	Net Sales by Operating Segment
	Three Months Ended March 31, 2021		Three Months Ended March 31, 2020		Percent Change		Impact of Currency Exchange		Percent Change Excluding Impact of Currency
Asia	$	35,755	$	30,958	15.5	%	$	1,973	9.1	%
Europe	22,200		20,627		7.6		621		4.6
North America	37,762		38,757		(2.6)		156		(3.0)
Latin America and Other	6,704		5,584		20.1		(57)		21.1
	$	102,421	$	95,926	6.8	%	$	2,693	4.0	%

Consolidated net sales for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020, were $102.4 million and $95.9 million, respectively, which represents an increase of 6.8 percent. The increase was primarily related to notable product sales growth in all of our operating segments. Excluding the impact of foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations, consolidated net sales for the three months ended March 31, 2021, increased 4.0 percent from the same period in 2020.

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Asia

Net sales related to Asia for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020, were $35.8 million and $31.0 million, respectively, or an increase of 15.5 percent. In local currency, net sales for the three months ended March 31, 2021, increased 9.1 percent compared to the same period in 2020.

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

In our South Korea market, net sales decreased $1.6 million, or 9.6 percent, for the three months ended March 31, 2021, compared to the same period in 2020. In local currency, net sales for the three months ended March 31, 2021, decreased 15.6 percent, compared to the same period in 2020. The decrease for the three months ended March 31, 2021, was primarily the result of government restrictions and social distancing measures in the market intended to slow the spread of COVID-19 that limited independent consultant meetings.

In our Japan market, net sales increased $2.5 million, or 48.1 percent, for the three months ended March 31, 2021, compared to the same period in 2020. In local currencies, net sales for the three months ended March 31, 2021, increased 43.9 percent, compared to the same period in 2020. We attribute the growth in net sales primarily to product promotions intended to stimulate activity which had a positive impact on market sales volume.

In our China market, net sales increased $2.7 million, or 48.2 percent, for the three months ended March 31, 2021, respectively, compared to the same period in 2020. In local currencies, net sales for the three months ended March 31, 2021, increased 38.4 percent, compared to the same period in 2020. We attribute the growth in net sales primarily to initiatives designed to increase independent service providers’ engagement levels and gain market share.

Europe

Net sales related to Europe for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020, were $22.2 million and $20.6 million, respectively, or an increase of 7.6 percent. In local currency, net sales for the three months ended March 31, 2021, increased 4.6 percent, compared to the same period in 2020. 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 $0.6 million favorable impact on net sales for the three months ended March 31, 2021. 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 consultant engagement.

North America

Net sales related to North America for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020, were $37.8 million and $38.8 million, or a decrease of 2.6 percent. In local currency, net sales for the three months ended March 31, 2021, decreased 3.0 percent, compared to the same period in 2020.

In the United States, net sales decreased $0.9 million, or 2.6 percent, for the three months ended March 31, 2021, compared to the same period in 2020. The decrease in the market is largely due to a strong buy up during the three months ended March 31, 2020 in response to the spread of COVID-19.

Latin America and Other

Net sales related to Latin America and Other markets for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020, were $6.7 million and $5.6 million, respectively, or an increase of 20.1 percent. In local currency, net sales for the three months ended March 31, 2021, increased 21.1 percent, compared to the same period in 2020. Fluctuations in foreign currency had a $0.1 million unfavorable impact on net sales for the three months ended March 31, 2021. We attribute the growth in net sales primarily to the result of changes in the independent consultant compensation plan as well as an increase in demand for nutritional supplements in response to the spread of COVID-19.

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.

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Cost of Sales

Cost of sales as a percent of net sales was 26.3 percent and 25.7 percent, for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. The increase in cost of sales percentage is due primarily to additional inventory reserves and unfavorable changes in market mix.

Volume Incentives

Volume incentives expense as a percent of net sales was 33.4 percent and 34.4 percent for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. These payments are designed to provide incentives for reaching certain sales levels. Volume incentives vary slightly, on a percentage basis, by product due to pricing policies and commission plans in place in our 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 three months ended March 31, 2021 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 increased by $2.5 million, to $33.6 million for the three months ended March 31, 2021, compared to the same period in 2020. Selling, general and administrative expenses were 32.8 percent and 32.4 percent of net sales for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. The increase in selling, general and administrative expenses for the three months ended March 31, 2021, was primarily related to increased selling costs intended to drive growth, as well as growth in markets with higher variable costs.

Other Income (Loss), Net

Other income (loss), net, for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020, were losses of $1.9 million and $2.4 million, respectively. Other income (loss), for the three months ended March 31, 2021 primarily consisted of foreign exchange gains and losses as a result of net changes in foreign currencies primarily in Asia, Europe and Latin America.

Income Taxes

The difference between the effective tax rate and the U.S. federal statutory tax rate for the three months ended March 31, 2020, was primarily attributed foreign losses during that period that were not expected to provide future tax benefit, as well as net unfavorable foreign tax related items.

Our U.S. federal income tax returns for 2017 through 2019 are open to examination for federal tax purposes. We have several foreign tax jurisdictions that have open tax years from 2015 through 2020.

As of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, we had accrued $0.1 million and $0.1 million, respectively, related to unrecognized tax positions.

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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 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 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 months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020, by business segment.

Distribution and Marketing

We market our products primarily through our network of independent consultants, who market our products to customers through direct selling techniques and sponsor other independent consultants who also market our products to customers. We seek to motivate and provide incentives to our independent consultants by offering high quality products and providing independent consultants 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 consultants. 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 force of independent consultants.

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 consultants 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 March 31, 2021 and 2020, 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 product sales are eligible for additional incentive programs including automobile allowances, sales convention privileges and travel awards.

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 March 31, 2021, working capital was $71.7 million, compared to $84.4 million as of December 31, 2020. At March 31, 2021, we had $91.3 million in cash, of which $35.8 million was held in the U.S. and $55.5 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):


	Three Months Ended March 31,
	2021		2020
Operating activities	$	2,735	$	13,516
Investing activities	(983)		(1,209)
Financing activities	(1,311)		(159)

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Operating Activities

For the three months ended March 31, 2021, operating activities provided cash of $2.7 million, compared to $13.5 million in the same period in 2020. Operating cash flows decreased primarily due to the timing of changes in accounts receivable, accrued liabilities, and accrued volume incentives and service fees.

Investing Activities

For the three months ended March 31, 2021, investing activities used cash of $1.0 million, compared to $1.2 million for the same period in 2020. Capital expenditures related to the purchase of equipment, computer systems and software for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020, were $1.0 million and $1.2 million, respectively.

Financing Activities

For the three months ended March 31, 2021, financing activities used cash of $1.3 million, compared to $0.2 million for the same period in 2020. Financing cash used increased primarily due to payments related to tax withholding for net-share settled equity awards.

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 (the “Credit Agreement”). On June 11, 2020 the credit agreement was amended to extend the term to mature on July 1, 2023. The amendment also allows for additional borrowings of $15.0 million or up to three separate increases of no less than $5.0 million each. On March 8, 2021, we signed an amendment to the credit agreement that eliminates the Index floor from the calculation of interest. We pay interest on any borrowings under the Credit Agreement, which through March 8, 2021, was at LIBOR, or the Index floor of 0.75 percent, plus 2.25 percent (3.00 percent as of December 31, 2020), and an annual commitment fee of 0.25 percent on the unused portion of the commitment. Interest under the amended Credit Agreement is at LIBOR, plus 2.25 percent (2.36 percent as of March 31, 2021), and an annual commitment fee of 0.25 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 prior outstanding borrowings as non-current on our condensed consolidated balance sheet. At March 31, 2021, there was no outstanding balance under the Credit Agreement.

On April 21, 2020, we entered into a credit agreement with Banc of America Leasing and Capital, LLC, with a borrowing limit of $6.0 million (the "Capital Credit Agreement"). On November 19, 2020, we executed on the Capital Credit Agreement and borrowed $3.7 million. We do not expect to make any additional borrowings under the Capital Credit Agreement. We pay interest on any borrowings under the Capital Credit Agreement at a fixed rate of 3.00 percent and are required to settle our borrowings under the Capital Credit Agreement in thirty-six monthly payments, each equal to $0.1 million The Capital Credit Agreement is collateralized by any new equipment purchased under the agreement. As of March 31, 2021, there was $3.3 million outstanding balance under the Capital Credit Agreement, $1.2 million of which was classified as current.

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 allocation considerations and capital expenditures, on both a short- and long-term basis.

In addition, other things such as 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.

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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, 2020. 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 12, “Revenue Recognition,” to our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 1, Part 1 of this report.

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.

Incentive Trip Accrual

We accrue for expenses associated with our direct sales program, which rewards independent consultants 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 and disputes. 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

Our provision for income taxes, 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 provision for income taxes.

Deferred income taxes arise from temporary differences between the tax and financial statement recognition of revenue and expense. In evaluating our ability to recover our deferred tax assets, management considers all available positive and negative evidence, including scheduled reversals of deferred tax liabilities, projected future taxable income, tax planning

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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.

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, 2020.

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 March 31, 2021. Based on this evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of March 31, 2021, at the reasonable assurance level.

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

There were no changes in our internal controls over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 13a-15(f) under the Exchange Act) during the quarter ended March 31, 2021, 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, 2020, 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, 2020.

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
31.1(1)						Certification of Chief Executive Officer under SEC Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) promulgated under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
31.2(1)						Certification of Chief Financial Officer under SEC Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) promulgated under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
32.1(1)						Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350 Chief Executive Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350
32.2(1)						Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350 Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350
101.INS						Inline XBRL Instance Document
101.SCH						Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document
101.CAL						Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document
101.LAB						Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document
101.PRE						Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document
101.DEF						Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document
104						Cover page Interactive Data File (the cover page XBRL tags are embedded within iXBRL (Inline Extensible Business Reporting Language) document)

_________________________________________

(1) 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.


Nature’s Sunshine Products, Inc.






Date:	May 6, 2021	/s/ Terrence O. Moorehead
		Terrence O. Moorehead,
		President and Chief Executive Officer


Date:	May 6, 2021	/s/ Joseph W. Baty
		Joseph W. Baty,
		Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer