WABASH NATIONAL Corp - Annual Report: 2007 (Form 10-K)

 

UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549

 

Form 10-K

 

 

Commission File Number: 1-10883

WABASH NATIONAL CORPORATION

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

 

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (765) 771-5300

 

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

 

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.  Yes þ     No o

 

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

 

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

                             (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act).  Yes o     No þ

 

The aggregate market value of voting stock held by non-affiliates of the registrant as of June 30, 2007 was $439,528,168 based upon the closing price of the Company’s common stock as quoted on the New York Stock Exchange composite tape on such date.

 

The number of shares outstanding of the registrant’s common stock as of February 11, 2008 was 30,697,900.

 

Part III of this Form 10-K incorporates by reference certain portions of the registrant’s Proxy Statement for its Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be filed within 120 days after December 31, 2007.

 

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

WABASH NATIONAL CORPORATION
FORM 10-K FOR THE FISCAL
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2007

 

FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS

 

This Annual Report contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the “Exchange Act”). Forward-looking statements may include the words “may,” “will,” “estimate,” “intend,” “continue,” “believe,” “expect,” “plan” or “anticipate” and other similar words. Our “forwarding-looking statements” include, but are not limited to, statements regarding:

 

 

Although we believe that the expectations expressed in our forward-looking statements are reasonable, actual results could differ materially from those projected or assumed in our forward-looking statements. Our future financial condition and results of operations, as well as any forward-looking statements, are subject to change and are subject to inherent risks and uncertainties, such as those disclosed in this Annual Report. Each forward-looking statement contained in this Annual Report reflects our management’s view only as of the date on which that forward-looking statement was made. We are not obligated to update forward-looking statements or publicly release the result of any revisions to them to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this Annual Report or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.

 

Currently known risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from our expectations are described throughout this Annual Report, including in “Item 1A. Risk Factors.” We urge you to carefully review that section for a more complete discussion of the risks of an investment in our securities.

 

 

Wabash National Corporation (“Wabash,” “Company,” “us,” “we” or “our”) is one of North America’s leaders in designing, manufacturing and marketing standard and customized truck trailers and related transportation equipment. Founded in 1985 as a start-up, Wabash has had annual sales of over $1 billion for each of the last four years. We believe our success has been the result of our longstanding relationships with our core customers, our demonstrated ability to attract new customers, our broad and innovative product lines, our technological leadership and our large distribution and service network. Our management team is focused on revenue growth through product innovation, expansion of our customer base and the low-cost production of quality trailers through continuous improvement, strategic sourcing opportunities and lean manufacturing initiatives.

We seek to identify and produce proprietary products that offer exceptional value to customers with the potential to generate higher profit margins than those of standardized products. We believe that we have the engineering and manufacturing capability to produce these products efficiently. We introduced our proprietary composite product, DuraPlate^®, in 1996. Composite trailers have achieved widespread industry acceptance accounting for approximately one out of every three dry van trailers sold in 2007. For the last four years, sales of our DuraPlate^® trailers represented approximately 90% of our total new dry van trailer sales. We are also a competitive producer of standardized sheet and post and refrigerated trailer products and strive to become the low-cost producer of these products within our industry. In March 2006, we acquired Transcraft Corporation, a manufacturer of flatbed and dropdeck trailers, as part of our commitment to expand our customer base and extend our market leadership. We expect to continue a program of product development and selective acquisitions of quality proprietary products that further differentiate us from our competitors and increase shareholder value.

 

We market our transportation equipment under the Wabash^®, DuraPlate^®, DuraPlateHD^®, FreightPro^®, ArcticLite^®, RoadRailer^®, Transcraft^®, Eagle^®, Eagle II^® and D-Eagle^® trademarks directly to customers, through independent dealers and through our factory-owned retail branch network. Historically, we have focused on our longstanding core customers representing many of the largest companies in the trucking industry. Our relationships with our core customers have been central to our growth since inception. Beginning in 2003, we have actively pursued the diversification of our customer base by focusing on what we refer to as the mid-market. These carriers, which represent approximately 1,250 carriers, operate fleets of between 250 to 7,500 trailers, which we estimate in total account for approximately one million trailers.

 

Longstanding core customers include — Averitt Express, Inc.; Crete Carrier Corporation; FedEx Corporation; Heartland Express, Inc.; J.B. Hunt Transport Services, Inc.; Interstate Distributor Co.; Knight Transportation, Inc.; Old Dominion Freight Lines, Inc.; SAIA Motor Freightlines, Inc.; Schneider National, Inc.; Swift Transportation Corporation; U.S. Xpress Enterprises, Inc.; Werner Enterprises, Inc.; and YRC Worldwide, Inc.

 

Mid-market customers include — Alliance Shippers, Inc.; Aurora LLC; C&S Wholesale Grocers, Inc.; CR England, Inc.; Celadon Group, Inc.; Con-way Truckload (formerly CFI); Cowan Systems, LLC; Frozen Food Express Industries, Inc.; Gordon Trucking, Inc.; Landair Transport, Inc.; New Penn Motor Express, Inc.; Prime, Inc. Roehl Transport, Inc.; Star Transport, Inc.; USA Logistics; USF Corporation; and Xtra Lease, Inc.

 

Our 11 factory-owned full service retail branches provide additional opportunities to distribute our products and also offer nationwide services and support capabilities for our customers. In addition, we maintain four used fleet sales centers to focus on selling both large and small fleet trade packages to the wholesale market. The retail sale of new and used trailers, aftermarket parts and service through our retail branch network generally provides enhanced margin opportunities. We also utilize a network of approximately 25 independent dealers with approximately 50 locations throughout North America to distribute our van trailers. In addition, we distribute our flatbed and dropdeck trailers through a network of over 80 independent dealers with approximately 110 locations throughout North America.

 

Wabash was incorporated in Delaware in 1991 and is the successor by merger to a Maryland corporation organized in 1985. We operate in two reportable business segments: (1) manufacturing and (2) retail and distribution. Financial results by segment, including information about revenues from customers, measures of profit and loss, total assets, and financial information regarding geographic areas and export sales are discussed in Note 13, Segments and Related Information, of the accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements. Our internet website is www.wabashnational.com. We make our electronic filings with the SEC, including our annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K and amendments to these reports available on our website free of charge as soon as practicable after we file or furnish them with the SEC. Information on the website is not part of this Form 10-K.

 

Strategy

 

We are committed to a corporate strategy that seeks to deliver strong profitability and maximizes shareholder value by executing on the core elements of our strategic plan:

 

 

 

Industry and Competition

 

Trucking in the United States (U.S.), according to the American Trucking Association (ATA), was estimated to be a $646 billion industry in 2006 (the latest date such information is available), leading all other modes of transportation. ATA estimates that approximately 69% of all freight tonnage is carried by truck at some point during its shipment, accounting for approximately 84% of freight industry revenues. Trailer demand is a direct function of the amount of freight to be transported. As the economy improves, it is forecasted that truck carriers will need to both expand and replace their fleets, which typically results in increased trailer orders. According to A.C.T. Research Co., LLC (ACT), there are approximately 3.0 million trailers in use today and total trailer replacement demand is estimated at approximately 185,000 trailers per year.

 

Transportation, including trucking, is a cyclical industry in the U.S. Transportation has experienced three cycles over the last 20 years. Truck freight tonnage, according to ATA statistics, has been negative year-over-year since mid-2006. Recent data suggests that while freight tonnage is not increasing, it does not seem to be weakening. Three U.S. economic downturns have occurred during the last 20 years and in each instance the decline in freight tonnage preceded the general economic decline by approximately two and a half years and its recovery has generally preceded that of the economy as a whole. The trailer industry generally follows the transportation industry, experiencing cycles in the early and late 90’s lasting approximately 58 and 67 months, respectively. The current cycle began in early 2001 and is believed to be at or approaching bottom. In our view, an upturn in the trailer industry will require improvements in general freight demand and a recovery of the housing market.

 

Wabash, Great Dane and Utility are generally viewed as the top three trailer manufacturers and have accounted for greater than 50% of new trailer market share in recent years, including approximately 56% in 2007. In 2007, our market share of total trailer production was approximately 21%. Trailer differentiation is made primarily through superior products, customer relationships, service availability and cost.

 

The table below sets forth new trailer production for Wabash, its largest competitors and for the trailer industry as a whole within North America. The data represents all segments of the market, except containers and chassis. Since 2002, we have primarily participated in the van segment of the market. Van production has grown from a low of approximately 96,000 units in 2002 to a high of approximately 198,000 units in 2006. In 2007, van trailer production amounted to 151,000 units. During this period, our market share for van trailers has been approximately 27%.

 

 

 

Competitive Strengths

 

We believe our core competitive strengths include:

 

 

 

We have been building DuraPlate^® trailers for over 11 years, and have sold approximately 340,000 units. This proven experience, combined with ownership and knowledge of the DuraPlate^® panel technology, will help ensure continued industry leadership in the future. We have also successfully introduced innovations in our ArcticLite^® refrigerated trailers and other product lines. For example, we introduced the DuraPlateHD^® trailer and the FreightPro^® sheet and post trailer in 2003.

 

 

Regulation

 

Truck trailer length, height, width, maximum weight capacity and other specifications are regulated by individual states. The federal government also regulates certain safety features incorporated in the design of truck trailers, including regulations that require anti-lock braking systems (ABS) and that define rear-impact guard standards. Manufacturing operations are subject to environmental laws enforced by federal, state and local agencies (see “Environmental Matters”).

 

Products

 

Since our inception, we have expanded our product offerings from a single truck trailer product to a broad range of trailer-related transportation equipment. Our manufacturing segment specializes in the development of innovative proprietary products for our key markets. Manufacturing segment sales represented approximately 86%, 85% and 80% of consolidated Wabash net sales in 2007, 2006 and 2005, respectively. Our current transportation equipment products primarily include the following:

 

 

Our retail and distribution segment focuses on the sale of new and used trailers and on providing parts and service as described below:

 

offering customers an outlet for the disposal of used equipment. The sale of used trailers represented less than 5% of net sales during 2007, 2006 and 2005, respectively.

 

Customers

 

Our customer base has historically included many of the nation’s largest truckload common carriers, leasing companies, private fleet carriers, less-than-truckload (LTL) common carriers and package carriers. We successfully diversified our customer base from 61% of total units sold to large core customers in 2002 to 28% in 2007 by expanding our customer base and by acquiring Transcraft. This has been accomplished while maintaining our relationships with our core customers. Our five largest customers together accounted for 20%, 20% and 22% of our aggregate net sales in 2007, 2006 and 2005, respectively, and no single customer represented 10% or greater of net sales. International sales, primarily to Canadian customers, accounted for less than 10% of net sales for each of the last three years.

 

We have established relationships as a supplier to many large customers in the transportation industry, including the following:

 

 

Marketing and Distribution

 

We market and distribute our products through the following channels:

 

 

Factory direct accounts are generally large fleets, with over 7,500 trailers, that are high volume purchasers. Historically, we have focused on the factory direct market in which customers are highly knowledgeable of the life-cycle costs of trailer equipment and, therefore, are best equipped to appreciate the design and value-added features of our products. Since late 2003, we have actively pursued the diversification of our customer base focusing on what we refer to as the mid-market. These approximately 1,250 carriers operate fleets of between 250 to 7,500 trailers, which we estimate in total account for approximately one million trailers. Since implementing our mid-market sales strategy, we have added over 260 new mid-market customers accounting for over 18,500 new trailer orders.

 

Our factory-owned distribution network generates retail sales of trailers to smaller fleets and independent operators located in geographic regions where our branches are located. This branch network enables us to provide maintenance and other services to customers. The branch network and our used trailer centers provide an outlet for used trailers taken in trade upon the sale of new trailers, which is a common practice with fleet customers.

 

We also sell our van trailers through a network of approximately 25 independent dealers with over 50 locations throughout North America. Our platform trailers are sold through over 80 independent dealers with approximately 110 locations throughout North America. The dealers primarily serve mid-market and smaller sized carriers and private fleets in the geographic region where the dealer is located and occasionally may sell to large fleets. The dealers may also perform service work for their customers.

Raw Materials

 

We utilize a variety of raw materials and components including steel, plastic, aluminum, lumber, tires and suspensions, which we purchase from a limited number of suppliers. Significant price fluctuations or shortages in raw materials or finished components may adversely affect our results of operations. In 2008 and for the foreseeable future, we expect that the raw materials used in the greatest quantity will be the steel, aluminum, plastic and wood. Our component suppliers have advised us that they have adequate capacity to meet our current and expected demands in 2008. Continued price increases for our primary commodity raw materials — aluminum, steel and plastic — are expected throughout 2008. Effective March 1, 2008, due to federally mandated phase-outs of certain ozone depleting gases, we will experience a cost increase associated with our purchases of foam products which will impact our refrigerated van trailers. Increases in plastic pricing will also have an impact on our DuraPlate^® van trailer products. Our Harrison, Arkansas laminated hardwood floor facility provides the majority of our requirements for trailer floors.

 

Backlog

 

Orders that have been confirmed by the customer in writing and can be produced during the next 18 months are included in our backlog. Orders that comprise backlog may be subject to changes in quantities, delivery, specifications and terms. Our backlog of orders at December 31, 2007 and 2006 was approximately $336 million and $512 million, respectively. We expect to complete the majority of our backlog orders within the next 12 months.

 

Patents and Intellectual Property

 

We hold or have applied for 64 patents in the U.S. on various components and techniques utilized in our manufacture of truck trailers. In addition, we hold or have applied for 68 patents in two foreign countries. Our patents include intellectual property related to the manufacture of trailers using our proprietary DuraPlate^® product, which we believe offers us a significant competitive advantage. The patents in our DuraPlate^® portfolio have expiration dates ranging from 2009 to 2024. In our view there are no meaningful patents having an expiration date prior to 2016.

 

We also hold or have applied for 34 trademarks in the U.S., as well as 23 trademarks in foreign countries. These trademarks include the Wabash^®, Wabash National^® and Transcraft^® brand names as well as trademarks associated with our proprietary products such as the DuraPlate^® trailer, the RoadRailer^® trailer and the Eagle^® trailer. We believe these trademarks are important for the identification of our products and the associated customer goodwill; however, our business is not materially dependent on such trademarks.

 

Research and Development

 

Research and development expenses are charged to earnings as incurred and were $3.4 million, $4.3 million and $2.6 million in 2007, 2006 and 2005, respectively.

 

Environmental Matters

 

Our facilities are subject to various environmental laws and regulations, including those relating to air emissions, wastewater discharges, the handling and disposal of solid and hazardous wastes, and occupational safety and health. Our operations and facilities have been and in the future may become the subject of enforcement actions or proceedings for non-compliance with such laws or for remediation of company-related releases of substances into the environment. Resolution of such matters with regulators can result in commitments to compliance abatement or remediation programs, and in some cases the payment of penalties (see Item 3 “Legal Proceedings”).

 

We believe that our facilities are in substantial compliance with applicable environmental laws and regulations. Our facilities have incurred, and will continue to incur, capital and operating expenditures and other costs in complying with these laws and regulations in both the U.S. and abroad. However, we currently do not anticipate that the future costs of environmental compliance will have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations.

Employees

 

As of December 31, 2007 and 2006, we had approximately 3,100 and 4,100 full-time associates, respectively. At December 31, 2007, all of our active associates were non-union. During 2007, approximately 10% of our total production workforce included temporary associates. We place a strong emphasis on employee relations through educational programs and quality improvement teams. We believe our employee relations are good.

 

Executive Officers of Wabash National Corporation

 

The following are the executive officers of the Company:

 

 

Richard J. Giromini.  Mr. Giromini was promoted to President and Chief Executive Officer on January 1, 2007. He had been Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer from February 28, 2005 until December 2005 when he was appointed President and a Director of the Company. He had been Senior Vice President — Chief Operating Officer since joining the Company on July 15, 2002. Most recently, Mr. Giromini was with Accuride Corporation from April 1998 to July 2002, where he served in capacities as Senior Vice President — Technology and Continuous Improvement; Senior Vice President and General Manager — Light Vehicle Operations; and President and CEO of AKW LP. Previously, Mr. Giromini was employed by ITT Automotive, Inc. from 1996 to 1998 serving as the Director of Manufacturing. Mr. Giromini also serves on the board of directors of The Wabash Center, a non-profit company dedicated to serving individuals with disabilities and special needs.

 

Lawrence M. Cuculic.  Mr. Cuculic was named Senior Vice President — General Counsel and Secretary in January 2008. Most recently, from August 2006 through December 2007, Mr. Cuculic was Vice President Legal and Secretary of American Commercial Lines Inc., a diversified marine transportation and service company. Mr. Cuculic served as Corporate Counsel for Wabash National Corporation from September 2002 to August 2006. Prior to that date he was engaged in private practice serving as outside counsel for the Company. Mr. Cuculic retired as a Lieutenant Colonel from the United States Army after 20 years, holding various legal positions of increasing responsibility, including appointment as a Circuit Judge.

 

Rodney P. Ehrlich.  Mr. Ehrlich has been Senior Vice President — Chief Technology Officer of the Company since January 2004. From 2001 to 2003, Mr. Ehrlich was Senior Vice President of Product Development. Mr. Ehrlich has been in charge of the Company’s engineering operations since the Company’s founding.

 

Bruce N. Ewald.  Mr. Ewald’s original appointment was Vice President and General Manager of Wabash National Trailer Centers, Inc. when he joined the Company in March 2005. In October 2005, he was promoted to Senior Vice President — Sales and Marketing. Mr. Ewald has nearly 25 years experience in the transportation industry. Most recently, Mr. Ewald was with PACCAR from 1991 to February 2005 where he served in a number of executive-level positions. Prior to PACCAR, Mr. Ewald spent 10 years with Genuine Parts Co. where he served in several positions, including President and General Manager, Napa Auto Parts/Genuine Parts Co.

 

Timothy J. Monahan.  Mr. Monahan has been Senior Vice President — Human Resources since joining the Company on October 15, 2003. Prior to that, Mr. Monahan was with Textron Fastening Systems from 1999 to October 2003 where he served as Vice President — Human Resources. Previously, Mr. Monahan served as Vice President — Human Resources at Beloit Corporation. Mr. Monahan serves on the board of directors of North American Tool Corporation.

 

Robert J. Smith.  Mr. Smith was appointed Senior Vice President — Chief Financial Officer in October 2004, after serving as our Acting Chief Financial Officer since June 2004, and our Vice President and Controller since joining us in March 2003. Before joining us, Mr. Smith served from 2000 to 2001 as Director of Finance for KPMG

Consulting, Inc., now BearingPoint, Inc.; from 1993 to 2000 with Great Lakes Chemical Corp. (serving from 1998 to 2000 as vice president and controller); and from 1983 to 1993 with Olin Corporation, including as chief financial officer for several of its divisions.

 

Joseph M. Zachman.  Mr. Zachman joined the Company in May 2005 as Vice President of Manufacturing and in June 2006 he was promoted to Senior Vice President — Manufacturing. Prior to joining Wabash National in May 2005 as Vice President of Manufacturing, Mr. Zachman was with TTM Technologies in Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin, where he served as Vice President and General Manager from December 2002 until December 2004. Previously, Mr. Zachman served as President of CDR Corporation from September 2001 until December 2002; Director of Operations of Sanmina Corporation from September 1997 until September 2001; and worked at Delco Electronics Corporation from January 1984 until September 1997 where he served in numerous positions of increasing responsibility in engineering and manufacturing management.

 

 

You should carefully consider the risks described below in addition to other information contained or incorporated by reference in this Annual Report before investing in our securities. Realization of any of the following risks could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, cash flows and results of operations.

 

Risks Related to Our Business, Strategy and Operations

 

Our business is highly cyclical, which could adversely affect our sales and results of operations.

 

The truck trailer manufacturing industry historically has been and is expected to continue to be cyclical, as well as affected by overall economic conditions. Customers historically have replaced trailers in cycles that run from five to 12 years, depending on service and trailer type. Poor economic conditions can adversely affect demand for new trailers and in the past have led to an overall aging of trailer fleets beyond this typical replacement cycle. Customers’ buying patterns can also reflect regulatory changes, such as the federal hours-of-service rules and the 2007 federal emissions standards.

 

We are not immune to this cyclicality. In each of the last four years we have been profitable, but we reported net losses aggregating to approximately $346 million for the preceding three years. Our ability to sustain profitability in the future will depend on the successful continued implementation of measures to reduce costs and achieve sales goals, as well as the ability to pass on to customers increases in the prices of raw materials and component parts. While we have taken steps to lower operating costs and reduce interest expense, we cannot make assurances that our cost-reduction measures will be successful, that sales will be sustained or increased or that we will achieve a sustained profitability.

 

A change in our customer relationships or in the financial condition of our customers could adversely affect our business.

 

We have longstanding relationships with a number of large customers to whom we supply our products. We do not have long-term agreements with these customers. Our success is dependent, to a significant extent, upon the continued strength of these relationships and the growth of our core customers. We often are unable to predict the level of demand for our products from these customers, or the timing of their orders. In addition, the same economic conditions that adversely affect us also often adversely affect our customers. As some of our customers are highly leveraged and have limited access to capital, their continued existence may be uncertain. The loss of a significant customer or unexpected delays in product purchases could adversely affect our business and results of operations.

 

Demand for new trailers is sensitive to economic conditions over which we have no control and that may further adversely affect our revenues and profitability.

 

Demand for trailers is sensitive to changes in economic conditions such as the level of employment, consumer confidence, consumer income, new housing starts and the availability of financing and interest rates. During 2007, the credit markets experienced significant instability which resulted in increased default rates. Many lenders have

subsequently reduced their willingness to make and tightened their credit requirements with regards to new loans resulting in significant declines in new housing starts.

 

Such uncertainty in the credit markets and the homebuilding industry as well as other variations in economic conditions, such as rising fuel costs and unpredictable consumer spending habits, could lead to an economic recession. Under such conditions, or other adverse economic conditions, customers and vendors may more likely fail to meet their contractual terms or payment obligations. Such failures may impact our cash flow and ability to repay our indebtedness.

 

Our technology and products may not achieve market acceptance or competing products could gain market share, which could adversely affect our competitive position.

 

We continue to optimize and expand our product offerings to meet our customer needs through our established brands, such as DuraPlate^®, DuraPlateHD^®, FreightPro^®, ArcticLite^® and Transcraft Eagle^®. While we target product development to meet customer needs, there is no assurance that they will be embraced and meet our sales projections. Companies in the truck transportation industry, a very fluid industry in which our customers primarily operate, make frequent changes to maximize their operations and profits.

 

Over the past several years, we have seen a number of our competitors follow our leadership in the development and use of composite sidewalls that compete directly with our DuraPlate^® products. Our product development is focused on maintaining our leadership on these products but competitive pressures may erode our market share or margins. We continue to take steps to protect our proprietary rights in our new products. However, the steps we have taken to protect them may not be sufficient or may not be enforced by a court of law. If we are unable to protect our proprietary rights, other parties may attempt to copy or otherwise obtain or use our products or technology. If competitors are able to use our technology, our ability to compete effectively could be harmed.

 

We have a limited number of suppliers of raw materials; an increase in the price of raw materials or the inability to obtain raw materials could adversely affect our results of operations.

 

We currently rely on a limited number of suppliers for certain key components in the manufacturing of our products, such as tires, landing gear, axles and specialty steel coil used in DuraPlate^® panels. From time to time, there have been and may in the future be shortages of supplies of raw materials, or our suppliers may place us on allocation, which would have an adverse impact on our ability to meet demand for our products. Raw material shortages and allocations may result in inefficient operations and a build-up of inventory, which can negatively affect our working capital position. In addition, if the price of raw materials was to increase and we were unable to increase our selling prices or reduce our operating costs to offset the price increases, our operating margins would be adversely affected. The loss of any of our suppliers or their inability to meet our price, quality, quantity and delivery requirements could have a significant impact on our results of operations.

 

Disruption of our manufacturing operations would have an adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.

 

We manufacture our products at two van trailer manufacturing facilities in Lafayette, Indiana, a flatbed trailer facility in Anna, Illinois, and one hardwood floor facility in Harrison, Arkansas. We also have a temporarily idled facility in Mt. Sterling, Kentucky. An unexpected disruption in our production at any of these facilities for any length of time would have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

 

The inability to attract and retain key personnel could adversely affect our results of operations.

 

Our ability to operate our business and implement our strategies depends, in part, on the efforts of our executive officers and other key employees. Our future success depends, in large part, on our ability to attract and retain qualified personnel, including manufacturing personnel, sales professionals and engineers. The unexpected loss of services of any of our key personnel or the failure to attract or retain other qualified personnel could have a material adverse effect on the operation of our business.

The inability to realize additional cost savings could weaken our competitive position.

 

If we are unable to continue to successfully implement our program of cost reduction and continuous improvement, we may not realize additional anticipated cost savings, which could weaken our competitive position.

 

Restrictive covenants in our debt instruments could limit our financial and operating flexibility and subject us to other risks.

 

The agreements governing our indebtedness include certain covenants that restrict, among other things, our ability to:

 

 

Our Revolving Facility requires that no later than May 1, 2008, we do one or more of the following in connection with our Senior Convertible Notes, which are due in August 2008: (i) repurchase all or a portion of the Senior Convertible Notes with the proceeds of a convertible note offering or proceeds from the Revolving Facility, so long as immediately after making any such payment with proceeds of the Revolving Facility we have availability under the Revolving Facility of at least $40 million; (ii) defease any outstanding indebtedness evidenced by the Senior Convertible Notes, so long as immediately after making any such payment we have availability under the Revolving Facility of at least $40 million; or (iii) institute cash reserves equal to any outstanding principal balance of the Senior Convertible Notes, which reserves shall remain in place until all indebtedness evidenced by the Senior Convertible Notes has been paid in full, and shall be used only to pay in full the outstanding indebtedness evidenced by the Senior Convertible Notes, so long as immediately after instituting any cash reserves from the proceeds of the Revolving Facility we have availability under the Revolving Facility of at least $40 million.

 

Additionally, should our available borrowing capacity drop below $30 million, we would be subject to a minimum fixed charge coverage ratio of 1.1:1.0, which could limit our ability to make capital expenditures and further limit the amount of dividends we could pay.

 

Our ability to comply with such agreements may be affected by events beyond our control, including prevailing economic, financial and industry conditions. In addition, upon the occurrence of an event of default under our debt agreements, the lenders could elect to declare all amounts outstanding under our debt agreements, together with accrued interest, to be immediately due and payable.

 

We rely significantly on our integrated Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) solution to support our operations.

 

We implemented an ERP system in May 2006 to integrate departments and functions across Wabash, to enhance the ability to service customers and improve to our control environment. During the implementation, we encountered manufacturing inefficiencies that arose in the second and third quarters of 2006 related to parts shortages and issues with inbound logistics that had a detrimental impact on scheduling and production. Since implementation, we have stabilized the system and have proceeded to improve utilization, optimize performance

and obtain expected improvements in our operations. However, if these problems recur, our ability to manage operations and the customers we serve could be adversely impacted.

 

Significant competition in the industry in which we operate may result in our competitors offering new or better products and services or lower prices, which could result in a loss of customers and a decrease in our revenues.

 

The truck trailer manufacturing industry is highly competitive. We compete with other manufacturers of varying sizes, some of which have substantial financial resources. Barriers to entry in the standard truck trailer manufacturing industry are low. As a result, it is possible that additional competitors could enter the market at any time. In the recent past, manufacturing over-capacity and high leverage of some of our competitors, along with bankruptcies and financial stresses that affected the industry, contributed to significant pricing pressures.

 

If we are unable to compete successfully with other trailer manufacturers, we could lose customers and our revenues may decline. In addition, competitive pressures in the industry may affect the market prices of our new and used equipment, which, in turn, may adversely affect our sales margins and results of operations.

 

We are subject to extensive governmental laws and regulations, and our costs related to compliance with, or our failure to comply with, existing or future laws and regulations could adversely affect our business and results of operations.

 

The length, height, width, maximum weight capacity and other specifications of truck trailers are regulated by individual states. The federal government also regulates certain truck trailer safety features, such as lamps, reflective devices, tires, air-brake systems and rear-impact guards. Changes or anticipation of changes in these regulations can have a material impact on our financial results, as our customers may defer purchasing decisions and we may have to re-engineer products. In addition, we are subject to various environmental laws and regulations dealing with the transportation, storage, presence, use, disposal and handling of hazardous materials, discharge of storm water and underground fuel storage tanks and may be subject to liability associated with operations of prior owners of acquired property.

 

If we are found to be in violation of applicable laws or regulations in the future, it could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. Our costs of complying with these or any other current or future environmental regulations may be material. In addition, if we fail to comply with existing or future laws and regulations, we may be subject to governmental or judicial fines or sanctions.

 

Product liability and other claims.

 

As a manufacturer of products widely used in commerce, we are subject to regular product liability claims and litigation as well as warranty claims. From time to time claims may involve material amounts and novel legal theories, and any insurance we carry may prove inadequate to insulate us from material liabilities for these claims.

 

Risks Related to an Investment in Our Common Stock

 

Our common stock has experienced, and may continue to experience, price volatility and a low trading volume.

 

The trading price of our common stock has been and may continue to be subject to large fluctuations. Our common stock price may increase or decrease in response to a number of events and factors, including:

 

 

 

This volatility may adversely affect the prices of our common stock regardless of our operating performance. The price of our common stock also may be adversely affected if our 3.25% convertible senior notes are converted upon maturity in August 2008. Assuming $104.5 million in aggregate principal amount of these notes are converted at the current conversion price of $18.54, which has been adjusted for the impact of dividend payments, the number of shares of our common stock outstanding would increase by 5.6 million, or approximately 19%.

 

In addition, our common stock has experienced low trading volume in the past.

 

 

None.

 

 

Manufacturing Facilities

 

We own and operate trailer manufacturing facilities in Lafayette, Indiana and Anna, Illinois, as well as a trailer floor manufacturing facility in Harrison, Arkansas. We also have a trailer manufacturing facility in Mt. Sterling, Kentucky that is currently idle. Our main Lafayette facility is a 1.2 million square foot facility that houses truck trailer and composite material production, tool and die operations, research laboratories and offices. The second Lafayette facility is 0.6 million square feet, primarily used for the production of refrigerated trailers. The plants located in Anna and Mt. Sterling are each approximately 0.1 million square feet. The plant in Anna conducts the manufacturing operations of our flatbed trailer business and the Mt. Sterling facility was also used for that purpose until it was idled. In total, our facilities have the capacity to produce in excess of 100,000 trailers annually on a three-shift, five-day workweek schedule.

 

Retail and Distribution Facilities

 

Retail and distribution facilities include 11 full service branches and four locations that sell new and used trailers (three of which are leased). Each sales and service branch consists of an office, parts warehouse and service space, and ranges in size from 20,000 to 50,000 square feet per facility. The 15 branches are located in 11 states.

 

Wabash-owned properties are subject to security interests held by our bank lenders.

 

 

Various lawsuits, claims and proceedings have been or may be instituted or asserted against Wabash arising in the ordinary course of business, including those pertaining to product liability, labor and health related matters, successor liability, environmental and possible tax assessments. While the amounts claimed could be substantial, the ultimate liability cannot now be determined because of the considerable uncertainties that exist. Therefore, it is possible that results of operations or liquidity in a particular period could be materially affected by certain contingencies. However, based on facts currently available, management believes that the disposition of matters that are currently pending or asserted will not have a material adverse effect on our financial position, liquidity or results of operations. Costs associated with the litigation and settlement of legal matters are reported within General and Administrative Expenses in the Consolidated Statements of Operations.

 

Brazil Joint Venture

 

In March 2001, Bernard Krone Indústria e Comércio de Máquinas Agrícolas Ltda. (“BK”) filed suit against Wabash in the Fourth Civil Court of Curitiba in the State of Paraná, Brazil. Because of the bankruptcy of BK, this

proceeding is now pending before the Second Civil Court of Bankruptcies and Creditors Reorganization of Curitiba, State of Paraná (No. 232/99).

 

This case grows out of a joint venture agreement between BK and Wabash related to marketing of RoadRailer^® trailers in Brazil and other areas of South America. When BK was placed into the Brazilian equivalent of bankruptcy late in 2000, the joint venture was dissolved. BK subsequently filed its lawsuit against Wabash alleging that it was forced to terminate business with other companies because of exclusivity and non-compete clauses purportedly found in the joint venture agreement. BK asserts damages of approximately $8.4 million.

 

We answered the complaint in May 2001, denying any wrongdoing. We believe that the claims asserted by BK are without merit and we intend to defend our position. We believe that the resolution of this lawsuit will not have a material adverse effect on our financial position, liquidity or future results of operations; however, at this stage of the proceeding no assurances can be given as to the ultimate outcome of the case.

 

Intellectual Property

 

In October 2006, we filed a patent infringement suit against Vanguard National Corporation (“Vanguard”) regarding U.S. Patent Nos. 6,986,546 and 6,220,651 in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Indiana (Civil Action No. 4:06-cv-135); and amended the Complaint in April 2007. In May 2007, Vanguard filed its Answer to the Amended Complaint, along with Counterclaims seeking findings of non-infringement, invalidity, and unenforceability of the subject patents. We filed a reply to Vanguard’s counterclaims in May 2007, denying any wrongdoing or merit to the allegations as set forth in the counterclaims.

 

We believe that the claims asserted by Vanguard are without merit and we intend to defend our position. We believe that the resolution of this lawsuit will not have a material adverse effect on our financial position, liquidity or future results of operations; however, at this stage of the proceeding, no assurance can be given as to the ultimate outcome of the case.

 

Environmental

 

In September 2003, we were noticed as a potentially responsible party (PRP) by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency pertaining to the Motorola 52nd Street (Phoenix, Arizona) Superfund Site pursuant to the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act. PRPs include current and former owners and operators of facilities at which hazardous substances were disposed. EPA’s allegation that we were a PRP arises out of the operation of a former branch facility located approximately five miles from the original site, which we acquired and subsequently sold. According to the notice, the site currently encompasses an area of groundwater contaminated by volatile organic compounds seven miles long and one mile wide. The site was placed on the National Priorities List in 1989. Motorola has been operating an interim groundwater containment remedy since 2001. We do not expect that these proceedings will have a material adverse effect on our financial condition or results of operations.

 

In January 2006, we received a letter from the North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources indicating that a site that we formerly owned near Charlotte, North Carolina has been included on the state’s October 2005 Inactive Hazardous Waste Sites Priority List. The letter states that we were being notified in fulfillment of the state’s “statutory duty” to notify those who own and those who at present are known to be responsible for each Site on the Priority List. No action is being requested from us at this time. We do not expect that this designation will have a material adverse effect on our financial condition or results of operations.

 

 

None.

 

Information Regarding our Common Stock

 

Our common stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange (ticker symbol: WNC). The number of record holders of our common stock at February 11, 2008 was 1,018.

 

We resumed paying quarterly dividends of $0.045 per share on our common stock beginning in the first quarter of 2005. Our amended asset-based loan agreement limits the payment of cash dividends to $20 million per year. Payments of cash dividends depend on future earnings, capital availability and financial condition.

 

High and low stock prices as reported on the New York Stock Exchange for the last two years were:

 

 

Performance Graph

 

The following graph shows a comparison of cumulative total returns for an investment in our Common Stock, the S&P 500 Composite Index and the Dow Jones Transportation Index. It covers the period commencing December 31, 2002 and ending December 31, 2007. The graph assumes that the value for the investment in our common stock and in each index was $100 on December 31, 2002 and that all dividends were reinvested.

 

Comparative of Cumulative Total Return
December 31, 2002 through December 31, 2007
among Wabash National Corporation, the S&P 500 Index
and the Dow Jones Transportation Index

 

Purchases of Our Equity Securities

 

Our Board of Directors approved an amendment to the current stock repurchase program (Repurchase Program) on July 26, 2007, extending the Repurchase Program from September 15, 2007 to September 15, 2008. The Repurchase Program allows repurchase of common stock up to $50 million. As of December 31, 2007, $25.8 million remained available under the program. Stock repurchases under this program may be made in the open market or in private transactions, at times and in amounts that management deems appropriate. During 2007, we repurchased 700,700 shares for $10.3 million. During the fourth quarter of 2007, no stock repurchases under the Repurchase Program were made and no shares were surrendered or withheld to cover withholding tax obligations upon vesting of restricted stock awards.

 

In addition, during the fourth quarter of 2007, we repurchased $20.5 million of our Senior Convertible Notes reducing the number of shares that would be converted upon maturity to approximately 5.6 million shares.

 

 

The following selected consolidated financial data with respect to Wabash for each of the five years in the period ended December 31, 2007, have been derived from our consolidated financial statements. The following information should be read in conjunction with Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations and the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included elsewhere in this Annual Report.

 

 

 

Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (“MD&A”) describes the matters that we consider to be important to understanding the results of our operations for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2007, and our capital resources and liquidity as of December 31, 2007. Our discussion begins with our assessment of the condition of the North American trailer industry along with a summary of the actions we have taken to strengthen Wabash. We then analyze the results of our operations for the last three years, including the trends in the overall business and our operations segments, followed by a discussion of our cash flows and liquidity, capital markets events and transactions, our credit facility, and contractual commitments. Continuing, we provide a review of the critical accounting judgments and estimates that we have made that we believe are most important to an understanding of our MD&A and our consolidated financial statements. These are the critical accounting policies that affect the recognition and measurement of our transactions and the balances in our consolidated financial statements. We conclude our MD&A with information on recent accounting pronouncements that we adopted during the year, as well as those not yet adopted that are expected to have an impact on our financial accounting practices.

 

We have two reportable segments: manufacturing and retail and distribution. The manufacturing segment produces trailers that are sold to customers who purchase trailers directly or through independent dealers and to the retail and distribution segment. The retail and distribution segment includes the sale of new and used trailers, as well as the sale of aftermarket parts and service through our retail branch network.

 

As part of our commitment to expand our customer base and grow our market leadership, we acquired Transcraft Corporation on March 3, 2006. Transcraft’s operating results are included in our consolidated financial statements in the manufacturing segment from the date of acquisition.

 

Executive Summary

 

Measured in terms of process yield, productivity and operating effectiveness, 2007 was the best year in our history. Unfortunately, market requirements declined 22% from 2006, which resulted in lower revenues and gross profits. In 2007, we were able to achieve selected price increases despite a soft market and successfully recovered increased cost in our raw materials commodities. We took early and effective actions to control costs in light of a weakening trailer market. We made significant progress toward optimizing the effectiveness and utility of the ERP system we implemented in 2006. We expect the overall trailer market for 2008 to decline further from 2007 and then recover in 2009. We continue to focus on the improvement of our manufacturing and retail operations, expanding our customer base, introducing products that meet customers’ needs, exiting non-core operations and strengthening our capital structure.

 

Operating Performance

 

We measure our operating performance in four key areas — Safety/Environmental, Quality, Productivity and Cost Reduction. Our objective of being better today than yesterday, and better tomorrow than we are today is simple, straightforward and easily understood by all our associates.

 

 

 

 

 

Industry Trends

 

Freight transportation in the U.S., according to the ATA, was estimated to be a $646 billion industry in 2006 (the latest such information available). ATA estimates that approximately 69% of all freight tonnage is carried by trucks at some point during its shipment, accounting for approximately 84% of freight industry revenue in the U.S. Trailer demand is a direct function of the amount of freight to be transported. To monitor the state of the industry, we evaluate a number of indicators related to trailer manufacturing and the transportation industry. Recent trends we have observed include the following:

 

 

 

 

Results of Operations

 

The following table sets forth certain operating data as a percentage of net sales for the periods indicated:

 

2007 Compared to 2006

 

Net Sales

 

Net sales in 2007 were $1.1 billion, a decrease of $209.6 million, or 16.0%, compared to 2006. By business segment, net external sales and related units sold were as follows (in millions, except unit data):

 

 

Manufacturing segment sales for 2007 were $952.8 million, a decrease of $167.9 million, or 15.0%, compared to 2006. This decrease was primarily due to a decline in van sales of 11,800 units, or approximately $229.6 million, due to weak market demand. This decrease was partially offset by higher average selling prices for vans, which had a positive impact of $67.7 million. Sales price improvements resulted from the effort to offset material price increases and a favorable product mix as we shipped a larger number of the higher-priced refrigerated units and fewer lower-priced FreightPro^®, pup trailers and converter dollies in 2007 compared to 2006. Sales of platform units decreased $4.0 million compared to 2006 as the impact of owning Transcraft for an additional two months was more than offset by the decline in volume.

 

Retail and distribution segment sales were $149.7 million in 2007, a decrease of $41.7 million, or 21.8%, compared to 2006. New and used trailer sales decreased $19.7 million and $19.1 million, respectively, compared to 2006 primarily as a result of the overall decline in the market. Parts and service sales were $40.6 million in 2007, a decrease of $1.6 million, or 3.8%, compared to 2006 due to weak customer demand.

 

Gross Profit

 

Gross profit in 2007 was $91.7 million compared to $104.5 million in 2006, a decrease of $12.8 million, or 12.2%. Gross profit as a percent of sales was 8.3% in 2007 compared to 8.0% in 2006. Gross profit by segment was as follows (in millions):

 

 

Manufacturing segment gross profit as a percentage of sales was 8.7% compared to 8.0% in 2006. Gross profit was $82.8 million in 2007, a decrease of $6.7 million, or 7.5%, compared to 2006. The gross profit margin percentage was favorably impacted by increases in the overall average selling prices for new trailers that outpaced increased raw material costs and effective management of operating costs. Offsetting these improvements was the

21.8% decline in new trailer units sold in 2007 compared to 2006. Additionally, we were able to regain operating efficiencies that were adversely impacted in 2006 as a result of implementing a new ERP system. Transcraft’s contributions to gross profit increased in 2007 from the prior year period due to Transcraft having an additional two months in the current year.

 

Retail and distribution segment gross profit in 2007 was $9.4 million, a decrease of $6.0 million, or 39.0%, compared to 2006. As a percentage of sales, gross profit margin was 6.3% compared to 8.0% in 2006, primarily due to declines in new and used trailer unit sales and margins and reduced demand for parts and service.

 

General and Administrative Expenses

 

General and administrative expenses decreased $1.6 million to $49.5 million in 2007. The decrease was largely due to reduction in salaries and other employee-related costs which were slightly offset by increases in bad debt expense and legal and technology costs.

 

Selling Expenses

 

Selling expenses increased $0.7 million to $15.7 million in 2007 primarily due to an increase in employee-related costs and the impact of reporting Transcraft an additional two months in 2007 as compared to 2006.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Foreign exchange, net for 2007 includes $3.3 million of accumulated foreign currency translation gains recognized as a result of the sale of our Canadian branches. Upon finalization of this sale, the operational activities pertaining to this entity were considered substantially liquidated as of December 31, 2007, and, in accordance with FASB Statement No. 52, Foreign Currency Translation, all accumulated foreign currency translation gains were recognized.

 

Gain on debt extinguishment in 2007 of $0.5 million represents the gain recognized on the extinguishment of $20.5 million of our Senior Convertible Notes, which were purchased at a discount to par value, net of related deferred debt issuance costs.

 

Income Taxes

 

In 2007, we recognized income tax expense of $8.4 million compared to tax expense of $6.9 million in 2006. The effective rate for 2007 was 34.0%. This rate is lower than the U.S. Federal statutory rate as it includes recognition of a portion of the benefit of certain tax deductions related to the liquidation of our Canadian subsidiary of $0.8 million. As of December 31, 2007, we had $62.6 million of remaining U.S. federal income tax net operating loss carryforwards, which will expire in 2022 if unused, and which may be subject to other limitations on use under IRS rules.

 

In 2006, we recognized the reversal of valuation allowance and reserves primarily resulting from the settlement of certain state income tax positions totaling $4.8 million. We also recognized $5.6 million of valuation allowance against foreign losses incurred during the year.

2006 Compared to 2005

 

Net Sales

 

Net sales in 2006 were $1.3 billion, an increase of $98.5 million, or 8.1%, compared to 2005. By business segment, net external sales and related units sold were as follows (in millions, except unit data):

 

 

Manufacturing segment sales in 2006 were $1.1 billion, an increase of $152.3 million, or 15.7%, compared to 2005. The increase was primarily due to the inclusion of $95.0 million in sales, or approximately 4,600 units, from Transcraft since the date of acquisition and increased average selling prices for van trailers as van unit volumes were flat. The average selling prices for van trailers increased approximately 5.3% from 2005 due to our ability to pass along a portion of the increases in material costs and changes in product mix as more higher-priced refrigerated units and fewer lower-priced convertible dollies and containers were sold compared to the prior year.

 

Retail and distribution segment sales were $191.5 million in 2006, a decrease $53.8 million, or 21.9%, compared to 2005. New trailer sales in this segment decreased $45.8 million and sales for parts and service declined $7.5 million in 2006 primarily as a result of fewer retail outlets in operation during 2006. Used trailer sales were comparable with the prior year although selling prices were less favorable in 2006 due to product mix.

 

Gross Profit

 

Gross profit in 2006 was $104.5 million compared to $134.5 million in 2005, a decrease of $30.0 million or 22.3%. Gross profit as a percent of sales was 8.0% in 2006 compared to 11.1% in 2005. As discussed below, both of our segments were impacted as follows (in millions):

 

 

Manufacturing segment gross profit in 2006 decreased $23.4 million or 20.7%. Gross profit as a percentage of sales was 8.0% in 2006 compared to 11.7% in 2005. The decrease in gross profit and gross profit as a percentage of sales was largely due to the impact of higher raw material costs, primarily steel and aluminum. These were offset by gross profit contributions from Transcraft of $17.4 million since the date of acquisition. Additionally, the decrease was driven by manufacturing inefficiencies that arose in the second and third quarters of 2006 related to parts

shortages and issues with inbound logistics that had a detrimental impact on scheduling and production. These inefficiencies were primarily the result of issues arising from the implementation of our new ERP system.

 

Retail and distribution segment gross profit in 2006 was $15.4 million, a decrease of $4.4 million, or 22.2% compared to 2005. This was a result of lower sales, primarily driven by fewer retail outlets in 2006 as compared with 2005. The retail and distribution segment’s gross profit as a percent of sales was 8.0% in 2006, compared to 8.1% in 2005.

 

General and Administrative Expenses

 

General and administrative expense increased $11.9 million to $51.2 million in 2006 from $39.3 million in 2005. The increase was largely due to the inclusion of $6.4 million from Transcraft since the date of acquisition, including $4.0 million of amortization expense for intangible assets acquired. Outside professional fees related to ERP implementation of $1.7 million, higher stock-based compensation costs of $1.5 million, primarily the result of adoption of SFAS No. 123(R), and $1.5 million of additional amortization of our new ERP system, also contributed to the increase. These increases were slightly offset by a decrease of $1.2 million in employee compensation.

 

Impairment of Goodwill

 

As part of the preparation of our financial statements, we conducted our annual impairment test of goodwill as of October 1, 2006 and determined that the goodwill within the Retail and Distribution reporting unit was impaired. We determined that the book value of the reporting unit exceeded the estimated fair market value of the reporting unit as determined using the present value of expected future cash flows on the assessment date. After calculating the implied fair value of the goodwill by deducting the fair value of all tangible and intangible net assets of the reporting unit from the fair value of the reporting unit, it was determined that the recorded goodwill of $15.4 million was impaired. The goodwill impairment was the result of the revised outlook as determined by our budgeting process for future periods. Future periods are being impacted by recent changes in the pattern of used trailer grade activity by larger fleet operators resulting in longer trade cycles and increased levels of direct sales of used trailers by customers. These changes impact both the profitability of used trailer sales and parts and services operations. Also impacting future periods is the continued reduction of our retail locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Interest expense increased $0.5 million, or 7.6%, in 2006 to $6.9 million due to increased average borrowings during the year as our cost of borrowing remained relatively flat.

 

Income Taxes

 

In 2006, we recognized income tax expense of $6.9 million compared to a tax benefit of $37.0 million in 2005. The effective rate for 2006 was 42.2%. This rate includes recognition of the reversal of valuation allowance and reserves, primarily resulting from the settlement of certain state income tax positions totaling $4.8 million. We also recognized $5.6 million of valuation allowance against foreign losses incurred during the year. As of December 31, 2006, we had approximately $70 million of remaining U.S. federal income tax net operating loss carryforwards, which will expire in 2022 if unused, and which may be subject to other limitations on use under Internal Revenue Service rules.

 

In 2005, we determined that a portion of our previously reserved deferred tax assets were more likely than not realizable based on criteria set forth in SFAS No. 109. As a result, we reversed $37.3 million of valuation allowance previously recorded and, additionally, we utilized $30.0 million of net operating losses (NOL) to offset 2005 income.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

Capital Structure

 

Today, our capital structure is comprised of a mix of equity and debt. As of December 31, 2007, our debt to equity ratio is approximately 0.4:1.0. Our objective is to generate operating cash flows sufficient to fund normal

working capital requirements, to fund capital expenditures, to be positioned to take advantage of market opportunities, to pay dividends and to fund potential stock repurchases.

 

Debt Amendment

 

On March 6, 2007, we entered into a Second Amended and Restated Loan and Security Agreement (Revolving Facility) with our lenders. The Revolving Facility replaced our prior facility. The Revolving Facility increased the capacity under the facility from $125 million to $150 million, subject to a borrowing base, and extended the maturity date of the facility from September 30, 2007 to March 6, 2012.

 

On September 24, 2007, we entered into Amendment No. 1 to the Revolving Facility. This amendment increases our borrowing capacity under the Revolving Facility from $150 million to $200 million, subject to a borrowing base, and allows borrowing under the Revolving Facility to fund the repurchase of our $125 million Senior Convertible Notes, subject to the conditions set forth in the Amendment.

 

We have the option to increase the credit facility by up to an additional $50 million during the term of the facility, subject to a borrowing base. The lenders under the Revolving Facility are under no obligation to provide any additional commitments and any increase in commitments will be subject to customary conditions precedent.

 

Interest Rate and Fees.  Borrowings under the Revolving Facility bear interest at a rate equal to, at our option, either (1) a base rate determined as Bank of America, N.A.’s prime rate for commercial loans; or (2) a LIBOR rate determined on the basis of the offered rates for deposits in U.S. dollars, for a period of time comparable to the applicable interest rate period, which appears on the Telerate page 3750 as of 11a.m. (London time), on the day that is two London banking days preceding the first day of the interest period, in each case plus an applicable margin. The applicable margin for borrowings under the Revolving Facility ranges from 0.00% to 0.75% for base rate borrowings and 1.25% to 2.25% for LIBOR borrowings, subject to adjustment based on the average availability under the Revolving Facility.

 

In addition to paying interest on the outstanding principal under the Revolving Facility, we are required to pay an annual agency fee to our administrative agent in the amount of $50,000 each year the Revolving Facility is outstanding other than the first year. We are also required to pay an unused line fee equal to 0.25% on the unused portion of the Revolving Facility and other customary fees.

 

Mandatory Repayments.  If we receive proceeds from the sale of any collateral or certain other dispositions, we are required to repay a sum equal to 100% of the net proceeds (including insurance payments but net of costs and taxes incurred in connection with the sale or event). If we issue any additional indebtedness (excluding any indebtedness issued in connection with a refinancing of our Senior Convertible Notes), we are required to repay a sum equal to 100% of the net proceeds of the issuance of the indebtedness. If we issue equity other than certain customary exceptions, we are required to repay a sum equal to 50% of the net proceeds of the issuance.

 

Further, if we receive proceeds from any tax refunds, indemnity payments or pension plan reversions, we are required to repay a sum equal to 100% of the proceeds.

 

Any repayment shall be applied to reduce the outstanding principal balance of the Revolving Facility but shall not permanently reduce the capacity to borrow under the facility.

 

If an event of default has occurred, we may be required to repay the outstanding balance under the Revolving Facility, together with accrued and unpaid interest thereon and all other fees and obligations accrued thereunder.

 

Voluntary Repayments.  We may repay the outstanding balance under the Revolving Facility from time to time without premium or penalty other than customary breakage costs with respect to LIBOR loans. In addition, we may opt to reduce the capacity under the Revolving Facility in an aggregate amount not to exceed $25 million during the term of the Revolving Facility. Upon 30 days prior written notice, we may terminate the Revolving Facility if we have satisfied all outstanding obligations under the Revolving Facility and cash collateralized any outstanding letters of credit and letters of credit guaranties.

 

Guarantees and Security.  Certain of our subsidiaries unconditionally guarantee all obligations under the Revolving Facility.  All obligations under the Revolving Facility, and the guarantees of those obligations, are

secured, subject to certain exceptions, by a first-priority security interest in, or pledge of, certain personal and real property of the Company and certain direct and indirect subsidiaries, including inventory, accounts, certain investment property, shares of capital stock in each domestic subsidiary, general intangibles, intellectual property, certain security and deposit accounts and certain related assets and proceeds of the foregoing.

 

Certain Covenants and Events of Default.  The Revolving Facility includes certain covenants that restrict, among other things and subject to certain exceptions, our ability and the ability of our subsidiaries to:

 

 

Additionally, should our available borrowing capacity drop below $30 million, we would be subject to a minimum fixed charge coverage ratio of 1.1:1.0 which could limit our ability to make capital expenditures and stock repurchases and further limit the amount of dividends we could pay.

 

The Revolving Facility requires that no later than May 1, 2008, we do one or more of the following in connection with our Senior Convertible Notes, which are due in August 2008: (i) repurchase all or a portion of the Senior Convertible Notes with the proceeds of a convertible note offering or proceeds from the Revolving Facility, so long as immediately after making any such payment with proceeds of the Revolving Facility we have availability under the Revolving Facility of at least $40 million; (ii) defease any outstanding indebtedness evidenced by the Senior Convertible Notes, so long as immediately after making any such payment we have availability under the Revolving Facility of at least $40 million; or (iii) institute cash reserves equal to any outstanding principal balance of the Senior Convertible Notes, which reserves shall remain in place until all indebtedness evidenced by the Senior Convertible Notes has been paid in full, and shall be used only to pay in full the outstanding indebtedness evidenced by the Senior Convertible Notes, so long as immediately after instituting any cash reserves from the proceeds of the Revolving Facility we have availability under the Revolving Facility of at least $40 million.

 

The Revolving Facility also contains additional customary affirmative covenants and events of default, including among other events, certain cross defaults, business disruption, condemnation and change in ownership.

Cash Flow

 

Cash provided by operating activities in 2007 amounted to $59.3 million compared to $51.8 million in 2006. The increase was primarily a result of a $19.0 million improvement in working capital offset by an $11.5 million reduction in net income, adjusted for non-cash items, as compared to the prior year period. The following is a discussion of factors impacting certain working capital items in 2007 as compared to the prior year:

 

 

Investing activities used $11.1 million during 2007 compared to $75.1 million in 2006. The decrease of $64.0 million from the prior year was primarily due to the Transcraft acquisition in the first quarter of 2006. The current year includes the additional purchase price payment of $4.5 million based on Transcraft’s achievement of 2006 performance targets.

 

Financing activities used $36.9 million during 2007, including $19.9 million used to retire $20.5 million of our Senior Convertible Notes.

 

As of December 31, 2007, our liquidity position, defined as cash on hand and available borrowing capacity, amounted to approximately $205.3 million and total debt and lease obligations amounted to approximately $109.3 million, including $4.8 million of off-balance sheet operating leases. During 2008, we are required to extinguish our Senior Convertible Notes of which $104.5 million aggregate principal amount were outstanding at December 31, 2007. We currently anticipate funding this extinguishment through cash on hand and available borrowings under the Revolving Facility. After considering this extinguishment, we expect that in 2008, we will be able to generate sufficient cash flow from operations to fund our anticipated working capital, capital expenditures and quarterly dividend payments.

 

Capital Expenditures

 

Capital spending amounted to $6.7 million for 2007 and is anticipated to be approximately $10 million for 2008. Spending in 2008 will primarily be targeted on cost reduction projects in our manufacturing facilities as we continue to implement our strategy of low-cost production of quality trailers. Activities are currently underway at our Transcraft facility in Anna, Illinois and at our trailer floor facility in Harrison, Arkansas to implement various continuous improvement and lean manufacturing initiatives. Evaluation of production costs at our main Lafayette, Indiana facility is in progress and the outcome of that evaluation may increase capital spending for 2008 above the $10.0 million anticipated amount.

 

Outlook

 

According to the most recent ACT estimates, total trailer industry shipments for 2008 are expected to be down 14% from 2007 to approximately 187,000 units. ACT estimates that sales in 2009 will recover to 2007 levels or approximately 220,000 units. The biggest concerns going into 2008 relate to the global economy, especially housing and construction-related markets in the U.S. Management’s expectation is that the trailer industry will soften further before starting to recover in the second half of the year.

 

By product type, ACT is estimating that van trailer shipments will be down approximately 15% in 2008 compared to 2007 with the decline in reefer units being more pronounced than that of dry vans. Total van trailer

shipments are expected to total 129,000 units in 2008 compared to 152,000 units in 2007. ACT is estimating that platform trailer shipments will decline approximately 20% in 2008. The decrease in the demand for trailers reflect the weakness of truck freight, which has trended down since the latter part of 2006 as a result of general economic conditions and, more particularly, declines in new home construction and automotive.

 

We believe we are in a strong position in the industry because: (1) our core customers are among the dominant participants in the trucking industry; (2) our DuraPlate^® trailer continues to have increased market acceptance; (3) our focus is on developing solutions that reduce our customers’ trailer maintenance costs; and (4) we expect some expansion of our presence into the mid-market carriers. In 2007, we added approximately 40 new mid-market customers accounting for orders of over 2,800 new trailers. Since implementing our mid-market sales strategy four years ago, we have added 260 new mid-market customers accounting for orders for over 18,500 new trailers.

 

Pricing will be difficult in 2008 due to weak demand and fierce competitive activity. Raw material and component costs are expected to continue to trend upward based on world commodity prices for oil, steel and aluminum. As has been our policy, we will endeavor to pass along raw material and component price increases to our customers. We have a focus on continuing to develop innovative new products that both add value to our customers’ operations and allow us to continue to differentiate our products from the competition to increase profitability.

 

Contractual Obligations and Commercial Commitments

 

A summary of payments of our contractual obligations and commercial commitments, both on and off balance sheet, as of December 31, 2007 are as follows (in millions):

 

 

Residual guarantees represent commitments related to certain new trailer sales transactions prior to 2002, where we had entered into agreements to guarantee end-of-term residual value. The agreements also contain an option for us to purchase the used equipment at a predetermined price. We have purchase options of $0.5 million on the aforementioned trailers.

 

Operating leases represent the total future minimum lease payments.

 

We have $15.7 million in purchase commitments through June 2008 for aluminum, which is within normal production requirements.

Significant Accounting Policies and Critical Accounting Estimates

 

Our significant accounting policies are more fully described in Note 2 to our consolidated financial statements. Certain of our accounting policies require the application of significant judgment by management in selecting the appropriate assumptions for calculating financial estimates. By their nature, these judgments are subject to an inherent degree of uncertainty. These judgments are based on our historical experience, terms of existing contracts, our evaluation of trends in the industry, information provided by our customers and information available from other outside sources, as appropriate.

 

We consider an accounting estimate to be critical if:

 

 

The table below presents information about the nature and rationale for our critical accounting estimates:

 

 

In addition, there are other items within our financial statements that require estimation, but are not as critical as those discussed above. Changes in estimates used in these and other items could have a significant effect on our consolidated financial statements. The determination of the fair market value of new and used trailers is subject to

variation, particularly in times of rapidly changing market conditions. A 5% change in the valuation of our inventories would be approximately $6 million.

 

Other

 

Inflation

 

We have historically been able to offset the impact of rising costs through productivity improvements as well as selective price increases. As a result, inflation has not had, and is not expected to have, a significant impact on our business.

 

New Accounting Pronouncements

 

Income Taxes

 

On January 1, 2007, we adopted the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) Final Interpretation Number 48, “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes” (FIN 48). We have no adjustment to report in respect of the effect of adoption of FIN 48.

 

Our policy with respect to interest and penalties associated with reserves or allowances for uncertain tax positions is to classify such interest and penalties in income tax expense in the Statements of Operations. As of December 31, 2007, the total amount of unrecognized income tax benefits computed under FIN 48 was approximately $10.5 million, all of which, if recognized, would impact our effective income tax rate. As of December 31, 2007, we had recorded a total of $0.4 million of accrued interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions. We foresee no significant changes to the facts and circumstances underlying its reserves and allowances for uncertain income tax positions as reasonably possible during the next 12 months. As of December 31, 2007, we are subject to unexpired statutes of limitation for U.S. federal income taxes for the years 2001-2007. We are also subject to unexpired statutes of limitation for Indiana state income taxes for the years 2001-2007.

 

Fair Value Measurements

 

In September 2006, the FASB issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) No. 157, Fair Value Measurements. The Statement provides guidance for using fair value to measure assets and liabilities and only applies when other standards require or permit the fair value measurement of assets and liabilities. It does not expand the use of fair value measurement. In February 2008, the FASB agreed to defer the effective date to fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2008, for certain nonfinancial assets and nonfinancial liabilities, except those that are recognized or disclosed at fair value in the financial statements on a recurring basis. For these financial and nonfinancial assets and liabilities that are remeasured at least annually, this statement is effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007. The adoption of this Statement is not expected to have a material impact on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

 

Fair Value Option

 

In February 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 159, The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities. This Statement permits entities to choose to measure many financial instruments and certain other items at fair value. This Statement is effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007. The adoption of this Statement is not expected to have a material impact on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

 

 

In addition to the risks inherent in our operations, we have exposure to financial and market risk resulting from volatility in commodity prices, interest rates and foreign exchange rates. The following discussion provides additional detail regarding our exposure to these risks.

a.  Commodity Price Risks

 

We are exposed to fluctuation in commodity prices through the purchase of raw materials that are processed from commodities such as aluminum, steel, wood and polyethylene. Given the historical volatility of certain commodity prices, this exposure can significantly impact product costs. Historically, we have managed aluminum price changes by entering into fixed price contracts with our suppliers. As of December 31, 2007, we had $15.7 million in raw material purchase commitments through June 2008 for materials that will be used in the production process. We typically do not set prices for our products more than 45-90 days in advance of our commodity purchases and can, subject to competitive market conditions, take into account the cost of the commodity in setting our prices for each order. To the extent that we are unable to offset the increased commodity costs in our product prices, our results would be materially and adversely affected.

 

b.  Interest Rates

 

As of December 31, 2007, we had no floating rate debt outstanding. For 2007, we maintained an average floating rate borrowing level of $1.0 million under our revolving line of credit. Based on this average borrowing level, a hypothetical 100 basis-point increase in the floating interest rate from the current level would not have a material impact to interest expense over a one-year period. This sensitivity analysis does not account for the change in the competitive environment indirectly related to the change in interest rates and the potential managerial action taken in response to these changes.

 

 

The Board of Directors and Shareholders of Wabash National Corporation

 

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Wabash National Corporation as of December 31, 2007 and 2006, and the related consolidated statements of operations, stockholders’ equity, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2007. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’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. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

 

In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of Wabash National Corporation at December 31, 2007 and 2006, and the consolidated results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2007, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

 

As discussed in Note 11 to the Consolidated Financial Statements, effective January 1, 2007, the Company adopted Financial Accounting Standards Board Interpretation No. 48, “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes,” an interpretation of Financial Accounting Standards No. 109.

 

As discussed in Note 9 to the Consolidated Financial Statements, the Company adopted Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 123(R), “Share-Based Payment,” in 2006.

 

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), Wabash National Corporation’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2007, based on criteria established in Internal Control — Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission and our report dated February 14, 2008 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.

 

 

ERNST & YOUNG LLP

 

Indianapolis, Indiana

February 14, 2008

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these Consolidated Statements.

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these Consolidated Statements.