UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

Form 10-Q

 

QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d)

OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

 

For Quarterly Period Ended May 31, 2007

 

Commission File Number 001-14920

 

McCORMICK & COMPANY, INCORPORATED

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

MARYLAND

 

52-0408290

(State or other jurisdiction of

 

(I.R.S. Employer

incorporation or organization)

 

Identification No.)

 

18 Loveton Circle, P. O. Box 6000, Sparks, MD

 

21152-6000

(Address of principal executive offices)

 

(Zip Code)

 

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code (410) 771-7301

 

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 filing requirements for the past 90 days.   Yes x   Noo

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

Large Accelerated Filer x   Accelerated Filer o Non-Accelerated Filer o

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

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer’s classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date.

 

Shares Outstanding

 

 

 

May 31, 2007

 

Common Stock

 

13,105,799

 

Common Stock Non-Voting

 

116,584,812

 

 

 




TABLE OF CONTENTS

PART I — FINANCIAL INFORMATION

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ITEM 1

 

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ITEM 2

 

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ITEM 3

 

QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ITEM 4

 

CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

PART II — OTHER INFORMATION

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ITEM 1

 

LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ITEM 1A

 

RISK FACTORS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ITEM 2

 

UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ITEM 4

 

SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ITEM 6

 

EXHIBITS

 

 

 

 

2




PART I — FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1   FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

McCORMICK & COMPANY, INCORPORATED
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENT (UNAUDITED)
(in thousands except per share amounts)

 

 

Three months ended

 

Six months ended

 

 

 

May 31,

 

May 31,

 

 

 

2007

 

2006

 

2007

 

2006

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net sales

 

$

687,214

 

$

639,906

 

$

1,339,854

 

$

1,249,607

 

Cost of goods sold

 

415,414

 

389,342

 

803,702

 

759,958

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gross profit

 

271,800

 

250,564

 

536,152

 

489,649

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Selling, general and administrative expense

 

198,452

 

187,347

 

389,091

 

368,975

 

Restructuring charges

 

6,440

 

8,519

 

13,803

 

41,683

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Operating income

 

66,908

 

54,698

 

133,258

 

78,991

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interest expense

 

15,232

 

12,324

 

29,085

 

25,186

 

Other income, net

 

(2,227

)

(1,775

)

(4,071

)

(2,923

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income from consolidated operations before income taxes

 

53,903

 

44,149

 

108,244

 

56,728

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income taxes

 

16,755

 

13,068

 

32,744

 

17,093

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income from consolidated operations

 

37,148

 

31,081

 

75,500

 

39,635

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gain (loss) on sale of unconsolidated operations

 

(555

)

26,528

 

(845

)

26,528

 

Income from unconsolidated operations

 

5,023

 

4,765

 

11,596

 

12,044

 

Minority interest

 

(191

)

(730

)

(598

)

(2,174

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income

 

$

41,425

 

$

61,644

 

$

85,653

 

$

76,033

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Earnings per common share — basic

 

$

0.32

 

$

0.47

 

$

0.66

 

$

0.57

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Average shares outstanding — basic

 

130,150

 

132,182

 

130,193

 

132,384

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Earnings per common share — diluted

 

$

0.31

 

$

0.46

 

$

0.64

 

$

0.56

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Average shares outstanding — diluted

 

133,637

 

135,420

 

133,837

 

135,373

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash dividends paid per common share

 

$

0.20

 

$

0.18

 

$

0.40

 

$

0.36

 

 

See notes to condensed consolidated financial statements (unaudited).

 

3




McCORMICK & COMPANY, INCORPORATED
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET
(in thousands)

 

 

May 31,
2007

 

May 31,
2006

 

November 30,
2006

 

 

 

(unaudited)

 

(unaudited)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ASSETS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Current Assets

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents

 

$

40,469

 

$

74,068

 

$

49,043

 

Receivables, net

 

360,930

 

327,066

 

379,063

 

Inventories

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Raw materials and supplies

 

180,120

 

191,379

 

172,196

 

Finished products and work-in-process

 

247,392

 

190,484

 

233,531

 

 

 

427,512

 

381,863

 

405,727

 

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

 

59,470

 

49,967

 

65,626

 

Total current assets

 

888,381

 

832,964

 

899,459

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Property, plant and equipment

 

993,441

 

932,436

 

965,824

 

Less: accumulated depreciation

 

(521,083

)

(475,579

)

(496,360

)

Total property, plant and equipment, net

 

472,358

 

456,857

 

469,464

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Goodwill, net

 

819,866

 

721,952

 

803,823

 

Intangible assets, net

 

193,514

 

161,650

 

193,570

 

Prepaid allowances

 

47,007

 

48,480

 

45,494

 

Investments and other assets

 

162,969

 

141,512

 

156,152

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total assets

 

$

2,584,095

 

$

2,363,415

 

$

2,567,962

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Current Liabilities

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Short-term borrowings

 

$

195,714

 

$

148,696

 

$

80,835

 

Current portion of long-term debt

 

151,325

 

2,560

 

573

 

Trade accounts payable

 

215,606

 

174,638

 

224,361

 

Other accrued liabilities

 

332,408

 

377,476

 

474,770

 

Total current liabilities

 

895,053

 

703,370

 

780,539

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Long-term debt

 

415,849

 

462,957

 

569,591

 

Other long-term liabilities

 

264,120

 

283,676

 

281,001

 

Total liabilities

 

1,575,022

 

1,450,003

 

1,631,131

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Minority interest

 

4,465

 

3,359

 

3,555

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Shareholders’ Equity

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Common stock

 

191,488

 

166,274

 

177,898

 

Common stock non-voting

 

289,430

 

253,839

 

266,385

 

Retained earnings

 

355,392

 

384,095

 

348,681

 

Accumulated other comprehensive income

 

168,298

 

105,845

 

140,312

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total shareholders’ equity

 

1,004,608

 

910,053

 

933,276

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity

 

$

2,584,095

 

$

2,363,415

 

$

2,567,962

 

 

See notes to condensed consolidated financial statements (unaudited).

4




McCORMICK & COMPANY, INCORPORATED
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED CASH FLOW STATEMENT (UNAUDITED)
(in thousands)

 

 

Six months ended

 

 

 

May 31,

 

 

 

2007

 

2006

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash flows from operating activities

 

 

 

 

 

Net income

 

$

85,653

 

$

76,033

 

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash flow from operating activities:

 

 

 

 

 

Depreciation and amortization

 

39,917

 

39,458

 

Stock-based compensation

 

13,440

 

14,753

 

Loss/(gain) on sale of unconsolidated operations

 

845

 

(26,528

)

Income from unconsolidated operations

 

(11,596

)

(12,044

)

Changes in operating assets and liabilities

 

(145,916

)

(22,119

)

Dividends from unconsolidated affiliates

 

9,674

 

9,100

 

Net cash flow (used in) from operating activities

 

(7,983

)

78,653

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash flows from investing activities

 

 

 

 

 

Acquisition of business

 

(3,127

)

 

Capital expenditures

 

(34,806

)

(31,335

)

Proceeds from redemption of unconsolidated operations

 

 

20,000

 

Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment

 

100

 

298

 

Net cash flow used in investing activities

 

(37,833

)

(11,037

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash flows from financing activities

 

 

 

 

 

Short-term borrowings, net

 

115,129

 

43,327

 

Long-term debt borrowings

 

 

198,558

 

Long-term debt repayments

 

(220

)

(195,432

)

Proceeds from exercised stock options

 

27,886

 

25,235

 

Common stock acquired by purchase

 

(57,536

)

(60,393

)

Dividends paid

 

(52,136

)

(47,710

)

Net cash flow from (used in) financing activities

 

33,123

 

(36,415

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents

 

4,119

 

12,604

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(Decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents

 

(8,574

)

43,805

 

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period

 

49,043

 

30,263

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period

 

$

40,469

 

$

74,068

 

 

See notes to condensed consolidated financial statements (unaudited).

 

5




McCORMICK & COMPANY, INCORPORATED
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Unaudited)

1.                             ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Basis of Presentation

The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the instructions to Form 10-Q and do not include all the information and notes required by United States generally accepted accounting principles for complete financial statements. In our opinion, the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements contain all adjustments, which are of a normal and recurring nature, necessary to present fairly the financial position and the results of operations for the interim periods.

The results of consolidated operations for the three and six month periods ended May 31, 2007 are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the full year. Historically, our consolidated sales and net income are lower in the first half of the fiscal year and increase in the second half. The increase in sales and earnings in the second half of the year is mainly due to the U.S. consumer business cycle, where customers typically purchase more products in the fourth quarter due to the holiday season.

For further information, refer to the consolidated financial statements and notes included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended November 30, 2006.

Accounting and Disclosure Changes

In September 2006, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued SFAS No. 158, “Employers’ Accounting for Defined Benefit Pension and Other Postretirement Plans.” This statement will require us to (a) record a liability on our balance sheet for our pension plans’ underfunded status (b) record any changes in the funded status of our pension and postretirement plans in the year in which the changes occur (reported in comprehensive income) and (c) measure our pension and postretirement assets and liabilities at November 30 versus our current measurement date of September 30. The requirements to record the funded status and certain disclosure requirements are effective for our year ending November 30, 2007 and will be reflected in our year-end report. The requirement to change the measurement date is effective for our year ending November 30, 2009. Since our plans are currently in an underfunded status, we expect to record a liability of approximately $50 million, net of deferred taxes, and a corresponding charge to shareholders’ equity upon adoption.

6




In September 2006, the FASB issued SFAS No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements.” This statement defines fair value and provides guidance for measuring fair value and the necessary disclosures.  This statement does not require any new fair value measurements but rather applies to all other accounting pronouncements that require or permit fair value measurements. SFAS No. 157 will be effective for our first quarter ending February 29, 2008. We do not expect any material impact from adoption of this new accounting pronouncement on our financial statements.

In June 2006, the FASB issued Interpretation 48 (“FIN 48”), “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes.” FIN 48 clarifies the accounting for income taxes when it is uncertain how an income or expense item should be treated on an income tax return. FIN 48 describes when an uncertain tax item should be recorded in the financial statements and for how much, provides guidance on recording interest and penalties and accounting and reporting for income taxes in interim periods. FIN 48 is effective for our year ending November 30, 2008. We have not yet determined the impact from adoption of this new accounting pronouncement on our financial statements.

Reclassifications

Certain amounts in the prior year have been reclassified to conform to the current year presentation. In the May 31, 2006 consolidated balance sheet, the net book value of in-store displays of $17.8 million has been reclassified from property, plant and equipment to other assets to conform to the current year presentation. In 2006, $2.4 million of expenditures for in-store displays were reclassified from investing activities to operating activities in the cash flow statement to conform to the current year presentation. The effect of these reclassifications is not material to the condensed consolidated financial statements.

2.                             ACQUISITIONS

Acquisitions of new brands are part of our growth strategy to improve margins and increase sales and profits.

On January 31, 2007, we purchased the assets of Fish Crisp Enterprises, Inc. (Fish Crisp), a business which operates in North America and is included in our consumer segment from the date of acquisition. Fish Crisp markets and sells seafood products under the Rocky Madsen’s Fish Crisp Original® and Gourmet Grill® brands and has annual sales of approximately $2 million. The total purchase price was $3.1 million.

On June 27, 2006, we purchased the assets of Epicurean International (Simply Asia Foods) for $97.6 million in cash.  This business operates in North America and has been included in our consumer segment since the date of acquisition. Simply Asia

7




Foods develops, imports and markets a line of authentic, easy-to-prepare Asian products under the Thai Kitchen® and Simply Asia® brands. Its primary products include noodle and soup bowls, meal kits, coconut milk, and various sauces and pastes.

As of May 31, 2007, $4.7 million was allocated to tangible net assets, $28.2 million was allocated to other intangibles assets and $64.7 million remained in goodwill for the Simply Asia Foods acquisition. We expect the final valuation, which is scheduled to be completed in the third quarter, to result in a value for brands and other intangible assets, a portion of which will be amortizable and a portion of which will be non-amortizable. Based on preliminary estimates, we have included amortization expense in the income statement.

On August 1, 2006, we invested $5.0 million in an industrial joint venture in South Africa.

3.                             STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION

The following table sets forth the stock-based compensation recorded in selling, general and administrative (SG&A) expense (in thousands):

 

 

Three months ended

 

Six months ended

 

 

 

May 31,

 

May 31,

 

 

 

2007

 

2006

 

2007

 

2006

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Stock-based compensation expense

 

$   8,623

 

$   4,951

 

$ 13,253

 

$ 13,680

 

 

Our 2007 annual grant of stock options and restricted stock units (RSU) occurred in the second quarter, whereas the 2006 annual grant occurred in the first quarter. The amount recorded for the three and six months ended May 31, 2006 includes $0.4 million and $5.1 million, respectively, for expenses associated with grants to individuals who were eligible for retirement on or before the grant date. For the three and six months ended May 31, 2007, the amount recorded for expenses associated with grants to individuals who were eligible for retirement on or before the grant date was $4.9 million. Additionally, we recognized $0.2 million and $1.1 million of stock-based compensation expense as part of our restructuring charges for the six months ended May 31, 2007 and 2006, respectively. This expense is for the acceleration of vesting in accordance with the provisions of the awards for employees who were terminated pursuant to the restructuring plan and, therefore, is part of our severance charges (see Note 4).

The fair values of grants in the stated periods were computed using the following range of assumptions for our various stock compensation plans for the six months ended May 31:

 

2007

 

2006

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Risk-free interest rates

 

4.5 - 5.1%

 

4.5 - 4.7%

 

Dividend yield

 

2.0 - 2.1%

 

2.0%

 

Expected volatility

 

13.4 - 24.9%

 

18.2 - 25.6%

 

Expected lives

 

1.9-5.3

 

5.4

 

 

8




The following is a summary of all option activity for the six months ended May 31:

 

2007

 

2006

 

(shares in thousands)

 

Number of
Shares

 

Weighted-
Average
Exercise
Price

 

Number of
Shares

 

Weighted-
Average
Exercise
Price

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Outstanding at beginning of year

 

15,771

 

$    25.31

 

17,466

 

$    24.58

 

Granted

 

754

 

38.20

 

555

 

32.96

 

Exercised

 

(1,091

)

22.80

 

(1,059

)

19.77

 

Forfeited

 

(126

)

33.70

 

(118

)

32.87

 

Outstanding at May 31

 

15,308

 

26.05

 

16,844

 

25.10

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Exercisable at May 31

 

12,566

 

$    23.99

 

12,138

 

$    22.34

 

 

The following is a summary of all of our RSU activity for the six months ended May 31:

 

2007

 

2006

 

(shares in thousands)

 

Number of
Shares

 

Weighted-
Average
Grant-Date
Fair Value

 

Number of
Shares

 

Weighted-
Average
Grant-Date
Fair Value

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Outstanding at beginning of year

 

280

 

$     32.88

 

 

 

Granted

 

257

 

38.28

 

290

 

$     32.87

 

Vested

 

(155

)

33.02

 

 

 

Forfeited

 

(4

)

34.16

 

(4

)

32.82

 

Outstanding at May 31

 

378

 

$     36.47

 

286

 

$     32.87

 

 

No options or RSU were granted in the first quarter of 2007. For the three months ended May 31, 2007, the weighted-average grant-date fair value of an option granted was $6.83. For the three and six months ended May 31, 2006, the weighted-average grant-date fair value of an option granted was $7.89 and $7.47, respectively. As of May 31, 2007 the intrinsic value (the difference between the exercise price and the market price) for all options outstanding was $172.1 million and the intrinsic value for all options exercisable was $167.1 million. The total intrinsic value of all options exercised was as follows (in millions):

 

 

Three months ended

 

Six months ended

 

 

 

May 31,

 

May 31,

 

 

 

2007

 

2006

 

2007

 

2006

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total intrinsic value for all options exercised

 

$         3.8

 

$       10.4

 

$       16.5

 

$       14.5

 

 

4.                             RESTRUCTURING ACTIVITIES

In November of 2005, the Board of Directors approved a restructuring plan to consolidate our global manufacturing,

9




rationalize our distribution facilities, improve our go-to-market strategy, eliminate administrative redundancies and rationalize our joint venture partnerships. We estimate total pre-tax charges of $110-$130 million for this program, inclusive of the $34 million pre-tax gain on the redemption of our Signature Brands, L.L.C. joint venture (see discussion below) recorded in 2006. The segment breakdown of the total charges is expected to be approximately 65% related to the consumer segment and approximately 35% related to the industrial segment. Of these charges, we expect approximately $85-$95 million will consist of severance and other personnel costs and approximately $50-$55 million for other exit costs. Asset write-offs are expected to be approximately $10-$15 million, exclusive of the $34 million pre-tax gain on the redemption of our Signature Brands, L.L.C. joint venture. We expect the cash related portion of the charges will be approximately $95-$105 million, of which approximately $45 million is expected to be spent in 2007. The actions being taken are expected to reduce our global workforce by approximately 1,100 over the three-year period.

Joint venture transactions — Previously, we participated in two separate joint ventures with the same joint venture partner, Hero A.G. We owned 50% of Signature Brands, L.L.C. (“Signature”) and 51% of Dessert Products International, S.A.S. (“DPI”) with Hero A.G. being the other owner of each of these businesses. Signature is a cake decorating business in the U.S. and DPI markets the Vahine brand of dessert aids in France and other European countries.

In the second quarter of 2006, we exchanged our 50% ownership investment in Signature for the 49% share of DPI owned by Hero A.G. In addition, we received $20.0 million in cash with this transaction. There was a purchase price adjustment which was settled in the third quarter of 2006 whereby we paid $10.8 million in cash to Hero A.G. The purchase price adjustment was considered in the calculation of the gain on Signature and the purchase price allocation of DPI.

In recording this transaction, we valued both the investment received and the investment given at their fair value. On the disposition of our Signature investment, the fair value of our investment was $56.0 million as compared to our book value of this unconsolidated subsidiary of $21.7 million.  After consideration of disposition costs of $0.6 million and taxes of $7.2 million, we recorded a net after-tax gain of $26.5 million which is shown on the line entitled “Gain on sale of unconsolidated operations” in our income statement. On the acquisition of the 49% minority interest of DPI, the fair value of these shares was assessed at $46.9 million. Since this business was consolidated, the book value of this 49% share was shown as $29.9 million of minority interest on our balance sheet.  After consideration of disposition costs of $0.7 million, we allocated $17.7 million to goodwill.

Also in the three months ended May 31, 2007, in connection with unconsolidated joint venture transactions initially recorded in the prior year, we recorded a net loss of $0.6 million, after tax. This loss is shown on the line entitled “Gain (loss) on sale of unconsolidated operations” in our income statement.

10




In the first quarter of 2007, in connection with the termination of an unconsolidated joint venture in Asia in the prior year, we recorded a net loss of $0.3 million, after tax. 

Other Restructuring Costs — During the three months ended May 31, 2007, we recorded restructuring charges of $7.2 million ($4.9 million after-tax), of which $6.4 million is reflected in restructuring charges and $0.8 million is reflected in cost of goods sold in our income statement. We recorded $3.0 million of severance costs, primarily associated with the reduction of administrative personnel in the U.S. In addition, we recorded $3.1 million of other exit costs related to closure of manufacturing facilities in Salinas, California and Hunt Valley, Maryland. The remaining $1.1 million is write-downs of assets which is primarily the accelerated depreciation of assets related to the closure of the manufacturing facilities in Salinas, California and Hunt Valley, Maryland. Of the expected global workforce reduction of approximately 1,100 employees, approximately 950 employees have been notified, the majority of which have left the Company as of May 31, 2007.

During the six months ended May 31, 2007, we recorded restructuring charges of $15.1 million ($10.2 million after-tax), of which $13.8 million is reflected in restructuring charges and $1.3 million is reflected in cost of goods sold in our income statement. We recorded $5.2 million of severance costs, primarily associated with the reduction of administrative personnel in the U.S. and Europe. In addition, we recorded $8.0 million of other exit costs related to closure of manufacturing facilities in Salinas, California and Hunt Valley, Maryland. The remaining $1.9 million is comprised of asset write-downs for inventory write-offs related to the closure of the manufacturing facilities in Salinas, California and Hunt Valley, Maryland and accelerated depreciation of assets. From inception of the project in November 2005, we have incurred $76.1 million of restructuring charges, including the $33.7 million gain recorded on the redemption of our Signature investment in 2006.

During the three months ended May 31, 2006, we recorded restructuring charges, exclusive of the gain on Signature, of $13.0 million ($7.7 million after-tax), of which $8.5 million is reflected in restructuring charges and $4.5 million is reflected in cost of goods sold in our income statement.  We recorded $5.1 million of severance costs associated with our closure of our business in Finland and reorganization of administrative functions in Europe.  In addition, we recorded $3.4 million of other exit costs, primarily contract termination costs associated with customers and distributors in connection with the closure of the business in Finland.  The $4.5 million of restructuring charges for asset write-downs was all recorded in cost of goods sold and is primarily accelerated depreciation related to the closure of manufacturing facilities in Salinas, California and Hunt Valley, Maryland.

11




During the six months ended May 31, 2006, we recorded restructuring charges, exclusive of the gain on Signature, of $46.4 million ($30.5 million after-tax), of which $41.7 million is reflected in restructuring charges and $4.7 million is reflected in cost of goods sold in our income statement.  We recorded $36.2 million of severance costs and special early retirement benefits associated with our voluntary separation program in several functions in the U.S.; closures of manufacturing facilities in Salinas, California, Hunt Valley, Maryland, Sydney, Australia and Kerava, Finland; and reorganization of administrative functions in Europe. In addition, we recorded $5.5 million of other exit costs associated with the consolidation of production facilities and the reorganization of the sales and distribution networks in the U.S. and Europe and contract termination costs associated with customers and distributors in connection with the closure of the business in Finland.  The $4.7 million of restructuring charges for asset write-downs was all recorded in cost of goods sold and is primarily accelerated depreciation related to the closure of manufacturing facilities in Salinas, California and Hunt Valley, Maryland.

In the second quarter of 2007, $4.2 million of restructuring charges were recorded in the consumer business, compared to $8.7 million in the second quarter of 2006. The charges in the second quarter of 2007 include severance costs associated with the reduction of administrative personnel in the U.S., other exit costs related to the closure of the manufacturing facility in Salinas, California and accelerated depreciation of assets. The restructuring charges in the second quarter of 2006 include severance costs associated with our voluntary separation program in the U.S. and closure of manufacturing facilities and reorganization of administration in Europe, other exit costs related to the closure of our business in Finland, accelerated depreciation related to the closure of the Salinas, California manufacturing facility and costs associated with the reorganization of the sales and distribution networks in the U.S. and Europe.

During the six months ended May 31, 2007, $9.6 million of restructuring charges were recorded in the consumer business, compared to $30.0 million for the same period of 2006. The charges in 2007 include severance costs associated with the reduction of administrative personnel in the U.S. and Europe, other exit and inventory write-off costs related to the closure of the manufacturing facility in Salinas, California and accelerated depreciation of assets. The restructuring charges in 2006 include severance costs associated with our voluntary separation program in the U.S. and closure of manufacturing facilities and reorganization of administration in Europe, other exit costs related to the consolidation of production facilities and costs associated with the reorganization of the sales and distribution networks in the U.S. and Europe.

12




In the second quarter of 2007, $3.0 million of restructuring charges were recorded in the industrial business, compared to $4.3 million in the second quarter of 2006. The charges in the second quarter of 2007 include severance costs associated with the reduction of administrative personnel in the U.S. and other exit costs related to closure of a manufacturing facility in Hunt Valley, Maryland. The restructuring charges recorded in the second quarter of 2006 include severance costs associated with our voluntary separation program in the U.S. and closure of a manufacturing facility and other exit costs associated with the consolidation of production facilities and accelerated depreciation related to the closure of manufacturing facilities.

During the six months ended May 31, 2007, $5.5 million of restructuring charges were recorded in the industrial business, compared to $16.4 million for the same period of 2006. The charges in 2007 include severance costs associated with the reduction of administrative personnel in the U.S., other exit costs related to closure of a manufacturing facility in Hunt Valley, Maryland and consolidation of production facilities in Europe. The restructuring charges recorded in 2006 include severance costs associated with our voluntary separation program and closure of manufacturing facilities and other exit costs associated with the consolidation of production facilities and accelerated depreciation related to the closure of manufacturing facilities.

During the three months ended May 31, 2007, we spent $9.9 million in cash on the restructuring plan. During the three months ended May 31, 2006, we received $12.0 million in cash, net, on the restructuring plan due to the $20.0 million cash received on the redemption of our Signature investment. During the six months ended May 31, 2007 and 2006, we spent $30.0 million and received $7.8 million, respectively, in cash on the restructuring plan. From inception of the project in November 2005, $71.0 million in cash has been spent on the restructuring plan, including the $9.2 million net cash received on redemption of our Signature investment in 2006.

13




The major components of the restructuring charges and the remaining accrual balance related to the restructuring plan are as follows (in thousands):

 

 

Severance
and personnel
costs

 

Asset
related charges

 

Other
exit costs

 

Total

 

Second Quarter 2007:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Balance at Feb 28, 2007

 

$           9,175

 

$                —

 

$              954

 

$         10,129

 

Restructuring charges

 

3,040

 

1,058

 

3,114

 

7,212

 

Amounts utilized

 

(6,673

)

(1,058

)

(3,416

)

(11,147

)

Balance at May 31, 2007

 

$           5,542

 

$                —

 

$              652

 

$           6,194

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Six months ended May 31, 2007:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Balance at Nov 30, 2006

 

$         20,348

 

$                —

 

$           3,091

 

$         23,439

 

Restructuring charges

 

5,172

 

1,917

 

7,963

 

15,052

 

Amounts utilized

 

(19,978

)

(1,917

)

(10,402

)

(32,297

)

Balance at May 31, 2007

 

$           5,542

 

$                —

 

$              652

 

$           6,194

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Second Quarter 2006:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Balance at Feb 28, 2006

 

$         35,916

 

$                —

 

$              285

 

$         36,201

 

Restructuring charges

 

5,122

 

4,488

 

3,397

 

13,007

 

Amounts utilized

 

(7,050

)

(4,488

)

(600

)

(12,138

)

Balance at May 31, 2006

 

$         33,988

 

$                —

 

$           3,082

 

$         37,070

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Six months ended May 31, 2006:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Balance at Nov 30, 2005

 

$           8,023

 

$                —

 

$              649

 

$           8,672

 

Restructuring charges

 

36,166

 

4,702

 

5,517

 

46,385

 

Amounts utilized

 

(10,201

)

(4,702

)

(3,084

)

(17,987

)

Balance at May 31, 2006

 

$         33,988

 

$                —

 

$           3,082

 

$         37,070

 

 

5.                             EARNINGS PER SHARE

The following table sets forth the reconciliation of average shares outstanding (in thousands):

 

 

Three months ended

 

Six months ended

 

 

 

May 31,

 

May 31,

 

 

 

2007

 

2006

 

2007

 

2006

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Average shares outstanding — basic

 

130,150

 

132,182

 

130,193

 

132,384

 

Effect of dilutive securities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Stock options and employee stock purchase plan

 

3,487

 

3,238

 

3,644

 

2,989

 

Average shares outstanding — diluted

 

133,637

 

135,420

 

133,837

 

135,373

 

 

14




The following table sets forth the common stock activity for the three and six months ended May 31, 2007 and 2006 under our stock option and employee stock purchase plans and the repurchases of common stock under our stock repurchase program (in thousands):

 

 

Three months ended

 

Six months ended

 

 

 

May 31,

 

May 31,

 

 

 

2007

 

2006

 

2007

 

2006

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Shares issued under stock option and employee stock purchase plans

 

403

 

755

 

1,185

 

1,059

 

Shares repurchased in connection with the stock repurchase program

 

1,240

 

1,393

 

1,520

 

1,793

 

 

6.                             COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

The following table sets forth the components of comprehensive income (in thousands):

 

 

Three months ended

 

Six months ended

 

 

 

May 31,

 

May 31,

 

 

 

2007

 

2006

 

2007

 

2006

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income

 

$   41,425

 

$   61,644

 

$   85,653

 

$   76,033

 

Other comprehensive income (loss), (net of tax):

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Minimum pension liability adjustment

 

(683

)

(1,639

)

(650

)

(2,357

)

Foreign currency translation adjustments

 

29,064

 

65,327

 

28,355

 

78,712

 

Derivative financial instruments

 

(262

)

820

 

281

 

1,924

 

Comprehensive (loss)/income

 

$   69,544

 

$ 126,152

 

$ 113,639

 

$ 154,312

 

 

7.                             PENSION AND POSTRETIREMENT BENEFITS

The following table presents the components of our pension expense of the defined benefit plans for the three months ended May 31 (in thousands):

 

 

United States

 

International

 

 

 

2007

 

2006

 

2007

 

2006

 

Defined benefit plans

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Service cost

 

$ 2,943

 

$ 3,300

 

$ 1,654

 

$ 1,503

 

Interest costs

 

6,140

 

5,530

 

2,589

 

2,163

 

Expected return on plan assets

 

(6,182

)

(5,637

)

(2,398

)

(1,849

)

Amortization of prior service costs

 

21

 

24

 

24

 

24

 

Amortization of transition assets

 

 

 

 

(1

)

Recognized net actuarial loss

 

2,500

 

2,630

 

772

 

700

 

Total pension expense

 

$ 5,422

 

$ 5,847

 

$ 2,641

 

$ 2,540

 

 

The following table presents the components of our pension expense of the defined benefit plans for the six months ended May 31 (in thousands):

 

 

United States

 

International

 

 

 

2007

 

2006

 

2007

 

2006

 

Defined benefit plans

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Service cost

 

$   5,886

 

$   6,599

 

$  3,287

 

$  2,981

 

Interest costs

 

12,264

 

11,061

 

5,149

 

4,291

 

Expected return on plan assets

 

(12,364

)

(11,274

)

(4,769

)

(3,668

)

Amortization of prior service costs

 

42

 

47

 

48

 

48

 

Amortization of transition assets

 

 

 

 

(2

)

Recognized net actuarial loss

 

5,000

 

5,260

 

1,537

 

1,389

 

Total pension expense

 

$ 10,828

 

$ 11,693

 

$  5,252

 

$  5,039

 

 

On December 29, 2006, we made a $22 million contribution to our major U.S. pension plan. Contributions to international plans are generally funded throughout the year. Total contributions to our pension plans in 2007 are expected to be approximately $45 million.

15




The following table presents the components of our other postretirement benefits expense (in thousands):

 

 

Three months ended

 

Six months ended

 

 

 

May 31,

 

May 31,

 

 

 

2007

 

2006

 

2007

 

2006

 

Other postretirement benefits

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Service cost

 

$    962

 

$    896

 

$ 1,758

 

$ 1,808

 

Interest costs

 

1,399

 

1,418

 

2,866

 

2,816

 

Amortization of prior service costs

 

(283

)

(284

)

(567

)

(567

)

Amortization of (gains)/losses

 

163

 

252

 

413

 

506

 

Total other postretirement expense

 

$ 2,241

 

$ 2,282

 

$ 4,470

 

$ 4,563

 

 

8.                             INCOME TAXES

Income taxes for the six months ended May 31, 2007 include $1.9 million of discrete tax benefits due to new tax legislation enacted in The Netherlands in December 2006 that reduced the corporate income tax rate and the settlement of certain U.S. tax issues.

9.                             FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

In July 2006, we issued $100 million of 5.80% medium-term notes due 2011. Net interest is payable semiannually in arrears in January and July of each year. The net proceeds from this offering were used to pay down the commercial paper debt placed in June 2006 for the acquisition of Simply Asia Foods.

In December 2005, we issued $200 million of 5.20% medium-term notes due 2015. Interest is payable semiannually in arrears in June and December of each year. The net proceeds of this offering were used to pay down long-term debt which matured in 2006.

10.                       BUSINESS SEGMENTS

We operate in two business segments: consumer and industrial.  The consumer and industrial segments manufacture, market and distribute spices, herbs, seasoning blends and other flavors throughout the world. Our consumer segment sells to retail outlets, including grocery, mass merchandise, warehouse clubs, discount and drug stores under a variety of brands, including McCormick®, Zatarain’s®, Simply Asia® and Thai Kitchen® in the U.S., Ducros®, Vahine® and Silvo® in continental Europe, Schwartz® in the U.K and Club House® in Canada. Our industrial segment sells to other food manufacturers and the food service industry both directly and indirectly through distributors.

In each of our segments, we produce and sell many individual products which are similar in composition and nature. It is impractical to segregate and identify sales and profits for each of these individual product lines.

16




We measure segment performance based on operating income excluding restructuring charges from our restructuring programs as these programs are managed separately from the business segment.  Although the segments are managed separately due to their distinct distribution channels and marketing strategies, manufacturing and warehousing are often integrated to maximize cost efficiencies.  We do not segregate jointly utilized assets by individual segment for internal reporting, evaluating performance or allocating capital. Because of manufacturing integration for certain products within the segments, products are not sold from one segment to another but rather inventory is transferred at cost. Intersegment sales are not material.

 

 

Consumer

 

Industrial

 

Total

 

 

 

(in thousands)

 

Three months ended May 31, 2007

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net sales

 

$    372,511

 

$    314,703

 

$    687,214

 

Restructuring charges

 

4,212

 

3,000

 

7,212

 

Operating income excluding restructuring charges

 

53,142

 

20,978

 

74,120

 

Income from unconsolidated operations

 

3,878

 

1,145

 

5,023

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Three months ended May 31, 2006

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net sales

 

$    350,054

 

$    289,852

 

$    639,906

 

Restructuring charges

 

8,698

 

4,309

 

13,007

 

Operating income excluding restructuring charges

 

48,808

 

18,897

 

67,705

 

Income from unconsolidated operations

 

3,771

 

994

 

4,765

 

 

 

 

Consumer

 

Industrial

 

Total

 

 

 

(in thousands)

 

Six months ended May 31, 2007

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net sales

 

$    747,281

 

$    592,573

 

$ 1,339,854

 

Restructuring charges

 

9,558

 

5,494

 

15,052

 

Operating income excluding restructuring charges

 

113,329

 

34,981

 

148,310

 

Income from unconsolidated operations

 

9,247

 

2,349

 

11,596

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Six months ended May 31, 2006

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net sales

 

$    694,818

 

$    554,789

 

$ 1,249,607

 

Restructuring charges

 

30,035

 

16,350

 

46,385

 

Operating income excluding restructuring charges

 

95,013

 

30,363

 

125,376

 

Income from unconsolidated operations

 

10,297

 

1,747

 

12,044

 

 

The following table is a reconciliation of operating income excluding restructuring charges to operating income (in thousands):

 

Three months ended
May 31, 2007

 

Three months ended
May 31, 2006

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Operating income excluding restructuring charges

 

$                 74,120

 

$                 67,705

 

Less: Restructuring charges

 

7,212

 

13,007

 

Operating income

 

$                 66,908

 

$                 54,698

 

 

 

Six months ended
May 31, 2007

 

Six months ended
May 31, 2006

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Operating income excluding restructuring charges

 

$           148,310

 

$           125,376

 

Less: Restructuring charges

 

15,052

 

46,385

 

Operating income

 

$           133,258

 

$             78,991

 

 

 

17




ITEM 2   MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

OVERVIEW

We are a global leader in the manufacture, marketing and distribution of spices, herbs, seasonings and other flavors to the entire food industry. Our major sales, distribution and production facilities are located in North America and Europe. Additional facilities are based in Mexico, Central America, Australia, China, Singapore, Thailand and South Africa.

We operate in two business segments, consumer and industrial. Consistent with market conditions in each segment, our consumer business has a higher overall profit margin than our industrial business. Across both segments, we have the customer base and product breadth to participate in all types of eating occasions, whether it is cooking at home, dining out, purchasing a quick service meal or enjoying a snack.

Our Financial Objectives

With good visibility into our business prospects and operating environment, growth objectives are used as internal goals and to provide a financial outlook for our shareholders. Annual objectives were set to grow sales 3-5% and earnings per share on a comparable basis (excluding the impact of restructuring charges) 8-10% through 2008. In this quarter, we improved our outlook for 2007 earnings per share growth to 9-11% on a comparable basis.

Our Strategy

Our strategy — to improve margins, invest in our business and increase sales and profits — is as effective now as it was when we developed it in 1998.

Due to cost savings from restructuring projects, the elimination of lower margin business, acquisitions of high-margin brands and the introduction of higher-margin, more value-added products, our gross profit margin continues to improve. Our goal is to improve gross profit margin by at least 0.5% a year for the next five years.

We are investing in our business by revitalizing our McCormick brand spices and seasonings in the United States. New labels and

18




new flip-top caps — along with new store shelving displays that make shopping easier for the consumer and restocking easier for retailers — continues to be rolled out and is expected to be completed in 2008. We also continue to introduce new products, placing particular emphasis on ethnic food items and the growing organic spices segment. Increased promotion and marketing continues to be an important part of this investment strategy, including alternative media such as on-line advertising and new areas on our website where consumers can share recipes and view instructional videos for preparing foods.

To grow sales and profits, we have undertaken a restructuring program to improve our global supply chain. The plan, which was announced in 2005 and will extend through 2008, is intended to reduce our complexity and create an organization more focused on growth opportunities. Our goal is to reduce annual costs by $50 million by 2008.

We have made significant progress in transforming our U.S. industrial business. We are simplifying and focusing our resources on growing our business with large customers who have the greatest potential to add profitable sales. From 2005 to 2008, we expect to increase operating income margin, excluding restructuring charges, by 2.5 to 3.5 percentage points.

In addition, we are focused on monitoring and leading the latest trends through innovation. Convenience, freshness and ethnic flavors drive consumer demand and our new product development and acquisition strategy.

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS — COMPANY

 

 

Three months ended

 

Six months ended

 

 

 

May 31,

 

May 31,

 

(in thousands)

 

2007

 

2006

 

2007

 

2006

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net sales

 

$

687,214

 

$

639,906

 

$

1,339,854

 

$

1,249,607

 

Percent growth

 

7.4

%

 

 

7.2

%

 

 

Gross profit

 

$

271,800

 

$

250,564

 

$

536,152

 

$

489,649

 

Gross profit margin

 

39.6

%

39.2

%

40.0

%

39.2

%

 

The sales increase of 7.4% for the second quarter includes 2.6% for the favorable impact of foreign currency. The remaining 4.8% increase results from higher volume, including an increase of 1.4% from the June 2006 acquisition of Simply Asia Foods, pricing actions and favorable product mix. Second quarter sales also reflect the impact of actions to eliminate low margin business, which lowered sales 1.0%.  For the six months ended May 31, 2007, the sales increase of 7.2% versus the same period last year includes 2.7% for the favorable impact of foreign currency. The remaining 4.5% increase was due to higher volumes (including the Simply Asia impact of 1.7%), pricing actions and favorable product mix. Six month sales also reflect the impact of actions to eliminate low margin business, which lowered sales 1.0%.

19




Restructuring charges in the second quarter of 2007 were less than the comparable period of the prior year and accounted for an increase of 0.6% in the gross profit margin. Cost savings activity had a favorable impact this quarter. Offsetting these increases was the negative effect of a lag between higher raw material costs and some of our pricing actions in both our consumer and industrial business. We also incurred costs in the second quarter of 2007 in connection with maintaining customer service levels during several facility consolidations. Gross profit margin for the six months ended May 31, 2007 was 40.0% compared to 39.2% for the same period last year. Restructuring charges in the first six months of 2007 were less than the same period in 2006 and accounted for a 0.3% increase in gross profit margin. During the first and second quarters of 2006 there was little margin benefit from the actions of our restructuring program. By the fourth quarter of 2006, however, we began to experience benefits from our restructuring actions.

 

 

Three months ended

 

Six months ended

 

 

 

May 31,

 

May 31,

 

(in thousands)

 

2007

 

2006

 

2007

 

2006

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Selling, general & administrative expense (SG&A)

 

$

198,452

 

$

187,347

 

$

389,091

 

$

368,975

 

Percent of net sales

 

28.9

%

29.3

%

29.0

%

29.5

%

 

The primary reason for the decrease in SG&A as a percentage of net sales in the second quarter is the benefit from reductions in operating expenses as part of our $30 million cost savings goal for 2007 as outlined in our restructuring plan. We also had $2.2 million of lower advertising expense in the second quarter of 2007 compared to the prior year due to the timing of our marketing support plans. These favorable items were partially offset by a $3.7 million increase in stock-based compensation expense in the second quarter. The increase in stock-based compensation expense was a result of the stock-based compensation grant date occurring in the second quarter of 2007, whereas in 2006 the grant date for stock-based compensation occurred in the first quarter. For the six months ended May 31, 2007, advertising and stock-based compensation expense are in line with the prior year. For the six months ended May 31, 2007, SG&A as a percentage of net sales decreased to 29.0% from 29.5% as a result of the cost savings from our restructuring plan as discussed above.

Interest expense increased in the second quarter of 2007 and for the six months ended May 31, 2007 by $2.9 million and $3.9 million, respectively, compared to the same periods last year. On a three and six month basis, both average short-term borrowings and short-term borrowing rates were up in 2007 when compared to 2006. However, these effects were partially offset by the refinancing of higher interest rate long-term debt in 2006, which has reduced the average interest rate on our total debt when the first six months of 2007 are compared to the first six months of 2006.

20




The effective tax rate for the second quarter of 2007 was 31.1% compared to a 29.6% rate for the second quarter of 2006. The effective tax rate for the six months ended May 31, 2007 was 30.3% compared to a 30.1% rate for the same period last year. The tax rate for the first half of 2006 included $1.1 million of discrete tax benefits related to the closure of a manufacturing facility in Finland and a very small facility in Uruguay. The effective tax rate for the first half of 2007 includes $1.9 million of discrete tax benefits due to new tax legislation in The Netherlands that reduced the corporate income tax rate and the settlement of certain U.S. tax issues (see Note 8). Excluding the effect of these tax benefits, the effective tax rate for the remainder of fiscal year 2007 is estimated to be 32.0%.

Income from unconsolidated operations and minority interest, combined, for the second quarter of 2007 increased by $0.8 million to $4.8 million when compared to the same period in 2006. This improvement was driven primarily by the termination of an unprofitable unconsolidated joint venture in Asia in the fourth quarter of 2006. For the six months ended May 31, 2007, income from unconsolidated operations and minority interest, combined, increased by $1.1 million to $11.0 million compared to the same period in 2006 for the reason noted above.

Diluted earnings per share for the second quarter of 2007 were $0.31 compared to $0.46 for the second quarter of 2006, a decrease of $0.15. Charges related to our restructuring program reduced earnings per share $0.04 in the second quarter of 2007 and the net impact of credits related to our program were an increase of $0.14 in the second quarter of 2006. Excluding the impact of these restructuring charges and credits, diluted earnings per share was up $0.03 for the second quarter of 2007. This increase was due to higher sales and improved gross profit margin, which added $0.05. The negative effect of the later date for our stock-based compensation grants lowered diluted earnings per share by $0.02. For the six months ended May 31, 2007, diluted earnings per share increased by $0.08 to $0.64 compared to the same period in 2006. Excluding the impact of restructuring charges and credits in both years, diluted earnings per share would have increased by $0.13 for the six months ended May 31, 2007 compared to the same period last year. Of this increase, $0.12 was due to higher sales and improved gross profit margin.

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS — SEGMENTS

We measure segment performance based on operating income excluding restructuring charges from our restructuring programs as these programs are managed separately from our business segments.

21




CONSUMER BUSINESS

 

 

Three months ended

 

Six months ended

 

 

 

May 31,

 

May 31,

 

 

 

2007

 

2006

 

2007

 

2006

 

 

 

(in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net sales

 

$

372,511

 

$

350,054

 

$

747,281

 

$

694,818

 

Percent growth

 

6.4

%

 

 

7.6

%

 

 

Operating income excluding restructuring charges

 

53,142

 

48,808

 

113,329

 

95,013

 

Operating income margin, excluding restructuring charges

 

14.3

%

13.9

%

15.2

%

13.7

%

 

Sales for the consumer business rose 6.4% in the second quarter of 2007 as compared to the second quarter of 2006, with an impact of 2.9% from favorable foreign currency rates. Higher volume was due to the incremental sales from the Simply Asia Foods business acquired in June 2006 (which accounted for 2.5%) and the positive impact of marketing support behind branded products, particularly in Europe. Favorable pricing actions and product mix also increased sales.

Sales in the Americas were up 4.7% this quarter as compared to the same period last year, with foreign exchange rates having no impact and incremental sales from Simply Asia Foods adding 3.7%. This quarter, higher sales with grocery retailers offset lower sales to alternative channels, including warehouse clubs. Areas of particular strength during this quarter included our gourmet line and Hispanic products in the U.S., and Club House branded products in Canada. Sales also increased as a result of higher pepper prices, although this was offset in part by lower pepper volumes.

Second quarter 2007 sales in Europe increased 10.1% from the second quarter of 2006. Favorable foreign exchange rates had a significant impact by adding 9.2% to this growth. Sales in our largest European markets increased approximately 4%. Earlier this year we were able to take a price increase for our Schwartz branded products in the U.K., our first price increase in five years for that market. With improved and incremental marketing support, we grew sales volume of our Ducros branded products in France. In both of these key markets, we are continuing to make strides with improved merchandising with our retail customers. Two factors unfavorably impacted second quarter 2007 sales in Europe. First was the continued impact of lower distribution in The Netherlands. The second factor was our decision to exit Finland in 2006. Together these two factors reduced second quarter consumer sales in Europe by approximately 3%.

In the Asia/Pacific region, sales for the second quarter of 2007 increased 8.1% as compared to the same period of 2006, with favorable foreign exchange rates adding 7.0%. Sales in China continued at a strong growth rate, increasing at a double-digit pace this quarter. The changes to this business we have made over

22




the past two years in our distributor network, product line-up and organization are continuing to deliver positive results. In the overall region, sales growth in China was offset in part by lost distribution of our branded spices and herb line with a retailer in Australia. Our emphasis in Australia remains on value added items including our line of Aeroplane brand gelatin products, which are selling very well.

For the six months ended May 31, 2007, sales from McCormick’s consumer business increased 7.6% compared to the same period last year. Higher volume, price and product mix added 4.6%, while favorable foreign exchange rates increased sales by 3.0%.

Second quarter 2007 operating income excluding restructuring charges for our consumer business increased $4.3 million, or 8.9%, compared to the same period of 2006. This increase was due to the benefit of higher sales and the impact of cost savings resulting from action related to our restructuring program. Advertising expense was down $2.2 million in the second quarter of 2007 compared to the same period for the prior year due to the timing of our marketing plans. This benefit was more than offset by a $2.8 million increase in stock-based compensation expense from the prior year, caused by the timing of the stock-based compensation grant date.

In the second quarter of 2007, $4.2 million of restructuring charges were recorded in the consumer business, compared to $8.7 million in the second quarter of 2006. The charges in the second quarter of 2007 include severance costs associated with the reduction of administrative personnel in the U.S., other exit costs related to the closure of the manufacturing facility in Salinas, California and accelerated depreciation of assets. The restructuring charges in the second quarter of 2006 include severance costs associated with our voluntary separation program in the U.S. and closure of manufacturing facilities and reorganization of administration in Europe, other exit costs associated with the closure of our business in Finland, accelerated depreciation related to the closure of the Salinas, California manufacturing facility and costs associated with the reorganization of the sales and distribution networks in the U.S. and Europe.

For the six months ended May 31, 2007, operating income excluding restructuring charges for the consumer business increased 19.3% compared to the same period of 2006. Operating income margin excluding restructure charges for the six months ended May 31, 2007 increased to 15.2% compared to 13.7% in the comparable period last year. These increases were mostly the result of higher sales, improved gross profit margins and the impact of cost savings resulting from actions related to our restructuring program.

During the six months ended May 31, 2007, $9.6 million of restructuring charges were recorded in the consumer business,

23




compared to $30.0 million for the same period of 2006. The charges in 2007 include severance costs associated with the reduction of administrative personnel in the U.S. and Europe, other exit and inventory write-off costs related to the closure of the manufacturing facility in Salinas, California and accelerated depreciation of assets. The restructuring charges in 2006 include severance costs associated with our voluntary separation program in the U.S. and closure of manufacturing facilities and reorganization of administration in Europe, other exit costs associated with the consolidation of production facilities and costs associated with the reorganization of the sales and distribution networks in the U.S. and Europe.

INDUSTRIAL BUSINESS

 

 

Three months ended

 

Six months ended

 

 

 

May 31,

 

May 31,

 

 

 

2007

 

2006

 

2007

 

2006

 

 

 

(in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net sales

 

$

314,703

 

$

289,852

 

$

592,573

 

$

554,789

 

Percent growth

 

8.6

%

 

 

6.8

%

 

 

Operating income excluding restructuring charges

 

20,978

 

18,897

 

34,981

 

30,363

 

Operating income margin, excluding restructuring charges

 

6.7

%

6.5

%

5.9

%

5.5

%

 

The second quarter sales increase of 8.6% from the second quarter of 2006 includes a favorable foreign exchange rate impact of 2.3%. Excluding impact of foreign currency, the increase was driven primarily by increased volume with strategic customers. The reduction of certain low margin business in the U.S. and Europe reduced sales by 2.0%.

In the Americas, industrial sales increased 1.7% in the second quarter of 2007 compared to the same period in 2006. Excluding the impact of foreign exchange rates, sales were up 1.8%. In this region, customer and product rationalization reduced sales approximately 2.2%. A sales increase of  4.0% was mainly due to price and product mix. As costs for certain commodities (including flour, cheese and soyoil) have risen, we are passing these increases through to customers in higher pricing for our products. Because our price increases occur periodically, we will more fully offset higher input costs as we move through the next few quarters. Sales volumes rose for snack seasonings, several new seasoning products for large food manufacturers, and condiment products for the restaurant industry. Offsetting these increases was a general sales weakness with certain restaurant customers, both quick service and casual dining.

In Europe, industrial sales increased 26.0% in the second quarter of 2007 compared to the same period of 2006, which included a favorable foreign exchange rate impact of 10.0%. In this region,

24




the elimination of lower margin customers and products reduced sales 1.9%. The remaining increase of 17.9% was due to higher volumes of condiments and seasonings for snack products that began to show strength in the latter part of 2006. Incremental sales of condiments were due largely to a joint venture in South Africa, which began in August 2006. Sales of Schwartz brand food service products in the U.K. also lifted sales in this region.

In the Asia/Pacific region, industrial sales increased 34.4% in the second quarter of 2007 compared to the second quarter of 2006, which included a favorable foreign exchange rate impact of 7.5%. We increased sales in both Australia and China and in particular with quick service restaurant customers. These customers have awarded the supply of new items to us and we are benefiting from their promotions in these markets.

For the six months ended May 31, 2007, total industrial sales increased 6.8% compared to the same period last year, with 4.6% from favorable pricing, product mix and volumes and 2.2% from favorable foreign exchange rates.

In the second quarter of 2007, industrial business operating income excluding restructuring charges increased $2.1 million, or 11.0%, compared to the second quarter of 2006. This increase was driven by higher sales. However, our rate of profit growth was greater than our sales growth as our profit growth was also driven by cost savings resulting from action related to our restructuring program. Operating income for this business was unfavorably affected by $0.9 million of higher stock-based compensation expense compared to the prior year due to the timing of stock compensation grants.

In the second quarter of 2007, $3.0 million of restructuring charges were recorded in the industrial business, compared to $4.3 million in the second quarter of 2006. The charges in the second quarter of 2007 include severance costs associated with the reduction of administrative personnel in the U.S. and other exit costs related to closure of a manufacturing facility in Hunt Valley, Maryland. The restructuring charges recorded in the second quarter of 2006 include severance costs associated with our voluntary separation program in the U.S. and closure of a manufacturing facility and other exit costs associated with the consolidation of production facilities and accelerated depreciation related to the closure of manufacturing facilities.

For the six months ended May 31, 2007, operating income excluding restructuring charges for the industrial business increased 15.2% compared to the same period of 2006. Our rate of profit growth was well ahead of the sales growth driven by cost savings resulting from action related to our restructuring program. Operating income margin excluding restructure charges for the six months ended May 31, 2007 increased to 5.9% compared to 5.5% in the comparable period last year.

25




During the six months ended May 31, 2007, $5.5 million of restructuring charges were recorded in the industrial business, compared to $16.4 million for the same period of 2006. The charges in 2007 include severance costs associated with the reduction of administrative personnel in the U.S., other exit costs related to closure of a manufacturing facility in Hunt Valley, Maryland and consolidation of production facilities in Europe. The restructuring charges recorded in 2006 include severance costs associated with our voluntary separation program and closure of manufacturing facilities and other exit costs associated with the consolidation of production facilities and accelerated depreciation related to the closure of manufacturing facilities.

RESTRUCTURING CHARGES

As part of our plan to improve margins, we announced in September 2005 significant actions to improve the effectiveness of our supply chain and reduce costs. At that time, we also stated that a comprehensive review of our global industrial business was underway to identify improvements. These actions were included in the comprehensive restructuring plan which the Board of Directors approved in November 2005. As part of this plan, over a three-year period, we are consolidating our global manufacturing, rationalizing our distribution facilities, improving our go-to-market strategy, eliminating administrative redundancies and rationalizing our joint venture partnerships. In addition, for the industrial business, we are reallocating resources to key customers and taking pricing actions on lower volume products to meet new margin targets. A new business-wide forecasting process is being installed and the use of technology is being accelerated to monitor and manage the business. Through 2008, these actions are intended to reduce the number of industrial business customers and products in the U.S. Sales related to these customers and products represent approximately 2-5% of industrial business sales in the U.S. As these sales have minimal profit, this reduction is leading to higher margins. These reductions are also leading to the consolidation of certain manufacturing facilities.

We expect that the restructuring plan will reduce complexity and increase the organizational focus on growth opportunities in both the consumer and industrial businesses. In addition, we are projecting $50 million ($34 million after-tax) of annual cost savings by 2008. In 2006, we realized $10 million ($7 million after-tax) of annual cost savings and expect to realize another $30 million ($20 million after-tax) in 2007. We expect that this will improve margins and increase earnings per share, as well as allow us to invest a portion of these savings in sales growth drivers such as brand advertising. These savings are expected to be reflected in both cost of goods sold and selling, general and administrative expense in the income statement.

26




Total pre-tax charges under this restructuring plan are estimated to be $110-$130 million, inclusive of the $34 million pre-tax gain on the redemption of our Signature Brands, L.L.C. joint venture (Signature) recorded in 2006. The total pre-tax restructuring charges are expected to be approximately 65% related to the consumer segment and approximately 35% related to the industrial segment. Of these charges, we expect that approximately $85-$95 million will consist of severance and other personnel costs and approximately $50-$55 million of other exit costs. Asset write-offs are expected to be approximately $10-$15 million, exclusive of the $34 million pre-tax gain on Signature recorded in 2006. In the fourth quarter of 2005, $10.7 million ($7.2 million after tax) of charges were recorded. Following the $10.7 million charge recorded in 2005, we recorded $50.4 million ($30.3 million after tax) during the 2006 fiscal year, including the offset of the gain on our Signature investment. In the three and six months ended May 31, 2007, we recorded $7.2 million ($4.9 million after tax) and $15.1 million ($10.2 million after tax), respectively, of restructuring charges. We expect to incur a total of $36 million in charges in 2007, with the remainder in 2008. For the total plan, the cash related portion of the charges will be approximately $95-$105 million, of which approximately $45 million is expected to be spent in 2007. We intend to fund this spending through internally generated funds. A significant portion of the cash expenditures will be related to employee severance. The actions being taken pursuant to the restructuring plan are expected to reduce our global workforce by approximately 1,100 over the three-year period. Of the expected global workforce reduction of approximately 1,100 employees, approximately 950 employees have been notified, the majority of which have left the Company as of May 31, 2007.

Joint venture transactions — Previously, we participated in two separate joint ventures with the same joint venture partner, Hero A.G. We owned 50% of Signature Brands, L.L.C. (“Signature”) and 51% of Dessert Products International, S.A.S. (“DPI”) with Hero A.G. being the other owner of each of these businesses. Signature is a cake decorating business in the U.S. and DPI markets the Vahine brand of dessert aids in France and other European countries.

In the second quarter of 2006, we exchanged our 50% ownership investment in Signature for the 49% share of DPI owned by Hero A.G. In addition, we received $20.0 million in cash with this transaction. There was a purchase price adjustment which was settled in the third quarter of 2006 whereby we paid $10.8 million in cash to Hero A.G. The purchase price adjustment was considered in the calculation of the gain on Signature and the purchase price allocation of DPI.

In recording this transaction, we valued both the investment received and the investment given at their fair value. On the disposition of our Signature investment, the fair value of our investment was $56.0 million as compared to our book value of this

27




unconsolidated subsidiary of $21.7 million.  After consideration of disposition costs of $0.6 million and taxes of $7.2 million, we recorded a net after-tax gain of $26.5 million which is shown on the line entitled “Gain on sale of unconsolidated operations” in our income statement. On the acquisition of the 49% minority interest of DPI, the fair value of these shares was assessed at $46.9 million. Since this business was consolidated, the book value of this 49% share was shown as $29.9 million of minority interest on our balance sheet.  After consideration of disposition costs of $0.7 million, we allocated $17.7 million to goodwill.

Also in the three months ended May 31, 2007, in connection with unconsolidated joint venture transactions initially recorded in the prior year, we recorded a net loss of $0.6 million, after tax. This loss is shown on the line entitled “Gain (loss) on sale of unconsolidated operations” in our income statement.

In the first quarter of 2007, in connection with the termination of an unconsolidated joint venture in Asia in the prior year, we recorded a net loss of $0.3 million, after tax. 

Other Restructuring Costs — During the three months ended May 31, 2007, we recorded restructuring charges of $7.2 million ($4.9 million after-tax), of which $6.4 million is reflected in restructuring charges and $0.8 million is reflected in cost of goods sold in our income statement. We recorded $3.0 million of severance costs, primarily associated with the reduction of administrative personnel in the U.S. In addition, we recorded $3.1 million of other exit costs related to closure of manufacturing facilities in Salinas, California and Hunt Valley, Maryland. The remaining $1.1 million is write-downs of assets which is primarily the accelerated depreciation of assets related to the closure of the manufacturing facilities in Salinas, California and Hunt Valley, Maryland.

During the six months ended May 31, 2007, we recorded restructuring charges of $15.1 million ($10.2 million after-tax), of which $13.8 million is reflected in restructuring charges and $1.3 million is reflected in cost of goods sold in our income statement. We recorded $5.2 million of severance costs, primarily associated with the reduction of administrative personnel in the U.S. and Europe. In addition, we recorded $8.0 million of other exit costs related to closure of manufacturing facilities in Salinas, California and Hunt Valley, Maryland. The remaining $1.9 million is comprised of asset write-downs for inventory write-offs related to the closure of the manufacturing facilities in Salinas, California and Hunt Valley, Maryland and accelerated depreciation of assets. From inception of the project in November 2005, we have incurred $76.1 million of restructuring charges, including the $33.7 million gain recorded on the redemption of our Signature investment in 2006.

During the three months ended May 31, 2006, we recorded restructuring charges, exclusive of the gain on Signature, of

28




$13.0 million ($7.7 million after-tax), of which $8.5 million is reflected in restructuring charges and $4.5 million is reflected in cost of goods sold in our income statement.  We recorded $5.1 million of severance costs associated with our closure of our business in Finland and reorganization of administrative functions in Europe.  In addition, we recorded $3.4 million of other exit costs, primarily contract termination costs associated with customers and distributors in connection with the closure of the business in Finland.  The $4.5 million of restructuring charges for asset write-downs was all recorded in cost of goods sold and is primarily accelerated depreciation related to the closure of manufacturing facilities in Salinas, California and Hunt Valley, Maryland.

During the six months ended May 31, 2006, we recorded restructuring charges, exclusive of the gain on Signature, of $46.4 million ($30.5 million after-tax), of which $41.7 million is reflected in restructuring charges and $4.7 million is reflected in cost of goods sold in our income statement.  We recorded $36.2 million of severance costs and special early retirement benefits associated with our voluntary separation program in several functions in the U.S.; closures of manufacturing facilities in Salinas, California, Hunt Valley, Maryland, Sydney, Australia and Kerava, Finland; and reorganization of administrative functions in Europe. In addition, we recorded $5.5 million of other exit costs associated with the consolidation of production facilities and the reorganization of the sales and distribution networks in the U.S. and Europe and contract termination costs associated with customers and distributors in connection with the closure of the business in Finland.  The $4.7 million of restructuring charges for asset write-downs was all recorded in cost of goods sold and is primarily accelerated depreciation related to the closure of manufacturing facilities in Salinas, California and Hunt Valley, Maryland.

During the six months ended May 31, 2007 and 2006, we spent $30.0 million and received $7.8 million, respectively, in cash on the restructuring plan. From inception of the project in November 2005, $71.0 million in cash has been spent on the restructuring plan, including the $9.2 million net cash received on redemption of our Signature investment in 2006.

MARKET RISK SENSITIVITY

Foreign Exchange Risk

We utilize foreign currency exchange contracts to enhance our ability to manage foreign currency exchange risk. The fair value of our portfolio of forward and option currency contracts was an unrealized loss of $1.4 million as of May 31, 2007, compared to unrealized losses of $1.2 million as of May 31, 2006 and $0.2 million as of November 30, 2006. The notional value of our portfolio of forward and option currency contracts was $42.3 million as of May 31, 2007, compared to the $28.9 million notional

29




value as of May 31, 2006 and the $47.9 million notional value as of November 30, 2006. The quarterly fluctuation in notional value is a result of our decisions on foreign currency exposure coverage, based on foreign currency markets and the future outlook of foreign currency values.

Interest Rate Risk

We manage our interest rate exposure by entering into both fixed and variable rate debt arrangements. In addition, we use interest rate swaps to minimize worldwide financing costs and to achieve a desired mix of fixed and variable rate debt. There has been no change in the notional value of interest rate swap contracts outstanding since year end.

Credit Risk

There has been no significant change to our credit risk since the disclosure in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended November 30, 2006.

CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS AND COMMERCIAL COMMITMENTS

As of May 31, 2007, there have been no material changes in our contractual obligations and commercial commitments outside the ordinary course of business since November 30, 2006.

LIQUIDITY AND FINANCIAL CONDITION

 

Six months ended

 

 

 

May 31,

 

 

 

2007

 

2006

 

 

 

(in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net cash (used in) from operating activities

 

$

(7,983

)

$

78,653

 

Net cash used in investing activities

 

(37,833

)

(11,037

)

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities

 

33,123

 

(36,415

)

 

Cash flows for the six months ended May 31, 2006 reflect the reclassification of $2.4 million of expenditures for in-store displays from investing to operating activities to conform to the current year presentation.

In the statement of cash flows, the changes in operating assets and liabilities are presented excluding the translation effects of changes in foreign currency exchange rates, as these do not reflect actual cash flows. Accordingly, the amounts in the statement of cash flows do not agree with changes in the operating assets and liabilities that are presented in the balance sheet.

30




Due to the cyclical nature of the business, we typically generate much of our cash flow in the fourth quarter of the fiscal year.

Operating Cash Flow — The decrease in operating cash flow is primarily the result of payments in the first quarter of 2007 for incentive compensation accrued at November 30, 2006 based upon prior year results, the timing of income tax payments and cash payments for restructuring costs.

Investing Cash Flow — The increase in cash flow used is due to $3.1 million in cash used for the acquisition of a business in 2007 and, in 2006, we received $20 million of proceeds from the redemption of our Signature investment (see Note 4 for additional information). We spent $34.7 million on net capital expenditures (capital expenditures less proceeds from sale of fixed assets) in the first six months of fiscal 2007, compared to $31.0 million for the same period last year. Net capital expenditures for the fiscal year 2007 are expected to be approximately $85 million.

Financing Cash Flow — This significant change in cash provided by financing activities when compared to the prior year is primarily due to incremental short-term borrowings. The short-term borrowings were necessary to fund operating and investing cash requirements.

The following table outlines the activity in our share repurchase program for the six months ended May 31:

 

2007

 

2006

 

 

 

(in thousands)

 

Number of shares of common stock

 

1,520

 

1,793

 

Dollar amount

 

$

57,536

 

$

60,393

 

 

As of May 31, 2007, $148 million remained of the $400 million share repurchase authorization. In the absence of an acquisition or other unanticipated need for cash, we expect to spend $150-$180 million for share repurchase during 2007, which is an amount similar to that spent in each of the past three years. During the six months ended May 31, 2007, we received proceeds of $27.9 million from exercised options compared to $25.2 million in the same period in the prior year. We increased dividends paid by 9.3% to $52.1 million for the six months ended May 31, 2007 compared to $47.7 million in the same period last year. Dividends paid in the first quarter of 2007 were declared on November 28, 2006.

Our ratio of debt-to-total capital (total capital includes debt, minority interest and shareholders’ equity) was 43.1% as of May 31, 2007, up from 40.2% at May 31, 2006 and up from 41.0% at November 30, 2006. The increase in debt levels caused the increase in debt-to-total capital compared to May 31, 2006. This was partially offset by the increase in equity caused by foreign currency fluctuations. The increase in short-term borrowings as

31




compared to November 30, 2006 is driving the increase in debt-to-total capital. During a quarter, our short-term borrowings vary. However, borrowings are lower at the end of a quarter.  The average short-term borrowings outstanding for the six months ended May 31, 2007 and 2006 was $324.3 million and $232.5 million, respectively. Total average debt outstanding for the six months ended May 31, 2007 and 2006 was $894.5 million and $776.8 million, respectively.

The reported values of our assets and liabilities are significantly affected by fluctuations in foreign exchange rates between periods. At May 31, 2007, the exchange rates for the Euro, the British pound sterling, the Canadian dollar and Australian dollar were higher than the same period last year. Exchange rate fluctuations resulted in increases in accounts receivable of approximately $11 million, inventory of approximately $7 million, goodwill of approximately $26 million and other comprehensive income of approximately $60 million since May 31, 2006. At May 31, 2007, the exchange rates for the Euro, the British pound sterling, the Canadian dollar and Australian dollar were also higher than at November 30, 2006. Exchange rate fluctuations resulted in increases in accounts receivable of approximately $6 million, inventory of approximately $4 million, goodwill of approximately $11 million and other comprehensive income of approximately $28 million since November 30, 2006.

Management believes that internally generated funds and the existing sources of liquidity under our credit facilities are sufficient to meet current liquidity needs and longer-term financing requirements. If we were to undertake an acquisition that requires funds in excess of our existing sources of liquidity, we would look to sources of funding from additional credit facilities, debt and/or equity issuances.

ACCOUNTING AND DISCLOSURE CHANGES

In September 2006, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued SFAS No. 158, “Employers’ Accounting for Defined Benefit Pension and Other Postretirement Plans.” This statement will require us to (a) record a liability on our balance sheet for our pension plans’ underfunded status (b) record any changes in the funded status of our pension and postretirement plans in the year in which the changes occur (reported in comprehensive income) and (c) measure our pension and postretirement assets and liabilities at November 30 versus our current measurement date of September 30. The requirements to record the funded status and certain disclosure requirements are effective for our year ending November 30, 2007 and will be reflected in our year-end report. The requirement to change the measurement date is effective for our year ending November 30, 2009. Since our plans are currently in an underfunded status, we expect to record a liability of approximately $50 million, net of deferred taxes, and a corresponding charge to shareholders’ equity upon adoption.

32




In September 2006, the FASB issued SFAS No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements.” This statement defines fair value and provides guidance for measuring fair value and the necessary disclosures.  This statement does not require any new fair value measurements but rather applies to all other accounting pronouncements that require or permit fair value measurements. SFAS No. 157 will be effective for our first quarter ending February 29, 2008. We do not expect any material impact from adoption of this new accounting pronouncement on our financial statements.

In June 2006, the FASB issued Interpretation 48 (“FIN 48”), “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes.” FIN 48 clarifies the accounting for income taxes when it is uncertain how an income or expense item should be treated on an income tax return. FIN 48 describes when an uncertain tax item should be recorded in the financial statements and for how much, provides guidance on recording interest and penalties and accounting and reporting for income taxes in interim periods. FIN 48 is effective for our year ending November 30, 2008. We have not yet determined the impact from adoption of this new accounting pronouncement on our financial statements.

FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION

Certain statements contained in this report, including those related to the expected results of operations of businesses acquired by us, the expected impact of the prices of raw materials on our results of operations and gross margins, the expected margin improvements, expected trends in net sales and earnings performance and other financial measures, annualized savings and other benefits from our streamlining and restructuring activities, the holding period and market risks associated with financial instruments, the impact of foreign exchange fluctuations, the adequacy of internally generated funds and existing sources of liquidity, such as our ability to issue additional debt or equity securities, and our expectations regarding purchasing shares of our common stock under the existing authorizations, are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Forward-looking statements are based on management’s current views and assumptions and involve risks and uncertainties that could significantly affect expected results. Operating results may be materially affected by external factors such as: competitive conditions, customer relationships and financial condition, availability and cost of raw and packaging materials, governmental actions and political events, and economic conditions, including fluctuations in interest and foreign currency exchange rates. Actual results may vary significantly from projections. We undertake no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

33




ITEM 3   QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

For information regarding our exposure to certain market risks, see “Market Risk Sensitivity” in the Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations above and Item 7A, Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk, in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended November 30, 2006. Except as described in the Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations above, there have been no significant changes in our financial instrument portfolio or market risk exposures since our November 30, 2006 fiscal year end.

ITEM 4   CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

Based on our evaluation as of May 31, 2007, the Chairman & Chief Executive Officer and the Executive Vice President, Strategic Planning & Chief Financial Officer, have concluded that our “disclosure controls and procedures” as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 are effective based upon the reasonable assurance level.

No change occurred in our “internal control over financial reporting” (as defined in Rule 13a-15(f)) during our last fiscal quarter which was identified in connection with the evaluation required by Rule 13a-15(a) as materially affecting, or reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

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PART II — OTHER INFORMATION

ITEM 1.  LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

There are no material pending legal proceedings in which the Registrant or any of its subsidiaries is a party or in which any of their property is the subject.

ITEM 1A.  RISK FACTORS

The following risk factors should be read carefully in connection with evaluating our business and the forward-looking information contained in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q. Any of the following risks could materially adversely affect our business, operating results, financial condition and the actual outcome of matters as to which forward-looking statements are made in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q. While we believe it has identified and discussed below the key risk factors affecting our business, there may be additional risks and uncertainties that are not presently known or that are not currently believed to be significant that may adversely affect our business, performance or financial condition in the future.

Damage To Our Reputation Or Brand Name Could Negatively Impact Us.

Our reputation for manufacturing high quality products is widely recognized. In order to safeguard that reputation, we have adopted rigorous quality assurance and quality control procedures which are designed to ensure conformity to specification and compliance with law. We also continually make efforts to increase our brand awareness and relevance, and to maintain and improve our relationships with our customers and consumers. A serious breach of our quality assurance or quality control procedures, or deterioration of our quality image, or impairment of our customer or consumer relationships, could have a material negative impact on our financial condition and results of operations.

Issues Regarding Procurement of Raw Materials May Negatively Impact Us.

Our purchases of raw materials are subject to fluctuations in market price and availability caused by weather, growing and harvesting conditions, market conditions, governmental actions and other factors beyond our control. The most significant raw materials are cheese, pepper, capsicums, garlic, onion and vanilla. While future movements of raw material costs are uncertain, we seek to mitigate the market price risk in a number of ways, including strategic raw material purchases, purchases of raw material for future delivery and customer price adjustments. We have not used derivatives to manage the volatility related to this risk. Any actions we may take in response to market price fluctuations may not effectively limit or eliminate our exposure to changes in raw material prices. Therefore, we cannot assure you that future raw material price fluctuations will not have a negative impact on our business, financial condition or operating results.

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In addition, we may have very little opportunity to mitigate the availability risk of certain raw materials due to the effect of weather on crop yield, political unrest in the producing countries, changes in governmental agricultural programs and other factors beyond our control. Therefore, we cannot provide assurance that future raw material availability will not have a negative impact on our business, financial condition or operating results.

Further, political, socio-economic, and cultural conditions, as well as disruptions caused by terrorist activities, in developing countries create risks for food safety.  Although we have adopted rigorous quality assurance and quality control procedures which are designed to ensure the safety of our imported products, we cannot assure you that such events will not have a negative impact on our business, financial condition or operating results.

Our Profitability May Suffer As A Result Of Competition In Our Markets.

The food industry is intensely competitive. Competition in our product categories is based on price, product innovation, product quality, brand recognition and loyalty, effectiveness of marketing, promotional activity and the ability to identify and satisfy consumer preferences. From time to time, we may need to reduce the prices for some of our products to respond to competitive and customer pressures. Such pressures also may impair our ability to take appropriate remedial action to address commodity and other cost increases.

Our operations may be impaired as a result of disasters, business interruptions or similar events.

A natural disaster such as an earthquake, fire, flood, or severe storm, or a catastrophic event such as a terrorist attack, an epidemic affecting our operating activities, major facilities, or employees’ and customers’ health, or a computer system failure, could cause an interruption or delay in our business and loss of inventory and/or data or render us unable to accept and fulfill customer orders in a timely manner, or at all.  In addition, some of our inventory and production facilities are located in areas that are susceptible to harsh weather; a major storm, heavy snowfall or other similar event that could prevent us from delivering products in a timely manner.  We cannot provide assurance that our disaster recovery plan will address all of the issues we may encounter in the event of a disaster or other unanticipated issue, and our business interruption insurance may not adequately compensate us for losses that may occur from any of the foregoing.  In the event that an earthquake, natural disaster, terrorist attack or other catastrophic event were to destroy any part of our facilities or interrupt our operations for any extended period of time, or if

36




harsh weather or health conditions prevent us from delivering products in a timely manner, our business, financial condition and operating results could be seriously harmed.

We may not be able to successfully consummate proposed acquisitions or divestitures or integrate acquired businesses.

From time to time, we may acquire other businesses and, based on an evaluation of our business portfolio, divest existing businesses. These potential acquisitions and divestitures may present financial, managerial and operational challenges, including diversion of management attention from existing businesses, difficulty with integrating or separating personnel and financial and other systems, increased expenses, assumption of unknown liabilities, and indemnities and potential disputes with the buyers or sellers.  In addition, we may be required to incur asset impairment charges related to acquired businesses which may reduce our profitability. If we are unable to consummate these transactions, or successfully integrate and grow acquisitions and achieve contemplated revenue synergies and cost savings, our financial results could be adversely affected.

Our Foreign Operations Are Subject To Additional Risks.

We operate our business and market our products internationally. In 2006, 38% of our sales were generated in foreign countries. Our foreign operations are subject to the risks described in this section, as well as risks related to fluctuations in currency values, foreign currency exchange controls, discriminatory fiscal policies, compliance with foreign laws, enforcement of remedies in foreign jurisdictions and other economic or political uncertainties. In particular, our subsidiaries conduct their businesses in local currency and, for purposes of financial reporting, their results are translated into U.S. dollars based on average exchange rates prevailing during a reporting period. During times of a strengthening U.S. dollar, our reported net revenues and operating income will be reduced because the local currency will translate into fewer U.S. dollars. Additionally, international sales are subject to risks related to imposition of tariffs, quotas, trade barriers and other similar restrictions. All of these risks could result in increased costs or decreased revenues, either of which could adversely affect our profitability.

The Consolidation Of Customers May Put Pressures On Our Operating Margins And Profitability.

Our customers such as supermarkets, warehouse clubs and food distributors, have consolidated in recent years and consolidation is expected to continue throughout the U.S., the European Union and other major markets. Such consolidation could present a challenge to margin growth and profitability in that they have produced large, sophisticated customers with increased buying power who are more capable of operating with reduced inventories, resisting price increases, and demanding lower pricing, increased

37




promotional programs and specifically tailored products. These factors and others could have an adverse impact on our future sales growth and profitability.

Fluctuations In The Foreign Currency Markets May Negatively Impact Us.

We are exposed to fluctuations in foreign currency cash flows primarily related to raw material purchases. Most of this exposure is due to our foreign operations needing to purchase raw materials in the U.S. dollars. We are also exposed to fluctuations in the value of foreign currency investments in subsidiaries and unconsolidated affiliates and cash flows related to repatriation of these investments. Additionally, we are exposed to volatility in the translation of foreign currency earnings to U.S. dollars. Primary exposures include the U.S. dollar versus the Euro, British pound sterling, Canadian dollar, Australian dollar, Mexican peso, Chinese renminbi and Thai baht. On occasion, we may enter into forward and option contracts to manage these foreign currency risks. However, these contracts may not effectively limit or eliminate our exposure to a decline in operating results due to foreign currency exchange changes. Therefore, we cannot assure you that future exchange rate fluctuations will not have a negative impact on our business, financial position or operating results.

Increases In Interest Rates May Negatively Impact Us.

We had total outstanding short-term borrowings of approximately $195.7 million at an average interest rate of approximately 5.3% on May 31, 2007. Our policy is to manage our interest costs using a mix of fixed and variable rate debt. We also use interest rate swaps to achieve a desired proportion of fixed and variable rate debt. We utilize derivative financial instruments to enhance our ability to manage risk, including interest rate exposures that exist as part of our ongoing business operations. We do not enter into contracts for trading purposes, nor are we a party to any leveraged derivative instrument. Our use of derivative financial instruments is monitored through regular communication with senior management and the utilization of written guidelines. However, our use of these instruments may not effectively limit or eliminate our exposure to changes in interest rates. Therefore, we cannot assure you that future interest rate increases will not have a material negative impact on our business, financial position or operating results.

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ITEM 2.   UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS

The following table summarizes our purchases of Common Stock (CS) and Common Stock Non-Voting (CSNV) during the second quarter of 2007:

ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES

Period

 

Total
Number of
Shares Purchased

 

Average
Price Paid
per Share

 

Total
Number of
Shares
Purchased
as Part of
Publicly
Announced
Plans or
Programs

 

Approximate
Dollar Value
of Shares that
May Yet Be
Purchased
Under the
Plans or
Programs

 

March 1, 2007 to March 31, 2007

 

CS – 56,911

 

$

37.41

 

56,911

 

$

178.9 million

 

 

CSNV – 375,000

 

$

37.85

 

375,000

 

 

 

April 1, 2007 to April 30, 2007

 

CS – 35,000

 

$

38.19

 

35,000

 

$

162.3 million

 

 

 

CSNV – 400,000

 

$

38.07

 

400,000

 

 

 

May 1, 2007 to May 31, 2007

 

CS – 92,119

 

$

37.39

 

92,119

 

$

148.4 million

 

 

CSNV – 281,100

 

$

37.18

 

281,100

 

 

 

Total

 

CS – 184,030

 

$

37.55

 

184,030

 

$

148.4 million

 

 

 

CSNV – 1,056,100

 

$

37.76

 

1,056,100

 

 

 

 

In June 2005, the Board of Directors approved an additional $400 million share repurchase authorization.  As of May 31, 2007, $148.4 million remained of the $400 million authorization.  This amount is expected to be sufficient for fiscal year 2007 share repurchases.

ITEM 4.   SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS

(a)  The Company held its Annual Meeting of stockholders on March 28, 2007.

(b)  Response included below in (c).

(c)

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1.  The following individuals were elected by the stockholders to the Board of Directors by the votes indicated.

Name

 

Votes For

 

Votes Withheld

 

John P. Bilbrey

 

11,896,450

 

93,625

 

James T. Brady

 

11,906,486

 

83,289

 

Francis A. Contino

 

11,867,266

 

122,509

 

J. Michael Fitzpatrick

 

11,916,533

 

73,242

 

Freeman A. Hrabowski

 

11,973,540

 

16,235

 

Robert J. Lawless

 

11,917,130

 

72,645

 

Michael D. Mangan

 

11,895,949

 

93,826

 

Margaret M.V. Preston

 

11,909,683

 

80,092

 

George A. Roche

 

11,902,912

 

86,863

 

William E. Stevens

 

11,906,931

 

82,844

 

 

2.  The stockholders approved the 2007 Employees Stock Purchase Plan by a vote of 10,984,885 votes for and 21,032 votes against, with 123,058 abstentions and 860,800 broker non-votes.

3.  The stockholders ratified the appointment of Ernst & Young LLP to serve as our independent registered public accounting firm for 2007 by a vote of 11,913,011 votes for and 36,875 votes against, with 39,889 abstentions and no broker non-votes.

(d)  No response required.

ITEM 6. EXHIBITS

The following exhibits are attached or incorporated herein by reference:

Exhibit Number

 

Description

(3)

 

Articles of Incorporation and By-Laws

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Restatement of Charter of McCormick & Company, Incorporated dated April 16, 1990

 

Incorporated by reference from Exhibit 4 of Registration Form S-8, Registration No. 33-39582 as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 25, 1991.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Articles of Amendment to Charter of McCormick & Company, Incorporated dated April 1, 1992

 

Incorporated by reference from Exhibit 4 of Registration Form S-8, Registration Statement No. 33-59842 as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 19, 1993.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Articles of Amendment to Charter of McCormick & Company, Incorporated dated March 27, 2003

 

Incorporated by reference from Exhibit 4 of Registration Form S-8, Registration Statement No. 333-104084 as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 28, 2003.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By-Laws of McCormick & Company, Incorporated Amended and Restated on June 26, 2007

 

Incorporated by reference from Exhibit 3(i) of the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on July 2, 2007.

 

 

 

 

 

(4)

 

Instruments defining the rights of security holders, including indentures

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(i)                                     See Exhibit 3 (Restatement of Charter)

 

 

 

 

 

(ii)                                  Summary of Certain Exchange Rights, incorporated by reference from Exhibit 4.1 of the Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended August 31, 2001 as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on October 12, 2001.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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(iii)                               Indenture dated December 5, 2000 between Registrant and SunTrust Bank, incorporated by reference from Exhibit 4(iii) of Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended August 31, 2003, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on October 14, 2003. Registrant hereby undertakes to furnish to the Securities and Exchange Commission, upon its request, copies of additional instruments of Registrant with respect to long-term debt that involve an amount of securities that do not exceed 10 percent of the total assets of the Registrant and its subsidiaries on a consolidated basis, pursuant to Regulation S-K, Item 601b(4)(iii)(A).

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(iv)                              Form of 5.20% Notes due 2015, incorporated by reference from Exhibit 4.2 of the Registrant’s Form 8-K dated December 1, 2005, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on December 6, 2005.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(v)                                 Form of 5.80% Notes due 2011, incorporated by reference from Exhibit 4.2 of the Registrant’s Form 8-K dated July 10, 2006, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on July 13, 2006.

 

 

 

 

 

(10)

 

Material contracts

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(i)                                     Registrant’s supplemental pension plan for certain senior officers, as amended and restated effective June 19, 2001, is contained in the McCormick Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan, a copy of which was attached as Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended August 31, 2001, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on October 12, 2001, and incorporated by reference herein.  Amendment Number 1 to the Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan, effective January 1, 2005,  which agreement is incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10(iv) of Registrant’s 10-K for the fiscal year ended November 30, 2004, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 27, 2005. *

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(ii)                                  The 2001 Stock Option Plan, in which officers and certain other management employees participate, is set forth on pages 33 through 36 of the Registrant’s definitive Proxy Statement dated February 15, 2001, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on February 14, 2001, and incorporated by reference herein.*

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(iii)                               The 1997 Stock Option Plan, in which officers and certain other management employees participate, is set forth in Exhibit B of the Registrant’s definitive Proxy Statement dated February 19, 1997, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on February 18, 1997, and incorporated by reference herein.*

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(iv)                              The 2002 McCormick Mid-Term Incentive Plan, which is provided to a limited number of senior executives, is set forth on pages 23 through 31 of the Registrant’s definitive Proxy Statement dated February 15, 2002, as filed with the Commission on February 15, 2002, and incorporated by reference herein.*

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(v)                                 2004 Long-Term Incentive Plan, in which officers and certain other management employees participate, is set forth in Exhibit A of the Registrant’s definitive Proxy Statement dated February 17, 2004, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on February 17, 2004, and incorporated by reference herein.*

 

 

 

 

 

 

41




 

 

(vi)                              2004 Directors’ Non-Qualified Stock Option Plan, provided to members of the Registrant’s Board of Directors who are not also employees of the Registrant, is set forth in Exhibit B of the Registrant’s definitive Proxy Statement dated February 17, 2004 as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on February 17, 2004, and incorporated by reference herein.*

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(vii)                           Directors’ Share Ownership Program, provided to members of the Registrant’s Board of Directors who are not also employees of the Registrant, is set forth on page 28 of the Registrant’s definitive Proxy Statement dated February 17, 2004 as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on February 17, 2004, and incorporated by reference herein.*

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(viii)                        Deferred Compensation Plan, as restated on January 1, 2000, and amended on August 29, 2000, September 5, 2000 and May 16, 2003, in which directors, officers and certain other management employees participate, a copy of which Plan document and amendments was attached as Exhibit 10(viii) of the Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended August 31, 2003 as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on October 14, 2003, and incorporated by reference herein.*

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(ix)                                2005 Deferred Compensation Plan, effective January 1, 2005, in which directors, officers and certain other management employees participate, which agreement is incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10(xii) of Registrant’s 10-K for the fiscal year ended November 30, 2004, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 27, 2005.