UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, D.C.  20549


FORM 10-Q


[ X ] QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF

THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934


For the quarterly period ended September 28, 2003


OR


[   ] TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF

THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934


For the transition period from ________ to ________


Commission file number 0-01097



THE STANDARD REGISTER COMPANY

(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)


OHIO

31-0455440

(State or other jurisdiction of

(I.R.S. Employer

Incorporation or organization)

Identification No.)

  

600 ALBANY STREET, DAYTON OHIO

45408

(Address of principal executive offices)

(Zip Code)

  

(937) 221-1000

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)




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


Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant is an accelerated filer (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).  Yes  X   No    


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


Class

 

Outstanding as of September 28, 2003

Common stock, $1.00 par value

 

23,733,493 shares

Class A stock, $1.00 par value

 

4,725,000 shares




#



THE STANDARD REGISTER COMPANY

FORM 10-Q

For the Quarter Ended September 28, 2003




INDEX


 

Page

Part I – Financial Information

 
   
 

Item 1. Consolidated Financial Statements

 
     
  

a)

Consolidated Statement of Income and Comprehensive Income

 
   

for the 13 Weeks Ended September 28, 2003 and September 29, 2002 and for the 39 Weeks Ended September 28, 2003 and September 29, 2002

3

     
  

b)

Consolidated Balance Sheet

 
   

as of September 28, 2003 and December 29, 2002

4-5

     
  

c)

Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows

 
   

for the 39 Weeks Ended September 28, 2003 and September 29, 2002

6

     
  

d)

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

7-20

     
 

Item 2. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition

 
   

and Results of Operations

21-44

     
 

Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosure About Market Risk

45

   
 

Item 4. Controls and Procedures

45

     
     

Part II – Other Information

 
     
 

Item 1. Legal Proceedings

46

   
 

Item 2. Changes in Securities and Use of Proceeds

46

   
 

Item 3. Defaults upon Senior Securities

46

   
 

Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders

46

   
 

Item 5. Other Information

46

   
 

Item 6. Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K

47

   

Signature

48

  


#





PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION

 

THE STANDARD REGISTER COMPANY

 

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF INCOME AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)

        
        
 

13 Weeks Ended

 

13 Weeks Ended

 

39 Weeks Ended

 

39 Weeks Ended

 

September 28

 

September 29

 

September 28

 

September 29

 

2003

 

2002

 

2003

 

2002

        

REVENUE

       

  Products

 $         184,003

 

 $            207,089

 

 $        570,255

 

 $      630,133

  Services

              38,105

 

                 45,609

 

           120,946

 

         140,129

    Total revenue

            222,108

 

               252,698

 

           691,201

 

         770,262

        

COST OF SALES

       

  Products

            112,124

 

               124,574

 

           346,556

 

         374,932

  Services

              25,439

 

                 29,403

 

             82,491

 

           90,054

    Total cost of sales

            137,563

 

               153,977

 

           429,047

 

         464,986

        

GROSS MARGIN

              84,545

 

                 98,721

 

           262,154

 

         305,276

        

OPERATING EXPENSES

       

  Research and development

                3,887

 

                   4,769

 

             13,670

 

           13,090

  Selling, general and administrative

              67,878

 

                 68,563

 

           208,843

 

         204,965

  Depreciation and amortization

              10,406

 

                 12,311

 

             35,292

 

           34,180

  Asset impairments

                1,306

 

                          -

 

             10,851

 

                    -

  Restructuring charges

                3,234

 

                          -

 

             16,206

 

                    -

      Total operating expenses

              86,711

 

                 85,643

 

           284,862

 

         252,235

        

(LOSS) INCOME FROM OPERATIONS

               (2,166)

 

                 13,078

 

            (22,708)

 

           53,041

        

OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE)

       

  Interest expense

                  (642)

 

                 (3,429)

 

              (3,276)

 

           (9,941)

  Investment income and other

                   118

 

                      721

 

                  895

 

             2,436

    Total other expense

                  (524)

 

                 (2,708)

 

              (2,381)

 

           (7,505)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(LOSS) INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAXES

               (2,690)

 

                 10,370

 

            (25,089)

 

           45,536

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

INCOME TAX (BENEFIT) EXPENSE

               (1,136)

 

                   4,120

 

            (10,407)

 

           17,427

        

NET (LOSS) INCOME

 $            (1,554)

 

 $                6,250

 

 $         (14,682)

 

 $        28,109

        

(LOSS) EARNINGS PER SHARE

       
        

Basic

 $              (0.05)

 

 $                  0.22

 

 $             (0.52)

 

 $            1.01

        

Diluted

 $              (0.05)

 

 $                  0.22

 

 $             (0.52)

 

 $            0.99

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dividends Paid Per Share

 $               0.23

 

 $                  0.23

 

 $              0.69

 

 $            0.69

        

NET (LOSS) INCOME

 $            (1,554)

 

 $                6,250

 

 $         (14,682)

 

 $        28,109

Deferred cost on interest rate swap, net of $672, $815,

       

     and $1,740 deferred income tax expense

                        -

 

                   1,008

 

               1,210

 

             2,609

Unrealized gain on available-for-sale securities

       

     net of $722 and $1,736 deferred income tax benefit

       

     in third quarter 2002 and year-to-date 2002

                     15

 

                 (1,083)

 

                  675

 

           (2,604)

Deferred cost on forward contract

                  (225)

 

                          -

 

                   (46)

 

                    -

Minimum pension liability, net of $75,426 deferred

       

     tax benefit

                      -   

 

             (113,138)

 

                     -   

 

       (113,138)

Foreign currency translation adjustment

                   232

 

                        24

 

               1,272

 

                  24

        

COMPREHENSIVE LOSS

 $            (1,532)

 

 $          (106,939)

 

 $         (11,571)

 

 $      (85,000)

        

See accompanying notes.

       


THE STANDARD REGISTER COMPANY

 

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET

(Dollars in thousands)

    
 

September 28

 

December 29

A S S E T S

2003

 

2002

    

CURRENT ASSETS

   

  Cash and cash equivalents

 $     62,796

 

 $   122,579

  Trading securities

             210

 

             255

  Accounts and notes receivable, less allowance for doubtful

   

    accounts of $5,059 and $6,312, respectively

      131,995

 

      155,930

  Inventories

        52,102

 

        60,179

  Prepaid income taxes

        15,133

 

        19,029

  Deferred income taxes

        21,234

 

        21,292

  Prepaid expense

        13,704

 

        12,793

      Total current assets

      297,174

 

      392,057

    
    

PLANT AND EQUIPMENT

   

  Buildings and improvements

        69,398

 

        83,324

  Machinery and equipment

      221,870

 

      248,093

  Office equipment

      166,410

 

      162,505

      Total

      457,678

 

      493,922

    Less accumulated depreciation

      296,038

 

      300,801

      Depreciated cost

      161,640

 

      193,121

  Plant and equipment under construction

          4,486

 

          8,606

  Land

          3,798

 

          4,495

  Net assets held for sale

          5,179

 

                 -

      Total plant and equipment

      175,103

 

      206,222

    
    

OTHER ASSETS

   

  Goodwill

        53,616

 

        53,613

  Intangible assets, net

        15,644

 

        17,199

  Deferred tax asset

        41,266

 

        40,865

  Software development costs, net

        17,370

 

        20,987

  Restricted cash

          4,140

 

          2,401

  Available-for-sale securities

          1,295

 

             620

  Other

        22,277

 

        20,900

      Total other assets

      155,608

 

      156,585

    

      Total assets

 $   627,885

 

 $   754,864

    

See accompanying notes.

   


THE STANDARD REGISTER COMPANY

    

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET

(Dollars in thousands)

    
 

September 28

 

December 29

LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY

2003

 

2002

    

CURRENT LIABILITIES

   

  Current portion of long-term debt

 $            23

 

 $       2,572

  Accounts payable

        26,292

 

        30,853

  Accrued compensation

        29,232

 

        26,184

  Deferred revenue

          8,881

 

          8,591

  Accrued restructuring

          4,008

 

          2,437

  Other current liabilities

        24,604

 

        31,803

      Total current liabilities

        93,040

 

      102,440

    

LONG-TERM LIABILITIES

   

  Long-term debt

      125,000

 

      200,010

  Pension benefit obligation

        55,642

 

        68,803

  Retiree health care obligation

        48,910

 

        49,374

  Deferred compensation

        13,610

 

        12,275

  Deferred cost of interest rate swap

                 -

 

          2,025

  Other long-term liabilities

             620

 

             936

      Total long-term liabilities

      243,782

 

      333,423

    

SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY

   

  Common stock, $1.00 par value:

   

    Authorized 101,000,000 shares

   

    Issued 2003 -25,657,255; 2002 - 25,340,543

        25,657

 

        25,340

  Class A stock, $1.00 par value:

   

    Authorized 9,450,000 shares

   

    Issued - 4,725,000

          4,725

 

          4,725

  Capital in excess of par value

        56,551

 

        51,541

  Accumulated other comprehensive losses

    (115,564)

 

    (118,677)

  Retained earnings

      375,642

 

      409,834

  Treasury stock at cost:

   

     2003 - 1,923,762 shares; 2002 - 1,797,150

      (49,351)

 

      (46,124)

  Unearned compensation - restricted stock

        (6,597)

 

        (4,468)

  Common stock held in grantor trust, at cost:

   

    2003 - 0 shares; 2002 - 123,121 shares

                 -

 

        (3,170)

     Total shareholders' equity

      291,063

 

      319,001

    

     Total liabilities and shareholders' equity

 $   627,885

 

 $   754,864

    

See accompanying notes.

   



THE STANDARD REGISTER COMPANY

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS

(Dollars in thousands)

 

39 Weeks Ended

 

39 Weeks Ended

 

September 28

 

September 29

 

2003

 

2002

CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES

   

  Net (loss) income

 $           (14,682)

 

 $             28,109

  Adjustments to reconcile net (loss) income to net

   

  cash provided by operating activities:

   

    Depreciation and amortization

                35,292

 

                33,846

    Asset impairments

                10,851

 

                         -

    Restructuring charges

                16,206

 

                         -

    Loss (gain) on sale of assets

                     995

 

                (1,879)

    Amortization of unearned compensation - restricted stock

                  1,667

 

                  1,255

    Deferred income taxes

                (1,128)

 

                         -

    Tax benefit from exercise of stock options

                     129

 

                         -

  Changes in operating assets and liabilities:

   

      Accounts and notes receivable

                23,927

 

                45,087

      Inventories

                  8,077

 

                16,188

      Prepaid income taxes

                  3,897

 

                28,465

      Other assets

                (3,765)

 

                (1,329)

      Restructuring spending

              (14,635)

 

                (9,338)

      Accounts payable and accrued expenses

                (8,707)

 

              (29,038)

      Pension and postretirement obligation

              (13,625)

 

                (6,871)

      Deferred income

                     290

 

                     342

      Other liabilities

                  1,019

 

                         6

        Net cash provided by operating activities

                45,808

 

              104,843

CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES

   

  Additions to plant and equipment

              (14,439)

 

              (19,425)

  Proceeds from sale of plant and equipment

                  3,973

 

                  8,488

  Acquisitions, net of cash received

                         -

 

              (99,199)

  Purchase of marketable securities

                         -

 

                (5,000)

  Additions to other investments

                   (293)

 

                         -

        Net cash used in investing activities

              (10,759)

 

            (115,136)

CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES

   

  Principal payments on long-term debt

              (77,584)

 

                (1,970)

  Proceeds from issuance of common stock

                  1,402

 

                  5,984

  Dividends paid

              (19,567)

 

              (19,285)

        Net cash used in financing activities

              (95,749)

 

              (15,271)

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash

                     917

 

                       10

NET DECREASE IN CASH AND

   

  CASH EQUIVALENTS

              (59,783)

 

              (25,554)

  Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period

              122,579

 

              163,502

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS

   

  AT END OF PERIOD

 $             62,796

 

 $           137,948

See accompanying notes.

   


THE STANDARD REGISTER COMPANY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)



NOTE 1 – BASIS OF PRESENTATION


The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of The Standard Register Company and its wholly owned subsidiaries (collectively, the Company) after elimination of intercompany transactions, profits, and balances.  The Company’s investments in international joint ventures are included in the accompanying consolidated financial statements using the equity method of accounting.  The Company’s share of earnings (losses) from these joint ventures is included in Investment income (expense) for periods ending one month prior to the Company’s fiscal period-end in order to ensure timely preparation of the consolidated financial statements.  The consolidated financial statements are unaudited and have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America for interim financial information and with instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X.  Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and notes required for complete annual financial statements and should be read in conjunction with the Company’s audited consolidated financial statements and notes for the year ended December 29, 2002 included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K.


In the opinion of management, all adjustments (consisting only of normal recurring accruals) necessary for a fair presentation have been included.  The results for interim periods are not necessarily indicative of trends or of results to be expected for a full year.  Certain prior-year amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current-year presentation.


NOTE 2 – RECENTLY ADOPTED ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS


Effective December 30, 2002, the Company adopted Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) No. 143, “Accounting for Asset Retirement Obligations,” which addresses the financial accounting and disclosure of legal obligations associated with the retirement of tangible long-lived assets and the related asset retirement costs.  The new standard requires the Company to record the fair value of the liability for an asset retirement obligation in the period in which it is incurred, if a reasonable estimate of fair value can be made.  The related asset retirement costs are capitalized as part of the carrying amount of the long-lived asset and amortized over the asset’s economic life.  The adoption of this standard did not have an effect on the Company’s consolidated results of operations, financial position, or cash flows.

Effective December 30, 2002, the Company also adopted the section of SFAS No. 145, “Rescission of SFAS Nos. 4, 44, and 64, Amendment of SFAS No. 13, and Technical Corrections,” regarding financial reporting for early extinguishment of debt.  Since the Company does not have any gains or losses on extinguishment of debt recorded, the adoption of this standard did not have an effect on the Company's consolidated results of operations, financial position, or cash flows.  

Effective December 30, 2002, the Company also adopted the provisions of SFAS No. 146, “Accounting for Costs Associated with Exit or Disposal Activities,” which addresses the recognition, measurement, and reporting of costs associated with exit and disposal activities, including restructuring activities.  This statement requires that liabilities for costs associated with an exit or disposal activity not be recognized until the liability is incurred and the fair value can be estimated, except for certain one-time termination benefits.  SFAS No. 146 nullifies Emerging Issues Task Force (EITF) 94-3 which permitted recognition of a liability for such costs at the date of a Company’s commitment to an exit plan.  The provisions of SFAS No. 146 are effective for exit and disposal activities initiated after December 31, 2002.  The provisions of EITF 94-3 will continue to apply for liabilities previously recorded.  See Note 3 “Restructuring and Impairment Charges.”

Effective December 30, 2002, the Company adopted Financial Interpretation Number (FIN) 45, "Guarantor's Accounting and Disclosure Requirements for Guarantees, Including Indirect Guarantees of Indebtedness of Others."  FIN 45 further defines the disclosures to be made by a guarantor in its interim and annual financial statements about its obligations under certain guarantees.  It also clarifies that a guarantor is required to recognize, at the inception of a guarantee, a liability for the fair value of the obligation undertaken in issuing the guarantee.  FIN 45 incorporates, without change, the guidance in FIN 34, “Disclosure of Indirect Guarantees of Indebtedness of Others,” which is being superseded.  

FIN 45 generally applies to contracts or indemnification agreements that contingently require the guarantor to make payments to the guaranteed party based on changes in an underlying that is related to an asset, liability, or equity security of the guaranteed party.  The Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) defines an underlying as a specified interest rate, security price, commodity price, foreign exchange rate, index of prices or rates, or other variable.  There are several exceptions including, but not limited to, pension contracts, deferred compensation contracts, lessee’s residual value guarantee in a capital lease, guarantees accounted for as contingent rent, and guarantees that constitute vendor rebates.

FIN 45 requires disclosure of the nature of the guarantee, including the approximate term of the guarantee, how the guarantee arose, and the events or circumstances that would require the guarantor to perform under the guarantee.  The maximum potential amount of future payments under the guarantee, the carrying amount of the liability, if any, for the guarantor’s obligations and the nature and extent of any recourse provisions that would enable the guarantor to recover amounts paid under the guarantee must also be disclosed.  

FIN 45 is effective, on a prospective basis, to guarantees issued or modified after December 31, 2002.  The adoption of this standard did not have an effect on the Company’s consolidated results of operations, financial position, or cash flows.  

Effective June 15, 2003, the Company adopted EITF Issue No. 00-21, “Revenue Arrangements with Multiple Deliverables.”  EITF No. 00-21 provides guidance on how to account for arrangements that involve the delivery or performance of multiple products, services and or rights to use assets.  In applying EITF No. 00-21, separate contracts with the same entity or related parties that are entered into at or near the same time are presumed to have been negotiated as a package and should be evaluated as a single arrangement.  It also addresses how arrangement consideration should be measured and allocated.  EITF No. 00-21 does not address when the criteria for revenue recognition are met or provide guidance on the appropriate method of revenue recognition.

Under EITF No. 00-21, revenue arrangements with multiple deliverables should be accounted for separately if the product or service has value to the customer on a stand-alone basis, there is objective and reliable evidence of the fair value of the product or service, the arrangement includes a general right of return relative to the item, and delivery or performance of the undelivered item is considered probable and substantially in control of the vendor.  Consideration should be allocated among the separate elements of the arrangement based on their relative fair value.  

EITF No. 00-21 requires disclosure of the accounting policy for recognition of revenue from multiple-deliverable arrangements and the description and nature of such arrangements, including performance-, cancellation-, termination-, or refund-type provisions.  EITF No. 00-21 is effective for revenue arrangements entered into in fiscal periods beginning after June 15, 2003.  The adoption of this standard did not have a material effect on the Company’s consolidated results of operations, financial position, or cash flows.

Effective June 30, 2003, the Company adopted SFAS No. 149, “Amendment of Statement 133 on Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities.”  SFAS No. 149 amends and clarifies accounting for derivative instruments, including certain derivative instruments embedded in other contracts and for hedging activities under SFAS No. 133, “Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities”.  In particular, it clarifies under what circumstances a contract with an initial net investment meets the characteristic of a derivative as discussed in SFAS No. 133; clarifies when a derivative contains a financing component that warrants special reporting in the statement of cash flows; amends the definition of an underlying to conform to the language used in FIN 45; and amends certain other existing pronouncements.  SFAS No. 149 is generally effective for contracts entered into or modified after June 30, 2003.  The adoption of this standard did not have a material effect on the Company’s consolidated results of operations, financial position, or cash flows.

Effective June 30, 2003, the Company adopted SFAS No. 150, “Accounting for Certain Financial Instruments with Characteristics of both Liabilities and Equity,” which requires issuers to classify certain financial instruments as liabilities (or assets in some circumstances).  SFAS No. 150 covers certain financial instruments that embody an obligation that the issuer can or must settle by issuing its own equity shares and instruments that require the issuing company to buy back all or some of its shares in exchange for cash or other assets.  The new standard also requires disclosures about alternative ways to settle the instruments and the capital structure of entities, all of whose shares are mandatorily redeemable. The provisions of SFAS No. 150 are effective for financial instruments entered into or modified after May 31, 2003.  The adoption of this standard did not have a material effect on the Company’s consolidated results of operations, financial position, or cash flows.

Effective June 30, 2003, the Company adopted FIN 46, “Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities, an Interpretation of Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB) No. 51, Consolidated Financial Statements.”  FIN 46 extends the application of ARB No. 51 to certain entities in which equity investors do not have the characteristics of a controlling financial interest or do not have sufficient equity at risk for the entity to finance its activities without additional subordinated financial support from other parties.  These variable interest entities (VIEs) are to be evaluated for consolidation based on their variable interests.  Variable interests are contractual, ownership, or other interests in an entity that expose their holders to the risks and rewards of the VIE.  VIEs have commonly been referred to as special-purpose entities or off-balance sheet structures.  The objective of FIN 46 is not to restrict the use of VIEs, but to improve the financial reporting related to them.  

FIN 46 introduces a new consolidation model, the variable interests model, which determines control (and consolidation) based on potential variability in gains and losses of the entity being evaluated for consolidation.  Variable interests include equity investments, loans, leases, derivatives, guarantees, forward contracts, service contracts, and other instruments whose values change with changes in the VIE’s assets.  FIN 46 requires existing unconsolidated VIEs to be consolidated by their primary beneficiaries if the entities do not effectively disperse risks among parties involved.  The primary beneficiary of a VIE is the party that absorbs a majority of the entity’s expected losses, receives a majority of its expected residual returns, or both, as a result of holding variable interests.

The provisions of FIN 46 were effective in January 2003 for all VIEs created after January 31, 2003.  The provisions of FIN46 for all VIEs created before February 1, 2003 will be effective December 31, 2003.  The Company is currently evaluating the impacts of the initial recognition, measurement and disclosure provisions of FIN 46; however, the Company does not believe that it holds any VIEs that require disclosure or consolidation.



NOTE 3 – RESTRUCTURING AND IMPAIRMENT CHARGES

Pre-tax components of the total restructuring charges recorded in 2003 are as follows:

   

Charges

     

Total

   

Directly to

 

Charges to

 

Reversed

 

2003

   

Restructuring

 

Restructuring

 

in

 

Restructuring

   

Expense

 

Accrual

 

2003

 

Expense

          

2003 Restructuring

         

Severance and employer related costs

  

 $          293

 

 $      9,084

 

$            -

 

 $        9,377

Contract exit and termination costs

  

             775

 

         2,320

 

             -

 

           3,095

Implementation costs

 

 

           3,055

 

               -

 

             -

 

           3,055

         Total 2003 restructuring

 

 

           4,123

 

       11,404

 

             -

 

         15,527

          

2001 Restructuring

         

Contract exit and termination costs

 

 

             763

 

               -

 

             -

 

             763

         Total 2001 restructuring

 

 

             763

 

               -

 

             -

 

             763

          

2000 Restructuring

         

Contract exit and termination costs

 

 

                 -

 

               -

 

        (84)

 

             (84)

         Total 2000 restructuring

 

 

                 -

 

               -

 

       (84)

 

             (84)

         Total restructuring expense

 

 

 $        4,886

 

 $    11,404

 

$       (84)

 

 $      16,206

2003 Restructuring

In the second quarter of 2003, the Company initiated several actions to improve utilization and profitability and to provide for continuing investment in growth initiatives.  The Company consolidated four printing and service operations within the Fulfillment Services segment to form a new state-of-the-art regional print-on-demand and fulfillment center in Dallas, Texas.  Within the Document and Label Solutions segment, a rotary printing plant was closed to trim excess capacity and several warehouses were consolidated in response to shifting demand in favor of print-on-demand services.  The Company also eliminated management positions at its corporate headquarters.  All of these actions were completed at the end of the second quarter. Minor additional restructuring activities that occurred in the third quarter of 2003 consisted of additional headcount reductions in addition to ongoing restructuring costs from the second quarter restructuring actions.

The 2003 restructuring activities are expected to generate annualized pretax savings of approximately $28,000, with about $12,000 of savings to be realized in the last half of 2003.  The estimated cost savings should recoup the cash restructuring costs within 11 months.

Costs to be incurred include severance and employer related costs, contract termination costs, and other associated costs directly related the restructuring efforts. Total restructuring charges expected to be incurred total $17,000 pretax.  Under SFAS No. 146, liabilities for costs associated with a restructuring cannot be recorded until the liability is incurred and the fair value can be estimated, except for certain one-time termination benefits.  Therefore, certain restructuring costs, primarily sublease payments and associated taxes, utilities and maintenance costs, as well as equipment removal, relocation, and travel to implement the restructuring, will be expensed as incurred through 2005, the majority in the remainder of 2003.  All costs are included in restructuring charges in the accompanying Consolidated Statement of Income.


Pre-tax components of the 2003 restructuring charge are as follows:

  

Total

    
  

Costs

 

Charges

 

Total

  

Expected

 

3Q 2003

 

2003 YTD

  

to be

 

Restructuring

 

Restructuring

  

Incurred

 

Expense

 

Expense

       

Severance and employer related costs

 

 $      9,388

 

$               419

 

$            9,377

       

Contract termination costs:

      

Lease obligations

 

         2,551

 

                     3

 

              1,925

Contractual lease obligations for taxes,

      

utilities, and maintenance costs

 

            398

 

                      -

 

                  398

       

Associated costs:

      

Travel

 

            281

 

                  119

 

                  281

Equipment removal and relocation

 

         2,345

 

               1,187

 

               2,165

Other exit costs

 

         2,037

 

                  743

 

               1,381

       
  

 $    17,000

 

$            2,471

 

$          15,527

BY SEGMENT:

      

Document and Label Solutions

 

 $    10,569

 

$            1,748

 

$          10,214

       

Fulfillment Services

 

         4,942

 

               612

 

                4,012

       

InSystems

 

            659

 

                 37

 

                   659

       

Other

 

            830

 

                     74

 

                   642

       

Total

 

 $    17,000

 

$            2,471

 

$          15,527

Pre-tax components of the 2003 restructuring accrual activity in fiscal 2003 are as follows:


 

Charged

 

Incurred

 

Balance

 

to

 

in

 

September 29,

 

Accrual

 

2003

 

2003

Severance and employer related costs

 $      9,084

 

 $    (6,865)

 

 $              2,219

Contract termination costs

        2,320

 

          (531)

 

                1,789

      Total

 $    11,404

 

 $    (7,396)

 

 $             4,008

2001 Restructuring

The remaining liability at December 29, 2002, relates to long-term lease obligations through 2006 that the Company was attempting to sublease or cancel.  Due to the nature of the charges and the duration of the program, estimates of the liability amounts required significant judgment.  The Company has been unable to sublease as many of the facilities as expected or to buyout the leases with as favorable terms as originally anticipated.  As a result, the liability for contract exit and termination costs was in excess of the amount originally estimated.  Approximately $4,822 of lease payments will be charged to restructuring expense as incurred through 2006, of which $763 was expensed in the third quarter of 2003.


Pre-tax components of the 2001 restructuring accrual activity in fiscal 2003 are as follows:

 

Balance

   

Balance

 

December 29,

 

Incurred

 

September 28,

 

2002

 

in 2003

 

2003

      

Contract exit and termination costs

 $       2,320

 

 $    (2,320)

 

 $                -

      

      Total

 $       2,320

 

 $    (2,320)

 

 $                -

2000 Restructuring

The remaining liability from the 2000 restructuring related to a non-cancelable lease obligation that expired in June 2003. In the second quarter of 2003, the Company reversed the excess liability.

Pre-tax components of the 2000 restructuring accrual activity in fiscal 2003 are as follows:

 

Balance

     

Balance

 

December 29,

 

Incurred

 

Reversed

 

September 28,

 

2002

 

in 2003

 

in 2003

 

2003

        

Contract exit and termination costs

 $        117

 

 $         (33)

 

 $            (84)

 

 $                 -

        

      Total

 $        117

 

 $         (33)

 

 $            (84)

 

 $                 -

2003 Impairment

In conjunction with the 2003 restructuring, assets were either written off or written down to estimated fair value if the asset was to be sold.  Due to an oversupply of used production equipment in the marketplace, approximately $3,172 of assets, primarily machinery and equipment, were determined to have no fair value and were disposed of, resulting in a non-cash impairment charge.  Of this amount, $2,211 related to the Document and Label Solutions segment and $961 related to the Fulfillment Services segment.   

The Company also identified certain pieces of equipment and two buildings that were closed that it believes can be sold.  In June 2003, the Company determined that the plan of sale criteria in SFAS No. 144, “Accounting for the Impairment of Disposal of Long-Lived Assets,” had been met.  Accordingly, the carrying values were adjusted to their fair value less costs to sell, considering recent sales of similar properties, real estate brokers valuations, and offers and bids.  The resulting impairment charge of $5,790 is included in Asset Impairments in the accompanying Consolidated Statement of Income.  The carrying values of the assets that are to be sold are classified as Net Assets Held for Sale in the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheet.

During the third quarter of 2003, the Company sold a small portion of the equipment resulting in a $239 reduction of the impairment charge.  The Company believes that the remaining assets will be sold within one year and has listed the buildings with real estate brokers and plans to sell the remaining equipment through brokers and to international affiliates.  In accordance with SFAS No. 144, the Company discontinued depreciation on these assets in June 2003.

In addition, the Document and Label Solutions segment recorded an impairment charge in the second quarter of 2003 in the amount of $2,020 related to forms-designs software that became technologically outdated.  The Company is replacing the software used for forms design to one that is more widely used by its customers and is more of an industry standard.  Accordingly, the carrying value of the software was written down to its fair value, based upon the fair value of the number of estimated remaining forms to be designed with the software, and its useful life was reduced.  The fair value was calculated based upon the weighted average of probable future cash flows of the asset.  The effect on annual amortization expense is not material.

In the third quarter of 2003, PathForward recorded an impairment charge of $1,190 related to capitalized software development costs recorded with the acquisition of PlanetPrint.  The software was used exclusively by one customer; beginning in the fourth quarter of 2003, the use of this software by this customer ceased as a result of a mutual decision by both the Company and the customer.  The Company has determined there are no alternative uses for this software.  This impairment charge is included in Asset Impairments on the accompanying Statement of Income.  The effect on annual amortization expense is not material.


2001 Impairment

In conjunction with the 2001 restructuring, management performed a review of its existing property and equipment and determined that certain long-lived assets were impaired. These assets were either written off or written down to estimated fair value if the asset was to be sold.  At December 29, 2002, assets held for sale related to the Document and Label Solutions segment included buildings with net book values of $2,263.  These buildings were sold during 2003, resulting in a total gain of $1,082 that is included as a credit to Asset Impairments in the accompanying Consolidated Statement of Income.  


NOTE 4 – ACQUISITIONS

On April 7, 2003, the Company entered into a joint venture partnership agreement with Grupo Calidata Thomas Greg, S.A. de C.V.  In exchange for a 40% equity interest the Company contributed receivables valued at $1,600.  The joint venture, located in Mexico and known as Label Solutions, S. de R.L. de C.V., will manufacture and sell label products, and will import the Company’s label products.  This joint venture is being accounted for under the equity method of accounting.  

On July 2, 2002, the Company acquired for cash all of the outstanding stock of InSystems Technologies, Inc. (InSystems), a privately owned company based in Toronto, Canada.   InSystems’ extended relationship management and document automation solutions were intended to complement the Company’s existing e-business, document management, and fulfillment services offerings.   InSystems is a leading provider of e-business solutions for financial services organizations.  With InSystems’ strong position in insurance and the Company’s significant presence in banking, healthcare, and other markets, the Company expects the acquisition to enhance its long-term growth while further positioning the Company as a leading information solutions provider.

The acquisition was accounted for by the purchase method of accounting under SFAS No. 141, “Business Combinations.”  The final purchase price for the acquisition, net of cash received, totaled $88,720 and was allocated to assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on estimated fair values at the date of acquisition as determined by an independent third party valuation.  In conjunction with the acquisition of InSystems, the Company recorded approximately $46,888 of goodwill, $17,084 of purchased intangibles, and $21,011 of capitalized software development costs.  In accordance with SFAS No. 142, goodwill will not be amortized but will be reviewed periodically for impairment.  The Company filed an election under section 338 of the Internal Revenue Code which will allow the Company to amortize and deduct the eligible fair market value of the net assets acquired in a stock purchase, including goodwill and certain purchased intangibles, for income tax purposes.  Approximately $45,400 of the goodwill and $15,273 of the purchased intangibles are expected to be deductible for tax purposes over 15 years. Of the purchased intangibles, $16,048 was assigned to service relationships that have a twelve-year useful life and $1,036 to professional services backlog that had a one-year useful life.  Capitalized software development costs are amortized on a straight-line basis over the estimated product life of the related software, which ranges from one to ten years.  Amounts related to purchased research and development assets acquired and written off immediately subsequent to acquisition were insignificant.  

The purchase allocation was as follows:


Current assets

 

 $       7,763

Plant and equipment

 

          4,440

Software development costs

 

        21,011

Goodwill

 

        46,888

Intangible assets

 

        17,084

Other assets

 

          2,377

 

 

 

Total assets acquired

 

        99,563

   

Current liabilities

 

          9,182

Long-term debt

 

          1,142

Long-term liabilities

 

             519

 

 

 

Total liabilities assumed

 

        10,843

Net assets acquired

 

 $     88,720


Results of operations for InSystems have been included in the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements since the date of acquisition.  InSystems is part of a reportable segment and all of the goodwill was assigned to this segment. The following table summarizes selected unaudited pro forma financial information for thirteen and thirty-nine week periods ending September 29, 2002 as if InSystems had been acquired at the beginning of the quarter.  The pro forma financial information includes adjustments for income taxes, interest income, depreciation and amortization.

The pro forma financial information does not necessarily reflect the results that would have occurred if the acquisition had been in effect for the period presented.  In addition, it is not intended to be a projection of future results and does not reflect any synergies that might be achieved from combining the operations.


   

13 Weeks

 

39 Weeks

   

Ended

 

Ended

   

September 29,

 

September 29,

(Unaudited)

 

 

2002

 

2002

Revenue

  

 $     252,698

 

 $     781,707

Net Income

  

 $         6,250

 

 $       27,341

Net Income Per Share

     

Basic

  

 $           0.22

 

 $           0.98

Diluted

  

 $           0.22

 

 $           0.96


On July 12, 2002, the Company acquired selected assets from PlanetPrint, a business services company headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota.  The Company paid $10,428 in cash for a digital print-on-demand operation in Dallas, Texas, and software development and consulting operations in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The acquisition was accounted for by the purchase method of accounting. In conjunction with the acquisition, the Company recorded approximately $6,557 of goodwill and $1,586 of capitalized software development costs.  In accordance with SFAS No. 142, goodwill will not be amortized but will be reviewed periodically for impairment.  Capitalized software development costs were being amortized on a straight-line basis over five years; however, in the third quarter of 2003, the Company recorded an impairment charge related to these capitalized software development costs.  See discussion regarding this impairment in Note 3 Restructuring and Impairment Charges. Results of operations from the date of acquisition are included in the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements in the Fulfillment Services segment.  Concurrently, the Company also acquired selected intellectual assets of PathForward for $1,000 in cash, which was recorded as an intangible asset.  Pro forma financial information and other related disclosures have not been presented because the acquisitions were not material.


NOTE 5 – INVESTMENTS

As discussed in Note 5 to its Consolidated Financial Statements in its annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 29, 2002, the Company purchased 500,000 shares of common stock in Printcafe Software Inc. (Printcafe), a publicly traded provider of enterprise software, for $5,000 in June 2002.  The Company did not have intentions of selling the shares in the near term and therefore classified the investment as available-for-sale securities.  The investment was reported at fair value, with unrealized losses reported in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) in shareholders’ equity.

On January 23, 2003, an unsolicited offer was made for all of the shares of Printcafe.  The Board of Directors of Printcafe subsequently formed a special committee to evaluate all potential offers to purchase Printcafe.  The Company believed that this sequence of events would likely lead to a sale of Printcafe. Therefore, the Company believed that an other-than-temporary decline occurred and recognized a portion of the unrealized loss based on the offer price.  The resulting $3,700 unrealized loss on investment was included in Investment Income (Expense) and Other in the Consolidated Statements of Income for the year ended December 29, 2002. An additional unrealized loss of $680 was recorded as a component of other comprehensive income (loss).

On February 26, 2003, Printcafe and Electronics for Imaging, Inc. (EFI) signed a merger agreement providing for EFI's acquisition of Printcafe for $2.60 per share for each outstanding Printcafe share.  The acquisition was completed on October 21, 2003.  The Company has elected to receive cash for its shares of Printcafe stock.  


NOTE 6 – INVENTORIES


The components of inventories at September 28, 2003 and December 29, 2002 were as follows:


  

September 28,

 

December 29,

  

2003

 

2002

     

Finished products

 

 $        39,099

 

 $       44,634

Jobs in process

 

             8,433

 

          11,059

Materials and supplies

 

             4,570

 

            4,486

     

Total

 

 $        52,102

 

 $       60,179






NOTE 7 – GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS

The carrying amount of goodwill as of September 28, 2003 allocated by reportable business segments is as follows:

  

Document and

 

Fulfillment

    

 

 

Label Solutions

 

Services

 

InSystems

 

Total

         

Goodwill at December 29, 2002

 

 $                    -

 

$       6,548

 

$    47,065

 

$      53,613

Purchase price adjustments

 

                       -

 

                9

 

              (6)

 

                  3

Impairment losses

 

                       -

 

               -

 

                -

 

                   -

Goodwill at September 28, 2003

 

 $                    -

 

$       6,557

 

$    47,059

 

$      53,616


As a result of the realignment of segments in January 2003, the goodwill related to the PlanetPrint acquisition which was reported by the Document Management segment in 2002 is now included in the Fulfillment Services segment.

Identifiable intangible assets consist of the following:

  

September 28, 2003

 

December 29, 2002

  

Gross

   

Gross

  
  

Carrying

 

Accumulated

 

Carrying

 

Accumulated

 

 

Amount

 

Amortization

 

Amount

 

Amortization

         

Intangible Assets with Determinable Lives

        

Service relationships

 

 $    16,048

 

 $    (1,671)

 

 $    16,048

 

 $       (669)

Patents

 

         2,707

 

       (2,440)

 

         2,707

 

       (2,405)

Professional services backlog

 

         1,036

 

       (1,036)

 

         1,036

 

          (518)

 

 

       19,791

 

       (5,147)

 

       19,791

 

       (3,592)

         

Intangible Assets with Indefinite Lives

        

Trademark

 

         1,000

 

                 -

 

         1,000

 

                -

 

 

         1,000

 

                 -

 

         1,000

 

                -

      Total

 

 $    20,791

 

 $    (5,147)

 

 $    20,791

 

 $    (3,592)

Amortization expense for intangible assets was $346 and $1,555 for third quarter 2003 and the first nine months of 2003, respectively.  Amortization expense for intangible assets was $1,233 for the year ended December 29, 2002.  Estimated amortization expense for the next five years is as follows: 2004-$1,384; 2005-$1,384; 2006-$1,384; 2007-$1,384; and 2008-$1,384.  Such estimates do not reflect the impact of future foreign exchange rate changes.

In accordance with SFAS No. 142, “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets”, goodwill and indefinite-lived intangibles are evaluated for impairment on an annual basis, or more frequently if impairment indicators arise, using a fair-value-based test that compares the fair value of the asset to its carrying value.  Fair values are calculated using discounted expected future cash flows, using a risk-adjusted discount rate.  Intangible assets that are subject to amortization are evaluated for impairment if impairment indicators arise in accordance with SFAS No. 144, “Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets”.

The consolidation of PlanetPrint and other Fulfillment Services’ centers in Dallas, Texas, triggered the requirement for an impairment test of the goodwill related to the PlanetPrint acquisition in the second quarter of 2003.  During the third quarter of 2003, the Company also performed the annual test for goodwill impairment related to the InSystems acquisition.  These tests were performed at the reporting unit level.  In both tests, the Company determined that the undiscounted sum of the expected future cash flows from the assets exceeded the carrying value of those assets; therefore, no impairment of goodwill was recognized.


NOTE 8 – COMMON STOCK HELD IN GRANTOR TRUST


As discussed in Note 13 to its Consolidated Financial Statements in its annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 29, 2002, the Company maintains a grantor (Trust) to fund the Company’s obligations under a deferred compensation plan for eligible participants.  Previously, the Trust was partially funded with shares of the Company’s common stock.  Because obligations under the deferred compensation plan are intended to be settled only in cash, in the second and third quarters of 2003 the Company repurchased 124,995 and 1,617 shares from the Trust for $2,231 and $29, respectively and transferred them to Treasury Stock.  There were no Company shares held by the Trust at September 28, 2003.


NOTE 9 – EARNINGS PER SHARE


The number of shares outstanding for calculation of earnings per share (EPS) is as follows:


  

13 Weeks

 

13 Weeks

 

39 Weeks

 

39 Weeks

  

Ended

 

Ended

 

Ended

 

Ended

  

September 28,

 

September 29,

 

September 28,

 

September 29,

(Shares in thousands)

 

2003

 

2002

 

2003

 

2002

         

Weighted average shares

 

           28,350

 

           28,134

 

           28,272

 

           27,923

outstanding - basic

        

Dilutive effect of stock options

 

                    -

 

                490

 

                    -

 

                541

         

Weighted average shares

        

outstanding - diluted

 

           28,350

 

           28,624

 

           28,272

 

           28,464


The effects of stock options on diluted EPS are reflected through the application of the treasury stock method.  Under this method, proceeds received by the Company, based on assumed exercise, are hypothetically used to repurchase the Company’s shares at the average market price for the period.  Outstanding options to purchase 897,496 shares in 2002 were not included in the computation of diluted EPS because the exercise prices of the options were greater than the average market price of the shares; therefore, the effect would be anti-dilutive.  Due to the net losses incurred in 2003, no outstanding options were included in the diluted EPS computation because they would automatically result in anti-dilution.



NOTE 10 – STOCK OPTIONS


The Company has two stock-based employee compensation plans, which are fully described in Note 15 to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the Company’s annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 29, 2002.  The Company accounts for those plans using the intrinsic value method in accordance with Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 25, “Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees,” and related interpretations.  No stock-based employee compensation cost is recognized in net income, as all options granted under the plans had an exercise price equal to the market value of the underlying common stock on the date of grant.  

Had compensation cost for the Company’s stock-based employee compensation plans been determined based on the fair value of such awards at the grant dates consistent with the provisions of SFAS No. 123, the Company’s total and per share net income would be reduced as follows:

  

13 Weeks

 

13 Weeks

 

39 Weeks

 

39 Weeks

  

Ended

 

Ended

 

Ended

 

Ended

  

September 28,

 

September 29,

 

September 28,

 

September 29,

 

 

2003

 

2002

 

2003

 

2002

Net (loss) income as reported

 

 $        (1,554)

 

 $           6,250

 

 $      (14,682)

 

 $        28,109

Less total compensation expense

        

    determined under the fair-value

        

based method for all awards, net

 

              (421)

 

                (533)

 

           (1,267)

 

          (1,911)

Proforma net (loss) income

 

 $        (1,975)

 

 $           5,717

 

 $      (15,949)

 

 $        26,198

Net (loss) income per share - Basic

        

As reported

 

 $          (0.05)

 

 $             0.22

 

 $          (0.52)

 

 $            1.01

Proforma

 

 $          (0.07)

 

 $             0.20

 

 $          (0.56)

 

 $            0.94

Net (loss) income per share - Diluted

        

As reported

 

 $          (0.05)

 

 $             0.22

 

 $          (0.52)

 

 $            0.99

Proforma

 

 $          (0.07)

 

 $             0.20

 

 $          (0.56)

 

 $            0.92


NOTE 11 - SEGMENT REPORTING

SFAS No. 131, “Disclosures about Segments of an Enterprise and Related Information,” requires companies to provide certain information about their operating segments.  In January 2003, the Company realigned certain operating segments to improve operational effectiveness. As a result, the Company has three reportable segments in 2003: Document and Label Solutions, Fulfillment Services, and InSystems. The three remaining, individually insignificant, operating segments were aggregated into Other, which includes International, PathForward, and SMARTworks.  Prior periods have been restated to conform to the new organizational structure.  Please refer to the Company’s Form 10-K for the year ended December 29, 2002 for additional information.

Document and Label Solutions provides a wide array of printed documents and related services that facilitate the recording, storage, and communication of business information. Document and Label Solutions consists principally of business forms, PC-based printing systems, secure documents, form/label combinations, products and services relating to flexographic, screen and offset printed labels, bar code/automatic ID systems, pressure-sensitive labels, compliance labels and variable image products.  Document and Label Solutions consists of six business units that have been aggregated for segment reporting purposes.  

Fulfillment Services is focused on outsourcing services. Document outsourcing is the delegation to a supplier of the creation, production, processing, printing, mailing or electronic transmission, or fulfillment of any type of printed or electronic documents. Fulfillment Services provides monthly billing statements, customized information kits, and retail card production; warehousing and kitting operations; and print and mail type operations.  Fulfillment Services consists of three business units that have been aggregated for segment reporting purposes.  

InSystems, acquired in July 2002, is a provider of e-business solutions that enable companies to improve processes and organize, manage, and distribute information in both paper and digital infrastructures. This segment also provides document-handling systems and document security and workflow consulting services.  InSystems consists of two business units that have been aggregated for segment reporting purposes.  

The accounting policies of the segments are the same as those described in the Summary of Significant Accounting Policies in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in the Company’s annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 29, 2002.  The segments are managed and reported internally primarily by the type of products they produce.  The Company evaluates segment performance based on operating income.  

Segment profit and loss information for 2002 has been revised from previously reported amounts to reflect the current organizational structure.  The Company did not revise assets by segments for 2002 because it is not practicable to do so.  Accordingly, 2002 realigned asset amounts have not been presented.   

Information about the Company’s operations by segment for the 13-week periods ended September 28, 2003 and September 29, 2002 is as follows:


    

Document

        
    

and Label

 

Fulfillment

      
    

Solutions

 

Services

 

InSystems

 

Other

 

Total

Revenue from external customers

 

2003

 

$     153,916

 

$     56,856

 

$     10,174

 

$      1,162

 

$       222,108

 

 

2002

 

     176,176

 

     63,512

 

     12,858

 

          152

 

         252,698

Intersegment revenues

 

2003

 

$                -

 

$               -

 

$               -

 

$          316

 

$              316

 

 

2002

 

               -

 

               -

 

              -

 

       1,945

 

            1,945

Operating (loss) income (a)

2003

 

$        6,570

 

$     (1,002)

 

$    (4,942)

 

$    (2,943)

 

$         (2,317)

 

 

2002

 

        17,453

 

       1,678

 

     (2,673)

 

     (3,533)

 

          12,925

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(a)  2003 operating loss includes restructuring and asset impairment charges as follows:

Restructuring

   

$       1,748

 

$          612

 

$           37

 

$         837

 

$           3,234

Impairment

   

$          (14)

 

$          130

 

$              -

 

$      1,190

 

$           1,306




Information about the Company’s operations by segment for the 39-week periods ended September 28, 2003 and September 29, 2002 is as follows:

    

Document

        
    

and Label

 

Fulfillment

      
    

Solutions

 

Services

 

InSystems

 

Other

 

Total

Revenue from external customers

 

2003

 

$       477,742

 

$    176,630

 

$     34,176

 

$       2,653

 

$        691,201

 

 

2002

 

        549,886

 

     192,715

 

       25,719

 

         1,942

 

           770,262

Intersegment revenues

 

2003

 

$                   

 

$                  

 

$                

 

$           774

 

$                774

 

 

2002

 

                    -

 

                 -

 

               -

 

        5,568

 

               5,568

Operating (loss) income (a)

2003

 

            5,585

 

$      (8,436)

 

$   (14,196)

 

$      (6,828)

 

$         (23,875)

 

 

2002

 

          58,679

 

          9,346

 

       (6,543)

 

      (8,891)

 

            52,591

Total assets

 

2003

 

$      249,549

 

$      83,714

 

$   109,746

 

$     11,202

 

$        454,211

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(a)  2003 operating loss includes restructuring and asset impairment charges as follows:

  

Restructuring

   

$        10,214

 

$        4,012

 

$         659

 

$       1,321

 

$           16,206

Impairment

   

$          8,517

 

$        2,222

 

$              -

 

$          112

 

$           10,851


Reconciling information between reportable segments and the Company’s consolidated financial statements for the 13-week and 39-week periods ended September 28, 2003 and September 29, 2002 is as follows:

  

Thirteen Weeks Ended

 

Thirty-nine Weeks Ended

  

September 28,

 

September 29,

 

September 28,

 

September 29,

  

2003

 

2002

 

2003

 

2002

         

Operating (Loss) Income

 

$        (2,317)

 

$         12,925

 

$     (23,875)

 

$         52,591

Other deductions

 

             150

 

            153

 

           450

 

           450

LIFO adjustment

 

                 -

 

                -

 

           716

 

             -

Total other expense

 

         (523)

 

       (2,708)

 

       (2,380)

 

       (7,505)

Income (loss) before income

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   taxes (benefit)

 

$        (2,690)

 

$         10,370

 

$     (25,089)

 

$        45,536

         

Total Assets

     

$     454,283

  

Corporate and unallocated

 

 

 

 

 

      173,602

 

 

   Total consolidated assets

 

 

 

 

 

$     627,885

 

 




Item 2. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION

            AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS    (Dollars in millions, except per share amounts)


Safe Harbor Statement  


This report includes forward-looking statements covered by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.  Because such statements deal with future events, they are subject to various risks and uncertainties and actual results for fiscal year 2003 and beyond could differ materially from the Company’s current expectations.  Forward-looking statements are identified by words such as “anticipates,” “projects,” “expects,” “plans,” “intends,” “believes,” “estimates,” “targets,” and other similar expressions that indicate trends and future events.  Factors that could cause the Company’s results to differ materially from those expressed in forward-looking statements include, without limitation, variation in demand and acceptance of the Company’s products and services, the frequency, magnitude and timing of paper and other raw-material-price changes, general business and economic conditions beyond the Company’s control, timing of the completion and integration of acquisitions, the consequences of competitive factors in the marketplace, cost-containment strategies, and the Company’s success in attracting and retaining key personnel.  The Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements as a result of new information since these statements may no longer be accurate or timely.   

The following discussion and analysis provides information which management believes is relevant to an understanding of the Company’s consolidated results of operations and financial condition.  This discussion should be read in conjunction with the accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements and Notes thereto.

INDUSTRY OVERVIEW AND BUSINESS RISKS

Standard Register is a leading provider of information solutions for healthcare, financial services, insurance, pharmaceutical, manufacturing, and other industries. Its offerings include forms and labels; document security solutions; automatic identification solutions; consulting; facilities management; printing; warehousing and distribution services; fulfillment services; and e-business solutions that help companies improve their business results. Throughout most of its history, the Company's traditional business has involved the design, production, management, and distribution of printed documents that have helped companies manage their business information and transact with their customers and suppliers. As a strategic partner in migrating companies from paper-based to digital processes, the Company’s strategy is to provide a full spectrum of solutions – from printed documents to consulting to digital solutions - and continue to expand capabilities that help companies reduce costs and apply the appropriate technology to improve their business results. The Company is structured around six strategic business units: Document and Label Solutions, Fulfillment Services, and InSystems (all of which are reportable segments) and International, PathForward, and SMARTworks.

Excess production capacity and stiff price competition are prevalent in the Document and Label Solutions segment, the Company’s traditional business.  Industry demand for traditional custom printed business documents has been declining as a result of inroads made by alternative technologies and a relatively weak economy. This very competitive market has led to tremendous price competition and pressure from customers to reduce costs.  Notwithstanding these challenges, the Company believes it has an opportunity to increase its market share through the effective execution of its sales strategies.  It also stands to gain share by providing an increasing array of application software and professional services that help its customers improve their business processes.  

Driven by an increase in both consumer and industrial end-use applications, the market for pressure sensitive labels in North America is projected to exhibit steady growth.  The need for operational efficiency is likely to drive consolidation in the industry and companies in the industry will increasingly incorporate technologies such as bar-code technology, Internet-based commerce, digital presses, and environmentally friendly adhesives and inks.  All of these factors will make the industry more efficient, allowing the Company to compete for new markets with alternative technologies such as shrink sleeve and in-mold label technology.  

The overall market for document outsourcing, which includes the Company’s Fulfillment Services segment, is expected to increase as companies increasingly seek outside help in performing business communications.  Increasingly, companies strive to reach their customers with very targeted and customized promotions.  The ability to develop, print and distribute these communications on demand will also fuel growth in this area.  Statement production and kitting represents a large and growing market, with approximately a dozen companies with national coverage competing based on capabilities and price.  Market trends include the utilization of more technology such as providing statements and billing on the Internet and using digital technology to produce printed or electronic personalized communications to increase customer retention and response rates.  


There are two business units with the Company's InSystems segment. InSystems Software Solutions  focuses on software solutions for the automation of document-intensive business processes in the financial services industry, particularly insurance. InSystems Document Systems group focuses on hardware and software solutions for negotiable and secure document output in insurance, banking, healthcare and other markets. Industry analysts predict increased information technology spending for health care and financial services organizations and that insurance spending in particular will be comparable to other financial services, with 5-8% of revenue being spent on information technology projects. Market trends include increased emphasis on regulatory compliance for new product development, security, customer and distribution channel loyalty and the migration from paper to digital solutions. These indicate significant opportunity for InSystems.  Convergence of technologies around Enterprise Content Management (ECM,) an approach for managing unstructured content, also presents an opportunity to add value to an ECM platform, with InSystems becoming a provider of best-in-class platform extensions, offering insurance-specific functionality in the Document Automation segment, an area expected to be complementary to, and not subsumed by, ECM.

In summary, the most significant risks facing the Company for the balance of 2003 revolve around the economy and the effect of alternative technologies on the Company’s traditional product offerings.  Another risk that faces the Company is the continued development of its sales force.  As discussed under Results of Operations, the Company initiated several actions related to its sales force late in 2002 and in 2003 designed to improve the revenue trend.  These initiatives are continuing to be put in place and are beginning to provide benefits.  The Company is addressing its business risks by focusing on the 2003 restructuring actions to align its cost structure with its expected revenue stream, sales force initiatives, product improvements, and continued focus on growth opportunities across all segments.  The Company’s investments for growth include technology, talent, and capabilities to further strengthen sales effectiveness and bolster its digitization and print-on-demand offerings.  During the third quarter, the Company introduced its ExpeData™ suite of digital information solutions.  This leading-edge offering includes imaging services, intelligent electronic forms solutions, and innovative digital pen and paper technology that automatically converts written input into digital information.  The Company is working with Microsoft, HP, and other leading companies to take these solutions to market.  Other technology initiatives included customer implementations of SMARTworks® 6.0, a new version of the Company’s e-procurement and print-management software providing enhanced functionality for one-to-one business communications, digital asset management, and business analytics.


APPLICATION OF CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Critical Accounting Estimates

In preparing its financial statements and accounting for the underlying transactions and balances, the Company has applied the accounting policies as disclosed in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements contained in the Company’s annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 29, 2002. Preparation of the Company’s financial statements requires Company management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amount of assets and liabilities, disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results may differ from those estimates.

The Company considers the policies discussed below as critical to an understanding of its financial statements because their application places the most significant demands on management’s judgment, with financial reporting results relying on estimates about the effect of matters that are inherently uncertain. Specific risks for these critical accounting estimates are described in the following paragraphs. The impact and any associated risks related to these estimates on the Company’s business operations are discussed throughout this Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations where such estimates affect reported and expected financial results. The impact of changes in the estimates and assumptions pertaining to restructuring, impairment, and business combinations is directly reflected in the financial results of the individual segment.  The impact of changes in estimates and assumptions related to pension and postretirement healthcare benefit plans affect segment results through an allocation of corporate expense.

For a detailed discussion of the application of these and other accounting policies, see “Significant Accounting Policies” in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements contained in the Company’s annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 29, 2002.  Management has discussed the development and selection of the critical accounting estimates and the related disclosure included herein with the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors.


Pension and Postretirement Healthcare Benefit Plan Assumptions

The Company has defined-benefit pension plans covering substantially all of its employees. The Company also has a postretirement healthcare benefit plan that provides certain healthcare benefits for eligible retired employees.  

The Company accounts for its pension and postretirement healthcare benefit plans according to Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) No. 87, “Employers’ Accounting for Pensions” and SFAS No. 106, “Employers’ Accounting for Postretirement Benefits Other Than Pensions.” These accounting standards require the use of actuarial models that use an attribution approach that allocates the cost of an employee’s benefit to individual periods of service.  The accounting under SFAS No. 87 and SFAS No. 106 therefore requires the Company to recognize cost before the payment of benefits.  In order to satisfy these requirements, certain explicit assumptions must be made concerning future events that will determine the amount and timing of the benefit payments. Such assumptions include the discount rate, the expected long-term rate of return on plan assets, the rate of future compensation increases, and the healthcare cost trend rate.  In addition, the actuarial calculation includes subjective factors such as withdrawal and mortality rates to estimate the projected benefit obligation. The actuarial assumptions used may differ materially from actual results due to changing market and economic conditions, higher or lower withdrawal rates, or longer or shorter life spans of participants. These differences may result in a significant impact on the amount of pension or postretirement benefit expense recorded in future periods.

One of the principal components of calculating the projected benefit obligation, the accumulated benefit obligation (ABO), and certain components of pension and postretirement healthcare benefit expense is the assumed discount rate.  The discount rate is the assumed rate at which the pension and postretirement healthcare benefits could be effectively settled in the future.  The Company reviews the discount rate assumptions used to account for pension and postretirement healthcare benefit obligations each fiscal year-end.  In determining the rates to use, management evaluates available information about rates implicit in current prices of annuity contracts, as well as rates of return on high-quality fixed-income investments that could be used to effect settlement of the obligations.  

One of the principal components of the net periodic pension cost calculation is the expected long-term rate of return on plan assets.  The required use of an expected long-term rate of return on plan assets may result in recognized pension income that is greater or less than the actual returns of those plan assets in any given year.  Over time, however, the expected long-term returns are designed to approximate the actual long-term returns and therefore result in a pattern of income and expense recognition that more closely matches the pattern of the services provided by the employees.  The Company’s qualified defined-benefit pension plan’s assets are invested in a broadly diversified portfolio consisting primarily of publicly traded common stocks and fixed-income securities. The Company uses long-term historical actual return experience with consideration to the expected investment mix of the plan’s assets, and future estimates of long-term investment returns to develop its expected rate of return assumption used in the net periodic pension cost calculation.  Differences between actual and expected returns are recognized in the net periodic pension cost calculation over five years using a five-year, market-related asset value method of amortization.

The Company’s non-qualified pension and postretirement healthcare benefit plans are unfunded plans and have no plan assets.  Therefore the expected long-term rate of return on plan assets is not a factor in accounting for these benefit plans.

The rate of future anticipated compensation increases is another significant assumption used in the actuarial model for pension accounting and is determined by the Company based upon its long-term plans for such increases.

For postretirement healthcare benefit accounting, the Company reviews external data and its own historical trends for healthcare costs to determine the healthcare cost trend rates used for the postretirement healthcare benefit obligation and expense.  A one percent increase in the assumed healthcare cost trend rate would have resulted in a $0.3 million increase in the interest component of postretirement healthcare expense for 2002 and a $6 million increase in the postretirement healthcare benefit obligation at December 29, 2002. Similarly, a one percent decrease would have resulted in a $0.3 million decrease in the interest component of 2002 postretirement healthcare expense and a $6 million decrease in the postretirement healthcare benefit obligation at December 29, 2002.

As a result of evaluating the information referred to above, the Company lowered the discount rate, expected return on plan assets, and salary increase assumptions and increased the healthcare cost trend rates that were used to calculate its pension and postretirement healthcare benefit obligations at December 29, 2002 to better reflect current U.S. economic conditions.  The decrease in the expected long-term rate of return takes into account recent market performance and the Company’s expectations about future long-term market returns.  


The following table summarizes the rates used in 2002 and 2001 to calculate the pension and postretirement healthcare benefit obligation.  

 

2002

2001

Discount rate for obligations

6.75%

7.00%

Future compensation increase rate

4.00%

5.00%

Expected long-term rate of return

  

on plan assets

9.50%

10.00%

Healthcare cost trend rate

10.00%

8.50%


These assumption changes increased the pension and postretirement healthcare obligations recorded on the Company’s Consolidated Balance Sheet by $6 million at December 29, 2002.  The assumption changes also increased 2002 pension and postretirement healthcare benefit cost by $3 million and $0.3 million, respectively.

SFAS No. 87 requires the recognition of a “minimum pension liability” if, as of a given measurement date, the fair value of a plan’s assets is less than its ABO.  The decline in recent years of the U.S. equity markets has significantly reduced the value of the Company’s qualified pension plan assets.  Based upon the Company’s 2002 year-end actuarial valuation, the fair value of the assets dropped below the ABO and accordingly the Company recorded a pension liability equal to the excess of the ABO over plan assets.  This adjustment, net of deferred income taxes, was a direct charge in 2002 to shareholders’ equity of $115 million.

The expected long-term rate of return on plan assets that the Company is using to determine the fiscal 2003 net periodic pension cost is 9.0% which has increased expense by $2 million.  This, plus the amortization of past market losses and other probable changes in actuarial assumptions, is expected to increase 2003 pension cost by approximately $11 million over the 2002 amount.  The Company will not have a minimum funding requirement in 2003 although it has made voluntary contributions of $20 million.  The Company also made a voluntary contribution of $17 million in the fourth quarter of 2002.


Restructuring

The Company initiated restructuring actions in the second quarter of 2003 which are being accounted for according to SFAS No. 146, “Accounting for Costs Associated with Exit or Disposal Activities”.  Unlike previous restructurings, under SFAS No. 146, liabilities for costs associated with a restructuring cannot be recorded until the liability is incurred and the fair value can be estimated, except for certain one-time termination benefits.  

The fair value of a liability is the amount at which that liability could be settled in a current transaction between willing parties.  Quoted market prices in active markets are the best evidence of fair value and are used as the basis for the measurement, if available.  If quoted market prices are not available, the estimate of fair value is based on the best information available in the circumstances.  Management used estimates to calculate the fair value of its obligations related to severance and other employer related costs, lease cancellations, and other contract exit and termination costs related to the 2003 restructuring.  Critical estimates used in the measurement of the 2003 restructuring liabilities included management’s estimate of the Company’s ability to sublease closed facilities within three months and the amount of such sublease arrangements, which range from 40-50% of the original lease amount.  If the Company is unable to sublease the facilities, or the amount or timing of the sublease arrangement differs from expectations, the Company could incur up to an additional $1.2 million of restructuring expense, which is not included in the total estimated restructuring costs to be incurred. Estimates were also used for outplacement costs and while not material, could differ from actual amounts. Additionally, the Company’s estimate of total expected costs to be incurred could increase or decrease depending upon the variability of these estimates, other assumptions used, and the outcome of any remaining restructuring activities.

During 2000 and 2001, the Company was engaged in significant restructuring actions that required management to develop formalized plans related to the restructuring activities.  The development of these plans required the use of significant estimates related to future cash flows and estimated residual value of long-lived assets as well as the recoverability of certain inventories.  In addition, management was required to estimate amounts for severance and other employer related costs and lease cancellations and other contract exit and termination costs.  Given the significance and timing of the restructuring actions, the process was complex and involved periodic reassessments of the original estimates.  Revisions to previously recorded estimates were reported as restructuring actions were completed.  The Company has been unable to sublease as many of the facilities as expected or to buyout the leases with as favorable terms as originally anticipated.  As a result, the liability for contract exit and termination costs was in excess of the amount originally estimated.  Approximately $4.8 million of remaining lease payments will be charged to restructuring expense as incurred through 2006.

Impairment of Long-Lived Assets and Investments

The Company assesses the impairment of investments and long-lived assets, which includes intangible assets, goodwill, and plant and equipment, whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable.  

Factors considered important which could trigger an impairment review include, but are not limited to, the following:

Sustained underperformance relative to expected historical or projected future operating results

Changes in the manner of use of the assets, their physical condition or the strategy for the Company’s overall business

Negative industry or economic trends

Declines in stock price of an investment for a sustained period

The Company’s market capitalization relative to net book value

A more-likely-than-not expectation that a reporting unit or a significant portion of a reporting unit, or a long-lived asset will be sold or otherwise disposed of, significantly before the end of its previously estimated useful life

A significant decrease in the market price of a long-lived asset  

A significant adverse change in legal factors or in the business climate that could affect the value of a long-lived asset, including an adverse action or assessment by a regulator

An accumulation of costs significantly in excess of the amount originally expected for the acquisition or construction of a long-lived asset  

A current-period operating or cash flow loss combined with a history of operating or cash flow losses or a projection or forecast that demonstrates continuing losses associated with the use of a long-lived asset  

Unanticipated competition

A loss of key personnel

Long-Lived Assets - The Company evaluates recoverability of assets to be held and used by comparing the carrying amount of the asset to undiscounted expected future cash flows to be generated by the assets.  If such assets are considered to be impaired, the impairment amount is calculated using a fair-value-based test that compares the fair value of the asset to its carrying value. Fair values are typically calculated using discounted expected future cash flows, using a risk-adjusted discount rate, unless quoted market prices are available.  Assets held for sale, if any, are reported at the lower of the carrying amount or fair value less cost to sell.

In performing tests of impairment, the Company estimates future cash flows that are expected to result from the use of the asset and its eventual disposition.  These estimates of future cash flows, based on reasonable and supportable assumptions and projections, require significant management judgment.  The time periods for estimating future cash flows is often lengthy, which increases the sensitivity to the assumptions made.  Depending on the assumptions and estimates used, the estimated future cash flows used for impairment testing could vary considerably.  

In conjunction with the 2003 restructuring, assets were either written off or written down to estimated fair value if the asset was to be sold.  For assets that were abandoned, the fair value was estimated to be zero and the carrying amount was written off.  For assets held for sale, the Company considered recent sales of similar properties, real estate broker valuations, and offers and bids to determine fair value.  While the Company believes that the fair value of the assets held for sale is reasonable, if the Company is not successful in selling the assets, further impairments may need to be recognized.

The Document and Label Solutions segment also recorded an impairment charge  in the second quarter of 2003 related to forms-designs software that became technologically outdated.  The carrying value of the software was written down to its fair value, based upon the fair value of the number of estimated remaining forms to be designed with the software, and its useful life was reduced.  The fair value was calculated based upon the weighted average of probable future cash flows of the asset.

In addition, the Company performed impairment tests during the third quarter of 2003 on capitalized software development costs and intangible assets recorded as part of the InSystems acquisition.  In performing these tests, management was required to make estimates of expected future cash flows related to the respective assets.  In both tests, the sum of the undiscounted future cash lows exceeded the carrying value of the assets; therefore, no impairment was recognized.  

Goodwill and Intangible Assets – Goodwill and indefinite-lived intangibles are required to be evaluated for impairment on an annual basis, or more frequently if impairment indicators arise, using a fair-value-based test that compares the fair value of the asset to its carrying value.  Fair values are typically calculated using discounted expected future cash flows, using a risk-adjusted discount rate.  

The consolidation of PlanetPrint and other Fulfillment Services’ centers in Dallas, Texas, triggered the requirement for an impairment test of the goodwill related to the PlanetPrint acquisition in the second quarter of 2003.  During the third quarter of 2003, the Company performed the annual test for goodwill impairment related to the InSystems acquisition. These tests were performed at the reporting unit level.  In both tests, the Company determined that the undiscounted sum of the expected future cash flows from the assets exceeded the carrying value of those assets; therefore, no impairment of goodwill was recognized.

In performing the tests for impairment, management was required to make assumptions about future sales and profitability.  This required significant judgment due to the short period of time for which the Company owned these business units.  In estimating expected future cash flows related to the PlanetPrint assets, the Company used internal forecasts that were based upon actual results, assuming an average revenue growth of 9 % per year and minimal increases in gross margin.  In estimating expected future cash flows related to the InSystems assets, the Company used internal forecasts that reflected management’s assumptions about future sales and profitability.  If the Company’s estimate of expected future cash flows had been 10% lower, the expected future cash flows would still have exceeded the carrying value of the assets for either PlanetPrint or InSystems, including goodwill.

The Company cannot predict the occurrence of future impairment triggering events nor the impact such events might have on its reported asset values.  Such events may include strategic decisions made in response to the economic conditions relative to operations and the impact of the economic environment on its customer base.

Investments - The Company classifies investments in marketable securities at the time of purchase and reevaluates such classification at each balance sheet date.  Securities are classified as trading when held for short-term periods in anticipation of market gains and are reported at fair market value, with unrealized gains and losses included in income.  Available-for-sale securities are recorded at fair market value, with unrealized gains and losses, net of tax, reported in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) in shareholders’ equity.  Investment securities are regularly reviewed for impairment based on the criteria that include the extent to which cost exceeds market value, the duration of the market decline, the financial condition and near-term prospects for the issuer.  If an impairment review indicates that an unrealized loss is other than temporary, the Company is required to recognize the loss in current earnings.  Realized gains and losses are accounted for on the specific identification method.  

Determining whether a decline in the fair value of an investment is other than temporary requires significant management judgment concerning the financial condition and near-term prospects for the issuer, as well as overall economic conditions.  Actual results could differ from assumptions made by management.  As discussed under “Results of Operations,” in its annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 29, 2002, the Company recognized in earnings a $4 million unrealized loss on a decline in the value of an investment in Printcafe Software Inc. (Printcafe) that the Company believed was other than temporary.  On February 26, 2003, Printcafe and Electronics for Imaging, Inc. (EFI) signed a merger agreement providing for EFI's acquisition of Printcafe for $2.60 per share for each outstanding Printcafe share.  The acquisition was completed on October 21, 2003.  This was the per share amount used by the Company in calculating the unrealized loss of $4 million recognized in 2002.

Business Combinations

The Company is required to allocate the purchase price of acquired businesses to the tangible and intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed, as well as in-process research and development, based on their estimated fair values.  The Company engaged an independent third-party to complete a valuation to assist in determining the fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed for its two acquisitions completed during 2002.  Such valuations require management to make significant estimates and assumptions, especially related to intangible assets.  The significant purchased intangible assets recorded by the Company for the 2002 acquisitions and the fair value assigned to them are discussed in detail under “Acquisitions.”

Critical estimates made in valuing certain intangible assets include but are not limited to: future expected cash flows from customer contracts; acquired developed technologies and patents; assumptions used in determining the useful life; and discount rates.  Management’s estimates of fair value are based upon assumptions believed to be reasonable, but which are inherently uncertain and unpredictable and, as a result, actual results may differ from estimates.



ACQUISITIONS

On April 7, 2003, the Company entered into a joint venture partnership agreement with Grupo Calidata Thomas Greg, S.A. de C.V.  In exchange for a 40% equity interest the Company contributed receivables valued at $1.6 million.  The joint venture, located in Mexico and known as Label Solutions, S. de R.L. de C.V., will manufacture and sell label products, and will import the Company’s label products.  This joint venture is being accounted for under the equity method of accounting.  

On July 2, 2002, the Company acquired for cash all of the outstanding stock of InSystems Technologies, Inc. (InSystems), a privately owned company based in Toronto Ontario, Canada.  InSystems’ extended relationship management and document automation solutions are intended to complement the Company’s existing e-business, document management and fulfillment services offerings.  InSystems is a leading provider of e-business solutions for financial services organizations.  With InSystems’ strong position in insurance and the Company’s significant presence in banking, healthcare and other markets, the Company expects the acquisition to enhance its long-term growth while further positioning the Company as a leading information solutions provider.

The acquisition was accounted for by the purchase method of accounting under recent guidelines for business combinations. The purchase price for the acquisition, net of cash received, totaled $88.7 million and was allocated to assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on estimated fair values at the date of acquisition as determined by an independent third party valuation.  In conjunction with the acquisition of InSystems, the Company recorded approximately $46.9 million of goodwill, $17.1 million of purchased intangibles, and $21.0 million of capitalized software development costs. In accordance with SFAS No. 142, goodwill will not be amortized but will be reviewed periodically for impairment. The Company filed an election under section 338 of the Internal Revenue Code, which will allow the Company to amortize and deduct the eligible fair market value of the net assets acquired in a stock purchase, including goodwill and certain purchases intangibles, for income tax purposes.  Approximately $45 million of the goodwill and $15 million of the purchased intangibles are expected to be deductible for tax purposes over 15 years.  Of the purchased intangibles, $16.1 million was assigned to service relationships that have a twelve-year useful life and $1.0 million to professional services backlog that have a one-year useful life. Capitalized software costs are amortized on a straight-line basis over the estimated product life of the related software, which ranges from one to 10 years. Amounts related to purchased research and development assets acquired and written off immediately subsequent to acquisition were insignificant.  Results of operations for InSystems, which is a separate reporting segment, are included in the Company’s consolidated financial statements from the date of acquisition.  In connection with the acquisition, the Company paid a former director of the Company a consulting fee of $0.6 million for his work in securing the agreement.

On July 12, 2002, the Company acquired selected assets from PlanetPrint, a business services company headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The Company paid $9.5 million in cash for a digital print-on-demand operation in Dallas, Texas, and software development and consulting operations in Minneapolis.  In conjunction with the acquisition, the Company recorded approximately $6.5 million of goodwill and $1.6 million of capitalized software development costs.  In accordance with SFAS No. 142, goodwill will not be amortized but will be reviewed periodically for impairment.  Capitalized software development costs were being amortized on a straight-line basis over five years; however, in the third quarter of 2003, the Company recorded an impairment charge related to these capitalized software development costs.  See discussion of 2003 impairment under “Results of Operations.”  Results of operations are included in the Company’s consolidated financial statements from the date of acquisition and included with the Fulfillment Services segment.  Concurrently, the Company also acquired selected intellectual assets of PathForward for $1.0 million in cash, which was recorded as an intangible asset.    


RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Pre-tax components of the total restructuring charges recorded in 2003 are as follows:

   

Charges

     

Total

   

Directly to

 

Charges to

 

Reversed

 

2003

   

Restructuring

 

Restructuring

 

in

 

Restructuring

   

Expense

 

Accrual

 

2003

 

Expense

          

2003 Restructuring

         

Severance and employer related costs

  

 $           0.2

 

 $         9.1

 

 $             -

 

 $           9.3

Contract exit and termination costs

  

              0.8

 

            2.3

 

               -

 

              3.1

Implementation costs

 

 

              3.1

 

               -

 

               -

 

              3.1

          Total 2003 restructuring

 

 

              4.1

 

          11.4

 

               -

 

            15.5

          

2001 Restructuring

         

Contract exit and termination costs

 

 

              0.7

 

               -

 

               -

 

              0.7

          Total 2001 restructuring

 

 

              0.7

 

               -

 

               -

 

              0.7

          

2000 Restructuring

         

Contract exit and termination costs

 

 

                 -

 

               -

 

               -

 

                 -

          Total 2000 restructuring

 

 

                 -

 

               -

 

               -

 

                 -

          Total restructuring expense

 

 

 $           4.8

 

 $        11.4

 

 $             -

 

 $         16.2

2003 Restructuring

In the second quarter of 2003, the Company initiated several actions to improve utilization and profitability and to provide for continuing investment in growth initiatives.  The Company consolidated four printing and service operations within the Fulfillment Services segment to form a new state-of-the-art regional print-on-demand and fulfillment center in Dallas, Texas.  Within the Document and Label Solutions segment, a rotary printing plant was closed to trim excess capacity and several warehouses were consolidated in response to shifting demand in favor of print-on-demand services.  The Company also eliminated management positions at its corporate headquarters.  All of these actions were completed at the end of the second quarter. Minor additional restructuring activities that occurred in the third quarter of 2003 consisted of additional headcount reductions in addition to ongoing restructuring costs from the second quarter restructuring actions.

The 2003 restructuring activities are expected to generate annualized pretax savings of approximately $28 million, with about $12 million of savings to be realized in the last half of 2003.  The estimated cost savings should recoup the cash restructuring costs within 11 months.

Costs to be incurred include severance and employer related costs, contract termination costs, and other associated costs directly related the restructuring efforts. Total restructuring charges expected to be incurred total $17 million pretax.  Under SFAS No. 146, liabilities for costs associated with a restructuring cannot be recorded until the liability is incurred and the fair value can be estimated, except for certain one-time termination benefits.  Therefore, certain restructuring costs, primarily sublease payments and associated taxes, utilities and maintenance costs, as well as equipment removal, relocation, and travel to implement the restructuring, will be expensed as incurred through 2005, the majority in the remainder of 2003.  All costs are included in restructuring charges in the accompanying Consolidated Statement of Income.


Pre-tax components of the 2003 restructuring charge are as follows:

  

Total

    
  

Costs

 

Charges

 

Total

  

Expected

 

3Q 2003

 

2003 YTD

  

to be

 

Restructuring

 

Restructuring

  

Incurred

 

Expense

 

Expense

       

Severance and employer related costs

 

 $          9.4

 

$             0.4

 

$              9.4

Contract termination costs:

      

Lease obligations

 

             2.6

 

                   -

 

                 1.9

Contractual lease obligations for taxes,

      

utilities, and maintenance costs

 

             0.4

 

                  -

 

                 0.4

       

Associated costs:

      

Travel

 

             0.3

 

              0.1

 

                0.3

Equipment removal and relocation

 

             2.3

 

               1.2

 

                 2.1

Other exit costs

 

             2.0

 

               0.8

 

                 1.4

       
  

 $        17.0

 

$              2.5

 

$             15.5

       

BY SEGMENT:

      

Document and Label Solutions

 

 $        10.6

 

$              1.7

 

$             10.2

Fulfillment Services

 

             4.9

 

                0.6

 

                  4.0

InSystems

 

             0.7

 

               0.1

 

                  0.7

Other

 

             0.8

 

              0.1

 

               0.6

Total

 

 $        17.0

 

$              2.5

 

$             15.5


Pre-tax components of the 2003 restructuring accrual activity in fiscal 2003 are as follows:


 

Charged

 

Incurred

 

Balance

 

to

 

in

 

September 29,

 

Accrual

 

2003

 

2003

      

Severance and employer related costs

 $           9.1

 

$         (6.9)

 

$            2.2

Contract termination costs

              2.3

 

          (0.5)

 

            1.8

      Total

 $         11.4

 

$         (7.4)

 

$           4.0


2001 Restructuring

The remaining liability at December 29, 2002, relates to long-term lease obligations through 2006 that the Company was attempting to sublease or cancel.  Due to the nature of the charges and the duration of the program, estimates of the liability amounts required significant judgment.  The Company has been unable to sublease as many of the facilities as expected or to buyout the leases with as favorable terms as originally anticipated.  As a result, the liability for contract exit and termination costs was in excess of the amount originally estimated.  Approximately $4.8 million of lease payments will be charged to restructuring expense as incurred through 2006, of which $0.7 million was expensed in the third quarter of 2003.

Pre-tax components of the 2001 restructuring accrual activity in fiscal 2003 are as follows:

 

Balance

   

Balance

 

December 29,

 

Incurred

 

September 28,

 

2002

 

in 2003

 

2003

Contract exit and termination costs

 $           2.3

 

 $          (2.3)

 

 $                 -

      Total

 $           2.3

 

 $          (2.3)

 

 $                 -


2000 Restructuring

The remaining liability from the 2000 restructuring related to a non-cancelable lease obligation that expired in June 2003. In the second quarter of 2003, the Company reversed the excess liability.

Pre-tax components of the 2000 restructuring accrual activity in fiscal 2003 are as follows:

 

Balance

     

Balance

 

December 29,

 

Incurred

 

Reversed

 

September 28,

 

2002

 

in 2003

 

in 2003

 

2003

Contract exit and termination costs

 $           0.1

 

 $               -   

 

 $           (0.1)

 

 $                  -

      Total

 $           0.1

 

 $               -

 

 $           (0.1)

 

 $                  -


2003 Impairment

In conjunction with the 2003 restructuring, assets were either written off or written down to estimated fair value if the asset was to be sold.  Due to an oversupply of used production equipment in the marketplace, approximately $3.2 million of assets, primarily machinery and equipment, were determined to have no fair value and were disposed of, resulting in a non-cash impairment charge.  Of this amount, $2.2 million related to the Document and Label Solutions segment and $1.0 million related to the Fulfillment Services segment.   

The Company also identified certain pieces of equipment and two buildings that were closed that it believes can be sold.  In June 2003, the Company determined that the plan of sale criteria in SFAS No. 144, “Accounting for the Impairment of Disposal of Long-Lived Assets,” had been met.  Accordingly, the carrying values were adjusted to their fair value less costs to sell, considering recent sales of similar properties, real estate brokers valuations, and offers and bids.  The resulting impairment charge of $5.8 million is included in Asset Impairments in the accompanying Consolidated Statement of Income.  The carrying values of the assets that are to be sold are classified as Net Assets Held for Sale in the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheet.

During the third quarter of 2003 the Company sold a small portion of the equipment, resulting in a $0.2 million reduction of the impairment charge.  The Company believes that the remaining assets will be sold within one year and has listed the buildings with real estate brokers and plans to sell the remaining equipment through brokers and to international affiliates.  In accordance with SFAS No. 144, the Company discontinued depreciation on these assets in June 2003.

In addition, the Document and Label Solutions segment recorded an impairment charge of $2.0 million related to forms-designs software that became technologically outdated.  The Company is replacing the software used for forms design to one that is more widely used by its customers and is more of an industry standard.  Accordingly, the carrying value of the software was written down to its fair value, based upon the fair value of the number of estimated remaining forms to be designed with the software, and its useful life was reduced.  The effect on annual amortization expense will not be material.

In the third quarter of 2003, PathForward recorded an impairment charge of $1.2 million related to the capitalized software development costs recorded with the acquisition of PlanetPrint.  The software was used exclusively by one customer; beginning in the fourth quarter of 2003, the use of this software by this customer ceased as a result of a mutual decision by both the Company and the customer.  The Company has determined there are no alternative uses for this software.  This impairment charge is included in Asset Impairments on the accompanying Statement of Income.  The effect on annual amortization expense is not material.

2001 Impairment

In conjunction with the 2001 restructuring, management performed a review of its existing property and equipment and determined that certain long-lived assets were impaired. These assets were either written off or written down to estimated fair value if the asset was to be sold.  At December 29, 2002, assets held for sale related to the Document and Label Solutions segment included buildings with net book values of $2.3 million.  These buildings were sold during 2003, resulting in a total gain of $1.1 million that is included as a credit to Asset Impairments in the accompanying Consolidated Statement of Income.  


Results of Operations

The table below presents the results of operations for the thirteen and thirty-nine week periods ending September 28, 2003 and September 29, 2002.  The figures correspond to or are aggregated directly from those reported in the Statement of Operations.  

SUMMARY OF OPERATIONS

        
  

Thirteen Weeks Ended

 

Thirty-nine Weeks Ended

  

September 28,

 

September 29,

 

September 28,

 

September 29,

(Dollars in millions, except per share amounts)

 

2003

 

2002

 

2003

 

2002

         

Revenue

 

$          222.1

 

$          252.7

 

$         691.2

 

$         770.3

Gross Margin

 

             84.5

 

            98.7

 

          262.2

 

          305.3

% Revenue

 

38.1%

 

39.1%

 

37.9%

 

39.6%

         

SG&A and R&D Expense

 

             71.8

 

            73.6

 

          222.5

 

          218.3

Depreciation & Amortization

 

             10.4

 

            12.0

 

            35.3

 

             34.0

Asset Impairment

 

                1.3

 

                  -

 

            10.9

 

                  -

Restructuring

 

                3.2

 

                  -

 

            16.2

 

                   -

(Loss) Income From Operations

 

              (2.2)

 

            13.1

 

           (22.7)

 

           53.0

         

Interest Expense

 

                0.6

 

               3.4

 

             3.3

 

               9.9

Investment (Income) Expense and Other

 

              (0.1)

 

             (0.7)

 

          (0.9)

 

            (2.4)

Pretax (Loss) Income

 

              (2.7)

 

            10.4

 

       (25.1)

 

            45.5

         

Net (Loss) Income

 

$            (1.6)

 

$            6.3

 

$        (14.7)

 

$           28.1

(Loss) Earnings Per Diluted Share

 

           (0.05)

 

           0.22

 

         (0.52)

 

            0.99

Consolidated revenue decreased by 12.1% to $222.1 million in the third quarter of 2003 compared with $252.7 million for the same period of 2002.  Consolidated revenue decreased by 10.3% to $691.2 million in the first nine months of 2003 compared with $770.3 million for the same period of 2002.  Revenue for the first six months of 2003 included $17.9 million of revenue from acquisitions, which are not included in 2002 results for the same period.  Excluding this effect, revenue decreased 12.6% or $96.9 million in the first nine months of 2003.  The decline in revenue was attributable to several factors including continued weak economic and industry conditions.  Soft business conditions not only have resulted in lower unit volume demands, but customers are also managing their costs by delaying expenditures, extending the review process for purchases, and undertaking strategic sourcing initiatives to reduce their total cost of ownership, impacting all products from documents to software.  

The Company’s Document and Label Solutions segment experienced the greatest decline in revenue dollars.  The traditional printing and services (non-label) portion of this segment, which currently represents about half of the Company’s consolidated revenue, operates in an industry currently characterized by modestly declining demand, over-supply, and competitive pricing.  These conditions, coupled with a weak economy that focused customer attention on cost reductions, undermined both volume and pricing. Additionally, in order to bring value to its customers and remain competitive, the Company pursues a strategy of helping its customers improve their profitability by improving their business processes.  This can also lead to lower revenue as improved processes may require fewer or lower value documents for existing clients.

The 2001 restructuring also produced some unintended consequences that dampened sales activity during 2002.  The reassignment of accounts to a fewer number of representatives and a change in the sales incentive system to focus more on profitability resulted in an increased level of account losses, particularly smaller accounts, and a reduced rate of new account development.  In addition, some marginally profitable business held over from the restructuring period was lost during the year.  Finally, the desired level of cross selling between the general and newly formed specialty sales forces did not materialize.  These factors, plus the weak economic and market conditions discussed above, contributed to a reduction in revenue during 2002 and a lower recurring base of business as the Company entered 2003.

The Company took actions late in 2002 and in 2003 to improve the revenue trend.  First, the sales incentive system was changed to bring the focus back in the direction of growth.  Second, the Document and Label Solutions sales forces were consolidated and incentives were established to increase the level of cross selling.  Third, the Company established a strategic sales force to develop new business at targeted accounts.  Fourth, an inside sales force was created to retain and develop new business at smaller accounts where the direct sales force cannot be cost effective.  Fifth, a lead generation group was formed to develop qualified leads for selected high value added marketing programs.  Sixth, the Company added a sales team focused on the healthcare market which has been successful in obtaining new opportunities in that market such as the Broadlane contract discussed below.  Finally, the Fulfillment sales force hired several sales representatives with strong industry experience.  Management expects these actions and other initiatives to result in an upturn in revenue during the last quarter of 2003 compared to the third quarter of 2003.    

In July 2003, the Company signed a five-year agreement with Broadlane, Inc., a leading group purchasing organization for 2,000 hospitals across the country.  The agreement, which took effect August 1, names the Company as one of five suppliers to Broadlane customers for their document solution needs, which are estimated by Broadlane at $100 million annually. While there is no guarantee what percentage of this business the Company will ultimately win, this agreement is an example of the opportunities the Company has to grow its business.  Since the agreement took effect, the Company has obtained commitments for approximately $18 million from Broadlane customers and continues to pursue additional business under this contract.

Gross margin was 38.1% and 37.9% for the third quarter and year-to-date period compared with 39.1% and 39.6% for the same periods in 2002.  The decrease was primarily due to the lower revenue, the resulting low absorption of fixed manufacturing costs, and unfavorable product mix.  These factors were partially offset by savings resulting from the Company’s focus on cost reductions and Six Sigma initiatives.

Selling, general, and administrative (“SG&A”) and research and development (R&D) expense totaled $71.8 million for the third quarter of 2003, $1.6 million less than the third quarter of 2002.  SG&A and R&D expense totaled $222.5 million for the nine months ended September 28, 2003, $4.4 million less than the comparable period of 2002.  On a year-to-date basis, R&D expense remained relatively constant while several factors affected SG&A expense.

The most significant factors were pension expense and the inclusion of the companies acquired in July 2002.  Pension expense for the third quarter of 2003 and the year-to-date period was $3.8 million and $11.5 million higher than the comparable periods of the prior year, primarily as a result of the decline in recent years of the value of invested pension assets, as discussed more fully under Critical Accounting Policies.  The 2003 year-to-date period includes nine months of expense from the companies acquired in 2002, whereas the 2002 year-to-date period only includes three months of expense.  Excluding the pension and acquisition effects, expenses were down $5.4 million and $15.8 million for the third quarter and year-to-date period respectively.  Higher compensation costs related to sales force initiatives were more than offset by lower commissions, lower healthcare costs, and lower spending for professional services as a result of fewer one-time projects in 2003 and continued focus on cost reduction.  The decrease in third quarter 2003 also reflects the cost benefits realized as a result of the restructuring activities undertaken in the second quarter of 2003.   

Depreciation and amortization was $10.4 million and $35.3 million for the three- and nine-month periods ended September 28, 2003, respectively, compared to $12.3 million and $34.2 million for the same periods of 2002.  Depreciation expense decreased $1.7 million and $1.5 million in the third quarter and year-to-date period, respectively, due to asset impairments recorded in second quarter 2003 and also because of lower capital spending levels than in 2002.  On a year-to-date basis, amortization expense increased $2.6 million between years due to the effect of the 2002 acquisitions.  

Interest expense was $0.6 million and $3.3 million for the third quarter and first nine months of 2003, respectively compared to $3.4 million and $9.9 million for the comparable periods of 2002.  The decrease reflects the expiration of an interest rate swap, lower floating rates currently available in the market, and declining debt balances.  The Company’s swap agreement that fixed its borrowing rate at an all-in-rate of approximately 6.7% expired in January 2003.  

The effective tax rate for the third quarter of 2003 was 42.2% compared to 39.7% for the comparable period of 2002.  The effective tax rate for the first nine months of 2003 was 41.5% compared to 38.3% for the first nine months of 2002.  In the second quarter of 2002, the Company received a refund for research and development tax credits and also had a higher balance of tax-exempt investments creating a lower effective tax rate for 2002.


REALIGNMENT OF SEGMENTS

In January 2003, the Company realigned its operating segments to improve operational effectiveness. As a result, the Company has three reportable segments in 2003: Document and Label Solutions, Fulfillment Services, and InSystems. The three remaining, individually insignificant, operating segments are aggregated into Other, which includes International, PathForward (both previously part of Document Management) and SMARTworks.  Prior period amounts have been restated to conform to the new organizational structure.  Please refer to the Company’s Form 10-K for the year ended December 29, 2002, for additional information.

The segment discussions that follow include quarterly operating results, excluding LIFO inventory adjustments, interest income, and interest expense not allocated to the business segment.  



BUSINESS SEGMENTS

Document and Label Solutions

This segment provides custom printed documents, storage and distribution services, pressure sensitive labels, and service and supplies. It primarily serves companies in the healthcare, financial, manufacturing, and distribution markets.

  

Thirteen Weeks Ended

 

Thirty-nine Weeks Ended

  

September 28,

 

September 29,

 

September 28,

 

September 29,

  

2003

 

2002

 

2003

 

2002

         

Revenue

 

 $     153.9

 

 $      176.2

 

 $     477.7

 

 $     549.9

% Change

 

-12.6%

   

-13.1%

  
         

Operating Income *

 

 $         6.6

 

 $        17.4

 

 $         5.6

 

 $       58.7

% Revenue

 

4.3%

 

9.9%

 

1.2%

 

10.7%

         
         

* Third quarter 2003 operating income includes $1.7 million of restructuring charges.  Year-to-date 2003 operating income includes $10.2 million and $8.5 million of restructuring and asset impairment charges, respectively.


Excess production capacity and stiff price competition are prevalent in this segment, as the industry demand for traditional custom printed business forms and related services has been flat or in modest decline in recent years.  Major factors responsible for the revenue decline in this segment were discussed earlier under the Results of Operations – relatively weak economic conditions driving increased strategic sourcing by customers, weak pricing in an oversupplied industry, and inroads made by alternative technologies lessening demand for core products.  Management believes there are many opportunities for growth in this segment and has undertaken initiatives, described earlier, which are focused on taking market share and increasing revenue.  This segment is being successful in obtaining new contracts and customers; however, given the competitive environment, some of this new business is at lower gross margins which is having an impact on operating income. The Company’s agreement with Broadlane will have a positive effect on this segment as revenue is generated from commitments received under this contract.  

In the third quarter of 2003, this segment recorded restructuring charges of $1.7 million. Excluding these charges, operating income was $6.4 million for the third quarter of 2003.  For the nine-month period ended September 28, 2003, this segment recorded restructuring charges of $10.2 million and asset impairment charges of $8.5 million.  Excluding these charges year-to-date operating income was $22.4 million. The decrease in 2003 operating income compared to the prior periods primarily reflects the loss of contribution margin (revenue less variable costs) resulting from the lower revenue.  This segment also incurred increased SG&A expense for the three- and nine-month periods in 2003, the net of lower incentive compensation and increased spending on inside sales, lead generation, and other initiatives designed to drive sales.  


Fulfillment Services

This segment helps its clients communicate effectively with their customers, providing information or marketing materials customized for each recipient.  This may take the form of monthly billing statements, customized information kits, or one-to-one marketing communications.  Its major markets are financial services, healthcare, and membership.

  

Thirteen Weeks Ended

 

Thirty-nine Weeks Ended

  

September 28,

 

September 29,

 

September 28,

 

September 29,

  

2003

 

2002

 

2003

 

2002

         

Revenue

 

 $       56.9

 

 $       63.5

 

 $     176.6

 

 $     192.7

% Change

 

-10.5%

   

-8.3%

  
         

Operating (Loss) Income *

 

 $        (1.0)

 

 $         1.7

 

 $       (8.4)

 

 $         9.4

% Revenue

 

-1.8%

 

2.6%

 

-4.8%

 

4.8%

         
         

* Third quarter 2003 operating loss includes $0.6 million and $0.1 million of restructuring and asset impairment charges, respectively.  Year-to-date 2003 operating loss includes $4.0 million and $2.1 million of restructuring and asset impairment charges, respectively.

Revenue in the third quarter of 2003 decreased 10.5% over the same period of 2002 and revenue for the first nine months of 2003 decreased 8.3% over the same period of 2002.  Revenue for the first six months of 2003 included $7.7 million in revenue from acquisitions which are not included in 2002 results for that period.  Excluding this effect, revenue decreased by 4.5 %, or $8.4 million.  Traditional product lines for this segment continue to decrease at a faster rate than the rate at which growth product lines are increasing. This segment is also experiencing lower volume from its existing customers as they experience reduced transaction volume in a weak economic climate. A significant share of this shortfall occurred in traditional short-run offset printing, attributed to shifting technology, pricing pressure, and the residual effects of the 2001 restructuring discussed earlier.  A dedicated, specialized sales force has been put in place to drive revenue growth.  This segment’s focus remains on growing document outsourcing and digital color as well as the print on demand business.  Progress in these growth initiatives has been slowed by the weak economy and by the customers’ delays in expenditures.  

In the third quarter of 2003, this segment recorded restructuring and asset impairment charges of $0.6 million and $0.1 million, respectively.  In the first nine months of 2003, this segment recorded restructuring and asset impairment charges of $4.0 million and $2.1 million, respectively. Excluding these charges, operating loss was $0.3 million and $2.2 million for the third quarter and first nine months of 2003, respectively. The decline in operating income is primarily a function of the lower revenue, increased investments in the sales force, change in product mix, and the effect of consolidating operations during the restructuring previously discussed.

InSystems

This segment is a leading provider of e-business solutions for financial services organizations.  InSystems’ solutions enable companies to improve processes and organize, manage and distribute information in both paper and digital infrastructures. InSystems’ integrated document-automation software helps organizations create, manage and distribute highly personalized, error-free documents.  It also automates important business processes including compliance filings, document fulfillment and customer service.  InSystems’ extended relationship management software enables organizations to interact seamlessly via the Internet with their entire value network, including customers, suppliers, partners, regulators, and other constituents.  As part of the realignment of segments, InSystems Corporation was combined with an existing business unit that provides document automation solutions including document automation software, integration services and equipment including scanners, encoders, folders/sealers and printers.  This existing business unit was included in the Document Management segment prior to 2003.

  

Thirteen Weeks Ended

 

Thirty-nine Weeks Ended

  

September 28,

 

September 29,

 

September 28,

 

September 29,

  

2003

 

2002

 

2003

 

2002

         

Revenue

 

 $             10.2

 

 $      12.9

 

 $        34.2

 

 $      25.7

% Change

 

-20.9%

   

32.9%

  
         

Operating Loss *

 

 $             (4.9)

 

 $       (2.6)

 

 $      (14.2)

 

 $       (6.5)

% Revenue

 

-48.6%

 

-20.2%

 

-41.5%

 

-25.4%

         

* Year-to-date 2003 operating loss includes $0.6 million of restructuring charges.

The revenue increase for the first nine months of 2003 is primarily related to the acquisition of InSystems in July 2002.  This segment has experienced a slowdown in software spending as customers delay software purchases due to continued weakness in the insurance industry.  During the third quarter of 2003, one of InSystems’ larger customers was acquired by another company.  As a result of this acquisition, InSystems’ customer will no longer be utilizing InSystems’ software.  While this has had minimal effect on the third quarter results, there will be an impact in 2004 and going forward.  Annual revenue received from this customer was approximately $3 million.

Of the $7.8 million increase in operating loss for the first nine months of 2003, approximately $3.4 million is acquisition related, which includes amortization of purchased intangibles and software development costs. Severance costs of approximately $0.7 million also contributed to the operating loss. This segment has experienced a temporary slowdown in IT spending by the insurance industry, with new contracts being delayed.  This has resulted in less license revenue, which is at much higher margins than service revenue.  

The table below presents 2002 quarterly operating information by segment under the current organizational structure.

  

March 31,

 

June 30,

 

September 29,

 

December 29,

 

Total

  

2002

 

2002

 

2002

 

2002

 

2002

Document and Label Solutions

         

Revenue

 

 $        190.2

 

 $     183.5

 

$          176.2

 

$          175.5

 

 $     725.4

Operating Income

 

 $          21.3

 

 $       20.0

 

$            17.4

 

$            17.4

 

 $       76.1

Fulfillment Services

          

Revenue

 

 $          66.0

 

 $       63.2

 

$            63.5

 

$            63.5

 

 $     256.2

Operating Income (Loss)

 

 $            3.9

 

 $         3.8

 

$              1.7

 

$            (0.5)

 

 $         8.9

InSystems

          

Revenue

 

 $            6.0

 

 $         6.8

 

$            12.9

 

$            18.5

 

 $       44.2

Operating Loss

 

 $          (2.4)

 

 $       (1.5)

 

$           (2.6)

 

$            (1.7)

 

 $       (8.2)

Other

          

Revenue

 

 $            1.5

 

 $         0.3

 

$             0.2

 

$              0.3

 

 $         2.3

Operating Loss

 

 $          (2.0)

 

 $       (3.4)

 

$           (3.5)

 

$            (3.6)

 

 $     (12.5)


LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

The Company generated strong internal operating cash flow in the first nine months of 2003.  Net cash provided by operating activities totaled $45.8 million after funding $20 million in pension plan contributions and $14.6 million in restructuring spending.  In addition, the Company paid down debt by $77.6 million.  The major elements of the Statement of Cash Flows are presented below in a summarized format.  The comments that follow will focus primarily on 2003 with some references to the comparable prior year period.

    

CASH INFLOW (OUTFLOW)

 

September 28,

September 29,

(Dollars in millions)

 

2003

2002

    

Net (loss) income plus non-cash adjustments 1

$               49.3

$               61.3

    

Changes in operating assets & liabilities,

   

net of acquisition effects:

   

Accounts receivable

 

                  23.9

                45.1

Inventories

 

                    8.1

                16.2

Prepaid income taxes

 

                    3.9

                28.5

Restructuring spending

 

                (14.6)

                (9.3)

Accounts payable and accrued expenses

 

                  (8.7)

              (29.0)

    

All other

 

                (16.1)

                (8.0)

Net cash provided by operating activities

 

                  45.8

              104.8

    

Acquisitions

 

                        -

              (99.2)

Capital expenditures

 

                (14.4)

              (19.4)

Proceeds from sale of plant and equipment

 

                    4.0

                  8.5

Additions to investments

 

                  (0.3)

                (5.0)

Net cash used in by investing activities

 

                (10.7)

            (115.1)

    

Debt payments

 

                (77.6)

                (2.0)

Dividends paid

 

                (19.6)

              (19.3)

Proceeds from issuance of common stock

 

                    1.4

                  6.0

Net cash used in financing activities

 

                (95.8)

              (15.3)

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash

 

                    0.9

                       -

Net cash flow

 

$               (59.8)

$              (25.6)


1 Non-cash adjustments included above include depreciation, amortization, restructuring, impairment, gain or loss on sale of assets, and other items reported on the Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows under the category “Adjustments to reconcile net (loss) income to net cash provided by operating activities.”

Cash Flows from Operating Activities

The operations of the business, adjusted for non-cash expenses and charges, was the major source of cash flow from operations in each of the periods presented above.  The change from year to year was primarily a reflection of the change in profitability as discussed previously under Results of Operations.  

$32.0 million in year-to-date 2003 cash flow came from reductions in accounts receivable and inventory balances, reflecting lower revenue and continued focus on collection efforts and asset management.  Inventory balances in the near future may increase if the Company is successful in its efforts to displace its competitors in large document management accounts that carry high custom stored inventories.  The longer-term trend, however, will be a reduction in inventory as print-on-demand displaces the traditional practice of long production runs and subsequent storage of custom documents for customers.   

Spending related to the 2003 restructuring was $12.3 million for the year-to-date period.  This spending will continue throughout the fourth quarter of 2003, although at a much lower rate, as severance and related employer costs, contract termination costs and other associated costs related to the restructuring are incurred.  At September 28, 2003, a $4.0 million liability remains for such costs related to the restructuring.  See Results of Operations for further discussion of the 2003 restructuring.  Spending related to the 2000 and 2001 restructurings was $2.3 million in the first nine months of 2003, significantly lower than in the prior year.  

The balance of prepaid taxes decreased $3.9 million, reflecting $14.1 million in federal income tax refunds received, offset by current tax provisions. The balance of accounts payable and accrued expenses declined $$8.7 million from the beginning of 2003.  Accounts payable were modestly lower, a function of lower revenue and purchases, and accrued interest was lower, a function of lower interest rates and debt levels.  Executive management did not earn a bonus in 2002 and other bonuses across the Company were also significantly lower, reducing the year-end incentive pay liability that is normally paid during first quarter.

Pension and other postretirement obligations accounted for $13.6 million of the $16.2 million other cash outflow in the first nine months of 2003 which includes contributions of $20 million to the pension plan in 2003.  

Cash Flows From Investing Activities

The Company’s investing activities included capital expenditures totaling $14.4 million in 2003, primarily for machinery and equipment. The Company’s strategy for future growth relies more heavily on the acquisition and development of intellectual assets and human capabilities, much of which is recorded as expense rather than as long-term capital.  This shift is reflected in the capital spending in the last two fiscal years that has averaged $27 million, well below the $64 million average for the preceding five years.  The Company expects to spend $20-$25 million on capital projects in 2003, including improvements to its internal systems infrastructure and current year investments in its print-on-demand strategy.

Cash Flows From Financing Activities

The Company repaid approximately $77.6 million of debt in the first nine months of 2003, of which $75 million was related to the Company’s revolving credit facility and $2.3 million was related to the final payment on industrial development revenue bonds.  The Company’s interest rate swap expired in January 2003, and management made the decision to apply a portion of the Company’s available cash to reducing the borrowing level.

The Company has paid a $.23 quarterly dividend in each quarter of the last three years.  The slight increase in 2003 dividend payments to $19.6 million reflects an increase in common stock outstanding, primarily as a result of the issuance of restricted stock and stock option exercises in connection with long-term incentive plans.  


Financial Condition

The Company’s condensed balance sheet is shown below in an analytical format for September 28, 2003 and December 29, 2002.  The comments that follow are intended to add to the previous discussion of cash flows from operating, investing, and financing activities.

NET INVESTMENT

September 28,

 

December 29,

(Dollars in millions)

2003

 

2002

Accounts and Notes Receivable

 $              132.0

 

 $       155.9

Inventories

                   52.1

 

            60.2

Prepaid Expense

                   13.7

 

            12.8

Prepaid Income Taxes

                   15.1

 

            19.0

Deferred Income Taxes

                   21.2

 

            21.3

Accounts Payable & Accruals

                  (89.1)

 

          (97.4)

Net Current Assets Excl Cash, Debt and Accrued Restructuring

                 145.0

 

          171.8

Turnover

6.1x

 

6.0x

    

Accrued Restructuring

                    (4.0)

 

            (2.4)

    

Capital Assets @ NBV

                 175.1

 

          206.2

YTD Capital Expenditures

                   14.1

 

          28.2

YTD Depreciation

                   31.3

 

          43.9

    

Goodwill, Software & Intangibles

                   69.3

 

            70.8

Retiree Healthcare Liability

                  (48.9)

 

          (49.4)

Pension Liability

                  (55.6)

 

          (68.8)

Long-term Deferred Tax Asset

                   41.3

 

            40.9

Other Long-term Net Asset

                   30.9

 

            30.6

Total

 $              353.1

 

 $       398.7

    

CAPITAL STRUCTURE

 

 

 

Total Debt

 $              125.0

 

 $       202.6

Less Cash and Short-term Investments

                   63.0

 

          122.9

Net Debt

                   62.0

 

            79.7

    

Equity

                 291.1

 

          319.0

Total

 $              353.1

 

 $       398.7

Net Debt:  Total Capital

18%

 

20%

The turnover of net current assets (excluding cash, debt and accrued restructuring) at September 28, 2003 compared to year-end 2002 remained constant at 6.1x.  The turnover calculation divides the quarter’s revenue times four by the ending balance of net current assets.

Excluding the asset impairment in the second and third quarters of 2003, the net book value of capital assets decreased $20 million, primarily reflecting an $17 million gap between the $14 of capital spending and $31 million in annual depreciation.  For the reasons discussed previously, the balance in this account is expected to decrease further in 2003 as an estimated $44 million in depreciation will once again exceed capital spending, currently estimated at $20 to $25 million.

Total debt was $125.0 million, as the Company made $77.6 million in debt re-payments in the first nine months of 2003. Cash decreased $59.8 million from $122.6 million at the beginning of 2003 to $62.8 million at the September 28, 2003, primarily as a result of the debt re-payments.  Net debt (total debt less cash and cash equivalents) was $62.0 million at September 28, 2003, compared to $79.7 million at December 29, 2002.  The Company’s strong financial condition is illustrated by the 18% ratio of net debt to total capital at September 28, 2003.  

The Company had a $250 million unsecured revolving credit facility agreement with ten banks. Borrowing under the credit facility was $125.0 million at September 28, 2003.  The agreement provides for a four-year commitment of up to $170 million, maturing May 2005, and a 364-day commitment plus a one-year term loan extension at the Company’s option, maturing May 2004, of up to $80 million.  The credit facility incurs interest at a floating rate of the London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) plus a spread dependent upon the Company’s net debt to total capital ratio.  The Company is subject to debt covenants under this credit facility.  In May 2003, the Company reduced the $80 million component to $50 million and extended it one year under the same pricing arrangements.  This change reduced the total credit facility to $220 million.  

The following table summarizes the Company’s significant contractual obligations at September 28, 2003:

 

Payments Due by Period

(Dollars in millions)

Total

Less than

1 year

1-3 years

4-5 years

After 5

years

      

Long-term debt

 $    125.0

$          -

 $    125.0

 $            -

 $            -

Capital lease obligations

               -

          -

               -

               -

               -

Operating leases *

         74.0

         25.8

         38.7

           5.3

           4.2

Purchase commitments

           0.8

           0.8

               -

               -

               -

Other long-term liabilities

               -

               -

               -

               -

               -

   Total

 $    199.8

 $      26.6

 $    163.7

 $        5.3

 $        4.2

* Amounts have not been updated from December 29, 2002, as there have not been significant changes.


Management believes that the combination of internally generated funds, available cash reserves, and the credit facility are sufficient to fund the Company’s operations and investments over the foreseeable future.

ENVIRONMENTAL MATTERS

The Company has been named as one of a number of potentially responsible parties at several waste disposal sites, none of which has ever been Company owned.  The Company’s policy is to accrue for investigation and remediation at sites where costs are probable and estimable.  At this writing, there are no identified environmental liabilities that are expected to have a material adverse effect on the operating results, financial condition, or cash flows of the Company.

RECENTLY ADOPTED ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS

Effective December 30, 2002, the Company adopted Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) No. 143, “Accounting for Asset Retirement Obligations,” which addresses the financial accounting and disclosure of legal obligations associated with the retirement of tangible long-lived assets and the related asset retirement costs.  The new standard requires the Company to record the fair value of the liability for an asset retirement obligation in the period in which it is incurred, if a reasonable estimate of fair value can be made.  The related asset retirement costs are capitalized as part of the carrying amount of the long-lived asset and amortized over the asset’s economic life.  The adoption of this standard did not have an effect on the Company’s consolidated results of operations, financial position, or cash flows.

Effective December 30, 2002, the Company also adopted the section of SFAS No. 145, “Rescission of SFAS Nos. 4, 44, and 64, Amendment of SFAS No. 13, and Technical Corrections,” regarding financial reporting for early extinguishment of debt.  Since the Company does not have any gains or losses on extinguishment of debt recorded, the adoption of this standard did not have an effect on the Company's consolidated results of operations, financial position, or cash flows.  

Effective December 30, 2002, the Company also adopted the provisions of SFAS No. 146, “Accounting for Costs Associated with Exit or Disposal Activities,” which addresses the recognition, measurement, and reporting of costs associated with exit and disposal activities, including restructuring activities.  This statement requires that liabilities for costs associated with an exit or disposal activity not be recognized until the liability is incurred and the fair value can be estimated, except for certain one-time termination benefits.  SFAS No. 146 nullifies Emerging Issues Task Force (EITF) 94-3 which permitted recognition of a liability for such costs at the date of a Company’s commitment to an exit plan.   The provisions of SFAS No. 146 are effective for exit and disposal activities initiated after December 31, 2002.  The provisions of EITF 94-3 will continue to apply for liabilities previously recorded.  See Note 3 “Restructuring and Impairment Charges.”

Effective December 30, 2002, the Company adopted Financial Interpretation Number (FIN) 45, "Guarantor's Accounting and Disclosure Requirements for Guarantees, Including Indirect Guarantees of Indebtedness of Others."  FIN 45 further defines the disclosures to be made by a guarantor in its interim and annual financial statements about its obligations under certain guarantees.  It also clarifies that a guarantor is required to recognize, at the inception of a guarantee, a liability for the fair value of the obligation undertaken in issuing the guarantee.  FIN 45 incorporates, without change, the guidance in FIN 34, “Disclosure of Indirect Guarantees of Indebtedness of Others,” which is being superseded.  

FIN 45 generally applies to contracts or indemnification agreements that contingently require the guarantor to make payments to the guaranteed party based on changes in an underlying that is related to an asset, liability, or equity security of the guaranteed party.  The Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) defines an underlying as a specified interest rate, security price, commodity price, foreign exchange rate, index of prices or rates, or other variable.  There are several exceptions including, but not limited to, pension contracts, deferred compensation contracts, lessee’s residual value guarantee in a capital lease, guarantees accounted for as contingent rent, and guarantees that constitute vendor rebates.

FIN 45 requires disclosure of the nature of the guarantee, including the approximate term of the guarantee, how the guarantee arose, and the events or circumstances that would require the guarantor to perform under the guarantee.  The maximum potential amount of future payments under the guarantee, the carrying amount of the liability, if any, for the guarantor’s obligations and the nature and extent of any recourse provisions that would enable the guarantor to recover amounts paid under the guarantee must also be disclosed.  

FIN 45 is effective, on a prospective basis, to guarantees issued or modified after December 31, 2002.  The adoption of this standard did not have an effect on the Company’s consolidated results of operations, financial position, or cash flows.  

Effective June 15, 2003, the Company adopted EITF Issue No. 00-21, “Revenue Arrangements with Multiple Deliverables.”  EITF No. 00-21 provides guidance on how to account for arrangements that involve the delivery or performance of multiple products, services and or rights to use assets.  In applying EITF No. 00-21, separate contracts with the same entity or related parties that are entered into at or near the same time are presumed to have been negotiated as a package and should be evaluated as a single arrangement.  It also addresses how arrangement consideration should be measured and allocated.  EITF No. 00-21 does not address when the criteria for revenue recognition are met or provide guidance on the appropriate method of revenue recognition.

Under EITF No. 00-21, revenue arrangements with multiple deliverables should be accounted for separately if the product or service has value to the customer on a stand-alone basis, there is objective and reliable evidence of the fair value of the product or service, the arrangement includes a general right of return relative to the item, and delivery or performance of the undelivered item is considered probable and substantially in control of the vendor.  Consideration should be allocated among the separate elements of the arrangement based on their relative fair value.  

EITF No. 00-21 requires disclosure of the accounting policy for recognition of revenue from multiple-deliverable arrangements and the description and nature of such arrangements, including performance-, cancellation-, termination-, or refund-type provisions.  EITF No. 00-21 is effective for revenue arrangements entered into in fiscal periods beginning after June 15, 2003.  The adoption of this standard did not have a material effect on the Company’s consolidated results of operations, financial position, or cash flows.

Effective June 30, 2003, the Company adopted SFAS No. 149, “Amendment of Statement 133 on Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities.”  SFAS No. 149 amends and clarifies accounting for derivative instruments, including certain derivative instruments embedded in other contracts and for hedging activities under SFAS No. 133, “Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities”.  In particular, it clarifies under what circumstances a contract with an initial net investment meets the characteristic of a derivative as discussed in SFAS No. 133; clarifies when a derivative contains a financing component that warrants special reporting in the statement of cash flows; amends the definition of an underlying to conform to the language used in FIN 45; and amends certain other existing pronouncements.  SFAS No. 149 is generally effective for contracts entered into or modified after June 30, 2003.  The adoption of this standard did not have a material effect on the Company’s consolidated results of operations, financial position, or cash flows.

Effective June 30, 2003, the Company adopted SFAS No. 150, “Accounting for Certain Financial Instruments with Characteristics of both Liabilities and Equity,” which requires issuers to classify certain financial instruments as liabilities (or assets in some circumstances).  SFAS No.150 covers certain financial instruments that embody an obligation that the issuer can or must settle by issuing its own equity shares and instruments that require the issuing company to buy back all or some of its shares in exchange for cash or other assets.  The new standard also requires disclosures about alternative ways to settle the instruments and the capital structure of entities, all of whose shares are mandatorily redeemable. The provisions of SFAS No. 150 are effective for financial instruments entered into or modified after May 31, 2003.  The adoption of this standard did not have a material effect on the Company’s consolidated results of operations, financial position, or cash flows.

Effective June 30, 2003, the Company adopted FIN 46, “Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities, an Interpretation of Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB) No. 51, Consolidated Financial Statements.”  FIN 46 extends the application of ARB No. 51 to certain entities in which equity investors do not have the characteristics of a controlling financial interest or do not have sufficient equity at risk for the entity to finance its activities without additional subordinated financial support from other parties.  These variable interest entities (VIEs) are to be evaluated for consolidation based on their variable interests.  Variable interests are contractual, ownership, or other interests in an entity that expose their holders to the risks and rewards of the VIE.  VIEs have commonly been referred to as special-purpose entities or off-balance sheet structures.  The objective of FIN 46 is not to restrict the use of VIEs, but to improve the financial reporting related to them.  

FIN 46 introduces a new consolidation model, the variable interests model, which determines control (and consolidation) based on potential variability in gains and losses of the entity being evaluated for consolidation.  Variable interests include equity investments, loans, leases, derivatives, guarantees, forward contracts, service contracts, and other instruments whose values change with changes in the VIE’s assets.  FIN 46 requires existing unconsolidated VIEs to be consolidated by their primary beneficiaries if the entities do not effectively disperse risks among parties involved.  The primary beneficiary of a VIE is the party that absorbs a majority of the entity’s expected losses, receives a majority of its expected residual returns, or both, as a result of holding variable interests.

The provisions of FIN 46 were effective in January 2003 for all VIEs created after January 31, 2003.  The provisions of FIN46 for all VIEs created before February 1, 2003 will be effective December 31, 2003.  The Company is currently evaluating the impacts of the initial recognition, measurement and disclosure provisions of FIN 46; however, the Company does not believe that it holds any VIEs that require disclosure or consolidation.



THE STANDARD REGISTER COMPANY

FORM 10-Q

For the Quarter Ended September 28, 2003



ITEM 3.  QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURE ABOUT MARKET RISK

The Company is exposed to interest rate risk on its borrowings under a revolving credit facility and the Company’s short-term investments, as outlined in the 2002 Form 10K. The Company is also exposed to market risk from changes in the cost of paper, the principal raw material used in the production of business forms.  With the expiration of the interest rate swap in first quarter 2003, the Company is exposed to an increased level of interest rate risk.  There have been no other material changes in the Company’s exposure to these items since the Company’s disclosure in Item 7A, Part II of Form 10-K for the year ended December 29, 2002.


ITEM 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

(a)

Disclosure controls and procedures

Our Chief Executive Officer and our Chief Financial Officer, after evaluating the effectiveness of the Company’s “disclosure controls and procedures” (as defined in the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (Exchange Act) Rules 13a-15(e) or 15d-15(e)) as of the end of the period covered by this quarterly report, have concluded that as of the end of the period covered by this quarterly report our disclosure controls and procedures are effective based on their evaluation of these controls and procedures required by paragraph (b) of Exchange Act Rules 13a-15 or 15d-15.


(b)

Changes in internal control over financial reporting

During the period covered by this report, there were no changes in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.



PART II - OTHER INFORMATION


ITEM 1.  LEGAL PROCEEDINGS


There have been no material legal proceedings within the reporting period that the Company has been involved with beyond those conducted in a normal course of business.


ITEM 2.  CHANGES IN SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS


None.


ITEM 3.  DEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES


None


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


None


ITEM 5.  OTHER INFORMATION


None.



ITEM 6 - EXHIBITS AND REPORTS ON FORM 8K


a)

Exhibits


Exhibit  #    Description


  2

Plan of acquisition, reorganization, arrangement

      liquidation or succession

Not applicable


  3

  Articles of incorporation and bylaws

Not applicable

  4

  Instruments defining the rights of security

Not applicable

10

  Material contracts

Not applicable

11

  Statement re: computation of per share earnings

Not applicable

15

  Letter re: unaudited interim financial information

Not applicable

18

  Letter re: change in accounting principles

Not applicable

19

  Report furnished to security holders

Not applicable

22

  Published reports regarding matters submitted

  to vote of security holders

Not applicable

23.1

  Consent of Independent Auditor

Included


24

  Power of attorney

Not applicable


31.1

  Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to

  Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

Included

31.2

  Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to

  Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

Included


32.1

  Certification pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted

  pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

Included

32.2

  Certification pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted

  pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

Included


99.1

  Review report of Independent Auditor

   

Included




b)

Reports on Form 8K


A report on Form 8K related to the Company’s press release announcing the results of operations for the second quarter of 2003 was filed by the Company on July 25, 2003.




THE STANDARD REGISTER COMPANY

FORM 10-Q

For the Quarter Ended September 28, 2003





SIGNATURE



Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.



November 12, 2003





/s/ Craig J. Brown

By Craig J. Brown, Sr. Vice President, Treasurer

 

Chief Financial Officer, and Chief Accounting Officer







Exhibit 31.1


CERTIFICATION OF CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

PURSUANT TO SECTION 302 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002


I, Dennis L. Rediker, certify that:

1.

I have reviewed this quarterly report on Form 10-Q of The Standard Register Company;

2.

Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

3.

Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

4.

The registrant's other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) for the registrant and have:

a)

Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

b)

Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

c)

Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and

5.

The registrant's other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant's auditors and the audit committee of the registrant's board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

a)

All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant's ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

b)

Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting.

Date:  November 12, 2003


/s/ Dennis L. Rediker

Dennis L. Rediker

President and Chief Executive Officer


Exhibit 31.2


CERTIFICATION OF CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

PURSUANT TO SECTION 302 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002


I, Craig J. Brown, certify that:

1.

I have reviewed this quarterly report on Form 10-Q of The Standard Register Company;

2.

Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

3.

Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

4.

The registrant's other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) for the registrant and have:

a)

Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

b)

Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

c)

Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and

5.

The registrant's other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant's auditors and the audit committee of the registrant's board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

a)

All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant's ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

b)

Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting.

Date:  November 12, 2003


/s/ Craig J. Brown

Craig J. Brown

Senior Vice President, Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer


Exhibit 32.1


CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO

18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350,

AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO

SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002



In connection with the Quarterly Report of The Standard Register Company (the “Company”) on Form 10-Q for the period ending September 28, 2003 as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the “Report”), I, Dennis L. Rediker, President and Chief Executive Officer, certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. ss. 1350, as adopted pursuant to ss. 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that to the best of my knowledge:


(1)

the Report fully complies with the requirements of section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and


(2)

the information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company.



Date:  November 12, 2003



/s/ Dennis L. Rediker

Dennis L. Rediker

President and Chief Executive Officer



Exhibit 32.2


CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO

18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350,

AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO

SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002



In connection with the Quarterly Report of The Standard Register Company (the “Company”) on Form 10-Q for the period ending September 28, 2003 as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the “Report”), I, Craig J. Brown, Senior Vice President, Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer, certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. ss. 1350, as adopted pursuant to ss. 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that to the best of my knowledge:


(1)

the Report fully complies with the requirements of section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and


(2)

the information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company.



Date: November 12, 2003



/s/ Craig J. Brown

Craig J. Brown

Senior Vice President, Treasurer and

Chief Financial Officer