Thor Industries, Inc. 10-K
Table of Contents

 
 
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D. C. 20549
 
FORM 10-K
 
(Mark one)
     
þ   ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the fiscal year ended July 31, 2008, Commission File Number 1-9235
or
     
o   TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from       to
Commission file number 1-9235
THOR INDUSTRIES, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
     
Delaware   93-0768752
     
(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)
  (I.R.S. Employer
Identification Number)
     
419 W. Pike Street, Jackson Center, Ohio   45334-0629
     
(Address of principal executive offices)   (Zip Code)
Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (937) 596-6849
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Exchange Act:
     
Title of each class:
  Name of each exchange on which registered:
Common Stock (par value $.10 per share)
  New York Stock Exchange
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Exchange 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 þ     No o
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 the 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. Yes þ     No 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):
             
Large accelerated filer þ   Accelerated filer o Non-accelerated filer o
(Do not check if a smaller reporting company)
Smaller reporting company o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 126-2 of the Exchange Act.)
Yes o     No þ
The aggregate market value of the voting and non-voting common equity held by non-affiliates of the registrant as of January 31, 2008 was $1,272,156,678, based on the closing price of the registrant’s common shares on January 31, 2008, the last business day of the registrant’s most recently completed second fiscal quarter. Solely for the purpose of this calculation and for no other purpose, the non-affiliates of the registrant are assumed to be all shareholders of the registrant other than (i) directors of the registrant (ii) executive officers of the registrant who are identified as “named executive officers” pursuant to Item 11 of the registrant’s Form 10-K and (iii) any shareholder that beneficially owns 10% or more of the registrant’s common stock. Such exclusion is not intended, nor shall it be deemed, to be an admission that such persons are affiliates of the registrant. The number of common shares of registrant’s stock outstanding as of September 15, 2008 was 55,439,924. Documents incorporated by reference:
Portions of the Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held on December 9, 2008 are incorporated by reference in Part III of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
 
 

 


 

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PART I
Unless otherwise indicated, all amounts presented in thousands except units, square feet, share and per share data.
ITEM 1. BUSINESS
General Development of Business
Our company was founded in 1980 and produces and sells a wide range of recreation vehicles and small and mid-size buses in the United States and Canada. We are incorporated in Delaware and are the successor to a corporation of the same name which was incorporated in Nevada on July 29, 1980. Our principal executive office is located at 419 West Pike Street, Jackson Center, Ohio 45334 and our telephone number is (937) 596-6849. Our Internet address is www.thorindustries.com. We maintain current reports, available free of charge, on our web site.
Our principal recreation vehicle operating subsidiaries are Airstream, Inc. (Airstream), CrossRoads RV (CrossRoads), Dutchmen Manufacturing, Inc. (Dutchmen), Four Winds International, Inc. (Four Winds), Keystone RV Company (Keystone), Komfort Corp. (Komfort), Citair, Inc. (Citair), and Damon Corporation (Damon). Our principal bus operating subsidiaries are Champion Bus, Inc. (Champion), General Coach America, Inc., (General Coach), ElDorado National California, Inc. (ElDorado California), ElDorado National Kansas, Inc. (ElDorado Kansas) and Goshen Coach, Inc. (Goshen Coach).
Recreation Vehicles
We believe that we are the largest unit and revenue manufacturer of recreation vehicles in North America based on retail statistics published by Statistical Surveys, Inc. and publicly reported results.
Airstream
Our Airstream subsidiary manufactures and sells premium and medium-high priced travel trailers and motorhomes under the trade name Airstream Classic. Airstream Classic vehicles are distinguished by their rounded shape and bright aluminum finish and, in our opinion, constitute the most recognized product in the recreation vehicle industry. Airstream, responding to the demands of the market for a lighter, lower-cost product, also manufactures and sells the Airstream Safari, International, Bambi and Base Camp travel trailers. Airstream also sells the Interstate Class B motorhome.
Dutchmen
Our Dutchmen subsidiary manufactures and sells conventional travel trailers and fifth wheels primarily under the trade names Dutchmen, Four Winds, Aero, T@b, Grand Junction and Colorado.
Four Winds
Our Four Winds subsidiary manufactures and sells gasoline and diesel Class C and Class A motorhomes. Its products are sold under trade names such as Four Winds, Hurricane, Windsport, Mandalay, Presidio, Dutchmen, Chateau, Ventura and Fun Mover.
CrossRoads
Our CrossRoads subsidiary manufactures and sells conventional travel trailers and fifth wheels under the trade names Cross Terrain, Cruiser, Zinger and Sunset Trail and park models under the trade names Tranquility and Westchester.
Citair
Our Citair subsidiary manufactures travel trailers, fifth wheels and truck campers. It operates under the name General Coach and sells recreation vehicles under the trade names Citation and Corsair.

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Keystone
Our Keystone subsidiary manufactures and sells travel trailers and fifth wheels under trade names such as Montana, Springdale, Hornet, Sprinter, Outback, Laredo, Everest, Mountaineer, Challenger, and Cougar.
Komfort
Our Komfort subsidiary manufactures and sells travel trailers and fifth wheels under the trade names Komfort and Trailblazer primarily in the western United States and western Canada.
Damon
Our Damon subsidiary manufactures and sells gasoline and diesel Class A motor homes under the names Daybreak, Challenger, Astoria, Tuscany and Outlaw. Damon also introduced the Avanti, a new fuel efficient model Class A diesel motorhome in 2008.
Breckenridge
Breckenridge is the park model division of Damon Corporation. Park models are factory built second homes designed for recreational living. They are towed to a destination site such as a lake, woods or park and are considered a country cottage.
Buses
We believe that our bus segment is the largest manufacturer of small and midsize transit and commercial buses in North America based on statistics published by the Mid-size Bus Manufacturers Association. We also build 40-foot buses for transit and airport shuttle use.
ElDorado National
ElDorado National, comprised of our ElDorado Kansas and ElDorado California subsidiaries, manufactures and sells buses for transit, airport car rental and hotel/motel shuttles, paramedical transit for hospitals and nursing homes, tour and charter operations and other uses.
ElDorado National manufactures and sells buses under trade names such as Aerolite, AeroElite, Aerotech, Escort, MST, Transmark, EZ Rider, and Axess, its 40 foot bus.
Champion Bus
Champion manufactures and sells small and mid-size buses under trade names such as Challenger, Defender, and Crusader.
General Coach
General Coach manufactures and sells small and mid-sized buses under trade names such as American Cruiser, Classic Coach, and EZ Trans.
Goshen Coach
Goshen Coach manufactures and sells small and mid-size buses under trade names such as GC II and Pacer.
Product Line Sales and Segment Information
The Company has three reportable segments: 1.) towable recreation vehicles, 2.) motorized recreation vehicles, and 3.) buses. The towable recreation vehicle segment consists of product lines from the following operating companies that have been aggregated: Airstream, Breckenridge, CrossRoads, Dutchmen, General Coach Hensall & Oliver, Keystone, and Komfort. The motorized recreation vehicle segment consists of product lines from the following operating companies that have been aggregated: Airstream, Damon, and Four Winds. The bus segment consists of the following operating companies that have been aggregated: Champion Bus, ElDorado California, ElDorado Kansas, and Goshen Coach. The table below sets forth the contribution of each of the Company’s product lines to net sales in each of the last three fiscal years.

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    2008     2007     2006  
    Amount     %     Amount     %     Amount     %  
Recreation Vehicles:
                                               
Towables
  $ 1,763,099       67     $ 1,890,100       66     $ 2,173,483       71  
Motorized
    461,856       17       565,523       20       577,025       19  
 
                                   
Total Recreation Vehicles
    2,224,955       84       2,455,623       86       2,750,508       90  
Buses
    415,725       16       400,685       14       315,768       10  
 
                                   
Total Net Sales
  $ 2,640,680       100     $ 2,856,308       100     $ 3,066,276       100  
 
                                   
Recreation Vehicles
Overview
We manufacture and sell a wide variety of recreation vehicles throughout the United States and Canada, as well as related parts and accessories. Recreation vehicle classifications are based upon standards established by the Recreation Vehicle Industry Association (RVIA). The principal types of recreation vehicles that we produce include conventional travel trailers, fifth wheels, Class A and Class C motorhomes and park models.
Travel trailers are non-motorized vehicles which are designed to be towed by passenger automobiles, pickup trucks, SUVs or vans. Travel trailers provide comfortable, self-contained living facilities for short periods of time. We produce “conventional,” and “fifth wheel” travel trailers. Conventional trailers are towed by means of a frame hitch attached to the towing vehicle. Fifth wheel trailers, designed to be towed by pickup trucks, are constructed with a raised forward section that is attached to the bed area of the pickup truck.
Park models are recreational dwellings towed to a permanent site such as a lake, woods or park. The maximum size of park models is 400 square feet. They provide comfortable self contained living and are second homes for their owners, according to The Recreational
Park Trailer Association.
A motorhome is a self-powered vehicle built on a motor vehicle chassis. Motorhomes are self-contained with their own lighting, heating, cooking, refrigeration, sewage holding and water storage facilities, so that they can be lived in without being attached to utilities.
Class A motorhomes, constructed on medium-duty truck chassis, are supplied complete with engine and drive train components by motor vehicle manufacturers such as Workhorse Custom Chassis, Spartan, Ford and Freightliner. We design, manufacture and install the living area and driver’s compartment of Class A motorhomes. Class C motorhomes are built on a Ford, General Motors or Chrysler small truck or van chassis which includes an engine, drive train components, and a finished cab section. We construct a living area which has access to the driver’s compartment and attaches to the cab section. Although they are not designed for permanent or semi-permanent living, motorhomes can provide comfortable living facilities for short periods of time.
Production
In order to minimize finished inventory, our recreation vehicles generally are produced to order. Our facilities are designed to provide efficient assembly line manufacturing of products. Capacity increases can be achieved at relatively low cost, largely by increasing the number of production employees or by acquiring or leasing additional facilities and equipment.
We purchase in finished form many of the components used in the production of our recreation vehicles. The principal raw materials used in the manufacturing processes for motorhomes and travel trailers are aluminum, lumber, plywood, plastic, fiberglass, and steel purchased from numerous suppliers. We believe that, except for chassis, substitute sources for raw materials and components are available with no material impact on our operations.
Our relationship with our chassis suppliers is similar to all buyer/vendor relationships and no special contractual commitment is engaged in by either party. Historically, Ford and General Motors resort to an industry-wide allocation system during periods when supply is restricted. These allocations would be based on the volume of chassis previously purchased. Sales of motorhomes and small buses rely on these chassis and are affected accordingly.
Generally, all of our operating subsidiaries introduce new or improved lines or models of recreation vehicles each year. Changes typically include new sizes and floorplans, different decors or design features, and engineering improvements.

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Seasonality
Since recreation vehicles are used primarily by vacationers and campers, our recreation vehicle sales are seasonal and, in most geographical areas, tend to be significantly lower during the winter months than in other periods. As a result, recreation vehicle sales are historically lowest during the second fiscal quarter, which ends on January 31 of each year.
Marketing and Distribution
We market our recreation vehicles through independent dealers located throughout the United States and Canada. Each of our recreation vehicle operating subsidiaries maintains its own dealer organization, with some dealers carrying more than one of our product lines. As of July 31, 2008, there were approximately 1,734 dealers carrying our products in the U.S. and Canada. We believe that close working relationships between our management and sales personnel and the many independent dealers provide us with valuable information on customer preferences and the quality and marketability of our products. Additionally, by maintaining substantially separate dealer networks for each of our subsidiaries, our products are more likely to be competing against competitor’s products in similar price ranges rather than against our other products. Park models are typically sold by park model dealers as well as by some travel trailer dealers.
Each of our recreation vehicle operating subsidiaries has an independent sales force to call on their dealers. Our most important sales promotions occur at the major recreation vehicle shows which take place throughout the year at different locations across the country. We benefit from the recreation vehicle awareness advertising and major marketing programs sponsored by the RVIA in national print media and television. We engage in a limited amount of consumer-oriented advertising for our recreation vehicles, primarily through industry magazines, the distribution of product brochures, direct mail advertising campaigns and the internet.
In our selection of individual dealers, we emphasize the dealer’s ability to maintain a sufficient inventory of our products, as well as their reputation, experience, and ability to provide service. Many of our dealers carry the recreation vehicle lines of one or more of our competitors. Each of our operating subsidiaries has sales agreements with their dealers and these agreements are subject to annual review. No single recreation vehicle dealer accounted for more than 10% of our consolidated net sales of recreation vehicles during fiscal 2008.
Substantially all of our sales to dealers are made on terms requiring cash on delivery or within 10 days thereafter. We generally do not finance dealer purchases. Most dealers are financed on a “floorplan” basis by an unrelated bank or financing company which lends the dealer all or substantially all of the wholesale purchase price and retains a security interest in the vehicles purchased. As is customary in the recreation vehicle industry, we will execute a repurchase agreement with a lending institution financing a dealer’s purchase of our products upon the lending institution’s request. Repurchase agreements provide that for up to 12 months after a unit is financed and in the event of default by the dealer we will repurchase the unit repossessed by the lending institution for the amount then due, which is often less than 100% of the dealer’s cost. The risk of loss under repurchase agreements is spread over numerous dealers and is further reduced by the resale value of the units which we would be required to repurchase. In our experience, losses under repurchase agreements have not been significant and we believe that any future losses under these agreements would not have a material adverse effect on our company.
The losses incurred due to repurchase were approximately $1,857, $1,017, and $648 in fiscal 2008, 2007 and 2006, respectively.
The increase in losses results from the more difficult market for the recreation vehicle business. We have increased our reserve for repurchase and guarantees at July 31, 2008 to $5,040 from $1,293 at July 31, 2007 to account for future losses.
Joint Ventures
In March 1996, our Company and Cruise America, Inc. formed a 50/50 owned joint venture, CAT Joint Venture LLC, to make short-term rentals of motorized recreation vehicles to the public. As of July 31, 2008, we were contingently liable for repurchase obligations of CAT Joint Venture inventory in the amount of approximately $17,935.
In September 2008, the Company and GEMB Lending, Inc. dissolved Thor Credit, a 50/50 owned joint venture. GEMB Lending, Inc. had informed the Company it would no longer be providing retail financing for recreation vehicles after July 31, 2008. The Company is exploring other options to provide retail financing for recreation vehicles.

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Backlog
As of July 31, 2008, the backlog for towable and motorized recreation vehicle orders was $106,792 and $38,774, respectively, compared to $276,136 and $84,718, respectively, at July 31, 2007. Backlog represents unfilled dealer orders on a particular day which can and do fluctuate on a seasonal basis. In the recreation vehicle business our manufacturing time is quite short.
Historically, the amount of our current backlog compared to our backlog in previous periods reflects general economic and industry conditions and, together with other relevant factors such as continued acceptance of our products by the consumer, may be an indicator of our revenues in the near term.
Warranties
We currently provide purchasers of our recreation vehicles with primarily a one-year limited warranty against defects in materials and workmanship and a standard two year limited warranty on certain major components separately warranted by the suppliers of these components. The chassis and engines of our motorhomes are warranted for three years or 36,000 miles by their manufacturers.
Buses
Overview
Our buses are sold under the names ElDorado National, Champion Bus, General Coach and Goshen Coach. Our small and mid-size buses consist of mass transit buses, airport shuttle buses and buses for commercial and tourist uses. Our Axess 40 foot bus is designed for transit and airport shuttle uses.
Production
Our bus production facilities in Salina, Kansas; Riverside, California; Imlay City, Michigan; and Elkhart, Indiana are designed to provide efficient assembly line manufacturing of our buses. The vehicles are produced according to specific orders which are normally obtained by dealers.
Some of the chassis, all of the engines and auxiliary units, and some of the seating and other components used in the production of our small and mid-size buses are purchased in finished form. Our Riverside, California, facility assembles chassis for our rear engine buses from industry standard components and assembles these buses directly on the chassis.
The principal raw materials used in the manufacturing of our buses are fiberglass, steel, aluminum, plywood, and plastic. We purchase most of the raw materials and components from numerous suppliers. We purchase most of our bus chassis from Ford, Freightliner and General Motors and engines from Cummins and Caterpillar. We believe that, except for chassis, raw materials and components could be purchased from other sources, if necessary, with no material impact on our operations.
Marketing and Distribution
We market our small and mid-size buses through a network of 67 independent dealers in the United States and Canada. We select dealers using criteria similar to those used in selecting recreation vehicle dealers. During fiscal 2008, one of our dealers accounted for 16% of the Company’s bus net sales and another accounted for 11%. We also sell our small and mid-size buses directly to certain national accounts such as major rental car companies, hotel chains, and transit authorities. Most of our bus sales are derived from contracts with state and local transportation authorities, in some cases with partial funding from federal agencies.
Terms of sale are typically cash on delivery or through national floorplan financing institutions. Sales to some state transportation agencies and other government agencies may be on longer terms.
Backlog
As of July 31, 2008, the backlog for bus orders was $260,805, compared to $228,862 at July 31, 2007. The time for fulfillment of bus orders is substantially longer than in the recreation vehicle industry because generally buses are made to customer specification. The existing backlog of bus orders is expected to be filled in fiscal 2009.

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Historically, the amount of our current backlog compared to our backlog in previous periods reflects general economic and industry conditions and, together with other relevant factors such as continued acceptance of our products by the consumer, may be an indicator of our revenues in the near term.
Warranties
We currently provide purchasers of our buses with a limited warranty for one year or 12,000 miles against defects in materials and workmanship, excluding only certain specified components which are separately warranted by suppliers. We provide body structure warranty on buses ranging from 2 years or 50,000 miles to 5 years or 75,000 miles. The chassis and engines of our small and mid-size buses are warranted for three years or 36,000 miles by their manufacturers.
Regulation
We are subject to the provisions of the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act and the safety standards for recreation vehicles, buses and recreation vehicle and bus components which have been promulgated thereunder by the U.S. Department of Transportation. Because of our sales in Canada, we are also governed by similar laws and regulations issued by the Canadian government.
We are a member of the RVIA, a voluntary association of recreation vehicle manufacturers which promulgates recreation vehicle safety standards. We place an RVIA seal on each of our recreation vehicles to certify that the RVIA’s standards have been met.
Both federal and state authorities have various environmental control standards relating to air, water, and noise pollution which affect our business and operations. For example, these standards, which are generally applicable to all companies, control our choice of paints, discharge of air compressor, waste water and noise emitted by factories. We rely upon certifications obtained by chassis manufacturers with respect to compliance by our vehicles with all applicable emission control standards.
We are also subject to the regulations promulgated by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, or OSHA. Our plants are periodically inspected by federal agencies concerned with health and safety in the work place, and by the RVIA, to ensure that our products comply with applicable governmental and industry standards.
We believe that our products and facilities comply in all material respects with applicable vehicle safety, environmental, RVIA, and OSHA regulations.
We do not believe that compliance with the regulations discussed above will have any material effect on our capital expenditures, earnings or competitive position.
Competition
Recreation Vehicles
The recreation vehicle industry is characterized by ease of entry, although the codes, standards, and safety requirements introduced in recent years are a deterrent to new competitors. The need to develop an effective dealer network also acts as a barrier to entry. The recreation vehicle market is intensely competitive with a number of other manufacturers selling products which compete directly with our products. Competition in the recreation vehicle industry is based upon price, design, value, quality, and service. We believe that the quality, design, and price of our products and the warranty coverage and service that we provide allow us to compete favorably for retail purchasers of recreation vehicles. We estimate that we are the largest recreation vehicle manufacturer in terms of units produced and revenue. According to Statistical Surveys, for the 7 months ending July 31, 2008, our market share for travel trailers and fifth wheels was 30% and our market share for motorhomes was 15%.
Small and Mid-Size Buses
We estimate that we have a 37% market share of the U.S. and Canadian small and mid-size bus market. Our competitors offer lines of buses which compete with all of our products. Price, quality, and delivery are the primary competitive factors. As with recreation vehicles, we believe that the quality, design, and price of small and mid-size buses, the warranty coverage and service that we provide, and the loyalty of our customers allow us to compete favorably with similar products of our competitors.

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Trademarks and Patents
We have registered United States and Canadian trademarks or licenses covering the principal trade names and model lines under which our products are marketed. We are not dependent upon any patents or technology licenses for the conduct of our business.
Employee Relations
At July 31, 2008, we had approximately 6,846 full time employees in the United States and 218 full-time employees in Canada. Of these 7,064 employees, 980 are salaried. Citair’s approximately 178 Canadian hourly employees are currently represented by certified labor organizations. Our Citair Hensall division labor contract was ratified on August 18, 2006 and will expire on August 18, 2009. Citair Oliver’s labor contract was ratified on October 17, 2003 and will expire on October 16, 2008. Employees of our other subsidiaries are not represented by certified labor organizations. We believe that we maintain a good working relationship with our employees.
Information About Foreign and Domestic Operations and Export Sales
Sales from our Canadian operations and export sales to Canada from our U.S. operations amounted to approximately 1.1% and 15.9% in fiscal 2008, 1.2% and 12.7% in fiscal 2007 and 1.3% and 10.0% in fiscal 2006, respectively, of our total net sales to unaffiliated customers. Export sales to Canada from our U.S. operations were $421,008, $360,198 and $307,499 in fiscal 2008, 2007, and 2006, respectively. We believe the increase is attributable to the strengthening of the Canadian dollar as compared to the U.S. dollar which in turn has increased the purchasing power and demand for our U.S. products from Canadian customers.
Forward Looking Statements
This Annual Report on Form 10-K includes certain statements that are “forward looking” statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 as amended. These forward looking statements involve uncertainties and risks. There can be no assurance that actual results will not differ from our expectations. Factors which could cause materially different results include, among others, additional issues that may arise in connection with the findings of the completed investigation of the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors and the SEC’s requests for additional information, fuel prices, fuel availability, lower consumer confidence, interest rate increases, tight lending practices, increased material costs, the success of new product introductions, the pace of acquisitions, cost structure improvements, the impact of the recent auction market failures on our liquidity, competition and general economic conditions and the other risks and uncertainties discussed more fully in Item 1A. “Risk Factors” below. We disclaim any obligation or undertaking to disseminate any updates or revisions to any forward looking statements contained in this Annual Report on Form 10-K or to reflect any change in our expectations after the date of this Annual Report on Form 10-K or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any statement is based, except as required by law.
Available Information
Our annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K and all amendments to those reports and the Proxy Statement for our Annual Meeting of Shareholders are made available, free of charge, on our web site, http://www.thorindustries.com, as soon as reasonably practicable after such reports have been filed with or furnished to the SEC.
ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS
The following risk factors should be considered carefully in addition to the other information contained in this filing. The risks and uncertainties described below are not the only ones we face and represent some of the risks that our management believes are material to our company and our business. If any of the following risks actually occur, our business, financial condition or results of operations could be harmed.

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Risks Relating to Our Investigation
The SEC is reviewing the facts and circumstances giving rise to the restatement of our previously issued financial statements and related matters.
As previously announced, in connection with an internal review of our Dutchmen Manufacturing, Inc. operating subsidiary in fiscal 2007, we promptly and voluntarily informed the SEC of the Audit Committee’s independent investigation, and have been responding to SEC staff requests for additional information in connection with the staff’s investigation. We continue to be in discussions with the SEC and are cooperating fully with the SEC. The investigation by the SEC staff could result in the SEC seeking various penalties and relief, including, without limitation, civil injunctive relief and/or civil monetary penalties or administrative relief. The nature of the relief or remedies the SEC may seek, if any, cannot be predicted at this time.
Risks Relating To Our Business
The recreation vehicle and small and mid-size bus industries are highly competitive.
The recreation vehicle and bus industries that we are currently engaged in are highly competitive and we have numerous competitors and potential competitors. Competition in these industries is based upon price, design, value, quality and service. Competitive pressures, especially in the recreation vehicle market for travel trailers and motorhomes, have, from time to time, resulted in a reduction of our profit margins. Recently, aggressive discounting by our competitors has negatively impacted our sales. Sustained increases in these competitive pressures could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations. There can be no assurance that existing or new competitors will not develop products that are superior to our recreation vehicles or small or mid-size buses or that achieve better consumer acceptance, thereby adversely affecting our market share, sales volume and profit margins.
Our businesses are cyclical and this can lead to fluctuations in our operating results.
The industries in which we operate are cyclical and there can be substantial fluctuations in our manufacturing, shipments and operating results. Consequently, the results for any prior period may not be indicative of results for any future period.
External factors affecting our business.
Companies within the recreation vehicle and bus industries are subject to volatility in operating results due to external factors such as general economic conditions, including credit availability, consumer confidence, employment rates, prevailing interest rates, inflation, and other economic conditions affecting consumer attitudes and disposable consumer income generally, demographic changes and political changes. Specific factors affecting the recreation vehicle and bus industries include:
    overall consumer confidence and the level of discretionary consumer spending;
 
    inventory levels, including the level of retail sales by our dealers;
 
    general economic conditions;
 
    demographics, such as the retirement of “baby boomers”;
 
    interest rates and the availability of credit;
 
    employment trends;
 
    the amount of backlog, which may be a predictor of near-term future revenues;
 
    fuel availability and prices;
 
    the adverse impact of terrorism on consumer spending and travel related activities; and
 
    increases in raw material costs.

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Recently, industry conditions in the recreation vehicle market have been adversely affected by record fuel prices, low consumer confidence and tighter lending practices. As a result of these continuing concerns, market conditions continue to be soft and we anticipate this weakness to continue in fiscal 2009. The motorized market has been significantly impacted by current market conditions. The volatility of fuel prices and the tightening of the retail credit markets are placing pressure on retail sales and our dealers continue to be cautious in the amount of inventory they are willing to carry. Based on the foregoing, we recognized a non-cash goodwill impairment charge of $7,535 in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2008 for the goodwill associated with one of our motorized subsidiaries. Our towables market has also softened. The decline in wholesale demand has directly impacted our gross margins.
Two dealers accounted for an aggregate of 27% of our bus sales for fiscal year 2008. The loss of either dealer could have a significant effect on our bus business.
A significant portion of our sales of small and mid-size buses are derived from state and local transportation authorities.
Approximately 60% of our bus sales for fiscal year 2008 were derived from contracts with state and local transportation authorities, in most cases with partial funding from federal agencies. There can be no assurance that these authorities will not reduce their expenditures for our buses in the future as a result of budgetary constraints or otherwise. A reduction in the purchase of our buses by these authorities could have an adverse effect on our business and results of operations.
Fuel shortages, or continuing high prices for fuel, could have a negative effect on sales of our recreation vehicles.
Gasoline or diesel fuel is required for the operation of recreation vehicles. There can be no assurance that the supply of these petroleum products will continue uninterrupted, that rationing will not be imposed or that the price of or tax on these petroleum products will not significantly increase in the future. Shortages of gasoline and diesel and substantial increases in the price of fuel have had a material adverse effect on the recreation vehicle industry as a whole in the past and could have a material adverse effect on our business in the future.
Our recreation vehicle business is seasonal, and this leads to fluctuations in sales, production and net income.
We have experienced, and expect to continue to experience, significant variability in sales, production and net income as a result of seasonality in our businesses. Demand in the recreation vehicle industry generally declines during the winter season, while sales and profits are generally highest during the spring and summer months. In addition, unusually severe weather conditions in some markets may delay the timing of shipments from one quarter to another.
Our business is affected by the availability and terms of financing to dealers and retail purchasers.
Our business is affected by the availability and terms of financing to dealers and retail purchasers. Substantial increases in interest rates and decreases in the general availability of credit have had an adverse impact upon our business and results of operations in the past and may continue to do so in the future. In particular, the current credit crisis may have a significant impact on our business.
Changes in consumer preferences for our products or our failure to gauge those preferences could lead to reduced sales and additional costs.
We cannot be certain that historical consumer preferences for our products in general, and recreation vehicles in particular, will remain unchanged. We believe that the introduction of new features, designs and models will be critical to the future success of our recreation vehicle operations. Delays in the introduction of new models, designs or product features, or a lack of market acceptance of new models, designs or product features could have a material adverse effect on our business. Products may not be accepted for a number of reasons, including changes in consumer preferences or our failure to properly gauge consumer preferences. Further, we cannot be certain that new product introductions will not reduce revenues from existing models and adversely affect our results of operations. In addition, there can be no assurance that any of these new models or products will be introduced to the market on time or that they will be successful when introduced.
If the frequency and size of product liability and other claims against us rises, our business, results of operations and financial condition may be harmed.
We are subject, in the ordinary course of business, to litigation involving product liability and other claims against us, including wrongful death, related to personal injury and warranties. We partially self-insure our product liability claims and also purchase

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product liability insurance in the commercial insurance market. We cannot be certain that our insurance coverage will be sufficient to cover all future claims against us. Any increase in the frequency and size of these claims, as compared to our experience in prior years, may cause the premium that we are required to pay for insurance to rise significantly. It may also increase the amounts we pay in punitive damages, not all of which are covered by our insurance.
When we introduce new products into the marketplace we may incur expenses that we did not anticipate, which, in turn, can result in reduced earnings.
The introduction of new models of recreation vehicles and buses is critical to our future success. We may incur unexpected expenses, however, when we introduce new models of recreation vehicles and buses. For example, we may experience unexpected engineering or design flaws that will force a recall of a new product. The costs resulting from these types of problems could be substantial, and could have a significant adverse effect on our earnings.
Our repurchase agreements with floor plan lenders could result in increased costs.
In accordance with customary practice in the recreation vehicle industry, upon the request of a lending institution financing a dealer’s purchase of our products and after completion of a credit investigation of the dealer involved, we will execute a repurchase agreement with the lending institution. Repurchase agreements provide that, for up to 12 months after a recreation vehicle is financed and in the event of default by the dealer, we will repurchase the recreation vehicle repossessed by the lending institution for the amount then due, which is usually less than 100% of the dealer’s cost. The difference between the gross repurchase price and the price at which the repurchased product can then be resold, which is typically at a discount to the original sale price, is an expense to us. Thus, if we were obligated to repurchase a substantially greater number of recreation vehicles in the future, this would increase our costs. In difficult economic times this amount could become material.
For some of our components, we depend on a small group of suppliers, and the loss of any of these suppliers could affect our ability to obtain components at competitive prices, which would decrease our margins.
Most recreation vehicle and bus components are readily available from a variety of sources. However, a few components are produced by only a small group of quality suppliers that have the capacity to supply large quantities on a national basis. Primarily, this occurs in the case of chassis for our motorhomes and buses, where Ford Motor Company and General Motors are the dominant suppliers. The recreation vehicle industry as a whole has from time to time experienced shortages of chassis due to the concentration or allocation of available resources by suppliers of chassis to the manufacturers of vehicles other than recreation vehicles or for other causes. Historically, in the event of an industry-wide restriction of supply, Ford Motor Company and General Motors have allocated chassis among us and our competitors based on the volume of chassis previously purchased. If Ford Motor Company or General Motors were to discontinue the manufacturing of motorhome or bus chassis, or if as a group all of our chassis suppliers significantly reduced the availability of chassis to the industry, our business could be adversely affected. Similarly, shortages at, or production delays or work stoppages by the employees of Ford Motor Company, General Motors or other chassis suppliers could have a material adverse effect on our sales. Finally, as is standard in the industry, arrangements with chassis suppliers are terminable at any time by either our company or the chassis supplier. If we cannot obtain an adequate chassis supply, this could result in a decrease in our sales and earnings.
Our business is subject to numerous federal, state and local regulations.
We are subject to numerous federal, state and local regulations governing the manufacture and sale of our products, including the provisions of the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act, or NTMVSA, and the safety standards for recreation vehicles and components which have been promulgated under the NTMVSA by the Department of Transportation. The NTMVSA authorizes the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to require a manufacturer to recall and repair vehicles which contain certain hazards or defects. Any recalls of our vehicles, voluntary or involuntary, could have a material adverse effect on our company.
We are also subject to federal and numerous state consumer protection and unfair trade practice laws and regulations relating to the sale, transportation and marketing of motor vehicles, including so-called “Lemon Laws”. Federal and state laws and regulations also impose upon vehicle operators various restrictions on the weight, length and width of motor vehicles, including buses and motorhomes, that may be operated in certain jurisdictions or on certain roadways. Certain jurisdictions also prohibit the sale of vehicles exceeding length restrictions. Finally, federal and state authorities also have various environmental control standards relating to air, water, noise pollution and hazardous waste generation and disposal which affect our business and operations. Failure to comply with any of the foregoing laws or regulations could have an adverse impact on our business.

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Risks Relating To Our Company
Provisions in our charter documents and of Delaware law may make it difficult for a third party to acquire our company and could depress the price of our common stock.
Our Restated Certificate of Incorporation contains certain supermajority voting provisions that could delay, defer or prevent a change in control of our company. These provisions could also make it more difficult for you and other shareholders to elect directors, amend our Restated Certificate of Incorporation and take other corporate actions.
We are also subject to certain provisions of the Delaware General Corporation Law that could delay, deter or prevent us from entering into an acquisition, including provisions which prohibit a Delaware corporation from engaging in a business combination with an interested shareholder unless specific conditions are met. The existence of these provisions could limit the price that investors are willing to pay in the future for shares of our common stock and may deprive you of an opportunity to sell your shares at a premium over prevailing prices.
We will continue to be effectively controlled by one of our shareholders.
Wade F. B. Thompson, our President and Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of our Board of Directors, owns directly or indirectly voting control over an aggregate of 16,305,470 shares of our common stock, representing 29.4 % of our issued and outstanding voting stock as of September 15, 2008. As a result, Mr. Thompson will be able to significantly influence most matters requiring approval by our shareholders, including the election of board members and the approval of mergers or other business combination transactions.
Our investments in auction rate securities are subject to risks which may cause losses and affect the liquidity of these investments.
Our investments in auction rate securities are subject to risks which may cause losses and affect the liquidity of these investments.
At July 31, 2008, we held $132,550 (par value) of long-term investments with an auction reset feature (“auction rate securities”) whose underlying assets are generally student loans which are substantially backed by the Federal government. Since February 12, 2008, auctions have failed for most of these securities and there is no assurance that future auctions of the auction rate securities in our investment portfolio will succeed. An auction failure means that the parties wishing to sell their securities could not do so as a result of a lack of buying demand. As a result of auction failures, our ability to liquidate our investment and fully recover the par value of our investment in the near term may be limited or not exist. These developments have resulted in the classification of all of these securities, which were previously classified as short-term investments, as long-term investments in our consolidated financial statements.
At July 31, 2008, there was insufficient observable auction rate securities market information available to determine the fair value of our auction rate securities investments. Therefore, management, assisted by Houlihan Smith & Company, Inc., an independent consultant, determined an estimated fair value. In determining the estimate, consideration was given to credit quality, final stated maturities, estimates on the probability of the issue being called prior to final maturity, impact due to extended periods of maximum auction rates and broker quotes. Based on this analysis, we recorded a temporary impairment of $6,147 related to our auction rate securities investments as of July 31, 2008 primarily attributable to the limited liquidity of these investments.
If the issuers of these auction rate securities are unable to successfully close future auctions and their credit ratings deteriorate, we may in the future be required to record further impairment charges on these investments. We believe we will be able to liquidate our investment without significant loss primarily due to the government guarantee of the underlying securities. However, it could take until the final maturity of the underlying notes (up to 40 years) to realize our investments’ par value.
ITEM 1B. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS
None.
ITEM 2. PROPERTIES
We own or lease approximately 5,881,000 square feet of plant and office space. We believe that our present facilities, consisting primarily of steel clad, steel or wood frame, and masonry construction, and the machinery and equipment contained in these facilities, are well maintained and in good condition. We believe that these facilities, together with facilities planned for fiscal 2009, are

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adequate for our current and foreseeable purposes and that we would be able to obtain replacement for our leased premises at acceptable costs should our leases not be renewed.
The following table describes the location, number and size of our facilities as of July 31, 2008.
                         
                    Approximate
                    Building
            No. of   Area
Locations   Owned or Leased   Buildings   Square Feet
RVs:
                       
Jackson Center, OH (Airstream)
  Owned     9       299,000  
Hensall, Ontario, Canada (Citair)
  Owned     1       97,000  
Oliver, B.C., Canada (Citair)
  Owned     1       55,000  
Middlebury, IN (Dutchmen)
  Owned     1       90,000  
Burley, ID (Dutchmen)
  Owned     5       162,000  
Goshen, IN (Dutchmen)
  Owned     13       659,000  
Bristol, IN (Dutchmen)
  Owned     1       54,000  
Goshen, IN (Aero-Dutchmen) (2)
  Leased     1       23,000  
Syracuse, IN (Aero-Dutchmen)
  Owned     3       133,000  
Syracuse, IN (Aero-Dutchmen) (1)
  Leased     1       49,000  
Elkhart, IN (Four Winds)
  Owned     9       707,000  
Elkhart, IN (Four Winds) (3)
  Leased     2       67,000  
Elkhart, IN (Damon)
  Owned     8       283,000  
Elkhart, IN (Damon) (4)
  Leased     3       41,000  
Nappanee, IN (Breckenridge)
  Owned     2       144,000  
Topeka, IN (CrossRoads)
  Owned     5       250,000  
Clackamas, OR (Komfort)
  Owned     1       107,000  
Moreno Valley, CA (5)
  Leased     3       166,000  
Moreno Valley, CA (6)
  Leased     1       49,000  
Goshen, IN (Keystone) (7)
  Leased     4       220,000  
Goshen, IN (Keystone)
  Owned     12       1,043,000  
Howe, IN (Keystone) (9)
  Leased     1       168,000  
Pendleton, OR (Keystone)
  Owned     1       146,000  
Pendleton, OR (Keystone) (8)
  Leased     1       63,000  
Buses:
                       
Salina, KS (ElDorado Kansas)
  Owned     2       252,000  
Riverside, CA (ElDorado California)
  Owned     1       227,000  
Imlay City, Michigan (Champion Bus)
  Owned     5       201,000  
Elkhart, IN (Goshen Coach)
  Owned     3       126,000  
 
                       
Total
            100       5,881,000  
 
                       
 
(1)   This location is occupied under a net lease which expires in 2010 with option to purchase.
 
(2)   This location is occupied under a net lease which expires late in 2008.
 
(3)   These locations are occupied under net leases expiring at various times starting in 2009.
 
(4)   These locations are occupied under net leases expiring at various times starting in late 2008 thru 2013.
 
(5)   This location is occupied under a net lease which expires in 2010. This property was sublet to the buyers of Thor California as of June 2008.
 
(6)   This location is under a net lease which expires in 2010.
 
(7)   These locations are occupied under net leases, expiring at various periods starting in 2009 thru 2012. Leases have extensions and or options to purchase.
 
(8)   This location is occupied under a net lease expiring in November 2011 with an option to renew for 7 years.
 
(9)   This location is occupied under a net lease expiring in 2010.

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ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
The SEC is reviewing the facts and circumstances giving rise to the restatement of our previously issued financial statements as of July 31, 2006 and 2005, and for each of the years in the three-year period ended July 31, 2006, and the financial results in each of the quarterly periods in 2006 and 2005, and our financial statements as of and for the three months ended October 31, 2006 and related matters. We are cooperating fully with the SEC. The investigation by the SEC staff could result in the SEC seeking various penalties and relief, including, without limitation, civil injunctive relief and/or civil monetary penalties or administrative relief. The nature of the relief or remedies the SEC may seek, if any, cannot be predicted at this time.
Thor has been named in several complaints, some of which are putative class actions, filed against manufacturers of travel trailers and manufactured homes supplied to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to be used for emergency living accommodations in the wake of Hurricane Katrina. The complaints generally allege injury due to the presence of formaldehyde in the units. Thor strongly disputes the allegations in these complaints and intends to vigorously defend itself in all such matters.
In addition, we are involved in certain litigation arising out of our operations in the normal course of our business most of which are based upon state “lemon laws,” warranty claims, other claims and accidents (for which we carry insurance above a specified deductible amount). We do not believe that any one of these claims is material.
ITEM 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS
No matters submitted.
PART II
ITEM 5.   MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES.
Market Information
The Company’s Common Stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange. Set forth below is the range of high and low prices for the common stock for each quarter during the Company’s two most recent fiscal years, as quoted in the New York Stock Exchange Monthly Market Statistics and Trading Reports.
                                 
    Fiscal 2008   Fiscal 2007
    High   Low   High   Low
First Quarter
  $ 52.31     $ 38.68     $ 48.32     $ 39.16  
Second Quarter
    47.48       29.72       48.02       41.11  
Third Quarter
    36.91       26.73       48.32       38.50  
Fourth Quarter
    31.32       19.62       46.82       39.65  
Holders
As of September 15, 2008, the number of holders of record of the Company’s common stock was 138.
Dividends
In fiscal 2008, we paid dividends as follows: We paid a special $2 per share dividend as well as a $.07 per share dividend in the first quarter of fiscal 2008. In each of the second, third and fourth quarters of fiscal 2008 we paid a $.07 per share dividend. We paid a special $1 per share dividend as well as a $.07 dividend in our first quarter of fiscal 2007. In each of the second, third and fourth quarters of fiscal 2007 we paid a $.07 per share dividend. Any payment of cash dividends in the future will be at the discretion of the Board of Directors and will depend upon our financial condition, capital requirements, earnings and any other factors which the Board of Directors may deem relevant. There are no limitations on the Company’s ability to pay dividends pursuant to any credit facility.
Equity Compensation Plan Information — see Item 12

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ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
                                         
    Fiscal years ended July 31,
    2008   2007   2006   2005   2004
Income statement data:
                                       
Net sales (2) (3)
  $ 2,640,680     $ 2,856,308     $ 3,066,276     $ 2,558,141     $ 2,187,739  
Net income (2) (3)
    92,706       134,731       163,405       119,143       104,513  
Earnings per common share (1) (2) (3)
                                       
Basic
    1.67       2.42       2.89       2.10       1.83  
Diluted
    1.66       2.41       2.87       2.09       1.81  
Dividends declared per common share (1)
    2.28       1.28       .19       .42       .09  
Dividends paid per common share (1)
    2.28       1.28       .49       .12       .09  
Balance sheet data:
                                       
Total assets (2) (3)
  $ 996,562     $ 1,059,297     $ 1,004,725     $ 853,893     $ 762,163  
 
(1)   Per share amounts were adjusted for the two-for-one stock split in January 2004.
 
(2)   Selected financial data for 2008, 2007, 2006, 2005 and 2004 include the results of Damon Corporation, which was acquired on September 2, 2003.
 
(3)   Selected financial data for 2008, 2007, 2006 and 2005 includes the results of CrossRoads RV, which was acquired on November 1, 2004, and Goshen Coach, Inc. which was acquired on May 27, 2005.
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Executive Overview
We were founded in 1980 and have grown to be the largest manufacturer of Recreation Vehicles (“RVs”) and a major manufacturer of commercial buses in North America. Our market share in the travel trailer and fifth wheel segment of the industry (towables), is approximately 30%. In the motorized segment of the industry we have a market share of approximately 15%. Our market share in small and mid-size buses is approximately 37%. We also manufacture and sell 40-foot buses at our facility in Southern California designed for that product as well as our existing 30-foot and 35-foot buses.
Our growth has been internal and by acquisition. Our strategy has been to increase our profitability in North America in the recreation vehicle industry and in the bus business through product innovation, service to our customers, manufacturing quality products, improving our facilities and acquisitions. We have not entered unrelated businesses and have no plans to do so in the future.
We rely on internally generated cash flows from operations to finance our growth although we may borrow to make an acquisition if we believe the incremental cash flows will provide for rapid payback. We have invested significant capital to modernize, improve and expand our plant facilities and expended $14,815 for that purpose in fiscal 2008.
Our business model includes decentralized operating units and we compensate operating management primarily with cash based upon profitability of the unit which they manage. Our corporate staff provides financial management, purchasing services, insurance, legal and human resources, risk management, and internal audit functions. Senior corporate management interacts regularly with operating management to assure that corporate objectives are understood clearly and are monitored appropriately.
Our RV products are sold to dealers who, in turn, retail those products. Our buses are sold through dealers to municipalities and private purchasers such as rental car companies and hotels. We generally do not directly finance dealers but do provide repurchase agreements in order to facilitate the dealers obtaining floor plan financing.
Trends and Business Outlook
Industry conditions in the RV market have been adversely affected by record fuel prices, low consumer confidence and tighter lending practices. As a result of these continuing concerns, market conditions continue to be soft and we anticipate this weakness to continue in fiscal 2009.

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The motorized market has been significantly impacted by current market conditions. The volatility of fuel prices and the tightening of the retail credit markets are placing pressure on retail sales and our dealers continue to be cautious in the amount of inventory they are willing to carry. Based on the foregoing, we recognized a non-cash goodwill impairment of $7,535 in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2008 for the goodwill associated with a subsidiary within our motorized segment. Our towables market has also softened. Dealers continue to sell older model-year units before replacing them with new products. The decline in wholesale demand has directly impacted our gross margins as we have had to increase our discounts to meet competitive pricing.
When fuel prices stabilize and retail credit availability improves, we expect to see a rebound in sales from dealers ordering units for stock and expect to benefit from our ability to ramp up production in an industry with fewer manufacturing facilities than before, due to competitor failures or plant consolidations. A longer-term positive outlook for the recreation vehicle industry is supported by favorable demographics as baby boomers reach the age brackets that historically have accounted for the bulk of retail RV sales, and an increase in interest in the RV lifestyle among both older and younger segments of the population than have traditionally participated.
We believe an important determinant of demand for recreation vehicles is demographics. The baby boomer population is now reaching retirement age and retirees are a large market for our products. The baby boomer retiree population in the United States is expected to grow five times as fast as the total United States population. We believe a primary indicator of the strength of the recreation vehicle industry is retail RV sales, which we closely monitor to determine industry trends. Recently, although the entire RV industry has been weak, the towable segment of the RV industry has been stronger than the motorized segment. For the towable segment, retail sales as reported by Statistical Surveys, Inc. were down approximately 20% for the seven months ended July 31, 2008 compared with the same period last year. The motorized segment was down approximately 35%. Higher interest rates, fuel prices, tighter retail credit and lower consumer confidence appear to affect the motorized segment more severely.
Economic or industry-wide factors affecting our recreation vehicle business include, raw material costs of commodities used in the manufacture of our product. Material cost is the primary factor determining our cost of products sold. Additional increases in raw material costs would impact our profit margins negatively if we were unable to raise prices for our products by corresponding amounts.
Government entities are primary users of our buses. Demand in this segment is subject to fluctuations in government spending on transit. In addition, hotel and rental car companies are also major users of our small and mid-size buses and therefore airline travel is an important indicator for this market. The majority of our buses have a 5-year useful life and are being continuously replaced by operators. According to the Mid Size Bus Manufacturers Association unit sales of small and mid-sized buses are down 13.5% for the six months ended June 30, 2008 compared with the same period last year.

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FISCAL 2008 VS. FISCAL 2007
                                                 
                                    Change        
    Fiscal 2008         Fiscal 2007         Amount     %  
NET SALES
                                               
Recreation Vehicles
                                               
Towables
  $ 1,763,099             $ 1,890,100             $ (127,001 )     (6.7 )
Motorized
    461,856               565,523               (103,667 )     (18.3 )
 
                                 
Total Recreation Vehicles
    2,224,955               2,455,623               (230,668 )     (9.4 )
Buses
    415,725               400,685               15,040       3.8  
 
                                 
Total
  $ 2,640,680             $ 2,856,308             $ (215,628 )     (7.5 )
 
                                 
# OF UNITS
                                       
Recreation Vehicles
                                       
Towables
    78,888           87,506           (8,618 )     (9.8 )
Motorized
    5,863           7,634           (1,771 )     (23.2 )
 
                                 
Total Recreation Vehicles
    84,751           95,140           (10,389 )     (10.9 )
Buses
    6,280           6,497           (217 )     (3.3 )
 
                                 
Total
    91,031           101,637           (10,606 )     (10.4 )
 
 
                                   
                                                 
            % of             % of              
            Segment             Segment     Change        
            Net Sales             Net Sales     Amount     %  
GROSS PROFIT
                                               
Recreation Vehicles
                                               
Towables
  $ 246,505       14.0     $ 273,445       14.5     $ (26,940 )     (9.9 )
Motorized
    35,928       7.8       55,334       9.8       (19,406 )     (35.1 )
 
                                         
Total Recreation Vehicles
    282,433       12.7       328,779       13.4       (46,346 )     (14.1 )
Buses
    39,993       9.6       34,516       8.6       5,477       15.9  
Total
  $ 322,426       12.2     $ 363,295       12.7     $ (40,869 )     (11.2 )
 
                                         
SELLING, GENERAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES
                                               
Recreation Vehicles
                                               
Towables
  $ 102,356       5.8     $ 107,804       5.7     $ (5,448 )     (5.1 )
Motorized
    28,899       6.3       30,068       5.3       (1,169 )     (3.9 )
 
                                         
Total Recreation Vehicles
    131,255       5.9       137,872       5.6       (6,617 )     (4.8 )
Buses
    18,088       4.4       14,809       3.7       3,279       22.1  
Corporate
    27,725             25,016             2,709       10.8  
 
                                         
 
Total
  $ 177,068       6.7     $ 177,697       6.2     $ (629 )     (.4 )
 
                                         
INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAXES
                                               
Recreation Vehicles
                                               
Towables
  $ 146,306       8.3     $ 165,259       8.7     $ (18,953 )     (11.5 )
Motorized
    (522 )     (.1 )     25,140       4.4       (25,662 )     (102.1 )
 
                                         
Total Recreation Vehicles
    145,784       6.6       190,399       7.8       (44,615 )     (23.4 )
Buses
    21,132       5.1       18,997       4.7       2,135       11.2  
Corporate
    (14,509 )           (12,536 )           (1,973 )     15.7  
 
                                         
Total
  $ 152,407       5.8     $ 196,860       6.9     $ (44,453 )     (22.6 )
 
                                         
ORDER BACKLOG
                                 
    As of     As of     Change        
    July 31, 2008     July 31, 2007     Amount     %  
Recreation Vehicles
                               
Towables
  $ 106,792     $ 276,136     $ (169,344 )     (61.3 )
Motorized
    38,774       84,718       (45,944 )     (54.2 )
 
                         
Total Recreation Vehicles
    145,566       360,854     $ (215,288 )     (59.7 )
Buses
    260,805       228,862       31,943       14.0  
 
                         
Total
  $ 406,371     $ 589,716     $ (183,345 )     (31.1 )
 
                         

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CONSOLIDATED
Net sales and gross profit for fiscal 2008 were down 7.5% and 11.2%, respectively, compared to fiscal 2007. Selling, general and administrative expenses for fiscal 2008 decreased 0.4% compared to fiscal 2007. Income before income taxes for fiscal 2008 was down 22.6% compared to fiscal 2007. The specifics on changes in net sales, gross profit, general and administrative expense and income before income taxes are addressed in the segment reporting below.
Corporate costs in selling, general and administrative were $27,725 for fiscal 2008 compared to $25,016 for fiscal 2007. This increase of $2,709 is primarily the result of increased insurance costs, legal expenses, and audit related expenses for the twelve months ended July 31, 2008 offset primarily by reduced legal costs related to the previously disclosed SEC investigation expensed in the twelve months ended July 31, 2007. Corporate interest income and other income was $13,333 for fiscal 2008 compared to $12,499 for fiscal 2007.
The overall annual effective tax rate for fiscal 2008 was 39.2% compared to 31.6% for fiscal 2007. The primary reasons for this difference in rate are (1) in fiscal 2008, an increase in our FIN48 liability, (2) lower income before income taxes, including impairment charges, and (3)  in fiscal 2007, reversals of income tax reserves due to settlements of an Internal Revenue Service examination and a tax dispute with the state of Indiana.
Segment Reporting
RECREATION VEHICLES
Analysis of Percentage Change in Net Sales Versus Prior Year
                         
    Average Price        
    Per Unit   Units   Net Change
Recreation Vehicles
                       
Towables
    3.1 %     (9.8 )%     (6.7 )%
Motorized
    4.9 %     (23.2 )%     (18.3 )%
TOWABLE RECREATION VEHICLES
The decrease in towable net sales of 6.7% resulted primarily from a 9.8% decrease in unit shipment offset by a 3.1% increase in average prices per unit resulting from mix of product. The overall industry decrease in wholesale unit shipments of towables for August 2007 through July 2008 was 10.7% according to statistics published by the Recreation Vehicle Industry Association.
Towables gross profit percentage decreased to 14.0% of net sales for fiscal 2008 from 14.5% of net sales for fiscal 2007. The primary factor for this decrease in gross profit percentage was the decrease in net sales. Selling, general and administrative expenses were 5.8% of net sales for fiscal 2008 compared to 5.7% of net sales for fiscal 2007.
Towables income before income taxes decreased to 8.3% of net sales for fiscal 2008 from 8.7% of net sales for fiscal 2007. The primary factor for this decrease was the reduction in unit sales and corresponding margins.
MOTORIZED RECREATION VEHICLES
The decrease in motorized net sales of 18.3% resulted primarily from a 23.2% decrease in unit shipments offset by a 4.9% increase in average price per unit resulting primarily from mix of product. The overall industry decrease in wholesale unit shipments of motorhomes for the period August 2007 through July 2008 was 23.0% according to statistics published by the Recreation Vehicle Industry Association.
Motorized gross profit percentage was 7.8% of net sales for fiscal 2008 and 9.8% of net sales for fiscal 2007. The primary factor for this decrease in gross profit was the difficult market environment, particularly in the fourth quarter, which led to higher discounting. Selling, general and administrative expenses were 6.3% of net sales for fiscal 2008 compared to 5.3% of net sales for fiscal 2007.
Motorized income before income taxes was (.1)% of net sales for fiscal 2008 and 4.4% of net sales for fiscal 2007. This reflects the impact of the goodwill and asset write-downs of $7,535 and $1,662, respectively, at one of our subsidiaries.

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BUSES
Analysis of Percentage Change in Net Sales Versus Prior Year
                         
    Average Price Per Unit   Units   Net Change
Buses
    7.1 %     (3.3 )%     3.8 %
The increase in buses net sales of 3.8% resulted from a 3.3% decrease in unit shipments offset by a 7.1% increase on average price resulting primarily from a mix of product.
Buses gross profit percentage increased to 9.6% of net sales for fiscal 2008 from 8.6% of net sales for fiscal 2007. The primary reason for the increase in buses gross profit percentage was the increase in buses net sales. Selling, general and administrative expenses were 4.4% of net sales for fiscal 2008 and 3.7% for fiscal 2007.
Buses income before income taxes increased to 5.1% of net sales for 2008 from 4.7% of net sales for fiscal 2007 due to increased sales.

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FISCAL 2007 VS. FISCAL 2006
                                                 
                                    Change        
    Fiscal 2007             Fiscal 2006             Amount     %  
NET SALES
                                               
Recreation Vehicles
                                               
Towables
  $ 1,890,100             $ 2,173,483             $ (283,383 )     (13.0 )
Motorized
    565,523               577,025               (11,502 )     (2.0 )
 
                                         
Total Recreation Vehicles
    2,455,623               2,750,508               (294,885 )     (10.7 )
Buses
    400,685               315,768               84,917       26.9  
 
                                         
Total
  $ 2,856,308             $ 3,066,276             $ (209,968 )     (6.8 )
 
                                         
# OF UNITS
                                               
Recreation Vehicles
                                               
Towables
    87,506               112,103               (24,597 )     (21.9 )
Motorized
    7,634               7,860               (226 )     (2.9 )
 
                                         
Total Recreation Vehicles
    95,140               119,963               (24,823 )     (20.7 )
Buses
    6,497               5,725                772       13.5  
 
                                         
Total
    101,637               125,688               (24,051 )     (19.1 )
 
                                         
            % of             % of              
            Segment             Segment     Change        
            Net Sales             Net Sales     Amount     %  
GROSS PROFIT
                                               
Recreation Vehicles
                                               
Towables
  $ 273,445       14.5     $ 350,954       16.1     $ (77,509 )     (22.1 )
Motorized
    55,334       9.8       55,622       9.6       (288 )     (0.5 )
 
                                         
Total Recreation Vehicles
    328,779       13.4       406,576       14.8       (77,797 )     (19.1 )
Buses
    34,516       8.6       24,882       7.9       9,634       38.7  
 
                                         
Total
  $ 363,295       12.7     $ 431,458       14.1     $ (68,163 )     (15.8 )
 
                                         
SELLING, GENERAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES
                                               
Recreation Vehicles
                                               
Towables
  $ 107,804       5.7     $ 121,778       5.6     $ (13,974 )     (11.5 )
Motorized
    30,068       5.3       28,147       4.9       1,921       6.8  
 
                                         
Total Recreation Vehicles
    137,872       5.6       149,925       5.5       (12,053 )     (8.0 )
Buses
    14,809       3.7       14,577       4.6       232       1.6  
Corporate
    25,016             19,424             5,592       28.8  
 
                                         
Total
  $ 177,697       6.2     $ 183,926       6.0     $ (6,229 )     (3.4 )
 
                                         
INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAXES
                                               
Recreation Vehicles
                                               
Towables
  $ 165,259       8.7     $ 228,592       10.5     $ (63,333 )     (27.7 )
Motorized
    25,140       4.4       27,404       4.7       (2,264 )     (8.3 )
 
                                         
Total Recreation Vehicles
    190,399       7.8       255,996       9.3       (65,597 )     (25.6 )
Buses
    18,997       4.7       9,356       3.0       9,641       103.0  
Corporate
    (12,536 )           (9,241 )           (3,295 )     (35.7 )
 
                                         
Total
  $ 196,860       6.9     $ 256,111       8.4     $ (59,251 )     (23.1 )
 
                                         
ORDER BACKLOG
                                 
    As of     As of     Change        
    July 31, 2007     July 31, 2006     Amount     %  
Recreation Vehicles
                               
Towables
  $ 276,136     $ 229,823     $ 46,313       20.2  
Motorized
    84,718       103,214       (18,496 )     (17.9 )
 
                         
Total Recreation Vehicles
    360,854       333,037       27,817       8.4  
Buses
    228,862       216,454       12,408       5.7  
 
                         
Total
  $ 589,716     $ 549,491     $ 40,225       7.3  
 
                         

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CONSOLIDATED
Net sales and gross profit for fiscal 2007 were down 6.8% and 15.8%, respectively, compared to fiscal 2006. We estimate that in fiscal year 2006 approximately $122,258 or 5.6% of towable net sales were related to hurricane relief units sold through our dealer network. There were no sales of hurricane relief units in fiscal 2007. Selling, general and administrative expenses for fiscal 2007 decreased 3.4% compared to fiscal 2006. Income before income taxes for fiscal 2007 was down 23.1% compared to fiscal 2006. The specifics on changes in net sales, gross profit, general and administrative expense and income before income taxes are addressed in the segment reporting below.
Corporate costs in selling, general and administrative were $25,016 for fiscal 2007 compared to $19,424 for fiscal 2006. This increase of $5,592 is primarily the result of costs associated with the investigation regarding certain accounting issues at our Dutchmen Manufacturing operating subsidiary and the restatement of our financial statements. Corporate interest income and other income was $12,499 for fiscal 2007 compared to $10,194 for fiscal 2006.
The overall annual effective tax rate for fiscal 2007 was 31.6% compared to 36.2% for fiscal 2006. The primary reason for this reduction was that in fiscal 2007 the Company recorded an income tax benefit of approximately $9,300 resulting from the settlement of an Internal Revenue Service examination and a tax dispute with the State of Indiana. Of the $9,300, $7,800 was recorded in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2007.
Segment Reporting
RECREATION VEHICLES
Analysis of Percentage Change in Net Sales Versus Prior Year
                         
    Average Price        
    Per Unit   Units   Net Change
Recreation Vehicles
                       
Towables
    9.0 %     (22.0 )%     (13.0 )%
Motorized
    .9 %     (2.9 )%     (2.0 )%
TOWABLE RECREATION VEHICLES
The decrease in towable net sales of 13% resulted primarily from a 21.9% decrease in unit shipments. We estimate that in fiscal year 2006 approximately $122,258, or 5.6%, of towable net sales were related to hurricane relief units sold through our dealer network. There were no sales of hurricane relief units in fiscal 2007. Excluding the effect of hurricane relief units, towables net sales for fiscal year 2007 decreased 7.9% compared to fiscal year 2006. The overall industry decrease in towables shipments for August 2006 through July 2007 was 16% according to statistics provided by the Recreation Vehicle Industry Association. Increases in the average price per unit resulted from product mix and no hurricane unit sales in fiscal 2007. Hurricane unit pricing in fiscal 2006 was substantially lower than the average price per unit of other towables.
Towables gross profit percentage decreased to 14.5% of net sales for fiscal 2007 from 16.1% of net sales for fiscal 2006. The primary factor for this decrease in gross profit percentage was the decrease in net sales which included a $15,887 increase in discounts and allowances on lower volumes. Selling, general and administrative expenses were 5.7% of net sales for fiscal 2007 compared to 5.6% of net sales for fiscal 2006.
Towables income before income taxes decreased to 8.7% of net sales for fiscal 2007 from 10.5% of net sales for fiscal 2006. The primary factor for this decrease was the reduction in unit sales and corresponding margins.
MOTORIZED RECREATION VEHICLES
The decrease in motorized net sales of 2.0% resulted primarily from a 2.9% decrease in unit shipments. The decrease in units sold of approximately 2.9% compared to an overall market decrease in motorhome shipments of 1.1% for the period August 2006 through July 2007 according to statistics published by the Recreation Vehicle Industry Association.
Motorized gross profit percentage was 9.8% of net sales for fiscal 2007 and 9.6% of net sales for fiscal 2006. Selling, general and administrative expenses were 5.3% of net sales for fiscal 2007 compared to 4.9% of net sales for fiscal 2006.

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Motorized income before income taxes was 4.4% of net sales for fiscal 2007 and 4.7% of net sales for fiscal 2006.
BUSES
Analysis of Percentage Change in Net Sales Versus Prior Year
                         
    Average Price Per Unit   Units   Net Change
Buses
    13.4 %     13.5 %     26.9 %
The increase in buses net sales of 26.9% resulted from a combination of an increase in both average price per unit and unit shipments. The overall industry increase in small and mid-sized bus unit sales for the six months ended June 30, 2007 compared to the same period in 2006 was 22%, according to the Mid-Size Bus Manufacturers Association. The increase in the average price per unit resulted primarily from product mix.
Buses gross profit percentage increased to 8.6% of net sales for fiscal 2007 from 7.9% of net sales for fiscal 2006. The primary reason for the increase in buses gross profit percentage was the increase in buses net sales. Selling, general and administrative expenses were 3.7% of net sales for fiscal 2007 and 4.6% for fiscal 2006.
Buses income before income taxes increased to 4.7% of net sales for 2007 from 3.0% of net sales for fiscal 2006 due to increased sales volume.
Financial Condition and Liquidity
As of July 31, 2008, we had $189,620 in cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments, compared to $346,464 on July 31, 2007. This decrease was primarily due to a reclassification of auction rate securities from short-term investments to long-term investments.
At July 31, 2008, substantially all investments are comprised of auction rate securities that are classified as available-for-sale and are reported at fair value in accordance with SFAS No. 115, Accounting for Certain Investments in Debt and Equity Securities. The Company purchases its auction rate securities at par, and records any unrealized gains and losses in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, a component of Stockholders’ Equity. Cost is determined on the specific identification basis. Interest income is accrued as earned.
At July 31, 2008, we held $132,550 (par value) of long-term investments comprised of taxable and tax-exempt auction rate securities (ARSs), which are variable-rate debt securities and have a long-term maturity with the interest being reset through Dutch auctions that are typically held every 7, 28 or 35 days. The securities have historically traded at par and are callable at par at the option of the issuer. Interest is typically paid at the end of each auction period or semi-annually. At July 31, 2008, substantially all of the ARSs we held were AAA rated, or equivalent, and none were below AA rated, or equivalent, with most collateralized by student loans and substantially backed by the U.S. Federal Government.
Since February 12, 2008, most auctions have failed for all of these securities and there is no assurance that future auctions on the auction rate securities in our investment portfolio will succeed and, as a result, our ability to liquidate our investment and fully recover the par value of our investment in the near term may be limited or not exist. An auction failure means that the parties wishing to sell securities could not.
At July 31, 2008, there was insufficient observable ARS market information available to determine the fair value of our investments. Therefore, management, assisted by Houlihan Smith & Company, Inc., an independent consultant, determined an estimated fair value. In determining the estimate, consideration was given to credit quality, final stated maturities, estimates on the probability of the issue being called prior to final maturity, impact due to extended periods of maximum auction rates and broker quotes. Based on this analysis, we recorded a cumulative temporary impairment of $6,147 related to our ARS investments as of July 31, 2008. We believe this temporary impairment is primarily attributable to the limited liquidity of these investments.
We have no reason to believe that any of the underlying issuers of our ARSs are presently at risk of default. Through August 31, 2008, we have continued to receive interest payments on the ARSs in accordance with their terms. We believe we will be able to liquidate our investments without significant loss primarily due to the government guarantee of the underlying securities; however, it could take until the final maturity of the underlying notes (up to 40 years) to realize our investments’ par value. Due to these recent changes and uncertainty in the ARS market, we believe the recovery period for these investments may be longer than twelve months and as a result, we have classified these investments as long-term as of July 31, 2008. We currently have the ability and the intent to hold these ARS investments until recovery of the auction process or until maturity.

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Working capital at July 31, 2008 was $279,504 compared to $428,329 at July 31, 2007. We have no long-term debt. We currently have a $30,000 revolving line of credit which bears interest at negotiated rates below prime and expires on November 30, 2008. There were no borrowings on this line of credit during the year ended July 31, 2008. The loan agreement executed in connection with the line of credit contains certain covenants, including restrictions on additional indebtedness, and requires us to maintain certain financial ratios. We believe that internally generated funds and the line of credit will be sufficient to meet our current needs and any additional capital requirements. Capital expenditures of approximately $14,815 for fiscal year ended July 31, 2008 were primarily for planned expansions and improvements of $11,841 at our recreation vehicle facilities and $1,094 for our bus operations. We paid a special $2.00 dividend in fiscal 2008 totaling $111,693. We also bought back 435,739 shares of Thor common stock in fiscal 2008 at a total cost of $13,561.
The Company anticipates capital expenditures in fiscal 2009 of approximately $8,823. These expenditures will be made primarily for replacement and upgrading of machinery, equipment and other assets to be used in the ordinary course of business.
Critical Accounting Principles
The consolidated financial statements of Thor are prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States. The preparation of these financial statements requires the use of estimates, judgments, 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 periods presented. We believe that of our accounting policies, the following may involve a higher degree of judgments, estimates, and complexity:
Impairment of Goodwill, Trademarks and Long-Lived Assets
We at least annually review the carrying value of goodwill and trademarks with indefinite useful lives. Long-lived assets, identifiable intangibles that are amortized, goodwill and trademarks with indefinite useful lives are also reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable from future cash flows. This review is performed primarily using estimates of future cash flows. If the carrying value of a long-lived asset is considered impaired, an impairment charge is recorded for the amount by which the carrying value of the long-lived asset exceeds its fair value. Management believes that the estimates of future cash flows and fair values are reasonable; however, changes in estimates of such cash flows and fair values could affect the evaluations.
Insurance Reserves
Generally, we are self-insured for workers’ compensation and group medical insurance. Under these plans, liabilities are recognized for claims incurred, including those incurred but not reported, and changes in the reserves. The liability for workers’ compensation claims is determined by the Company with the assistance of a third party administrator and actuary using various state statutes and reserve requirements and historical claims experience. Group medical reserves are estimated using historical claims experience. We have a self-insured retention for products liability and personal injury matters of $5,000 per occurrence. We have established a reserve on our balance sheet for such occurrences based on historical data and actuarial information. We maintain excess liability insurance aggregating $25,000 with outside insurance carriers to minimize our risks related to catastrophic claims in excess of all our self-insured positions. Any material change in the aforementioned factors could have an adverse impact on our operating results.
Warranty
We provide customers of our products with a warranty covering defects in material or workmanship for periods generally ranging from one to two years, with longer warranties on certain structural components. We record a liability based on our best estimate of the amounts necessary to settle future and existing claims on products sold as of the balance sheet date. Factors we use in estimating the warranty liability include a history of units sold, existing dealer inventory, average cost incurred and a profile of the distribution of warranty expenditures over the warranty period. A significant increase in dealer shop rates, the cost of parts or the frequency of claims could have a material adverse impact on our operating results for the period or periods in which such claims or additional costs materialize. Management believes that the warranty reserve is adequate; however actual claims incurred could differ from estimates, requiring adjustments to the reserves. Warranty reserves are reviewed and adjusted as necessary on a quarterly basis.

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Income Taxes
The Company accounts for income taxes under the provisions of SFAS No. 109, “Accounting for Income Taxes.” The objectives of accounting for income taxes are to recognize the amount of taxes payable or refundable for the current year and deferred tax liabilities and assets for the future tax consequences of events that have been recognized in the Company’s financial statements or tax returns. Judgment is required in assessing the future tax consequences of events that have been recognized in the company’s financial statements or tax returns.
In the first quarter of 2008, we adopted FASB Interpretation No. 48, “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes—an interpretation of SFAS No. 109” (“FIN 48”), and related guidance. As a result of the implementation of FIN 48, we recognize liabilities for uncertain tax positions based on a two-step process prescribed in the interpretation. The first step is to evaluate the tax position for recognition by determining if the weight of available evidence indicates that it is more likely than not that the position will be sustained on audit, including resolution of related appeals or litigation processes, if any. The second step requires us to estimate and measure the tax benefit as the largest amount that is more than 50% likely to be realized upon ultimate settlement. It is inherently difficult and subjective to estimate such amounts, as we have to determine the probability of various possible outcomes. We reevaluate these uncertain tax positions on a quarterly basis. This evaluation is based on factors including, but not limited to, changes in facts or circumstances, changes in tax law, effectively settled issues under audit, and new audit activity. Such a change in recognition or measurement would result in the recognition of a tax benefit or an additional charge to the tax provision.
Revenue Recognition
Revenue from the sale of recreation vehicles and buses are recorded when all of the following conditions have been met:
1) An order for a product has been received from a dealer;
2) Written or oral approval for payment has been received from the dealer’s flooring institution;
3) A common carrier signs the delivery ticket accepting responsibility for the product as agent for the dealer; and
4) The product is removed from the Company’s property for delivery to the dealer who placed the order.
Certain shipments are sold to customers on credit or cash on delivery (“COD”) terms. The Company recognizes revenue on credit sales upon shipment and COD sales upon payment and delivery. Most sales are made by dealers financing their purchases under flooring arrangements with banks or finance companies. Products are not sold on consignment, dealers do not have the right to return products, and dealers are typically responsible for interest costs to floorplan lenders. On average, the Company receives payments from floor-plan lenders on products sold to dealers within 15 days of the invoice date.
Repurchase Commitments
It is customary practice for companies in the recreation vehicle industry to enter into repurchase agreements with financing institutions to provide financing to their dealers. Generally, these agreements provide for the repurchase of products from the financing institution in the event of a dealer’s default. The risk of loss under these agreements is spread over numerous dealers and further reduced by the resale value of the units which the Company would be required to repurchase. Losses under these agreements have not been significant in the periods presented in the consolidated financial statements, and management believes that any future losses under these agreements will not have a significant effect on the Company’s consolidated financial position or results of operations. The Company records repurchase and guarantee reserves based on prior experience and known current events.

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Principal Contractual Obligations and Commercial Commitments
Our principal contractual obligations and commercial commitments at July 31, 2008 are summarized in the following charts. We have no other off balance sheet commitments.
                                         
Contractual   Payments Due By Period  
Obligations   Total     Fiscal 2009     Fiscal 2010-2011     Fiscal 2012-2013     After 5 Years  
Operating leases
  $ 8,759     $ 3,555     $ 4,148     $ 959     $ 97  
Consigned Inventory
    38,639       38,639                    
Unrecognized tax benefits (1)
    2,200       2,200                    
 
                             
Total contractual cash obligations
  $ 49,598     $ 44,394     $ 4,148     $ 959     $ 97  
 
                             
 
(1)   We have included in unrecognized tax benefits, approximately $2,200 for payments expected to be made in fiscal 2009. Unrecognized tax benefits in the amount of approximately $29,300 have been excluded from the table because we are unable to determine a reasonably reliable estimate of the timing of future payment.
                                         
Other   Total     Amount of Commitment Expiration Per Period  
Commercial   Amounts     Less Than 1                    
Commitments   Committed     Year     1-3 Years     4-5 Years     Over 5 Years  
Guarantees
  $ 1,786     $ 1,786     $     $     $  
Standby repurchase obligations
  $ 817,248     $ 817,248     $     $     $  
 
                             
Total commercial commitments
  $ 819,034     $ 819,034     $     $     $  
 
                             
Accounting Pronouncements
In February 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 159, The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities. SFAS No. 159 gives us the irrevocable option to carry many financial assets and liabilities at fair values, with changes in fair value recognized in earnings. SFAS No. 159 is effective for Thor’s fiscal year beginning August 1, 2008. We believe the adoption of SFAS No. 159 will not have a material effect on our financial statements.
In September 2006, the FASB issued SFAS No. 157, “Fair Value Accounting,” (“SFAS 157”) which defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value and expands disclosure about fair value measurements. SFAS 157 will be effective for Thor’s fiscal year beginning August 1, 2008. We believe the adoption of SFAS No. 157 will not have a material effect on our financial statements.
In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS 141R, Business Combinations, which is effective as of the beginning of an entity’s first fiscal year beginning after December 15, 2008. This standard will significantly change the accounting for business acquisitions both during the period of the acquisition and in subsequent periods. Among the more significant changes in the accounting for acquisitions are the following:
  Transaction costs, many of which are currently treated as costs of the acquisition, will generally be expensed.
 
  In-process research and development will be accounted for as an asset, with the cost recognized as the research and development is realized or abandoned. These costs are currently expensed at the time of the acquisition.
 
  Contingencies, including contingent consideration, will generally be recorded at fair value with subsequent adjustments recognized in operations. Contingent consideration is currently accounted for as an adjustment of the purchase price.
 
  Decreases in valuation allowances on acquired deferred tax assets will be recognized in operations. Previously such changes were considered to be subsequent changes in consideration and were recorded as decreases in goodwill.
The effects of implementing SFAS 141R on the Company’s financial position, results of operations, and cash flows will depend on future acquisitions.
In June 2008, the FASB issued a FASB Staff Position (“FSP”) on the FASB’s Emerging Issues Task Force (“EITF”) Issue No. 03-06-1, “Determining Whether Instruments Granted in Share-Based Payment Transactions Are Participating Securities,” (“FSP EITF 03-06-1”). This FSP addresses whether instruments granted in share-based payment transactions are participating securities prior to vesting and, therefore, need to be included in the earnings allocation in computing earnings per share (“EPS”) under the two-class method described in SFAS No. 128, “Earnings Per Share.” It affects entities that accrue or pay nonforfeitable cash dividends on share-

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based payment awards during the awards’ service period. FSP EITF 03-06-1 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008, and interim periods within those fiscal years and will require a retrospective adjustment to all prior period EPS. We are currently assessing the potential impact this FSP will have on our calculation and presentation of EPS.
In May 2008, the FASB issued SFAS No. 162, “The Hierarchy of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles” (“SFAS 162”). SFAS 162 identifies the sources of accounting principles and the framework for selecting the principles to be used in the preparation of financial statements of nongovernmental entities that are presented in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States. This pronouncement is effective 60 days following the SEC’s approval of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board amendments to AU Section 411, “The Meaning of Present Fairly in Conformity With Generally Accepted Accounting Principles.” We are currently assessing the potential impact, if any, that SFAS 162 will have on our financial position or results of operations.
ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
The Company is exposed to market risk from changes in foreign currency related to its operations in Canada. However, because of the size of Canadian operations, a hypothetical 10% change in the Canadian dollar as compared to the U.S. dollar would not have a significant impact on the Company’s financial position or results of operations. The Company is also exposed to market risks related to interest rates because of its investments in corporate debt securities. A hypothetical 10% change in interest rates would not have a significant impact on the Company’s financial position or results of operations.
At July 31, 2008, substantially all investments are comprised of auction rate securities that are classified as available-for-sale and are reported at fair value in accordance with SFAS No. 115, Accounting for Certain Investments in Debt and Equity Securities. The Company purchases its auction rate securities at par, and record any unrealized gains and losses in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, a component of Stockholders’ Equity. Cost is determined on the specific identification basis. Interest income is accrued as earned.
At July 31, 2008, we held $132,550 (par value) of long-term investments comprised of taxable and tax-exempt auction rate securities (ARSs), which are variable-rate debt securities and have a long-term maturity with the interest being reset through Dutch auctions that are typically held every 7, 28 or 35 days. The securities have historically traded at par and are callable at par at the option of the issuer. Interest is typically paid at the end of each auction period or semi-annually. At July 31, 2008, substantially all of the ARSs we held were AAA rated, or equivalent, and none were below AA rated, or equivalent, with most collateralized by student loans and substantially backed by the U.S. Federal Government.
Since February 12, 2008 auctions have failed for most of these securities and there is no assurance that future auctions on the auction rate securities in our investment portfolio will succeed and, as a result, our ability to liquidate our investment and fully recover the par value of our investment in the near term may be limited or not exist. An auction failure means that the parties wishing to sell securities could not.
At July 31, 2008, there was insufficient observable ARS market information available to determine the fair value of our investments. Therefore, management, assisted by Houlihan Smith & Company, Inc., an independent consultant, determined an estimated fair value. In determining the estimate, consideration was given to credit quality, final stated maturities, estimates on the probability of the issue being called prior to final maturity, impact due to extended periods of maximum auction rates and broker quotes. Based on this analysis, we recorded a temporary impairment of $6,147 related to our ARS investments as of July 31, 2008. We believe this temporary impairment is primarily attributable to the limited liquidity of these investments.
We have no reason to believe that any of the underlying issuers of our ARSs are presently at risk of default. Through August 31, 2008, we have continued to receive interest payments on the ARSs in accordance with their terms. We believe we will be able to liquidate our investments without significant loss primarily due to the government guarantee of the underlying securities; however, it could take until the final maturity of the underlying notes (up to 40 years) to realize our investments’ par value. Due to these recent changes and uncertainty in the ARS market, we believe the recovery period for these investments may be longer than twelve months and as a result, we have classified these investments as long-term as of July 31, 2008. We currently have the ability and the intent to hold these ARS investments until recovery of the auction process or until maturity.

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ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (UNAUDITED) — SEE ITEM 15
Quarterly Financial Data
                                 
    October 31   January 31   April 30   July 31
Fiscal 2008
                               
Net Sales
  $ 763,736     $ 599,170     $ 707,931     $ 569,843  
Gross profit
    101,275       69,717       89,999       61,435  
Net income
    38,209       21,602       27,854       5,041  
Earnings per common share
                               
Basic
    .69       .39       .51       .09  
Diluted
    .68       .39       .50       .09  
Dividends declared per common share
    2.07       .07       .07       .07  
Dividends paid per common share
    2.07       .07       .07       .07  
Market prices per common share
                               
High
  $ 52.31     $ 47.48     $ 36.91     $ 31.32  
Low
  $ 38.68     $ 29.72     $ 26.73     $ 19.62  
                                 
    October 31   January 31   April 30   July 31
Fiscal 2007
                               
Net Sales
  $ 727,716     $ 584,049     $ 789,643     $ 754,900  
Gross profit
    89,168       61,169       102,980       109,978  
Net income
    30,597       18,252       35,569       50,313  
Earnings per common share
                               
Basic
    .55       .33       .64       .90  
Diluted
    .55       .33       .64       .90  
Dividends declared per common share
    1.07       .07       .07       .07  
Dividends paid per common share
    1.07       .07       .07       .07  
Market prices per common share
                               
High
  $ 48.32     $ 48.02     $ 48.32     $ 46.82  
Low
  $ 39.16     $ 41.11     $ 38.50     $ 39.65  
ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE
None.
ITEM 9A. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
Part A – Disclosure Controls and Procedures.
The Company maintains “disclosure controls and procedures”, as such term is defined under Securities Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(e), that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our Exchange Act reports is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms, and that such information is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosures. In designing and evaluating the disclosure controls and procedures, the Company’s management recognized that any controls and procedures, no matter how well designed and operated, can provide only reasonable assurance of achieving the desired control objectives and the Company’s management necessarily was required to apply its judgment in evaluating the cost-benefit relationship of possible controls and procedures. The Company has carried out an evaluation, as of the end of the period covered by this report, under the supervision and with the participation of the Company’s management, including its Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures. Based on this evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective to ensure that information required to be disclosed by the Company in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified by the SEC’s rules and forms.

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Part B – Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
Management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting, as defined in Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(f). Internal control over financial reporting refers to a process designed by, or under the supervision of, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer and effected by our Board of Directors, management and other personnel, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America and 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 our assets; (ii) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, and that our receipts and expenditures are being made only in accordance with authorizations of our management and members of our Board of Directors; and (iii) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of our assets that could have a material effect on our financial statements.
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting cannot provide absolute assurance of achieving financial reporting objectives. Internal control over financial reporting is a process that involves human diligence and compliance and is subject to lapses in judgment and breakdowns resulting from human failures. Internal control over financial reporting also can be circumvented by collusion or improper override. Because of such limitations, there is a risk that material misstatements may not be prevented or detected on a timely basis by internal control over financial reporting. Projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are also subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions or that the degree of compliance with established policies or procedures may deteriorate.
The Company’s management conducted an assessment of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of July 31, 2008, using the criteria set forth in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). Based on its assessment, the Company believes that as of July 31, 2008, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting is effective based on those criteria.
Our independent registered public accounting firm, Deloitte & Touche LLP, has issued an attestation report on our internal control over financial reporting. The report appears in Part D of this Item 9A.
Part C – Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
During the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2008, there have been no material changes in our internal control over financial reporting that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
Part D – Attestation Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

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REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the Board of Directors and Stockholders of
Thor Industries, Inc.
Jackson Center, Ohio
We have audited the internal control over financial reporting of Thor Industries, Inc. and subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of July 31, 2008, based on criteria established in Internal Control — Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. The Company’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.
We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.
A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed by, or under the supervision of, the company’s principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, and effected by the company’s board of directors, management, and other personnel to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.
Because of the inherent limitations of internal control over financial reporting, including the possibility of collusion or improper management override of controls, material misstatements due to error or fraud may not be prevented or detected on a timely basis. Also, projections of any evaluation of the effectiveness of the internal control over financial reporting to future periods are subject to the risk that the controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
In our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of July 31, 2008, based on the criteria established in Internal Control — Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.
We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated financial statements of the Company as of and for the year ended July 31, 2008 and our report dated September 29, 2008 expressed an unqualified opinion on those financial statements.
DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP
Dayton, Ohio
September 29, 2008

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ITEM 9B. OTHER INFORMATION
None.
PART III
ITEM 10. DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
The Company has adopted a written code of ethics, the “Thor Industries, Inc. Business Ethics Policy” which is applicable to all directors, officers and employees of the Company, including the Company’s principal executive officer, principal financial officer, principal accounting officer or controller and other executive officers identified pursuant to this Item 10 who perform similar functions (collectively, the “Selected Officers”). In accordance with the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission a copy of the code has been posted on the Company’s website and is also available in print to any person, without charge, upon request. The Company intends to disclose any changes in or waivers from its code of ethics applicable to any Selected Officer on its website at http://www.thorindustries.com or by filing a Form 8-K.
The other information in response to this Item is included under the captions BUSINESS EXPERIENCE OF DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS, BOARD OF DIRECTORS, COMMITTEES AND ATTENDANCE AT MEETINGS and SECTION 16(A) BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP REPORTING COMPLIANCE, in the Company’s definitive Proxy Statement, to be filed with the Commission pursuant to Regulation 14A, which portion of said Proxy Statement is hereby incorporated by reference.
ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
The information required in response to this Item is contained under the captions EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION AND DIRECTOR COMPENSATION; in the Company’s definitive Proxy Statement to be filed with the Commission pursuant to Regulation 14A, which portion of said Proxy Statement is hereby incorporated by reference.
Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation
No member of the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors is or was formerly an officer or employee of the Company or any of its subsidiaries. During fiscal 2008, no executive officer of the Company or any of its subsidiaries served on the compensation committee (or equivalent), or the Board of Directors, of another entity whose executive officer(s) served on our Compensation Committee or Board of Directors.
ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED SHAREHOLDER MATTERS
Equity Compensation Plan Information
The following table provides information as of July 31, 2008 about the Company’s Common Stock that is authorized for issuance under the Company’s equity compensation plans, including the Thor Industries, Inc. 2006 Equity Incentive Plan and the Thor Industries, Inc. 1999 Stock Option Plan.
                         
                    Number of securities  
    Number of securities             remaining available for  
    to be issued     Weighted-average     future issuance under  
    upon exercise of     exercise price of     equity compensation plans  
    outstanding options,     outstanding options     (excluding securities  
    warrants and rights     warrants and rights     reflected in column (a))  
Plan Category   (a)     (b)     (c)  
Equity compensation plans approved by security holders
    514,561  (1)   $ 23.48       900,000  (2)
Equity compensation plans not approved by security holders
                 
 
                 
Total
    514,561     $ 23.48       900,000  
 
                 

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(1)   Represents shares underlying stock options granted pursuant to the Thor Industries, Inc. 2006 Equity Incentive Plan (the “2006 Plan”), and the Thor Industries, Inc. 1999 Stock Option Plan (the “1999 Plan”). The 1999 Plan was frozen in 2006 upon the adoption of the 2006 Plan.
 
(2)   Represents shares remaining available for future issuance pursuant to the 2006 Plan.
The other information required in response to this Item is contained under the caption OWNERSHIP OF COMMON STOCK in the Company’s definitive Proxy Statement, to be filed with the Commission pursuant to Regulation 14A, which portion of said Proxy Statement is hereby incorporated by reference.
ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE
The information required in response to this Item is contained under the captions CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND TRANSACTIONS WITH MANAGEMENT and BOARD OF DIRECTORS, COMMITTEES AND ATTENDANCE AT MEETINGS in the Company’s definitive Proxy Statement to be filed with the Commission pursuant to Regulation 14A, which portion of said Proxy Statement is hereby incorporated by reference.
ITEM 14. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES
The information required in response to this Item is contained under the caption INDEPENDENT AUDITOR FEES in the Company’s definitive Proxy Statement, to be filed with the Commission pursuant to Regulation 14A, which portion of said Proxy Statement is hereby incorporated by reference.

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PART IV
ITEM 15. EXHIBITS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES
(a) (1) Financial Statements
     
    Page
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
  F-1
Consolidated Balance Sheets, July 31, 2008 and 2007
  F-2
Consolidated Statements of Income for the Years Ended July 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006
  F-4
Consolidated Statements of Stockholders’ Equity, and Comprehensive Income for the Years Ended July 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006
  F-5
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Years Ended July 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006
  F-6
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for the Years Ended July 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006
  F-7
(b) Exhibits
     
Exhibit   Description
3.1
  Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3(a) of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended July 31, 2001)
 
   
3.2
  Certificate of Amendment to Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended July 31, 2004)
 
   
3.3
  By-laws (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3(b) of the Company’s Registration Statement No. 33-13827)
 
   
4.1
  Form of Common Stock Certificate. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4(a) of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended July 31, 1987)
 
   
10.1
  Thor Industries, Inc. 1999 Stock Option Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 of the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-8 dated November 5, 1999)
 
   
10.2
  Thor Industries, Inc. Restricted Stock Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 of the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-8 dated December 3, 1997)
 
   
10.3
  Thor Industries, Inc. Select Executive Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(c) of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended July 31, 2000)
 
   
10.4
  Thor Industries, Inc. 2006 Equity Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended July 31, 2007)
 
   
10.5
  Thor Industries, Inc. Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.5 of the Company’s Annual Report on For 10-K for the fiscal year ended July 31, 2007)
 
   
10.6
  Amendment to Thor Industries, Inc. Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.6 of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10K for the fiscal year ended July 31, 2007)
 
   
10.7
  Offer Letter of Christian G. Farman (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Company’s 8-K dated May 6, 2008)
 
   
10.8
  Thor Industries, Inc. Form of Indemnification Agreement for executive officers and directors of the Company (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 of the Company’s 8-K dated May 6, 2008)
 
   
10.9
  Thor Industries, Inc. Form of Stock Option Agreement (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 of the Company’s 8-K dated May 6, 2008)
 
   
10.10
  Thor Industries, Inc. Form of Restricted Stock Award Certificate and Restricted Stock Award Agreement – for grants to directors (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 of the Company’s 8-K dated May 6, 2008)
 
   
10.11
  Thor Industries, Inc. Form of Restricted Stock Award Certificate and Restricted Stock Award Agreement – for grants to employees and consultants (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.5 of the company’s 8-K dated May 6, 2008)
 
   
14.1
  Thor Industries, Inc. Business Ethics Policy (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 14.1 of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K/A for the fiscal year ended July 31, 2003)
 
   
21.1
  Subsidiaries of the Company*
 
   
31.1
  Certification of the Chief Executive Officer filed pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002*
 
   
31.2
  Certification of the Chief Financial Officer filed pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002*
 
   
32.1
  Certification of the Chief Executive Officer furnished pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002**
 
   
32.2
  Certification of the Chief Financial Officer furnished pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes – Oxley Act of 2002**
 
*   Filed herewith
 
**   Furnished herewith

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SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
THOR INDUSTRIES, INC.
         
(Signed)
  /S/ Wade F.B. Thompson
 
   
Wade F. B. Thompson    
Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer    
Date: September 29, 2008
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the Registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
                 
(Signed)
  /S/ Peter B. Orthwein       (Signed)   /S/ Christian G. Farman
 
               
Peter B. Orthwein                Christian G. Farman
Vice Chairman, Treasurer and                Chief Financial Officer
Director                (Principal Financial Officer & Principal
 
                   Accounting Officer)
 
               
Date: September 29, 2008       Date: September 29, 2008
 
               
(Signed)
  /S/ Wade F.B. Thompson       (Signed)   /S/ Alan Siegel
 
               
Wade F. B. Thompson           Alan Siegel
Chairman, President, Chief Executive           Director
Officer and Director (Principal Executive Officer)            
 
               
Date: September 29, 2008       Date: September 29, 2008
 
               
(Signed)
  /S/ William C. Tomson       (Signed)   /S/ Neil D. Chrisman
 
               
William C. Tomson           Neil D. Chrisman
Director           Director
 
               
Date: September 29, 2008       Date: September 29, 2008
 
               
(Signed)
  /S/ H. Coleman Davis       (Signed)   /S/ Jan H. Suwinski
 
               
H. Coleman Davis           Jan H. Suwinski
Director           Director
 
               
Date: September 29, 2008       Date: September 29, 2008
 
               
(Signed)
  /S/ Geoffrey A. Thompson            
 
               
Geoffrey A. Thompson            
Director            
 
               
Date: September 29, 2008            

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REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the Board of Directors and Stockholders of
Thor Industries, Inc.
Jackson Center, Ohio
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Thor Industries, Inc. and subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of July 31, 2008 and 2007, and the related consolidated statements of income, stockholders’ equity and comprehensive income, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended July 31, 2008. 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, such consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Thor Industries, Inc. and subsidiaries at July 31, 2008 and 2007, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended July 31, 2008, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of July 31, 2008, based on the criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission and our report dated September 29, 2008 expressed an unqualified opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.
DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP
Dayton, Ohio
September 29, 2008

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Consolidated Balance Sheets, July 31, 2008 and 2007
(amounts in thousands except share data)
                 
    2008     2007  
Assets
               
Current assets:
               
Cash and cash equivalents
  $ 189,620     $ 171,889  
Investments-short term (Note A)
          174,575  
Accounts receivable:
               
Trade, less allowance for doubtful accounts — $295 in 2008 and $122 in 2007 (Note A)
    136,866       171,596  
Other
    9,489       5,799  
Inventories (Note D)
    152,582       168,980  
Deferred income taxes and other (Note F)
    39,363       12,689  
 
           
Total current assets
    527,920       705,528  
 
           
Property, plant and equipment:
               
Land
    21,090       21,795  
Buildings and improvements
    135,167       134,352  
Machinery and equipment
    71,965       64,572  
 
           
Total cost
    228,222       220,719  
Less accumulated depreciation
    74,992       63,477  
 
           
Net property, plant and equipment
    153,230       157,242  
 
           
Investments — Joint ventures (Note K)
    3,269       2,671  
 
           
Other assets:
               
Long term investments
    126,403        
Goodwill (Note C)
    158,128       165,663  
Noncompete agreements — Net (Note C)
    1,093       1,906  
Trademarks (Note C)
    13,900       13,900  
Other
    12,619       12,387  
 
           
Total other assets
    312,143       193,856  
 
           
Total
  $ 996,562     $ 1,059,297  
 
           
See notes to consolidated financial statements.

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    2008     2007  
Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity
               
Current liabilities:
               
Accounts payable
  $ 96,158     $ 123,433  
Accrued liabilities:
               
Compensation and related items
    24,845       39,242  
Product warranties (Note M)
    61,743       64,310  
Taxes
    26,050       17,991  
Promotions and rebates
    10,781       11,697  
Product/property liability and related liabilities
    12,560       11,691  
Other
    16,279       8,835  
 
           
Total current liabilities
    248,416       277,199  
 
           
Deferred income taxes and other liabilities (Note F)
    19,118       15,767  
Unrecognized tax benefits
    29,332        
 
           
Total long term liabilities
    48,450       15,767  
 
           
Contingent liabilities and commitments (Note I)
           
Stockholders’ equity (Note J):
               
Preferred stock—authorized 1,000,000 shares; none outstanding
           
Common stock—par value of $.10 a share; authorized, 250,000,000 shares; issued 57,317,263 shares at July 31, 2008 and 57,222,404 shares at July 31, 2007
    5,732       5,722  
Additional paid-in capital
    93,683       90,247  
Retained earnings
    675,928       727,729  
Accumulated other comprehensive income
    (1,963 )     2,756  
Less treasury shares of 1,877,339 in 2008 and 1,441,600 in 2007, at cost
    (73,684 )     (60,123 )
 
           
Total stockholders’ equity
    699,696       766,331  
 
           
Total
  $ 996,562     $ 1,059,297  
 
           
See notes to consolidated financial statements.

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Consolidated Statements of Income for the Years Ended July 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006
(amounts in thousands except per share data)
                         
    2008     2007     2006  
Net sales
  $ 2,640,680     $ 2,856,308     $ 3,066,276  
Cost of products sold (2008 includes impairment and other charges of $7,237)
    2,318,254       2,493,013       2,634,818  
 
                 
Gross profit
    322,426       363,295       431,458  
Selling, general and administrative expenses
    177,068       177,697       183,926  
Impairment of goodwill
    7,535              
Amortization of intangibles
    813       935       949  
Gain on sale of property
    2,308              
Interest income
    11,511       11,376       9,020  
Interest expense
    1,315       774       1,248  
Other income
    2,893       1,595       1,756  
 
                 
Income before income taxes
    152,407       196,860       256,111  
Income taxes (Note F)
    59,701       62,129       92,706  
 
                 
Net income
  $ 92,706     $ 134,731     $ 163,405  
 
                 
Earnings per common share (Note A)
                       
Basic
  $ 1.67     $ 2.42     $ 2.89  
Diluted
  $ 1.66     $ 2.41     $ 2.87  
See notes to consolidated financial statements.

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Consolidated Statements of Stockholders’ Equity and Comprehensive Income for the Years Ended July 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006
(amounts in thousands except share and per share data)
                                                                         
                                                    Accumulated                
                                    Additional     Restricted     Other             Compre-  
    Treasury Stock     Common Stock     Paid-In     Stock     Comprehensive     Retained     hensive  
    Shares     Amount     Shares     Amount     Capital     Plan     Income (Loss)     Earnings     Income  
July 31, 2005
    256,000     $ (7,031 )     56,933,483     $ 5,693     $ 82,652     $ (747 )   $ 943     $ 511,681          
Net income
                                              163,405     $ 163,405  
Shares purchased
    1,145,200       (51,462 )                                          
Stock option activity
                171,003       17       3,331                          
Restricted stock activity
                (4,200 )           191       42                    
Cash dividends — $.19 per common share
                                              (10,764 )      
Adoption of SFAS123R
                            (494 )     494                    
Foreign currency translation adjustment
                                        829             829  
Compensation expense
                            858       211                    
 
                                                     
July 31, 2006
    1,401,200       (58,493 )     57,100,286       5,710       86,538             1,772       664,322     $ 164,234  
 
                                                                     
Net income
                                                          134,731     $ 134,731  
Shares purchased
    40,400       (1,630 )                                          
Stock option activity
                123,618       12       2,623                          
Restricted stock activity
                (1,500 )           476                          
Cash dividends — $1.28 per common share
                                              (71,324 )      
Foreign currency translation adjustment
                                        984             984  
Compensation expense
                            610                          
 
                                                     
July 31, 2007
    1,441,600       (60,123 )     57,222,404       5,722       90,247             2,756       727,729     $ 135,715  
 
                                                                     
Net income
                                              92,706     $ 92,706  
Shares purchased
    435,739       (13,561 )                                          
Stock option activity
                94,859       10       2,592                          
Restricted stock activity
                            488                          
Cash dividends — $2.28 per common share
                                              (127,278 )      
Adoption of FIN48
                                              (17,229 )      
Unrealized depreciation on investments (net of tax)
                                        (3,810 )           (3,810 )
Foreign currency translation adjustment (net of tax)
                                        (909 )           (909 )
Compensation expense
                            356                          
 
                                                     
July 31, 2008
    1,877,339     $ (73,684 )     57,317,263     $ 5,732     $ 93,683     $     $ (1,963 )   $ 675,928     $ 87,987  
 
                                                     
See notes to consolidated financial statements.

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Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Years Ended July 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006
(amounts in thousands)
                         
    2008     2007     2006  
Cash flows from operating activities:
                       
Net income
  $ 92,706     $ 134,731     $ 163,405  
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
                       
Depreciation
    16,208       12,970       13,097  
Amortization of intangibles
    813       935       949  
Goodwill impairment
    7,535              
Deferred income taxes
    (31,791 )     (1,324 )     (4,094 )
(Gain) loss on disposition of property, plant and equipment
    (2,365 )     82       5  
Loss on sale of trading investments
          104       439  
Unrealized (gain) loss on trading investments
                10  
Stock based compensation
    356       610       1,069  
Changes in assets and liabilities:
                       
Purchase of trading investments
                (255,491 )
Proceeds from sale of trading investments
          68,133       232,024  
Accounts receivable
    31,040       16,348       (50,108 )
Inventories
    16,398       14,189       (22,684 )
Deferred taxes and other
    382       (3,213 )     (2,120 )
Accounts payable
    (27,615 )     (21,537 )     23,888  
Accrued liabilities
    10,595       7,410       35,212  
Other
    7,846       3,315       1,658  
 
                 
Net cash provided by operating activities
    122,108       232,753       137,259  
 
                 
Cash flows from investing activities:
                       
Purchases of property, plant and equipment
    (14,475 )     (13,654 )     (30,166 )
Proceeds from disposition of property plant and equipment
    5,016       232       263  
Purchase of available for sale investments
    (66,650 )     (295,765 )      
Proceeds from sale of available for sale investments
    108,675       121,046        
 
                 
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities
    32,566       (188,141 )     (29,903 )
 
                 
Cash flows from financing activities:
                       
Cash dividends
    (127,278 )     (71,324 )     (27,764 )
Purchase of common stock held as treasury shares
    (13,561 )     (1,630 )     (51,462 )
Proceeds from issuance of common stock
    3,090       3,111       3,581  
 
                 
Net cash (used in) financing activities
    (137,749 )     (69,843 )     (75,645 )
 
                 
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash
    806       984       829  
 
                 
Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents
    17,731       (24,247 )     32,540  
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year
    171,889       196,136       163,596  
 
                 
Cash and cash equivalents, end of year
  $ 189,620     $ 171,889     $ 196,136  
 
                 
Supplemental cash flow information:
                       
Income taxes paid
  $ 73,076     $ 62,121     $ 82,817  
Interest paid
  $ 1,315     $ 774     $ 1,248  
Non-cash transactions:
                       
Capital expenditures in accounts payable
  $ 543     $ 203     $ 842  
Cancellation of restricted stock
  $     $ 35     $ 42  
Deferred taxes, net
  $ 562     $     $  
See notes to consolidated financial statements.

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Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the Years Ended July 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006
(All amounts presented in thousands except share and per share data)
A. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Principles of Consolidation — The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Thor Industries, Inc. and its wholly-owned domestic and foreign subsidiaries (collectively, the “Company”). All intercompany balances and transactions are eliminated upon consolidation.
Cash and Cash Equivalents — Interest-bearing deposits and other investments with maturities of three months or less when purchased are considered cash equivalents. Cash and cash equivalents of $149,058 is held by one financial institution. The remaining $40,562 is held at various other financial institutions.
Investments — The Company classifies investments as available-for-sale.
Fair Value of Financial Investments — The carrying amount of cash equivalents, investments, accounts receivable, and accounts payable approximate fair value because of the relatively short maturity of these financial instruments.
Inventories — Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market, determined principally by the last-in, first-out (LIFO) basis.
Depreciation — Property, plant and equipment is recorded at cost and depreciated using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets as follows:
Buildings and improvements — 10 to 39 years
Machinery and equipment — 3 to 10 years
Other Assets — Other assets consist of goodwill, trademarks, non-compete agreements and long-term investments. Non-compete agreements are amortized using the straight-line method over 5 to 10 years. Goodwill and trademarks are not amortized but are tested at least annually for impairment. Trademarks are not amortized because they have indefinite useful lives.
Long-lived Assets — Long-lived assets and identifiable intangibles that are amortized are reviewed for impairment annually or whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable from future cash flows. If the carrying value of a long-lived asset is impaired, an impairment charge is recorded for the amount by which the carrying value of the long-lived asset exceeds its fair value. The Company assesses the potential impairment of long-lived assets in accordance with Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) Statement No. 144. This test involves management comparing the fair value of long-lived assets to the respective carrying amounts when a triggering event necessitates the assessment. Management assessed the fair value of certain properties which will no longer be used for operational or administrative purposes and are being listed for sale or lease and marketed as such in the Elkhart, Indiana area. Given the decline of the real estate market in 2008, the fair value of such properties has indicated an impairment of $1,962 which the Company recorded in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2008 of which $1,826 is reported in cost of products sold and $136 is reported in selling, general and administrative expenses in the Consolidated Statement of Income. $1,662 of this impairment is reported under the motorized recreation vehicles segment and $300 is reported under the towable recreation vehicles segment.
Product Warranties — Estimated warranty costs are provided at the time of sale of the warranted products. Warranty reserves are reviewed and adjusted as necessary on a quarterly basis.
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts — A summary of bad debt activity is as follows:
                         
    Year Ended     Year Ended     Year Ended  
    July 31, 2008     July 31, 2007     July 31, 2006  
Beginning Balance
  $ 122     $ 105     $ 506  
Charged to expense
    311       72       98  
Write-offs net of recoveries/payments
    (138 )     (55 )     (499 )
 
                 
Ending Balance
  $ 295     $ 122     $ 105  
 
                 

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Insurance Reserves — Generally, we are self-insured for workers’ compensation and group medical insurance. Under these plans, liabilities are recognized for claims incurred, including those incurred but not reported, and changes in the reserves. The liability for workers’ compensation claims is determined by the Company with the assistance of a third party administrator and actuary using various state statutes and reserve requirements and historical claims experience. Group medical reserves are estimated using historical claims experience . We have a self-insured retention for products liability and personal injury matters of $5,000 per occurrence. We have established a reserve on our balance sheet for such occurrences based on historical data and actuarial information. We maintain excess liability insurance aggregating $25,000 with outside insurance carriers to minimize our risks related to catastrophic claims in excess of all our self-insured positions.
Revenue Recognition – Revenues from the sale of recreation vehicles and buses are recognized when title passes, which is when shipped to dealers, distributors, or contract buyers in accordance with shipping terms, which are FOB shipping point.
Revenues from the sale of recreation vehicles and buses are recorded when all of the following conditions have been met:
1) An order for a product has been received from a dealer;
2) Written or oral approval for payment has been received from the dealer’s flooring institution;
3) A common carrier signs the delivery ticket accepting responsibility for the product as agent for the dealer; and
4) The product is removed from the Company’s property for delivery to the dealer who placed the order.
Certain shipments are sold to customers on credit or cash on delivery (“COD”) terms. The Company recognizes revenue on credit sales upon shipment and COD sales upon payment and delivery. Most sales are made by dealers financing their purchases under flooring arrangements with banks or finance companies. Products are not sold on consignment, dealers do not have the right to return products, and dealers are typically responsible for interest costs to floorplan lenders. On average, the Company receives payments from floorplan lenders on products sold to dealers within 15 days of the invoice date.
Dealer Volume Rebates, Sales Incentives and Advertising Costs – Estimated costs related to dealer volume rebates and sales incentives are accrued as a reduction of revenue at the latter of the time products are sold or the date the rebate or incentive is offered. Advertising costs, which consist primarily of tradeshows were $8,139, $8,104 and $8,659 in fiscal 2008, 2007 and 2006, respectively.
Estimates – The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the U.S. requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amount of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
Income taxes – The Company accounts for income taxes under the provisions of SFAS No. 109, “Accounting for Income Taxes.” The objectives of accounting for income taxes are to recognize the amount of taxes payable or refundable for the current year and deferred tax liabilities and assets for the future tax consequences of events that have been recognized in the Company’s financial statements or tax returns. Judgment is required in assessing the future tax consequences of events that have been recognized in the company’s financial statements or tax returns.
Foreign Currency – Assets and liabilities of the Company’s Canadian operations reported in the consolidated balance sheets have been translated at current exchange rates. Revenues and expenses reported in the consolidated statements of income have been translated at the average exchange rate for the year. Translation adjustments have been included in accumulated other comprehensive income. Transaction gains and losses are not significant.
Stock Options – The Company uses the Black-Scholes option pricing model to estimate the grant date fair value of its option grants. The fair value, and related compensation costs are recognized over the option vesting period which is 3 to 4 years.

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Earnings Per Share – Basic earnings per common share (“EPS”) is computed by dividing net income by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding. Diluted EPS is computed by dividing net income by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding assuming dilution. The difference between basic EPS and diluted EPS is the result of outstanding stock options and restricted stock.
                         
    2008   2007   2006
Weighted average shares outstanding for basic earnings per share
    55,593,572       55,665,275       56,502,865  
Stock options and restricted stock
    138,135       257,833       394,174  
 
                       
Weighted average shares outstanding assuming dilution
    55,731,707       55,923,108       56,897,039  
 
                       
Accounting Pronouncements
In February 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 159, The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities. SFAS No. 159 gives us the irrevocable option to carry many financial assets and liabilities at fair values, with changes in fair value recognized in earnings. SFAS No. 159 is effective for Thor’s fiscal year beginning August 1, 2008. We believe the adoption of SFAS No. 159 will not have a material effect on our financial statements.
In September 2006, the FASB issued SFAS No. 157, “Fair Value Accounting,” (“SFAS 157”) which defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value and expands disclosure about fair value measurements. SFAS 157 will be effective for Thor’s fiscal year beginning August 1, 2008. We believe the adoption of SFAS 157 will not have a material effect on our financial statements.
In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS 141R,“Business Combinations”, which is effective as of the beginning of an entity’s first fiscal year beginning after December 15, 2008.  This standard will significantly change the accounting for business acquisitions both during the period of the acquisition and in subsequent periods.  Among the more significant changes in the accounting for acquisitions are the following:
  Transaction costs, many of which are currently treated as costs of the acquisition, will generally be expensed.
  In-process research and development will be accounted for as an asset, with the cost recognized as the research and development is realized or abandoned.  These costs are currently expensed at the time of the acquisition. 
  Contingencies, including contingent consideration, will generally be recorded at fair value with subsequent adjustments recognized in operations.  Contingent consideration is currently accounted for as an adjustment of the purchase price. 
  Decreases in valuation allowances on acquired deferred tax assets will be recognized in operations.  Previously such changes were considered to be subsequent changes in consideration and were recorded as decreases in goodwill.
The effects of implementing SFAS 141R on the Company’s financial position, results of operations, and cash flows will depend on future acquisitions.
In June 2008, the FASB issued a FASB Staff Position (“FSP”) on the FASB’s Emerging Issues Task Force (“EITF”) Issue No. 03-06-1, “Determining Whether Instruments Granted in Share-Based Payment Transactions Are Participating Securities,” (“FSP EITF 03-06-1”). This FSP addresses whether instruments granted in share-based payment transactions are participating securities prior to vesting and, therefore, need to be included in the earnings allocation in computing earnings per share (“EPS”) under the two-class method described in SFAS No. 128, “Earnings Per Share.” It affects entities that accrue or pay nonforfeitable cash dividends on share-based payment awards during the awards’ service period. FSP EITF 03-06-1 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008, and interim periods within those fiscal years and will require a retrospective adjustment to all prior period EPS. We are currently evaluating the impact this FSP will have on our calculation and presentation of EPS.  
In May 2008, the FASB issued SFAS No. 162, “The Hierarchy of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles” (“SFAS 162”). SFAS 162 identifies the sources of accounting principles and the framework for selecting the principles to be used in the preparation of financial statements of nongovernmental entities that are presented in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States. This pronouncement is effective 60 days following the SEC’s approval of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board amendments to AU Section 411, “The Meaning of Present Fairly in Conformity With Generally Accepted Accounting Principles.” We are currently evaluating the impact, if any, that SFAS 162 will have on our financial position or results of operations.

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B. INVESTMENTS
At July 31, 2008, substantially all investments are comprised of auction rate securities that are classified as available-for-sale and are reported at fair value in accordance with SFAS No. 115, “Accounting for Certain Investments in Debt and Equity Securities”. The Company purchases its auction rate securities at par, and records any unrealized gains and losses in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, a component of Stockholders’ Equity. Cost is determined on the specific identification basis. Interest income is accrued as earned.
At July 31, 2008, we held $132,550 (par value) of long-term investments comprised of taxable and tax-exempt auction rate securities (ARSs), which are variable-rate debt securities and have a long-term maturity with the interest being reset through Dutch auctions that are typically held every 7, 28 or 35 days. The securities have historically traded at par and are callable at par at the option of the issuer. Interest is typically paid at the end of each auction period or semi-annually. At July 31, 2008, substantially all of the ARSs we held were AAA rated, or equivalent, and none were below AA rated, or equivalent, with most collateralized by student loans and substantially backed by the U.S. Federal Government.
Since February 12, 2008, most auctions have failed for all of these securities and there is no assurance that future auctions on the auction rate securities in our investment portfolio will succeed and, as a result, our ability to liquidate our investment and fully recover the par value of our investment in the near term may be limited or not exist. An auction failure means that the parties wishing to sell securities could not.
At July 31, 2008, there was insufficient observable ARS market information available to determine the fair value of our investments. Therefore, management, assisted by Houlihan Smith & Company, Inc., an independent consultant, determined an estimated fair value. In determining the estimate, consideration was given to credit quality, final stated maturities, estimates on the probability of the issue being called prior to final maturity, impact due to extended periods of maximum auction rates and broker quotes. Based on this analysis, we recorded a temporary impairment of $6,147 related to our ARS investments as of July 31, 2008. We believe this temporary impairment is primarily attributable to the limited liquidity of these investments.
We have no reason to believe that any of the underlying issuers of our ARSs are presently at risk of default. Through August 31, 2008, we have continued to receive interest payments on the ARSs in accordance with their terms. We believe we will be able to liquidate our investments without significant loss primarily due to the government guarantee of the underlying securities; however, it could take until the final maturity of the underlying notes (up to 40 years) to realize our investments’ par value. Due to these recent changes and uncertainty in the ARS market, we believe the recovery period for these investments may be longer than twelve months and as a result, we have classified these investments as long-term as of July 31, 2008. We currently have the ability and the intent to hold these ARS investments until recovery of the auction process or until maturity.
C. GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS
Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) No. 142, “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets”, requires goodwill to be tested for impairment at least annually and more frequently if an event occurs which indicates the goodwill may be impaired. On an annual basis, we test goodwill for impairment as of April 30.
The components of other intangibles are as follows:
                                 
    July 31, 2008   July 31, 2007
            Accumulated           Accumulated
    Cost   Amortization   Cost   Amortization
Amortizable Intangible Assets- Non-compete agreements
  $ 5,938     $ 4,845     $ 6,256     $ 4,350  
Aggregate amortization expense for non-compete agreements for the years ended July 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006 were $813, $935, and $949, respectively. Non-compete agreements are amortized on a straight-line basis.
The weighted average remaining amortization period at July 31, 2008 is 2.65 years.

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Estimated Amortization Expense:
         
For the year ending July 2009
  $ 476  
For the year ending July 2010
  $ 322  
For the year ending July 2011
  $ 238  
For the year ending July 2012
  $ 57  
In accordance with SFAS 142, goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets are not subject to amortization. Goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets are reviewed for impairment by applying a fair-value based test on an annual basis, or more frequently if circumstances indicate a potential impairment.
Management engages an independent valuation firm to assist in its impairment assessment reviews. The value of all indefinite-lived trademarks was determined using a royalty savings methodology similar to that employed when the associated businesses were acquired but using updated estimates of sales, cash flow and profitability. The fair value of the Company’s reporting units for purposes of goodwill testing was determined primarily by employing a discounted cash flow methodology.
As of April 30, 2007, the Company completed its impairment analysis and determined that a charge for impairment was not required. The Company’s recently completed impairment review as of April 30, 2008 resulted in a non-cash goodwill impairment charge of $7,535 in the fourth quarter for the goodwill associated with an operating subsidiary in the motorized reportable segment. The impairment results from the difficult market environment and outlook for the motorhome business.
Goodwill and trademarks by segment totaled as follows:
                                 
    July 31, 2008     July 31, 2007  
    Goodwill     Trademark     Goodwill     Trademark  
Recreation Vehicles
                               
Towables
  $ 143,795     $ 10,237     $ 143,795     $ 10,237  
Motorized
    9,717       2,600       17,252       2,600  
Buses
    4,616       1,063       4,616       1,063  
 
                       
Total
  $ 158,128     $ 13,900     $ 165,663     $ 13,900  
 
                       
D. INVENTORIES
Major classifications of inventories are:
                 
    As of July 31,  
    2008     2007  
Finished products
  $ 13,584     $ 12,326  
Work in process
    51,162       52,102  
Raw materials
    79,356       87,245  
Chassis
    37,562       42,528  
 
           
Subtotal
    181,664       194,201  
Less excess of FIFO costs over LIFO costs
    29,082       25,221  
 
           
Total inventories
  $ 152,582     $ 168,980  
 
           
E. LINE OF CREDIT
The Company has a $30,000 unsecured revolving line of credit which bears interest at prime less 2.15% (2.85% at July 31, 2008) and expires on November 30, 2008. There was no outstanding balance at July 31, 2008 and July 31, 2007. The loan agreement executed in connection with the line of credit contains certain covenants, including restrictions on additional indebtedness, and requires the Company to maintain certain financial ratios. The Company intends to renew the unsecured revolving line of credit prior to expiration.

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F. INCOME TAXES
                         
    Years ended July 31,  
    2008     2007     2006  
Income taxes:
                       
Federal
  $ 79,263     $ 66,049     $ 82,256  
State and local
    11,979       (3,065 )     13,415  
Foreign
    250       469       1,129  
 
                 
Total current
    91,492       63,453       96,800  
 
                 
Federal deferred
    (27,981 )     (1,396 )     (3,863 )
State and local deferred
    (3,810 )     72       (231 )
 
                 
Total deferred
    (31,791 )     (1,324 )     (4,094 )
 
                 
Income taxes
  $ 59,701     $ 62,129     $ 92,706  
 
                 
During the year ended July 31, 2007, the Company settled an Internal Revenue Service examination and a tax dispute with the State of Indiana. The Company reversed related income tax reserves and recognized a current tax benefit in the provision for income taxes of approximately $9,300.
The differences between income taxes at the federal statutory rate and the actual income taxes are as follows:
                         
    Years ended July 31,  
    2008     2007     2006  
Provision at statutory rates
  $ 53,342     $ 68,901     $ 89,639  
State and local income taxes, net of federal tax benefit
    5,310       5,363       8,730  
Extraterritorial income benefit
          (362 )     (1,013 )
Credits and incentives
    (521 )     (1,150 )     (233 )
Domestic production activities deduction
    (4,099 )     (1,988 )     (2,396 )
Other, including adjustments of income tax reserves
    5,669       (8,635 )     (2,021 )
 
                 
Income taxes
  $ 59,701     $ 62,129     $ 92,706  
 
                 
Income before income taxes includes foreign income (loss) of ($573) in fiscal 2008, $1,226 in fiscal 2007, and $2,962 in fiscal 2006.
                         
    July 31,     July 31,     July 31,  
    2008     2007     2006  
A summary of deferred income taxes is:
                       
Current deferred tax asset (liability):
                       
Inventory basis
  $ (1,305 )   $ (1,166 )   $ (1,076 )
Employee benefits
    2,375       1,454       2,110  
Self-insurance
    4,970       2,506       (518 )
Product warranties
    23,260       1,980       3,377  
Accrued incentives
    4,205       1,733       1,543  
Other
    386       (502 )     (538 )
 
                 
Total current deferred tax asset included in deferred income taxes and other
  $ 33,891     $ 6,005     $ 4,898  
 
                 
Long-term deferred tax asset (liability):
                       
Property basis
    (1,908 )     (2,203 )     (2,211 )
Investments
    1,410       168       162  
Deferred compensation
    5,169       4,773       3,859  
Auction rate securities
    2,337              
Intangibles
    (3,858 )     (6,034 )     (5,267 )
Foreign currency translation
    (1,715 )            
Other
    (328 )     (64 )     (120 )
 
                 
Total net long-term deferred tax liability included in deferred income taxes and other liabilities
    1,107       (3,360 )     (3,577 )
 
                 
Net deferred tax asset
  $ 34,998     $ 2,645     $ 1,321  
 
                 
The Company’s net deferred tax asset increased primarily as a result of the Company’s decision not to prefund a portion of its insurance premium to its captive. Additionally, the net deferred tax asset increased because of the impairment of tax deductible goodwill and fixed assets. As of July 31, 2008, the Company had a $3,600 capital loss carryover that it expects to realize.

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The Company adopted FASB Interpretation No. 48 (“FIN 48”), “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes — an Interpretation of FASB Statement No. 109,” on August 1, 2007. FIN 48 clarifies the accounting for uncertainties in income tax law by prescribing a minimum recognition threshold a tax position is required to meet before being recognized for financial accounting purposes. FIN 48 also provides guidance on derecognition, measurement, classification, interest and penalties, and disclosure.
On August 1, 2007 the Company recognized a cumulative effect adjustment of approximately $17,200 as a reduction to the balance of retained earnings and an increase in tax liabilities of $11,300 and an increase in liability for penalties and interest of $5,900. The amount of unrecognized tax benefits as of August 1, 2007 totaled $25,900, all of which would increase income from continuing operations, and thus impact the Company’s effective tax rate, if ultimately recognized into income. Unrecognized state income tax benefits are reported net of their related deferred federal income tax benefit.
Changes in the unrecognized tax benefit during fiscal year 2008 were as follows:
         
    Unrecognized  
    Tax Benefit  
Beginning balance – August 1, 2007
  $   19,463  
Tax positions related to prior years:
       
Additions
     
Reductions
    (7 )
Tax positions related to current year:
       
Additions
    3,805  
Reductions
     
Settlements
    (1,573 )
Lapses in statute of limitations
    (656 )
 
     
Ending balance — July 31, 2008
  $ 21,032  
 
     
It is the Company’s policy to recognize interest and penalties accrued relative to unrecognized tax benefits in income tax expense. The total amount of liability accrued for interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits as of July 31, 2008 and August 1, 2007, respectively, were $10,600 and $6,500. Interest and penalties are not included in the schedule above of unrecognized tax benefits.
The Company and its corporate subsidiaries file a consolidated U.S. federal income tax return and multiple state income tax returns. The federal returns are subject to examination by taxing authorities for all years after 2005. We are currently under audit by the Internal Revenue Service for 2006 through 2007 tax years. We are currently under audit by various state Departments of Revenue for 2002 through 2005 tax years. The anticipated effect on unrecognized tax benefits resulting from these audits is not expected to have a material impact on the financial statements.
The Company anticipates a decrease of approximately $2,200 in unrecognized tax benefits within the next 12 months from (1) expected settlements or payments of uncertain tax positions, and (2) lapses of the applicable statutes of limitations. Actual results may differ materially from this estimate.
G. LEASES
The Company has operating leases principally for land, buildings and equipment. Future minimum rental payments required under these operating leases are $8,759, which includes the following amount due in each of the next five fiscal years ending July 31: $3,555 in fiscal 2009; $2,767 in fiscal 2010; $1,381 in fiscal 2011; $741 in fiscal 2012; $218 in fiscal 2013 and $97 thereafter. Rent expense was $4,457 in fiscal 2008, $4,736 in fiscal 2007 and $4,956 in fiscal 2006.
H. EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS
Substantially all non-highly compensated employees are eligible to participate in a 401(k) plan. Company contributions are at the discretion of the Company’s Board of Directors. Total expense for the plan was $597 in fiscal 2008, $571 in fiscal 2007, and $644 in fiscal 2006.
The Company has established a deferred compensation plan for executives who do not participate in a 401(k) plan. This plan allows executives to defer a portion of their compensation and to direct the Company to invest the funds in mutual fund investments held by the Company. Participant benefits are limited to the value of the investments held on their behalf. Investments held by the Company

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are accounted for at fair market value and reported as other assets. The obligation to the participants is reported as a liability. No income or loss is recorded through the Consolidated Statements of Income. The Company does not make contributions to the plan. The balance of investments held in this plan was $10,948 at July 31, 2008 and $10,515 at July 31, 2007.
I. CONTINGENT LIABILITIES AND COMMITMENTS
It is customary practice for companies in the recreation vehicle industry to enter into repurchase agreements with financing institutions to provide financing to their dealers. Generally, these agreements provide for the repurchase of products from the financing institution in the event of a dealer’s default.
Our principal commercial commitments at July 31, 2008 are summarized in the following chart:
                 
    Total   Term of
Commitment   Amount Commitment   Commitments
Guarantee on dealer financing
  $ 1,786     less than 1 year
Standby repurchase obligation on dealer financing
  $ 817,248     less than 1 year
The risk of loss under these agreements is spread over numerous dealers and further reduced by the resale value of the units which the company would be required to repurchase. Losses under these agreements have not been significant in the periods presented in the consolidated financial statements, and management believes that any future losses under these agreements will not have a significant effect on the Company’s consolidated financial position or results of operations.
The Company records repurchase and guarantee reserves based on prior experience and known current events. The combined repurchase and guarantee reserve balances are approximately $5,040 as of July 31, 2008 and $1,293 as of July 31, 2007. We have increased our reserve for repurchases and guarantees to provide for future losses. The increase in losses results from the more difficult market for the recreation vehicle business.
                         
    Fiscal 2008     Fiscal 2007     Fiscal 2006  
Cost of units repurchased
  $ 11,908     $ 10,078     $ 4,878  
Realization of units resold
    10,051       9,061       4,230  
 
                 
Losses due to repurchase
  $ 1,857     $ 1,017     $ 648  
 
                 
The Company obtains certain vehicle chassis from automobile manufacturers under converter pool agreements. These agreements generally provide that the manufacturer will supply chassis at the Company’s various production facilities under the terms and conditions set forth in the agreement. The manufacturer does not transfer the certificate of origin to the Company and, accordingly, the Company accounts for the chassis as consigned, unrecorded inventory. Chassis are typically converted and delivered to customers within 90 days of delivery. If the chassis is not converted within 90 days of delivery to the Company, the Company generally purchases the chassis and records the inventory. At July 31, 2008 and July 31, 2007, chassis on hand accounted for as consigned, unrecorded inventory was approximately $38,639 and $45,848 respectively.
Thor has been named in several complaints, some of which are putative class actions, filed against manufacturers of travel trailers and manufactured homes supplied to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to be used for emergency living accommodations in the wake of Hurricane Katrina. The complaints generally allege injury due to the presence of formaldehyde in the units. Thor strongly disputes the allegations in these complaints and intends to vigorously defend itself in all such matters. The Company is involved in various litigation generally incidental to normal operations.
J. STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
The Company purchased 435,739 shares of Thor’s common stock in fiscal 2008 at an average cost of $31.12 per share to be held as treasury shares. In fiscal 2007, the Company purchased 40,400 shares of Thor’s common stock at an average cost of $40.35 per share to be held as treasury shares.
The Board approved the Thor Industries, Inc. 2006 Equity Incentive Plan (the “Equity Incentive Plan”) on October 16, 2006 and this plan was subsequently approved by shareholders at the 2006 annual meeting. The Equity Incentive Plan is designed, among other things, to replace the Company’s 1999 Stock Option Plan (the “1999 Plan”) and the Company’s 1997 Restricted Stock Plan (the “1997 Plan”). Upon approval of the Equity Incentive Plan, the 1999 Plan and the 1997 Plan were frozen. As a result, there will be no further grants under options, restricted stock or other equity-based awards pursuant to either the 1999 Plan or the 1997 Plan. However, outstanding grants of both plans remain outstanding, subject to the respective terms and conditions of the plans. The maximum

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number of shares issuable under the Equity Incentive Plan is 1,100,000. Awards may be in the form of options (incentive stock options and non-statutory stock options), restricted stock, restricted stock units, performance compensation awards and stock appreciation rights. 2,000,000 shares were authorized under the 1999 Plan. Options expire 10 years from the date of grant and are vested evenly over 3 to 4 years from the date of grant.
Stock Options – A summary of option activity under the Stock Option Plans is as follows:
                                                 
    2008   2007   2006
            Weighted-           Weighted-           Weighted-
            Average           Average           Average
    Shares   Exercise Price   Shares   Exercise Price   Shares   Exercise Price
Outstanding at beginning of year
    409,420     $ 21.92       533,038     $ 21.29       704,041     $ 19.63  
Exercised
    (94,859 )     23.25       (123,618 )     15.60       (171,003 )     14.47  
Canceled
                                   
Granted
    200,000       26.55                          
 
                                               
Outstanding at end of year
    514,561     $ 23.48       409,420     $ 21.92       533,038     $ 21.29  
 
                                               
Exercisable at year-end
    313,311     $ 21.50       388,420     $ 21.53       382,843     $ 18.79  
 
                                               
The weighted average-remaining contractual life for options outstanding and exercisable at July 31, 2008, was 6.75 and 4.79 years, respectively.
The aggregate intrinsic value of options outstanding and exercisable as of July 31 is as follows:
                         
    2008   2007   2006
Aggregate intrinsic value of options outstanding
  $ 1,039     $ 7,818     $ 11,486  
Aggregate intrinsic value of options exercisable
  $ 1,039     $ 7,571     $ 9,209  
The fair value of each option award is estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model. Assumptions utilized in the model are evaluated when awards are granted. Forfeiture assumptions are revised as necessary to reflect experience. The fair value of the stock options is based upon the market price of the underlying common stock as of the date of the grant, reduced by the present value of estimated future dividends, and risk-free interest rates. The risk-free rate for periods within the contractual life of the option is based on the U.S. treasury security rate estimated for the expected life of the options at the date of grant. Expected volatilities are based on the historical volatility of our stock. The expected term of the options represents the period of time that options granted are outstanding and is estimated using historical exercise and termination behavior.
The weighted average fair value of options granted was $10.54 in fiscal 2008 as calculated by the Black-Scholes method. The assumptions used in determining the fair value of options granted during fiscal 2008 are as follows:
         
    2008
Expected volatility
    40 %
Expected life of grant
  6 years
Risk-free interest rate
    3.3 %
Expected dividend rate
    0.9 %
In fiscal year 2008, 2007, and 2006 the Company recorded expenses of $179, $408 and $858 respectively for stock option awards. At July 31, 2008, there was $1,227 of total unrecognized compensation costs related to stock options that is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 2.79 years.
Cash received from stock option exercises for the year ended July 31, 2008, July 31, 2007, and July 31, 2006 was $ 2,205, $2,373 and $2,474 respectively. The total intrinsic value of stock options exercised in 2008, 2007 and 2006 was $2,025, $2,923, and $5,417, respectively.
Exercises of options are satisfied with the issuance of new shares from authorized shares.
Stock Awards – The Company’s 1997 Restricted Stock Plan allowed for the granting of up to 600,000 shares of restricted stock to selected executives. Restrictions expire 50% after 5 years following the date of issue and the balance after six years.

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A summary of stock award activity under this Plan is as follows:
                                                 
    2008   2007   2006
            Weighted           Weighted           Weighted
            Average Grant           Average Grant           Average Grant
    Shares   Date Fair Value   Shares   Date Fair Value   Shares   Date Fair Value
Nonvested, Beginning of year
    71,000     $ 16.24       94,700     $ 14.33       115,700     $ 12.93  
Granted
                                   
Vested
    (39,000 )     13.79       (22,200 )     7.62       (16,800 )     5.77  
Forfeited
                (1,500 )     23.38       (4,200 )     9.98  
 
                                               
Nonvested, End of year
    32,000     $ 19.22       71,000     $ 16.24       94,700     $ 14.33  
 
                                               
In fiscal 2008, 2007 and 2006 the Company recorded expense for restricted stock awards of $177, $202 and $211 respectively. At July 31, 2008, there was $80 of total unrecognized compensation costs related to restricted stock awards that is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 0.9 years.
The total fair value of restricted stock vested during fiscal year 2008, 2007 and 2006 was $1,747, $970 and $604 respectively.
K. JOINT VENTURES
In March 1996, the Company and Cruise America, Inc., an unrelated third party, formed a joint venture, CAT Joint Venture LLC (“CAT”), to make short-term rentals of motorized recreation vehicles to the public. As of July 31, 2008 we were contingently liable for repurchase obligations of CAT inventory in the amount of approximately $17,935. Any losses related to these obligations would be shared equally by the Company and Cruise America. The Company’s total investment is $1,691.
In March 1994, the Company and a financial services company formed a joint venture, Thor Credit Corporation (TCC), to finance the sales of recreation vehicles to consumer buyers. Historically, the majority of these financing arrangements were provided to consumers buying recreation vehicles manufactured by unrelated parties. The Company’s total investment is $1,577.
These investments are 50% owned and are accounted for using the equity method. The Company’s share of the combined earnings (loss) for these investments was $598, $(66), and $(63), in fiscal 2008, 2007 and 2006 respectively, and is included in the other income caption of the Consolidated Statements of Income. Additionally, TCC pays the Company a referral fee based upon the amount of loans generated from Thor’s dealers. The Company recognized referral income of $1,506, $1,519 and $1,564 in fiscal 2008, 2007 and 2006 respectively, which is included in the other income caption of the Consolidated Statements of Income.
During fiscal 2008, our Four Winds subsidiary had sales to Cruise America of $19,485 and Cruise America had sales to CAT of $9,106. During fiscal 2007, our Four Winds subsidiary had sales to Cruise America of $32,688 and Cruise America had sales to CAT of $11,315. During fiscal 2006, our Four Winds subsidiary had sales to Cruise America of $32,277 and Cruise America had sales to CAT of $6,657.
In September 2008, the Company and GEMB Lending, Inc. dissolved Thor Credit, a 50/50 owned joint venture. GEMB Lending, Inc. had informed the Company it would no longer be providing retail financing for recreation vehicles after July 31, 2008. The Company is exploring other options to provide retail financing for recreation vehicles.
L. BUSINESS SEGMENTS
The Company has three reportable segments: 1.) towable recreation vehicles, 2.) motorized recreation vehicles, and 3.) buses. The towable recreation vehicle segment consists of product lines from the following operating companies that have been aggregated: Airstream, Breckenridge, CrossRoads, Dutchmen, General Coach Hensall & Oliver, Keystone, and Komfort. The motorized recreation vehicle segment consists of product lines from the following operating companies that have been aggregated: Airstream, Damon, and Four Winds. The bus segment consists of the following operating companies that have been aggregated: Champion Bus, ElDorado California, ElDorado Kansas and Goshen Coach.
Manufacturing and sales are conducted in the United States and, to a much lesser extent, in Canada. Identifiable assets are those assets used in the operation of each reportable segment. Corporate assets primarily consist of cash and cash equivalents, investments, deferred income tax assets and the cash value of Company-owned life insurance.

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    2008     2007     2006  
     
Net sales:
                       
Recreation vehicles
                       
Towables
  $ 1,763,099     $ 1,890,100     $ 2,173,483  
Motorized
    461,856       565,523       577,025  
 
                 
Total Recreation Vehicles
    2,224,955       2,455,623       2,750,508  
Buses
    415,725       400,685       315,768  
 
                 
Total
  $ 2,640,680     $ 2,856,308     $ 3,066,276  
 
                 
Income before income taxes:
                       
Recreation vehicles
                       
Towables
  $ 146,306     $ 165,259     $ 228,592  
Motorized
    (522 )     25,140       27,404  
 
                 
Total recreation vehicles
    145,784       190,399       255,996  
Buses
    21,132       18,997       9,356  
Corporate
    (14,509 )     (12,536 )     (9,241 )
 
                 
Total
  $ 152,407     $ 196,860     $ 256,111  
 
                 
Identifiable assets:
                       
Recreation vehicles
                       
Towables
  $ 409,793     $ 449,276     $ 483,324  
Motorized
    108,740       147,598       150,058  
 
                 
Total recreation vehicles
    518,533       596,874       633,382  
Buses
    110,647       105,864       103,861  
Corporate
    367,382       356,559       267,482  
 
                 
Total
  $ 996,562     $ 1,059,297     $ 1,004,725  
 
                 
Depreciation and amortization expense:
                       
Recreation vehicles
                       
Towables
  $ 10,119     $ 8,913     $ 8,012  
Motorized
    4,729       2,916       4,365  
 
                 
Total recreation vehicles
    14,848       11,829       12,377  
Buses
    2,035       1,876       1,629  
Corporate
    138       200       40  
 
                 
Total
  $ 17,021     $ 13,905     $ 14,046  
 
                 
Capital expenditures:
                       
Recreation vehicles
                       
Towables
  $ 6,786     $ 7,825     $ 23,575  
Motorized
    5,055       3,913       2,955  
 
                 
Total recreation vehicles
    11,841       11,738       26,530  
Buses
    1,094       1,226       4,395  
Corporate
    1,880       141       83  
 
                 
Total
  $ 14,815     $ 13,105     $ 31,008  
 
                 
Export sales to Canada from our U.S. operations were $421,008, $360,198 and $307,499 in fiscal 2008, 2007, and 2006, respectively. We believe the increase is attributable to the strengthening of the Canadian dollar as compared to the U.S. dollar which in turn has increased the purchasing power and demand for our U.S. products from Canadian customers.
M. WARRANTY
Thor provides customers of our product with a warranty covering defects in material or workmanship for primarily one year, with longer warranties of up to five years on certain structural components. We record a liability based on our best estimate of the amounts necessary to settle future and existing claims on products sold as of the balance sheet date. Factors we use in estimating the warranty liability include a history of units sold, existing dealer inventory, average cost incurred and a profile of the distribution of warranty expenditures over the warranty period. A significant increase in dealer shop rates, the cost of parts or the frequency of claims could have a material adverse impact on our operating results for the period or periods in which such claims or additional costs materialize. Management believes that the warranty reserves are adequate. However, actual claims incurred could differ from estimates, requiring adjustments to the reserves. Warranty reserves are reviewed and adjusted as necessary on a quarterly basis.

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Table of Contents

                         
    Year Ended     Year Ended     Year Ended  
    July 31, 2008     July 31, 2007     July 31, 2006  
Beginning Balance
  $ 64,310     $ 59,795     $ 55,118  
Provision
    63,525       66,324       63,137  
Payments
    (66,092 )     (61,809 )     (58,460 )
 
                 
Ending Balance
  $ 61,743     $ 64,310     $ 59,795  
 
                 
N. SALE OF BUSINESS
In June 2008, the Company sold its Thor California travel trailer and fifth wheel business to MVP RV Acquisition Corporation (MVP), a new company owned by Thor California’s former management team. In connection with the sale, the Company received a note receivable of $2,401 payable over seven years which bears interest at 6% per annum. The Company subleased a production facility to MVP but remains an obligor under the lease. The Company also agreed to continue to provide certain limited financial support to MVP with respect to its flooring arrangements. MVP agreed to assume certain balance sheet liabilities of Thor California, including liabilities with respect to warranty claims. As repayment of the note, which constituted the principal consideration in the transaction, was dependent on future successful operations of the purchaser, and based on the continuing relationship subsequent to the closing date, the Company determined that it retained substantial risks of the business. Accordingly, although legal transfer of ownership of the business occurred, the sale was not treated as a divestiture for accounting purposes. The Company recorded provisions of approximately $5,400 in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2008 in connection with this sale transaction relating to asset impairment and pre-existing liabilities.

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