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SHOE CARNIVAL INC - Annual Report: 2014 (Form 10-K)

 

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

Form 10-K

 

(Mark One)    
x   Annual report pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
    For the fiscal year ended:   February 1, 2014
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: 0-21360
Shoe Carnival, Inc.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

Indiana   35-1736614

(State or other jurisdiction of

incorporation or organization)

  (IRS Employer Identification Number) 

7500 East Columbia Street

Evansville, IN

  47715
(Address of principal executive offices)   (Zip code)

 

(812) 867-6471
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)
 
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

 

Common Stock, $.01 par value   The NASDAQ Stock Market LLC
(Title of Each Class)   (Name of Each Exchange on Which Registered)
 
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None

 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.

 

  o Yes   x No

 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Exchange Act.

 

  o Yes   x No

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.

 

  x Yes   o No

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted 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).

 

  x Yes   o No

 

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

 

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

 

o Large accelerated filer x Accelerated filer o Non-accelerated filer o Smaller reporting company

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).

 

  o Yes   x No

 

The aggregate market value of the voting stock held by non-affiliates of the registrant based on the last sale price for such stock at August 3, 2013 (the last business day of the registrant’s most recently completed second fiscal quarter) was approximately $403,127,460 (assuming solely for the purposes of this calculation that all Directors and executive officers of the registrant are “affiliates”).

 

Number of Shares of Common Stock, $.01 par value, outstanding at April 4, 2014 was 20,681,134.

 

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

 

Certain information contained in the Definitive Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Shareholders of the Registrant to be held on June 12, 2014 is incorporated by reference into PART III hereof.

 

 
 

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

PART I    
     
Item 1. Business 2
Item 1A. Risk Factors 9
Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments 15
Item 2. Properties 15
Item 3. Legal Proceedings 16
Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures 17
     
PART II    
     
Item 5. Market for the Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities 17
Item 6. Selected Financial Data 19
Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations 20
Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk 30
Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data 30
Item 9. Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure 52
Item 9A. Controls and Procedures 52
Item 9B. Other Information 55
     
PART III    
     
Item 10. Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance 55
Item 11. Executive Compensation 55
Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters 55
Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence 55
Item 14. Principal Accountant Fees and Services 55
     
PART IV    
     
Item 15. Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules 56

 

 
 

 

Shoe Carnival, Inc.

Evansville, Indiana

 

Annual Report to Securities and Exchange Commission

February 1, 2014

 

PART I

 

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information

 

This annual report contains forward-looking statements, within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, that involve a number of risks and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause our actual results, performance, achievements or industry results to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. These factors include, but are not limited to: general economic conditions in the areas of the continental United States and Puerto Rico in which our stores are located; the effects and duration of economic downturns and unemployment rates; changes in the overall retail environment and more specifically in the apparel and footwear retail sectors; our ability to generate increased sales at our stores; the potential impact of national and international security concerns on the retail environment; changes in our relationships with key suppliers; the impact of competition and pricing; our ability to successfully manage and execute our marketing initiatives and maintain positive brand perception and recognition; changes in weather patterns, consumer buying trends and our ability to identify and respond to emerging fashion trends; the impact of disruptions in our distribution or information technology operations; the effectiveness of our inventory management; the impact of hurricanes or other natural disasters on our stores, as well as on consumer confidence and purchasing in general; risks associated with the seasonality of the retail industry; the impact of unauthorized disclosure or misuse of personal and confidential information about our customers, vendors and employees; our ability to manage our third-party vendor relationships; our ability to successfully execute our growth strategy, including the availability of desirable store locations at acceptable lease terms, our ability to open new stores in a timely and profitable manner, including our entry into major new markets, and the availability of sufficient funds to implement our growth plans; higher than anticipated costs associated with the closing of underperforming stores; our ability to successfully grow our e-commerce business; the inability of manufacturers to deliver products in a timely manner; changes in the political and economic environments in China, Brazil, Europe and East Asia, where the primary manufacturers of footwear are located; the impact of regulatory changes in the United States and the countries where our manufacturers are located; the continued favorable trade relations between the United States and China and the other countries which are the major manufacturers of footwear; the resolution of litigation or regulatory proceedings in which we are or may become involved; and our ability to meet our labor needs while controlling costs. See ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS of this report.

 

ITEM 1.BUSINESS

 

Shoe Carnival, Inc. is one of the nation’s largest family footwear retailers, providing the convenience of shopping at any of our more than 370 store locations or online. We offer customers a broad assortment of moderately priced dress, casual and athletic footwear for men, women and children with emphasis on national and regional name brands. We differentiate our retail concept from our competitors’ by our distinctive, highly promotional marketing efforts. On average, our stores are 11,000 square feet, generate approximately $2.4 million in annual sales and carry inventory of approximately 28,800 pairs of shoes per location. As of February 1, 2014, we operated 376 stores in 32 states and Puerto Rico and offered online shopping at www.shoecarnival.com.

 

We are an Indiana corporation that was initially formed in Delaware in 1993 and reincorporated in Indiana in 1996. References to “we,”“us,”“our” and the “Company” in this Annual Report on Form 10-K refer to Shoe Carnival, Inc. and its subsidiaries.

 

Key Competitive Strengths

 

We believe our financial success is due to a number of key competitive strengths that make Shoe Carnival a destination of choice for today’s retail consumer.

 

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Distinctive shopping experience

 

Our stores combine competitive pricing with a highly promotional, in-store marketing effort that encourages customer participation and injects fun and surprise into every shopping experience. We promote a high-energy retail environment by decorating with exciting graphics and bold colors, and by featuring a stage and mic-person as the focal point in each store. With a microphone, this mic-person announces current specials, organizes contests and games, and assists and educates customers with the features and location of merchandise. Our mic-person offers limited-duration promotions throughout the day, encouraging customers to take immediate advantage of our value pricing. We believe this highly promotional atmosphere results in various competitive advantages, including increased multiple unit sales; the building of a loyal, repeat customer base; the creation of word-of-mouth advertising; and enhanced sell-through of in-season goods. The same excitement and spontaneity is reflected in our e-commerce site through special promotions and limited time sales, along with relevant fashion stories featured on our home page.

 

Broad merchandise assortment

 

Our objective is to be the destination retailer-of-choice for a wide range of consumers seeking value priced, current season name brand and private label footwear. Our product assortment includes dress and casual shoes, sandals, boots and a wide assortment of athletic shoes for the entire family. Our average store carries approximately 28,800 pairs of shoes in four general categories – women’s, men’s, children’s and athletics– which are organized within the store by category and brand, thus fashioning strong brand statements within the aisles. We engage our customers by presenting creative branded merchandise statements and signage upon entering our stores. Key brands are further emphasized by prominent displays on end caps, focal walls, and within the aisles. These displays may highlight a product offering of a single vendor, highlight sales promotions, advertise promotional pricing to meet or beat competitors’ sale prices or may make a seasonal or lifestyle statement by highlighting similar footwear from multiple vendors. These visual merchandising techniques make it easier for customers to shop and focus attention on key name brands. Our e-commerce site offers customers an opportunity to choose from a large selection of products in all of the same categories of footwear with a depth of sizes and colors that may not be available in some of our smaller stores, and introduces our concept to consumers who are new to Shoe Carnival, in both existing and new markets. Customers who enroll in our loyalty program (“Shoe Perks”) or register on our website to receive e-mail communication receive periodic personalized e-mail communication from us. This communication affords us additional opportunity to highlight our broad product assortment.

 

Value pricing for our customers

 

Our marketing effort targets moderate income, value conscious consumers seeking name brand footwear for all age groups. We believe that by offering a wide selection of popular styles of name brand merchandise at competitive prices, we generate broad customer appeal. Additionally, the time conscious customer appreciates the convenience of one stop shopping for the entire family, whether it is at any of our more than 370 store locations or online at shoecarnival.com. We also believe our highly promotional shopping environment contributes to a reputation of value pricing.

 

Efficient store level cost structure

 

Our cost efficient store operations and real estate strategy enable us to price products competitively. We achieve low labor costs by housing merchandise directly on the selling floor in an open stock format, allowing customers to serve themselves, if they choose. This reduces the staffing required to assist customers and reduces store level labor costs as a percentage of sales. We locate stores predominantly in open-air shopping centers in order to take advantage of lower occupancy costs and maximize our exposure to value oriented shoppers.

 

Heavy reliance on information technology

 

We have invested significant resources in information technology. Our proprietary inventory management and advanced point-of-sale (“POS”) systems provide corporate management, buyers and store managers with the timely information necessary to monitor and control all phases of operations. The POS provides, in addition to other features, full price management (including price look-up), promotion tracking capabilities (in support of the

 

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spontaneous nature of the in-store price promotions), real-time sales and gross margin by product category at the store level and customer tracking. Using the POS, store managers are able to monitor sales and gross profit margins on a real-time basis throughout the day. Reacting to sales trends, our mic-people use POS reports to choose from among a number of product promotions supplied by our centralized merchandising staff.

 

Our centralized network connects our corporate office to our distribution center and retail stores via a wide area network, providing up-to-date sales and inventory information as required. Our data warehouse enables our merchandising and store operations staff to analyze sales, margin and inventory levels by location, by day, down to the size of shoe. Using this information, our merchandise managers meet regularly with vendors to compare their product sales, gross margins and return on inventory investment against previously stated objectives. We believe timely access to key business data has enabled us in the past to drive annual comparable store sales increases, manage our markdown activity and improve inventory turnover.

 

Growth Strategy

 

Our goal is to continue to grow our net sales and earnings by opening additional stores throughout the United States and Puerto Rico and growing our e-commerce business. On February 1, 2014, we operated 376 stores located across 32 states. Our stores averaged approximately 11,000 square feet, ranging in size from 6,000 to 26,500 square feet. Our current store prototype utilizes between 8,000 and 12,000 square feet, depending upon, among other factors, the location of the store and the population base we expect the store to service. Our stores are located predominantly in open-air shopping centers. The sales area of most stores is approximately 85%of the gross store size.

 

   Historical Store Count 
Fiscal Years  2013   2012   2011   2010   2009 
                     
Stores open at the beginning of the year   351    327    314    311    304 
                          
New store openings   32    31    17    10    16 
                          
Store closings   7    7    4    7    9 
                          
Stores open at the end of the year   376    351    327    314    311 
                          
Stores relocated   9    6    9    3    1 
Percentage of store base remodeled   9%   5%   8%   4%   1%

 

Since the launch of our e-commerce site in the fall of fiscal 2011, we have continued to commit resources to evolve our digital presence and provide our customer with the convenience of a 24/7 shopping environment. We believe our e-commerce site represents an additional long-term growth vehicle for us and, along with our social media efforts, provides us with an opportunity to acquire national brand exposure by introducing Shoe Carnival to new customers and markets.

 

Expanding our store base both in number of stores, as well as geographic footprint

 

Increasing market penetration by opening new stores is a key component of our growth strategy. We believe our strong unleveraged financial position provides a solid platform for additional growth. For fiscal 2013, we opened 32 new stores and closed seven stores. Approximately 80% of these new store locations served to fill-in certain under-penetrated markets with additional stores, with the goal of increasing the performance of the overall market. The remaining 20% of our new store openings were in seven new smaller markets. For fiscal 2014, we expect to open approximately 30 to 35 stores. Our planned new store expansion for fiscal 2014 includes locations serving to fill-in existing markets as well as locations in three new major markets – Buffalo, Detroit and Miami.

 

Critical to the success of opening new stores in larger markets or geographic areas is our ability to cluster stores. In larger markets (populations greater than 400,000), clustering involves opening two or more stores at approximately the same time, and in smaller markets that can only support a single store, clustering involves seeking locations in reasonably close proximity to other existing markets. This strategy creates cost efficiencies by enabling us to leverage store expenses with respect to advertising, distribution and management costs. We believe the advantages

 

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of clustering stores in existing markets will lead to cost efficiencies and overall incremental sales gains that should more than offset any adverse effect on sales of existing stores.

 

We lease all store locations, as we believe the flexibility afforded by leasing allows us to avoid the inherent risks of owning real estate, particularly with respect to under-performing stores. Before entering a new market, we perform a market, demographic and competition analysis to evaluate the suitability of the potential market. Potential store site selection criteria include, among other factors, market demographics, traffic counts, the tenant mix of a potential open-air shopping center, visibility within the center and from major thoroughfares, overall retail activity of the area and proposed lease terms. The time required to open a store after signing a lease depends primarily upon the property owner’s ability to deliver the premises. After we accept the premises from the property owner in turnkey condition, we can generally open a store within 60 days.

 

Merchandising and Pricing

 

We offer a large selection of value priced footwear for the entire family. Our stores carry an average of approximately 28,800 pairs of shoes featuring a broad assortment of current-season name brand footwear, supplemented with private label merchandise. Our stores also carry complementary accessories such as handbags, shoe care items and socks. The mix of merchandise and the brands offered in a particular store reflect the demographics of each market, among other factors. Online, we offer a large selection of product in all categories with a depth of sizes and colors that may not be available in some of our smaller stores.

 

Initial pricing levels are typically established in accordance with the manufacturer’s suggested retail pricing structure. Subsequent to this initial pricing, our buying staff manages our markdown cadence based on product-specific sell-through rates to achieve liquidation of inventory within the natural lifecycle of the product. We emphasize our value proposition to customers by combining current season name brand product with promotional pricing. Our promotions include both advertised limited time sale offerings in addition to in-store timed specials.

 

The table below sets forth our percentage of sales by product category:

 

Fiscal Years  2013   2012   2011   2010   2009 
Women’s   26%   26%   26%   26%   26%
Men’s   15    15    16    16    15 
Children’s (1)   18    17    17    17    17 
Athletics (2)   37    38    37    37    38 
Accessories and miscellaneous items   4    4    4    4    4 
    100%   100%   100%   100%   100%

 

(1)Children’s includes children’s athletic shoes.
(2)Includes men’s and women’s sizes only.

 

Women’s, men’s and children’s non-athletic footwear categories are further divided into dress, casual, sport, sandals and boots. We classify athletic shoes by functionality, such as running, basketball or fitness shoes. For the fiscal years presented, athletic styles, including children’s sizes, have represented approximately half of our footwear sales.

 

During fiscal 2013, we renewed our focus on growing our women’s category at a rate higher than the balance of our other footwear categories. We believe that development of new brand relationships will play a vital role in achieving this goal, and we were able to successfully introduce a number of better brands into our fall 2013 women’s assortment. For fiscal 2014, we planto fund the delivery of a meaningful assortment of these new brands throughout the fiscal year and will continue to work toward our long-term goal of having our women’s category represent 30% of our business.

 

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Building Brand Awareness

 

Our goal is to communicate a consistent brand image across all aspects of our operations. We utilize a blend of advertising mediums and marketing methods to communicate who we are and the values we offer. Special emphasis is made to highlight brands as well as specific styles of product, and visual graphics are used extensively in our stores to emphasize the lifestyle aspect of the styles we carry. The use of social media has become an increasingly important medium in our digital marketing efforts, allowing us to directly communicate, as well as advertise, to our core customers. For fiscal 2013, approximately 43% of our total advertising budget was directed to television, radio and digital media. Print media (including inserts, direct mail and newspaper advertising) and outdoor advertising accounted for the balance. We make a special effort to utilize the cooperative advertising dollars and collateral offered by vendors whenever possible. During fiscal 2014, we plan to modify our marketing strategy to begin incorporating the utilization of advertisements on national cable television. This change in marketing strategy will serve to deliver a balanced mix of both branding and seasonal product messaging across the year beginning with the Easter selling season.

 

In addition to a dynamic, lively and fun shopping experience, we offer our customers our Shoe Perksrewards program. This program provides customers with a heightened shopping experience, which includes exclusive offers and personalized messaging. Rewards are earned by making purchases either in-store or online and through participating in other point earning opportunities that facilitate engagement with our brand. In fiscal 2013, through a focused effort on enrollment at the point-of-sale, our Shoe Perks rewards program membership doubled, with purchases from Shoe Perks members increasing to 20% of our net sales. We believe our Shoe Perks program affords us tremendous opportunity to communicate, build relationships and engage with our most loyal shoppers, which we believe will result in long-term sales gains.

 

We strive to make each store opening a major retail event. Major promotions during grand openings and peak selling periods feature contests and prize giveaways. We believe our grand openings help establish the high-energy, promotional atmosphere that develops a loyal, repeat customer base and generates word-of-mouth advertising.

 

Distribution

 

We operate a single 410,000 square foot distribution center located in Evansville, Indiana. Our facility is leased from a third party and can support the processing and distribution needs of a minimum of 460 stores to facilitate future growth. We have the right to expand the facility by 200,000 square feet, which would provide us processing capacity to support approximately 650 stores.

 

Our distribution center is equipped with state-of-the-art processing and product movement equipment. The facility utilizes cross docking/store replenishment and redistribution methods to fill store product requirements. These methods may include count verification, price and bar code labeling of each unit (when not performed by the manufacturer), redistribution of an order into size assortments (when not performed by the manufacturer) and allocation of shipments to individual stores. Throughout packing, allocating, storing and shipping, our distribution process is essentially paperless. Merchandise is typically shipped to each store location once per week. For stores within the continental United States, a dedicated carrier, with occasional use of common carriers, handles the majority of shipments. Our shipments to Puerto Rico are loaded for containerized overseas shipment, with final delivery by a third party provider.

 

During fiscal 2013, we utilized a third party fulfillment agent located in southwestern Ohio to provide comprehensive fulfillment services for our e-commerce site. They were supplied with merchandise from our distribution center on a weekly basis. During fiscal 2014, we plan to begin fulfilling our e-commerce orders from both our own distribution center and a percentage of our stores.

 

Buying Operations

 

Maintaining fresh, fashionable merchandise is critical to our success. Our buyers stay in touch with evolving trends by shopping fashion-leading markets, attending national trade shows, gathering vendor input and monitoring the current styles shown in leading fashion and lifestyle magazines. Management of the purchasing function is the

 

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responsibility of our Executive Vice President - General Merchandise Manager. Management encourages store operations personnel to provide input to our merchandising staff regarding market specific fashion trends.

 

We purchase merchandise from approximately 180 footwear vendors. In fiscal 2013, two branded suppliers, Nike USA, Inc. and Skechers USA, Inc., collectively accounted for over 38% of our net sales. Nike USA, Inc. accounted for over 28%of our net sales and Skechers USA, Inc. accounted for approximately 10%. Name brand suppliers also provide us with cooperative advertising and visual merchandising funds. A loss of any of our key suppliers in certain product categories or our inability to obtain name brand or other merchandise from suppliers at competitive prices could have a material adverse effect on our business. As is common in the industry, we do not have any long-term contracts with our suppliers.

 

Competition

 

The retail footwear business is highly competitive. We believe the principal competitive factors in our industry are merchandise selection, price, fashion, quality, location, shopping environment and service. We compete with department stores, shoe stores, sporting goods stores, online retailers and mass merchandisers. Our specific competitors vary from market to market. We compete with most department stores and traditional shoe stores by offering competitive prices. We compete with off-price retailers, mass merchandisers and discount stores by offering a wider and deeper selection of merchandise.

 

Many of our competitors are significantly larger and have substantially greater resources. However, we believe that our distinctive retail format, in combination with our wide merchandise selection, competitive prices and low operating costs, enables us to compete effectively.

 

Store Operations

 

Management of store operations is the responsibility of our Executive Vice President - Store Operations, who is assisted by divisional managers, regional managers and the individual store general managers. Generally, each store has a general manager and up to three assistant managers, depending on sales volume. Store operations personnel make certain merchandising decisions necessary to maximize sales and profits primarily through merchandise placement, signage and timely clearance of slower selling items. Administrative functions are centralized at the corporate headquarters. These functions include accounting, purchasing, store maintenance, information systems, advertising, human resources, distribution and pricing. Management oversight for e-commerce is also located at our corporate headquarters.

 

Employees

 

At February 1, 2014, we had approximately 5,300 employees, of which approximately 3,100 were employed on a part-time basis. The number of employees fluctuates during the year primarily due to seasonality. None of our employees are represented by a labor union.

 

We attribute a large portion of our success in various areas of cost control to our inclusion of virtually all management level employees in incentive compensation plans. We contribute all or a portion of the cost of medical, disability and life insurance coverage for those employees who are eligible to participate in Company-sponsored plans. Additionally, we sponsor retirement plans that are open to all employees who have met the minimum age and work hour requirements. All employees are eligible to receive discounts on purchases from our stores. We consider our relationship with our employees to be satisfactory.

 

Seasonality

 

Our quarterly results of operations have fluctuated, and are expected to continue to fluctuate in the future, primarily as a result of seasonal variances and the timing of sales and costs associated with opening new stores. Non-capital expenditures, such as advertising and payroll, incurred prior to the opening of a new store are charged to expense as incurred. Therefore, our results of operations may be adversely affected in any quarter in which we incur pre-opening expenses related to the opening of new stores.

 

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We have three distinct peak selling periods: Easter, back-to-school and Christmas. To prepare for our peak shopping seasons, we must order and keep in stock significantly more merchandise than we would carry during other parts of the year. Any unanticipated decrease in demand for our products during these peak shopping seasons could require us to sell excess inventory at a substantial markdown, which could reduce our net sales and gross margins and negatively affect our profitability. Our operating results depend significantly upon the sales generated during these periods.

 

Trademarks

 

We own the following federally registered trademarks and service marks: Shoe Carnival® and associated trade dress and related logos, The Carnival®, Donna Lawrence®, Victoria Spenser®, Innocence®,Y-NOT?®, UNR8ED®, Solanz®, Cabrizi®, Shoe Perks®, WHEN YOU WANT 2®, JUMP BACK IN®, STEP OUT OF BORING®, and Laces for Learning®. We believe these marks are valuable and, accordingly, we intend to maintain the marks and the related registrations. We are not aware of any pending claims of infringement or other challenges to our right to use these marks.

 

Environmental

 

Compliance with federal, state and local provisions regulating the discharge of material into the environment or otherwise relating to the protection of the environment has not had a material effect upon our capital expenditures, earnings or competitive position. We believe the nature of our operations have little, if any, environmental impact. We therefore anticipate no material capital expenditures for environmental control facilities for our current fiscal year or for the near future.

 

Available Information

 

We make available free of charge through the investor relations portion of our website at www.shoecarnival.com our annual reports on Form 10-K, our quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, our current reports on Form 8-K and amendments to those reports filed or furnished pursuant to Section 13(a) or Section 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, as soon as reasonably practicable after we electronically file such material with, or furnish it to, the Securities and Exchange Commission. We have included our website address throughout this filing as textual references only. The information contained on our website is not incorporated into this Form 10-K.

 

Our annual report on Form 10-K as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission is available without charge to shareholders, investment professionals and securities analysts upon written request. Requests should be directed to Investor Relations at our corporate address.

 

Executive Officers

 

Name Age   Position
J. Wayne Weaver 79   Chairman of the Board and Director
Clifton E. Sifford 60   President, Chief Executive Officer, Chief Merchandising Officer and Director
W. Kerry Jackson 52   Senior Executive Vice President - Chief Operating and Financial Officer and Treasurer
Timothy T. Baker 57   Executive Vice President - Store Operations
Carl N. Scibetta 55   Executive Vice President - General Merchandise Manager
Kathy A. Yearwood 47   Senior Vice President - Controller and Chief Accounting Officer

 

Mr. Weaver is Shoe Carnival’s largest shareholder and has served as Chairman of the Board since March 1988. From 1978 until February 2, 1993, Mr. Weaver had served as president and chief executive officer of Nine West Group, Inc., a designer, developer and marketer of women’s footwear. He has over 40 years of experience in the footwear industry. Mr. Weaver is a former director of Nine West Group, Inc. Mr. Weaver served as chairman and chief executive officer of Jacksonville Jaguars, LTD until January 2012.

 

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Mr. Sifford has been employed as President, Chief Executive Officer and Chief Merchandising Officer and has served as a Director since October 2012. From June 2001 to October 2012, Mr. Sifford served as Executive Vice President - General Merchandise Manager and from April 13, 1997 to June 2001, Mr. Sifford served as Senior Vice President - General Merchandise Manager. Prior to joining us, Mr. Sifford served as merchandise manager-shoes for Belk Store Services, Inc.

 

Mr. Jackson has been employed as Senior Executive Vice President, Chief Operating and Financial Officer and Treasurer since October 2012. From August 2004 to October 2012, Mr. Jackson served as Executive Vice President - Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer. From June 2001 to August 2004, Mr. Jackson served as Senior Vice President – Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer. From September 1996 to June 2001, Mr. Jackson served as Vice President – Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer. From January 1993 to September 1996, Mr. Jackson served as Vice President - Controller and Chief Accounting Officer. Prior to January 1993, Mr. Jackson held various accounting positions with us. Prior to joining us in 1988, Mr. Jackson was associated with a public accounting firm. He is a Certified Public Accountant.

 

Mr. Baker has been employed as Executive Vice President - Store Operations since June 2001. From March 1994 to June 2001, Mr. Baker served as Senior Vice President - Store Operations. From May 1992 to March 1994, Mr. Baker served as Vice President - Store Operations. Prior to that time, he served as one of our regional managers. From 1983 to June 1989, Mr. Baker held various retail management positions with Payless ShoeSource.

 

Mr. Scibetta has been employed as Executive Vice President - General Merchandise Manager since December 2012. Prior to joining us, Mr. Scibetta served as Vice President, Divisional Merchandise Manager-Footwear for Belk, Inc. since 2008. From 2004 to 2007, Mr. Scibetta served as Vice President, Divisional Merchandise Manager-Footwear for Parisian Department Stores. From 1998 to 2000, Mr. Scibetta served as Vice President, Divisional Merchandise Manager for Shoe Corporation of America. Mr. Scibetta began his retail career with Wohl Shoe Company in 1980.

 

Ms. Yearwood has served as Senior Vice President - Controller since March 2011, principal accounting officer since March 2010 and Chief Accounting Officer since June 2010. From March 2005 through February 2011, Ms. Yearwood served as Vice President - Controller and prior to that served as corporate Controller since joining us in December 2002. Before joining us, Ms. Yearwood served in various financial positions in the radio, newspaper and public accounting industries. She is a Certified Public Accountant.

 

Our executive officers serve at the discretion of the Board of Directors. There is no family relationship between any of our Directors or executive officers.

 

(Pursuant to General Instruction G (3) of Form 10-K, the foregoing information is included as an unnumbered Item in PART I of this annual report in lieu of being included in our Proxy Statement for our 2014 Annual Meeting of Shareholders.)

 

ITEM 1A.Risk Factors

 

Carefully consider the following risk factors and all other information contained in this annual report before making an investment decision with respect to our common stock. Investing in our common stock involves a high degree of risk. If any of the following risks actually occur, we may not be able to conduct our business as currently planned and our financial condition and operating results could be materially and adversely affected. See PART I “Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information” at the beginning of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

 

Economic conditions and unemployment rates may adversely affect consumer spending and may significantly harm our business. The success of our business depends to a significant extent upon the level of consumer spending. A number of factors may affect the level of consumer spending on merchandise that we offer, including, among other things:

 

general economic, industry and weather conditions;
unemployment trends and salaries and wage rates;

 

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energy costs, which affect gasoline and home heating prices;
the level of consumer debt;
consumer credit availability;
real estate values and foreclosure rates;
consumer confidence in future economic conditions;
interest rates;
health care costs;
tax rates and policies; and
war, terrorism, other hostilities and security concerns.

 

The merchandise we sell generally consists of discretionary items. Adverse economic conditions and unemployment rates, and any related decrease in consumer confidence and spending may result in reduced consumer demand for discretionary items. Any decrease in consumer demand could reduce traffic in our stores, limit the prices we can charge for our products and force us to take inventory markdowns, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition. Reduced demand may also require increased selling and promotional expenses. Reduced demand and increased competition could increase the need to close underperforming stores, which could result in higher than anticipated closing costs.

 

We face significant competition in our markets and we may be unable to compete favorably. The retail footwear industry is highly competitive with few barriers to entry. We compete primarily with department stores, shoe stores, sporting goods stores, online retailers and mass merchandisers. Many of our competitors are significantly larger and have substantially greater financial and other resources than we do. Economic pressures on or bankruptcies of our competition could result in increased pricing pressures. This competition could adversely affect our results of operations and financial condition in the future.

 

Failure to successfully manage and execute our marketing initiatives could have a negative impact on our business. Our success and growth is partially dependent on generating customer traffic in order to gain sales momentum in our stores and drive traffic to our website. Successful marketing efforts require the ability to reach customers through their desired mode of communication, utilizing various media outlets. Media placement decisions are generally made months in advance of the scheduled release date. Our inability to accurately predict our consumers’ preferences, to utilize their desired mode of communication, or to ensure availability of advertised products could adversely affect our business and operating results.

 

Our failure to identify fashion trends could result in lower sales, higher markdowns and lower gross profits. Our success depends upon our ability to anticipate and react to the fashion tastes of our customers and provide merchandise that satisfies consumer demand. Our failure to anticipate, identify or react appropriately to changes in consumer fashion preferences may result in lower sales, higher markdowns to reduce excess inventories and lower gross profits. Conversely, if we fail to anticipate or react to consumer demand for our products, we may experience inventory shortages, which would result in lost sales and could negatively affect our customer goodwill, our brand image and our profitability. Moreover, our business relies on continuous changes in fashion preferences. Stagnating consumer preferences could also result in lower sales and would require us to take higher markdowns to reduce excess inventories.

 

A failure to increase sales at our existing stores may adversely affect our stock price and affect our results of operations. A number of factors have historically affected, and will continue to affect, our comparable store sales results, including:

 

competition;
timing of holidays including sales tax holidays;
general regional and national economic conditions;
inclement weather and/or unseasonable weather patterns;
consumer trends, such as less disposable income due to the impact of higher prices on consumer goods;
fashion trends;
changes in our merchandise mix;
our ability to efficiently distribute merchandise;

 

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timing and type of, and customer response to, sales events, promotional activities or other advertising;
the effectiveness of our inventory management;
new merchandise introductions; and
our ability to execute our business strategy effectively.

 

Our comparable store sales results have fluctuated in the past, and we believe such fluctuations may continue. The unpredictability of our comparable store sales may cause our revenue and results of operations to vary from quarter to quarter, and an unanticipated decline in revenues or operating income may cause our stock price to fluctuate significantly.

 

We would be adversely affected if our distribution or information technology operations were disrupted. We currently operate a single, 410,000 square foot distribution center in Evansville, Indiana. Virtually all merchandise received by our stores and our third party fulfillment agent for our e-commerce orders is and will be shipped through our distribution center. During fiscal 2014, we plan to begin fulfilling our e-commerce orders from our own distribution center in addition to a percentage of our store locations and suspend utilization of a third party fulfillment agent for our e-commerce orders. Our corporate computer network is essential to our distribution process. If our distribution center is shut down for any reason, such as a natural disaster, power outage or terrorist attack, or if our information technology systems do not operate effectively, or if we are the target of attacks or breaches, we could incur significantly higher costs and longer lead times associated with distributing our products to our stores. Our insurance only covers costs relating to specified, limited matters such as a shutdown due to fire and windstorms, as well as certain cyber security incidents, but does not cover other events such as acts of war or terrorist attacks. Even in the event of a shutdown due to covered matters, we cannot assure you that our insurance will be sufficient, or that the insurance proceeds will be paid to us in a timely fashion. Shutdowns or information technology disruptions could have an adverse effect on our operating and financial performance.

 

Failure to protect the integrity and security of individually identifiable data of our customers and employees could expose us to litigation and damage our reputation. We receive and maintain certain personal, sensitive and confidential information about our customers, vendors and employees. The collection and use of this information is regulated at the international, federal and state levels, and is subject to certain contractual restrictions in third party contracts. Although we have implemented processes to collect and protect the integrity and security of this personal information, there can be no assurance that this information will not be obtained by unauthorized persons, or collected or used inappropriately. If our security and information systems or the systems of our employees or external business associates are compromised or our employees or external business associates fail to comply with these laws and regulations and this information is obtained by unauthorized persons, or collected or used inappropriately, it could negatively affect our reputation, as well as our operations and financial results, and could result in litigation or regulatory action against us or the imposition of costs, fines or other penalties. As privacy and information security laws and regulations change, we may incur additional costs to remain in compliance.

 

We outsource certain business processes to third-party vendors and have certain business relationships that subject us to risks, including disruptions in business and increased costs. We outsource some of our business processes to third party vendors. We make a diligent effort to ensure that all providers of these outsourced services are observing proper internal control practices; however, there are no guarantees that failures will not occur. Failure of third parties to provide adequate services or our inability to arrange for alternative providers on favorable terms in a timely manner could disrupt our business, increase our costs or otherwise adversely affect our business and our financial results.

 

Failure to maintain positive brand perception and recognition could have a negative impact on our business. Maintaining a good reputation is critical to our business.  The considerable expansion in the use of social media over recent years has increased the risk that our reputation could be negatively impacted in a short amount of time. If we are unable to quickly and effectively respond to any incidents negatively impacting our reputation, we may suffer declines in customer loyalty and traffic and we may experience vendor relationship issues and other issues, all of which could negatively affect our financial results.

 

We will require significant funds to implement our growth strategy and meet our other liquidity needs. We cannot assure you that we will continue to generate sufficient cash flow from operations or obtain sufficient borrowings under our existing credit facility to finance our growth strategy and meet our other liquidity needs. In

 

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fiscal 2014, capital expenditures are expected to range from $32 million to $34 million. Our actual costs may be greater than anticipated. We also require working capital to support inventory for our existing stores. Failure to generate or raise sufficient funds may require us to modify, delay or abandon some of our future growth or expenditure plans. We utilize our existing credit facility to issue merchandise and special purpose standby letters of credit as well as to fund working capital requirements, as needed. Significant decreases in cash flow from operations could result in our borrowing under the credit facility to fund operational needs and increased utilization of letters of credit. If we borrow funds under our credit facility and interest rates materially increase from present levels, our results could be adversely affected.

 

Various risks associated with our e-commerce business may adversely affect our business and results of operations. We launched our e-commerce business during the third quarter of 2011, selling shoes and related accessories through our website at www.shoecarnival.com. Although our e-commerce operations are not at this time material in relation to our total sales, we anticipate that the percentage of our sales through our e-commerce site will grow and thus the risks associated with these operations could have an impact on our overall operations. Our e-commerce operations are subject to numerous risks, including unanticipated operating problems, reliance on third party computer hardware and software providers and our third party fulfillment agent, and the need to invest in additional computer systems. Any significant interruptions in the operations of these third party providers, over which we have no control, could have a material adverse effect on our e-commerce business. During fiscal 2014, we plan to begin fulfilling our e-commerce orders from our own distribution center in addition to a percentage of our store locations and suspend utilization of a third party fulfillment agent for our e-commerce orders. Our e-commerce operations involve additional potential risks that could have an impact on our results of operations including hiring, retaining and training personnel to conduct our e-commerce operations, diversion of sales from our stores, our ability to manage any upgrades or other technological changes, exposure to potential liability for online content, risks related to the failure of the computer systems that operate our e-commerce site and its related support systems, including computer viruses, telecommunication failures and electronic break-ins and similar disruptions, and security risks related to our electronic processing and transmission of confidential customer information. There can be no assurance that our e-commerce operations will achieve growing sales and profitability.

 

An increase in the cost or a disruption in the flow of imported goods may decrease our sales and profits. We rely on imported goods to sell in our stores. Substantially all of the footwear product we sell is manufactured overseas, including the merchandise we import directly from overseas manufacturers and the merchandise we purchase from domestic vendors. The primary footwear manufacturers are located in China, Bangladesh, Brazil, Europe and East Asia. A disruption in the flow of imported merchandise or an increase in the cost of those goods may decrease our sales and profits. In addition, we do not control our vendors or their labor and business practices. The violation of labor, product safety or other laws by one of our vendors could have an adverse effect on our business.

 

If imported merchandise becomes more expensive or unavailable, the transition to alternative sources may not occur in time to meet our demands. Products from alternative sources may be of lesser quality and more expensive than those we currently import. Other risks associated with our use of imported goods include:

 

disruptions in the flow of imported goods because of factors such as electricity or raw material shortages, work stoppages, strikes, political unrest and natural disasters;
problems with oceanic shipping, including shipping container shortages and piracy;
economic crises and international disputes;
currency exchange rate fluctuations;
increases in the cost of purchasing or shipping foreign merchandise resulting from the failure to maintain normal trade relations with source countries;
import duties, import quotas and other trade sanctions;
increases in shipping rates imposed by the trans-Pacific shipping cartel; and
compliance with the laws and regulations, and changes to such laws and regulations, in the United States and the countries where our manufacturers are located, including but not limited to requirements relating to shipping security, product safety testing and environmental requirements.

 

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We may not be able to successfully execute our growth strategy, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. We intend to open new stores as a part of our growth strategy. We may not be able to open all of the new stores contemplated by our growth strategy and the new stores that we open may not be as profitable as existing stores.

 

The complexity of our operations and management responsibilities will increase as we grow. Our growth strategy requires that we continue to expand and improve our operating and financial systems and expand, train and manage our employee base. In addition, as we open new stores, we may be unable to hire a sufficient number of qualified store personnel or successfully integrate the new stores into our business.

 

The success of our growth strategy will depend on a number of other factors, many of which are out of our control, including, among other things:

 

our ability to locate suitable store sites and negotiate store leases (for new stores and renewals) on favorable terms;
the acceptance of the Shoe Carnival concept in new markets;
our ability to provide adequate distribution to support growth;
our ability to source sufficient levels of inventory to meet the needs of new stores;
particularly in new markets, our ability to open a sufficient number of new stores to provide the critical mass needed for efficient advertising and effective brand recognition;
the availability of financing for capital expenditures and working capital requirements;
our ability to improve costs and timing associated with opening new stores; and
the impact of new stores on sales or profitability of existing stores in the same market.

 

Due to the risks involved, we may be unable to open new stores at the rates expected. If we fail to successfully implement our growth strategy, it could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations.

 

We depend on our key suppliers for merchandise and advertising support and the loss of key suppliers could adversely affect our business. Our business depends upon our ability to purchase fashionable, name brand and other merchandise at competitive prices from our suppliers. In fiscal 2013, two branded suppliers, Nike USA, Inc. and Skechers USA, Inc., collectively accounted for over 38% of our net sales. Nike USA, Inc. accounted for over 28%of our net sales and Skechers USA, Inc. accounted for approximately 10%. Name brand suppliers also provide us with cooperative advertising and visual merchandising funds. A loss of any of our key suppliers in certain product categories or our inability to obtain name brand or other merchandise from suppliers at competitive prices could have a material adverse effect on our business. As is common in the industry, we do not have any long-term contracts with our suppliers.

 

Our quarterly operating results will fluctuate due to seasonality and other factors. Our quarterly results of operations have fluctuated, and are expected to continue to fluctuate in the future, primarily as a result of seasonal variances and the timing of sales and costs associated with opening new stores. Other factors that may affect our quarterly results of operations include:

 

fashion trends;
calendar shifts of holiday or seasonal periods;
the effectiveness of our inventory management;
weather conditions;
changes in general economic conditions and consumer spending patterns; and
actions of competitors or co-tenants.

 

We have three distinct peak selling periods: Easter, back-to-school and Christmas. To prepare for our peak shopping seasons, we must order and keep in stock significantly more merchandise than we would carry during other parts of the year. Any unanticipated decrease in demand for our products during these peak shopping seasons could require us to sell excess inventory at a substantial markdown, which could reduce our net sales and gross

 

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margins and negatively affect our profitability. Our operating results depend significantly upon the sales generated during these periods.

 

We also increase our inventory levels to offer styles particularly suited for the relevant season, such as sandals in the early summer season and boots during the winter season. If the weather conditions for a particular season vary significantly from those typical for such season, such as an unusually cold early summer or an unusually warm winter, consumer demand for the seasonally appropriate merchandise that we have available in our stores could be adversely affected and negatively impact net sales and margins. Lower demand for seasonally appropriate merchandise may leave us with an excess inventory of our seasonally appropriate products, forcing us to sell these products at significantly discounted prices and adversely affecting our net sales margins and operating cash flow. Conversely, if weather conditions permit us to sell our seasonal product early in the season, this may reduce inventory levels needed to meet our customers’ needs later in that same season. Consequently, our results of operations are highly dependent on somewhat predictable weather conditions and our ability to react to changes in weather conditions. If our future quarterly results fail to meet the expectations of research analysts, then the market price of our common stock could decline substantially.

 

If our long-lived assets become impaired, we may need to record significant non-cash impairment charges. Periodically, we review our long-lived assets for impairment whenever economic events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value of an asset may not be recoverable. Significant negative industry or general economic trends, disruptions to our business and unexpected significant changes or planned changes in our use of the assets (such as store relocations or closures) may result in impairment charges. Any such impairment charges, if significant, would adversely affect our financial position and results of operations.

 

We are subject to periodic litigation and other regulatory proceedings, which could result in the unexpected expenditure of time and resources. We are a defendant from time to time in lawsuits and regulatory actions relating to our business. Due to the inherent uncertainties of litigation and regulatory proceedings, we cannot accurately predict the ultimate outcome of any such proceedings. An unfavorable outcome could have a material adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations. In addition, regardless of the outcome of any litigation or regulatory proceedings, such proceedings are expensive and will require that we devote substantial resources and executive time to defend, thereby diverting management’s attention and resources that are needed to successfully run our business.

 

Our failure to manage key executive succession and retention and to continue to attract qualified personnel could adversely affect our business. Our success depends largely on the continued service of our executive management team. Our business would be adversely affected if we fail to adequately plan for the succession and retention of our executive management team. While we have succession plans in place for members of our executive management team, and continue to review and update those plans, and we have employment agreements with certain key executive officers, these plans and agreements do not guarantee that the services of our executive officers will continue to be available to us or that we will be able to find suitable management personnel to replace departing executives on a timely basis.

 

Furthermore, our strategy requires us to continue to train, motivate and manage our employees and to attract, motivate and retain additional qualified managerial and merchandising personnel. The ability to meet our labor needs while controlling costs is subject to external factors such as unemployment levels, prevailing wage rates, health care and minimum wage legislation and changing demographics. If we are unable to attract and retain quality sales associates and management, the ability to meet growth goals or to sustain expected levels of profitability may be compromised.

 

Our stock price may be volatile and could decline substantially. The stock market has, from time to time, experienced extreme price and volume fluctuations. Many factors may cause the market price for our common stock to decline, including:

 

operating results failing to meet the expectations of securities analysts or investors in any quarter;
downward revisions in securities analysts’ estimates;
material announcements by us or our competitors; and
the other risk factors cited in this annual report.

 

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In the past, companies that have experienced volatility in the market price of their stock have been the subject of securities class action litigation. If we become involved in a securities class action litigation in the future, it could result in substantial costs and diversion of management attention and resources, thus harming our business.

 

Failure to maintain effective internal control over financial reporting could result in a loss of investor confidence in our financial reports and have a material adverse effect on our stock price. We must continue to document, test and evaluate our internal control over financial reporting in order to satisfy the requirements of Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, which requires annual reports by management regarding the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting and a report by our independent registered public accounting firm attesting to the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting. We have expended, and expect that we will continue to expend, significant management time and resources documenting and testing our internal control over financial reporting. If we conclude in future periods that our internal control over financial reporting is not effective, it could result in lost investor confidence in the accuracy, reliability and completeness of our financial reports. Any such events could have a material adverse effect on our stock price.

 

We are controlled by our principal shareholder. J. Wayne Weaver, our Chairman of the Board of Directors and principal shareholder, and his spouse together own approximately 24.6%of our outstanding common stock. Accordingly, Mr. Weaver is able to exert substantial influence over our management and operations. In addition, his interests may differ from or be opposed to the interests of our other shareholders, and his control may have the effect of delaying or preventing a change in control that may be favored by other shareholders.

 

Provisions of our organizational documents and Indiana law might deter acquisition bids for us. Our Restated Articles of Incorporation and Indiana corporate laws contain provisions that may discourage other persons from attempting to acquire control of us, including, without limitation, a Board of Directors that has staggered terms for its members, super majority voting provisions, restrictions on the ability of shareholders to call a special meeting of shareholders and procedural requirements in connection with shareholder proposals or director nominations. The Board of Directors has the authority to issue preferred stock in one or more series without the approval of the holders of our common stock. Further, Indiana corporate law contains business combination provisions that, in general, prohibit for five years any business combination with a beneficial owner of 10% or more of our common stock unless the holder’s acquisition of the stock was approved in advance by our Board of Directors. Indiana corporate law also contains control share acquisition provisions that limit the ability of certain shareholders to vote their shares unless their control share acquisition is approved. In certain circumstances, the fact that corporate devices are in place that inhibit or discourage takeover attempts could reduce the market value of our common stock.

 

ITEM 1B.Unresolved staff comments

 

None.

 

ITEM 2.PROPERTIES

 

We lease all existing stores and intend to lease all future stores. Approximately 98% of the leases for our existing stores provide for fixed minimum rentals and approximately 51% provide for contingent rental payments based upon various specified percentages of sales above minimum levels. Certain leases also contain escalation clauses for increases in minimum rentals, operating costs and taxes.

 

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The following table identifies the number of our stores in each state and Puerto Rico as of February 1, 2014:

 

State/Territory     State/Territory    
  Alabama 11   Montana 3
  Arkansas 10   North Carolina 21
  Arizona 5   North Dakota 3
  Colorado 3   Nebraska 2
  Florida 24   Ohio 20
  Georgia 16   Oklahoma 7
  Idaho 4   Pennsylvania 10
  Iowa 11   Puerto Rico 7
  Illinois 27   South Carolina 12
  Indiana 22   South Dakota 2
  Kansas 3   Tennessee 19
  Kentucky 12   Texas 47
  Louisiana 12   Utah 8
  Michigan 8   Virginia 10
  Missouri 21   Wisconsin 2
  Mississippi 7   West Virginia 5
        Wyoming 2
        Total Stores 376
               

 

In February 2006, we entered into an operating lease with an independent third party to lease our 410,000 square foot distribution center located in Evansville, Indiana. The lease has an initial term of 15 years, commencing on December 1, 2006. We have the right to extend the initial lease term for up to three additional periods of five years each, and to expand the facility by up to 200,000 square feet.

 

In June 2006, we entered into an operating lease with an independent third party to lease our corporate headquarters for an initial term of 15 years, commencing on June 1, 2007. We have the right to extend the initial lease term for up to three additional periods of five years each, and to expand the facility by up to 30,000 square feet.

 

For additional information with respect to our properties, see ITEM 1. BUSINESS – “Growth Strategy” and “Distribution” as well as PART II, ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS – “Executive Summary” of this report.

 

ITEM 3.LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

 

From time to time, we are involved in certain legal proceedings in the ordinary course of conducting our business. We cannot provide assurance as to the ultimate outcome of any litigation involving us. The following is a description of pending litigation that falls outside the scope of litigation incidental to the ordinary course of our business. On October 31, 2013, a putative class action lawsuit was filed against us in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois (the “District Court”) captioned Nicaj v. Shoe Carnival, Inc. The complaint alleged that we violated certain provisions of the Fair and Accurate Credit Transactions Act of 2003 (FACTA), which amended the Fair Credit Reporting Act, by printing the month of the expiration date of our customers’ credit cards on transaction receipts. The plaintiff sought, among other things, the designation of this action as a class action, an award of monetary damages of between $100 and $1,000 per violation, counsel fees and costs, and such other relief as the court deemed appropriate.

 

On January 16, 2014, the District Court granted our motion and dismissed the plaintiff’s action with prejudice and denied his motion to certify a class as moot, finding that our actions did not violate FACTA and that our conduct, even if it did violate FACTA, was not willful. On February 12, 2014, the plaintiff filed a notice of appeal of the District Court’s order with the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals. The Court of Appeals has set a briefing schedule that requires plaintiff’s opening brief be filed no later than May 7, 2014. At this time, we cannot reasonably estimate the possible loss or range of loss that may result from this claim. There can be no assurance that the ultimate outcome of this lawsuit will not have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.

 

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ITEM 4.MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES

 

Not applicable.

 

PART II

 

ITEM 5. MARKET FOR THE REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES

 

Market Information and Holders

 

Our common stock has been quoted on The NASDAQ Stock Market, LLC under the trading symbol “SCVL” since March 16, 1993. As of April 4, 2014, there were approximately 164 holders of record of our common stock. We did not sell any unregistered equity securities during fiscal 2013.

 

The quarterly intraday high and low trading prices, in addition to dividends per share, were as follows:

 

Fiscal 2013  High   Low   Dividends Per
Share
 
             
First Quarter  $21.80   $18.98   $0.06(1)
Second Quarter   27.21    20.16    0.06 
Third Quarter   27.99    24.35    0.06 
Fourth Quarter   29.75    23.59    0.06 
                
Fiscal 2012               
                
First Quarter  $22.61   $16.40   $0.00 
Second Quarter   23.58    19.05    0.05(2)
Third Quarter   24.66    20.80    0.05 
Fourth Quarter   23.83    18.80    1.05(3)

 

(1)In March 2013, our Board of Directors increased our quarterly cash dividend to $0.06 per share.
   

(2)In June 2012, our Board of Directors declared our first-ever quarterly cash dividend of $0.05 per share.
   
(3)In December 2012, our Board of Directors approved the payment of a quarterly cash dividend of $0.05 per share and a special cash dividend of $1.00 per share.

 

On March 23, 2012, our Board of Directors authorized a three-for-two stock split of the shares of our common stock, which was effected in the form of a stock dividend. The stock split entitled each shareholder of record at the close of business on April 13, 2012 to receive one additional share of common stock for every two shares of common stock owned as of that date, and was paid on April 27, 2012. Upon the completion of the stock split, our outstanding shares increased from approximately 13.6 million shares to approximately 20.4 million shares. All share and per share amounts in this Annual Report on Form 10-K give effect to the stock split and have been adjusted retroactively for all periods presented.

 

Cash Dividends

 

The declaration and payment of any future dividends are at the discretion of the Board of Directors and will depend on our results of operations, financial condition, business conditions and other factors deemed relevant by our Board of Directors. Our credit agreement permits the payment of dividends as long as the dividends distributed do not exceed 30% of our consolidated net income for the preceding fiscal year, and in no event may the total distributions in any fiscal year exceed 25% of the prior year’s ending net worth. The lenders under our credit agreement consented to the payment of the special cash dividend in December 2012, which was in excess of the amount of dividends otherwise permitted to be made under our credit agreement.

 

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On March 17, 2014, the Board of Directors approved the payment of a cash dividend to our shareholders in the first quarter of fiscal 2014. The quarterly cash dividend of $0.06 per share will be paid on April 21, 2014 to shareholders of record as of the close of business on April 7, 2014.

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

Throughout fiscal 2013, we issued treasury shares to employees for the exercise of stock options and for the issuance of restricted stock awards. We also repurchased 46,024 shares of common stock as a result of our withholding shares or allowing our employees to deliver shares to us for the income taxes resulting from the vesting of certain restricted stock awards. It is our intention to continue these practices as they relate to the issuance of treasury shares.

 

On August 23, 2010, our Board of Directors authorized a $25 million share repurchase program, which was to terminate upon the earlier of the repurchase of the maximum amount or December 31, 2011. Since then, our Board of Directors has extended the date of termination to December 31, 2014. The purchases may be made in the open market or through privately negotiated transactions from time-to-time and in accordance with applicable laws, rules and regulations. The program may be amended, suspended or discontinued at any time and does not commit us to repurchase shares of our common stock. We have funded, and intend to continue to fund, the share repurchase program from cash on hand and any shares acquired will be available for stock-based compensation awards and other corporate purposes. The actual number and value of the shares to be purchased will depend on the performance of our stock price and other market conditions. As of February 1, 2014, approximately 220,000 shares had been repurchased at an aggregate cost of $4.7 million.

 

The following table summarizes repurchase activity during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2013:

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
                 
           Total Number   Approximate 
           Of Shares   Dollar Value 
           Purchased   of Shares 
           as Part   that May Yet 
   Total Number   Average   of Publicly   Be Purchased 
   of Shares   Price Paid   Announced   Under 
Period  Purchased   per Share   Programs(2)   Programs 
                 
November 3, 2013 to November 30, 2013   0   $0.00    0   $20,325,000 
December 1, 2013 to January 4, 2014 (1)   1,607   $27.59    0   $20,325,000 
January 5, 2014 to February 1, 2014(1)   114   $24.42    0   $20,325,000 
    1,721         0      

 

(1)Total number of shares purchased represents shares delivered to or withheld by us in connection with employee payroll tax withholding upon the vesting of certain restricted stock awards.

 

(2)On August 23, 2010, our Board of Directors authorized a $25 million share repurchase program, which was to terminate upon the earlier of the repurchase of the maximum amount or December 31, 2011. The Board of Directors has subsequently extended the date of termination until December 31, 2014.

 

Securities Authorized for Issuance Under Equity Compensation Plans

 

The information required by this Item concerning securities authorized for issuance under our equity plans has been incorporated by reference into PART III, ITEM 12 of this report.

 

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ITEM 6.SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

 

The following selected financial data should be read in conjunction with Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations as contained in PART II, ITEM 7 along with our consolidated financial statements and notes to those statements included in PART II, ITEM 8 of this report.

 

(In thousands, except per share and operating data)

 

Fiscal years (1)  2013   2012   2011   2010   2009 
Income Statement Data:                         
Net Sales  $884,785   $854,998   $762,534   $739,189   $682,422 
Cost of sales (including buying, distribution and occupancy costs)   625,468    597,521    537,681    517,650    488,816 
Gross Profit   259,317    257,477    224,853    221,539    193,606 
Selling, general and administrative expenses   215,650    208,983    182,716    179,154    168,476 
Operating income   43,667    48,494    42,137    42,385    25,130 
Interest income   (12)   (32)   (79)   (165)   (39)
Interest expense   173    273    266    258    174 
Income before income taxes   43,506    48,253    41,950    42,292    24,995 
Income tax expense   16,635    18,915    15,568    15,471    9,829 
Net income  $26,871   $29,338   $26,382   $26,821   $15,166 
                          
Net income per share:                         
Basic  $1.33   $1.44   $1.32   $1.41   $0.81 
Diluted  $1.32   $1.43   $1.31   $1.37   $0.80 
                          
Weighted average shares:                         
Basic   19,926    19,911    19,524    19,085    18,770 
Diluted   19,947    19,972    19,694    19,587    18,990 
                          
Dividends declared per share  $0.24   $1.15   $0.00   $0.00   $0.00 
                          
Selected Operating Data:                         
Stores open at end of year   376    351    327    314    311 
Square footage of store space at year end (000’s)   4,147    3,823    3,554    3,390    3,372 
Average sales per store (000’s)(2)  $2,425   $2,478   $2,390   $2,384   $2,219 
Average sales per square foot (2)  $221   $227   $221   $221   $204 
Comparable store sales (2)(3)   0.0%   4.5%   0.7%   8.2%   3.5%
Balance Sheet Data:                         
Cash and cash equivalents  $48,253   $45,756   $70,602   $60,193   $44,168 
Total assets  $436,851   $407,196   $386,562   $345,145   $311,641 
Long-term debt  $0   $0   $0   $0   $0 
Total shareholders’ equity  $316,872   $292,368   $283,684   $254,343   $221,829 

 

(1) Our fiscal year is a 52/53 week year ending on the Saturday closest to January 31. Unless otherwise stated, references to years 2013, 2012, 2011, 2010, and 2009 relate respectively to the fiscal years ended February 1, 2014, February 2, 2013, January 28, 2012, January 29, 2011, and January 30, 2010. Fiscal year 2012 consisted of 53 weeks and the other fiscal years consisted of 52 weeks.
(2) Selected Operating Data for fiscal 2012 has been adjusted to a comparable 52-week period ended January 26, 2013. The 53rd week in fiscal 2012 caused a one-week shift in our fiscal calendar. To minimize the effect of this fiscal calendar shift on comparable store sales, our reported annual comparable store sales results for fiscal 2013 compares the 52-week period ended February 1, 2014 to the 52-week period ended February 2, 2013. Comparable store sales for fiscal 2012 compares the 52-week period ended January 26, 2013 to the 52-week period ended January 28, 2012.

 

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(3) Comparable store sales for the periods indicated include stores that have been open for 13 full months prior to the beginning of the period, including those stores that have been relocated or remodeled.  Therefore, stores opened or closed during the periods indicated are not included in comparable store sales. Our e-commerce sales were included in comparable sales starting with fiscal 2013.  

 

ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

 

The following discussion of our financial condition and results of operations should be read together with our consolidated financial statements and notes to those statements included in PART II, ITEM 8 of this report.

 

Overview of Our Business

 

Shoe Carnival, Inc. is one of the nation’s largest family footwear retailers, providing the convenience of shopping at any of our more than 370 store locations or online at shoecarnival.com. Our stores combine competitive pricing with a highly promotional, in-store marketing effort that encourages customer participation and injects fun and surprise into every shopping experience. We believe this highly promotional atmosphere results in various competitive advantages, including increased multiple unit sales; the building of a loyal, repeat customer base; the creation of word-of-mouth advertising; and enhanced sell-through of in-season goods. The same excitement and spontaneity is reflected in our e-commerce site through special promotions and limited time sales, along with relevant fashion stories featured on our home page.

 

Our objective is to be the destination retailer-of-choice for a wide range of consumers seeking value priced, current season name brand and private label footwear. Our product assortment includes dress and casual shoes, sandals, boots and a wide assortment of athletic shoes for the entire family. Our average store carries approximately 28,800 pairs of shoes in four general categories - women’s, men’s, children’s and athletics. In addition to footwear, our stores carry selected accessory items complementary to the sale of footwear. Our e-commerce site offers customers an opportunity to choose from a large selection of products in all categories with a depth of sizes and colors that may not be available in some of our smaller stores, and introduces our concept to consumers that are new to Shoe Carnival, in both existing and new markets.

 

Our fiscal year is a 52/53 week year ending on the Saturday closest to January 31. Unless otherwise stated, references to years 2013, 2012 and 2011 relate respectively to the fiscal years ended February 1, 2014, February 2, 2013, and January 28, 2012. Fiscal year 2012 consisted of 53 weeks and the other fiscal years consisted of 52 weeks. The 53rd week in fiscal 2012 caused a one-week shift in our fiscal calendar. To minimize the effect of this fiscal calendar shift on comparable store sales, our reported annual comparable store sales results for fiscal 2013, in this Annual Report on Form 10-K and in our other public disclosures, compares the 52-week period ended February 1, 2014 to the 52-week period ended February 2, 2013. Comparable store sales for fiscal 2012 compares the 52-week period ended January 26, 2013 to the 52-week period ended January 28, 2012. As such, changes in comparable store sales are not consistent with changes in net sales reported for the fiscal periods.

 

Executive Summary

 

Fiscal 2013

 

Our business was presented with two significant sales challenges during fiscal 2013 – recurring unseasonable weather patterns and a primary consumer faced with continuing economic uncertainty. While the challenging winter weather experienced by much of the United States during December and January is likely the most memorable, we also experienced a slow start to our first quarter due to unseasonably colder, wetter weather. This negatively affected the early sales of seasonal footwear and athletic shoes and led to a decline in comparable store sales for the first quarter.

 

The sale of spring and summer product fortunately escalated as more seasonable weather patterns materialized with women’s non-athletic and children’s footwear serving as primary drivers of our second quarter comparable store sales gains. This momentum continued into August; however, with the negative press surrounding the debt ceiling and the subsequent government shutdown, along with warm weather patterns throughout our geographic footprint, customer traffic in September declined sharply, which in turn negatively affected our sales. The combined arrival of

 

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cooler fall weather in October and the government re-opening helped reverse the negative third quarter trends resulting in us achieving slightly less than a 1% comparable store sales gain for the third quarter.

 

November was a strong sales month for us, with strong boot sales driving our comparable store sales gain. However, as we entered December, we experienced double-digit traffic declines, which moderated slightly around the holiday and then returned through the balance of fiscal 2013 as bitter cold weather and continuing economic uncertainty plagued our customer. Despite the challenges presented by the fluctuations in consumer demand, we were able to manage our inventories and hold selling, general and administrative expenses flat as a percentage of sales to the prior fiscal year. Our net sales gains for fiscal 2013 were driven by sales at the 63 new stores opened since the beginning of fiscal 2012. Comparable store sales for the 52-week period ended February 1, 2014 were flat compared to the 52-week period ended February 1, 2013.

 

Notwithstanding these challenges, we remained focused on building on the solid foundation of our brand and made considerable investment of internal resources along with engaging third-party resource assistance to move forward on a number of key initiatives:

 

Throughout fiscal 2013, analysis was undertaken to drill deeper into the specifics of who our customer is, what drives their purchase decisions, and how we can better communicate with them and thus ultimately capture a greater proportion of their discretionary spending dollars.

 

As a result of our continuing market expansion, we decided to modify our marketing strategy and implement a new national cable television advertising strategy. The campaign will launch in April 2014 and is intended to leverage national cable television to increase our brand awareness in existing, new and future markets.

 

We transitioned to new leadership for our e-commerce initiative and moved forward on key initiatives including enhancements to our site to maximize conversion and traffic; enhancements to our mobile experience to keep pace with our growing mobile and tablet customer base; and the exploration of opportunities to use mobile technology to engage our customers while shopping our Shoe Carnival stores. Although our e-commerce operations are not at this time material in relation to our net sales, we believe in e-commerce represents a valuable long-term sales growth vehicle for us.

 

Through a focused effort on enrollment at the point-of-sale, our Shoe Perks rewards program membership doubled, with purchases from Shoe Perks members increasing to 20% of our net sales for fiscal 2013. We believe our Shoe Perks program affords us tremendous opportunity to communicate, build relationships and engage with our most loyal shoppers, which we believe will result in long-term sales gains.

 

During fiscal 2013, we renewed our focus on growing our women’s category at a rate higher than the balance of our other footwear categories. We believe that development of new brand relationships will play a vital role in achieving this goal, and we were able to successfully introduce a number of better brands into our fall 2013 women’s assortment.

 

During the fall of fiscal 2013, we moved forward on a project to implement sales forecasting and market optimization software to support our work related to the selection of store locations. We made significant progress on this project and anticipate implementing the software during the first quarter of fiscal 2014.

 

We opened 32 new stores, completed nine relocations and closed seven stores during fiscal 2013. Approximately 80% of these new store locations served to fill-in certain under-penetrated markets with additional stores, with the goal of increasing the performance of the overall market. The remaining 20% of our new store openings were in seven new smaller markets. We continued reinvestment in our existing brick-and-mortar store base, focusing on in-store graphics, including signage updates to focal walls and end-caps. Additionally, we remodeled approximately 9% of our stores.

 

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Fiscal 2014

 

In fiscal 2014, we continue to remain focused on growing our business both through store expansion and enhancing the Shoe Carnival brand. For fiscal 2014, we expect to open approximately 30 to 35 stores. Our planned new store expansion includes locations serving to fill-in existing markets as well as locations in three new major markets – Buffalo, Detroit and Miami. During fiscal 2014,we also plan to continue to reinvest in our existing brick-and-mortar store base, focusing on in-store graphics, including signage updates to focal walls and end-caps. Dependent upon successful lease negotiations, we plan to remodel approximately 30 stores during the fiscal year.

 

Select fiscal 2013 initiatives will remain a predominant focus in fiscal 2014, including:

 

Our new national cable television advertising strategy, which kicks off in April 2014,is intended to leverage national cable television to increase our brand awareness in existing, new and future markets.

 

During fiscal 2014, we will continue our evolution of the omni-channel shopping experience for our customer and plan to begin fulfilling our e-commerce orders from our own distribution center in addition to a percentage of our store locations and suspend utilization of a third party fulfillment agent for our e-commerce orders.

 

Growing our Shoe Perks membership will remain a priority, with a fiscal 2014 goal of doubling our membership from the end of fiscal 2013.

 

We plan to fund the delivery of a meaningful assortment of our new women’s better brands through out fiscal 2014 and will continue to work toward our long-term goal of having our women’s category represent 30% of our business.

 

Critical Accounting Policies

 

It is necessary for us to include certain judgments in our reported financial results. These judgments involve estimates based in part on our historical experience and incorporate the impact of the current general economic climate and company-specific circumstances. However, because future events and economic conditions are inherently uncertain, our actual results could differ materially from these estimates. The accounting policies that require the more significant judgments are included below.

 

Merchandise Inventories– Our merchandise inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market (LCM) as of the balance sheet date and consist primarily of dress, casual and athletic footwear for women, men and children. The cost of our merchandise is determined using the first-in, first-out valuation method (FIFO). For determining market value, we estimate the future demand and related sale price of merchandise in our inventory. The stated value of merchandise inventories contained on our consolidated balance sheets also includes freight, certain capitalized overhead costs and reserves.

 

We review our inventory at the end of each quarter to determine if it is properly stated at LCM. Factors considered include, among others, recent sale prices, the length of time merchandise has been held in inventory, quantities of the various styles held in inventory, seasonality of the merchandise, expected consideration to be received from our vendors and current and expected future sales trends. We reduce the value of our inventory to its estimated net realizable value where cost exceeds the estimated future selling price. Merchandise inventories as of February 1, 2014 and February 2, 2013 totaled $284.8 million and $272.3 million, respectively, representing approximately 65%and 67% of total assets. Given the significance of inventories to our consolidated financial statements, the determination of net realizable value is considered to be a critical accounting estimate. Material changes in the factors noted above could have a significant impact on the actual net realizable value of our inventory and our reported operating results.

 

Valuation of Long-Lived Assets–Long-lived assets, such as property and equipment subject to depreciation, are evaluated for impairment on a periodic basis if events or circumstances indicate the carrying value may not be recoverable. This evaluation includes performing an analysis of the estimated undiscounted future cash flows of the

 

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long-lived assets. Assets are grouped and the evaluation performed at the lowest level for which there are identifiable cash flows, which is generally at a store level.

 

If the estimated future cash flows for a store are determined to be less than the carrying value of the store’s assets, an impairment loss is recorded for the difference between estimated fair value and carrying value. We estimate the fair value of our long-lived assets using store specific cash flow assumptions discounted by a rate commensurate with the risk involved with such assets while incorporating marketplace assumptions. Our assumptions and estimates used in the evaluation of impairment, including current and future economic trends for stores, are subject to a high degree of judgment. Assets subject to impairment are adjusted to estimated fair value and, if applicable, an impairment loss is recorded in selling, general and administrative expenses. Our long-lived assets as of February 1, 2014 and February 2, 2013 totaled $90.2 million and $77.4 million, respectively, representing approximately 21%and 19% of total assets. From our evaluations performed during fiscal 2013 and fiscal 2012, we recorded impairments of long-lived assets of $947,000 and $425,000, respectively. If actual operating results or market conditions differ from those anticipated, the carrying value of certain of our assets may prove unrecoverable and we may incur additional impairment charges in the future.

 

Insurance Reserves–We self-insure a significant portion of our workers’ compensation, general liability and employee health care costs and also maintain insurance in each area of risk protecting us from individual and aggregate losses over specified dollar values. We review the liability reserved for our self-insured portions on a quarterly basis, taking into consideration a number of factors, including historical claims experience, severity factors, statistical trends and, in certain instances, valuation assistance provided by independent third parties. Our self-insurance reserves include estimates of both claims filed, carried at their expected ultimate settlement value, and claims incurred but not yet reported. As of February 1, 2014 and February 2, 2013, our self-insurance reserves totaled $2.9 million and $2.5 million, respectively. While we believe that the recorded amounts are adequate, there can be no assurance that changes to management’s estimates will not occur due to limitations inherent in the estimating process. If actual results are not consistent with our estimates or assumptions, we may be exposed to future losses or gains that could be material.

 

Income Taxes – As part of the process of preparing our consolidated financial statements, we are required to estimate our current and future income taxes for each tax jurisdiction in which we operate. Significant judgment is required in determining our annual tax expense and evaluating our tax positions. As a part of this process, deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized based on the difference between the consolidated financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax basis. Our temporary timing differences relate primarily to inventory, depreciation, accrued expenses, deferred lease incentives and stock-based compensation. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using the tax rates enacted and expected to be in effect in the years when those temporary differences are expected to reverse.

 

We are also required to make many subjective assumptions and judgments regarding our income tax exposures when accounting for uncertain tax positions associated with our income tax filings. We must presume that taxing authorities will examine all uncertain tax positions and that they have full knowledge of all relevant information. However, interpretations of guidance surrounding income tax laws and regulations are often complex, ambiguous and frequently change over time and a number of years may elapse before a particular issue is resolved. As such, changes in our subjective assumptions and judgments can materially affect amounts recognized in our consolidated financial statements. Although we believe we have adequately provided for all uncertain tax positions, tax authorities could assess tax liabilities greater or less than our accrued positions for open tax periods.

 

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Results of Operations

 

The following table sets forth our results of operations expressed as a percentage of net sales for the following fiscal years:

 

   2013   2012   2011 
Net Sales   100.0%   100.0%   100.0%
Cost of sales (including buying, distribution, and occupancy costs)   70.7    69.9    70.5 
Gross profit   29.3    30.1    29.5 
Selling, general and administrative expenses   24.4    24.4    24.0 
Operating income   4.9    5.7    5.5 
Interest income   (0.0)   (0.0)   (0.0)
Interest expense   0.0    0.0    0.0 
Income before income taxes   4.9    5.7    5.5 
Income tax expense   1.9    2.3    2.0 
Net income   3.0%   3.4%   3.5%

 

In the regular course of business, we offer our customers sales incentives including coupons, discounts, and free merchandise. Sales are recorded net of such incentives and returns and allowances. If an incentive involves free merchandise, that merchandise is recorded as a zero sale and the cost is included in cost of sales. Comparable store sales for the periods indicated below include stores that have been open for 13 full months prior to the beginning of the period, including those stores that have been relocated or remodeled. Therefore, stores opened or closed during the periods indicated are not included in comparable store sales. Our e-commerce sales were included in comparable sales starting in fiscal 2013.

 

2013 Compared to 2012

 

Net Sales

 

Net sales increased $29.8 million to $884.8 million for fiscal 2013, a 3.5% increase, from net sales of $855.0 million for fiscal 2012. Of the $29.8 million increase in net sales, the 63 new stores we opened since the beginning fiscal 2012 contributed an additional $51.4 million in sales. These increases were partially offset by a $5.5 million decline in sales within our comparable store base along with the loss of $5.4 million in sales from the fourteen stores closed since the beginning of fiscal 2012. Similar to other retailers, we follow the retail calendar, which included an extra week in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2012 (the 53rd week). The loss of this one week of sales in fiscal 2013 negatively affected our net sales comparison, as approximately $10.7 million in net sales were recorded for this extra week in fiscal 2012. Comparable store sales for the 52-week period ended February 1, 2014 remained flat as compared to the 52-week period ended February 2, 2013.

 

Gross Profit

 

Gross profit increased $1.8 million to $259.3 million in fiscal 2013. The gross profit margin in fiscal 2013 decreased to 29.3% from 30.1% in the prior fiscal year. Our merchandise margin decreased 0.4% while buying, distribution and occupancy costs, as a percentage of sales, increased 0.4%. Buying, distribution and occupancy costs increased approximately $6.3 million during fiscal 2013 as compared to the prior fiscal year primarily as a result of the operation of additional store locations.

 

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Selling, General and Administrative Expenses

 

Selling, general and administrative expenses increased $6.7 million in fiscal 2013 to $215.7 million. Significant changes in expense between the comparative periods included the following:

 

We incurred an additional $10.6 million of expense during fiscal 2013, as compared to the prior fiscal year, in the operation of new stores. This increase was net of expense reductions for stores that have closed since the beginning of fiscal 2012.

 

Incentive compensation, inclusive of stock-based compensation, decreased $4.5 million in fiscal 2013 as compared to fiscal 2012 when our financial performance drove material increases in performance-based compensation.

 

In connection with his retirement, we paid a one-time retirement and severance payment of $1.4 million to our former President and Chief Executive Officer in October 2012, which was included as incentive compensation in selling, general and administrative expenses. Also included were incentive compensation expense reductions of approximately $154,000 in fiscal 2012 to reflect the forfeiture of certain of his non-vested restricted stock awards.

 

In fiscal 2013, pre-opening costs included in selling, general and administrative expenses were $2.1 million, or 0.2% as a percentage of sales, as compared to $2.7 million, or 0.3% as a percentage of sales, for fiscal 2012. We opened 32 stores during fiscal 2013 at an average cost of $66,000 as compared to 31 stores last year at an average cost of $88,000. Pre-opening costs, such as advertising, payroll and supplies, incurred prior to the opening of a new store are charged to expense in the period in which they are incurred. The total amount of pre-opening expense incurred will vary by store depending on the specific market and the promotional activities involved. The decrease in the average expenditures per new store was primarily the result of decreases in the expenditures for onsite training and support and advertising.

 

The portion of store closing costs and non-cash asset impairment charges included in selling, general and administrative expenses for fiscal 2013 was $1.2 million or 0.1% as a percentage of sales. These costs related to the closing of seven stores, non-cash asset impairment of certain underperforming stores and acceleration of expenses associated with management’s determination to close a store in fiscal 2014. The portion of store closing costs and non-cash asset impairment charges included in selling, general and administrative expenses for fiscal 2012 was $646,000, or 0.1% as a percentage of sales. These costs related to the closing of seven stores, non-cash asset impairment of certain underperforming stores and acceleration of expenses associated with management’s determination to close certain underperforming stores in future periods. The timing and actual amount of expense recorded in closing a store can vary significantly depending, in part, on the period in which management commits to a closing plan, the remaining basis in the fixed assets to be disposed of at closing and the amount of any lease buyout.

 

Income Taxes

 

The effective income tax rate for fiscal 2013 was 38.2% as compared to 39.2% for fiscal 2012. Our provision for income tax expense is based on the current estimate of our annual effective tax rate and is adjusted as necessary for quarterly events. The decrease in our effective tax rate between comparative periods was primarily due to the non-deductible portion of compensation attributable to the retirement of our former President and Chief Executive Officer during fiscal 2012.

 

2012 Compared to 2011

 

Net Sales

 

Net sales increased $92.5 million to $855.0 million for fiscal 2012, a 12.1% increase over net sales for fiscal 2011. Similar to other retailers, we follow the retail reporting calendar, which included an extra week in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2012 (the 53rd week). Net sales of approximately $10.7 million were recorded for this extra week. Of our $92.5 million increase in net sales, the 48 stores opened during fiscal 2011 and fiscal 2012 and our e-commerce

 

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operation contributed $59.0 million. Sales increased within our comparable store base by approximately $42.5 million. Comparable store sales for the 52-week period ended January 26, 2013 increased 4.5%, driven by an increase in the average unit selling price of our footwear, which was partially offset by a decline in the number of footwear units sold. These sales increases were partially offset by a decline in sales of $9.1 million from the 11 stores closed during fiscal 2011 and fiscal 2012.

 

Gross Profit

 

Gross profit increased $32.6 million to $257.5 million in fiscal 2012. The gross profit margin in fiscal 2012 increased to 30.1% from 29.5% in fiscal 2011. Our merchandise margin increased 0.4% while buying, distribution and occupancy costs, as a percentage of sales, decreased 0.2%. Buying, distribution and occupancy costs increased approximately $8.0 million during fiscal 2012 as compared to fiscal 2011 primarily as a result of the operation of additional store locations. However, our sales gain enabled us to leverage these costs by 0.2% as a percentage of sales.

 

Selling, General and Administrative Expenses

 

Selling, general and administrative expenses increased $26.3 million in fiscal 2012 to $209.0 million. Significant changes in expense between the comparative periods included the following:

 

We incurred an additional $17.1 million of expense during fiscal 2012, as compared to fiscal 2011, in the operation of new stores and our e-commerce initiative. This increase was net of expense reductions for stores that closed during fiscal 2011 and fiscal 2012.

 

Incentive compensation, inclusive of stock-based compensation, increased $5.2 million in fiscal 2012 as compared to fiscal 2011 primarily due to our improved financial performance.

 

In connection with his retirement, we paid a one-time retirement and severance payment of $1.4 million to our former President and Chief Executive Officer in October 2012, which was included as incentive compensation in selling, general and administrative expenses. Also included were incentive compensation expense reductions of approximately $154,000 in fiscal 2012 to reflect the forfeiture of certain of his non-vested restricted stock awards.

 

We experienced a year-over-year increase in self-insured health care costs of $1.8 million in fiscal 2012 as compared to fiscal 2011. Costs related to our self-insured health care programs are subject to a significant degree of volatility, especially as it relates to the frequency of catastrophic claims. Consequently, we are subject to a risk of material variances between reporting periods.

 

In fiscal 2012, pre-opening costs included in selling, general and administrative expenses were $2.7 million, or 0.3% as a percentage of sales, as compared to $1.2 million, or 0.2% as a percentage of sales, for fiscal 2011. We opened 31 stores during fiscal 2012 as compared to 17 stores in fiscal 2011. Pre-opening costs, such as advertising, payroll and supplies, incurred prior to the opening of a new store are charged to expense in the period in which they are incurred. The total amount of pre-opening expense incurred will vary by store depending on the specific market and the promotional activities involved.

 

The portion of store closing costs and non-cash asset impairment charges included in selling, general and administrative expenses for fiscal 2012 was $646,000, or 0.1% as a percentage of sales. These costs related to the closing of seven stores, non-cash asset impairment of certain underperforming stores and acceleration of expenses associated with management’s determination to close certain underperforming stores in future periods. In fiscal 2011 we incurred store closing costs and non-cash asset impairment charges of $554,000, or 0.1% as a percentage of sales. These costs related to the closing of four stores, non-cash asset impairment of certain underperforming stores and acceleration of expenses associated with management’s determination to close certain underperforming stores in future periods. The timing and actual amount of expense recorded in closing a store can vary significantly depending, in part, on the period in which management commits to a closing plan, the remaining basis in the fixed assets to be disposed of at closing and the amount of any lease buyout.

 

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Income Taxes

 

The effective income tax rate for fiscal 2012 was 39.2% as compared to 37.1% for fiscal 2011. Our provision for income tax expense is based on the current estimate of our annual effective tax rate and is adjusted as necessary for quarterly events. Approximately 1.3% of the increase in our effective tax rate between comparative periods was due to the non-deductible portion of compensation attributable to the retirement of our former President and Chief Executive Officer. Our fiscal 2011 effective tax rate included benefits related to the favorable resolution of certain tax positions, which lowered the effective tax rate as compared to other historical periods.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

Our sources and uses of cash are summarized as follows:

 

(In thousands)  2013   2012   2011 
             
Net income  $26,871   $29,338   $26,382 
Depreciation and amortization   17,428    15,955    14,450 
Deferred income taxes   (721)   (3,347)   3,040 
Lease incentives   8,112    7,189    5,903 
Changes in operating assets and liabilities   (17,950)   (27,396)   (20,891)
Other operating activities   4,880    4,111    1,991 
Net cash provided by operating activities   38,620    25,850    30,875 
Net cash used in investing activities   (30,766)   (25,777)   (21,155)
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities   (5,357)   (24,919)   689 
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents  $2,497   $(24,846)  $10,409 

 

We anticipate that our existing cash and cash flows from operations will be sufficient to fund our planned store expansion along with other capital expenditures, working capital needs, potential dividend payments, potential share repurchases, and various other commitments and obligations, as they arise, for at least the next 12 months.

 

Cash Flow - Operating Activities

 

Our net cash provided by operating activities was $38.6 million in fiscal 2013 as compared to $25.9 million in fiscal 2012. These amounts reflect our income from operations adjusted for non-cash items and working capital changes. Working capital increased to $264.9 million at February 1, 2014 from $246.0 million at February 2, 2013. The current ratio was 4.4 at February 1, 2014 and 4.0 at February 2, 2013.

 

Cash Flow - Investing Activities

 

Our cash outflows for investing activities were primarily for capital expenditures. During fiscal 2013, we expended $31.0 million for the purchase of property and equipment, of which $26.3 million was for construction of new stores, remodeling and relocations. During fiscal 2012, we expended $26.0 million for the purchase of property and equipment, of which $21.5 million was for construction of new stores, remodeling and relocations. The remaining capital expenditures in both periods were for continued investments in technology and normal asset replacement activities.

 

Cash Flow - Financing Activities

 

Cash outflows for financing activities have represented cash dividend payments and share repurchases. Shares of our common stock can be either acquired as part of a publicly announced repurchase program or withheld by us in connection with employee payroll tax withholding upon the vesting of restricted stock awards. Historically, our cash inflows from financing activities have represented proceeds from the issuance of shares as a result of stock option exercises. Since fiscal 2008, no stock options have been issued. The number and value of stock options remaining outstanding as of the end of fiscal 2013 will not result in a material amount of cash inflows when exercised.

 

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During fiscal 2013, net cash used in financing activities was $5.4 million as compared to net cash used in financing activities of $24.9 million during fiscal 2012. The decrease in cash used in financing activities was primarily attributable to the $1.00 per share special cash dividend declared and paid in December 2012, which was not repeated in fiscal 2013.

 

Store Openings and Closings –Fiscal 2013

 

In fiscal 2013, we opened 32 new stores. On a per-store basis, the initial inventory investment for stores opened in the continental United States averaged $652,000, capital expenditures averaged $357,000 and lease incentives received from landlords averaged $123,000. On a per-store basis, the initial inventory investment for our new stores in Puerto Rico averaged $903,000, capital expenditures averaged $1.1 million and lease incentives received from landlords averaged $334,000.

 

Pre-opening expenses, including rent, freight, advertising, salaries and supplies, totaled approximately $3.4 million for fiscal 2013, or an average of $107,000 per store. During fiscal 2012 we opened 31 new stores and expended $4.1 million, or an average of $133,000 per store. The decrease in the average expenditures per new store was primarily the result of decreases in pre-opening freight, onsite training and support and advertising.

 

We closed seven stores during both fiscal 2013 and fiscal 2012, expending approximately $375,000 in each fiscal year. The timing and actual amount of expense recorded in closing an individual store can vary significantly depending, in part, on the period in which management commits to a closing plan, the remaining basis in the fixed assets to be disposed of at closing and the cost incurred in terminating the lease.

 

Capital Expenditures – Fiscal 2014

 

Capital expenditures are expected to be $32 million to $34 million in fiscal 2014. Of our total capital expenditures, between $15.5 million and $17.9 million is expected to be used for new store construction, $828,000 will be used for store relocations and $7.5 million will be used to remodel approximately 8% of our existing store base. Lease incentives to be received from landlords are expected to be approximately $8.0 million to $9.0 million. The remaining capital expenditures are expected to be incurred for various other store improvements, continued investments in technology and normal asset replacement activities. The actual amount of cash required for capital expenditures for store operations depends in part on the number of new stores opened and relocated, the amount of lease incentives, if any, received from landlords and the number of stores remodeled. The number of new store openings and relocations will be dependent upon, among other things, the availability of desirable locations, and the negotiation of acceptable lease terms and general economic and business conditions affecting consumer spending in areas we target for expansion.

 

Store Openings and Closings – Fiscal 2014

 

Our current store prototype for stores located in the continental United States uses between 8,000 and 12,000 square feet depending upon, among other factors, the location of the store and the population base the store is expected to service. Capital invested in these fiscal 2014 new stores is expected to average approximately $463,000 with landlord incentives averaging $209,000. The average initial inventory investment is expected to range from $483,000 to $670,000 depending on the size and sales expectation of the store and the timing of the new store opening. Our new stores opening in Puerto Rico in fiscal 2014 are expected to be slightly larger with an initial inventory investment of up to $867,000. Capital invested in our Puerto Rican stores is expected to average $1.1 million with landlord incentives averaging $287,000. During fiscal 2014, we anticipate opening between 30 and 35 new stores and relocating three store locations.

 

Pre-opening expenses, such as rent, freight, advertising, salaries and supplies, are expected to average approximately $137,000 per store in fiscal 2014. This represents an increase of $30,000 over our average fiscal 2013 expenditure and is primarily the result of an increase in pre-opening rent, freight, onsite training and support and advertising.

 

As we enter fiscal 2014, we currently expect to close one store. Depending upon the results of lease negotiations with certain landlords of underperforming stores, we may increase the number of store closures in future periods. The timing and actual amount of expense recorded in closing a store can vary significantly depending, in part, on the

 

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period in which management commits to a closing plan, the remaining basis in the fixed assets to be disposed of at closing and the cost incurred in terminating the lease. We will continue to review our annual store growth rate based on our view of the internal and external opportunities and challenges in the marketplace.

 

Dividends

 

Our Board of Directors approved the payment of our first-ever quarterly cash dividend to our shareholders during the second quarter of fiscal 2012. The initial dividend was followed by the approval and payment of two additional quarterly dividends during fiscal 2012, each in the amount of $0.05 per share of common stock. Additionally, our Board of Directors approved the payment of a special cash dividend of $1.00 per share of common stock during December 2012. In fiscal 2013,four quarterly cash dividends, each in the amount of $0.06 per share, were approved and paid. In total during fiscal 2013 and fiscal 2012, we returned $4.9 million and $23.5 million, respectively, in cash to our shareholders through our quarterly and special dividends.

 

The declaration and payment of any future dividends are at the discretion of the Board of Directors and will depend on our results of operations, financial condition, business conditions and other factors deemed relevant by our Board of Directors. Our credit agreement permits the payment of dividends as long as the dividends distributed do not exceed 30% of our consolidated net income for the preceding fiscal year, and in no event may the total distributions in any fiscal year exceed 25% of the prior year’s ending net worth. The lenders under our credit agreement consented to the payment of the special cash dividend in December 2012, which was in excess of the amount of dividends otherwise permitted to be made under our credit agreement.

 

Share Repurchase Program

 

On August 23, 2010, our Board of Directors authorized a $25 million share repurchase program, which was to terminate upon the earlier of the repurchase of the maximum amount or December 31, 2011. Since then, our Board of Directors has extended the date of termination to December 31, 2014. The purchases may be made in the open market or through privately negotiated transactions from time-to-time and in accordance with applicable laws, rules and regulations. The program may be amended, suspended or discontinued at any time and does not commit us to repurchase shares of our common stock. We have funded, and intend to continue to fund, the share repurchase program from cash on hand and any shares acquired will be available for stock-based compensation awards and other corporate purposes. The actual number and value of the shares to be purchased will depend on the performance of our stock price and other market conditions. As of February 1, 2014, approximately 220,000 shares had been repurchased at an aggregate cost of $4.7 million. The amount that remained available under the share repurchase authorization at February 1, 2014 was $20.3 million.

 

Contractual Obligations

 

Significant contractual obligations as of February 1, 2014 and the fiscal years in which payments are due include:

 

(In thousands)  Payments Due By Fiscal Year 
Contractual Obligations  Total   2014   2015&
2016
   2017&
2018
   2019 and
after
 
Letters of credit  $3,298   $3,298   $   $   $ 
Operating leases   423,910    56,132    113,075    102,377    152,326 
Purchase commitments   323,957    323,231    648    78     
Deferred compensation   8,233    28            8,205 
Total contractual obligations  $759,398   $382,689   $113,723   $102,455   $160,531 

 

Our unsecured credit agreement provides for up to $50.0 million in cash advances and commercial and standby letters of credit with borrowing limits based on eligible inventory. It contains covenants which stipulate: (1) Total Shareholders’ Equity, adjusted for the effect of any share repurchases, will not fall below that of the prior fiscal year-end; (2) the ratio of funded debt plus rent to EBITDA plus rent will not exceed 2.5 to 1.0; and (3) cash dividends for a fiscal year will not exceed 30% of consolidated net income for the immediately preceding fiscal year, and in no event may the total distributions in any fiscal year exceed 25% of the prior year’s ending net worth.

 

29
 

 

We were in compliance with these covenants as of February 1, 2014. Should a default condition be reported, the lenders may preclude additional borrowings and call all loans and accrued interest at their discretion. There were no borrowings outstanding under the credit facility and letters of credit outstanding were $3.3 million at February 1, 2014. Estimated interest payments on our line of credit are not included in the above table as our line of credit provides for frequent borrowing and/or repayment activities, which does not lend itself to reliable forecasting for disclosure purposes. As of February 1, 2014, $46.7 million was available to us for additional borrowings under the credit facility.

 

For purposes of our contractual obligations table above, we have assumed that we will make all payments scheduled or reasonably estimated to be made under those obligations that have a determinable expiration date. We have disregarded the possibility that such obligations may be prematurely terminated or extended, whether automatically by the terms of the obligation or by agreement between us and the counterparty, due to the speculative nature of premature termination or extension. Except for operating leases, the balances included in the “2019 and after” column of the contractual obligations table includes amounts where we are not able to reasonably estimate the timing of the potential future payments.

 

See Note 5 – “Long-Term Debt”, Note 6 – “Leases”, Note 7 – “Income Taxes” and Note 8 – “Employee Benefit Plans” to our Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements contained in PART II, ITEM 8 of this report for a further discussion of our contractual obligations.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

Except for operating leases entered into in the normal course of business, including leases for stores and equipment, we have not entered into any off-balance sheet arrangements during fiscal 2013 or fiscal 2012. See Note 6 – “Leases” to our Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements contained in PART II, ITEM 8 of this report for further discussion of our lease obligations.

 

Seasonality

 

Our quarterly results of operations have fluctuated, and are expected to continue to fluctuate in the future, primarily as a result of seasonal variances and the timing of sales and costs associated with opening new stores. Non-capital expenditures, such as advertising and payroll, incurred prior to the opening of a new store are charged to expense as incurred. Therefore, our results of operations may be adversely affected in any quarter in which we incur pre-opening expenses related to the opening of new stores.

 

We have three distinct peak selling periods: Easter, back-to-school and Christmas. To prepare for our peak shopping seasons, we must order and keep in stock significantly more merchandise than we would carry during other parts of the year. Any unanticipated decrease in demand for our products during these peak shopping seasons could require us to sell excess inventory at a substantial markdown, which could reduce our net sales and gross margins and negatively affect our profitability. Our operating results depend significantly upon the sales generated during these periods.

 

ITEM 7A.QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

 

We are exposed to market risk in that the interest payable on our credit facility is based on variable interest rates and therefore is affected by changes in market rates. We do not use interest rate derivative instruments to manage exposure to changes in market interest rates. We had no borrowings under our credit facility during fiscal 2013 or fiscal 2012.

 

ITEM 8.FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA

 

The information required by this item appears beginning on page 32.

 

30
 

 

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

 

To the Board of Directors and Shareholders of Shoe Carnival, Inc.

Evansville, Indiana

 

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Shoe Carnival, Inc. and subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of February 1, 2014 and February 2, 2013, and the related consolidated statements of income, shareholders’ equity, and cash flows for the years ended February 1, 2014, February 2, 2013, and January 28, 2012. Our audits also included the financial statement schedule listed in the Index at Item 15. These financial statements and financial statement schedule are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the financial statements and financial statement schedule based on our audits.

 

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

 

In our opinion, such consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Shoe Carnival, Inc. and subsidiaries as of February 1, 2014 and February 2, 2013, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for the years ended February 1, 2014, February 2, 2013, and January 28, 2012, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Also, in our opinion, such financial statement schedule, when considered in relation to the basic consolidated financial statements taken as a whole, present fairly, in all material respects, the information set forth therein.

 

We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of February 1, 2014, based on the criteria established in Internal Control — Integrated Framework (1992) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission and our report dated April 10, 2014 expressed an unqualified opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

 

/s/ DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP

Indianapolis, Indiana

April 10, 2014

 

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Shoe Carnival, Inc.

Consolidated Balance Sheets

(In thousands, except share data)

 

   February 1,
2014
   February 2,
2013
 
Assets          
Current Assets:          
Cash and cash equivalents  $48,253   $45,756 
Accounts receivable   4,337    2,152 
Merchandise inventories   284,801    272,282 
Deferred income taxes   1,208    2,914 
Other   3,916    4,918 
Total Current Assets   342,515    328,022 
Property and equipment – net   90,193    77,364 
Deferred income taxes   3,426    999 
Other noncurrent assets   717    811 
Total Assets  $436,851   $407,196 
           
Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity          
Current Liabilities:          
Accounts payable  $62,671   $65,026 
Accrued and other liabilities   14,988    16,995 
Total Current Liabilities   77,659    82,021 
Deferred lease incentives   24,430    18,426 
Accrued rent   9,224    7,475 
Deferred compensation   8,232    6,412 
Other   434    494 
Total Liabilities   119,979    114,828 
           
Shareholders’ Equity:          
Common stock, $.01 par value, 50,000,000 shares authorized, 20,482,185 and 20,464,590 shares issued, respectively   205    205 
Additional paid-in capital   66,600    66,533 
Retained earnings   250,070    228,113 
Treasury stock, at cost, 114 and 124,224 shares, respectively   (3)   (2,483)
Total Shareholders’ Equity   316,872    292,368 
Total Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity  $436,851   $407,196 

 

See notes to consolidated financial statements.

 

32
 

 

Shoe Carnival, Inc.

Consolidated Statements of Income

(In thousands, except per share data)

 

   February 1,
2014
   February 2,
2013
   January 28,
2012
 
             
Net sales  $884,785   $854,998   $762,534 
Cost of sales (including buying, distribution and occupancy costs)   625,468    597,521    537,681 
                
Gross profit   259,317    257,477    224,853 
Selling, general and administrative expenses   215,650    208,983    182,716 
                
Operating income   43,667    48,494    42,137 
Interest income   (12)   (32)   (79)
Interest expense   173    273    266 
                
Income before income taxes   43,506    48,253    41,950 
Income tax expense   16,635    18,915    15,568 
                
Net income  $26,871   $29,338   $26,382 
                
Net income per share:               
Basic  $1.33   $1.44   $1.32 
Diluted  $1.32   $1.43   $1.31 
                
Weighted average shares:               
Basic   19,926    19,911    19,524 
Diluted   19,947    19,972    19,694 

 

See notes to consolidated financial statements.

 

33
 

 

Shoe Carnival, Inc.

Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity

(In thousands)

 

               Additional             
   Common Stock   Paid-In   Retained   Treasury     
   Issued   Treasury   Amount   Capital   Earnings   Stock   Total 
Balance at                                   
January 29, 2011   20,483    (685)  $205   $68,765   $195,853   $(10,480)  $254,343 
Stock option exercises        243         (1,449)        3,913    2,464 
Stock-based compensation income tax benefit                  1,586              1,586 
Employee stock purchase plan purchases        12         (12)        202    190 
Restricted stock awards   (5)   212         (3,254)        3,254    0 
Shares surrendered by employees to pay taxes on restricted stock        (173)                  (3,219)   (3,219)
Stock-based compensation expense                  1,938              1,938 
Net income                       26,382         26,382 
                                    
Balance at January 28, 2012   20,478    (391)   205    67,574    222,235    (6,330)   283,684 
Stock option exercises        233         (1,598)        3,817    2,219 
Dividends paid ($1.15 per share)                       (23,460)        (23,460)
Stock-based compensation income tax benefit                  1,402              1,402 
Employee stock purchase plan purchases        11         16         185    201 
Restricted stock awards   (13)   244         (4,561)        4,561    0 
Shares surrendered by employees to pay taxes on restricted stock        (2)                  (41)   (41)
Purchase of common stock for treasury        (219)                  (4,675)   (4,675)
Stock-based compensation expense                  3,700              3,700 
Net income                       29,338         29,338 
                                    
Balance at February 2, 2013   20,465    (124)  $205   $66,533   $228,113   $(2,483)  $292,368 
Stock option exercises   6    1         54         15    69 
Dividends ($0.24 per share)                       (4,914)        (4,914)
Stock-based compensation income tax benefit                  199              199 
Employee stock purchase plan purchases   5    5         113         96    209 
Restricted stock awards   6    164         (3,322)        3,322    0 
Shares surrendered by employees to pay taxes on restricted stock        (46)                  (953)   (953)
Stock-based compensation expense                  3,023              3,023 
Net income                       26,871         26,871 
Balance at February 1, 2014   20,482    0   $205   $66,600   $250,070   $(3)  $316,872 

 

See notes to consolidated financial statements.

 

34
 

 

Shoe Carnival, Inc.

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

(In thousands)

 

   February 1,
2014
   February 2,
2013
   January 28,
2012
 
             
Cash Flows From Operating Activities               
Net income  $26,871   $29,338   $26,382 
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:               
Depreciation and amortization   17,428    15,955    14,450 
Stock-based compensation   3,295    4,049    2,135 
Loss on retirement and impairment of assets   1,180    628    666 
Deferred income taxes   (721)   (3,347)   3,040 
Lease incentives   8,112    7,189    5,903 
Other   405    (566)   (810)
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:               
Accounts receivable   (2,135)   470    (971)
Merchandise inventories   (12,519)   (34,627)   (24,726)
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities   (4,158)   9,269    3,960 
Other   862    (2,508)   846 
Net cash provided by operating activities   38,620    25,850    30,875 
                
Cash Flows From Investing Activities               
Purchases of property and equipment   (30,966)   (25,977)   (21,260)
Proceeds from sale of property and equipment   0    0    5 
Proceeds from note receivable   200    200    100 
Net cash used in investing activities   (30,766)   (25,777)   (21,155)
                
Cash Flow From Financing Activities               
Proceeds from issuance of stock   278    2,420    2,654 
Dividends paid   (4,867)   (23,460)   0 
Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation   185    837    1,254 
Purchase of common stock for treasury   0    (4,675)   0 
Shares surrendered by employees to pay taxes on restricted stock   (953)   (41)   (3,219)
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities   (5,357)   (24,919)   689 
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents   2,497    (24,846)   10,409 
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year   45,756    70,602    60,193 
                
Cash and Cash Equivalents at End of Year  $48,253   $45,756   $70,602 
                
Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information:               
Cash paid during year for interest  $179   $270   $264 
Cash paid during year for income taxes  $16,892   $22,793   $10,930 
Capital expenditures incurred but not yet paid  $2,034   $1,562   $2,825 

 

See notes to consolidated financial statements.

 

35
 

 

Shoe Carnival, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

 

Note 1 – Organization and Description of Business

 

Our consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Shoe Carnival, Inc. and its wholly-owned subsidiaries SCHC, Inc. and Shoe Carnival Ventures, LLC, and SCLC, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of SCHC, Inc. (collectively referred to as “we”, “our” or “us”). All intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated. Our primary activity is the sale of footwear and related products through our retail stores in 32 states within the continental United States and in Puerto Rico. We also offer online shopping on our e-commerce site at www.shoecarnival.com.

 

Note 2 – Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

 

Fiscal Year

 

Our fiscal year is a 52/53 week year ending on the Saturday closest to January 31. Unless otherwise stated, references to years 2013, 2012, and 2011 relate respectively to the fiscal years ended February 1, 2014, February 2, 2013, and January 28, 2012. Fiscal year 2012 consisted of 53 weeks and the other fiscal years consisted of 52 weeks.

 

Use of Estimates in the Preparation of Consolidated Financial Statements

 

The preparation of our consolidated financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles, in the United States of America, requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of certain assets and liabilities as of the financial statement reporting date in addition to the reported amounts of certain revenues and expenses for the reporting period. The assumptions used by management in future estimates could change significantly due to changes in circumstances and actual results could differ from those estimates.

 

Cash and Cash Equivalents

 

We had cash and cash equivalents of $48.3 million at February 1, 2014 and $45.8 million at February 2, 2013. Credit and debit card receivables (which generally settle within three days) totaling $4.4 million and $4.7 million were included in cash equivalents at February 1, 2014 and February 2, 2013, respectively.

 

We consider all short-term investments with an original maturity date of three months or less to be cash equivalents. As of February 1, 2014, and February 2, 2013, all invested cash was held in a money market account. While investments are not considered by management to be at significant risk, they could be impacted if the underlying financial institutions fail or are subject to other adverse conditions in the financial markets. To date, we have experienced no loss or lack of access to either invested cash or cash held in our bank accounts.

 

Fair Value of Financial Instruments and Non-Financial Assets

 

Our financial assets as of February 1, 2014 and February 2, 2013 included cash and cash equivalents. The carrying value of cash and cash equivalents approximates fair value due to its short-term nature. We did not have any financial liabilities measured at fair value for these periods. Non-financial assets measured at fair value included on our consolidated balance sheet as of February 1, 2014 and February 2, 2013 were those long-lived assets for which an impairment charge has been recorded. We did not have any non-financial liabilities measured at fair value for these periods. See Note 3 – “Fair Value Measurements” for further discussion.

 

Merchandise Inventories and Cost of Sales

 

Merchandise inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market (LCM) using the first-in, first-out (FIFO) method. For determining market value, we estimate the future demand and related sale price of merchandise contained in

 

36
 

 

Shoe Carnival, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements – continued

 

inventory as of the balance sheet date. The stated value of merchandise inventories contained on our consolidated balance sheets also includes freight, certain capitalized overhead costs and reserves. Factors considered in determining if our inventory is properly stated at LCM includes, among others, recent sale prices, the length of time merchandise has been held in inventory, quantities of various styles held in inventory, seasonality of merchandise, expected consideration to be received from our vendors and current and expected future sales trends. We reduce the value of our inventory to its estimated net realizable value where cost exceeds the estimated future selling price. Material changes in the factors previously noted could have a significant impact on the actual net realizable value of our inventory and our reported operating results.

 

Cost of sales includes the cost of merchandise sold, buying, distribution, and occupancy costs, inbound freight expense, provision for inventory obsolescence, inventory shrink and credits and allowances from merchandise vendors. With the launch of our e-commerce site in the third quarter of fiscal 2011, cost of sales now also includes the charges related to our utilization of a third party fulfillment agent in addition to the freight expense for delivering merchandise to our customer.

 

Property and Equipment-Net

 

Property and equipment is stated at cost. Depreciation and amortization of property, equipment and leasehold improvements are taken on the straight-line method over the shorter of the estimated useful lives of the assets or the applicable lease terms. Lives used in computing depreciation and amortization range from two to twenty years. Expenditures for maintenance and repairs are charged to expense as incurred. Expenditures, which materially increase values, improve capacities or extend useful lives are capitalized. Upon sale or retirement, the costs and related accumulated depreciation or amortization are eliminated from the respective accounts and any resulting gain or loss is included in operations.

 

We periodically evaluate our long-lived assets if events or circumstances indicate the carrying value may not be recoverable. The carrying value of long-lived assets is considered impaired when the carrying value of the assets exceeds the expected future cash flows to be derived from their use. Assets are grouped, and the evaluation performed, at the lowest level for which there are identifiable cash flows, which is generally at a store level. If the estimated future cash flows for a store are determined to be less than the carrying value of the store’s assets, an impairment loss is recorded for the difference between estimated fair value and carrying value. Assets subject to impairment are adjusted to estimated fair value and, if applicable, an impairment loss is recorded in selling, general and administrative expenses. We estimate the fair value of our long-lived assets using store specific cash flow assumptions discounted by a rate commensurate with the risk involved with such assets while incorporating marketplace assumptions. Our assumptions and estimates used in the evaluation of impairment, including current and future economic trends for stores, are subject to a high degree of judgment. If actual operating results or market conditions differ from those anticipated, the carrying value of certain of our assets may prove unrecoverable and we may incur additional impairment charges in the future. Our evaluations resulted in the recording of non-cash impairment charges of $947,000, $425,000 and $338,000 in fiscal years 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.

 

Insurance Reserves

 

We self-insure a significant portion of our workers’ compensation, general liability and employee health care costs and also maintain insurance in each area of risk, protecting us from individual and aggregate losses over specified dollar values. We review the liability reserved for our self-insured portions on a quarterly basis, taking into consideration a number of factors, including historical claims experience, severity factors, statistical trends and, in certain instances, valuation assistance provided by independent third parties. Self-insurance reserves include estimates of claims filed, carried at their expected ultimate settlement value, and claims incurred but not yet reported. As of February 1, 2014 and February 2, 2013, our self-insurance reserves totaled $2.9 million and $2.5 million, respectively. While we believe that the recorded amounts are adequate, there can be no assurance that changes to management’s estimates will not occur due to limitations inherent in the estimating process. If actual results are not consistent with our estimates or assumptions, we may be exposed to losses or gains that could be material.

 

37
 

 

Shoe Carnival, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements – continued

 

Deferred Lease Incentives

 

All cash incentives received from landlords are recorded as deferred income and amortized over the life of the lease on a straight-line basis as a reduction of rental expense.

 

Accrued Rent

 

We are party to various lease agreements, which require scheduled rent increases over the initial lease term. Rent expense for such leases is recognized on a straight-line basis over the initial lease term beginning the earlier of the start date of the lease or when we take possession of the property. The difference between rent based upon scheduled monthly payments and rent expense recognized on a straight-line basis is recorded as accrued rent.

 

Revenue Recognition

 

Revenue from sales of merchandise at our store locations is recognized at the time of sale. We record revenue from our e-commerce sales, including shipping and handling fees, based on an estimated customer receipt date. Our sales are recorded exclusive of sales tax. In the regular course of business, we offer our customers sales incentives including coupons, discounts, and free merchandise. Sales are recorded net of such incentives and returns and allowances. If an incentive involves free merchandise, that merchandise is recorded as a zero sale and the cost is included in cost of sales. Gift card revenue is recognized at the time of redemption.

 

Consideration Received From a Vendor

 

Consideration is primarily received from merchandise vendors. Consideration is either recorded as a reduction of the price paid for the vendor’s products and recorded as a reduction of our cost of sales or if the consideration represents a reimbursement of a specific, incremental and identifiable cost then it is recorded as an offset to the same financial statement line item.

 

Consideration received from our vendors includes co-operative advertising/promotion, margin assistance, damage allowances and rebates earned for a specific level of purchases over a defined period. Consideration principally takes the form of credits that we can apply against trade amounts owed.

 

Consideration received after the related merchandise has been sold is recorded as an offset to cost of sales in the period negotiations are finalized. For consideration received on merchandise still in inventory, the allowance is recorded as a reduction to the cost of on-hand inventory and recorded as a reduction of our cost of sales at the time of sale. Allowances received from vendors representing a reimbursement of specific, incremental and identifiable costs are offset to the same financial statement line item. Should the allowances received exceed the incremental cost then the excess consideration is recorded as a reduction to the cost of on-hand inventory and allocated to cost of sales in future periods utilizing an average inventory turn rate.

 

Store Opening and Start-up Costs

 

Non-capital expenditures, such as advertising, payroll and supplies, incurred prior to the opening of a new store are charged to expense in the period they are incurred.

 

Advertising Costs

 

Print, television, radio, outdoor and digital media costs are generally expensed when incurred. Internal production costs are expensed when incurred and external production costs are expensed in the period the advertisement first takes place. Advertising expenses included in selling, general and administrative expenses were $37.6 million, $37.4 million and $33.5 million in fiscal years 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.

 

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements – continued

 

Stock-Based Compensation

 

We recognize compensation expense for stock-based awards based on the fair value of the awards. Stock-based awards may include stock options, stock appreciation rights, and restricted stock awards under our stock-based compensation plans. Additionally, we recognize stock-based compensation expense for the discount on shares sold to employees through our employee stock purchase plan. This discount represents the difference between the market price and the employee purchase price. Stock-based compensation expense is included in selling, general and administrative expense.

 

We apply an estimated forfeiture rate in calculating the stock-based compensation expense for the period. Forfeiture estimates are adjusted periodically based on the extent to which actual forfeitures differ, or are expected to differ, from previous estimates.

 

Segment Information

 

We have identified each retail store and our e-commerce store as individual operating segments. Our operating segments have been aggregated and are reported as one reportable segment based on the similar nature of products sold, merchandising and distribution processes involved, target customers and economic characteristics.

 

Income Taxes

 

We compute income taxes using the asset and liability method, under which deferred income taxes are provided for the temporary differences between the financial reporting basis and the tax basis of our assets and liabilities. We account for uncertain tax positions in accordance with current authoritative guidance and report a liability for unrecognized tax benefits resulting from uncertain tax positions taken or expected to be taken in a tax return. We recognize interest expense and penalties, if any, related to uncertain tax positions in income tax expense.

 

Net Income Per Share

 

The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted earnings per share as shown on the face of the accompanying consolidated statements of income.

 

   Fiscal Year Ended 
   February 1, 2014   February 2, 2013   January 28, 2012 
   (In thousands except per share data) 
Basic Earnings per Share:  Net
Income
   Shares   Per
Share
Amount
   Net
Income
   Shares   Per
Share
Amount
   Net
Income
   Shares   Per
Share
Amount
 
Net income  $26,871             $29,338             $26,382           
Amount allocated to participating securities   (468)             (698)             (554)          
Net income available for basic common shares and basic earnings per share  $26,403    19,926   $1.33   $28,640    19,911   $1.44   $25,828    19,524   $1.32 
                                              
Diluted Earnings per Share:                                             
Net income  $26,871             $29,338             $26,382           
Amount allocated to participating securities   (468)             (698)             (554)          
Adjustment for dilutive potential common shares   1    21         0    61         0    170      
Net income available for diluted common shares and diluted earnings per share  $26,404    119,947   $1.32   $28,640    19,972   $1.43   $25,828    19,694   $1.31 

 

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Shoe Carnival, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements – continued

 

Our basic and diluted earnings per share are computed using the two-class method. The two-class method is an earnings allocation that determines net income per share for each class of common stock and participating securities according to their participation rights in dividends and undistributed earnings or losses. Non-vested restricted stock awards that include non-forfeitable rights to dividends are considered participating securities. During periods of undistributed losses however, no effect is given to our participating securities since they do not share in the losses. Per share amounts are computed by dividing net income available to common shareholders by the weighted average shares outstanding during each period. No options to purchase shares of common stock were excluded in the computation of diluted shares for the periods presented.

 

Note 3 – Fair Value Measurements

 

The accounting standards related to fair value measurements define fair value and provide a consistent framework for measuring fair value under the authoritative literature. Valuation techniques are based on observable and unobservable inputs. Observable inputs reflect readily obtainable data from independent sources, while unobservable inputs reflect market assumptions. This guidance only applies when other standards require or permit the fair value measurement of assets and liabilities. The guidance does not expand the use of fair value measurements. A fair value hierarchy was established, which prioritizes the inputs used in measuring fair value into three broad levels.

 

Level 1 – Quoted 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 – Significant unobservable inputs that are not corroborated by market data. Generally, these fair value measures are model-based valuation techniques such as discounted cash flows, and are based on the best information available, including our own data. Fair values of our long-lived assets are estimated using an income-based approach and are classified within Level 3 of the valuation hierarchy.

 

The following table presents assets that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis at February 1, 2014 and February 2, 2013. We have no material liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring or non-recurring basis.

 

   Fair Value Measurements 
(In thousands)  Level 1   Level 2   Level 3   Total 
As of February 1, 2014:                
Cash equivalents – money market account  $10,2699   $0   $0   $10,269 
                     
As of February 2, 2013:                    
Cash equivalents– money market account  $5,2599   $0   $0   $5,259 

 

The fair values of cash, receivables, accounts payable, accrued expenses and other current liabilities approximate their carrying values because of their short-term nature. From time to time, we measure certain assets at fair value on a non-recurring basis, specifically long-lived assets evaluated for impairment. These are typically store specific assets, which are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that recoverability of their carrying value is questionable. If the expected future cash flows related to a store’s assets are less than their carrying value, an impairment loss would be recognized for the difference between estimated fair value and carrying value and recorded in selling, general and administrative expenses. We estimate the fair value of store assets using an income-based approach considering the cash flows expected over the remaining lease term for each location. These projections are primarily based on management’s estimates of store-level sales, gross margins, direct expenses, exercise of future lease renewal options and resulting cash flows and, by their nature, include judgments about how current initiatives will impact future performance. External factors, such as the local environment in which the store resides, including strip-mall traffic and competition, are evaluated in terms of their effect on sales trends. Changes in sales and operating income assumptions or unfavorable changes in external factors can

 

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Shoe Carnival, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements – continued

 

significantly impact the estimated future cash flows. An increase or decrease in the projected cash flow can significantly decrease or increase the fair value of these assets, which would have an effect on the impairment recorded.

 

During the fifty-two weeks ended February 1, 2014, long-lived assets held and used with a gross carrying amount of $4.3 million were written down to their fair value of $3.4 million, resulting in an impairment charge of $947,000, which was included in earnings for the period. Subsequent to this impairment, these long-lived assets had a remaining unamortized basis of $883,000. During the fifty-three weeks ended February 2, 2013, long-lived assets held and used with a gross carrying amount of $1.7 million were written down to their fair value of $1.3 million, resulting in an impairment charge of $425,000, which was included in earnings for the period. Subsequent to this impairment, these long-lived assets had a remaining unamortized basis of $328,000.

 

Note 4 – Property and Equipment-Net

 

The following is a summary of property and equipment:

 

(In thousands)  February 1,
2014
   February 2,
2013
 
           
Furniture, fixtures and equipment  $135,057   $124,511 
Leasehold improvements   85,786    75,796 
Total   220,843    200,307 
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization   (130,650)   (122,943)
Property and equipment – net  $90,193   $77,364 

 

Note 5 – Long-Term Debt

 

On April 10, 2013 we amended our current unsecured credit agreement (the “Credit Agreement”) to extend the expiration date by five years and renegotiated certain terms and conditions. The Credit Agreement continues to provide for up to $50.0 million in cash advances and commercial and standby letters of credit with borrowing limits based on eligible inventory.

 

The Credit Agreement contains covenants which stipulate: (1) Total Shareholders’ Equity, adjusted for the effect of any share repurchases, will not fall below that of the prior fiscal year-end; (2) the ratio of funded debt plus rent to EBITDA plus rent will not exceed 2.5 to 1.0; and, (3) cash dividends for a fiscal year will not exceed 30% of consolidated net income for the immediately preceding fiscal year, and in no event may the total distributions in any fiscal year exceed 25% of the prior year’s ending net worth. We were in compliance with these covenants as of February 1, 2014. Should a default condition be reported, the lenders may preclude additional borrowings and call all loans and accrued interest at their discretion. As of February 1, 2014, there were $3.3 million in letters of credit outstanding and $46.7 million available to us for borrowing under the Credit Agreement.

 

The credit facility bears interest, at our option, at (1) the agent bank’s prime rate as defined in the Credit Agreement plus 1% with the prime rate defined as the lesser of (a) the Federal Fund rate plus 0.50% or (b) the interest rate announced from time to time by the agent bank as its “prime rate” on commercial loans or (2) LIBOR plus 1.50% to 3.0%, depending on our achievement of certain performance criteria. A commitment fee is charged at 0.25% to 0.40% per annum, depending on our achievement of certain performance criteria, on the unused portion of the bank group’s commitment. The Credit Agreement expires April 10, 2018.

 

Note 6 – Leases

 

We lease all of our retail locations and certain equipment under operating leases expiring at various dates through fiscal 2025. Various lease agreements require scheduled rent increases over the initial lease term. Rent expense for

 

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Shoe Carnival, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements – continued

 

such leases is recognized on a straight-line basis over the initial lease term beginning the earlier of the start date of the lease or when we take possession of the property. The difference between rent based upon scheduled monthly payments and rent expense recognized on a straight-line basis is recorded as accrued rent. All incentives received from landlords are recorded as deferred income and amortized over the life of the lease on a straight-line basis as a reduction of rental expense.

 

Certain leases provide for contingent rents that are not measurable at inception. These contingent rents are primarily based on a percentage of sales that are in excess of a predetermined level. These amounts are excluded from minimum rent and are included in the determination of total rent expense when it is probable that the expense has been incurred and the amount is reasonably estimable. Certain leases also contain escalation clauses for increases in operating costs and taxes.

 

We did not assign any store operating leases during fiscal 2013. The last two assignments of operating leases covering former store locations, which we assigned to third parties in prior years, expired during fiscal 2013. We have no potential amount of future payments that we could be required to make under any store operating lease assignments at February 1, 2014.

 

Rental expense for our operating leases consisted of:

 

(In thousands)  2013   2012   2011 
             
Rentals for real property  $58,140   $53,832   $49,328 
Contingent rent   189    189    156 
Equipment rentals   83    110    113 
Total  $58,412   $54,131   $49,597 

 

Future minimum lease payments at February 1, 2014 were as follows:

 

(In thousands)   Operating
Leases
 
      
2014   $56,132 
2015    57,113 
2016    55,962 
2017    55,637 
2018    46,740 
Thereafter to 2025    152,326 
Total   $423,910 

 

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Shoe Carnival, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements – continued

 

Note 7 – Income Taxes

 

The provision for income taxes consisted of:

 

(In thousands)  2013   2012   2011 
             
Current:               
Federal  $15,366   $19,581   $11,318 
State   1,805    2,601    1,210 
Puerto Rico   185    79    0 
Total current   17,356    22,261    12,528 
                
Deferred:               
Federal   (139)   (2,692)   2,918 
State   (138)   (304)   122 
Puerto Rico   (444)   (350)   0 
Total deferred   (721)   (3,346)   3,040 
                
Total provision  $16,635   $18,915   $15,568 

 

We realized a tax benefit of $199,000, $1.4 million and $1.6 million in fiscal years 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively, as a result of the exercise of stock options and the vesting of restricted stock, which is recorded in shareholders’ equity.

 

Reconciliation between the statutory federal income tax rate and the effective income tax rate is as follows:

 

Fiscal years  2013   2012   2011 
                
U.S. Federal statutory tax rate   35.0%   35.0%   35.0%
State and local income taxes, net of federal tax benefit   3.8    4.8    2.1 
Puerto Rico   (0.6)   (0.6)   0.0 
Effective income tax rate   38.2%   39.2%   37.1%

 

We recorded $346,000, $162,000 and $328,000 in federal employment related tax credits in fiscal 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. Each of these credits reduced our effective tax rate in the respective years. For fiscal 2012, approximately 1.3% of the increase in our effective tax rate as compared to fiscal 2011 was due to the non-deductible portion of compensation attributable to the retirement of our former President and Chief Executive Officer. Additionally, in fiscal 2011 we recognized a decrease in our state and other tax rate due to favorable settlements with certain taxing authorities.

 

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements – continued

 

Deferred income taxes are the result of temporary differences in the recognition of revenue and expense for tax and financial reporting purposes. The sources of these differences and the tax effect of each are as follows:

 

(In thousands)  February 1,
2014
   February 2,
2013
 
Deferred tax assets:          
Accrued rent  $3,543   $2,878 
Accrued compensation   5,625    5,191 
Accrued employee benefits   506    479 
Inventory   411    916 
Self-insurance reserves   593    494 
Lease incentives   10,003    7,438 
Net operating loss carry forward   449    359 
Other   396    337 
Total deferred tax assets   21,526    18,092 
           
Deferred tax liabilities:          
Depreciation   15,265    12,801 
Capitalized costs   1,180    1,017 
Puerto Rico net operating loss carry forward impact to federal taxes   444    350 
Other   3    11 
Total deferred tax liabilities   16,892    14,179 
Net deferred tax asset   4,634    3,913 
Less current deferred income tax benefit   (1,208)   (2,914)
Long-term deferred income taxes  $3,426   $999 

 

At the end of fiscal 2013 we estimated state net operating loss carry forwards of $177,000 which expire between fiscal 2014 and fiscal 2023 and net operating loss carry forwards of $2.7 million for Puerto Rico which expire between fiscal 2022 and fiscal 2023. As of February 1, 2014, we had no available state tax credits that could be carried forward.

 

Our unrecognized tax liabilities presented below relate to tax years encompassing our fiscal years 1999 through 2013 for the tax years that remain subject to examination by major tax jurisdictions as of February 1, 2014. A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount for our unrecognized tax positions, which exclude interest and penalties, is as follows:

 

(In thousands)  2013   2012   2011 
             
Beginning balance  $69   $69   $693 
Increases – tax positions in prior period   0    0    0 
Decreases – tax positions in prior period   (69)   0    (339)
Gross increases – current period tax positions   0    0    0 
Decreases related to settlements with taxing authorities   0    0    (285)
Ending balance  $0   $69   $69 

 

As of February 1, 2014 we have recorded no unrecognized tax liabilities or related accrued penalties or interest in Other liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Our policy is to record interest and penalty expense related to income taxes as a component of income tax expense in the Consolidated Statements of Income.

 

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements – continued

 

Note 8 – Employee Benefit Plans

 

Retirement Savings Plans

 

On February 24, 1994, our Board of Directors approved the Shoe Carnival Retirement Savings Plan (the “Domestic Savings Plan”). The Domestic Savings Plan is open to all employees working in the continental United States who have been employed for at least one year, are at least 21 years of age and who work at least 1,000 hours in a defined year. The primary savings mechanism under the Domestic Savings Plan is a 401(k) plan under which an employee may contribute up to 20% of annual earnings with us matching the first 4% at a rate of 50%. Our contributions to the participants’ accounts become fully vested when the participant reaches their third anniversary of employment with us. Contributions charged to expense were $599,000, $611,000, and $591,000 in fiscal years 2013, 2012, and 2011, respectively.

 

On March 19, 2012, our Board of Directors approved the Shoe Carnival Puerto Rico Savings Plan (the “Puerto Rico Savings Plan”). The Puerto Rico Savings Plan is open to all employees working in Puerto Rico who have been employed for at least one year, are at least 21 years of age and who work at least 1,000 hours in a defined year. This plan is similar to our Domestic Savings Plan whereby an employee may contribute up to 20% of his or her annual earnings, with us matching the first 4% at a rate of 50%.  Contributions charged to expense were $10,000 in fiscal year 2013.

 

Stock Purchase Plan

 

On May 11, 1995, our shareholders approved the Shoe Carnival, Inc. Employee Stock Purchase Plan (the “Stock Purchase Plan”) as adopted by our Board of Directors on February 9, 1995. The Stock Purchase Plan reserves 450,000 shares of our common stock (subject to adjustment for any subsequent stock splits, stock dividends and certain other changes in the common stock) for issuance and sale to any employee who has been employed for more than a year at the beginning of the calendar year, and who is not a 10% owner of our common stock, at 85% of the then fair market value up to a maximum of $5,000 in any calendar year. Under the Stock Purchase Plan,10,000, 11,000 and 12,500 shares of common stock were purchased by participants in the plan and proceeds to us for the sale of those shares were approximately $209,000, $201,000 and $190,000 for fiscal years 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. At February 1, 2014, there were 126,009 shares of unissued common stock reserved for future purchase under the Stock Purchase Plan.

 

The following table summarizes information regarding stock-based compensation expense recognized for the Stock Purchase Plan:

 

(In thousands)  2013   2012   2011 (1) 
         
Stock-based compensation expense before the recognized income tax benefit (2)  $37   $36   $34 
Income tax benefit  $14   $14   $13 

 

(1)Income tax benefit was calculated using an adjusted effective tax rate. The adjusted rate removes the tax effects from the favorable resolution of certain tax positions.
(2)Amounts are representative of the 15% discount employees are provided for purchases under the Stock Purchase Plan.

 

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Shoe Carnival, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements – continued

 

Deferred Compensation Plan

 

In fiscal 2000, we established a non-qualified deferred compensation plan for certain key employees who, due to Internal Revenue Service guidelines, cannot take full advantage of the employer sponsored 401(k) plan. Participants in the plan elect on an annual basis to defer, on a pre-tax basis, portions of their current compensation until retirement, or earlier if so elected. While not required to, we can match a portion of the employees’ contributions, which would be subject to vesting requirements. The compensation deferred under this plan is credited with earnings or losses measured by the rate of return on investments elected by plan participants. The plan is currently unfunded. Compensation expense for our match and earnings on the deferred amounts was $1.1 million, $867,000 and $432,000 for fiscal 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. The total deferred compensation liability at February 1, 2014 and February 2, 2013 was $8.2 million and $7.2 million, respectively.

 

Note 9 – Stock Based Compensation

 

Compensation Plan Summaries

 

On April 27, 2012, we completed a three-for-two stock split of the shares of our common stock, which was effected in the form of a stock dividend. All share and per share amounts referenced below give effect to the stock split and have been adjusted retroactively for all periods presented.

 

We have two stock-based compensation plans: the Outside Directors Stock Option Plan (the “Directors Plan”) and the 2000 Stock Option and Incentive Plan (the “2000 Plan”).

 

The Directors Plan was approved by our Board of Directors on March 4, 1999. The plan reserves for issuance 37,500 shares of common stock (subject to adjustment for stock splits, stock dividends and certain other changes to the common stock). No grants have been made under this plan since fiscal 2006, and it is currently the intention of the Board of Directors not to grant stock options under this plan in the future. At February 1, 2014, 16,500 shares of unissued common stock were reserved for possible future grants and there were 1,500 fully vested stock options outstanding under the Directors Plan.

 

The 2000 Plan was approved by our Board of Directors and shareholders effective June 8, 2000. On June 14, 2012, the 2000 Plan was amended to increase the number of shares reserved for issuance from 3,000,000 to 3,900,000 (subject to adjustment for subsequent stock splits, stock dividends and certain other changes in the common stock). The 2000 Plan was also amended to revise the provision governing the payment of dividends on shares of restricted stock. No further awards may be made under the 2000 Plan after the later of ten years from date of adoption, or ten years from the approval of any amendment. At February 1, 2014, there were 910,000 shares of unissued common stock reserved for future grants under the 2000 Plan.

 

Stock options currently outstanding under the 2000 Plan typically were granted such that one-third of the shares underlying the stock options granted would vest and become fully exercisable on each of the first three anniversaries of the date of the grant and were assigned a 10-year term from the date of grant. Restricted stock awards issued to employees under the 2000 Plan are classified as either performance-based or service-based.  Performance-based restricted stock awards typically are granted such that they vest upon the achievement of specified levels of annual earnings per diluted share during a six-year period starting from the grant date. Should the annual earnings per diluted share criteria not be met within the six-year period from the grant date, any shares still restricted will be forfeited.  Service-based restricted stock awards typically are granted under one of three vesting periods: (a) one-third of the shares would vest on each of the first three anniversaries subsequent to the date of the grant; (b) the full award would vest at the end of a 5-year service period subsequent to date of grant; or (c) for our Directors, all restricted stock awards are issued to vest on January 2 of the year following the year of the grant. Non-vested performance-based restricted stock granted before June 14, 2012 and all shares of non-vested service-based restricted stock provide non-forfeitable rights to all dividends declared by the Company. Dividends on non-vested performance-based restricted stock granted after June 14, 2012 are subject to deferral until such times as the shares vest and are released.

 

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements – continued

 

Plan Specific Activity and End of Period Balance Summaries

 

Stock Options

 

The following table summarizes the stock option transactions pursuant to the stock-based compensation plans:

 

   Number of
Shares
   Weighted-
Average
Exercise Price
   Weighted-
Average
Remaining
Contractual
Term (Years)
   Aggregate
Intrinsic
Value (in
thousands)
 
Outstanding at February 2, 2013   38,572   $9.21           
Granted   0                
Forfeited or expired   0                
Exercised   (7,000)   9.91           
Outstanding and exercisable at February 1, 2014   31,572   $9.05    2.73   $494 

 

The following table summarizes information regarding options exercised:

 

(In thousands)  2013   2012   2011 
                
Total intrinsic value (1)  $103   $2,473   $1,624 
Total cash received  $69   $2,219   $2,464 
Associated excess income tax benefits recorded  $28   $465   $399 

 

(1)Defined as the difference between the market value at exercise and the grant price of stock options exercised.

 

The following table summarizes information regarding outstanding and exercisable options at February 1, 2014:

 

    Options Outstanding   Options Exercisable 
Range of
Exercise Price
   Number
of Options
Outstanding
   Weighted
Average
Remaining Life
   Weighted
Average
Exercise Price
   Number
of Options
Exercisable
   Weighted
Average
Exercise Price
 
$7.63 – 10.36    31,572    2.73   $9.05    31,572   $9.05 

 

The following table summarizes information regarding stock-based compensation expense recognized for non-vested options:

 

(In thousands)   2013    2012    2011(1) 
                
Stock-based compensation expense before the recognized income tax benefit  $0   $0   $22 
Income tax benefit  $0   $0   $8 

 

(1)Income tax benefit was calculated using an adjusted effective tax rate. The adjusted rate removes the tax effects from the favorable resolution of certain tax positions.

 

No stock options have been granted since fiscal 2008. All outstanding options had vested as of the end of fiscal 2011, therefore no unrecognized compensation expense remains. The total fair value at grant date of previously non-vested stock options that vested during fiscal year 2011 was $46,000.

 

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Shoe Carnival, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements – continued

 

Restricted Stock Awards

 

The following table summarizes the restricted share transactions pursuant to the 2000 Plan:

 

   Number of
Shares
   Weighted-
Average Grant
Date Fair Value
 
Restricted stock at February 2, 2013   499,280   $18.84 
Granted   222,300    20.85 
Vested   (144,666)   18.18 
Forfeited or expired   (51,655)   19.18 
Restricted stock at February 1, 2014   525,259   $19.84 

 

The total fair value at grant date of restricted stock awards that vested during fiscal 2013, 2012 and 2011 was $2.6 million, $160,000 and $6.5 million, respectively. The weighted-average grant date fair value of stock awards granted during fiscal 2012 and fiscal 2011 was $19.51 and $17.08, respectively. Of the 51,655 restricted stock awards that were forfeited or that expired during the current fiscal year, 33,905 shares were restricted stock awards that expired unvested, as the performance measure was not achieved. These awards represented the third tier of the restricted stock granted on March 13, 2007 that expired in the first quarter of fiscal 2013.

 

The following table summarizes information regarding stock-based compensation expense recognized for restricted stock awards:

 

(In thousands)   2013    2012    2011(1) 
                
Stock-based compensation expense before the recognized income tax benefit  $2,985   $3,663   $1,882 
Income tax benefit  $1,141   $1,436   $712 

 

(1)Income tax benefit was calculated using an adjusted effective tax rate. The adjusted rate removes the tax effects from the favorable resolution of certain tax positions.

 

The $1.9 million of expense recognized in fiscal 2011 was comprised of compensation expense of $2.6 million offset by income of $716,000. The income was attributable to the fourth quarter reversal of the cumulative prior period expense for performance-based awards, which were deemed by management as not probable of vesting. These performance based awards represent the third tier of the of the restricted stock granted on March 13, 2007 which expired unvested on March 31, 2013 as the performance measure was not achieved within the six-year period from the grant date.

 

As of February 1, 2014, there was approximately $6.0 million of unrecognized compensation expense remaining related to both our performance-based and service-based restricted stock awards. The cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of approximately 2.7 years. This incorporates our current assumptions with respect to the estimated requisite service period required to achieve the designated performance conditions for performance-based stock awards.

 

Cash-Settled Stock Appreciation Rights (SARs)

 

Our outstanding Cash-Settled Stock Appreciation Rights (SARs) were granted to certain non-executive employees such that one-third of the shares underlying the SARs would vest annually. The SARs were assigned a five-year term from the date of grant, after which any unexercised SARs will expire. Each SAR entitles the holder, upon exercise of their vested shares, to receive cash in an amount equal to the closing price of our stock on the date of exercise less the exercise price, with a maximum amount of gain defined. SARs were granted during the first quarter of fiscal 2012 and issued with a defined maximum gain of $6.67 over the exercise price of $17.17. In accordance with

 

48
 

 

Shoe Carnival, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements – continued

 

current authoritative guidance, cash-settled SARs are classified as Other liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

 

The following table summarizes the SARs activity:

 

   Number of
Shares
   Weighted-
Average
Exercise Price
   Weighted-
Average
Remaining
Contractual
Term (Years)
 
Outstanding at February 2, 2013   123,750   $17.17      
Granted   0    0.00      
Forfeited   (4,000)   17.17      
Exercised   (41,000)   17.17      
Outstanding at February 1, 2014   78,750   $17.17    2.99 
Exercisable at February 1, 2014   39,375   $17.17    2.99 

 

The fair value of liability awards are remeasured, using a trinomial lattice model, at each reporting period until the date of settlement. Increases or decreases in stock-based compensation expense is recognized over the vesting period, or immediately for vested awards. The weighted-average fair value of outstanding, non-vested SAR awards was $4.66 as of February 1, 2014.

 

The fair value was estimated using a trinomial lattice model with the following assumptions:

 

   February 1, 2014 
Risk free interest rate yield curve   0.03% - 1.49%
Expected dividend yield   1.0%
Expected volatility   45.20%
Maximum life   2.99 Years 
Exercise multiple   1.38 
Maximum payout  $6.67 
Employee exit rate   2.2% - 9.0%

 

The risk free interest rate was based on the U.S. Treasury yield curve in effect at the end of the reporting period. The expected dividend yield was based on our quarterly cash dividends in fiscal 2013, with the assumption that quarterly dividends would continue at the current rate. Expected volatility was based on the historical volatility of our stock. The exercise multiple and employee exit rate are based on historical option data.

 

The following table summarizes information regarding stock-based compensation expense recognized for SARs:

 

(In thousands)  2013   2012   2011 (1) 
             
Stock-based compensation expense before the recognized income tax benefit  $272   $349   $197 
Income tax benefit  $104   $137   $74 

 

(1)Income tax benefit was calculated using an adjusted effective tax rate. The adjusted rate removes the tax effects from the favorable resolution of certain tax positions.

 

As of February 1, 2014, approximately $70,000 in unrecognized compensation expense remained related to non-vested SARs. This expense is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of approximately 1.0 year.

 

49
 

 

Shoe Carnival, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements – continued

 

Note 10 – Business Risk

 

We purchase merchandise from approximately 180 footwear vendors. In fiscal 2013, two suppliers each accounted for 10%or more of our net sales and together accounted for over 38% of our net sales. A loss of any of our key suppliers in certain product categories could have a material adverse effect on our business. As is common in the industry, we do not have any long-term contracts with suppliers.

 

Note 11 – Litigation Matters

 

The accounting standard related to loss contingencies provides guidance in regards to our disclosure and recognition of loss contingencies, including pending claims, lawsuits, disputes with third parties, investigations and other actions that are incidental to the operation of our business. The guidance utilizes the following defined terms to describe the likelihood of a future loss: (1) probable – the future event or events are likely to occur, (2) remote – the chance of the future event or events is slight and (3) reasonably possible – the chance of the future event or events occurring is more than remote but less than likely. The guidance also contains certain requirements with respect to how we accrue for and disclose information concerning our loss contingencies. We accrue for a loss contingency when we conclude that the likelihood of a loss is probable and the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated. When the reasonable estimate of the loss is within a range of amounts, and no amount in the range constitutes a better estimate than any other amount, we accrue for the amount at the low end of the range. We adjust our accruals from time to time as we receive additional information, but the loss we incur may be significantly greater than or less than the amount we have accrued. We disclose loss contingencies if there is at least a reasonable possibility that a loss has been incurred. No accrual or disclosure is required for losses that are remote.

 

From time to time, we are involved in certain legal proceedings in the ordinary course of conducting our business. We cannot provide assurance as to the ultimate outcome of any litigation involving us. The following is a description of pending litigation that falls outside the scope of litigation incidental to the ordinary course of our business. On October 31, 2013, a putative class action lawsuit was filed against us in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois (the “District Court”) captioned Nicaj v. Shoe Carnival, Inc. The complaint alleged that we violated certain provisions of the Fair and Accurate Credit Transactions Act of 2003 (FACTA), which amended the Fair Credit Reporting Act, by printing the month of the expiration date of our customers’ credit cards on transaction receipts. The plaintiff sought, among other things, the designation of this action as a class action, an award of monetary damages of between $100 and $1,000 per violation, counsel fees and costs, and such other relief as the court deemed appropriate.

 

On January 16, 2014, the District Court granted our motion and dismissed the plaintiff’s action with prejudice and denied his motion to certify a class as moot, finding that our actions did not violate FACTA and that our conduct, even if it did violate FACTA, was not willful. On February 12, 2014, the plaintiff filed a notice of appeal of the District Court’s order with the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals. The Court of Appeals has set a briefing schedule that requires plaintiff’s opening brief be filed no later than May 7, 2014. At this time, we cannot reasonably estimate the possible loss or range of loss that may result from this claim. There can be no assurance that the ultimate outcome of this lawsuit will not have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.

 

Note 12 – Related Party Transactions

 

Our Chairman and principal shareholder and his son were previously shareholders of PL Footwear, Inc. Historically, PL Footwear, Inc. represented us, on a commission basis, as an import agent in dealings with shoe factories in mainland China, where most of our private label shoes are manufactured. During fiscal 2012, PL Footwear, Inc. ceased operations. Commissions paid to PL Footwear, Inc. were $726,000 and $561,000 in fiscal years 2012 and 2011, respectively.

 

50
 

 

Shoe Carnival, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements – continued

 

Note 13 – Quarterly Results (Unaudited)

 

Quarterly results are determined in accordance with the accounting policies used for annual data and include certain items based upon estimates for the entire year. All fiscal quarters in 2013 and 2012 include results for 13 weeks except for the fourth quarter of 2012, which includes results for 14 weeks.

 

(In thousands, except per share data)

 

Fiscal 2013(1)  First
Quarter
   Second
Quarter
   Third
Quarter
   Fourth
Quarter (2)
 
                 
Net sales  $232,287   $216,417   $235,770   $200,311 
Gross profit   68,613    62,511    71,011    57,182 
Operating income   15,246    9,558    17,815    1,048 
Net income   9,519    5,838    10,916    598 
Net income per share – Basic(3)  $0.47   $0.29   $0.54   $0.03 
Net income per share – Diluted(3)  $0.47   $0.29   $0.54   $0.03 

 

Fiscal 2012(1)  First
Quarter
   Second
Quarter
   Third
Quarter
   Fourth
Quarter(2)
 
                     
Net sales  $222,613   $182,207   $244,434   $205,744 
Gross profit   68,539    52,329    76,435    60,174 
Operating income   17,977    4,692    20,560    5,265 
Net income   11,020    2,859    12,248    3,211 
Net income per share – Basic (3)  $0.54   $0.14   $0.60   $0.13 
Net income per share – Diluted (3)  $0.54   $0.14   $0.60   $0.13 

 

(1)Our fiscal year is a 52/53 week year ending on the Saturday closest to January 31. Fiscal year 2012 consisted of the 53 weeks ended February 2, 2013, while fiscal year 2013 consists of 52 weeks. The 53rd week in fiscal 2012 caused a one-week shift in our fiscal calendar. As a result, each of our first three quarters in fiscal 2013 was shifted one week later compared to fiscal 2012. This one-week shift impacts our year-over-year sales comparisons due to seasonal sales influences.
(2)The fourth quarter of fiscal 2013 included 13 weeks compared to 14 weeks in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2012.
(3)Per share amounts are computed independently for each of the quarters presented. The sum of the quarters may not equal the total year due to the impact of changes in weighted shares outstanding and differing applications of earnings under the two-class method. Additionally, during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2012 there was a $0.03 reduction in earnings per diluted share due to the application of the two-class method of computing earnings per share in connection with the $1.00 per share special cash dividend paid in December 2012.

 

Note 14 – Subsequent Events

 

On March 17, 2014, the Board of Directors approved the payment of a cash dividend to our shareholders in the first quarter of fiscal 2014. The quarterly cash dividend of $0.06 per share will be paid on April 21, 2014 to shareholders of record as of the close of business on April 7, 2014.

 

Future declarations of dividends are subject to approval of the Board of Directors and will depend on the our results of operations, financial condition, business conditions and other factors deemed relevant by the Board of Directors.

 

51
 

 

SHOE CARNIVAL, INC.

SCHEDULE II - VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS

 

(In thousands)

Reserve for sales returns and allowances
  Balance at
Beginning
of Period
   Charged to
Cost and
Expenses
   Credited to
Costs and
Expenses
   Balance at
End of
Period
 
                 
Year ended January 28, 2012  $104   $83,816   $83,811   $109 
Year ended February 2, 2013  $109   $94,379   $94,377   $111 
Year ended February 1, 2014  $111   $97,399   $97,379   $131 

 

ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE

 

None.

 

ITEM 9A. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

 

Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

 

The Company’s management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting as defined in Rule 13a-15(f) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Internal control over financial reporting is a process designed by, or under the supervision of, the Company’s principal executive and principal financial officers and effected by the Company’s board of directors, management and other personnel to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles and includes those policies and procedures that:

 

  Pertain to the maintenance of records that in reasonable detail accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the Company;
 
  Provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the Company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the Company; and
 
  Provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of the Company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

 

Because of inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risks that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

 

Management assessed the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of

February 1, 2014. In making this assessment, management used the criteria set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations (“COSO”) of the Treadway Commission in Internal Control-Integrated Framework (1992). Based on its assessment, management believes that the Company’s internal control over financial reporting was effective as of February 1, 2014.

 

The Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of February 1, 2014 has been audited by its independent registered public accounting firm, Deloitte & Touche LLP, as stated in their report, which is included herein.

 

52
 

 

Conclusion Regarding the Effectiveness of Disclosure Controls and Procedures and Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

Our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded, based on their evaluation as of February 1, 2014, that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective to ensure that information required to be disclosed by us in the reports filed or submitted by us under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms, and include controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by us in such reports is accumulated and communicated to our management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

There has been no significant change in our internal controls over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended February 1, 2014 that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

 

53
 

 

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

 

To the Board of Directors and Shareholders of Shoe Carnival, Inc.

Evansville, Indiana

 

We have audited the internal control over financial reporting of Shoe Carnival, Inc. and subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of February 1, 2014, based on criteria established in Internal Control — Integrated Framework (1992) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. The Company’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.

 

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

 

A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed by, or under the supervision of, the company’s principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, and effected by the company’s board of directors, management, and other personnel to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

 

Because of the inherent limitations of internal control over financial reporting, including the possibility of collusion or improper management override of controls, material misstatements due to error or fraud may not be prevented or detected on a timely basis. Also, projections of any evaluation of the effectiveness of the internal control over financial reporting to future periods are subject to the risk that the controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

 

In our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of February 1, 2014, based on the criteria established in Internal Control — Integrated Framework (1992) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.

 

We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated financial statements and financial statement schedule as of and for the year ended February 1, 2014 of the Company and our report dated April 10, 2014 expressed an unqualified opinion on those financial statements and financial statement schedule.

 

/s/ DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP

Indianapolis, Indiana

April 10, 2014

 

54
 

 

ITEM 9B. OTHER INFORMATION

 

None

 

PART III

 

ITEM 10.DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

 

The information required by this Item concerning our Directors, nominees for Director, Code of Ethics, designation of the Audit Committee financial expert and identification of the Audit Committee, and concerning any disclosure of delinquent filers under Section 16(a) of the Exchange Act, is incorporated herein by reference to our definitive Proxy Statement for the 2014 Annual Meeting of Shareholders, to be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to Regulation 14A within 120 days after the end of our last fiscal year. Information concerning our executive officers is included under the caption “Executive Officers” at the end of PART I, ITEM 1. BUSINESS of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Such information is incorporated herein by reference, in accordance with General Instruction G(3) to Form 10-K and Instruction 3 to Item 401(b) of Regulation S-K.

 

We have adopted a Code of Business Conduct and Ethics (the “Code”) that applies to all of our Directors, officers and employees, including our principal executive officer, principal financial officer, principal accounting officer and controller. The Code is posted on our website at www.shoecarnival.com. We intend to disclose any amendments to the Code by posting such amendments on our website. In addition, any waivers of the Code for our Directors or executive officers will be disclosed in a report on Form 8-K.

 

ITEM 11.EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

 

The information required by this Item concerning remuneration of our officers and Directors and information concerning material transactions involving such officers and Directors and Compensation Committee interlocks, including the Compensation Committee Report and the Compensation Discussion and Analysis, is incorporated herein by reference to our definitive Proxy Statement for the 2014 Annual Meeting of Shareholders which will be filed pursuant to Regulation 14A within 120 days after the end of our last fiscal year.

 

ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS

 

The information required by this Item concerning the stock ownership of management, five percent beneficial owners and securities authorized for issuance under equity compensation plans is incorporated herein by reference to our definitive Proxy Statement for the 2014 Annual Meeting of Shareholders which will be filed pursuant to Regulation 14A within 120 days after the end of our last fiscal year.

 

ITEM 13.CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE

 

The information required by this Item concerning certain relationships and related transactions and the independence of our Directors is incorporated herein by reference to our definitive Proxy Statement for the 2014 Annual Meeting of Shareholders, which will be filed pursuant to Regulation 14A within 120 days after the end of our last fiscal year.

 

ITEM 14.PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES

 

The information required by this Item concerning principal accountant fees and services is incorporated herein by reference to our definitive Proxy Statement for the 2014 Annual Meeting of Shareholders, which will be filed pursuant to Regulation 14A within 120 days after the end of our last fiscal year.

 

55
 

 

PART IV

 

ITEM 15.EXHIBITS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES

 

1.   Financial Statements:
     
    The following financial statements of Shoe Carnival, Inc. are set forth in PART II, ITEM 8 of this report:
     
    Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
     
    Consolidated Balance Sheets at February 1, 2014 and February 2, 2013
     
    Consolidated Statements of Income for the years ended February 1, 2014, February 2, 2013, and January 28, 2012
     
    Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity for the years ended February 1, 2014, February 2, 2013, and January 28, 2012
     
    Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended February 1, 2014, February 2, 2013, and January 28, 2012
     
    Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
     
2.   Financial Statement Schedule:
     
    The following financial statement schedule of Shoe Carnival, Inc. is set forth in PART II, ITEM 8 of this report.
     
    Schedule II Valuation and Qualifying Accounts
     
3.   Exhibits:
     
    A list of exhibits required to be filed as part of this report is set forth in the Index to Exhibits, which immediately precedes such exhibits, and is incorporated herein by reference.

 

56
 

 

SIGNATURES

 

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

 

Shoe Carnival, Inc.

 

Date:   April 10, 2014 By: /s/ Clifton E. Sifford
    Clifton E. Sifford
    President and Chief Executive Officer

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

 

Signature   Title Date
       
/s/ J. Wayne Weaver   Chairman of the Board and Director April 10, 2014
J. Wayne Weaver      
       
/s/ Clifton E. Sifford   President, Chief Executive Officer, Chief April 10, 2014
Clifton E. Sifford   Merchandising Officer and Director (Principal  
    Executive Officer)  
       
/s/ James A. Aschleman   Director April 10, 2014
James A. Aschleman      
       
/s/ Kent A. Kleeberger   Director April 10, 2014
Kent A. Kleeberger      
       
/s/ Gerald W. Schoor   Director April 10, 2014
Gerald W. Schoor      
       
/s/ Joseph W. Wood   Director April 10, 2014
Joseph W. Wood      
       
/s/ W. Kerry Jackson   Senior Executive Vice President - Chief Operating April 10, 2014
W. Kerry Jackson   and Financial Officer and Treasurer (Principal Financial Officer)  
       
/s/ Kathy A. Yearwood   Senior Vice President – Controller and Chief April 10, 2014
Kathy A. Yearwood   Accounting Officer (Principal Accounting Officer)  

 

57
 

 

INDEX TO EXHIBITS

 

      Incorporated by Reference To  

Exhibit

No.

 

 

Description

Form Exhibit

Filing

Date

Filed

Herewith

             
3-A   Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation of Registrant 8-K 3-A 6/14/2013  
             
3-B   By-laws of Registrant, as amended to date 8-K 3-B 6/14/2013  
             
4-A   Credit Agreement, dated as of January 20, 2010, among Registrant, the financial institutions from time to time party thereto as Banks, and Wachovia Bank, National Association, as Agent 8-K 4.1 1/26/2010  
             
4-B   First Amendment to Credit Agreement dated as of April 10, 2013, by and among Registrant, the financial institutions from time to time party thereto as Banks, and Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., as successor-by-merger to Wachovia Bank, National Association, as Agent 10-K 4-B 4/15/2013  
             
10-A   Lease, dated as of February 8, 2006, by and between Registrant and Big-Shoe Properties, LLC 10-K 10-A 4/13/2006  
             
10-B   Lease, dated as of June 22, 2006, by and between Registrant and Outback Holdings, LLC 8-K 10-D 6/28/2006  
             
10-C*   Outside Directors Stock Option Plan S-8 4.4 7/14/1999  
             
10-D*   Summary Compensation Sheet       X
             
10-E*   Non-competition Agreement dated as of January 15, 1993, between Registrant and J. Wayne Weaver S-1 10-I 2/4/1993  
             
10-F*   Employee Stock Purchase Plan of Registrant, as amended 10-Q 10-L 9/15/1997  
             
10-G*   2006 Executive Incentive Compensation Plan, as amended 8-K 10-B 6/17/2011  
             
10-H*   2000 Stock Option and Incentive Plan of Registrant, as amended 8-K 10-L 6/15/2012  
             
10-I*   Form of Notice of Grant of Stock Options and Option Agreement for incentive stock options granted under the Registrant’s 2000 Stock Option and Incentive Plan 8-K 10-A 9/2/2004  
             
10-J*   Form of Notice of Grant of Stock Options and Option Agreement for non-qualified stock options granted under the Registrant’s 2000 Stock Option and Incentive Plan 8-K 10-B 9/2/2004  
             
10-K*   Form of Award Agreement for restricted stock granted under the Registrant’s 2000 Stock Option and Incentive Plan 8-K 10-C 3/24/2005  
             
10-L*   Form of Award Agreement for time-based restricted stock with cliff vesting granted under the Registrant’s 2000 Stock Option and Incentive Plan 8-K 10.2 10/19/2012  

 

58
 

 

INDEX TO EXHIBITS - Continued

 

      Incorporated by Reference To  

Exhibit

No.

 

 

Description

Form Exhibit

Filing

Date

Filed

Herewith

             
10-M*   Form of Award Agreement for  performance-based restricted stock with deferred cash dividends granted under the Registrant’s 2000 Stock Option and Incentive Plan 10-Q 10.1 6/13/13  
             
10-N*   Amended and Restated Employment and Noncompetition Agreement dated December 11, 2008, between Registrant and Timothy Baker 8-K 10.2 12/17/2008  
             
10-O*   Amended and Restated Employment and Noncompetition Agreement dated December 11, 2008, between Registrant and Clifton E. Sifford 8-K 10.3 12/17/2008  
             
10-P*   Amended and Restated Employment and Noncompetition Agreement dated December 11, 2008, between Registrant and W. Kerry Jackson 8-K 10.4 12/17/2008  
             
10-Q*   Employment and Noncompetition Agreement dated April 7, 2011, between Registrant and Kathy A. Yearwood 10-K 10-X 4/14/2011  
             
10-R*   Employment and Noncompetition Agreement dated  December 4, 2012, between Registrant and Carl N. Scibetta 10-K 10-U 4/15/2013  
             
10-S*   Shoe Carnival, Inc. Deferred Compensation Plan, as amended       X
             
10-T*   Amended and Restated Employment and Noncompetition Agreement dated December 11, 2008, between Registrant and Mark L. Lemond 8-K 10.1 12/17/2008  
             
10-U*   Separation and Release Agreement, dated October 17, 2012, by and between Registrant and Mark L. Lemond 8-K 10.1 10/19/2012  
             
21   A list of subsidiaries of Shoe Carnival, Inc.       X
             
23   Written consent of Deloitte & Touche LLP       X
             
31.1   Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002       X
             
31.2   Certification of Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002       X
             
32.1   Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002       X

 

59
 

 

      Incorporated by Reference To  

Exhibit

No.

 

 

Description

Form Exhibit

Filing

Date

Filed

Herewith

             
32.2   Certification of Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002       X
             
101   The following materials from Shoe Carnival, Inc.’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended February 1, 2014, formatted in XBRL (Extensible Business Reporting Language): (1) Consolidated Balance Sheets, (2) Consolidated Statements of Income, (3) Consolidated Statement of Shareholders’ Equity, (4) Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows, and (5) Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.       X
             
             
*   The indicated exhibit is a management contract, compensatory plan or arrangement required to be filed by Item 601 of Regulation S-K.

 

60