UNITED STATES CELLULAR CORP - Annual Report: 2014 (Form 10-K)

 

 

 

 

 

PART I

 

Item 1.  Business

 

General

 

United States Cellular Corporation (“U.S. Cellular”) provides wireless telecommunications services to approximately 4.8 million customers in 23 states, collectively representing a total population of 31.7 million.  U.S. Cellular operates in one reportable segment, wireless operations, and all of its wireless operating markets are in the United States.

 

·         U.S. Cellular’s strategy is to attract and retain wireless customers through a value proposition comprised of a high-quality network, competitive devices, plans, and pricing, and a membership experience with a local focus.

·         U.S. Cellular Common Shares trade on the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) under the ticker symbol “USM”.

·         U.S. Cellular is a majority-owned subsidiary of Telephone and Data Systems, Inc. (NYSE: TDS). TDS owns 84% of U.S. Cellular, elects all of the directors of U.S. Cellular and controls over 96% of the voting power in matters other than the election of directors of U.S. Cellular.

·         U.S. Cellular was incorporated under the laws of the state of Delaware in 1983.

 

Customers, Services and Products

 

Customers.  U.S. Cellular provides service to postpaid and prepaid customers from a variety of demographic segments.  U.S. Cellular uses a segmentation model to classify businesses and consumers into logical groupings for developing new products and services, direct marketing campaigns, and retention efforts.  U.S. Cellular focuses on retail consumers, government, and small-to-mid-size business customers in vertical industries such as construction, retail, professional services and real estate.  These customers are served primarily through U.S. Cellular’s retail and direct sales channels.

 

Services.  U.S. Cellular’s postpaid customers are able to choose from a variety of national plans with voice, messaging and data usage options and pricing that are designed to fit different customer needs, usage patterns and budgets.  Helping a customer find the right pricing plan is an important element of U.S. Cellular’s brand positioning.  U.S. Cellular offers Shared Data plans that include unlimited voice minutes and text messaging combined with a variety of data usage options.  Under these plans, customers can share data usage among all users and devices connected to the plan.  Business rate plans are designed to meet the unique needs of the business customer.  U.S. Cellular’s national plans price all domestic calls as local calls, regardless of where they are made or received in the United States, with no long distance or roaming charges.  U.S. Cellular also offers prepaid service plans, which include voice, messaging and data options in a variety of ways, for a monthly fee.  In 2014, unlimited prepaid plans were launched which provide customers unlimited voice, messaging and data, including specified amounts of high speed fourth generation Long Term Evolution (“4G LTE”) data; data usage over the specified limit is provided at lower speeds to ensure customers are never without data access.   U.S. Cellular also expanded its device installment contract offerings in 2014 as discussed in “Devices and Products” below.

 

U.S. Cellular builds customer loyalty by offering high-quality network services, customer focused support services, effective pricing and other benefits including rewards points, which can be used to obtain a free wireless device or to accelerate the timing of a wireless device upgrade, as well as for other rewards such as additional lines and accessories. Certain available postpaid plans include Overage Cap, a free service that prevents voice overage charges from exceeding $50 for a National Single Line Plan or $150 for a Family Plan.

 

U.S. Cellular’s portfolio of smartphones, tablets and other connected devices (see “Devices and Products” below) is a key part of its strategy to deliver wireless devices which allow customers to stay productive, entertained and connected on the go, and are backed by U.S. Cellular’s high-speed networks, including a 4G LTE network, which, as of December 31, 2014, covered 94% of its postpaid customers.  U.S. Cellular’s 4G LTE network supports smartphone messaging, data and internet services that allow customers to access the web and social network sites, e-mail, text, picture and video message, utilize turn-by-turn GPS navigation, and browse and download thousands of applications to customize their wireless devices to fit their lifestyles.  U.S. Cellular also operates a third generation (“3G”) network, which supports nationwide roaming.

 

In 2014, U.S. Cellular launched several new services such as connected home and new international dialing.  Connected home is a professionally configured, self-installed home security and automation system whereby customers receive professional home monitoring services.  Additional services such as protection against fire and other emergencies, as well as energy and video monitoring, are also available to customers with the connected home solution.

 

 

In 2014, U.S. Cellular greatly expanded its solutions to business and government customers, specifically in the areas of asset/fleet management, monitor and control, mobile automation and business communication, through offerings in machine to machine, wireless priority services, and mobile device management.  U.S. Cellular will continue to further enhance its advanced wireless services and connected solutions for consumer and business customers in 2015 and beyond.

 

Devices and Products.  U.S. Cellular offers a comprehensive range of wireless devices such as handsets, modems, mobile hotspots, home phone and tablets for use by its customers.  U.S. Cellular offers wireless devices that are compatible with some or all of its 4G LTE and 3G networks and all are compliant with the Federal Communications Commission’s (“FCC”) enhanced wireless 911 (“E-911”) requirements.  In addition, U.S. Cellular offers a wide range of accessories, significantly expanding the breadth of products offered, from wireless basics such as carrying cases, hands-free devices, batteries, battery chargers, and memory cards to related consumer electronics such as headphones, speakers, and Bluetooth keyboards to customers. U.S. Cellular also sells wireless devices to agents and other third-party distributors for resale. U.S. Cellular frequently discounts wireless devices sold to new and current customers and provides discounts on upgraded wireless devices to current customers, in order to attract new customers or to retain existing customers by reducing the cost of becoming or remaining a wireless customer.  In 2013, U.S. Cellular began offering customers the option to purchase certain devices under installment contracts over a period of up to 24 months and, in 2014, began offering financing under installment contracts for all wireless devices.  For certain installment plans, after a specified period of time, the customer may have the right to upgrade to a new device, thus enabling customers to more easily access the latest smartphones and provide a better overall customer experience. 

 

U.S. Cellular continues to offer several programs which allow the customer to receive a replacement device through a retail store or through direct mail.  U.S. Cellular also has enhanced its Device Protection+ program in 2014 to include overnight delivery while continuing to provide customers peace of mind by covering lost and stolen devices.

 

During 2014, U.S. Cellular continued to bolster its expanding smartphone and tablet portfolio with Android wireless devices and tablets such as the Samsung Galaxy S5, Samsung Galaxy Note 4, LG G3, Motorola Moto X (2^nd Generation), Motorola G, Samsung Galaxy Tab 4, and LG Gpad, and Apple products such as the iPhone 6, iPhone 6Plus, iPad Air 2, and iPad Mini.  U.S. Cellular’s smartphone offerings play a significant role in driving data service usage and revenues.  The devices offered include a full array of smartphones and feature phones. In 2014, U.S. Cellular also offered additional products and services including phone in a box and connected home. 

 

U.S. Cellular purchases wireless devices and accessory products from a number of manufacturers, including Samsung, Apple, Motorola, LG, Superior Communications, Kyocera, ZTE, Tessco, and Sierra Wireless. U.S. Cellular negotiates volume discounts with its suppliers and works with them in promoting specific equipment in its local advertising.  U.S. Cellular does not own significant product warehousing and distribution infrastructure.  Instead, it contracts with third party providers for substantially all of its product warehousing, distribution and direct customer fulfillment activities. U.S. Cellular also contracts with third party providers for services related to its device replacement programs.

 

U.S. Cellular continuously monitors the financial condition of its wireless device and accessory suppliers.  Because U.S. Cellular purchases wireless devices and accessories from numerous suppliers, U.S. Cellular does not expect the financial condition of any single supplier to affect its ability to offer a competitive variety of wireless devices and accessories for sale to customers.

 

Marketing, Customer Service, and Sales and Distribution Channels

 

Marketing and Advertising.  U.S. Cellular’s marketing plan is focused on acquiring, retaining and growing customer relationships by maintaining an exceptional wireless network, providing outstanding customer service, and offering high-quality products and services built around customer needs at fair prices.

 

U.S. Cellular believes that creating positive relationships with its customers enhances their wireless experience and builds customer loyalty.  U.S. Cellular currently offers several innovative, customer-centric programs and services to customers.  The Overage Protection service provides customers peace-of-mind by sending them text message alerts when they come close to reaching their allowable monthly plan minutes, text messages or data usage in order to avoid overage charges.  With the launch of Shared Data plans in late 2013, whereby a customer selects the size of the data bucket to share among all of their lines/devices, U.S. Cellular followed up in 2014 with a service to allow customers to limit data usage on specific lines – or for the entire account – thereby providing controls to manage account overages.  This service, Data Usage Controls, allows customers an easy way to split up their data bucket by line.

 

 

U.S. Cellular increases consumer awareness using media such as television, radio, newspaper, direct mail advertising, the Internet, social media and sponsorships.  U.S. Cellular has achieved its current level of penetration of its markets through a combination of a strong brand position, promotional advertising, broad distribution, maintaining a high-quality wireless network and providing outstanding customer service.  U.S. Cellular’s advertising is directed at increasing the public awareness and understanding of the wireless services it offers, improving potential customers’ awareness of the U.S. Cellular brand, attracting and retaining customers, and increasing existing customers’ usage of U.S. Cellular’s services. U.S. Cellular attempts to select the advertising and promotional media that are most appealing to the targeted groups of potential customers in each local market.  U.S. Cellular supplements its advertising with a focused public relations program that drives store traffic, supports sales of products and services, and builds brand awareness and preference.  The approach combines national and local media relations in mainstream and social media channels with market-wide activities, events, and sponsorships. U.S. Cellular focuses its charitable giving strategy on supporting initiatives relevant to consumers in its service areas.  These initiatives include support of programs that focus on education, such as Calling All Teachers, which supports schools and teachers in the communities U.S. Cellular serves.

 

Customer Service.  U.S. Cellular manages customer retention by focusing on outstanding customer service through the development of processes that are customer-friendly, extensive training of frontline sales and support associates and the implementation of retention programs.

 

U.S. Cellular currently operates four regional customer care centers with personnel who are responsible for customer service activities, and a national financial services center with personnel who perform credit and other customer payment activities.  U.S. Cellular also contracts with third parties that provide additional customer care and financial services support.

 

Sales and Distribution Channels.  U.S. Cellular supports a multi-faceted distribution program, including retail sales, direct sales, third-party national retailers, and independent agents, plus a website and telesales.

 

Company retail store locations are designed to market wireless products and services to the consumer and small business segments in a setting familiar to these types of customers.  As of December 31, 2014, retail sales associates work in approximately 275 U.S. Cellular-operated retail stores and kiosks. Direct sales consultants market wireless services to mid-size business customers. Additionally, the U.S. Cellular website enables customers to activate service and purchase wireless devices online.

 

U.S. Cellular maintains an ongoing training program to improve the effectiveness of retail sales associates and direct sales consultants by focusing their efforts on obtaining customers by facilitating the sale of appropriate packages for the customer’s expected usage and value-added services that meet the individual needs of the customer.

 

U.S. Cellular has relationships with exclusive and non-exclusive agents, which are independent businesses that obtain customers for U.S. Cellular on a commission basis.  At December 31, 2014, U.S. Cellular had contracts with these businesses aggregating over 650 locations.  U.S. Cellular provides additional support and training to its exclusive agents to increase customer satisfaction and to ensure a consistent customer experience.  U.S. Cellular’s agents are generally in the business of selling wireless devices, wireless service packages and other related products.  No single agent accounted for 10% or more of U.S. Cellular’s operating revenues during the past three years.

 

In 2013 and 2014, U.S. Cellular expanded its distribution through third-party national and on-line retailers. As of December 2014, Wal-Mart, Sam’s Club, RadioShack and Dollar General now offer U.S. Cellular products and services at select retail locations in U.S. Cellular’s service areas. Further, Amazon offers U.S. Cellular’s postpaid and prepaid services on-line.  U.S. Cellular continues to explore new relationships with additional third-party retailers as part of its strategy to expand distribution.

 

U.S. Cellular also markets wireless service through resellers.  The resale business involves the sale of wholesale access and minutes to independent companies that package and resell wireless services to end-users.  These resellers generally provide prepaid and postpaid services to subscribers under their own brand names and also provide their own billing and customer service.  U.S. Cellular incurs no direct subscriber acquisition costs related to reseller customers.  At December 31, 2014, U.S. Cellular had approximately 114,000 customers of resellers.  For the year ended December 31, 2014, revenues from resale business were less than 1% of total service revenues.

 

Seasonality.  There is seasonality in operating expenses, which tend to be higher in the fourth quarter than in the other quarters due to increased marketing and promotional activities during the holiday season, which may cause operating income to vary from quarter to quarter.

 

Competition

 

The wireless telecommunication industry is highly competitive.  U.S. Cellular competes directly with several wireless service providers in each of its markets. In general, there are between two and four competitors in each wireless market in which U.S. Cellular provides service, excluding resellers and mobile virtual network operators. In its footprint, U.S. Cellular competes to varying degrees

 

against each of the national wireless companies: Verizon Wireless, AT&T Mobility, Sprint, and to a much lesser extent, T-Mobile USA, in addition to a few smaller regional carriers in specific pockets of its footprint.  Verizon is U.S. Cellular’s largest competitor, in terms of both customer acquisition opportunities and customer defection risk in the majority of its markets. However, all of the national competitors have substantially greater financial, technical, marketing, sales, purchasing and distribution resources than U.S. Cellular. Additionally, U.S. Cellular competes with other companies that use alternative communication technology and services to provide similar products and services.   

 

Since each of these wireless competitors operates on systems using spectrum licensed by the FCC and has comparable technology and facilities, competition among wireless service providers for customers is principally on the basis of types of products and services, price, size of area covered, call quality, network speed and responsiveness of customer service.  U.S. Cellular employs a customer satisfaction strategy that includes maintaining an outstanding wireless network throughout its markets.  U.S. Cellular owns and operates low-band spectrum (less than 1 GHz) that covers the majority of its footprint and enables more efficient, superior coverage in rural areas (compared to spectrum above 1 GHz), which strengthens its network quality positioning.

 

The use of national advertising and promotional programs by the top four wireless service providers may be a source of additional competitive and pricing pressures in all U.S. Cellular markets, even if those operators do not provide direct service in a particular market.  Over the past year in particular, competition among top carriers has become even more aggressive, with the top four carriers engaging in rich promotional initiatives including contract buyouts and limited-time and permanent price reductions fueled by the rise of equipment installment plans.  In addition, in the current wireless environment, U.S. Cellular’s ability to compete depends on its ability to continue to offer national voice and data plans. U.S. Cellular provides wireless services comparable to the national competitors, but the national wireless companies operate in a wider geographic area and are able to offer no- or low-cost roaming over a wider area on their own networks than U.S. Cellular can offer on its network.  Although U.S. Cellular offers the same coverage area as these competitors, U.S. Cellular incurs roaming charges for data sessions and calls made in portions of the coverage area which are not part of its network, thereby increasing its cost of operations. U.S. Cellular depends on roaming agreements with other wireless carriers to provide voice and data roaming capabilities in areas not covered by U.S. Cellular’s network. Similarly, U.S. Cellular provides roaming services on its network to other wireless carriers’ customers who travel within U.S. Cellular’s coverage areas.

 

Convergence of connectivity is taking place on many levels, including dual-mode wireless devices that act as wireline or wireless devices depending on location and the incorporation of wireless “hot spot” technology in wireless devices making internet access seamless regardless of location.  Although less directly a substitute for other wireless services, wireless data services such as Wi-Fi may be adequate for those who do not need mobile wide-area roaming or full two-way voice services.  Technological advances or regulatory changes in the future, such as the rollout and consumer adoption of Wi-Fi calling and Voice over Long Term Evolution (“VoLTE”) capabilities, may make available other alternatives to wireless service, thereby creating additional sources of competition that shift consumers’ perceptions and preferences of network strength, speed and reliability.

 

U.S. Cellular’s approach in 2015 and in future years will be to focus on the unique needs and attitudes towards wireless service of its selected target segments.  U.S. Cellular will deliver selected, targeted high quality products and services at competitive prices and will continue to differentiate itself by seeking to provide an overall outstanding customer experience, including a high quality network. U.S. Cellular’s customer-centric approach, highly reliable network and outstanding customer service, as evidenced by numerous consumer satisfaction awards based on survey results, illustrate how U.S. Cellular seeks to differentiate itself from competitors. U.S. Cellular’s ability to compete successfully in the future, and to meet growth and return on capital objectives, will depend upon its ability to anticipate and respond to changes related to new service offerings, consumer preferences, competitors’ pricing strategies, technology, demographic trends, economic conditions and its access to adequate spectrum resources.

 

System Usage

 

U.S. Cellular’s main sources of revenues are from its own customers and from customers of competitors who roam on its network. The interoperability of wireless service enables a customer who is in a wireless service area other than the customer’s home service area to place or receive a call or use data in that service area.  U.S. Cellular has entered into reciprocal roaming agreements with operators of other wireless systems covering virtually all systems with Code Division Multiple Access (“CDMA”) technology in the United States, Canada and Mexico.  Roaming agreements offer customers the opportunity to roam on these systems.  These reciprocal agreements automatically pre-register the customers of U.S. Cellular’s systems in the other carriers’ systems.  In addition, a customer of a participating system roaming in a U.S. Cellular market where this arrangement is in effect is able to make and receive calls or data on U.S. Cellular’s system.  The charge for this service is negotiated as part of the roaming agreement between U.S. Cellular and the roaming customer’s carrier. U.S. Cellular bills this charge to the customer’s home carrier, which then may bill the customer.  In many instances, based on competitive factors, carriers, including U.S. Cellular, may not charge their customers, or charge lower amounts to their customers than the amounts actually charged by other wireless carriers for roaming. Since 2010, U.S. Cellular has offered nationwide 3G data roaming services, allowing its customers to access high-speed data across the country.

 

U.S. Cellular currently is exploring 4G LTE roaming agreements with operators of other wireless systems. The FCC’s adoption of mandatory 4G LTE roaming rules, which were upheld by the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia, may be of

 

assistance in the negotiation of 4G LTE roaming agreements with other wireless operators in the future. However, technological challenges currently exist which can limit the interoperability of 4G LTE wireless devices on other carriers’ networks. Specifically, wireless devices support certain configurations of spectrum frequencies and as a result 4G LTE wireless devices offered by carriers are not necessarily compatible with the networks of other carriers. U.S. Cellular is working with other carriers, original equipment manufacturers and potential LTE roaming vendors to mitigate interoperability issues.  U.S. Cellular has been ready to support inbound and outbound LTE roaming with certain carriers who have compatible networks and devices since the second half of 2014. 

 

In 2015, U.S. Cellular expects to begin user trials of its Voice over LTE (“VoLTE”) service in selected operating markets.  VoLTE will allow customers to utilize U.S. Cellular’s LTE network for voice and data services.  See also Exhibit 13 to this Form 10-K, Annual Report section “Regulatory Matters”.

 

Technology and System Design and Construction

 

Technology.  Wireless telecommunication systems transmit voice, data, graphics and video through the transmission of signals over networks of radio towers using radio spectrum licensed by the FCC.  Access to local, regional, national and worldwide telecommunications networks is provided through system interconnections.  A high-quality network, supported by continued investments in that network, will remain an important factor for wireless companies to remain competitive.

 

U.S. Cellular has deployed 4G LTE technology in conjunction with King Street Wireless L.P. that covered approximately 94% of its postpaid customers as of December 31, 2014, and anticipates further expansion of 4G LTE coverage, as well as VoLTE user trials, in 2015.  U.S. Cellular continues to offer services based on 3G technology and CDMA digital technology across its networks.

 

Through roaming agreements with other CDMA-based wireless carriers, U.S. Cellular’s customers may access CDMA service in virtually all areas of the United States, as well as parts of Canada and Mexico.  Another digital technology, Global System for Mobile Communication (“GSM”), has a larger installed base of customers worldwide. Since CDMA technology currently is not compatible with GSM technology, U.S. Cellular customers with CDMA-only based wireless devices currently are not able to use their wireless devices when traveling through areas serviced only by GSM-based networks. However, both CDMA and GSM technologies are being succeeded by 4G LTE technology.

 

System Design and Construction.  U.S. Cellular designs and constructs its systems in a manner it believes will permit it to provide high-quality service to substantially all types of compatible wireless devices.  Designs are based on engineering studies which relate to specific markets, in support of the larger network.  Such engineering studies are performed by U.S. Cellular personnel or third-party engineering firms.  Network reliability is given careful consideration and extensive backup redundancy is employed in many aspects of U.S. Cellular’s network design.  Route diversity, redundant equipment, ring topology and extensive use of emergency standby power also are used to enhance network reliability and minimize service disruption from any particular network element failure.

 

In accordance with its strategy of building and strengthening its operating market areas, U.S. Cellular has selected high-capacity, carrier-class digital wireless switching systems that are capable of serving multiple markets through a single mobile telephone switching office.  Centralized equipment, used for network and data management, is located in high-availability facilities supported by multiple levels of power and network redundancy. U.S. Cellular’s systems are designed to incorporate Internet Protocol (“IP”) packet-based Ethernet technology, which allows for increased data capacity and a more efficient network. Interconnection between the mobile telephone switching office and the cell sites utilizes Ethernet technology for nearly all 4G LTE sites, over fiber or microwave links.

 

U.S. Cellular believes that currently available technologies and appropriate capital additions will allow sufficient capacity on its networks to meet anticipated demand for voice and data services over the next few years. U.S. Cellular’s continued investment in new licenses will support future demand for fourth generation broadband services using 4G LTE. Increasing demand for high-speed data and video services may require the acquisition of additional spectrum licenses to provide sufficient capacity and throughput.

 

Construction of wireless systems is capital-intensive, requiring substantial investment for land and improvements, buildings, towers, mobile telephone switching offices, cell site equipment, transport equipment, engineering and installation.  U.S. Cellular primarily uses its own personnel to engineer each wireless system it owns and operates, and engages contractors to construct the facilities.

 

The costs (inclusive of the costs to acquire licenses) to develop the systems which U.S. Cellular operates have historically been financed primarily through proceeds from debt and equity offerings, with cash generated by operations, and proceeds from the sales of wireless interests and other non-strategic assets.

 

Business Development Strategy

 

 

U.S. Cellular groups its individual markets (geographic service areas as defined by the FCC in which wireless carriers are licensed, for fixed terms, to provide service) into broader geographic market areas to offer customers large service areas that primarily utilize U.S. Cellular’s network.  U.S. Cellular’s ownership interests in wireless licenses include both consolidated and investment interests in licenses covering portions of 30 states and a total population of 50.9 million at December 31, 2014.

 

The map below highlights areas of operation of U.S. Cellular’s consolidated operating markets.

 

 

U.S. Cellular’s business development strategy is to obtain interests in and access to wireless licenses in its current operating markets and in areas that are adjacent to or in close proximity to its other wireless licenses, thereby building contiguous operating market areas with strong spectrum positions.  U.S. Cellular believes that the acquisition of additional licenses within its current operating markets will enhance its network capacity to meet its customers’ increased demand for data services.  U.S. Cellular anticipates that grouping its operations into market areas will continue to provide it with certain economies in its capital and operating costs.  U.S. Cellular may continue to make opportunistic acquisitions or exchanges that further strengthen its current operating markets or in other attractive markets.  U.S. Cellular seeks to acquire noncontrolling interests in licenses in which it already owns the majority interest and/or operates the license.  From time to time, U.S. Cellular has divested outright or included in exchanges for other wireless interests certain consolidated and investment interests that were considered less essential to its current and expected future operations.  As part of its business development strategy, U.S. Cellular from time to time may be engaged in negotiations relating to the acquisition, exchange or disposition of companies, strategic properties or wireless spectrum.  See Note 6 — Acquisitions, Divestitures and Exchanges and Note 8 — Investments in Unconsolidated Entities in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for a description of significant acquisitions, divestitures and exchanges in the years 2012 through 2014. 

 

From time to time, the FCC conducts auctions through which additional spectrum is made available for the provision of wireless services.  U.S. Cellular may participate as a bidder, or member of a bidding group, in future auctions, such as the FCC’s upcoming auction of 600MHz broadcast television spectrum expected to occur in 2016. In general, U.S. Cellular may not disclose any such participation unless it or such bidding group is announced as a winning bidder by the FCC. 

 

 

U.S. Cellular has participated in certain prior FCC auctions indirectly through its limited partnership interests.  Each entity qualified as a “designated entity” and thereby was eligible for bidding credits with respect to most licenses purchased in accordance with the rules defined by the FCC for each auction.  In most cases, the bidding credits resulted in a 25% discount from the gross winning bid.

 

In January 2015, the FCC released the results of Auction 97.  U.S. Cellular participated in Auction 97 indirectly through its limited partnership interest in Advantage Spectrum L.P. (“Advantage Spectrum”).  See Note 13 — Variable Interest Entities in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.

 

In 2012, the FCC conducted a single round, sealed bid, reverse auction to award Mobility Fund Phase I support to bidders that commit to provide wireless service in areas designated as unserved by the FCC.  U.S. Cellular and several of its subsidiaries were winning bidders in eligible areas within 10 states. See Note 17 —  Supplemental Cash Flow Disclosures in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.

 

Regulation

 

U.S. Cellular’s operations are subject to federal, state and local regulation. 

 

U.S. Cellular provides various wireless services, including voice and data services, pursuant to licenses granted by the FCC.  The construction, operation and transfer of wireless systems in the United States are regulated to varying degrees by the FCC pursuant to the Communications Act of 1934, as amended (“Communications Act”).  The FCC currently does not require wireless carriers to comply with a number of statutory provisions otherwise applicable to common carriers that provide, originate or terminate interstate or international telecommunications.  However, the FCC has promulgated regulations governing construction and operation of wireless systems, licensing (including renewal of licenses) and technical standards for the provision of wireless services under the Communications Act.

 

Wireless licenses are granted by the FCC based on various geographic areas.  The completion of acquisitions, involving the transfer of control of all or a portion of a wireless system requires prior FCC approval.  The FCC determines on a case-by-case basis whether an acquisition of wireless licenses is in the public interest.  Wireless licenses are generally granted for a ten year term or, in some cases, for a fifteen year term.  The FCC has established standards for conducting comparative renewal proceedings between a wireless license holder seeking renewal of its license and challengers filing competing applications.  All of U.S. Cellular’s licenses for which it applied for renewal between 1995 and 2014 have been renewed.  The FCC is pursuing proceedings to modify the license renewal process.  U.S. Cellular expects to meet the criteria of any license renewal process.

 

As part of its data services, U.S. Cellular provides internet access.  As described more fully in Exhibit 13 to this Form 10-K under “Regulatory Matters – FCC Net Neutrality Proposal,” there are developments and proposals that may result in greater regulation of wireless data services relating to internet access.

 

Although the Communications Act generally pre-empts state and local governments from regulating the entry of, or the rates charged by, wireless carriers, certain state and local governments regulate other terms and conditions of wireless services, including billing, termination of service arrangements, imposition of early termination fees, advertising, network outages, the use of handsets while driving, zoning and land use.  Further, the Federal Aviation Administration also regulates the siting, lighting and construction of transmitter towers and antennae.

 

Additional information relating to U.S. Cellular’s regulatory environment is incorporated by reference from Exhibit 13 to this Form 10-K, Annual Report section “Regulatory Matters” and in Risk Factors.

 

Debt Securities

 

U.S. Cellular’s publicly traded retail debt includes 6.95% Senior Notes due 2060 that are listed on the NYSE under the symbol “UZA.” U.S. Cellular’s 7.25% Senior Notes due 2063 are listed on the NYSE under the symbol “UZB.”  U.S. Cellular’s 6.7% Senior Notes due 2033 are traded over the counter and are not listed on any stock exchange.

 

Employees

 

U.S. Cellular had approximately 6,600 full-time and part-time employees as of December 31, 2014.  None of U.S. Cellular’s employees are represented by labor organizations. U.S. Cellular considers its relationship with its employees to be good.

 

Location and Company Information

 

U.S. Cellular has its principal executive offices at 8410 West Bryn Mawr Avenue, Chicago, Illinois 60631 (telephone number 773-399-8900). U.S. Cellular’s website address is http://www.uscellular.com.  U.S. Cellular files with, or furnishes to, the Securities and

 

Exchange Commission (“SEC”) annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K, as well as various other information.  Investors may access, free of charge, through the Investor Relations portion of the website, U.S. Cellular’s annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K, and amendments to such reports filed or furnished pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Exchange Act as soon as reasonably practical after such material is filed electronically with the SEC. The public may read and copy any materials U.S. Cellular files with the SEC at the SEC’s Public Reference Room at 100 F Street, NE, Washington D.C. 20549.  The public may obtain information on the operation of the Reference Room by calling the SEC at 1-800-732-0330.  The public may also view electronic filings of U.S. Cellular by accessing SEC filings at http://www.sec.gov. 

 

Item 1A.  Risk Factors 

 

PRIVATE SECURITIES LITIGATION REFORM ACT OF 1995

SAFE HARBOR CAUTIONARY STATEMENT

 

This Annual Report on Form 10-K, including exhibits, contains statements that are not based on historical facts and represent forward-looking statements, as this term is defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.  All statements, other than statements of historical facts, that address activities, events or developments that U.S. Cellular intends, expects, projects, believes, estimates, plans or anticipates will or may occur in the future are forward-looking statements.  The words “believes,” “anticipates,” “estimates,” “expects,” “plans,” “intends,” “projects” and similar expressions are intended to identify these forward-looking statements, but are not the exclusive means of identifying them.  Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results, events or developments to be significantly different from any future results, events or developments expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such risks, uncertainties and other factors include those set forth below under “Risk Factors” in this Form 10-K. Each of the following risks could have a material adverse effect on U.S. Cellular; however, such factors are not necessarily all of the important factors that could cause actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from those expressed in, or implied by, the forward-looking statements contained in this document.  Other unknown or unpredictable factors also could have material adverse effects on future results, performance or achievements.  U.S. Cellular undertakes no obligation to update publicly any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. You should carefully consider the following risk factors and other information contained in, or incorporated by reference into, this Form 10-K to understand the material risks relating to U.S. Cellular’s business.

 

RISK FACTORS

 

1)       Intense competition in the markets in which U.S. Cellular operates could adversely affect U.S. Cellular’s revenues or increase its costs to compete.

 

Competition in the telecommunications industry is currently intense and could intensify further in the future due to the general effects of the economy, as well as due to multiple wireless industry factors such as increasing market penetration, decreasing customer churn rates, introduction of new products, new competitors and changing prices.  There is competition in handsets and other devices; network quality, coverage, speed and technologies; distribution; pricing; and other categories.  U.S. Cellular’s ability to compete effectively will depend, in part, on its ability to anticipate and respond to various competitive factors affecting the telecommunications industry.  U.S. Cellular anticipates that, in the future, competition may cause the prices for products and services to continue to decline and the costs to compete to increase.  Most of U.S. Cellular’s competitors are national or global telecommunications companies that are larger than U.S. Cellular, possess greater resources, possess more extensive coverage areas and more spectrum within their coverage areas, and market other services with their communications services that U.S. Cellular does not offer.  In addition, U.S. Cellular may face competition from technologies that may be introduced in the future or from new entrants into the industry.  New technologies, services and products that are more commercially effective than the technologies, services and products offered by U.S. Cellular may be developed.  Further, new technologies may be proprietary such that U.S. Cellular is not able to adopt such technologies.  There can be no assurance that U.S. Cellular will be able to compete successfully in this environment. 

 

Sources of competition to U.S. Cellular’s business typically include two to four competing wireless telecommunications service providers in each market, wireline telecommunications service providers, cable companies, resellers (including mobile virtual network operators), and providers of other alternate telecommunications services.  Many of U.S. Cellular’s wireless competitors and other competitors have substantially greater financial, technical, marketing, sales, purchasing and distribution resources than U.S. Cellular.

 

U.S. Cellular’s competitors offer a wide array of wireless service offerings and wireless devices.  There is increasing complexity associated with these wireless product and service offerings and the related pricing.  Further, new wireless services and products and pricing structures are frequently introduced.  Multiple events related to new services, products and pricing offered by U.S. Cellular’s competitors occurring simultaneously or in close proximity may impact U.S. Cellular’s ability to respond to such events and compete effectively.

 

If U.S. Cellular does not adapt to compete effectively in such a highly competitive environment, such competitive factors could result in product, service, pricing or cost disadvantages and could have an adverse effect on U.S. Cellular’s business, financial condition or results of operations.

 

 

2)       A failure by U.S. Cellular to successfully execute its business strategy (including planned acquisitions, divestitures and exchanges) or allocate resources or capital could have an adverse effect on U.S. Cellular’s business, financial condition or results of operations.

 

U.S. Cellular is a regional wireless carrier that operates on a customer satisfaction strategy, seeking to meet customer needs by providing a comprehensive range of wireless products and services, excellent customer support, and a high-quality network.  U.S. Cellular seeks to operate controlling interests in wireless licenses in areas adjacent to or in proximity to its other wireless licenses, thereby building contiguous operating market areas.  U.S. Cellular relies on roaming agreements with other carriers to provide roaming capability to its customers in areas of the U.S. outside its service areas and to improve coverage within selected areas of U.S. Cellular’s network footprint.  U.S. Cellular pursues a product and technology strategy which requires it to recognize product and technology advances and quickly adopt and execute rollouts of such advances.  This strategy requires U.S. Cellular to make timely and effective strategic decisions related to technological advances and related products and services, and which of these technological advances to adopt and roll out to its customers.

 

Further, U.S. Cellular’s strategic decisions related to the adoption of new technologies are ultimately impacted by such factors as consumer preferences for technologies and the related services and products, and original equipment manufacturer (“OEM”) and standard bodies support of such technologies, including Long-Term Evolution (“LTE”) and VoLTE, among other factors.  If U.S. Cellular’s competitors adopt new technologies faster than U.S. Cellular, then consumers who are eager to adopt new technologies more quickly may select U.S. Cellular’s competitors rather than U.S. Cellular as their service provider.  These customers who are early adopters of new technologies are often customers who generate higher average revenue per unit (“ARPU”), and to the extent that U.S. Cellular does not attract these types of customers, U.S. Cellular could be at a competitive disadvantage and have a customer base that generates lower overall ARPU relative to its competition.

 

The successful execution of strategy and optimal capital allocation decisions depend on various internal and external factors, many of which are not in U.S. Cellular’s control.  U.S. Cellular’s ability to implement and execute its business strategy and optimally allocate its assets and capital and, as a result, achieve desired financial results, could be affected by such factors.  Such factors include pricing practices by competitors, relative scale, purchasing power, roaming and other strategic agreements, wireless device availability, timing of introduction of wireless devices and other factors.  In addition, there is no assurance that U.S. Cellular’s strategy will be successful.  Even if U.S. Cellular executes its business strategy as intended, such strategy may not be successful in the long term to profitably sustain growth in revenue or otherwise. 

 

A failure by U.S. Cellular to execute its business strategy successfully or to allocate resources or capital optimally could have an adverse effect on U.S. Cellular’s wireless business, financial condition or results of operations.

 

3)       U.S. Cellular offers customers the option to purchase certain devices under installment contracts, which creates certain risks and uncertainties which could have an adverse impact on U.S. Cellular's financial condition or results of operations.

 

Beginning in the second quarter of 2014, U.S. Cellular expanded its offerings of equipment installment plans.  Such plans offer customers the option to purchase certain devices under installment contracts over a period of up to 24 months.  U.S. Cellular expects that sales of devices under these plans, when compared to sales of devices made under the traditional subsidy model, will reduce retail service revenue and ARPU but increase equipment revenue.  Such plans also are expected to result in lower cash flows from operating activities in the near term.  However, at this time, U.S. Cellular does not have significant experience in these new plans or a sufficient history to determine how these plans will affect U.S. Cellular’s business, financial position or results of operations. 

 

Compared to equipment sales made under the traditional subsidy model, these equipment installment plans involve different business risks and accounting considerations.  These plans could adversely impact bad debts expense, marketing expense, customer churn, cash flows, inventory valuation, and other financial results and metrics.

 

4)       Changes in roaming practices or other factors could cause U.S. Cellular's roaming revenues to decline from current levels and/or impact U.S. Cellular's ability to service its customers in geographic areas where U.S. Cellular does not have its own network, which could have an adverse effect on U.S. Cellular's business, financial condition or results of operations.

 

U.S. Cellular’s service revenues include roaming revenues related to the use of U.S. Cellular’s network by other carriers’ customers who travel within U.S. Cellular’s coverage areas.  Changes in the network footprints of carriers due to mergers, acquisitions or network expansions could have an adverse effect on U.S. Cellular’s roaming revenues.  For example, consolidation among other carriers which have network footprints that currently overlap U.S. Cellular’s network could decrease the amount of roaming revenues for U.S. Cellular.

 

Similarly, U.S. Cellular's customers can access another carrier’s digital system automatically only if the other carrier allows U.S. Cellular's customers to roam on its network.  U.S. Cellular relies on roaming agreements with other carriers to provide roaming capability to its customers in areas of the U.S., Mexico and Canada outside of its service areas and to improve coverage within

 

selected areas of U.S. Cellular's network footprint.  Such agreements cover traditional voice services as well as data services.  Although U.S. Cellular currently has long-term roaming agreements with certain other carriers, these agreements generally are subject to renewal and termination if certain events occur.  FCC rules and orders impose certain requirements on wireless carriers to offer certain roaming arrangements to other carriers.  However, carriers frequently disagree on what is required.  Also, at this time, there is no assurance that U.S. Cellular will be able to enter into agreements to provide roaming services using 4G LTE or other technologies or that it will be able to do so on reasonable or cost-effective terms.  In addition, see Exhibit 13 to this Form 10-K, Annual Report section “Regulatory Matters – FCC Interoperability Order” for further information and developments.

 

Some competitors may be able to obtain lower roaming rates than U.S. Cellular is able to obtain because they have larger call volumes or may be able to reduce roaming charges by providing service principally over their own networks.  In addition, the quality of service that a wireless carrier delivers during a roaming call may be inferior to the quality of service U.S. Cellular provides, the price of a roaming call may not be competitive with prices of other wireless carriers for such call, and U.S. Cellular’s customers may not be able to use some of the advanced features, such as voicemail notification or data applications, that U.S. Cellular’s customers enjoy when making calls on U.S. Cellular’s network.  U.S. Cellular’s rate of adoption of new technologies, such as those enabling high-speed data services, could affect its ability to enter into or maintain roaming agreements with other carriers.  In addition, U.S. Cellular’s wireless technology may not be compatible with technologies used by other carriers, which may limit the ability of U.S. Cellular to enter into voice or data roaming agreements with such other carriers.  U.S. Cellular’s roaming partners could switch their business to new operators or, over time, to their own networks.  Changes in roaming usage patterns, rates for roaming minutes or data usage or relationships with carriers whose customers generate roaming minutes or data use on U.S. Cellular’s network could have an adverse effect on U.S. Cellular’s revenues and revenue growth.

 

To the extent that U.S. Cellular’s key roaming partners expand their networks in U.S. Cellular’s service areas, the roaming arrangements between U.S. Cellular and these key roaming partners could become less strategic for the roaming partners.  That is, these key roaming partners will have fewer or less extensive geographic areas where roaming services are required by their customers and, as a result, the roaming arrangements could become less critical to serving their customer base.  This presents a risk to U.S. Cellular in that, to the extent U.S. Cellular is not able to enter into economically viable roaming arrangements with key roaming partners, this could impact U.S. Cellular’s ability to service its customers in geographic areas where U.S. Cellular does not have its own network.

 

If U.S. Cellular’s roaming revenues decline, or if U.S. Cellular is unable to obtain or maintain roaming agreements with other wireless carriers that contain pricing and other terms that are competitive and acceptable to U.S. Cellular, and that satisfy U.S. Cellular’s quality and interoperability requirements, its business, financial condition or results of operations could be adversely affected.

 

 

5)       A failure by U.S. Cellular to obtain access to adequate radio spectrum to meet current or anticipated future needs and/or to accurately predict future needs for radio spectrum could have an adverse effect on U.S. Cellular’s business, financial condition or results of operations.

 

U.S. Cellular’s business depends on the ability to use portions of the radio spectrum licensed by the FCC.  U.S. Cellular could fail to obtain access to sufficient spectrum capacity in new or existing critical markets, whether through FCC auctions or other transactions, in order to meet the anticipated spectrum requirements associated with increased demand for existing services, especially increases in customer demand for data services, and to enable deployment of next-generation services.  U.S. Cellular believes that this increased demand for data services reflects a trend that will continue for the foreseeable future; as such, U.S. Cellular could fail to accurately forecast its future spectrum requirements considering changes in customer usage patterns, technology requirements and the expanded demands of new services. Such a failure could have an adverse impact on the quality of U.S. Cellular’s services or U.S. Cellular’s ability to roll out such future services in some markets, or could require that U.S. Cellular curtail existing services in order to make spectrum available for next-generation services.  Spectrum constrained providers could be effectively capped in increasing market share.  As spectrum constrained providers gain customers, they use up their network capacity. Since they lack spectrum, they can respond to demand only by adding cell sites, which is capital intensive, limited by zoning considerations, and ultimately may not be cost effective.  U.S. Cellular may acquire access to spectrum through a number of alternatives, including participation in spectrum auctions, partnering on a non-controlling basis with other auction applicants (“Other Applicants”) and other acquisitions and exchanges.  As required by law, the FCC has conducted auctions for licenses to use some parts of the radio spectrum.  The decision to conduct auctions, and the determination of what spectrum frequencies will be made available for auction and the determination of geographic size of licenses, are made by the FCC pursuant to laws that it administers.  The FCC may not be able to allocate spectrum sufficient to meet the demands of all those wishing to obtain licenses for new market entry or to expand their spectrum holdings to meet the expanding demand for data services or to address other spectrum constraints.  Due to factors such as geographic size of licenses and auction bidders that may raise prices beyond acceptable levels, U.S. Cellular or Other Applicants may not be successful in FCC auctions in obtaining the spectrum that either believes is necessary to implement its business and technology strategies.  In addition, newly auctioned spectrum may not be compatible with existing spectrum, and vendors may not create suitable products to use such spectrum.  Further, access to use spectrum won in FCC auctions may not be available on a timely basis.  Such access is dependent upon the FCC actually granting licenses won in the various auctions, which can be delayed for various reasons.  Furthermore, newly licensed spectrum may not be available for immediate use since the radio operations of incumbent users, including in some cases government agencies, may need to be relocated to other portions of the radio spectrum, and/or the newly licensed spectrum may be subject to sharing and coordination obligations for a period of time.  U.S. Cellular also may seek to acquire radio spectrum through purchases and exchanges with other spectrum licensees.  However, U.S. Cellular may not be able to acquire sufficient spectrum through these types of transactions, and U.S. Cellular may not be able to complete any of these transactions on favorable terms.

 

6)       To the extent conducted by the Federal Communications Commission (“FCC”), U.S. Cellular is likely to participate in FCC auctions of additional spectrum in the future as an applicant or as a noncontrolling partner in another auction applicant and, during certain periods, will be subject to the FCC’s anti-collusion rules, which could have an adverse effect on U.S. Cellular.

 

From time to time, the FCC conducts auctions through which additional spectrum is made available for the provision of wireless services.  U.S. Cellular has participated in such auctions in the past and is likely to participate in other auctions conducted by the FCC in the future as an applicant or as a non-controlling partner in another auction applicant. FCC anti-collusion rules place certain restrictions on business communications and disclosures by participants in an FCC auction.  These anti-collusion rules may restrict the normal conduct of U.S. Cellular’s business and/or disclosures by U.S. Cellular relating to an FCC auction, which could last three to six months or more. The restrictions could have an adverse effect on U.S. Cellular’s business, financial condition or results of operations.

 

7)       Changes in the regulatory environment or a failure by U.S. Cellular to timely or fully comply with any applicable regulatory requirements could adversely affect U.S. Cellular’s business, financial condition or results of operations.

 

U.S. Cellular’s operations are subject to varying degrees of regulation by the FCC, state public utility commissions and other federal, state and local regulatory agencies and legislative bodies.  U.S. Cellular is unable to predict the future actions of the various regulatory bodies that govern U.S. Cellular, but such actions could have adverse effects on U.S. Cellular’s business.  New or amended regulatory requirements could increase U.S. Cellular’s costs and divert resources from other initiatives.

 

Adverse decisions, increased regulation, or changes to existing regulation by regulatory bodies could negatively impact U.S. Cellular’s operations by, among other things, changing the amount that can be charged for local, intrastate or interstate access rates, increasing U.S. Cellular’s costs of doing business, permitting greater competition or limiting U.S. Cellular’s ability to engage in certain sales or marketing activities.  New regulatory mandates or enforcement may require unexpected or changed capital investment, lost revenues, changes in operations or other changes. 

 

 

Court decisions and rulemakings could have a substantial impact on U.S. Cellular’s operations, including rulemakings on intercarrier access compensation and state and federal universal service.  Litigation and different objectives among federal and state regulators could create uncertainty and delay U.S. Cellular’s ability to respond to new regulations. 

 

U.S. Cellular attempts to timely and fully comply with all regulatory requirements.  However, this may not be possible due to various factors.  Any failure by U.S. Cellular to timely or fully comply with any regulatory requirements could adversely affect U.S. Cellular’s financial condition, results of operations or ability to do business.

 

For additional information about U.S. Cellular’s regulatory environment, including the potential risk to a reduction in the current level of U.S. Cellular’s revenues as an Eligible Telecommunications Carrier, see “Regulation” in this Form 10-K and Exhibit 13 to this Form 10-K, Annual Report section “Regulatory Matters”.

 

8)       An inability to attract people of outstanding potential, to develop their potential through education and assignments, and to retain them by keeping them engaged, challenged and properly rewarded could have an adverse effect on U.S. Cellular's business, financial condition or results of operations.

 

U.S. Cellular’s business is highly technical and competition for skilled talent in the wireless industry is aggressive.  Due to competition for qualified management, technical, sales and other personnel, there can be no assurance that U.S. Cellular will be able to continue to attract and/or retain people of outstanding potential for the development of its business.  The loss of the services of existing key personnel as well as the failure to recruit additional qualified personnel in a timely manner could have an adverse effect on U.S. Cellular’s business, financial condition or results of operations.

 

9)       U.S. Cellular’s assets are concentrated in the U.S. wireless telecommunications industry. As a result, its results of operations may fluctuate based on factors related primarily to conditions in this industry.

 

U.S. Cellular’s assets are concentrated in the U.S. wireless telecommunications industry and the United States.  The U.S. wireless telecommunications industry is facing significant change and an uncertain operating environment.  U.S. Cellular has not diversified its revenue streams beyond wireless telecommunications.  U.S. Cellular’s focus on the U.S. wireless telecommunications industry, together with its positioning relative to larger competitors with greater resources within the industry, may represent increased risk for investors due to the lack of diversification.  This could have an adverse effect on U.S. Cellular’s ability to profitably sustain long-term revenue growth and could have an adverse effect on its business, financial condition or results of operations.

 

10)   U.S. Cellular’s lower scale relative to larger competitors could adversely affect its business, financial condition or results of operations.   

 

There has been a trend in the telecommunications and related industries in recent years towards consolidation of service providers through acquisitions, reorganizations and joint ventures.  This trend could continue, leading to larger competitors over time.  U.S. Cellular has lower scale efficiencies compared to larger competitors.  U.S. Cellular may be unable to compete successfully with larger companies that have substantially greater financial, technical, marketing, sales, purchasing and distribution resources or that offer more services than U.S. Cellular, which could adversely affect U.S. Cellular’s revenues and costs of doing business.  Specifically, U.S. Cellular’s smaller scale relative to most of its competitors could have the following impacts, among others:

 

·         Increased operating costs due to lack of leverage with vendors;

·         Limited opportunities for strategic partnerships as potential partners are focused on wireless companies with greater scale;

·         Limited access to content;

·         Limited ability to influence industry standards;

·         Reduced ability to invest in research and development of new products and services;

·         Vendors may deem U.S. Cellular non-strategic and not develop or sell products and services to U.S. Cellular, particularly where technical requirements differ from those of larger companies;

·         Limited access to intellectual property; and

·         Other limited opportunities such as for software development or third party distribution.

 

U.S. Cellular’s business increasingly depends on access to content for data, music or video services and access to new wireless devices being developed by vendors.  U.S. Cellular’s ability to obtain such access depends in part on other parties.  If U.S. Cellular is unable to obtain timely access to new content or wireless devices being developed by vendors, its business, financial condition or results of operations could be adversely affected.

 

As a result of the foregoing, U.S. Cellular’s lower scale relative to larger competitors could adversely affect U.S. Cellular’s business, financial condition or results of operations.

 

 

11)   Changes in various business factors could have an adverse effect on U.S. Cellular’s business, financial condition or results of operations.

 

Changes in any of several factors could have an adverse effect on U.S. Cellular’s business, financial condition or results of operations.  These factors include, but are not limited to:

 

·         Demand for or usage of services, particularly data services;

·         Customer preferences, including type of wireless devices;

·         Customer perceptions of network quality and performance;

·         The pricing of services;

·         The overall size and growth rate of U.S. Cellular’s customer base;

·         Average revenue per customer;

·         Penetration rates;

·         Churn rates;

·         Selling expenses;

·         Net customer acquisition and retention costs;

·         Customers’ ability to pay for wireless service and the potential impact on bad debts expense;

·         Roaming agreements and rates;

·         Third-party vendor support;

·         The mix of products and services offered by U.S. Cellular and purchased by customers; and

·         The costs of providing products and services.

 

12)   Advances or changes in technology could render certain technologies used by U.S. Cellular obsolete, could put U.S. Cellular at a competitive disadvantage, could reduce U.S. Cellular’s revenues or could increase its costs of doing business.

 

The telecommunications industry is experiencing significant changes in technologies and services expected by customers, as evidenced by evolving industry standards, ongoing improvements in the capacity and quality of digital technology, shorter development cycles for new services and products, and enhancements and changes in end-user requirements and preferences.  Widespread deployment of new technologies could cause the technology used on U.S. Cellular’s wireless networks or traditional circuit-switched telephone services to become less competitive or obsolete.  Non-traditional competitors may try to dis-intermediate the wireless carrier and render it less valuable or obsolete.  Future technological changes or advancements may enable other wireless technologies to equal or exceed U.S. Cellular’s current levels of service and render its system infrastructure obsolete.  U.S. Cellular may not be able to respond to such changes and implement new technology on a timely or cost-effective basis, which could reduce its revenues or increase its costs of doing business.  If U.S. Cellular cannot keep pace with these technological changes or other changes in the telecommunications industry over time, its financial condition, results of operations or ability to do business could be adversely affected.

 

13)   Complexities associated with deploying new technologies present substantial risk.

 

U.S. Cellular has selected 4G LTE technology as its approach to address demand for services enabled by fourth generation wireless technology.  The deployment of 4G LTE technology is impacted by a number of technical challenges. 

 

Manufacturers of wireless devices (“Original Equipment Manufacturers” or “OEMs”) must design and manufacture equipment that operates on the frequency bands available to U.S. Cellular.  This may involve software and hardware support for such bands in wireless device chipsets as well as band-specific designs for components such as filters.  OEMs, chipset manufacturers, and component manufacturers will likely prioritize the support of frequency bands that are specified by the largest wireless carriers.  Given U.S. Cellular’s smaller scale relative to its competitors, certain bands of spectrum licensed to U.S. Cellular in certain cases represent a lower priority for chipset and wireless device manufacturers.  As a result, the timing and the availability of wireless devices to support U.S. Cellular’s continued 4G LTE roll out could be negatively impacted.  In addition, due to U.S. Cellular’s relatively smaller scale, the cost of such equipment could be higher for U.S. Cellular than for U.S. Cellular’s competitors.

 

Additionally, the efficiency of LTE networks and the peak speeds they can provide are optimized when the technology is deployed in larger channel bandwidths that, in early releases of LTE, require larger amounts of contiguous spectrum.  To the extent that U.S. Cellular’s competitors have access to larger contiguous spectrum positions, they may be able to offer faster speeds or provision their networks more efficiently.  In order for U.S. Cellular to realize the same LTE data transfer speeds as competitors, it is important that both network infrastructure and device manufacturers support non-contiguous spectrum aggregation features for U.S. Cellular.

Lack of wireless devices available to U.S. Cellular to support its 4G LTE network, comparatively smaller spectrum positions for 4G LTE deployments, or carrier aggregation standards that result in U.S. Cellular delivering slower 4G LTE data transfer speeds relative to its competitors, could have an adverse impact on U.S. Cellular’s business, financial condition and results of operations.

 

 

14)   U.S. Cellular is subject to numerous surcharges and fees from federal, state and local governments, and the applicability and the amount of these fees are subject to great uncertainty.

 

Telecommunications providers pay a variety of surcharges and fees on their gross revenues from interstate and intrastate services, including USF fees and common carrier regulatory fees. The division of services between interstate services and intrastate services, including the divisions associated with the federal USF fees, is a matter of interpretation and may in the future be contested by the FCC or state authorities. The FCC also may change in the future the basis on which federal USF fees are charged. The Federal government and many states also apply transaction-based taxes to sales of U.S. Cellular products and services and to purchases of telecommunications services from various carriers. In addition, state regulators and local governments have imposed and may continue to impose various surcharges, taxes and fees on U.S. Cellular services. The applicability of these surcharges and fees to its services is uncertain in many cases and jurisdictions may contest whether U.S. Cellular has assessed and remitted those monies correctly.  Periodically, state and federal regulators may increase or change the surcharges and fees U.S. Cellular currently pays.  In some instances U.S. Cellular passes through these charges to its customers.  However, Congress, the FCC, state regulatory agencies or state legislatures may limit the ability to pass through transaction-based tax liabilities, regulatory surcharges and regulatory fees imposed on U.S. Cellular to customers.  U.S. Cellular may or may not be able to recover some or all of those taxes from its customers and the amount of taxes may deter demand for its services or increase its cost to provide service which could have an adverse effect on its business, financial condition or operating results.

 

15)   Performance under device purchase agreements could have a material adverse impact on U.S. Cellular's business, financial condition or results of operations.

 

U.S. Cellular has entered into purchase commitments with certain vendors and may enter into similar purchase commitments with other vendors in the future.  If U.S. Cellular is unable to sell all of the devices that it is required to purchase under such agreements, or if it is unable to sell them at the prices it projects, its business, financial condition or results of operations could be adversely affected.

 

16)   Changes in U.S. Cellular’s enterprise value, changes in the market supply or demand for wireless licenses, adverse developments in the business or the industry in which U.S. Cellular is involved and/or other factors could require U.S. Cellular to recognize impairments in the carrying value of its licenses, goodwill and/or physical assets.

 

A large portion of U.S. Cellular’s assets consists of indefinite-lived intangible assets in the form of licenses and goodwill.  U.S. Cellular also has substantial investments in long-lived assets such as property, plant and equipment.  U.S. Cellular reviews its licenses, goodwill and other long-lived assets for impairment annually or whenever events or circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of such assets may not be fully recoverable.  An impairment loss may need to be recognized to the extent the carrying value of the assets exceeds the fair value of such assets.  The amount of any such impairment loss could be significant and could have an adverse effect on U.S. Cellular’s reported financial results for the period in which the loss is recognized.  The estimation of fair values requires assumptions by management about factors that are uncertain including such things as future cash flows and the appropriate discount rate.  Different assumptions for these factors could create materially different results.

 

17)   Costs, integration problems or other factors associated with acquisitions, divestitures or exchanges of properties or licenses and/or expansion of U.S. Cellular’s business could have an adverse effect on U.S. Cellular’s business, financial condition or results of operations.

 

As part of U.S. Cellular’s operating strategy, U.S. Cellular from time to time may be engaged in the acquisition, divestiture or exchange of companies, businesses, strategic properties, wireless spectrum or other assets.  U.S. Cellular may change the markets in which it operates and the services that it provides through such acquisitions, divestitures and/or exchanges.   In general, U.S. Cellular may not disclose the negotiation of such transactions until a definitive agreement has been reached.

 

These transactions commonly involve a number of risks, including:

 

·         Identification of attractive companies, businesses, properties, spectrum or other assets for acquisition or exchange, and/or the selection of U.S. Cellular’s businesses or assets for divestiture or exchange;

·         Competition for acquisition targets and the ability to acquire or exchange businesses at reasonable prices;

·         Possible lack of buyers for businesses or assets that U.S. Cellular desires to divest and the ability to divest or exchange such businesses or assets at reasonable prices;

·         Ability to negotiate favorable terms and conditions for acquisitions, divestitures and exchanges;

·         Significant expenditures associated with acquisitions, divestitures and exchanges;

·         Legal and regulatory risks associated with new businesses or markets;

·         Ability to enter markets in which U.S. Cellular has limited or no direct prior experience and competitors have stronger positions;

·         Ability to manage businesses that are engaged in activities other than traditional wireless service;

 

·         Uncertain revenues and expenses associated with acquisitions, with the result that U.S. Cellular may not realize the growth in revenues, anticipated cost structure, profitability, or return on investment that it expects;

·         Difficulty of integrating the technologies, services, products, operations and personnel of the acquired businesses, or of separating such matters for divested businesses or assets;

·         Diversion of management’s attention;

·         Disruption of ongoing business;

·         Impact on U.S. Cellular’s cash and available credit lines for use in financing future growth and working capital needs;

·         Inability to retain key personnel;

·         Inability to successfully incorporate acquired assets and rights into U.S. Cellular’s service offerings;

·         Inability to maintain uniform standards, controls, procedures and policies;

·         Possible conditions to approval by the FCC, the Federal Trade Commission and/or the Department of Justice; and

·         Impairment of relationships with employees, customers or vendors.

 

No assurance can be given that U.S. Cellular will be successful with respect to its acquisition, divestiture or exchange strategies or initiatives.  If U.S. Cellular is not successful with respect to its acquisitions, divestitures or exchanges, its business, financial condition or results of operations could be adversely affected.

 

18)   U.S. Cellular’s investments in unproven technologies may not produce the benefits that U.S. Cellular expects.

 

U.S. Cellular is making investments in various new technologies and service and product offerings.  These investments include technologies for enhanced data service offerings.  U.S. Cellular expects new services, products and solutions based on these new technologies to contribute to future growth in its revenues.  However, the markets for some of these services, products and solutions are still emerging and the overall potential for these markets remains uncertain.  If customer demand for these new services, products and solutions does not develop as expected, U.S. Cellular’s business, financial condition or results of operations could be adversely affected.

 

19)   A failure by U.S. Cellular to complete significant network construction and systems implementation activities as part of its plans to improve the quality, coverage, capabilities and capacity of its network, support and other systems and infrastructure could have an adverse effect on its operations.

 

U.S. Cellular’s business plan includes significant construction activities and enhancements to its network.  As U.S. Cellular deploys, expands and enhances its network, it may need to acquire additional spectrum.  Also, as U.S. Cellular continues to build out and enhance its network, U.S. Cellular must, among other things, continue to:

 

·         Lease, acquire or otherwise obtain rights to cell and switch sites;

·         Obtain zoning variances or other local governmental or third-party approvals or permits for network construction;

·         Complete and update the radio frequency design, including cell site design, frequency planning and network optimization, for each of U.S. Cellular’s markets; and

·         Improve, expand and maintain customer care, network management, billing and other financial and management systems.

 

Any difficulties encountered in completing these activities, as well as problems in vendor equipment availability, technical resources, system performance or system adequacy, could delay expansion of operations and product capabilities in new or existing markets or result in increased costs.  Failure to successfully build out and enhance U.S. Cellular’s network and necessary support facilities and systems in a cost-effective manner, and in a manner that satisfies customer expectations for quality and coverage, could have an adverse effect on U.S. Cellular’s business, business prospects, financial condition or results of operations.

 

20)   Difficulties involving third parties with which U.S. Cellular does business, including changes in U.S. Cellular's relationships with or financial or operational difficulties of key suppliers or independent agents and third party national retailers who market U.S. Cellular services, could adversely affect U.S. Cellular’s business, financial condition or results of operations.

 

U.S. Cellular has relationships with independent agents and third party national retailers who market U.S. Cellular services.  If such relationships are seriously harmed or if such parties experience financial difficulties, including bankruptcy, U.S. Cellular’s business, financial condition or results of operations could be adversely affected.

  

U.S. Cellular depends upon certain vendors to provide it with equipment, services or content to continue its network construction and upgrades and to operate its business.  U.S. Cellular does not have operational or financial control over such key suppliers and has limited influence with respect to the manner in which these key suppliers conduct their businesses.  If these key suppliers experience financial difficulties or file for bankruptcy or experience other operational difficulties, they may be unable to provide equipment,

 

services or content to U.S. Cellular on a timely basis or cease to provide such equipment, services or content or otherwise fail to honor their obligations to U.S. Cellular. 

 

Regulations regarding the use of “conflict minerals” mined from the Democratic Republic of Congo and adjoining countries may affect some of U.S. Cellular’s suppliers.  These regulations may limit the availability of conflict free minerals and, as a result, U.S. Cellular may not be able to obtain products in sufficient quantities or at competitive prices from its vendors who utilize such minerals in the manufacture of products.  In such cases, U.S. Cellular may be unable to maintain and upgrade its network or provide products and services to its customers in a competitive manner, or could suffer other disruptions to its business.  In that event, U.S. Cellular’s business, financial condition or results of operations could be adversely affected. 

 

In addition, operation of U.S. Cellular’s supply chain and management of its inventory require accurate forecasting of customer growth and demand, which has become increasingly challenging.  If overall demand for wireless devices or the mix of demand for wireless devices is significantly different than U.S. Cellular’s expectations, U.S. Cellular could face inadequate or excess supplies of particular models of wireless devices.  This could result in lost sales opportunities or an excess supply of inventory.  Either of these situations could adversely affect U.S. Cellular’s revenues, costs of doing business, results of operations or financial condition.

 

In 2010, U.S. Cellular entered into agreements with a third party vendor to develop a Billing and Operational Support System (B/OSS).  In 2014, U.S. Cellular entered into certain other agreements with such vendor that rearrange the structure under the original agreements, including arrangements pursuant to which U.S. Cellular now outsources certain support functions for its B/OSS to such vendor.  Operational problems associated with the B/OSS, including any failure by the vendor to provide the required level of service under the outsourcing arrangements, could have adverse effects on U.S. Cellular’s business, financial condition or results of operations.

 

21)   U.S. Cellular has significant investments in entities that it does not control. Losses in the value of such investments could have an adverse effect on U.S. Cellular’s financial condition or results of operations.

 

U.S. Cellular has significant investments in entities that it does not control, including equity investments and interests in certain variable interest entities.  U.S. Cellular’s interests in such entities do not provide U.S. Cellular with control over the business strategy, financial goals, network build-out plans or other operational aspects of these entities.  U.S. Cellular cannot provide assurance that these entities will operate in a manner that will increase or maintain the value of U.S. Cellular’s investments, that U.S. Cellular’s proportionate share of income from these investments will continue at the current level in the future or that U.S. Cellular will not incur losses from the holding of such investments.  Losses in the values of such investments or a reduction in income from these investments could adversely affect U.S. Cellular’s financial condition or results of operations.

 

22)   A failure by U.S. Cellular to maintain flexible and capable telecommunication networks or information technology, or a material disruption thereof, could have an adverse effect on U.S. Cellular’s business, financial condition or results of operations.

 

U.S. Cellular relies extensively on its telecommunication networks and information technology to operate and manage its business, process transactions and summarize and report results.  These networks and technology become obsolete over time and must be upgraded, replaced and/or otherwise enhanced over time.  Enhancements must be more flexible and dependable than ever before.  All of this is capital intensive and challenging.  A failure by U.S. Cellular to maintain flexible and capable telecommunication networks or information technology could have an adverse effect on U.S. Cellular’s business, financial condition or results of operations.

 

The increased provision of data services has introduced significant new demands on U.S. Cellular’s network and has also increased complexities related to network management.  Further, the increased provision of data services on U.S. Cellular’s networks has created an increased level of risk related to quality of service.  This is due to the fact that many customers increasingly rely on data communications to execute and validate transactions.  As a result, redundancy and geographical diversity of U.S. Cellular’s network facilities are critical to providing uninterrupted service.  Also, the speed of repair and maintenance procedures in the event of network interruptions is critical to maintaining customer satisfaction.  U.S. Cellular’s ability to maintain high quality, uninterrupted service to its customers is critical, particularly given the increasingly competitive environment and customers’ ability to choose other service providers. 

 

In addition, U.S. Cellular’s networks and information technology and the networks and information technology of vendors on which U.S. Cellular relies are subject to damage or interruption due to various events, including power outages, computer, network and telecommunications failures, computer viruses, security breaches, hackers and other cyber security risks, catastrophic events, natural disasters, errors or unauthorized actions by employees and vendors, flawed conversion of systems, disruptive technologies and technology changes. 

 

23)   Cyber-attacks or other breaches of network or information technology security could have an adverse effect on U.S. Cellular's business, financial condition or results of operations.

 

 

U.S. Cellular experiences cyber-attacks of varying degrees on a regular basis. U.S. Cellular maintains administrative, technical and physical controls, as well as other preventative actions, to reduce the risk of security breaches.  Although to date U.S. Cellular has not experienced a material security breach, these efforts may be insufficient to prevent a security breach stemming from future cyber-attacks.  If U.S. Cellular’s or its vendors’ networks and information technology are not adequately adapted to changes in technology or are damaged or fail to function properly, and/or if U.S. Cellular’s or its vendors’ security is breached or otherwise compromised, U.S. Cellular could suffer adverse consequences, including theft, destruction or other loss of critical and private data, including customer and/or employee data, interruptions or delays in its operations, inaccurate billings, inaccurate financial reporting, and significant costs to remedy the problems.  If U.S. Cellular’s or its vendors’ systems become unavailable or suffer a security breach of customer or other data, U.S. Cellular may be required to expend significant resources and take various actions to address the problems, including notification under data privacy laws and regulations, may be subject to fines, sanctions and litigation, and its reputation and operating results could be adversely affected.  Any material disruption in U.S. Cellular’s networks or information technology, including security breaches, could have an adverse effect on U.S. Cellular’s business, financial condition or results of operations.

 

24)   The market price of U.S. Cellular’s Common Shares is subject to fluctuations due to a variety of factors.

 

Factors that may affect the future market price of U.S. Cellular’s Common Shares include:

 

·         General economic conditions, including conditions in the credit and financial markets;

·         Industry conditions;

·         Fluctuations in U.S. Cellular’s quarterly customer additions, churn rate, revenues, results of operations or cash flows;

·         Variations between U.S. Cellular’s actual financial and operating results and those expected by analysts and investors; and

·         Announcements by U.S. Cellular’s competitors.

 

Any of these or other factors could adversely affect the future market price of U.S. Cellular’s Common Shares, or could cause the future market price of U.S. Cellular’s Common Shares to fluctuate from time to time.

 

25)   Changes in facts or circumstances, including new or additional information, could require U.S. Cellular to record charges in excess of amounts accrued in the financial statements, which could have an adverse effect on U.S. Cellular’s business, financial condition or results of operations.

 

The preparation of financial statements requires U.S. Cellular to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period.  U.S. Cellular bases its estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions and information that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities.  Actual results may differ from estimates under different assumptions or conditions.  Changes in facts or circumstances, including new or additional information, could require U.S. Cellular to record charges in excess of amounts accrued in the financial statements, if any, which could have an adverse effect on U.S. Cellular’s business, financial condition or results of operations.

 

26)   Disruption in credit or other financial markets, a deterioration of U.S. or global economic conditions or other events could, among other things, impede U.S. Cellular’s access to or increase the cost of financing its operating and investment activities and/or result in reduced revenues and lower operating income and cash flows, which would have an adverse effect on U.S. Cellular’s business, financial condition or results of operations.

 

Disruptions in the credit and financial markets, declines in consumer confidence, increases in unemployment, declines in economic growth and uncertainty about corporate earnings could have a significant negative impact on the U.S. and global financial and credit markets and the overall economy.  Such events could have an adverse impact on financial institutions resulting in limited access to capital and credit for many companies.  Furthermore, economic uncertainties make it very difficult to accurately forecast and plan future business activities.  Changes in economic conditions, changes in financial markets, deterioration in the capital markets or other factors could have an adverse effect on U.S. Cellular’s business, financial condition, revenues, results of operations and cash flows.

 

27)   Uncertainty of U.S. Cellular’s ability to access capital, deterioration in the capital markets, other changes in market conditions, changes in U.S. Cellular’s credit ratings or other factors could limit or restrict the availability of financing on terms and prices acceptable to U.S. Cellular, which could require U.S. Cellular to reduce its construction, development or acquisition programs.

 

U.S. Cellular and its subsidiaries operate a capital-intensive business.  U.S. Cellular has used internally-generated funds and has also obtained substantial funds from external sources to finance the build out and enhancement of markets, to fund acquisitions and for general corporate purposes.  U.S. Cellular also may require substantial additional capital for, among other uses, acquisitions of providers of wireless telecommunications services, spectrum license or system acquisitions, system development and network capacity

 

expansion.  There can be no assurance that sufficient funds will continue to be available to U.S. Cellular or its subsidiaries on terms or at prices acceptable to U.S. Cellular.  Changes in U.S. Cellular’s credit rating, uncertainty of access to capital for telecommunications companies, deterioration in the capital markets, reduced regulatory capital at banks which in turn limits their ability to borrow and lend, other changes in market conditions or other factors could limit or restrict the availability of financing on terms and prices acceptable to U.S. Cellular, which could require U.S. Cellular to reduce its construction, development and acquisition programs.  Reduction of U.S. Cellular’s construction, development and acquisition programs likely would have a negative impact on U.S. Cellular’s consolidated revenues, income and cash flows.

 

28)   Settlements, judgments, restraints on its current or future manner of doing business and/or legal costs resulting from pending and future litigation could have an adverse effect on U.S. Cellular’s business, financial condition or results of operations.

 

U.S. Cellular is regularly involved in a number of legal and policy proceedings before the FCC and various state and federal courts.  Such legal and policy proceedings can be complex, costly, protracted and highly disruptive to business operations by diverting the attention and energies of management and other key personnel.

 

The assessment of legal and policy proceedings is a highly subjective process that requires judgments about future events.  Additionally, amounts ultimately received or paid upon settlement or resolution of litigation and other contingencies may differ materially from amounts accrued in the financial statements.  Depending on a range of factors, these or similar proceedings could impose restraints on U.S. Cellular’s current or future manner of doing business.  Such potential outcomes could have an adverse effect on U.S. Cellular’s financial condition, results of operations or ability to do business.

 

29)   The possible development of adverse precedent in litigation or conclusions in professional studies to the effect that radio frequency emissions from wireless devices and/or cell sites cause harmful health consequences, including cancer or tumors, or may interfere with various electronic medical devices such as pacemakers, could have an adverse effect on U.S. Cellular’s business, financial condition or results of operations.

 

Media reports and certain professional studies have suggested that certain radio frequency emissions from wireless devices may be linked to various health problems, including cancer or tumors, and may interfere with various electronic medical devices, including hearing aids and pacemakers.  U.S. Cellular is a party to and may in the future be a party to lawsuits against wireless carriers and other parties claiming damages for alleged health effects, including cancer or tumors, arising from wireless phones or radio frequency transmitters.  Concerns over radio frequency emissions may discourage use of wireless devices or expose U.S. Cellular to potential litigation.  In addition, the FCC or other regulatory authorities may adopt regulations in response to concerns about radio frequency emissions.  Any resulting decrease in demand for wireless services, costs of litigation and damage awards or regulation could have an adverse effect on U. S. Cellular’s business, financial condition or results of operations.

 

In addition, some studies have indicated that some aspects of using wireless devices while driving may impair drivers’ attention in certain circumstances, making accidents more likely.  These concerns could lead to potential litigation relating to accidents, deaths or serious bodily injuries, any of which could have an adverse effect on U.S. Cellular’s business, financial condition or results of operations.

 

Numerous state and local legislative bodies have enacted or proposed legislation restricting or prohibiting the use of wireless devices while driving motor vehicles.  These enacted or proposed laws or other similar laws, if passed, could have the effect of reducing customer usage and/or increasing costs, which could have an adverse effect on U.S. Cellular’s business, financial condition, or results of operations.

 

30)   Claims of infringement of intellectual property and proprietary rights of others, primarily involving patent infringement claims, could prevent U.S. Cellular from using necessary technology to provide products or services or subject U.S. Cellular to expensive intellectual property litigation or monetary penalties, which could have an adverse effect on U.S. Cellular’s business, financial condition or results of operations.

 

U.S. Cellular faces possible effects of industry litigation relating to patents, other intellectual property or otherwise, that may restrict U.S. Cellular’s access to devices for sale to customers.  If technology that U.S. Cellular uses in products or services were determined by a court to infringe a patent or other intellectual property right held by another person, U.S. Cellular could be precluded from using that technology and could be required to pay significant monetary damages.  U.S. Cellular also may be required to pay significant royalties to such person to continue to use such technology in the future.  The successful enforcement of any intellectual property rights, or U.S. Cellular’s inability to negotiate a license for such rights on acceptable terms, could force U.S. Cellular to cease using the relevant technology and offering services incorporating the technology.  Any litigation to determine the validity of claims that U.S. Cellular’s products or services infringe or may infringe intellectual property rights of another, regardless of their merit or resolution, could be costly and divert the effort and attention of U.S. Cellular’s management and technical personnel.  Regardless of the merits of any specific claim, U.S. Cellular cannot give assurance that it would prevail in litigation because of the complex technical issues and

 

inherent uncertainties in intellectual property litigation.  Although U.S. Cellular generally seeks to obtain indemnification agreements from vendors that provide it with technology, there can be no assurance that any claim of infringement will be covered by an indemnity or that U.S. Cellular will be able to recover all or any of its losses and costs under any available indemnity agreements.  Any claims of infringement of intellectual property and proprietary rights of others could prevent U.S. Cellular from using necessary technology to provide its services or subject U.S. Cellular to expensive intellectual property litigation or monetary penalties, which could have an adverse effect on U.S. Cellular’s business, financial condition or results of operations.

 

31)   There are potential conflicts of interests between TDS and U.S. Cellular.

 

TDS owns over 80% of the combined total of both classes of common stock of U.S. Cellular, including a majority of the outstanding Common Shares and 100% of the Series A Common Shares, and controls over 96% of their combined voting power.  As a result, TDS is effectively able to elect all of U.S. Cellular’s fourteen directors and otherwise control the management and operations of U.S. Cellular.  Seven of the fourteen directors of U.S. Cellular are also directors of TDS and/or executive officers of TDS and/or U.S. Cellular.  Directors and officers of TDS who are also directors or officers of U.S. Cellular, and TDS as U.S. Cellular’s controlling shareholder, are in positions involving the possibility of conflicts of interest with respect to certain transactions concerning U.S. Cellular.  When the interests of TDS and U.S. Cellular diverge, TDS may exercise its influence in its own best interests.

 

U.S. Cellular and TDS have entered into contractual arrangements governing certain transactions and relationships between them.  These agreements were executed prior to the initial public offering of U.S. Cellular’s Common Shares and were not the result of arm’s-length negotiations.  Accordingly, there is no assurance that the terms and conditions of these agreements are as favorable to U.S. Cellular as could have been obtained from unaffiliated third parties.  See “Certain Relationships and Related Transactions” in this Form 10-K.

 

Conflicts of interest may arise between TDS and U.S. Cellular when faced with decisions that could have different implications for U.S. Cellular and TDS, including technology decisions, financial budgets, the payment of distributions by U.S. Cellular, agreements or transactions between TDS and U.S. Cellular, business activities and other matters.  TDS also may take action that favors its other businesses and the interests of its shareholders over U.S. Cellular’s wireless business and the interests of U.S. Cellular shareholders and debt holders.  Because TDS controls U.S. Cellular, conflicts of interest could be resolved in a manner adverse to U.S. Cellular and its other shareholders or its debt holders.

 

The U.S. Cellular Restated Certificate of Incorporation provides that, so long as not less than 500,000 Series A Common Shares are outstanding, U.S. Cellular, without the written consent of TDS, shall not, directly or indirectly own, invest or otherwise have an interest in, lease, operate or manage any business other than a business engaged solely in the construction of, the ownership of interests in and/or the management of wireless telephone systems.  This limitation on the scope of U.S. Cellular’s potential business could hurt the growth of U.S. Cellular’s business.  This restriction would preclude U.S. Cellular from pursuing attractive related or unrelated business opportunities unless TDS consents in writing.  TDS has no obligation to consent to any business opportunities proposed by U.S. Cellular and may withhold its consent in its own best interests.

 

32)   Certain matters, such as control by TDS and provisions in the U.S. Cellular Restated Certificate of Incorporation, may serve to discourage or make more difficult a change in control of U.S. Cellular.

 

The control of U.S. Cellular by TDS may tend to deter non-negotiated tender offers or other efforts to obtain control of U.S. Cellular and thereby deprive shareholders of opportunities to sell shares at prices higher than those prevailing in the market.

 

The U.S. Cellular Restated Certificate of Incorporation also contains provisions which may serve to discourage or make more difficult a change in control of U.S. Cellular without the support of TDS or without meeting various other conditions.  In particular, the authorization of multiple classes of capital stock with different voting rights could prevent shareholders from profiting from an increase in the market value of their shares as a result of a change in control of U.S. Cellular by delaying or preventing such change in control.

 

The U.S. Cellular Restated Certificate of Incorporation also authorizes the U.S. Cellular Board of Directors to designate and issue Preferred Shares in one or more classes or series from time to time.  Generally, no further action or authorization by the shareholders is necessary prior to the designation or issuance of the additional Preferred Shares authorized pursuant to the U.S. Cellular Restated Certificate of Incorporation unless applicable laws or regulations would require such approval in a given instance.  Such Preferred Shares could be issued in circumstances that would serve to preserve TDS’ control of U.S. Cellular.

 

33)   Any of the foregoing events or other events could cause revenues, earnings, capital expenditures and/or any other financial or statistical information to vary from U.S. Cellular’s forward-looking estimates by a material amount.

 

From time to time, U.S. Cellular may disclose forward-looking information, including estimates of future service revenues; various measures of income before income taxes; and/or capital expenditures.  Any such forward-looking information includes consideration

 

of known or anticipated changes to the extent disclosed, but dynamic market conditions and/or other unknown or unanticipated events, including but not limited to the risks discussed above, could cause such estimates to differ materially from the actual amounts.

 

Item 1B.  Unresolved Staff Comments

 

None.

 

Item 2.  Properties

 

U.S. Cellular’s mobile telephone switching offices, cell sites, call centers and retail stores are located primarily in U.S. Cellular’s operating markets and are either owned or leased under long-term leases by U.S. Cellular, one of its subsidiaries, or the partnership, limited liability company or corporation which holds the license issued by the FCC.  U.S. Cellular’s cell and transmitter sites are located on private and public property.  Locations on private land are by virtue of easements or other arrangements.  U.S. Cellular has not experienced major problems with obtaining zoning approval for cell sites or operating facilities and does not anticipate significant problems in this area in future periods. 

 

U.S. Cellular leases space for its corporate offices in Chicago, Bensenville and Wood Dale, Illinois; it also leases space for its network operations center in Schaumburg, Illinois and its regional and local market business offices.  U.S. Cellular operates four customer care centers; two of the facilities used in these operations are owned and two are leased. 

 

As of December 31, 2014, U.S. Cellular’s Property, plant and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation, totaled $2,728.2 million.

 

U.S. Cellular considers the properties owned or leased by it and its subsidiaries to be maintained in good operating condition and are suitable and adequate for its business operations.

 

Item 3.  Legal Proceedings

 

U.S. Cellular is involved or may be involved from time to time in legal proceedings before the FCC, other regulatory authorities, and/or various state and federal courts. If U.S. Cellular believes that a loss arising from such legal proceedings is probable and can be reasonably estimated, an amount is accrued in the financial statements for the estimated loss. If only a range of loss can be determined, the best estimate within that range is accrued; if none of the estimates within that range is better than another, the low end of the range is accrued. The assessment of the expected outcomes of legal proceedings is a highly subjective process that requires judgments about future events. The legal proceedings are reviewed at least quarterly to determine the adequacy of accruals and related financial statement disclosures. The ultimate outcomes of legal proceedings could differ materially from amounts accrued in the financial statements.  See Note 12 — Commitments and Contingencies in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for further information.

 

Item 4.  Mine Safety Disclosures.

 

Not applicable

 

PART II

 

Item 5.  Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

Market, holder, dividend and performance graph information is incorporated by reference from Exhibit 13 to this Form 10-K, Annual Report sections entitled “Shareholder Information” and “Consolidated Quarterly Information (Unaudited).”

 

Information  relating to Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities is set forth below.

 

On November 17, 2009, the Board of Directors of U.S. Cellular authorized the repurchase of up to 1,300,000 Common Shares on an annual basis beginning in 2009 and continuing each year thereafter, on a cumulative basis (the “2009 Authorization”).  These purchases will be made pursuant to open market purchases, block purchases, private purchases, or otherwise, depending on market prices and other conditions.  This authorization does not have an expiration date.

 

The following table provides certain information with respect to all purchases made by or on behalf of U.S. Cellular, and any open market purchases made by any “affiliated purchaser” (as defined by the SEC) of U.S. Cellular, of U.S. Cellular Common Shares during the fourth quarter of 2014.

 

 

The following is additional information with respect to the 2009 Authorization:

 

i.         The date the program was announced was November 20, 2009 by Form 8-K.

 

ii.        The amount approved was up to 1,300,000 U.S. Cellular Common Shares on an annual basis in 2009 and continuing each year thereafter on a cumulative basis.

 

iii.      There is no expiration date for the program.

 

iv.      The authorization did not expire during the fourth quarter of 2014.

 

v.       U.S. Cellular did not determine to terminate the foregoing Common Share repurchase program, or cease making further purchases thereunder, during the fourth quarter of 2014.

 

Item 6.  Selected Financial Data

 

Incorporated by reference from Exhibit 13 to this Form 10-K, Annual Report section entitled “Selected Consolidated Financial and Operating Data,” except for Ratio of earnings to fixed charges, which is incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit 12 to this Form 10-K.

 

Item 7.  Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

 

Incorporated by reference from Exhibit 13 to this Form 10-K, Annual Report section entitled “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.”

 

Item 7A.  Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

Incorporated by reference from Exhibit 13 to this Form 10-K, Annual Report section entitled “Market Risk.”

 

Item 8.  Financial Statements and Supplementary Data

 

Incorporated by reference from Exhibit 13 to this Form 10-K, Annual Report sections entitled “Consolidated Statement of Operations,” “Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows,” “Consolidated Balance Sheet,” “Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity,” “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements,” “Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting,”  “Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm,” and “Consolidated Quarterly Information (Unaudited).”  The Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income was not included because comprehensive income for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 equaled net income.

 

Item 9.  Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure

 

None.

 

Item 9A.  Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

U.S. Cellular maintains disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”)) that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in its reports filed or submitted under the Exchange Act is processed, recorded, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms, and that such information is accumulated and communicated to U.S. Cellular’s management, including its principal executive officer and principal financial officer, as appropriate, to allow for timely decisions regarding required disclosure.  In designing and evaluating the disclosure controls and procedures, management recognizes that any controls and procedures, no matter how well designed and operated, can provide only reasonable assurance of achieving the desired control objectives.

 

As required by SEC Rule 13a-15(b), U.S. Cellular carried out an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of management, including its principal executive officer and principal financial officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of U.S. Cellular’s disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of the period covered by this Annual Report.  Based on this evaluation, the principal executive officer and principal financial officer have concluded that U.S. Cellular’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of December 31, 2014, at the reasonable assurance level.  

 

Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

 

Management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting, as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Exchange Act.  U.S. Cellular’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”).  U.S. Cellular’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (i) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the issuer; (ii) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with GAAP, and that receipts and expenditures of the issuer are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and, where required, the board of directors of the issuer; and (iii) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the issuer’s assets that could have a material effect on the interim or annual consolidated financial statements.

 

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

 

Under the supervision and with the participation of U.S. Cellular’s management, including its principal executive officer and principal financial officer, U.S. Cellular conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of its internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2014, based on the criteria established in the 2013 version of Internal Control — Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (“COSO”).  Management has concluded that U.S. Cellular maintained effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2014 based on criteria established in the 2013 version of Internal Control — Integrated Framework issued by the COSO.

 

The effectiveness of U.S. Cellular’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2014 has been audited by PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, as stated in the firm’s report which is incorporated by reference into Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K from Exhibit 13 filed herewith.

 

 

Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in U.S. Cellular’s internal control over financial reporting during the fourth quarter of 2014 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, U.S. Cellular’s internal control over financial reporting.

 

Item 9B.  Other Information

 

None.

 

PART III

 

Item 10.  Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance

 

Incorporated by reference from Proxy Statement sections entitled “Election of Directors,” “Corporate Governance,” “Executive Officers” and “Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance.”

 

Item 11.  Executive Compensation

 

Incorporated by reference from Proxy Statement section entitled “Executive and Director Compensation.”

 

Item 12.  Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters

 

Incorporated by reference from Proxy Statement sections entitled “Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management” and “Securities Authorized for Issuance under Equity Compensation Plans.”

 

 

Item 13.  Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence

 

Incorporated by reference from Proxy Statement sections entitled “Corporate Governance” and “Certain Relationships and Related Transactions.”

 

Item 14.  Principal Accountant Fees and Services

 

Incorporated by reference from Proxy Statement section entitled “Fees Paid to Principal Accountants.”

 

  

 

LOS ANGELES SMSA LIMITED PARTNERSHIP
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

U.S. Cellular owns a 5.5% limited partnership interest in the Los Angeles SMSA Limited Partnership and accounts for such interest by the equity method.  The partnership’s financial statements were obtained by U.S. Cellular as a limited partner. 

 

 

 

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

 

The Partners of Los Angeles SMSA

Limited Partnership

We have audited the accompanying balance sheet of Los Angeles SMSA Limited Partnership (the Partnership) as of December 31, 2014, and the related statements of income and comprehensive income, change in partners’ capital and cash flows for the year ended December 31, 2014. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Partnership’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements 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 the financial statements are free of material misstatement. We were not engaged to perform an audit of the Partnership’s internal control over financial reporting. Our audit included consideration of internal control over financial reporting as a basis for designing audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Partnership’s internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion. An audit also includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, and evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Partnership at December 31, 2014, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for the year ended December 31, 2014, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. 

 

/s/ Ernst & Young LLP
Certified Public Accountants

Orlando, Florida
February 25, 2015

 

 

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

 

To the Partners of

Los Angeles SMSA Limited Partnership:

Basking Ridge, New Jersey

 

We have audited the accompanying balance sheets of Los Angeles SMSA Limited Partnership (the "Partnership") as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, and the related statements of operations, changes in partners’ capital, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2013. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Partnership's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements 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.  The Partnership is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of its internal control over financial reporting.  Our audits included consideration of internal control over financial reporting as a basis for designing audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Partnership's internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion. An audit also includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, 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 financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Partnership as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2013 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

 

 

/s/ Deloitte & Touche LLP

Atlanta, Georgia

February 28, 2014