FEDERATED DEPARTMENT STORES, INC. 424B3
Filed Pursuant To Rule 424(b)(3)
Registration No. 333-123667
TO THE STOCKHOLDERS OF
FEDERATED DEPARTMENT STORES, INC. AND
THE MAY DEPARTMENT STORES COMPANY
Federated Department Stores, Inc., which is referred to as
Federated, and The May Department Stores Company, which is
referred to as May, have entered into an agreement and plan of
merger whereby Federated will acquire May. In the merger, May
stockholders will receive 0.3115 shares of Federated common
stock and $17.75 in cash for each share of May common stock they
own. Upon completion of the merger, we estimate that Mays
former stockholders will own approximately 97 million, or
approximately 36%, of the then-outstanding shares of Federated
common stock. Federateds stockholders will continue to own
their existing shares, which will not be affected by the merger.
Shares of Federated common stock are listed on the New York
Stock Exchange under the symbol FD. Upon completion
of the merger, May common stock, which is listed on the New York
Stock Exchange under the symbol MAY, will be
delisted.
We are each holding our annual meeting of stockholders in order
to obtain those approvals necessary to consummate the merger and
to approve certain other matters as described in this joint
proxy statement/ prospectus. Information about these meetings,
the merger and other business to be considered by Federated and
May stockholders is contained in this joint proxy statement/
prospectus. We urge you to read this joint proxy statement/
prospectus, and the documents incorporated by reference into
this joint proxy statement/ prospectus, carefully and in their
entirety, in particular, see Risk Factors beginning
on page 22.
We are very excited about the opportunities the proposed merger
brings to both May and Federated stockholders, and we thank you
for your consideration and continued support.
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Terry J. Lundgren
Chairman, President and
Chief Executive Officer
Federated Department Stores, Inc. |
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John L. Dunham
Chairman, President and
Chief Executive Officer
The May Department Stores Company |
Neither the Securities and Exchange Commission nor any state
securities commission has approved or disapproved of these
securities or passed upon the adequacy or accuracy of this joint
proxy statement/ prospectus. Any representation to the contrary
is a criminal offense.
This joint proxy statement/ prospectus is dated May 31,
2005,
and is first being mailed to May and Federated stockholders on
or about May 31, 2005.
REFERENCES TO ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Except where we indicate otherwise, as used in this joint proxy
statement/ prospectus, Federated refers to Federated
and its consolidated subsidiaries and May refers to
May and its consolidated subsidiaries. This joint proxy
statement/ prospectus incorporates important business and
financial information about Federated and May from documents
that each company has filed with the Securities and Exchange
Commission, referred to as the SEC, but that have not been
included in or delivered with this joint proxy statement/
prospectus. This joint proxy statement/ prospectus incorporates
the annual report on Form 10-K of Federated for the fiscal
year ended January 29, 2005, and the annual report on
Form 10-K/A of May for the fiscal year ended
January 29, 2005. If you are a May stockholder, the May
annual report is delivered with this joint proxy statement/
prospectus. If you are a Federated stockholder, the Federated
annual report is delivered with this joint proxy statement/
prospectus. For a list of documents incorporated by reference
into this joint proxy statement/ prospectus and how you may
obtain them, see Where You Can Find More Information
beginning on page 185.
This information is available to you without charge upon your
written or oral request. You can obtain the documents
incorporated by reference into this joint proxy statement/
prospectus by accessing the SECs website maintained at
www.sec.gov.
In addition, Federateds SEC filings are available to the
public on Federateds website,
www.fds.com/corporategovernance, and Mays filings with the
SEC are available to the public on Mays website,
www.mayco.com. Information contained on Federateds
website, Mays website or the website of any other person
is not incorporated by reference into this joint proxy
statement/ prospectus, and you should not consider information
contained on those websites as part of this joint proxy
statement/ prospectus.
Federated will provide you with copies of this information
relating to Federated, without charge, if you request them in
writing or by telephone from:
Federated Department Stores, Inc.
7 West Seventh Street
Cincinnati, Ohio 45202
Attention: Investor Relations
(513) 579-7780
May will provide you with copies of this information relating to
May, without charge, if you request them in writing or by
telephone from:
The May Department Stores Company
611 Olive Street
St. Louis, Missouri 63101
Attention: Investor Relations
(314) 342-6300
If you would like to request documents, please do so by
July 6, 2005, in order to receive them before the annual
meetings.
Federated has supplied all information contained in or
incorporated by reference in this joint proxy statement/
prospectus relating to Federated, and May has supplied all
information contained in or incorporated by reference in this
joint proxy statement/ prospectus relating to May.
THE MAY DEPARTMENT STORES COMPANY
611 Olive Street
St. Louis, Missouri 63101
NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS
TO BE HELD ON JULY 13, 2005
To our fellow Stockholders and Holders of ESOP preference shares
of
The May Department Stores Company:
We will hold our 2005 annual meeting of stockholders at
10:00 a.m., Eastern Daylight Savings Time, on July 13,
2005, at The Pierre-New York, 2 East 61st Street, New York, New
York 10021, unless postponed or adjourned to a later date. The
May annual meeting will be held for the following purposes:
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1. To approve and adopt the Agreement and Plan of Merger,
dated as of February 27, 2005, by and among May, Federated
Department Stores, Inc. and Milan Acquisition LLC, a wholly
owned subsidiary of Federated, and the transactions contemplated
by the merger agreement, including the merger, pursuant to which
May will merge with Milan Acquisition LLC, on the terms and
subject to the conditions contained in the merger agreement, and
each outstanding share of May common stock would be converted
into the right to receive $17.75 in cash and 0.3115 shares
of Federated common stock. A copy of the merger agreement is
attached as Annex A to the accompanying joint proxy
statement/ prospectus; |
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2. To elect four members of Mays board of directors; |
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3. To adopt an amendment to Mays amended and restated
certificate of incorporation to provide for the annual election
of directors; |
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4. To ratify the appointment of Deloitte & Touche
LLP as Mays independent registered public accounting firm
for the fiscal year ending January 28, 2006; |
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5. To approve adjournments or postponements of the May
annual meeting, if necessary, to permit further solicitation of
proxies if there are not sufficient votes at the time of the May
annual meeting to approve the above proposals; and |
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6. To consider and take action upon any other business that
may properly come before the May annual meeting or any
reconvened meeting following an adjournment or postponement of
the May annual meeting. |
These items of business are described in the accompanying joint
proxy statement/ prospectus. Only stockholders of record at the
close of business on May 20, 2005, are entitled to notice
of the May annual meeting and to vote at the May annual meeting
and any adjournments or postponements of the May annual meeting.
Mays board of directors approved the merger agreement
and the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement,
including the merger, on February 27, 2005, and determined
that the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement are
advisable and fair to, and in the best interests of, May and its
stockholders. Mays board of directors recommends that you
vote FOR the adoption of the merger agreement and the
transactions contemplated by the merger agreement, including the
merger.
Mays board of directors also recommends that you
vote FOR the other May annual meeting proposals, all of
which are described in detail in the accompanying joint proxy
statement/ prospectus. Approval of the other May annual meeting
proposals is not a condition to the merger.
Under Delaware law, appraisal rights will be available to May
stockholders of record who vote against approval and adoption of
the merger agreement. To exercise your appraisal rights, you
must strictly follow the procedures prescribed by Delaware law.
These procedures are summarized in the accompanying joint proxy
statement/ prospectus.
Your vote is very important. Whether or not you plan to
attend the May annual meeting in person, please complete, sign
and date the enclosed proxy card(s) or voting instruction
card(s) as soon as possible and return it in the postage-prepaid
envelope provided, or vote your shares by telephone or over the
Internet as described in the accompanying joint proxy statement/
prospectus. Completing a proxy now will not prevent you from
being able to vote at the annual meeting by attending in person
and casting a vote. However, if you do not return or submit
the proxy or vote in person at the annual meeting, the effect
will be the same as a vote against the proposal to approve and
adopt the merger agreement and the transactions contemplated by
the merger agreement, including the merger.
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By order of the board of directors, |
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Richard A. Brickson |
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Secretary and Senior Counsel |
Please vote your shares promptly. You can find instructions
for voting on the enclosed proxy card or voting instruction
card.
If you have questions, contact:
The May Department Stores Company
611 Olive Street
St. Louis, Missouri 63101
Attention: Investor Relations
(314) 342-6300
St. Louis, Missouri, May 31, 2005
Your vote is important. Please complete, date, sign and
return your proxy card(s) or voting instruction card(s), or, if
available, vote your shares by telephone or over the Internet at
your earliest convenience so that your shares are represented at
the meeting.
FEDERATED DEPARTMENT STORES, INC.
7 West Seventh Street
Cincinnati, Ohio 45202
NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS
TO BE HELD ON JULY 13, 2005
To our fellow Stockholders of Federated Department Stores, Inc.:
The annual meeting of stockholders of Federated Department
Stores, Inc. (Federated) will be held at
11:00 a.m., Eastern Daylight Savings Time, on July 13,
2005, at Federateds corporate offices located at
7 West Seventh Street, Cincinnati, Ohio 45202, unless
postponed or adjourned to a later date. The Federated annual
meeting will be held for the following purposes:
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1. To authorize the issuance of Federated common stock
pursuant to the terms of the Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated
as of February 27, 2005, by and among The May Department
Stores Company, Federated and Milan Acquisition LLC, a wholly
owned subsidiary of Federated, pursuant to which May will merge
with Milan Acquisition LLC on the terms and subject to the
conditions contained in the merger agreement. A copy of the
merger agreement is attached as Annex A to the
accompanying joint proxy statement/ prospectus; |
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2. To elect three Class II members of Federateds
board of directors; |
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3. To adopt an amendment to Federateds certificate of
incorporation to provide for the annual election of directors; |
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4. To ratify the appointment of KPMG LLP as
Federateds independent registered public accounting firm
for the fiscal year ending January 28, 2006; |
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5. To approve adjournments or postponements of the
Federated annual meeting, if necessary, to permit further
solicitation of proxies if there are not sufficient votes at the
time of the Federated annual meeting to approve the above
proposals; and |
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6. To consider and take action upon any other business that
may properly come before the Federated annual meeting or any
reconvened meeting following an adjournment or postponement of
the Federated annual meeting. |
These items of business are described in the accompanying joint
proxy statement/ prospectus. Only stockholders of record at the
close of business on May 20, 2005, are entitled to notice
of the Federated annual meeting and to vote at the Federated
annual meeting and any adjournments or postponements of the
Federated annual meeting.
Federateds board of directors approved the merger
agreement and the transactions contemplated by the merger
agreement, including the merger, on February 27, 2005, and
determined that the transactions contemplated by the merger
agreement are advisable and fair to, and in the best interests
of, Federated and its stockholders. Federateds board of
directors recommends that you vote FOR the issuance of
Federated common stock pursuant to the merger agreement.
Federateds board of directors also recommends that you
vote FOR the other Federated annual meeting proposals, all
of which are described in detail in the accompanying joint proxy
statement/ prospectus. Approval of the other Federated annual
meeting proposals is not a condition to the merger.
Your vote is very important. Whether or not you plan to
attend the Federated annual meeting in person, please complete,
sign and date the enclosed proxy card(s) or voting instruction
card(s) as soon as possible and return it in the postage-prepaid
envelope provided, or vote your shares by telephone or over the
Internet as described in the accompanying joint proxy statement/
prospectus. Completing a proxy now will not prevent you from
being able to vote at the annual meeting by attending in person
and casting a vote. However, if you
do not return or submit the proxy or vote in person at the
annual meeting you could negatively effect the outcome of the
proposal to approve the issuance of Federated common stock in
the merger.
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By order of the board of directors, |
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Dennis J. Broderick |
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Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary |
Please vote your shares promptly. You can find instructions
for voting on the enclosed proxy card or voting instruction
card.
If you have questions, contact:
Federated Department Stores, Inc.
7 West Seventh Street
Cincinnati, Ohio 45202
Attention: Investor Relations
(513) 579-7780
Call Toll-Free: (800) 261-5385
Cincinnati, Ohio, May 31, 2005
Your vote is important. Please complete, date, sign and
return your proxy card(s) or voting instruction card(s) or, if
available, vote your shares by telephone or over the Internet at
your earliest convenience so that your shares are represented at
the meeting.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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iv
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS ABOUT THE ANNUAL MEETINGS AND THE
MERGER
The following questions and answers briefly address some
commonly asked questions about the annual meetings and the
merger. They may not include all the information that is
important to you. Federated and May urge you to read carefully
this entire joint proxy statement/ prospectus, including the
annexes and the other documents to which we have referred you.
We have included page references in certain parts of this
summary to direct you to a more detailed description of each
topic presented elsewhere in this joint proxy statement/
prospectus.
The Merger
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Q: |
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Why am I receiving this joint proxy statement/ prospectus? |
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A: |
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May and Federated have agreed to the acquisition of May by
Federated under the terms of a merger agreement that is
described in this joint proxy statement/ prospectus. A copy of
the merger agreement is attached to this joint proxy statement/
prospectus as Annex A. |
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In order to complete the merger, Federated stockholders must
vote to approve the issuance of shares of Federated common stock
in the merger and May stockholders must approve and adopt the
merger agreement and the transactions contemplated by the merger
agreement, including the merger. May and Federated will hold
separate meetings of their respective stockholders to obtain
these approvals, as well as to consider various other proposals
unrelated to the transaction. |
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This joint proxy statement/ prospectus contains important
information about the merger, the merger agreement and the
annual meetings of the respective stockholders of May and
Federated, which you should read carefully. The enclosed voting
materials allow you to vote your shares without attending your
respective companys annual meeting. |
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Your vote is very important. We encourage you to vote as soon as
possible. |
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Q: |
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What is the proposed transaction for which I am being asked
to vote? |
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May stockholders are being asked to approve and adopt the merger
agreement and the transactions contemplated by the merger
agreement, including the merger. The approval of this proposal
by May stockholders is a condition to the effectiveness of the
merger. See The Merger Agreement Conditions to
Completion of the Merger beginning on page 111. |
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Federated stockholders are being asked to authorize the issuance
of Federated common stock pursuant to the terms of the merger
agreement at the Federated annual meeting. The approval of this
proposal by the Federated stockholders is a condition to the
effectiveness of the merger. See The Merger
Agreement Conditions to Completion of the
Merger beginning on page 111. |
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What are the positions of the May and Federated boards of
directors regarding the merger? |
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A: |
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Both boards of directors have approved the merger agreement and
the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement, including
the merger, and determined that the transactions contemplated by
the merger agreement are advisable and fair to, and in the best
interests of, their respective company and stockholders. The May
board of directors recommends that the May stockholders
vote FOR the proposal to adopt the merger agreement and the
transactions contemplated by the merger agreement, including the
merger, at the May annual meeting. The Federated board of
directors recommends that the Federated stockholders
vote FOR the proposal to authorize the issuance of
Federated common stock pursuant to the terms of the merger
agreement at the Federated annual meeting. See The
Merger Federateds Reasons for the Merger and
Recommendation of Federateds Board of Directors
beginning on page 55 and The Merger
Mays Reasons for the Merger and Recommendation of
Mays Board of Directors beginning on page 51. |
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Q: |
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What vote is needed by May stockholders to approve and adopt
the merger agreement and the transactions contemplated by the
merger agreement, including the merger, at the May annual
meeting? |
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The approval and adoption of the merger agreement and the
transactions contemplated by the merger agreement, including the
merger, requires the approval of a majority of the outstanding
shares of May common stock and May Employee Stock Ownership Plan
preference stock, which are referred to as ESOP preference
shares, entitled to vote, voting together as one class. If a May
stockholder does not vote, it will have the same effect as a
vote against the approval and adoption of the merger agreement
and the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement,
including the merger. See The May Annual
Meeting Quorum and Voting Rights beginning on
page 29. |
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What vote is needed by Federated stockholders to authorize
the issuance of Federated common stock pursuant to the terms of
the merger agreement at the Federated annual meeting? |
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A: |
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The authorization of the issuance of Federated common stock
pursuant to the terms of the merger agreement requires the
affirmative vote of at least a majority of the votes cast by the
holders of outstanding shares of Federated common stock present
(in person or by proxy) at the Federated annual meeting, where
the holders of at least a majority of all outstanding shares of
Federated common stock vote on the proposal. If a Federated
stockholder does not vote, it will not have the same effect as a
vote against the merger agreement. However, it can negatively
affect the vote on such proposal if their failure to be counted
results in less than a majority in interest of all outstanding
shares of Federated common stock being voted on such proposal.
See The Federated Annual Meeting Quorum and
Voting Rights beginning on page 37. |
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Q: |
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Where does Federated common stock trade? |
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A: |
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Shares of Federated common stock trade on the New York Stock
Exchange under the symbol FD. |
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Q: |
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When do you expect to complete the merger? |
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A: |
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If the merger agreement and the transactions contemplated by the
merger agreement, including the merger, are approved and adopted
at the May annual meeting and the issuance of Federated common
stock is authorized at the Federated annual meeting, we expect
to complete the merger as soon as possible after the
satisfaction of the other conditions to the merger. There may be
a substantial period of time between the approval of the
proposals by stockholders at the annual meetings of Mays
and Federateds stockholders and the effectiveness of the
merger. We currently anticipate that the merger will be
completed in the third quarter of 2005. See The Merger
Agreement The Merger; Closing on page 96. |
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Q: |
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Should I send in my stock certificates now? |
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A: |
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No. If the merger is completed, Federated will send May
stockholders written instructions for sending in their stock
certificates. See The May Annual Meeting Proxy
Solicitations on page 35 and The Merger
Agreement Exchange of Shares on page 99.
Federated stockholders will not need to send in their stock
certificates. |
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Q: |
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Who can answer my questions about the merger? |
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A: |
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If you have any questions about the merger or your annual
meeting, need assistance in voting your shares, or need
additional copies of this joint proxy statement/ prospectus or
the enclosed proxy card(s) or voting instructions, you should
contact: |
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Federated Department Stores, Inc. |
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7 West Seventh Street |
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Cincinnati, Ohio 45202 |
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Attention: Investor Relations |
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Telephone: (513) 579-7780 |
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or |
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The May Department Stores Company |
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611 Olive Street |
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St. Louis, Missouri 63101 |
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Attention: Investor Relations |
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Telephone: (314) 342-6300 |
Other Federated Annual Meeting Proposals
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Q: |
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On what other proposals am I being asked to vote at the
Federated annual meeting? |
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A: |
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At Federateds annual meeting, in addition to voting upon
the issuance of Federated stock pursuant to the merger
agreement, Federated stockholders will be asked: |
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To elect three Class II members of
Federateds board of directors; |
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To adopt an amendment to Federateds
Certificate of Incorporation to provide for the annual election
of directors; |
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To ratify the appointment of KPMG LLP as
Federateds independent registered public accounting firm
for the fiscal year ending January 28, 2006; |
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To approve adjournments or postponements of the
Federated annual meeting, if necessary, to permit further
solicitation of proxies if there are not sufficient votes at the
time of the Federated annual meeting to approve the above
proposals; and |
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To consider and take action upon any other business
that may properly come before the Federated annual meeting (or
any reconvened meeting) following an adjournment or postponement
of the Federated annual meeting. |
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See The Federated Annual Meeting Purposes of
the Federated Annual Meeting beginning on page 36. |
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Q: |
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What vote is necessary to approve the other proposals at the
Federated annual meeting? |
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A: |
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The election of three Class II members of Federateds
board of directors requires the affirmative vote of a plurality
of the shares of Federated common stock present in person or
represented by proxy at the Federated annual meeting and
entitled to vote. |
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The proposal to amend Federateds certificate of
incorporation to adopt a system for the annual election of all
Federated directors requires the affirmative vote of a majority
of all outstanding shares of Federated common stock to take
effect in accordance with the schedule more fully described in
the proposal. |
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The ratification of the appointment of KPMG LLP as
Federateds independent registered public accounting firm
for the fiscal year ending January 28, 2006, requires the
affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of Federated
common stock present in person or represented by proxy entitled
to vote and actually voted at the Federated annual meeting. |
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A proposal to approve adjournments or postponements of the
Federated annual meeting, if necessary, to permit further
solicitation of proxies if there are not sufficient votes at the
time of the Federated annual meeting to approve the above
proposals requires the affirmative vote of the holders of a
majority of Federated common stock present in person or
represented by proxy entitled to vote and actually voted at the
Federated annual meeting. |
Other May Annual Meeting Proposals
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Q: |
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On what other proposals am I being asked to vote at the May
annual meeting? |
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A: |
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At Mays annual meeting, in addition to voting upon the
approval and adoption of the merger agreement and the
transactions contemplated by the merger agreement, including the
merger. May stockholders will be asked: |
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To elect four members of Mays board of
directors; |
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To adopt an amendment to Mays amended and
restated certificate of incorporation to provide for the annual
election of directors; |
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To ratify the appointment of Deloitte &
Touche LLP as Mays independent registered public
accounting firm for the fiscal year ending January 28, 2006; |
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To approve adjournments or postponements of the May
annual meeting, if necessary, to permit further solicitation of
proxies if there are not sufficient votes at the time of the May
annual meeting to approve the above proposals; and |
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To consider and take action upon any other business
that may properly come before the May annual meeting (or any
reconvened meeting) following an adjournment or postponement of
the May annual meeting. |
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See The May Annual Meeting Purposes of the May
Annual Meeting on page 29. |
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Q: |
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What vote is necessary to approve the other proposals at the
May annual meeting? |
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A: |
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The election of the four members of Mays board of
directors requires the affirmative vote of a plurality of the
shares of May common stock and ESOP preference shares, voting
together as one class, present in person or represented by proxy
at the May annual meeting and entitled to vote. |
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The proposal to amend Mays amended and restated
certificate of incorporation requires the affirmative vote of a
majority of the outstanding shares of May common stock and ESOP
preference shares, voting together as one class. |
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Ratification of the appointment of Deloitte & Touche
LLP as Mays independent registered public accounting firm
for the fiscal year ending January 28, 2006, requires the
affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the shares of
May common stock and ESOP preference shares, voting together as
one class, present in person or represented by proxy and
entitled to vote at the May annual meeting. |
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A proposal to approve adjournments or postponements of the May
annual meeting, if necessary, to permit further solicitation of
proxies if there are not sufficient votes at the time of the May
annual meeting to approve the above proposals requires the
affirmative vote of a majority of the shares of May common stock
and ESOP preference shares, voting together as one class,
present in person or represented by proxy and entitled to vote
at the May annual meeting. |
Procedures
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Q: |
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When and where are the annual meetings? |
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A: |
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The May annual meeting will be held at The Pierre-New York,
2 East 61st Street, New York, New York 10021, on July 13,
2005. |
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The Federated annual meeting will be held at Federateds
corporate offices, 7 West Seventh Street, Cincinnati, Ohio
45202, on July 13, 2005. |
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Q: |
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What should I do now? |
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A: |
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You should read this joint proxy statement/ prospectus
carefully, including the annexes, and return your completed,
signed and dated proxy card(s) or voting instruction card(s) by
mail in the enclosed postage-paid envelope or, if available, by
submitting your proxy by telephone or over the Internet as soon
as possible so that your shares will be represented and voted at
your annual meeting. |
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Q: |
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If I am going to attend my annual meeting, should I return my
proxy card(s) or voting instruction card(s)? |
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A: |
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Yes. Returning your signed and dated proxy card(s) or voting
instruction card(s) or voting by telephone or over the Internet,
if available, ensures that your shares will be represented and
voted at your annual meeting. See Summary
Voting; Proxies beginning on page 9, The May
Annual Meeting How to Vote on page 34 and
The Federated Annual Meeting How to Vote
beginning on page 42. |
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Q: |
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What does it mean if I receive multiple proxy cards? |
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A: |
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Your shares may be registered in more than one account, such as
brokerage accounts and 401(k) accounts. It is important that you
complete, sign, date and return each proxy card or voting
instruction card you receive, or, if available, vote using the
telephone or the Internet as described in the instructions
included with your proxy card(s) or voting instruction card(s). |
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Q: |
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Where can I find more information about Federated and May? |
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A: |
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You can find more information about Federated and May from
various sources described under Where You Can Find More
Information beginning on page 185. |
5
SUMMARY
This summary of the material information contained in this
joint proxy statement/ prospectus may not include all the
information that is important to you. To understand fully the
proposed merger, and for a more detailed description of the
terms and conditions of the merger and certain other matters
being considered at your annual meeting, you should read this
entire joint proxy statement/ prospectus and the documents to
which we have referred you. See Where You Can Find More
Information beginning on page 185. We have included
page references parenthetically in this summary to direct you to
a more detailed description of each topic presented in this
summary.
Information about Federated (beginning on page 117)
Federated, a Delaware corporation, through its subsidiaries,
operates 394 department stores and 65 furniture galleries and
specialty stores. In addition, through its subsidiaries,
Federated conducts direct-to-customer mail catalog and
electronic commerce businesses. The stores are located in
34 states, Puerto Rico and Guam. Federated is headquartered
in New York, New York and Cincinnati, Ohio and employs
approximately 112,000 full-time and part-time employees.
Federated Department Stores, Inc.
7 West Seventh Street
Cincinnati, Ohio 45202
Attention: Investor Relations
Telephone: (513) 579-7780
Information about May (beginning on page 144)
May, a Delaware corporation, through its subsidiaries, operates
seven regional department store divisions nationwide under 12
trade names and a bridal group that includes some of the most
recognized names in the wedding industry. At January 29,
2005, May operated 491 department stores in 39 states and
the District of Columbia, 239 Davids Bridal Stores in
45 states and Puerto Rico, 449 After Hours Formalwear
stores in 31 states and 11 Priscilla of Boston stores in
nine states. May is headquartered in St. Louis, Missouri
and employs approximately 132,000 full-time and part-time
employees.
The May Department Stores Company
611 Olive Street
St. Louis, Missouri 63101
Attention: Investor Relations
Telephone: (314) 342-6300
The Merger (beginning on page 44)
On February 27, 2005, the boards of directors of May and
Federated each approved the merger of May with a newly formed
and wholly owned subsidiary of Federated, which is referred to
as Merger Sub, upon the terms and subject to the conditions
contained in the merger agreement. The surviving company of the
merger will become a wholly owned subsidiary of Federated.
May and Federated both believe that the merger will provide
substantial strategic and financial benefits to the stockholders
of both companies by creating one of the largest retail chains
in the United States. In addition, May is also proposing the
merger to provide its stockholders with the opportunity to
receive a premium for their shares (0.42% over the closing price
of May common stock on February 25, 2005, the last full
trading day before the announcement of the merger, and 27.5%
over the closing price of May common stock on January 14,
2005, the last full trading day before reports in the press
regarding a potential transaction between May and Federated),
and to offer May stockholders the opportunity to participate in
the growth and opportunities of the combined companies by
receiving Federated common stock in the merger. To review the
reasons for the merger in greater detail, see The
Merger Federateds Reasons for the Merger and
6
Recommendation of Federateds Board of Directors
beginning on page 55 and The Merger
Mays Reasons for the Merger and Recommendation of
Mays Board of Directors beginning on page 51.
We encourage you to read the merger agreement, which governs the
merger and is attached as Annex A to this joint
proxy statement/ prospectus, because it sets forth the terms of
the merger of May with Merger Sub.
Holders of May common stock (other than May, Federated and
dissenting May stockholders who properly exercise their
appraisal rights) will be entitled to receive for each share of
May common stock:
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$17.75 in cash, without interest; and |
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0.3115 fully paid, nonassessable shares of Federated common
stock. |
As a result, Federated will issue approximately 97 million
shares of Federated common stock and approximately
$5.5 billion in cash in the merger based upon the number of
shares of May common stock outstanding on the record date of the
May annual meeting and assuming full conversion of the ESOP
preference shares as of such date. We refer to the stock and
cash consideration to be paid to May stockholders by Federated
as the merger consideration.
The total value of the merger consideration that a May
stockholder receives in the merger may vary. The value of the
cash portion of the merger consideration is fixed at $17.75 for
each share of May common stock. The value of the stock portion
of the merger consideration is not fixed and will depend upon
the value of 0.3115 shares of Federated common stock. This
value may be ascertained by multiplying the trading price of
Federated common stock by 0.3115.
If the total value of the Federated common stock to be received
in the merger falls below 40% of the total consideration paid on
the closing date, the merger may be taxable for federal income
tax purposes. In that event, Federated may elect to pay more in
Federated common stock to maintain the nontaxable status of the
merger or, if Federated does not so elect, May may elect to
increase the cash consideration received in the merger for each
share of May common stock to $18.75. Under the merger agreement,
there are no other circumstances in which the exchange ratio or
the cash consideration increases. Federated and May will issue a
joint press release if either the exchange ratio or the cash
consideration increases. See Risk Factors If
the total value of the Federated common stock to be received
falls below 40% of the total consideration, May stockholders
could be required to accept $18.75 per share in cash and 0.3115
shares of Federated common stock in a transaction that is
currently taxable to such May stockholders beginning on
page 24.
Federated will fund the cash portion of the merger consideration
from cash on hand, cash from operations, borrowings under
existing or new credit facilities, the issuance of long-term
debt or other securities or a combination of the foregoing.
Federated may also sell a portion of its or Mays credit
card related assets and proceeds from such a transaction may be
used to fund the cash portion, or to repay debt incurred to fund
the cash portion, of the merger consideration.
In general, upon completion of the merger, options to purchase
shares of May common stock granted by May to its employees will
be assumed by Federated and converted into options to purchase
shares of Federated common stock. Federated has agreed to assume
each of Mays stock option plans at the effective time of
the merger. Each unvested May stock option outstanding under any
May stock option plan will become fully vested and exercisable
in connection with the merger, as described herein.
Restricted shares of May common stock granted by May to its
employees and directors will become fully vested in connection
with the merger and the holders of those shares will be entitled
to receive the merger consideration with respect to those shares
upon completion of the merger.
7
For a full description of the treatment of May equity awards,
see The Merger Interests of May Directors and
Executive Officers in the Merger Equity-Based
Awards beginning on page 84.
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May ESOP Preference Shares |
In connection with the merger and in accordance with the terms
and conditions of the May ESOP preference shares, each issued
and outstanding May ESOP preference share will be converted
immediately prior to the effectiveness of the merger into shares
of May common stock, and such shares of May common stock will be
converted into the merger consideration upon completion of the
merger, as described herein.
Opinions of our Financial Advisors (beginning on page 57
for May and 75 for Federated)
Opinions of Mays Financial Advisors. In deciding to
approve the merger agreement, the May board of directors
considered the opinion of Mays financial advisor, Morgan
Stanley & Co. Incorporated, which is referred to as
Morgan Stanley. The May board of directors received a written
opinion from Morgan Stanley to the effect that, as of
February 27, 2005, and based upon and subject to the
various considerations, assumptions and limitations described in
its opinion, the merger consideration to be received by holders
of shares of May common stock pursuant to the merger agreement
was fair, from a financial point of view, to such holders. The
full text of Morgan Stanleys written opinion is attached
to this joint proxy statement/ prospectus as
Annex B. May encourages you to read this opinion
carefully in its entirety for a description of the procedures
followed, assumptions made, matters considered and limitations
on the review undertaken. Morgan Stanleys opinion is
addressed to the May board of directors and is one of many
factors considered by the May board of directors in deciding to
approve the merger. Morgan Stanleys opinion does not
constitute a recommendation to any stockholder as to how such
stockholder should vote or whether such stockholders should take
any other action relating to the transaction. For its services,
Morgan Stanley will be entitled to receive a transaction fee,
the principal portion of which is payable upon the completion of
the transaction.
In deciding to approve the merger agreement, the May board of
directors also considered the opinion of Mays financial
advisor, Peter J. Solomon Company, L.P., which is referred to as
Peter J. Solomon Company or PJSC. The May board of directors
received a written opinion from Peter J. Solomon Company to the
effect that, as of February 27, 2005, and based upon and
subject to the various assumptions made, matters considered and
limitations described in its opinion, the consideration proposed
to be received by holders of May common stock in connection with
the merger was fair from a financial point of view to such
holders. The full text of Peter J. Solomon Companys
written opinion is attached to this joint proxy statement/
prospectus as Annex C. May encourages you to read
this opinion carefully in its entirety for a description of the
procedures followed, assumptions made, matters considered and
limitations on the review undertaken. Peter J. Solomon
Companys opinion is addressed to the May board of
directors and is one of many factors considered by the May board
of directors in deciding to approve the merger. Peter J. Solomon
Companys opinion does not constitute a recommendation to
any stockholder as to how such stockholder should vote or act on
any matter relating to the merger. Under the terms of its
engagement with May, Peter J. Solomon Company received a
customary fee for its financial advisory services in connection
with the merger, all of which was payable upon the delivery of
Peter J. Solomon Companys opinion.
Opinion of Federateds Financial Advisor. Goldman,
Sachs & Co., which is referred to as Goldman Sachs,
acted as financial advisor to Federated in connection with the
transaction. Goldman Sachs delivered an oral opinion to
Federateds board of directors, subsequently confirmed in
writing, to the effect that, as of February 27, 2005, and
based upon and subject to the factors and assumptions set forth
in the opinion, the $17.75 in cash and 0.3115 shares of
Federated common stock to be paid by Federated for each
outstanding share of May common stock pursuant to the merger
agreement was fair, from a financial point of view, to
Federated. The full text of the written opinion of Goldman
Sachs, dated February 27, 2005, which sets forth the
assumptions made, procedures followed, matters considered, and
limitations on the review undertaken in connection with the
opinion, is attached as Annex D to this joint proxy
statement/ prospectus. Goldman Sachs provided its opinion for
the information and assistance of Federateds board of
directors in connection with its consideration of the merger.
Goldman Sachs opinion is not a recommendation as to how
any holder of Federated common stock should vote with respect to
the merger. For its services, Goldman Sachs will be
8
entitled to receive a transaction fee, the principal portion of
which is payable upon the completion of the transaction.
Record Date; Outstanding Shares; Shares Entitled to Vote
(beginning on page 29 for May and 37 for Federated)
Federated Stockholders. The record date for the meeting
for Federated stockholders was May 20, 2005. This means
that you must have been a stockholder of record of
Federateds common stock at the close of business on
May 20, 2005, in order to vote at the annual meeting. You
are entitled to one vote for each share of common stock you own.
On Federateds record date, 170,112,496 shares of
common stock were outstanding. This number excludes shares held
in the treasury of Federated or by subsidiaries of Federated,
which carry no votes.
May Stockholders. The record date for the meeting for May
stockholders was May 20, 2005. This means that you must
have been a stockholder of record of Mays common stock or
of Mays ESOP preference shares at the close of business on
May 20, 2005, in order to vote at the annual meeting. You
are entitled to one vote for each share of common stock you own.
On Mays record date, Mays voting securities carried
311,993,938 votes, which consisted of 299,443,318 shares of
common stock (excluding 21,012,176 shares of treasury
stock) and 371,457 ESOP preference shares, which carry
12,550,620 votes.
Voting; Proxies (beginning on page 32 for May and 41 for
Federated)
You may vote your shares by signing, dating and mailing the
enclosed proxy card(s) or voting instruction card(s), or, if
available, by voting by telephone or over the Internet. A number
of banks and brokerage firms participate in a program that also
permits stockholders whose shares are held in street
name to direct their vote by the Internet or telephone.
This option, if available, will be reflected in the voting
instructions from the bank or brokerage firm that accompany this
joint proxy statement/ prospectus. If your shares are held in an
account at a bank or brokerage firm that participates in such a
program, you may direct the vote of these shares by the Internet
or telephone by following the voting instructions enclosed with
the proxy form from the bank or brokerage firm.
If you participate in Mays profit sharing plan, you will
receive a voting instruction card for the May common stock and
ESOP preference shares allocated to your accounts in that plan.
Under the terms of the plan, the plan trustee must receive your
voting instructions by 11:59 p.m., Eastern Daylight Savings
Time on July 8, 2005.
If you participate in Federateds Profit Sharing 401(k)
Investment Plan, you will receive a voting instruction card for
your proportional interest in any Federated shares in that plan.
Under the terms of the plan, the plan trustee must receive your
voting instructions by 5:00 p.m., Eastern Daylight Savings
Time on July 11, 2005.
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How Proxies Will Be Voted |
If you complete, sign and date your proxy card(s) or voting
instruction card(s), or, if available, vote by telephone or the
Internet, your proxy will be voted in accordance with your
instructions. If you sign and date your proxy card(s) or voting
instruction card(s) but do not indicate how you want to vote at
your annual meeting, your proxy will be voted FOR each of the
proposals presented at your annual meeting.
If you are a record holder of May common stock, May ESOP
preference shares or Federated common stock, you can change your
vote by:
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sending a written notice to the corporate secretary of the
company in which you hold shares that is received prior to your
annual meeting and states that you revoke your proxy; |
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signing and delivering a new proxy card(s) or voting instruction
card(s) bearing a later date; |
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if available, voting again by telephone or over the Internet and
submitting your proxy so that it is received prior to your
annual meeting; or |
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attending your annual meeting and voting in person, although
your attendance alone will not revoke your proxy. |
If your shares are held in a street name account,
you must contact your broker, bank or other nominee to change
your vote.
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Voting Shares Held in Street Name |
If a broker, bank or other nominee holds your common stock for
your benefit but not in your own name, your shares are in
street name. In that case, your broker, bank or
other nominee will send you a voting instruction form to use in
voting your shares. The availability of Internet and telephone
voting depends on the voting procedures of your broker, bank or
other nominee. Please follow the instructions on the voting
instruction form they send you. If your shares are held in
street name and you wish to vote in person at your annual
meeting, you must contact your broker, bank or other nominee and
request a document called a legal proxy. You must
bring this legal proxy to your respective annual meeting in
order to vote in person.
Generally, a broker, bank or other nominee may only vote the
common stock that it holds in street name for you in accordance
with your instructions. However, if your broker, bank or other
nominee has not received your instructions, your broker, bank or
other nominee has the discretion to vote on certain matters that
are considered routine. A broker non-vote occurs if
your broker, bank or other nominee cannot vote on a particular
matter because your broker, bank or other nominee has not
received instructions from you and because the proposal is not
routine. See The May Annual Meeting Voting;
Proxies Voting Shares Held in Street Name
beginning on page 33 and The Federated Annual
Meeting Voting; Proxies Voting Shares
Held in Street Name beginning on page 41.
Depending upon the nature of the proposal, abstentions will
either not be counted and therefore have no effect on the
proposal or will have the same effect as a vote against the
proposal. See The May Annual Meeting Voting;
Proxies Abstaining from Voting on page 34
and The Federated Annual Meeting Voting;
Proxies Abstaining from Voting on page 42.
Stock Ownership of Directors and Executive Officers
(beginning on page 144 for Federated and
170 for May)
May. At the close of business on the record date for the
May annual meeting, directors and executive officers of May and
their affiliates beneficially owned and were entitled to vote
approximately 1,067,940 shares of May common stock,
collectively representing less than 1% of the shares of May
common stock outstanding on that date.
Federated. At the close of business on the record date
for the Federated annual meeting, directors and executive
officers of Federated and their affiliates beneficially owned
and were entitled to vote approximately 422,587 shares of
Federated common stock, collectively representing less than 1%
of the shares of Federated common stock outstanding on that date.
Ownership of Federated After the Merger
Based on the number of shares of Federated and May common stock
outstanding on their respective record dates, after completion
of the merger, Federated expects to issue approximately
97 million shares of Federated common stock and former May
stockholders will own approximately 36% of the then-outstanding
shares of Federated common stock.
10
Interests of May Directors and Executive Officers in the
Merger (beginning on page 83)
When considering the recommendation of its board of directors
with respect to the merger agreement and the transactions
contemplated by the merger agreement, including the merger, May
stockholders should be aware that some directors and executive
officers of May have interests in the transactions contemplated
by the merger agreement that are different from, or in addition
to, their interests as stockholders and the interests of May
stockholders generally. The May board of directors was aware of
these interests during its deliberations on the merits of the
merger and in deciding to recommend that you vote for the
approval and adoption of the merger agreement and the
transactions contemplated by the merger agreement, including the
merger, at the May annual meeting. For a more detailed
discussion of these interests, see Risk
Factors Certain directors and executive officers of
May have interests and arrangements that are different from, or
in addition to, May stockholders beginning on page 22
and The Merger Interests of May Directors and
Executive Officers in the Merger beginning on page 83.
Federated Board of Directors After the Merger (beginning on
page 83)
The members of the Federated board of directors who are in
office immediately prior to the merger are expected to remain as
members of the Federated board of directors after the completion
of the merger. Federated will also select two individuals who
were directors of May as of the date of the merger agreement and
who are recommended by the Nominating and Corporate Governance
Committee of Federateds board of directors, and, if those
individuals are willing to serve, Federated shall use its
reasonable best efforts to appoint those individuals, at the
effective time of the merger, to the Federated board of
directors.
Listing of Federated Common Stock and Delisting of May Common
Stock
Application will be made to have the shares of Federated common
stock issued in the merger approved for listing on the NYSE,
where Federated common stock currently is traded under the
symbol FD. If the merger is completed, May common
stock will no longer be listed on the NYSE and will be
deregistered under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as
amended, which is referred to as the Exchange Act, and May will
no longer file periodic reports with the SEC.
Appraisal Rights (beginning on page 88)
Federated. Under Delaware law, holders of Federated
common stock are not entitled to appraisal rights in connection
with the issuance of Federated common stock in the merger or in
connection with any other proposal to be voted on at the
Federated annual meeting.
May. Holders of May common stock who do not wish to
accept the consideration payable pursuant to the merger may
seek, under Section 262 of the DGCL, judicial appraisal of
the fair value of their shares by the Delaware Court of
Chancery. This value could be more than, less than or the same
as the merger consideration for the May common stock. Failure to
strictly comply with all the procedures required by
Section 262 of the DGCL will result in a loss of the right
to appraisal.
Merely voting against the merger will not preserve the right of
May stockholders to appraisal under Delaware law. Also, because
a submitted proxy not marked against or
abstain will be voted for the proposal
to approve and adopt the merger agreement and the transactions
contemplated by the merger agreement, including the merger, the
submission of a proxy not marked against or
abstain will result in the waiver of appraisal
rights. May stockholders who hold shares in the name of a broker
or other nominee must instruct their nominee to take the steps
necessary to enable them to demand appraisal for their shares.
Holders of May common stock are not entitled to appraisal rights
in connection with any other proposals to be voted on at the May
annual meeting.
Annex E to this joint proxy statement/ prospectus
contains the full text of Section 262 of the DGCL, which
relates to the rights of appraisal. We encourage you to read
these provisions carefully and in their entirety.
11
Conditions to Completion of the Merger (beginning on
page 111)
Completion of the merger depends on a number of conditions being
satisfied or waived. See The Merger Agreement
Conditions to Completion of the Merger beginning on
page 111.
The completion of the merger is subject to compliance with the
HSR Act. The notifications required under the HSR Act to the
U.S. Federal Trade Commission, or the FTC, and the
Antitrust Division of the U.S. Department of Justice, or
the Antitrust Division, were filed on March 8, 2005. On
April 7, 2005, Federated and May received from the FTC
requests for additional information with respect to the proposed
merger. As a result of the requests for additional information,
the waiting period under United States federal antitrust law
will be extended until 11:59 P.M. Eastern Daylight Savings
Time on the 30th day after both Federated and May have
substantially complied with the requests for additional
information or such later time as is agreed among the parties
and the FTC, unless the waiting period is earlier terminated
because the FTC determines to close its review. In addition,
Federated and May have agreed to provide the same information
they are providing to the FTC to State Attorneys General that
request, and agree to maintain the confidentiality of, such
information.
Federated and May have agreed to use their reasonable best
efforts to take, or cause to be taken, all actions necessary,
proper or advisable under applicable law and regulations,
including the HSR Act, to complete the merger as promptly as
practicable, but in no event later than October 3, 2005,
which date may be extended to August 31, 2006, in
circumstances described below, in The Merger
Agreement Termination of the Merger Agreement
beginning on page 113. We refer to this October 3,
2005 date, as it may be extended, as the outside date.
Among other things, Federated and its subsidiaries have agreed
to take any and all actions necessary to ensure that:
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|
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|
|
no requirement for non-action, a waiver, consent or approval of
the FTC, the Antitrust Division, any State Attorney General or
other governmental entity; |
|
|
|
no decree, judgment, injunction, temporary restraining order or
any other order in any suit or proceeding; and |
|
|
|
no other matter relating to any antitrust or competition law or
regulation, |
would preclude completion of the merger by the outside date
under the merger agreement, provided that in no event shall
Federated be required to dispose of, or hold separate, assets of
May, Federated or their respective subsidiaries which, in the
aggregate, accounted for annual net sales for the most recently
completed fiscal year exceeding $4 billion.
Termination of the Merger Agreement and Termination Fees
(beginning on page 113)
Before the effective time of the merger, the merger agreement
may be terminated by the mutual written consent of Federated and
May, or by either Federated or May under certain specified
circumstances, including uncured material breaches of the merger
agreement. Upon the termination of the merger agreement under
certain circumstances, May or Federated may be required to pay a
termination fee of up to $350 million to the other party.
See The Merger Agreement Termination of the
Merger Agreement beginning on page 113 and The
Merger Agreement Termination Fees beginning on
page 114.
No Solicitation by May (beginning on page 104)
The merger agreement restricts the ability of May to solicit or
engage in discussions or negotiations with a third party
regarding a proposal to acquire a significant interest in May.
However, if May receives an acquisition proposal from a third
party that Mays board of directors determines in good
faith (after consultation with its outside counsel and its
financial advisor) constitutes a superior proposal or would
reasonably be expected to lead to a superior proposal, May may
furnish nonpublic information to that third
12
party and engage in negotiations regarding an acquisition
proposal with that third party, subject to specified conditions.
Material United States Federal Income Tax Consequences
(beginning on page 92)
Federated and May intend that the merger, as currently
contemplated, qualify as a reorganization within the meaning of
Section 368(a) of the Internal Revenue Code.
Assuming that the merger is completed as currently contemplated,
we expect that the May stockholders will not recognize
gain or loss in respect of the stock portion of the merger
consideration, except for gain or loss resulting from the
receipt of cash in lieu of a fractional share of Federated
common stock. In addition, we expect that the May stockholders
generally will recognize capital gain, but not loss, in
an amount equal to the lesser of (i) the cash they receive
in the merger (excluding cash in lieu of a fractional share of
Federated common stock) and (ii) the excess of the sum of
the fair market value of the Federated common stock and cash
they receive (again excluding cash received in lieu of a
fractional share of Federated common stock) over their adjusted
tax basis in their May common stock.
If the merger is taxable under the circumstances described in
The Merger Merger
Consideration beginning on page 7, each May
stockholder generally will recognize capital gain or loss equal
to the difference, if any, between the amount by which the sum
of the amount of cash received and the fair market value of the
shares of Federated common stock received as of the effective
time of the merger exceeds the stockholders adjusted tax
basis in the stockholders shares of May common stock.
We anticipate that the merger will have no material
U.S. federal income tax consequences to Federated
stockholders.
Tax matters are very complicated. You should be aware that the
tax consequences to you of the merger may depend upon your own
situation. In addition, you may be subject to state, local or
foreign tax laws that are not discussed in this joint proxy
statement/ prospectus. You should therefore consult with your
own tax advisor for a full understanding of the tax consequences
to you of the merger.
Accounting Treatment
The merger will be accounted for as a business combination using
the purchase method of accounting. Federated will be
the acquirer for financial accounting purposes.
Risks
In evaluating the merger, the merger agreement or the issuance
of shares of Federated common stock in the merger, you should
carefully read this joint proxy statement/ prospectus and
especially consider the factors discussed in the section
entitled Risk Factors beginning on page 22.
Litigation Related to the Merger
As of the date of this joint proxy statement/ prospectus, May
and Federated are aware of one purported class action lawsuit
that has been filed against May and its board of directors in
connection with the merger. Among other things, the complaint in
the lawsuit requests an order to prevent the closing of the
merger. May believes that the lawsuit is without merit and
intends to contest it vigorously. See The
Merger Certain Events on page 92.
13
Transition Leadership Team
In connection with the merger, Federated and May have
established a Transition Leadership Team, effective
April 1, 2005, to plan for the integration of Federated and
May. The team is comprised of the following individuals from
both Federated and May:
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Federated |
|
May |
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Tom Cole, Vice Chair
|
|
John Dunham, Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer |
Dennis Broderick, Senior Vice President, General Counsel and
Secretary |
|
Alan Charlson, Senior Vice President and General Counsel |
David Clark, Senior Vice President, Human Resources |
|
John Danahy, Chairman, May Merchandising Company and May
Department Stores International |
Jim Gray, President and Chief Operating Officer, Macys East |
|
Tom Fingleton, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial
Officer |
Karen Hoguet, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer |
|
Brian Keck, Senior Vice President, Human Resources |
Len Marcus, President and Chief Operating Officer, Macys
Merchandising Group |
|
|
Peter Sachse, President and Chief Marketing Officer, Macys
Corporate Marketing |
|
|
Comparison of Rights of Stockholders (beginning on
page 177)
As a result of the merger, the holders of May common stock will
become holders of Federated common stock. Following the merger,
May stockholders will have different rights as stockholders of
Federated than as stockholders of May due to differences between
the certificates of incorporation and by-laws of Federated and
May. Federated stockholders will retain their shares of
Federated common stock and their rights will continue to be
governed by Federateds certificate of incorporation and
by-laws. For a copy of Federateds or Mays
certificate of incorporation or by-laws, see Where You Can
Find More Information beginning on page 185.
14
FINANCIAL SUMMARY
Federated Market Price Data and Dividends
Federated common stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange
under the symbol FD. The following table shows for
the periods indicated the high and low sales prices for
Federated common stock as reported on the New York Stock
Exchange.
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|
Price Range of | |
|
|
Common Stock | |
|
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| |
Fiscal Year Ended |
|
High | |
|
Low | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
February 1, 2003:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
First Quarter
|
|
$ |
44.26 |
|
|
$ |
36.83 |
|
|
Second Quarter
|
|
|
44.10 |
|
|
|
31.39 |
|
|
Third Quarter
|
|
|
38.13 |
|
|
|
23.59 |
|
|
Fourth Quarter
|
|
|
34.75 |
|
|
|
25.50 |
|
January 31, 2004:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
First Quarter
|
|
|
30.91 |
|
|
|
23.51 |
|
|
Second Quarter
|
|
|
40.90 |
|
|
|
29.93 |
|
|
Third Quarter
|
|
|
47.93 |
|
|
|
38.50 |
|
|
Fourth Quarter
|
|
|
50.60 |
|
|
|
42.54 |
|
January 29, 2005:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
First Quarter
|
|
|
55.06 |
|
|
|
46.95 |
|
|
Second Quarter
|
|
|
51.07 |
|
|
|
44.07 |
|
|
Third Quarter
|
|
|
51.10 |
|
|
|
42.80 |
|
|
Fourth Quarter
|
|
|
59.40 |
|
|
|
49.33 |
|
January 28, 2006:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
First Quarter
|
|
|
65.08 |
|
|
|
54.90 |
|
|
Second Quarter (through May 20, 2005)
|
|
|
69.05 |
|
|
|
57.69 |
|
The last reported sales prices of Federated common stock on the
New York Stock Exchange on February 25, 2005, and
May 20, 2005, were $56.79 and $68.86, respectively.
February 25, 2005, was the last full trading day prior to
the public announcement of the merger. May 20, 2005, was
the most recent practicable date prior to the mailing of this
joint proxy statement/prospectus to Federateds and
Mays stockholders.
The Federated board of directors has the power to determine the
amount and frequency of the payment of dividends. Decisions
regarding whether or not to pay dividends and the amount of any
dividends are based on compliance with the DGCL, compliance with
agreements governing Federateds indebtedness, earnings,
cash requirements, results of operations, cash flows, financial
condition and other factors that the board of directors
considers important. Federated initiated a quarterly dividend of
$0.125 per share in the second quarter of 2003, and
increased that dividend to $0.135 per share in the second
quarter of 2004. Under the merger agreement, Federated is
permitted to issue a quarterly dividend not to exceed
$0.14 per share during the period before the effective date
of the merger. In addition, Federated has agreed to increase its
quarterly dividend to $0.25 per share, beginning with the
first quarterly dividend with a record date on or after the
effective date of the merger. While Federated intends to
maintain dividends at this level for the foreseeable future, it
cannot assure that it will continue to pay dividends at this
level, or at all.
15
May Market Price Data and Dividends
May common stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange under
the symbol MAY. The following table shows for the
periods indicated the high and low sales prices for May common
stock on the New York Stock Exchange.
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|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Price Range of | |
|
|
Common Stock | |
|
|
| |
Fiscal Year Ended |
|
High | |
|
Low | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
February 1, 2003:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
First Quarter
|
|
$ |
37.75 |
|
|
$ |
33.04 |
|
|
Second Quarter
|
|
|
37.08 |
|
|
|
25.74 |
|
|
Third Quarter
|
|
|
30.50 |
|
|
|
20.10 |
|
|
Fourth Quarter
|
|
|
26.10 |
|
|
|
20.08 |
|
January 31, 2004:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
First Quarter
|
|
|
21.72 |
|
|
|
17.81 |
|
|
Second Quarter
|
|
|
25.34 |
|
|
|
20.02 |
|
|
Third Quarter
|
|
|
28.20 |
|
|
|
23.70 |
|
|
Fourth Quarter
|
|
|
34.06 |
|
|
|
26.37 |
|
January 29, 2005:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
First Quarter
|
|
|
36.48 |
|
|
|
29.84 |
|
|
Second Quarter
|
|
|
30.80 |
|
|
|
24.62 |
|
|
Third Quarter
|
|
|
26.79 |
|
|
|
23.04 |
|
|
Fourth Quarter
|
|
|
36.45 |
|
|
|
25.63 |
|
January 28, 2006:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
First Quarter
|
|
|
37.46 |
|
|
|
30.55 |
|
|
Second Quarter (through May 20, 2005)
|
|
|
38.66 |
|
|
|
35.15 |
|
The last reported sales prices of May common stock on the New
York Stock Exchange on February 25, 2005, and May 20,
2005, were $35.35 and $38.50, respectively. February 25,
2005, was the last full trading day prior to the public
announcement of the merger. May 20, 2005, was the most
recent practicable date prior to the mailing of this joint proxy
statement/prospectus to Federateds and Mays
stockholders.
The May board of directors has the power to determine the amount
and frequency of the payment of dividends. Decisions regarding
whether or not to pay dividends and the amount of any dividends
are based on compliance with the DGCL, compliance with
agreements governing Mays indebtedness, earnings, cash
requirements, results of operations, cash flows, financial
condition and other factors that the board of directors
considers important. May paid an annual dividend of
$0.97 per share in 2004. Under the merger agreement, May is
permitted to issue a quarterly dividend not to exceed
$0.245 per share during the period before the effective
date of the merger. May has consistently paid dividends over the
past five years, with dividends increasing one cent per share in
each of the last four years. While May anticipates that if the
merger were not consummated it would continue to pay dividends
at the current level, it cannot assure that it would continue to
pay dividends at this level, or at all.
16
Selected Historical Financial Data of Federated
The following table shows selected historical financial data for
Federated. The data as of and for each of the five years ended
January 29, 2005, were derived from Federateds
audited consolidated financial statements.
Detailed historical financial information is included in the
audited consolidated balance sheets as of January 29, 2005,
and January 31, 2004, and the related consolidated
statements of operations, shareholders equity and cash
flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended
January 29, 2005 included in Federateds Annual Report
on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 29,
2005, filed on March 28, 2005. You should read the
following selected financial data together with Federateds
historical consolidated financial statements, including the
related notes, and the other information contained or
incorporated by reference in this joint proxy statement/
prospectus. See Where You Can Find More Information
beginning on page 185.
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|
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|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Year Ended, | |
|
|
| |
|
|
January 29, | |
|
January 31, | |
|
February 1, | |
|
February 2, | |
|
February 3, | |
|
|
2005 | |
|
2004 | |
|
2003 | |
|
2002 | |
|
2001 | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
|
(In millions, except per share data) | |
Consolidated Statement of Operations Data:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net Sales
|
|
$ |
15,630 |
|
|
$ |
15,264 |
|
|
$ |
15,435 |
|
|
$ |
15,651 |
|
|
$ |
16,638 |
|
|
Cost of sales
|
|
|
9,297 |
|
|
|
9,099 |
|
|
|
9,255 |
|
|
|
9,584 |
|
|
|
9,955 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Gross margin
|
|
|
6,333 |
|
|
|
6,165 |
|
|
|
6,180 |
|
|
|
6,067 |
|
|
|
6,683 |
|
|
Selling, general and administrative expenses
|
|
|
4,933 |
|
|
|
4,824 |
|
|
|
4,837 |
|
|
|
4,801 |
|
|
|
4,912 |
|
|
Asset impairment and restructuring charges
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
162 |
|
|
|
80 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Operating income
|
|
|
1,400 |
|
|
|
1,341 |
|
|
|
1,343 |
|
|
|
1,104 |
|
|
|
1,691 |
|
|
Interest expense
|
|
|
(299 |
) |
|
|
(266 |
) |
|
|
(311 |
) |
|
|
(347 |
) |
|
|
(327 |
) |
|
Interest income
|
|
|
15 |
|
|
|
9 |
|
|
|
16 |
|
|
|
7 |
|
|
|
6 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income from continuing operations before income taxes
|
|
|
1,116 |
|
|
|
1,084 |
|
|
|
1,048 |
|
|
|
764 |
|
|
|
1,370 |
|
|
Federal, state and local income tax expense
|
|
|
(427 |
) |
|
|
(391 |
) |
|
|
(410 |
) |
|
|
(256 |
) |
|
|
(549 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income from continuing operations
|
|
|
689 |
|
|
|
693 |
|
|
|
638 |
|
|
|
508 |
|
|
|
821 |
|
|
Discontinued operations
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
180 |
|
|
|
(784 |
) |
|
|
(1,005 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net income (loss)
|
|
$ |
689 |
|
|
$ |
693 |
|
|
$ |
818 |
|
|
$ |
(276 |
) |
|
$ |
(184 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Basic earnings (loss) per share:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income from continuing operations
|
|
$ |
3.93 |
|
|
$ |
3.76 |
|
|
$ |
3.23 |
|
|
$ |
2.60 |
|
|
$ |
4.01 |
|
|
Net income (loss)
|
|
|
3.93 |
|
|
|
3.76 |
|
|
|
4.15 |
|
|
|
(1.41 |
) |
|
|
(.90 |
) |
Diluted earnings (loss) per share:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income from continuing operations
|
|
$ |
3.86 |
|
|
$ |
3.71 |
|
|
$ |
3.21 |
|
|
$ |
2.54 |
|
|
$ |
3.97 |
|
|
Net income (loss)
|
|
|
3.86 |
|
|
|
3.71 |
|
|
|
4.12 |
|
|
|
(1.38 |
) |
|
|
(.89 |
) |
Average number of diluted shares outstanding
|
|
|
174.5 |
|
|
|
183.8 |
|
|
|
196.6 |
|
|
|
195.1 |
|
|
|
204.3 |
|
Cash dividends paid per share
|
|
$ |
.53 |
|
|
$ |
.375 |
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
Depreciation and amortization
|
|
$ |
737 |
|
|
$ |
710 |
|
|
$ |
680 |
|
|
$ |
689 |
|
|
$ |
651 |
|
Capital expenditures
|
|
$ |
548 |
|
|
$ |
568 |
|
|
$ |
627 |
|
|
$ |
651 |
|
|
$ |
786 |
|
Balance Sheet Data (at year end):
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash and cash equivalents
|
|
$ |
868 |
|
|
$ |
925 |
|
|
$ |
716 |
|
|
$ |
636 |
|
|
$ |
222 |
|
|
Total assets
|
|
|
14,885 |
|
|
|
14,550 |
|
|
|
14,441 |
|
|
|
16,112 |
|
|
|
17,012 |
|
|
Short-term debt
|
|
|
1,242 |
|
|
|
908 |
|
|
|
946 |
|
|
|
1,012 |
|
|
|
1,117 |
|
|
Long-term debt
|
|
|
2,637 |
|
|
|
3,151 |
|
|
|
3,408 |
|
|
|
3,859 |
|
|
|
3,845 |
|
|
Shareholders equity
|
|
|
6,167 |
|
|
|
5,940 |
|
|
|
5,762 |
|
|
|
5,564 |
|
|
|
5,822 |
|
17
Selected Historical Financial Data of May
The following table shows selected historical financial data for
May. The data as of and for each of the five years ended
January 29, 2005, were derived from Mays audited
consolidated financial statements.
Detailed historical financial information is included in the
audited consolidated balance sheets as of January 29, 2005,
and January 31, 2004, and the related consolidated
statements of operations, shareholders equity and cash
flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended
January 29, 2005 included in Mays Annual Report on
Form 10-K/A for the fiscal year ended January 29,
2005, filed on May 10, 2005. You should read the following
selected financial data together with Mays historical
consolidated financial statements, including the related notes,
and the other information contained or incorporated by reference
in this joint proxy statement/ prospectus. See Where You
Can Find More Information beginning on page 185.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Year Ended, | |
|
|
| |
|
|
January 29, | |
|
January 31, | |
|
February 1, | |
|
February 2, | |
|
February 3, | |
|
|
2005 | |
|
2004 | |
|
2003 | |
|
2002 | |
|
2001 | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
|
|
|
(In millions, except per share data) | |
|
|
Statement of Operations Data:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net sales
|
|
$ |
14,441 |
|
|
$ |
13,343 |
|
|
$ |
13,491 |
|
|
$ |
13,883 |
|
|
$ |
14,210 |
|
|
Net Earnings
|
|
|
524 |
|
|
|
434 |
|
|
|
542 |
|
|
|
703 |
|
|
|
858 |
|
Balance Sheet Data:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total assets
|
|
$ |
15,163 |
|
|
$ |
12,122 |
|
|
$ |
12,030 |
|
|
$ |
11,964 |
|
|
$ |
11,574 |
|
|
Long-term debt and preference stock
|
|
|
5,873 |
|
|
|
4,032 |
|
|
|
4,300 |
|
|
|
4,689 |
|
|
|
4,833 |
|
|
Shareowners equity
|
|
|
4,475 |
|
|
|
4,191 |
|
|
|
4,035 |
|
|
|
3,841 |
|
|
|
3,855 |
|
Other Data:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Earnings per share diluted:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net earnings per share diluted
|
|
$ |
1.70 |
|
|
$ |
1.41 |
|
|
$ |
1.76 |
|
|
$ |
2.21 |
|
|
$ |
2.62 |
|
Dividends per common share
|
|
$ |
.97 |
|
|
$ |
.96 |
|
|
$ |
.95 |
|
|
$ |
.94 |
|
|
$ |
.93 |
|
18
Selected Unaudited Pro Forma Financial Data of Federated
The following selected unaudited pro forma financial data of
Federated give effect to the merger as if the merger had been
completed as of February 1, 2004, with respect to the pro
forma results of operations data, and as of January 29,
2005, with respect to the pro forma balance sheet data.
The following selected unaudited pro forma financial data should
be read in conjunction with the historical consolidated
financial statements and notes thereto of Federated and May,
which are incorporated by reference in this joint proxy
statement/ prospectus, and the other information contained or
incorporated by reference in this joint proxy statement/
prospectus. See Where You Can Find More Information
beginning on page 185.
The following selected unaudited pro forma financial data
reflect adjustments, which are based upon preliminary estimates,
to allocate the purchase price to Mays net assets. The
purchase price allocation reflected herein is preliminary, and
final allocation of the purchase price will be based upon the
actual purchase price and the actual assets and liabilities of
May as of the date of the completion of the merger. Accordingly,
the actual purchase accounting adjustments may differ from the
pro forma adjustments reflected herein.
The following selected unaudited pro forma financial data are
presented for illustrative purposes only and are not necessarily
indicative of what Federateds actual financial position or
results of operations would have been had the merger been
completed on the dates indicated above. The following selected
unaudited pro forma financial data do not give effect to
(1) Federateds or Mays results of operations or
other transactions or developments since January 29, 2005,
(2) the synergies, cost savings and one-time charges
expected to result from the merger, or (3) the effects of
transactions or developments, including sales of stores or other
assets, which may occur subsequent to the merger. In addition,
the following selected unaudited pro forma financial data assume
the absence of any adjustment to the purchase price provided for
in the merger agreement. The foregoing matters, and the possible
sale by Federated of its or Mays credit card related
assets and use of the proceeds from such a transaction to fund
the cash portion, or to repay debt incurred to fund the cash
portion, of the purchase price payable in the merger, could
cause both Federateds pro forma historical financial
position and results of operations, and Federateds actual
future financial position and results of operations, to differ
materially from those presented in the following selected
unaudited pro forma financial data. See Risk
Factors The unaudited pro forma financial data
included in this joint proxy statement/ prospectus are
preliminary and Federateds actual financial position and
results of operations may differ materially from the unaudited
pro forma financial data included in this joint proxy statement/
prospectus beginning on page 23.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Year Ended | |
|
|
January 29, 2005 | |
|
|
| |
|
|
(In millions, | |
|
|
except per share | |
|
|
data) | |
Results of Operations Data:
|
|
|
|
|
Net sales
|
|
$ |
31,064 |
|
Net income
|
|
|
1,018 |
|
Diluted earnings per share
|
|
|
3.66 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
At | |
|
|
January 29, | |
|
|
2005 | |
|
|
| |
|
|
(In millions) | |
Balance Sheet Data:
|
|
|
|
|
Total assets
|
|
$ |
37,181 |
|
Short-term debt
|
|
|
3,520 |
|
Long-term debt
|
|
|
12,289 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total debt
|
|
|
15,809 |
|
Total shareholders equity
|
|
|
12,151 |
|
19
COMPARATIVE PER SHARE INFORMATION
The following table presents income from continuing operations,
cash dividends declared and book value per common share data
separately for Federated and May on a historical basis, on an
unaudited pro forma combined basis per Federated common share
and on an unaudited pro forma combined basis per May equivalent
common share. The following unaudited pro forma data give effect
to the merger as if the merger had been completed as of
February 1, 2004, with respect to the pro forma income from
continuing operations per common share data, and as of
January 29, 2005, with respect to the pro forma book value
per common share data. The following selected unaudited pro
forma financial data should be read in conjunction with the
historical consolidated financial statements and notes thereto
of Federated and May, which are incorporated by reference in
this joint proxy statement/ prospectus, and the other
information contained or incorporated by reference in this joint
proxy statement/ prospectus. See Where You Can Find More
Information beginning on page 185.
The unaudited pro forma combined data per Federated common share
are (1) based upon the historical weighted average number
of Federated common shares outstanding, adjusted to include the
estimated number of Federated common shares to be issued in the
merger, and (2) in the case of cash dividends paid per
common share, reflect Federateds agreement to increase its
quarterly dividend to $0.25 per share following the merger. See
Pro Forma Financial Data beginning on page 169.
We have based the unaudited pro forma combined data per May
equivalent common share on the unaudited pro forma combined per
Federated common share amounts, multiplied by the exchange ratio
of 0.3115.
The following unaudited pro forma data reflect adjustments,
which are based upon preliminary estimates, to allocate the
purchase price to Mays net assets. The purchase price
allocation reflected herein is preliminary, and final allocation
of the purchase price will be based upon the actual purchase
price and the actual assets and liabilities of May as of the
date of the completion of the merger. Accordingly, the actual
purchase accounting adjustments may differ from the pro forma
adjustments reflected herein.
The following unaudited pro forma data are presented for
illustrative purposes only and are not necessarily indicative of
what Federateds actual financial position or results of
operations would have been had the merger been completed on the
dates indicated above. The following unaudited pro forma data do
not give effect to (1) Federateds or Mays
results of operations or other transactions or developments
since January 29, 2005, (2) the synergies, cost
savings and one-time charges expected to result from the merger,
or (3) the effects of transactions or developments,
including sales of stores or other assets, which may occur
subsequent to the merger. In addition, the following unaudited
pro forma data assume the absence of any adjustment to the
purchase price provided for in the merger agreement. The
foregoing matters, and the possible sale by Federated of its or
Mays credit card related assets and use of the proceeds
from such a transaction to fund the cash portion, or to repay
debt incurred to fund the cash portion, of the purchase price
payable in the merger, could cause both Federateds pro
forma historical financial position and results of operations,
and Federateds actual future financial position and
results of operations, to differ materially from those presented
in the following selected unaudited pro forma financial data.
See Risk Factors The unaudited pro forma
financial data included in this joint proxy statement/
prospectus are preliminary and Federateds actual financial
position and results of operations may differ materially from
the unaudited pro forma financial data included in this joint
proxy statement/ prospectus beginning on page 23.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Pro Forma Combined | |
|
|
Federated | |
|
|
|
Pro Forma Combined | |
|
Data per May | |
|
|
Historical per | |
|
May Historical | |
|
Data per Federated | |
|
Equivalent | |
|
|
Share Data | |
|
per Share Data | |
|
Common Share | |
|
Common Share | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
At or for the Year Ended January 29, 2005:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income from continuing operations per common share:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Basic
|
|
$ |
3.93 |
|
|
$ |
1.74 |
|
|
$ |
3.74 |
|
|
$ |
1.17 |
|
|
Diluted
|
|
|
3.86 |
|
|
|
1.70 |
|
|
|
3.66 |
|
|
|
1.14 |
|
Cash dividends declared per common share
|
|
|
.53 |
|
|
|
.97 |
|
|
|
1.00 |
|
|
|
.31 |
|
Book value per common share
|
|
|
36.89 |
|
|
|
15.27 |
|
|
|
45.89 |
|
|
|
14.29 |
|
20
COMPARATIVE MARKET VALUE INFORMATION
The following table presents:
|
|
|
|
|
the closing prices per share and aggregate market value of
Federated common stock and May common stock, in each case based
on closing prices for those shares on the New York Stock
Exchange, on February 25, 2005, the last trading day prior
to the public announcement of the proposed merger, and
May 20, 2005, the last trading day for which this
information could be calculated prior to the date of this joint
proxy statement/ prospectus; and |
|
|
|
the equivalent price per share and equivalent market value of
shares of May common stock, based on the exchange ratio of
0.3115 and the closing price for Federated common stock on the
New York Stock Exchange on May 20, 2005. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Federated | |
|
May | |
|
May | |
|
|
Historical | |
|
Historical | |
|
Equivalent(1) | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
February 25, 2005
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Closing price per common share
|
|
$ |
56.79 |
|
|
$ |
35.35 |
|
|
$ |
35.44 |
|
|
Market value of common shares (in billions)(2)
|
|
$ |
9.52 |
|
|
$ |
10.88 |
|
|
|
|
|
May 20, 2005
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Closing price per common share
|
|
$ |
68.86 |
|
|
$ |
38.50 |
|
|
$ |
39.20 |
|
|
Market value of common shares (in billions)(3)
|
|
$ |
11.71 |
|
|
$ |
12.01 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(1) |
The May equivalent price per share reflects the fluctuating
value of Federated common stock that May stockholders would
receive for each share of May common stock if the merger was
completed on either February 25, 2005, or May 20,
2005. The May equivalent price per share is equal to the sum of
(i) $17.75 and (ii) the closing price of Federated
common stock on the applicable date multiplied by 0.3115. |
|
(2) |
Based on 167,598,278 shares of Federated common stock and
293,834,196 shares of May common stock outstanding and May
ESOP preference shares convertible into 14,036,843 shares
of May common stock as of February 25, 2005. |
|
(3) |
Based on 170,112,496 shares of Federated common stock and
299,443,318 shares of May common stock outstanding and May
ESOP preference shares convertible into 12,550,620 shares
of May common stock as of May 20, 2005. |
21
RISK FACTORS
In deciding whether to vote for approval and adoption of the
merger agreement and the transactions contemplated by the merger
agreement, including the merger, in the case of May
stockholders, or for approval of the issuance of Federated
common stock, in the case of Federated stockholders, we urge you
to carefully consider all of the information we have included
and incorporated by reference in this joint proxy statement/
prospectus. See Where You Can Find More Information
beginning on page 185. You should also read and consider
the risks associated with each of the businesses of Federated
and May because these risks will also affect the combined
company. These risks can be found in the Federated and May
Annual Reports on Form 10-K and Form 10-K/A,
respectively, for the year ended January 29, 2005, which
are filed with the SEC and incorporated by reference into this
joint proxy statement/ prospectus. In addition, we urge you to
carefully consider the following material risks relating to the
merger and the business of the combined company.
Risks Relating to the Merger
|
|
|
The merger is subject to certain closing conditions that,
if not satisfied or waived, will result in the merger not being
completed, which may cause the market price of Federated common
stock or May common stock to decline. |
The merger is subject to customary conditions to closing,
including the receipt of required approvals of the stockholders
of May and Federated. If any condition to the merger is not
satisfied or, if permissible, waived, the merger will not be
completed. In addition, Federated and May may terminate the
merger agreement in certain circumstances. If Federated and May
do not complete the merger, the market price of Federated common
stock or May common stock may fluctuate to the extent that the
current market prices of those shares reflect a market
assumption that the merger will be completed. Federated and May
will also be obligated to pay certain investment banking,
financing, legal and accounting fees and related expenses in
connection with the merger, whether or not the merger is
completed. In addition, Federated and May have each diverted
significant management resources in an effort to complete the
merger and are each subject to restrictions contained in the
merger agreement on the conduct of its business. If the merger
is not completed, each of Federated and May will have incurred
significant costs, including the diversion of management
resources, for which it will have received little or no benefit.
Further, in specified circumstances, May and Federated may be
required to pay to the other a termination fee of up to
$350 million if the merger agreement is terminated. For a
detailed description of the circumstances in which such
termination fee will be paid, see The Merger
Agreement Termination Fees beginning on
page 116.
|
|
|
Whether or not the merger is completed, the announcement
and pendency of the merger could cause disruptions in the
businesses of Federated and May, which could have an adverse
effect on their business and financial results. |
Whether or not the merger is completed, the announcement and
pendency of the merger could cause disruptions in the businesses
of Federated and May. Specifically:
|
|
|
|
|
current and prospective employees may experience uncertainty
about their future roles with the combined company, which might
adversely affect Federated and Mays ability to retain key
managers and other employees; and |
|
|
|
the attention of management of each of Federated and May may be
directed toward the completion of the merger. |
|
|
|
Certain directors and executive officers of May have
interests and arrangements that are different from, or in
addition to, May stockholders. |
When considering the recommendation of the May board of
directors with respect to the merger, May stockholders should be
aware that some directors and executive officers of May have
interests in the merger
22
that are different from, or in addition to, their interests as
stockholders and the interests of stockholders generally. These
interests include:
|
|
|
|
|
payments under employment agreements and severance agreements
which, in either case, may be triggered if the executive
officers employment is terminated under certain
circumstances following the merger for Mays 13
current executive officers, the aggregate of these payments
could be up to approximately $46.8 million; |
|
|
|
potential appointment of two members of Mays board of
directors to the Federated board of directors following the
merger; |
|
|
|
potentially becoming executive officers, employees or
consultants of Federated after the transaction; |
|
|
|
accelerated vesting and exercisability of May stock options and
restricted stock issued under Mays equity compensation
plans Mays 13 current executive officers and 8
current non-management directors currently hold, in the
aggregate, 511,805 and 49,990 shares of restricted stock,
respectively, and Mays 13 current executive officers hold
828,450 unvested stock options with a weighted average exercise
price of $30.988 per share; |
|
|
|
continued benefits under May plans for one year following the
effective date of the merger, as well as continued compensation
and benefits from one year following the effective date of the
merger through the third year following the effective date of
the merger that are in the aggregate substantially comparable to
that provided by May immediately prior to the effective time of
the merger; |
|
|
|
accelerated payment of previously vested amounts credited under
Mays deferred compensation programs Mays
13 current executive officers currently have credited to their
accounts an aggregate of approximately $5.82 million and
217,055 stock units and Mays 8 non-management
directors currently have credited to their accounts an aggregate
of approximately $300,000 and 187,965 stock units; and |
|
|
|
Federateds agreement to indemnify each present and former
May officer and director against liabilities arising out of that
persons services as an officer or director, and maintain
directors and officers liability insurance for a
period of six years after closing to cover May directors and
officers, subject to certain limitations. |
As a result of these interests, these directors and executive
officers may be more likely to support and to vote to adopt the
merger agreement than if they did not have these interests.
Stockholders should consider whether these interests may have
influenced those directors and officers to support or recommend
adoption of the merger agreement. As of the close of business on
the record date for the May annual meeting, May directors and
executive officers were entitled to vote less than 1% of the
then-outstanding shares of May common stock. See The
Merger Interests of May Directors and Executive
Officers in the Merger beginning on page 83.
|
|
|
The unaudited pro forma financial data included in this
joint proxy statement/ prospectus are preliminary and
Federateds actual financial position and results of
operations may differ materially from the unaudited pro forma
financial data included in this joint proxy statement/
prospectus. |
The unaudited pro forma financial data in this joint proxy
statement/ prospectus reflect adjustments, which are based upon
preliminary estimates, to allocate the purchase price to
Mays net assets. The purchase price allocation reflected
in this joint proxy statement/ prospectus is preliminary, and
final allocation of the purchase price will be based upon the
actual purchase price and the actual assets and liabilities of
May as of the date of the completion of the merger. Federated
may need to revise materially its current estimates of those
assets and liabilities as the valuation process and accounting
policy review are finalized. Accordingly, the actual purchase
accounting adjustments may differ materially from the pro forma
adjustments reflected in this joint proxy statement/ prospectus.
The unaudited pro forma financial data in this joint proxy
statement/ prospectus are presented for illustrative purposes
only and are not necessarily indicative of what Federateds
actual financial position or
23
results of operations would have been had the merger been
completed on the dates indicated. The unaudited pro forma
financial data in this joint proxy statement/ prospectus do not
give effect to (1) Federated or Mays results of
operations or other transactions or developments since
January 29, 2005, (2) the synergies, cost savings and
one-time charges expected to result from the merger or
(3) the effects of transactions or developments, including
sales of stores or other assets, which may occur after the
merger. In addition, the unaudited pro forma financial data in
this joint proxy statement/ prospectus assume the absence of any
adjustment to the purchase price provided for in the merger
agreement. The foregoing matters, Federateds possible sale
of its or Mays credit card related assets and use of the
proceeds from such a transaction to fund the cash portion, or to
repay debt incurred to fund the cash portion, of the purchase
price payable in the merger, and other factors could cause both
Federateds pro forma historical financial position and
results of operations, and Federateds actual future
financial position and results of operations, to differ
materially from those presented in the unaudited pro forma
financial data in this joint proxy statement/ prospectus.
|
|
|
The value of the Federated common stock that May
stockholders receive in the merger may be less than the value of
such Federated common stock when the merger was publicly
announced. Further, at the May annual meeting, May stockholders
will not know the exact value of Federated common stock that
will be issued in the merger. |
The exchange ratio for Federated common stock to be issued in
the merger has been fixed. The price of Federated common stock
will fluctuate until Mays stockholders receive their
shares. Federated and May are working to complete the merger as
quickly as possible. However, the time period between the
stockholder votes taken at the annual meetings and the
completion of the merger will depend upon the status of
antitrust clearance that must be obtained prior to the
completion of the merger and the satisfaction or waiver of the
other conditions described in this joint proxy statement/
prospectus, and there is currently no way to predict how long it
will take to obtain these approvals. Because the date when the
merger is completed may be later than the date of the annual
meetings, Federated and May stockholders will not know the exact
value of the Federated common stock that will be issued in the
merger at the time they vote on the merger proposals. As a
result, if the market price of Federated common stock at the
completion of the merger is higher or lower than the market
price on the date of the May annual meeting, the value of the
Federated common stock received by May stockholders in the
merger will be higher or lower, respectively, than the value of
such Federated common stock on the date of the May annual
meeting.
|
|
|
If the total value of the Federated common stock to be
received falls below 40% of the total consideration, May
stockholders could be required to accept $18.75 per share
in cash and 0.3115 shares of Federated common stock in a
transaction that is currently taxable to such May
stockholders. |
Generally, in order to preserve the tax-deferral feature of the
merger sought by qualifying it as a reorganization within the
meaning of Section 368(a) of the Internal Revenue Code, the
market value of the Federated common stock portion of the total
consideration paid in the merger, as of the closing, must
represent a sufficiently high proportion of the total
consideration to satisfy the so-called continuity of
interest requirement for such reorganizations. The
continuity of interest requirement would begin to be
in doubt if the per share market price of Federated common stock
were to deteriorate so substantially that the total common stock
portion of the total consideration constituted less than 40% of
the total consideration. If the opinions described under the
caption Material United States Federal Income Tax
Consequences were not able to be delivered by reason of
such a price deterioration in Federated common stock, Federated
would then have the option to increase the number of shares of
Federated common stock issuable in the merger to maintain
qualification as a reorganization. If Federated were to decline
to make such an election, May would then have the right to
require Federated to increase the cash portion of the
consideration payable by $1.00 to $18.75 and to complete the
merger, notwithstanding that the merger would be fully taxable
to May stockholders. May would also have the right to decline to
complete the merger. See the Risk Factor immediately above
generally describing the risk relating to the value of the
Federated common stock that May stockholders receive in the
merger, as well as The Merger Agreement Merger
Consideration beginning on page 97 and The
Merger Agreement Conditions to Completion of the
Merger beginning on page 111. May does not currently
anticipate requesting updated fairness opinions from its
financial advisors in the event
24
the consideration to be received by May stockholders will differ
as described above as a result of a significant decline in the
value of Federated common stock.
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Federated may be required under the merger agreement to
dispose of assets that account for up to $4 billion in
annual net sales if required by governmental entities to obtain
antitrust clearance for the merger. |
Each of Federated and May has agreed to use its reasonable best
efforts to obtain all governmental clearances or approvals under
federal, state or foreign antitrust laws. In connection with
obtaining antitrust clearance for the proposed merger, Federated
may be required under the merger agreement to dispose of any
assets required by governmental entities, but only to the extent
such assets do not account for more than $4 billion in net
sales for the most recently completed fiscal year. It is
uncertain whether asset dispositions will be required and in
what amount, whether Federated will be able to dispose of such
assets or, if those assets are sold, at what price they may be
sold and the impact that such dispositions may have on
Federateds profitability.
Risks Relating to Federateds Operations After the
Consummation of the Merger
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Federateds failure to integrate May successfully and
on a timely basis into Federateds operations could reduce
Federateds profitability. |
Federated expects that the acquisition of May will result in
certain synergies, business opportunities and growth prospects.
Federated, however, may never realize these expected synergies,
business opportunities and growth prospects. Federated may
experience increased competition that limits its ability to
expand its business, Federated may not be able to capitalize on
expected business opportunities, including retaining Mays
current retail customers, assumptions underlying estimates of
expected cost savings may be inaccurate, or general industry and
business conditions may deteriorate. In addition, there can be
no assurance that Federateds execution of its post-merger
strategy to rebrand certain May stores will improve its
operating performance. Integrating operations will require
significant efforts and expenses on the part of both Federated
and May. Personnel may leave or be terminated because of the
merger. Federateds management may have its attention
diverted while trying to integrate May. If these factors limit
Federateds ability to integrate the operations of May
successfully or on a timely basis, Federateds expectations
of future results of operations, including certain cost savings
and synergies expected to result from the merger, may not be
met. In addition, Federateds growth and operating
strategies for Mays business, including the possibility of
rebranding certain May stores, may be different from the
strategies that May currently is pursuing. If Federateds
strategies are not the proper strategies for May, it could have
a material adverse effect on the business, financial condition
and results of operations of Federated.
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The results of Federateds operations after the
merger may be affected by factors different from, or in addition
to, those currently affecting the results of Mays
operations, and the market value of Federated common stock may
decrease after the closing date of the merger. |
Upon completion of the merger, the holders of May common stock
will become holders of Federated common stock. Federated is
involved in different geographic areas than May and the results
of Federateds operations after the merger may be affected
by factors different from or in addition to those currently
affecting the results of Mays operations. The market value
of the shares of Federated common stock that May stockholders
receive in the merger could decrease following the closing date
of the merger. For a discussion of the businesses of Federated
and May and factors to consider in connection with those
businesses, please see the documents incorporated by reference
into this joint proxy statement/ prospectus and listed under the
section captioned Where You Can Find More
Information beginning on page 185.
25
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The price of Federated common stock has been volatile and
may continue to fluctuate significantly, which may cause you to
lose a significant portion of your investment. |
The market price of Federated common stock has been and may
continue to be volatile. From February 1, 2002, to
May 20, 2005, the sale price of Federated common stock
ranged from a low of $23.51 per share to a high of
$69.05 per share. Federated common stock may continue to be
subject to fluctuations as a result of a variety of factors,
including factors beyond its control. These include:
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competitive conditions in retail and related services industries; |
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changes in consumer confidence, tastes, preferences, fashion
trends and spending; |
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the availability and level of consumer debt; |
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anticipated cash flow and the ability of Federated to maintain
sufficient operating cash flow and liquidity; |
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the possibility that new business and strategic options for one
or more business segments will be identified, potentially
including selective acquisitions, dispositions, restructurings,
joint ventures and partnerships; |
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trade restrictions, tariffs and other factors potentially
affecting the ability to find qualified vendors and access
products in an efficient manner; |
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the ability to successfully implement initiatives to improve
inventory management capabilities; |
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changes in interest rates; |
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social and political conditions such as war, political unrest
and terrorism or natural disasters; |
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volatility in financial markets; |
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changes in debt ratings, credit spreads and cost of funds; |
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the possibility of interruptions in systematically accessing the
public debt markets; |
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the impact of seasonal buying patterns, which are difficult to
forecast with certainty; and |
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general economic conditions and normal business uncertainty. |
Federated may fail to meet expectations of its stockholders or
of analysts at some time in the future, and its stock price
could decline as a result. In addition, sales of a substantial
number of shares of Federated common stock in the public market
or the appearance that these shares are available for sale could
adversely affect the market price for Federated common stock.
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Anti-takeover provisions could delay, deter or prevent a
change in control of Federated even if the change in control
would be beneficial to Federated stockholders. |
Federated is a Delaware corporation subject to Delaware state
law. Some provisions of Delaware law could interfere with or
restrict takeover bids or other change in control events
affecting Federated. Also, provisions in Federateds
certificate of incorporation and other agreements to which
Federated is a party could delay, deter or prevent a change in
control of Federated, even if a change in control would be
beneficial to stockholders. One statutory provision prohibits,
except under specified circumstances, Federated from engaging in
any business combination with any stockholder who owns 15% or
more of Federateds common stock (which stockholder, under
the statute, would be considered an interested
stockholder) for a period of three years following the
time that such stockholder became an interested stockholder.
Federateds certificate of incorporation contains a similar
prohibition. In addition, Federated may be required to make
payments to certain officers of Federated under severance
agreements in connection with a change in control of Federated,
which may make Federated a less attractive target to a potential
acquirer.
26
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Federated faces significant competition in the retail
industry. |
Federated conducts its retail merchandising business under
highly competitive conditions. Although Federated is one of the
nations largest retailers, it has numerous and varied
competitors at the national and local levels, including
conventional and specialty department stores, other specialty
stores, category killers, mass merchants, value retailers,
discounters, and Internet and mail-order retailers. Competition
is characterized by many factors, including assortment,
advertising, price, quality, service, location, reputation and
credit availability. If Federated does not compete effectively
with regard to these factors, its results of operations could be
materially and adversely affected.
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Federateds sales and operating results depend on
consumer preferences and fashion trends. |
Federateds sales and operating results depend in part on
its ability to predict or respond to changes in fashion trends
and consumer preferences in a timely manner. Federated develops
new retail concepts and continuously adjusts its industry
position in certain major and private-label brands and product
categories in an effort to satisfy customers. Any sustained
failure to identify and respond to emerging trends in lifestyle
and consumer preferences could have a material adverse affect on
Federateds business. Consumer spending may be affected by
many factors outside of Federateds control, including
competition from store-based retailers, mail-order and Internet
companies, consumer confidence and preferences, weather that
affects consumer traffic, and general economic conditions.
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Federated is subject to global economic and political
conditions. |
Global economic and political factors that are beyond
Federateds control influence its forecasts and directly
affect performance. These factors include interest rates, rates
of economic growth, fiscal and monetary policies of governments,
inflation, deflation, consumer credit availability, consumer
debt levels, tax rates and policy, unemployment trends,
terrorist threats and activities, worldwide military and
domestic disturbances and conflicts, and other matters that
influence consumer confidence, spending and tourism. Increasing
volatility in financial markets may cause these factors to
change with a greater degree of frequency and magnitude.
Increases in interest rates may increase our financing costs.
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Federated depends upon the success of its advertising and
marketing programs. |
Federateds advertising and promotional costs, net of
cooperative advertising allowances, amounted to
$716 million for the fiscal year ended January 29,
2005. Its business depends on high customer traffic in its
stores and effective marketing. Federated has many initiatives
in this area, and it often changes its advertising and marketing
programs. If its advertising and marketing efforts are not
effective, this could negatively affect its results.
SPECIAL NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
This joint proxy statement/ prospectus, including information
and other documents incorporated by reference into this joint
proxy statement/ prospectus, contains or may contain
forward-looking statements intended to qualify for
the safe harbor from liability established by the Private
Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 that relate to the
businesses of Federated and May. These forward-looking
statements are found at various places throughout this joint
proxy statement/ prospectus and the other documents incorporated
by reference in this joint proxy statement/ prospectus. These
forward-looking statements include, without limitation, those
relating to projected financial and operating results, earnings
and cash flows, future actions, new projects, strategies and the
outcome of contingencies such as legal proceedings, in each case
relating to Federated or May, respectively. Those forward
looking statements, wherever they occur in this joint proxy
statement/ prospectus or the other documents incorporated by
reference in this joint proxy statement/ prospectus, are
necessarily estimates or projections reflecting the judgment of
the respective management of Federated and May and are subject
to known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause
actual results to differ materially from any future results,
performance or achievements expressed or implied by those
forward-looking statements.
27
You should understand that the risks, uncertainties, factors and
assumptions listed and discussed in this joint proxy statement/
prospectus, including those set forth under the heading
Risk Factors beginning on page 22; the risks
discussed in Mays Annual Report on Form 10-K/A for
the fiscal year ended January 29, 2005, in Item 7A
Qualitative and Quantitative Disclosures about Market
Risk; the risks discussed in Federateds Annual
Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended
January 29, 2005, in Item 7A Qualitative and
Quantitative Disclosures about Market Risk; and the
following important factors and assumptions, could affect the
future results of Federated following the merger, or the future
results of Federated and May if the merger does not occur, and
could cause actual results to differ materially from those
expressed in any forward-looking statements:
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the ability of Federated to integrate the May businesses with
Federateds businesses and achieve the expected synergies
from the merger; |
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the approval and adoption of the merger agreement and the
transactions contemplated by the merger agreement, including the
merger, at the May annual meeting; |
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the approval of the issuance of Federated common stock in
connection with the merger at the Federated annual meeting; |
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the timing of the completion of the merger; |
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the actual financial position and results of operations of
Federated following the merger, which may differ significantly
from the pro forma financial data contained in this joint proxy
statement/ prospectus; |
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the impact of competitive products and pricing; |
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general market conditions in the retail industry; |
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the level of capital resources required for future acquisitions
and operations; and |
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changes in laws and regulations. |
You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these
forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of
the joint proxy statement/ prospectus or, in the case of
documents incorporated by reference, as of the date of those
documents. Neither Federated nor May undertakes any obligation
to publicly update or release any revisions to these
forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances
after the date of this joint proxy statement/ prospectus or to
reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events, except as
required by law.
THE MAY ANNUAL MEETING
General
This joint proxy statement/ prospectus is being provided to May
stockholders as part of a solicitation of proxies by the May
board of directors for use at the annual meeting of May
stockholders and at any adjournment or postponement thereof.
This joint proxy statement/ prospectus is first being furnished
to stockholders of May on or about May 31, 2005. In
addition, this joint proxy statement/ prospectus is being
furnished to May stockholders as a prospectus for Federated in
connection with the issuance by Federated of shares of Federated
common stock to May stockholders in connection with the merger.
This joint proxy statement/ prospectus provides May stockholders
with the information they need to know to be able to vote or
instruct their vote to be cast at the annual meeting of May
stockholders.
Date, Time and Place of the May Annual Meeting
The annual meeting of May stockholders will be held at
10:00 a.m., Eastern Daylight Savings Time, on July 13,
2005, at The Pierre-New York, 2 East 61st Street, New York,
New York 10021.
28
Purposes of the May Annual Meeting
At the May annual meeting, Mays stockholders will be asked:
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To approve and adopt the merger agreement and the transactions
contemplated by the merger agreement, including the merger; |
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To elect four members of Mays board of directors; |
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To adopt an amendment to Mays amended and restated
certificate of incorporation to provide for the annual election
of directors; |
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To ratify the appointment of Deloitte & Touche LLP as
Mays independent registered public accounting firm for the
fiscal year ending January 28, 2006; |
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To approve adjournments or postponements of the May annual
meeting, if necessary, to permit further solicitation of proxies
if there are not sufficient votes at the time of the May annual
meeting to approve the above proposals; and |
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To consider and take action upon any other business that may
properly come before the May annual meeting, or any reconvened
meeting, following an adjournment or postponement of the May
annual meeting. |
Record Date; Outstanding Shares; Shares Entitled to Vote
The record date for the meeting for May stockholders was
May 20, 2005. This means that you must have been a
stockholder of record of Mays common stock or of
Mays ESOP preference shares at the close of business on
May 20, 2005, in order to vote at the annual meeting. You
are entitled to one vote for each share of common stock you own
(or in the case of ESOP preference shares, one vote for each
whole share of May common stock represented by such ESOP
preference share). On Mays record date, Mays voting
securities carried 311,993,938 votes, which consisted of
299,443,318 shares of common stock (excluding
21,012,176 shares of treasury stock) and 371,457 ESOP
preference shares, which carry 12,550,620 votes.
A complete list of May stockholders entitled to vote at the May
annual meeting will be available for inspection at the executive
offices of May during regular business hours for a period of no
less than ten days before the annual meeting.
Quorum and Voting Rights
A quorum of stockholders is necessary to hold a valid annual
meeting of May. The required quorum for the transaction of
business at the annual meeting is a majority of the outstanding
shares of May common stock entitled to vote and present at the
annual meeting, whether in person or by proxy. All shares of May
common stock represented at the May annual meeting, including
abstentions and broker non-votes, will be treated as shares that
are present for purposes of determining the presence of a
quorum. Broker non-votes are shares held by a
broker, bank or other nominee that are represented at the
meeting, but with respect to which such broker, bank or nominee
is not instructed by the beneficial owner of such shares to vote
on the particular proposal and the broker, bank or other nominee
does not have discretionary voting power on such proposal. For
purposes of voting on each of the proposals set forth below, the
owners of shares of common stock and ESOP preference shares vote
together as one class.
The votes required to approve the respective proposals at the
May annual meeting are:
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Approval and adoption of the merger agreement and the
transactions contemplated by the merger agreement, including the
merger, requires the approval of a majority of the outstanding
shares of May common stock and ESOP preference shares entitled
to vote, voting together as one class. |
29
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The election of four members of Mays board of directors
requires the affirmative vote of a plurality of the shares of
May common stock and ESOP preference shares, voting together as
one class, present in person or represented by proxy at the May
annual meeting and entitled to vote. |
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Approval of the amendment to Mays amended and restated
certificate of incorporation to provide for the annual election
of directors requires the affirmative vote of a majority of the
outstanding shares of May common stock and ESOP preference
shares, voting together as one class. |
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Ratification of the appointment of Deloitte & Touche
LLP as Mays independent registered public accounting firm
for fiscal year ending January 28, 2006, requires the
affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the shares of
May common stock and ESOP preference shares, voting together as
one class, present in person or represented by proxy and
entitled to vote at the May annual meeting. |
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Approval of adjournments or postponements of the May annual
meeting, if necessary, to permit further solicitation of proxies
if there are not sufficient votes at the time of the May annual
meeting to approve the above proposals, requires the affirmative
vote of a majority of the shares of May common stock and ESOP
preference shares, voting together as one class, present in
person or represented by proxy and entitled to vote at the May
annual meeting. |
For a discussion of how broker non-votes and abstentions will
affect the outcome of the vote on these proposals, see
Voting; Proxies Voting Shares Held in
Street Name beginning on page 33 and
Voting; Proxies Abstaining from
Voting on page 34.
Recommendation of the Board of Directors
As discussed elsewhere in this joint proxy statement/
prospectus, Mays board of directors has approved the
merger agreement and the transactions contemplated by the merger
agreement, including the merger, and has determined that the
transactions contemplated by the merger agreement are advisable
and fair to and in the best interests of May and its
stockholders. The May board of directors recommends that May
stockholders vote:
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FOR the proposal to approve and adopt the merger agreement
and the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement,
including the merger, at the May annual meeting. See
Mays Reasons for the Merger and Recommendation of
Mays Board of Directors beginning on page 51;
and |
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FOR each of the other proposals presented at the May annual
meeting. |
ITEM 1 THE MERGER
As discussed elsewhere in this joint proxy statement/
prospectus, May stockholders are considering and voting on a
proposal to approve and adopt the merger agreement and the
transactions contemplated by the merger agreement, including the
merger. You should read carefully this joint proxy statement/
prospectus in its entirety for more detailed information
concerning the merger agreement and the merger. In particular,
you are directed to the merger agreement, which is attached as
Annex A to this joint proxy statement/ prospectus.
The May board of directors recommends that May stockholders
vote FOR the merger, and
your proxy will be so voted unless you specify otherwise.
ITEM 2 ELECTION OF DIRECTORS
Four directors are to be elected by stockholders at the May
annual meeting. In accordance with the recommendation of the
nominating and governance committee of the board of directors,
the May board of directors has nominated Marsha J. Evans, David
B. Rickard, Joyce M. Roché and R. Dean Wolfe, each of whom
is currently a member of the board, for election. Each
non-management nominee (Mrs. Evans, Mr. Rickard and
Ms. Roché) and Mays other non-management
directors are independent directors under Mays
independence standards described on page 148.
30
The board of directors is currently divided into three classes
and the terms of the remaining directors expire in 2006 or 2007.
If you approve the proposal to amend the amended and restated
certificate of incorporation to provide for the annual election
of directors, as more fully described in the following item, all
four nominees will serve for one year terms expiring at the 2006
annual meeting of stockholders. If you do not approve the
proposal to amend the amended and restated certificate of
incorporation, the four nominees will serve three-year terms
expiring in 2008.
The May board of directors has no reason to believe that any of
the nominees will not serve if elected. However, if any nominee
should subsequently become unavailable to serve as a director,
the May board may designate a substitute nominee and the persons
named as proxies may, in their discretion, vote for such
substitute nominee designated by the May board. Alternatively,
the May board may reduce the number of directors to be elected
at the May annual meeting.
For information regarding the four nominees and regarding the
May board of directors as a whole, see Information about
May Directors of May beginning on
page 145.
The May board of directors recommends that May stockholders
vote FOR the election of the nominees
named above, and your proxy will be so voted unless you
specify otherwise.
ITEM 3 AMENDMENT TO THE AMENDED AND
RESTATED CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION TO PROVIDE FOR THE ANNUAL
ELECTION OF DIRECTORS
Article Thirteenth of Mays amended and restated
certificate of incorporation currently provides that the May
board is to be divided into three classes of approximately equal
size that have staggered three-year terms. The May board is
submitting for a stockholder vote a proposal to amend Mays
certificate of incorporation to phase out the classification of
the board and to provide instead for the annual election of all
directors.
May stockholders have considered a proposal submitted by
Mrs. Evelyn Y. Davis, Editor, Highlights and Lowlights, to
declassify the May board of directors at each annual stockholder
meeting since 1988. At each of the last five annual meetings,
the proposal received a favorable vote of a majority of the
votes cast. At each of the last two annual meetings, the
proposal received a favorable vote of a majority of the shares
outstanding. Mrs. Davis submitted again a similar proposal
for consideration at the 2005 May annual meeting.
The nominating and governance committee and the full board
regularly have considered the advantages, disadvantages and
appropriateness of annually elected and staggered boards, taking
a variety of perspectives into account. In light of the
increasing sentiment among Mays stockholders to support
declassifying the board, the boards decision to approve
the merger with Federated and Federateds boards
decision to recommend the declassification of its board,
Mays board of directors, upon recommendation of the
nominating and governance committee, has decided that it is an
appropriate time to recommend that the stockholders declassify
the May board. Mays board has authorized Mays
management to reach an agreement with Mrs. Davis providing
for the withdrawal of Mrs. Davis proposal in return
for the May boards submission of this proposal.
If you approve the amendment to the certificate of
incorporation, all directors standing for election would be
elected for one-year terms, as described below:
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All directors elected at the 2005 annual meeting or thereafter
would be elected for one-year terms; |
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Directors assigned to the class of 2006, who were previously
elected at earlier annual meetings, would stand for election in
2006 and would be elected for one-year terms thereafter; |
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Directors assigned to the class of 2007, who were previously
elected at an earlier annual meeting, would stand for election
in 2007 and would be elected for one-year terms
thereafter; and |
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Vacancies that occur during the year would continue to be filled
by the board of directors to serve only until the next annual
meeting. |
If you do not approve the proposed amendment to Mays
amended and restated certificate of incorporation at this
meeting, the board will remain classified and the directors
elected at this meeting will serve for a term ending at
Mays 2008 annual meeting.
31
The proposed amendment to Mays amended and restated
certificate of incorporation is attached to this joint proxy
statement/ prospectus as Annex G.
The May board of directors recommends that May stockholders
vote FOR the amendment to Mays
amended and restated certificate of incorporation, and your
proxy will be
so voted unless you specify otherwise.
ITEM 4 RATIFICATION OF THE APPOINTMENT
OF INDEPENDENT
REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
The audit committee appointed Deloitte & Touche LLP, an
independent registered public accounting firm, as auditors for
May and its subsidiaries for the fiscal year ending
January 28, 2006. This appointment is subject to
ratification by May stockholders at the annual meeting. Unless
you direct otherwise, the proxies will vote your shares for the
ratification of this appointment. A representative of
Deloitte & Touche LLP will attend the meeting to
respond to appropriate questions and to make a statement if he
so desires.
For fiscal 2004 and 2003, May paid to Deloitte & Touche
LLP the following fees (dollars in millions):
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2004 | |
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2003 | |
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Audit Fees
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$ |
4.3 |
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$ |
2.6 |
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Audit-Related Fees(1)
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0.3 |
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0.3 |
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Tax Fees(2)
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0.2 |
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0.2 |
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All Other Fees(3)
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0.3 |
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0.0 |
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Total fees
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$ |
5.1 |
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$ |
3.1 |
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(1) |
Audit-Related Fees include fees related to benefit plans,
foundation and trust audits. |
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Tax Fees consist of tax compliance services. |
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(3) |
All Other Fees include acquisition financial due diligence and
purchase accounting services. |
The May board of directors recommends that May stockholders
vote FOR the ratification of the appointment of Deloitte
& Touche LLP, and your proxy will be so voted unless you
specify otherwise.
ITEM 5 APPROVE ADJOURNMENTS OR
POSTPONEMENTS OF THE ANNUAL MEETING, IF NECESSARY, TO PERMIT
FURTHER SOLICITATION OF PROXIES
Stockholders may be asked to vote on a proposal to adjourn or
postpone the annual meeting, if necessary, to permit further
solicitation of proxies if there are not sufficient votes at the
time of the annual meeting to approve the other proposals. See
the discussion regarding adjournments and postponements below in
Other Business; Adjournments and
Postponements on page 36.
The May board of directors recommends that May stockholders,
if necessary or appropriate, vote FOR the proposal to adjourn or
postpone the May annual meeting, and your proxy will be so voted
unless you specify otherwise.
Voting by Mays Directors and Executive Officers
As of the record date for the May annual meeting, Mays
directors and executive officers had the right to vote
approximately 1,067,940 shares of the then outstanding May
voting stock at the May annual meeting. As of the record date of
the May annual meeting, these shares represented less than 1% of
the May common stock outstanding and entitled to vote at the
meeting.
Voting; Proxies
You may vote in person at the May annual meeting or by proxy. We
recommend you vote by proxy even if you plan to attend the
annual meeting. If you vote by proxy, you may change your vote
if you attend the annual meeting.
32
If you own common stock in your own name, you are an owner
of record. This means that you may use the enclosed proxy
card(s) to tell the persons named as proxies how to vote your
shares. If you properly complete, sign and date your proxy
card(s), or, if available, vote by telephone or over the
Internet, your proxy will be voted in accordance with your
instructions. If you participate in Mays dividend
reinvestment plan, the enclosed proxy card(s) includes the
shares in your dividend reinvestment plan account. The named
proxies will vote all shares at the meeting that have been
properly voted (whether by Internet, telephone or mail) and not
revoked. If you sign and return your proxy card(s) but do not
mark your card(s) to tell the proxies how to vote your shares on
each proposal, your proxy will be voted FOR each of the
proposals presented.
If you hold shares of May common stock in a stock brokerage
account or through a bank, broker or other nominee, or, in other
words, in street name, please follow the voting instructions
provided by that entity. Also, see Voting
Shares Held in Street Name beginning on page 33.
If you participate in Mays profit sharing plan, you will
receive a voting instruction card for the common stock and ESOP
preference shares allocated to your accounts in that plan. You
may instruct the plan trustee on how to vote your shares by
signing, dating and mailing the enclosed voting instruction
card(s), or by submitting your voting instructions by telephone
or over the Internet. The plan trustee will vote your shares in
accordance with your instructions and the terms of the plan. If
you fail to vote, the trustee, subject to its fiduciary
obligations under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of
1974, as amended, which is referred to as ERISA, will vote your
shares in the same proportion as it votes the shares for which
it receives instructions from other plan participants. Under the
terms of the plan, the trustee must receive your voting
instructions by 11:59 p.m., Eastern Daylight Savings Time
on July 8, 2005.
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Voting Shares Held in Street Name |
Generally, a broker, bank or other nominee may only vote the
common stock that it holds in street name for you in accordance
with your instructions. However, if your broker, bank or other
nominee has not received your instructions, your broker, bank or
other nominee has the discretion to vote on certain matters that
are considered routine. A broker non-vote occurs if
your broker, bank or other nominee cannot vote on a particular
matter because your broker, bank or other nominee has not
received instructions from you and because the proposal is not
routine.
If you wish to vote on the proposal to adopt and approve the
merger, you must provide instructions to your broker, bank or
other nominee because this proposal is not routine. If you do
not provide your broker, bank or other nominee with
instructions, your broker, bank or other nominee will not be
authorized to vote with respect to adopting and approving the
merger, and a broker non-vote will occur. This will have the
same effect as a vote against the approval and adoption of the
merger agreement and the transactions contemplated by the merger
agreement, including the merger.
If you wish to vote on the proposal to amend Mays amended
and restated certificate of incorporation, you must provide
instructions to your broker, bank or other nominee because this
proposal is not routine. If you do not provide your broker, bank
or other nominee with instructions, your broker, bank or other
nominee will not be authorized to vote with respect to amending
the amended and restated certificate of incorporation and a
broker non-vote will occur. This will have the same effect as a
vote against the amendment of the amended and restated
certificate of incorporation.
If you wish to vote on the proposals to elect the four
directors, to ratify the appointment of Mays independent
registered public accounting firm or to act upon any other
routine business that may properly come before the May annual
meeting, you should provide instructions to your broker, bank or
other nominee. If you do not provide instructions to your
broker, bank or other nominee, your broker, bank or other
nominee generally will have the authority to vote on the
election of directors, the ratification of the appointment of
the independent registered public accounting firm and other
routine matters.
If you wish to vote on any proposal to approve adjournments or
postponements of the May annual meeting, you should provide
instructions to your broker, bank or other nominee. If you do
not provide instructions to your broker, bank or other nominee,
your broker, bank or other nominee generally will have the
33
authority to vote on proposals such as the adjournment or
postponement of meetings. However, your broker, bank or other
nominee will not be authorized to vote on any proposal to
adjourn or postpone the meeting solely relating to the
solicitation of proxies to approve and adopt the merger
agreement and the transactions contemplated by the merger
agreement, including the merger.
Your abstention from voting will have the following effects:
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Abstentions will have the same effect as a vote against the
approval and adoption of the merger agreement and the
transactions contemplated by the merger agreement, including the
merger. |
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Abstentions will have the same effect as a vote against the
approval of the amendment to Mays amended and restated
certificate of incorporation. |
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Abstentions will not be counted for determining the election of
the board of directors. As a result, abstentions will not have
an effect on the outcome of the election of the board of
directors. |
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Abstentions will have the same effect as a vote against the
ratification of the appointment of the independent registered
public accounting firm. |
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Abstentions will have the same effect as a vote against the
approval of adjournments or postponements of the May annual
meeting. |
How to Vote
You have three voting options:
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Internet: You can vote over the Internet at the
Web address shown on your proxy card or voting instruction card
(www.proxyvote.com). Internet voting is available 24 hours
a day. If you vote over the Internet, do not return your proxy
card(s) or voting instruction card(s). |
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Telephone: You can vote by telephone by calling
the toll-free number on your proxy card(s) or voting instruction
card(s). Telephone voting is available 24 hours a day.
Easy-to-follow voice prompts allow you to vote your shares and
confirm that your instructions have been properly recorded. If
you vote by telephone, do not return your proxy card(s) or
voting instruction card(s). |
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Mail: You can vote by mail by simply signing,
dating and mailing your proxy card(s) or voting instruction
card(s) in the postage-paid envelope included with this joint
proxy statement/ prospectus. |
A number of banks and brokerage firms participate in a program
that also permits stockholders whose shares are held in street
name to direct their vote over the Internet or by telephone.
This option, if available, will be reflected in the voting
instructions from the bank or brokerage firm that accompany this
joint proxy statement/ prospectus. If your shares are held in an
account at a bank or brokerage firm that participates in such a
program, you may direct the vote of these shares by the Internet
or telephone by following the voting instructions enclosed with
the proxy form from the bank or brokerage firm. The Internet and
telephone proxy procedures are designed to authenticate
stockholders identities, to allow stockholders to give
their proxy voting instructions and to confirm that those
instructions have been properly recorded. Votes directed by the
Internet or telephone through such a program must be received by
11:59 p.m., Eastern Daylight Savings Time, on July 12,
2005. Requesting a legal proxy prior to the deadline described
above will automatically cancel any voting directions you have
previously given by the Internet or by telephone with respect to
your shares. Directing the voting of your shares will not affect
your right to vote in person if you decide to attend the May
annual meeting; however, you must first obtain a signed and
properly executed legal proxy from your bank, broker or other
nominee to vote your shares held in street name at the annual
meeting.
34
Revoking Your Proxy
You can revoke your proxy at any time before its exercise by:
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sending a written notice to the Corporate Secretary of May, at
611 Olive Street, St. Louis, Missouri 63101, bearing a
date later than the date of the proxy, that is received prior to
the May annual meeting and states that you revoke your proxy; |
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voting again over the Internet or by telephone; |
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signing another proxy card(s) or voting instruction card(s)
bearing a later date and mailing it so that it is received prior
to the annual meeting; or |
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attending the annual meeting and voting in person, although
attendance at the annual meeting will not, by itself, revoke a
proxy. |
If your shares are held in street name by your broker, you will
need to contact your broker to revoke your proxy.
Other Voting Matters
If you plan to attend the May annual meeting and wish to vote in
person, we will give you a ballot at the annual meeting.
However, if your shares are held in street name, you must first
obtain a legal proxy authorizing you to vote the shares in
person, which you must bring with you to the annual meeting.
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Electronic Access to Proxy Materials |
This joint proxy statement/ prospectus and Mays 2004
Form 10-K/A for the fiscal year ending January 29,
2005, are available on our Internet site at www.mayco.com.
We can provide reasonable assistance to help you participate in
the annual meeting if you tell us about your disability and how
you plan to attend. Please call or write to Mays Corporate
Secretary at 611 Olive Street, St. Louis, Missouri 63101,
(314) 342-6300.
Proxy Solicitations
May is soliciting proxies for the May annual meeting from May
stockholders. May will bear the entire cost of soliciting
proxies from May stockholders, except that Federated and May
will share equally the expenses incurred in connection with the
filing of the registration statement of which this joint proxy
statement/ prospectus forms a part with the SEC and the printing
and mailing of this joint proxy statement/ prospectus. In
addition to this mailing, Mays directors, officers and
employees (who will not receive any additional compensation for
their services) may solicit proxies personally, electronically
or by telephone. May has also engaged D.F. King & Co.,
Inc., for a fee of $19,500 plus reimbursement of expenses to
assist in the solicitation of proxies. May and its proxy
solicitors will also request that banks, brokerage houses and
other custodians, nominees and fiduciaries send proxy materials
to the beneficial owners of May common stock and will, if
requested, reimburse the record holders for their reasonable
out-of-pocket expenses in doing so. The extent to which these
proxy-soliciting efforts will be necessary depends upon how
promptly proxies are submitted. You should promptly vote by
telephone or over the Internet or submit your completed proxy
card(s) without delay by mail.
Stockholders should not submit any stock certificates with
their proxy cards.
35
Other Business; Adjournment and Postponements
We are not aware of any other business to be acted upon at the
annual meeting. If, however, other matters are properly brought
before the annual meeting, your proxies will have discretion to
vote or act on those matters according to their best judgment.
Any adjournment may be made from time to time by approval of
the stockholders holding a majority of the voting power present
in person or by proxy at the annual meeting, whether or not a
quorum exists, without further notice other than by an
announcement made at the annual meeting. In addition, if the
adjournment of the annual meeting is for more than 30 days
or if after the adjournment a new record date is fixed for an
adjourned meeting, notice of the adjourned meeting must be given
to each stockholder of record entitled to vote at such annual
meeting. If a quorum is not present at the annual meeting,
stockholders may be asked to vote on a proposal to adjourn or
postpone the annual meeting to solicit additional proxies. If a
quorum is not present at the annual meeting, the holders of a
majority of the shares entitled to vote who are present in
person or by proxy may adjourn or postpone the annual meeting.
If a quorum is present at the annual meeting but there are not
sufficient votes at the time of the annual meeting to approve
the other proposal(s), holders of common stock may also be asked
to vote on a proposal to approve the adjournment or postponement
of the annual meeting to permit further solicitation of
proxies.
Assistance
If you need assistance in completing your proxy card or have
questions regarding Mays annual meeting, please contact
Mays Investor Relations at (314) 342-6300 or write to
The May Department Stores Company, 611 Olive Street,
St. Louis, Missouri 63101, Attention: Investor Relations.
THE FEDERATED ANNUAL MEETING
General
This joint proxy statement/ prospectus is being provided to
Federated stockholders as part of a solicitation of proxies by
the Federated board of directors for use at the annual meeting
of Federated stockholders and at any adjournment or postponement
thereof. This joint proxy statement/ prospectus is first being
furnished to stockholders of Federated on or about May 31,
2005. This joint proxy statement/ prospectus provides Federated
stockholders with the information they need to know to be able
to vote or instruct their vote to be cast at the annual meeting
of Federated stockholders.
Date, Time and Place of the Federated Annual Meeting
The annual meeting of Federated stockholders will be held at
11:00 a.m., Eastern Daylight Savings Time, on July 13,
2005, at Federateds corporate offices located at 7 West
Seventh Street, Cincinnati, Ohio 45202.
Purposes of the Federated Annual Meeting
At the Federated annual meeting, Federated stockholders will be
asked:
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to authorize the issuance of Federated common stock pursuant to
the terms of the merger agreement; |
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to elect three Class II members of Federateds board
of directors; |
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to amend Federateds certificate of incorporation to adopt
a system for the annual election of all of Federateds
directors; |
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to ratify the appointment of KPMG LLP as Federateds
independent registered public accounting firm for the fiscal
year ending January 28, 2006; |
36
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to approve adjournments or postponements of the Federated annual
meeting, if necessary to permit further solicitation of proxies
if at the time of the Federated annual meeting to approve the
above proposals; and |
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to consider and take action upon any other business that may
properly come before the Federated annual meeting or any
reconvened meeting following an adjournment or postponement of
the Federated annual meeting. |
Record Date; Outstanding Shares; Shares Entitled to Vote
The record date for the meeting for Federated stockholders was
May 20, 2005. This means that you must have been a
stockholder of record of Federateds common stock at the
close of business on May 20, 2005, in order to vote at the
annual meeting. You are entitled to one vote for each share of
common stock you own. On Federateds record date,
170,112,496 shares of common stock were outstanding. This number
excludes shares held in the treasury of Federated or by
subsidiaries of Federated, which carry no votes.
A complete list of Federated stockholders entitled to vote at
the Federated annual meeting will be available for inspection at
the executive offices of Federated during regular business hours
for a period of no less than ten days before the annual meeting.
The Federated board of directors has adopted a policy under
which all voting materials that identify the votes of specific
stockholders will be kept confidential and will not be disclosed
to officers, directors or employees of Federated or third
parties except as described below. Voting materials may be
disclosed in any of the following circumstances:
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if required by applicable law; |
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to persons engaged in the receipt, counting, tabulation or
solicitation of proxies who have agreed to maintain stockholder
confidentiality as provided in the policy; |
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in those instances in which stockholders write comments on their
proxy cards or otherwise consent to the disclosure of their vote
to Federateds management; |
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in the event of a proxy contest or a solicitation of proxies in
opposition to the voting recommendations of the board; |
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in respect of a stockholder proposal that Federateds
Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee, after having
allowed the proponent of the proposal an opportunity to present
its views, determines is not in the best interests of Federated
and its stockholders; and |
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in the event that representatives of Federated determine in good
faith that a bona fide dispute exists as to the authenticity or
tabulation of voting materials. |
The policy described above will apply to the Federated annual
meeting.
Quorum and Voting Rights
A quorum of stockholders is necessary to hold a valid annual
meeting of Federated. The holders of a majority of the stock
issued and outstanding and entitled to vote at the annual
meeting, present in person or represented by proxy, will
constitute a quorum at the annual meeting of the stockholders
for the transaction of business at the meeting. All shares of
Federated common stock represented at the Federated annual
meeting, including abstentions and broker non-votes,
will be treated as shares that are present and entitled to vote
for purposes of determining the presence of a quorum.
Broker non-votes are shares held by a broker, bank
or other nominee that are represented at the meeting, but with
respect to which such broker, bank or nominee is not instructed
by the beneficial owner of such shares to vote on the particular
proposal and the broker, bank or nominee does not have
discretionary voting power on such proposal.
37
The votes required to approve the respective proposals at the
Federated annual meeting are:
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The authorization of the issuance of Federated common stock
pursuant to the terms of the merger agreement requires the
approval of at least a majority of the votes cast by the holders
of outstanding shares of Federated common stock present (in
person or by proxy) at the Federated annual meeting, where the
holders of at least a majority of all outstanding shares of
Federated common stock vote on the proposal. |
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The election of three Class II members of Federateds
board of directors requires the affirmative vote of a plurality
of the shares of Federated common stock present in person or
represented by proxy at the Federated annual meeting and
entitled to vote. |
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In order to take effect in accordance with the schedule more
fully described in the proposal, the proposal to amend
Federateds certificate of incorporation to adopt a system
for the annual election of all Federated directors requires the
affirmative vote of a majority of all outstanding shares of
Federated common stock. |
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Ratification of the appointment of KPMG LLP as Federateds
independent registered public accounting firm for the fiscal
year ending January 28, 2006, requires the affirmative vote
of the holders of a majority of Federated common stock present
in person or represented by proxy entitled to vote and actually
voted at the Federated annual meeting. |
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Approval of adjournments or postponements of the Federated
annual meeting, if necessary, to permit further solicitation of
proxies if there are not sufficient votes at the time of the
Federated annual meeting to approve the above proposals,
requires the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of
Federated common stock present in person or represented by proxy
entitled to vote and actually voted at the Federated annual
meeting. |
For a discussion of how broker non-votes and abstentions will
affect the outcome of the vote on these proposals, see
Voting; Proxies Voting Shares Held
in Street Name beginning on page 41 and
Voting; Proxies Abstaining from
Voting on page 42.
Recommendation of the Board of Directors
As discussed elsewhere in this joint proxy statement/
prospectus, Federateds board of directors has approved the
merger agreement and the transactions contemplated by the merger
agreement, including the merger, and has determined that the
transactions contemplated by the merger agreement are advisable
and fair to and in the best interests of Federated and its
stockholders. The Federated board of directors recommends that
Federated stockholders vote:
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FOR the issuance of Federated common stock pursuant to the
merger agreement. |
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FOR the other proposals presented at the Federated annual
meeting. |
ITEM 1 THE ISSUANCE OF FEDERATED COMMON STOCK
PURSUANT
TO THE MERGER AGREEMENT
As discussed elsewhere in this joint proxy statement/
prospectus, Federated stockholders are considering and voting on
a proposal to approve the issuance of shares of Federated common
stock pursuant to the terms of the merger agreement. Federated
stockholders should read carefully this joint proxy statement/
prospectus in its entirety for more detailed information
concerning the merger agreement and the merger. In particular,
Federated stockholders are directed to the merger agreement,
which is attached as Annex A to this joint proxy
statement/ prospectus.
The Federated board of directors recommends that Federated
stockholders vote FOR the issuance of common stock pursuant
to the merger, and your proxy will be so voted unless you
specify otherwise.
38
ITEM 2 ELECTION OF DIRECTORS
Federateds certificate of incorporation and by-laws
provide that the directors of Federated are to be classified
into three classes, with the directors in each class serving for
three-year terms and until their successors are elected.
Mr. Earl G. Graves, Sr., a Class III director,
will retire at the Federated annual meeting in accordance with
the mandatory retirement policy set forth in Federateds
Corporate Governance Principles.
In accordance with the recommendation of the Nominating and
Corporate Governance Committee, referred to herein as the NCG
Committee, the Federated board of directors has nominated Meyer
Feldberg, Terry J. Lundgren and Marna C. Whittington, each of
whom is currently a member of the board, for election as
Class II Directors. If elected, such nominees will serve
for a three-year term to expire at Federateds annual
meeting of stockholders in 2008 or until their successors are
duly elected and qualified.
The Federated board of directors has no reason to believe that
any of the nominees will not serve if elected. However, if any
nominee should subsequently become unavailable to serve as a
director, the Federated board may designate a substitute nominee
and the persons named as proxies may, in their discretion, vote
for such substitute nominee designated by the Federated board.
Alternatively, the Federated board may reduce the number of
directors to be elected at the Federated annual meeting.
For information regarding the Class II directors nominated
for reelection, and regarding the Federated board of directors
as a whole, see Information about Federated
Directors of Federated beginning on page 118.
The Federated board of directors recommends that Federated
stockholders vote FOR the election of the nominees named
above, and your proxy will be so voted unless you specify
otherwise.
ITEM 3 AMENDMENT TO THE CERTIFICATE OF
INCORPORATION SEEKING THE ANNUAL ELECTION OF ALL DIRECTORS
Federateds certificate of incorporation presently provides
that the Federated board is to be divided into three classes
that have staggered three-year terms. The Federated board is
submitting for a stockholder vote a proposal to amend
Federateds certificate of incorporation to declassify its
board of directors. If this proposal is approved,
Federateds amended certificate of incorporation will
provide that beginning at the annual meeting in 2006, as current
terms expire, directors will be elected at each annual meeting
of Federated stockholders for a one-year term. Thus, if this
proposal is approved, present directors, including the directors
elected at the 2005 Federated annual meeting, would continue to
serve for their elected terms. By 2008, all directors would be
elected annually and would be serving one year terms.
The proposed amendment to Federateds certificate of
incorporation is attached to this joint proxy statement/
prospectus as Annex F and this discussion is qualified in
its entirety by such Annex. If the proposed amendment is
adopted, references to the existence of a classified board will
be deleted from Article Seventh of Federateds
certificate of incorporation. Article Seventh of
Federateds certificate of incorporation will be further
amended to set forth the procedure to phase in the annual
election of directors.
Federated stockholders have considered a proposal submitted by
Mrs. Evelyn Y. Davis, Editor, Highlights and Lowlights, to
declassify the Federated board of directors at six of the seven
most recent Federated annual meetings. At the 2004 annual
meeting, the proposal received a favorable vote of 87% of the
votes cast. Mrs. Davis submitted again a similar proposal
for consideration at the 2005 Federated annual meeting. Over the
past several years, Federateds board of directors,
management and outside advisors have, on numerous occasions,
considered the advantages, disadvantages and appropriateness of
having a classified board of directors. Federateds board
recognizes that Federated stockholders have consistently
provided majority support for proposals to declassify
Federateds board and that, in general, classified director
terms are opposed by a number of stockholder groups. In light of
the support for prior Federated declassification proposals, the
Federated board has determined to submit the proposal to a
binding vote and authorized Federateds management to reach
an agreement with Mrs. Davis providing for the withdrawal
of Mrs. Davis proposal in return for the Federated
boards submission of this proposal.
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Under the provisions of Federateds certificate of
incorporation the proposal to amend its certificate of
incorporation will require the affirmative vote of the holders
of at least a majority of the voting stock of Federated to take
effect in accordance with the schedule more fully described in
the proposal.
The Federated board of directors recommends that Federated
stockholders vote FOR the amendment to Federateds
certificate of incorporation, and your proxy will be so voted
unless you specify otherwise.
ITEM 4 RATIFICATION OF APPOINTMENT OF
INDEPENDENT
REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
The Audit Committee has appointed the firm of KPMG LLP, an
independent registered public accounting firm, to audit the
books, records and accounts of Federated for the fiscal year
ending January 28, 2006. The Audit Committees
appointment is subject to ratification by Federateds
stockholders. KPMG LLP and its predecessors have served as the
independent registered public accounting firm for Federated
since 1988, and are considered well qualified. Representatives
of KPMG LLP are expected to be present at the Federated annual
meeting and will have the opportunity to make a statement if
they desire to do so. It is also expected that they will be
available to respond to appropriate questions.
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Fees Paid to Independent Registered Public Accounting
Firm |
The table below summarizes the fees paid to KPMG LLP during
fiscal 2004 and fiscal year 2003:
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Year |
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Audit ($) | |
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Audit-Related ($) | |
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Tax ($) | |
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All Other ($) | |
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Total ($) | |
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2004
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3,723,000 |
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830,500 |
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309,747 |
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0 |
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4,863,247 |
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2003
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2,325,650 |
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787,400 |
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162,000 |
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69,000 |
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3,344,050 |
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Audit fees represent fees for professional services rendered for
the audit of Federateds annual financial statements, the
audit of Federateds internal control over financial
reporting and the reviews of the interim financial statements
included in Federateds Forms 10-Q.
Audit-related fees represent professional services principally
related to the audits of financial statements of employee
benefit plans, audits of financial statements of certain
subsidiaries and certain agreed upon procedures reports.
Tax fees represent professional services related to tax
compliance and consulting services, provided, however, that such
tax consulting services did not involve the provision of advice
regarding tax strategy or planning.
All other fees represent professional services other than those
covered above. Included in this are fees related to consulting
services specifically on one project in fiscal year 2003.
The Federated board of directors recommends that Federated
stockholders vote FOR the ratification of the appointment
of KPMG LLP, and your proxy will be so voted unless you specify
otherwise.
ITEM 5 APPROVE ADJOURNMENTS OR POSTPONEMENTS OF
THE ANNUAL MEETING, IF NECESSARY, TO PERMIT FURTHER SOLICITATION
OF PROXIES
Stockholders may be asked to vote on a proposal to adjourn or
postpone the annual meeting, if necessary, to permit further
solicitation of proxies if there are not sufficient votes at the
time of the annual meeting to approve the other proposals. See
the discussion regarding adjournments and postponements below in
Other Business; Adjournments and
Postponements on page 44.
The Federated board of directors recommends that Federated
stockholders, if necessary or appropriate, vote FOR the
proposal to adjourn or postpone the Federated annual meeting,
and your proxy will be so voted unless you specify otherwise.
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Voting by Federateds Directors and Executive
Officers
As of the record date for the Federated annual meeting,
Federateds directors and executive officers had the right
to vote approximately 422,587 shares of the then
outstanding Federated common stock at the Federated annual
meeting. As of the record date of the Federated annual meeting,
these shares represented less than 1% of the Federated common
stock outstanding and entitled to vote at the meeting.
Voting; Proxies
You may vote in person at the Federated annual meeting or by
proxy. We recommend you vote by proxy even if you plan to attend
the annual meeting. If you vote by proxy, you may change your
vote if you attend the annual meeting.
If you own common stock in your own name, you are an owner
of record. This means that you may use the enclosed proxy
card(s) to tell the persons named as proxies how to vote your
shares. If you properly complete, sign and date your proxy
card(s), or, if available, vote by telephone or over the
Internet, your proxy will be voted in accordance with your
instructions. The named proxies will vote all shares at the
meeting that have been properly voted (whether by Internet,
telephone or mail) and not revoked. If you sign and return your
proxy card(s) but do not mark your card(s) to tell the proxies
how to vote your shares on each proposal, your proxy will be
voted FOR each of the proposals presented.
If you hold shares of Federated common stock in a stock
brokerage account or through a bank, broker or other nominee,
or, in other words, in street name, please follow the voting
instructions provided by that entity. Also, see
Voting Shares Held in Street Name
beginning on page 41.
If you participate in Federateds Profit Sharing 401(k)
Investment Plan, you will receive a voting instruction card for
the common stock allocated to your accounts in that plan. You
may instruct the plan trustee on how to vote your proportional
interest in any Federated shares by signing, dating and mailing
the enclosed voting instruction card(s), or by submitting your
voting instructions by telephone or over the Internet. The plan
trustee will vote your proportional interest in accordance with
your instructions and the terms of the plan. If you fail to
vote, the trustee, subject to its fiduciary obligations under
ERISA, will vote your proportional interest in the same
proportion as it votes the proportional interests for which it
receives instructions from other plan participants. Under the
terms of the plan, the trustee must receive your voting
instructions by 5:00 p.m., Eastern Daylight Savings Time on
July 11, 2005.
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Voting Shares Held in Street Name |
Generally, a broker, bank or other nominee may only vote the
common stock that it holds in street name for you in accordance
with your instructions. However, if your broker, bank or other
nominee has not received your instructions, your broker, bank or
other nominee has the discretion to vote on certain matters that
are considered routine. A broker non-vote occurs if
your broker, bank or other nominee cannot vote on a particular
matter because your broker, bank or other nominee has not
received instructions from you and because the proposal is not
routine.
If you wish to vote on the proposal to issue Federated common
stock pursuant to the merger agreement, you must provide
instructions to your broker, bank or other nominee because this
proposal is not routine. If you do not provide your broker, bank
or other nominee with instructions, your broker, bank or other
nominee will not be authorized to vote with respect to the
issuance of Federated common stock, and a broker non-vote will
occur. Such a broker non-vote will not be counted for
determining whether the share issuance proposal has been
approved. However, broker non-votes can negatively affect the
vote on the Federated share issuance proposal if their failure
to be counted results in less than a majority of all outstanding
shares of Federated common stock being voted.
If you wish to vote on the proposal to amend Federateds
certificate of incorporation, you must provide instructions to
your broker, bank or other nominee because this proposal is not
routine. If you do not provide your broker, bank or other
nominee with instructions, your broker, bank or other nominee
will not be
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authorized to vote with respect to amending the certificate of
incorporation, and a broker non-vote will occur. This will have
the same effect as a vote against the amendment of the
certificate of incorporation.
If you wish to vote on the proposals to elect the three
Class II directors, to ratify the appointment of
Federateds independent registered public accounting firm
or to act upon any other routine business that may properly come
before the Federated annual meeting, you should provide
instructions to your broker, bank or other nominee. If you do
not provide your broker, bank or other nominee with
instructions, your broker, bank or other nominee generally will
have the authority to vote on the election of directors, the
ratification of the appointment of the independent registered
public accounting firm and other routine matters.
If you wish to vote on any proposal to approve adjournments or
postponements of the Federated annual meeting, you should
provide instructions to your broker, bank or other nominee. If
you do not provide instructions to your broker, bank or other
nominee, your broker, bank or other nominee generally will have
the authority to vote on proposals such as the adjournment or
postponement of meetings. However, your broker, bank or other
nominee will not be authorized to vote on any proposal to
adjourn or postpone the meeting solely relating to the
solicitation of proxies to approve the proposal to issue
Federated common stock pursuant to the merger agreement.
Your abstention from voting will have the following effects:
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Abstentions will not be counted for determining whether the
share issuance proposal has been approved. However, an
abstention can negatively affect the vote on the Federated share
issuance proposal if their failure to be counted results in less
than a majority of all outstanding shares of Federated common
stock being voted. |
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Abstentions will have the same effect as a vote against the
approval of the amendment to Federateds certificate of
incorporation. |
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Abstentions will not be counted for determining the election of
the board of directors. As a result, abstentions will not have
an effect on the outcome of the election of the board of
directors. |
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Abstentions will not be counted for the ratification of the
appointment of the independent registered public accounting firm. |
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Abstentions will not be counted for the approval of adjournments
or postponements of the Federated annual meeting. |
How to Vote
You have three voting options:
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Internet: You can vote over the Internet at the
Web address shown on your proxy card(s). Internet voting is
available 24 hours a day. If you vote over the Internet, do
not return your proxy card(s) or voting instruction card(s). |
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Telephone: You can vote by telephone by calling
the toll-free number on your proxy card(s) or voting instruction
card(s). Telephone voting is available 24 hours a day.
Easy-to-follow voice prompts allow you to vote your shares and
confirm that your instructions have been properly recorded. If
you vote by telephone, do not return your proxy card(s) or
voting instruction card(s). |
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Mail: You can vote by mail by simply signing,
dating and mailing your proxy card(s) or voting instruction
card(s) in the postage-paid envelope included with this joint
proxy statement/ prospectus. |
A number of banks and brokerage firms participate in a program
that also permits stockholders whose shares are held in street
name to direct their vote over the Internet or by telephone.
This option, if available, will be reflected in the voting
instructions from the bank or brokerage firm that accompany this
joint proxy statement/ prospectus. If your shares are held in an
account at a bank or brokerage firm that participates in
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such a program, you may direct the vote of these shares by the
Internet or telephone by following the voting instructions
enclosed with the proxy form from the bank or brokerage firm.
The Internet and telephone proxy procedures are designed to
authenticate stockholders identities, to allow
stockholders to give their proxy voting instructions and to
confirm that those instructions have been properly recorded.
Votes directed by the Internet or telephone through such a
program must be received by 5:00 p.m., Eastern Daylight
Savings Time, on July 12, 2005. Requesting a legal proxy
prior to the deadline described above will automatically cancel
any voting directions you have previously given by the Internet
or by telephone with respect to your shares. Directing the
voting of your shares will not affect your right to vote in
person if you decide to attend the Federated annual meeting;
however, you must first obtain a signed and properly executed
legal proxy from your bank, broker or other nominee to vote your
shares held in street name at your annual meeting.
Revoking Your Proxy
You can revoke your proxy at any time before its exercise by:
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sending a written notice to the Corporate Secretary of
Federated, at 7 West Seventh Street, Cincinnati, Ohio 45202,
bearing a date later than the date of the proxy that is received
prior to the Federated annual meeting and states that you revoke
your proxy; |
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voting again over the Internet or by telephone; |
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signing another proxy card(s) or voting instruction card(s)
bearing a later date and mailing it so that it is received prior
to the annual meeting; or |
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attending the annual meeting and voting in person, although
attendance at the annual meeting will not, by itself, revoke a
proxy. |
If your shares are held in street name by your broker, you will
need to contact your broker to revoke your proxy.
Other Voting Matters
If you plan to attend the Federated annual meeting and wish to
vote in person, we will give you a ballot at the annual meeting.
However, if your shares are held in street name, you must first
obtain a legal proxy authorizing you to vote the shares in
person, which you must bring with you to the annual meeting.
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Electronic Access to Proxy Material |
This joint proxy statement/ prospectus and Federateds 2004
Form 10-K for the fiscal year ending January 29, 2005,
are available on our Internet site at
www.fds.com/corporategovernance.
We can provide you with reasonable assistance to help you
participate in the annual meeting if you tell us about your
disability and how you plan to attend. Please call or write to
Federateds Corporate Secretary at 7 West Seventh
Street, Cincinnati, Ohio 45202, (513) 579-7000, at least
two weeks before your annual meeting.
Proxy Solicitations
Federated is soliciting proxies for the Federated annual meeting
from Federated stockholders. Federated will bear the entire cost
of soliciting proxies from Federated stockholders, except that
Federated and May will share equally the expenses incurred in
connection with the filing of the registration statement of
which this joint proxy statement/ prospectus forms a part with
the SEC and the printing and mailing of this joint proxy
statement/ prospectus. In addition to this mailing,
Federateds directors, officers and employees (who will not
receive any additional compensation for their services) may
solicit proxies personally, electronically or by
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telephone. Federated has also engaged Georgeson Shareholder
Communications, Inc. for a fee of approximately $25,000 plus
reimbursement of expenses to assist in the solicitation of
proxies. Federated and its proxy solicitors will also request
that banks, brokerage houses and other custodians, nominees and
fiduciaries send proxy materials to the beneficial owners of
Federated common stock and will, if requested, reimburse the
record holders for their reasonable out-of-pocket expenses in
doing so. The extent to which these proxy-soliciting efforts
will be necessary depends upon how promptly proxies are
submitted. You should promptly vote by telephone or over the
Internet or submit your completed proxy card(s) without delay by
mail.
Other Business; Adjournments or Postponements
We are not aware of any other business to be acted upon at the
annual meeting. If, however, other matters are properly brought
before the annual meeting, your proxies will have discretion to
vote or act on those matters according to their best judgment.
Any adjournment may be made from time to time by approval of
the stockholders holding a majority of the voting power present
in person or by proxy at the annual meeting, whether or not a
quorum exists, without further notice other than by an
announcement made at the annual meeting. In addition, if the
adjournment of the annual meeting is for more than 30 days
or if after the adjournment a new record date is fixed for an
adjourned meeting, notice of the adjourned meeting must be given
to each stockholder of record entitled to vote at such annual
meeting. If a quorum is not present at the annual meeting,
stockholders may be asked to vote on a proposal to adjourn or
postpone the annual meeting to solicit additional proxies. If a
quorum is not present at the annual meeting, the holders of a
majority of the shares entitled to vote who are present in
person or by proxy may adjourn or postpone the annual meeting.
If a quorum is present at the annual meeting but there are not
sufficient votes at the time of the annual meeting to approve
the other proposal(s), holders of common stock may also be asked
to vote on a proposal to approve the adjournment or postponement
of the annual meeting to permit further solicitation of
proxies.
Assistance
If you need assistance in completing your proxy card or have
questions regarding Federateds annual meeting, please
contact Federateds Investor Relations at
(513) 579-7780 or write to Federated Department Stores,
Inc., 7 West Seventh Street Cincinnati, Ohio 45202, Attention:
Investor Relations.
THE MERGER
Background of the Merger
Growth through acquisitions has been one of the hallmarks of
Federateds business strategy since Federated was born
through the combination of Abraham & Straus of
Brooklyn, Filenes of Boston, F&R Lazarus &
Co. of Columbus, Ohio and Bloomingdales of New York on
March 6, 1929. Since that time, Federated has considered a
number of possible acquisition candidates, including,
periodically over the past two decades, May.
In 1988, May and Federated discussed the possibility of
Mays acquiring Federated, but did not reach agreement on a
transaction. However, in conjunction with another transaction by
Federated that year, May did acquire two divisions then owned by
Federated Foleys and Filenes.
In the more recent past, the two companies have twice discussed
the possibility of a stock-for-stock merger of
equals once in 1999 and again in 2002. In each case,
the two companies entered into a confidentiality agreement,
provided one another with the opportunity for due diligence and
discussed how such a transaction might be structured. Neither
discussion reached the stage of a possible agreement either on
the economics of an exchange ratio or the structure of a
transaction and the post-transaction governance arrangements.
On December 9, 2004, Federateds management and
Goldman Sachs, financial advisors to Federated, met with
Federateds board to discuss its options in response to
industry trends facing Federated, which
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included a possible business combination with May, and
structural governance and other issues to be considered in an
acquisition of May. During the course of the December 9,
2004 meeting, Federateds management indicated to
Federateds board that it intended to perform additional
reviews and analyses regarding a possible business combination
with May. On January 11, 2005, Federateds management
updated Federateds board telephonically and reported on
the results of the additional analytical work undertaken by
Federateds management regarding a possible business
combination with May. At the close of managements
presentation, Federateds board authorized management to
approach May regarding a possible business combination with May.
Later in the day on January 11, 2005, Terry J. Lundgren,
chairman of the board, president and chief executive officer of
Federated, called Eugene S. Kahn, then chairman of the board and
chief executive officer of May, to propose discussion of a
business combination between Federated and May in which
Federated would be the surviving company. No specifics were
discussed on this call. Mr. Lundgren and Mr. Kahn
agreed to meet shortly thereafter to explore the possibility of
such a business combination in detail.
On January 14, 2005, May announced Mr. Kahns
resignation as chairman and chief executive officer of May,
which Mr. Kahn had tendered earlier that day. May also said
John L. Dunham, president of May, had been named by the board of
directors as acting chairman and chief executive officer in
addition to his duties as president, and that the board would
immediately begin a search to fill the chief executive officer
position. At its meeting that day the board elected Russell E.
Palmer as lead director and designated James M. Kilts as the
chairman of the CEO search committee. The board noted the
pending appointment between Mr. Kahn and Mr. Lundgren
and suggested Mr. Dunham should let Mr. Lundgren call
again to renew his request for a meeting. The board authorized
Mr. Dunham to meet with Mr. Lundgren if
Mr. Lundgren asked, and generally authorized management
under Mr. Dunhams leadership to discuss a possible
business combination with Federated if the occasion arose. The
board also designated Mr. William Stiritz to participate in
such discussions on behalf of the board, as appropriate, if they
were to occur.
On January 17, 2005, Mr. Lundgren telephoned
Mr. Dunham and suggested they meet so that
Mr. Lundgren could share with Mr. Dunham his vision of
a combined Federated-May. They also discussed whether to include
their respective financial advisors in the meeting.
On January 18, 2005, Mr. Lundgren called
Mr. Dunham and proposed that he and Mr. Ronald W.
Tysoe, vice chair, finance and real estate of Federated, would
come to St. Louis the next Tuesday or Wednesday (January 25
or 26). Mr. Dunham said he would consider this proposal and
call Mr. Lundgren back with an answer.
On January 20, 2005, Mr. Dunham called
Mr. Lundgren. He described generally what kinds of things
May was working on and specifically said the board was pursuing
a search for a new CEO. He said Mays board and its
management were extremely concerned with the rumors in the
market regarding a potential transaction between the two
companies that were distracting for everyone and a disruption
for Mays business. He informed Mr. Lundgren of the
special role conferred on Mr. Stiritz in connection with
any business combination discussions. Acknowledging the pendency
of the meeting request on behalf of Mr. Lundgren,
Mr. Dunham suggested that Morgan Stanley and Goldman Sachs
should meet before the company representatives did.
Mr. Lundgren agreed to this suggestion.
The following day a representative of Morgan Stanley met with a
representative of Goldman Sachs. They discussed shareholder
value, the fact that Federated considered this transaction an
acquisition of May rather than a merger-of-equals and that
Federated could move very quickly to a definitive agreement. In
addition, Goldman Sachs reiterated Mr. Lundgrens
request for a meeting of senior executives of both companies in
St. Louis and specifically suggested it occur on Wednesday,
January 26. The meeting took place on January 26, 2005. May
was represented by Mr. Dunham and Mr. William P.
McNamara, vice chairman. Federated was represented by
Mr. Lundgren, Mr. Thomas G. Cody, vice chair, and
Mr. Tysoe. Morgan Stanley and Goldman Sachs also attended.
Mr. Lundgren described his vision for a combined
Federated-May, namely creating the premier fashion retailer in
the United States. Mr. Lundgren expressed his interest in
retaining Mays associates, having a divisional
headquarters in St. Louis as well as a regional corporate
presence and incorporating best practices from both companies.
He said Federated was willing to move
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quickly toward executing a definitive agreement and would make a
strong contractual commitment to complete the deal.
Mr. Lundgren did not discuss price, but said Federated
wished to acquire all outstanding shares of May in exchange for
a combination of cash and Federated common stock.
Mr. Dunham emphasized he was not in a position to negotiate
a transaction or to discuss price. He said he and Mays
management would discuss the matter with the board, and if there
were interest in pursuing a transaction, the two companies would
need to enter into an appropriate confidentiality agreement.
Concurrently on January 26, Morgan Stanley met separately
with Goldman Sachs. They discussed in general terms the
structure of a possible transaction, Federateds
willingness to undertake a strong contractual commitment to
close the transaction, Federateds intention to increase
the post-closing annual dividend to $1.00 per share and the
possibility of May designating two of its board members to the
Federated board. In addition, Goldman Sachs conveyed
Federateds belief that due diligence could be completed
very quickly.
On the morning of January 31, 2005, May held a previously
scheduled board meeting. Management gave the board a general
update on January sales and a status report on the integration
of Marshall Fields. Following that discussion,
representatives of Morgan Stanley joined the meeting. They and
May management reported to the board on the prior weeks
meeting with Federated and informed the board that
Mr. Lundgren had called Mr. Dunham to tell him
Federateds board would be meeting later in the day and he
would then be sending a letter to the attention of
Mr. Stiritz and Mr. Dunham.
On the afternoon of January 31, 2005, the Federated board
met to receive an update from management and Goldman Sachs on
the discussions with May, and authorized management to make a
formal offer to May. Following the board meeting, Federated
delivered a letter to the board of directors of May
communicating Federateds proposal to acquire May. Quoting
directly from the letter, the specific elements of the
proposal consisted of the following:
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Based on the information currently available to us, Federated is
prepared to offer $33.25 per share for all the outstanding
common stock of May. This price represents a premium of
approximately 20% to both the closing price of Mays stock
on January 13, 2005 and to the 3-year average price prior
to that date. We are contemplating a cash and stock transaction
involving 40% cash and 60% stock, assuming a fixed number of
Federated shares. |
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Our projected financial plan anticipates raising the current
Federated dividend significantly to $1.00 per share after
closing. |
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The capital structure of the new company contemplates that there
will be significant share repurchases in the future, while at
the same time preserving the companys investment grade
rating. |
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In order to ensure that there is some continuity of the May
perspective in the boardroom, we are willing to discuss adding
two existing May directors to the Federated Board should there
be an interest in doing so. |
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The Federated Board of Directors has been fully briefed on this
proposal and is very excited about the prospect of putting our
two companies together. We are prepared to act quickly to
execute a definitive agreement and consummate a transaction as
soon as possible. Our team and advisors are available to
complete our due diligence immediately. As we explained to [Mr.
Dunham and Mr. McNamara] last week, we do not anticipate
any delays in our ability to expeditiously complete a
transaction and we are prepared to provide your Board with a
strong contractual commitment to close the acquisition. |
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This proposal should be considered non-binding and is subject
to, among other things, the satisfactory completion of our due
diligence and the negotiation and execution of a mutually
satisfactory merger agreement. We would expect the definitive
documentation to contain customary representations and
warranties, closing conditions and no-shop and deal protection
provisions. |
The May board met briefly in the afternoon on February 1,
2005, to review and discuss the proposal letter from Federated
and to consider whether and how best to proceed with further
discussions with Federated. The May board reconvened on
February 2, 2005, and again on February 3, 2005, to
discuss Federateds proposal to acquire May, as well as
whether and how to proceed. Among other considerations, the
board believed it was
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necessary to reinstate a version of the confidentiality
agreement that May and Federated had had in place for the 2002
merger of equals discussions, which had expired. Particular
consideration was given to the question whether such agreement
should as had been the case in the 2002
agreement include a mutual standstill
agreement preventing unsolicited tender offers or acquisition
proposals by either side. At the conclusion of the February 3
meeting the board authorized May management and legal counsel to
negotiate a confidentiality agreement, appropriate in the
circumstances, to permit the companies to exchange confidential
financial information as part of a bilateral due diligence. The
board also authorized Morgan Stanley to communicate to Goldman
Sachs on behalf of Federated that the board had rejected
Federateds proposal. On the evening of February 3,
2005, legal counsel for May and Federated discussed, negotiated
and agreed on the form of confidentiality agreement they could
recommend respectively to May and Federated.
On Friday, February 4, 2005, Federated and May signed a
confidentiality agreement which contained standstill obligations
on the parties for a period of 18 months, subject to
certain specified exceptions. Also on February 4, 2005, May
and Federated convened a due diligence conference call that
included Mr. Dunham and Mr. Thomas D. Fingleton,
Mays executive vice president and chief financial officer,
Mr. Thomas G. Cody, Mr. Tysoe and Ms. Karen
M. Hoguet, Federateds chief financial officer, as well as
representatives of Morgan Stanley and Goldman Sachs.
The Federated board met on February 5, 2005. At this board
meeting, Goldman Sachs presented a preliminary analysis of a
Federated-May combination. In addition, legal counsel to
Federated discussed the boards fiduciary duties in the
context of an acquisition transaction.
Between February 5, 2005, and February 7, 2005,
representatives of Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley were in
frequent communication, discussing a variety of issues relating
to how a possible transaction might be structured, what type of
additional information and due diligence was needed to make
progress and how to price the transaction. In the latter regard,
Morgan Stanley informed Goldman Sachs the May board had rejected
the proposal in Federateds January 31 letter because,
among other reasons, the price was not high enough and needed to
be increased substantially.
On February 7, 2005, Federated delivered a second letter to
the May board communicating a revised proposal. The operative
paragraphs of that letter read as follows:
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Federated is prepared to increase its offer by $1.00 to
$34.25 per share. In an effort to pay our best price, we
are also shifting the mix of consideration to 50% cash and 50%
stock. In light of Morgan Stanleys clear guidance that the
upfront purchase price is a priority for May directors, this
change was necessary to deliver maximum value to your
shareholders. As we indicated in our letter of January 31,
2005, we are contemplating offering a unit to Mays
shareholders made up of cash and stock and the number of
Federated shares will be fixed upon acceptance of this proposal. |
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I want to emphasize to you that in formulating this revised
offer we are putting our best foot forward. The
price of 34.25 per share represents a premium in excess of
23% to the closing price of Mays stock on January 13,
2005 and it represents an attractive premium to Mays one,
three and five year average stock price. In addition, I want to
reiterate that we are prepared to enter into a definitive merger
agreement quickly, and we are willing to provide your Board with
a strong contractual commitment to close. |
On February 9, 2005, the May board met to consider
Federateds revised proposal. Management presented a
comparison of expected performance and related results in two
basic scenarios one scenario contemplating
Mays continuing as an independent company and the second
scenario contemplating Federateds acquisition of May.
After considering managements presentation and receipt of
advice from its independent advisors, the board concluded the
acquisition proposal from Federated would be unlikely to produce
value for stockholders superior to the value expected in the
independent company scenario, taking into account the risks and
uncertainties associated with each scenario. Accordingly, the
board rejected the Federated proposal and authorized management
and Mr. Stiritz to seek a higher price.
On February 10, 2005, Messrs. Stiritz and Dunham
called Messrs. Lundgren and Tysoe to convey the May
boards message that the $34.25 price per share was not
adequate and had been rejected by the board.
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Messrs. Stiritz and Dunham also informed
Messrs. Lundgren and Tysoe that the May board had
authorized them to state that the May board would be willing to
entertain favorably, subject to contract terms and conditions, a
proposal from Federated that would equal or exceed a value of
$36 per May share, keeping the consideration split at 50%
cash and 50% Federated common stock. Mr. Lundgren replied
that Federated would not pay $36 per share for Mays
outstanding common stock and that, in view of the May
boards position, there would be no further discussions
because they could serve no purpose.
On February 14, 2005, the May board met for an update
concerning discussions with Federated. The board was informed
that Federated had rejected Mays $36.00 per share
proposal and had said the negotiations were over. The board
reconsidered and reconfirmed the position it had adopted at its
February 9 meeting and instructed Morgan Stanley to refrain from
further discussions with Goldman Sachs or Federated. The board
also instructed management to pursue the strategic plan for
remaining independent presented to the board at the February 9
meeting and advised that the search for a new CEO would continue.
On February 16, 2005, the Federated board met
telephonically to receive an update from management and Goldman
Sachs on discussions with May, and authorized management to
increase the offer price for May.
On February 17, 2005, Federated sent a letter to the May
board proposing to reconvene the discussions between the two
companies on a revised basis. The text of the letter was as
follows:
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I am writing to convey the terms of a revised and final proposal
whereby Federated would acquire all of the common stock of May. |
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Federated is prepared to increase its offer by $1.00 to
$35.25 per share in a transaction comprised of 50% cash and
50% stock. As indicated in our letter of February 7, 2005,
we are offering May shareholders consideration in the form of a
unit made up of cash and stock where the number of Federated
shares will be fixed based on our closing price of $57.39 on
February 16, 2005.(1) |
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I believe both our companies need to promptly resolve the matter
of the potential merger. The leaks and rumors about a possible
transaction have been damaging to both Federated and May. Under
the circumstances, we are prepared to immediately commence our
due diligence and simultaneously negotiate a definitive merger
agreement. If at all possible, it would be our intention to
announce a transaction concurrent with the release of our year
end financials on Tuesday, February 22, 2005. Therefore, in
the spirit of trying to bring our respective efforts to
negotiate a transaction to a swift conclusion, this proposal
will remain open until 12:00 noon (EST) on Friday,
February 18, 2005. |
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I look forward to hearing back from you as soon as possible. |
Later on February 17, 2005, after consultation with Morgan
Stanley and Skadden Arps, legal counsel to May, on the subject
of the letter, Mr. Stiritz and Mr. Dunham called
Mr. Lundgren. They told him May would not be able to meet
the one-day deadline set in the letter, among other reasons
because it would be necessary to convene an in-person board
meeting to respond. They also told him May was prepared to begin
working on a draft merger agreement but that the May board would
only negotiate price if the parties could agree on a mutually
acceptable form of merger agreement and could complete all their
due diligence inquiries. They specifically expressed doubt that
the $35.25 price proposed would be acceptable to the May board.
Finally, they said they did not think the February 22 target for
an announcement was realistic. On February 18, 2005,
Mr. Tysoe called Mr. Dunham to tell him May would
shortly receive a draft merger agreement which he thought could
be fully negotiated to the parties mutual satisfaction in
a very short time. Later the same day Federateds legal
counsel distributed a draft merger agreement to May and its
legal counsel.
Between February 19, 2005 and February 23, 2005,
Federated and May, together with their legal and financial
advisors, conducted reciprocal business and legal due diligence.
On February 23, 2005, May retained
(1) The computation implied by this proposal
(50% × $35.25 = $17.63 and
$17.63/$57.39 = 0.3072) resulted in a price of $17.63
in cash and 0.3072 shares of Federated common stock for
each share of May common stock.
48
Peter J. Solomon Company as an additional financial advisor in
connection with the possible business combination transaction
with Federated. May retained Peter J. Solomon Company because of
its qualifications, reputation and experience, particularly its
expertise as a financial advisor in the retail sector, and
because, in light of the extraordinary nature and significance
of the proposed transaction to May and the size and complexity
of the proposed transaction, the May board of directors believed
May and its stockholders would benefit from Peter J. Solomon
Companys advice. That day, counsel to May distributed a
revised draft of the merger agreement to Federated and its
counsel.
During the week of February 21, 2005, Mr. Lundgren
called Mr. Stiritz on one or two occasions and they
discussed the progress of the negotiations.
On February 24, 2005, representatives of May and its legal
counsel held a telephonic meeting with representatives of
Federated and its legal counsel to discuss Mays comments
on the draft merger agreement. Many issues were resolved as a
result of that conversation. Issues that remained open included
the language regarding the parties obligations to obtain
governmental approvals, conditions, termination events and
related termination fee triggers, various issues relating to how
all May associates would be treated in the merger and thereafter
and how the merger would affect various May employee benefit
programs. The principal focus of these discussions for May was
minimizing the risk of non-consummation of the merger because of
regulatory or other obstacles.
Between February 24, 2005, and February 27, 2005,
representatives of May and its legal counsel continued to
negotiate with representatives of Federated and its legal
counsel over the remaining issues to the merger agreement. The
significant open issues that remained were the size of the break
up fees each party would pay to the other and the language
regarding the parties obligations to obtain governmental
approvals and the consequences attendant upon a failure to do
so. Concurrently with such negotiations, the parties continued
their respective due diligence reviews.
On February 25, 2005, the Federated board convened a
regularly scheduled meeting. At this meeting, the Federated
board reviewed with Federateds management and legal and
financial advisors the status of negotiations with May and the
proposed terms and conditions of the merger. During this
meeting, Federateds management also reviewed the results
of its due diligence investigation. Federateds outside
legal counsel reviewed the material terms and conditions of the
merger agreement, as reflected in the then current draft, the
legal duties and responsibilities of the Federated board in
connection with the proposed merger, and the legal risk profile
of a combination with May. Federateds financial advisor
reviewed its financial analysis of the proposed merger and
indicated that it was prepared to deliver to the Federated board
an opinion to the effect that, as of that date and based upon
and subject to the factors and assumptions set forth in its
opinion, the consideration to be paid for each share of May was
fair, from a financial point of view, to Federated. The
Federated board carefully considered the benefits and risks of a
merger with May to Federated and its stockholders, and following
a thorough discussion, authorized management to continue
negotiations with May on the terms discussed at the meeting.
On the morning of February 26, 2005, May convened its
board. At the meeting, the May board reviewed with Mays
management and legal and financial advisors the status of
negotiations with Federated and the proposed terms and
conditions of the merger. During this meeting, Mays
management also reviewed the results of its due diligence
investigation. Mays outside accountants,
Deloitte & Touche, made a presentation and answered
questions concerning their due diligence investigation of
Federated. Mays outside legal counsel reviewed the
material terms and conditions of the merger agreement, as
reflected in the then current draft. Substantial discussion was
devoted to the provisions relating to the risk of
non-consummation of the merger once it had been agreed and
announced and to the provisions still at issue
including circumstances in which May could negotiate with a
competing bidder, circumstances in which May could terminate the
agreement to accept a better offer, the terms applicable to such
circumstances, including payment of termination fees and the
amounts thereof, and provisions governing the circumstances if
the merger were the subject of opposition from state or federal
antitrust regulators and the amount of a reverse
termination fee that would be payable if Federated terminated
the merger agreement by reason of such opposition. The May board
also received and discussed both financial and tactical advice
from Morgan Stanley, and tactical advice from Skadden Arps,
49
concerning whether and how to attempt to negotiate an
improvement in Federateds proposed merger price. The May
board carefully considered the benefits and risks potentially
accruing to May and its stockholders as a result of a merger
with Federated and following a thorough discussion, gave
negotiating instructions with respect to the open issues in the
merger agreement and authorized Morgan Stanley to communicate
with Goldman Sachs seeking an increase in the merger
consideration.
Later on February 26, 2005, Morgan Stanley informed Goldman
Sachs that the board was divided on the question of price and
that if Federated did not increase its price to a current value
of $36 per share there was no assurance of a favorable May
response and a unanimously favorable board response could be
unlikely. The question of current value was based on whether the
computation of the 50% Federated common stock portion of the
consideration would be calculated on the Friday,
February 25th
closing market price of $56.79 or would remain fixed at the
February 16th closing price of 57.39 which, because of the
decline in stock price, diminished the current value of the
common stock portion of the consideration. Morgan Stanley also
communicated certain other information about the boards
position on other contractual issues. Later that evening
(February 26), R. Dean Wolfe, executive vice president of May,
and Alan E. Charlson, senior vice president and general counsel
of May, spoke with Mr. Tysoe and Dennis R. Broderick,
senior vice president, general counsel and secretary of
Federated, on the subject of Federateds contractual
obligations relating to obtaining antitrust clearance and the
consequences attendant upon a failure to receive such clearance.
As a result of that conversation, legal counsel for Federated
and legal counsel for May worked out mutually acceptable
contractual language to implement the principles discussed in
the earlier conversation.
On the morning of February 27, 2005, Mr. Stiritz
called Mr. Lundgren to reiterate that the May board was
divided on the question of price. He encouraged
Mr. Lundgren to increase Federateds price to
$36 per May share and to compute the 50% common stock
portion of the consideration using Federateds
February 25th
closing price of $56.79. He also stressed the importance of
Federateds making the strongest possible contractual
commitment to obtain the necessary antitrust clearance and the
related importance of the termination fee payable if the merger
did not close because such clearance was not received.
Later in the morning of February 27, 2005, Federated
reconvened its directors meeting to consider Mays request
to increase Federateds offer to $36 per May share. At
this meeting, management of Federated asked the Federated board
for authority to offer up to $35.50 per May share,
comprised of $17.75 in cash and 0.3115 shares of Federated
common stock per May share, the stock component of which was
equal to $17.75 based on the average of the closing prices for
Federateds common stock for the ten trading days ended
Friday, February 25, 2005 (which was $56.99 per
Federated share). Management also asked for authority to pay up
to a $350 million termination fee to May in certain
circumstances and to make certain commitments with respect to
obtaining government approval of the transaction. Legal counsel
to Federated then reviewed again with the Federated board the
legal risk profile of the proposed combination and the changes
that had been made to the merger agreement since the
boards February 25, 2005 meeting. Representatives of
Goldman Sachs then recapped the negotiations that had taken
place with their counterparts at Morgan Stanley since Mays
board meeting had adjourned the day before and delivered its
opinion that, as of February 27, 2005, and based on and
subject to the factors and assumptions set forth in its opinion,
the consideration to be paid for each share of May was fair,
from a financial point of view, to Federated. Following a
thorough discussion, the Federated board determined that the
merger was in the best interests of the stockholders of
Federated and, subject to Mays approval and the
satisfactory negotiation of all open issues, approved the merger
and the merger agreement, resolved to recommend that
stockholders of Federated vote to approve the issuance of
Federated common stock in the merger, and authorized its
executive officers to execute and deliver the merger agreement.
On the afternoon on February 27, 2005, May reconvened its
board to consider Federateds latest proposal. The May
board received a report of the final negotiations of the form of
the merger agreement from its legal counsel, including in
particular the contractual obligations, conditions and
termination rights relating to obtaining regulatory approvals,
payment of a reverse termination fee by Federated if
the merger was not consummated due to antitrust regulatory
opposition, as well as the provisions and termination fees
applicable in situations in which the transaction were made the
subject of competitive bids from third parties or in which
either board withdrew its recommendation of the merger. The
board also received the opinions of Mor-
50
gan Stanley and Peter J. Solomon Company with respect to
the fairness from a financial point of view of the consideration
to be paid by Federated in the merger to May stockholders, as
well as presentations explaining the assumptions, methodologies
and bases for such opinions. Following a thorough discussion,
the May board unanimously (with one abstention) determined that
the merger was in the best interests of the May stockholders and
approved the merger and the merger agreement, resolved to
recommend that May stockholders vote to approve the merger, and
authorized its executive officers to execute and deliver the
merger agreement.
On the evening of February 27, 2005, the parties executed
and delivered the merger agreement. Prior to the commencement of
trading on February 28, 2005, Federated and May issued a
joint press release announcing the execution and delivery of the
merger agreement.
Mays Reasons for the Merger and Recommendation of
Mays Board of Directors
The May board of directors believes that the merger agreement
and the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement,
including the merger, are advisable and fair to and in the best
interests of May and its stockholders. Accordingly, the May
board of directors has approved the merger agreement and the
transactions contemplated by the merger agreement, including the
merger, and recommends that May stockholders vote FOR
approval and adoption of the merger agreement and the
transactions contemplated by the merger agreement, including the
merger.
As described above under Background of the
Merger, the May board of directors, prior to and in
reaching its decision at its meeting on February 27, 2005,
to approve and adopt the merger agreement and the transactions
contemplated by the merger agreement, including the merger,
consulted on numerous occasions with Mays senior executive
officers and Mays financial and legal advisors and
considered a variety of factors weighing positively in favor of
the merger, including, without limitation, the following:
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the strategic nature of the transaction, which will combine
Mays and Federateds respective businesses to create
one of the largest national retail store chains in the United
States, with pro forma combined sales expected to exceed
$30 billion, all of which should provide the combined
company with a strong foundation for improved performance; |
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the May board of directors analysis and understanding of
managements stand-alone plans for May in the
context of the increasingly competitive conditions in the retail
industry generally, including pressures from both discount and
high-end retailers, and the boards analysis of the
business, operations, financial performance, financial
condition, earnings and prospects of May on a stand-alone basis,
particularly in view of Mays recent financial performance
in comparison to Mays peers, and the boards belief,
based on its analysis and understanding, that the combined
company, with its greater size and scale, would be better
positioned to succeed in light of the risks and potential
rewards associated with May continuing to operate on a
stand-alone basis and other alternatives reasonably available to
May, including growth through acquisition of assets or other
companies and disposition of non-strategic assets; |
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the value to be received by holders of May common stock in the
merger, including the fact that, based on the closing price of
Mays common stock on January 14, 2005 (the last full
trading day before the announcement of the resignation of
Chairman and CEO Gene Kahn and rumors of a possible business
combination transaction between May and Federated were reported
by several national news organizations), the value of the merger
consideration represented: |
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a premium of approximately 27.5% over the closing price of May
common stock on the NYSE on January 14, 2005; |
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a premium of approximately 23.7%, 35.5% and 24.3% over the
median closing price of May common stock on the NYSE for the
thirty-day, six-month and twelve-month trading periods,
respectively, ending with January 14, 2005; |
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the fact that the initial 50/50 split of stock and cash in the
merger consideration affords May stockholders both the
opportunity to participate in the growth and opportunities of
the combined company through the stock component of the merger
consideration and to receive cash for the value of their shares
through the cash component of the merger consideration; |
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the fact that May stockholders as a group will own, on a
fully-diluted basis, approximately 35% of the outstanding
Federated common stock immediately following the merger; |
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because the stock portion of the merger consideration is a fixed
number of shares of Federated common stock, the opportunity for
May stockholders to benefit from any increase in the trading
price of Federated common stock between the announcement of the
merger and the completion of the merger, as well as any increase
after completion of the merger; |
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the fact the Federated agreed to increase its quarterly dividend
to $0.25 following completion of the merger; |
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the May board of directors understanding of the historical
information concerning Mays and Federateds
respective businesses, financial performance and condition,
operations, management, competitive positions, prospects and
stock performance, including the report of Mays management
on the results of Mays due diligence review of Federated
and its assets, liabilities, financial condition, business and
prospects, which confirmed the otherwise publicly available
information regarding Federated, confirmed the positive view of
Federateds business, was consistent with the boards
expectations regarding potential operating efficiencies and cost
savings reasonably available as a result of the merger and
supported the boards determination that the combined
company should have a strong foundation for growth and improved
performance; |
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anticipated cost savings and operating synergies available to
the combined company from the merger through consolidation of
central functions, division integrations and the continuation
across the combined company of the best practices and traditions
of May and Federated following completion of the merger which is
expected to positively enhance the combined companys
earnings and create value for stockholders; |
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the potential ability of the combined company to maintain and
strengthen relationships with a broader base of suppliers and
mall operators through improved operational efficiencies in such
areas as marketing and supply chain management; |
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the fact that the business combination with Federated provides
the combined company with additional unique and differentiated
products that should enable the combined company to better
differentiate itself from other retailers and expand the points
of distribution for its private labels in key geographic areas; |
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Morgan Stanleys opinion described in the section entitled
Opinions of Mays Financial
Advisors beginning on page 57, including its analysis
rendered orally on and confirmed in writing as of
February 27, 2005, to the effect that, as of
February 27, 2005, and based on and subject to various
assumptions made, matters considered and limitations described
in its written opinion, the consideration proposed to be
received by holders of May common stock in the merger agreement
was fair, from a financial point of view, to such holders; |
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Peter J. Solomon Companys opinion described in the section
entitled Opinions of Mays Financial
Advisors beginning on page 57, including its analysis
rendered orally on and confirmed in writing as of
February 27, 2005, to the effect that, as of
February 27, 2005, and based on and subject to various
assumptions made, matters considered and limitations described
in its written opinion, the consideration proposed to be
received by holders of May common stock in the merger was fair,
from a financial point of view, to such holders; |
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the fact that the May board of directors had not received any
indications of interest from other parties regarding a potential
business combination despite public speculation and commentary
regarding a potential business combination transaction involving
May; |
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the fact that May stockholders who dissent from the merger will
have appraisal rights, as described in the section entitled
Appraisal Rights of May Stockholders
beginning on page 88; |
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the expected qualification of the merger as a reorganization
within the meaning of Section 368(a) of the Internal
Revenue Code, resulting in the common stock portion of the
merger consideration to be received by May stockholders not
being subject to federal income tax, as described in the section
entitled Material United States Federal Income Tax
Consequences beginning on page 92; |
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the May boards belief, in light of the commitments made by
Federated in the merger agreement, that, based on available
information, the transaction should not present an unacceptable
risk of non-consummation due to antitrust concerns; and |
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the terms and conditions of the merger agreement, including: |
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the fact that the terms of the merger agreement provide that,
under certain circumstances, and subject to certain conditions
more fully described in the section entitled The Merger
Agreement Covenants and Agreements No
Solicitation by May beginning on page 104, May can
furnish information to and conduct negotiations with a third
party in connection with an unsolicited proposal for a business
combination or acquisition of May that is likely to lead to a
superior proposal and the May board of directors can terminate
the merger agreement for a superior proposal or change its
recommendation prior to stockholder approval of the merger
agreement; |
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the fact that there are limited circumstances in which the board
of directors of Federated may change or modify its
recommendation to its stockholders to approve the issuance of
shares of Federated common stock in the merger, and that
Federated agreed to pay a termination fee of $350 million
to May in the event that the board of directors of Federated
changes or modifies its recommendation, as described in the
section entitled The Merger Agreement
Termination Fees beginning on page 114; |
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the fact that Federated agreed to pay a termination fee to May
ranging from $150 million to $350 million in the event
that the merger agreement is terminated due to a failure to
obtain necessary antitrust clearance; |
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the fact that the completion of the merger is not conditioned on
Federateds obtaining financing; |
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the fact that the conditions required to be satisfied prior to
completion of the merger are customary and can be expected to be
fulfilled in the ordinary course and the corresponding
likelihood that the merger will be consummated; |
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the fact that two members of the May board of directors are
expected to be appointed to the Federated board of directors,
which is expected to provide a degree of continuity and
involvement by May directors in the combined company following
the merger; |
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the fact that Federated agreed to continue all of Mays
employee benefit plans in accordance with their terms in effect
immediately prior to the effective time of the merger for one
year after the merger and, for the second and third years after
the merger, Federated agreed to provide a substantially
comparable level of compensation and employee benefits
(excluding equity-based awards) to all continuing May employees
(other than those subject to collective bargaining obligations
or agreements); |
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the fact that Federated agreed to maintain a major division
headquarters, as well as certain regional corporate support
functions, in St. Louis, which the May board of directors
considered important in light of Mays importance to the
St. Louis area and the effect on employees; and |
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the fact that Federated agreed to honor Mays existing
charitable contribution commitments and fund future charitable
contributions (subject to certain agreed parameters). |
53
In addition to these factors, the May board of directors also
considered the potential adverse impact of other factors
weighing negatively against the proposed transaction, including,
without limitation, the following:
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the risk that, notwithstanding the likelihood of the
mergers being completed, the merger might not be
completed, including the effect of the pendency of the merger
and such failure to be completed may have on: |
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the trading price of May common stock; |
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Mays operating results, including the costs incurred in
connection with the transaction; |
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Mays ability to attract and retain key personnel; and |
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Mays ability to retain customers and maintain sales; |
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the possibility of significant costs and delays resulting from
seeking antitrust clearance necessary for completion of the
proposed merger; |
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because the stock portion of the merger consideration is a fixed
number of shares of Federated common stock, May stockholders
could be adversely affected by a decrease in the trading price
of Federated common stock after the date of execution of the
merger agreement, and the merger agreement does not provide May
with a price-based termination right or other similar protection
for May or its stockholders (other than in order to protect the
tax-free nature of the transaction to the extent of the stock
consideration to be received by May stockholders in the merger,
as discussed in The Merger Agreement Merger
Consideration beginning on page 97); |
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the limitations imposed in the merger agreement that restrict,
among other things, Mays ability prior to the completion
of the merger to solicit or enter into any agreement relating to
an alternative business combination, or enter into any
discussions of any proposals that may lead to an alternative
business combination, as more fully described in the section
entitled The Merger Agreement Covenants and
Agreements No Solicitation by May beginning on
page 104; |
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the requirement that May must pay to Federated a termination fee
of $350 million if the merger agreement is
terminated under circumstances specified in the merger
agreement, as described in the section entitled The Merger
Agreement Termination Fees beginning on
page 114; |
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the challenges inherent in combining the businesses, operations
and workforces of two large companies, including the possibility
that management may be distracted from regular business concerns
by (1) unforeseen difficulties in integrating operations
and systems and (2) possible employee uncertainty in the
face of potential workforce reductions and difficulties in
assimilating employees; |
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the likelihood of realizing and the risks of not realizing the
expected operating synergies and cost savings; and |
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the risks described in the section entitled Risk
Factors beginning on page 22. |
The May board of directors also considered the interests that
certain executive officers and directors of May may have with
respect to the merger in addition to their interests as
stockholders of May generally, as described in the Section
entitled Interests of Mays Directors and
Executive Officers in the Merger on page 83, which
the May board of directors considered as being neutral in its
evaluation of the proposed transaction.
The May board of directors concluded that the positive factors
significantly outweighed the negative and neutral factors
described above. This discussion of the information and factors
considered by the May board of directors includes material
positive, negative and neutral factors considered by the May
board of directors, but it is not intended to be exhaustive and
may not include all of the factors considered by the May board
of directors. In reaching its determination to approve and
recommend the merger agreement and the transactions contemplated
by the merger agreement, including the merger, the May board of
directors did not find it useful to and did not quantify or
assign any relative or specific weights to the various factors
that it considered in reaching its determination that the merger
agreement and the transactions contemplated by the merger
54
agreement, including the merger, are advisable and fair to and
in the best interests of May and its stockholders. Rather, the
May board of directors viewed its position and recommendation as
being based on an overall analysis and on the totality of the
information presented to and factors considered by it. In
addition, in considering the factors described above, individual
members of the May board of directors may have given differing
weights to different factors.
After considering this information, the May board of directors
approved the merger agreement and the transactions contemplated
by the merger agreement, including the merger, and recommended
that May stockholders approve and adopt the merger agreement and
the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement, including
the merger.
Federateds Reasons for the Merger and Recommendation of
Federateds Board of Directors
Federateds board of directors has approved the merger
agreement and determined that the transactions contemplated by
the merger agreement are advisable and in the best interests of
Federated and its stockholders. Federateds board of
directors recommends that Federated stockholders vote FOR
the proposal to authorize the issuance of Federated common stock
pursuant to the terms of the merger agreement at the Federated
annual meeting.
In reaching its conclusion to approve the merger and the related
transactions and to recommend that Federated stockholders
authorize the issuance of Federated common stock in connection
with the merger, the Federated board considered the following
factors as generally supporting its decision to enter into the
merger agreement.
Strategic Considerations. Federateds board believes
that the merger with May will provide a number of significant
strategic opportunities and benefits, including the following,
all of which it viewed as generally supporting its decision to
approve the merger with May:
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The merger is expected to create a more efficient, competitive
national retailer, with approximately $30 billion in annual
revenues and significantly broader geographic coverage, with a
total of approximately 1,650 stores (including approximately 700
bridal and formalwear stores) in 49 states, Guam, Puerto
Rico and the District of Columbia. The combined companies will
own and operate stores in 64 of the nations top 65
geographic areas with relatively little overlap. |
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The merger with May will provide the combined companies with an
opportunity to compete more effectively in the highly
competitive, broad-based retail environment, including with
national retailers such as Sears/ K-Mart, J.C. Penneys,
Target, Wal-Mart, The Limited, Linens n Things, Bed,
Bath & Beyond, Nordstroms, Kohls,
Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue and others. |
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Federateds board of directors also considered
managements view that the combined companies should
produce cost synergies of approximately $175 million in
2006 and approximately $450 million in 2007, resulting from
purchasing efficiencies, the ability to advertise nationally,
the consolidation of corporate services and headquarters
functions, reductions in distribution and marketing costs, and
the adoption of best practices across the combined companies,
all of which will increase competition and benefit consumers.
These benefits are expected to be realized by the end of 2007,
and the merger is expected to be accretive to Federateds
per share earnings in 2007. While these synergies reflect
managements estimates, the Federated board recognized
there could be no assurance that they would be achieved. In
addition, the potential to realize greater synergies represents
an additional factor considered by Federateds board. |
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Federateds board also considered the possibility of
achieving higher comparable store sales growth as a result of
leveraging the combined companies best people, products
and practices and enhanced ability to compete in the retail
industry on a national scale. |
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Federateds board considered the opportunities and benefits
of extending its business into additional geographic areas as a
result of the merger. May has a strong list of retail store
assets located in the midwest and elsewhere, including
Famous-Barr, Filenes, Foleys, Hechts,
Kaufmanns, |
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Lord & Taylor, L.S. Ayers, Marshall Fields,
Meier & Frank, Robinsons-May, Strawbridges and
The Jones Store, which complement Federateds current
geographic footprint. |
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Federateds board considered that Federated will be able to
augment its talent pool with the most capable managers from May. |
Other Factors Considered by the Federated Board. In
addition to considering the strategic factors outlined above,
the Federated board considered the following additional factors,
all of which it viewed as generally supporting its decision to
approve the merger with May:
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historical information concerning Mays and
Federateds respective businesses, financial performance
and condition, operations, management, competitive positions and
stock performance, including the results of the due diligence
review of Mays assets, liabilities, financial condition,
businesses and operations, which indicated that there were no
material risks associated with acquiring May, and which were
consistent with the expectations of the board as to potential
operating efficiencies and cost savings as well as other
strategic and financial benefits reasonably anticipated as a
result of the merger, and which comparisons and review generally
informed the boards determination as to the relative
values of Federated, May and the combined companies, enabling
Federated to increase the value of the merger consideration; |
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managements strategy of potentially re-branding many May
stores as Macys, which re-branding strategy management
believes will be successful based on the success of the
co-branding strategy with respect to Federateds regional
stores; |
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managements assessment that the proposed merger was likely
to meet certain criteria they deemed necessary for a successful
merger strategic fit, acceptable execution risk, and
financial benefits to Federated and Federateds
stockholders; |
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the financial analyses and presentations of Federateds
financial advisor and its opinion that, as of February 27,
2005, the consideration to be paid to the May stockholders in
the merger was fair, from a financial point of view, to
Federated (the written opinion of Goldman Sachs is attached as
Annex D to this joint proxy statement/ prospectus
and discussed in detail under Opinion of
Federateds Financial Advisor beginning on
page 75); |
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the terms and conditions of the merger agreement, including: |
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the limited number and nature of the conditions to Mays
obligation to consummate the merger and the limited risk of
non-satisfaction of such conditions; and |
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|
that Federated may be entitled to receive a $350 million
termination fee from May if the merger is not consummated for
certain reasons; |
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|
the determination that an exchange ratio that is fixed, subject
to adjustment in certain circumstances in Federateds
discretion, is appropriate to reflect the strategic purpose of
the merger and consistent with market practice for mergers of
this type and that a fixed exchange ratio avoids fluctuations
caused by near-term market volatility; and |
|
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|
the likelihood that the merger will be completed on a timely
basis, including the likelihood that the merger will receive all
necessary antitrust and other regulatory approvals without
unacceptable conditions on a timely basis. |
Potential Risks Considered by the Federated Board.
Federateds board of directors also considered the
potential risks of the merger and potential conflicts of
interest, including the following:
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|
the challenges of combining the operations of two major retail
businesses and effecting certain cultural changes; |
|
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|
the possible disruptions from certain anticipated workforce
reductions to be implemented as part of the merger integration
plan; |
56
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|
the risk that anticipated operating profit synergies and cost
savings will not be achieved (or the risk that certain cost
savings will adversely affect operating profits); |
|
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|
the one-time costs of the acquisition and integration, which
management estimated at approximately $1 billion spread
over a three-year period; |
|
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the risk that Federated may be required under the merger
agreement to commit to dispose of assets of the combined
companies valued at up to $4 billion if required by any
governmental entity in order to obtain antitrust clearance for
the merger; |
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|
the risk that Federated will have to pay May a fee of up to
$350 million if the merger agreement is terminated under
certain circumstances; |
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the potential dilution to Federateds stockholders; and |
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the risk of diverting managements attention from other
strategic priorities to implement merger integration efforts. |
The foregoing discussion of the information and factors
considered by Federateds board of directors is not meant
to be exhaustive but is believed to include all material factors
considered by it in connection with its determination that the
terms of the merger agreement, including the issuance of
Federated common stock in the merger, are advisable and in the
best interests of Federated and its stockholders. In view of the
wide variety of factors considered in connection with its
evaluation of the merger and the complexity of these matters,
the Federated board did not find it useful, and did not attempt,
to quantify, rank or otherwise assign relative weights to these
factors. In considering the factors described above, individual
members of the Federated board may have given different weight
to different factors. The Federated board conducted an overall
analysis of the factors described above, including thorough
discussions with, and questioning of, Federateds
management and Federateds legal and financial advisors,
and considered the factors overall to be favorable to, and to
support, its determination. The Federated board also considered
the experience and expertise of Goldman Sachs, its financial
advisor, in reviewing quantitative analyses of the financial
terms of the merger. See Opinion of
Federateds Financial Advisor beginning on
page 75.
Opinions of Mays Financial Advisors
May retained Morgan Stanley to provide financial advisory
services in connection with the proposed merger with Federated.
The May board of directors selected Morgan Stanley to act as
Mays financial advisor based on Morgan Stanleys
qualifications, expertise and reputation and its knowledge of
the business and affairs of May. At the meeting of the May board
of directors on February 27, 2005, Morgan Stanley rendered
its oral opinion, subsequently confirmed in writing, as of
February 27, 2005, that based upon and subject to the
assumptions, qualifications and limitations set forth in the
opinion, the consideration to be received by the holders of
shares of May common stock pursuant to the merger agreement was
fair from a financial point of view to such holders.
The full text of Morgan Stanleys opinion, dated as of
February 27, 2005, which sets forth, among other things,
the assumptions made, procedures followed, matters considered
and limitations on the review undertaken by Morgan Stanley in
rendering its opinion is attached as Annex B to this
joint proxy statement-prospectus. We urge you to read this
opinion carefully and in its entirety. Morgan Stanleys
opinion is directed to the board of directors of May, addresses
only the fairness from a financial point of view of the
consideration to be received by the holders of May common stock
pursuant to the merger agreement and does not address any other
aspect of the merger or constitute a recommendation to any May
stockholder as to how to vote at the annual meeting. This
summary is qualified in its entirety by reference to the full
text of the opinion.
57
In connection with rendering its opinion, Morgan Stanley, among
other things:
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|
reviewed certain publicly available financial statements and
other business and financial information of May and Federated,
respectively; |
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|
reviewed certain internal financial statements and other
financial and operating data concerning May prepared by the
management of May; |
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|
reviewed certain financial projections prepared by the
management of May; |
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|
discussed the past and current operations and financial
condition and the prospects of May, with senior executives of
May; |
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|
discussed the past and current operations and financial
condition and the prospects of Federated, with senior executives
of Federated; |
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discussed certain limited financial projections for Federated
with the management of Federated; |
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discussed limited pro forma financial projections, including
information relating to strategic, financial and operational
benefits and issues anticipated from the merger, with senior
executives of Federated; |
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discussed the strategic rationale of the merger with the
management of May and Federated; |
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reviewed the pro forma impact of the merger on Federateds
publicly available operating statistics, consolidated
capitalization and financial ratios; |
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|
reviewed the reported prices and trading activity for May common
stock and Federated common stock; |
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compared the financial performance of May and Federated and the
prices and trading activity of May common stock and Federated
common stock with that of certain other comparable
publicly-traded companies and their securities; |
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reviewed the financial terms, to the extent publicly available,
of certain comparable acquisition transactions; |
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participated in discussions and negotiations among
representatives of May, Federated and their financial and legal
advisors; |
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reviewed the draft merger agreement, dated February 27,
2005 and certain related documents; and |
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considered such other factors and performed such other analyses
as Morgan Stanley deemed appropriate. |
In arriving at its opinion, among other things, Morgan Stanley
assumed and relied upon without independent verification the
accuracy and completeness of the information supplied or
otherwise made available to it by May and Federated for the
purposes of its opinion. With respect to the financial
projections supplied to Morgan Stanley or discussed with Morgan
Stanley, including information relating to strategic, financial
and operational benefits and issues anticipated from the merger,
Morgan Stanley assumed they were reasonably prepared on bases
reflecting the best currently available estimates and judgments
of the future financial performance of May and Federated. For
purposes of its analysis with respect to Federated and after
discussions with the management of Federated, Morgan Stanley
used and relied on publicly available projections of equity
research analysts who report on Federated. Morgan Stanley also
relied without independent verification on the assessments of
management of May and Federated of the strategic rationale of
the merger. In addition, Morgan Stanley assumed that the merger
would be consummated in accordance with the terms set forth in
the merger agreement with no material waiver, delay or
amendment, including, among other things, that the merger would
be treated as a tax-free reorganization, pursuant to the
Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended. Morgan Stanley
assumed that in connection with the receipt of all the necessary
regulatory and other approvals and consents for the proposed
merger, no restrictions would be imposed that would have a
material adverse effect on the contemplated benefits expected to
be derived in the proposed merger. Morgan Stanley is not a
legal, regulatory, accounting or tax expert and assumed the
accuracy and veracity of assessments by such advisors to May and
Federated with respect to such issues. Morgan Stanley
58
also relied upon, without independent verification, the
assessment by the management of Federated and May of the timing
and risks associated with the integration of Federated and May.
Morgan Stanley did not make any independent valuation or
appraisal of the assets or liabilities of May or Federated, nor
was it furnished with any such appraisals. Morgan Stanleys
opinion was necessarily based on financial, economic, market and
other conditions as in effect on, and the information made
available to it as of, the date of its opinion.
The following is a summary of the material financial analyses
performed by Morgan Stanley in connection with its oral opinion
and the preparation of its written opinion. Although each
analysis was provided to the May board of directors, in
connection with arriving at its opinion, Morgan Stanley
considered all of its analysis as a whole and did not attribute
any particular weight to any analysis described below. These
summaries of financial analyses include information presented in
tabular format. In order to fully understand the financial
analyses used by Morgan Stanley, the tables must be read
together with the text of each summary. The tables alone do not
constitute a complete description of the financial analyses.
In connection with its analysis, Morgan Stanley calculated the
per share implied merger consideration for each
share of May common stock pursuant to the merger agreement,
which provides for the payment of $17.75 in cash and
0.3115 shares of Federated common stock for each share of
May common stock. Based on the average price per share of
Federated common stock for the ten-day trading period ending
February 25, 2005, which was $56.99, the implied merger
consideration as of February 25, 2005, was $35.50, which
was the sum of $17.75 plus $17.75 (the product of 0.3115
multiplied by $56.99).
In addition, for purposes of its analysis, Morgan Stanley noted
that both May and Federated have fiscal years ending on
January 31, so references to specific years in the
following analyses refer to fiscal years ending on January 31 of
the following year. For example, a reference to 2007 earnings
per share represents the earnings per share for the fiscal year
ending January 31, 2008.
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Historical Common Stock Performance |
Morgan Stanley performed an historical share price analysis to
provide the May board with background information and
perspective with respect to the historical share prices of May
and Federated common stock.
Consequently, Morgan Stanley reviewed the historical closing
prices and average closing prices of May common stock over
various periods during the last ten years. The tables below
summarize the historical performance of May common stock during
the periods specified.
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|
Average | |
May Common Stock Average Share Price(1)(2) |
|
per Share | |
for Period Ending February 25, 2005 |
|
Price ($) | |
|
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| |
6 Months
|
|
|
28.31 |
|
1 Year
|
|
|
28.94 |
|
2 Years
|
|
|
27.22 |
|
3 Years
|
|
|
27.68 |
|
5 Years
|
|
|
29.05 |
|
10 Years
|
|
|
31.38 |
|
|
|
(1) |
Represents unweighted average |
|
(2) |
Represents split-adjusted prices |
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|
|
|
|
|
May Common Stock Historical Trading Range |
|
Low | |
|
High | |
for Period Ending February 25, 2005 |
|
($) | |
|
($) | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
6 Months
|
|
|
24 |
|
|
|
35 |
|
1 Year
|
|
|
24 |
|
|
|
36 |
|
3 Years
|
|
|
18 |
|
|
|
38 |
|
Morgan Stanley noted that the per share implied merger
consideration for May common stock was $35.50 calculated as of
February 25, 2005.
59
Morgan Stanley also reviewed the historical trading ranges of
Federated common stock during various periods over the last
three years. The table below summarizes the historical
performance of Federated common stock during the periods
specified.
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|
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|
|
|
|
|
|
Federated Common Stock Historical Trading Range |
|
Low | |
|
High | |
for Period Ending February 25, 2005 |
|
($) | |
|
($) | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
6 Months
|
|
|
43 |
|
|
|
59 |
|
1 Year
|
|
|
43 |
|
|
|
59 |
|
3 Years
|
|
|
24 |
|
|
|
59 |
|
Morgan Stanley noted that the price per share of Federated
common stock as of February 25, 2005, was $56.79.
|
|
|
Historical Relative Stock Price Analysis |
Morgan Stanley reviewed the closing share prices of May common
stock relative to the corresponding closing share prices of
Federated common stock during various periods over the last five
years to provide background information and perspective on the
relationship between May and Federated common stock. Morgan
Stanley examined these historical relative stock prices and the
following table summarizes its analysis:
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|
|
|
|
|
|
Implied | |
|
|
Historical | |
|
May Common | |
|
|
Relative Stock | |
|
Stock Price | |
Period Ending February 25, 2005 |
|
Price (x) | |
|
per Share ($)(2) | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
February 25, 2005
|
|
|
0.622 |
|
|
|
35.35 |
|
January 14, 2005(1)
|
|
|
0.477 |
|
|
|
27.84 |
|
Last 6 Months
|
|
|
0.541 |
|
|
|
30.72 |
|
Last 1 Year
|
|
|
0.571 |
|
|
|
32.43 |
|
Last 2 Years
|
|
|
0.607 |
|
|
|
34.47 |
|
Last 3 Years
|
|
|
0.675 |
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|
|
38.36 |
|
Last 5 Years
|
|
|
0.749 |
|
|
|
42.53 |
|
|
|
(1) |
Last trading day prior to reports appearing in the popular press
regarding a potential transaction |
|
(2) |
Calculated by multiplying the historical relative stock price
for a given period by Federateds closing share price of
$56.79 as of February 25, 2005, with the exception of the
January 14, 2005 implied price which was based on
Federateds closing share price of $58.37 as of that date |
Morgan Stanley noted that the implied merger consideration for
May common stock was $35.50 and the implied relative stock price
(assuming no cash consideration) was 0.625x, each calculated as
of February 25, 2005.
60
|
|
|
Historical Forward P/ E Ratio Analysis |
Morgan Stanley reviewed and compared the historical forward P/E
ratios for May and Federated during various periods over the
last five years to provide background information and
perspective on the relationship between May and Federated common
stock trading levels. These ratios are calculated by dividing
the share price as of a certain date by the 12-month forward
EPS, or future earnings per share, estimate as of that same date
based on the I/B/E/S median of publicly available equity
research projections. I/B/E/S is a data source that monitors and
publishes a compilation of earnings per share estimates produced
by selected research analysts on companies of interest to
investors. Morgan Stanley examined these ratios during various
periods ending February 25, 2005. These average historical
forward P/ E ratios, as well as the implied premium of
Mays ratios to those of Federated, are as follows:
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|
P/E Ratios | |
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| |
|
May | |
Period Ending February 25, 2005 |
|
May | |
|
Federated | |
|
Premium | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
February 25, 2005
|
|
|
15.6x |
|
|
|
12.4x |
|
|
|
26.4 |
% |
January 14, 2005
|
|
|
12.2x |
|
|
|
12.7x |
|
|
|
(4.2 |
)% |
Last 6 Months
|
|
|
12.1x |
|
|
|
11.8x |
|
|
|
3.0 |
% |
Last 1 Year
|
|
|
12.4x |
|
|
|
11.9x |
|
|
|
4.1 |
% |
Last 2 Years
|
|
|
12.7x |
|
|
|
11.7x |
|
|
|
8.6 |
% |
Last 3 Years
|
|
|
12.2x |
|
|
|
10.9x |
|
|
|
11.5 |
% |
Last 5 Years
|
|
|
11.6x |
|
|
|
10.3x |
|
|
|
13.6 |
% |
All-Time High (during the last 5 years)
|
|
|
16.9x |
(1) |
|
|
14.1x |
(2) |
|
|
19.9 |
% |
|
|
(1) |
As of February 18, 2004 |
|
(2) |
As of March 4, 2004 |
Morgan Stanley noted that the implied forward P/ E multiple
based on the implied merger consideration for May common stock
of $35.50 calculated as of February 25, 2005, was 15.7x,
which implied a premium of 27.0% for the implied merger
consideration.
|
|
|
Selected Precedent Transaction Analysis |
Morgan Stanley also performed a precedent transaction analysis,
which is designed to provide a valuation of May based on
publicly available financial terms and premia of selected
transactions that share some characteristics with the merger. In
selecting the transactions it used in this analysis, Morgan
Stanley reviewed transactions since January 1, 2000 to
present with an aggregate value greater than $10 billion
involving cash consideration representing between 25% and 50% of
the transactions total aggregate value. In this analysis,
aggregate value is a measure of each companys
value that is calculated by adding its market capitalization,
total debt, preferred shares and minority interest less cash and
cash equivalents.
In its analysis, Morgan Stanley reviewed the following precedent
transactions:
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GPU Inc./ FirstEnergy |
|
|
|
Banacci/ Citigroup |
|
|
|
Sears Roebuck/ KMart Holding Corp |
|
|
|
Guidant/ Johnson & Johnson |
|
|
|
Times Mirror/ Tribune |
|
|
|
Aventis/ Sanofi-Synthelabo |
|
|
|
Caesars Entertainment/ Harrahs Entertainment |
|
|
|
Credit Commercial de France/ HSBC |
61
From these selected transactions, Morgan Stanley, based on its
experience with the department store industry generally and
large merger and acquisition transactions, derived a reference
range of premia paid relative to the trading share prices at two
different periods of time preceding the announcement of a
transaction. The premium paid relative to the share price four
weeks prior to deal announcement ranged from 15.5% to 67.1%,
with a median of 32.8%. The premium paid relative to the share
price one day prior to deal announcement ranged from 7.0% to
96.1%, with an average of 17.1%. Morgan Stanley then selected an
unaffected premium range of 20% to 30% based on the precedent
transactions listed above and applied that range to the May
common stock price as of January 14, 2005, the last trading
day prior to news reports appearing in the popular press
regarding potential discussions between May and Federated. The
analysis resulted in a range of implied values of $33 to
$36 per share of May common stock.
Morgan Stanley noted that the per share implied merger
consideration for May common stock was $35.50 calculated as of
February 25, 2005.
No transaction utilized in the selected precedent transactions
analysis is identical to the merger. In evaluating the
transactions, Morgan Stanley made judgments and assumptions with
regard to industry performance, general business, economic,
market and financial conditions and other matters, many of which
are beyond the control of May or Federated, such as the impact
of competition on May or Federated and the industry generally,
industry growth and the absence of any adverse material change
in the financial condition and prospects of May or Federated or
in the financial markets in general. Mathematical analysis, such
as determining the mean or median, or the high or the low, is
not in itself a meaningful method of using comparable
transaction data.
|
|
|
Present Value of Equity Research Analyst Targets |
Morgan Stanley reviewed publicly available equity research on
May and Federated and used the per share price targets from
these research reports to arrive at a range of present values
per share of May and Federated common stock.
For May, Morgan Stanley considered the range of publicly
available equity research analyst price targets prior to
January 14, 2005, the last trading day prior to news
reports appearing in the popular press regarding potential
discussions between May and Federated, and calculated the
present value of such targets based on a nine-month period and
assuming a 10% estimated cost of equity. This analysis resulted
in a range of implied values of $28 to $33 per share of May
common stock.
Morgan Stanley noted that the per share implied merger
consideration for May common stock was $35.50 calculated as of
February 25, 2005.
For Federated, Morgan Stanley considered the range of publicly
available equity research analyst price targets prior to
February 25, 2005, and calculated the present value of such
targets based on a nine-month period and assuming a 10%
estimated cost of equity. This analysis resulted in a range of
implied values of $51 to $61 per share of Federated common
stock.
Morgan Stanley noted that the price per share of Federated
common stock as of February 25, 2005, was $56.79.
62
|
|
|
Future Stock Price Present Value |
Morgan Stanley performed a discounted equity value analysis,
which is designed to provide insight into the future value of a
companys common equity, as a function of the
companys future earnings and its current forward P/ E
multiple. The resulting value is subsequently discounted to
arrive at the present value of May and Federated future stock
price.
For May, Morgan Stanley considered the range of values per share
for May based on the estimated 2007 earnings per share provided
by Mays management under four different scenarios as well
as the estimated 2007 earnings per share based on the I/B/E/S
median of publicly available equity research projections,
referred to as the Research Case. In its analysis, Morgan
Stanley assumed all of the scenarios were achievable and did not
make any judgment with respect to the potential risks embedded
in the different scenarios prepared by Mays management.
The following table presents the resulting ranges of implied per
share values for May, assuming a forward P/ E multiple range of
11.0x to 15.0x based on the historical forward P/ E range that
was used to calculate the future stock price as of the end of
2006 and which was then discounted for a two-year period at a
10% estimated cost of equity.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Implied per Share | |
|
|
Value of May | |
|
|
Common Stock | |
|
|
| |
Research Case
|
|
$ |
22 - $31 |
|
Management Case A(1)
|
|
$ |
25 - $34 |
|
Management Case B(2)
|
|
$ |
26 - $35 |
|
Management Case C(3)
|
|
$ |
28 - $38 |
|
Management Case D(4)
|
|
$ |
29 - $40 |
|
|
|
(1) |
May management internal five-year projections |
|
(2) |
May management internal five-year projections including share
repurchases and debt refinancing |
|
(3) |
May management internal five-year projections including share
repurchases and debt refinancing and the benefits of divisional
consolidation |
|
(4) |
May management internal five-year projections including share
repurchases and debt refinancing, the benefits of divisional
consolidations and sale of the credit card receivables |
Morgan Stanley also prepared a sensitivity analysis on the
present value of Mays future stock price. Specifically,
Morgan Stanley considered the range of values per share for May
implied by a range of forward P/ E multiples between 9.0x and
15.0x and a range of potential earnings per share compound
annual growth rate between 2005 and 2007 of 0% to 20% and using
Mays 2004 earnings per share of $1.93 (includes $0.10 of
store divestiture costs per 2004 earnings press release and
$0.13 of other charges per management guidance). This analysis
resulted in a range of implied values per share of May common
stock of $14 to $41.
Morgan Stanley noted that the per share implied merger
consideration for May common stock was $35.50 calculated as of
February 25, 2005.
63
For Federated, Morgan Stanley considered the range of values per
share for Federated based on financial forecasts and estimates
based on the I/B/E/S median of publicly available equity
research projections for 2005 to 2007. The following table
presents the resulting ranges of implied per share values for
Federated, assuming Federateds current forward P/ E
multiple range of 12.0x to 13.0x for 2005 to estimate the
current Federated stock price and assuming Federateds
historical P/ E range of 10.0x to 14.0x for 2006 and 2007 to
estimate Federateds future stock prices as of the end of
2005 and 2006 and which were then discounted for one year and
two years, respectively, at a 10.0% estimated cost of equity.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Implied per Share | |
|
|
Value of Federated | |
|
|
Common Stock | |
|
|
| |
2005E EPS of $4.60
|
|
$ |
55 - $60 |
|
2006E EPS of $4.98
|
|
$ |
45 - $63 |
|
2007E EPS of $5.43
|
|
$ |
45 - $63 |
|
Morgan Stanley noted that the price per share of Federated
common stock as of February 25, 2005 was $56.79.
|
|
|
Discounted Cash Flow Analysis |
Morgan Stanley performed a discounted cash flow analysis for May
and Federated, which is designed to provide insight into the
value of a company as a function of its future cash flows and
expenditures.
For May, Morgan Stanley performed a five-year discounted cash
flow analysis, calculated as of February 25, 2005, of the
after-tax unlevered free cash flows for 2005 through 2009, based
on the financial forecasts and estimates of Scenarios A and C
(as previously described in Present Value of May Future
Stock Price) provided by May management as well as using
financial forecasts and estimates based on the I/B/E/S median of
publicly available equity research projections. Morgan Stanley
estimated a range of terminal values calculated in 2009 based on
a perpetual growth rate range of 0.5% to 1.5%. Morgan Stanley
then discounted the unlevered free cash flow streams and the
estimated terminal value to a present value at a discount rate
of 8.0% for each case. The discount rates utilized in this
analysis were chosen based upon an analysis of the weighted
average cost of capital of May and other comparable companies.
The weighted average cost of capital is a measure of the average
expected return on all of a companys securities or loans
based on the proportions of those securities or loans in such
companys capital structure. Based on the aforementioned
projections and assumptions, the discounted cash flow analysis
of May yielded an implied valuation range of May common stock as
follows:
|
|
|
|
|
Research Case: $22 $27 per share |
|
|
|
Management Case A: $29 $35 per share |
|
|
|
Management Case C: $33 $39 per share |
Morgan Stanley noted that the per share implied merger
consideration for May common stock was $35.50 calculated as of
February 25, 2005.
Morgan Stanley performed a five-year discounted cash flow
analysis for Federated, calculated as of February 25, 2005,
of the after-tax unlevered free cash flows for 2005 through
2009, based on financial forecasts and estimates based on the
I/B/E/S median of publicly available equity research
projections. Morgan Stanley estimated a range of terminal values
calculated in 2009 based on a perpetual growth rate range of
0.5% to 1.5%. Morgan Stanley discounted the unlevered free cash
flow streams and the estimated terminal value to a present value
at a discount rate of 8.0%. The discount rates utilized in this
analysis were
64
chosen based upon an analysis of the weighted average cost of
capital of Federated and other comparable companies. Based on
the aforementioned projections and assumptions, the discounted
cash flow analysis of Federated yielded an implied valuation
range of Federated common stock of $58 to $67 per share.
Morgan Stanley noted that the price per share of Federated
common stock as of February 25, 2005, was $56.79.
|
|
|
Present Value Analysis of the Merger |
Morgan Stanley evaluated the cash and stock components of the
merger consideration to arrive at the present value of the
merger consideration on a per share basis. In arriving at the
present value of the stock portion of the merger consideration
on a pro forma basis, Morgan Stanley conducted the analysis
using the present value of future stock price methodology, as
described above, assuming a forward P/ E multiple range of 12.0x
to 14.0x and an estimated cost of equity of 10.0% and the
discounted cash flow valuation methodology, as described above,
assuming a perpetual growth rate range of 1.0% to 1.5% and a
weighted average cost of capital of 8.0%. Morgan Stanley used
two pro forma scenarios based on forecasts and estimates
provided by Federateds management which assumed, among
other things, cost synergies, certain adjustments for lost sales
from stores sold, sales disruption and one time costs based on
guidance from Federateds management. The two scenarios
differed primarily in the following respects:
|
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|
Pro Forma Scenario A: no sale of Federateds credit card
receivables. |
|
|
|
Pro Forma Scenario B: sale of Federateds credit card
receivables at par, with Federated retaining 75% of the
operating income of the portfolio and using the proceeds from
the receivables sale over two years to pay down debt and buy
back shares. |
Based on the aforementioned assumptions and scenarios, the
present value of future stock price analysis of Federated
yielded an implied total value per share to May stockholders as
follows:
|
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|
Pro Forma Scenario A: $38 $41 per share |
|
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Pro Forma Scenario B: $42 $46 per share |
Based on the aforementioned assumptions and scenarios, the
discounted cash flow analysis of Federated yielded an implied
total value per share to May stockholders as follows:
|
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|
Pro Forma Scenario A: $38 $40 per share |
|
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|
Pro Forma Scenario B: $45 $47 per share |
Morgan Stanley noted that the per share implied merger
consideration for May common stock was $35.50 calculated as of
February 25, 2005.
In connection with the review of the merger by Mays board
of directors, Morgan Stanley performed a variety of financial
and comparative analyses for purposes of rendering its opinion.
The preparation of a fairness opinion is a complex process and
is not necessarily susceptible to a partial analysis or summary
description. In arriving at its opinion, Morgan Stanley
considered the results of all of its analyses as a whole and did
not attribute any particular weight to any analysis or factor
considered by it. Morgan Stanley believes that the summary
provided and the analyses described above must be considered as
a whole and that selecting portions of these analyses, without
considering all of them as a whole, would create an incomplete
view of the process underlying its analyses and opinion. In
addition, Morgan Stanley may have given various analyses and
factors more or less weight than other analyses and factors and
may have deemed various assumptions more or less probable than
other assumptions, so that the range of valuations resulting
from any particular analysis described above should therefore
not be taken to be Morgan Stanleys view of the actual
value of May and Federated combined.
In performing its analyses, Morgan Stanley made numerous
assumptions with respect to industry performance, general
business and economic conditions and other matters, many of
which are beyond the control of May and Federated. Any estimates
contained in Morgan Stanleys analyses are not necessarily
65
indicative of future results or actual values, which may be
significantly more or less favorable than those suggested by
these estimates. The analyses performed were prepared solely as
a part of the analyses of Morgan Stanley of the fairness from a
financial point of view of the consideration to be received by
the holders of shares of May common stock pursuant to the merger
agreement and were conducted in connection with the delivery by
Morgan Stanley of its opinion dated February 27, 2005 to
the board of directors of May. Morgan Stanleys analyses do
not purport to be appraisals or to reflect the prices at which
shares of common stock of May might actually trade. The merger
consideration in the merger was determined through
arms-length negotiations between May and Federated and was
approved by Mays board of directors. Morgan Stanley did
not recommend any specific merger consideration to May or that
any given merger consideration constituted the only appropriate
merger consideration for the merger.
In addition, Morgan Stanleys opinion and its presentation
to Mays board of directors was one of many factors taken
into consideration by Mays board of directors in deciding
to approve the merger. Consequently, the analyses as described
above should not be viewed as determinative of the opinion of
Mays board of directors with respect to the merger
consideration or of whether Mays board of directors would
have been willing to agree to a different merger consideration.
Morgan Stanley is an internationally recognized investment
banking and advisory firm. Morgan Stanley, as part of its
investment banking and financial advisory business, is
continuously engaged in the valuation of businesses and their
securities in connection with mergers and acquisitions,
negotiated underwritings, competitive biddings, secondary
distributions of listed and unlisted securities, private
placements and valuations for corporate and other purposes. In
the ordinary course of business, Morgan Stanley may from time to
time trade in the securities of or indebtedness of May and
Federated for its own account, the accounts of investment funds
and other clients under the management of Morgan Stanley and for
the accounts of its customers and, accordingly, may at any time
hold a long or short position in these securities or
indebtedness. Morgan Stanley has, from time to time, provided
investment banking, commercial banking (including extension of
credit) and other financial services to May for which it
received fees of approximately $20 million over the last
two years.
If the merger is consummated, May has agreed to pay Morgan
Stanley under the terms of its engagement a fee which, if
calculated as of February 27, 2005, would be approximately
$51 million, all of which is payable upon consummation of
the merger. May has also agreed to reimburse Morgan Stanley for
its expenses incurred in performing its services and to
indemnify Morgan Stanley and its affiliates, their respective
directors, officers, agents and employees and each person, if
any, controlling Morgan Stanley or any of its affiliates against
certain liabilities and expenses, including certain liabilities
under federal securities laws, related to or arising out of
Morgan Stanleys engagement and any related transactions.
On February 23, 2005, May engaged PJSC to act as its
financial advisor with respect to rendering a fairness opinion
regarding the consideration proposed to be received by the
holders of May common stock in the merger. On February 27,
2005, PJSC rendered its oral opinion telephonically to
Mays board of directors, which opinion was confirmed by
delivery of a written opinion, which we refer to in this joint
proxy statement/ prospectus as PJSCs opinion, to the
effect that, based upon and subject to various considerations
set forth in such opinion, as of February 27, 2005, the
consideration proposed to be received by the holders of May
common stock in connection with the merger was fair from a
financial point of view to the holders of May common stock.
The full text of PJSCs opinion, which sets forth
assumptions made, procedures followed, matters considered,
limitations on and scope of the review by PJSC in rendering
PJSCs opinion, is attached to this joint proxy statement/
prospectus as Annex C and is incorporated by
reference into this joint proxy statement/ prospectus.
PJSCs opinion was directed only to the fairness of the
consideration proposed to be received by the holders of May
common stock in the merger from a financial point of view, was
provided to Mays board of directors in connection with its
evaluation of the merger, did not address any other aspect of
the merger and did not, and does not, constitute a
recommendation to any holder of May common stock as to how
any
66
stockholder should vote or act on any matter relating to the
merger. The summary of PJSCs opinion set forth in this
joint proxy statement/ prospectus is qualified in its entirety
by reference to the full text of such opinion. Holders of May
common stock are urged to read PJSCs opinion carefully and
in its entirety. PJSC has consented to the use of
PJSCs opinion in this joint proxy statement/ prospectus.
In connection with PJSCs opinion, PJSC:
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(i) Reviewed certain publicly available financial
statements and other information of May and Federated; |
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(ii) Reviewed certain internal financial statements and
other financial and operating data concerning May prepared by
the management of May; |
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(iii) Reviewed certain financial projections for May
prepared by the management of May; |
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|
(iv) Reviewed financial forecasts and estimates for
Federated prepared by independent research analysts contained in
publicly available research reports regarding the future
financial performance of Federated and discussed such forecasts
and estimates with the management of Federated; |
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|
(v) Discussed the past and current operations, financial
condition and prospects of May with the management of May; |
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|
(vi) Discussed the past and current operations, financial
condition and prospects of Federated, including information
relating to certain strategic, financial and operational
benefits anticipated from the merger, with the management of
Federated; |
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|
(vii) Reviewed the reported prices and trading activity of
May common stock and Federated common stock; |
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|
(viii) Compared the financial performance and condition of
May and Federated and the reported prices and trading activity
of May common stock and Federated common stock with that of
certain other comparable publicly traded companies; |
|
|
(ix) Reviewed publicly available information regarding the
financial terms of certain transactions comparable, in whole or
in part, to the merger; |
|
|
(x) Reviewed the draft merger agreement dated as of
February 25, 2005; and |
|
|
(xi) Performed such other analyses as PJSC deemed
appropriate. |
PJSC assumed and relied upon the accuracy and completeness of
the information reviewed by PJSC for the purposes of this
opinion and PJSC did not assume any responsibility for
independent verification of such information and relied on such
information being complete and correct. With respect to the
financial projections of May, PJSC also assumed that the
financial projections were reasonably prepared on bases
reflecting the best currently available estimates and judgments
of the future financial performance of May. PJSC was not
provided with, and did not have any access to, any financial
projections of Federated prepared by the management of Federated
or May. Accordingly, upon advice of the management of Federated
and with Mays consent, PJSC assumed that the financial
forecasts and estimates for Federated published by independent
research analysts contained in publicly available research
reports that PJSC reviewed were a reasonable basis upon which to
evaluate the future financial performance of Federated, and PJSC
relied upon such estimates, as modified by additional
information from the management of Federated, in performing
PJSCs analysis. Furthermore, with Mays consent, PJSC
relied upon the estimates made by the management of Federated of
certain potential strategic, financial and other benefits
expected to result from the merger without independent
assessment. PJSC did not conduct a physical inspection of the
facilities or property of May or Federated. PJSC did not assume
any responsibility for any independent valuation or appraisal of
the assets or liabilities of May or Federated, nor was PJSC
furnished with any such valuation or appraisal. Furthermore,
PJSC did not consider any tax effects of the merger on any
person or entity.
PJSC assumed that the final form of the merger agreement would
be substantially the same as the last draft reviewed by PJSC.
PJSC also assumed that the merger would be consummated in
accordance with the
67
terms of the merger agreement, without waiver, modification or
amendment of any material term, condition or agreement
(including, without limitation, the consideration to be received
by the holders of May common stock in connection with the
merger), and that, in the course of obtaining the necessary
regulatory or third party approvals, consents and releases for
the merger, no delay, limitation, restriction or condition would
be imposed that would have a material adverse effect on May or
Federated or the contemplated benefits of the merger. PJSC
further assumed that all representations and warranties set
forth in the merger agreement were true and correct and that all
parties to the merger agreement will comply with all covenants
of such party thereunder.
PJSCs opinion was necessarily based on economic, market
and other conditions as in effect on, and the information made
available to PJSC as of, February 26, 2005. In particular,
PJSC did not express any opinion as to the prices at which
shares of either May common stock or Federated common stock may
trade at any future time. Furthermore, PJSCs opinion did
not address Mays underlying business decision to undertake
the merger.
No limitations were imposed by Mays board of directors
upon PJSC with respect to investigations made or procedures
followed by PJSC in rendering PJSCs opinion.
The following summarizes the significant financial analyses
performed by PJSC and reviewed with Mays board of
directors on February 27, 2005, in connection with the
delivery of PJSCs opinion. The financial analyses
summarized below include information presented in tabular
format. In order to fully understand PJSCs financial
analyses, the tables must be read together with the text of each
summary. The tables alone do not constitute a complete
description of the financial analyses. Considering the data in
the tables below without considering the full narrative
description of the financial analyses, including the
methodologies and assumptions underlying the analyses, could
create a misleading or incomplete view of PJSCs financial
analyses.
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Historical Share Price Analysis May |
PJSC performed an historical share price analysis to provide
background information with respect to historical share price
performance of May common stock and to assess the price implied
by the merger consideration in comparison to this historical
share price performance.
PJSC reviewed the closing prices and trading volumes of May
common stock on the New York Stock Exchange from
February 25, 2000, to February 25, 2005 (one trading
day prior to the rendering of PJSCs opinion). During the
twelve months ended February 25, 2005, the high closing
price for May common stock was $36.31 per share and the low
closing price was $23.95 per share. In addition, during the
twelve months ended February 25, 2005, the average closing
price for May common stock was $28.94 per share and the
median closing price was $28.51 per share. During the
period from February 25, 2000 to February 25, 2005,
the high closing price for May common stock was $41.25 per
share and the low closing price was $18.01 per share.
PJSC calculated the premiums implied by the blended merger
consideration of $35.44, which we refer to as the implied per
share merger consideration, for each outstanding share of May
common stock to derive premiums over the median price of May
common stock for the specified time periods below. The implied
per share merger consideration of $35.44 is based on
$17.75 per share in cash and the 0.3115 shares of
Federated common stock valued at $56.79 as of the close of
trading on February 25, 2005. PJSC derived premiums over
the median price of May common stock for periods prior to
(1) January 14, 2005 (the date on which, after the
stock markets close, May announced the resignation of its
chief executive officer, after which, on the following day, the
price of May common stock closed at $32.21, up 15.7%), and
(2) February 25, 2005 (one trading day prior to the
rendering of PJSCs opinion). PJSC analyzed premiums over
the median price of May common stock prior to January 14,
2005, in order to analyze the premiums without the effect on the
price of
68
May common stock of public speculation regarding a potential
merger with Federated. The derived premiums were:
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|
Offer Price | |
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Premium to Median | |
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| |
Time Periods Prior to Jan. 14, 2005:
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|
7 Days Prior
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|
27.6 |
% |
30 Days Prior
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|
23.7 |
|
60 Days Prior
|
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|
23.6 |
|
90 Days Prior
|
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|
24.6 |
|
180 Days Prior
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35.5 |
|
Last 1 Year Prior
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24.3 |
|
Last 3 Years Prior
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28.9 |
|
Last 5 Years Prior
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23.9 |
|
Time Periods Prior to Feb. 25, 2005:
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|
7 Days Prior
|
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|
4.3 |
|
30 Days Prior
|
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6.3 |
|
60 Days Prior
|
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|
11.0 |
|
90 Days Prior
|
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20.9 |
|
180 Days Prior
|
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|
25.6 |
|
Last 1 Year Prior
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24.3 |
|
Last 3 Years Prior
|
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28.9 |
|
Last 5 Years Prior
|
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23.5 |
|
PJSC also reviewed the relative performance from
February 25, 2000, to February 25, 2005, of
(1) May, (2) Federated, (3) the
Standard & Poors 500 Index, and (4) a market
capitalization weighted industry index consisting of the
following department store retailers: Dillards, Inc., J.C.
Penney Company, Inc., Kohls Corporation, Nordstrom, Inc.,
The Neiman Marcus Group, Inc. and Saks Incorporated. During the
period from February 25, 2004, to February 25, 2005
(one trading day prior to the rendering of PJSCs opinion),
the price of May common stock returned 0.0%, the price of
Federated common stock increased 8.1%, the market capitalization
weighted index appreciated 14.3%, and the S&P 500 Index
appreciated 5.9%. During the period from February 25, 2000,
to February 25, 2005, the price per share of May common
stock increased 38.0%, the price per share of Federated common
stock increased 74.4%, the market capitalization weighted index
appreciated 97.9%, and the S&P 500 Index depreciated 9.1%.
The above analysis showed that: (1) the closing price per
share of May common stock of $35.35 on February 25, 2005
was just below $36.31, its highest closing price during such
period, and above its median price over the one year period
prior to February 25, 2005 ($28.51); and (2) the price
of May common stock increased during the one year period ending
February 25, 2005 to a lesser extent than the industry
index and the S&P 500. Furthermore, the implied per share
merger consideration represented a premium of not less than
23.6% for all periods up to January 14, 2005 (one trading
day prior to the announcement of the resignation of Mays
chief executive officer), which PJSC believed to be the most
relevant time period to consider. This analysis suggested that
the value of the implied per share merger consideration was
greater than the median of historical trading prices of May
common stock over each calculated period.
|
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Analysis of Selected Publicly Traded Comparable
Companies |
PJSC performed a comparable companies analysis to determine
(1) what Mays valuation would be if the May common
stock traded in the valuation range of comparable retail
companies, as determined based on publicly-available financial
metrics for comparable retail companies, and (2) what
Mays valuation would be if the May common stock traded in
such range and were to receive a premium to this valuation
consistent with premiums received by other publicly traded
companies in recent, large mergers and acquisitions.
69
PJSC reviewed and compared selected financial data of May with
similar data using publicly available information of the
following publicly traded companies, which, based on PJSCs
experience with companies in the department store retail
industry, PJSC deemed comparable to May:
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Federated, |
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Dillards, Inc., |
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J.C. Penney Company, Inc., |
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|
Kohls Corporation, |
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Nordstrom, Inc., |
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The Neiman Marcus Group, Inc. and |
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Saks Incorporated. |
These companies are referred to under this section Peter
J. Solomon Company as the comparable companies.
PJSC calculated and compared various financial multiples and
ratios, including, among other things: (1) the most recent
stock price per share as a multiple of earnings per share,
commonly referred to as earnings per share or E.P.S., for the
fiscal years (ended January 31 of the following year) 2004, 2005
and 2006 based upon (i) the closing stock prices as of
February 25, 2005, and the median of Wall Street
analysts estimates for E.P.S. for May as reported by First
Call Investment Research on February 25, 2005 (one trading
day prior to the rendering of PJSCs opinion) for the
comparable companies and (ii) E.P.S. for May based on
(a) actual 2004 E.P.S. of May, (b) a set of
projections prepared by May management, which we refer to as the
Base Case, and (c) the median of Wall Street analysts
expectations of E.P.S. for May for fiscal years 2005 and 2006;
and (2) enterprise value (which represents total equity
value plus book values of total debt, preferred stock and
minority interests less cash) as a multiple of (i) net
sales, earnings before interest and taxes, commonly referred to
as EBIT, and earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and
amortization, commonly referred to as EBITDA, for the comparable
companies and (ii) pro forma net sales, EBIT and EBITDA of
May (assuming Mays acquisition of Marshall Fields
occurred at the beginning of fiscal 2004 using estimates
provided by May), in either case, over the latest twelve months
or fiscal year ended January 31, 2005.
Based on this data, as of February 25, 2005, PJSC developed
a summary valuation analysis based on a range of trading
valuation multiples and ratios for certain of the comparable
companies and May. This analysis resulted in the following
ranges of multiples and ratios:
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Range of | |
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Trading | |
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Multiples | |
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| |
Trailing Data for Last Twelve Months ended January 31,
2005
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|
Enterprise Value as a Ratio of:
|
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|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net Sales
|
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60.0 |
% |
|
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- |
|
|
|
115.0 |
% |
|
EBITDA
|
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|
6.0 |
x |
|
|
- |
|
|
|
8.0 |
x |
|
EBIT
|
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|
9.0 |
x |
|
|
- |
|
|
|
14.0 |
x |
Equity Value as a Ratio of:
|
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|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net Income
|
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|
22.0 |
x |
|
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- |
|
|
|
14.0 |
x |
Projected Data
|
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|
Equity Value as a Ratio of:
|
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|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
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|
2005 Net Income
|
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12.0 |
x |
|
|
- |
|
|
|
20.0 |
x |
|
2006 Net Income
|
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11.0 |
x |
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- |
|
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|
16.0 |
x |
PJSC calculated the implied equity value per share of May common
stock using the multiples and ratios from the comparable
companies and applied them to Mays financial statistics,
both excluding and including a control premium. For
these purposes, PJSC used a control premium of 19%, which is the
mean control
70
premium paid (to closing price one week prior) in all announced
United States mergers and acquisitions transactions valued over
$1 billion since February 22, 2002, as reported by
Thomson Mergers & Acquisitions.
This analysis yielded: (i) a range of values from $20.00 to
$40.00 per share for May common stock excluding a control
premium, and PJSC noted that the implied per share merger
consideration of $35.44 was near the top of the valuation range
for this analysis, and (ii) a range of values from $23.80
to $47.60 per share of May common stock including a control
premium, and PJSC noted that the implied per share merger
consideration of $35.44 was above the middle of the range of
value implied by this analysis. This analysis suggested that the
value of the implied per share merger consideration was within a
range of values for May determined by comparison to the values
of the comparable companies both with and without a control
premium.
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Analysis of Selected Comparable Transactions |
To analyze the valuation of the implied per share merger
consideration to be received by holders of May common stock
relative to the consideration received by shareholders in other
similar transactions, PJSC prepared an analysis of selected
comparable transactions.
Using publicly available information, PJSC reviewed certain
mergers and acquisitions transactions in the department store
retail industry which PJSC believed were comparable to the
merger. The list of transactions reviewed were (including the
acquiror and target in the transaction, respectively):
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(i) Kmart Holding Corporation/ Sears Roebuck & Co. |
|
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(ii) Jones Apparel Group/ Barneys, Inc. |
|
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(iii) May/ Marshall Fields and nine Mervyns
stores |
|
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(iv) Proffitts Inc./ Saks Holdings, Inc. |
|
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(v) Dillards Inc./ Mercantile Stores Co. Inc. |
|
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(vi) Proffitts Inc./ Carson Pirie Scott & Co. |
|
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(vii) Proffitts Inc./ Parisian, Inc. |
|
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(viii) May/ Strawbridge & Clothier |
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(ix) Federated/ Broadway Stores Inc. |
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(x) Federated/ R.H. Macy & Co., Inc. |
These transactions are referred to under this section
Peter J. Solomon Company as the comparable
transactions.
PJSC calculated the multiples of the last twelve months
net sales, EBITDA and EBIT paid in these selected comparable
transactions. PJSC calculated the implied equity values per
share for May using this range of multiples and ratios applied
to pro forma statistics for 2004 of May (assuming the
acquisition of Marshall Fields occurred at the beginning
of fiscal 2004, according to management of May). This analysis
resulted in the following ranges of multiples and ratios:
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|
Range of | |
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Multiples | |
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| |
Enterprise Value as a Ratio of:
|
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|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net Sales
|
|
|
65.0 |
% |
|
|
- |
|
|
|
125.0 |
% |
|
EBITDA
|
|
|
8.0 |
x |
|
|
- |
|
|
|
14.5 |
x |
|
EBIT
|
|
|
11.0 |
x |
|
|
- |
|
|
|
19.0 |
x |
Based on the foregoing, this analysis yielded a range of values
from $28.00 to $60.00 per share of May common stock. PJSC
noted that the implied per share merger consideration fell in
the range of the results of
71
this analysis. This analysis suggested that the value of the
implied per share merger consideration was within the range of
values received in the comparable transactions.
|
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Discounted Cash Flow Analysis |
PJSC performed a discounted cash flow analysis to calculate the
theoretical per share value of May common stock based on the
value of earnings from five years of forecasted future cash
flows of May.
PJSC prepared a discounted cash flow analysis to calculate the
net present value per share of May common stock based on two
financial forecasts prepared by May: (a) the Base Case and
(b) a set of projections of May provided by May management
derived from adding to the Base Case the following: the benefits
of combining certain May divisions, the sale of Mays
receivables portfolio and special share repurchases and debt
refinancing per Mays management, which we refer to as the
Alternative Case. In performing its discounted cash flow
analysis, PJSC considered various assumptions that it deemed
appropriate based on a review with management of Mays
prospects and risks. PJSC believed it appropriate to utilize
various discount rates ranging from 7.5% to 9.5% and EBITDA
terminal value multiples ranging from 6.5x to 8.5x to apply to
forecasted EBITDA for the fiscal year 2008.
Based on the foregoing, this analysis yielded a range of net
present values from $27.00 to $42.00 per share of May
common stock based on the Base Case and a range of net present
values from $32.00 to $46.00 per share of May common stock
based on the Alternative Case. PJSC noted that the implied per
share merger consideration fell within the range of per share
results from these analyses. This analysis suggested that the
value of the implied per share merger consideration was within
the range of values of the May common stock based on the value
of projected earnings from five years of forecasted future cash
flows of May.
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Historical Share Price Analysis
Federated |
In view of the fact that holders of May common stock would
receive shares of Federated common stock as part of the merger
consideration, PJSC evaluated the price of Federated common
stock at February 25, 2005, relative to its historical
share price performance.
PJSC reviewed the closing prices and trading volumes of
Federated common stock on the New York Stock Exchange from
February 25, 2000, to February 25, 2005 (one trading
day prior to the rendering of PJSCs opinion). During the
twelve months ended February 25, 2005, the high closing
price for the Federated common stock was $59.13 per share
and the low closing price was $43.11 per share. In
addition, during the twelve months ended February 25, 2005,
the average closing price for Federated common stock was
$50.70 per share and the median closing price was
$49.99 per share. During the period from February 25,
2000, to February 25, 2005, the high closing price for
Federated common stock was $59.13 per share and the low
closing price was $23.50 per share.
PJSC noted that the closing price of Federated common stock on
February 25, 2005 (one trading day prior to the rendering
of PJSCs opinion) was higher than the median price over
the seven day period prior to February 25, 2005, lower than
the median price over the 30 and 60 day periods prior to
February 25, 2005, and higher than the 90 and 180 day
periods prior to February 25, 2005. This analysis suggested
that the value of the Federated common stock to be received by
holders of May common stock as a part of the merger
consideration was not significantly above the range of
historical trading prices of Federated common stock for recent
periods.
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Relative Contribution Analysis |
PJSC performed a relative contribution analysis to compare the
historical and projected financial operating contributions of
each company relative to enterprise and equity value
contributions of each company to the combined company based on
the implied per share merger consideration for May and the
closing price for Federated common stock as of February 25,
2005.
PJSC calculated the relative net sales, EBITDA, EBIT and net
income contributions of May and Federated based on actual
historical results and projected results based on Base Case of
May and a set of
72
estimates of Federated based on Federated managements
guidance relating to net sales, comparable store sales growth,
EBITDA and E.P.S. in fiscal year 2005 and fiscal year 2006 and
E.P.S. growth rate, which we refer to in this joint proxy
statement/ prospectus as the Guidance Case. PJSC compared the
actual net income contribution of each company for fiscal years
2002, 2003 and 2004 and the projected net income contribution of
each company for fiscal years 2005, 2006 and 2007 to the equity
value contributions of each company to the combined company
based on the implied per share merger consideration for May and
the closing price for Federated common stock as of
February 25, 2005. PJSC noted that the equity value
contribution of May at the implied per share merger
consideration exceeded the net income contribution of May for
all periods analyzed. PJSC also compared actual net sales,
EBITDA and EBIT (pro forma for May in 2004) for fiscal years
2002, 2003 and 2004 and projected net sales, EBITDA and EBIT for
fiscal years 2005, 2006 and 2007 to contributions of each
company to the enterprise value contributions of each to the
combined company based on the implied per share merger
consideration for May common stock and the closing price for
Federated common stock as of February 25, 2005.
PJSC noted that the percentage enterprise value contribution of
May at the implied per share merger consideration exceeded each
of the percentage net sales, EBITDA and EBIT contributions of
May for all periods analyzed and that the percentage equity
value contribution of May at the implied per share merger
consideration exceeded the percentage net income contributions
of May for all periods analyzed, indicating, in all cases, a
higher May valuation relative to its net sales, EBITDA, EBIT and
net income contributions to the combined company.
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Historical Exchange Ratio Analysis |
PJSC prepared an historical exchange ratio analysis, which
compares the exchange ratio determined by dividing the price of
May common stock by the price of Federated common stock price,
to evaluate the exchange ratio implied by the per share merger
consideration, assuming an all stock deal, relative to the
historic exchange ratio.
PJSC compared the historical per share prices of May common
stock and Federated common stock for the one-year period prior
to February 25, 2005, in order to determine the implied
average exchange ratio that existed for the period. The implied
exchange ratio of 0.624x shares of Federated common stock for
each share of May common stock (based on the implied per share
merger consideration divided by Federateds closing stock
price of $56.79 per share on February 25, 2005) is
greater than the average exchange ratio of 0.571x for the
one-year period prior to February 25, 2005.
PJSC noted that using such one year average exchange ratio of
.571 and the price of Federated common stock of $56.79 would
have implied a value per share of May common stock of $32.43,
well below the implied per share merger consideration, which
suggested that the implied exchange ratio of the merger was
greater than the historical average exchange ratio for such
period.
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Pro Forma Merger Analysis |
In view of the fact that holders of May common stock would
receive shares of Federated common stock as part of the merger
consideration, PJSC analyzed the pro forma earnings per share of
Federated common stock as a result of the merger.
PJSC analyzed the pro forma impact of the merger on
Federateds E.P.S. in fiscal years ended January 31,
2007, 2008 and 2009. PJSC compared the projected stand alone
earnings per share of Federated common stock based on the
Guidance Case, on a standalone basis, to the pro forma earnings
per share of the common stock of the combined company based on
the Guidance Case of Federated and the Base Case of May. This
analysis took into account certain adjustments for lost sales
from stores sold and sales disruptions based on guidance from
management of Federated. This analysis was performed both with
and without synergies in 2007, 2008 and 2009 based on guidance
from management of Federated. This analysis suggested that,
excluding synergies, the merger would be dilutive in 2007 and
2008 and accretive in 2009 to holders of Federated common stock.
73
PJSC noted that, including the synergies, this analysis
suggested that the merger would be accretive on an earnings per
share basis in 2007, 2008 and 2009 to holders of Federated
common stock.
In arriving at PJSCs opinion, PJSC performed a variety of
financial analyses, the material portions of which are
summarized above. The preparation of a fairness opinion is a
complex process involving various determinations as to the most
appropriate and relevant methods of financial analyses and the
application of those methods to the particular circumstances
and, therefore, such an opinion is not necessarily susceptible
to a partial analysis or summary description. In arriving at its
opinion, PJSC did not attribute any particular weight to any
analysis or factor considered by it, but rather made qualitative
judgments as to significance and relevance of each analysis and
factor. Accordingly, PJSC believes that its analysis must be
considered as a whole and that selecting portions of its
analysis, without considering all such analyses, could create an
incomplete view of the process underlying PJSCs opinion.
In performing its analyses, PJSC relied on numerous assumptions
made by the management of May and Federated and made numerous
judgments of its own with regard to current and future industry
performance, general business and economic conditions and other
matters, many of which are beyond the control of May and
Federated. Actual values will depend upon several factors,
including changes in interest rates, dividend rates, market
conditions, general economic conditions and other factors that
generally influence the price of securities. The analyses
performed by PJSC are not necessarily indicative of actual
values or actual future results, which may be significantly more
or less favorable than suggested by such analyses. Such analyses
were prepared solely as a part of PJSCs analysis of the
fairness from a financial point of view of the consideration
proposed to be received by the holders of May common stock in
connection with the merger and were provided to Mays board
of directors in connection with the delivery of PJSCs
opinion. The analyses do not purport to be appraisals or
necessarily reflect the prices at which businesses or securities
might actually be sold, which are inherently subject to
uncertainty. Because such analyses are inherently subject to
uncertainty, neither of May or PJSC or any other person assumes
responsibility for their accuracy. With regard to the comparable
public company analysis and the comparable transactions analysis
summarized above, PJSC selected comparable public companies on
the basis of various factors for reference purposes only;
however, no public company or transaction utilized as a
comparison is fully comparable to May or the merger.
Accordingly, an analysis of the foregoing was not mathematical;
rather, it involves complex considerations and judgments
concerning differences in financial and operating
characteristics of the comparable companies and other factors
that could affect the acquisition or public trading value of the
comparable companies and transactions to which May and the
merger were being compared. The merger consideration in the
merger was determined through arms-length negotiations
between May and Federated and was approved by Mays board
of directors. PJSC did not recommend any specific merger
consideration to May or that any given merger consideration
constituted the only appropriate merger consideration for the
merger. In addition, as described elsewhere in this joint proxy
statement/ prospectus, PJSCs opinion was one of many
factors taken into consideration by Mays board of
directors in evaluating the merger. Consequently, the PJSC
analyses described above should not be viewed as determinative
of the opinion of Mays board of directors or management
with respect to the merger.
As part of its investment banking activities, PJSC is regularly
engaged in the evaluation of businesses and their securities in
connection with mergers and acquisitions, restructurings and
valuations for corporate or other purposes. Mays board of
directors selected PJSC to deliver an opinion with respect to
the consideration proposed to be received by the holders of May
common stock in connection with the merger on the basis of such
experience.
The financial advisory services PJSC provided to May in
connection with the merger were limited to the delivery of
PJSCs opinion.
Under the terms of its engagement with May, PJSC received a fee
of $1,650,000 for its financial advisory services in connection
with the merger, all of which was payable upon the delivery of
PJSCs opinion. In addition, May has also agreed to
reimburse PJSC for its out-of-pocket expenses, including fees and
74
disbursements of its counsel, incurred in connection with its
engagement and to indemnify PJSC and certain related persons
against liabilities and expenses, including liabilities under
the federal securities laws, relating to or arising out of its
engagement as financial advisor to May.
PJSC has not received compensation during the last two years for
providing investment banking services to May or Federated.
Opinion of Federateds Financial Advisor
Goldman, Sachs & Co. delivered an oral opinion to
Federateds board of directors, subsequently confirmed in
writing, to the effect that, as of February 27, 2005, and
based upon and subject to the factors and assumptions set forth
in the opinion, the $17.75 in cash and 0.3115 shares of
Federated common stock to be paid by Federated for each
outstanding share of May common stock pursuant to the merger
agreement was fair from a financial point of view to Federated.
The full text of the written opinion of Goldman Sachs, dated
February 27, 2005, which sets forth the assumptions made,
procedures followed, matters considered, and limitations on the
review undertaken in connection with the opinion, is attached as
Annex D. Goldman Sachs provided its opinion for the
information and assistance of Federateds board of
directors in connection with its consideration of the merger.
Goldman Sachs opinion is not a recommendation as to how
any holder of Federated common stock should vote with respect to
the merger. We encourage you to read the opinion in its entirety.
In connection with rendering the opinion described above and
performing its related financial analyses, Goldman Sachs
reviewed, among other things:
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the merger agreement; |
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annual reports to stockholders and Annual Reports on
Form 10-K of Federated and May for the five fiscal years
ended January 31, 2004; |
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certain interim reports to stockholders and Quarterly Reports on
Form 10-Q of Federated and May; |
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certain other communications from Federated and May to their
respective stockholders; |
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certain internal financial analyses and forecasts for Federated
prepared by its management; and |
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certain financial analyses and forecasts for May prepared by the
management of Federated which are referred to as the Forecasts,
including certain cost savings and operating synergies projected
by the management of Federated to result from the merger, which
are referred to as the synergies. |
Goldman Sachs held discussions with members of the senior
management of Federated regarding their assessment of the
strategic rationale for, and the potential benefits of, the
merger. Goldman Sachs also held discussions with members of the
senior management of Federated and May regarding the past and
current business operations, financial condition and future
prospects of Federated and May.
In addition, Goldman Sachs:
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reviewed the reported price and trading activity for the shares
of Federated common stock and the shares of May common stock; |
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compared certain financial and stock market information for
Federated and May with similar information for certain other
companies the securities of which are publicly traded; |
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reviewed the financial terms of certain recent business
combinations in the department store and retail industry
specifically and in other industries generally; and |
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performed such other studies and analyses, and considered such
other factors, as Goldman Sachs considered appropriate. |
Goldman Sachs has relied upon the accuracy and completeness of
all of the financial, accounting, legal, tax and other
information discussed with or reviewed by it and has assumed
such accuracy and completeness
75
for purposes of rendering its opinion. In that regard, Goldman
Sachs has assumed with the consent of Federated that the
Forecasts, including the synergies, were reasonably prepared on
a basis reflecting the best currently available estimates and
judgments of Federated. In addition, Goldman Sachs did not make
an independent evaluation or appraisal of the assets and
liabilities (including any contingent, derivative or
off-balance-sheet assets and liabilities and the credit card
assets as to which Federated has announced that it is exploring
various alternatives) of Federated or May or any of their
respective subsidiaries, and Goldman Sachs was not furnished
with any such evaluation or appraisal. Goldman Sachs also
assumed that all governmental, regulatory or other consents and
approvals necessary for the consummation of the merger will be
obtained without any adverse effect on Federated or May, or the
expected benefits of the merger, in any way meaningful to
Goldman Sachs analyses.
The following is a summary of the material financial analyses
presented by Goldman Sachs on February 25, 2005, and
February 27, 2005, to Federateds board of directors
in connection with rendering its opinion. The following summary,
however, does not purport to be a complete description of the
financial analyses performed by Goldman Sachs. Goldman Sachs
believes that each of these analyses was relevant to its
examination and conclusion as to whether the consideration to be
paid by Federated for each outstanding share of May common stock
pursuant to the merger agreement was fair from a financial point
of view to Federated. The measures chosen for analysis were
selected by Goldman Sachs as customary and relevant to an
acquisition utilizing a combination of cash and common stock of
the acquiring company. The order of analyses described does not
represent the relative importance or weight given to those
analyses by Goldman Sachs. Some of the summaries of the
financial analyses include information presented in tabular
format. The tables must be read together with the full text of
each summary and are alone not a complete description of Goldman
Sachs financial analyses. Except as otherwise noted, the
following quantitative information, to the extent that it is
based on market data, is based on market data as it existed on
or before February 27, 2005, and is not necessarily
indicative of current market conditions.
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Transaction Premium Analysis |
Goldman Sachs calculated the implied premium over the market
price at various points for each share of May common stock that
would be received by May stockholders. In these calculations,
Goldman Sachs utilized an implied transaction price per share of
$35.50. This price was calculated using a fixed exchange ratio
of 0.3115 Federated common shares for each May share of common
stock, fixed cash consideration of $17.75 per share of May
common stock and the share price of $56.99 of Federated common
stock based on the ten-day average trading price as of
February 25, 2005, (the last trading day prior to the
announcement of the proposed merger). Goldman Sachs compared the
implied transaction price per share of $35.50 with the following
trading prices for May common stock:
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the closing price of $27.73 on January 13, 2005 (the last
full trading day prior to any speculation regarding the
resignation of Mays chief executive officer and a
potential transaction between Federated and May); |
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the average trading price of $29.03 over the one-year period
prior to January 13, 2005; and |
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the twelve-month high trading price of $36.31. |
The results of Goldman Sachs calculations are reflected
below:
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Implied Premium Based | |
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on Implied Transaction | |
May Stock Price on: |
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Price per Share of $35.50 | |
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January 13, 2005
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28.0 |
% |
One-year average
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22.3 |
% |
Twelve-month High
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(2.2 |
)% |
76
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Implied Transaction Multiples |
The implied transaction multiples represent the ratio of the
implied purchase price (expressed as either the implied fully
diluted equity consideration or the implied enterprise value) to
various financial measures, including net sales, earnings before
interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization, or EBITDA, and
net income. In performing this analysis, Goldman Sachs first
derived the implied fully diluted equity consideration and the
implied enterprise value in the merger based on the implied
transaction price per share of $35.50 in the merger. The fully
diluted equity consideration amount was derived by multiplying
the implied transaction price per share of $35.50 by the number
of fully diluted shares of May common stock outstanding as of
February 25, 2005, assuming the conversion of Mays
convertible preferred shares subject to its employee stock
option plan, referred to as the ESOP, based on information
provided by May management. The enterprise value of May was
derived by adding the fully diluted equity consideration to
Mays net debt of $5,925 million, as estimated for May
as of July 31, 2005 (the estimated closing date of the
merger), by Federated management. Net debt means total debt less
cash and cash equivalents.
Goldman Sachs also calculated the fully diluted May equity
consideration amount based on the implied transaction price per
share of $35.50 as a multiple of the 2005 and 2006 net
income for May based on estimates as of February 12, 2005,
prepared by Federated management.
Goldman Sachs also calculated the May enterprise value based on
the implied transaction price per share of $35.50 as a multiple
of the following historical and estimated financial results for
May:
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2004 net sales based on publicly available information; |
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Federated managements estimates of May net sales for 2005
and 2006; |
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2004 EBITDA based on publicly available information; |
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Federated managements estimates of May EBITDA for 2005 and
2006; |
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2004 earnings before interest and taxation, or EBIT, based on
publicly available information; and |
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Federated managements estimates of May EBIT for 2005 and
2006. |
All 2004 financial results for May give effect to a full year
pro forma adjustment for Mays acquisition of Marshall
Fields from Target Corporation in July 2004. In addition,
all net sales amounts used for purposes of the foregoing
calculations exclude leased and licensed department income. Each
year referred to relates to the fiscal year ending in January of
the following year.
The results of these analyses are as follows:
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Implied Transaction | |
Fully Diluted Equity Consideration as a Multiple of: |
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Price per Share: | |
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2005 estimated net income
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17.4x |
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2006 estimated net income
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15.0x |
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Enterprise Value as a Multiple of:
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2004 net sales
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1.1x |
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2005 estimated net sales
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1.1x |
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2006 estimated net sales
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1.0x |
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2004 EBITDA
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8.5x |
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2005 estimated EBITDA
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7.9x |
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2006 estimated EBITDA
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7.5x |
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2004 EBIT
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13.1x |
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2005 estimated EBIT
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11.8x |
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2006 estimated EBIT
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10.9x |
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Discounted Cash Flow Analysis |
Goldman Sachs performed a discounted cash flow analysis with
respect to May of the after-tax cash flow projected to be
available for use at the discretion of Mays management, or
free cash flow. This analysis is designed to represent the
present value of a company based on its projected future cash
flows. The discounted cash flow analysis gives effect to the
synergies projected to result from the merger and related
one-time costs. Goldman Sachs performed this analysis based on
projections for May as prepared by Federated management and
publicly available information. For the purposes of this
analysis, Goldman Sachs utilized outstanding share and option
information for May as provided by May management and assumed
the conversion of all of Mays ESOP preference shares into
common shares and the exercise of all in-the-money options.
In performing this discounted cash flow analysis, Goldman Sachs
used estimates of Mays free cash flows for the period from
2005 through 2009 and estimates of free cash flows from
synergies projected to result for the period from 2005 through
2014, in each case prepared by Federated management, and applied
discount rates ranging from 8.0% to 11.0% and terminal EBITDA
multiples ranging from 6.0x to 7.0x. Goldman Sachs derived
implied equity value indications ranging from $32.47 to
$45.46 per share with respect to May common stock.
A pro forma earnings per share, referred to as EPS, analysis
involves the review of the projected earnings for the combined
company, taking into account the effects of the merger. Goldman
Sachs compared, for each of 2006 (the first full-year following
projected completion of the merger), 2007 and 2008, the
estimated EPS of Federated on a standalone basis with the
estimated EPS of the combined company on the one hand, excluding
one-time costs and, on the other hand, including one-time costs,
in each case, using estimates prepared by Federated management
for each of Federated, May, and the synergies projected to
result from the merger and an illustrative asset integration
strategy involving the closing of stores. Goldman Sachs prepared
these analyses based on a total consideration of $35.50 per
share of May common stock to be received by May stockholders,
consisting of $17.75 in cash and 0.3115 shares of the
common stock of Federated.
Based on the foregoing and a merger closing date of
July 31, 2005, and without giving effect to the one-time
costs, the merger would be dilutive to Federateds EPS in
2006 and somewhat accretive in each of 2007 and 2008. In giving
effect to those one-time costs, the proposed merger would be
significantly dilutive to Federateds EPS in 2006, dilutive
in 2007 and somewhat accretive in 2008.
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Unlevered Internal Rate of Return Analysis |
Goldman Sachs performed an analysis of the implied internal
rates of return that could theoretically be realized by an
acquirer of May by utilizing projections of Mays free cash
flows for 2005 through 2014 as estimated by Federateds
management and based on publicly available information. These
projections included the synergies projected to result from the
merger and an illustrative asset integration strategy involving
the closing of stores. Goldman Sachs calculated implied rates of
return assuming an acquisition of May as of July 31, 2005,
based on a range of purchase prices per share of May common
stock of $35.00 to $36.00 and a disposition of May by the
acquirer at the end of 2014 at aggregate prices equal to 6.0x,
6.5x and 7.0x projected 2014 EBITDA. Based on the foregoing
assumptions, Goldman Sachs calculated that an acquirer of May
would realize implied internal rates of return ranging from 9.6%
to 11.1%.
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Selected Companies Analysis |
Goldman Sachs reviewed selected publicly available financial
information, ratios and multiples for May and compared that data
to corresponding data for the following selected companies in
the department store and retail industry:
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Dillards, Inc. |
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Federated Department Stores, Inc. |
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Nordstrom, Inc. |
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The Neiman Marcus Group, Inc. |
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J.C. Penney Company, Inc. |
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Saks Incorporated |
Although none of the selected companies are directly comparable
to May, the companies included were chosen because they are
publicly traded companies with operations that, for purposes of
analysis, may be considered similar to the operations of May.
The equity market capitalization for the selected companies
utilized by Goldman Sachs was calculated by multiplying each
companys closing stock price as of February 25, 2005,
by the number of that companys fully diluted shares
outstanding. The equity market capitalization for May was
calculated based on the $35.50 per share implied
transaction price to be received by May stockholders in the
merger. Each companys enterprise value was calculated by
adding to its diluted equity market capitalization the amount of
its net debt as of the end of its most recently completed fiscal
quarter. Historical financial results utilized by Goldman Sachs
for purposes of this analysis were based upon information
contained in the applicable companys latest publicly
available financial statements as of February 25, 2005.
Estimates of future results used by Goldman Sachs in this
analysis were calendarized and based on median estimates
provided by Institutional Brokers Estimate System, referred to
as IBES (a data service that compiles estimates issued by
securities research analysts). Certain historical and estimated
results were adjusted to reflect or exclude the pro forma effect
of acquisitions. Goldman Sachs analysis of the selected
companies compared the following to the results for May:
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the February 25, 2005, closing stock price as a percentage
of the 52-week high stock price; |
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enterprise value as a multiple of (1) sales for the
twelve-month period completed as of the end of the quarter most
recently completed prior to the announcement of the transaction,
referred to as the LTM Period, (2) EBITDA for the LTM
Period, (3) EBITDA for 2005, (4) EBITDA for 2006, and
(5) EBIT for the LTM Period; |
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the February 25, 2005, closing stock price as a multiple of
estimated 2005 and 2006 EPS, referred to as the 2005 and 2006 P/
E; |
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five-year EPS compounded annual growth rate, referred to as the
5-Year EPS CAGR, based on IBES median estimates; |
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the 2006 P/ E multiple as a multiple of 5-Year EPS CAGR; |
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EBITDA and EBIT margins for the LTM Period; and |
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dividend yield. |
79
The following table compares the multiples and percentages
referred to above calculated for the selected companies with
comparable information derived by Goldman Sachs with respect to
May based on the implied transaction price per share of $35.50
payable in the merger:
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May | |
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Selected Companies | |
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Based on Implied | |
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Transaction Price per | |
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High | |
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Low | |
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Mean | |
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Median | |
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Share of $35.50 | |
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February 25, 2005 closing stock price as a percentage of
the 52-week high stock price (except as noted for May)
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100 |
% |
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87 |
% |
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95 |
% |
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97 |
% |
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98 |
% |
Enterprise value to LTM Period Sales
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1.2 |
x |
|
|
0.5 |
x |
|
|
0.8 |
x |
|
|
0.8 |
x |
|
|
1.1 |
x |
Enterprise value to LTM Period EBITDA
|
|
|
9.5 |
x |
|
|
5.9 |
x |
|
|
7.8 |
x |
|
|
7.9 |
x |
|
|
8.6 |
x |
Enterprise value to 2005 EBITDA
|
|
|
8.6 |
x |
|
|
5.9 |
x |
|
|
7.3 |
x |
|
|
7.1 |
x |
|
|
8.1 |
x |
Enterprise value to 2006 EBITDA
|
|
|
8.1 |
x |
|
|
5.9 |
x |
|
|
6.8 |
x |
|
|
6.5 |
x |
|
|
7.4 |
x |
Enterprise value to LTM Period EBIT
|
|
|
16.2 |
x |
|
|
8.7 |
x |
|
|
12.3 |
x |
|
|
11.5 |
x |
|
|
13.2 |
x |
2005 P/ E
|
|
|
24.5 |
x |
|
|
12.3 |
x |
|
|
17.0 |
x |
|
|
15.2 |
x |
|
|
17.3 |
x |
2006 P/ E
|
|
|
20.2 |
x |
|
|
11.4 |
x |
|
|
14.7 |
x |
|
|
13.5 |
x |
|
|
15.4 |
x |
5-Year EPS CAGR
|
|
|
13.0 |
% |
|
|
5.0 |
% |
|
|
9.3 |
% |
|
|
9.6 |
% |
|
|
7.0 |
% |
2006 P/ E to 5-Year EPS CAGR
|
|
|
4.0 |
x |
|
|
1.1 |
x |
|
|
1.8 |
x |
|
|
1.2 |
x |
|
|
2.2 |
x |
LTM Period EBITDA margin
|
|
|
14.3 |
% |
|
|
7.2 |
% |
|
|
10.5 |
% |
|
|
10.7 |
% |
|
|
12.6 |
% |
LTM Period EBIT margin
|
|
|
10.4 |
% |
|
|
3.2 |
% |
|
|
7.2 |
% |
|
|
8.1 |
% |
|
|
8.2 |
% |
Dividend yield
|
|
|
1.1 |
% |
|
|
0.0 |
% |
|
|
0.8 |
% |
|
|
0.9 |
% |
|
|
2.8 |
% |
Goldman Sachs calculated the implied exchange ratios of May
common stock to Federated common stock based on the average
closing share prices of May common stock and Federated common
stock for the three-year and one-year periods ended
February 24, 2005 (the last trading day prior to the
presentation Goldman Sachs made to the Federated board of
directors on February 25, 2005), and on the closing share
prices of May common stock and Federated common stock on
January 13, 2005, the last full trading day prior to any
speculation regarding the resignation of Mays chief
executive officer and a potential transaction between Federated
and May. Goldman Sachs also performed this analysis after taking
into account the 50% cash component of the consideration to be
paid for each share of May common stock as of February 24,
2005. This analysis compared the closing prices as if all of the
merger consideration, or half of the merger consideration, were
to be paid in shares of Federated common stock. The following
table reflects the results of this analysis:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Exchange Ratio | |
|
|
| |
May Stock Price Over or on: |
|
100% Stock | |
|
50% Stock | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
3 Year Average
|
|
|
0.68x |
|
|
|
0.34x |
|
1 Year Average
|
|
|
0.57x |
|
|
|
0.29x |
|
January 13, 2005
|
|
|
0.48x |
|
|
|
0.24x |
|
|
|
|
Selected Transactions Analysis |
Goldman Sachs analyzed certain publicly available information
relating to selected business combination transactions involving
companies in the department store and retail industry announced
between December 1993 and January 2005. These transactions
(listed by acquirer/target and month and year of announcement)
included:
|
|
|
|
|
Jones Apparel Group, Inc./ Barneys New York, Inc.
(November 2004) |
|
|
|
K-Mart Holding Corporation/ Sears, Roebuck and Co. (November
2004) |
80
|
|
|
|
|
Investor Group consisting of Sun Capital Partners, Inc.,
Cerberus Capital Management, L.P., Lubert-Adler Real Estate
Fund IV, L.P. and Klaff Partners, L.P./ Mervyns LLC
(July 2004) |
|
|
|
The May Department Stores Company/ Marshall Fields
division of Target Corporation (June 2004) |
|
|
|
Proffitts, Inc./ Saks Holdings, Inc. (July 1998) |
|
|
|
Dillards, Inc./ Mercantile Stores Company, Inc. (May 1998) |
|
|
|
Proffitts, Inc./ Carson Pirie Scott & Co.
(October 1997) |
|
|
|
Proffitts, Inc./ G.R. Herbergers, Inc. (November
1996) |
|
|
|
Proffitts, Inc./ Parisian, Inc. (July 1996) |
|
|
|
Proffitts, Inc./ Younkers, Inc. (October 1995) |
|
|
|
Federated Department Stores, Inc./ Broadway Stores, Inc. (August
1995) |
|
|
|
Federated Department Stores, Inc./ R.H. Macys &
Co., Inc. (December 1994) |
For each of the selected transactions, Goldman Sachs calculated
the implied enterprise value of the target company as a multiple
of the targets publicly reported EBITDA and sales, in each
case, for the last twelve months, or LTM, period ended
immediately prior to the announcement of the transaction (to the
extent that information was publicly available). Goldman Sachs
then compared the high, low, mean and median EBITDA and sales
multiples calculated for the selected transactions with similar
EBITDA and sales multiples calculated for the proposed merger
between Federated and May. For purposes of this analysis,
Goldman Sachs derived an implied enterprise value for May based
on:
|
|
|
(1) an implied transaction price of $35.25 per share
of May common stock, derived from (i) the closing price of
$57.39 of Federated common shares on February 16, 2005;
(ii) a fixed exchange ratio of 0.3070 Federated shares for
each share of May common stock; and (iii) fixed cash
consideration of $17.63 per share of May common stock; |
|
|
(2) a number of fully diluted outstanding May common
shares, which takes into account the number of outstanding
common shares issuable upon conversion of all May ESOP
preference shares and upon the exercise of all in-the-money May
options; and |
|
|
(3) net debt of May equal to approximately
$5,925 million as of July 31, 2005, the expected
closing date of the proposed merger, as estimated by Federated
management. |
The following table shows the results of this comparison which
takes into account the full pro forma effect of Mays
acquisition of Marshall Fields from Target Corporation in
July 2004:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Selected Transactions | |
|
|
|
|
| |
|
|
Enterprise Value as a Multiple of: |
|
High | |
|
Low | |
|
Mean | |
|
Median | |
|
Proposed Transaction | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
EBITDA
|
|
|
20.1x |
|
|
|
5.9x |
|
|
|
10.7x |
|
|
|
9.4x |
|
|
|
8.5x |
|
Sales
|
|
|
1.5x |
|
|
|
0.4x |
|
|
|
0.8x |
|
|
|
0.7x |
|
|
|
1.1x |
|
|
|
|
Premium Analysis of Selected Transactions |
Using publicly available information, Goldman Sachs calculated
the premia paid in selected pending and completed cash-and-stock
business combination transactions announced since
January 1, 2000, in which all the targets shares are
being, or have been, acquired for consideration in excess of
$10 billion, 25% to 50% of which is paid in cash. These
transactions (listed by acquirer/target and date of
announcement) included:
|
|
|
|
|
The Procter & Gamble Company/ The Gillette Company
(January 28, 2005) |
|
|
|
Johnson & Johnson/ Guidant Corporation
(December 15, 2004) |
|
|
|
Sanofi-Synthelabo/ Aventis (January 26, 2004) |
81
|
|
|
|
|
Anthem Inc./ WellPoint Health Networks Inc. (October 27,
2003) |
|
|
|
Allianz Aktiengesellschaft/ Dresdner Bank AG (April 1, 2001) |
|
|
|
DB Investments consisting of Anglo American, the Oppenheimer
Family and the Botswana Government/ De Beers Consolidated Mines
(February 15, 2001) |
|
|
|
Deutsche Telekom AG/ VoiceStream Wireless Corporation
(July 24, 2000) |
|
|
|
HSBC Holdings PLC/ Credit Commercial de France (April 1,
2000) |
|
|
|
Tribune Company/ The Times Mirror Company (March 13, 2000) |
Goldman Sachs calculated the premia represented by the
transaction consideration in those transactions based on each
targets closing stock price one day, one week and four
weeks prior to announcement of the applicable transaction.
Goldman Sachs compared the high, low, mean and median premia
calculated for the selected transactions with the implied
premium based on the closing prices of May common stock on the
one day, one week and four weeks prior to:
(i) January 13, 2005, referred to as the undisturbed
price, and (ii) February 24, 2005, referred to as the
market price.
In performing this analysis, Goldman Sachs calculated an implied
enterprise value of May of $16,821 million as of
February 24, 2005, that was determined based on the same
assumptions enumerated in (1) through (3) under the
Selected Transactions Analysis described above.
The results of this analysis appear in the following tables:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Selected Transaction | |
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |
|
|
Transaction | |
|
Percent | |
|
1 Day Prior to | |
|
1 Week Prior to | |
|
4 Weeks Prior to | |
|
|
Value | |
|
Cash | |
|
Announcement | |
|
Announcement | |
|
Announcement | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
|
(In millions) | |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
High
|
|
$ |
65,657 |
|
|
|
40.0 |
% |
|
|
98.2 |
% |
|
|
84.2 |
% |
|
|
68.9 |
% |
Low
|
|
$ |
10,984 |
|
|
|
25.9 |
% |
|
|
0.3 |
% |
|
|
3.1 |
% |
|
|
13.1 |
% |
Mean
|
|
$ |
28,007 |
|
|
|
32.9 |
% |
|
|
23.7 |
% |
|
|
26.3 |
% |
|
|
35.1 |
% |
Median
|
|
$ |
19,656 |
|
|
|
33.7 |
% |
|
|
17.6 |
% |
|
|
21.3 |
% |
|
|
32.4 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Proposed Transaction | |
|
|
Transaction | |
|
Percent | |
|
| |
|
|
Value | |
|
Cash | |
|
1 Day Prior to: | |
|
1 Week Prior to: | |
|
4 Weeks Prior to: | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
|
(In millions) | |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Undisturbed Price
|
|
$ |
16,821 |
|
|
|
50.0 |
% |
|
|
27.1 |
% |
|
|
24.9 |
% |
|
|
24.7 |
% |
Market Price
|
|
$ |
16,821 |
|
|
|
50.0 |
% |
|
|
3.4 |
% |
|
|
11.8 |
% |
|
|
6.3 |
% |
The preparation of a fairness opinion is a complex process and
is not necessarily susceptible to partial analysis or summary
description. Selecting portions of the analyses or of the
summary set forth above, without considering the analyses as a
whole, could create an incomplete view of the processes
underlying Goldman Sachs opinion. In arriving at its
fairness determination, Goldman Sachs considered the results of
all the analyses and did not attribute any particular weight to
any factor or analysis considered by it. Rather, Goldman Sachs
made its determination as to fairness on the basis of its
experience and professional judgment after considering the
results of all the analyses. No company or transaction used in
the above analyses as a comparison is directly comparable to
Federated or May or the proposed merger.
Goldman Sachs prepared these analyses for purposes of Goldman
Sachs providing its opinion to Federateds board of
directors as to the fairness from a financial point of view to
Federated of the $17.75 in cash and 0.3115 shares of
Federated common stock to be paid by Federated for each
outstanding share of May common stock pursuant to the merger
agreement. These analyses do not purport to be appraisals nor do
they necessarily reflect the prices at which businesses or
securities actually may be sold. Analyses based upon forecasts
of future results are not necessarily indicative of actual
future results, which may be significantly more or less
favorable than suggested by these analyses. Because these
analyses are inherently subject to uncertainty, being based upon
numerous factors or events beyond the control of the parties or
their respective
82
advisors, none of Federated, Goldman Sachs or any other person
assumes responsibility if future results are materially
different from those forecast. As described above, Goldman
Sachs opinion to Federateds board of directors was
one of many factors taken into consideration by Federateds
board of directors in making its determination to approve the
merger agreement.
Goldman Sachs and its affiliates, as part of their investment
banking business, are continually engaged in performing
financial analyses with respect to businesses and their
securities in connection with mergers and acquisitions,
negotiated underwritings, competitive biddings, secondary
distributions of listed and unlisted securities, private
placements and other transactions as well as for estate,
corporate and other purposes. Goldman Sachs has acted as
financial advisor to Federated in connection with, and has
participated in certain of the negotiations leading to, the
merger contemplated by the merger agreement. Goldman Sachs
expects to receive fees for its services in connection with the
merger, the principal portion of which is contingent upon
consummation of the merger, and Federated has agreed to
reimburse Goldman Sachs expenses and indemnify Goldman
Sachs against certain liabilities arising out of Goldman
Sachs engagement. Goldman Sachs also may provide
investment banking and other services to Federated, May and
their respective affiliates in the future for which Goldman
Sachs may receive compensation.
In addition, Goldman Sachs is a full service securities firm
engaged, either directly or through its affiliates, in
securities trading, investment management, financial planning
and benefits counseling, risk management, hedging, financing and
brokerage activities for both companies and individuals. In the
ordinary course of these activities, Goldman Sachs and its
affiliates may provide such services to Federated, May and their
respective affiliates, may actively trade the debt and equity
securities (or related derivative securities) of Federated and
May for their own account and for the accounts of their
customers and may at any time hold long and short positions of
such securities.
Federated selected Goldman Sachs as its financial advisor
because it is an internationally recognized investment banking
firm that has substantial experience in transactions similar to
the merger. Pursuant to a letter agreement, dated
February 25, 2005, Federated engaged Goldman Sachs to act
as its financial advisor in connection with a possible
acquisition of May. Pursuant to the terms of this letter
agreement, Federated agreed to pay Goldman Sachs a transaction
fee of $27,500,000, $2,750,000 of which was payable upon
Federateds entering into a merger agreement to acquire May
and $24,750,000 of which is payable upon consummation of the
merger. Federated has also agreed to reimburse Goldman Sachs for
its reasonable expenses, including attorneys fees and
disbursements, and to indemnify Goldman Sachs against various
liabilities, including various liabilities under the federal
securities laws.
Interests of May Directors and Executive Officers in the
Merger
Mays executive officers and members of the May board of
directors, in their capacities as such, have financial interests
in the merger that are in addition to or different from their
interests as stockholders of May generally. Mays board of
directors was aware of these interests and considered them,
among other matters, in approving the merger agreement and the
transactions contemplated thereby.
|
|
|
Federated Board of Directors After the Merger |
Under the merger agreement, Federated has agreed to select two
members of Mays board of directors who are recommended by
the NCG Committee of Federateds board of directors and, if
those individuals are willing to serve, Federated will use its
reasonable best efforts to appoint those individuals to
Federateds board of directors as of the effective time of
the merger.
|
|
|
Executive Employment and Severance Agreements |
Under the merger agreement, May may, in the ordinary course of
business, continue to enter into employment agreements or agree
to employment agreement extensions, subject to certain
limitations.
May has entered into employment agreements with approximately
375 of its current employees, including all of its current
executive officers. Each of these agreements provides, among
other things, for a non-
83
competition covenant that is to be in effect for six months, one
year or two years, as the case may be, after termination of
employment. During the non-competition period, the executive is
to be paid an amount equal to his or her base salary (we refer
to this payment below as the non-compete payment).
May has entered into severance agreements with approximately 38
of its current employees, including each of its current
executive officers. Each of these agreements provides for cash
severance and other benefits in the event that the
individuals employment is terminated under certain
circumstances as of or within two years following a change
in control of May. For purposes of the severance
agreements, a change in control will occur at the
effective time of the merger. Severance benefits under the
agreements with the executive officers currently include:
(i) a lump sum in cash equal to (a) 300% of the
greater of the executives base salary at the time of
termination or immediately prior to the change in control, plus
(b) 300% of the executives target bonus with respect
to the year in which the change in control occurs;
(ii) continuation of life and health insurance benefits for
three years; and (iii) for executive officers, a cash
payment, in consideration of the cancellation of all outstanding
stock options, that is equal to the spread of those
options at the time of termination. Each of the severance
agreements also provides that the executive will receive the
non-compete payment. Each of the severance agreements further
provides that if, after taking into account the 20% golden
parachute excise tax that may be applied to the executives
payments and benefits under his or her severance agreement and
other May plans and programs, the executives net benefits
would be less than the executives safe harbor
amount under the Internal Revenue Codes so-called
golden parachute rules, May will reduce the
executives cash severance payments so that the total
change in control-related payments and benefits paid to the
executive will not exceed the executives safe harbor
amount. Mr. Dunhams agreement provides that if the
reduction described in the preceding sentence is not applicable,
May will pay to Mr. Dunham 50% of the amount that would be
otherwise necessary to make Mr. Dunham whole with respect
to the excise tax.
Under the merger agreement, May may amend the severance
agreements to eliminate the mandatory cash-out of options and to
clarify that certain fringe benefits to which the executive is
entitled under the executives employment agreement
immediately before the termination date will be provided through
the end of the term of the employment agreement, as though
employment had not been terminated, provided that this results
in no duplication of benefits to be provided under the
executives severance agreement.
The table below lists the estimated aggregate cash severance and
non-compete payment to which each of Mays executive
officers named in the Summary Compensation Table on
page 155 other than Mr. Kahn, Mays former chief
executive officer (we will refer to these five individuals as
the named executive officers), would be entitled
under his employment and severance agreements if the executive
officers employment with May was terminated as of the
effective time of the merger under circumstances entitling the
executive officer to the non-compete payment and to severance
under the executive officers severance agreement. We have
also included the aggregate amount of cash severance and
non-compete payments that would be payable under these
circumstances to all of Mays executive officers as a group.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash Severance | |
|
|
and Non-Compete | |
Name |
|
Payment | |
|
|
| |
Mr. Dunham
|
|
$ |
9,372,500 |
|
Mr. Wolfe
|
|
$ |
6,120,000 |
|
Mr. McNamara
|
|
$ |
5,678,000 |
|
Mr. Fingleton
|
|
$ |
5,202,000 |
|
Mr. Levitt
|
|
$ |
4,726,000 |
|
All executive officers as a group (13 persons)
|
|
$ |
46,806,300 |
|
Under the merger agreement, May may make grants of equity awards
in fiscal 2005 and 2006 (if the merger is not consummated during
fiscal 2005) in the ordinary course of business, subject to
certain limitations.
84
All outstanding stock options and restricted stock awards
granted by May prior to February 27, 2005, will become
immediately vested upon approval of the merger agreement by
Mays stockholders. Stock options and restricted stock
awards granted by May on or after February 27, 2005, will
become immediately vested upon the effective time of the merger.
May stock options that are outstanding immediately prior to the
effective time of the merger will be converted into options to
purchase Federated common stock (as more fully described in the
section entitled The Merger Agreement
Covenants and Agreements May Stock Options,
beginning on page 108), which options will be otherwise
subject to their terms. May restricted stock awards will be
converted, along with all other outstanding shares of May common
stock, into the right to receive the merger consideration, as
described in the section entitled The Merger
Agreement beginning on page 95.
The following table lists, with respect to the named executive
officers, all of Mays executive officers as a group, and
all of Mays non-management directors as a group, the
number of (i) unvested options to purchase May common
stock, along with the weighted average exercise price of such
options, and (ii) restricted shares of May common stock,
all of which will become vested as a result of either the
approval of the merger agreement by Mays stockholders or
the consummation of the merger. The information shown on this
table is based on the equity awards outstanding as of
May 20, 2005.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Number of Shares | |
|
Weighted Average | |
|
|
|
|
Subject to | |
|
Exercise Price of | |
|
Number of | |
Name |
|
Unvested Options | |
|
Unvested Options | |
|
Restricted Shares | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
Mr. Dunham
|
|
|
236,250 |
|
|
$ |
30.428 |
|
|
|
100,000 |
|
Mr. Wolfe
|
|
|
90,000 |
|
|
$ |
31.185 |
|
|
|
65,000 |
|
Mr. McNamara
|
|
|
108,750 |
|
|
$ |
31.151 |
|
|
|
100,000 |
|
Mr. Fingleton
|
|
|
90,000 |
|
|
$ |
31.185 |
|
|
|
80,000 |
|
Mr. Levitt
|
|
|
87,500 |
|
|
$ |
30.985 |
|
|
|
45,000 |
|
All executive officers as a group (13 persons)
|
|
|
828,450 |
|
|
$ |
30.988 |
|
|
|
511,805 |
|
All non-management directors as a group (8 persons)
|
|
|
N/A |
|
|
|
N/A |
|
|
|
49,990 |
|
|
|
|
Bonuses; Profit Sharing Plan |
Under the merger agreement, with respect to annual bonuses for
Mays fiscal year in which the effective time of the merger
occurs, if May determines that it would be impractical after the
effective time of the merger to continue to utilize one or more
of the goals applicable in determining all or any portion of a
May employees bonus for that year, May may authorize a
bonus for any employee who remains employed at the end of the
fiscal year, which bonus includes an amount that would have been
payable to the employee assuming performance under the
discontinued goal had been at target levels.
Under the merger agreement, if, within the 18-month period
following the effective time of the merger, a May employee is
terminated at the initiative of Federated or an affiliate of
Federated (including May and its subsidiaries) other than
for cause, the employee will be entitled to payment
of a pro-rata bonus with respect to the year of termination,
based on actual results or assuming performance at target levels
(depending upon the underlying performance goals). Each May
employee will have the right individually to enforce his or her
rights to this pro-rata bonus.
Under the merger agreement, with respect to Mays
tax-qualified Profit Sharing Plan, May may take such actions as
are necessary to (i) equitably adjust the goals applied for
purposes of determining matching contributions under the plan
for the year in which the effective time of the merger occurs
and (ii) based on this equitable adjustment, provide for a
pro-rata matching contribution (at a rate of at least
331/3%
for the portion of the plan year), up to the closing date of the
merger, to be allocated under the plan as if the then-current
plan year ended on the closing date of the merger.
85
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Other Severance Arrangements |
May has established the Severance Policy for Associates, which
provides for severance payments and benefits in the event that a
participating employee is terminated under qualifying
circumstances within 12 months following a change in
control. Those of Mays employees who are party to an
individual severance agreement (including all executive
officers) are not eligible to participate in this plan. The plan
currently provides that a change in control would occur when
Mays stockholders approve the merger agreement. Under the
merger agreement, May may modify the plan to provide that a
change in control will occur at the effective time of the merger
rather than upon approval of the merger agreement by Mays
stockholders, and to provide that the period during which a May
employee may become entitled to benefits under the plan will be
extended from 12 months to 24 months following the
effective time of the merger.
Under the merger agreement, Federated and its affiliates
(including May and its subsidiaries) will provide at least
30 days notice to any May employee whose employment
is terminated (other than for cause) as a result of
the merger at or within 18 months after the effective time
of the merger.
Deferred Compensation Plans. May maintains two
non-qualified deferred compensation plans, the Deferred
Compensation Plan for Directors, as amended (referred to below
as the Director Plan), which covers non-employee
directors of May, and the Deferred Compensation Plan (referred
to below as the Employee Plan), which covers certain
May employees, including all executive officers. The Director
Plan provides for deferrals of fees in either cash accounts,
which accrue interest, or stock units, each of which is
equivalent in value to one share of May common stock. All
amounts deferred, whether deferred in a cash account or a stock
unit account, will be paid in cash. The Employee Plan provides
for deferrals of salary and bonuses in either cash accounts,
which accrue interest, or in the form of stock units, each of
which is equivalent in value to one share of May common stock
and which may be paid in shares of May common stock or cash, as
determined by the plan administrator. Each of these plans
provides for a lump sum payout of the participants
accounts upon the occurrence of a change in control
which, under their current terms, would occur upon approval of
the merger agreement by Mays stockholders; provided, that
under the Director Plan, payment may not commence until the
directors board service is terminated. Each May director
will cease service on Mays board of directors as of the
effective time of the merger. All amounts deferred under the
Director Plan and the Employee Plan are vested.
Under the merger agreement, May may make certain modifications
to these non-qualified deferred compensation plans, to provide
that (i) a change in control under these plans
will occur at the effective time of the merger rather than upon
approval of the merger agreement by Mays stockholders and
(ii) if the merger agreement has been approved by
Mays stockholders but the merger has not been consummated
before December 28, 2005, then all outstanding balances
under the deferred compensation plans will be distributed prior
to the end of 2005, with stock units allocated under the plans
being valued for this purpose as if the closing date of the
merger were December 28, 2005.
86
The following table lists, with respect to the named executive
officers, Mays executive officers as a group, and
Mays non-management directors as a group, the amount of
cash or the number of stock units, as applicable, credited to
their accounts under the applicable May deferred compensation
plan as of May 20, 2005.
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Name |
|
Cash Account | |
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Stock Units | |
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| |
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| |
Mr. Dunham
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|
$ |
366,839 |
|
|
|
70,978 |
|
Mr. Wolfe
|
|
$ |
0 |
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|
|
0 |
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Mr. McNamara
|
|
$ |
1,895,970 |
|
|
|
43,092 |
|
Mr. Fingleton
|
|
$ |
1,046,540 |
|
|
|
18,109 |
|
Mr. Levitt
|
|
$ |
1,409,311 |
|
|
|
52,423 |
|
All executive officers as a group (13 persons)
|
|
$ |
5,819,901 |
|
|
|
217,055 |
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All non-management directors as a group (8 persons)
|
|
$ |
298,325 |
|
|
|
187,965 |
|
Supplementary Retirement Plan. May maintains the
Supplementary Retirement Plan, as amended, for the benefit of
certain May employees, including Mays executive officers.
Under the plan generally, participants may become entitled to
receive (i) a benefit based on 2% of the participants
final average pay, with credit for up to 25 years of
service, or, if greater, (ii) a benefit based on the
benefits to which the individual would have been entitled under
Mays tax-qualified retirement plans if certain Internal
Revenue Code limitations did not apply (referred to as the
Annual Minimum Benefit). Subject to certain transition rules
adopted in 1997, benefits under the plan generally vest when a
participant reaches age 60 with 10 years of service.
However, in the event that (i) within five years after a
change in control (currently defined under the plan
as stockholder approval of the merger agreement), a
participants employment is terminated other than for
cause, and (ii) as of the date of the change in control,
the participant is within five years of qualifying for benefits
under the Supplementary Retirement Plan, the participant is
entitled to receive a benefit computed as if the participant had
continued to be employed through the period ending on the
earliest date on which he or she would have qualified for
benefits, using the participants final average pay as
determined as of the date of the change in control or, if
greater, as of the date of termination, and crediting the
participant with additional years of service during this period.
Under the merger agreement, May may make the following
modifications to the Supplementary Retirement Plan:
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a change in control under the plan will occur at the
effective time of the merger, rather than at the time Mays
stockholders approve the merger agreement; |
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any plan participant who is employed with May or one of its
subsidiaries immediately prior to the effective time of the
merger, who has completed five or more years of service and who
is more than five years away from qualifying for benefits will
be fully vested in the Annual Minimum Benefit that the
participant has accrued as of the effective time of the merger; |
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eligibility for change in control-related benefits under the
plan will be extended to plan participants who (i) as of
the effective time of the merger have attained age 50 with
five or more years of service, (ii) otherwise qualify for
change in control related benefits, but whose employment
terminates after the effective time of the merger because of
death, or (iii) otherwise qualify for change in
control-related benefits, but whose employment terminates
because of death between the date on which Mays
stockholders approve the merger agreement and the closing date
of the merger, provided that the merger is consummated; |
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as of the effective time of the merger, any plan participant who
has not then completed five years of service will become vested
in the participants Annual Minimum Benefit accrued as of
the effective time of the merger, which vesting will occur upon
the completion of five years of service or upon the
participants termination of employment within
18 months following the effective time of the merger, if
the termination of employment is at the initiative of Federated
or an affiliate of Federated (including May and its
subsidiaries) other than for cause; and |
87
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benefits under the plan may commence on an actuarially reduced
basis prior to the date currently provided under the plan, but
in no event prior to age 55 (except in the case of survivor
benefits payable in respect of a deceased participant). |
Retiree Welfare Benefits. Under the merger agreement, May
and Federated have agreed to certain matters with respect to
Mays retiree welfare benefit programs, including the
following:
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Federated and its affiliates (including May and its
subsidiaries) will continue to provide to each May employee who
is currently retired and each May employee who retires on or
before the closing date of the merger (and eligible dependents),
all benefits to which the individual (and eligible dependents)
is entitled under Mays retiree welfare benefit plans
(e.g., post-retirement medical and life), without adverse
modifications, in each case for the life of the retiree and the
retirees spouse; |
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specified active May employees (including each of the May named
executive officers, two other executive officers and an
additional 18 executives) who, immediately prior to the
effective time of the merger, are eligible for retiree welfare
benefits under a May retiree welfare benefit plan will qualify
for retiree welfare benefits upon termination of employment for
any reason following the effective time of the merger, provided
that these benefits will generally not commence until the
employee reaches age 55, and Federated and its affiliates
(including May and its subsidiaries) will not adversely alter or
modify the requirement that Mays retiree welfare benefits
be provided for the life of any such retired May employee and
any such employees spouse, or require any premium payments
by any such retired May employee or any such employees
eligible dependents; and |
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the level of excess medical benefits to be provided to or on
behalf of the active May employees described above will not be
reduced from that currently provided under the applicable May
plan, and the level of medical benefits to which these May
employees become entitled will be no less favorable than is
provided from time to time to similarly situated employees of
Federated and its affiliates. |
Federated has also agreed that each affected May employee or
retiree will have the right individually to enforce his or her
rights to these retiree welfare benefits.
Store Discounts. Under the merger agreement, Federated
and its affiliates (including May and its subsidiaries) will
provide to each director and employee of May and its affiliates
who is currently retired or who retires prior to the effective
time of the merger, a lifetime discount on purchases in
accordance with Mays policy currently covering that
person. Federated has also agreed that each of these May
directors and employees will have the right individually to
enforce his or her rights as described in the immediately
preceding sentence. In addition, Federated has agreed that
Federated and its affiliates (including May and its
subsidiaries) will provide to each May director or employee who,
as of the effective time of the merger, has met the age and
service requirements for retirement and to each May employee or
director who meets those age and service requirements within
three years after the effective time of the merger, a lifetime
discount on purchases at any Federated store on a basis no less
favorable than is provided pursuant to the discount policy
covering that person at the time of retirement.
Accounting Treatment
The merger will be accounted for as a business combination using
the purchase method of accounting. Federated will be
the acquirer for financial accounting purposes.
Appraisal Rights of May Stockholders
Holders of record of May common stock who do not vote in favor
of adopting the merger agreement and the transactions
contemplated by the merger agreement, including the merger, and
who otherwise comply with the applicable provisions of
Section 262 of the Delaware General Corporation Law, which
we refer to throughout this joint proxy statement/ prospectus as
the DGCL, will be entitled to exercise appraisal rights under
Section 262 of the DGCL. A person having a beneficial
interest in shares of May common stock held of record in the
name of another person, such as a broker, bank or other nominee,
must act promptly to cause the
88
record holder to follow the steps summarized below properly and
in a timely manner to perfect appraisal rights.
The following discussion is not a complete statement of the
law pertaining to appraisal rights under the DGCL and is
qualified in its entirety by the full text of Section 262
of the DGCL, which is reprinted in its entirety as
Annex E and incorporated into this joint proxy
statement/ prospectus by reference. All references in
Section 262 of the DGCL and in this summary to a
shareholder, stockholder or
holder are to the record holder of the shares of May
common stock as to which appraisal rights are asserted.
Under Section 262 of the DGCL, holders of shares of May
common stock who follow the procedures set forth in
Section 262 of the DGCL will be entitled to have their May
common stock appraised by the Delaware Court of Chancery and to
receive payment in cash of the fair value of these
shares of May common stock, exclusive of any element of value
arising from the accomplishment or expectation of the merger,
together with a fair rate of interest, if any, as determined by
that court.
Under Section 262 of the DGCL, when a proposed merger is to
be submitted for approval at a meeting of stockholders, as in
the case of the approval of the merger agreement and the
transactions contemplated by the merger agreement, including the
merger, by May stockholders, the company, not less than
20 days prior to the meeting, must notify each of its
stockholders who was a stockholder on the record date for this
meeting with respect to shares for which appraisal rights are
available, that appraisal rights are so available, and must
include in this required notice a copy of Section 262 of
the DGCL.
This joint proxy statement/ prospectus constitutes the required
notice to the holders of these shares of May common stock and
the applicable statutory provisions of the DGCL are attached to
this joint proxy statement/ prospectus as Annex E.
Any May stockholder who wishes to exercise their appraisal
rights or who wishes to preserve their right to do so should
review the following discussion and Annex E
carefully, because failure to timely and properly comply with
the procedures specified in Annex E will result in
the loss of appraisal rights under the DGCL.
A holder of May common stock wishing to exercise appraisal
rights must not vote in favor of the approval and adoption of
the merger agreement and must deliver to May before the taking
of the vote on the merger agreement and the transactions
contemplated by the merger agreement, including the merger, at
the May annual meeting a written demand for appraisal of their
May common stock. This written demand for appraisal must be
separate from any proxy or vote abstaining from the vote on the
merger or against the merger. This demand must reasonably inform
May of the identity of the stockholder and of the
stockholders intent thereby to demand appraisal of their
shares. A holder of May common stock wishing to exercise
appraisal rights must be the record holder of these shares of
May common stock on the date the written demand for appraisal is
made and must continue to hold these shares of May common stock
through the effective date of the merger. Accordingly, a holder
of May common stock who is the record holder of May common stock
on the date the written demand for appraisal is made, but who
thereafter transfers these shares of May common stock prior to
consummation of the merger, will lose any right to appraisal in
respect of these shares of May common stock.
A proxy that is signed and does not contain voting instructions
will, unless revoked, be voted in favor of the approval and
adoption of the merger agreement and the transactions
contemplated by the merger agreement, including the merger, and
it will constitute a waiver of the stockholders right of
appraisal and will nullify any previously delivered written
demand for appraisal. Therefore, a stockholder who votes by
proxy and who wishes to exercise appraisal rights must vote
against the approval and adoption of the merger agreement and
the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement, including
the merger, or abstain from voting on the merger agreement.
Only a holder of record of May common stock on the record date
for the May annual meeting is entitled to assert appraisal
rights for the shares of May common stock registered in that
holders name. A demand for appraisal should be executed by
or on behalf of the holder of record, fully and correctly, as
the holders name appears on the holders stock
certificates, should specify the holders mailing address
and the number of shares registered in the holders name,
and must state that the person intends to demand appraisal of
the holders shares pursuant to the merger agreement. If
the shares of May common stock are held of record in a fiduciary
89
capacity, such as by a trustee, guardian or custodian, execution
of the demand should be made in that capacity, and if the May
common stock is held of record by more than one holder as in a
joint tenancy or tenancy in common, the demand should be
executed by or on behalf of all joint holders. An authorized
agent, including an agent for one or more joint holders, may
execute a demand for appraisal on behalf of a holder of record.
The agent, however, must identify the record holder or holders
and expressly disclose the fact that, in executing the demand,
the agent is acting as agent for the holder or holders. A record
holder such as a broker who holds May common stock as nominee
for several beneficial owners may exercise appraisal rights with
respect to the shares of May common stock held for one or more
beneficial owners while not exercising appraisal rights with
respect to the May common stock held for other beneficial
owners. In this case, the written demand should set forth the
number of shares of May common stock as to which appraisal is
sought. When no number of shares of May common stock is
expressly mentioned, the demand will be presumed to cover all
May common stock in brokerage accounts or other nominee forms
held by such record holder, and those who hold shares in
brokerage accounts or other nominee forms and who wish to
exercise appraisal rights under Section 262 of the DGCL are
urged to consult with their brokers to determine the appropriate
procedures for the making of a demand for appraisal by such a
nominee.
All written demands for appraisal should be sent or delivered
to The May Department Stores Company, 611 Olive Street,
St. Louis, Missouri 63101, Attention: Corporate
Secretary.
Within ten days after the effective date of the merger, Milan
Acquisition LLC, or its successor in interest, which we refer to
generally as the surviving company, will notify each former May
stockholder who has properly asserted appraisal rights under
Section 262 of the DGCL and has not voted in favor of
adopting the merger agreement and the transactions contemplated
by the merger agreement, including the merger, of the date the
merger became effective.
Within 120 days after the effective date of the merger, but
not thereafter, the surviving company or any former May
stockholder who has complied with the statutory requirements
summarized above may file a petition in the Delaware Court of
Chancery demanding a determination of the fair value of the
shares of May common stock that are entitled to appraisal
rights. None of Federated, the surviving company or May is under
any obligation to and none of them has any present intention to
file a petition with respect to the appraisal of the fair value
of the shares of May common stock. Accordingly, it is the
obligation of May stockholders wishing to assert appraisal
rights to take all necessary action to perfect and maintain
their appraisal rights within the time prescribed in
Section 262 of the DGCL.
Within 120 days after the effective date of the merger, any
former May stockholder who has complied with the requirements
for exercise of appraisal rights will be entitled, upon written
request, to receive from the surviving company a statement
setting forth the aggregate number of shares of May common stock
not voted in favor of adopting the merger agreement and the
transactions contemplated by the merger agreement, including the
merger, and with respect to which demands for appraisal have
been timely received and the aggregate number of former holders
of these shares of May common stock. These statements must be
mailed within ten days after a written request therefore has
been received by the surviving company or within 10 days
after expiration of the period for delivery of demands for
appraisal under Section 262 of the DGCL, whichever is later.
If a petition for an appraisal is filed timely with the Delaware
Court of Chancery by a former May stockholder and a copy thereof
is served upon the surviving company, the surviving company will
then be obligated within 20 days of service to file with
the Delaware Register in Chancery a duly certified list
containing the names and addresses of all former May
stockholders who have demanded appraisal of their shares of May
common stock and with whom agreements as to value have not been
reached. After notice to such former May stockholders as
required by the Delaware Court of Chancery, the Delaware Court
of Chancery may conduct a hearing on such petition to determine
those former May stockholders who have complied with
Section 262 of the DGCL and who have become entitled to
appraisal rights thereunder. The Delaware Court of Chancery may
require the former May stockholders who demanded appraisal of
their shares of May common stock to submit their stock
certificates to the Register in Chancery for notation
90
thereon of the pendency of the appraisal proceeding. If any
former stockholder fails to comply with such direction, the
Delaware Court of Chancery may dismiss the proceedings as to
that former stockholder.
After determining which, if any, former May stockholders are
entitled to appraisal, the Delaware Court of Chancery will
appraise their shares of May common stock, determining their
fair value, exclusive of any element of value
arising from the accomplishment or expectation of the merger,
together with a fair rate of interest, if any, to be paid upon
the amount determined to be the fair value. May stockholders
considering seeking appraisal should be aware that the fair
value of their shares of May common stock as determined under
Section 262 of the DGCL could be more than, the same as or
less than the value of the consideration they would receive
pursuant to the merger agreement if they did not seek appraisal
of their shares of May common stock and that investment banking
opinions as to fairness from a financial point of view are not
necessarily opinions as to fair value under Section 262 of
the DGCL. The Delaware Supreme Court has stated that, among
other factors, proof of value by any techniques or methods
which are generally considered acceptable in the financial
community and otherwise admissible in court should be
considered in the appraisal proceedings.
In addition, Delaware courts have decided that a
stockholders statutory appraisal remedy may or may not be
a dissenters exclusive remedy, depending on the factual
circumstances.
The costs of the appraisal action may be determined by the
Delaware Court of Chancery and levied upon the parties as the
Delaware Court of Chancery deems equitable. Upon application of
a former May stockholder, the Delaware Court of Chancery may
also order that all or a portion of the expenses incurred by any
former May stockholder in connection with an appraisal
proceeding, including, without limitation, reasonable
attorneys fees and the fees and expenses of experts used
in the appraisal proceeding, be charged pro rata against the
value of all of the shares of May common stock entitled to
appraisal.
Any holder of May common stock who has duly demanded an
appraisal in compliance with Section 262 of the DGCL will
not, after the consummation of the merger, be entitled to vote
the shares of May common stock subject to this demand for any
purpose or be entitled to the payment of dividends or other
distributions on those shares of May common stock (except
dividends or other distributions payable to holders of record of
May common stock as of a record date prior to the effective date
of the merger).
If any stockholder who properly demands appraisal of their May
common stock under Section 262 of the DGCL fails to
perfect, or effectively withdraws or loses, their right to
appraisal, as provided in Section 262 of the DGCL, that
stockholders shares of May common stock will be converted
into the right to receive the consideration payable with respect
to those shares of May common stock in accordance with the
merger agreement (without interest). A May stockholder will fail
to perfect, or effectively lose or withdraw, their right to
appraisal if, among other things, no petition for appraisal is
filed within 120 days after the effective date of the
merger, or if the stockholder delivers to May or the surviving
company, as the case may be, a written withdrawal of their
demand for appraisal. Any attempt to withdraw an appraisal
demand in this matter more than 60 days after the effective
date of the merger will require the written approval of the
surviving company and, once a petition for appraisal is filed,
the appraisal proceeding may not be dismissed as to any holder
absent court approval.
Failure to follow the steps required by Section 262 of the
DGCL for perfecting appraisal rights may result in the loss of
these rights, in which event a May stockholder will be entitled
to receive the consideration payable with respect to their
shares of May common stock in accordance with the merger
agreement (without interest).
Consequently, any stockholder willing to exercise appraisal
rights is urged to consult with legal counsel prior to
attempting to exercise such rights.
Delisting and Deregistration of May Common Stock
If the merger is completed, May common stock will be delisted
from the New York Stock Exchange and will be deregistered under
the Exchange Act, and May will no longer file periodic reports
with the SEC. The stockholders of May will become stockholders
of Federated and their rights as stockholders will be governed
91
by applicable Delaware law and by Federateds certificate
of incorporation and by-laws. See Comparison of Rights of
Stockholders beginning on page 177.
Federal Securities Laws Consequences; Resale Restrictions
All shares of Federated common stock that will be distributed to
May stockholders in the merger will be freely transferable,
except for restrictions applicable to affiliates of
May and except that resale restrictions may be imposed by
securities laws in non-U.S. jurisdictions insofar as
subsequent trades are made within these jurisdictions. Persons
who are deemed to be affiliates of May may resell shares of
Federated common stock received by them only in transactions
permitted by the resale provisions of Rule 145 or as
otherwise permitted under the Securities Act of 1933. Persons
who may be deemed to be affiliates of May generally include
executive officers, directors and holders of more than 10% of
the outstanding shares of May. The merger agreement requires May
to use its reasonable best efforts to cause each of its
directors and executive officers who May believes may be deemed
to be affiliates of May to execute a written agreement to the
effect that those persons will not sell, assign or transfer any
of the shares of Federated common stock issued to them in the
merger unless that sale, assignment or transfer has been
registered under the Securities Act of 1933, is in conformity
with Rule 145 or is otherwise exempt from the registration
requirements under the Securities Act of 1933.
This joint proxy statement/ prospectus does not cover any
resales of the shares of Federated common stock to be received
by May stockholders in the merger, and no person is authorized
to make any use of this joint proxy statement/ prospectus in
connection with any resale.
Certain Events
On March 1, 2005, Edward Decristofaro, an alleged May
stockholder, filed a purported class action lawsuit on behalf of
all May stockholders in the Circuit Court of St. Louis,
Missouri against May and all of the members of the board of
directors of May. The complaint generally alleges that the
directors of May breached their fiduciary duties of loyalty, due
care, good faith and candor to May stockholders in connection
with the proposed merger. The plaintiff requests
rescissory damages as well as the following relief:
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an order declaring that the action is properly maintainable as a
class action; |
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an order declaring that the merger agreement was entered into in
breach of the fiduciary duties of the defendants; |
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an order enjoining the defendants from consummating the merger
as planned; |
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an order directing that the defendants exercise their fiduciary
duties to obtain a transaction which is in the best interests of
May stockholders; |
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an order rescinding the merger to the extent already implemented; |
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an award of costs and disbursements, including reasonable
attorneys and experts fees; and |
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such other and further equitable relief as the court may deem
just and proper. |
On April 1, 2005, the defendants removed the lawsuit to the
United States District Court for the Eastern District of
Missouri and filed a motion to dismiss the lawsuit pursuant to
the Securities Litigation Uniform Standards Act of 1998. On
April 22, 2005, the plaintiff filed a motion to remand the
lawsuit to the Circuit Court of St. Louis, Missouri and
opposition to the defendants motion to dismiss. May
believes the lawsuit is without merit and intends to contest it
vigorously.
MATERIAL UNITED STATES FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES
The following is a summary of the material United States federal
income tax consequences of the merger to U.S. holders of
Federated or May common stock who hold their stock as a capital
asset. The summary is based on the Internal Revenue Code of
1986, as amended, referred to as the Code, Treasury regulations
issued
92
under the Code, and administrative rulings and court decisions
in effect as of the date of this joint proxy statement/
prospectus, all of which are subject to change at any time,
possibly with retroactive effect.
For purposes of this discussion, the term
U.S. holder means:
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a citizen or resident of the United States; |
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a corporation created or organized under the laws of the United
States or any of its political subdivisions; |
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a trust that (i) is subject to the supervision of a court
within the United States and the control of one or more United
States persons or (ii) has a valid election in effect under
applicable United States Treasury regulations to be treated as a
United States person; or |
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an estate that is subject to United States federal income tax on
its income regardless of its source. |
If a partnership holds Federated or May common stock, the tax
treatment of a partner will depend on the status of the partners
and the activities of the partnership. If a U.S. holder is
a partner in a partnership holding Federated or May common
stock, the U.S. holder should consult its tax advisors.
This summary is not a complete description of all the tax
consequences of the merger and, in particular, may not address
United States federal income tax considerations applicable to
holders of Federated or May common stock who are subject to
special treatment under United States federal income tax law
(including, for example, non-United States persons, financial
institutions, dealers in securities, insurance companies or
tax-exempt entities, holders who acquired Federated common stock
or May common stock pursuant to the exercise of an employee
stock option or right or otherwise as compensation, and holders
who hold Federated common stock or May common stock as part of a
hedge, straddle or conversion transaction). This summary does
not address the tax consequences of any transaction other than
the merger. This summary does not address the tax consequences
to any person who actually or constructively owns 5% or more of
Federated or May common stock. Also, this summary does not
address United States federal income tax considerations
applicable to holders of options or warrants to purchase
Federated or May common stock, or holders of debt instruments
convertible into Federated or May common stock. In addition, no
information is provided with respect to the tax consequences of
the merger under applicable state, local or non-United States
laws.
The obligations of Federated and May to consummate the merger as
currently anticipated are conditioned on the receipt of opinions
of their respective tax counsel, Jones Day (as to Federated) and
Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP (as to May),
dated the effective date of the merger, each referred to as a
Tax Opinion, to the effect that the merger will be treated as a
reorganization within the meaning of Section 368(a) of the
Code and that May and Federated will each be a party to the
reorganization within the meaning of Section 368(b) of the
Code. Each of the Tax Opinions will be subject to customary
qualifications and assumptions, including the assumption that
the merger will be completed according to the terms of the
merger agreement. In rendering the Tax Opinions, each counsel
may rely upon representations and covenants, including those
contained in certificates of officers of Federated and May.
Although the merger agreement allows each of Federated and May
to waive this condition to closing, neither Federated nor May
currently anticipates doing so. However, in the event that
Federateds stock price declines to the point where counsel
are unable to render one or both Tax Opinions, the structure of
the merger may change and holders of May common stock may
recognize taxable gain on the exchange of their shares, as more
fully explained below under Federal income tax
consequences to May stockholders if the transaction is
restructured because tax deferred exchange treatment cannot be
obtained.
Neither the Tax Opinions nor the discussion that follows is
binding on the Internal Revenue Service, referred to as the IRS,
or the courts. In addition, the parties do not intend to request
a ruling from the IRS with respect to the merger. Accordingly,
there can be no assurance that the IRS will not challenge the
conclusion expressed in the Tax Opinions or the discussion
below, or that a court will not sustain such a challenge.
93
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Federal income tax consequences to Federated stockholders
who do not hold any May common stock |
Because holders of Federated common stock will retain their
common stock in the merger, holders of Federated common stock
will not recognize gain or loss upon the merger.
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Federal income tax consequences to May stockholders if the
merger is consummated as currently anticipated |
The following discussion assumes that the exchange of May common
stock for Federated common stock pursuant to the merger will
constitute a reorganization within the meaning of
Section 368(a) of the Code.
A holder of May common stock who receives cash and Federated
common stock in the merger will recognize gain equal to the
lesser of (i) the excess of the sum of the fair market
value of the Federated common stock received by the holder in
exchange for May common stock and the amount of cash received by
the holder (excluding any cash received in lieu of fractional
shares) in exchange for May common stock over the holders
tax basis in the May common stock and (ii) the amount of
cash received by the holder in exchange for May common stock
(excluding any cash received in lieu of fractional shares). No
loss will be recognized by holders of May common stock in the
merger, except, possibly, in connection with the receipt of cash
in lieu of fractional shares, as discussed below. The gain
recognized will be capital gain unless the receipt of cash by
the holder of May common stock has the effect of a distribution
of a dividend, in which case the gain will be treated as
ordinary dividend income to the extent of the holders
ratable share of accumulated earnings and profits as calculated
for United States federal income tax purposes. In determining
whether a holders receipt of cash has the effect of a
distribution of a dividend, the holder will be treated as if it
first exchanged all of its Federated common stock for May common
stock and then Federated immediately redeemed a portion of the
May common stock for the cash that the holder actually received
pursuant to the merger agreement. The IRS has indicated in
rulings that any reduction in the interest of a minority
stockholder that owns a small number of shares in a publicly and
widely held corporation and that exercises no control over
corporate affairs would result in capital gain as opposed to
dividend treatment. In determining the interest of a stockholder
in a corporation, the constructive ownership rules that apply
for United States federal income tax purposes must be taken into
account. This same analysis could apply to cash received by a
holder of May common stock in lieu of fractional shares. Any
gain recognized by a holder of May common stock will be
long-term capital gain if the holders holding period of
the May common stock is more than one year. Capital gains of
individuals derived in respect of capital assets held for more
than one year are eligible for reduced rates of taxation. The
aggregate tax basis of the Federated common stock received
(including fractional shares deemed received and redeemed as
described below) will be equal to the aggregate tax basis of the
May common stock surrendered, reduced by the amount of cash the
holder of May common stock receives (excluding any cash received
in lieu of fractional shares), and increased by the amount of
gain that the holder of May common stock recognizes, but
excluding any gain or loss from the deemed receipt and
redemption of fractional shares described below. The holding
period of Federated common stock received by a holder of May
common stock in the merger will include the holding period of
the holders May common stock.
Cash received by a holder of May common stock in lieu of
fractional shares will be treated as if the holder received the
fractional shares in the merger and then received the cash in a
redemption of the fractional shares. The holder should recognize
capital gain or loss equal to the difference between the amount
of the cash received in lieu of fractional shares and the
portion of the holders tax basis allocable to the
fractional shares. Under the circumstances described in the
preceding paragraph, the receipt of cash in lieu of fractional
shares could also have the effect of a distribution of a
dividend.
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Federal income tax consequences to May stockholders if the
transaction is restructured because tax deferred exchange
treatment cannot be obtained |
If Federateds stock price declines to the point where one
or both Tax Opinions cannot be issued and if Federated, in these
circumstances, does not opt to increase the amount of Federated
common stock provided to holders of May common stock in the
merger, May may elect to increase the cash consideration
received in the merger for each share of May common stock to
$18.75. If this restructuring occurs, a holder of May
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common stock who receives cash and Federated common stock in the
merger will recognize gain or loss equal to the difference, if
any, between (i) the sum of the fair market value of the
Federated common stock and the amount of cash received and
(ii) the holders tax basis in the May common stock.
Gain or loss will be determined separately for each block of
shares (i.e., shares acquired at the same cost in a single
transaction) of May common stock surrendered for the
consideration described above pursuant to the merger. Any gain
or loss recognized by a holder of May common stock will be
long-term capital gain or loss if the holders holding
period of the May common stock is more than one year. Capital
gains of individuals derived in respect of capital assets held
for more than one year are eligible for reduced rates of
taxation. There are limitations on the deductibility of capital
losses.
Backup withholding may apply with respect to the cash
consideration received by a holder of May common stock in the
merger unless the holder:
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is a corporation or comes within certain other exempt categories
and, when required, demonstrates this fact; or |
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provides a correct taxpayer identification number, certifies as
to no loss of exemption from backup withholding and that such
holder is a U.S. person (including a U.S. resident
alien) and otherwise complies with applicable requirements of
the backup withholding rules. |
A holder of May common stock who does not provide Federated (or
the exchange agent) with its correct taxpayer identification
number may be subject to penalties imposed by the IRS. Any
amounts withheld under the backup withholding rules may be
allowed as a refund or a credit against the holders
federal income tax liability, provided that the holder furnishes
certain required information to the IRS.
U.S. holders of May common stock receiving Federated common
stock in the merger will be required to attach to their federal
income tax returns for the taxable year in which the merger
occurs a complete statement, and maintain a permanent record, of
all the facts relating to the exchange of stock in connection
with the merger. The facts to be disclosed by a U.S. holder
include the holders basis in the May common stock
transferred to Federated and the number of shares of Federated
common stock received by the holder in the merger.
THE FOREGOING DISCUSSION OF UNITED STATES FEDERAL INCOME TAX
CONSEQUENCES IS NOT INTENDED TO CONSTITUTE A COMPLETE
DESCRIPTION OF ALL TAX CONSEQUENCES RELATING TO THE MERGER. TAX
MATTERS ARE VERY COMPLICATED, AND THE TAX CONSEQUENCES OF THE
MERGER TO YOU WILL DEPEND UPON THE FACTS OF YOUR PARTICULAR
SITUATION. BECAUSE INDIVIDUAL CIRCUMSTANCES MAY DIFFER, WE URGE
YOU TO CONSULT WITH YOUR TAX ADVISOR REGARDING THE APPLICABILITY
TO YOU OF THE RULES DISCUSSED ABOVE AND THE PARTICULAR TAX
EFFECTS TO YOU OF THE MERGER, INCLUDING THE APPLICATION OF
STATE, LOCAL AND FOREIGN TAX LAWS.
THE MERGER AGREEMENT
The following is a summary of certain material provisions of the
merger agreement, a copy of which is attached as Annex A to
this joint proxy statement/ prospectus and is incorporated into
this joint proxy statement/ prospectus by reference. We urge you
to read carefully this entire joint proxy statement/ prospectus,
including the annexes and the other documents to which we have
referred you. See Where You Can Find More
Information beginning on page 185.
The merger agreement has been included to provide you with
information regarding its terms, and we recommend that you read
it in its entirety.
95
The merger agreement included as an annex to this joint proxy
statement/ prospectus should be read in conjunction with the
disclosures in Federateds and Mays filings with the
SEC incorporated by reference into this joint proxy statement/
prospectus. See Where You Can Find More Information
beginning on page 185 for the filings with the SEC
incorporated by reference into this joint proxy statement/
prospectus. The terms of the merger agreement are intended to
govern the contractual rights and relationships, and to allocate
risks, between Federated and May with respect to the merger. The
representations and warranties made by Federated and May to one
another were negotiated between the parties for the principal
purpose of setting forth their respective rights and obligations
regarding closing the merger if events or circumstances change,
and we do understand that, while not expected, such changes
could nevertheless occur. Moreover, the representations and
warranties are themselves specifically qualified in a number of
important respects and we urge you to consider those
qualifications as you read the representations and warranties in
the merger agreement.
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First, all of the representations and warranties that deal
with the business and operations of Federated and May are
qualified to the extent that any inaccuracy would not reasonably
be expected to have or result in, individually or in the
aggregate, a material adverse effect on the party making the
representation and warranty. |
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Second, none of the representations or warranties will
survive the closing of the merger and they will therefore have
no legal effect among the parties to the merger agreement after
the closing, nor will the parties be able to assert the
inaccuracy of the representations and warranties as a basis for
refusing to close unless all such inaccuracies as a whole would
reasonably be expected to have or result in, individually or in
the aggregate, a material adverse effect on the party that made
the representations and warranties. Otherwise, for purposes of
the merger agreement, the representations and warranties will be
deemed to have been sufficiently accurate to require a
closing. |
Federated and May have provided additional disclosure in
their public reports and other filings with the SEC to the
extent that they are aware of the existence of any material
facts that are required to be disclosed under the federal
securities laws and that might otherwise contradict the
representations and warranties contained in the merger agreement
and will update such disclosure as required by the federal
securities laws.
The Merger; Closing
Upon the terms and subject to the conditions of the merger
agreement, and in accordance with Delaware law, at the effective
time of the merger, May will merge with and into Merger Sub, a
wholly owned subsidiary of Federated. The separate corporate
existence of May will cease.
The closing of the merger will occur no later than the second
business day following the date on which all of the conditions
to the merger, other than conditions that, by their terms,
cannot be satisfied until the closing date (but subject to
satisfaction of such conditions) have been satisfied or waived,
unless the parties agree on another time. Federated and May
expect to complete the merger in the third quarter of 2005.
However, we cannot assure you that such timing will occur or
that the merger will be completed as expected.
As soon as practicable on or after the closing date of the
merger, Federated and May will file a certificate of merger with
the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware. The effective
time of the merger will be the time Federated and May file the
certificate of merger or at a later time Federated and May may
agree and specify in the certificate of merger.
Directors and Officers
The directors of Merger Sub immediately prior to the effective
time of the merger will be the directors of the surviving
company, until the earlier of their death, resignation or
removal or until their respective successors are duly elected
and qualified, as the case may be. The officers of May
immediately prior to the
96
effective time of the merger will be the officers of the
surviving company, until the earlier of their death, resignation
or removal or until their respective successors are duly elected
and qualified, as the case may be.
Federated will select two individuals who are directors of May
as of the date of the merger agreement and who are recommended
by the NCG Committee of Federateds board of directors and,
if such individuals are willing to serve, Federated will use its
reasonable best efforts to appoint these individuals, as of the
effective time of the merger, to Federateds board of
directors.
Merger Consideration
Upon the effectiveness of the merger, each share of May common
stock (other than shares held by any dissenting May stockholder
that has properly exercised appraisal rights in accordance with
Delaware law as described above) will be converted into the
right to receive from Federated the merger consideration,
consisting of the following:
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$17.75 in cash, without interest; and |
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0.3115 fully paid, nonassessable shares of Federated common
stock. |
The total value of the merger consideration that a May
stockholder receives in the merger may vary. The value of the
cash portion of the merger consideration is fixed at $17.75 for
each share of May common stock. The value of the stock portion
of the merger consideration is not fixed and will depend upon
the value of 0.3115 shares of Federated common stock. This
value may be ascertained by multiplying the trading price of
Federated common stock by 0.3115.
As illustrated in the table below, the value of
0.3115 shares of Federated common stock may be less than or
greater than $17.75, which was the value of the stock portion of
the merger consideration as of the announcement of the
transaction, based on the 10-day trading average of Federated
common stock as of February 25, 2005. In particular, if the
closing price of Federated common stock upon completion of the
merger is greater than $56.98, then the value of
0.3115 shares of Federated common stock would be greater
than $17.75. If the closing price of Federated common stock upon
completion of the merger is less than $56.98, then the value of
0.3115 shares of Federated common stock would be less than
$17.75.
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Corresponding Value | |
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Hypothetical Trading | |
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of 0.3115 Shares of | |
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Corresponding | |
Price of Federateds | |
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Federateds Common | |
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Value of Merger | |
Common Stock | |
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Stock | |
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Cash Consideration | |
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Consideration | |
$ |
70.98 |
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$ |
22.11 |
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$ |
17.75 |
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$ |
39.86 |
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$ |
69.98 |
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$ |
21.80 |
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$ |
17.75 |
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$ |
39.55 |
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$ |
68.98 |
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$ |
21.49 |
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$ |
17.75 |
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$ |
39.24 |
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$ |
67.98 |
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$ |
21.18 |
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$ |
17.75 |
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$ |
38.93 |
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$ |
66.98 |
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$ |
20.86 |
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$ |
17.75 |
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$ |
38.61 |
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$ |
65.98 |
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$ |
20.55 |
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$ |
17.75 |
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$ |
38.30 |
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$ |
64.98 |
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$ |
20.24 |
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$ |
17.75 |
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$ |
37.99 |
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$ |
63.98 |
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$ |
19.93 |
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$ |
17.75 |
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$ |
37.68 |
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$ |
62.98 |
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$ |
19.62 |
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$ |
17.75 |
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$ |
37.37 |
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$ |
61.98 |
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$ |
19.31 |
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$ |
17.75 |
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$ |
37.06 |
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$ |
60.98 |
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$ |
19.00 |
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$ |
17.75 |
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$ |
36.75 |
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$ |
59.98 |
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$ |
18.68 |
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$ |
17.75 |
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$ |
36.43 |
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$ |
58.98 |
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$ |
18.37 |
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$ |
17.75 |
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$ |
36.12 |
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$ |
57.98 |
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$ |
18.06 |
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$ |
17.75 |
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$ |
35.81 |
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Corresponding Value | |
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Hypothetical Trading | |
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of 0.3115 Shares of | |
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Corresponding | |
Price of Federateds | |
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Federateds Common | |
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Value of Merger | |
Common Stock | |
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Stock | |
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Cash Consideration | |
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Consideration | |
$ |
56.98 |
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$ |
17.75 |
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$ |
17.75 |
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$ |
35.50 |
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$ |
55.98 |
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$ |
17.44 |
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$ |
17.75 |
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$ |
35.19 |
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$ |
54.98 |
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$ |
17.13 |
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$ |
17.75 |
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$ |
34.88 |
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$ |
53.98 |
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$ |
16.81 |
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$ |
17.75 |
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$ |
34.56 |
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$ |
52.98 |
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$ |
16.50 |
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$ |
17.75 |
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$ |
34.25 |
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$ |
51.98 |
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$ |
16.19 |
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$ |
17.75 |
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$ |
33.94 |
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$ |
50.98 |
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$ |
15.88 |
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$ |
17.75 |
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$ |
33.63 |
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$ |
49.98 |
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$ |
15.57 |
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$ |
17.75 |
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$ |
33.32 |
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$ |
48.98 |
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$ |
15.26 |
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$ |
17.75 |
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$ |
33.01 |
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$ |
47.98 |
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$ |
14.95 |
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$ |
17.75 |
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$ |
32.70 |
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$ |
46.98 |
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$ |
14.63 |
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$ |
17.75 |
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$ |
32.38 |
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$ |
45.98 |
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$ |
14.32 |
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$ |
17.75 |
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$ |
32.07 |
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$ |
44.98 |
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$ |
14.01 |
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$ |
17.75 |
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$ |
31.76 |
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$ |
43.98 |
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$ |
13.70 |
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$ |
17.75 |
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$ |
31.45 |
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$ |
42.98 |
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$ |
13.39 |
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$ |
17.75 |
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$ |
31.14 |
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If the total value of the Federated common stock to be received
in the merger falls below 40% of the total consideration paid on
the closing date, the merger consideration may be taxable for
federal income tax purposes. In that event, Federated may elect
to pay more in Federated common stock to maintain the nontaxable
status or, if Federated does not so elect, May may elect to
increase the cash consideration received in the merger for each
share of May common stock to $18.75. Under the merger agreement,
there are no other circumstances in which the exchange ratio or
the cash consideration increases. Federated and May will issue a
joint press release if either the exchange ratio or the cash
consideration increases.
The exchange ratio in the merger and the cash consideration will
be proportionately and appropriately adjusted to reflect the
effect of any reclassification, recapitalization, split-up,
stock split, subdivision, combination or exchange of shares or
readjustment, or stock dividend, or other like change with
respect to Federated common stock or May common stock having a
record date on or after the date of the merger agreement and
prior to completion of the merger.
Upon completion of the merger, each share of May common stock
held by Federated, May or any direct or indirect majority owned
subsidiary of Federated or May immediately prior to the merger
will be automatically cancelled and extinguished, and none of
Federated, May or any of their respective direct or indirect
majority owned subsidiaries will receive any consideration in
exchange for those shares.
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Treatment of ESOP Preference Shares |
Each issued and outstanding May ESOP preference share will be
converted into the right to receive the merger consideration on
an as converted basis in the same manner as the shares of May
common stock, as described above.
No fractional Federated common shares will be issued in the
merger. Instead, holders who would otherwise be entitled to
receive a fractional share of Federated common stock will
receive an amount in cash (without interest) determined by
multiplying the fractional share interest by the average closing
price for a
98
share of Federated common stock as reported on the NYSE
Composite Transactions Reports for the ten trading days prior
to, but not including, the closing date of the merger.
Shares of May common stock held by any May stockholder that
properly demands payment for its shares in compliance with the
appraisal rights under Section 262 of the DGCL will not be
converted into the right to receive the merger consideration.
May stockholders properly exercising appraisal rights will be
entitled to payment as further described above under The
Merger Appraisal Rights of May Stockholders
beginning on page 88. However, if any May stockholder
withdraws his or her demand for appraisal (in accordance with
Section 262 of the DGCL) or becomes ineligible for
appraisal, then that May stockholder will not be paid in
accordance with Section 262 of the DGCL and the shares of
May common stock held by that May stockholder will be converted
as of the effective time of the merger into and represent the
right to receive the merger consideration, without interest.
Exchange Procedures
Not later than 15 business days prior to the effective time of
the merger, Federated will enter into an agreement with an
exchange agent for the merger to handle the exchange of shares
of May common stock for the merger consideration, including the
payment of cash for fractional shares. As of the effective time
of the merger, Federated will deposit with the exchange agent,
for the benefit of the holders of May common stock, cash and
certificates representing Federated common shares issuable in
the merger in exchange for outstanding shares of May common
stock and ESOP preference shares, including any cash to be paid
in lieu of fractional shares or in respect of any dividends or
distributions on shares of Federated common stock with a record
date after the effective time of the merger or in respect of
dividends or distributions on shares of May common stock with a
record date prior to the effective time of the merger which
remain unpaid at the effective time of the merger.
At the effective time of the merger, each certificate
representing shares of May common stock that has not been
surrendered will represent only the right to receive upon
surrender of that certificate the merger consideration,
dividends and other distributions on shares of Federated common
stock with a record date after the effective time of the merger,
dividends and other distributions on shares of May common stock
with a record date prior to the effective time of the merger
that remain unpaid as of the effective time of the merger and
cash, without interest, in lieu of fractional shares. Following
the effective time of the merger, no further registrations of
transfers on the stock transfer books of the surviving company
of the shares of May common stock will be made. If, after the
effective time of the merger, May stock certificates are
presented to Federated, the surviving company or the exchange
agent for any reason, they will be cancelled and exchanged as
described above.
Exchange of Shares
As soon as reasonably practicable after the effective time of
the merger, the exchange agent will mail to each holder of
record of a May stock certificate whose shares of May common
stock were converted into the right to receive the merger
consideration, a letter of transmittal and instructions
explaining how to surrender May stock certificates in exchange
for the merger consideration.
After the effective time of the merger, upon surrender of a May
stock certificate to the exchange agent, together with a letter
of transmittal, duly executed, and other documents as may
reasonably be required by the exchange agent, the holder of the
May stock certificate will be entitled to receive the merger
consideration, dividends and other distributions on shares of
Federated common stock with a record date after the effective
time of the merger, dividends and other distributions on shares
of May common stock with a record date prior to the effective
time of the merger that remain unpaid as of the effective time
of the merger and cash, without interest, in lieu of fractional
shares, and the May stock certificates surrendered will be
cancelled.
99
Transfers of Ownership and Lost Stock Certificates
A May stockholder desiring to receive payment upon the surrender
of stock certificates registered in the name of another person
will receive payment if the stock certificates have been
properly endorsed or are otherwise in proper form for transfer
and the stockholder:
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pays any transfer or other taxes required because the payment is
made to a person other than the registered holder of the May
stock certificate; or |
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establishes to the satisfaction of the exchange agent that any
transfer or other taxes described above have been paid or are
not applicable. |
If any stock certificate has been lost, stolen or destroyed,
upon the making of an affidavit of that fact by the person
claiming the stock certificate to be lost, stolen or destroyed
and, if required by Federated or the surviving company, as the
case may be, the posting by such person of a bond in a
reasonable amount as Federated or the surviving company, as the
case may be, may direct as indemnity against any claim that may
be made against it with respect to the stock certificate, the
exchange agent will issue, in exchange for such lost, stolen or
destroyed stock certificate, the merger consideration, dividends
and other distributions on shares of Federated common stock with
a record date after the effective time of the merger, dividends
and other distributions on shares of May common stock with a
record date prior to the effective time of the merger that
remain unpaid as of the effective time of the merger and cash,
without interest, in lieu of fractional shares.
May stock certificates should not be returned with the
enclosed proxy card(s). May stock certificates should be
returned with a validly executed transmittal letter and
accompanying instructions that will be provided to May
stockholders following the effective time of the merger.
Termination of Exchange Fund
Six months after the effective time of the merger, Federated may
require the exchange agent to deliver to Federated all cash and
shares of Federated common stock remaining in the exchange fund.
Thereafter, May stockholders must look only to Federated for
payment of the merger consideration on their shares of May
common stock.
No Liability
None of Federated, the surviving company or the exchange agent
will be liable to any person in respect of any shares of
Federated common stock, any dividends or distributions on
Federated common stock with a record date after the effective
time of the merger, dividends and other distributions on May
common stock with a record date prior to the effective time of
the merger that remain unpaid as of the effective time of the
merger or cash, without interest, in lieu of fractional shares
of Federated common stock or any cash from the exchange fund, in
each case, delivered to a public official pursuant to any
applicable abandoned property, escheat or similar law.
Representations and Warranties
The merger agreement contains representations and warranties
made by each party to the other. These representations and
warranties are qualified in their entirety by all information
each of us has filed with the SEC prior to the date of the
merger agreement (which filings are available without charge at
the SECs website, www.sec.gov) as well as by a disclosure
letter each of us delivered to the other immediately prior to
signing the merger agreement. These representations and
warranties relate to, among other things:
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due organization, good standing and the requisite corporate
power and authority to carry on their respective businesses; |
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ownership of subsidiaries; |
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capital structure and equity securities; |
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corporate power and authority to enter into the merger agreement
and due execution, delivery and enforceability of the merger
agreement; |
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board of directors approval; |
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absence of conflicts with charter documents, breaches of
contracts and agreements, liens upon assets and violations of
applicable law resulting from the execution and delivery of the
merger agreement and consummation of the transactions
contemplated by the merger agreement; |
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absence of required governmental or other third party consents
in connection with execution and delivery of the merger
agreement and consummation of the transactions contemplated by
the merger agreement other than governmental filings specified
in the merger agreement, such as filing premerger notification
under the HSR Act; |
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timely filing of required documents with the SEC, material
compliance with the requirements of the Securities Act and the
Exchange Act and the absence of untrue statements of material
facts or omissions of material facts in those documents; |
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material compliance of financial statements as to form with
applicable accounting requirements and SEC rules and regulations
and preparation in accordance with U.S. generally accepted
accounting principles; |
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absence of misleading information contained or incorporated into
this joint proxy statement/ prospectus or the registration
statement of which this joint proxy statement/ prospectus forms
a part; |
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absence of specified changes or events and that the conduct of
its business has been in the ordinary course since
January 31, 2004; |
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compliance with applicable laws and holding of all necessary
permits; |
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employee benefits matters and ERISA compliance; |
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tax matters; |
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environmental matters and compliance with environmental laws; |
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the stockholder votes required to approve and adopt the merger
agreement and authorize the issuance of Federated common stock; |
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receipt of a fairness opinion from each companys financial
advisors; and |
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brokers or finders fees. |
Federated and Merger Sub made additional representations and
warranties to May in the merger agreement, including the
availability of funds sufficient to pay the cash portion of the
merger consideration and all other cash amounts to be paid
pursuant to the merger agreement and that Merger Sub is a duly
incorporated, wholly owned subsidiary of Federated, formed
solely to enter into the merger agreement and engaging in the
transactions contemplated by the merger agreement.
May also made additional representations and warranties to
Federated, including the non-applicability of anti-takeover laws
to the merger and that it had taken all action necessary on the
part of May to render Mays rights agreement inapplicable
to the merger.
The representations and warranties contained in the merger
agreement will not survive the consummation of the merger, but
they form the basis of specified conditions to the parties
obligations to complete the merger.
101
Covenants and Agreements
May has agreed that prior to the effective time of the merger it
and its subsidiaries will carry on their businesses in the
ordinary course. With specified exceptions, May has agreed,
among other things, not to:
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declare, set aside or pay any dividends on, or make any other
distributions in respect of, any of its capital stock, except,
among other things, for quarterly cash dividends not in excess
of $0.245 per share, and any dividends required under the
terms of the ESOP preference shares; |
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split, combine or reclassify any of its capital stock; |
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except as required in connection with the ESOP preference shares
or Mays stock plans, purchase, redeem or otherwise acquire
any shares of its or its subsidiaries capital stock or any
other securities of May or any of its subsidiaries or any
rights, warrants or options to acquire any of those shares or
other securities; |
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issue or authorize the issuance of, deliver or sell any shares
of its capital stock, any other voting securities or any
securities convertible into, or any rights, warrants or options
to acquire, any such shares, voting securities or convertible
securities, other than in connection with Mays stock plans
or the ESOP preference shares; |
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amend its certificate of incorporation or by-laws, other than
amendments or changes to any such documents of Mays
subsidiaries in the ordinary course of business; |
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sell, lease, license, mortgage or otherwise encumber or subject
to any lien or otherwise dispose of any of its material
properties or assets, other than in the ordinary course of
business; |
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incur any material long or short-term indebtedness other than in
the ordinary course of business or under existing lines of
credit; |
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other than in the ordinary course of business, grant any
increase in the compensation or benefits payable or to become
payable by May or any of its subsidiaries to any current or
former director, officer, employee or consultant; |
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other than in the ordinary course of business, adopt, enter
into, amend or otherwise increase, reprice or accelerate the
payment or vesting of the amounts, benefits or rights payable or
accrued or to become payable or accrued under any of Mays
or its subsidiaries employee benefit plans; |
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other than in the ordinary course of business, enter into or
amend any employment, bonus, severance, change-in-control,
retention agreement or any similar agreement or any collective
bargaining agreement, or grant any severance, bonus, termination
or retention pay to any officer, director, employee or
consultant; |
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other than in the ordinary course of business, pay or award any
pension, retirement, allowance or other non-equity incentive
awards, or other employee or director benefit not required by
any outstanding May employee benefit plans; |
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change the accounting principles used by it unless required by
applicable generally accepted accounting principles or by any
government entity; |
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acquire by merging or consolidating with, by purchasing any
substantial equity interest in or a substantial portion of the
assets of, or by any other manner, any significant business or
any corporation, partnership, association or other business
organization or division of that entity, or otherwise acquire
any assets that are material to May and its subsidiaries, taken
as a whole, other than; (i) the purchase of assets from
suppliers or vendors in the ordinary course of business,
(ii) items reflected in the capital plan of May previously
made available to Federated, or (iii) acquisitions of
businesses or assets involving consideration up to an aggregate
amount not to exceed $50 million; |
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except in the ordinary course of business, make or rescind any
material express or deemed election or settle or compromise any
material claim or action relating to taxes, or materially change
any of its methods of accounting or of reporting income or
deductions for tax purposes; |
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satisfy any material claims or liabilities, other than
satisfaction in the ordinary course of business or in accordance
with their terms; |
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make any loans, advances or capital contributions to, or
investments in, any other person in excess of $25 million
in the aggregate, except for (i) loans, advances, capital
contributions or investments between any wholly owned May
subsidiary and May or another wholly owned May subsidiary,
(ii) employee advances for expenses in the ordinary course
of business or (iii) ordinary course proprietary credit
card transactions; |
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other than in the ordinary course of business and other than
contracts that may be terminated within one year or amendments
renewing, on substantially similar terms, any contract existing
on the date of the merger agreement, terminate or adversely
modify or amend any contract having a duration of more than one
year and total payment obligations of May in excess of
$25 million; |
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other than in the ordinary course of business, waive, release,
relinquish or assign any right or claim of material value to May; |
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other than in the ordinary course of business, cancel or forgive
any material indebtedness owed to May or any of its
subsidiaries; or |
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authorize, or commit or agree to take, any of the foregoing
actions. |
Federated has agreed that, prior to the effective time of the
merger, it and its subsidiaries will carry on their businesses
in the ordinary course. Merger Sub has agreed that prior to the
effective time of the merger, it will not engage in any
activities of any nature except as contemplated in the merger
agreement. With specified exceptions, Federated has agreed,
among other things, not to:
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declare, set aside or pay any dividends on, or make any other
distributions in respect of, any of its capital stock, except,
among other things, for quarterly cash dividends of
$0.14 per share; |
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split, combine or reclassify any of its capital stock; |
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except pursuant to agreements entered into with respect to
Federated stock plans that are in effect as of the close of
business on the date of the merger agreement, purchase, redeem
or otherwise acquire any shares of capital stock of Federated or
any of its subsidiaries or any other securities of Federated or
any of its subsidiaries or any rights, warrants or options to
acquire any of those shares or other securities; |
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issue or authorize the issuance of, deliver, or sell any shares
of its capital stock, or any other securities in respect of, in
lieu of, or in substitution for, shares of its capital stock,
any other voting securities or any securities convertible into,
or any rights, warrants or options to acquire, any of such
shares, voting securities or convertible securities, other than
in connection with Federateds stock plans; |
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amend its certificate of incorporation or by-laws, other than
amendments or changes to any such documents of Federateds
subsidiaries in the ordinary course of business; |
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sell, lease, license, mortgage or otherwise encumber or subject
to any lien or otherwise dispose of any of its material
properties or assets other than in the ordinary course of
business; |
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change the accounting principles used by it unless required by
applicable generally accepted accounting principles or by any
government entity; |
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acquire by merging or consolidating with, by purchasing any
substantial equity interest in or a substantial portion of the
assets of, or by any other manner, any business or any
corporation, partnership, association or other business
organization or division of that entity, or otherwise acquire
assets that are material to Federated and its subsidiaries,
taken as a whole, other than; (i) the purchase of assets
from suppliers or vendors in the ordinary course of business,
(ii) items reflected in the capital |
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plan of Federated previously made available to May, or
(iii) acquisitions of businesses or assets involving
consideration up to an aggregate amount not to exceed
$50 million; |
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except in the ordinary course of business, make or rescind any
material express or deemed election or settle or compromise any
material claim or action relating to taxes, or materially change
any of its methods of accounting or of reporting income or
deductions for tax purposes; |
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satisfy any material claims or liabilities, other than in the
ordinary course of business or in accordance with their terms; |
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other than in the ordinary course of business and other than
contracts that may be terminated within one year or amendments
renewing, on substantially similar terms, any contract existing
on the date of the merger agreement, terminate or adversely
modify or amend any contract having a duration of more than one
year and total payment obligations of Federated in excess of
$25 million; |
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other than in the ordinary course of business, waive, release,
relinquish or assign any right or claim of material value to
Federated; |
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other than in the ordinary course of business, cancel or forgive
any material indebtedness owed to Federated or any of its
subsidiaries; or |
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authorize, or commit or agree to take, any of the foregoing
actions. |
May has agreed, and agreed to use its reasonable best efforts to
cause its officers, directors, employees, financial advisors,
attorneys, accountants and other advisors, investment bankers,
representatives and agents, to cease all then existing
activities with any parties with respect to or that could
reasonably be expected to lead to a company takeover
proposal. A company takeover proposal means any bona fide
written proposal or offer from any person relating to any:
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direct or indirect acquisition or purchase of a business that
constitutes 50% or more of the net revenues, net income or the
assets of May and its subsidiaries, taken as a whole; |
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direct or indirect acquisition or purchase of 50% or more of the
combined voting power of May; |
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any tender offer or exchange offer that if consummated would
result in any person beneficially owning 50% or more of the
combined voting power of May; or |
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any merger, consolidation, business combination,
recapitalization, liquidation, dissolution or similar
transaction involving May, other than the transactions
contemplated by the merger agreement. |
In addition, May has agreed that it will not, and will not
permit its officers, directors, employees, financial advisors,
attorneys, accountants and other advisors, investment bankers,
representatives and agents to, directly or indirectly:
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solicit, initiate or knowingly encourage the making of a company
takeover proposal; |
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enter into any agreement, arrangement or understanding with
respect to any company takeover proposal; or |
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other than informing persons of the existence of the
non-solicitation provision, participate in any discussions or
negotiations regarding, or furnish or disclose to any person
(other than to Federated) any non-public information with
respect to May in connection with any inquiries or the making of
any proposal that constitutes, or would reasonably be expected
to lead to, any company takeover proposal. |
Notwithstanding the foregoing, May may, at any time prior to
obtaining May stockholder approval at the May annual meeting, in
response to an unsolicited company takeover proposal that the
board of directors of May determines in good faith (after
consultation with its outside counsel and a financial advisor of
nationally recognized reputation) constitutes or would
reasonably be expected to lead to a superior
proposal (as
104
defined below), and which company takeover proposal was made
after the date of the merger agreement and did not otherwise
result from a breach of Mays non-solicitation obligations:
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furnish information with respect to May to the person making the
company takeover proposal (and its representatives) pursuant to
a customary confidentiality agreement not less restrictive of
the person than the existing confidentiality agreement between
May and Federated, provided that all the information is, in
substance, simultaneously provided to Federated; and |
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participate in discussions or negotiations with the person
making the company takeover proposal (and its representatives)
regarding the company takeover proposal. |
Superior proposal means a company takeover proposal
from any person to acquire, directly or indirectly, for
consideration consisting of cash and/or securities, all of the
combined voting power of May then outstanding or all or
substantially all of the assets of May that the board of
directors of May determines in its good faith judgment (after
consulting with a nationally recognized investment banking
firm), taking into account all legal, financial and regulatory
and other aspects of the proposal and the person making the
proposal (including any break-up fees, expense reimbursement
provisions and conditions to consummation):
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would be more favorable from a financial point of view to the
stockholders of May than the transactions contemplated by the
merger agreement (including any adjustment to the terms and
conditions proposed by Federated in response to such company
takeover proposal), and |
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for which financing, to the extent required, is then committed
or may reasonably be expected to be committed. |
Unless the board of directors of May determines in good faith,
after consulting with outside counsel, that taking such action
would result in a reasonable probability that the board of
directors of May would breach its fiduciary duties, May has
agreed to promptly (but in any event within one business day)
advise Federated of the receipt, directly or indirectly, of any
inquiries, requests, discussions, negotiations or proposals
relating to a company takeover proposal, or any request for
nonpublic information relating to May by any person that informs
May or its representatives that the person is considering
making, or has made, a company takeover proposal, or an inquiry
from a person seeking to have discussions or negotiations
relating to a possible company takeover proposal.
Mays board of directors will convene and hold a meeting of
May stockholders, recommend that such stockholders approve the
merger and use its reasonable best efforts to obtain such
approval. May has further agreed that neither Mays board
of directors nor any committee of Mays board of directors
will
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cause a company adverse recommendation change (as
defined below); or |
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approve or recommend, or allow May or any of its subsidiaries to
execute or enter into, any letter of intent, memorandum of
understanding, agreement in principle, merger agreement,
acquisition agreement, option agreement, joint venture
agreement, partnership agreement or other similar agreement
constituting or related to any company takeover proposal. |
A company adverse recommendation change is where the
May board of directors decides to (i) withdraw, or publicly
propose to withdraw, (or, in either case, modify in a manner
adverse to Federated) the approval recommendation or declaration
of advisability by the board of directors of the merger
agreement or (ii) recommend, adopt or approve, or propose
publicly to recommend, adopt or approve, any company takeover
proposal.
However, in the event that prior to obtaining May stockholder
approval, Mays board of directors receives a company
takeover proposal, then Mays board of directors may
(1) make a company adverse recommendation change and/or
(2) upon termination of the merger agreement and payment of
the termination fee described below, approve and enter into an
agreement relating to a company takeover proposal that
constitutes a superior proposal, if Mays board of
directors determines in good faith, after consultation with
outside counsel, that it is necessary for the proper discharge
of its fiduciary duties under applicable law to do so and if, in
either case, May provides written notice advising Federated that
the May board of directors intends to take
105
such action and specifying the reasons therefor, and negotiates
in good faith with Federated for three days following its
receipt of such notice to make such adjustments to the terms and
conditions of the merger agreement as would enable May to
proceed with its recommendation of this merger agreement and/or
not terminate the merger agreement.
The merger agreement does not prohibit May from taking and
disclosing to its stockholders, in compliance with the rules and
regulations of the Exchange Act, a position regarding any
unsolicited tender offer for May common stock or from making any
other disclosure to May stockholders if, in the good faith
judgment of the May board of directors, after consultation with
outside counsel, failure to disclose would be inconsistent with
the fulfillment of the fiduciary duties or any other obligations
of the May board of directors under applicable law.
Federateds board of directors will convene and hold an
annual meeting of Federated stockholders, recommend that such
stockholders authorize the issuance of Federated common stock in
connection with the merger and use its reasonable best efforts
to obtain such authorization. However, in the event that, prior
to obtaining Federated stockholder approval, Federateds
board of directors receives a third-party takeover proposal (as
defined below), then Federateds board of directors may
withdraw or modify or publicly propose to withdraw or modify its
recommendation of the issuance of Federated common stock in
connection with the merger, if Federateds board of
directors determines in good faith, after consultation with
outside counsel, that it is necessary for the proper discharge
of its fiduciary duties under applicable law to do so, and, in
either case, Federated provides written notice advising May that
the Federated board of directors intends to take such action and
specifying the reasons therefor, and negotiates in good faith
with May for three days following its receipt of such notice to
make such adjustments to the terms and conditions of the merger
agreement as would enable Federated to proceed with its
recommendation. A third-party takeover proposal with
respect to Federated means any bona fide written proposal or
offer from any person relating to any (A) direct or
indirect acquisition or purchase of a business that constitutes
50% or more of the net revenues, net income or the assets of
Federated and its subsidiaries, taken as a whole,
(B) direct or indirect acquisition of equity securities of
Federated representing 50% or more of the combined voting power
of Federated, (C) tender offer or exchange offer that if
consummated would result in any person beneficially owning
equity securities of Federated representing 50% or more of the
combined voting power of Federated or (D) merger,
consolidation, business combination, recapitalization,
liquidation, dissolution or similar transaction involving
Federated.
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Access to Information; Confidentiality |
During the period prior to the effective time of the merger,
Federated and May will, and will cause each of their
subsidiaries to, afford to the other party and its
representatives reasonable access during normal business hours
to all of their respective properties, books, contracts,
commitments, personnel and records, except that neither party is
required to provide the other with any information that it
reasonably believes it can not provide due to contractual
restrictions or legal restrictions, or which it believes is
competitively sensitive information. The information will be
held in confidence to the extent required by the provisions of
the confidentiality agreement between Federated and May.
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Regulatory and Antitrust Approvals and Clearances |
Federated and May have each agreed to use its reasonable best
efforts to cooperate and to take, or cause to be taken, all
actions necessary, proper or advisable to complete and make
effective the merger and the other transactions contemplated by
the merger agreement, as promptly as practicable, but in no
event later than the outside date of October 3, 2005,
unless such date is extended up to and including August 31,
2006 in circumstances described below, in The Merger
Agreement Termination of the Merger Agreement
beginning on page 113. This includes:
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obtaining all necessary actions or nonactions, waivers, consents
and approvals from governmental entities and making all
necessary registrations and filings and taking all reasonable
steps as may be |
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necessary to obtain an approval or waiver from, or to avoid an
action or proceeding by, any governmental entity; |
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the avoidance of impediments under any antitrust, merger
control, competition or trade regulation law that may be
asserted by any governmental entity; |
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obtaining all necessary consents, approvals or waivers from
third parties; |
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defending any lawsuits or other legal proceedings challenging
the merger agreement or the transactions contemplated by the
merger agreement, including seeking to have any stay or
temporary restraining order vacated or reversed; and |
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executing and delivering any additional instruments necessary to
complete the merger and the other transactions contemplated by
the merger agreement and to fully carry out the purposes of the
merger agreement. |
Federated and its subsidiaries are required to commit to any and
all divestitures, licenses or hold separate or similar
arrangements with respect to its assets or conduct of business
arrangements as a condition to obtaining any and all approvals
from any government entity for any reason in order to complete,
as promptly as practicable, the merger and other transactions
contemplated by the merger agreement to be performed or
completed by Federated and its subsidiaries. Specifically,
Federated and its subsidiaries will take any and all actions
necessary to ensure that:
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no requirement for non-action, a waiver, consent or approval of
the FTC, the Antitrust Division, any State Attorney General or
other governmental entity; |
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no decree, judgment, injunction, temporary restraining order or
any other order in any suit or proceeding; and |
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no other matter relating to any antitrust or competition law or
regulation; |
would preclude completion of the merger by August 31, 2006,
provided that in no event will Federated be required to dispose
of or hold separate assets of May, Federated or their respective
subsidiaries which, in the aggregate, accounted for annual net
sales for the most recently completed fiscal year exceeding
$4 billion.
In addition, Federated and May each agreed to:
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file as soon as practicable (after the execution and delivery of
the merger agreement) a Notification and Report Form under the
HSR Act with the FTC and the Antitrust Division, which
Notification and Report Form was filed on March 8, 2005; |
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respond as promptly as practicable under the circumstances to
any inquiries received from the FTC or the Antitrust Division
for additional information or documentation and to all inquiries
and requests received from any State Attorney General or other
governmental entity in connection with antitrust matters; |
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not extend any waiting period under the HSR Act or enter into
any agreement with the FTC or the Antitrust Division not to
complete the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement; |
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subject to applicable laws and except as may be prohibited by
any representative of any governmental entity, promptly notify
the other party of any written communication to that party from
the FTC, the Antitrust Division, any State Attorney General or
any other governmental entity, and permit the other party to
review in advance any proposed written communication to any of
the foregoing; |
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subject to applicable laws and except as may be prohibited by
any representative of any governmental entity, not agree to
participate in any substantive meeting or discussion with any
governmental entity regarding any filings, investigation or
inquiry concerning the merger agreement or the merger unless it
consults with the other party in advance and, to the extent
permitted by the governmental entity, gives the other party the
opportunity to attend and participate in the meeting; and |
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subject to applicable laws and except as may be prohibited by
any representative of any governmental entity, furnish the other
party with copies of all correspondence, filings, and written
communications, including summary memoranda, between it and its
affiliates and their respective representatives on the one hand,
and any governmental entity or members or their respective
staffs on the other hand, with respect to the merger agreement
and the merger. |
In connection with and without limiting these obligations, each
of Federated and May will take all reasonable action necessary
to ensure that no state takeover statute or similar statute or
regulation is or becomes applicable to the merger agreement or
any transaction contemplated by the merger agreement, including
the merger. If any state takeover statute or similar statute or
regulation becomes applicable to the merger agreement or any
transaction contemplated by the merger agreement, each of
Federated and May will take all action reasonably necessary to
ensure that the merger agreement and the transactions
contemplated by the merger agreement, including the merger, may
be completed as promptly as practicable on the terms
contemplated by the merger agreement and otherwise to minimize
the effect of the statute or regulation on the merger agreement
and the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement,
including the merger.
At the effective time of the merger each outstanding May stock
option and stock plan will be assumed by Federated. To the
extent provided under terms of Mays stock plans, all
outstanding options will accelerate and become immediately
exercisable in connection with the merger. Except for
acceleration in accordance with the terms of Mays stock
plans, each May stock option assumed by Federated will continue
to have the same terms and conditions as were applicable
immediately before the effective time of the merger, except that
each May stock option will be exercisable for a number of shares
of Federated common stock equal to the product of the number of
shares of May common stock issuable upon exercise of the option
immediately before the effective time of the merger multiplied
by the sum of (1) the stock consideration plus (2) the
cash consideration divided by the average closing price for a
share of Federated common stock as reported on the NYSE
Composite Transaction Reports for the ten days prior to the
closing date of the merger. In addition, the per share exercise
price of each May stock option will be equal to the quotient
determined by dividing the per share exercise price of the May
stock option by the sum of (1) the stock consideration plus
(2) the cash consideration divided by the average closing
price for a share of Federated common stock as reported on the
NYSE Composite Transaction Reports for the ten days prior to the
closing date of the merger.
For example, if an executive has options to
purchase 1,000 shares of May common stock for an
exercise price of $20 per share, and if the average
closing price of Federated common stock were $60 per
share, then the stock option conversion calculations would be as
follows:
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May Options | |
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Conversion Calculation | |
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Federated Options | |
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Options
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1,000 |
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× |
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.3115 + ($17.75/$60) = .3115 + .2958 = .6073 |
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= |
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607 options |
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Exercise price per share
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$ |
20 per share |
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÷ |
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.6073 |
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= |
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$ |
32.9326 per share |
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Aggregate exercise price
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$ |
20,000.00 |
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$ |
19,990.09* |
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* |
Aggregate exercise values fluctuate due to fractional share
rounding and rounding of exercise price. |
If, on the other hand, the average closing price of Federated
shares in the above example were $52 per share, then the
conversion factor would be .3115 + ($17.75/$52) = .3115
+ .3413 = .6528, so that the options for
1,000 shares of May stock would convert to options for
653 shares of Federated stock, and the $20 per share
exercise price would convert to a $30.6373 per share
exercise price, with an aggregate exercise price of $20,006.13.
The conversion of any May stock options which are
incentive stock options, within the meaning of
Section 422 of the Internal Revenue Code, into options to
purchase Federated common stock will be made so as not to
constitute a modification of those May stock options
within the meaning of Section 424 of the Internal Revenue
Code.
108
Federated will take all corporate action necessary to reserve
for issuance a sufficient number of shares of Federated common
stock for delivery upon exercise or settlement of the May stock
plans described above that it will assume or settle pursuant to
the merger agreement. Promptly after the effective time of the
merger, Federated will file a registration statement on
Form S-8, or other appropriate form, with respect to the
shares of Federated common stock subject to the May stock plans
and will maintain the effectiveness of such registration
statement and maintain the current status of the prospectus or
prospectuses contained in such registration statement, for so
long as the May stock options assumed by Federated remain
outstanding.
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Indemnification and Insurance |
Federated has agreed that all rights to indemnification and
exculpation, including any obligations to advance funds or
expenses, from liabilities for acts or omissions occurring at or
prior to the effective time of the merger existing in favor of
the current or former directors, officers and employees of May
and its subsidiaries, as provided in their respective
certificates of incorporation, by-laws and indemnification
agreements will be assumed by the surviving company and will
survive the merger and continue in full force and effect in
accordance with their terms, and to the fullest extent permitted
by law. In addition, Federated has agreed not to amend or
otherwise modify those rights in any manner that would adversely
affect the rights of individuals who on or prior to the
effective time of the merger were directors, officers, employees
or agents of May, unless the modification is required by law.
Federated has agreed to maintain in effect, for at least six
years after the effective time of the merger, the current May
directors and officers liability insurance policies
covering acts or omissions occurring at or prior to the
effective time of the merger with respect to those persons who
are currently covered by Mays directors and
officers liability insurance policies for (or substitute
policies of at least the same coverage and amounts containing
terms and conditions which are no less advantageous than the May
policies), provided that Federated or the surviving company will
not be required to expend in any one year an amount in excess of
300% of the annual premiums paid by May at the date of the
merger agreement for the insurance and, provided, that, if the
annual premiums exceed that amount, Federated will be obligated
to obtain a policy with the greatest coverage available for a
cost not exceeding the limit set forth above.
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Employee Benefits Matters |
Federated agreed to assume all of the May benefit plans and
honor and pay or provide the benefits required under the plans,
recognizing that the consummation of the merger or approval of
the merger agreement by Mays stockholders, as the case may
be, will constitute a change in control for purposes
of each such plan that includes a definition of change in
control.
Federated agreed to cause the surviving company to continue all
May benefit plans in accordance with their terms as in effect
immediately before the effective time of the merger until the
first anniversary of the effective time of the merger, except as
may be required under applicable law.
From the first anniversary of the effective time of the merger
until the third anniversary of the effective time of the merger,
Federated agreed to provide to those individuals who were
employees of May immediately before the effective time of the
merger (other than those subject to collective bargaining
obligations or agreements), compensation and employee benefits
substantially comparable in the aggregate to those provided to
the employees immediately before the effective time of the
merger (excluding equity-based compensation) and consider May
employees for equity-based award grants on the same basis that
similarly situated employees of Federated are considered for
such grants.
Employees of May immediately before the effective time of the
merger who are provided benefits under Federated employee
benefit plans after the merger will receive credit for their
service with May and its affiliates before the effective time of
the merger for purposes of eligibility, vesting and benefit
accrual (other than benefit accrual under a Federated defined
benefit plan) to the same extent as they were entitled, before
the effective time of the merger, to credit for service under
any similar or comparable May benefit plan.
109
For purposes of each Federated benefit plan providing medical,
dental or health benefits to any May employee described above,
Federated agreed to cause all pre-existing condition limitations
and exclusions and all actively-at-work requirements of the plan
to be waived for the employee and his or her covered dependents
(but only to the extent that the limitations, exclusions and
requirements would have been waived (or inapplicable) under the
comparable May benefit plan). Federated also agreed to cause any
eligible expenses incurred by the employee and his or her
covered dependents during the portion of the plan year of the
May plan ending on the date the employees participation in
the corresponding Federated plan begins to be taken into account
under the Federated plan for purposes of satisfying all
deductible, coinsurance and maximum out-of-pocket requirements
applicable to the employee and his or her covered dependents for
the applicable plan year as if the amounts had been paid in
accordance with the Federated plan.
Under the merger agreement, May may take such action as may be
necessary so that all unit awards granted under the Stock
Appreciation Plan of The May Department Stores Company and Its
Subsidiaries for International Employees will be settled in
cash, whether or not the units are vested at the effective time
of the merger. The amount of cash to be paid under the plan will
be calculated as an amount equal to the product of (i) the
closing price of Mays common stock on the last trading day
prior to the date on which the merger closes over the base price
of the unit award and (ii) the number of shares of May
common stock represented by the unit award.
Federated acknowledged and agreed to continue the following May
practices with respect to its equity awards: (i) with
respect to the noncompetition provisions under its 1994 Stock
Incentive Plan, May has enforced the forfeiture provisions under
the plan only with respect to terminating employees who
terminate voluntarily at their own initiative or who have been
terminated for cause; and (ii) with respect to options
granted prior to the effective time of the merger, an option
holder who is party to an employment agreement with May or a May
affiliate and whose employment is terminated by the option
holders employer other than for cause, will have his or
her stock options generally remain exercisable until the
scheduled expiration of the term of the employment agreement
and, if at the expiration of the term of the employment
agreement, the option holder would be treated as a retiree for
stock option purposes, the option holders options will
remain exercisable generally until the third anniversary of the
date of termination of employment (or, if earlier, the
expiration of the option term).
Federated agreed to increase its quarterly dividend on Federated
common stock to $0.25 per share beginning with the first
quarterly dividend with a record date on or after the effective
time of the merger. While Federated intends to maintain
dividends at this level for the foreseeable future, it cannot
assure you that dividends will be paid in future periods in any
particular amount, or at all.
Federated will maintain in St. Louis, Missouri a major
divisional headquarters, as well as certain regional corporate
support functions.
Federated has agreed to honor any charitable contribution
obligations of May in existence on the date of the merger
agreement. For one year following the effective time of the
merger, Federated will not reduce the total aggregate amount of
funding for charitable causes by May from the total amount of
such funding in the twelve month period immediately preceding
the closing date of the merger. Between the first and second
anniversary of the closing date of the merger, Federated will
not reduce the total aggregate amount of funding for charitable
causes by May by more than 50% from the total amount of such
funding in the prior twelve month period. Between the second and
third anniversary of the closing date of the merger, Federated
will not reduce the total aggregate amount of funding for
charitable causes by May by more than 75% from the total amount
of such finding in the prior twelve month period.
Federateds funding obligations will in each case be
110
reduced by the total aggregate amount of funding for charitable
causes by the May Department Stores Company Foundation during
the relevant time period.
Federated and May shall cooperate and consult with one another
in connection with any stockholder litigation against any of
them or any of their respective directors or officers with
respect to the transactions contemplated by the merger
agreement. Each of the parties will use its respective
reasonable best efforts to prevail in such litigation so as to
permit the consummation of the transactions contemplated by the
merger agreement in the manner contemplated by the merger
agreement. May has agreed that it will not compromise or settle
(other than compromises or settlements involving solely monetary
damages) any litigation commenced against it or its directors
and officers relating to the merger agreement or the
transactions contemplated by the merger agreement (including the
merger) without Federateds prior written consent, not to
be unreasonably withheld or delayed. However, May may compromise
or settle any such litigation without Federateds consent
solely for monetary damages.
The merger agreement contains additional agreements between
Federated and May relating to, among other things:
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preparation of the Form S-4 and this joint proxy statement/
prospectus; |
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tax treatment of the merger, and cooperation with respect to
obtaining opinions from outside counsel that the merger will
constitute a reorganization within the meaning of
Section 368(a) of the Code; |
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consultations regarding public announcements; |
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delivery of a letter identifying all persons who are affiliates
of May; |
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use of reasonable best efforts to cause the shares of Federated
common stock to be issued to be approved for listing on the
NYSE; and |
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ensure exemption under Rule 16b-3 of the Exchange Act. |
Conditions to Completion of the Merger
The obligations of Federated and May to complete the merger are
subject to the satisfaction or waiver on or prior to the closing
date of the merger of the following conditions:
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the requisite stockholder approval from May and Federated
stockholders (the satisfaction of which cannot be determined
until the respective stockholders meetings); |
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the absence of any order or injunction of any governmental
entity of competent jurisdiction that prohibits the consummation
of the merger; provided, however, that prior to asserting this
condition each of the parties shall have used its reasonable
best efforts to prevent the entry of any such order or
injunction and to appeal as promptly as possible any such order
or injunction that may be entered (as of the date of this joint
proxy statement/prospectus, no such order or injunction is in
effect); |
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the registration statement of which this joint proxy statement/
prospectus forms a part must not be subject to any stop order or
proceedings seeking a stop order (as of the date of this joint
proxy statement/prospectus, no such stop orders or proceedings
is in effect or ongoing); |
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the waiting period applicable to the consummation of the merger
under the HSR Act shall have expired or been terminated (as of
the date of this joint proxy statement/prospectus, such waiting
period has not expired or been terminated and the parties have
received a request for additional information from the
FTC); and |
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the shares of Federated common stock issuable to Mays
stockholders as contemplated by the merger agreement must have
been approved for listing on the New York Stock Exchange,
subject to official |
111
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notice of issuance (as of the date of this joint proxy
statement/prospectus, this condition is not yet satisfied). |
The obligation of Federated to effect the merger is further
subject to satisfaction or waiver of the following conditions
(in each case, the satisfaction of which cannot be determined
until the closing):
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the representations and warranties of May set forth in the
merger agreement must be true and correct in all respects
(without giving effect to any materiality or material adverse
effect qualifications contained in them) both when made and at
and as of the closing date of the merger, as if made at and as
of the closing date of the merger (except to the extent
expressly made as of an earlier date, in which case as of that
date), except where the failure of such representations and
warranties to be so true and correct would not reasonably be
expected to have or result in, individually or in the aggregate,
a material adverse effect on May; |
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May must have performed (i) in all material respects all of
its obligations, except for the pre-closing conduct of business
covenant described above, required to be performed by it under
the merger agreement at or prior to the closing date of the
merger and (ii) in all respects all of its obligations
required to be performed by it under the pre-closing conduct of
business covenant described above, except where the failure to
do so would not have or result in, individually or in the
aggregate, a material adverse effect on May; |
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May must have furnished Federated with a certificate dated the
closing date of the merger signed on its behalf by an executive
officer to the effect that the conditions set forth above in the
two immediately preceding bullets have been satisfied; and |
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Federated shall have received from Jones Day, its counsel, an
opinion dated as of the closing date of the merger, to the
effect that the merger will constitute a reorganization within
the meeting of Section 368(a) of the Code. |
The obligation of May to effect the merger is further subject to
satisfaction or waiver of the following conditions (in each
case, the satisfaction of which cannot be determined until the
closing):
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the representations and warranties of Federated and Merger Sub
set forth in the merger agreement must be true and correct in
all respects (without giving effect to any materiality or
material adverse effect qualifications contained in them) both
when made and at and as of the closing date of the merger, as if
made at and as of the closing date of the merger (except to the
extent expressly made as of an earlier date, in which case as of
that date), except where the failure of the representations and
warranties to be so true and correct would not have or result
in, individually or in the aggregate, a material adverse effect
on Federated and Merger Sub; |
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Federated and Merger Sub must have performed (i) in all
material respects all of its obligations, except for the
pre-closing conduct of business covenant described above,
required to be performed by it under the merger agreement at or
prior to the closing date of the merger and (ii) in all
respects all of its obligations required to be performed by it
under the pre-closing conduct of business covenant described
above, except where the failure to do so would not have or
result in, individually or in the aggregate, a material adverse
effect; |
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Federated and Merger Sub must have each furnished May with a
certificate dated the closing date of the merger signed on its
behalf by an executive officer to the effect that the conditions
set forth above in the two immediately preceding bullets have
been satisfied; and |
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May shall have received from Skadden, Arps, Slate,
Meagher, & Flom LLP, its counsel, an opinion dated as
of the closing date, to the effect that the merger will
constitute a reorganization within the meeting of
Section 368(a) of the Code. |
Material adverse effect, when used in reference to
May or Federated, means any change, effect, event, occurrence or
state of facts that is, or would reasonably be expected to be,
materially adverse to the business, financial condition, or
results of operations of the referenced company and its
subsidiaries taken as a whole.
112
However, any changes, effects, events, occurrences or state of
facts will not be deemed to have a material adverse effect if
they relate to:
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the economy or financial markets in general, to the extent that
they do not disproportionately affect the referenced company
relative to the other participants in the industries in which
the referenced company operates; |
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the industry in which the referenced company and its
subsidiaries operate in general, to the extent that they do not
disproportionately affect the referenced company relative to the
other participants in the industries in which the referenced
company operates; |
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the negotiation and entry into the merger agreement, the
announcement of the merger agreement or the undertaking and
performance or observance of the obligations contemplated by the
merger agreement or necessary to consummate the transactions
contemplated by the merger agreement (including adverse effects
on results of operations attributable to the uncertainties
associated with the period between the date of the merger
agreement and the closing date of the merger); |
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the effect of incurring and paying expenses in connection with
negotiating, entering into, performing and consummating the
transactions contemplated by the merger agreement; |
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changes in applicable laws after the date of the merger
agreement; and |
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changes in GAAP after the date of the merger agreement. |
Mays same store sales decreased by 2.4% in the fiscal year
ended January 29, 2005. Although May has instituted a
number of remedial measures designed to reverse this trend and
to improve same store sales performance in fiscal 2005, there
can be no assurance that this result will be successfully
implemented or that same store sales performance will not
continue the trends experienced in fiscal 2004 or that they will
not be further adversely affected by the disruption caused by
the merger with Federated. Before May and Federated signed the
merger agreement, May informed Federated that comparative store
for store sales performance may continue on a downward trend,
and may be negatively influenced by the transactions
contemplated by the merger agreement.
In addition, compliance with the terms of the merger agreement,
including the provisions with respect to the actions to be taken
to obtain regulatory and antitrust approvals, and the
consequences of compliance with the terms of the merger
agreement will not be taken into account in determining whether
a material adverse effect will have occurred or will be expected
to occur.
Neither Federated, nor Merger Sub, nor May, as applicable, may
rely on the failure of any condition set forth above to be
satisfied if the failure was caused by its failure to comply
with its obligations to consummate the merger and the other
transactions contemplated by the merger agreement. Other than
the conditions pertaining to stockholder approvals and the
expiration or termination of the HSR waiting period, either
Federated or May may elect to waive conditions to its own
performance and complete the merger. Neither Federated nor May
intends to waive any condition as of the date of this joint
proxy statement/prospectus.
Termination of the Merger Agreement
Before the effective time of the merger, the merger agreement
may be terminated:
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by the mutual written consent of Federated and May; |
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by either Federated or May if: |
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the parties fail to consummate the merger on or before the
outside date of October 3, 2005, or such later date, if
any, as Federated and May may agree, unless the failure to
consummate the merger by the outside date is the result of a
breach of the merger agreement by the party seeking the
termination; provided that the outside date will be extended to
August 31, 2006, if all conditions to the closing have been
fulfilled other than the absence of an order or injunction by a
governmental |
113
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entity prohibiting completion of the merger or the expiration or
termination of the waiting period under HSR; |
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the Federated annual meeting has concluded and the authorization
of the issuance of shares of Federated common stock pursuant to
the merger agreement by the Federated stockholders was not
obtained; |
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the May annual meeting has concluded and the approval and
adoption of the merger agreement and the transactions
contemplated by the merger agreement, including the merger, by
the May stockholders was not obtained; or |
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any governmental entity issues an order or injunction that
permanently prohibits the merger and such order or injunction
has become final and non-appealable unless the order or
injunction results from a breach of the merger agreement by the
party seeking the termination; |
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Federated or Merger Sub breaches its representations or
warranties or breaches or fails to perform its covenants in the
merger agreement, which breach or failure to perform results in
a failure of certain of the conditions to the completion of the
merger being satisfied and such breach or failure to perform is
not cured within 60 days after the receipt of written
notice thereof or is incapable of being cured by the outside
date; |
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prior to the receipt of its stockholder approval, May
(i) receives a superior proposal, (ii) provides
Federated with a written notice that the board of directors has
determined, in good faith, after consultation with outside
counsel, that it is necessary for the proper discharge of its
fiduciary duties under applicable law and (iii) thereafter
satisfies the conditions for withdrawing (or modifying in a
manner adverse to Federated) the recommendation by its board of
directors of the merger or recommending such superior proposal;
provided that May pays a $350 million termination fee to
Federated and is not in material breach of its non-solicitation
obligations under the merger agreement; or |
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the Federated board of directors or any committee thereof
withdraws or modifies or publicly proposes to withdraw or modify
its recommendation that Federateds stockholders authorize
the issuance of Federated common stock in the merger; |
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May breaches its representations or warranties or breaches or
fails to perform its covenants in the merger agreement, which
breach or failure to perform results in a failure of certain of
the conditions to the completion of the merger being satisfied,
provided such breach or failure to perform is not cured within
60 days after receipt of a written notice thereof or is
incapable of being cured by the outside date; or |
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the May board of directors or any committee thereof
(i) withdraws or adversely modifies or publicly proposes to
withdraw or adversely modify, its recommendation of the merger
agreement and the transactions contemplated by the merger
agreement, including the merger; or (ii) recommends, adopts
or approves, or proposes publicly to recommend, adopt or approve
a takeover proposal other than the merger agreement. |
Termination Fees
May must pay Federated a $350 million termination fee if
the merger agreement is terminated:
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by Federated if the May board of directors or any committee
thereof (i) withdraws or adversely modifies or publicly
proposes to withdraw or adversely modify, its recommendation of
the merger agreement and the transactions contemplated by the
merger agreement, including the merger; or |
114
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(ii) recommends, adopts or approves, or proposes publicly
to recommend, adopt or approve a takeover proposal other than
the merger agreement; |
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by May if, prior to the receipt of its stockholder approval, May
(i) receives a superior proposal, (ii) provides
Federated with a written notice that the board of directors has
determined, in good faith, after consultation with outside
counsel, that it is necessary for the proper discharge of its
fiduciary duties under applicable law and (iii) thereafter
satisfies the conditions for withdrawing (or modifying in a
manner adverse to Federated) the recommendation by its board of
directors of the merger or recommending such superior proposal;
provided that May is not in material breach of its
non-solicitation obligations under the merger agreement; or |
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(i) because (x) the merger has not been consummated by
the outside date; (y) the May annual meeting has concluded
and the approval and adoption of the merger agreement and the
transactions contemplated by the merger agreement, including the
merger, by the May stockholders was not obtained; or
(z) May breaches its representations or warranties or
breaches or fails to perform its covenants in the merger
agreement, which breach or failure to perform results in a
failure of certain of the conditions to the completion of the
merger being satisfied, provided such breach or failure to
perform is not cured within 60 days after receipt of a
written notice thereof or is incapable of being cured by the
outside date; (ii) at the time of such termination,
Federated is not in breach in any material respect of any of its
representations, warranties or covenants contained in the merger
agreement; (iii) prior to such termination, any person
publicly announces an alternative takeover proposal relating to
May that has not been withdrawn; and (iv) within
12 months of such termination May enters into a definitive
agreement with respect to, or consummates, an alternative
takeover proposal relating to May. |
Federated must pay May a termination fee:
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of $350 million if the merger agreement is terminated by
May because the Federated board of directors or any committee
thereof has withdrawn or modified, or publicly proposed to
withdraw or modify, its recommendation that Federated
stockholders authorize the issuance of Federated common stock in
the merger; |
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of $350 million if the merger agreement is terminated by
either party because the merger was not consummated by the
outside date and at the time of the termination all of the
conditions precedent to the obligations of the parties to
consummate the merger agreement had been satisfied except for: |
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the condition that none of the parties shall be subject to any
order or injunction of any government entity that prohibits the
consummation of the merger, and the condition that the waiting
period applicable to the consummation of the merger under the
HSR Act shall have expired or been terminated; |
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the condition that the shares of Federated common stock issuable
to Mays stockholders as contemplated in the merger
agreement shall have been approved for listing on the NYSE, if
such condition is capable of being satisfied at the time of
termination, or the condition that Federated shall have received
from Jones Day, an opinion dated as of the closing date, to the
effect that the merger will constitute a reorganization within
the meaning of Section 368(a) of the Code, if such
condition is capable of being satisfied at the time of
termination; and |
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any other conditions that are capable of being satisfied on the
date of termination but by their terms cannot be satisfied until
the closing date. |
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equal to the product of $20 million and the quotient
(rounded to the nearest fourth decimal point) determined by
dividing the number of calendar days between the date of the
agreement and the date of the termination by 30, provided
however that the amount of the fee will not be less than
$150 million or more than $350 million, if the merger
agreement is terminated by either party because any government |
115
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entity issues an order or injunction that permanently prohibits
the merger, such order or injunction becomes final and
non-appealable, and at the time of the termination all of the
conditions precedent to the obligation to consummate the merger
agreement had been satisfied except for: |
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the condition that none of the parties shall be subject to any
order or injunction of any government entity that prohibits the
consummation of the merger, and the condition that the waiting
period applicable to the consummation of the merger under the
HSR Act shall have expired or been terminated; and |
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the condition that the shares of Federated common stock issuable
to Mays stockholders as contemplated in the merger
agreement shall have been approved for listing on the NYSE, if
such condition is capable of being satisfied at the time of
termination, or the condition that Federated shall have received
from Jones Day, an opinion dated as of the closing date, to the
effect that the merger will constitute a reorganization within
the meaning of Section 368(a) of the Code, if such
condition is capable of being satisfied at the time of
termination; and |
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any other conditions that are capable of being satisfied on the
date of termination but by their terms cannot be satisfied until
the closing date. |
In general, each of Federated and May will bear its own expenses
in connection with the merger agreement and the related
transactions except that Federated and May will share equally
the costs and expenses in connection with filing, printing and
mailing of the registration statement and this joint proxy
statement/ prospectus.
Amendments, Extensions and Waivers
The merger agreement may be amended by the parties at any time
prior to the effective time of the merger by an instrument in
writing signed on behalf of each of the parties. However, after
the approval and adoption of the merger agreement with the
transactions contemplated by the merger agreement, including the
merger, at the May annual meeting or the approval of the
issuance of shares of Federated common stock in the merger at
the Federated annual meeting, there will be no amendment to the
merger agreement made that by law, or, in the case of the
approval at the Federated annual meeting, by the regulations
established by the NYSE, requires further approval by the
stockholders of May or Federated without the further approval of
the stockholders of May or Federated.
At any time prior to the effective time of the merger, any party
to the merger agreement may:
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extend the time for the performance of any of the obligations or
other acts of the other parties; |
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waive any inaccuracies in the representations and warranties of
the other parties contained in the merger agreement or in any
document delivered pursuant to the merger agreement; or |
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waive compliance by the other parties with any of the agreements
or conditions contained in the merger agreement except as
limited by the provisions of the merger agreement described
above in the section Amendments. |
Any agreement on the part of either party to any extension or
waiver will be valid only if set forth in an instrument in
writing signed by that party. The failure of any party to the
merger agreement to assert any of its rights under the merger
agreement or otherwise will not constitute a waiver of those
rights.
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INFORMATION ABOUT FEDERATED
Business
Federated is a Delaware corporation. Federated and its
predecessors have been operating department stores since 1820.
As of January 29, 2005, Federated, through its
subsidiaries, operated 394 department stores and
65 furniture galleries and other specialty stores. The
stores are located in 34 states, Puerto Rico and Guam, with
152 stores being located on the west coast, 104 stores in the
southeast, 90 stores in the northeast, 48 stores in the midwest
and the remaining 65 stores spread in other areas of the United
States and its territories. Prior to March 6, 2005, the
stores were operated under the names
Bloomingdales, Bon-Macys,
Burdines-Macys,
Goldsmiths-Macys,
Lazarus-Macys, Macys and
Richs-Macys. Pursuant to a broad
national strategy announced by Federated in September 2004 to
more fully leverage its Macys brand, the
stores operating under the names Bon-Macys,
Burdines-Macys,
Goldsmiths-Macys,
Lazarus-Macys and
Richs-Macys were renamed effective
March 6, 2005, to become Macys stores.
The department stores sell a wide range of merchandise,
including mens, womens and childrens apparel
and accessories, cosmetics, home furnishings and other consumer
goods, and are diversified by size of store, merchandising
character and character of community served. Most stores are
located at urban or suburban sites, principally in densely
populated areas across the United States.
Federated, through its subsidiaries, conducts direct-to-customer
mail catalog and electronic commerce businesses under the names
Bloomingdales By Mail and
macys.com. Additionally, Federated offers an on-line
bridal registry to customers.
Federated provides various support functions to its retail
operating divisions on an integrated, company-wide basis.
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Federateds financial, administrative and credit services
subsidiary, FACS Group, Inc., referred to as FACS, provides
credit processing, collections, customer service and credit
marketing services for the proprietary credit programs of
Federateds retail operating divisions in respect of all
proprietary and non-proprietary credit card accounts owned by
Federated and credit processing, customer service and credit
marketing for those accounts owned by GE Money Bank, referred to
as GE Bank. GE Bank owns all of the Macys
credit card accounts originated prior to December 19, 1994,
when R.H. Macy & Co., Inc. was acquired pursuant
to a merger, and an allocated portion of the
Macys credit card accounts originated
subsequent to such merger. In addition, FACS provides payroll
and benefits services to Federateds retail operating and
service divisions. As of the date of this joint proxy statement/
prospectus, Federated is exploring various alternatives with
respect to its and Mays credit card related assets,
including the possible purchase of the portion of the
Macys accounts currently owned by GE Bank, the
possible sale of all or a portion of Federated-owned accounts
and related assets or possible entry into modified arrangements
with GE Bank or another third party with respect thereto. |
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Federateds data processing subsidiary, Federated Systems
Group, Inc., referred to as FSG, provides (directly and pursuant
to outsourcing arrangements with third parties) operational
electronic data processing and management information services
to each of Federateds retail operating and service
divisions. |
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Macys Merchandising Group, LLC, referred to as MMG, a
wholly owned indirect subsidiary of Federated and successor in
interest to Federated Merchandising Group, helps Federated to
centrally develop and execute consistent merchandise strategies
while retaining the ability to tailor merchandise assortments
and strategies to the particular character and customer base of
Federateds various department store franchises. MMG is
also responsible for all of the private label development of
Federateds retail operating divisions. However,
Bloomingdales sources some of its private label
merchandise through Associated Merchandising Corporation. |
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Federated Logistics and Operations, referred to as FLO, a
division of a subsidiary of Federated, provides warehousing and
merchandise distribution services, store design and construction
services and certain supply purchasing services for
Federateds retail operating divisions. |
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Since April 2004, Macys Home Store, LLC, a wholly owned
indirect subsidiary of Federated, has been responsible for the
overall strategy, merchandising and marketing of home-related
categories of business in all of Federateds retail
operating stores, except stores operated under the
Bloomingdales name. |
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A specialized staff maintained in Federateds corporate
offices provides services for all divisions of Federated in such
areas as accounting, legal, marketing, real estate and
insurance, as well as various other corporate office functions. |
FACS, FSG and MMG also offer their services to unrelated third
parties.
Federateds executive offices are located at 7 West Seventh
Street, Cincinnati, Ohio 45202, telephone number:
(513) 579-7000 and 151 West 34th Street, New York, New
York 10001, telephone number: (212) 494-1602.
As of January 29, 2005, Federated had approximately 112,000
regular full-time and part-time employees. Because of the
seasonal nature of the retail business, the number of employees
peaks in the holiday season. Approximately 10% of
Federateds employees as of January 29, 2005, were
represented by unions. Federated management considers its
relations with employees to be satisfactory.
The retail business is seasonal in nature with a high proportion
of sales and operating income generated in the months of
November and December. Working capital requirements fluctuate
during the year, increasing somewhat in mid-summer in
anticipation of the fall merchandising season and increasing
substantially prior to the holiday season when Federated must
carry significantly higher inventory levels.
Federated purchases merchandise from many suppliers, no one of
which accounted for more than 5% of Federateds net
purchases during the fiscal year ended January 29, 2005,
referred to as fiscal 2004. Federated has no long-term purchase
commitments or arrangements with any of its suppliers, and
believes that it is not dependent on any one supplier. Federated
considers its relations with its suppliers to be satisfactory.
The retailing industry is intensely competitive.
Federateds stores and direct-to-customer business
operations compete with many retailing formats, including
department stores, specialty stores, general merchandise stores,
off-price and discount stores, new and established forms of home
shopping (including the Internet, mail-order catalogs and
television) and manufacturers outlets, among others. The
retailers with which Federated competes include Dillards,
J.C. Penney, Kohls, May, Nordstrom, Sears, Neiman Marcus,
Saks, The Gap, The Limited, Old Navy, TJ Maxx, Wal-Mart, Target,
Linens n Things, Bed, Bath & Beyond and many
others. Federated seeks to attract customers by offering
superior selections, value pricing and strong private label
merchandise, and by providing an exciting shopping environment
and superior service. Other retailers may compete for customers
on some or all of these bases, or on other bases, and may be
perceived by some potential customers as being better aligned
with their particular preferences.
Sales at Federateds stores are made for cash or credit,
including Federateds 30-day charge accounts and open-end
credit plans for department store divisions, which include
revolving charge accounts and revolving
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installment accounts. During fiscal 2004, approximately 42% of
net sales were made through Federateds department store
credit plans, including the credit plans relating to certain
operations of Federated that are owned by GE Money Bank.
Directors of Federated
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Nominees for Election as Class II
Directors Term expires at the 2008 annual
meeting |
Meyer Feldberg
Professor Feldberg, age 63, has been Dean Emeritus and
Sanford Bernstein Professor of Leadership and Ethics at Columbia
Business School at Columbia University since June 2004. Prior
thereto he served as the Dean of the Columbia Business School at
Columbia University from 1989 to June 2004. He is also a member
of the boards of directors of Revlon, Inc., Primedia, Inc., UBS
Global Asset Management, SAPPI Limited and Select Medical
Corporation. Professor Feldberg is a member of the NCG and
Compensation and Management Development, referred to as the CMD
Committee, Committees of the board. Professor Feldberg has been
a director since 1992.
Terry J. Lundgren
Mr. Lundgren, age 53, has been Chairman of Federated
since January 15, 2004, and President and Chief Executive
Officer of Federated since February 26, 2003. Prior thereto
he served as the President/ Chief Operating Officer and Chief
Merchandising Officer of Federated since April 15, 2002.
From May 1997 until April 15, 2002, he was President and
Chief Merchandising Officer of Federated. Mr. Lundgren has
been a director since May 1997.
Marna C. Whittington
Dr. Whittington, age 57, has been President of
Nicholas Applegate Capital Management since 2001 and Chief
Operating Officer of Allianz Global Investors, the parent of
Nicholas Applegate Capital Management, since 2002. From 1996
until 2001 she was Chief Operating Officer of Morgan Stanley
Dean Witter Investment Management. Dr. Whittington is also
a member of the board of directors of Rohm & Haas
Company. Dr. Whittington is a member of the Audit and
Finance Committees of the board. Dr. Whittington has been a
director since 1993.
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Class III Directors Term expires at the
2006 annual meeting |
Earl G. Graves, Sr.
Mr. Graves, age 70, has been Chairman and Chief
Executive Officer of Earl G. Graves, Ltd., a multi-faceted
communications company, since 1970, and is the Publisher and
Chief Executive Officer of Black Enterprise
magazine, which he founded. From 1990 until 1998,
Mr. Graves was Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of
Pepsi-Cola of Washington, D.C., L.P., a Pepsi-Cola bottling
franchise. Since 1998, Mr. Graves has been Chairman of the
Pepsi-Cola Ethnic Advisory Board. Mr. Graves is also a
member of the boards of directors of Aetna Inc., AMR
Corporation, DaimlerChrysler Corporation and Rohm &
Haas Company. He is a member of the NCG, Public Policy and Audit
Committees of the board. Mr. Graves has been a director
since 1994. Although Mr. Graves term expires at the
2006 annual meeting, he intends to resign his position as a
Federated director effective at the 2005 annual meeting.
Craig E. Weatherup
Mr. Weatherup, age 59, was Chairman and Chief
Executive Officer of The Pepsi Bottling Group, Inc. from
November 1998 until January 2003. Mr. Weatherup is also a
member of the board of directors of Starbucks Corporation.
Mr. Weatherup has been a director since August 1996.
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Class I Directors Term expires at the
2007 annual meeting |
Sara Levinson
Ms. Levinson, age 54, has been President, Womens
Group of Rodale, Inc. since October 2002 and has been
Non-Executive Chairman of Club Mom since May 2000. Prior to
October 2000, she was President of NFL Properties, Inc. since
September 1994. Ms. Levinson is also a member of the board
of directors of Harley Davidson, Inc. Ms. Levinson is a
member of the NCG and CMD Committees of the board.
Ms. Levinson has been a director since May 1997.
Joseph Neubauer
Mr. Neubauer, age 64, has been Chairman and Chief
Executive Officer of ARAMARK Corporation since September 2004.
From January 2004 to September 2004 he served as Executive
Chairman of ARAMARK Corporation. Prior thereto, he was Chief
Executive Officer of ARAMARK Corporation from 1983 until
December 2003 and Chairman from 1984 until December 2003. He is
also a member of the boards of directors of ARAMARK Corporation,
Verizon Communications, Inc., Wachovia Corporation and CIGNA
Corporation. Mr. Neubauer is a member of the Audit, CMD and
Finance Committees of the board. Mr. Neubauer has been a
director since 1992.
Joseph A. Pichler
Mr. Pichler, age 65, was Chairman of The Kroger Co.
from June 2003 until June 2004 and was Chief Executive Officer
of The Kroger Co. from June 1990 until June 2003.
Mr. Pichler is a member of the NCG and CMD Committees of
the board. Mr. Pichler has been a director since December
1997.
Karl M. von der Heyden
Mr. von der Heyden, age 68, was Vice Chairman of the Board
of Directors of PepsiCo, Inc. from September 1996 to January
2001. He is also a member of the boards of directors of ARAMARK
Corporation and PanAmSat Corp. Mr. von der Heyden is a
member of the Audit and Finance Committees of the board.
Mr. von der Heyden has been a director since 1992.
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Attendance at Board Meetings |
The board held nine meetings fiscal 2004. During fiscal 2004, no
director attended fewer than 75%, in the aggregate, of the total
number of meetings of the board and board committees on which
such director served.
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Director Attendance at Annual Meetings |
As a matter of policy, Federated expects its directors to make
reasonable efforts to attend Federateds annual meetings of
stockholders. All of Federateds directors attended its
most recent annual meeting of stockholders.
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Communications with the Board |
Interested parties may communicate with the full board, the
Audit Committee, directors who are not employees of Federated,
referred to as the non-management directors, or any individual
director by communicating through Federateds Internet
website at www.fds.com/corporategovernance or by mailing such
communications to 7 West Seventh Street, Cincinnati, Ohio 45202,
Attention: General Counsel. Such communications should indicate
to whom they are addressed. Any comments received that relate to
accounting, internal accounting controls or auditing matters
will be referred to members of the Audit Committee unless the
communication is otherwise addressed. Parties may communicate
anonymously and/or confidentially if they desire. All
communications received will be collected by the Office of the
General Counsel of Federated and forwarded to the appropriate
director or directors.
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Federateds Corporate Governance Guidelines require that a
majority of the board consist of directors who the board has
determined do not have any material relationship with Federated
and are independent. The board has adopted standards for
director independence, a copy of which is attached as
Annex H to this joint proxy statement/ prospectus,
to assist the board in determining if a director is independent.
The board has determined that, except for Mr. Lundgren, who
is a senior executive of Federated, and Mr. Weatherup, the
remaining members of the board who are non-management directors
qualify as independent. The board determined that, following the
expiration of the transition rule applicable to
Section 303A.02(b)(iv) of the New York Stock Exchange
Listed Company Manual, referred to as the NYSE Manual, on
October 31, 2004, Mr. Weatherup was not independent
under Federateds standards for director independence.
Mr. Weatherup was Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of
the Pepsi Bottling Group, Inc., referred to as PBG, from
November 1998 until January 2003. Susan Kronick, a member of
PBGs compensation committee since 1999, became an
executive officer of Federated on February 25, 2003.
Although Mr. Weatherups tenure as a PBG executive
officer did not overlap Ms. Kronicks service on
PBGs compensation committee while she was also a Federated
executive officer, the board determined that Mr. Weatherup
was not independent based on the application of the three-year
look-back under Section 303A.02(b)(iv) of the NYSE Manual.
Each of the directors who were determined to be independent by
the board satisfied Federateds standards for director
independence.
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Non-Management Directors Meetings |
The non-management directors of the board meet in executive
session without management either before or after all regularly
scheduled board meetings. The chairpersons of the board
committees preside at such sessions by rotation. Non-management
directors who are not independent under the NYSE listing
standards may participate in these executive sessions, but an
executive session in which only independent directors
participate is convened at least once per year.
The following standing committees of the board were in existence
throughout fiscal 2004: the Finance Committee, the Audit
Committee, the NCG Committee (formerly called the Board
Organization and Corporate Governance Committee), and the
Compensation and Management Development Committee (formerly
called the Compensation Committee). The Public Policy Committee
and the Section 162(m) Subcommittee were in existence until
May 2004. On the recommendation of the NCG Committee, the board
resolved to dissolve the Public Policy Committee and the
Section 162(m) Subcommittee as of May 21, 2004.
Audit Committee. The Audit Committee (formerly called the
Audit Review Committee) is presently composed of
Dr. Whittington and Messrs. Graves, Neubauer and von
der Heyden. The Audit Committee Charter is disclosed on
Federateds website at www.fds.com/corporategovernance. As
required by the Audit Committee Charter, the board has
determined that all members of the Audit Committee are
independent and that Dr. Whittington and other members of
the Audit Committee qualify as financial experts.
For a portion of fiscal 2004, Mr. von der Heyden served on
the audit committees of three other public companies. The board
previously determined that such service did not impair
Mr. von der Heydens ability to serve on
Federateds Audit Committee.
The responsibilities of the Audit Committee include:
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Reviewing the professional services provided by Federateds
independent registered public accounting firm and the
independence of such firm; |
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Reviewing the scope of the audit by Federateds independent
registered public accounting firm; |
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Reviewing any proposed non-audit services by Federateds
independent registered public accounting firm to determine if
the provision of such services is compatible with the
maintenance of their independence, and approval of same; |
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Reviewing Federateds annual financial statements, systems
of internal accounting controls, material legal developments
relating thereto, and legal compliance policies and procedures; |
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Reviewing matters with respect to the legal, accounting,
auditing and financial reporting practices and procedures of
Federated as it may find appropriate or as may be brought to its
attention, including Federateds compliance with applicable
laws and regulations; |
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Reviewing with members of Federateds internal audit staff
the internal audit departments staffing, responsibilities
and performance, including its audit plans, audit results and
actions taken with respect to those results; and |
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Establishing procedures for the Audit Committee to receive,
review and respond to complaints regarding accounting, internal
accounting controls, and auditing matters, as well as
confidential, anonymous submissions by employees of concerns
related to questionable accounting or auditing matters. |
See Report of the Audit Committee for further
information regarding the Audit Committees review. The
Audit Committee met seven times during fiscal 2004.
Compensation and Management Development Committee. The
charter for the CMD Committee is disclosed on Federateds
website at www.fds.com/corporategovernance. The CMD Committee is
presently composed of Ms. Levinson and
Messrs. Feldberg, Neubauer and Pichler. Prior to
November 1, 2004, Mr. Weatherup also was a member of
the CMD Committee. As required by the CMD Committee Charter, all
current members of the CMD Committee are independent under
Federateds standards for director independence.
The responsibilities of the CMD Committee include:
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Reviewing and approving any proposed employment agreement with,
and any proposed severance, termination or retention plans,
agreements or payments applicable to, any executive officer of
Federated; |
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Reviewing and approving the salaries of the chief executive
officer and other executive officers of Federated; |
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Administering the bonus, incentive and stock option plans of
Federated, including (i) establishing any annual or
long-term performance goals and objectives and maximum annual or
long-term incentive awards for the chief executive officer and
the other executives, (ii) determining whether and the
extent to which annual and/or long-term performance goals and
objectives have been achieved, and (iii) determining
related annual and/or long-term incentive awards for the chief
executive officer and the other executives; |
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Reviewing and approving the benefits of the chief executive
officer and the other executive officers of Federated; |
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Advising and consulting with Federateds management
regarding pension, benefit and compensation plans, policies and
practices of Federated; |
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Establishing chief executive officer and key executive
succession plans, including plans in the event of an emergency,
resignation or retirement; and |
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Reviewing management development plans for key executives. |
The CMD Committee met four times during fiscal 2004.
Finance Committee. The Finance Committee is presently
composed of Dr. Whittington and Messrs. Neubauer and
von der Heyden.
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The Finance Committee:
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Reviews with the appropriate officers of Federated the financial
considerations relating to acquisitions and dispositions of
businesses and operations involving projected costs or income
above $15 million and below $25 million and approves
all such transactions, and makes recommendations to the
Federated board on all such transactions involving projected
costs or income of $25 million and above; |
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Reports to the Federated board on potential transactions
affecting Federateds capital structure, such as
financings, refinancings and the issuance, redemption or
repurchase of Federateds debt or equity securities; |
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Reports to the Federated board on potential changes in
Federateds financial policy which could have a material
financial impact on Federated; |
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Reviews capital projects and other financial commitments and
approves such projects and commitments above $15 million
and below $25 million, and makes recommendations to the
Federated board on all such projects and commitments of
$25 million and above; and |
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Reviews investment performance of pension and savings plans. |
The Finance Committee met twelve times during fiscal 2004.
Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee. The
charter for the NCG Committee is disclosed on Federateds
website at www.fds.com/corporategovernance. The NCG Committee is
presently composed of Ms. Levinson and
Messrs. Feldberg, Graves and Pichler. Prior to
November 1, 2004, Mr. Weatherup also was a member of
the NCG Committee. As required by the NCG Committee Charter, all
current members of the NCG Committee are independent under
Federateds standards for director independence.
The responsibilities of the NCG Committee include:
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Identifying and screening candidates for future board membership; |
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Proposing candidates to the board to fill vacancies as they
occur, and proposing nominees to the board for election by the
stockholders at annual meetings; |
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Reviewing Federateds Corporate Governance Principles and
Practices and recommending to the board any modifications that
the NCG Committee deems appropriate; |
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Overseeing the evaluation of and reporting to the board on the
performance and effectiveness of the board and its committees,
and other issues of corporate governance and recommending to the
board any changes concerning the composition, size, structure
and activities of the board and the committees of the board as
the NCG Committee deems appropriate based on its evaluations; |
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Reviewing and reporting to the board with respect to director
compensation and benefits and make recommendations to the board
as the Committee deems appropriate; and |
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Considering possible conflicts of interest of board members and
management and making recommendations to prevent, minimize, or
eliminate such conflicts of interest. |
The NCG Committee met six times during fiscal 2004.
Among other means of identifying potential candidates, under the
NCG Committee Charter, the NCG Committee is authorized to employ
third-party search firms. The criteria considered by the NCG
Committee in evaluating potential candidates include the
following:
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Personal qualities and characteristics, accomplishments and
reputation in the business community; |
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Knowledge of the communities in which Federated does business
and Federateds industry or other industries relevant to
Federateds business; |
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Relevant experience and background that would benefit Federated; |
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Ability and willingness to commit adequate time to Federated
board and committee matters; |
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The fit of the individuals skills and personality with
those of other directors and potential directors in building a
board that is effective, collegial and responsive to the needs
of Federated; and |
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Diversity of viewpoints, background, experience and demographics. |
The NCG Committee also takes into consideration whether
particular individuals satisfy the independence criteria set
forth in the New York Stock Exchange listing standards together
with any special criteria applicable to service on various
standing committees of the Federated board. The full Federated
board (a) considers candidates recommended to it by the NCG
Committee, (b) considers the optimum size of the Federated
board, (c) determines the manner in which any vacancies on
the Federated board are addressed, and (d) determines the
composition of all Federated board committees.
The NCG Committee will consider nominees for directors
recommended by stockholders of Federated and will evaluate such
nominees using the same criteria used to evaluate director
candidates otherwise identified by the NCG Committee.
Stockholders wishing to make such recommendations should write
to the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee,
c/o Dennis J. Broderick, Secretary, Federated Department
Stores, Inc., 7 West Seventh Street, Cincinnati, Ohio 45202.
Persons making submissions should include the full name and
address of the recommended nominee, a description of the
proposed nominees qualifications and other relevant
biographical information. See Directors of
Federated Director Nomination Procedures
beginning on page 124 for a discussion of nomination
procedures under Federateds by-laws.
Public Policy Committee. The Public Policy Committee
ceased to exist as of May 21, 2004. Prior to its
dissolution, the Public Policy Committee was composed of
Ms. Levinson and Messrs. Graves, von der Heyden and
Weatherup, and had the following responsibilities:
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Establishing, when necessary or appropriate, polices involving
Federateds role as a corporate citizen; |
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Reviewing, evaluating and monitoring the policies, programs and
practices in public policy areas; |
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Maintaining an awareness of public affairs developments and
trends; and |
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Reviewing and making recommendations to the Federated board on
stockholder proposals relating to various matters. |
The Public Policy Committee met one time during fiscal 2004. The
Federated board and the CMD Committee now perform the
responsibilities previously performed by the Public Policy
Committee.
Section 162(m) Subcommittee. The Section 162(m)
Subcommittee was established by the Federated board as a
subcommittee of the CMD Committee, and was required to be
composed solely of two or more members of the CMD Committee who
were outside directors within the meaning of
Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as
amended, and the regulations of the Internal Revenue Service
relating thereto, referred to collectively as
Section 162(m). The Section 162(m) Subcommittee ceased
to exist as of May 21, 2004, because all members of the CMD
Committee are independent under Section 162(m).
Prior to its dissolution, the Section 162(m) Subcommittee
was composed of Messrs. Feldberg and Pichler and was
authorized to take all required actions under the 1995 Equity
Plan and the 1992 Bonus Plan, and such other compensation plans,
agreements or arrangements of Federated as were specified by the
Federated board from time to time, in each case with respect to
such action as may be necessary under Section 162(m) in
order to cause any compensation that was paid thereunder to a
person who was specified by the CMD Committee as being
reasonably likely to become, a covered employee
within the meaning of Section 162(m) to qualify as
performance based within the meaning of
Section 162(m).
The Section 162(m) Subcommittee did not meet during fiscal
2004. The CMD Committee now performs the responsibilities
previously performed by the Section 162(m) Subcommittee.
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Director Nomination Procedures |
Federateds by-laws provide that nominations for election
of directors by the stockholders will be made by the Federated
board or by any stockholder entitled to vote in the election of
directors generally. The by-laws
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require that stockholders intending to nominate candidates for
election as directors deliver written notice thereof to the
Secretary of Federated not less than 60 days prior to the
annual meeting of stockholders. However, in the event that the
date of the meeting is not publicly announced by Federated by
inclusion in a report filed with the SEC or furnished to
stockholders, or by mail, press release or otherwise more than
75 days prior to the meeting, notice by the stockholder to
be timely must be delivered to the Secretary of Federated not
later than the close of business on the tenth day following the
day on which such announcement of the date of the meeting was so
communicated. The by-laws further require, among other things,
that the notice by the stockholder set forth certain information
concerning such stockholder and the stockholders nominees,
including their names and addresses, a representation that the
stockholder is entitled to vote at such meeting and intends to
appear in person or by proxy at the meeting to nominate the
person or persons specified in the notice, the class and number
of shares of Federateds stock owned beneficially and of
record by such stockholder, a description of all arrangements or
understandings between the stockholder and each nominee, such
other information as would be required to be included in a proxy
statement soliciting proxies for the election of the nominees of
such stockholder, and the consent of each nominee to serve as a
director of Federated if so elected. The chairman of the meeting
may refuse to acknowledge the nomination of any person not made
in compliance with these requirements. Similar procedures
prescribed by Federateds by-laws are applicable to
stockholders desiring to bring any other business before an
annual meeting of Federateds stockholders. See
Submission of Future Stockholder Proposals on
page 185.
|
|
|
Corporate Governance Guidelines and Code of Business
Conduct and Ethics |
The Federated board approved the adoption by Federated of
Corporate Governance Guidelines and a Code of Business Conduct
and Ethics, each of which is disclosed on Federateds
website at www.fds.com/corporategovernance.
Non-management directors receive the following compensation:
|
|
|
|
|
Type of Fee |
|
Amount of Fee | |
|
|
| |
Base Retainer
|
|
|
$40,000 annually* |
|
Board or Board Committee Meeting
|
|
$2,000 for each meeting attended and for each review session with one or more members of management. |
Committee Chairperson
|
|
|
$10,000 annually |
|
|
|
* |
Since January 1, 1999, the annual base retainer fee
(including the fee payable to a committee chair) and the meeting
fee payable to non-management directors is being paid 50% (or
such greater percentage, in ten percent increments, as any
individual director may have elected) in credits representing
the right to receive shares of common stock, with the balance
being paid in cash. Such stock credits will be settled in shares
of common stock three years following the issuance of such stock
credits (or at such later time as any individual directors
service on the Federated board ends, if such individual director
has elected to defer compensation under the directors
deferred compensation plan). |
Subject to the holding period described above for stock credits
covering a portion of retainer and meeting fees, any
Non-Management Director may defer all or a portion of the total
fees received by him or her either as stock credits or cash
credits under the directors deferred compensation plan
until such directors service on the Federated board ends,
provided that the stock credits subject to the holding period
described above may be deferred under the directors
deferred compensation plan only as stock credits.
In connection with the termination of the retirement plan for
non-management directors described below, the 1995 Equity Plan
was amended to make each Non-Management Director eligible to
receive annual grants of options to purchase up to
3,500 shares of Federated common stock. The 1995 Equity
Plan was further amended to make each Non-Management Director
eligible to receive, commencing with fiscal year 2001, annual
grants of options to purchase up to 5,000 shares of
Federated common stock. Each Non-Management Director was granted
an option to purchase 5,000 shares of common stock in
respect of his or her service
125
during fiscal 2004. Directors who are also full-time employees
of Federated receive no additional compensation for service as
directors.
Federateds retirement plan for non-management directors
was terminated on a prospective basis effective May 16,
1997, referred to as the plan termination date. As a result of
such termination, persons who first become non-management
directors after the plan termination date will not be entitled
to receive any payment thereunder. Persons who were
non-management directors as of the plan termination date will be
entitled to receive retirement benefits accrued as of the plan
termination date. Subject to an overall limit in an amount equal
to the aggregate retirement benefit accrued as of the plan
termination date (i.e., the product of the amount of the annual
base retainer fee earned immediately prior to retirement and the
years of Federated board service prior to the plan termination
date), and the vesting requirements described below, persons who
retire from service as non-management directors after the plan
termination date will be entitled to receive an annual payment
equal to the amount of the annual base retainer fee earned
immediately prior to retirement, payable in monthly
installments, commencing at age 60 (if such persons
termination of Federated board service occurred prior to
reaching age 60) and continuing for the lesser of such
persons remaining life or a number of years equal to such
persons years of Federated board service prior to the plan
termination date. Full vesting will occur for non-management
directors who reach age 60 while serving on the Federated
board, irrespective of such persons years of Federated
board service. Vesting will occur as follows for non-management
directors whose Federated board service terminates before the
director reaches age 60: 50% vesting after five years of
Federated board service and an additional 10% vesting for each
year of Federated board service after five years. Federated
board service following the plan termination date will be given
effect for purposes of the foregoing vesting requirements. There
are no survivor benefits under the terms of the retirement plan.
Non-management directors also receive executive discounts on
merchandise purchased.
|
|
|
Certain Relationships and Related Transactions |
Dr. Whittington, a director of Federated, is Chief
Operating Officer of Allianz Global Investors, which through its
insurance affiliate, Allianz Insurance Company, is providing to
Federated during fiscal year 2005 portions of Federateds
excess casualty insurance coverage at an aggregate premium cost
of $111,000.
Earl G. Graves, Sr., a director of Federated, is the
Publisher and Chief Executive Officer of Black
Enterprise magazine and Chairman and Chief Executive
Officer of Earl G. Graves, Ltd. Federated anticipates that in
fiscal year 2005 it will purchase at least $30,000 in
advertising space in Black Enterprise magazine and
spend approximately $30,000 for event sponsorship with Earl G.
Graves, Ltd. These expenditures are being made in furtherance of
Federateds minority hiring programs.
Compliance with Section 16(a) of the Exchange Act
Section 16(a) of the Exchange Act requires Federateds
directors and executive officers, and certain persons who own
more than 10% of the common stock outstanding, to file with the
SEC and the NYSE initial reports of ownership and reports of
changes in ownership of common stock. Executive officers,
directors and greater than 10% stockholders are required by SEC
regulation to furnish Federated with copies of all
Section 16(a) reports they file. See
Beneficial Ownership of Federated Common
Stock beginning on page 140.
To Federateds knowledge, based solely on a review of the
copies of reports furnished to Federated and written
representations signed by all directors and executive officers
that no other reports were required with respect to their
beneficial ownership of common stock during fiscal 2004, all
reports required by Section 16(a) of the Exchange Act to be
filed by the directors and executive officers and all beneficial
owners of more than 10% of the common stock outstanding to
report transactions in securities were timely filed, except as
described below.
Mr. Graves filed one report late because of inadvertent
miscommunications between Mr. Graves and the broker at the
time the option was exercised, which delayed the completion of
the option exercise procedures.
126
Mr. Weatherup filed one report late because the
transactions required to be reported occurred through a
discretionary investment account with an unaffiliated broker
without the knowledge of Mr. Weatherup. The unintended
acquisitions were corrected retroactively by the broker through
its error account.
Executive Officers of Federated
The names, ages and current positions of the executive officers
of Federated are listed below. All executive officers listed
below were elected at the 2004 annual meeting of the Federated
board of directors. They are expected to serve as executive
officers until the next annual meeting of the Federated board of
directors.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Name |
|
Age | |
|
Positions and Offices |
|
|
| |
|
|
Terry J. Lundgren
|
|
|
53 |
|
|
Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer; Director |
Thomas G. Cody
|
|
|
63 |
|
|
Vice Chair |
Thomas L. Cole
|
|
|
56 |
|
|
Vice Chair |
Janet E. Grove
|
|
|
53 |
|
|
Vice Chair |
Susan D. Kronick
|
|
|
53 |
|
|
Vice Chair |
Ronald W. Tysoe
|
|
|
52 |
|
|
Vice Chair |
Dennis J. Broderick
|
|
|
56 |
|
|
Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary |
Karen M. Hoguet
|
|
|
48 |
|
|
Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer |
Joel A. Belsky
|
|
|
51 |
|
|
Vice President, Principal Accounting Officer and Controller |
|
|
|
Brief History of Officers |
Terry J. Lundgren has been Chairman of the Board since
January 15, 2004 and President and Chief Executive Officer
of Federated since February 26, 2003; prior thereto he
served as the President/ Chief Operating Officer and Chief
Merchandising Officer of Federated since April 15, 2002.
Prior to April 15, 2002, Mr. Lundgren served as the
President and Chief Merchandising Officer of Federated since May
1997.
Thomas G. Cody has been Vice Chair, Legal, Human
Resources, Internal Audit and External Affairs, since
February 26, 2003; prior thereto he served as the Executive
Vice President, Legal and Human Resources, of Federated since
May 1988.
Thomas L. Cole has been Vice Chair, Support Operations,
since February 26, 2003, and Chairman of FLO since 1995,
FSG since 2001 and FACS since 2002.
Janet E. Grove has been Vice Chair, Merchandising,
Private Brand and Product Development, since February 26,
2003, and Chairman of FMG since 1998 and Chief Executive Officer
of FMG since 1999.
Susan D. Kronick has been Vice Chair, Department Store
Divisions, since February 26, 2003; prior thereto she
served as Group President, Regional Department Stores, since
April 2001, and prior thereto as Chairman and Chief Executive
Officer of Burdines, Inc. since June 1997.
Ronald W. Tysoe has been Vice Chair, Finance and Real
Estate, of Federated since April 1990.
Dennis J. Broderick has been Secretary of Federated since
July 1993 and Senior Vice President and General Counsel of
Federated since January 1990.
Karen M. Hoguet has been elected Executive Vice President
effective June 1, 2005, and has been Senior Vice President
of Federated since April 1991 and Chief Financial Officer of
Federated since October 31, 1997. Mrs. Hoguet also
served as the Treasurer of Federated from January 1992 until
July 6, 1999.
127
Joel A. Belsky has been Vice President, Principal
Accounting Officer and Controller of Federated since October
1996.
Executive Compensation
|
|
|
Three-Year Compensation Summary |
The following table summarizes the compensation of the Chairman
and the five other most highly compensated executive officers of
Federated as of January 29, 2005, referred to as the
Federated Named Executives, for Federateds last three
fiscal years for services rendered in all capacities to
Federated and its subsidiaries.
SUMMARY COMPENSATION TABLE
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Annual Compensation | |
|
Long-Term Compensation | |
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |
|
| |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Awards | |
|
Payouts | |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |
|
| |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Restricted | |
|
Securities | |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Other | |
|
Stock | |
|
Underlying | |
|
|
|
All Other | |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Annual | |
|
Award(s) | |
|
Options/ | |
|
LTIP | |
|
Compensation | |
Name and Principal Position |
|
Year | |
|
Salary ($) | |
|
Bonus ($) | |
|
Compensation ($) | |
|
($)(1) | |
|
SARs (#) | |
|
Payouts ($) | |
|
($)(2) | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
T. Lundgren
|
|
|
2004 |
|
|
|
1,252,917 |
|
|
|
3,309,400 |
|
|
|
92,710 |
(3) |
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
137,500 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
1,979,049 |
(4) |
|
Chairman, President
|
|
|
2003 |
|
|
|
1,195,606 |
|
|
|
2,493,800 |
|
|
|
93,791 |
|
|
|
1,241,000 |
|
|
|
250,000 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
5,059 |
|
|
and Chief Executive
|
|
|
2002 |
|
|
|
1,100,000 |
|
|
|
837,300 |
|
|
|
60,413 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
250,000 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
6,029 |
|
|
Officer
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
T. Cody
|
|
|
2004 |
|
|
|
752,917 |
|
|
|
995,500 |
|
|
|
152,316 |
(5) |
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
32,500 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
738,416 |
(6) |
|
Vice Chair
|
|
|
2003 |
|
|
|
746,667 |
|
|
|
748,100 |
|
|
|
134,489 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
65,000 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
5,059 |
|
|
|
|
|
2002 |
|
|
|
730,000 |
|
|
|
388,500 |
|
|
|
118,740 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
50,000 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
6,029 |
|
T. Cole
|
|
|
2004 |
|
|
|
752,917 |
|
|
|
995,500 |
|
|
|
79,016 |
(7) |
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
32,500 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
738,416 |
(6) |
|
Vice Chair
|
|
|
2003 |
|
|
|
745,000 |
|
|
|
1,506,600 |
|
|
|
74,115 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
65,000 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
5,059 |
|
|
|
|
|
2002 |
|
|
|
720,000 |
|
|
|
459,400 |
|
|
|
84,416 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
36,000 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
6,029 |
|
J. Grove
|
|
|
2004 |
|
|
|
752,917 |
|
|
|
995,500 |
|
|
|
53,473 |
(8) |
|
|
50,500 |
|
|
|
32,500 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
738,416 |
(6) |
|
Vice Chair
|
|
|
2003 |
|
|
|
741,667 |
|
|
|
1,418,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
65,000 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
5,059 |
|
|
|
|
|
2002 |
|
|
|
700,000 |
|
|
|
608,000 |
|
|
|
99,658 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
36,000 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
6,029 |
|
S. Kronick
|
|
|
2004 |
|
|
|
1,002,917 |
|
|
|
1,325,100 |
|
|
|
52,763 |
(9) |
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
32,500 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
738,416 |
(6) |
|
Vice Chair
|
|
|
2003 |
|
|
|
983,333 |
|
|
|
1,843,500 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
65,000 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
5,059 |
|
|
|
|
|
2002 |
|
|
|
887,500 |
|
|
|
386,100 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
36,000 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
6,029 |
|
R. Tysoe
|
|
|
2004 |
|
|
|
827,917 |
|
|
|
1,094,400 |
|
|
|
159,332 |
(10) |
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
32,500 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
738,416 |
(6) |
|
Vice Chair
|
|
|
2003 |
|
|
|
825,000 |
|
|
|
822,900 |
|
|
|
130,617 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
65,000 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
5,059 |
|
|
|
|
|
2002 |
|
|
|
825,000 |
|
|
|
439,100 |
|
|
|
125,419 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
50,000 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
4,019 |
|
|
|
|
|
(1) |
At January 29, 2005, the aggregate number of shares of
restricted stock held by each of the Federated Named Executives
and the aggregate value thereof (based on the closing market
price of the common stock on January 28, 2005) were as
follows: Mr. Lundgren: 101,163 shares, $5,586,221;
Mr. Cody: 33,953 shares, $1,874,885; Mr. Cole:
16,744 shares, $924,604; Ms. Grove:
17,279 shares, $954,146; Ms. Kronick:
19,186 shares, $1,059,451; and Mr. Tysoe:
38,372 shares, $2,118,902. Dividends are paid in cash on
these shares at the same rate as the dividends received by other
Federated stockholders. |
|
|
(2) |
Consists of: |
|
|
|
|
(a) |
stock credits awarded under a stock credit plan that was
implemented in March 2004 as a long-term incentive program,
referred to as the Stock Credit Plan, and valued at the closing
market price of Federated common stock on March 26, 2004,
the date of the award; and |
|
|
(b) |
contributions under Federateds Profit Sharing 401(k)
Investment Plan, referred to as the 401(k) plan. |
|
|
|
|
|
See Fiscal 2004 Long-Term Incentive Plan Award
Opportunities Stock Credit Plan for additional
information regarding the stock credit program and
Retirement Program for additional
information regarding the 401(k) plan. |
128
|
|
|
|
(3) |
For fiscal 2004, the amount shown includes $43,805 for executive
discount on merchandise purchases and the applicable tax gross
up amount. |
|
|
(4) |
For fiscal 2004, the amount shown includes $1,973,742
representing the value of stock credits awarded under the Stock
Credit Plan and $5,307 of contributions under the 401(k) plan. |
|
|
(5) |
For fiscal 2004, the amount shown includes $82,323 for executive
discount on merchandise purchases and the applicable tax gross
up amount. |
|
|
(6) |
For fiscal 2004, the amount shown includes $733,109 representing
the value of stock credits awarded under the Stock Credit Plan
and $5,307 of contributions under the 401(k) plan. |
|
|
(7) |
For fiscal 2004, the amount shown includes $33,971 for executive
discount on merchandise purchases and the applicable tax gross
up amount. |
|
|
(8) |
For fiscal 2004, the amount shown includes $20,954 for executive
discount on merchandise purchases and the applicable tax gross
up amount and $15,867 for financial counseling. |
|
|
(9) |
For fiscal 2004, the amount shown includes $15,813 for executive
discount on merchandise purchases and the applicable tax gross
up amount, $15,200 for financial counseling and $13,802 for use
of automobile. |
|
|
(10) |
For fiscal 2004, the amount shown includes $101,220 for
executive discount on merchandise purchases and the applicable
tax gross up amount. |
|
|
|
Fiscal 2004 Stock Option Grants |
The following table sets forth certain information regarding
grants of stock options made during fiscal 2004 to the Federated
Named Executives pursuant to the 1995 Equity Plan. No grants of
stock appreciation rights were made during fiscal 2004 to any of
the Federated Named Executives.
OPTION GRANTS IN LAST FISCAL YEAR
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Individual Grants | |
|
|
|
|
|
Potential Realizable | |
|
|
|
|
| |
|
|
|
|
|
Value of Assumed Annual | |
|
|
Securities | |
|
% of Total | |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Rates of Stock Price | |
|
|
Underlying | |
|
Options Granted | |
|
|
|
Market Price | |
|
|
|
Appreciation for Option Term | |
|
|
Options Granted | |
|
to Employees in | |
|
Price | |
|
on Grant Date | |
|
Expiration | |
|
| |
Name |
|
(#)(2) | |
|
Fiscal Year(%) | |
|
($)/ Share | |
|
$/Share(1) | |
|
Date | |
|
0% ($) | |
|
5% ($) | |
|
10% ($) | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
T. Lundgren
|
|
|
137,500 |
|
|
|
6.6 |
|
|
|
50.01 |
|
|
|
50.01 |
|
|
|
3/26/14 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
4,324,515 |
|
|
|
10,959,171 |
|
T. Cody
|
|
|
32,500 |
|
|
|
1.56 |
|
|
|
50.01 |
|
|
|
50.01 |
|
|
|
3/26/14 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
1,022,158 |
|
|
|
2,590,349 |
|
T. Cole
|
|
|
32,500 |
|
|
|
1.56 |
|
|
|
50.01 |
|
|
|
50.01 |
|
|
|
3/26/14 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
1,022,158 |
|
|
|
2,590,349 |
|
J. Grove
|
|
|
32,500 |
|
|
|
1.56 |
|
|
|
50.01 |
|
|
|
50.01 |
|
|
|
3/26/14 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
1,022,158 |
|
|
|
2,590,349 |
|
S. Kronick
|
|
|
32,500 |
|
|
|
1.56 |
|
|
|
50.01 |
|
|
|
50.01 |
|
|
|
3/26/14 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
1,022,158 |
|
|
|
2,590,349 |
|
R. Tysoe
|
|
|
32,500 |
|
|
|
1.56 |
|
|
|
50.01 |
|
|
|
50.01 |
|
|
|
3/26/14 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
1,022,158 |
|
|
|
2,590,349 |
|
|
|
(1) |
The market price is the closing price for shares of
common stock on the NYSE on the business day immediately
preceding the grant date. |
|
(2) |
Twenty-five percent of the option award vested on March 26,
2005, referred to as the option vesting date, and twenty-five
percent will vest on each of the first, second and third
anniversaries of the option vesting date. |
See Report of the Compensation and Management Development
Committee Stock Options for further
information regarding grants of stock options made during fiscal
2004.
129
|
|
|
Fiscal Year-End Option Values |
The following table sets forth certain information regarding the
total number and aggregate value of options exercised by each of
the Federated Named Executives during fiscal 2004 and the total
number and aggregate value of options held by each of the
Federated Named Executives at January 29, 2005.
AGGREGATED OPTION EXERCISES IN LAST FISCAL YEAR
AND FISCAL YEAR-END OPTION VALUES
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Number of | |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Securities | |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Underlying | |
|
Value of Unexercised | |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Unexercised Options | |
|
In-the-Money Options at | |
|
|
|
|
|
|
at Fiscal Year-End | |
|
Fiscal Year-End | |
|
|
Shares Acquired on | |
|
Value | |
|
(#) Exercisable/ | |
|
($) Exercisable/ | |
Name |
|
Exercise (#) | |
|
Realized ($) | |
|
Unexercisable | |
|
Unexercisable(1) | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
T. Lundgren
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
731,250/ 603,488 |
|
|
|
13,445,094/ 9,716,998 |
|
T. Cody
|
|
|
75,000 |
|
|
|
1,679,188 |
|
|
|
198,750/ 220,610 |
|
|
|
1,686,838/ 3,181,367 |
|
T. Cole
|
|
|
64,000 |
|
|
|
1,408,435 |
|
|
|
205,750/ 186,215 |
|
|
|
3,669,288/ 2,757,620 |
|
J. Grove
|
|
|
22,750 |
|
|
|
517,882 |
|
|
|
182,750/ 183,424 |
|
|
|
3,199,790/ 2,723,514 |
|
S. Kronick
|
|
|
31,000 |
|
|
|
702,976 |
|
|
|
218,250/ 211,866 |
|
|
|
3,230,000/ 3,071,750 |
|
R. Tysoe
|
|
|
100,000 |
|
|
|
2,417,630 |
|
|
|
488,750/ 233,866 |
|
|
|
2,349,563/ 3,343,355 |
|
|
|
(1) |
In-the-money options are options having a per share exercise
price below the closing price of shares of common stock on the
NYSE on January 28, 2005 (the last trading day in fiscal
2004). The dollar amounts shown represent the amount by which
the product of such closing price and the number of shares
purchasable upon the exercise of such in-the-money options
exceeds the aggregate exercise price payable upon such exercise. |
|
|
|
Fiscal 2004 Long-Term Incentive Plan Award
Opportunities Stock Credit Plan |
Under the Stock Credit Plan that was implemented in March 2004
as a long-term incentive program, a stock credit award was made
to each of the Federated Named Executives. One-third of the
stock credits awarded are subject to performance criteria. After
giving effect to any reduction based on performance, the value
of one-half the stock credits will be paid in cash in Spring
2008 and the value of the remaining one-half will be paid in
cash in Spring 2009. In general, each stock credit is intended
to represent the right to receive the value associated with one
share of Federated common stock, including dividends paid on
shares of Federated common stock during the period from the end
of fiscal 2005 until such stock credit is settled in cash. The
value in each case will be determined on the basis of the
then-current 20-day average trading price of Federated common
stock.
130
The following table sets forth certain information with respect
to award opportunities of the Federated Named Executives under
Federateds long-term incentive plan for the fiscal
2004 2005 measurement period for the one-third of
the award that is subject to reduction.
LONG-TERM INCENTIVE PLAN AWARDS IN LAST FISCAL
YEAR
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Estimated Future Payouts | |
|
|
Number of Shares, | |
|
Performance or | |
|
Under Non-Stock Price Based Plans(1) | |
|
|
Units or Other | |
|
Other Period Until | |
|
| |
Name |
|
Rights (#) | |
|
Maturation or Payout | |
|
Threshold (#) | |
|
Target (#)(2) | |
|
Maximum (#) | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
T. Lundgren
|
|
|
19,250 |
|
|
|
2004-2005 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
19,250 |
|
T. Cody
|
|
|
7,150 |
|
|
|
2004-2005 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
7,150 |
|
T. Cole
|
|
|
7,150 |
|
|
|
2004-2005 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
7,150 |
|
J. Grove
|
|
|
7,150 |
|
|
|
2004-2005 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
7,150 |
|
S. Kronick
|
|
|
7,150 |
|
|
|
2004-2005 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
7,150 |
|
R. Tysoe
|
|
|
7,150 |
|
|
|
2004-2005 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
7,150 |
|
|
|
(1) |
The actual number of units earned will be based on quantitative
and qualitative performance relating to achievement of
Federateds Four Priorities (Merchandise Assortments, Price
Simplification, The Shopping Experience, and Marketing). The CMD
Committee retains the discretion to determine the number of
units earned. It is possible that none of the units will be
earned following the performance period. The maximum number of
units that could be earned is the number of units awarded at the
beginning of the performance period. |
|
(2) |
There is no specified targeted level of performance and it is
not possible to provide a representative amount based on the
previous fiscal years performance. |
|
|
|
Change-in-Control Agreements |
Federated has entered into change-in-control agreements,
referred to as the Change-in-Control Agreements, with each of
the Federated Named Executives. Under the Change-in-Control
Agreements, if, prior to November 1, 2006, a change in
control (as defined in the Change-in-Control Agreements) occurs
and within three years thereafter Federated or, in certain
circumstances, the executive terminates the executives
employment and, in the case of a termination by Federated, cause
(as defined in the Change-in-Control Agreements) therefor does
not exist, the executive would be entitled to a cash severance
benefit equal to three times the sum of his or her current base
salary (or, if higher, the executives highest salary
received for any year in the three full calendar years preceding
the change in control) and target annual bonus (or, if higher,
the executives highest bonus received for any year in the
three full calendar years preceding the change in control),
payment of any awards under Federateds long-term incentive
plan at target (if applicable, and prorated to the
executives participation during each performance period),
the continuation of welfare benefits for three years (subject,
but only as to welfare benefits, to a requirement in any
applicable welfare benefits plan that the executive maintain
actively at work status and to early termination on
the date the executive secures other full-time employment) and
three years of retirement plan credits (but not pursuant to
Federateds qualified or non-qualified plans). The cash
severance benefit payable under the Change-in-Control Agreements
would be reduced by all amounts actually paid to the executive
pursuant to any other employment or severance agreement or plan
to which the executive and Federated are parties or in which the
executive is a participant. In addition, the severance benefits
under the Change-in-Control Agreements are subject to reduction
in certain circumstances if the excise tax imposed under
Section 280G of the Internal Revenue Code would reduce the
net after-tax amount received by the executive.
Federateds retirement program, referred to as the
Retirement Program, consists of a defined benefit plan and a
defined contribution plan. As of January 1, 2005,
approximately 70,700 employees, including the executive officers
of Federated, participated in the Retirement Program.
131
To allow the Retirement Program to provide benefits based on a
participants total compensation, Federated adopted a
Supplementary Executive Retirement Plan, referred to as the
SERP. The SERP, which is a nonqualified unfunded plan, provides
to eligible executives retirement benefits based on compensation
in excess of Internal Revenue Code maximums, as well as on
amounts deferred under Federateds Executive Deferred
Compensation Plan, referred to as the EDCP, in each case
employing a formula that is based on the participants
years of vesting service and final average compensation, taking
into consideration the participants balance in the Cash
Account Pension Plan and Retirement Profit Sharing Credits (as
defined below). As of January 1, 2005, approximately 730
employees were eligible to receive benefits under the terms of
the SERP. Federated has reserved the right to suspend or
terminate supplemental payments as to any category of employee
or former employee, or to modify or terminate any other element
of the Retirement Program, in accordance with applicable law.
Under the Retirement Programs Cash Account Pension Plan, a
participant retiring at normal retirement age is eligible to
receive the amount credited to his or her pension account or the
monthly benefit payments determined actuarially based on the
amount credited to his or her pension account. Amounts credited
to a participants account consist of an opening cash
balance equal to the single sum present value, using stated
actuarial assumptions, of the participants accrued normal
retirement benefit earned at December 31, 1996, under the
applicable predecessor pension plan, Pay Credits (generally, a
percentage of eligible compensation credited annually based on
length of service) and Interest Credits (credited quarterly,
based on the 30 Year Treasury Bond rate for the November
prior to each calendar year). In addition, if a participant
retires at or after age 55 having, while employed, both
reached age 55 and completed ten or more years of vesting
service by December 31, 2001, the pension benefit payable
in an annuity form, other than a single life annuity, will not
be less than that which would have been payable from the
predecessor pension plan under which such participant was
covered on December 31, 1996.
Prior to the adoption of the Retirement Program,
Federateds primary means of providing retirement benefits
to employees was through defined contribution profit sharing
plans. An employees accumulated retirement profit sharing
interests in the profit sharing plans, referred to as the
Retirement Profit Sharing Credits, which accrued prior to the
adoption of the pension plans, continue to be maintained and
invested until retirement, at which time they are distributed.
With defined benefit plans in place, Federated continued, and
presently expects to continue, to make contributions to the
401(k) plan. It is impractical to estimate the accrued benefits
upon retirement under the 401(k) plan because the amount, if
any, that will be contributed by Federated and credited to a
participant in any year is determined by such variable factors,
among others, as the amount of net income of Federated,
participants annual contributions to the 401(k) plan, the
amount of matching contributions of Federated, and the earnings
on participants accounts.
132
The following table shows the estimated hypothetical total
annual benefits payable under the SERP benefit formula pursuant
to the Cash Account Pension Plan, Retirement Profit Sharing
Credits and the SERP to persons retiring at their normal
retirement age in 2005 in specified eligible compensation and
years of service classifications, assuming that a retiring
participant under the Retirement Program elects a single life
annuity distribution of his or her balance in the Cash Account
Pension Plan and Retirement Profit Sharing Credits. Such
benefits are not subject to any deduction for Social Security or
other offset amounts; however, if the total annual benefits
payable to a person pursuant to the Cash Account Pension Plan
and the Retirement Profit Sharing Credits under the foregoing
assumptions would exceed the amount set forth below, no benefit
would be payable to such person under the SERP. Eligible
compensation for this purpose includes amounts reflected in the
Annual Compensation portion of the Summary Compensation Table
under the headings Salary and Bonus, but
excludes amounts reflected in such portion of such table under
the heading Other Annual Compensation. With respect
to the Annual Compensation portion of the Summary Compensation
Table, the eligible compensation of each of the Federated Named
Executives did not vary by more than 10% from the total amount
of such executives annual compensation.
PENSION PLAN TABLE
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Years of Service | |
|
|
| |
Final Average Compensation |
|
15 | |
|
20 | |
|
25 | |
|
30 | |
|
35 | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
$ 250,000
|
|
$ |
47,817 |
|
|
$ |
63,756 |
|
|
$ |
79,695 |
|
|
$ |
95,634 |
|
|
$ |
95,634 |
|
300,000
|
|
|
59,067 |
|
|
|
78,756 |
|
|
|
98,445 |
|
|
|
118,134 |
|
|
|
118,134 |
|
350,000
|
|
|
70,317 |
|
|
|
93,756 |
|
|
|
117,195 |
|
|
|
140,634 |
|
|
|
140,634 |
|
400,000
|
|
|
81,567 |
|
|
|
108,756 |
|
|
|
135,945 |
|
|
|
163,134 |
|
|
|
163,134 |
|
450,000
|
|
|
92,817 |
|
|
|
123,756 |
|
|
|
154,695 |
|
|
|
185,634 |
|
|
|
185,634 |
|
500,000
|
|
|
104,067 |
|
|
|
138,756 |
|
|
|
173,445 |
|
|
|
208,134 |
|
|
|
208,134 |
|
750,000
|
|
|
160,317 |
|
|
|
213,756 |
|
|
|
267,195 |
|
|
|
320,634 |
|
|
|
320,634 |
|
1,000,000
|
|
|
216,567 |
|
|
|
288,756 |
|
|
|
360,945 |
|
|
|
433,134 |
|
|
|
433,134 |
|
1,250,000
|
|
|
272,817 |
|
|
|
363,756 |
|
|
|
454,695 |
|
|
|
545,634 |
|
|
|
545,634 |
|
1,500,000
|
|
|
329,067 |
|
|
|
438,756 |
|
|
|
548,445 |
|
|
|
658,134 |
|
|
|
658,134 |
|
Mr. Lundgren, Mr. Cody, Mr. Cole, Ms. Grove,
Ms. Kronick and Mr. Tysoe have completed 23, 22,
32, 31, 31 and 17 years of vesting service,
respectively. Pursuant to the terms of Mr. Tysoes
employment with Federated, Mr. Tysoe, whose actual
employment commenced on March 1, 1987, is deemed to have
commenced employment on February 19, 1981, for the purpose
of calculating years of vesting service for benefit accrual. All
benefits under the SERP, including the additional benefits
payable to Mr. Tysoe, are payable out of the general
corporate assets of Federated. The present value of the total
amount of additional benefits due to Mr. Tysoe, assuming
that he satisfies certain eligibility requirements, is estimated
to be approximately $245,000, as of January 29, 2005.
Report of the Compensation and Management Development
Committee
|
|
|
Role of the CMD Committee |
The CMD Committee establishes and administers the compensation
practices related to the senior executive officers of Federated,
ensures appropriate succession plans for the CEO and key
executive positions and periodically reviews and advises
Federated on its diversity and inclusion initiatives, including
those related to its employees, customers and vendors. When
establishing and reviewing the compensation practices, the CMD
Committee makes use of Federated resources and, when it deems
appropriate, retains the services of independent compensation
consultants. All members of the CMD Committee qualify:
|
|
|
|
|
as independent under the applicable listing
standards of the New York Stock Exchange; |
|
|
|
as non-employee directors under Rule 16b-3 of
the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and |
|
|
|
as outside directors under Section 162(m) of
the Internal Revenue Code of 1986. |
133
Federateds compensation program is designed to support the
needs of the business by:
|
|
|
|
|
Providing Competitive and Reasonable Compensation
Opportunities |
Federateds compensation levels and individual compensation
programs are evaluated on an annual basis by the CMD Committee,
with input from outside compensation consultants as needed. Pay
data are validated against several benchmarks, including
information from published survey data and specific pay levels
of other large retail organizations.
|
|
|
|
|
Focusing on Results and Strategic Initiatives |
Federateds compensation programs are based on the
appropriate measures of success and reflect a combination of
specific internal measurements (such as EBIT, sales and cash
flow) and external measurements (such as customer satisfaction
and stock price performance). A portion of the compensation
program focuses on the strategic initiatives that will help
differentiate Federated from other department store retailers
and that are important in making Macys and
Bloomingdales stores the customers first choice in
department store shopping.
|
|
|
|
|
Fostering a Pay for Performance Culture |
A significant portion of an executives compensation
program is linked to variable compensation components. As a
result, an individuals compensation level is dependent on
individual and company performance, including stock price
appreciation.
|
|
|
|
|
Attracting and Retaining Key Executives |
Federateds executives are recognized as some of the most
talented people in the retail industry, and its training and
development programs have achieved national recognition. The
compensation programs are designed to attract and retain high
caliber executives who are key to the continued success of the
business, who can provide consistent leadership and whose
talents support strong succession planning.
|
|
|
|
|
Providing a Strong Link to the Stockholders
Interests |
The combination of the core principles above appropriately ties
Federateds performance with compensation and thereby
aligns key executives with the interests of the stockholders.
Deductibility for federal income tax purposes under
Section 162(m) is also considered in the design of
compensation plans. The CMD Committee has taken what it believes
to be appropriate steps to maximize the future deductibility of
payments under Federateds 1992 Bonus Plan and of stock
options awarded under the 1995 Equity Incentive Plan. The CMD
Committee realizes that in order to retain the flexibility to
provide compensation that meets the needs of the business, there
may be portions of the total compensation program that may not
be deductible under Section 162(m).
The current compensation program, which is a mix of short-term
and long-term incentives, includes base salary, an annual cash
incentive plan, and equity in the form of stock options,
restricted stock and/or stock credits.
Base pay is a significant retention tool when managed
appropriately. Base pay decisions for an individual take into
account many factors including:
|
|
|
|
|
The individuals current and historical performance and
contribution to Federated; |
|
|
|
The individuals future potential with Federated; |
|
|
|
The individuals role and unique skills; |
|
|
|
Consideration of external market data for similar positions,
adjusted for Federateds size, the scope of
responsibilities and the uniqueness of the role. |
134
|
|
|
Annual Cash Incentive Plan |
The annual cash incentive plan is designed to align the pay of
the senior executives with Federateds annual performance.
The actual amount of annual cash incentive earned each year is
based on Federateds performance results against
pre-determined performance measures. In fiscal 2004, the
performance components were EBIT, sales and cash flow dollars.
In fiscal 2004, the components of the annual incentive plan for
senior executives were structured and paid out as shown below.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Bonus Component |
|
% of Bonus | |
|
How Bonus is Earned |
|
Bonus Payout for 2004 |
|
|
| |
|
|
|
|
EBIT $
|
|
|
60 |
% |
|
Bonus begins to be earned when the pre-determined
threshold result is achieved. |
|
Earned payout for performance above target. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
This component has no maximum; bonus continues to be
earned as the EBIT result increases. |
|
|
Sales $
|
|
|
20 |
% |
|
Bonus begins to be earned when the pre-determined
target result is achieved. |
|
Earned payout for performance between target and maximum. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
No bonus is earned for performance below target and
there is a maximum result above which no additional bonus is
earned for this component. |
|
|
Cash Flow $
|
|
|
20 |
% |
|
Bonus is earned when the pre- determined threshold
result is achieved. |
|
Earned maximum payout. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
There is a maximum result above which no additional
bonus is earned for this component. |
|
Performance exceeded the requirement for a maximum payout. |
The maximum payment that can be received by any participant in
the annual incentive plan is $7.0 million. For fiscal 2004,
the bonus to the Chief Executive Officer was $3,309,400, or 47%
of this maximum bonus opportunity.
|
|
|
Equity Compensation 1995 Equity Incentive Plan |
Each year the CMD Committee reviews the use of long-term
incentives under Federateds 1995 Equity Plan. Grant types
and levels are determined based on market data, emerging trends
and other financial considerations, including the impact on
stockholder dilution. Efforts to stem dilution over the last
several years have led to a reduced reliance solely on stock
option grants for long-term incentives. Federateds equity
compensation programs in fiscal 2004 consisted primarily of
stock options under the 1995 Equity Incentive Plan and a stock
credit plan outside the 1995 Equity Incentive Plan. The CMD
Committee does provide, from time-to-time, restricted stock
grants on a limited basis for retention or performance reasons.
All stock options granted in fiscal 2004 were granted from the
stockholder approved 1995 Equity Incentive Plan.
Federateds option plan is reasonable and competitive and
incorporates the following:
|
|
|
|
|
The term of the grants does not exceed 10 years; |
|
|
|
The grant price is not less than the market price; |
|
|
|
Grants do not include reload provisions; and |
|
|
|
The repricing of options is prohibited, unless approved by the
stockholders. |
135
Options granted in fiscal 2004 vest 25% per year over four
years beginning with the first anniversary of the date of grant.
Therefore, in order to exercise all options in a grant, the
recipient must remain with Federated for four years after the
grant. In fiscal 2004, approximately 1,140 employees were issued
options.
Federated has continued to use stock options as a long-term
incentive vehicle because:
|
|
|
|
|
Stock options align the interests of executives with those of
the stockholders, support a pay-for-performance culture, foster
employee ownership, and focus the management team on increasing
value for the stockholder; |
|
|
|
Stock options are performance based. All the value received by
the recipient of a stock option is based on the growth of the
stock price above the option price; |
|
|
|
Stock options offer a balance to the compensation
program the annual incentive plan focuses on
financial objectives; the stock credit plan focuses on
longer-term financial and operational performance; and the stock
options focus on increases in stockholder value; and |
|
|
|
Stock options have retentive value and provide a long-term focus. |
In March 2004 Federated implemented the Stock Credit Plan to
further align the interests of senior executives with those of
the stockholders and to increase the focus on the achievement of
Federateds Four Priorities Merchandise
Assortments, Price Simplification, The Shopping Experience and
Marketing. The Stock Credit Plan replaced 50% of the option
grants and, as a result, the number of options that normally
would have been granted to participants in fiscal years 2004 and
2005 were reduced by 50%. The number of stock credits was
determined by converting the replaced options with stock credits
at a ratio of three stock options to one stock credit. One-third
of the stock credits are subject to performance criteria that
have been established based on Federateds Four Priorities.
At the end of fiscal 2005, the CMD Committee will evaluate the
performance results and may reduce the stock credits held by
participants by up to one-third. The stock credits will then be
subject to a two-year and three-year holding period and their
ultimate value to the participants will be based on
Federateds stock price performance. The value of one-half
of the stock credit balance will be paid in cash in Spring 2008
and the value of the other half will be paid in Spring 2009. In
each case, the value will be determined on the basis of the
then-current 20-day average trading price of Federated common
stock. This current design is scheduled to conclude at the end
of fiscal 2005. In conjunction with the scheduled conclusion of
this program, the CMD Committee will be reviewing the total
compensation program elements. Although the exact components of
the program will not be developed until later this year,
Federated will continue to focus on delivering variable pay
based on performance and a mix of short-term and long-term
incentives. Any proposed changes determined as a result of the
review would not be implemented until 2006.
The restricted stock granted in fiscal 2004 was granted from the
stockholder approved 1995 Equity Incentive Plan. Under the
provisions of this plan:
|
|
|
|
|
If the grant is performance based, the restrictions may lapse
after one year; and |
|
|
|
If the grant is not performance based, the restrictions may
lapse after three years. |
In the past, Federated has granted a limited number of
restricted shares for retention and performance purposes.
|
|
|
Compensation of Chairman, President and CEO |
With the assistance of outside compensation consultants, the CMD
Committee reviews Mr. Lundgrens total compensation
annually, or more frequently if appropriate. The CMD Committee
reviews Mr. Lundgrens
136
goals and objectives, evaluates his performance and establishes
his compensation based on that evaluation.
Mr. Lundgrens performance is evaluated based on many
factors, including the following:
|
|
|
|
|
The performance of Federated versus the established annual
objectives and the significant role Mr. Lundgren plays in
the achievement of the overall objectives; |
|
|
|
The ability to develop long-term strategic initiatives that will
provide competitive advantages; and |
|
|
|
The ability to provide exceptional leadership that results in a
focus on essential business elements including integrity within
the organization, succession planning to ensure a strong talent
base, and an organization that understands the importance of
delivering results and exceeding expectations. |
After an evaluation of Mr. Lundgrens performance, the
CMD Committee determines his total compensation. The components
of Mr. Lundgrens compensation for fiscal 2004 are
identified in the Summary Compensation Table.
Mr. Terry Lundgren. Upon his appointment as
President, Chief Merchandising Officer and CEO in March 2003,
Federated entered into an employment agreement with
Mr. Lundgren with an expiration date of February 2007.
Pursuant to that agreement, Mr. Lundgrens base salary
was $1,100,000. He was granted 250,000 stock options at an
exercise price of $25.58 per share, which was the closing
price of the stock on the trading day immediately preceding the
grant date of February 24, 2003. The grant has a 10-year
term and 25% of the option award vested or is scheduled to vest
on each of the first four anniversaries of the grant beginning
on February 24, 2004. He was granted 50,000 shares of
restricted stock, with the restrictions on 100% of the award
scheduled to lapse on February 28, 2007. He was
specifically designated as a participant in the annual cash
incentive plan.
Mr. Lundgrens employment agreement was amended in
January 2004 when Mr. Lundgren was promoted to Chairman and
CEO. Pursuant to that amendment Mr. Lundgrens base
salary was $1,250,000. He was also granted options to
purchase 137,500 shares of common stock at an exercise
price of $50.01 per share, which was the closing price of
the stock on the trading day immediately preceding the grant
date of March 26, 2004. The grant has a 10-year term and
25% of the option award vested or is scheduled to vest on each
of the first four anniversaries of the grant beginning on
March 26, 2005.
Mr. Lundgrens employment agreement was amended again
in July 2004 to increase his base salary to $1,255,000. This
increase reflects a compensatory payment made following the
elimination by Federated of a supplemental medical plan.
With the assistance of an outside compensation consultant, the
CMD Committee reviewed Mr. Lundgrens compensation and
amended Mr. Lundgrens employment agreement effective
April 1, 2005, to increase his base salary to $1,300,000.
He was also granted options to purchase 275,000 shares
of common stock at an exercise price of $61.07 per share,
which was the closing price of the stock on the trading day
immediately preceding the grant date of March 25, 2005. The
grant has a 10-year term and 25% of the option award is
scheduled to vest on each of the first four anniversaries of the
grant beginning on March 25, 2006.
Mr. Lundgrens employment agreement provides that if
he is terminated by Federated for other than cause
or by Mr. Lundgren for good reason he would be
entitled to receive all salary and target annual bonuses until
the expiration of the employment agreement. Under the terms of
his agreement, cause is defined generally to include:
|
|
|
|
|
willful and material breaches of duties; |
|
|
|
habitual neglect of duties; or |
|
|
|
the final conviction of a felony. |
Generally cause is not defined to include bad
judgment or negligence, any act or omission believed by
Mr. Lundgren in good faith to have been in or not opposed
to the interests of Federated or any act or omission
137
in respect of which a determination could properly have been
made by the board that Mr. Lundgren met the applicable
standard of conduct prescribed for indemnification or
reimbursement under Federateds by-laws or the laws of the
State of Delaware.
Under the terms of his agreement, good reason is
defined generally to include:
|
|
|
|
|
assignment to Mr. Lundgren of any duties materially
inconsistent with his position, authority, duties or
responsibilities as contemplated in the agreement, or any other
action by Federated which results in a material diminution in
such position, authority, duties or responsibilities; |
|
|
|
any material failure by Federated to comply with any of the
provisions of the agreement; |
|
|
|
failure of Mr. Lundgren to be reelected Chairman of the
Board of Federated or to be reelected to membership on the
board; or |
|
|
|
any purported termination by Federated of
Mr. Lundgrens employment otherwise than as expressly
permitted by the agreement. |
In addition, Mr. Lundgrens agreement contains
non-compete, non-solicitation and mitigation clauses.
Other Senior Executive Officers. Federated has entered
into employment agreements with each of the other Federated
Named Executives. The agreements presently specify the following
respective annual base salaries:
|
|
|
|
|
Executive |
|
Annual Base Salary | |
|
|
| |
Mr. Cody
|
|
|
755,000 |
|
Mr. Cole
|
|
|
755,000 |
|
Ms. Grove
|
|
|
755,000 |
|
Ms. Kronick
|
|
|
1,005,000 |
|
Mr. Tysoe
|
|
|
830,000 |
|
The agreements with these executives contain provisions that in
the event of termination of the executive by Federated other
than for cause or by the executive for good
reason the executive would be entitled to receive base
salary until the end of the term of the agreement. The terms
cause and good reason have the same
definitions as previously described above in the discussion of
Mr. Lundgrens agreement. In addition, the agreements
contain non-compete, non-solicitation and mitigation clauses.
The CMD Committee will continue to review existing compensation
programs and implement new compensation programs as appropriate
to ensure the compensation policies and practices of Federated
are consistent with its goals and objectives, including
increasing long-term stockholder value and providing valuable
compensation to attract and retain key executives who are vital
to the continued success of the business.
|
|
|
Respectfully submitted, |
|
|
Meyer Feldberg, Chairperson |
|
Sara Levinson |
|
Joseph Neubauer |
|
Joseph A. Pichler |
Report of the Audit Committee
The board has adopted a written Audit Committee Charter. All
members of the Audit Committee are independent, as defined in
Section 303.01(B)(2)(a) and (3) of the New York Stock
Exchanges listing standards.
138
The Audit Committee has reviewed and discussed with
Federateds management and KPMG LLP the audited financial
statements of Federated contained in Federateds Annual
Report to stockholders for fiscal 2004. The Audit Committee has
also discussed with KPMG LLP the matters required to be
discussed pursuant to SAS No. 61 (Codification of
Statements on Auditing Standards, Communications with Audit
Committees).
The Audit Committee has received and reviewed the written
disclosures and the letter from KPMG LLP required by
Independence Standards Board Standard No. 1 (titled,
Independence Discussions with Audit
Committees), and has discussed with KPMG LLP their
independence.
Based on the review and discussions referred to above, the Audit
Committee recommended to the board that the audited financial
statements be included in Federateds Annual Report on
Form 10-K for fiscal 2004, filed with the SEC.
|
|
|
Respectfully submitted, |
|
|
Marna C. Whittington, Chairperson |
|
Earl G. Graves, Sr. |
|
Joseph Neubauer |
|
Karl M. von der Heyden |
The Audit Committee has adopted policies and procedures for the
pre-approval of all permitted non-audit services provided by
Federateds independent registered public accounting firm.
A description of such policies and procedures is attached as
Annex I to this joint proxy statement/ prospectus
and incorporated in this joint proxy statement/ prospectus by
reference.
139
Stock Performance Graph
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|
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|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2000 | |
|
2001 | |
|
2002 | |
|
2003 | |
|
2004 | |
|
2005 | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
FD
|
|
$ |
100 |
|
|
$ |
107 |
|
|
$ |
100 |
|
|
$ |
63 |
|
|
$ |
114 |
|
|
$ |
136 |
|
S&P 500
|
|
$ |
100 |
|
|
$ |
99 |
|
|
$ |
83 |
|
|
$ |
64 |
|
|
$ |
86 |
|
|
$ |
91 |
|
S&P Retail Department Stores
|
|
$ |
100 |
|
|
$ |
129 |
|
|
$ |
140 |
|
|
$ |
93 |
|
|
$ |
125 |
|
|
$ |
148 |
|
|
|
(1) |
Constituents include Dillards, Federated, Kohls,
May, Nordstrom, J.C. Penney and Sears. |
Beneficial Ownership of Federated Common Stock
The following table sets forth information as to the beneficial
ownership of each person known to Federated to own more than 5%
of Federateds outstanding common stock:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Number of | |
|
Percent of | |
Name and Address |
|
Shares | |
|
Class | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
1.
|
|
AXA Financial, Inc. |
|
|
13,372,202 |
|
|
|
7.90 |
% |
|
|
(referred to as AXA Financial) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1290 Avenue of the Americas |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
New York, NY 10104 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2.
|
|
Barclays Global Investors Japan Trust and Banking Company Limited |
|
|
13,205,043 |
|
|
|
7.81 |
% |
|
|
Barclays Global Investors, N.A. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Barclays Global Fund Advisors |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Barclays Global Investors, LTD |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Barclays Life Assurance Company, Limited |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(and other affiliates) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(collectively, referred to as Barclays) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
45 Fremont Street |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
San Francisco, CA 94105 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
3.
|
|
Private Capital Management |
|
|
12,101,959 |
|
|
|
7.20 |
% |
|
|
Bruce S. Sherman |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Gregg J. Powers |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(collectively, referred to as Private Capital) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
8889 Pelican Bay Boulevard |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Naples, FL 34108 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1. According to information set forth in a
Schedule 13G/A, dated February 14, 2005, referred to
as the AXA Financial Schedule 13G, filed with the SEC by
AXA Financial, as of December 31, 2004, AXA
140
Financials affiliates were the beneficial owners of
13,372,202 shares of common stock (approximately 7.9% of
the total number of shares of common stock outstanding).
According to the AXA Financial Schedule 13G,
(a) 11,576,963 of such shares were beneficially owned by
Alliance Capital Management L.P., referred to as Alliance, a
subsidiary of AXA Financial, (b) 7,844 of such shares were
beneficially owned by AXA Equitable Life Insurance Company,
referred to as Equitable, a subsidiary of AXA Financial,
(c) 1,700 of such shares were beneficially owned by Advest,
Inc., referred to as Advest, a subsidiary of AXA Financial,
(d) 30,400 of such shares were beneficially owned by AXA
Konzern AG, referred to as AXA Konzern, an affiliate of AXA
Financial, (e) 3,524 of such shares were beneficially owned
by AXA Investment Managers Paris, referred to as AXA Investment
Managers, an affiliate of AXA Financial, and (f) 1,148,689
of such shares were beneficially owned by AXA Rosenberg
Investment Management LLC, referred to as AXA Rosenberg, an
affiliate of AXA Financial. According to the AXA Financial
Schedule 13G:
|
|
|
|
|
Alliance has (i) sole power to
vote 603,402 shares described in clause (a)
above, (ii) shared power to vote 938,753 of such
shares, and (iii) sole power to dispose of 11,576,963 of
such shares; |
|
|
|
Equitable has sole power to vote 3,300 shares
described in clause (b) above, and (ii) sole power to
dispose of 7,844 of such shares; |
|
|
|
Advest has sole power to vote and the sole power to dispose of
1,700 shares described in clause (c) above; |
|
|
|
AXA Konzern has sole power to vote and the sole power to dispose
of 30,400 shares described in clause (d) above; |
|
|
|
AXA Investment Managers has sole power to vote and the sole
power to dispose of 3,524 shares described in
clause (e) above; and |
|
|
|
AXA Rosenberg has (i) sole power to
vote 148,689 shares described in clause (f)
above, and (ii) shared power to dispose of 751,771 of such
shares. |
2. According to the information set forth in a
Schedule 13G/A, dated January 10, 2005, referred to as
the Barclays Schedule 13G, filed with the SEC by Barclays,
as of December 31, 2004, Barclays was the beneficial owner
of 13,205,043 shares of common stock (approximately 7.81%
of the total number of shares outstanding). According to the
Barclays Schedule 13G, (a) 9,539,148 of such shares
(approximately 5.64% of the total number of shares of common
stock outstanding) were beneficially owned by Barclays Global
Investors, N.A., referred to as BGI, (b) 802,090 of such
shares (approximately 0.47% of the total number of shares of
common stock outstanding) were beneficially owned by Barclays
Global Fund Advisors, referred to as BGFA,
(c) 2,709,137 of such shares (approximately 1.60% of the
total number of shares of common stock outstanding) were
beneficially owned by Barclays Global Investors, LTD, referred
to as BGIL, (d) 145,298 of such shares (approximately 0.09%
of the total number of shares of common stock outstanding) were
beneficially owned by Barclays Global Investors Japan Trust and
Banking Company Limited, referred to as BGIJTBC, and
(e) 9,370 of such shares (approximately 0.01% of the total
number of shares of common stock outstanding) were beneficially
owned by Barclays Life Assurance Company Limited, referred to as
BLAC. According to the Barclays Schedule 13G:
|
|
|
|
|
BGI has (i) sole power to vote 8,268,838 of the shares
described in clause (a) above, and (ii) the sole power
to dispose of 9,539,148 shares described in clause (a)
above; |
|
|
|
BGFA has (i) sole power to vote 725,137 of the shares
described in clause (b) above, and (ii) the sole power
to dispose of 802,090 shares described in clause (b)
above; |
|
|
|
BGIL has (i) sole power to vote 2,698,737 of the
shares described in clause (c) above, and (ii) the
sole power to dispose of 2,709,137 of such shares; |
|
|
|
BGIJTBC has sole power to vote and the sole power to dispose of
145,298 shares described in clause (d) above; and |
|
|
|
BLAC has sole power to vote and the sole power to dispose of
9,370 shares described in clause (e) above. |
141
3. According to the information set forth in a
Schedule 13G, dated February 14, 2005, referred to as
Private Capital Schedule 13G, filed with the SEC by Private
Capital, as of December 31, 2004, Private Capital was the
beneficial owner of 12,101,959 shares of common stock
(approximately 7.2% of the total number of shares of common
stock outstanding). According to the Private Capital
Schedule 13G, each of Private Capital Management, Bruce S.
Sherman and Gregg J. Powers has shared power to vote and shared
power to dispose of all 12,101,959 of such shares.
Stock Ownership of Directors and Executive Officers
The following table sets forth the shares of common stock
beneficially owned (or deemed to be beneficially owned pursuant
to the rules of the SEC) as of May 20, 2005, by each
director of Federated, by each of the Federated Named Executives
and by directors and executive officers of Federated as a group.
The business address of each of the individuals named in the
table is 7 West Seventh Street, Cincinnati, Ohio 45202.
|
|
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|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Name |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Percent of | |
|
|
Number of Shares | |
|
Class | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
|
|
|
(1) |
|
|
|
(2) |
|
|
|
|
|
Meyer Feldberg
|
|
|
32,534.00 |
|
|
|
27,800.00 |
|
|
|
less than 1 |
% |
Earl G. Graves, Sr.
|
|
|
36,069.00 |
|
|
|
28,723.00 |
|
|
|
less than 1 |
% |
Sara Levinson
|
|
|
28,061.00 |
|
|
|
26,500.00 |
|
|
|
less than 1 |
% |
Joseph Neubauer
|
|
|
43,020.00 |
|
|
|
28,233.00 |
|
|
|
less than 1 |
% |
Joseph A. Pichler
|
|
|
26,900.00 |
|
|
|
23,000.00 |
|
|
|
less than 1 |
% |
Karl M. von der Heyden
|
|
|
35,200.00 |
|
|
|
26,500.00 |
|
|
|
less than 1 |
% |
Craig E. Weatherup
|
|
|
30,073.00 |
|
|
|
27,073.00 |
|
|
|
less than 1 |
% |
Marna C. Whittington
|
|
|
34,537.00 |
|
|
|
27,800.00 |
|
|
|
less than 1 |
% |
Terry J. Lundgren
|
|
|
1,190,596.94 |
|
|
|
1,044,113.00 |
|
|
|
less than 1 |
% |
Thomas G. Cody
|
|
|
391,858.11 |
|
|
|
349,985.00 |
|
|
|
less than 1 |
% |
Thomas L. Cole
|
|
|
336,112.00 |
|
|
|
309,840.00 |
|
|
|
less than 1 |
% |
Janet E. Grove
|
|
|
318,017.00 |
|
|
|
300,299.00 |
|
|
|
less than 1 |
% |
Susan D. Kronick
|
|
|
388,389.00 |
|
|
|
364,241.00 |
|
|
|
less than 1 |
% |
Ronald W. Tysoe
|
|
|
722,459.52 |
|
|
|
653,241.00 |
|
|
|
less than 1 |
% |
All directors and executive officers as a group
|
|
|
3,986,904.11 |
|
|
|
3,564,317.00 |
|
|
|
2.34 |
% |
|
|
(1) |
Aggregate number of shares of common stock currently held and
which may be acquired within 60 days after May 20,
2005, through the exercise of options granted under the 1995
Executive Equity Incentive Plan as amended, referred to as the
1995 Equity Incentive Plan. |
|
(2) |
Number of shares of common stock which may be acquired within
60 days after May 20, 2005, through the exercise of
options granted under the 1995 Equity Plan. |
142
Securities Authorized for Issuance Under Equity Compensation
Plans
The following table presents certain aggregate information, as
of January 29, 2005, with respect to (i) the 1995
Equity Plan (on the line captioned Equity compensation
plans approved by security holders) and
(ii) outstanding options that were granted to certain
executives of Broadway Stores, Inc., formerly Carter Hawley Hale
Stores, Inc., referred to as Broadway, or assumed by Federated,
in connection with Federateds acquisition of Broadway in
1995 (on the line captioned Equity compensation plans not
approved by security holders).
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Number of Securities | |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Remaining Available | |
|
|
|
|
|
|
for Future Issuance | |
|
|
Number of Securities | |
|
|
|
Under Equity | |
|
|
to be Issued Upon | |
|
Weighted-Average | |
|
Compensation Plans | |
|
|
Exercise of | |
|
Exercise Price of | |
|
(Excluding | |
|
|
Outstanding Options, | |
|
Outstanding Options, | |
|
Securities Reflected | |
Plan Category |
|
Warrants and Rights | |
|
Warrants and Rights ($) | |
|
in Column (a)) | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
|
(a) | |
|
(b) | |
|
(c) | |
Equity compensation plans approved by security holders
|
|
|
19,579,974 |
|
|
|
40.93 |
|
|
|
6,278,218 |
|
Equity compensation plans not approved by security holders
|
|
|
5,400 |
|
|
|
37.85 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
The foregoing table does not reflect shares of restricted stock
previously issued or remaining available for issuance under the
1995 Equity Plan. As of January 29, 2005, there were
272,278 shares of restricted stock outstanding that
remained subject to possible forfeiture and 54,291 shares
of common stock available for future issuance as restricted
stock under the 1995 Equity Plan.
The foregoing table does not reflect (i) stock credits
issued as long-term incentive awards under the
1992 Incentive Bonus Plan, as amended, referred to as the
1992 Bonus Plan, which has been approved by Federateds
stockholders(1), or (ii) stock credits issued under the
EDCP, the compensation program for the non-management directors,
and the non-management directors deferred compensation
plan, which have not been approved by Federateds
stockholders. Pursuant to amendments to the 1992 Bonus Plan,
long-term incentive bonuses formerly payable in cash are now
payable in the form of stock credits. Pursuant to the EDCP,
eligible executives may elect to receive a portion of their cash
compensation in the form of stock credits. Pursuant to the
non-management directors compensation program, Federated
directors are required to receive 50% of their annual fees in
the form of stock credits. In addition, pursuant to the
non-management directors deferred compensation plan,
directors may elect to receive all or a portion of their
remaining compensation in the form of stock credits.
Under the plans described in the immediately preceding
paragraph, entitlements due to participants are expressed as
dollar amounts and then converted to stock credits in amounts
(i) equal to the number of shares of common stock that
could be purchased by the applicable Plan at current market
prices with the cash contributed to the plan that otherwise
would have been payable to the participant (in the case of the
EDCP, the non-management directors compensation program
and the non-management directors deferred compensation
plan) or (ii) equal to the number of shares of common stock
that could be purchased at current market prices as of specified
dates with 120% of the applicable bonus amount (in the case of
the 1992 Incentive Bonus Plan). In general, each stock credit
entitles the holder to receive one share of common stock three
years after the issuance of the stock credit, or, in the case of
the EDCP and the non-management directors deferred
compensation plan, upon the termination of the holders
employment or service with Federated, together with amounts
equal to any dividends paid on one share of common stock. No
specific number of shares are authorized for issuance under the
deferred compensation plans or the 1992 Bonus Plan.
1 The use of long-term incentive awards under the 1992
Bonus Plan has been discontinued by the CMD Committee for
an indefinite period.
143
INFORMATION ABOUT MAY
Business
May, a corporation organized under the laws of the State of
Delaware in 1976, became the successor to The May Department
Stores Company, a New York corporation, referred to as May NY,
in a reincorporation from New York to Delaware pursuant to a
statutory share exchange accomplished in 1996. As a result of
the share exchange, May NY became a wholly-owned subsidiary of
May. May NY was organized under the laws of the State of New
York in 1910, as the successor to a business founded by David
May, who opened his first store in Leadville, Colorado, in 1877.
May operates seven regional department store divisions
nationwide under 12 long-standing and widely recognized trade
names. Each department store division holds a leadership
position in its region. At fiscal year-end 2004, May operated
491 department stores in 39 states and the District of
Columbia. May plans to open eight department stores in 2005. The
department store divisions and the geographic areas served are
detailed below.
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Lord & Taylor serves 21 geographic areas, including New
York/ New Jersey Metro; Chicago; Boston; Philadelphia Metro;
Washington, D.C. Metro; and Detroit. |
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Marshall Fields serves 26 geographic areas, including
Chicago, Detroit, and Minneapolis. |
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Filenes and Kaufmanns serve 40 geographic areas,
including Boston Metro, Pittsburgh, Cleveland, Southern
Connecticut, Providence Metro, Hartford, Buffalo, Rochester, and
Columbus. |
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Robinsons-May and Meier & Frank serve 16 geographic
areas, including Los Angeles/ Orange County, Riverside/
San Bernardino, Phoenix, San Diego, Las Vegas,
Portland/ Vancouver Metro, and Salt Lake City. |
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Hechts and Strawbridges serve 21 geographic areas,
including Washington, D.C. Metro; Philadelphia Metro;
Baltimore; Norfolk; Nashville; Richmond; Charlotte; Greensboro;
and Raleigh-Durham. |
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Foleys serves 22 geographic areas, including Houston,
Dallas/ Fort Worth, Denver, San Antonio, Austin, and
Oklahoma City. |
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Famous-Barr, L.S. Ayres and The Jones Store serve 23 geographic
areas, including St. Louis Metro, Kansas City Metro, and
Indianapolis. |
Davids Bridal, Inc. is the nations largest retailer
of bridal gowns and bridal-related merchandise and offers a
variety of special occasion dresses and accessories. At fiscal
year-end 2004, Davids Bridal operated 239 stores in
45 states and Puerto Rico. After Hours Formalwear, Inc. is
the largest tuxedo rental and sales retailer in the United
States. During 2003, After Hours acquired 225 stores, including
125 Gingiss Formalwear and Garys Tux Shop stores, 64
Desmonds Formalwear stores, and 25 Modern Tuxedo stores.
At fiscal year-end 2004, After Hours operated 449 stores in
31 states. Priscilla of Boston, Inc. is one of the most
highly recognized upscale bridal retailers in the United States.
At fiscal year-end 2004, Priscilla of Boston operated 11 stores
in nine states. May plans to open 18 Davids Bridal stores
and 20 After Hours stores in 2005.
May employs approximately 70,000 full-time and
62,000 part-time associates in 46 states, the District
of Columbia, Puerto Rico and 10 offices overseas.
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May conducts its retail merchandising business under highly
competitive conditions. May has numerous competitors at the
national and local level including department stores, specialty,
off-price, discount, Internet and mail-order retailers.
Competition is characterized by many factors including price,
quality, service location, reputation, advertising and credit
availability. May believes that it is in a strong competitive
position with regard to each of these factors.
Sales at Mays stores are made for cash or credit,
including Mays 30-day charge accounts and open-end credit
plans for department store divisions, which include revolving
charge accounts and revolving installment accounts. During the
fiscal year ended January 29, 2005, 34.8% of net sales were
made through Mays department store credit plans. May
National Bank of Ohio, referred to as MBO, is an indirectly
wholly-owned and consolidated subsidiary of May. MBO extends
credit to customers of Mays seven department store
divisions. In 2003, May received approval from the Office of the
Comptroller of the Currency and completed its merger of May
National Bank of Arizona into MBO.
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May Merchandising Company/ May Department Stores
International, Inc. |
May Merchandising Company, referred to as MMC, an indirectly
wholly-owned and consolidated subsidiary of May, identifies
emerging fashion trends in both domestic brands and Mays
exclusive proprietary brand merchandise. MMC works closely with
Mays department store divisions and merchandise vendors to
communicate emerging fashion trends, to develop meaningful
merchandise assortments and negotiate the best overall terms for
delivery of merchandise in a timely manner to its stores.
May Department Stores International, Inc., referred to as MDSI,
a wholly-owned and consolidated subsidiary of May, is primarily
a design and sourcing company. MDSI owns all trade names and
marks associated with proprietary brand merchandise and
develops, designs, sources, imports, and distributes the
proprietary brand merchandise bearing those trade names and
marks for May. MDSI has approximately 40-50 private labels
in use at the department store divisions and employs
approximately 880 persons worldwide. In addition to its
corporate office in St. Louis, MDSI operates offices in New
York City and ten countries.
Directors of May
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Nominees for Election Term expires at the 2008
annual meeting (term will expire at the 2006 annual meeting if
stockholders approve the proposed amendment to Mays
certificate of incorporation) |
Marsha J. Evans
Mrs. Evans, age 57, has been president and chief
executive officer of The American Red Cross since August 2002.
Mrs. Evans served as the national executive director of
Girl Scouts of the USA from 1998 until she assumed her current
position. She served with the United States Navy for
29 years, where she was commissioned ensign in 1968 and
attained the designation of rear admiral before retiring in
1998. Prior to retirement, she served as superintendent of the
Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, Calif., and as director
of the George C. Marshall European Center for Security Studies.
She also serves on the boards of Lehman Brothers Holdings, Inc.,
and Weight Watchers International, Inc. Mrs. Evans has been
a director since 1998.
David B. Rickard
Mr. Rickard, age 58, is executive vice president,
chief financial officer and chief administrative officer of
CVS Corporation, a retail pharmacy chain. Prior to assuming
his position at CVS in 1999, he served as senior vice president
and chief financial officer of RJR Nabisco Holdings Corporation
from 1997 to 1999. He held several senior executive positions at
Grand Metropolitan PLC from 1991 to 1997, and at Kraft Foods,
Inc. from 1975 to 1991. Mr. Rickard also serves as a
director of Harris Corporation and is a member of the Financial
Accounting Standards Advisory Council. Mr. Rickard has been
a director since January 2005.
145
Joyce M. Roché
Ms. Roché, age 58, is the president and chief
executive officer of Girls Incorporated, a national nonprofit
research, education and advocacy organization. Prior to assuming
her position at Girls Incorporated in September 2000,
Ms. Roché was an independent marketing consultant from
1998 to August 2000. She served as president and chief operating
officer of Carson, Inc. from 1996 to 1998 and also held senior
marketing positions with Carson, Inc., Revlon, Inc., and Avon,
Inc. Ms. Roché is also a director of Anheuser-Busch
Companies, Inc., SBC Communications, Inc., and Tupperware
Corporation. Ms. Roché has been a director since 2003.
R. Dean Wolfe
Mr. Wolfe, age 61, is the executive vice president of
acquisitions and real estate of May. He joined May in 1972. He
served as executive vice president of real estate from 1986 to
1996, when he was appointed to his current position.
Mr. Wolfe has been a director since 1997.
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Continuing Directors Term expires at the 2006
annual meeting |
John L. Dunham
Mr. Dunham, age 58, is the chairman, president and
chief executive officer of May. He joined May in 1976 and held a
number of operations positions in various divisions until 1987,
when he was named chairman of Sibleys. He was named
chairman of G. Fox in 1989 and was promoted to chairman of May
Merchandising Company in 1993. He became executive vice
president and chief financial officer in May 1996 and vice
chairman and chief financial officer in November 1999. He became
president in May 2001, president and acting chairman and chief
executive officer in January 2005 and assumed his current
position on March 18, 2005. Mr. Dunham has been a
director since 1997.
Helene L. Kaplan
Mrs. Kaplan, age 71, has been Of Counsel to the law
firm of Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP
since 1990. She is a director of MetLife, Inc. Mrs. Kaplan
also serves as a trustee or director of many nonprofit cultural,
educational, and scientific organizations. Mrs. Kaplan has
been a director since 1985.
Michael R. Quinlan
Mr. Quinlan, age 60, is chairman of the board of
trustees of Loyola University Chicago and chairman emeritus,
McDonalds Corporation. He joined McDonalds in 1963
and served as chief executive officer from 1987 to 1998 and as
chairman from 1990 to 1999. He served as chairman of the
executive committee of the board from 1999 to 2002.
Mr. Quinlan is also a director of Dun & Bradstreet
Corporation and Warren Resources, Inc. Mr. Quinlan has been
a director since 1993.
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Continuing Directors Term expires at the 2007
annual meeting |
James M. Kilts
Mr. Kilts, age 57, is the chairman, president and
chief executive officer of The Gillette Company. Prior to
assuming his position at Gillette in February 2001, he served as
president and chief executive officer of Nabisco, Inc. from 1998
to 2000. He held several positions with Philip Morris Companies,
Inc., including president of Kraft Foods U.S.A. from 1989 to
1994 and executive vice president-worldwide food of Philip
Morris from 1994 to 1997. Mr. Kilts serves on the boards of
Gillette, MetLife, Inc., Whirlpool Corporation, the Grocery
Manufacturers of America, and Knox College. Mr. Kilts has
been a director since 1998.
Russell E. Palmer
Mr. Palmer, age 70, is the chairman and chief
executive officer of The Palmer Group, a corporate investment
firm. He is the retired managing partner and chief executive
officer of Touche Ross International (now Deloitte and Touche
LLP) and the retired dean of The Wharton School and Reliance
Professor of
146
Management and Private Enterprise at the University of
Pennsylvania. Mr. Palmer is also a director of Honeywell
International Inc. Mr. Palmer has been a director since
1984.
William P. Stiritz
Mr. Stiritz, age 70, is chairman of the boards of
Energizer Holdings, Inc. and Ralcorp Holdings, Inc. He served as
chairman of the board, president and chief executive officer of
Agribrands International, Inc. from 1998 to May 2001 and as
chief executive officer of Ralston Purina Company from 1981 to
1997. Mr. Stiritz is also a director of Ball Corporation
and Vail Resorts, Inc. Mr. Stiritz has been a director
since 1983.
The board held nine meetings during 2004. Each incumbent
director attended at least 75% of the aggregate of the total
number of:
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board meetings held during the period for which the director
held office; and |
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meetings held by all board committees on which the director
served during the period that the director served. |
Overall, the directors attendance averaged 97%.
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Director Attendance at Annual Meetings |
It is Mays policy that all directors should attend the
annual meeting of stockholders. All directors attended the 2004
annual meeting, except for Mrs. Evans and Mr. Whitacre.
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Communications with the Board |
You may send correspondence to Mays board of directors,
any of the committees of the board or to any individual director
to the following address: Board of Directors, The May Department
Stores Company, c/o Corporate Secretary, 611 Olive Street,
St. Louis, MO 63101-1799. The corporate secretary will
review the correspondence and give a summary to the board or the
director to whom it is addressed.
Management directors receive no compensation or fees for serving
as a director or for attending board or committee meetings.
Non-management directors receive both cash compensation and
stock compensation.
Cash compensation includes:
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a $40,000 annual fee, plus an additional $5,000 fee if the
director is a committee chairman ($10,000 for the audit
committee chairman); |
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$3,000 for each board meeting attended; and |
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$2,000 for each committee meeting attended. |
Directors may defer all or any portion of their cash
compensation under a deferred compensation plan that is
substantially similar to Mays deferred compensation plan
for management associates.
Stock compensation includes:
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a one-time grant of 3,000 shares of restricted common stock
upon first being elected to the board. These shares are subject
to forfeiture for five years and to restrictions on
transferability while the director serves on the board; and |
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an annual grant equivalent to $80,000 of restricted common
stock, which is not transferable while the director serves on
the board. Instead of shares of restricted stock, a director may
elect to have $80,000 of deferred stock units credited to his or
her account under the deferred compensation plan, and a |
147
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director who has received three annual grants may choose to
receive this component of compensation in the form of cash. |
May has now, and has had for many years, a majority of directors
who are independent. Under the NYSE rules, a
director qualifies as independent if the board
affirmatively determines that he or she has no material
relationship with May, either directly or as a partner,
stockholder or officer of an organization that has a
relationship with May. To assist it in making determinations of
independence, the board has adopted in the Board of Directors
Governance Guidelines (the Governance Guidelines)
categorical independence standards. Under our standards, the
following relationships do not prevent a director from being
independent:
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ownership, by itself, of a significant amount of May common
stock; or |
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employment by the director as an executive officer: |
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with a company or firm doing business with May during a fiscal
year, when that business does not exceed the greater of
$1 million or 2% of the companys or firms
consolidated gross revenues during the year; or |
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with an organization to which May makes charitable contributions
during a fiscal year, when Mays contributions do not
exceed the greater of $1 million or 2% of the consolidated
gross revenues of that organization during the year; or |
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with an entity to which May makes payments for property or
services, when the rates or charges involved in the transaction
are determined by competitive bids, or the transaction involves
the rendering of services as a common carrier or public utility,
at rates or charges fixed in conformity with law or governmental
authority; or |
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payments during a fiscal year by May to a law firm with which
the director is affiliated (as partner or of counsel) for legal
services provided to May, so long as: |
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May does not pay fees to the firm for legal services performed
by the director or his or her immediate family for May; and |
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the fees paid by May to the firm do not exceed the greater of
$1 million or 2% of the firms gross revenues for the
fiscal year. |
The board has determined that each of Mrs. Evans,
Mrs. Kaplan, Ms. Roché, and Messrs. Kilts,
Palmer, Quinlan, Rickard, and Stiritz are independent.
The Governance Guidelines also provide that:
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no non-management director shall serve as a director after the
annual meeting following the directors 72nd birthday; |
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any non-management director who experiences a significant change
in occupation, a chief executive officer who leaves the position
of chief executive officer, or a director who violates any of
Mays business and ethics policies should tender a
resignation from the board for consideration by the nominating
and governance committee; |
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any management director, other than the chief executive officer,
shall retire from the board when he or she ceases to be employed
by May; |
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the board may hire outside consultants and experts as it deems
necessary; |
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the chief executive officer is encouraged to bring members of
management to board meetings from time to time to provide
management insight into items being discussed at a meeting, make |
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presentations on matters that involve the manager, and bring
managers with significant potential into contact with the board; |
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the board will establish committees to assist the board in
overseeing the companys affairs; |
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with respect to the chief executive officer succession, the
board will establish such procedures as it deems necessary or
appropriate from time to time, including establishing an ad hoc
committee; |
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the board will monitor and review management development efforts; |
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all new directors will participate in Mays orientation
program for new directors; |
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each director will participate in continuing education to
maintain the necessary level of expertise to perform his or her
responsibilities as a director; |
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the board will conduct an annual self-evaluation to determine
whether it and its committees are functioning
effectively; and |
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the board will adopt a code of business conduct and ethics for
directors, officers, and employees (including the chief
executive officer, chief financial officer, and chief accounting
officer) addressing conflicts of interest; corporate
opportunities; confidentiality; fair dealing; protection and
proper use of company assets; compliance with laws, rules, and
regulations; and encouraging the reporting of any illegal or
unethical behavior. The board will approve all waivers of the
code for executive officers and directors; and any such waivers
will be disclosed to shareowners. |
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Non-Management Directors Meetings |
In the past, Mays non-management directors periodically
met in executive session without members of management present.
Now, under the Governance Guidelines, the non-management
directors meet in executive session after each regularly
scheduled board meeting. Prior to January, 2005, at the
beginning of each executive session, the non-management
directors designated one or more of its members to preside at
that session. The presiding director then briefed the chief
executive officer regarding the executive session after the
meeting. In January, 2005, the non-management directors
designated Russell E. Palmer as lead director. As
lead director, Mr. Palmer will preside at executive
sessions and perform other duties as the non-management
directors request from time to time.
The following table provides current members and meeting
information for each of the board committees. The board and the
nominating and governance committee have determined that all
committee members are independent within the meaning
of the rules of the New York Stock Exchange.
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Nominating and | |
Name |
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Audit | |
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ECDC** | |
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Finance | |
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Governance | |
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Mrs. Evans
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x |
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x |
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Mrs. Kaplan
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x |
* |
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x |
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Mr. Kilts
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x |
* |
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x |
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Mr. Palmer
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x |
* |
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x |
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Mr. Quinlan
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x |
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x |
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Mr. Rickard
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x |
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x |
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Ms. Roché
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x |
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x |
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Mr. Stiritz
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x |
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x |
* |
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Fiscal 2004 meetings
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6 |
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6 |
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2 |
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3 |
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** |
Executive Compensation and Development Committee |
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appoints or replaces the independent auditor, subject to
shareowner ratification, and is directly responsible for the
compensation and oversight of the work of the independent
auditor; |
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preapproves all auditing services and all non-audit services
permitted by applicable law to be performed for the company by
the independent auditor; |
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reviews the results of the companys quarterly reviews and
year-end audit; |
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reviews and discusses with management and the independent
auditor (i) the annual audited financial statements, and
recommends to the board whether the audited financial statements
should be included in the companys annual report on
Form 10-K, and (ii) the quarterly financial statements
prior to the filing of the companys quarterly report on
Form 10-Q; |
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discusses with management and the independent auditor
significant financial reporting issues and judgments made in
connection with the preparation of the companys financial
statements; |
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reviews and discusses reports from the independent auditor on
all critical accounting policies and practices to be used; all
alternative treatments of financial information within generally
accepted accounting principles that have been discussed with
management; ramifications of the use of such alternative
disclosures and treatments; and the treatment preferred by the
independent auditor; and other material written communications
to management, such as any management letter or schedule of
unadjusted differences; |
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discusses with management the companys (i) earnings
press releases, as well as financial information and earnings
guidance provided to analysts and rating agencies, and
(ii) major financial risk exposures and the steps
management has taken to monitor and control such exposures; |
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discusses with management and the independent auditor the effect
of regulatory and accounting initiatives as well as
off-balance-sheet structures on our financial statements; |
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discusses with the independent auditor the matters required to
be discussed by Statement of Auditing Standards No. 61
relating to the conduct of the audit; |
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reviews disclosures made to the committee by the CEO and CFO
during their certification process for the Form 10-K and
Form 10-Q about any significant deficiencies in the design
or operation of internal controls or material weaknesses
therein, and any fraud involving management or other employees
who have a significant role in our internal controls; |
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reviews and evaluates (i) the lead partner of the
independent auditor engagement team and (ii) the
qualifications, performance, and independence of the independent
auditor; |
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obtains and reviews a report from the independent auditor at
least annually regarding the independent auditors internal
quality-control procedures, any material issues raised by the
most recent internal quality-control review, or peer review, of
the firm, or by any inquiry or investigation by governmental or
professional authorities within the preceding five years
respecting one or more independent audits carried out by the
firm, any steps taken to deal with any such issues, and all
relationships between the independent auditor and the company; |
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ensures the rotation of audit partners as required by law, and
considers whether, in order to assure continuing auditor
independence, it is appropriate to adopt a policy of rotating
the independent audit firm on a regular basis; |
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reviews and recommends to the board the companys policies
for hiring employees or former employees of the independent
auditor who participated in any capacity in the audit of the
company; |
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discusses with the independent auditor the financial reporting
issues and matters of audit quality and consistency on which
they consulted their national office; |
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meets with the independent auditor prior to the audit to discuss
the planning and staffing of the audit; |
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oversees our internal audit function; |
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obtains from the independent auditor assurance that
Section 10A(b) of the 1934 Act has not been violated; |
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reviews procedures for the receipt, retention and treatment of
complaints regarding accounting, internal accounting controls or
auditing matters and the confidential, anonymous submission by
employees of concerns regarding questionable accounting or
auditing matters; |
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discusses with management and the independent auditor any
correspondence with regulators or governmental agencies and any
published reports which raise material issues regarding the
companys financial statements or accounting policies; |
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meets with the general counsel, and outside counsel when
appropriate, to review legal and regulatory matters, if any,
that may have a material impact on the companys financial
statements or compliance procedures; and |
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reviews annually our policies concerning sensitive payments and
conflicts of interest. |
The board has determined that all members of the committee are
financially literate and that the Audit Committee chairman,
Russell E. Palmer, meets the definition of audit committee
financial expert. No member of the Audit Committee serves
on more than three public company audit committees.
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The Executive Compensation and Development Committee: |
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reviews and approves the goals and objectives relevant to CEO
compensation, evaluates the CEOs performance, and sets the
CEOs compensation level; |
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recommends to the board matters relating to incentive
compensation plans and equity-based plans, including reviewing
and approving any changes in any stock related plan; |
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reviews and recommends to the board Mays overall
compensation programs; |
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assures that the board is updated at least annually on
management development efforts to ensure development of a pool
for adequate and orderly management succession; |
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recommends to the board nominees for all executive officers and
for all members of the profit sharing plan committee, the
retirement committees, and the long-term disability plan
committee; and |
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serves as the committee under Mays stock
option plans, stock appreciation rights plan, executive
incentive compensation plan for corporate executives, executive
incentive compensation plan for company principals (with power
to delegate certain powers to a management committee thereunder
in accordance with the terms of the plan), deferred compensation
plan, and restricted stock plan for management employees. |
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The Finance Committee reviews and recommends to the board: |
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our financial policies, our long-range financial plans and
targets, our capital expenditure program, specific debt and
equity placement activities, and financial aspects of proposed
acquisitions or divestitures; |
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our external financial relationships and financial public
relations and communication programs; and |
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the retirement and profit sharing plans funding, our
investments, and insurance and risk management programs. |
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The Nominating and Governance Committee: |
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recommends to the board nominees for directors and for chairmen
and members of committees of the board, including developing
criteria for the selection of non-management directors and
procedures to solicit and review potential nominees; |
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advises the board with respect to criteria relating to director
tenure and non-management director compensation; |
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oversees the performance of the board and all directors; and |
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takes a leadership role in shaping the corporate governance of
the company by developing and reviewing periodically the
Boards Governance Guidelines and considering any other
corporate governance issues that arise from time to time and
developing appropriate recommendations for the board. |
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Director Nomination Procedures |
When considering candidates for director, the nominating and
governance committee gives primary consideration to the
following qualifications:
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outstanding and recognized competence in general management, as
well as possible specialization in one or more of the following
fields: advertising, ecology, economics, finance, management
development, marketing, public affairs, science or the
professions; |
|
|
|
an age at the time of first election to the board which
generally would permit such person to serve May for not less
than seven years prior to retirement pursuant to the
boards retirement policy; |
|
|
|
a willingness and availability to commit the time and energies
necessary to satisfy the requirements of the board and committee
memberships; and |
|
|
|
a commitment to represent May stockholders as a whole, without
any particular constituency among the stockholders. |
Candidates may come to the attention of the committee through
many sources, including current directors, officers, third party
search firms, stockholders, and other persons. In evaluating
candidates, the committee considers the attributes of the
candidate (including the criteria for candidates described
above) and the needs of the board. The committee reviews all
candidates in the same manner regardless of the source of the
recommendation. Any candidate must state in advance his or her
willingness and interest in service on the board and provide
sufficient background information to enable the committee to
assess his or her qualifications. In addition, Mays
by-laws permit stockholders to nominate directors for
consideration at an annual stockholders meeting. To do so,
the stockholder must give notice in writing to The May
Department Stores Company, 611 Olive Street, St. Louis, MO
63101-1799, Attention: Corporate Secretary. The nomination must
comply with the advance notice provisions in Mays by-laws.
You may obtain a copy of the notice procedures from the
corporate secretary.
Mr. Rickard was recommended to the nominating and
governance committee by a current independent director and
committee member, Mr. Kilts, and a former independent
director and committee member, William Perez, both of whom had
worked with Mr. Rickard in the past and had personal
knowledge of his experience and skills. Management obtained and
reviewed additional background information, and members of
management, including the chief executive officer, the president
and the chief financial officer, the chairman of the audit
committee and representatives from Deloitte & Touche
LLP conducted in-person or telephonic interviews with
Mr. Rickard and reported back to the committee. After
completing this evaluation process, the committee recommended
Mr. Rickard to the full board for nomination.
|
|
|
Corporate Governance Guidelines and Code of Business
Conduct and Ethics |
May is committed to good corporate governance. The board has had
corporate governance standards in place for many years to
promote Mays governance practices, in the form of
written board and committee charters. May reviews its governance
standards annually and revises the charters when necessary to
respond to changing regulatory requirements and evolving best
practices. In evaluating governance choices, the board considers
the task to be more than one of form more than
simply adopting procedural rules. Rather, the board considers
the task to be one of substance one of building
strong, high-functioning work groups whose
152
members trust and challenge one another and engage directly with
senior managers and with each other on critical issues facing
the company.
Over the past three years, the board and each board committee
have reviewed Mays corporate governance practices in
response to the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, the related SEC
rules, and the new listing standards of the New York Stock
Exchange (NYSE). In most instances, May already had in place
procedures that complied with the new requirements. Mays
review of its corporate governance practices is an on-going
process.
You can view the Board of Directors Governance Guidelines, the
charters for the board committees, and Mays Policy on
Business Conduct in the corporate governance section of
Mays website at www.mayco.com. May intends to disclose any
amendments to the Policy on Business Conduct and any waivers
that are required to be disclosed by the rules of either the SEC
or the NYSE on the governance section of its Web site.
Compliance with Section 16(a) of the Exchange Act
Section 16(a) of the Exchange Act requires executive
officers and directors to file reports of holdings and
transactions in May common stock with the SEC. Based on a review
of copies of reports provided to the company, May believes that
all executive officers and directors satisfied their reporting
requirements for fiscal 2004.
Executive Officers of May
The names, ages and current positions of the executive officers
of May are listed below. All executive officers listed below
were elected at the 2005 annual meeting of the May board of
directors. They are expected to serve as executive officers
until the next annual meeting of the May board of directors.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Name |
|
Age | |
|
Position and Officers |
|
|
| |
|
|
John L. Dunham
|
|
|
58 |
|
|
Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer |
William P. McNamara
|
|
|
54 |
|
|
Vice Chairman |
Thomas D. Fingleton
|
|
|
57 |
|
|
Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer |
Jay H. Levitt
|
|
|
47 |
|
|
Chief Executive Officer and President, May Merchandising Company
and May Department Stores International |
R. Dean Wolfe
|
|
|
60 |
|
|
Executive Vice President |
Alan E. Charlson
|
|
|
56 |
|
|
Senior Vice President and General Counsel |
Martin M. Doerr
|
|
|
50 |
|
|
Senior Vice President |
Lonny J. Jay
|
|
|
62 |
|
|
Senior Vice President |
Brian L. Keck
|
|
|
52 |
|
|
Senior Vice President |
Jan R. Kniffen
|
|
|
56 |
|
|
Senior Vice President |
Gregory A. Ott
|
|
|
45 |
|
|
Senior Vice President |
Richard A. Brickson
|
|
|
57 |
|
|
Secretary and Senior Counsel |
J. Per Brodin
|
|
|
43 |
|
|
Vice President |
|
|
|
Brief History of Officers |
John L. Dunham has been chairman, president and chief
executive officer since March 18, 2005; prior thereto he
served as president and acting chairman and chief executive
officer from January 2005 to
153
March 2005, as president from April 2001 to January 2005
and as executive vice president and chief financial officer from
1996 to April 2001.
William P. McNamara has been vice chairman of May since
February 2000; prior thereto he served as president of May
Merchandising Company from 1998 to February 2000.
Thomas D. Fingleton has been executive vice president and
chief financial officer since April 2001; prior thereto he
served as executive vice president of May from May 2000 to April
2001 and as chairman of Hechts from 1991 to May 2000.
Jay H. Levitt has been chief executive officer and
president of May Merchandising Company and May Department Stores
International since July 2002; prior thereto he served as
president of May Merchandising Company and May Department Stores
International from July 2001 to July 2002 and as president and
chief executive officer of Robinsons-May from 1999 to July 2001.
R. Dean Wolfe has been executive vice president of
acquisitions and real estate since 1996; prior thereto he served
as executive vice president of real estate from 1986 to 1996.
Alan E. Charlson has been senior vice president and
general counsel since January 2001; prior thereto he served as
senior vice president and chief counsel from 1998 to January
2001 and as senior counsel from 1988 to 1998.
Martin M. Doerr has been senior vice president of taxes
since September 1999; prior thereto he served as a vice
president of May from 1992 to 1999.
Lonny J. Jay has been senior vice president of planning
and reporting since April 1986.
Brian L. Keck has been senior vice president of human
resources since April 2000; prior thereto he served as chairman
of Meier & Frank from 1997 to April 2000.
Jan R. Kniffen has been senior vice president and
treasurer since May 1991.
Gregory A. Ott has been senior vice president of strategy
and new business development since October 2003; prior
thereto he served as a senior engagement manager with an
international strategic planning and consulting firm.
Richard A. Brickson has been secretary and senior counsel
since 1988.
J. Per Brodin has been vice president of accounting
and reporting since June 2002; prior thereto he served as
director of Mays corporate accounting and reporting from
March 2002 to June 2002 and was associated with a public
accounting firm from 1989 to 2002.
154
Executive Compensation
|
|
|
Three Year Compensation Summary |
The following table summarizes the compensation of certain
executive officers, referred to as the May Named Executives, for
Mays last three fiscal years for services rendered in all
capacities to May and its subsidiaries.
SUMMARY COMPENSATION TABLE
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Annual Compensation(2) | |
|
Long-Term Compensation | |
|
|
|
|
| |
|
| |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Awards(3)(4) | |
|
Payouts | |
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |
|
| |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Restricted | |
|
|
|
Long-Term | |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Stock | |
|
Stock | |
|
Incentive | |
|
All Other | |
Name and Principal Position |
|
Year | |
|
Salary(5) | |
|
Bonus(6) | |
|
Awards | |
|
Options | |
|
Payouts(2)(7) | |
|
Compensation(2)(8) | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
J. L. Dunham
|
|
|
2004 |
|
|
$ |
1,041,677 |
|
|
$ |
0 |
|
|
$ |
3,388,000 |
|
|
|
165,000 |
|
|
$ |
78,841 |
|
|
$ |
509,667 |
|
|
Chairman, President and
|
|
|
2003 |
|
|
$ |
950,000 |
|
|
$ |
267,188 |
|
|
$ |
0 |
|
|
|
60,000 |
|
|
$ |
51,846 |
|
|
$ |
9,145 |
|
|
Chief Executive Officer(1)
|
|
|
2002 |
|
|
$ |
931,250 |
|
|
$ |
89,063 |
|
|
$ |
346,800 |
|
|
|
60,000 |
|
|
$ |
39,551 |
|
|
$ |
4,643 |
|
R. D. Wolfe
|
|
|
2004 |
|
|
$ |
897,500 |
|
|
$ |
0 |
|
|
$ |
616,000 |
|
|
|
37,500 |
|
|
$ |
40,074 |
|
|
$ |
259,667 |
|
|
Executive Vice President
|
|
|
2003 |
|
|
$ |
865,000 |
|
|
$ |
195,750 |
|
|
$ |
429,500 |
|
|
|
32,500 |
|
|
$ |
37,848 |
|
|
$ |
9,145 |
|
|
|
|
|
2002 |
|
|
$ |
837,500 |
|
|
$ |
63,750 |
|
|
$ |
0 |
|
|
|
32,500 |
|
|
$ |
29,578 |
|
|
$ |
4,643 |
|
W. P. McNamara
|
|
|
2004 |
|
|
$ |
828,750 |
|
|
$ |
0 |
|
|
$ |
2,156,000 |
|
|
|
45,000 |
|
|
$ |
36,838 |
|
|
$ |
259,667 |
|
|
Vice Chairman
|
|
|
2003 |
|
|
$ |
801,250 |
|
|
$ |
182,250 |
|
|
$ |
0 |
|
|
|
40,000 |
|
|
$ |
34,447 |
|
|
$ |
9,145 |
|
|
|
|
|
2002 |
|
|
$ |
760,000 |
|
|
$ |
58,125 |
|
|
$ |
1,213,800 |
|
|
|
40,000 |
|
|
$ |
26,750 |
|
|
$ |
4,643 |
|
T. D. Fingleton
|
|
|
2004 |
|
|
$ |
758,750 |
|
|
$ |
0 |
|
|
$ |
2,156,000 |
|
|
|
37,500 |
|
|
$ |
34,006 |
|
|
$ |
259,667 |
|
|
Executive Vice President
|
|
|
2003 |
|
|
$ |
735,000 |
|
|
$ |
166,500 |
|
|
$ |
0 |
|
|
|
32,500 |
|
|
$ |
108,500 |
|
|
$ |
9,145 |
|
|
and Chief Financial Officer
|
|
|
2002 |
|
|
$ |
712,500 |
|
|
$ |
187,455 |
|
|
$ |
0 |
|
|
|
32,500 |
|
|
$ |
87,545 |
|
|
$ |
4,643 |
|
J. H. Levitt
|
|
|
2004 |
|
|
$ |
690,000 |
|
|
$ |
0 |
|
|
$ |
847,000 |
|
|
|
35,000 |
|
|
$ |
31,058 |
|
|
$ |
9,667 |
|
|
President and CEO May
|
|
|
2003 |
|
|
$ |
671,250 |
|
|
$ |
151,875 |
|
|
$ |
0 |
|
|
|
35,000 |
|
|
$ |
28,968 |
|
|
$ |
9,145 |
|
|
Merchandising Company
|
|
|
2002 |
|
|
$ |
653,750 |
|
|
$ |
49,500 |
|
|
$ |
0 |
|
|
|
35,000 |
|
|
$ |
23,522 |
|
|
$ |
4,643 |
|
E. S. Kahn
|
|
|
2004 |
|
|
$ |
1,500,000 |
|
|
$ |
0 |
|
|
$ |
0 |
|
|
|
85,000 |
|
|
$ |
0 |
|
|
$ |
9,667 |
|
|
Former Chairman and
|
|
|
2003 |
|
|
$ |
1,500,000 |
|
|
$ |
675,000 |
|
|
$ |
0 |
|
|
|
85,000 |
|
|
$ |
132,494 |
|
|
$ |
9,145 |
|
|
Chief Executive Officer(1)
|
|
|
2002 |
|
|
$ |
1,487,500 |
|
|
$ |
225,000 |
|
|
$ |
7,088,000 |
|
|
|
585,000 |
|
|
$ |
103,646 |
|
|
$ |
4,643 |
|
|
|
(1) |
Eugene S. Kahn resigned from his position as Chairman and Chief
Executive Officer on January 14, 2005. The board of
directors named John L. Dunham as Chairman and Chief Executive
Officer in addition to his duties as President. See discussion
of the separation arrangements for Mr. Kahn in
Report of the Executive Compensation and
Development Committee beginning on page 161. |
|
(2) |
Total Cash Compensation. As supplemental information, the
following table shows the total cash compensation (Salary, Bonus
and Long-term Incentive Payouts, and, for 2004, the 2004 special
bonus paid for the acquisition and assimilation of Marshall
Fields included in All Other Compensation) paid to the May
Named Executives for the fiscal year listed. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Year |
|
Mr. Dunham | |
|
Mr. Wolfe | |
|
Mr. McNamara | |
|
Mr. Fingleton | |
|
Mr. Levitt | |
|
Mr. Kahn | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
2004
|
|
$ |
1,620,508 |
|
|
$ |
1,187,574 |
|
|
$ |
1,115,588 |
|
|
$ |
1,042,756 |
|
|
$ |
721,058 |
|
|
$ |
1,500,000 |
|
2003
|
|
$ |
1,269,034 |
|
|
$ |
1,098,598 |
|
|
$ |
1,017,947 |
|
|
$ |
1,010,000 |
|
|
$ |
852,093 |
|
|
$ |
2,307,494 |
|
2002
|
|
$ |
1,059,864 |
|
|
$ |
930,828 |
|
|
$ |
844,875 |
|
|
$ |
987,500 |
|
|
$ |
726,772 |
|
|
$ |
1,816,146 |
|
|
|
(3) |
Restricted Stock in the Summary Compensation Table
is valued at the closing price of May common stock on the date
the shares were granted. Each grant is subject to
performance-based or time-based restrictions. Restrictions on
performance-based awards are released only if May meets certain
earnings performance standards; shares are forfeited in whole or
on a pro rata basis if the standards are not achieved.
Restrictions on time-based awards are released after specified
time periods if the executive continues to be employed by May. |
155
|
|
|
As of January 29, 2005, the value (at $33.40 per
share) of all the performance-based and time-based restricted
stock held by the May Named Executives was as follows: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Mr. Dunham | |
|
Mr. Wolfe | |
|
Mr. McNamara | |
|
Mr. Fingleton | |
|
Mr. Levitt | |
|
Mr. Kahn | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
Shares
|
|
|
140,000 |
|
|
|
45,000 |
|
|
|
110,000 |
|
|
|
90,000 |
|
|
|
44,500 |
|
|
|
150,000 |
|
Value (from)
|
|
$ |
2,505,000 |
|
|
$ |
83,500 |
|
|
$ |
0 |
|
|
$ |
0 |
|
|
$ |
0 |
|
|
$ |
2,505,000 |
|
|
(to)
|
|
$ |
4,676,000 |
|
|
$ |
1,503,000 |
|
|
$ |
3,674,000 |
|
|
$ |
3,006,000 |
|
|
$ |
1,486,300 |
|
|
$ |
5,010,000 |
|
|
|
|
Each grant described in the Summary Compensation Table
consisted of performance-based restricted stock or a combination
of performance-based and time-based restricted stock.
Mr. Dunhams 2004 grant may vest 10,000 shares in
2005, 50,000 shares in 2006 and 50,000 shares in 2007;
Mr. Dunhams 2002 grant may vest 5,000 shares in
each of 2003 and 2004; Mr. Wolfes 2004 grant may vest
20,000 shares in 2006; Mr. Wolfes 2003 grant may
vest 15,000 shares in 2005 and 5,000 shares in 2006;
Mr. McNamaras 2004 grant may vest 10,000 shares
in 2006, 30,000 shares in each of 2007 and 2008;
Mr. McNamaras 2002 grant may vest 5,000 shares
in each of 2003 to 2005 and 15,000 shares in 2006;
Mr. Fingletons 2004 grant may vest 20,000 shares
in 2006 and 25,000 shares in each of 2007 and 2008;
Mr. Levitts 2004 grant may vest 3,500 shares in
2006 and 12,000 shares in each of 2007 and 2008;
Mr. Kahns 2002 grant may vest 50,000 shares in
each of 2004-2007. |
|
|
Each May Named Executive forfeited all of their shares of
performance-based restricted stock that would otherwise have
vested in each of 2003 through 2005. |
|
|
Dividends are paid in cash on these shares at the same rate as
the dividends received by all May stockholders. The plan under
which these shares were granted provides that restricted stock
grants become fully vested and all restrictions are waived when
a change in control, as defined in the plan, occurs. |
|
|
(4) |
Stock Options represent non-qualified 10-year
options under Mays 1994 Stock Incentive Plan. The plan
provides that all outstanding options become fully exercisable
upon the occurrence of a change in control, as defined in the
plans. |
|
(5) |
The table reflects salary paid or deferred during the respective
fiscal years shown. Annual salary changes normally occur on
May 1 of each year. |
|
(6) |
Bonus reflects the annual portion of the bonus
payable under Mays executive incentive compensation plan
for corporate executives. The bonuses were either paid or were
deferred under Mays deferred compensation plan. All
deferrals would be distributed to participants in lump sum cash
payments immediately following a change in control, as defined
in the plan. |
|
(7) |
Long-term Incentive Payouts represent the long-term
portion of the bonus payable under the executive incentive
compensation plan for corporate executives. Such amounts were
either paid or deferred under Mays deferred compensation
plan. |
|
(8) |
All Other Compensation represents the effective
matching allocation to the named individuals accounts in
Mays profit sharing plan. In addition, for 2004, the
amount includes a special bonus paid for the acquisition and
assimilation of Marshall Fields for Mr. Dunham
($500,000), Mr. Wolfe ($250,000), Mr. McNamara
($250,000) and Mr. Fingleton ($250,000). |
156
|
|
|
Fiscal 2004 Stock Option Grants |
The following table sets forth certain information regarding
grants of stock options made during fiscal 2004 to the May
Named Executives.
OPTION GRANTS IN LAST FISCAL YEAR
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Percent of | |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Options | |
|
Total | |
|
Exercise or Base | |
|
|
|
Grant Date | |
Name |
|
Granted(1) | |
|
Options Granted | |
|
Price(2) | |
|
Expiration Date | |
|
Present Value(3) | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
John L. Dunham
|
|
|
75,000 |
|
|
|
1.7 |
% |
|
$ |
27.8900 |
|
|
|
5/12/2014 |
|
|
$ |
573,000 |
|
|
|
|
90,000 |
|
|
|
2.1 |
% |
|
$ |
27.8900 |
|
|
|
5/12/2014 |
|
|
$ |
687,600 |
|
R. Dean Wolfe
|
|
|
37,500 |
|
|
|
0.9 |
% |
|
$ |
27.8900 |
|
|
|
5/12/2014 |
|
|
$ |
286,500 |
|
William P. McNamara
|
|
|
45,000 |
|
|
|
1.0 |
% |
|
$ |
27.8900 |
|
|
|
5/12/2014 |
|
|
$ |
343,800 |
|
Thomas D. Fingleton
|
|
|
37,500 |
|
|
|
0.9 |
% |
|
$ |
27.8900 |
|
|
|
5/12/2014 |
|
|
$ |
286,500 |
|
Jay H. Levitt
|
|
|
35,000 |
|
|
|
0.8 |
% |
|
$ |
27.8900 |
|
|
|
5/12/2014 |
|
|
$ |
267,400 |
|
Eugene S. Kahn
|
|
|
85,000 |
|
|
|
2.0 |
% |
|
$ |
27.8900 |
|
|
|
5/12/2014 |
|
|
$ |
649,400 |
|
|
|
(1) |
With the exception of Mr. Dunhams 90,000 share
grant, one-fourth of the options become exercisable on May 12 in
each of 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2008. One-third of the options of
Mr. Dunhams 90,000 share grant became
exercisable on April 30, 2005, and one-third become
exercisable on April 30 in each of 2006 and 2007. |
|
(2) |
The exercise price is the market price on the date the options
were granted. |
|
(3) |
The Grant Date Present Values were determined using the
Black-Scholes option pricing model. The estimated values under
the model are based on assumptions as to variables such as
option term, interest rates, stock price volatility, and
dividend yield. The actual value, if any, the option holder may
realize will depend on the excess of the actual market price of
the stock over the exercise price on the date the option is
exercised. The Grant Date Present Value calculation is presented
in accordance with SEC proxy disclosure requirements, and May
has no way to determine whether the Black-Scholes model can
properly determine the value of an option. There is no assurance
that the value that may be realized by the option holder will be
at or near the value estimated by the Black-Scholes model. The
model assumes: (a) an option term of 10 years, which
represents the length of time between the grant date of options
under Mays plans and the latest possible exercise date by
the May Named Executives; (b) an interest rate that
represents the interest rate on a U.S. Treasury Bond with a
maturity date corresponding to that of the options term;
(c) stock price volatility calculated based on daily stock
price changes during the year prior to the grant date; and
(d) dividends at the rate of $0.97 per share, the
annual dividend rate with respect to a share of stock on the
grant date. |
157
|
|
|
Fiscal Year-End Option Values |
The following table sets forth certain information regarding the
total number and aggregate value of options exercised by each of
the May Named Executives during fiscal 2004 and the total number
and aggregate value of options held by each of the May Named
Executives at January 29, 2005.
AGGREGATED OPTION EXERCISES IN LAST FISCAL YEAR
AND FISCAL YEAR-END OPTION VALUES
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Number of | |
|
Value of Unexercised | |
|
|
Shares | |
|
|
|
Unexercised Options Held | |
|
In-the-Money Options(2) | |
|
|
Acquired | |
|
Total Gain | |
|
| |
|
| |
Name |
|
on Exercise | |
|
Realized(1) | |
|
Exercisable | |
|
Unexercisable | |
|
Exercisable | |
|
Unexercisable | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
John L. Dunham
|
|
|
5,603 |
|
|
$ |
65,029 |
|
|
|
315,929 |
|
|
|
252,500 |
|
|
$ |
1,034,270 |
|
|
$ |
1,441,500 |
|
R. Dean Wolfe
|
|
|
12,431 |
|
|
$ |
147,135 |
|
|
|
280,045 |
|
|
|
86,250 |
|
|
$ |
1,121,737 |
|
|
$ |
494,981 |
|
William P. McNamara
|
|
|
4,143 |
|
|
$ |
31,862 |
|
|
|
223,288 |
|
|
|
105,000 |
|
|
$ |
687,723 |
|
|
$ |
602,850 |
|
Thomas D. Fingleton
|
|
|
11,603 |
|
|
$ |
151,194 |
|
|
|
175,390 |
|
|
|
86,250 |
|
|
$ |
523,301 |
|
|
$ |
494,981 |
|
Jay H. Levitt
|
|
|
32,050 |
|
|
$ |
290,510 |
|
|
|
94,322 |
|
|
|
87,500 |
|
|
$ |
13,824 |
|
|
$ |
503,388 |
|
Eugene S. Kahn
|
|
|
20,718 |
|
|
$ |
98,640 |
|
|
|
989,635 |
|
|
|
462,500 |
|
|
$ |
2,273,603 |
|
|
$ |
1,222,513 |
|
|
|
(1) |
The amounts realized reflect the appreciation on the
date of exercise (based on the excess of the fair market value
of the shares on the date of exercise over the exercise price).
However, because the May Named Executives may keep the shares
they acquired upon the exercise of the option (or sell them at
different prices), these amounts do not reflect cash realized
upon the sale of those shares. |
|
(2) |
In-the-Money Options are options outstanding at the
end of the fiscal year for which the fair market value of the
companys common stock at the end of the last fiscal year
($33.40 per share) exceeded the exercise price of the
options. |
|
|
|
Executive Stock Ownership Guidelines |
May encourages all executives to align their interests with
Mays stockholders by making a personal investment in May
stock. May adopted minimum stock ownership guidelines in 1994
for its top management group. Executives can satisfy these
minimum guidelines through direct stock ownership, profit
sharing plan share equivalents, and deferred compensation plan
stock units. May expects executives to meet these minimum
guidelines within five years of when the guidelines first apply
to them.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Ownership Guideline | |
Executive Level |
|
(Multiple of Base Salary) | |
|
|
| |
Chief Executive Officer
|
|
|
5.0 times |
|
Corporate Senior Management Committee(1)
|
|
|
3.5 times |
|
Presidents, Chairmen and Vice Chairmen of Operating Divisions
|
|
|
2.5 times |
|
Corporate Executive Vice Presidents and Senior Vice Presidents
and the Senior Management Committees of Operating Divisions
|
|
|
1.5 times |
|
|
|
(1) |
Includes five executive officers. The chief executive officer,
who is also a member of the senior management committee, is
covered by the CEO guideline above. |
|
|
|
Change-in-Control Agreements |
May has severance agreements with each of Messrs. Dunham,
Wolfe, McNamara, Fingleton and Levitt. For a detailed
description of these agreements, see The
Merger Interests of May Directors and Executive
Officers in the Merger Executive Employment and
Severance Agreements beginning on page 83.
158
The five May Named Executives who are currently executive
officers of May have written employment contracts. The
agreements presently specify the following base salaries and
contract term:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Executive |
|
Salary | |
|
Contract Term | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
Mr. Dunham
|
|
$ |
1,150,000 |
|
|
|
4/30/07 |
|
Mr. Wolfe
|
|
$ |
900,000 |
|
|
|
5/31/07 |
|
Mr. McNamara
|
|
$ |
835,000 |
|
|
|
4/30/07 |
|
Mr. Fingleton
|
|
$ |
765,000 |
|
|
|
4/30/08 |
|
Mr. Levitt
|
|
$ |
695,000 |
|
|
|
4/30/07 |
|
The agreements contain non-compete, non-solicitation and
mitigation clauses. In addition, the agreements contain
provisions that in the event of termination of the executive by
May other than for cause the executive would be
entitled to receive base salary until the later of the end of
the executives non-compete period and the end of the term
of the agreement.
In addition, Mr. Dunham and Mr. Wolfe have consulting
contracts with May. Each contract commences at the end of the
term of their employment agreement and extends for a period of
two years. The contracts provide for consulting fees
($375,000/year for Mr. Dunham and $450,000/year for
Mr. Wolfe) and contain non-compete and non-solicitation
clauses.
Mr. Kahn, former chairman and chief executive officer of
May, has a written employment contract with a term that extends
to April 30, 2006. As a result of his January 14, 2005
resignation, Mr. Kahns active employment under his
employment agreement with May and his service on the board of
directors terminated on January 14, 2005. The two-year
non-compete and non-solicitation period provided for in
Mr. Kahns employment agreement commenced on
January 15, 2005, and will extend to January 14, 2007.
The executive compensation and development committee of the
board of directors is negotiating separation arrangements with
Mr. Kahn.
May has a noncontributory retirement plan that covers associates
at least age 21 who are paid for 1,000 or more hours per
year.
In addition, May has a supplementary retirement plan that covers
associates who, at one time, had compensation in a calendar year
equal to twice the amount of wages then subject to
the payment of old age, survivor, and disability insurance
Social Security taxes. Participants become entitled to a single
life annuity retirement benefit equal to:
|
|
|
|
|
2% of the average of the participants highest three out of
five fiscal years of final annual salary and bonus multiplied by
their years of service, up to a maximum of 25 years;
reduced by |
|
|
|
primary Social Security benefits, company-provided benefits
under Mays retirement and profit sharing plans, and, if
appropriate, amounts to reflect early retirement. |
The minimum benefit under the supplementary retirement plan is
the amount of company-provided benefits that would be payable
under Mays retirement and profit sharing plans determined
without regard to any statutory limits, less the amount of these
benefits actually payable under those plans. If there is a
change in control, as defined in the plan, the supplementary
retirement plan provides that vesting would be accelerated in
limited circumstances and benefits would not be forfeitable.
The expense for Mays retirement plans for fiscal 2004 for
all associates totaled $97 million.
159
The following table shows the estimated aggregate annual
benefits payable under these retirement plans to eligible
associates in specified compensation and years of service
classifications, assuming normal retirement at age 65 in
2004. The May Named Executives had, as of December 31,
2004, the following years of service for purposes of the
retirement plans: John L. Dunham, 28 years; R. Dean Wolfe,
32 years; William P. McNamara, 32 years; Thomas D.
Fingleton, 26 years; Jay H. Levitt, 17 years; and
Eugene S. Kahn, 14 years.
Pension Plan Table
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Years of Service | |
|
|
| |
Average Annual Earnings |
|
15 | |
|
20 | |
|
25 | |
|
30 | |
|
35 | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
$1,000,000
|
|
$ |
245,680 |
|
|
$ |
320,991 |
|
|
$ |
375,854 |
|
|
$ |
286,258 |
|
|
$ |
301,089 |
|
1,200,000
|
|
$ |
302,348 |
|
|
$ |
396,491 |
|
|
$ |
462,706 |
|
|
$ |
355,184 |
|
|
$ |
370,436 |
|
1,300,000
|
|
$ |
330,682 |
|
|
$ |
434,269 |
|
|
$ |
507,231 |
|
|
$ |
390,754 |
|
|
$ |
406,211 |
|
1,600,000
|
|
$ |
415,684 |
|
|
$ |
547,605 |
|
|
$ |
642,372 |
|
|
$ |
499,011 |
|
|
$ |
515,098 |
|
1,900,000
|
|
$ |
500,686 |
|
|
$ |
660,941 |
|
|
$ |
777,510 |
|
|
$ |
607,274 |
|
|
$ |
623,983 |
|
2,200,000
|
|
$ |
585,687 |
|
|
$ |
774,276 |
|
|
$ |
912,652 |
|
|
$ |
715,535 |
|
|
$ |
732,870 |
|
2,500,000
|
|
$ |
670,689 |
|
|
$ |
887,612 |
|
|
$ |
1,047,792 |
|
|
$ |
823,796 |
|
|
$ |
841,756 |
|
2,800,000
|
|
$ |
755,691 |
|
|
$ |
1,000,948 |
|
|
$ |
1,182,933 |
|
|
$ |
932,055 |
|
|
$ |
950,644 |
|
3,000,000
|
|
$ |
812,359 |
|
|
$ |
1,076,505 |
|
|
$ |
1,273,026 |
|
|
$ |
1,004,230 |
|
|
$ |
1,023,234 |
|
Associates of May who are at least age 21, with one year of
service of at least 1,000 hours of paid employment, may
participate in Mays profit sharing plan. During 2004,
69,814 associates invested $108.2 million in the plan. Of
this amount, $33.7 million was invested in May common
stock. In addition, May will credit $60.2 million of May
common stock and ESOP stock to associates accounts as a
result of the plans matching formula.
The plan links its benefits to Mays performance each year
and to the value of the common stock. Generally, May matches
employee contributions up to the first 5% of pay for each pay
period that an associate invests in the plan. In 2004,
associates made $63.8 million of matchable
contributions to the plan. The effective matching rate for 2004
was 94.0%. The effective matching rate has averaged 76.1% over
the last five years.
During fiscal 2004, each of the May Named Executives became
eligible to receive a potential long-term cash award for the
three fiscal years ending in fiscal 2006 under Mays
Executive Incentive Compensation Plan for Corporate Executives.
The following table shows the maximum long-term cash awards
payable for that period under the plan.
LONG-TERM INCENTIVE PLAN AWARDS
IN LAST FISCAL YEAR
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Performance or Other | |
|
Estimated Maximum Future | |
|
|
Period Until Maturation | |
|
Payouts Under Non-Stock- | |
Name |
|
or Payout | |
|
Price-Based Plan(1) | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
John L. Dunham
|
|
|
2004-2006 |
|
|
$ |
879,681 |
|
R. Dean Wolfe
|
|
|
2004-2006 |
|
|
$ |
408,675 |
|
William P. McNamara
|
|
|
2004-2006 |
|
|
$ |
378,525 |
|
Thomas D. Fingleton
|
|
|
2004-2006 |
|
|
$ |
346,800 |
|
Jay H. Levitt
|
|
|
2004-2006 |
|
|
$ |
315,150 |
|
Eugene S. Kahn
|
|
|
2004-2006 |
|
|
$ |
1,350,000 |
|
|
|
(1) |
Payouts may range from $0 to the award values shown above. The
estimate above assumes that the individual remains eligible to
participate throughout the three-year period, that the maximum
performance goals have been met, and that the stock price has
increased sufficiently to result in the maximum stock price
adjustment. |
160
Report of the Executive Compensation and Development
Committee
Each member of the Executive Compensation and Development
Committee, referred to as the ECD Committee, is an
independent, non-management director. We review and
approve, among other things, the compensation payable to each of
the executive officers named in the summary compensation table.
|
|
|
2004 Compensation Review and 2005 Changes to Senior
Executive Compensation Program |
|
|
|
Review Process and Findings |
In early 2004, the ECD Committee recommended a redesign of
Mays senior management compensation program to the board.
The goal was to give the ECD Committee and the board more
flexibility in the programs design and administration.
Specifically, the Committee wanted to:
|
|
|
|
|
allow the ECD Committee to set and change specific details of
the program (e.g., measures, weightings and award opportunities)
over time to respond to business needs and ensure appropriate
sensitivity to stockholders interests; |
|
|
|
design a plan that would be easier for participants to
understand; and |
|
|
|
include a higher percentage of annual compensation that is
performance based. |
The stockholders approved the proposed amendments to the
incentive plan in May 2004, and the ECD Committee engaged Sibson
Consulting to work with the ECD Committee and management to
develop the details of the new program.
Sibson Consulting collected information on competitive pay
practices of 14 companies in Mays retail peer group,
using proxy disclosures and a confidential survey of retail
competitors conducted by the Hay Group. The ECD Committee
also reviewed data on general emerging compensation trends
across all industries, and the results of confidential
interviews with members of the ECD Committee, with members of
the companys senior management group and with participants
in the divisions.
The ECD Committee found that, overall, Mays total
compensation falls within a competitive range. The most
significant differences found in Mays program are that:
|
|
|
|
|
base salaries were generally above the competitive market median; |
|
|
|
Mays program had lower than competitive annual incentive
opportunities as a percent of base salary; |
|
|
|
Mays program had a more limited range of payouts around
target performance; |
|
|
|
Mays program had a narrower range of performance that is
considered for performance-based awards; |
|
|
|
May uses more performance restricted stock (as compared to time
restricted stock) than the competitive market; and |
|
|
|
May used three long-term vehicles, while most of the competitive
market used two. |
The ECD Committee also determined that some aspects of the
existing program were not well understood by participants,
making the program less effective than it could be.
|
|
|
Updated Compensation Philosophy |
The ECD Committee developed an updated compensation philosophy
and plan that accomplishes the objectives of the project,
responds to several of the competitive practice findings and
should result in the following changes in executive behavior:
|
|
|
|
|
increased emphasis on annual results; |
|
|
|
increased intensity to achieve both store-for-store sales and
earnings growth; and |
|
|
|
greater buy-in by executives in the divisions to more
competitive and aggressive store-for-store sales growth
strategies. |
161
The updated compensation philosophy will guide the ECD Committee
and management as they consider the compensation of senior
executives:
|
|
|
|
|
Incentive pay will be highly prominent in Mays executive
compensation design, allowing for significantly increased
payouts when performance exceeds internal targets and peer
performance and significantly reduced payouts when performance
is poorer. |
|
|
|
|
|
Performance schedules will allow for a broad range of
performance and payouts around target. |
|
|
|
Performance measures and goals will be explicit and controllable
by participants. |
|
|
|
|
|
Annual incentive pay will be more prominent for division
principals than for the corporate senior management committee,
whose compensation will have more balance between annual and
longer-term performance. |
|
|
|
Mays performance-based compensation program will
complement other reasons executives stay at May, including the
companys reputation and financial stability, the work
environment and career opportunities. |
|
|
|
|
|
May will use a broad group of retail comparators to benchmark
pay levels (department store peers and prominent specialty
retailers). |
|
|
|
May will place more emphasis on its key retail comparators when
comparing design practices and company performance. |
|
|
|
|
|
Pay positioning and mix |
|
|
|
|
|
Base salaries and total pay opportunities will be targeted at
the median of the retail peer group for positions with similar
responsibility. Mix of annual and long-term incentive
opportunities may be adjusted based on business needs. |
|
|
|
When performance is above or below target, pay will be
sufficiently variable to result in pay levels commensurately
above or below median. |
|
|
|
|
|
May expects executives to hold stock in order to sustain a
long-term link between executive and shareowner interests.
Mays executive compensation program will include: |
|
|
|
|
|
explicit ownership guidelines for executives; |
|
|
|
annual communication about actual stock ownership versus the
guidelines; and |
|
|
|
equity programs intended to build stock ownership over time. |
|
|
|
|
|
Performance measurement |
|
|
|
|
|
Performance measures within Mays variable pay components
will reflect the business priorities and have the following
characteristics: |
|
|
|
|
|
reinforce strong balances growth in revenue, earnings and stock
market performance; and |
|
|
|
represent a balanced emphasis on key financial and operational
drivers, growth that will result in current and future profits
and ultimate shareowner value creation. |
|
|
|
|
|
The Committee and the company may also choose to reward
executives for progress against agreed-upon strategic
initiatives (e.g., integration of an acquisition, division
combinations) through additional incentive opportunities or
variations in equity grants. |
162
|
|
|
|
|
Performance measurement for division principals will be based
primarily on their own divisions annual performance,
although they will be tied to overall corporate longer term
performance through equity awards. |
|
|
|
|
|
Mays overall approach to goal setting will encourage
exceeding performance of key competitors as well as generating
sustained year-over-year improvement. |
|
|
|
Summary of Program Changes Beginning in 2005 |
As a result of the comprehensive study and of implementation of
the compensation philosophy, the ECD Committee recommended
that, beginning in 2005, May implement the following key changes:
|
|
|
|
|
manage the growth of base salaries toward the competitive median
range, and, over time, to 100% of the median, on average; |
|
|
|
increase the percentage of annual compensation that is
performance based, by: |
|
|
|
|
|
shifting the current long-term cash bonus opportunity into the
annual cash bonus opportunity, and positioning the annual
opportunities closer to the competitive median; |
|
|
|
placing a balanced emphasis on both store-for-store sales and
earnings growth when determining payouts; and |
|
|
|
paying no award for performance below threshold; |
|
|
|
|
|
provide additional upside opportunities for superior
performance, by increasing the maximum payout from 90% to 120%
of salary (with higher opportunities for Mr. Dunham),
noting that the 120% maximum positions the annual bonus
opportunity closer to the competitive median; |
|
|
|
shift the senior management committees performance
restricted stock from a three-year earnings per share basis to
an annual earnings per share basis; and |
|
|
|
manage total compensation to market median. |
Generally, bonuses will be calculated on the pre-2005 basis and
on the new basis, and the executive will get the higher of the
two calculations. The ECD Committee anticipates that the new
basis will generally produce the higher calculation.
Compensation for senior executives in 2004 was composed of a
base salary, bonus opportunities (a significant potential
portion of the total compensation) and long-term stock-related
incentives. We review compensation based on our compensation
philosophy, on company performance, and on competitive practices.
We review base salaries annually. They may be increased after
our review based on:
|
|
|
|
|
the individuals contribution to the company, including
changes in responsibilities; |
|
|
|
competitive pay levels; and |
|
|
|
managements recommendations. |
As a result of this overall review, salary rates for the May
Named Executives increased on May 1, 2004, an average of
3.6% over the rates in effect at the beginning of fiscal 2004.
The salary rate for Mr. Kahn had not changed since May 2002.
163
May has performance-based bonus plans covering approximately
4,700 associates. Each plan links a major portion of the
associates potential pay to the associates
performance and to Mays performance. Before 2005, the
bonus opportunities for the senior executives and executive
officers included both annual and long-term opportunities. Each
May Named Executive participates in the executive incentive
compensation plan for corporate executives.
For 2004, the May Named Executives became eligible for annual
bonuses of up to 45% (78.75% for Mr. Dunham) of base
salary. We determined their bonuses based on whether May
achieved certain predetermined performance levels (threshold,
target or maximum) for (i) earnings per share
(EPS) and (ii) return on net assets (RONA) over
the year.
The annual bonus may be adjusted in two ways:
|
|
|
|
|
downward, in our discretion; and |
|
|
|
upward or downward, automatically, based on Mays
performance relative to the EPS and RONA performance of a
predetermined group of competitors consisting of Dillards,
Federated Department Stores, J.C. Penney, Kohls,
Nordstrom, Target, and Sears. For both the annual and long-term
bonuses, Mays relative rank was determined based on
publicly available information about the competitor group,
adjusted for comparability. Our independent public accounting
firm subjected the information to certain agreed upon procedures. |
While return on equity is the companys principal measure
in evaluating its performance for shareowners and its ability to
invest shareowners funds profitably, the bonus plans use
RONA in evaluating this element of bonus opportunity to
facilitate industry comparisons without having to make
adjustments for financial leverage among the competitor group.
In 2004:
|
|
|
|
|
May achieved below the threshold performance level we set for
EPS; and |
|
|
|
May achieved below the threshold performance level we set for
RONA. |
Based on these results, no annual bonus awards were paid to any
of the May Named Executives.
For the three-fiscal-year period that ended in 2004, the May
Named Executives became eligible for long-term bonuses of up to
45% (78.75% for Mr. Dunham) of average base salary. We
determined their bonuses based on (a) whether May achieved
certain predetermined performance levels (threshold, target or
maximum) for (i) compound growth rate for EPS and
(ii) average RONA over the three-fiscal-year period, and
(b) the change in stock price over the three-fiscal-year
period.
The long-term bonus may be adjusted in two ways:
|
|
|
|
|
downward, in our discretion; and |
|
|
|
upward or downward, automatically, based on Mays
performance compared to the EPS and RONA performances of the
competitor group, and predetermined levels of changes in
Mays common stock price over the period. |
For the three-year period that ended with fiscal 2004:
|
|
|
|
|
May achieved below the threshold level of performance we set for
compound EPS growth; |
|
|
|
May achieved below the threshold performance level we set for
average RONA, but Mays performance, relative to the
average RONA performance of the competitor group, ranked fourth,
so that the long-term bonus based on average RONA performance
was adjusted to the threshold level; and |
|
|
|
Mays common stock price decreased by 7.5% over the period,
resulting in a 7.5% decrease in bonus. |
164
Based on these results, the long-term bonuses awarded for the
three-year period that ended with fiscal 2004 represented
8.1% of average base salary for Mr. Dunham, and 4.6% of
average base salary for each of the other May Named Executives.
In addition, the committee approved special 2004 bonuses of
$500,000 for Mr. Dunham and $250,000 each for
Mr. McNamara, Mr. Fingleton and Mr. Wolfe for the
successful acquisition and assimilation of Marshall Fields.
|
|
|
Long-term Stock-related Incentives. |
May provides long-term stock-related incentives through stock
options and restricted stock. These incentives are designed to
attract, retain, and motivate management associates, and relate
their compensation directly to Mays stock performance. May
grants stock options at fair market value on the grant date.
They have value to the executive only if Mays stock price
increases. We establish guidelines for the grant of options for
all executives, and we specifically approve any grants to the
executive officers. We base the guidelines for annual grants on
competitive practices and position levels. We approve restricted
stock grants in special circumstances.
The May Named Executives received annual stock option grants in
2004 consistent with normal annual grant levels previously
established for them. Mr. Dunham received a special stock
option grant in 2004, and each of Mr. Dunham,
Mr. Wolfe, Mr. McNamara, Mr. Fingleton and
Mr. Levitt received restricted stock grants in conjunction
with extensions of their employment agreements. We made no other
special option or restricted stock grants to the May Named
Executives in 2004.
|
|
|
Compensation Arrangement for the CEO |
The base salary rate for Mr. Kahn did not change in 2003 or
2004. For 2004, Mr. Kahn was eligible for an annual bonus
of up to 90% of base salary and, for the
three-fiscal-year-period that ended in 2004, Mr. Kahn was
eligible for a long-term bonus of up to 90% of his average base
salary over that period. As a result of his January 14,
2005 resignation, Mr. Kahns active employment under
his employment agreement with May and his service on the board
of directors terminated on January 14, 2005. The committee
is in the process of negotiating separation arrangements with
Mr. Kahn. The two-year non-compete and non-solicitation
period provided for in Mr. Kahns employment agreement
commenced on January 15, 2005, and will extend to
January 14, 2007. Under the terms of his employment
agreement, Mr. Kahn continues to receive his base salary
during the non-compete period.
Tax laws and IRS regulations limit the tax deductibility of
executive compensation in excess of $1 million. Certain
exceptions permit tax deductions on this compensation, including
exceptions for performance-based compensation. Our policy
continues to be that May should attempt, whenever reasonably
possible, to qualify future compensation to be tax deductible.
|
|
|
Executive Compensation and Development Committee: |
|
|
|
James M. Kilts, Chairman |
|
Russell E. Palmer |
|
Michael R. Quinlan |
Report of the Audit Committee
The Audit Committee of The May Department Stores Company Board
of Directors (the Committee) is composed of independent
directors and operates under a written charter adopted by the
Board of Directors. The charter is available on the
companys website at www.mayco.com.
Management is responsible for the companys internal
controls and preparing the companys consolidated financial
statements. The companys independent accountants are
responsible for performing an independent
165
audit of the consolidated financial statements in accordance
with standards of the public company accounting oversight board
and issuing a report thereon. The Committee is responsible for
overseeing the conduct of these activities and, subject to
shareowner ratification, the appointment of the companys
independent accountants. As stated above and in the
Committees charter, the Committees responsibility is
one of oversight. The Committee does not provide any expert or
special assurance as to the companys financial statements
concerning compliance with laws, regulations, or generally
accepted accounting principles. In performing its oversight
function, the Committee relies, without independent
verification, on the information and the representations made by
management and the independent auditors.
The Committee reviewed and discussed the companys
consolidated financial statements as of and for the fiscal year
ended January 29, 2005 with management and the independent
public accountants. Management represented to the Committee that
the companys consolidated financial statements were
prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting
principles.
The Committee discussed with the independent public accountants
the matters required to be discussed by Statement on Auditing
Standards No. 61, Communications with Audit Committees, as
amended.
The Committee received and reviewed the written disclosures and
the letter from the independent public accountants required by
Independence Standard No. 1, Independence Discussions with
Audit Committees, as amended, and have discussed with the
independent public accountants their independence.
During fiscal year 2004, the company retained its independent
public accountants, Deloitte & Touche LLP, to provide
audit services of $4.3 million and non-audit services of
$0.8 million. The Committee has determined that the nature
and extent of non-audit services provided by Deloitte &
Touche is compatible with maintaining auditor independence.
Based on the reviews and discussions referred to above, the
Committee recommended to the Board of Directors that the
financial statements referred to above be included in the
companys Annual Report on Form 10-K/A.
|
|
|
Russell E. Palmer, Chairman |
|
Marsha J. Evans |
|
Michael R. Quinlan |
|
David B. Rickard |
|
Joyce M. Roché |
The Audit Committee has adopted the following pre-approval
policies for fees and services provided by the independent
public accountant:
|
|
|
|
|
management will not engage Deloitte & Touche to perform
any service (audit or non-audit) without advance approval of the
Audit Committee; subject to the de minimis exceptions allowed by
Sarbanes-Oxley; |
|
|
|
management intends to use Deloitte & Touche for
performing only those non-audit services it deems are
appropriate. Such services will be of a nature and extent that
it would not be prohibited by law, SEC rules or professional
standards, will not place Deloitte & Touche in a
management role, will not impair the auditors capacity for
objective and impartial judgment, and will be limited to those
areas that management believes appropriately use
Deloitte & Touches expertise; and |
|
|
|
at least annually, the Audit Committee will review the fees
associated with the services provided by Deloitte &
Touche. This review shall include, but need not be limited to
(a) the nature, scope, and magnitude of each service and
the fees charged therefore, and (b) consideration of the
possible effect of the performance of such services upon the
independence of Deloitte & Touche. |
166
Stock Performance Graph
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| |
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| |
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| |
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| |
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| |
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| |
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1999 |
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2000 |
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2001 |
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2002 |
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|
2003 |
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2004 |
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| |
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| |
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| |
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| |
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| |
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| |
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May
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$ |
100 |
|
|
|
|
124 |
|
|
|
|
123 |
|
|
|
|
72 |
|
|
|
|
120 |
|
|
|
|
126 |
|
|
S&P-Dept. Stores(1)
|
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|
$ |
100 |
|
|
|
|
131 |
|
|
|
|
144 |
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|
|
|
99 |
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|
|
135 |
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|
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|
159 |
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|
S&P-500
|
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$ |
100 |
|
|
|
|
100 |
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|
|
|
85 |
|
|
|
|
66 |
|
|
|
|
88 |
|
|
|
|
93 |
|
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|
|
(1) |
The companies included in the S&P Retail Department Stores
Index are Dillards, Federated, J.C. Penney,
Kohls, May, Nordstrom and Sears. |
Beneficial Ownership of May Common Stock
The following table sets forth information as to the beneficial
ownership of each person known to May to own more than 5% of
Mays outstanding common stock, based on reports filed with
the SEC in February, 2005 in the case of Capital Research and
Management Company and Dodge & Cox, and based on
reports from the plan administrator, in the case of Mays
Profit Sharing Plan:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Name and Address |
|
Number of | |
|
% of Outstanding | |
|
% of Voting | |
of Beneficial Owner |
|
Shares Owned | |
|
Shares Owned(1) | |
|
Power(2) | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
Capital Research and Management Company
|
|
|
30,173,000 |
|
|
|
10.1 |
% |
|
|
9.7 |
% |
|
333 South Hope Street
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Los Angeles, CA 90071
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Dodge & Cox
|
|
|
37,713,862 |
|
|
|
12.6 |
% |
|
|
12.1 |
% |
|
One Sansome Street
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
35th Floor
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
San Francisco, CA 94104
|
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|
|
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|
|
|
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|
Mays Profit Sharing Plan
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Common Stock
|
|
|
10,834,374 |
|
|
|
3.6 |
% |
|
|
3.5 |
% |
|
ESOP preference shares(3)
|
|
|
371,457 |
|
|
|
100 |
% |
|
|
4.0 |
% |
|
|
(1) |
On May 20, 2005, there were 299,443,318 shares of May
common stock outstanding. |
|
(2) |
On May 20, 2005, Mays voting securities carried
311,993,938 votes and consisted of 299,443,318 outstanding
shares of common stock and 371,457 ESOP preference shares, which
carry 12,550,620 votes. |
|
(3) |
These shares carry 12,550,620 votes. |
167
Stock Ownership of Directors and Executive Officers
The following table shows all May stock and stock-based holdings
beneficially owned, as of May 20, 2005, by Mays
directors, the May Named Executives, and all directors and
current executive officers as a group. All individuals have sole
voting and investment power over the shares beneficially owned,
unless otherwise noted.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Options | |
|
|
|
|
Shares Beneficially | |
|
Exercisable within | |
|
Deferred Stock | |
Name |
|
Owned(1) | |
|
60 Days | |
|
Units | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
John L. Dunham
|
|
|
177,129 |
|
|
|
395,576 |
|
|
|
70,978 |
|
Marsha J. Evans
|
|
|
3,000 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
30,144 |
|
Helene L. Kaplan
|
|
|
20,889 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
21,665 |
|
James M. Kilts
|
|
|
5,178 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
30,686 |
|
Russell E. Palmer
|
|
|
7,490 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
22,217 |
|
Michael R. Quinlan
|
|
|
5,715 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
20,573 |
|
David B. Rickard
|
|
|
3,929 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
2,085 |
|
Joyce M. Roché
|
|
|
3,200 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
13,298 |
|
William P. Stiritz
|
|
|
11,650 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
47,297 |
|
R. Dean Wolfe
|
|
|
268,641 |
|
|
|
301,364 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
Thomas D. Fingleton
|
|
|
144,206 |
|
|
|
209,140 |
|
|
|
18,109 |
|
Jay H. Levitt
|
|
|
55,172 |
|
|
|
129,322 |
|
|
|
52,423 |
|
William P. McNamara
|
|
|
108,038 |
|
|
|
264,538 |
|
|
|
43,092 |
|
Eugene S. Kahn
|
|
|
374,169 |
|
|
|
1,178,917 |
|
|
|
133,470 |
|
Directors and Current Executive Officers
as a Group(2)
|
|
|
1,067,940 |
|
|
|
1,715,861 |
|
|
|
405,020 |
|
|
|
(1) |
The total number of shares beneficially owned by each individual
and group constitutes less than 1% of the outstanding shares.
For the executive officers, the total includes interests in
shares owned by Mays profit sharing plan. Participants may
direct the voting of the shares held by the plan and share
voting and investment power with the plans trustee. |
|
(2) |
Includes 21 individuals. Does not include the holdings for
Mr. Kahn, who is not currently an executive officer. |
168
PRO FORMA FINANCIAL DATA
UNAUDITED PRO FORMA FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF FEDERATED
The following unaudited pro forma financial statements of
Federated give effect to the merger as if the merger had been
completed as of February 1, 2004, with respect to the pro
forma statement of income, and as of January 29, 2005, with
respect to the pro forma balance sheet. Because Mays
acquisition of the Marshall Fields department store group
effective July 31, 2004, was accounted for under the
purchase method of accounting, Mays historical statements
of income give effect to the results of operations of the
Marshall Fields department store group only from and after
that date. The following pro forma statement of income gives
effect to Mays acquisition of the Marshall Fields
department store group as if such acquisition had been completed
as of February 1, 2004, rather than effective July 31,
2004.
The following unaudited pro forma financial statements should be
read in conjunction with the historical consolidated financial
statements and notes thereto of Federated and May, which are
incorporated by reference in this joint proxy statement/
prospectus, and the other information contained or incorporated
by reference in this joint proxy statement/ prospectus. See
Where You Can Find More Information beginning on
page 185. Certain items derived from Mays historical
financial statements have been reclassified to conform to the
pro forma presentation.
The merger will be accounted for under the purchase method of
accounting, with Federated treated as the accounting acquirer.
Under this method of accounting, the purchase price will be
allocated to Mays net assets based upon the estimated fair
values of Mays assets and liabilities at the date of
acquisition. The actual purchase price to be so allocated will
depend upon, among other things, the number of shares of May
common stock issued and outstanding or subject to outstanding
options immediately prior to the merger. The unaudited pro forma
financial statements include adjustments, which are based upon
preliminary estimates, to reflect the allocation of the purchase
price to Mays net assets as of January 29, 2005. The
purchase price allocation presented herein is preliminary, and
final allocation of the purchase price will be based upon the
actual purchase price and the actual assets and liabilities of
May as of the date of the completion of the merger. Accordingly,
the actual purchase accounting adjustments may differ from the
pro forma adjustments reflected herein.
The following unaudited pro forma financial statements are
presented for illustrative purposes only and are not necessarily
indicative of what Federateds actual financial position or
results of operations would have been had the merger, and
Mays acquisition of the Marshall Fields department
store group, been completed on the dates indicated above. The
following unaudited pro forma financial statements do not give
effect to (1) Federateds or Mays results of
operations or other transactions or developments since
January 29, 2005, (2) the synergies, cost savings and
one-time charges expected to result from the merger, or
(3) the effects of transactions or developments, including
sales of stores or other assets, which may occur subsequent to
the merger. In addition, the following unaudited pro forma
financial statements assume the absence of any adjustment to the
purchase price provided for in the merger agreement. The
foregoing matters, and the possible sale by Federated of its or
Mays credit card related assets and use of the proceeds
from such a transaction to fund the cash portion, or to repay
debt incurred to fund the cash portion, of the purchase price
payable in the merger, could cause both Federateds pro
forma historical financial position and results of operations,
and Federateds actual future financial position and
results of operations, to differ materially from those presented
in the following unaudited pro forma financial statements.
169
FEDERATED
UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Historical | |
|
Historical | |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Federated | |
|
May | |
|
|
|
|
|
|
January 29, | |
|
January 29, | |
|
Pro Forma | |
|
Federated | |
|
|
2005 | |
|
2005(a) | |
|
Adjustments | |
|
Pro Forma | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
|
(All amounts in millions) | |
ASSETS: |
Current Assets:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash and cash equivalents
|
|
$ |
868 |
|
|
$ |
62 |
|
|
$ |
(548 |
)(b1) |
|
$ |
382 |
|
|
Accounts receivable
|
|
|
3,418 |
|
|
|
2,294 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
5,712 |
|
|
Merchandise inventories
|
|
|
3,120 |
|
|
|
3,092 |
|
|
|
93 |
(b2) |
|
|
6,305 |
|
|
Supplies and prepaid expenses
|
|
|
104 |
|
|
|
129 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
233 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Current Assets
|
|
|
7,510 |
|
|
|
5,577 |
|
|
|
(455 |
) |
|
|
12,632 |
|
Property and Equipment net
|
|
|
6,018 |
|
|
|
6,190 |
|
|
|
785 |
(b3) |
|
|
12,993 |
|
Goodwill
|
|
|
260 |
|
|
|
2,634 |
|
|
|
(2,634 |
)(b4) |
|
|
9,965 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
9,705 |
(b4) |
|
|
|
|
Other Intangible Assets net
|
|
|
378 |
|
|
|
602 |
|
|
|
(602 |
)(b5) |
|
|
808 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
430 |
(b5) |
|
|
|
|
Other Assets
|
|
|
719 |
|
|
|
160 |
|
|
|
(49 |
)(b6) |
|
|
783 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(47 |
)(b7) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Assets
|
|
$ |
14,885 |
|
|
$ |
15,163 |
|
|
$ |
7,133 |
|
|
$ |
37,181 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS EQUITY: |
Current Liabilities:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Short-term debt
|
|
$ |
1,242 |
|
|
$ |
513 |
|
|
$ |
1,765 |
(b1) |
|
$ |
3,520 |
|
|
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
|
|
|
2,707 |
|
|
|
2,798 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
5,505 |
|
|
Income taxes
|
|
|
352 |
|
|
|
158 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
510 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total current liabilities
|
|
|
4,301 |
|
|
|
3,469 |
|
|
|
1,765 |
|
|
|
9,535 |
|
Long-Term Debt
|
|
|
2,637 |
|
|
|
5,662 |
|
|
|
3,325 |
(b1) |
|
|
12,289 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
665 |
(b7) |
|
|
|
|
Deferred Income Taxes
|
|
|
1,199 |
|
|
|
818 |
|
|
|
(83 |
)(b8) |
|
|
1,934 |
|
Other Liabilities
|
|
|
581 |
|
|
|
528 |
|
|
|
163 |
(b6) |
|
|
1,272 |
|
ESOP Preference Shares
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
211 |
|
|
|
(211 |
)(b9) |
|
|
|
|
Stockholders Equity
|
|
|
6,167 |
|
|
|
4,475 |
|
|
|
(4,475 |
)(b10) |
|
|
12,151 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
5,984 |
(b10) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Liabilities and Stockholders Equity
|
|
$ |
14,885 |
|
|
$ |
15,163 |
|
|
$ |
7,133 |
|
|
$ |
37,181 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
See Notes to Federated Unaudited Pro Forma Consolidated Balance
Sheet
170
FEDERATED
Notes to Unaudited Pro Forma Consolidated Balance Sheet
(All amounts in millions except per share figures)
|
|
(a) |
Certain reclassifications have been made to the historical
presentation of May to conform to the presentation used in the
unaudited pro forma consolidated balance sheet. |
|
|
|
(b) |
|
The merger agreement provides that, in connection with the
merger, May stockholders will be entitled to receive
0.3115 shares of Federated common stock and $17.75 in cash
for each May share of common stock. The merger agreement further
provides that, if the total value of the Federated common stock
to be received in the merger falls below 40% of the total merger
consideration, Federated may elect to pay more in Federated
common stock to maintain the nontaxable status of the merger or,
if Federated does not so elect, May may elect to increase the
cash consideration received in the merger for each share of May
common stock to $18.75. Under the merger agreement, there are no
other circumstances in which the exchange ratio or the cash
consideration increases. Federated has assumed that none of
these changes to the merger consideration payable to May
stockholders will occur. |
|
|
|
Under the purchase method of accounting, the total consideration
payable in the merger will be allocated to Mays tangible
and intangible assets and liabilities based on their estimated
fair values as of the date of the merger. The preliminary
estimated consideration is as follows: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Common | |
|
Additional | |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Stock | |
|
Paid-in Capital | |
|
Total | |
|
|
|
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
|
Issuance of Federated shares to May stockholders
(97.186 shares at $58.55 per share*)
|
|
$ |
1 |
|
|
$ |
5,689 |
|
|
$ |
5,690 |
|
|
|
Estimate of fair value of May stock options assumed
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
294 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(b10)
|
|
Total equity consideration
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
5,984 |
|
|
|
Cash consideration payable to May stockholders
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
5,538 |
|
|
|
Estimated transaction costs
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
100 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(b1)
|
|
Total cash consideration
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
5,638 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total consideration
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
11,622 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
* |
the average market price of Federated common stock from
February 24, 2005, to March 2, 2005. |
For purposes of cash consideration to be paid to May
stockholders and to fund transaction costs, Federated has
assumed that $548 million of cash will be utilized and that
the remainder will be financed through the issuance of
$3,325 million of long-term debt at a weighted-average
interest rate of 4.8% and $1,765 million of short-term debt
at approximately 3.0%. Actual amounts borrowed, and interest
rates payable, will depend on Federateds cash balances and
conditions in the capital markets, including prevailing rates of
interest, at the time the merger is completed. For purposes of
cash consideration to be paid to May stockholders, or for
purposes of repaying any debt incurred to fund such cash
consideration, Federated has assumed no cash proceeds from the
sale of any assets, including Federateds or Mays
credit card operations.
171
FEDERATED
Notes to Unaudited Pro Forma Consolidated Balance
Sheet (Continued)
The estimated consideration is preliminarily allocated as follow:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(b10)
|
|
Mays historical net book value
|
|
$ |
4,475 |
|
(b4)
|
|
Elimination of Mays historical goodwill
|
|
|
(2,634 |
) |
(b5)
|
|
Elimination of Mays historical identifiable intangible
assets
|
|
|
(602 |
) |
(b2)
|
|
Estimate of adjustment to fair value of merchandise inventories
|
|
|
93 |
|
(b3)
|
|
Estimate of adjustment to fair value of property and equipment
|
|
|
785 |
|
(b4)
|
|
Goodwill created
|
|
|
9,705 |
|
(b5)
|
|
Estimate of adjustment to fair value of identifiable intangible
assets
|
|
|
430 |
|
(b6)
|
|
Estimate of adjustment to fair value of pension and
post-retirement obligations
|
|
|
(212 |
) |
(b7)
|
|
Estimate of adjustment to fair value of assumed long-term debt
(including the write-off of deferred financing costs)
|
|
|
(712 |
) |
(b9)
|
|
Eliminate ESOP preference shares
|
|
|
211 |
|
(b8)
|
|
Estimate of deferred taxes on adjustments at combined rate of 38%
|
|
|
83 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total consideration allocated
|
|
$ |
11,622 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Federated has not completed an assessment of the fair values of
assets and liabilities of May and has not finalized its plans
regarding the integration of Mays businesses with
Federateds businesses. Although certain assets are
expected to be deemed as held for sale, the identification of
such assets will not be made until Federateds review of
Mays assets has been completed. Federated expects that the
final purchase price allocation will include adjustments to the
fair values of depreciable tangible assets, identifiable
intangible assets (some of which will have indefinite lives) and
liabilities, including the establishment of any potential
liabilities associated with business integration plans, sales of
assets or operations, and termination and change in control
benefits. To the extent such assessments indicate that the fair
value of the assets and liabilities differ from their net book
values, such differences would be allocated to those assets and
liabilities.
For purposes of the allocation above, Federated has allocated
$785 million to property and equipment. This allocation has
been preliminarily assigned to land and buildings and
improvements. The purchase price was allocated to property and
equipment, with the exception of recent May acquisitions, using
an industry-specific income capitalization approach. Furniture,
fixtures and equipment, which generally have short lives and
relatively modest residual values, were determined to have fair
values that approximated book values. The preliminary allocation
to property and equipment included in these pro forma financial
statements is as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Estimated | |
|
|
Increase in | |
|
Remaining | |
Asset Classification |
|
Value | |
|
Useful Life | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
Land
|
|
$ |
380 |
|
|
|
n/a |
|
Buildings and improvements
|
|
|
405 |
|
|
|
15 years |
|
For purposes of the allocation above, Federated has allocated
$430 million to identifiable intangible assets. The values
assigned to tradenames and customer relationships were estimated
using relative value comparisons with prior acquisitions
adjusted for the anticipated utility to Federated. The
preliminary allocation to identifiable intangible assets
included in these pro forma financial statements is as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Estimated | |
|
|
Assigned | |
|
Remaining | |
Asset Classification |
|
Value | |
|
Useful Life | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
Tradenames
|
|
$ |
168 |
|
|
|
Indefinite |
|
Tradenames
|
|
|
142 |
|
|
|
36 |
|
Customer relationships
|
|
|
120 |
|
|
|
7 |
|
172
FEDERATED
Notes to Unaudited Pro Forma Consolidated Balance
Sheet (Continued)
For purposes of the allocation above, the $9,705 million of
goodwill created represents the amount by which the total
consideration preliminarily allocated exceeds the estimated fair
value of the net assets to be acquired pursuant to the merger.
As described in The Merger Background of the
Merger beginning on page 44, the consideration to be
paid by Federated in the merger was determined through
arms length negotiations between representatives of
Federated and representatives of May. The factors considered by
Federateds board of directors in connection with its
determinations that the transactions contemplated by the merger
agreement are fair to and in the best interests of Federated and
its stockholders are described in The Merger
Federateds Reasons for the Merger and Recommendation of
Federateds Board of Directors beginning on
page 55. In light of the various strategic, competitive,
economic and other factors supporting its decision to approve
the merger, Federateds board of directors did not place
undue emphasis on the fair value of the net assets to be
acquired, as that concept is construed and applied for purposes
of purchase accounting. The purchase price has been allocated to
the assets acquired and liabilities assumed using the guidance
of SFAS 141 and S-X Article 11. In accordance
with this guidance, the purchase price has been allocated to
identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed to the
extent such allocations are currently factually supportable.
Federateds current strategy is to rebrand most of
Mays store tradenames to current Federated tradenames. The
residual purchase price has been allocated to goodwill.
173
FEDERATED
Unaudited Pro Forma Consolidated Statement of Income
For the Fiscal Year Ended January 29, 2005
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Pro Forma | |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Historical | |
|
Historical | |
|
Pro Forma | |
|
Federated | |
|
|
Federated | |
|
May(a) | |
|
Adjustments | |
|
Pro Forma | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
|
(All amounts in millions except per share figures) | |
Net Sales
|
|
$ |
15,630 |
|
|
$ |
15,434 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
31,064 |
|
Cost of sales
|
|
|
9,297 |
|
|
|
8,967 |
|
|
$ |
93 |
(b) |
|
|
18,357 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Gross margin
|
|
|
6,333 |
|
|
|
6,467 |
|
|
|
(93 |
) |
|
|
12,707 |
|
Selling, general and administrative expenses
|
|
|
4,933 |
|
|
|
5,231 |
|
|
|
(8 |
)(c) |
|
|
10,197 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
27 |
(d) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
14 |
(d) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Operating income
|
|
|
1,400 |
|
|
|
1,236 |
|
|
|
(126 |
) |
|
|
2,510 |
|
Interest expense, net
|
|
|
(284 |
) |
|
|
(450 |
) |
|
|
(229 |
)(e) |
|
|
(905 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
58 |
(f) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income before income taxes
|
|
|
1,116 |
|
|
|
786 |
|
|
|
(297 |
) |
|
|
1,605 |
|
Federal, state and local income tax
|
|
|
(427 |
) |
|
|
(273 |
) |
|
|
113 |
|
|
|
(587 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net income
|
|
$ |
689 |
|
|
$ |
513 |
|
|
$ |
(184 |
) |
|
$ |
1,018 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Basic earnings per share
|
|
$ |
3.93 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
3.74 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Diluted earnings per share
|
|
$ |
3.86 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
3.66 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Average common shares:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Basic
|
|
|
175.1 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
97.2 |
(g) |
|
|
272.3 |
|
|
Diluted
|
|
|
178.2 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
97.2 |
(g) |
|
|
278.0 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2.6 |
(h) |
|
|
|
|
See Notes to Federated Unaudited Pro Forma Consolidated
Statement of Income for
the fiscal year ending January 29, 2005
174
FEDERATED
Notes to Unaudited Pro Forma Consolidated Statement of
Income
For the Fiscal Year Ended January 29, 2005
(All amounts in millions)
|
|
(a) |
Historical May results have been adjusted to reflect Mays
acquisition of the Marshall Fields department store group
as if it had occurred as of February 1, 2004 rather than
effective July 31, 2004. See May Unaudited Pro Forma
Consolidated Statement of Income for the fiscal year ended
January 29, 2005 on page 178. |
|
|
|
(b) |
|
Represents the increase in cost of sales resulting from the
adjustment of Mays merchandise inventories to fair value
as described in Note b of the Notes to Unaudited Pro Forma
Consolidated Balance Sheet. |
|
(c) |
|
Represents the elimination of compensation expense for employee
stock options recorded by May under Statement of Financial
Accounting Standards, referred to as SFAS, No. 123,
Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation, to conform
to Federateds accounting principles. Federated accounts
for its stock-based employee compensation plan in accordance
with Accounting Principles Board, referred to as APB, Opinion
No. 25 and related interpretations, so that no stock-based
employee compensation cost related to stock options is reflected
in net income. |
|
(d) |
|
Represents an increase in depreciation and amortization expense
resulting from the adjustment to Mays property and
equipment and identifiable intangible assets based on the
adjustment of such assets to their fair value as described in
Note b of the Notes to Unaudited Pro Forma Consolidated Balance
Sheet. The increase in depreciation and amortization expense has
been estimated as follows: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Estimated | |
|
Additional Annual | |
|
|
Increase in | |
|
Remaining | |
|
Depreciation and | |
|
|
Value | |
|
Useful Life | |
|
Amortization | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
Buildings and improvements
|
|
$ |
405 |
|
|
|
15 |
|
|
$ |
27 |
|
Definite Lived Intangible Assets
|
|
|
100 |
|
|
|
7 |
|
|
|
14 |
|
The unaudited pro forma consolidated financial statements
reflect a preliminary allocation to tangible assets,
liabilities, goodwill and other intangible assets. The final
purchase price allocation may result in a different allocation
for tangible and intangible assets than that presented in these
unaudited pro forma consolidated financial statements. An
increase or decrease in the amount or purchase price allocated
to amortizable assets would impact the amount of annual
amortization expense. The following table shows the effect on
pro forma net income and diluted earnings per share for every
$100 million of purchase price allocated to property and
equipment or amortizing intangible assets at a range of
weighted-average useful lives:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Additional Annual | |
|
|
|
Diluted | |
|
|
Depreciation and | |
|
|
|
Earnings | |
Weighted Average Life |
|
Amortization | |
|
Net Income | |
|
per Share | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
Five years
|
|
$ |
20 |
|
|
$ |
(12 |
) |
|
$ |
(.04 |
) |
Ten years
|
|
|
10 |
|
|
|
(6 |
) |
|
|
(.02 |
) |
Twenty-five years
|
|
|
4 |
|
|
|
(3 |
) |
|
|
(.01 |
) |
|
|
(e) |
Represents the increase in interest expense as a result of the
cash funding of the acquisition as described in Note b of the
Notes to Unaudited Pro Forma Consolidated Balance Sheet. A
1/8 percentage
point change in the assumed interest rates would result in an
adjustment to net income of $8 million before income tax
effects. |
|
|
|
(f) |
|
Represents the decrease in interest expense as a result of the
adjustment of Mays long-term debt to its fair value as
described in Note b of the Notes to Unaudited Pro Forma
Consolidated Balance Sheet. The difference between the fair
value and recorded value of each borrowing is amortized as a
reduction to interest expense over the remaining term of the
borrowing. |
|
(g) |
|
Represents the shares of Federated Common Stock to be issued to
May stockholders to effect the merger as described in Note b of
the Notes to Unaudited Pro Forma Consolidated Balance Sheet. |
|
(h) |
|
Represents the impact of the dilutive May stock options to be
assumed by Federated as described in Note (b) of the Notes
to Unaudited Pro Forma Consolidated Balance Sheet. |
175
MAY
Unaudited Pro Forma Consolidated Statement of Income
For the Fiscal Year Ended January 29, 2005
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
May | |
|
Pro Forma | |
|
|
Historical | |
|
Pro Forma | |
|
Historical | |
|
|
May(a) | |
|
Adjustments(b) | |
|
May | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
|
(All amounts in millions) | |
Net Sales
|
|
$ |
14,311 |
|
|
$ |
1,123 |
|
|
$ |
15,434 |
|
Cost of sales
|
|
|
8,310 |
|
|
|
657 |
|
|
|
8,967 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Gross margin
|
|
|
6,001 |
|
|
|
466 |
|
|
|
6,467 |
|
Selling, general and administrative expenses
|
|
|
4,812 |
|
|
|
419 |
|
|
|
5,231 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Operating income
|
|
|
1,189 |
|
|
|
47 |
|
|
|
1,236 |
|
Interest expense, net
|
|
|
(386 |
) |
|
|
(64 |
) |
|
|
(450 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income before income taxes
|
|
|
803 |
|
|
|
(17 |
) |
|
|
786 |
|
Federal, state and local income tax
|
|
|
(279 |
) |
|
|
6 |
|
|
|
(273 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net income (loss)
|
|
$ |
524 |
|
|
$ |
(11 |
) |
|
$ |
513 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Notes:
|
|
(a) |
Certain reclassifications have been made to the historical
presentation of May to conform to the presentation used in the
Federated Unaudited Pro Forma Consolidated Statement of Income.
Mays historical leased department income of
$95 million and shipping and handling income of
$35 million were reclassified from net sales to selling,
general and administrative expenses. Additionally, Mays
historical buying and occupancy costs of $1,902 million
were reclassified from cost of sales to selling, general and
administrative expenses. |
|
|
|
(b) |
|
Adjustments give effect to the results of operations for the
Marshall Fields department store group for the
26 weeks ended July 31, 2004, as if May had acquired
the Marshall Fields department store group as of
February 1, 2004, including pro forma adjustments to
reflect depreciation and amortization using the asset values
recognized after applying purchase accounting adjustments and
interest expense on borrowings used to finance the acquisition.
May acquired Marshall Fields department store group
effective July 31, 2004, and included Marshall Fields
results of operations in Mays consolidated financial
statements only from and after that date. |
176
DESCRIPTION OF FEDERATED CAPITAL STOCK
The following is a summary of the terms and provisions of
Federateds capital stock. The rights of Federated
stockholders are governed by Delaware law, Federateds
certificate of incorporation and Federateds by-laws. This
summary is qualified in its entirety by reference to the
governing corporate instruments of Federated to which we have
referred you and applicable provisions of Delaware General
Corporation Law. To obtain a copy of Federateds
certificate of incorporation and by-laws, see Where You
Can Find More Information beginning on page 185.
Common Stock
Federated common stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange
under the symbol FD. The registrar and transfer
agent is The Bank of New York. The holders of Federated common
stock are entitled to one vote for each share of common stock
held of record on all matters submitted to a vote of Federated
stockholders. Common stockholders have no conversion,
preemptive, subscription or redemption rights. All outstanding
shares of Federated common stock are duly authorized, validly
issued, fully paid and nonassessable.
Upon satisfaction of Federateds obligations to preferred
stockholders, the common stockholders may receive dividends when
declared by the board of directors. If Federated liquidates,
dissolves or winds-up its business, holders of Federated common
stock will share equally in the assets remaining after Federated
pays all of its creditors and satisfies all of its obligations
to preferred stockholders.
Preferred Stock
The Federated board of directors can, without approval of
stockholders, issue one or more series of preferred stock. The
board can determine the number of shares of each series and the
rights, preferences and limitations of each series, including
dividend rights, voting rights, conversion rights, redemption
rights and any liquidation preferences and the terms and
conditions of issue. In some cases, the issuance of preferred
stock could delay, defer or prevent a change in control of
Federated and make it harder to remove present management,
without further action by Federated stockholders. Under some
circumstances, preferred stock could also decrease the amount of
earnings and assets available for distribution to holders of
Federated common stock if Federated liquidates or dissolves and
could also restrict or limit dividend payments to holders of
Federated common stock.
Federated has not issued any shares of preferred stock to date,
and Federated does not plan to issue any shares of preferred
stock.
COMPARISON OF RIGHTS OF STOCKHOLDERS
As a result of the merger, holders of May common stock will
become holders of Federated common stock. See The Merger
Agreement Merger Consideration beginning on
page 97. The rights of holders of Federated common stock
are governed by applicable Delaware law and the provisions of
Federateds certificate of incorporation and by-laws.
The following is a summary of the material differences between
the rights of Federated stockholders and May stockholders.
Because the rights of stockholders of both May and Federated are
governed by Delaware law, these differences arise principally
from differences between Federateds certificate of
incorporation and by-laws and Mays certificate of
incorporation and by-laws.
The following does not provide a complete description of the
specific rights of Federated stockholders under Federateds
certificate of incorporation and by-laws as compared with the
rights of May stockholders under Mays certificate of
incorporation and by-laws. This summary is qualified in its
entirety by reference to the governing corporate instruments of
Federated and May to which we have referred you. You should read
those documents for a complete understanding of all of the
differences between the rights of Federated
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stockholders and those of May stockholders. See Where You
Can Find More Information beginning on page 185.
Authorized Capital Stock
Federated. Federateds certificate of incorporation
authorizes it to issue up to 500,000,000 shares of common
stock, par value $0.01 per share, and
125,000,000 shares of preferred stock, par value
$0.01 per share.
May. Mays certificate of incorporation authorizes
it to issue up to 1,000,000,000 shares of common stock, par
value $0.50 per share, and 25,000,000 shares of
preferred stock, par value $0.50 per share.
Voting Rights
Federated. Under Federateds certificate of
incorporation and by-laws, the holders of common stock shall be
entitled to vote at all meetings of the stockholders and shall
be entitled to cast one vote for each share of stock held by
them respectively and registered in their respective names on
the books of Federated as of the record date fixed by the
Federated board of directors.
May. Under Mays certificate of incorporation and
by-laws, the holders of common stock shall be entitled to vote
at all meetings of the stockholders and shall be entitled to
cast one vote for each share of stock held by them respectively
and registered in their respective names on the books of May as
of the record date fixed by Mays board of directors.
Cumulative Voting
Federated. Federateds certificate of incorporation
does not provide for cumulative voting, and accordingly, holders
of Federateds common stock do not have cumulative voting
rights in connection with the election of directors.
May. Mays certificate of incorporation does not
provide for cumulative voting, and accordingly, holders of
Mays common stock do not have cumulative voting rights in
connection with the election of directors.
Stockholders Meetings
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Annual and Special Meetings |
Federated. Federateds by-laws provide that annual
meetings shall be held at such date and time as is designated by
the board. Federateds by-laws provide that the annual
meeting shall be held at the place stated in the notice of the
meeting. Federateds by-laws provide that special meetings
may be called by the chairman of the board of directors, by the
majority of the whole board, or by stockholders if certain
conditions are satisfied.
May. Mays by-laws provide that annual meetings may
be held at such time, date and place as the May board of
directors determines and states in the notice to stockholders,
providing that the meeting shall not be more than thirteen
months after the previous annual meeting. Mays certificate
of incorporation and by-laws provide no provision stating who
may call special meetings. Therefore, under Delaware law,
special meetings may be called by the board of directors.
Federated. Federateds by-laws provide that at all
stockholders meetings a quorum shall consist of a majority of
all of the shares of stock outstanding and entitled to vote on
the business to be transacted at the meeting, present in person
or represented by proxy.
May. Mays by-laws provide that the owners of not
less than a majority of the shares issued and outstanding of
May, entitled to be voted thereat, present in person or by proxy
or power of attorney, shall constitute a quorum.
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Notice of Stockholder Meetings |
Federated. Federateds by-laws provide that written
notice of every meeting of the stockholders, stating the place,
date, and hour of the meeting and, in the case of a special
meeting, the purpose or purposes for which the meeting is
called, will be given not less than 10 nor more than 60 calendar
days before the date of the meeting to each stockholder of
record entitled to vote at such meeting.
May. Mays by-laws provide that written notice of
the date, time and place of each annual and special meeting of
the stockholders shall be mailed not less than 10 nor more than
60 days previous to the date of such meeting, postage
prepaid, to each stockholder of record entitled to vote thereat,
at such address as shall appear on Mays books.
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Notice of Stockholder Proposals |
Federated. Federateds by-laws provide that only
business properly brought before annual or special meetings will
be considered at the meeting. To be properly brought before an
annual meeting, business must be specified in a timely notice of
the meeting given at the direction of the Federated board of
directors, otherwise properly brought before the meeting by the
presiding officer or by or at the direction of the Federated
board of directors or otherwise properly requested to be brought
before the meeting by a Federated stockholder. A proper request
requires that the Federated stockholder must have been a
stockholder of record at the time notice was given for the
annual meeting, been entitled to vote at the annual meeting, and
have given timely notice in writing to Federateds
Secretary of the business the Federated stockholder requests to
be brought before the meeting. In general, notice of the
Federated stockholders request must have been received at
Federateds principal executive offices not less than 60
calendar days prior to the annual meeting; provided that if the
announcement of the date of the annual meeting is not made at
least 75 days prior to the date of the annual meeting,
notice by the stockholder must be received not later than the
close of business on the
10th
calendar day following the day on which the public announcement
of the annual meeting is first made. Only matters specified in
the notice for special meetings given by or at the direction of
the chairman of the board, the president or the Federated board
of directors or otherwise properly brought before special
meetings by the presiding officer or by or at the direction of
Federateds board of directors will be considered at
special meetings.
Federateds by-laws provide that, to be in proper form,
stockholder notices must contain for each matter:
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a description in reasonable detail of the business desired to be
brought before the annual meeting and the reasons for conducting
the business at the annual meeting; |
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the name and address, as they appear on the company books, of
the proposing stockholder and the beneficial owner, if any, on
whose behalf the proposal is made; |
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the class and number of shares beneficially owned by the
stockholder and by the beneficial owner, if any, on whose behalf
the proposal is made; |
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a description of the material interest in the matter of the
stockholder and the beneficial owner, if any, on whose behalf
the proposal is made; and |
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other information required under federal securities laws. |
May. Mays by-laws provide that only business
properly brought before annual or special meetings will be
considered at the meeting. To be properly brought before an
annual meeting, business must be specified in a timely notice of
the meeting given at the direction of the May board of
directors, otherwise properly brought before the meeting by the
presiding officer or by or at the direction of the May board of
directors or otherwise properly requested to be brought before
the meeting by a May stockholder. A proper request requires that
the May stockholder must have been a stockholder of record at
the time notice was given for the annual meeting, been entitled
to vote at the annual meeting, and have given timely notice in
writing to Mays secretary of the business the May
stockholder requests to be brought before the meeting. In
general, notice of the May stockholders request must have
been received at Mays principal executive offices not less
than 90 calendar days nor more than 105 days prior to the
anniversary date of the immediately preceding annual meeting;
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provided that if the annual or special meeting is called for a
date that is not within thirty days before or after such
anniversary date, notice by the stockholder must be received not
later than the close of business on the
15th
calendar day following the day on which the notice or public
announcement of the meeting is first made to stockholders. Only
matters specified in the notice for special meetings given by or
at the direction of the chairman of the board, the president or
the May board of directors or otherwise properly brought before
special meetings by the presiding officer or by or at the
direction of Mays board of directors will be considered at
special meetings.
Mays by-laws provide that, to be in proper form,
stockholder notices must contain for each matter:
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a description in reasonable detail of the business desired to be
brought before the annual meeting and the reasons for conducting
the business at the annual meeting; |
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the name and record address of the proposing stockholder; |
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the class and number of shares beneficially owned by the
stockholder; and |
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any material interest of the stockholder in such business. |
Federated. Federateds by-laws provide that each
stockholder will be entitled at every meeting of the
stockholders to one vote for each share of stock having voting
power standing in the name of such stockholder on the books of
Federated on the record date for the meeting and such votes may
be cast either in person or by written proxy. Every proxy must
be duly executed and filed with the Secretary of Federated.
May. Mays by-laws provide that at all meetings of
stockholders each stockholder of record is entitled to cast one
vote for each share appearing on Mays stock book as
standing in his name, which vote may be cast either in person or
by proxy, or power of attorney, but no proxy shall be voted on
after three years from its date.
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Actions by Written Consent |
Under Delaware law, unless the certificate of incorporation
provides otherwise, any action by stockholders to be taken at a
meeting of stockholders may be taken without a meeting if
written consents stating the action to be taken are signed by
stockholders having not less than the minimum number of votes
necessary to take that action at a meeting at which all shares
entitled to vote were present and voted.
Federated. Federateds certificate of incorporation
provides that no action may be taken by the Federated
stockholders by written consent.
May. Mays certificate of incorporation allows
actions to be taken by unanimous written consent of its
stockholders.
Matters Relating to the Board of Directors
Federated. Federateds certificate of incorporation
provides for not less than three nor more than 16 directors
and Federateds by-laws provide that the precise number
will be determined by the board or by the affirmative vote of
the holders of at least 80% of the shares of voting stock.
Federateds board of directors currently consists of ten
directors. Federateds board members are elected by
plurality voting, meaning that the director nominees receiving
the greatest number of votes are elected.
May. Mays certificate of incorporation provides for
not less than three nor more than 21 directors and
Mays by-laws provide that the number of directors shall be
ten. Mays board members are elected by plurality voting,
meaning that the director nominees receiving the greatest number
of votes are elected.
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Federated. Federateds by-laws provide that a
majority of the total number of directors then in office shall
constitute a quorum.
May. Mays by-laws provide that the presence of a
majority of the entire board of directors shall be required to
constitute a quorum for the transaction of business.
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Classification of Directors |
Federated. Under Federateds certificate of
incorporation, members of the board of directors will be elected
by a plurality vote at the annual meeting for a term of three
years. Federateds certificate of incorporation classifies
the board of directors into three separate classes, consisting
as nearly equal in number as may be possible of one-third of the
total number of directors constituting the entire board of
directors, with staggered three-year terms. An amendment to the
certificate of incorporation is up for stockholder vote at the
Federated annual meeting. If Federated stockholders approve this
amendment, each Federated director will be elected to a one-year
term as they come up for reelection each year. Within three
years, all Federated directors will be up for reelection each
year.
May. Under Mays certificate of incorporation, the
members of the board of directors are elected by a plurality
vote at the annual meeting for a term of three years. Mays
certificate of incorporation classifies the board of directors
into three separate classes, consisting as nearly equal in
number as may be possible of one-third of the total number of
directors constituting the entire board of directors, with
staggered three-year terms. An amendment to the May certificate
of incorporation is up for stockholder vote at the May annual
meeting. If May stockholders approve this amendment, each May
director will be elected to a one-year term as they come up for
reelection each year. Within three years, all May directors will
be up for reelection each year.
Federated. Federateds certificate of incorporation
provides that a director may be removed only for cause.
May. Mays certificate of incorporation provides
that a director may be removed only for cause.
Federated. Federateds certificate of incorporation
provides that any newly created directorships resulting from any
increase in the number of directors and any vacancies on the
board resulting from death, resignation, disqualification,
removal, or other cause will be filled solely by the affirmative
vote of a majority of the remaining directors then in office,
even though less than a quorum of the board, or by the sole
remaining director.
May. Mays certificate of incorporation provides
that any vacancy on the board of directors that results from an
increase in the number of directors may be filled by a majority
of the board of directors then in office, provided that a quorum
is present, and any other vacancy occurring in the board of
directors may be filled by a majority of the directors then in
office, even if less than a quorum, or by a sole remaining
director. Any director of any class elected to fill a vacancy
resulting from an increase in such class will hold office for
the remainder of the term of the class to which such director
was appointed and until his successor has been elected and
qualified.
Preemptive Rights
Federated. Federateds certificate of incorporation
does not grant any preemptive rights.
May. Mays certificate of incorporation does not
grant any preemptive rights.
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Dividends
Federated. Federateds by-laws contain no provisions
relating to dividends. As such, under the DGCL, Federateds
board of directors may declare and pay dividends upon the shares
of its capital stock out of its surplus, and in certain
circumstances, out of its net profits for the fiscal year in
which the dividends are declared.
May. Mays by-laws provide that dividends on
Mays stock may be paid at such times and in such amounts
as the board of directors shall, from time to time, determine.
Limitation of Personal Liability of Directors
Federated. Federateds certificate of incorporation
provides that to the full extent permitted by the DGCL or any
other applicable law currently or hereafter in effect, no
director will be personally liable to Federated or its
stockholders for or with respect to any acts or omissions in the
performance of his or her duties as a director of Federated.
May. Mays certificate of incorporation provides
that no director will be personally liable for monetary damages
for any breach of fiduciary duty by such a director to the full
extent authorized by the DGCL. Notwithstanding the foregoing
sentence, a director shall be liable to the extent provided by
applicable law (i) for any breach of the directors
duty of loyalty to May or its stockholders, (ii) for acts
or omissions not in good faith or which involve intentional
misconduct or a knowing violation of law, (iii) pursuant to
Section 174 of the DGCL or (iv) for any transaction
from which the director derived an improper personal benefit.
Indemnification of Directors and Officers
Federated. Federateds certificate of incorporation
provides that each person who is or was or had agreed to become
a director or officer of Federated, and each such person who is
or was serving or who had agreed to serve at the request of the
board or an officer of Federated as an employee or agent of
Federated or as a director, officer, employee, or agent of
another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust, or other
entity, will be indemnified by Federated to the full extent
permitted by DGCL or any other applicable law.
Federateds by-laws provide that Federated will indemnify
to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, any person
who is or was involved in any manner or is threatened to be made
so involved in any threatened, pending, or completed
investigation, claim, action, suit, or proceeding, whether
civil, criminal, administrative, or investigative because such
person is or was or had agreed to become a director, officer,
employee, or agent of Federated or is or was serving at the
request of the board or an officer of Federated as a director,
officer, employee, or agent of another entity, or anything done
or not by such person in any such capacity, against all expenses
(including attorneys fees), judgments, fines, and amounts
paid in settlement actually and reasonably incurred by such
person in connection with such proceeding. Further, Federated
agrees to advance expenses necessary to defend such proceedings.
May. Mays certificate of incorporation provides
that officers and directors and such other persons as authorized
by a majority of the entire board of directors consistent with
the provisions of the DGCL will be indemnified by May to the
fullest extent authorized or permitted by law.
Mays by-laws provide that the company will indemnify to
the fullest extent authorized or permitted by law any person
made, or threatened to be made a party to or otherwise involved
in any action or proceeding (whether civil or criminal or
otherwise) by reason of the fact that he, his testator or
intestate, is or was a director or officer of May or by reason
of the fact that such director or officer, at the request of
May, is or was serving any other corporation, partnership, joint
venture, trust, employee benefit plan or other enterprise, in
any capacity.
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Anti-Takeover Matters
Federated. The Federated company rights plan expired in
accordance with its terms on December 19, 2004.
May. May has in place a shareowner rights
plan pursuant to which a right is attached to each
outstanding share of May common stock. The rights become
exercisable only under certain circumstances involving actual or
potential acquisitions of May common stock by a person or
affiliated persons. The May board of directors has taken all
action required to authorize an amendment to Mays
shareowner rights plan so as to render it inapplicable to the
merger.
Certain Business Combination Restrictions
Section 203 of the DGCL protects publicly-traded Delaware
corporations, such as May and Federated, from hostile takeovers,
and from actions following the takeover, by prohibiting some
transactions once an acquirer has gained a significant holding
in the corporation. A corporation may elect not to be governed
by Section 203 of the DGCL.
Federated. Federateds certificate of incorporation
contains a provision substantially the same as Section 203
of the DGCL. Thus, Federated is governed by the provisions of
Section 203 of the DGCL, which protects it from hostile
takeovers.
May. Neither Mays certificate of incorporation or
by-laws contain the election to not be governed by
Section 203 of the DGCL. Therefore, May is governed by
Section 203 of the DGCL. However, Mays board of
directors has expressly approved the merger agreement and the
transactions contemplated by the merger agreement, including the
merger. As such, the restrictions on business combinations set
forth in Section 203 of the DGCL do not apply to the merger
agreement or the transactions contemplated by the merger
agreement, including the merger.
Vote on Certain Fundamental Issues
Federated. Federateds certificate of incorporation
includes a provision substantially identical to Section 203
of the DGCL.
May. In addition to the voting requirements of
Section 203 of the DGCL, Mays certificate of
incorporation requires that certain business
combinations, including certain mergers, sales, leases and
other dispositions of assets, loans and other financial
assistance, plans of liquidation or dissolution, amendments to
Mays by-laws and reclassifications or recapitalizations,
involving an interested stockholder, or any
affiliate or associate of the interested stockholder, which is
defined as one who (i) beneficially owns or announces an
intention to beneficially own 10% or more of Mays voting
stock or (ii) is an affiliate or associate of Mays
and at any time within two years preceding the date of the
business combination transaction was the beneficial owner of 10%
or more of Mays outstanding voting stock, must be approved
by (A) at least
662/3%
of the outstanding Mays voting stock and (B) a
majority of the outstanding Mays voting stock, excluding
shares held by the interested stockholder.
These approvals are not required if the business combination:
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is approved by a majority of the directors who are unaffiliated
with the interested stockholder and were members of Mays
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involves the payment of consideration to the holders of
Mays capital stock and complies with specific pricing and
procedural conditions set forth in Mays certificate of
incorporation. |
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Amendments to Constituent Documents
Delaware law provides that an amendment to a corporations
certificate of incorporation requires that the board of
directors adopt a resolution setting forth the proposed
amendment and that a majority of the voting power of the then
outstanding capital stock of the corporation approve the
amendment, although the certificate of incorporation may provide
for a greater vote.
Federated. Federateds certificate of incorporation
requires the affirmative vote of 80% of its stockholders to
amend Article Seventh (number, election and term of
directors), provided that if the amendment is approved by less
than 80% but at least a majority of the stockholder vote, the
amendment will take effect twelve months after the date of the
vote.
Federateds by-laws provide that they may be altered,
amended or repealed and new by-laws made at a meeting of the
board of directors or at a meeting of its stockholders, provided
that no amendment adopted by the board of directors may vary or
conflict with any amendment adopted by the stockholders. The
certificate of incorporation provides that certain by-laws may
not be altered or amended by the stockholders without the
affirmative vote of at least 80% of the shares then outstanding.
If the amendment of such bylaw is approved by a majority, but
less than 80% of the outstanding shares, the amendment will take
effect twelve months after the date of the vote.
May. Mays certificate of incorporation provides
that the certificate may be amended as provided under Delaware
law. As such, to amend the certificate of incorporation the
board of directors must adopt a resolution setting forth the
proposed amendment and a majority of the voting power of the
then outstanding capital stock of the corporation must approve
the amendment.
Mays certificate of incorporation further provides that
its by-laws may be adopted, amended, repealed or rescinded by
the vote of two-thirds of the entire board of directors. In
addition, the by-laws may be amended at any general or special
meeting of stockholders, providing that notice of the proposed
amendment was given in the call for such meeting.
LEGAL MATTERS
The validity of the Federated common shares to be issued in the
merger will be passed on for Federated by Dennis J.
Broderick, Esq., Federateds General Counsel. The
material United States federal income tax consequences of the
merger as described in Material United States Federal
Income Tax Consequences beginning on page 92 will be
passed upon for Federated by Jones Day and for May by Skadden,
Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP. Helene L. Kaplan, of
counsel to Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP, is
a member of Mays board of directors and owns
20,889 shares of May common stock, with the associated
rights thereto.
EXPERTS
The consolidated financial statements of Federated as of
January 29, 2005, and January 31, 2004, and for each
of the three fiscal years in the period ended January 29,
2005, and managements assessment of the effectiveness of
internal control over financial reporting as of January 29,
2005, have been incorporated by reference herein and in the
registration statement of which this joint proxy statement/
prospectus forms a part through the incorporation of
Federateds Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year
ended January 29, 2005, in reliance upon the reports of
KPMG LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm,
incorporated by reference herein, and upon the authority of said
firm as experts in accounting and auditing.
The consolidated financial statements and related financial
statement schedules of May as of January 29, 2005, and
January 31, 2004, and for each of the three years in the
period ended January 29, 2005, and managements
assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over
financial reporting as of January 29, 2005 (which excludes
internal control over financial reporting at the Marshall
Fields division, which was acquired on July 31,
2004), incorporated by reference herein and in the registration
statement of which this joint proxy statement/ prospectus forms
a part from Mays Annual Report on Form 10-K/A for the
year ended
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January 29, 2005, have been audited by Deloitte &
Touche LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, as
stated in their reports, which are incorporated herein by
reference, and have been so incorporated in reliance upon the
reports of such firm given upon their authority as experts in
accounting and auditing.
SUBMISSION OF FUTURE STOCKHOLDER PROPOSALS
Federated. If you wish to submit a proposal to be
included in the proxy statement for Federateds 2006 annual
meeting, we must receive it on or before December 15, 2005.
You should follow the procedures described in Rule 14a-8 of
the Exchange Act and send the proposal to our principal
executive offices: Federated Department Stores, Inc., 7 West
Seventh Street, Cincinnati, Ohio 45202, Attention: Corporate
Secretary.
If you wish to bring matters before stockholders at the 2006
annual meeting other than pursuant to the procedures in
Rule 14a-8, you must satisfy the following requirements
under Federateds by-laws:
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you must notify Federateds corporate secretary in writing
not less than 60 days prior to the annual meeting, except
where the date of the annual meeting was not publicly announced
at least 75 days prior to the date of the annual meeting,
in which case you must notify Federateds corporate
secretary in writing within 10 days of the date of the
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your notice must contain the specific information required by
the by-laws. |
We retain the discretion to vote proxies on a proposal filed
within these deadlines provided (i) we include in the proxy
statement advice on the nature of the proposal and how we intend
to exercise our voting discretion, and (ii) the proponent
does not issue a proxy statement.
May. If you wish to submit a proposal to be included in
the proxy statement for Mays 2006 annual meeting, we must
receive it on or before December 22, 2005. You should
follow the procedures described in Rule 14a-8 of the
Exchange Act and send the proposal to our principal executive
offices: The May Department Stores Company, 611 Olive Street,
St. Louis, Missouri 63101, Attention: Corporate Secretary.
If you wish to bring matters before stockholders at the 2006
annual meeting other than pursuant to the procedures in
Rule 14a-8, you must satisfy the following requirements
under Mays by-laws:
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you must notify Mays corporate secretary in writing not
less than 90 days nor more than 105 days prior to the
anniversary date of the 2005 annual meeting, provided that if
the 2006 annual meeting is called for a date that is not within
30 days before or after such anniversary date, you must
notify Mays corporate secretary in writing within
15 days of the date of the public announcement of the date
of the 2006 annual meeting; and |
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your notice must contain the specific information required by
the by-laws. |
We retain the discretion to vote proxies on a proposal filed
within these deadlines provided (i) we include in the proxy
statement advice on the nature of the proposal and how we intend
to exercise our voting discretion, and (ii) the proponent
does not issue a proxy statement.
WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION
Federated and May file annual, quarterly and current reports,
proxy statements and other information with the SEC. You may
read and copy materials that Federated and May have filed with
the SEC at the following SEC public reference room:
450 Fifth Street, N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20549
Please call the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330 for further information on
the operation of the public reference room.
Federateds and Mays SEC filings are also available
for free to the public on the SECs Internet website at
www.sec.gov, which contains reports, proxy and information
statements and other information regarding
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companies that file electronically with the SEC. In addition,
Federateds SEC filings are also available for free to the
public on Federateds website,
www.fds.com/corporategovernance, and Mays filings with the
SEC are also available for free to the public on Mays
website, www.mayco.com. Information contained on
Federateds website and Mays website is not
incorporated by reference into this joint proxy statement/
prospectus, and you should not consider information contained on
those websites as part of this joint proxy statement/ prospectus.
Each of Federated and May incorporate by reference into this
joint proxy statement/ prospectus the documents listed below,
and any filings Federated or May makes with the SEC under
Section 13(a), 13(c), 14 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act after
the date of this joint proxy statement/ prospectus until the
date of the annual meetings shall be deemed to be incorporated
by reference into this joint proxy statement/ prospectus. The
information incorporated by reference is an important part of
this joint proxy statement/ prospectus. Any statement in a
document incorporated by reference into this joint proxy
statement/ prospectus will be deemed to be modified or
superseded for purposes of this joint proxy statement/
prospectus to the extent a statement contained in this or any
other subsequently filed document that is incorporated by
reference into this joint proxy statement/ prospectus modifies
or supersedes such statement. Any statement so modified or
superseded will be not deemed, except as so modified or
superseded, to constitute a part of this joint proxy statement/
prospectus.
Federated SEC Filings
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Commission File Number 001-13536 |
|
Period |
|
|
|
Registration Statement on Form 8-A
|
|
Filed on December 12, 1994 |
Current Reports on Form 8-K
|
|
Filed on February 8, 2005; Filed on February 22, 2005;
Filed on February 28, 2005; Filed on March 17, 2005;
Filed on March 29, 2005; Filed on April 8, 2005; Filed
on May 5, 2005; Filed on May 11, 2005 |
Annual Report on Form 10-K
|
|
Year Ended January 29, 2005 (filed on March 28, 2005) |
Federated has supplied all information contained or incorporated
by reference into this joint proxy statement/ prospectus
relating to Federated and its respective affiliates.
You can obtain a copy of any document incorporated by reference
into this joint proxy statement/ prospectus except for the
exhibits to those documents from Federated. You may also obtain
these documents from the SEC or through the SECs website
described above. Documents incorporated by reference are
available from Federated without charge, excluding all exhibits
unless specifically incorporated by reference as an exhibit into
this joint proxy statement/ prospectus. You may obtain documents
incorporated by reference into this joint proxy statement/
prospectus by requesting them in writing or by telephone from
Federated at the following address and telephone number:
Federated Department Stores, Inc.
7 West Seventh Street
Cincinnati, Ohio 45202
Attention: Investor Relations
(513) 579-7780
If you would like to request documents, please do so by
July 6, 2005, to receive them before the Federated annual
meeting. If you request any of these documents from Federated,
Federated will mail them to you by first-class mail, or similar
means.
You should rely only on the information contained or
incorporated by reference into this joint proxy statement/
prospectus in voting your shares at the Federated annual
meeting. Federated has not authorized anyone to provide you with
information that is different from what is contained in this
joint proxy statement/ prospectus. This joint proxy statement/
prospectus is dated May 31, 2005. You should not assume
that the information contained in this joint proxy statement/
prospectus is accurate as of any other date, and neither
186
the mailing of this joint proxy statement/ prospectus to
Federated stockholders nor the issuance of Federated common
stock in the merger will create any implication to the
contrary.
May SEC Filings
|
|
|
Commission File No. 001-00079 |
|
Period |
|
|
|
Current Reports on Form 8-K
|
|
Filed on February 10, 2005; Filed on February 11,
2005; Filed on February 28, 2005; Filed on March 2,
2005; Filed on March 23, 2005; Filed on April 8, 2005;
Filed on May 9, 2005; Filed on May 10, 2005 |
Annual Report on Form 10-K/A
|
|
Year Ended January 29, 2005 (filed on May 10, 2005) |
May has supplied all information contained or incorporated by
reference into this joint proxy statement/ prospectus relating
to May and its respective affiliates.
You can obtain a copy of any document incorporated by reference
into this joint proxy statement/ prospectus except for the
exhibits to those documents from May. You may also obtain these
documents from the SEC or through the SECs website
described above. Documents incorporated by referenced are
available from May without charge, excluding all exhibits unless
specifically incorporated by reference as an exhibit into this
joint proxy statement/ prospectus. You may obtain documents
incorporated by reference into this joint proxy statement/
prospectus by requesting them in writing or by telephone from
May at the following address and telephone number:
The May Department Stores Company
611 Olive Street
St. Louis, Missouri 63101
Attention: Investor Relations
(314) 342-6300
If you would like to request documents, please do so by
July 6, 2005, to receive them before the May annual
meeting. If you request any of these documents from May, May
will mail them to you by first-class mail, or similar means.
You should rely only on the information contained or
incorporated by reference into this joint proxy statement/
prospectus in voting your shares at the May annual meeting. May
has not authorized anyone to provide you with information that
is different from what is contained in this joint proxy
statement/ prospectus. This joint proxy statement/ prospectus is
dated May 31, 2005. You should not assume that the
information contained in this joint proxy statement/ prospectus
is accurate as of any other date, and neither the mailing of
this joint proxy statement/ prospectus to May stockholders nor
the consummation of the merger will create any implication to
the contrary.
187
ANNEX A
EXECUTION COPY
AGREEMENT AND PLAN OF MERGER
by and among
FEDERATED DEPARTMENT STORES, INC.,
MILAN ACQUISITION CORP.*
and
THE MAY DEPARTMENT STORES COMPANY
Dated as of February 27, 2005
|
|
* |
It is intended that prior to the meetings of the stockholders of
each of Federated and May, Milan Acquisition Corp. will be
converted to, or otherwise become, a limited liability company
under Delaware law. |
TABLE OF CONTENTS
|
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Page | |
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| |
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ARTICLE I |
|
|
THE MERGER |
|
|
A-8 |
|
|
SECTION 1.1 |
|
|
The Merger |
|
|
A-8 |
|
|
SECTION 1.2 |
|
|
Closing |
|
|
A-8 |
|
|
SECTION 1.3 |
|
|
Effective Time |
|
|
A-9 |
|
|
SECTION 1.4 |
|
|
Effects of the Merger |
|
|
A-9 |
|
|
SECTION 1.5 |
|
|
Certificate of Incorporation and By-laws |
|
|
A-9 |
|
|
SECTION 1.6 |
|
|
Directors and Officers of the Surviving Corporation |
|
|
A-9 |
|
|
SECTION 1.7 |
|
|
Tax Consequences |
|
|
A-9 |
|
|
SECTION 1.8 |
|
|
Adjustments to Preserve Tax Consequences |
|
|
A-9 |
|
|
ARTICLE II |
|
|
EFFECT OF THE MERGER ON THE CAPITAL STOCK OF THE CONSTITUENT
CORPORATIONS; SURRENDER OF CERTIFICATES AND PAYMENT |
|
|
A-10 |
|
|
SECTION 2.1 |
|
|
Effect on Capital Stock |
|
|
A-10 |
|
|
SECTION 2.2 |
|
|
Exchange of Certificates |
|
|
A-10 |
|
|
SECTION 2.3 |
|
|
Certain Adjustments |
|
|
A-13 |
|
|
SECTION 2.4 |
|
|
Dissenters Rights |
|
|
A-13 |
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|
SECTION 2.5 |
|
|
Further Assurances |
|
|
A-13 |
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|
SECTION 2.6 |
|
|
Withholding Rights |
|
|
A-13 |
|
|
ARTICLE III |
|
|
REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES |
|
|
A-13 |
|
|
SECTION 3.1 |
|
|
Organization, Standing and Corporate Power |
|
|
A-14 |
|
|
SECTION 3.2 |
|
|
Subsidiaries |
|
|
A-14 |
|
|
SECTION 3.3 |
|
|
Capital Structure |
|
|
A-14 |
|
|
SECTION 3.4 |
|
|
Authority |
|
|
A-15 |
|
|
SECTION 3.5 |
|
|
Non-Contravention; Consents and Approvals |
|
|
A-16 |
|
|
SECTION 3.6 |
|
|
SEC Reports and Financial Statements |
|
|
A-16 |
|
|
SECTION 3.7 |
|
|
Information Supplied |
|
|
A-17 |
|
|
SECTION 3.8 |
|
|
Absence of Certain Changes or Events |
|
|
A-17 |
|
|
SECTION 3.9 |
|
|
Compliance with Applicable Laws |
|
|
A-17 |
|
|
SECTION 3.10 |
|
|
Employee Benefit Plans |
|
|
A-18 |
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|
SECTION 3.11 |
|
|
Taxes |
|
|
A-19 |
|
|
SECTION 3.12 |
|
|
Environmental Matters |
|
|
A-20 |
|
|
SECTION 3.13 |
|
|
Voting Requirements |
|
|
A-21 |
|
|
SECTION 3.14 |
|
|
State Takeover Statutes |
|
|
A-21 |
|
|
SECTION 3.15 |
|
|
Opinion of Financial Advisors |
|
|
A-21 |
|
|
SECTION 3.16 |
|
|
Brokers |
|
|
A-22 |
|
|
SECTION 3.17 |
|
|
The Company Rights Agreement |
|
|
A-22 |
|
|
SECTION 3.18 |
|
|
Financing |
|
|
A-22 |
|
|
SECTION 3.19 |
|
|
Merger Sub |
|
|
A-22 |
|
|
ARTICLE IV |
|
|
COVENANTS RELATING TO CONDUCT OF BUSINESS |
|
|
A-22 |
|
|
SECTION 4.1 |
|
|
Conduct of Business |
|
|
A-22 |
|
|
SECTION 4.2 |
|
|
No Solicitation by the Company |
|
|
A-25 |
|
A-2
TABLE OF CONTENTS (Continued)
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Page | |
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| |
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ARTICLE V |
|
|
ADDITIONAL AGREEMENTS |
|
|
A-27 |
|
|
SECTION 5.1 |
|
|
Preparation of the Form S-4 and the Joint Proxy Statement;
Stockholders Meetings |
|
|
A-27 |
|
|
SECTION 5.2 |
|
|
Letters of the Companys Accountants |
|
|
A-29 |
|
|
SECTION 5.3 |
|
|
Letters of Parents Accountants |
|
|
A-29 |
|
|
SECTION 5.4 |
|
|
Access to Information; Confidentiality |
|
|
A-29 |
|
|
SECTION 5.5 |
|
|
Reasonable Best Efforts |
|
|
A-30 |
|
|
SECTION 5.6 |
|
|
Company Stock Options; Stock Plans |
|
|
A-31 |
|
|
SECTION 5.7 |
|
|
Indemnification |
|
|
A-32 |
|
|
SECTION 5.8 |
|
|
Public Announcements |
|
|
A-33 |
|
|
SECTION 5.9 |
|
|
Affiliates |
|
|
A-33 |
|
|
SECTION 5.10 |
|
|
NYSE Listing |
|
|
A-33 |
|
|
SECTION 5.11 |
|
|
Stockholder Litigation |
|
|
A-34 |
|
|
SECTION 5.12 |
|
|
Tax Treatment |
|
|
A-34 |
|
|
SECTION 5.13 |
|
|
Section 16(b) |
|
|
A-34 |
|
|
SECTION 5.14 |
|
|
Employee Benefit Matters |
|
|
A-34 |
|
|
SECTION 5.15 |
|
|
Parent Board |
|
|
A-35 |
|
|
SECTION 5.16 |
|
|
Dividends |
|
|
A-35 |
|
|
SECTION 5.17 |
|
|
St. Louis Operations and Community Involvement |
|
|
A-35 |
|
|
|
ARTICLE VI |
|
|
CONDITIONS PRECEDENT |
|
|
A-36 |
|
|
SECTION 6.1 |
|
|
Conditions to Each Partys Obligation to Effect the Merger |
|
|
A-36 |
|
|
SECTION 6.2 |
|
|
Conditions to Obligations of Parent and Merger Sub |
|
|
A-36 |
|
|
SECTION 6.3 |
|
|
Conditions to Obligations of the Company |
|
|
A-37 |
|
|
SECTION 6.4 |
|
|
Frustration of Closing Conditions |
|
|
A-37 |
|
|
|
ARTICLE VII |
|
|
TERMINATION |
|
|
A-38 |
|
|
SECTION 7.1 |
|
|
Termination |
|
|
A-38 |
|
|
SECTION 7.2 |
|
|
Effect of Termination |
|
|
A-39 |
|
|
SECTION 7.3 |
|
|
Fees and Expenses |
|
|
A-39 |
|
|
|
ARTICLE VIII |
|
|
GENERAL PROVISIONS |
|
|
A-40 |
|
|
SECTION 8.1 |
|
|
Nonsurvival of Representations and Warranties |
|
|
A-40 |
|
|
SECTION 8.2 |
|
|
Notices |
|
|
A-40 |
|
|
SECTION 8.3 |
|
|
Interpretation |
|
|
A-41 |
|
|
SECTION 8.4 |
|
|
Counterparts |
|
|
A-42 |
|
|
SECTION 8.5 |
|
|
Entire Agreement; No Third-Party Beneficiaries |
|
|
A-42 |
|
|
SECTION 8.6 |
|
|
Governing Law |
|
|
A-42 |
|
|
SECTION 8.7 |
|
|
Assignment |
|
|
A-43 |
|
|
SECTION 8.8 |
|
|
Consent to Jurisdiction; Waiver of Jury Trial |
|
|
A-43 |
|
|
SECTION 8.9 |
|
|
Specific Enforcement |
|
|
A-43 |
|
|
SECTION 8.10 |
|
|
Amendment |
|
|
A-43 |
|
|
SECTION 8.11 |
|
|
Extension; Waiver |
|
|
A-43 |
|
|
SECTION 8.12 |
|
|
Severability |
|
|
A-43 |
|
EXHIBITS |
|
EXHIBIT A |
|
|
FORM OF COMPANY AFFILIATE LETTER |
|
|
A-46 |
|
A-3
CONFIDENTIAL DISCLOSURE SCHEDULES
|
|
|
|
|
|
Federated |
|
|
|
|
Section 3.10 |
|
|
Employee Benefits |
|
Section 3.11 |
|
|
Taxes |
|
Section 4.1(b) |
|
|
Conduct of Business by Parent |
|
May |
|
|
|
|
Section 3.2 |
|
|
Subsidiaries |
|
Section 3.5 |
|
|
Non-contravention; Consents and Approvals |
|
Section 3.6 |
|
|
SEC Reports and Financial Statements |
|
Section 3.8 |
|
|
Absence of Certain Changes or Events |
|
Section 3.10 |
|
|
Employee Benefit Plans |
|
Section 3.11 |
|
|
Taxes |
|
Section 4.1 |
|
|
Conduct of the Business of Company |
|
Schedule 5.14(d) |
|
|
Compensation and Benefit Matters |
A-4
TABLE OF DEFINED TERMS
|
|
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|
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Term |
|
Page | |
|
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| |
1992 EEIP
|
|
|
A-15 |
|
1995 EEIP
|
|
|
A-15 |
|
Adjusted Option
|
|
|
A-31 |
|
Adjustment Event
|
|
|
A-13 |
|
affiliate
|
|
|
A-41 |
|
Agreement
|
|
|
A-8 |
|
Antitrust Division
|
|
|
A-30 |
|
Antitrust Filings
|
|
|
A-30 |
|
Average Closing Price
|
|
|
A-12 |
|
Benefit Plans
|
|
|
A-18 |
|
Benefits Maintenance Period
|
|
|
A-34 |
|
Business Day
|
|
|
A-8 |
|
Cash Consideration
|
|
|
A-10 |
|
Certificate of Merger
|
|
|
A-9 |
|
Closing
|
|
|
A-8 |
|
Closing Date
|
|
|
A-8 |
|
Code
|
|
|
A-8 |
|
Company
|
|
|
A-8 |
|
Company Adverse Recommendation Change
|
|
|
A-26 |
|
Company Certificate
|
|
|
A-10 |
|
Company Common Stock
|
|
|
A-8 |
|
Company Disclosure Letter
|
|
|
A-13 |
|
Company Employees
|
|
|
A-34 |
|
Company Representatives
|
|
|
A-25 |
|
Company Rights
|
|
|
A-14 |
|
Company Rights Agreement
|
|
|
A-14 |
|
Company Stock Options
|
|
|
A-14 |
|
Company Stock Plans
|
|
|
A-14 |
|
Company Stockholder Approval
|
|
|
A-21 |
|
Company Stockholders Meeting
|
|
|
A-28 |
|
Company Subsidiary
|
|
|
A-22 |
|
Company Takeover Proposal
|
|
|
A-26 |
|
Confidentiality Agreement
|
|
|
A-29 |
|
DCP
|
|
|
A-14 |
|
DGCL
|
|
|
A-8 |
|
Directors DCP
|
|
|
A-14 |
|
Dissenting Shares
|
|
|
A-13 |
|
Dissenting Stockholder
|
|
|
A-13 |
|
EDCP
|
|
|
A-15 |
|
Effective Time
|
|
|
A-9 |
|
Environment
|
|
|
A-20 |
|
Environmental Claim
|
|
|
A-20 |
|
A-5
|
|
|
|
|
Term |
|
Page | |
|
|
| |
Environmental Condition
|
|
|
A-21 |
|
Environmental Laws
|
|
|
A-21 |
|
Environmental Permit
|
|
|
A-21 |
|
ERISA
|
|
|
A-18 |
|
ESOP Preference Shares
|
|
|
A-14 |
|
Exchange Act
|
|
|
A-16 |
|
Exchange Agent
|
|
|
A-10 |
|
Exchange Fund
|
|
|
A-10 |
|
Expenses
|
|
|
A-39 |
|
Foreign Plan
|
|
|
A-18 |
|
Form S-4
|
|
|
A-17 |
|
FTC
|
|
|
A-30 |
|
GAAP
|
|
|
A-17 |
|
Governmental Entity
|
|
|
A-16 |
|
Hazardous Substance
|
|
|
A-21 |
|
HSR Act
|
|
|
A-16 |
|
HSR Filing
|
|
|
A-30 |
|
IBP
|
|
|
A-15 |
|
Indemnified Parties
|
|
|
A-33 |
|
Joint Proxy Statement
|
|
|
A-16 |
|
Junior Preference Shares
|
|
|
A-14 |
|
knowledge
|
|
|
A-41 |
|
Law
|
|
|
A-41 |
|
Leases
|
|
|
A-41 |
|
Liens
|
|
|
A-41 |
|
material adverse effect
|
|
|
A-41 |
|
Maximum Premium
|
|
|
A-33 |
|
Merger
|
|
|
A-8 |
|
Merger Consideration
|
|
|
A-10 |
|
Merger Sub
|
|
|
A-8 |
|
Multiemployer Plan
|
|
|
A-18 |
|
Notice of Adverse Recommendation
|
|
|
A-26 |
|
Outside Date
|
|
|
A-38 |
|
Parent
|
|
|
A-8 |
|
Parent Adverse Recommendation Change
|
|
|
A-28 |
|
Parent Common Stock
|
|
|
A-8 |
|
Parent Disclosure Letter
|
|
|
A-14 |
|
Parent Stockholder Approval
|
|
|
A-21 |
|
Parent Stockholders Meeting
|
|
|
A-28 |
|
Parent Stock Options
|
|
|
A-15 |
|
Parent Stock Plans
|
|
|
A-15 |
|
Parent Takeover Proposal
|
|
|
A-29 |
|
PCBs
|
|
|
A-21 |
|
Permits
|
|
|
A-17 |
|
A-6
|
|
|
|
|
Term |
|
Page | |
|
|
| |
Permitted Liens
|
|
|
A-42 |
|
person
|
|
|
A-42 |
|
Prior Plan
|
|
|
A-35 |
|
Release
|
|
|
A-21 |
|
Representing Party
|
|
|
A-14 |
|
Representing Party Disclosure Letter
|
|
|
A-14 |
|
Representing Party Entities
|
|
|
A-14 |
|
Representing Party Subsidiaries
|
|
|
A-14 |
|
SEC
|
|
|
A-16 |
|
SEC Documents
|
|
|
A-17 |
|
Securities Act
|
|
|
A-16 |
|
Series A Preferred Stock
|
|
|
A-15 |
|
SERP
|
|
|
A-15 |
|
SIP
|
|
|
A-14 |
|
Stock Consideration
|
|
|
A-9 |
|
subsidiary
|
|
|
A-42 |
|
Successor Plan
|
|
|
A-35 |
|
Superior Proposal
|
|
|
A-26 |
|
Surviving Corporation
|
|
|
A-8 |
|
Takeover Statute
|
|
|
A-21 |
|
Tax Certificates
|
|
|
A-31 |
|
Tax Return
|
|
|
A-20 |
|
Taxes
|
|
|
A-19 |
|
Termination Fee
|
|
|
A-39 |
|
Transferee
|
|
|
A-11 |
|
A-7
AGREEMENT AND PLAN OF MERGER
AGREEMENT AND PLAN OF MERGER (this
Agreement), dated as of
February 27, 2005, by and among Federated Department
Stores, Inc., a Delaware corporation
(Parent), Milan Acquisition Corp., a
Delaware corporation and a direct wholly owned subsidiary of
Parent (Merger Sub), and The May
Department Stores Company, a Delaware corporation (the
Company).
W I T N E S S E T H:
WHEREAS, the respective Boards of Directors of the Company and
Parent have each determined that a business combination between
Parent and the Company is in the best interests of their
respective companies and stockholders and accordingly have
agreed to effect the merger of the Company with and into Merger
Sub (the Merger), upon the terms and
subject to the conditions set forth in this Agreement and in
accordance with the General Corporation Law of the State of
Delaware (the DGCL), whereby the
separate corporate existence of the Company shall cease and each
issued and outstanding share of common stock, par value
$0.50 per share, of the Company (together with any
associated Company Rights (as defined below),
Company Common Stock), other than
Dissenting Shares and any shares of Company Common Stock owned
by Parent or any direct or indirect subsidiary of Parent or held
in the treasury of the Company, will be converted into the right
to receive shares of common stock, par value $0.01 per
share, of Parent (Parent Common Stock)
and cash as provided in Section 2.1;
WHEREAS, the Board of Directors of each of the Company, Parent
and Merger Sub has determined that the Merger is advisable and
fair to and in the best interests of their respective companies
and stockholders;
WHEREAS, the Company, Parent and Merger Sub desire to make
certain representations, warranties, covenants and agreements in
connection with the Merger and also to prescribe various
conditions to the Merger; and
WHEREAS, for federal income tax purposes, it is intended that
the Merger will qualify as a reorganization under the provisions
of Section 368(a) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as
amended (the Code).
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual representations,
warranties, covenants and agreements contained in this
Agreement, and for other good and valuable consideration, the
receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, and
upon the terms and subject to the conditions set forth herein,
the parties hereto agree as follows:
ARTICLE I
THE MERGER
Section 1.1 The
Merger. On the terms and subject to the conditions set
forth in this Agreement, and in accordance with the DGCL, the
Company will be merged with and into Merger Sub at the Effective
Time and the separate corporate existence of the Company will
thereupon cease. Following the Effective Time, Merger Sub will
be the surviving corporation (the Surviving
Corporation).
Section 1.2 Closing.
The closing of the Merger (the
Closing) will take place at a time and
on a date to be specified by the parties, which is to be no
later than the second Business Day after satisfaction or waiver
(to the extent permitted by applicable Law) of the conditions
(excluding conditions that, by their terms, cannot be satisfied
until the Closing Date, but subject to the fulfillment or (to
the extent permitted by applicable Law) waiver of those
conditions) set forth in Article VI, unless another
time or date is agreed to by the parties to this Agreement. The
Closing will be held at the offices of Jones Day, 222 East
41st Street, New York, New York 10017, or such other
location to which the parties to this Agreement agree in
writing. The date on which the Closing occurs is hereinafter
referred to as the Closing Date.
Business Day means any day other than
Saturday, Sunday or any day on which banking and savings and
loan institutions are authorized or required by Law to be closed.
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Section 1.3 Effective
Time. On the terms and subject to the conditions set
forth in this Agreement, (i) as soon as practicable on the
Closing Date, the parties shall file a certificate of merger
(the Certificate of Merger) in such
form as is required by, and executed in accordance with, the
relevant provisions of the DGCL and the terms of this Agreement
and (ii) as soon as practicable on or after the Closing
Date, the parties shall make all other filings or recordings
required under the DGCL. The Merger will become effective at
such time as the Certificate of Merger is duly filed with the
Secretary of State of the State of Delaware on the Closing Date,
or at such subsequent date or time as the Company, Parent and
Merger Sub agree and specify in the Certificate of Merger (the
date and time the Merger becomes effective is hereinafter
referred to as the Effective Time).
Section 1.4 Effects
of the Merger. The Merger will have the effects set
forth in the DGCL. Without limiting the generality of the
foregoing, and subject thereto, at the Effective Time, all the
property, rights, privileges, powers and franchises of the
Company and Merger Sub will be vested in the Surviving
Corporation, and all debts, liabilities and duties of the
Company and Merger Sub will become the debts, liabilities and
duties of the Surviving Corporation.
Section 1.5 Certificate
of Incorporation and By-laws. The certificate of
incorporation and by-laws of Merger Sub as in effect immediately
before the Effective Time will be the certificate of
incorporation and by-laws, respectively, of the Surviving
Corporation, until thereafter changed or amended as provided
therein or by applicable Law, except that Article I of the
certificate of incorporation of the Surviving Corporation shall
state The name of the corporation is The May Department
Stores Company.
Section 1.6 Directors
and Officers of the Surviving Corporation. The directors
of Merger Sub immediately prior to the Effective Time will be
the directors of the Surviving Corporation, until the earlier of
their death, resignation or removal or until their respective
successors are duly elected and qualified, as the case may be.
The officers of the Company immediately prior to the Effective
Time will be the officers of the Surviving Corporation, until
the earlier of their death, resignation or removal or until
their respective successors are duly elected and qualified, as
the case may be.
Section 1.7 Tax
Consequences. It is intended by the parties hereto that
the Merger shall constitute a reorganization within
the meaning of Section 368(a) of the Code. The parties
hereto adopt this Agreement as a plan of
reorganization within the meaning of Sections 354 and
361 of the Code and Sections 1.368-2(g) and 1.368-3(a) of
the Treasury Regulations, and for all relevant tax purposes.
Section 1.8 Adjustments
to Preserve Tax Consequences.
(a) If the value of the Stock Consideration on the Closing
Date declines to a level that prevents the satisfaction of the
condition expressed in either or both of
Section 6.2(d) and Section 6.3(d), then
Parent shall have the option, exercisable in its sole
discretion, to increase the number of shares (or fraction of a
number of shares) of Parent Common Stock comprising the Stock
Consideration such that the conditions expressed in both
Section 6.2(d) and Section 6.3(d) are
satisfied. If Parent exercises the option provided in this
Section 1.8(a), then for all purposes in this
Agreement the term Stock Consideration
shall mean the number (or fraction of a number) of fully paid,
nonassessable shares of Parent Common Stock as so increased.
(b) If Parent declines or fails to exercise the option
provided in Section 1.8(a) within three Business
Days of the putative Closing Date, the Company shall have the
option to require that the Company and not Merger Sub be the
Surviving Corporation in the Merger for all purposes in this
Agreement and that the Cash Consideration be increased by
$1.00 per share of Company Common Stock. In such event, all
parties to this Agreement shall be deemed to have waived the
conditions expressed in Section 6.2(d) and
Section 6.3(d). If the Company exercises the option
provided in this Section 1.8(b), then for all
purposes in this Agreement:
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(i) the Merger shall be the merger of Merger Sub with and
into the Company; |
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(ii) the Company will be the Surviving Corporation; and |
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(iii) the Cash Consideration shall be $18.75. |
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ARTICLE II
EFFECT OF THE MERGER ON THE CAPITAL STOCK OF THE CONSTITUENT
CORPORATIONS; SURRENDER OF CERTIFICATES AND PAYMENT
Section 2.1 Effect
on Capital Stock. At the Effective Time, by virtue of
the Merger and without any action on the part of the holder of
any shares of capital stock of the Company, Parent or Merger Sub:
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(a) Merger Subs Common Stock. Each
share of Merger Subs common stock, par value
$0.01 per share, outstanding immediately prior to the
Effective Time will be converted into and become one fully paid
and nonassessable share of common stock of the Surviving
Corporation. |
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(b) Cancellation of Treasury Stock and Parent Owned
Stock. Each share of Company Common Stock that is owned
by the Company, Parent or any direct or indirect majority owned
subsidiary of the Company or Parent immediately prior to the
Effective Time will automatically be canceled and retired and
will cease to exist, and no consideration will be delivered in
exchange therefor. |
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(c) Conversion of Company Common Stock.
Subject to Section 2.2(e), each issued and
outstanding share of Company Common Stock, other than shares of
Company Common Stock to be canceled in accordance with
Section 2.1(b) and Dissenting Shares, will be
converted into the right to receive (i) $17.75 in cash (the
Cash Consideration) without interest
and (ii) 0.3115 fully paid, nonassessable shares of Parent
Common Stock (the Stock Consideration
and, together with the Cash Consideration, the
Merger Consideration). |
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(d) ESOP Preference Shares. Each issued and
outstanding ESOP Preference Share will be converted into the
Merger Consideration on an as converted basis in the same manner
as shares of Company Common Stock under
Section 2.1(c). The Company shall use its reasonable
best efforts to comply with the terms of the Certificate of
Designation, Preferences and Rights governing the ESOP
Preference Shares in order to effect the foregoing. |
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(e) Cancellation of Shares of Company Common
Stock. As of the Effective Time, all shares of Company
Common Stock shall no longer be outstanding and will
automatically be canceled and retired and shall cease to exist,
and each holder of a certificate which immediately prior to the
Effective Time represented any shares of Company Common Stock (a
Company Certificate) shall cease to
have any rights with respect thereto, except either (i) the
rights of Dissenting Shares contemplated in
Section 2.4 or (ii) the right to receive the
Merger Consideration, certain dividends or other distributions,
if any, and cash in lieu of fractional shares of Parent Common
Stock to be issued or paid in consideration therefor upon
surrender of such Company Certificate, in each case, in
accordance with this Article II, without interest. |
Section 2.2 Exchange
of Certificates.
(a) Exchange Agent. As soon as practicable
following the date of this Agreement and in any event not less
than 15 Business Days prior to the Closing Date, Parent will
designate a national bank or trust company reasonably
satisfactory to the Company to act as agent of Parent for
purposes of, among other things, mailing and receiving
transmittal letters and distributing the Merger Consideration to
the Company stockholders (the Exchange
Agent). The Exchange Agent shall also act as the
agent for the Companys stockholders for the purpose of
receiving and holding their Company Certificates and shall
obtain no rights or interests in the shares represented by such
Company Certificates. As of the Effective Time, Parent and the
Exchange Agent shall enter into an agreement which will provide
that Parent shall have deposited with the Exchange Agent as of
the Effective Time, for the benefit of the holders of shares of
Company Common Stock, for exchange in accordance with this
Article II, through the Exchange Agent, cash and
certificates representing the shares of Parent Common Stock
(such cash and such shares of Parent Common Stock, together with
any dividends or distributions with respect thereto with a
record date after the Effective Time and any cash payable in
lieu of any fractional shares of Parent Common Stock, being
hereinafter referred to as the Exchange
Fund) issuable pursuant to Section 2.1
in exchange for outstanding shares of Company Common Stock.
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(b) Exchange Procedures.
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(i) As soon as reasonably practicable after the Effective
Time, the Exchange Agent will mail to each holder of record of a
Company Certificate whose shares of Company Common Stock were
converted into the right to receive the Merger Consideration
(A) a letter of transmittal (which will specify that
delivery will be effected, and risk of loss and title to the
Company Certificates will pass, only upon proper delivery of the
Company Certificates to the Exchange Agent and will be in such
form and have such other provisions as Parent may specify
consistent with this Agreement) and (B) instructions for
use in effecting the surrender of the Company Certificates in
exchange for the Merger Consideration. |
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(ii) After the Effective Time, upon surrender of a Company
Certificate for cancellation to the Exchange Agent, together
with the letter of transmittal contemplated in
Section 2.2(b)(i), duly executed, and such other
documents as may reasonably be required by the Exchange Agent,
the holder of such Company Certificate will be entitled to
receive in exchange therefor the Merger Consideration that such
holder has the right to receive pursuant to the provisions of
this Article II, certain dividends or other distributions,
if any, in accordance with Section 2.2(c) and cash
in lieu of any fractional share of Parent Common Stock in
accordance with Section 2.2(e), and the Company
Certificate so surrendered will forthwith be canceled. In the
event of a transfer of ownership of shares of Company Common
Stock that are not registered in the transfer records of the
Company, payment may be issued to a person other than the person
in whose name the Company Certificate so surrendered is
registered (the Transferee), if such
Company Certificate is properly endorsed or otherwise in proper
form for transfer and the Transferee pays any transfer or other
Taxes required by reason of such payment to a person other than
the registered holder of such Company Certificate or establishes
to the satisfaction of the Exchange Agent that such Tax has been
paid or is not applicable. Until surrendered as contemplated by
this Section 2.2(b), each Company Certificate will
be deemed at any time after the Effective Time to represent only
the right to receive upon such surrender the Merger
Consideration that the holder thereof has the right to receive
in respect of such Company Certificate pursuant to the
provisions of this Article II, certain dividends or other
distributions, if any, in accordance with
Section 2.2(c) and cash in lieu of any fractional
share of Parent Common Stock in accordance with
Section 2.2(e). No interest will be paid or will
accrue on any cash payable to holders of Company Certificates
pursuant to the provisions of this Article II. |
(c) Dividends; Other Distributions. No
dividends or other distributions with respect to Parent Common
Stock with a record date after the Effective Time will be paid
to the holder of any unsurrendered Company Certificate with
respect to the shares of Parent Common Stock represented thereby
and no cash payment in lieu of fractional shares will be paid to
any such holder pursuant to Section 2.2(e), and all
such dividends, other distributions and cash in lieu of
fractional shares of Parent Common Stock will be paid by Parent
to the Exchange Agent and will be included in the Exchange Fund,
in each case until the surrender of such Company Certificate in
accordance with this Article II. Subject to the
effect of applicable escheat or similar Laws, following
surrender of any such Company Certificate in accordance
herewith, there will be paid to the holder of the certificate
representing whole shares of Parent Common Stock issued in
exchange therefor, without interest, (i) at the time of
such surrender, the amount of dividends or other distributions
with a record date after the Effective Time theretofore paid
with respect to such whole shares of Parent Common Stock and the
amount of any cash payable in lieu of a fractional share of
Parent Common Stock to which such holder is entitled pursuant to
Section 2.2(e) and (ii) at the appropriate
payment date, the amount of dividends or other distributions
with a record date after the Effective Time but prior to such
surrender and with a payment date subsequent to such surrender
payable with respect to such whole shares of Parent Common Stock.
(d) No Further Ownership Rights in Company Common
Stock. All shares of Parent Common Stock issued and all
Cash Consideration paid upon the surrender for exchange of
Company Certificates in accordance with the terms of this
Article II (including any cash paid pursuant to
Section 2.2(c) and Section 2.2(e)) will
be deemed to have been issued or paid, as the case may be, in
full satisfaction of all rights pertaining to the shares of
Company Common Stock theretofore represented by such Company
Certificates, subject, however, to the Surviving
Corporations obligation to pay any dividends or make any
other distributions, in each case with a record date
(i) prior to the Effective Time that may have been declared
or
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made by the Company on such shares of Company Common Stock in
accordance with the terms of this Agreement or (ii) prior
to the date of this Agreement and in each case which remain
unpaid at the Effective Time, and there will be no further
registration of transfers on the stock transfer books of the
Surviving Corporation of the shares of Company Common Stock that
were outstanding immediately prior to the Effective Time. If,
after the Effective Time, Company Certificates are presented to
Parent, the Surviving Corporation or the Exchange Agent for any
reason, they will be canceled and exchanged as provided in this
Article II.
(e) No Fractional Shares.
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(i) No certificates or scrip representing fractional shares
of Parent Common Stock will be issued upon the surrender for
exchange of Company Certificates, no dividend or distribution of
Parent will relate to such fractional share interests and such
fractional share interests will not entitle the owner thereof to
vote or to any rights of a stockholder of Parent. |
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(ii) Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement,
each holder of shares of Company Common Stock converted pursuant
to the Merger who would otherwise be entitled to receive a
fraction of a share of Parent Common Stock (after taking into
account all shares of Company Common Stock held at the Effective
Time by such holder) shall receive, in lieu thereof, an amount
in cash (without interest), rounded to the nearest cent, equal
to the product obtained by multiplying (A) the fractional
share interest to which such former holder would otherwise be
entitled by (B) the average of the closing prices for a
share of Parent Common Stock as reported on the NYSE Composite
Transactions Reports (as reported in the Wall Street
Journal, or, if not reported thereby, any other
authoritative source) for the ten trading days prior to, but not
including, the Closing Date (the Average Closing
Price). |
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(iii) As soon as practicable after the determination of the
amount of cash, if any, to be paid to holders of Company
Certificates formerly representing shares of Company Common
Stock with respect to any fractional share interests, the
Exchange Agent shall make available such amounts to such holders
of Company Certificates formerly representing shares of Company
Common Stock subject to and in accordance with the terms of
Section 2.2(c). |
(f) Termination of Exchange Fund. Any
portion of the Exchange Fund that remains undistributed to the
holders of the Company Certificates for six months after the
Effective Time will be delivered to Parent, upon demand, and any
holders of Company Certificates who have not theretofore
complied with this Article II may thereafter look
only to Parent for payment of their claim for Stock
Consideration, Cash Consideration and any dividends or
distributions, if any, with respect to Parent Common Stock and
any cash in lieu of fractional shares of Parent Common Stock.
(g) No Liability. None of Parent, the
Surviving Corporation or the Exchange Agent will be liable to
any person in respect of any shares of Parent Common Stock, any
dividends or distributions with respect thereto, any cash in
lieu of fractional shares of Parent Common Stock or any cash
from the Exchange Fund, in each case, delivered to a public
official pursuant to any applicable abandoned property, escheat
or similar Law.
(h) Investment of Exchange Fund. The Exchange
Agent shall invest any cash included in the Exchange Fund as
directed by Parent in direct obligations of the
U.S. Treasury, on a daily basis. Any interest and other
income resulting from such investments will be paid to Parent.
If for any reason (including losses) the cash in the Exchange
Fund shall be insufficient to fully satisfy all of the payment
obligations to be made in cash by the Exchange Agent hereunder,
Parent shall promptly deposit cash into the Exchange Fund in an
amount which is equal to the deficiency in the amount of cash
required to fully satisfy such cash payment obligations.
(i) Lost Certificates. If any Company
Certificate has been lost, stolen or destroyed, upon the making
of an affidavit of that fact by the person claiming such Company
Certificate to be lost, stolen or destroyed and, if required by
Parent or the Surviving Corporation, as the case may be, the
posting by such person of a bond in such reasonable amount as
Parent or the Surviving Corporation, as the case may be, may
direct as indemnity against any claim that may be made against
it with respect to such Company Certificate, the Exchange Agent
shall issue, in exchange for such lost, stolen or destroyed
Company Certificate, the Merger Consideration and,
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if applicable, any unpaid dividends and distributions on shares
of Parent Common Stock deliverable in respect thereof and any
cash in lieu of fractional shares, in each case, due to such
person pursuant to this Agreement.
Section 2.3 Certain
Adjustments. If, after the date of this Agreement and at
or prior to the Effective Time, the outstanding shares of Parent
Common Stock or Company Common Stock are changed into a
different number of shares by reason of any reclassification,
recapitalization, split-up, stock split, subdivision,
combination or exchange of shares or readjustment, or any
dividend payable in stock or other securities is declared
thereon or rights issued in respect thereof with a record date
within such period, or any similar event occurs (any such
action, an Adjustment Event), the
Merger Consideration will be proportionately and appropriately
adjusted to reflect such Adjustment Event.
Section 2.4 Dissenters
Rights. Shares of Company Common Stock that have not
been voted for adoption of this Agreement and with respect to
which appraisal has been properly demanded in accordance with
Section 262 of the DGCL (Dissenting
Shares) will not be converted into the right to
receive the Merger Consideration at or after the Effective Time
unless and until the holder of such shares (a
Dissenting Stockholder) withdraws such
demand for such appraisal (in accordance with
Section 262(k) of the DGCL) or becomes ineligible for such
appraisal. If a holder of Dissenting Shares withdraws such
demand for appraisal (in accordance with Section 262(k) of
the DGCL) or becomes ineligible for such appraisal, then, as of
the Effective Time or the occurrence of such event, whichever
last occurs, each of such holders Dissenting Shares will
cease to be a Dissenting Share and will be converted as of the
Effective Time into and represent the right to receive the
Merger Consideration, without interest thereon. The Company
shall give Parent prompt notice of any demands for appraisal,
attempted withdrawals of such demands and any other instruments
received by the Company relating to stockholders rights of
appraisal, and Parent shall have the right to participate in all
negotiations and proceedings with respect to such demands except
as required by applicable Law. The Company shall not, except
with prior written consent of Parent, make any payment with
respect to, or settle or offer to settle, any such demands,
unless and to the extent required to do so under applicable Law.
Only the Company shall be entitled to make any payment with
respect to any demands for appraisal of Dissenting Shares, and
Parent shall not reimburse the Company, directly or indirectly,
for any such payment made by the Company.
Section 2.5 Further
Assurances. At and after the Effective Time, the
officers and directors of the Surviving Corporation will be
authorized to execute and deliver, in the name and on behalf of
the Company or Merger Sub, any deeds, bills of sale, assignments
or assurances and to take and do, in the name and on behalf of
the Company or Merger Sub, any other actions and things to vest,
perfect or confirm of record or otherwise in the Surviving
Corporation any and all right, title and interest in, to and
under any of the rights, properties or assets acquired or to be
acquired by the Surviving Corporation as a result of, or in
connection with, the Merger.
Section 2.6 Withholding
Rights. The Surviving Corporation, Parent or the
Exchange Agent, as the case may be, shall be entitled to deduct
and withhold from the consideration otherwise payable pursuant
to this Agreement to any person such amounts, if any, as it is
required to deduct and withhold with respect to the making of
such payment under the Code, or any provision of state, local or
foreign tax Law. To the extent that amounts are so withheld and
paid over to the appropriate taxing authority by the Surviving
Corporation, Parent or the Exchange Agent, as the case may be,
such amounts withheld shall be treated for purposes of this
Agreement as having been paid to such person in respect of which
such deduction and withholding was made by the Surviving
Corporation, Parent or the Exchange Agent, as the case may be.
ARTICLE III
REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES
Except as set forth in the disclosure letter delivered by the
Company to Parent prior to the execution of this Agreement (the
Company Disclosure Letter), and except
as set forth in the Companys SEC Documents filed prior to
the date of this Agreement, the Company hereby represents and
warrants to Parent and Merger Sub, and, except as set forth in
the disclosure letter delivered by Parent and Merger Sub to the
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Company prior to the execution of this Agreement (the
Parent Disclosure Letter), and except
as set forth in Parents SEC Documents filed prior to the
date of this Agreement, each of Parent and Merger Sub hereby
represents and warrants to the Company, in each case, as set
forth in this Article III, with the party making
such representations and warranties being referred to as the
Representing Party and such
Representing Partys Disclosure Letter as the
Representing Party Disclosure Letter.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, any representation or
warranty which expressly refers to the Company, Parent or Merger
Sub is being made solely by the Company, Parent or Merger Sub,
as the case may be.
Section 3.1 Organization,
Standing and Corporate Power. The Representing Party and
each of its subsidiaries is a corporation or other legal entity
duly organized, validly existing and in good standing (with
respect to jurisdictions that recognize such concept) under the
laws of the jurisdiction in which it is organized and has the
requisite corporate or other power, as the case may be, and
authority to carry on its business as now being conducted,
except for such failures of such organization, existence, good
standing and power which would not, individually or in the
aggregate, reasonably be expected to have or result in a
material adverse effect on the Representing Party. The
Representing Party and each of its subsidiaries is duly
qualified or licensed to do business in each jurisdiction in
which the nature of its business or the ownership, leasing or
operation of its properties makes such qualification or
licensing necessary, except for those jurisdictions where the
failure to be so qualified or licensed would not, individually
or in the aggregate, reasonably be expected to have or result in
a material adverse effect on the Representing Party. The
Representing Party has made available to the other Representing
Party prior to the execution of this Agreement complete and
correct copies of its certificate of incorporation and by-laws,
each as amended to the date of this Agreement.
Section 3.2 Subsidiaries.
All outstanding shares of capital stock of, or other equity
interests in, each subsidiary of the Representing Party
(collectively, the Representing Party
Subsidiaries and, together with the Representing
Party, the Representing Party
Entities) (i) have been validly issued and
are fully paid and nonassessable and (ii) are free and
clear of all Liens other than Permitted Liens. All outstanding
shares of capital stock (or equivalent equity interests of
entities other than corporations) of each of the Representing
Party Subsidiaries are beneficially owned, directly or
indirectly, by the Representing Party. The Representing Party
does not, directly or indirectly, own more than 20% but less
than 100% of the capital stock or other equity interest in any
person.
Section 3.3 Capital
Structure.
(a) The Company represents and warrants that the authorized
capital stock of the Company consists entirely of
(i) 1,000,000,000 shares of Company Common Stock and
(ii) 25,000,000 shares of preference stock, par value
$0.50 per share, of the Company, of which
(A) 1,000,000 shares have been designated as Junior
Participating Preference Shares, par value $0.50 per share
(the Junior Preference Shares), and
(B) 800,000 shares have been designated ESOP
Preference Shares, par value $0.50 per share (the
ESOP Preference Shares). Each share of
Company Common Stock carries with it an associated share
purchase right issued pursuant to the Amended and Restated
Rights Agreement between the Company and The Bank of New York,
as rights agent, dated as of August 31, 2004 (as amended
from time to time, the Company Rights
Agreement), which entitles the holder thereof to
purchase, on the occurrence of certain events, Junior Preference
Shares (the Company Rights). At the
close of business on February 25, 2005:
(i) 293,834,196 shares of Company Common Stock were
issued and outstanding (including 1,550,298 shares of
restricted stock); (ii) 26,621,298 shares of Company
Common Stock were held by the Company in its treasury;
(iii) 1,000,000 Junior Preference Shares were reserved for
issuance in connection with the Company Rights;
(iv) 26,559,937 shares of Company Common Stock were
subject to issued and outstanding options to purchase Company
Common Stock granted under the Companys 1994 Stock
Incentive Plan, as amended (the SIP);
(v) 2,199,589 shares of Company Common Stock were
subject to issuance under the Companys Deferred
Compensation Plan (the DCP);
(vi) 171,285 shares of Company Common Stock were
subject to issuance under the Companys Deferred
Compensation Plan for Non-Management Directors (the
Directors DCP and, together with the
SIP and the DCP, the Company Stock Plans
and, such stock options collectively, the
Company Stock Options); and
(vii) 415,451 ESOP Preference Shares were issued and
outstanding. All outstanding shares of capital stock of the
Company are, and all shares that may be issued
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will be, when issued, duly authorized, validly issued, fully
paid and nonassessable and not subject to or issued in violation
of preemptive rights.
(b) Parent and Merger Sub represent and warrant that the
authorized capital stock of Parent consists entirely of
(i) 500,000,000 shares of Parent Common Stock and
(ii) 125,000,000 shares of preferred stock, par value
$0.01 per share, of Parent, of which 5,000,000 shares
have been designated as Series A Junior Participating
Preferred Stock, par value $0.01 per share (the
Series A Preferred Stock). At the
close of business on February 25, 2005:
(i) 167,417,349 shares of Parent Common Stock were
issued and outstanding (including 272,278 shares of
restricted stock); (ii) 31,242,770 shares of Parent
Common Stock were held by Parent in its treasury; (iii) no
shares of Parent Common Stock were subject to issued and
outstanding Parent Series D Warrants; and
(iv) 19,585,374 shares of Parent Common Stock were
subject to issued and outstanding options to purchase Parent
Common Stock granted under Parents 1992 Executive Equity
Incentive Plan (the 1992 EEIP),
Parents 1995 Executive Equity Incentive Plan, as amended
(the 1995 EEIP), Parents 1992
Incentive Bonus Plan, as amended (the
IBP), Parents Supplementary
Executive Retirement Plan, as amended (the
SERP), and Parents Executive
Deferred Compensation Plan, as amended (the
EDCP and, together with the 1992 EEIP,
the 1995 EEIP, the IBP and the SERP, the Parent
Stock Plans) (collectively, the Parent
Stock Options). All outstanding shares of capital
stock of Parent are, and all shares that may be issued will be,
when issued, duly authorized, validly issued, fully paid and
nonassessable and not subject to or issued in violation of
preemptive rights.
(c) Except as set forth in Section 3.3(a) or
3.3(b), as the case may be, as of February 25, 2005,
(1) there are not issued, reserved for issuance or
outstanding (i) any shares of capital stock or other voting
securities of the Representing Party, (ii) any securities
convertible into or exchangeable or exercisable for shares of
capital stock or voting securities of the Representing Party, or
(iii) any warrants, calls, options or other rights to
acquire from the Representing Party or any Representing Party
Subsidiary any capital stock, voting securities or securities
convertible into or exchangeable or exercisable for capital
stock or voting securities of the Representing Party or any
Representing Party Subsidiary and (2) there are no
outstanding obligations of the Representing Party or any
Representing Party Subsidiary to (i) issue, deliver or
sell, or cause to be issued, delivered or sold, any capital
stock, voting securities or securities convertible into or
exchangeable or exercisable for capital stock or voting
securities of the Representing Party or any Representing Party
Subsidiary or (ii) repurchase, redeem or otherwise acquire
any such securities.
Section 3.4 Authority.
(a) The Company represents and warrants that it has all
requisite corporate power and authority to enter into this
Agreement and, subject to the Company Stockholder Approval, to
consummate the transactions contemplated by this Agreement. The
execution and delivery of this Agreement by the Company and the
consummation by the Company of the transactions contemplated
hereby have been duly authorized by all necessary corporate
action on the part of the Company, subject, in the case of the
Merger, to receipt of the Company Stockholder Approval. This
Agreement has been duly executed and delivered by the Company
and, assuming the due authorization, execution and delivery by
Parent and Merger Sub, constitutes the legal, valid and binding
obligation of the Company, enforceable against the Company in
accordance with its terms, except as the enforcement thereof may
be limited by applicable bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization,
moratorium, fraudulent conveyance or similar Laws generally
affecting the rights of creditors and subject to general equity
principles. The Board of Directors of the Company has
(i) duly and validly approved this Agreement,
(ii) determined that the transactions contemplated by this
Agreement are advisable and in the best interests of the Company
and its stockholders and (iii) resolved to recommend to
such stockholders that they vote in favor of the Merger.
(b) Parent and Merger Sub represent and warrant that each
of Parent and Merger Sub has all requisite corporate power and
authority to enter into this Agreement and, subject to the
Parent Stockholder Approval, to consummate the transactions
contemplated by this Agreement. The execution and delivery of
this Agreement by Parent and Merger Sub and the consummation by
Parent and Merger Sub of the transactions contemplated hereby
have been duly authorized by all necessary corporate action on
the part of Parent and Merger Sub, respectively, subject, in the
case of the Merger, to receipt of the Parent Stockholder
Approval.
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This Agreement has been duly executed and delivered by each of
Parent and Merger Sub and, assuming the due authorization,
execution and delivery by the Company, constitutes the legal,
valid and binding obligation of Parent and Merger Sub,
enforceable against Parent and Merger Sub in accordance with its
terms, except as the enforcement thereof may be limited by
applicable bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization, moratorium,
fraudulent conveyance or similar Laws generally affecting the
rights of creditors and subject to general equity principles.
The Board of Directors of Parent has (i) duly and validly
approved this Agreement, (ii) determined that the
transactions contemplated by this Agreement are advisable and in
the best interests of Parent and its stockholders and
(iii) resolved to recommend to such stockholders that they
vote in favor of the issuance of Parent Common Stock pursuant to
this Agreement.
Section 3.5 Non-Contravention;
Consents and Approvals.
(a) The execution and delivery of this Agreement does not,
and the consummation of the transactions contemplated by this
Agreement and compliance with the provisions of this Agreement
will not, (i) conflict with the certificate of
incorporation or by-laws (or comparable organizational
documents) of any of the Representing Party Entities,
(ii) except in connection with the Leases, result in any
breach, violation or default (with or without notice or lapse of
time, or both) under, or give rise to a right of termination,
cancellation or creation or acceleration of any obligation or
right of a third party or loss of a benefit under, or result in
the creation of any Lien upon any of the properties or assets of
any of the Representing Party Entities under, any loan or credit
agreement, note, bond, mortgage, indenture or other agreement,
instrument, permit, concession, franchise, license or other
authorization applicable to any of the Representing Party
Entities or their respective properties or assets or
(iii) subject to the governmental filings and other matters
referred to in Section 3.5(b), conflict with or
violate any judgment, order, decree or Law applicable to any of
the Representing Party Entities or their respective properties
or assets, other than, in the case of clauses (ii) and
(iii), any such conflicts, breaches, violations, defaults,
rights, losses or Liens that, individually or in the aggregate,
would not reasonably be expected to have or result in a material
adverse effect on the Representing Party and that would not
prevent or materially delay consummation of the Merger.
(b) No consent, approval, order or authorization of, action
by or in respect of, or registration, declaration or filing
with, any federal, state or local or foreign government, any
court, administrative, regulatory or other governmental agency,
commission or authority or any non-governmental United States or
foreign self-regulatory agency, commission or authority or any
arbitral tribunal (each, a Governmental
Entity) or any third party is required by the
Representing Party in connection with the execution and delivery
of this Agreement by the Representing Party or the consummation
by the Representing Party of the transactions contemplated
hereby, except for: (i) the filing with the Securities and
Exchange Commission (the SEC) of
(A) a joint proxy statement relating to the Company
Stockholders Meeting and the Parent Stockholders Meeting (such
proxy statement, as amended or supplemented from time to time,
the Joint Proxy Statement) and, in the
case of Parent and Merger Sub, the Form S-4 and
(B) such reports under Section 13(a), 13(d), 15(d) or
16(a) or such other applicable sections of the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the Exchange
Act), as may be required in connection with this
Agreement and the transactions contemplated hereby;
(ii) the filing of the Certificate of Merger with the
Secretary of State of the State of Delaware; (iii) the
filing of a premerger notification and report form by the
Representing Party under the Hart-Scott-Rodino
Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976, as amended (the
HSR Act); (iv) notifications to
the NYSE and, in the case of Parent, filings with and approvals
of the NYSE to permit the shares of Parent Common Stock that are
to be issued in the Merger to be listed on the NYSE; and
(v) such consents, approvals, orders or authorizations the
failure of which to be made or obtained, individually or in the
aggregate, would not reasonably be expected to have or result in
a material adverse effect on the Representing Party and that
would not prevent or materially delay consummation of the Merger.
Section 3.6 SEC
Reports and Financial Statements.
(a) The Representing Party has filed all required reports,
schedules, forms, statements and other documents (including
exhibits and all other information incorporated therein) under
the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the
Securities Act), and the Exchange Act
with the SEC since January 31, 2003 (as such reports,
schedules, forms, statements and documents have been amended
since the time of their filing,
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collectively, the SEC Documents). As
of their respective dates, or if amended prior to the date of
this Agreement, as of the date of the last such amendment, the
Representing Partys SEC Documents complied in all material
respects with the requirements of the Securities Act or the
Exchange Act, as the case may be, and the rules and regulations
of the SEC promulgated thereunder applicable to such SEC
Documents, and none of the Representing Partys SEC
Documents when filed, or as so amended, contained any untrue
statement of a material fact or omitted to state a material fact
required to be stated therein or necessary in order to make the
statements therein, in light of the circumstances under which
they were made, not misleading.
(b) The consolidated financial statements of the
Representing Party included in its SEC Documents comply as to
form, as of their respective date of filing with the SEC, in all
material respects with applicable accounting requirements and
the published rules and regulations of the SEC with respect
thereto, have been prepared in accordance with United States
generally accepted accounting principles
(GAAP) (except, in the case of
unaudited statements, as permitted by Form 10-Q of the SEC)
applied on a consistent basis during the periods involved
(except as may be indicated in the notes thereto), and fairly
present in all material respects the consolidated financial
position of the Representing Party and its consolidated
subsidiaries as of the dates thereof and the consolidated
statements of income, cash flows and stockholders equity
for the periods then ended (subject, in the case of unaudited
statements, to normal recurring year-end audit adjustments). No
Representing Party Subsidiary is required to make any filings
with the SEC.
Section 3.7 Information
Supplied. None of the information supplied or to be
supplied by the Representing Party specifically for inclusion or
incorporation by reference in (i) the registration
statement on Form S-4 to be filed with the SEC by Parent in
connection with the issuance of Parent Common Stock in the
Merger (the Form S-4) will, at
the time the Form S-4 becomes effective under the
Securities Act, contain any untrue statement of a material fact
or omit to state any material fact required to be stated therein
or necessary to make the statements therein, in light of the
circumstances under which they are made, not misleading or
(ii) the Joint Proxy Statement will, at the date it is
first mailed to the Companys stockholders and
Parents stockholders or at the time of the Company
Stockholders Meeting or the Parent Stockholders Meeting, contain
any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state any
material fact required to be stated therein or necessary in
order to make the statements therein, in light of the
circumstances under which they are made, not misleading. The
Joint Proxy Statement will comply as to form in all material
respects with the requirements of the Exchange Act and the rules
and regulations thereunder, except that no representation or
warranty is made by the Representing Party with respect to
statements made or incorporated by reference therein based on
information supplied by the other party specifically for
inclusion or incorporation by reference in the Joint Proxy
Statement.
Section 3.8 Absence
of Certain Changes or Events. Except for liabilities
incurred in connection with this Agreement or the transactions
contemplated hereby, since January 31, 2004, (i) each
of the Representing Party Entities has conducted its respective
operations only in the ordinary course consistent with past
practice and (ii) there has not been a material adverse
change in the Representing Party.
Section 3.9 Compliance
with Applicable Laws.
(a) The operations of the Representing Party Entities have
not been and are not being conducted in violation of any Law
(including the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, including
Section 404 thereof, and the USA PATRIOT Act of 2001) or
any Permit necessary for the conduct of their respective
businesses as currently conducted, except where any such
violations, individually or in the aggregate, would not
reasonably be expected to have or result in a material adverse
effect on the Representing Party.
(b) The Representing Party Entities hold all licenses,
permits, variances, consents, authorizations, waivers, grants,
franchises, concessions, exemptions, orders, registrations and
approvals of Governmental Entities or other persons
(Permits) necessary for the conduct of
their respective businesses as currently conducted, except where
the failure to hold such Permits, individually or in the
aggregate, would not reasonably be expected to have or result in
a material adverse effect on the Representing Party.
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Section 3.10 Employee
Benefit Plans.
(a) The Representing Party has made available to the other
Representing Party a true and complete list of (i) each
material United States bonus, pension, profit sharing, deferred
compensation, incentive compensation, stock ownership, stock
purchase, stock option, phantom stock, retirement, vacation,
employment, consulting, disability, death benefit,
hospitalization, medical insurance, life insurance, welfare,
severance or other employee benefit plan, agreement, arrangement
or understanding maintained by the Representing Party or any
Representing Party Subsidiary or to which the Representing Party
or any Representing Party Subsidiary contributes or is obligated
to contribute or with respect to which the Representing Party or
any Representing Party Subsidiary has any liability, including
each multiemployer plan (as defined in Section 4001(a)(3)
of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as
amended (ERISA)) (a
Multiemployer Plan) and (ii) each
change of control agreement providing benefits to any current or
former employee, officer or director of the Representing Party
or any Representing Party Subsidiary, to which the Representing
Party or any Representing Party Subsidiary is a party or by
which the Representing Party or any Representing Party
Subsidiary is bound (collectively, the Benefit
Plans). For purposes of this Agreement, the term
Foreign Plan refers to each plan,
agreement, arrangement or understanding that is subject to or
governed by the Laws of any jurisdiction other than the United
States other than any such plan, the establishment or
maintenance of which is mandated by applicable Law, and that
would have been treated as a Benefit Plan had it been a United
States plan, agreement, arrangement or understanding. The
Representing Party has made available or shall, as soon as
practicable after the date of this Agreement, make available to
the other Representing Party a true and correct list of the
Foreign Plans. With respect to each Benefit Plan and Foreign
Plan, no event has occurred and there exists no condition or set
of circumstances in connection with which the Representing Party
or any Representing Party Subsidiary would reasonably be
expected to be subject to any liability that, individually or in
the aggregate, would reasonably be expected to have or result in
a material adverse effect on the Representing Party.
(b) Each Benefit Plan (other than a Multiemployer Plan) is
in compliance with, and has been administered in accordance
with, its terms, all applicable Laws, including ERISA and the
Code, and the terms of all applicable collective bargaining
agreements, except for any failures so to administer any Benefit
Plan that, individually or in the aggregate, would not
reasonably be expected to have or result in a material adverse
effect on the Representing Party. Each Benefit Plan (other than
a Multiemployer Plan) that is intended to be qualified under
Section 401(a), 401(k) or 4975(e)(7) of the Code has
received a favorable determination letter from the IRS as to its
qualified status and, to the knowledge of the Representing
Party, no fact or event has occurred which is reasonably likely
to affect adversely the qualified status of any such Benefit
Plan or the exempt status of any related trust, except for any
occurrence that, individually or in the aggregate, would not
reasonably be expected to have or result in a material adverse
effect on the Representing Party. All trusts providing funding
for Benefit Plans that are intended to comply with
Section 501(c)(9) of the Code are exempt from federal
income taxation and, together with any other welfare benefit
funds (as defined in Section 419(e)(1) of the Code)
maintained in connection with any of the Benefit Plans, have
been operated and administered in compliance with all applicable
requirements, except where a failure to comply with such
requirements would not reasonably be expected to have or result
in a material adverse effect on the Representing Party. Each
Foreign Plan is in compliance with, and has been administered in
accordance with, its terms and applicable Laws, except for any
failures so to administer any Foreign Plan that, individually or
in the aggregate, would not reasonably be expected to have or
result in a material adverse effect on the Representing Party.
(c) No Benefit Plan (other than a Multiemployer Plan)
provides medical or life insurance benefits (whether or not
insured) with respect to current or former employees or officers
or directors after retirement or other termination of service,
other than any such coverage required by Law, and, except as
provided in the Benefit Plans, the Representing Party and the
Representing Party Subsidiaries have reserved all rights
necessary to amend or terminate each of the Benefit Plans
without the consent of any other person.
(d) Except as provided in the Benefit Plans, the
consummation of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement
will not, either alone or in combination with another event,
entitle any current or former employee,
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officer or director of the Representing Party or the
Representing Party Subsidiaries to severance pay, unemployment
compensation or any other payment, except as expressly provided
in this Agreement.
(e) Neither the Representing Party nor any Representing
Party Subsidiary is a party to any agreement, contract or
arrangement (including this Agreement) that would reasonably be
likely to result, separately or in the aggregate, in the payment
of any excess parachute payments within the meaning
of Section 280G of the Code as a result of the consummation
of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement (either alone
or in combination with other events). No Benefit Plan provides
for the reimbursement of excise taxes under Section 4999 of
the Code or any income taxes under the Code.
(f) With respect to each Benefit Plan (other than a
Multiemployer Plan), the Representing Party has delivered or
made available to the other Representing Party or shall, as soon
as practicable following the date of this Agreement, deliver or
make available a true and complete copy of: (i) each
writing constituting a part of such Benefit Plan, including all
Benefit Plan documents and trust agreements; (ii) the three
most recent Annual Reports (Form 5500 Series) and
accompanying schedules, if any; (iii) the most recent
annual financial report, if any; (iv) the most recent
actuarial report, if any; and (v) the most recent
determination letter from the Internal Revenue Service, if any.
(g) There are no pending or, to the knowledge of the
Representing Party, threatened claims (other than claims for
benefits in the ordinary course), lawsuits or arbitrations that
have been asserted or instituted against the Benefit Plans, any
fiduciaries thereof with respect to their duties to the Benefit
Plans or the assets of any of the trusts under any of the
Benefit Plans that would reasonably be expected to have or
result in a material adverse effect on the Representing Party.
Section 3.11 Taxes.
(i) The Representing Party and each Representing Party
Subsidiary has filed all Tax Returns required to be filed, and
all such returns are materially complete and accurate, other
than such Tax Returns, the failure of which to file has not had
or would not reasonably be expected to have a material adverse
effect on the Representing Party; (ii) the Representing
Party and each Representing Party Subsidiary has paid all Taxes
due except for those Taxes being disputed in good faith through
appropriate proceedings; (iii) there are no Liens for Taxes
upon the assets of the Representing Party or any of the
Representing Party Subsidiaries, other than Liens for Taxes not
yet due and Liens for Taxes that are being contested in good
faith by appropriate proceedings; (iv) neither the
Representing Party nor any of the Representing Party
Subsidiaries has any liability for Taxes of any person (other
than the Representing Party and the Representing Party
Subsidiaries) under Treasury
Regulation Section 1.1502-6 (or any comparable
provision of Law as a transferee or successor, by contract, or
otherwise); (v) neither the Representing Party nor any
Representing Party Subsidiary is a party to any agreement
relating to the allocation or sharing of Taxes;
(vi) neither the Representing Party nor any Representing
Party Subsidiary has taken any action or knows of any fact,
agreement, plan or other circumstance that is reasonably likely
to prevent the Merger from qualifying as a reorganization within
the meaning of Section 368(a) of the Code; (vii) no
deficiencies for any Taxes have been proposed, asserted or
assessed against the Representing Party or any Representing
Party Subsidiary for which adequate reserves in accordance with
GAAP have not been created; (viii) the financial statements
included in the Representing Partys SEC Documents reflect
an adequate reserve in accordance with GAAP for all Taxes for
which the Representing Party or any Representing Party
Subsidiary may be liable for all taxable periods and portions
thereof through the date hereof; (ix) the Representing
Party and each Representing Party Subsidiary has withheld and
paid all material Taxes required to have been withheld and paid
in connection with any amounts paid or owing to any employee,
independent contractor, creditor, stockholder or other third
party; (x) since January 1, 2003, neither the
Representing Party nor any Representing Party Subsidiary has
distributed stock of another person or has had its stock
distributed by another person, in a transaction that was
purported or intended to be governed in whole or in part by
Section 355 or Section 361 of the Code;
(xi) neither the Representing Party nor any Representing
Party Subsidiary has participated in any listed transaction
within the meaning of Treasury
Regulation Section 1.6011-4; and (xii) the
consolidated federal income Tax Returns of the Representing
Party have been examined and such examinations have been
completed with respect to all taxable years through and
including 2000. As used in this Agreement,
Taxes includes all federal, state or
local or foreign net and gross income, alternative or add-on
minimum, environmental, gross receipts, ad valorem, value added,
goods and services,
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capital stock, profits, license, single business, employment,
severance, stamp, unemployment, customs, property, sales,
excise, use, occupation, service, transfer, payroll, franchise,
withholding and other taxes or similar governmental duties,
charges, fees, levies or other assessments, including any
interest, penalties or additions with respect thereto. As used
herein, Tax Return shall mean any
return, report, statement or information required to be filed
with any Governmental Entity with respect to Taxes.
Section 3.12 Environmental
Matters.
(a) Except where noncompliance, individually or in the
aggregate, would not reasonably be expected to have or result in
a material adverse effect on the Representing Party, the
Representing Party Entities are and have been for the past five
years in compliance with all applicable Environmental Laws and
Environmental Permits.
(b) There are no written Environmental Claims pending
against the Representing Party or any Representing Party
Subsidiary, except for matters that, individually or in the
aggregate, would not reasonably be expected to have or result in
a material adverse effect on the Representing Party.
(c) The Representing Party has made available to other
Representing Party all material information, including such
studies, reports, correspondence, notices of violation, requests
for information, audits, analyses and test results in the
possession, custody or control of the Representing Party
Entities relating to (i) the Representing Party
Entities present compliance or noncompliance within the
past five years with Environmental Laws and Environmental
Permits, and (ii) Environmental Conditions on, under or
about any of the properties owned, leased or operated by any of
the Representing Party Entities for which any of the
Representing Party Entities may be responsible or liable as a
result of a written Environmental Claim, which, in the case of
both clause (i) and clause (ii) above, would
reasonably be expected to have or result in a material adverse
effect on the Representing Party Entities, taken as a whole.
(d) Within the past five years, there have been no Releases
of any Hazardous Substance in, on, under, from or affecting any
currently or, to the knowledge of the Representing Party,
previously owned, leased or operated properties that,
individually or in the aggregate, would reasonably be expected
to have or result in a material adverse effect on the
Representing Party.
(e) Within the past five years, none of the Representing
Party or the Representing Party Subsidiaries has received from
any Governmental Entity or other third party any written notice
that any of them or any of their predecessors is or may be a
potentially responsible party in respect of, or may otherwise
bear liability for, any actual or threatened Release of any
Hazardous Substance at any site or facility that is or has been
listed on the National Priorities List, the Comprehensive
Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Information
System, the National Corrective Action Priority System or any
similar or analogous federal, state, provincial, territorial,
municipal, county, local or other domestic or foreign list,
schedule, inventory or database of Hazardous Substance sites or
facilities, except as would not reasonably be expected to have
or result in a material adverse effect on the Representing Party
Entities, taken as a whole.
(f) None of the Representing Party or the Representing
Party Subsidiaries has assumed, undertaken or otherwise become
subject to any liability of any other person relating to or
arising from Environmental Laws, except for such liabilities
that would not, individually or in the aggregate, reasonably be
expected to have or result in a material adverse effect on the
Representing Party.
(g) As used in this Agreement:
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(i) the term Environment means
soil, surface waters, ground water, land, stream sediment,
surface and subsurface strata, ambient air, indoor air or indoor
air quality; |
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(ii) the term Environmental Claim
means any written demand, suit, action, proceeding,
order, investigation or notice to any of the Representing Party
Entities by any person alleging any potential liability
(including potential liability for investigatory costs, risk
assessment costs, cleanup costs, removal costs, remedial costs,
operation and maintenance costs, governmental response costs,
natural resource damages, or penalties) under any Environmental
Law; |
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(iii) the term Environmental Laws
means all Laws relating to (A) pollution or protection
of the Environment, (B) emissions, discharges, Releases or
threatened Releases of Hazardous Substances, (C) threats to
human health or ecological resources arising from exposure to
Hazardous Substances, or (D) the manufacture, generation,
processing, distribution, use, sale, treatment, receipt,
storage, disposal, transport or handling of Hazardous Substances; |
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(iv) the term Hazardous Substance
means any chemical, substance or waste that is regulated
under any Environmental Law as toxic, hazardous or radioactive
or as a pollutant or a contaminant and any substance that is or
contains asbestos, urea formaldehyde foam insulation,
polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs),
petroleum or petroleum-derived substances or wastes, leaded
paints or radon gas; |
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(v) the term Release means any
releasing, disposing, discharging, injecting, spilling, leaking,
pumping, dumping, emitting, escaping, emptying, migration,
placing and the like, or otherwise entering into the Environment
(including the abandonment or discarding of barrels, containers,
and other closed receptacles containing any Hazardous
Substances); |
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(vi) the term Environmental Condition
means any contamination, damage, injury or other
condition related to Hazardous Substances and includes any
present or former Hazardous Substance treatment, storage, or
disposal or recycling units, underground storage tanks,
wastewater treatment or management systems, wetlands, sumps,
lagoons, impoundments, landfills, ponds, incinerators, wells,
asbestos-containing materials, lead paint or PCB-containing
materials. |
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(vii) the term Environmental Permit
means all Permits and the timely submission of
applications for Permits, as required under Environmental Laws. |
Section 3.13 Voting
Requirements.
(a) The Company represents and warrants that the
affirmative vote at the Company Stockholders Meeting of at least
a majority of the votes entitled to be cast by the holders of
outstanding shares of Company Common Stock and ESOP Preference
Shares, voting together as one class, is the only vote of the
holders of any class or series of the Companys capital
stock necessary to adopt and approve this Agreement and the
Merger and the transactions contemplated hereby (collectively,
the Company Stockholder Approval).
(b) Parent and Merger Sub represent and warrant that the
affirmative vote at the Parent Stockholders Meeting of at least
a majority of the votes cast by the holders of outstanding
shares of Parent Common Stock present (in person or by proxy) at
the Parent Stockholders Meeting, where the holders of at least a
majority of all outstanding shares of Parent Common Stock vote
on the proposal to approve the issuance of Parent Common Stock
pursuant to this Agreement (which will constitute a quorum), is
the only vote of the holders of any class or series of
Parents capital stock necessary to authorize the issuance
of the shares of Parent Common Stock to be issued in connection
with the Merger (the Parent Stockholder
Approval).
Section 3.14 State
Takeover Statutes. The Company represents and warrants
that the Board of Directors of the Company has taken all
necessary action so that no fair price,
moratorium, control share acquisition or
other anti-takeover Law (each, a Takeover
Statute) (including the interested stockholder
provisions codified in Section 203 of the DGCL) or any
anti-takeover provision in the Companys Amended and
Restated Certificate of Incorporation (including Article 12
thereof) or by-laws is applicable to this Agreement, the Merger
and the transactions contemplated by this Agreement.
Section 3.15 Opinion
of Financial Advisors.
(a) The Company represents and warrants that the Company
has received the opinions of Morgan Stanley & Co
Incorporated and Peter J. Solomon Company, each dated the date
of this Agreement, to the effect that, as of such date and
subject to the considerations set forth therein, the Merger
Consideration is fair from a financial point of view to holders
of shares of Company Common Stock.
(b) Parent and Merger Sub represent and warrant that Parent
has received the opinion of Goldman Sachs, dated the date of
this Agreement, to the effect that, as of such date and subject
to the considerations
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set forth therein, the Merger Consideration is fair from a
financial point of view to Parent, without taking into account
any adjustments made pursuant to Section 1.8.
Section 3.16 Brokers.
(a) The Company represents and warrants that, except for
Morgan Stanley & Co Incorporated and Peter J. Solomon
Company, no broker, investment banker, financial advisor or
other person is entitled to any brokers, finders,
financial advisors or other similar fee or commission in
connection with the transactions contemplated by this Agreement
based upon arrangements made by or on behalf of the Company.
(b) Parent and Merger Sub represent and warrant that,
except for Goldman Sachs, no broker, investment banker,
financial advisor or other person is entitled to any
brokers, finders, financial advisors or other
similar fee or commission in connection with the transactions
contemplated by this Agreement based upon arrangements made by
or on behalf of Parent.
Section 3.17 The
Company Rights Agreement. The Company represents and
warrants that the Company has taken all corporate action on
behalf of the Company required to authorize an amendment to the
Company Rights Agreement so as to render the Company Rights
Agreement inapplicable to the Merger and the other transactions
contemplated by this Agreement.
Section 3.18 Financing.
Parent and Merger Sub represent and warrant that Parent will
have at the Effective Time, sufficient funds available to pay
the Cash Consideration and all other cash amounts payable to
holders of Company Common Stock pursuant to this Agreement.
Section 3.19 Merger
Sub. Parent and Merger Sub represent and warrant that
Merger Sub is a duly incorporated, validly existing direct,
wholly owned Delaware subsidiary of Parent, was formed for the
purpose of engaging in the transactions contemplated by this
Agreement, and does not have any subsidiaries and has not
undertaken any business or other activities other than in
connection with entering into this Agreement and engaging in the
transactions contemplated hereby.
ARTICLE IV
COVENANTS RELATING TO CONDUCT OF BUSINESS
Section 4.1 Conduct
of Business.
(a) Conduct of Business by the Company.
Except as set forth on Section 4.1(a) of the Company
Disclosure Letter, except as otherwise required, permitted or
contemplated by this Agreement or except as consented to in
writing by Parent, which consent shall not be unreasonably
withheld or delayed, during the period from the date of this
Agreement to the Effective Time, the Company shall, and shall
cause the Company Subsidiaries to, carry on their respective
businesses in the ordinary course. Without limiting the
generality of the foregoing, except as set forth on
Section 4.1(a) of the Company Disclosure Letter,
except as otherwise required, permitted or contemplated by this
Agreement or except as consented to in writing by Parent, which
consent shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed, during
the period from the date of this Agreement to the Effective
Time, the Company shall not and shall not permit any subsidiary
of the Company (each, a Company
Subsidiary) to:
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(i) (A) other than (x) dividends and
distributions by a direct or indirect wholly owned Company
Subsidiary to its parent, (y) regular quarterly cash
dividends with respect to Company Common Stock not in excess of
$0.245 per share of Company Common Stock and (z) as
required under the terms of the ESOP Preference Shares, declare,
set aside or pay any dividends on, or make any other
distributions in respect of, any of its capital stock,
(B) split, combine or reclassify any of its capital stock
or (C) except as required under the terms of the ESOP
Preference Shares or pursuant to agreements entered into with
respect to the Company Stock Plans that are in effect as of the
close of business on the date of this Agreement, purchase,
redeem or otherwise acquire any shares of capital stock of the
Company or any of the Company Subsidiaries or any other
securities thereof or any rights, warrants or options to acquire
any such shares or other securities; |
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(ii) issue or authorize the issuance of, deliver or sell
any shares of its capital stock (or any other securities in
respect of, in lieu of, or in substitution for, shares of its
capital stock), any other voting securities or any securities
convertible into, or any rights, warrants or options to acquire,
any such shares, voting securities or convertible securities,
other than the issuance of shares of Company Common Stock and
associated Company Rights (A) upon the exercise of the
Company Stock Options under the Company Stock Plans or in
connection with other awards or issuances of Company Common
Stock under the Company Stock Plans or (B) upon the
conversion of shares of ESOP Preference Shares, in any such
case, outstanding as of the date of this Agreement (or granted
hereafter as permitted under this Agreement) and in accordance
with their terms as in effect on the date of this Agreement (or,
in the case of grants made subsequent to the date of this
Agreement, in accordance with their terms as in effect on the
date of grant, which terms shall be consistent with past
practice); |
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(iii) amend its certificate of incorporation or by-laws (or
other comparable organizational documents), other than
amendments or changes to any such documents of the Company
Subsidiaries in the ordinary course of business; |
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(iv) other than in the ordinary course of business, sell,
lease, license, mortgage or otherwise encumber or subject to any
Lien (other than Permitted Liens) or otherwise dispose of any of
its material properties or material assets; |
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(v) incur any material long-term indebtedness (whether
evidenced by a note or other instrument, pursuant to a financing
lease, sale-leaseback transaction, or otherwise) or incur
material short-term indebtedness other than indebtedness
incurred in the ordinary course of business or under lines of
credit existing on the date of this Agreement (or any
refinancing thereof not to exceed the amount borrowable
thereunder); |
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(vi) other than in the ordinary course of business:
(A) grant any increase in the compensation or benefits
payable or to become payable by the Company or any Company
Subsidiary to any current or former director or consultant of
the Company or any Company Subsidiary; (B) grant any
increase in the compensation or benefits payable or to become
payable by the Company or any Company Subsidiary to any officer
or employee of the Company or any Company Subsidiary;
(C) adopt, enter into, amend or otherwise increase, reprice
or accelerate the payment or vesting of the amounts, benefits or
rights payable or accrued or to become payable or accrued under
any Benefit Plan or Foreign Plan of the Company; (D) enter
into or amend any employment, bonus, severance, change in
control, retention agreement or any similar agreement or any
collective bargaining agreement or, grant any severance, bonus,
termination, or retention pay to any officer, director,
consultant or employee of the Company or any Company
Subsidiaries; or (E) pay or award any pension, retirement,
allowance or other non-equity incentive awards, or other
employee or director benefit not required by any outstanding
Benefit Plan or Foreign Plan of the Company; provided,
however, that nothing in this Agreement, including this
Section 4.1(a)(vi) or Section 4.1(a)(ii)
shall be construed as preventing the Company from taking any of
the actions described in Schedule 5.14(d); |
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(vii) change the accounting principles used by it unless
required by GAAP (or, if applicable with respect to foreign
subsidiaries, the relevant foreign generally accepted accounting
principles) or any Governmental Entity; |
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(viii) acquire by merging or consolidating with, by
purchasing any substantial equity interest in or a substantial
portion of the assets of, or by any other manner, any
significant business or any corporation, partnership,
association or other business organization or division thereof,
or otherwise acquire any assets that are material, individually
or in the aggregate, to the Company Entities, taken as a whole,
except for (A) the purchase of assets from suppliers or
vendors in the ordinary course of business, (B) items
reflected in the capital plan of the Company previously made
available to Parent and (C) acquisitions of businesses or
assets not contemplated in clause (A) or
(B) involving consideration up to an aggregate amount not
to exceed $50,000,000; |
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(ix) except in the ordinary course of business, make or
rescind any material express or deemed election or settle or
compromise any material claim or action relating to Taxes, or
change any of its methods of accounting or of reporting income
or deductions for Tax purposes in any material respect; |
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(x) satisfy any material claims or liabilities, other than
in the ordinary course of business or in accordance with their
terms; |
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(xi) make any loans, advances or capital contributions to,
or investments in, any other person in excess of $25,000,000 in
the aggregate, except for (A) loans, advances, capital
contributions or investments between any wholly owned Company
Subsidiary and the Company or another wholly owned Company
Subsidiary, (B) employee advances for expenses in the
ordinary course of business or (C) ordinary course
proprietary credit card transactions; |
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(xii) other than in the ordinary course of business,
(A) terminate or adversely modify or amend any contract
having a duration of more than one year and total payment
obligations of the Company in excess of $25,000,000 (other than
(1) contracts terminable within one year or (2) the
renewal, on substantially similar terms, of any contract
existing on the date of this Agreement), (B) waive,
release, relinquish or assign any right or claim of material
value to the Company, or (C) cancel or forgive any material
indebtedness owed to the Company or any Company
Subsidiary; or |
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(xiii) authorize, commit or agree to take any of the
foregoing actions. |
(b) Conduct of Business by Parent. Except as
set forth on Section 4.1(b) of the Parent Disclosure
Letter, except as otherwise required, permitted or contemplated
by this Agreement or except as consented to in writing by the
Company, which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld or
delayed, during the period from the date of this Agreement to
the Effective Time, Parent shall, and shall cause the Parent
Subsidiaries to, carry on their respective businesses in the
ordinary course. Without limiting the generality of the
foregoing, except as set forth on Section 4.1(b) of
the Parent Disclosure Letter, except as otherwise required,
permitted or contemplated by this Agreement or except as
consented to in writing by the Company, which consent shall not
be unreasonably withheld or delayed, during the period from the
date of this Agreement to the Effective Time, Parent shall not
and shall not permit any Parent Subsidiary to:
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(i) (A) other than (1) dividends and
distributions by a direct or indirect wholly owned Parent
Subsidiary to its parent and (2) regular quarterly cash
dividends with respect to Parent Common Stock, which shall be
$0.14 per share of Parent Common Stock, declare, set aside
or pay any dividends on, or make any other distributions in
respect of, any of its capital stock or (B) split, combine
or reclassify any of its capital stock or (C) except
pursuant to agreements entered into with respect to the Parent
Stock Plans that are in effect as of the close of business on
the date of this Agreement, purchase, redeem or otherwise
acquire any shares of capital stock of Parent or any of the
Parent Subsidiaries or any other securities thereof or any
rights, warrants or options to acquire any such shares or other
securities; |
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(ii) issue or authorize the issuance of, deliver or sell
any shares of its capital stock (or any other securities in
respect of, in lieu of, or in substitution for, shares of its
capital stock), any other voting securities or any securities
convertible into, or any rights, warrants or options to acquire,
any such shares, voting securities or convertible securities,
other than the issuance of shares of Parent Common Stock upon
the exercise of the Parent Stock Options under the Parent Stock
Plans or in connection with other awards or issuance of Parent
Common Stock under the Parent Stock Plans, in any such case,
outstanding as of the date of this Agreement (or granted
hereafter as permitted under this Agreement) and in accordance
with their terms as in effect on the date of this Agreement (or,
in the case of grants made subsequent to the date of this
Agreement, in accordance with their terms as in effect on the
date of grant, which terms shall be consistent with past
practice); |
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(iii) amend its certificate of incorporation or by-laws (or
other comparable organizational documents), other than
amendments or changes to any such documents of the Parent
Subsidiaries in the ordinary course of business; |
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(iv) other than in the ordinary course of business, sell,
lease, license, mortgage or otherwise encumber or subject to any
Lien (other than Parent Permitted Liens) or otherwise dispose of
any of its material properties or material assets; |
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(v) change the accounting principles used by it unless
required by GAAP (or, if applicable with respect to foreign
subsidiaries, the relevant foreign generally accepted accounting
principles); or any Governmental Entity; |
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(vi) acquire by merging or consolidating with, by
purchasing any substantial equity interest in or a substantial
portion of the assets of, or by any other manner, any
significant business or any corporation, partnership,
association or other business organization or division thereof,
or otherwise acquire any assets that are material, individually
or in the aggregate, to Parent and the Parent Subsidiaries,
taken as a whole, except for (A) the purchase of assets
from suppliers or vendors in the ordinary course of business,
(B) items reflected in the capital plan of Parent
previously provided to the Company or (C) acquisitions of
businesses or assets not contemplated in clause (A) or
(B) involving consideration up to an aggregate amount not
to exceed $50,000,000; |
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(vii) except in the ordinary course of business, make or
rescind any material express or deemed election or settle or
compromise any material claim or action relating to Taxes, or
change any of its methods of accounting or of reporting income
or deductions for Tax purposes in any material respect; |
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(viii) satisfy any material claims or liabilities, other
than in the ordinary course of business or in accordance with
their terms; |
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(ix) other than in the ordinary course of business,
(A) terminate or adversely modify or amend any contract
having a duration of more than one year and total payment
obligations of Parent in excess of $25,000,000 (other than
(1) contracts terminable within one year or (2) the
renewal, on substantially similar terms, of any contract
existing on the date of this Agreement), (B) waive,
release, relinquish or assign any right or claim of material
value to Parent, or (C) cancel or forgive any material
indebtedness owed to Parent or any Parent Subsidiary; or |
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(x) authorize, commit or agree to take any of the foregoing
actions. |
(c) Conduct of Business by Merger Sub. During
the period from the date of this Agreement to the Effective
Time, Merger Sub shall not engage in any activities of any
nature except as provided in or contemplated by this Agreement.
(d) Advice of Changes. Each of the Company,
Parent and Merger Sub shall promptly advise the other parties to
this Agreement orally and in writing to the extent it has
knowledge of any change or event having, or which, insofar as
can reasonably be foreseen, would reasonably be expected to
have, a material adverse effect on such party or the ability of
the conditions set forth in Article VI to be
satisfied; provided, however, that no such
notification will affect the representations, warranties,
covenants or agreements of the parties (or remedies with respect
thereto) or the conditions to the obligations of the parties
under this Agreement.
Section 4.2 No
Solicitation by the Company.
(a) Company Takeover Proposal. From and after
the date of this Agreement, the Company shall, and shall cause
the Company Subsidiaries to, and it shall use its reasonable
best efforts to cause any of its and their officers, directors,
employees, financial advisors, attorneys, accountants and other
advisors, investment bankers, representatives and agents
retained by the Company or any of the Company Subsidiaries
(collectively, Company
Representatives) to, immediately cease and cause
to be terminated immediately all existing activities,
discussions and negotiations with any parties conducted
heretofore with respect to, or that would reasonably be expected
to lead to, any Company Takeover Proposal. From and after the
date of this Agreement, the Company shall not, nor shall it
permit any of the Company Subsidiaries to, and it shall use its
reasonable best efforts to cause any of the Company
Representatives not to, directly or indirectly,
(i) solicit, initiate or knowingly encourage the making of
a Company Takeover Proposal, (ii) enter into any agreement,
arrangement or understanding with respect to any Company
Takeover Proposal (other than a confidentiality agreement
entered into in accordance with the provisions of this
Section 4.2(a)) or (iii) other than informing
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persons of the existence of the provisions contained in this
Section 4.2, participate in any discussions or
negotiations regarding, or furnish or disclose to any person
(other than a party to this Agreement) any non-public
information with respect to the Company in connection with any
inquiries or the making of any proposal that constitutes, or
would reasonably be expected to lead to, any Company Takeover
Proposal; provided, however, that, at any time
prior to obtaining the Company Stockholder Approval, in response
to an unsolicited Company Takeover Proposal that the Board of
Directors of the Company determines in good faith (after
consultation with outside counsel and a financial advisor of
nationally recognized reputation) constitutes or would
reasonably be expected to lead to a Superior Proposal, and which
Company Takeover Proposal was made after the date hereof and did
not otherwise result from a breach of this
Section 4.2, the Company may, subject to compliance
with Section 4.2(a), (i) furnish information
with respect to the Company Entities to the person making such
Company Takeover Proposal (and its representatives) pursuant to
a customary confidentiality agreement not less restrictive of
such person than the Confidentiality Agreement; provided,
however, that all such information is, in substance,
provided to Parent contemporaneously as it is provided to
such person, and (ii) participate in discussions or
negotiations with the person making such Company Takeover
Proposal (and its representatives) regarding such Company
Takeover Proposal.
(b) Definitions. As used herein,
(i) Superior Proposal means a
Company Takeover Proposal from any person to acquire, directly
or indirectly, for consideration consisting of cash and/or
securities, all of the combined voting power of the Company then
outstanding or all or substantially all of the assets of the
Company that the Board of Directors of the Company determines in
its good faith judgment (after consulting with a nationally
recognized investment banking firm), taking into account all
legal, financial and regulatory and other aspects of the
proposal and the person making the proposal (including any
break-up fees, expense reimbursement provisions and conditions
to consummation), (A) would be more favorable from a
financial point of view to the stockholders of the Company than
the transactions contemplated by this Agreement (including any
adjustment to the terms and conditions proposed by Parent in
response to such Company Takeover Proposal) and (B) for
which financing, to the extent required, is then committed or
may reasonably be expected to be committed and
(ii) Company Takeover Proposal
means any bona fide written proposal or offer from any
person relating to any (A) direct or indirect acquisition
or purchase of a business that constitutes 50% or more of the
net revenues, net income or the assets of the Company and the
Company Subsidiaries, taken as a whole, (B) direct or
indirect acquisition or purchase of equity securities of the
Company representing 50% or more of the combined voting power of
the Company, (C) any tender offer or exchange offer that if
consummated would result in any person beneficially owning
equity securities of the Company representing 50% or more of the
combined voting power of the Company, or (D) any merger,
consolidation, business combination, recapitalization,
liquidation, dissolution or similar transaction involving the
Company, other than the transactions contemplated by this
Agreement.
(c) Actions by the Company. Neither the Board
of Directors of the Company nor any committee thereof shall
(i) (A) withdraw (or modify in a manner adverse to
Parent), or publicly propose to withdraw (or modify in a manner
adverse to Parent), the approval recommendation or declaration
of advisability by such Board of Directors or any such committee
thereof of this Agreement, the Merger or the other transactions
contemplated by this Agreement or (B) recommend, adopt or
approve, or propose publicly to recommend, adopt or approve, any
Company Takeover Proposal (any action described in this
clause (i) being referred to as a Company
Adverse Recommendation Change) or
(ii) approve or recommend, or allow the Company or any of
the Company Subsidiaries to execute or enter into, any letter of
intent, memorandum of understanding, agreement in principle,
merger agreement, acquisition agreement, option agreement, joint
venture agreement, partnership agreement or other similar
agreement constituting or related to any Company Takeover
Proposal (other than a confidentiality agreement referred to in
Section 4.2(a)). Notwithstanding the foregoing, if,
prior to obtaining the Company Stockholder Approval,
(v) the Company receives a Company Takeover Proposal,
(w) the Board of Directors of the Company shall have
determined in good faith, after consultation with outside
counsel, that it is necessary for the proper discharge of its
fiduciary duties under applicable Law, (x) the Company
provides written notice (a Notice of Adverse
Recommendation) advising Parent that the Board of
Directors of the Company has made the determination described in
clause (w) above, (y) for a period of three calendar
days (at least one of which shall be a Business Day) following
Parents receipt of a Notice of Adverse Recommendation, the
Company negotiates with Parent in good faith to make such
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adjustments to the terms and conditions of this Agreement as
would enable the Company to proceed with its recommendation of
this Agreement and the Merger and not make such Company Adverse
Recommendation Change and (z) at the end of such three-day
period the Board of Directors of the Company maintains its
determination described in clause (w) above (after taking
into account such proposed adjustments to the terms and
conditions of this Agreement), then the Board of Directors of
the Company may (A) make a Company Adverse Recommendation
Change and/or (B) upon termination of this Agreement in
accordance with Section 7.1(d)(ii) and concurrent
payment of the Termination Fee in accordance with
Section 7.3(b), approve and enter into an agreement
relating to a Company Takeover Proposal that constitutes a
Superior Proposal. No Company Adverse Recommendation Change
shall change the approval of the Board of Directors of the
Company for purposes of causing Article 12 of the
Companys Amended and Restated Certificate of
Incorporation, any state takeover Law (including
Section 203 of the DGCL) or other state Law to be
inapplicable to the Merger and the other transactions
contemplated by this Agreement.
(d) Notice of Company Takeover Proposal. From
and after the date of this Agreement, unless the Board of
Directors of the Company shall have determined in good faith,
after consultation with outside counsel, that taking such action
would result in a reasonable probability that the Board of
Directors of the Company would breach its fiduciary duties under
applicable Law, the Company shall promptly (but in any event
within one Business Day) advise Parent and Merger Sub of the
receipt, directly or indirectly, of any inquiries, requests,
discussions, negotiations or proposals relating to a Company
Takeover Proposal, or any request for nonpublic information
relating to any of the Company Entities by any person that
informs the Company or any Company Representative that such
person is considering making, or has made, a Company Takeover
Proposal, or an inquiry from a person seeking to have
discussions or negotiations relating to a possible Company
Takeover Proposal. Any such notice shall be made orally and
confirmed in writing, and shall indicate the material terms and
conditions thereof and the identity of the other party or
parties involved and promptly furnish to Parent and Merger Sub a
copy of any such written inquiry, request or proposal and copies
of any material information provided to or by any third party
relating thereto.
(e) Rule 14e-2(a), Rule 14d-9 and Other
Applicable Law. Nothing contained in this
Section 4.2 shall prohibit the Company from
(i) taking and disclosing to its stockholders a position
contemplated by Rule 14e-2(a) or Rule 14d-9
promulgated under the Exchange Act or (ii) making any
disclosure to the stockholders of the Company if, in the good
faith judgment of the Board of Directors (after consultation
with outside counsel), failure so to disclose would be
inconsistent with the fulfillment of its fiduciary duties or any
other obligations under applicable Law; provided, however, that
compliance with such rules and Laws shall not in any way limit
or modify the effect that any action taken pursuant to such
rules and Laws has under any other provision of this Agreement,
including that such compliance could result in a Company Adverse
Recommendation Change.
(f) Return or Destruction of Confidential
Information. The Company agrees that immediately
following the execution of this Agreement it shall request each
person (other than Parent) which has heretofore executed a
confidentiality agreement within the past two years in
connection with such persons consideration of acquiring
the Company to return or destroy all confidential information
heretofore furnished to such person by or on the Companys
behalf.
ARTICLE V
ADDITIONAL AGREEMENTS
Section 5.1 Preparation
of the Form S-4 and the Joint Proxy Statement; Stockholders
Meetings.
(a) Form S-4 Proxy Statement. As soon as
practicable following the date of this Agreement, the Company
and Parent shall prepare and file with the SEC the Joint Proxy
Statement and Parent shall prepare and file with the SEC the
Form S-4, in which the Joint Proxy Statement will be
included as a prospectus. Each of the Company and Parent shall
use reasonable best efforts to have the Form S-4 declared
effective under the Securities Act as promptly as practicable
after such filing and to maintain the effectiveness of the
Form S-4 through the Effective Time and to ensure that it
complies in all material respects with the applicable
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provisions of the Exchange Act or Securities Act. The Company
shall use all reasonable best efforts to cause the Joint Proxy
Statement to be mailed to the Companys stockholders, and
Parent shall use all reasonable best efforts to cause the Joint
Proxy Statement to be mailed to Parents stockholders, in
each case as promptly as practicable after the Form S-4 is
declared effective under the Securities Act. Parent shall also
take any action (other than qualifying to do business in any
jurisdiction in which it is not now so qualified or to file a
general consent to service of process) required to be taken
under any applicable state securities laws in connection with
the issuance of Parent Common Stock in the Merger and the
Company shall furnish all information concerning the Company and
the holders of the Company Common Stock as may be reasonably
requested in connection with any such action. The Company, in
connection with a Company Adverse Recommendation Change, may
amend or supplement the Form S-4 or Joint Proxy Statement
(including by incorporation by reference) to effect such a
Company Adverse Recommendation Change. No filing of, or
amendment or supplement to, the Form S-4 will be made by
Parent, and no filing of, or amendment or supplement to the
Joint Proxy Statement will be made by the Company or Parent, in
each case, without providing the other party and its respective
counsel the reasonable opportunity to review and comment
thereon. The parties shall notify each other promptly of the
receipt of any comments from the SEC or its staff and of any
request by the SEC or its staff for amendments or supplements to
the Joint Proxy Statement or the Form S-4 or for additional
information and shall supply each other with copies of all
correspondence between such party or any of its representatives,
on the one hand, and the SEC or its staff, on the other hand,
with respect to the Joint Proxy Statement, the Form S-4 or
the Merger. Parent will advise the Company, promptly after it
receives notice thereof, of the time when the Form S-4 has
become effective, the issuance of any stop order or the
suspension of the qualification of the Parent Common Stock
issuable in connection with the Merger for offering or sale in
any jurisdiction. If at any time prior to the Effective Time any
information relating to the Company or Parent, or any of their
respective affiliates, officers or directors, should be
discovered by the Company or Parent which should be set forth in
an amendment or supplement to the Form S-4 or the Joint
Proxy Statement, so that any of such documents would not include
any misstatement of a material fact or omit to state any
material fact necessary to make the statements therein, in light
of the circumstances under which they were made, not misleading,
the party which discovers such information shall promptly notify
the other parties hereto and the parties shall cooperate in the
prompt filing with the SEC of an appropriate amendment or
supplement describing such information and, to the extent
required by Law, in the disseminating the information contained
in such amendment or supplement to the stockholders of each of
the Company and Parent.
(b) Stockholders Meetings.
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(i) The Company shall, as soon as practicable following the
date of this Agreement, duly call, give notice of, convene and
hold a meeting of its stockholders (the Company
Stockholders Meeting) in accordance with
applicable Law, the Companys Amended and Restated
Certificate of Incorporation and by-laws for the purpose of
obtaining the Company Stockholder Approval and shall, subject to
Section 4.2(c), (A) through the Board of
Directors of the Company, recommend to its stockholders the
approval and adoption of this Agreement, the Merger and the
other transactions contemplated hereby and include in the Joint
Proxy Statement such recommendation and (B) use its
reasonable best efforts to solicit and obtain such approval and
adoption. |
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(ii) Parent shall, as soon as practicable following the
date of this Agreement, duly call, give notice of, convene and
hold a meeting of its stockholders (the Parent
Stockholders Meeting) in accordance with
applicable Law, Parents Second Restated Certificate of
Incorporation and by-laws for the purpose of obtaining the
Parent Stockholder Approval and shall (A) through the Board
of Directors of Parent, recommend to its stockholders the
approval of the issuance of Parent Common Stock pursuant to this
Agreement and include in the Joint Proxy Statement such
recommendation and (B) use its reasonable best efforts to
solicit and obtain such approval and (C) not withdraw or
modify, or publicly propose to withdraw or modify, the
recommendation contemplated by clause (A) (any such action
being referred to as a Parent Adverse Recommendation
Change); provided, however, that,
notwithstanding the foregoing, Parent may make a Parent Adverse
Recommendation Change if, prior to obtaining the Parent
Stockholder Approval, (v) Parent receives a Parent Takeover
Proposal, (w) the Board of Directors of |
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Parent shall have determined in good faith, after consultation
with outside counsel, that it is necessary for the proper
discharge of its fiduciary duties under applicable Law,
(x) Parent provides written notice Notice of
Adverse Recommendation advising the Company that
the Board of Directors of Parent has made the determination
described in clause (w) above, (y) for a period of
three calendar days (at least one of which shall be a Business
Day) following the Companys receipt of such notice, Parent
negotiates with the Company in good faith to make such
adjustments to the terms and conditions of this Agreement as
would enable Parent to proceed with its recommendation of this
Agreement and the Merger and not withdraw or modify such
recommendation and (z) at the end of such three-day period
the Board of Directors of Parent maintains its determination
described in clause (w) above (after taking into account
such proposed adjustments to the terms and conditions of this
Agreement). For purposes of this Agreement Parent
Takeover Proposal means any bona fide written
proposal or offer from any person relating to any
(A) direct or indirect acquisition or purchase of a
business that constitutes 50% or more of the net revenues, net
income or the assets of Parent and the Parent Subsidiaries,
taken as a whole, (B) direct or indirect acquisition or
purchase of equity securities of Parent representing 50% or more
of the combined voting power of Parent, (C) any tender
offer or exchange offer that if consummated would result in any
person beneficially owning equity securities of Parent
representing 50% or more of the combined voting power of Parent,
or (D) any merger, consolidation, business combination,
recapitalization, liquidation, dissolution or similar
transaction involving Parent. |
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(iii) Each of Parent and the Company agrees to use its
reasonable best efforts to hold the Parent Stockholders Meeting
and the Company Stockholders Meeting on the same day. |
Section 5.2 Letters
of the Companys Accountants. The Company shall
request to be delivered to Parent two letters from the
Companys independent accountants, one dated a date within
two Business Days before the date on which the Form S-4
will become effective and one dated a date within two Business
Days before the Closing Date, each addressed to Parent customary
in scope and substance for comfort letters delivered by
independent public accountants in connection with registration
statements similar to the Form S-4. The Company shall be
deemed to have fully discharged its obligations under this
Section 5.2 if it mails or hand delivers a letter of
request stating the terms of this Section 5.2 to its
client account partner at Deloitte & Touche, regardless
of whether Deloitte & Touche delivers the letters
contemplated by this Section 5.2.
Section 5.3 Letters
of Parents Accountants. Parent shall request to be
delivered to the Company two letters from Parents
independent accountants, one dated a date within two Business
Days before the date on which the Form S-4 will become
effective and one dated a date within two Business Days before
the Closing Date, each addressed to the Company customary in
scope and substance for comfort letters delivered by independent
public accountants in connection with registration statements
similar to the Form S-4. Parent shall be deemed to have
fully discharged its obligations under this
Section 5.3 if it mails or hand delivers a letter of
request stating the terms of this Section 5.3 to its
client account partner at KPMG, regardless of whether KPMG
delivers the letters contemplated by this
Section 5.3.
Section 5.4 Access
to Information; Confidentiality. To the extent permitted
by applicable Law and subject to the Confidentiality Agreement,
dated February 4, 2005, between the Company and Parent (the
Confidentiality Agreement), each of
the Company and Parent shall, and shall cause each of its
respective subsidiaries to, afford to the other party and its
respective representatives reasonable access, during normal
business hours and after reasonable prior notice, during the
period prior to the Effective Time, to such other partys
and its subsidiaries properties, books, contracts,
commitments, personnel and records and all other information
concerning their business, properties and personnel as such
party may reasonably request. Parent and the Company shall hold,
and shall cause their respective affiliates and representatives
to hold, any nonpublic information in accordance with the terms
of the Confidentiality Agreement. Notwithstanding the foregoing
or Section 5.5, neither party shall be required to
provide any information which it reasonably believes it may not
provide to the other party by reason of contractual or legal
restrictions, including applicable Law, or which it believes is
competitively sensitive information. In addition, either party
may designate any competitively sensitive information provided
to the other under this Agreement as outside counsel
only. Such information shall be given only to outside
counsel of the recipient. Each party will use reasonable best
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efforts to minimize any disruption to the businesses of the
other party and its subsidiaries which may result from the
requests for access, data and information hereunder.
Section 5.5 Reasonable
Best Efforts.
(a) Reasonable Best Efforts. Upon the terms
and subject to the conditions set forth in this Agreement, each
of the parties shall use its reasonable best efforts to take, or
cause to be taken, all actions, and to do, or cause to be done,
and to assist and cooperate with the other parties in doing, all
things necessary, proper or advisable to consummate and make
effective, as promptly as practicable, but in no event later
than the Outside Date, the Merger and the other transactions to
be performed or consummated by such party in accordance with the
terms of this Agreement, including (i) the taking of all
acts necessary to cause the conditions to Closing to be
satisfied as promptly as practicable, (ii) the obtaining of
all necessary actions or nonactions, waivers, consents and
approvals from Governmental Entities and the making of all
necessary registrations and filings (including filings with
Governmental Entities, if any) and the taking of all steps as
may be necessary to obtain an approval or waiver from, or to
avoid an action or proceeding by, any Governmental Entity,
(iii) the avoidance of each and every impediment under any
antitrust, merger control, competition or trade regulation Law
that may be asserted by any Governmental Entity with respect to
the Merger so as to enable the Closing to occur as soon as
reasonably possible, (iv) the obtaining of all necessary
consents, approvals or waivers from third parties, including any
such consents, approvals or waivers required in connection with
any divestiture, (v) the defending of any lawsuits or other
legal proceedings, whether judicial or administrative,
challenging this Agreement or the consummation of the
transactions contemplated hereby, including seeking to have any
stay or temporary restraining order entered by any court or
other Governmental Entity vacated or reversed and (vi) the
execution and delivery of any additional instruments necessary
to consummate the Merger and other transactions contemplated
hereby and to fully carry out the purposes of this Agreement. In
connection with and without limiting the foregoing, the Company
and Parent shall (A) duly file with the United States
Federal Trade Commission (the FTC) and
the Antitrust Division of the United States Department of
Justice (the Antitrust Division) the
notification and report form (the HSR
Filing) required under the HSR Act and
(B) duly make all notifications and other filings required
(together with the HSR Filing, the Antitrust
Filings) under any other applicable competition,
merger control, antitrust or similar Law that the Company and
Parent deem advisable or appropriate, in each case with respect
to the transactions contemplated by this Agreement and as
promptly as practicable. The Antitrust Filings shall be in
substantial compliance with the requirements of the HSR Act or
other Laws, as applicable. For the avoidance of doubt and
notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained in this
Agreement, Parent and its subsidiaries shall commit to any and
all divestitures, licenses or hold separate or similar
arrangements with respect to assets or conduct of business
arrangements as a condition to obtaining any and all approvals
from any Governmental Entity for any reason in order to
consummate and make effective, as promptly as practicable, but
in no event later than the Outside Date, the Merger and the
other transactions to be performed or consummated by Parent and
its subsidiaries, including, without limitation, taking any and
all actions necessary in order to ensure that (x) no
requirement for non-action, a waiver, consent or approval of the
FTC, the Antitrust Division, any State Attorney General or other
Governmental Entity, (y) no decree, judgment, injunction,
temporary restraining order or any other order in any suit or
proceeding, and (z) no other matter relating to any
antitrust or competition Law or regulation, would preclude
consummation of the Merger by th e Outside Date; provided,
however, that in no event shall Parent or Merger Sub be required
to dispose of or hold separate assets of the Company, Parent or
their respective subsidiaries which, in the aggregate, accounted
for annual net sales for the most recently completed fiscal year
exceeding $4,000,000,000. Neither party shall, nor shall it
permit any of its subsidiaries to, acquire or agree to acquire
any business, person or division thereof, or otherwise acquire
or agree to acquire any assets if the entering into of a
definitive agreement relating to or the consummation of such
acquisition, would reasonably be expected to materially increase
the risk of not obtaining the applicable clearance, approval or
waiver from any Governmental Entity with respect to the
transactions contemplated by this Agreement.
(b) Cooperation. Each party shall, subject to
applicable Law and except as prohibited by any applicable
representative of any applicable Governmental Entity:
(i) promptly notify the other party of any written
communication to that party from the FTC, the Antitrust
Division, any State Attorney General or any
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other Governmental Entity relating to this Agreement or the
Merger, and permit the other Party to review in advance any
proposed written communication to any of the foregoing;
(ii) not agree to participate in any substantive meeting or
discussion with any Governmental Entity in respect of any
filings, investigation or inquiry concerning this Agreement or
the Merger unless it consults with the other party in advance
and, to the extent permitted by such Governmental Entity, gives
the other party the opportunity to attend and participate
thereat; and (iii) furnish the other party with copies of
all correspondence, filings, and written communications (and
memoranda setting forth the substance thereof) between them and
its affiliates and their respective representatives, on the one
hand, and any Governmental Entity or members or their respective
staffs, on the other hand, with respect to this Agreement and
the Merger. Each party shall (y) respond as promptly as
practicable under the circumstances to any inquiries received
from the FTC or the Antitrust Division for additional
information or documentation and to all inquiries and requests
received from any State Attorney General or other Governmental
Entity in connection with antitrust matters relating to this
Agreement or the Merger and (z) not extend any waiting
period under the HSR Act or enter into any agreement with the
FTC or the Antitrust Division not to consummate the transactions
contemplated by this Agreement.
(c) No Takeover Statutes Apply. In connection
with and without limiting the foregoing, the Company, Parent and
Merger Sub shall (i) take all action reasonably necessary
to ensure that no Takeover Statute or similar Law is or becomes
applicable to the Merger, this Agreement or any of the other
transactions contemplated hereby and (ii) if any Takeover
Statute or similar Law becomes applicable to the Merger, this
Agreement or any of the other transactions contemplated hereby,
take all action reasonably necessary to ensure that the Merger
and the other transactions contemplated hereby may be
consummated as promptly as practicable on the terms contemplated
by this Agreement and otherwise to minimize the effect of such
Law on the Merger and the other transactions contemplated by
this Agreement.
(d) Opinions Regarding Tax Treatment. Parent
and the Company shall cooperate with each other in obtaining the
opinions of Jones Day, counsel to Parent, for the benefit of
Parent, and Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher, & Flom LLP,
counsel to the Company, for the benefit of the Companys
stockholders, respectively, dated as of the Closing Date, to the
effect that the Merger will constitute a reorganization within
the meaning of Section 368(a) of the Code. In connection
therewith, each of Parent and the Company shall deliver to Jones
Day and Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher, & Flom LLP
customary representation letters in form and substance
reasonably satisfactory to such counsel, and at such time or
times that may be reasonably requested by such law firms (the
representation letters referred to in this sentence are
collectively referred to as the Tax
Certificates).
Section 5.6 Company
Stock Options; Stock Plans.
(a) Assumption of Company Stock Options. At
the Effective Time, (i) each outstanding Company Stock
Option, whether vested or unvested immediately prior to the
Effective Time, to purchase shares of Company Common Stock, and
(ii) each of the Company Stock Plans and all agreements
thereunder, shall be assumed by Parent. To the extent provided
under the terms of the Company Stock Plans, all such outstanding
options shall accelerate and become immediately exercisable in
connection with the Merger in accordance with their existing
terms (or, in the case of grants made after the date hereof as
permitted by this Agreement, in accordance with their terms as
in effect on the date of grant). Except for the acceleration of
the Company Stock Options in accordance with the terms of the
Company Stock Plans and any agreements thereunder, prior to or
at the Effective Time, each Company Stock Option so assumed by
Parent under this Agreement (an Adjusted
Option) shall continue to have, and be subject to,
the same terms and conditions as were applicable under the
Company Stock Plans and the documents governing the Company
Stock Options immediately before the Effective Time, except that
(x) each Company Stock Option will be exercisable for that
number of shares (rounded up or down to the nearest share) of
Parent Common Stock equal to the product of the number of shares
of Company Common Stock that were issuable upon exercise of such
option immediately prior to the Effective Time multiplied by the
sum of (1) the Stock Consideration plus (2) the Cash
Consideration divided by the Average Closing Price and
(y) the per share exercise price for the shares of Parent
Common Stock issuable upon exercise of such Company Stock Option
will be equal to the quotient (rounded up or down to the nearest
cent) determined by dividing the per share exercise price of the
Company Stock Option by the sum of (1) the Stock
Consideration plus (2) the Cash Consideration divided by the
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Average Closing Price. The date of grant of each Adjusted Option
will be the date on which the corresponding Company Stock Option
was granted. Notwithstanding the foregoing, with respect to each
Company Stock Option that is an incentive stock option (within
the meaning of Section 422(b) of the Code), no adjustment
will be made that would be a modification (within the meaning of
Section 424(h) of the Code) to such option.
(b) Stock Plans. The Company and Parent agree
that each of the Company Stock Plans and all relevant Parent
Stock Plans will be amended, to the extent necessary, to reflect
the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, including
conversion of shares of the Company Common Stock held or to be
awarded or paid pursuant to such benefit plans, programs or
arrangements into shares of Parent Common Stock on a basis
consistent with the transactions contemplated by this Agreement.
The Company and Parent agree to submit the amendments to the
Parent stock plans or the Company Stock Plans to their
respective stockholders if such submission is determined to be
necessary by counsel to the Company or Parent after consultation
with one another; provided, however, that such approval will not
be a condition to the consummation of the Merger.
(c) Reservation of Shares. Parent will
(i) reserve for issuance the number of shares of Parent
Common Stock that will become subject to the benefit plans,
programs and arrangements referred to in this
Section 5.6 and (ii) issue or cause to be
issued the appropriate number of shares of Parent Common Stock,
pursuant to applicable plans, programs and arrangements, upon
the exercise or maturation of rights existing thereunder on the
Effective Time or thereafter granted or awarded. Promptly after
the Effective Time, Parent will prepare and file with the SEC a
registration statement on Form S-8 (or other appropriate
form) registering a number of shares of Parent Common Stock
necessary to fulfill Parents obligations under this
Section 5.6. Such registration statement will be
kept effective (and the current status of the prospectus
required thereby will be maintained) for at least as long as
awards granted under the Company Stock Plans remain outstanding.
(d) Notices. As soon as practicable after the
Effective Time, Parent will deliver to the holders of the
Company Stock Options appropriate notices setting forth such
holders rights pursuant to the Company Stock Plans and the
agreements evidencing the grants of such Company Stock Options
and that such Company Stock Options and the related agreements
will be assumed by Parent and will continue in effect on the
same terms and conditions (subject to the adjustment required by
this Section 5.6 after giving effect to the Merger).
Section 5.7 Indemnification.
(a) Rights Assumed by Surviving Corporation.
The Surviving Corporation shall, and Parent shall cause the
Surviving Corporation to, indemnify and hold harmless, and
provide advancement of expenses to, all current and former
directors, officers and employees of the Company and the Company
Subsidiaries (in all of their capacities) (i) to the same
extent such persons are indemnified or have the right to
advancement of expenses as of the date of this Agreement by the
Company or a Company Subsidiary pursuant to the Companys
or such Company Subsidiarys certificates of incorporation,
by-laws (or comparable organizational documents) and
indemnification agreements, if any, in existence on the date
hereof with any current or former directors, officers and
employees of the Company and the Company Subsidiaries and
(ii) without limitation to clause (i), to the fullest
extent permitted by Law, in each case for acts or omissions
occurring at or prior to the Effective Time (including for acts
or omissions occurring in connection with the approval of this
Agreement and the consummation of the transactions contemplated
hereby). Without limiting the foregoing, Parent agrees that all
rights to indemnification (including any obligations to advance
funds for expenses) and exculpation from liabilities for acts or
omissions occurring at or prior to the Effective Time now
existing in favor of the current or former directors, officers
or employees of the Company and the Company Subsidiaries as
provided in their respective certificates of incorporation or
by-laws (or comparable organizational documents),
indemnification agreements or otherwise will be assumed by the
Surviving Corporation without further action, as of the
Effective Time, and will survive the Merger and will continue in
full force and effect in accordance with their terms and such
rights will not be amended, or otherwise modified in any manner
that would adversely affect the rights of individuals who on or
prior to the Effective Time were directors, officers, employees
or agents of the Company, unless such modification is required
by Law.
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(b) Successors and Assigns of Surviving
Corporation. In the event that Parent or the Surviving
Corporation or any of their respective successors or assigns
(i) consolidates with or merges into any other person and
is not the continuing or surviving corporation or entity of such
consolidation or merger or (ii) transfers or conveys all or
substantially all of its properties and assets to any person,
then, and in each such case, Parent shall cause proper
provisions to be made so that the successors and assigns of
Parent or the Surviving Corporation, as the case may be, assume
the obligations set forth in this Section 5.7.
(c) Continuing Coverage. For six years after
the Effective Time, Parent shall cause to be maintained in
effect the current policies of directors and
officers liability insurance maintained by the Company
(provided that Parent may substitute therefor policies with
reputable and financially sound carriers of at least the same
coverage and amounts containing terms and conditions which are
no less advantageous) covering acts or omissions occurring at or
prior to the Effective Time with respect to those persons who
are currently covered by the Companys directors and
officers liability insurance policy (a copy of which has
been heretofore made available to Parent) (the
Indemnified Parties); provided,
however, that in no event will Parent or the Surviving
Corporation be required to expend in any one year an amount in
excess of 300% of the annual premiums currently paid by the
Company for such insurance (the Maximum
Premium); and provided further,
however, that, if the annual premiums of such insurance
coverage exceed such amount, Parent will be obligated to obtain
a policy with the greatest coverage available for a cost not
exceeding the Maximum Premium; and provided further,
however, that, if the Company in its sole discretion
elects, by giving written notice to Parent at least 30 days
prior to the Effective Time, then, in lieu of the foregoing
insurance, effective as of the Effective Time, the Company shall
purchase a directors and officers liability
insurance tail or runoff insurance
program for a period of six years after the Effective Time with
respect to wrongful acts and/or omissions committed or allegedly
committed at or prior to the Effective Time (such coverage shall
have an aggregate coverage limit over the term of such policy in
an amount not to exceed the annual aggregate coverage limit
under the Companys existing directors and officers
liability policy, and in all other respects shall be comparable
to such existing coverage), provided that the premium for such
tail or runoff coverage shall not exceed
an amount equal to the Maximum Premium.
(d) Intended Beneficiaries. The obligations
of Parent and the Surviving Corporation under this
Section 5.7 shall not be terminated or modified
after the Effective Time in such a manner as to adversely affect
any Indemnified Party without the express written consent of
such Indemnified Party. The provisions of this
Section 5.7 are (i) intended to be for the
benefit of, and will be enforceable by, each Indemnified Party,
his or her heirs and his or her representatives and (ii) in
addition to, and not in substitution for, any other rights to
indemnification or contribution that any such person may have by
contract or otherwise.
Section 5.8 Public
Announcements. Parent and the Company shall consult with
each other before holding any press conferences and before
issuing any press release or other public announcements with
respect to the transactions contemplated by this Agreement,
including the Merger. The parties will provide each other the
opportunity to review and comment upon any press release or
other public announcement or statement with respect to the
transactions contemplated by this Agreement, including the
Merger, and shall not issue any such press release or other
public announcement or statement prior to such consultation,
except as, in the reasonable judgment of the relevant party, may
be required by applicable Law, court process or by obligations
pursuant to any listing agreement with any national securities
exchange. The parties agree that the initial press release or
releases to be issued with respect to the transactions
contemplated by this Agreement shall be mutually agreed upon
prior to the issuance thereof.
Section 5.9 Affiliates.
The Company shall deliver to Parent prior to the Closing Date a
letter identifying all persons who are, at the time this
Agreement is submitted for adoption by the stockholders of the
Company, affiliates of the Company for purposes of
Rule 145 of the rules and regulations promulgated under the
Securities Act. The Company shall use reasonable best efforts to
cause each such person to deliver to Parent on or prior to the
Closing Date a written agreement substantially in the form
attached as Exhibit A hereto.
Section 5.10 NYSE
Listing. Parent shall use its reasonable best efforts to
cause the shares of Parent Common Stock issuable to the
Companys stockholders as contemplated by this Agreement to
be approved for
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listing on the NYSE, subject to official notice of issuance, as
promptly as practicable after the date of this Agreement, and in
any event prior to the Closing Date.
Section 5.11 Stockholder
Litigation. The parties to this Agreement shall
cooperate and consult with one another in connection with any
stockholder litigation against any of them or any of their
respective directors or officers with respect to the
transactions contemplated by this Agreement. In furtherance of
and without in any way limiting the foregoing, each of the
parties shall use its respective reasonable best efforts to
prevail in such litigation so as to permit the consummation of
the transactions contemplated by this Agreement in the manner
contemplated by this Agreement. Notwithstanding the foregoing,
the Company agrees that it will not compromise or settle (other
than compromises or settlements involving solely monetary
damages) any litigation commenced against it or its directors
and officers relating to this Agreement or the transactions
contemplated hereby (including the Merger) without Parents
prior written consent, not to be unreasonably withheld or
delayed, it being understood and agreed that the Company may
compromise or settle any such litigation without Parents
consent solely for monetary damages.
Section 5.12 Tax
Treatment. Each of Parent, Merger Sub and the Company
shall use its reasonable best efforts to cause the Merger to
qualify as a reorganization under the provisions of
Section 368(a) of the Code and to obtain the opinions of
counsel referred to in Sections 6.2(d) and
6.3(d), including forbearing from taking any action that
would cause the Merger not to qualify as a reorganization under
the provisions of Section 368(a) of the Code.
Section 5.13 Section 16(b).
Parent and the Company shall take all steps reasonably necessary
to cause the transactions contemplated hereby and any other
dispositions of equity securities of the Company (including
derivative securities) or acquisitions of Parent equity
securities (including derivative securities) in connection with
this Agreement by each individual who is a director or officer
of the Company to be exempt under Rule 16b-3 under the
Exchange Act.
Section 5.14 Employee
Benefit Matters.
(a) Company Obligations. The Company shall
adopt such amendments to the Benefit Plans or Foreign Plans of
the Company as may reasonably be requested by Parent and as may
be necessary to ensure that Benefit Plans and Foreign Plans of
the Company cover only employees and former employees (and their
dependents and beneficiaries) of the Company and the Company
Subsidiaries following the consummation of the transactions
contemplated by this Agreement.
(b) Parent Obligations. Parent shall and
shall cause the Parent Subsidiaries (including the Surviving
Corporation) to:
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(i) assume the terms of all Benefit Plans and Foreign Plans
of the Company and honor and pay or provide the benefits
required thereunder in accordance with their terms, recognizing
that the consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby or
approval of this Agreement by the Companys stockholders,
as the case may be, will constitute a change in
control for purposes of such Benefit Plans that include a
definition of change in control; |
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(ii) until the first anniversary of the Effective Time,
except as may be required by applicable Law, continue the terms
of all Benefit Plans and Foreign Plans of the Company in
accordance with their terms in effect as of immediately prior to
the Effective Time; and |
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(iii) from the first anniversary of the Effective Time
until the third anniversary of the Effective Time (the
Benefits Maintenance Period), with
respect to employees of the Company and the Company Subsidiaries
as of the Effective Time (collectively, the Company
Employees) (other than those subject to collective
bargaining obligations or agreements), (x) provide a level
of aggregate employee benefits and compensation (excluding
equity based awards), taking into account all Benefit Plans of
the Company and other programs sponsored or maintained by the
Company and the Company Subsidiaries (other than equity based
plans) immediately prior to the Effective Time (including
amendments thereto that are permitted or contemplated by this
Agreement, including those described on Schedule
5.14(d)), that is substantially comparable in the aggregate
to the aggregate employee benefits |
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and compensation provided, with respect to service to the
Company or any of the Company Subsidiaries, to Company Employees
immediately prior to the Effective Time and (y) consider
Company Employees for equity based award grants on the same
basis that similarly situated employees of Parent are considered
for such grants. |
(c) Credit for Service of Company Employees.
If Company Employees are included in any benefit plan maintained
by Parent or any subsidiary of Parent following the Effective
Time, such Company Employees shall receive credit for service
with the Company and the Company Subsidiaries and their
predecessors prior to the Effective Time to the same extent and
for the same purposes thereunder as such service was counted
under similar Benefit Plans of the Company for all purposes
(except that, with respect to benefit accrual, such service
shall not be counted to the extent that it would result in a
duplication of benefits and shall not be counted for purposes of
benefit accrual under any defined benefit plan, provided that
such service shall be taken into account for purposes of
determining the applicable credit rate in effect under the
Parents qualified cash balance pension plan);
provided, however, that service of Company
Employees subject to collective bargaining agreements or
obligations shall be determined under such collective bargaining
agreements or obligations. If Company Employees or their
dependents are included in any medical, dental or health plan (a
Successor Plan) other than the plan or
plans in which they participated immediately prior to the
Effective Time (a Prior Plan), any
such Successor Plan shall not include any restrictions or
limitations with respect to pre-existing condition exclusions or
any actively-at-work requirements (except to the extent such
exclusions were applicable under any similar Prior Plan at the
Effective Time) and any eligible expenses incurred by any
Company Employee and his or her covered dependents during the
portion of the plan year of such Prior Plan ending on the date
such Company Employees participation in such Successor
Plan begins shall be taken into account under such Successor
Plan for purposes of satisfying all deductible, coinsurance and
maximum out-of-pocket requirements applicable to such Company
Employee and his or her covered dependents for the applicable
plan year as if such amounts had been paid in accordance with
such Successor Plan. Without limiting the generality of the
foregoing, for purposes of determining severance pay and
benefits under any applicable Benefit Plan of the Company
covering a Company Employee at or after the Effective Time other
than a Company Employee subject to collective bargaining
agreements or obligations, each such Company Employee shall
receive credit for service prior to the Effective Time with the
Company and the Company Subsidiaries and their predecessors to
the same extent and for the same purposes as such service was
counted under the applicable Benefit Plan of the Company as in
effect before the Effective Time, as well as for service from
and after the Effective Time with Parent and any Parent
Subsidiary (including the Surviving Corporation).
(d) Additional Matters. Parent agrees to the
additional compensation and benefits matters set forth on
Schedule 5.14(d) to this Agreement.
(e) No Third-Party Beneficiaries. Nothing in
this Section 5.14 shall (i) except as provided
in Schedule 5.14(d), confer any rights upon any person,
including any Company Employee or former employees of the
Company, other than the parties hereto and their respective
successors and permitted assigns or (ii) constitute or
create an employment agreement.
Section 5.15 Parent
Board. Parent shall select two individuals who are
directors of the Company as of the date of this Agreement and
who are recommended by the nominating committee of the Board of
Directors of Parent and, if such individuals are willing to
serve, Parent shall use its reasonable best efforts to appoint
such individuals, as of the Effective Time, to the Board of
Directors of Parent.
Section 5.16 Dividends.
Parent shall increase its quarterly dividend on the Parent
Common Stock to $0.25 per share beginning with the first
quarterly dividend with a record date on or after the Effective
Time. It is Parents intention to continue its quarterly
dividend at this amount for the foreseeable future.
Section 5.17 St. Louis
Operations and Community Involvement.
(a) Parent will maintain in St. Louis, Missouri a
major divisional headquarters, as well as certain regional
corporate support functions.
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(b) After the Effective Time, Parent will honor any
charitable contribution obligations of the Company that exist as
of the date of this Agreement. For one year following the
Effective Time, Parent shall not reduce the total aggregate
amount of funding for charitable causes by the Company from the
total amount of such funding in the twelve month period
immediately preceding the Closing Date. Between the first and
second anniversary of the Closing Date, Parent shall not reduce
the total aggregate amount of funding for charitable causes by
the Company by more than 50% from the total amount of such
funding in the prior twelve month period. Between the second and
third anniversary of the Closing Date, Parent shall not reduce
the total aggregate amount of funding for charitable causes by
the Company by more than 75% from the total amount of such
finding in the prior twelve month period. For the avoidance of
doubt and notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained in
the preceding sentence, Parents obligations as set forth
in this Section 5.17(b) shall be reduced by the total
aggregate amount of funding for charitable causes by the May
Department Stores Company Foundation during the same time period.
ARTICLE VI
CONDITIONS PRECEDENT
Section 6.1 Conditions
to Each Partys Obligation to Effect the Merger.
The respective obligation of each party to effect the Merger is
subject to the satisfaction or waiver on or prior to the Closing
Date of the following conditions:
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(a) Stockholder Approvals. Each of the
Company Stockholder Approval and the Parent Stockholder Approval
shall have been obtained. |
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(b) No Orders or Injunctions. None of the
parties hereto shall be subject to any order or injunction of
any Governmental Entity of competent jurisdiction that prohibits
the consummation of the Merger; provided, however, that prior to
asserting this condition, each of the parties shall have used
its reasonable best efforts to prevent the entry of any such
order or injunction and to appeal as promptly as possible any
such order or injunction that may be entered. |
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(c) Form S-4. The Form S-4 shall
have become effective under the Securities Act and shall not be
the subject of any stop order or proceedings seeking a stop
order. |
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(d) HSR. The waiting period applicable to the
consummation of the Merger under the HSR Act shall have expired
or been terminated. |
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(e) NYSE Listing. The shares of Parent Common
Stock issuable to the Companys stockholders as
contemplated by this Agreement must shall have been approved for
listing on the NYSE, subject to official notice of issuance. |
Section 6.2 Conditions
to Obligations of Parent and Merger Sub.
The obligation of Parent and Merger Sub to effect the Merger is
further subject to satisfaction or waiver of the following
conditions:
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(a) Representations and Warranties. The
representations and warranties of the Company set forth herein
shall be true and correct in all respects (without giving effect
to any materiality or material adverse effect qualifications
contained therein) both when made and at and as of the Closing
Date, as if made at and as of such time (except to the extent
expressly made as of an earlier date, in which case as of such
date), except where the failure of such representations and
warranties to be so true and correct would not reasonably be
expected to have or result in, individually or in the aggregate,
a material adverse effect on the Company. |
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(b) Performance of Obligations of the
Company. The Company shall have performed (i) in
all material respects all of its obligations (other than
pursuant to Section 4.1(a)) required to be performed
by it under this Agreement at or prior to the Closing Date and
(ii) in all respects all of its obligations required to be
performed by it under Section 4.1(a) at or prior to
the Closing Date, except where the failure to perform such
obligations would not reasonably be expected to have or result
in, individually or |
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in the aggregate, a material adverse effect on the Company.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, the delivery of the comfort
letters by Deloitte & Touche contemplated by
Section 5.2 is not a condition to Parents
obligation to effect the Merger. |
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(c) Officers Certificate. The Company
shall have furnished Parent with a certificate dated the Closing
Date signed on its behalf by an executive officer to the effect
that the conditions set forth in Sections 6.2(a) and
6.2(b) have been satisfied. |
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(d) Tax Opinion. Parent shall have received
from Jones Day, counsel to Parent, an opinion dated as of the
Closing Date, to the effect that the Merger will constitute a
reorganization within the meaning of
Section 368(a) of the Code, and Parent and the Company will
each be a party to such reorganization within the meaning of
Section 368(b) of the Code. In rendering such opinion,
counsel for Parent may require delivery of, and rely upon, the
Tax Certificates. |
Section 6.3 Conditions
to Obligations of the Company. The obligation of the
Company to effect the Merger is further subject to satisfaction
or waiver of the following conditions:
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(a) Representations and Warranties. The
representations and warranties of Parent and Merger Sub set
forth herein shall be true and correct in all respects (without
giving effect to any materiality or material adverse effect
qualifications contained therein) both when made and at and as
of the Closing Date, as if made at and as of such time (except
to the extent expressly made as of an earlier date, in which
case as of such date), except where the failure of such
representations and warranties to be so true and correct would
not reasonably be expected to have or result in, individually or
in the aggregate, a material adverse effect on Parent and Merger
Sub. |
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(b) Performance of Obligations of Parent and Merger
Sub. Each of Parent and Merger Sub shall have performed
(i) in all material respects all obligations (other than
pursuant to Section 4.1(b)) required to be performed
by it under this Agreement at or prior to the Closing Date and
(ii) in all respects all of its obligations required to be
performed by it under Section 4.1(b) at or prior to
the Closing Date, except where the failure to perform such
obligations would not reasonably be expected to have or result
in, individually or in the aggregate, a material adverse effect
on Parent. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the delivery of the
comfort letters by KPMG contemplated by Section 5.3
is not a condition to the Companys obligation to effect
the Merger. |
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(c) Officers Certificate. Each of
Parent and Merger Sub shall have furnished the Company with a
certificate dated the Closing Date signed on its behalf by an
executive officer to the effect that the conditions set forth in
Sections 6.3(a) and 6.3(b) have been
satisfied. |
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(d) Tax Opinion. The Company shall have
received from Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher, & Flom
LLP, counsel to the Company, an opinion dated as of the Closing
Date, to the effect that the Merger will constitute a
reorganization within the meaning of
Section 368(a) of the Code, and Parent and the Company will
each be a party to such reorganization within the meaning of
Section 368(b) of the Code. In rendering such opinion,
counsel for the Company may require delivery of, and rely upon,
the Tax Certificates. |
Section 6.4 Frustration
of Closing Conditions. Neither Parent nor Merger Sub nor
the Company may rely on the failure of any condition set forth
in Section 6.1, 6.2 or 6.3, as the
case may be, to be satisfied if such failure was caused by such
partys failure to comply with its obligations to
consummate the Merger and the other transactions contemplated by
this Agreement, as required by and subject to
Section 5.5.
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ARTICLE VII
TERMINATION
Section 7.1 Termination.
(a) Termination by Mutual Consent. This
Agreement may be terminated at any time prior to the Effective
Time, whether before or after the Company Stockholder Approval
or the Parent Stockholder Approval, by mutual written consent of
Parent, Merger Sub and the Company.
(b) Termination by Parent or the Company.
This Agreement may be terminated at any time prior to the
Effective Time, whether before or after the Company Stockholder
Approval or the Parent Stockholder Approval, by written notice
of either Parent or the Company:
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(i) if the Merger has not been consummated by
October 3, 2005, or such later date, if any, as Parent and
the Company agree upon in writing (as such date may be extended,
the Outside Date); provided,
however, that the right to terminate this Agreement
pursuant to this Section 7.1(b)(i) is not available
to any party whose breach of any provision of this Agreement
results in or causes the failure of the Merger to be consummated
by such time; provided further, however, that if
on the Outside Date the conditions to the Closing set forth in
Sections 6.1(b) or 6.1(d) shall not have been
fulfilled (and Section 7.1(b)(iv) is not applicable)
but all other conditions to the Closing either have been
fulfilled or are then capable of being fulfilled, then the
Outside Date shall, without any action on the part of the
parties hereto, be extended to August 31, 2006, and such
date shall become the Outside Date for purposes of this
Agreement; |
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(ii) if the Company Stockholders Meeting (including any
adjournment or postponement thereof) has concluded, the
Companys stockholders have voted and the Company
Stockholder Approval was not obtained; or |
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(iii) if the Parent Stockholders Meeting (including any
adjournment or postponement thereof) has concluded,
Parents stockholders have voted and the Parent Stockholder
Approval was not obtained; or |
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(iv) if any Governmental Entity of competent jurisdiction
issues an order or injunction that permanently prohibits the
Merger and such order or injunction has become final and
non-appealable; provided, however, that the right
to terminate this Agreement pursuant to this
Section 7.1(b)(iv) is not available to any party
whose breach of any provision of this Agreement results in or
causes such order or injunction or who has not used its
reasonable best efforts to prevent the entry of such order or
injunction or to appeal or lift such order or injunction. |
(c) Termination by Parent. This Agreement may
be terminated at any time prior to the Effective Time, whether
before or after the Company Stockholder Approval or the Parent
Stockholder Approval, by written notice of Parent:
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(i) if the Company (A) has breached or failed to
perform any of its covenants or other agreements contained in
this Agreement to be complied with by the Company such that the
closing condition set forth in Section 6.2(b) would
not be satisfied or (B) there exists a breach of any
representation or warranty of the Company contained in this
Agreement such that the closing condition set forth in
Section 6.2(a) would not be satisfied and, in the
case of both (A) and (B), such breach or failure to perform
(1) is not cured within 60 days after receipt of
written notice thereof or (2) is incapable of being cured
by the Company by the Outside Date; or |
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(ii) if the Board of Directors of the Company or any
committee thereof has made a Company Adverse Recommendation
Change. |
(d) Termination by the Company. This
Agreement may be terminated at any time prior to the Effective
Time, whether before or after the Company Stockholder Approval
or the Parent Stockholder Approval, by written notice of the
Company.
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(i) if either Parent or Merger Sub (A) has breached or
failed to perform any of its covenants or other agreements
contained in this Agreement to be complied with by Parent or
Merger Sub such that the closing condition set forth in
Section 6.3(b) would not be satisfied, or
(B) there exists a breach of any representation or warranty
of Parent or Merger Sub contained in this Agreement such that
the closing condition set forth in Section 6.3(a)
would not be satisfied and, in the case of both (A) and
(B), such breach or failure to perform (1) is not cured
within 60 days after receipt of written notice thereof or
(2) is incapable of being cured by Parent by the Outside
Date; |
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(ii) if, prior to receipt of the Company Stockholder
Approval, the Company (A) receives a Superior Proposal,
(B) shall have given Parent a Notice of Adverse
Recommendation, and (C) shall have thereafter satisfied the
conditions for making a Company Adverse Recommendation Change in
accordance with Section 4.2(c); provided,
however, that such termination shall not be effective
until such time as payment of the Termination Fee required by
Section 7.3(b) shall have been made by the Company;
provided further, however, that the Companys
right to terminate this Agreement under this
Section 7.1(d)(ii) shall not be available if the
Company is then in material breach of Section 4.2; |
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(iii) if the Board of Directors of Parent or any committee
thereof has made a Parent Adverse Recommendation Change. |
Section 7.2 Effect
of Termination. In the event of termination of this
Agreement by either the Company or Parent as provided in
Section 7.1, this Agreement will forthwith become
void and have no effect, without any liability or obligation on
the part of Parent, Merger Sub or the Company, other than the
provisions of the Confidentiality Agreement, this
Section 7.2, Section 7.3 and
Article VIII, which provisions shall survive such
termination; provided, however, that nothing
herein will relieve any party from any liability for any willful
and material breach by such party of this Agreement.
Section 7.3 Fees
and Expenses.
(a) Division of Fees and Expenses. Except as
provided in this Section 7.3, all Expenses incurred
in connection with the Merger, this Agreement and the
transactions contemplated hereby will be paid by the party
incurring such Expenses, whether or not the Merger is
consummated, except that (i) each of Parent and the Company
will bear and pay one-half of the costs and expenses incurred in
connection with the filing, printing and mailing of the
Form S-4 and the Joint Proxy Statement (including SEC
filing fees) and (ii) any real estate transfer, gain or
other similar Taxes to the Company or any of the Company
Subsidiaries resulting from the transactions contemplated by
this Agreement shall be borne by the Company. Parent shall not
reimburse the Company, directly or indirectly, for any payment
made by the Company pursuant to this Section 7.3(a).
As used in this Agreement, Expenses
includes all out-of-pocket fees and expenses (including
all fees and expenses of accountants, investment bankers,
counsel, experts and consultants to a party hereto and its
affiliates) incurred by a party or on its behalf in connection
with or related to the authorization, preparation, negotiation,
execution and performance of this Agreement and the transactions
contemplated hereby.
(b) Termination Fee Payable By Company. In
the event that this Agreement (i) is terminated pursuant to
Section 7.1(c)(ii), (ii) is terminated pursuant
to Section 7.1(d)(ii), or (iii) is terminated
pursuant to Section 7.1(b)(i),
Section 7.1(b)(ii) or Section 7.1(c)(i)
and at such time of termination Parent is not in breach in any
material respect of any of its representations, warranties or
covenants contained in this Agreement and (A) prior to such
termination, any person publicly announces a Company Takeover
Proposal which shall not have been withdrawn and (B) within
12 months of such termination the Company or any of the
Company Subsidiaries enters into a definitive agreement with
respect to, or consummates, any Company Takeover Proposal, then
the Company shall (1) in the case of termination pursuant
to clause (i) or (ii) of this
Section 7.3(b), promptly, but in no event later than
two Business Days after the date of such termination, or
(2) in the case of termination pursuant to
clause (iii) of this Section 7.3(b), upon the
earlier to occur of the execution of such definitive agreement
and such consummation, pay Parent a non-refundable fee equal to
$350,000,000 (the Termination Fee),
payable by wire transfer of same day funds to an account
designated in writing to the Company by Parent.
A-39
(c) Termination Fees Payable By Parent. In
the event that this Agreement is terminated pursuant to
Section 7.1(d)(iii), then Parent shall, promptly,
but in no event later than two Business Days after the date of
such termination, pay the Company a non-refundable fee equal to
the Termination Fee, payable by wire transfer of same day funds
to an account designated in writing to Parent by the Company. In
the event that this Agreement is terminated pursuant to
Section 7.1(b)(i) and at the time of any such
termination all of the conditions set forth in Article VI
have been satisfied or waived except for (1) any of the
conditions set forth in Sections 6.1(b) and 6.1(d),
(2) any of the conditions set forth in
Sections 6.1(e) or 6.2(d) if, at the time of
such termination, such conditions are capable of being
satisfied, and (3) such other conditions that are capable
of being satisfied on the date of termination but, by their
terms, cannot be satisfied until the Closing Date, then Parent
shall promptly, but in no event later than two Business Days
after the date of such termination, pay the Company a
non-refundable fee equal to $350,000,000, payable by wire
transfer of same day funds to an account designated in writing
to Parent by the Company. In the event that this Agreement is
terminated pursuant to Section 7.1(b)(iv) and at the
time of any such termination all of the conditions set forth in
Article VI have been satisfied or waived except for
(1) any of the conditions set forth in
Sections 6.1(b) and 6.1(d), (2) any of the
conditions set forth in Sections 6.1(e) or 6.2(d),
if at the time of such termination, such conditions are capable
of being satisfied, and (3) such other conditions that are
capable of being satisfied on the date of termination but, by
their terms, cannot be satisfied until the Closing Date, then
the Parent shall promptly, but in no event later than two
Business Days after the date of such termination, pay the
Company a non-refundable fee equal to the product of
(x) $20,000,000 and (y) the quotient (rounded to the
fourth decimal point) determined by dividing (1) the number
of calendar days between the date hereof and the date of such
termination by (2) 30, provided that the amount of such fee
shall not be less than $150,000,000 or more than $350,000,000.
The non-refundable fee referred to in the previous sentence
shall be payable by wire transfer of same day funds to an
account designated in writing to Parent by the Company.
ARTICLE VIII
GENERAL PROVISIONS
Section 8.1 Nonsurvival
of Representations and Warranties. None of the
representations and warranties in this Agreement or in any
instrument delivered pursuant to this Agreement will survive the
Effective Time. This Section 8.1 shall not limit any
covenant or agreement of the parties which by its terms
contemplates performance after the Effective Time.
Section 8.2 Notices.
All notices, requests, claims, demands and other communications
under this Agreement must be in writing and will be deemed given
if delivered personally, telecopied (which is confirmed by
telephone) or sent by a nationally recognized overnight courier
service (providing proof of delivery) to the parties at the
following addresses (or at such other address for a party as is
specified by like notice):
if to the Company, to:
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The May Department Stores Company |
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611 Olive Street |
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St. Louis, Missouri 63101 |
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Telecopy No.: (314) 342-3040 |
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Attention: Alan Charlson |
with a copy to:
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Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher, & Flom LLP |
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Four Times Square |
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New York, New York 10036-6522 |
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Telecopy No.: (212) 735-2000 |
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Attention: J. Michael Schell, Esq. |
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Margaret L. Wolff, Esq. |
A-40
if to Parent or Merger Sub, to:
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Federated Departments Stores, Inc. |
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7 West Seventh Street |
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Cincinnati, Ohio 45202 |
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Telecopy No.: (513) 579-7354 |
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Attention: Dennis Broderick |
with a copy to:
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Jones Day |
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North Point |
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901 Lakeside Avenue |
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Cleveland, Ohio 44114 |
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Telecopy No.: (216) 579-0212 |
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Attention: Lyle G. Ganske |
Section 8.3 Interpretation.
When a reference is made in this Agreement to an Article,
Section or Exhibit, such reference is to an Article or Section
of, or an Exhibit to, this Agreement unless otherwise indicated.
The table of contents, table of defined terms and headings
contained in this Agreement are for reference purposes only and
do not affect in any way the meaning or interpretation of this
Agreement. Whenever the words include,
includes or including are used in this
Agreement, they will be deemed to be followed by the words
without limitation. The words hereof,
herein and hereunder and words of
similar import when used in this Agreement will refer to this
Agreement as a whole and not to any particular provision of this
Agreement. All terms defined in this Agreement will have the
defined meanings when used in any certificate or other document
made or delivered pursuant hereto unless otherwise defined
therein. The definitions contained in this Agreement are
applicable to the singular as well as the plural forms of such
terms and to the masculine as well as to the feminine and neuter
genders of such term. Any agreement, instrument or statute
defined or referred to herein or in any agreement or instrument
that is referred to herein means such agreement, instrument or
statute as from time to time amended, modified or supplemented,
including (in the case of agreements or instruments) by waiver
or consent and (in the case of statutes) by succession of
comparable successor statutes. The parties hereto have
participated jointly in the negotiating and drafting of this
Agreement and, in the event an ambiguity or question of intent
arises, this Agreement shall be construed as jointly drafted by
the parties hereto and no presumption or burden of proof shall
arise favoring or disfavoring any party by virtue of the
authorship of any provision of this Agreement. For purposes of
this Agreement:
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(a) affiliate of any person means
another person that directly or indirectly, through one or more
intermediaries, controls, is controlled by, or is under common
control with, such first person, where control means
the possession, directly or indirectly, of the power to direct
or cause the direction of the management policies of a person,
whether through the ownership of voting securities, by contract
or otherwise; |
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(b) knowledge of any person that
is not a natural person means the actual knowledge of such
persons executive officers; |
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(c) Law means any foreign,
federal, state or local law, statute, code, ordinance,
regulation, legally binding rule or other legally enforceable
obligation imposed by a court or other Governmental Entity; |
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(d) Leases means all leases of
real property leased by the Company or any of its subsidiaries; |
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(e) Liens means all pledges,
claims, liens, options, charges, mortgages, easements,
restrictions, covenants, conditions of record, encroachments,
encumbrances and security interests of any kind or nature
whatsoever; |
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(f) material adverse change or
material adverse effect means, when
used in connection with the Company or Parent (including
references to the Representing Party), as the case
may be, any change, effect, event, occurrence or state of facts
that is, or would reasonably be expected to be, materially |
A-41
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adverse to the business, financial condition, or results of
operations of such party and its subsidiaries taken as a whole,
other than any changes, effects, events, occurrences or state of
facts relating to (i) the economy or financial markets in
general, (ii) the industry in which such party and its
subsidiaries operate in general, (iii) negotiation and
entry into this Agreement, the announcement of this Agreement or
the undertaking and performance or observance of the obligations
contemplated by this Agreement or necessary to consummate the
transactions contemplated hereby (including adverse effects on
results of operations attributable to the uncertainties
associated with the period between the date hereof and the
Closing Date), (iv) the effect of incurring and paying
Expenses in connection with negotiating, entering into,
performing and consummating the transactions contemplated by
this Agreement, (v) changes in applicable Laws after the
date hereof and (vi) changes in GAAP after the date hereof;
provided, that with respect to clauses (i) and
(ii) such changes, effects, events, occurrences or state of
facts do not disproportionately affect such persons relative to
the other participants in the industries in which such persons
operate; provided, further, that, for the
avoidance of doubt, compliance with (and the consequences
thereof) the terms of this Agreement (including
Section 5.5) shall not be taken into account in
determining whether a material adverse change or material
adverse effect shall have occurred or shall be expected to occur
for any and all purposes of this Agreement; and provided,
further, that it is understood and agreed that the terms
material and materially have correlative
meanings; |
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(g) Permitted Liens means
(i) mechanics, carriers, workmens,
repairmens or other like Liens arising or incurred in the
ordinary course of business relating to obligations that are not
delinquent or that are being contested in good faith by the
relevant party or any subsidiary of it and for which the
relevant party or a subsidiary of it has established adequate
reserves, (ii) Liens for Taxes that are not due and
payable, that are being contested in good faith by appropriate
proceedings or that may thereafter be paid without interest or
penalty, (iii) Liens that are reflected as liabilities on
the balance sheet of the relevant party and its consolidated
subsidiaries as of October 30, 2004, contained in its SEC
Documents or the existence of which is referred to in the notes
to such balance sheet and (iv) Liens that, individually or
in the aggregate, do not materially impair, and would not
reasonably be expected materially to impair, the value or the
continued use and operation of the assets to which they relate; |
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(h) person means an individual,
corporation, partnership, limited liability company, joint
venture, association, trust, unincorporated organization,
Governmental Entity or other entity (including its permitted
successors and assigns); and |
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(i) a subsidiary of any person
means another person, an amount of the voting securities, other
voting ownership or voting partnership interests of which is
sufficient to elect at least a majority of its Board of
Directors or other governing body (or, if there are no such
voting interests, 50% or more of the equity interest of which)
is owned directly or indirectly by such first person. |
Section 8.4 Counterparts.
This Agreement may be executed in two or more counterparts, all
of which will be considered one and the same agreement and will
become effective when one or more counterparts have been signed
by each of the parties and delivered to the other parties.
Section 8.5 Entire
Agreement; No Third-Party Beneficiaries. This Agreement
(including the documents and instruments relating to the Merger
referred to herein) and the Confidentiality Agreement, taken
together with the Company Disclosure Letter and Parent
Disclosure Letter, (a) constitute the entire agreement, and
supersede all prior agreements and understandings, both written
and oral, among the parties with respect to the subject matter
of this Agreement and (b) except for the provisions of
Section 5.7, Section 5.14 and the
applicable provisions of Schedule 5.14(d), are not intended
to confer upon any person other than the parties any rights or
remedies. Notwithstanding clause (b) of the immediately
preceding sentence, following the Effective Time the provisions
of Article II shall be enforceable by holders of
Company Certificates.
Section 8.6 Governing
Law. This Agreement is to be governed by, and construed
in accordance with, the laws of the State of Delaware,
regardless of the laws that might otherwise govern under
applicable principles of conflict of laws thereof.
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Section 8.7 Assignment.
Neither this Agreement nor any of the rights, interests or
obligations under this Agreement may be assigned, in whole or in
part, by operation of law or otherwise by any of the parties
hereto without the prior written consent of the other parties.
Any assignment in violation of this Section 8.7 will
be void and of no effect. Subject to the preceding two
sentences, this Agreement is binding upon, inures to the benefit
of, and is enforceable by, the parties and their respective
successors and assigns.
Section 8.8 Consent
to Jurisdiction; Waiver of Jury Trial.
(a) Each of the parties hereto (i) consents to submit
itself to the personal jurisdiction of any federal court located
in the State of Delaware or any Delaware state court in the
event any dispute arises out of this Agreement or any of the
transactions contemplated by this Agreement, (ii) agrees
that it will not attempt to deny or defeat such personal
jurisdiction by motion or other request for leave from any such
court and (iii) agrees that it will not bring any action
relating to this Agreement or any of the transactions
contemplated by this Agreement in any court other than a federal
court sitting in the state of Delaware or a Delaware state court.
(b) EACH PARTY ACKNOWLEDGES AND AGREES THAT ANY CONTROVERSY
WHICH MAY ARISE UNDER THIS AGREEMENT IS LIKELY TO INVOLVE
COMPLICATED AND DIFFICULT ISSUES, AND THEREFORE IT HEREBY
IRREVOCABLY AND UNCONDITIONALLY WAIVES ANY RIGHT IT MAY HAVE TO
A TRIAL BY JURY IN RESPECT OF ANY LITIGATION DIRECTLY OR
INDIRECTLY ARISING OUT OF OR RELATING TO THIS AGREEMENT AND ANY
OF THE AGREEMENTS DELIVERED IN CONNECTION HEREWITH OR THE
TRANSACTIONS CONTEMPLATED HEREBY OR THEREBY. EACH PARTY
CERTIFIES AND ACKNOWLEDGES THAT (A) NO REPRESENTATIVE,
AGENT OR ATTORNEY OF ANY OTHER PARTY HAS REPRESENTED, EXPRESSLY
OR OTHERWISE, THAT SUCH OTHER PARTY WOULD NOT, IN THE EVENT OF
LITIGATION, SEEK TO ENFORCE EITHER OF SUCH WAIVERS, (B) IT
UNDERSTANDS AND HAS CONSIDERED THE IMPLICATIONS OF SUCH WAIVERS,
(C) IT MAKES SUCH WAIVERS VOLUNTARILY, AND (D) IT HAS
BEEN INDUCED TO ENTER INTO THIS AGREEMENT BY, AMONG OTHER
THINGS, THE MUTUAL WAIVERS AND CERTIFICATIONS IN THIS
SECTION 8.8(b).
Section 8.9 Specific
Enforcement. The parties agree that irreparable damage
would occur in the event that any of the provisions of this
Agreement were not performed in accordance with their specific
terms or were otherwise breached. The parties accordingly agree
that the parties will be entitled to an injunction or
injunctions to prevent breaches of this Agreement and to enforce
specifically the terms and provisions of this Agreement in any
federal court located in the State of Delaware or a Delaware
state court, this being in addition to any other remedy to which
they are entitled at law or in equity.
Section 8.10 Amendment.
This Agreement may be amended by the parties at any time before
or after the Company Stockholder Approval or the Parent
Stockholder Approval; provided, however, that,
after such approval, there is not to be made any amendment that
by Law or stock exchange regulation requires further approval by
the stockholders of the Company or the stockholders of Parent,
as applicable, without further approval of such stockholders.
This Agreement may not be amended except by an instrument in
writing signed on behalf of each of the parties.
Section 8.11 Extension;
Waiver. At any time prior to the Effective Time, a party
may (a) extend the time for the performance of any of the
obligations or other acts of the other party, (b) waive any
inaccuracies in the representations and warranties of the other
party contained in this Agreement or in any document delivered
pursuant to this Agreement or (c) subject to the proviso of
Section 8.10, waive compliance by the other parties
with any of the agreements or conditions contained in this
Agreement. Any agreement on the part of a party to any such
extension or waiver will be valid only if set forth in an
instrument in writing signed on behalf of such party. The
failure of any party to this Agreement to assert any of its
rights under this Agreement or otherwise will not constitute a
waiver of such rights.
Section 8.12 Severability.
If any term or other provision of this Agreement is invalid,
illegal or incapable of being enforced by any rule of law or
public policy, all other conditions and provisions of this
A-43
Agreement will nevertheless remain in full force and effect.
Upon such determination that any term or other provision is
invalid, illegal or incapable of being enforced, the parties
hereto shall negotiate in good faith to modify this Agreement so
as to effect the original intent of the parties as closely as
possible to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law in an
acceptable manner to the end that the transactions contemplated
hereby are fulfilled to the extent possible.
(SIGNATURES ARE ON THE FOLLOWING PAGE.)
A-44
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this
Agreement to be signed by their respective officers thereunto
duly authorized, all as of the date first written above.
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THE MAY DEPARTMENT STORES COMPANY |
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Title: |
President and Acting Chairman and CEO |
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FEDERATED DEPARTMENT STORES, INC. |
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By: |
/s/ Terry J. Lundgren |
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Title: |
Chairman, President and CEO |
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By: |
/s/ Dennis J. Broderick |
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Name: Dennis J. Broderick |
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Title: |
Senior Vice President and Secretary |
A-45
EXHIBIT A
FORM OF COMPANY AFFILIATE LETTER
,
200
Federated Department Stores, Inc.
7 West Seventh Street
Cincinnati, Ohio 45202
Ladies and Gentlemen:
***Pursuant to the terms of the Agreement and Plan of Merger,
dated as of February 27, 2005 (the Merger
Agreement), by and among The May Department
Stores Company, a Delaware corporation (the
Company), Milan Acquisition
Corp., a Delaware corporation (Merger
Sub), and Federated Department Stores,
Inc., a Delaware corporation
(Parent), the Company will merge with
and into Merger Sub (the Merger), with
Merger Sub as the surviving corporation. As a result of the
Merger, the undersigned may receive shares of common stock, par
value $0.01 per share, of Parent (Parent Common
Stock) in exchange for shares owned by the
undersigned of common stock, par value $0.50 per share, of
the Company (the Company Common Stock).
The undersigned has been advised that the undersigned may be
deemed an affiliate of the Company, as
such the term is defined for purposes of
paragraphs (c) and (d) of Rule 145
(Rule 145) promulgated under the
Securities Act of 1933 (the Securities
Act) by the Securities and Exchange Commission
(the SEC). However, it is understood
and agreed that the execution and delivery of this letter
agreement by the undersigned shall not be deemed an admission
that the undersigned is an affiliate of the Company
or as a waiver of any rights the undersigned may have to object
to any claim that the undersigned is such an affiliate on or
after the date of this letter. If in fact the undersigned is an
affiliate of the Company under the Securities Act, the
undersigneds ability to sell, assign or transfer Parent
Common Stock received by the undersigned in exchange for any
shares of the Company Common Stock in connection with the Merger
may be restricted unless such transaction is registered under
the Securities Act or an exemption from such registration is
available. The undersigned understands that such exemptions are
limited and the undersigned has obtained or will obtain advice
of counsel as to the nature and conditions of such exemptions,
including information with respect to the applicability to the
sale of such securities of Rules 144 and 145(d) promulgated
under the Securities Act. The undersigned understands that
Parent is under no obligation to register the sale, assignment,
transfer or other disposition of Parent Common Stock to be
received by the undersigned in the Merger or to take any other
action necessary in order to make compliance with an exemption
from such registration available.
The undersigned hereby represents to and covenants with Parent
that the undersigned will not sell, assign, transfer or
otherwise dispose of any Parent Common Stock received by the
undersigned in exchange for shares of the Company Common Stock
in connection with the Merger except (i) pursuant to an
effective registration statement under the Securities Act,
(ii) in conformity with the volume and other limitations of
Rule 145 promulgated under the Securities Act or
(iii) in a transaction which, in the opinion of counsel, or
as described in a no-action or interpretive letter
from the Staff of the SEC specifically issued with respect to a
transaction to be engaged in by the undersigned, is not required
to be registered under the Securities Act.
In the event of a sale or other disposition by the undersigned
of the shares of Parent Common Stock pursuant to Rule 145,
the undersigned will supply Parent with evidence of compliance
with such Rule, in the form of a letter in the form of
Annex I hereto or the opinion of counsel or
no-action letter referred to above. The undersigned understands
that Parent may instruct its transfer agent to withhold the
transfer of any shares of Parent Common Stock disposed of by the
undersigned, but that (provided such transfer is not prohibited
by any other provision of this letter agreement) upon receipt of
such evidence of compliance, the transfer agent shall effectuate
the transfer of such shares indicated as sold, transferred or
otherwise disposed of in such letter.
A-46
The undersigned acknowledges that (i) the undersigned has
carefully read this letter and understands the requirements
hereof and the limitations imposed upon the sale, assignment,
transfer or other disposition of Parent Common Stock and
(ii) the receipt by Parent of this letter is an inducement
to Parents obligations to consummate the Merger.
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Very truly yours, |
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[Name] |
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Agreed to and accepted |
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Federated Department Stores, Inc. |
A-47
Annex I
,
200
Federated Department Stores, Inc.
7 West Seventh Street
Cincinnati, Ohio 45202
Ladies and Gentlemen:
On ,
the undersigned
sold shares
of common stock (Common Stock) of Federated
Department Stores, Inc., a Delaware corporation (the
Company), received by it in connection with the
merger of The May Department Stores Company, a Delaware
corporation, and Milan Acquisition Corp., a Delaware
corporation and a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company.
The undersigned represents that the Common Stock has been sold
in conformity with Rule 145 and the undersigned has
complied with its covenants in the affiliate letter between the
Company and the undersigned
dated ,
200 . Based upon the most recent report or statement filed
by the Company with the Securities and Exchange Commission, the
shares of Common Stock sold by the undersigned were within the
prescribed limitations set forth in paragraph (e) of
Rule 144 promulgated under the Securities Act of 1933 (the
Act).
The undersigned hereby represents that the above-described
shares of Common Stock were sold in brokers
transactions within the meaning of Section 4(4) of
the Act or in transactions directly with a market
maker as the term is defined in Section (3)(a)(38) of
the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. The undersigned further
represents that it has not solicited or arranged for the
solicitation of orders to buy the above-described shares of
Common Stock, and that the undersigned has not made any payment
in connection with the offer or sale of such shares to any
person other than to the broker who executed the order in
respect of such sale.
A-48
ANNEX B
February 27, 2005
Board of Directors
The May Department Stores Company
611 Olive Street
St. Louis, MO 63101
Members of the Board:
We understand that The May Department Stores Company
(May or the Company), Federated
Department Stores Inc. (Federated) and Merger Sub, a
wholly owned subsidiary of Federated (Merger Sub),
propose to enter into an Agreement and Plan of Merger,
substantially in the form of the draft dated February 27,
2005 (the Merger Agreement), which provides, among
other things, for the merger of the Company with and into Merger
Sub. Pursuant to the Merger, the Company will become a wholly
owned subsidiary of Federated and each outstanding share of
common stock, par value $0.50 per share, of May (the
Company Common Stock), other than shares held in
treasury or held by Federated or any subsidiary of Federated or
May or as to which dissenters rights have been perfected,
will be converted into the right to receive (i) $17.750 in
cash without interest and (ii) 0.3115 fully paid,
nonassessable shares of common stock, par value $0.01 per
share, of Federated (Federated Common Stock)
(collectively, the Merger Consideration). In
addition, we also note that each share of the ESOP Preference
shares, par value $0.50 per share, of May will, on an
as-converted basis, be converted into the right to receive the
Merger Consideration. The terms and conditions of the Merger are
more fully set forth in the Merger Agreement.
You have asked for our opinion as to whether the Merger
Consideration to be received by the holders of shares of Company
Common Stock pursuant to the Merger Agreement is fair from a
financial point of view to such holders.
For purposes of the opinion set forth herein, we have:
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i) reviewed certain publicly available financial statements
and other business and financial information of the Company and
Federated, respectively; |
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ii) reviewed certain internal financial statements and other
financial and operating data concerning the Company prepared by
the management of the Company; |
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iii) reviewed certain financial projections prepared by the
management of the Company; |
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iv) discussed the past and current operations and financial
condition and the prospects of the Company, with senior
executives of the Company; |
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v) discussed the past and current operations and financial
condition and the prospects of Federated, with senior executives
of Federated; |
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vi) discussed certain limited financial projections for
Federated with the management of Federated; |
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vii) discussed limited pro forma financial projections,
including information relating to strategic, financial and
operational benefits and issues anticipated from the Merger,
with senior executives of Federated; |
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viii) discussed the strategic rationale of the Merger with the
management of May and Federated; |
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ix) reviewed the pro forma impact of the Merger on
Federateds publicly available operating statistics,
consolidated capitalization and financial ratios; |
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x) reviewed the reported prices and trading activity for
Company Common Stock and Federated Common Stock; |
B-1
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xi) compared the financial performance of the Company and
Federated and the prices and trading activity of the Company
Common Stock and Federated Common Stock with that of certain
other comparable publicly-traded companies and their securities; |
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xii) reviewed the financial terms, to the extent publicly
available, of certain comparable acquisition transactions; |
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xiii) participated in discussions and negotiations among
representatives of the Company, Federated and their financial
and legal advisors; |
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xiv) reviewed the draft Merger Agreement, dated
February 27, 2005 and certain related documents; and |
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xv) considered such other factors and performed such other
analyses as we have deemed appropriate. |
We have assumed and relied upon without independent verification
the accuracy and completeness of the information supplied or
otherwise made available to us by the Company and Federated for
the purposes of this opinion. With respect to the financial
projections supplied to us or discussed with us, including
information relating to strategic, financial and operational
benefits and issues anticipated from the Merger, we have assumed
they have been reasonably prepared on bases reflecting the best
currently available estimates and judgments of the future
financial performance of the Company and Federated. For purposes
of its analysis with respect to Federated and after discussions
with the management of Federated, Morgan Stanley used and relied
on publicly available projections of equity research analysts
who report on Federated. We have also relied without independent
verification of the assessments of management of the Company and
Federated of the strategic rationale of the Merger. In addition,
we have assumed that the Merger will be consummated in
accordance with the terms set forth in the Merger Agreement with
no material waiver, delay or amendment, including, among other
things, that the Merger will be treated as a tax-free
reorganization, pursuant to the Internal Revenue Code of 1986,
as amended. We have assumed that in connection with the receipt
of all the necessary regulatory and other approvals and consents
for the proposed Merger, no restrictions will be imposed that
would have a material adverse effect on the contemplated
benefits expected to be derived in the proposed Merger. We are
not legal, regulatory, accounting or tax experts and have
assumed the accuracy and veracity of assessments by such
advisors to the Company and Federated with respect to such
issues. We have also relied upon, without independent
verification, the assessment by the management of the Federated
and the Company of the timing and risks associated with the
integration of Federated and the Company. We have not made any
independent valuation or appraisal of the assets or liabilities
of the Company or Federated, nor have we been furnished with any
such appraisals. Our opinion is necessarily based on financial,
economic, market and other conditions as in effect on, and the
information made available to us as of, the date hereof.
In arriving at our opinion, we were not authorized to solicit,
and did not solicit, interest from any party with respect to a
business combination involving the Company or any of its assets.
We have acted as financial advisor to the Board of Directors of
the Company in connection with the Merger and will receive a fee
for our services, a substantial portion of which is contingent
upon the consummation of the Merger. In the past, Morgan
Stanley & Co. Incorporated (Morgan Stanley)
and its affiliates have provided financial advisory and
financing services for the Company and have received fees for
the rendering of these services. In addition, Morgan Stanley is
a full service securities firm engaged in securities trading,
investment management and brokerage services. In the ordinary
course of its trading, brokerage, investment management and
financing activities, Morgan Stanley or its affiliates may
actively trade the debt and equity securities of the Company or
Federated for its own accounts or for the accounts of its
customers and, accordingly, may at any time hold long or short
positions in such securities.
It is understood that this letter is for the information and use
of the Board of Directors of the Company and may not be used for
any other purpose without our prior written consent, except that
this opinion may be included in its entirety, if required, in
any filing made by the Company in respect of the Merger with the
Securities and Exchange Commission. In addition, this opinion
does not in any manner address the prices at which Federated
Common Stock will trade following the announcement of the Merger
or at any other time,
B-2
and Morgan Stanley expresses no opinion or recommendation as to
how the shareholders of the Company and Federated should vote at
the shareholders meetings held in connection with the
Merger.
Based on and subject to the foregoing, we are of the opinion on
the date hereof that the Merger Consideration to be received by
the holders of shares of the Company Common Stock pursuant to
the Merger Agreement is fair from a financial point of view to
such holders.
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Very truly yours, |
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MORGAN STANLEY & CO. INCORPORATED |
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Mark D. Eichorn |
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Managing Director |
B-3
ANNEX C
February 27, 2005
Board of Directors
The May Department Stores Company
611 Olive Street
St. Louis, Missouri 63101
Ladies and Gentlemen:
You have asked us to advise you with respect to the fairness to
the holders of common stock, par value $0.50 per share
(May Common Stock), of The May Department Stores
Company (May) from a financial point of view of the
consideration proposed to be received by the holders of May
Common Stock pursuant to the terms of the Agreement and Plan of
Merger, to be dated on or about February 27, 2005 (the
Agreement), by and among Federated Department
Stores, Inc. (Federated), a wholly-owned subsidiary
of Federated (Merger Sub), and May.
We understand that the Agreement provides for the merger of
Merger Sub with and into May, with May continuing as the
surviving corporation in the merger as a wholly-owned subsidiary
of Federated (the Merger), and that, upon the
effectiveness of the Merger, each issued and outstanding share
of May Common Stock will be converted into the right to receive
0.3115 shares of common stock, par value $.01 per
share, of Federated (Federated Common Stock) plus
$17.75 in cash.
For purposes of the opinion set forth herein, we have:
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(i) reviewed certain publicly available financial
statements and other information of May and Federated; |
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(ii) reviewed certain internal financial statements and
other financial and operating data concerning May prepared by
the management of May; |
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(iii) reviewed certain financial projections for May
prepared by the management of May; |
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(iv) reviewed financial forecasts and estimates for
Federated prepared by independent research analysts contained in
publicly available research reports regarding the future
financial performance of Federated and discussed such forecasts
and estimates with the management of Federated; |
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(v) discussed the past and current operations, financial
condition and prospects of May with the management of May; |
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(vi) discussed the past and current operations, financial
condition and prospects of Federated, including information
relating to certain strategic, financial and operational
benefits anticipated from the Merger, with the management of
Federated; |
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(vii) reviewed the reported prices and trading activity of
May Common Stock and Federated Common Stock; |
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(viii) compared the financial performance and condition of
May and Federated and the reported prices and trading activity
of May Common Stock and Federated Common Stock with that of
certain other comparable publicly traded companies; |
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(ix) reviewed publicly available information regarding the
financial terms of certain transactions comparable, in whole or
in part, to the Merger; |
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(x) reviewed the draft Agreement dated as of
February 25, 2005; and |
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(xi) performed such other analyses as we have deemed
appropriate. |
We have assumed and relied upon the accuracy and completeness of
the information reviewed by us for the purposes of this opinion
and we have not assumed any responsibility for independent
verification of such
C-1
information and have relied on such information being complete
and correct. With respect to the financial projections of May,
we also have assumed that the financial projections were
reasonably prepared on bases reflecting the best currently
available estimates and judgments of the future financial
performance of May. We have not been provided with, and did not
have any access to, any financial projections of Federated
prepared by the management of Federated or May. Accordingly,
upon advice of the management of Federated and with Mays
consent, we have assumed that the financial forecasts and
estimates for Federated published by independent research
analysts contained in publicly available research reports that
we have reviewed are a reasonable basis upon which to evaluate
the future financial performance of Federated, and we have
relied upon such estimates, as modified by additional
information from the management of Federated, in performing our
analysis. Furthermore, with Mays consent, we have relied
upon the estimates made by the management of Federated of
certain potential strategic, financial and other benefits
expected to result from the Merger without independent
strategic, financial and other benefits expected to result from
the Merger without independent assessment. We have not conducted
a physical inspection of the facilities or property of May or
Federated. We have not assumed any responsibility for any
independent valuation or appraisal of the assets or liabilities
of May or Federated, nor have we been furnished with any such
valuation or appraisal. Furthermore, we have not considered any
tax effects of the Merger on any person or entity.
We have assumed that the final form of the Agreement will be
substantially the same as the last draft reviewed by us. We have
also assumed that the Merger will be consummated in accordance
with the terms of the Agreement, without waiver, modification or
amendment of any material term, condition or agreement
(including, without limitation, the consideration proposed to be
received by the holders of May Common Stock in connection with
the Merger), and that, in the course of obtaining the necessary
regulatory or third party approvals, consents and releases for
the Merger, no delay, limitation, restriction or condition will
be imposed that would have a material adverse effect on May or
Federated or the contemplated benefits of the Merger. We have
further assumed that all representations and warranties set
forth in the Agreement are true and correct and that all parties
to the Agreement will comply with all covenants of such party
thereunder.
Our opinion is necessarily based on economic, market and other
conditions as in effect on, and the information made available
to us as of February 26, 2005. In particular, we do not
express any opinion as to the prices at which shares of either
May Common Stock or Federated Common Stock may trade at any
future time. Furthermore, our opinion does not address
Mays underlying business decision to undertake the Merger.
In arriving at our opinion, we were not authorized to solicit,
and did not solicit, interest from any party with respect to a
merger or other business combination transaction involving May
or any of its assets.
The financial advisory services we have provided to May in
connection with this Merger were limited to the delivery of this
opinion. We will receive a fee upon the delivery of this opinion.
This letter is for the information of the board of directors of
May, and may not be used for any other purpose without our prior
written consent. This letter does not constitute a
recommendation to any holder of May Common Stock as to how any
such holder should vote or act on any matter relating to the
Merger.
Based on, and subject to, the foregoing, we are of the opinion
that on the date hereof, the consideration proposed to be
received by the holders of May Common Stock in connection with
the Merger is fair from a financial point of view to the holders
of May Common Stock.
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Very truly yours, |
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PETER J. SOLOMON COMPANY, L.P. |
C-2
ANNEX D
PERSONAL AND CONFIDENTIAL
February 27, 2005
Board of Directors
Federated Department Stores, Inc.
7 West Seventh Street
Cincinnati, OH 45202
Ladies and Gentlemen:
You have requested our opinion as to the fairness from a
financial point of view to Federated Department Stores, Inc.
(the Company) of the $17.75 in cash (the Cash
Consideration) and 0.3115 of a share of the common stock,
par value $0.01 per share (the Company Common
Stock), of the Company (the Stock
Consideration; together with the Cash Consideration, the
Consideration) to be paid by the Company for each
outstanding share of common stock, par value $0.50 per
share (the Seller Common Stock), of The May
Department Stores Company (the Seller) pursuant to
the Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of February 27,
2005 (the Agreement), by and among the Company,
Milan Acquisition Corp., a wholly owned subsidiary of the
Company, and the Seller.
Goldman, Sachs & Co. and its affiliates, as part of
their investment banking business, are continually engaged in
performing financial analyses with respect to businesses and
their securities in connection with mergers and acquisitions,
negotiated underwritings, competitive biddings, secondary
distributions of listed and unlisted securities, private
placements and other transactions as well as for estate,
corporate and other purposes. We have acted as financial advisor
to the Company in connection with, and have participated in
certain of the negotiations leading to, the transaction
contemplated by the Agreement (the Transaction). We
expect to receive fees for our services in connection with the
Transaction, the principal portion of which is contingent upon
consummation of the Transaction, and the Company has agreed to
reimburse our expenses and indemnify us against certain
liabilities arising out of our engagement. We also may provide
investment banking and other services to the Company, the Seller
and their respective affiliates in the future for which we may
receive compensation.
Goldman, Sachs & Co. is a full service securities firm
engaged, either directly or through its affiliates, in
securities trading, investment management, financial planning
and benefits counseling, risk management, hedging, financing and
brokerage activities for both companies and individuals. In the
ordinary course of these activities, Goldman, Sachs &
Co. and its affiliates may provide such services to the Company,
the Seller and their respective affiliates, may actively trade
the debt and equity securities (or related derivative
securities) of the Company and the Seller for their own account
and for the accounts of their customers and may at any time hold
long and short positions of such securities.
In connection with this opinion, we have reviewed, among other
things, the Agreement; annual reports to stockholders and Annual
Reports on Form 10-K of the Company and the Seller for the
five fiscal years ended January 31, 2004; certain interim
reports to stockholders and Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q
of the Company and the Seller; certain other communications from
the Company and the Seller to their respective stockholders;
certain internal financial analyses and forecasts for the
Company prepared by its management; and certain financial
analyses and forecasts for the Seller prepared by the management
of the Company (the Forecasts), including certain
cost savings and operating synergies projected by the management
of the Company to result from the Transaction (the
Synergies). We have held discussions with members of
the senior management of the Company regarding their assessment
of the strategic rationale for, and the potential benefits of,
the Transaction. We also have held discussions with members of
the senior management of the Company and the Seller regarding
the past and current business operations, financial condition
and future prospects of the Company and the Seller. In addition,
we have reviewed the reported price and trading activity for the
shares of Company Common Stock and the shares of Seller Common
Stock, compared certain financial and stock market information
for the Company and the Seller with similar information for
certain
D-1
other companies the securities of which are publicly traded,
reviewed the financial terms of certain recent business
combinations in the department store and retail industry
specifically and in other industries generally and performed
such other studies and analyses, and considered such other
factors, as we considered appropriate.
We have relied upon the accuracy and completeness of all of the
financial, accounting, legal, tax and other information
discussed with or reviewed by us and have assumed such accuracy
and completeness for purposes of rendering this opinion. In that
regard, we have assumed with your consent that the Forecasts,
including the Synergies, have been reasonably prepared on a
basis reflecting the best currently available estimates and
judgments of the Company. In addition, we have not made an
independent evaluation or appraisal of the assets and
liabilities (including any contingent, derivative or
off-balance-sheet assets and liabilities and the credit card
assets as to which the Company has announced that it is
exploring various alternatives) of the Company or the Seller or
any of their respective subsidiaries and we have not been
furnished with any such evaluation or appraisal. We also have
assumed that all governmental, regulatory or other consents and
approvals necessary for the consummation of the Transaction will
be obtained without any adverse effect on the Company or the
Seller, or the expected benefits of the Transaction, in any way
meaningful to our analyses.
Our opinion does not address the underlying business decision of
the Company to engage in the Transaction, nor are we expressing
any opinion as to the prices at which shares of Company Common
Stock will trade at any time. Our advisory services and the
opinion expressed herein are provided for the information and
assistance of the Board of Directors of the Company in
connection with its consideration of the Transaction and such
opinion does not constitute a recommendation as to how any
holder of Company Common Stock should vote with respect to the
Transaction.
Based upon and subject to the foregoing, it is our opinion that,
as of the date hereof, the Consideration to be paid by the
Company for each share of Seller Common Stock pursuant to the
Agreement is fair from a financial point of view to the Company.
Very truly yours,
/s/ GOLDMAN,
SACHS & CO.
(GOLDMAN, SACHS & CO.)
D-2
ANNEX E
Section 262 of the General Corporation Law of the State
of Delaware
Appraisal Rights
(a) Any stockholder of a corporation of this State who
holds shares of stock on the date of the making of a demand
pursuant to subsection (d) of this section with
respect to such shares, who continuously holds such shares
through the effective date of the merger or consolidation, who
has otherwise complied with subsection (d) of this
section and who has neither voted in favor of the merger or
consolidation nor consented thereto in writing pursuant to
§ 228 of this title shall be entitled to an appraisal
by the Court of Chancery of the fair value of the
stockholders shares of stock under the circumstances
described in subsections (b) and (c) of this section.
As used in this section, the word stockholder means
a holder of record of stock in a stock corporation and also a
member of record of a nonstock corporation; the words
stock and share mean and include what is
ordinarily meant by those words and also membership or
membership interest of a member of a nonstock corporation; and
the words depository receipt mean a receipt or other
instrument issued by a depository representing an interest in
one or more shares, or fractions thereof, solely of stock of a
corporation, which stock is deposited with the depository.
(b) Appraisal rights shall be available for the shares of
any class or series of stock of a constituent corporation in a
merger or consolidation to be effected pursuant to
§ 251 (other than a merger effected pursuant to
§ 251(g) of this title), § 252,
§ 254, § 257, § 258,
§ 263 or § 264 of this title:
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(1) Provided, however, that no appraisal rights under this
section shall be available for the shares of any class or series
of stock, which stock, or depository receipts in respect
thereof, at the record date fixed to determine the stockholders
entitled to receive notice of and to vote at the meeting of
stockholders to act upon the agreement of merger or
consolidation, were either (i) listed on a national
securities exchange or designated as a national market system
security on an interdealer quotation system by the National
Association of Securities Dealers, Inc. or (ii) held of
record by more than 2,000 holders; and further provided that no
appraisal rights shall be available for any shares of stock of
the constituent corporation surviving a merger if the merger did
not require for its approval the vote of the stockholders of the
surviving corporation as provided in subsection (f) of
§ 251 of this title. |
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(2) Notwithstanding paragraph (1) of this
subsection, appraisal rights under this section shall be
available for the shares of any class or series of stock of a
constituent corporation if the holders thereof are required by
the terms of an agreement of merger or consolidation pursuant to
§§ 251, 252, 254, 257, 258, 263 and 264 of this
title to accept for such stock anything except: |
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a. Shares of stock of the corporation surviving or
resulting from such merger or consolidation, or depository
receipts in respect thereof; |
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b. Shares of stock of any other corporation, or depository
receipts in respect thereof, which shares of stock (or
depository receipts in respect thereof) or depository receipts
at the effective date of the merger or consolidation will be
either listed on a national securities exchange or designated as
a national market system security on an interdealer quotation
system by the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc.
or held of record by more than 2,000 holders; |
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c. Cash in lieu of fractional shares or fractional
depository receipts described in the foregoing subparagraphs a.
and b. of this paragraph; or |
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d. Any combination of the shares of stock, depository
receipts and cash in lieu of fractional shares or fractional
depository receipts described in the foregoing subparagraphs a.,
b. and c. of this paragraph. |
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(3) In the event all of the stock of a subsidiary Delaware
corporation party to a merger effected under § 253 of
this title is not owned by the parent corporation immediately
prior to the merger, appraisal rights shall be available for the
shares of the subsidiary Delaware corporation. |
E-1
(c) Any corporation may provide in its certificate of
incorporation that appraisal rights under this section shall be
available for the shares of any class or series of its stock as
a result of an amendment to its certificate of incorporation,
any merger or consolidation in which the corporation is a
constituent corporation or the sale of all or substantially all
of the assets of the corporation. If the certificate of
incorporation contains such a provision, the procedures of this
section, including those set forth in subsections (d) and
(e) of this section, shall apply as nearly as is
practicable.
(d) Appraisal rights shall be perfected as follows:
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(1) If a proposed merger or consolidation for which
appraisal rights are provided under this section is to be
submitted for approval at a meeting of stockholders, the
corporation, not less than 20 days prior to the meeting,
shall notify each of its stockholders who was such on the record
date for such meeting with respect to shares for which appraisal
rights are available pursuant to subsection (b) or
(c) hereof that appraisal rights are available for any or
all of the shares of the constituent corporations, and shall
include in such notice a copy of this section. Each stockholder
electing to demand the appraisal of such stockholders
shares shall deliver to the corporation, before the taking of
the vote on the merger or consolidation, a written demand for
appraisal of such stockholders shares. Such demand will be
sufficient if it reasonably informs the corporation of the
identity of the stockholder and that the stockholder intends
thereby to demand the appraisal of such stockholders
shares. A proxy or vote against the merger or consolidation
shall not constitute such a demand. A stockholder electing to
take such action must do so by a separate written demand as
herein provided. Within 10 days after the effective date of
such merger or consolidation, the surviving or resulting
corporation shall notify each stockholder of each constituent
corporation who has complied with this subsection and has not
voted in favor of or consented to the merger or consolidation of
the date that the merger or consolidation has become
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(2) If the merger or consolidation was approved pursuant to
§ 228 or § 253 of this title, then either a
constituent corporation before the effective date of the merger
or consolidation or the surviving or resulting corporation
within 10 days thereafter shall notify each of the holders
of any class or series of stock of such constituent corporation
who are entitled to appraisal rights of the approval of the
merger or consolidation and that appraisal rights are available
for any or all shares of such class or series of stock of such
constituent corporation, and shall include in such notice a copy
of this section. Such notice may, and, if given on or after the
effective date of the merger or consolidation, shall, also
notify such stockholders of the effective date of the merger or
consolidation. Any stockholder entitled to appraisal rights may,
within 20 days after the date of mailing of such notice,
demand in writing from the surviving or resulting corporation
the appraisal of such holders shares. Such demand will be
sufficient if it reasonably informs the corporation of the
identity of the stockholder and that the stockholder intends
thereby to demand the appraisal of such holders shares. If
such notice did not notify stockholders of the effective date of
the merger or consolidation, either (i) each such
constituent corporation shall send a second notice before the
effective date of the merger or consolidation notifying each of
the holders of any class or series of stock of such constituent
corporation that are entitled to appraisal rights of the
effective date of the merger or consolidation or (ii) the
surviving or resulting corporation shall send such a second
notice to all such holders on or within 10 days after such
effective date; provided, however, that if such second notice is
sent more than 20 days following the sending of the first
notice, such second notice need only be sent to each stockholder
who is entitled to appraisal rights and who has demanded
appraisal of such holders shares in accordance with this
subsection. An affidavit of the secretary or assistant secretary
or of the transfer agent of the corporation that is required to
give either notice that such notice has been given shall, in the
absence of fraud, be prima facie evidence of the facts stated
therein. For purposes of determining the stockholders entitled
to receive either notice, each constituent corporation may fix,
in advance, a record date that shall be not more than
10 days prior to the date the notice is given, provided,
that if the notice is given on or after the effective date of
the merger or consolidation, the record date shall be such
effective date. If no record date is fixed and the notice is
given prior to the effective date, the record date shall be the
close of business on the day next preceding the day on which the
notice is given. |
(e) Within 120 days after the effective date of the
merger or consolidation, the surviving or resulting corporation
or any stockholder who has complied with subsections
(a) and (d) hereof and who is otherwise
E-2
entitled to appraisal rights, may file a petition in the Court
of Chancery demanding a determination of the value of the stock
of all such stockholders. Notwithstanding the foregoing, at any
time within 60 days after the effective date of the merger
or consolidation, any stockholder shall have the right to
withdraw such stockholders demand for appraisal and to
accept the terms offered upon the merger or consolidation.
Within 120 days after the effective date of the merger or
consolidation, any stockholder who has complied with the
requirements of subsections (a) and (d) hereof, upon
written request, shall be entitled to receive from the
corporation surviving the merger or resulting from the
consolidation a statement setting forth the aggregate number of
shares not voted in favor of the merger or consolidation and
with respect to which demands for appraisal have been received
and the aggregate number of holders of such shares. Such written
statement shall be mailed to the stockholder within 10 days
after such stockholders written request for such a
statement is received by the surviving or resulting corporation
or within 10 days after expiration of the period for
delivery of demands for appraisal under
subsection (d) hereof, whichever is later.
(f) Upon the filing of any such petition by a stockholder,
service of a copy thereof shall be made upon the surviving or
resulting corporation, which shall within 20 days after
such service file in the office of the Register in Chancery in
which the petition was filed a duly verified list containing the
names and addresses of all stockholders who have demanded
payment for their shares and with whom agreements as to the
value of their shares have not been reached by the surviving or
resulting corporation. If the petition shall be filed by the
surviving or resulting corporation, the petition shall be
accompanied by such a duly verified list. The Register in
Chancery, if so ordered by the Court, shall give notice of the
time and place fixed for the hearing of such petition by
registered or certified mail to the surviving or resulting
corporation and to the stockholders shown on the list at the
addresses therein stated. Such notice shall also be given by 1
or more publications at least 1 week before the day of the
hearing, in a newspaper of general circulation published in the
City of Wilmington, Delaware or such publication as the Court
deems advisable. The forms of the notices by mail and by
publication shall be approved by the Court, and the costs
thereof shall be borne by the surviving or resulting corporation.
(g) At the hearing on such petition, the Court shall
determine the stockholders who have complied with this section
and who have become entitled to appraisal rights. The Court may
require the stockholders who have demanded an appraisal for
their shares and who hold stock represented by certificates to
submit their certificates of stock to the Register in Chancery
for notation thereon of the pendency of the appraisal
proceedings; and if any stockholder fails to comply with such
direction, the Court may dismiss the proceedings as to such
stockholder.
(h) After determining the stockholders entitled to an
appraisal, the Court shall appraise the shares, determining
their fair value exclusive of any element of value arising from
the accomplishment or expectation of the merger or
consolidation, together with a fair rate of interest, if any, to
be paid upon the amount determined to be the fair value. In
determining such fair value, the Court shall take into account
all relevant factors. In determining the fair rate of interest,
the Court may consider all relevant factors, including the rate
of interest which the surviving or resulting corporation would
have had to pay to borrow money during the pendency of the
proceeding. Upon application by the surviving or resulting
corporation or by any stockholder entitled to participate in the
appraisal proceeding, the Court may, in its discretion, permit
discovery or other pretrial proceedings and may proceed to trial
upon the appraisal prior to the final determination of the
stockholder entitled to an appraisal. Any stockholder whose name
appears on the list filed by the surviving or resulting
corporation pursuant to subsection (f) of this section
and who has submitted such stockholders certificates of
stock to the Register in Chancery, if such is required, may
participate fully in all proceedings until it is finally
determined that such stockholder is not entitled to appraisal
rights under this section.
(i) The Court shall direct the payment of the fair value of
the shares, together with interest, if any, by the surviving or
resulting corporation to the stockholders entitled thereto.
Interest may be simple or compound, as the Court may direct.
Payment shall be so made to each such stockholder, in the case
of holders of uncertificated stock forthwith, and the case of
holders of shares represented by certificates upon the surrender
to the corporation of the certificates representing such stock.
The Courts decree may be enforced as other decrees in the
Court of Chancery may be enforced, whether such surviving or
resulting corporation be a corporation of this State or of any
state.
E-3
(j) The costs of the proceeding may be determined by the
Court and taxed upon the parties as the Court deems equitable in
the circumstances. Upon application of a stockholder, the Court
may order all or a portion of the expenses incurred by any
stockholder in connection with the appraisal proceeding,
including, without limitation, reasonable attorneys fees
and the fees and expenses of experts, to be charged pro rata
against the value of all the shares entitled to an appraisal.
(k) From and after the effective date of the merger or
consolidation, no stockholder who has demanded appraisal rights
as provided in subsection (d) of this section shall be
entitled to vote such stock for any purpose or to receive
payment of dividends or other distributions on the stock (except
dividends or other distributions payable to stockholders of
record at a date which is prior to the effective date of the
merger or consolidation); provided, however, that if no petition
for an appraisal shall be filed within the time provided in
subsection (e) of this section, or if such stockholder
shall deliver to the surviving or resulting corporation a
written withdrawal of such stockholders demand for an
appraisal and an acceptance of the merger or consolidation,
either within 60 days after the effective date of the
merger or consolidation as provided in
subsection (e) of this section or thereafter with the
written approval of the corporation, then the right of such
stockholder to an appraisal shall cease. Notwithstanding the
foregoing, no appraisal proceeding in the Court of Chancery
shall be dismissed as to any stockholder without the approval of
the Court, and such approval may be conditioned upon such terms
as the Court deems just.
(1) The shares of the surviving or resulting corporation to
which the shares of such objecting stockholders would have been
converted had they assented to the merger or consolidation shall
have the status of authorized and unissued shares of the
surviving or resulting corporation.
E-4
ANNEX F
Amended and Restated Article Seventh to the Certificate
of Incorporation
of Federated Department Stores, Inc.
SEVENTH.
Section 1. NUMBER,
ELECTION, AND TERMS OF DIRECTORS. Subject to the rights, if
any, of the holders of any series of Preferred Stock to elect
additional Directors under circumstances specified in a
Preferred Stock Designation, the number of the Directors of the
Company will not be less than three nor more than 16 and will be
fixed from time to time in the manner described in the by-laws
of the Company. At the annual meeting of stockholders to be held
in 2006, the successors of the Directors whose terms expire at
that meeting shall be elected for a term expiring at the next
following annual meeting of stockholders, at the annual meeting
of stockholders to be held in 2007, the successors of the
Directors whose terms expire at that meeting shall be elected
for a term expiring at the next following annual meeting of
stockholders, and at the annual meeting of stockholders to be
held in 2008 and at each annual meeting of stockholders
thereafter, each of the Directors shall be elected for a term
expiring at the next following annual meeting of stockholders.
In each case, Directors shall be elected by plurality vote of
all votes cast at such meeting and shall hold office until his
or her successor has been elected and qualified. Subject to the
rights, if any, of the holders of any series of Preferred Stock
to elect additional Directors under circumstances specified in a
Preferred Stock Designation, Directors may be elected by the
stockholders only at an annual meeting of stockholders. Election
of Directors of the Company need not be by written ballot unless
requested by the Chairman or by the holders of a majority of the
Voting Stock present in person or represented by proxy at a
meeting of the stockholders at which Directors are to be elected.
Section 2. NOMINATION
OF DIRECTOR CANDIDATES. Advance notice of stockholder
nominations for the election of Directors must be given in the
manner provided in the by-laws of the Company.
Section 3. NEWLY
CREATED DIRECTORSHIPS AND VACANCIES. Subject to the rights,
if any, of the holders of any series of Preferred Stock to elect
additional Directors under circumstances specified in a
Preferred Stock Designation, newly created directorships
resulting from any increase in the number of Directors and any
vacancies on the Board resulting from death, resignation,
disqualification, removal, or other cause will be filled solely
by the affirmative vote of a majority of the remaining Directors
then in office, even though less than a quorum of the Board, or
by a sole remaining Director. Any Director elected in accordance
with the preceding sentence will hold office for the remainder
of the full term of the class of Directors in which the new
directorship was created or the vacancy occurred and until such
Directors successor has been elected and qualified. No
decrease in the number of Directors constituting the Board may
shorten the term of any incumbent Director.
Section 4. REMOVAL.
Subject to the rights, if any, of the holders of any series of
Preferred Stock to elect additional Directors under
circumstances specified in a Preferred Stock Designation, any
Director may be removed from office by the stockholders only in
the manner provided in this Section 4. At any annual
meeting or special meeting of the stockholders, the notice of
which states that the removal of a Director or Directors is
among the purposes of the meeting, the affirmative vote of the
holders of at least 80% of the Voting Stock, voting together as
a single class, may remove such Director or Directors. If, at
the time of any such meeting, the Board is classified as
provided in Section 141(d) of the DGCL (or in any successor
provision thereto), such removal may be effected only for cause.
Section 5. AMENDMENT,
REPEAL, ETC. Notwithstanding anything contained in this
Certificate of Incorporation to the contrary, the affirmative
vote of the holders of at least 80% of the Voting Stock, voting
together as a single class, is required to amend or repeal, or
adopt any provision inconsistent with, Sections 2 through 5
of this Article Seventh.
F-1
ANNEX G
Amended and Restated Article Thirteenth to
The Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of
The May Department Stores Company
THIRTEENTH.
The business and affairs of the Corporation shall be managed
under the direction of a Board of Directors consisting of not
less than three nor more than twenty-one directors, the exact
number of directors shall be fixed by the By-laws. At the 2005
meeting of shareowners, the successors of the directors whose
terms expire at that meeting shall be elected for a term
expiring at the 2006 annual meeting of shareowners (which number
of directors shall be approximately one-third of the total
number of directors of the Corporation); at the 2006 annual
meeting of shareowners, the successors of the directors whose
terms expire at that meeting shall be elected for a term
expiring at the 2007 annual meeting of shareowners (which number
of directors shall be approximately two-thirds of the total
number of directors of the Corporation); and at each annual
meeting of shareowners thereafter, the directors shall be
elected for terms expiring at the next annual meeting of
shareowners.
A director shall hold office until the annual meeting for the
year in which his term expires and until his successor shall be
elected and shall qualify, subject, however, to prior death,
resignation, retirement, disqualification or removal from
office. Any vacancy on the Board of Directors that results from
an increase in the number of directors may be filled by a
majority of the Board of Directors then in office, provided that
a quorum is present, and any other vacancy occurring in the
Board of Directors may be filled by a majority of the directors
then in office, even if less than a quorum, or by a sole
remaining director.
G-1
ANNEX H
Federateds Standards for Director Independence
As set forth in Federateds Corporate Governance
Principles, a majority of the Board shall consist of directors
who the Board has determined do not have any material
relationship with Federated and who are otherwise independent. A
director shall be presumed independent by the Board if all of
the standards set forth below are met.
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A. |
Independence Standards |
1. The director may not be (and may not have been within
the preceding 60 months) an employee and no member of the
directors immediate family may be (and may not have been
within the preceding 36 months) an executive officer of
Federated or any of its subsidiaries. For purposes of these
Standards for Director Independence, immediate
family includes a persons spouse, parents, children,
siblings, mothers and fathers-in-law, sons and daughters-in-law,
brothers and sisters-in-law, and anyone (other than domestic
employees) who shares such persons home.
2. The director is not a party to any contract pursuant to
which such Director provides personal services (other than as a
director) to Federated or any of its subsidiaries.
3. Neither the director nor any member of his or her
immediate family receives, or has received within the preceding
36 months, direct compensation of more than
$100,000 per year from Federated or any of its subsidiaries
(other than director and committee fees and pension or other
forms of deferred compensation for prior service that is not
contingent on continued service or, in the case of an immediate
family member, compensation for service as a non-executive
employee).
4. Neither the director nor any member of his or her
immediate family is (and has not been within the preceding
60 months) affiliated with or employed in a professional
capacity, including as an executive officer, partner or
principal, by any corporation or other entity that is or was a
paid adviser, consultant or provider of professional services
to, or a substantial supplier of, Federated or any of its
subsidiaries.
5. The director is not an employee or executive officer and
no member of his or her immediate family is an executive officer
of (and have not been within the preceding 36 months) a
company that makes payments to, or receives payments from,
Federated for property or services in an amount which, in any
single fiscal year, exceeds the greater of $1 million or 2%
of such other companys consolidated gross revenues.
6. The director is not employed by an organization that
received, within the preceding 60 months, eleemosynary
grants or endowments from Federated or any of its subsidiaries
in excess of $250,000 in any fiscal year of Federated.
7. The director is not a parent, child, sibling, aunt,
uncle, niece, nephew or first cousin of any other director of
Federated.
8. The director is not a party to any agreement binding him
or her to vote, as a stockholder of Federated, in accordance
with the recommendations of the Board.
9. The director is not a director of any corporation or
other entity (other than Federated) of which Federateds
Chairman or Chief Executive Officer is also a director.
10. Neither the director nor a member of the
directors immediate family is employed (and has not been
employed for the preceding 12 months) by another company
whose compensation committee includes as a member any of
Federateds present executive officers.
In determining whether any of the foregoing criteria are
satisfied, reference may be made to the commentary accompanying
any related NYSE listing standard and any other interpretation
or guidance of the NYSE relating to such listing standard.
H-1
In making a determination regarding a proposed directors
independence, the Board shall consider all relevant facts and
circumstances, including the directors commercial,
industrial, banking, consulting, legal, accounting, charitable
and familial relationships.
Any interest or relationship of a director of a type described
in Item 404 of Regulation S-K that is outside of the
scope of the foregoing criteria and that is not required to be
disclosed pursuant to Item 404 shall be presumed not to be
inconsistent with the independence of such director.
Except to the extent otherwise provided in the applicable NYSE
listing standards, neither the failure of a director to satisfy
one or more of the foregoing criteria, nor the existence of any
obligation to disclose an interest or relationship of a director
pursuant to Item 404, will preclude the Board from
determining that such director is independent.
H-2
ANNEX I
Federateds Policy and Procedures for Pre-Approval of
Non-Audit Services by Outside Auditors
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Authority to Approve Non-Audit Services |
Except as noted below, the Audit Review Committee (the
Committee) will approve in advance all permitted
non-audit services(1) (the Permitted NAS).
A. The Committee may delegate to the Chair of the Committee
the authority to pre-approve Permitted NAS; provided that any
such pre-approval of Permitted NAS granted by any such delegee
must be presented to the Committee at its meeting next following
the approval.
B. Pre-approval is not required for any Permitted NAS if:
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1. the aggregate amount of any such Permitted NAS
constitutes no more than five percent (5%) of the total revenues
paid by Federated to its auditors during the fiscal year in
which the Permitted NAS are provided; |
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2. the Permitted NAS were not recognized at the time of the
auditors engagement to be a Permitted NAS (i.e.,
either a service indicated as an audit service at the time of
the engagement evolves over the course of the engagement to
become a non-audit service, or a non-audit service not
contemplated at all at the time of the engagement is preformed
by the outside auditor after the engagement is
approved); and |
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3. the Permitted NAS are promptly brought to the attention
of the Committee (or its delegee) by management and approved
prior to the completion of the audit. |
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II. |
Disclosure of Permitted Non-Audit Services in Outside
Auditors Engagement Letter |
A. The Committee is to receive an itemization in the
outside auditors engagement letter of Permitted NAS that
the outside auditors propose to deliver to Federated during the
course of the year covered by the engagement and contemplated at
the time of the engagement.
1. In its submissions to management covering its proposed
engagement the outside auditors are to include a statement that
the delivery of Permitted NAS during the preceding fiscal year
did not impair the independence of the outside auditors.
B. Whether a Permitted NAS is set out in the auditor
engagement letter or proposed by the outside auditors subsequent
to the time the engagement letter is submitted, the Committee
(or its delegee as described above) is to consider, with input
from management, whether delivery of the Permitted NAS impairs
independence of the outside auditors.
1. The Committee is to evaluate, in making such
consideration, the non-audit factors and other related
principles (the Qualifying Factors) set out below.
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Whether the service is being performed principally for the Audit
Review Committee; |
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The effects of the service, if any, on audit effectiveness or on
the quality and timeliness of Federateds financial
reporting process; |
1 The nine categories of prohibited non-audit services are:
(i) bookkeeping or other services related to the accounting
records or financial statements of the audit client;
(ii) financial information systems design and
implementation; (iii) appraisal or valuation services,
fairness opinions, or contribution-in-kind reports;
(iv) actuarial services; (v) internal audit
outsourcing; (vi) management functions or human resources;
(vii) broker or dealer, investment adviser, or investment
banking services; (viii) legal services and expert services
unrelated to the audit; and (ix) any other service that the
Public Company Accounting Oversight Board determines, by
regulation, is impermissible.
I-1
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Whether the service would be performed by specialists (e.g.,
technology specialists) who ordinarily also provide recurring
audit support; |
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Whether the service would be performed by outside audit
personnel and, if so, whether it will enhance their knowledge of
Federateds business and operations; |
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Whether the role of those performing the service (e.g., a role
where neutrality, impartiality and auditor skepticism are likely
to be subverted) would be inconsistent with the outside
auditors role; |
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Whether the outside audit firms personnel would be
assuming a management role or creating a mutuality of interest
with Federateds management; |
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Whether the outside auditors, in effect, would be auditing their
own numbers; |
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Whether the project must be started and completed very quickly; |
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Whether the outside audit firm has unique expertise in the
service; |
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Whether the service entails the outside auditor serving in an
advocacy role for Federated; and |
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The size of the fee(s) for the non-audit service(s). |
III. Annual Assessment of
Policy
The Committee will determine on an annual basis whether to amend
this policy.
I-2
ANNEX J
Form of Proxy Card for May Common Stockholders
MAY
The May Department Stores Company encourages you to take
advantage of two convenient ways to vote. You may
vote 24 hours a day, seven days a week, either over
the Internet or using a touch-tone telephone. Your Internet or
telephone vote authorizes the named proxies to vote shares in
the same manner as if you marked, signed and returned this proxy
card. If you vote by Internet or telephone, you do not need to
mail back this proxy card.
If you vote over the Internet, you may also elect to receive
future annual reports and proxy statements via the Internet.
INTERNET
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Go to www.proxyvote.com. |
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Have this proxy card in hand. |
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Follow the simple instructions. |
TELEPHONE
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Using a touch-tone telephone, dial 1-800-690-6903. |
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Have this proxy card in hand. |
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Follow the simple recorded instructions. |
MAIL
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Mark and sign the proxy card below. |
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Detach the proxy card. |
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Return the proxy card in the postage-paid envelope provided. |
Admission Ticket
This is your Admission Ticket to Mays 2005
Annual Stockholders Meeting
Please mark all choices like this/ /
J-1
Fold and detach Proxy Card here if you are not
voting by Internet or telephone
MAY The directors recommend a vote FOR proposals 1,
2, 3, 4 and 5.
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Proposal 2 Election of Directors.
The nominees are:
(01) Marsha J. Evans |
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For All
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Withhold All
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For All Except
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To withhold authority to vote for a nominee(s), mark For All Except and write in the nominees number on the line below. |
(02) David B. Rickard
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(03) Joyce M. Roché
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(04) R. Dean Wolfe
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Proposal 1: Approve and adopt the Agreement and Plan
of Merger, dated as of February 27, 2005, by and among The
May Department Stores Company, Federated Department Stores, Inc.
and Milan Acquisition LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of
Federated Department Stores, Inc., and the transactions
contemplated by the merger agreement, including the merger. |
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For / / |
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Against / / |
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Abstain / / |
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Proposal 3: Adopt an amendment to Mays
Certificate of Incorporation to provide for annual election of
directors. |
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Proposal 4: Ratification of the appointment of
independent registered public accounting firm. |
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Proposal 5: Approve adjournments or postponements of
the May annual meeting, if necessary, to permit further
solicitation of proxies if there are not sufficient votes at the
time of the May annual meeting to approve the above proposals. |
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Signature [PLEASE SIGN WITHIN
BOX] Date
Signature (Joint
Owners) Date
J-2
Fold and detach Proxy Card here if you are not
voting by Internet or telephone
PROXY
THE MAY DEPARTMENT STORES COMPANY
This proxy is solicited on behalf of the board of directors
for the annual meeting on July 13, 2005.
By signing this card, the undersigned appoints each of John L.
Dunham, Alan E. Charlson, and Richard A. Brickson, as proxy,
with full power of substitution, to vote all common shares of
the undersigned in The May Department Stores Company at the
July 13, 2005, annual meeting of stockholders, or when the
meeting reconvenes if it is adjourned or postponed, on all
subjects that may properly come before the meeting, subject to
the directions on the other side of this card. This card is also
the undersigneds voting instruction for any and all shares
held of record by The Bank of New York for the
undersigneds account in our Dividend Reinvestment Plan.
The board of directors recommends a vote
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FOR election of all listed director nominees, and |
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FOR proposals (1), (3), (4) and (5) |
If no directions are given, and this signed card is returned,
the undersigned understands that the proxies will vote in
accordance with recommendations of the board of directors and in
each proxys discretion on any other matters that are
properly raised at the meeting or when the meeting reconvenes if
it is adjourned or postponed.
The nominees for the board of directors are Marsha J. Evans,
David B. Rickard, Joyce M. Roché, and R. Dean Wolfe.
Please vote by Internet or telephone, or sign the other side of
this card and return it promptly in the enclosed return envelope
to: The May Department Stores Company, c/o ADP, 51 Mercedes
Way, Edgewood, NY 11717.
J-3
Form of Voting Instruction Card for Profit Sharing Plan
Members
MAY
The May Department Stores Company encourages you to take
advantage of two convenient ways to instruct the Trustee on how
to vote. You may give those instructions 24 hours a
day, seven days a week through July 8, 2005, either over
the Internet or using a touch-tone telephone. Your Internet or
telephone instructions authorizes the Trustee to vote in the
same manner as if you marked, signed and returned this voting
instruction card. If you give those instructions by Internet or
telephone you do not need to mail back this voting instruction
card.
If you vote over the Internet, you may also elect to receive
future annual reports and proxy statements via the Internet.
INTERNET
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Go to www.proxyvote.com. |
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Have this voting instruction card in hand. |
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Follow the simple instructions. |
TELEPHONE
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Using a touch-tone telephone, dial 1-800-690-6903. |
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Have this voting instruction card in hand. |
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Follow the simple recorded instructions. |
MAIL
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Mark and sign the voting instruction card below. |
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Detach the voting instruction card. |
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Return the voting instruction card in the postage-paid envelope
provided. |
Please mark all choices like this / /
J-4
Fold and detach Voting Instruction Card here
if you are not giving your instructions by
Internet or Telephone
MAY The directors recommend a vote FOR proposals 1,
2, 3, 4 and 5.
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Proposal 2 Election of Directors.
The nominees are:
(01) Marsha J. Evans |
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For All
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Withhold All
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For All Except
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To withhold authority to vote for a nominee(s), mark For All Except and write in the nominees number on the line below. |
(02) David B. Rickard
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(03) Joyce M. Roché
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(04) R. Dean Wolfe
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Proposal 1: Approve and adopt the Agreement and Plan
of Merger, dated as of February 27, 2005, by and among The
May Department Stores Company, Federated Department Stores, Inc.
and Milan Acquisition LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of
Federated Department Stores, Inc., and the transactions
contemplated by the merger agreement, including the merger. |
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For / / |
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Against / / |
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Abstain / / |
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Proposal 3: Adopt an amendment to Mays
Certificate of Incorporation to provide for annual election of
directors. |
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Proposal 4: Ratification of the appointment of
independent registered public accounting firm. |
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Proposal 5: Approve adjournments or postponements of
the May annual meeting, if necessary, to permit further
solicitation of proxies if there are not sufficient votes at the
time of the May annual meeting to approve the above proposals. |
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Signature [PLEASE SIGN WITHIN
BOX] Date
Signature (Joint
Owners) Date
J-5
Fold and detach Voting Instruction Card here
if you are not giving your instructions by
Internet or telephone
CONFIDENTIAL VOTING INSTRUCTIONS TO THE BANK OF NEW YORK AS
TRUSTEE
UNDER THE MAY DEPARTMENT STORES COMPANY PROFIT SHARING
PLAN
By signing this card, the undersigned instructs the Trustee to
vote all shares of common stock of The May Department Stores
Company represented by units credited to the undersigneds
account in the May Common Stock Fund of the Profit Sharing Plan
and all shares of ESOP Preference Shares of the company credited
to the undersigneds account in the ESOP Preference Fund of
the Profit Sharing Plan at the July 13, 2005 annual meeting
of stockholders, or when the meeting reconvenes if it is
adjourned or postponed, on all subjects that may properly come
before the meeting, subject to the directions on the other side
of this card.
The board of directors recommends a vote
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FOR election of all listed director nominees, and |
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FOR proposals (1), (3), (4) and (5) |
If no directions are given, and this signed card is returned,
the undersigned understands that the Trustee will vote in
accordance with recommendations of the board of directors and in
its discretion on any other matters that are properly raised at
the meeting or when the meeting reconvenes if it is adjourned or
postponed. If the undersigneds voting instructions are
not received by the Trustee on or before July 8, 2005, the
Trustee will vote the shares in the same proportion as the other
shares held by the Trustee are voted pursuant to instructions
received from other participants in the Profit Sharing Plan.
The nominees for the board of directors are Marsha J. Evans,
David B. Rickard, Joyce M. Roché, and R. Dean Wolfe.
Please give your instructions by Internet or telephone, or sign
the other side of this card and return it promptly in the
enclosed return envelope to: The May Department Stores Company,
c/o ADP, 51 Mercedes Way, Edgewood, NY 11717.
J-6
ANNEX K
Form of Proxy Card for Federated Common Stockholders
Federated offers stockholders of record three alternative means
of voting proxies:
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By Telephone (using a touch-tone phone)
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Through the Internet (using a browser) |
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By Mail (traditional method) |
Your telephone or Internet vote authorizes the named proxies to
vote your shares in the same manner as if you had returned your
proxy card. We encourage you to use these cost effective and
convenient ways of voting, 24 hours a day, 7 days a
week.
TELEPHONE VOTING Available only for residents of the
United States and Canada.
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On a touch tone telephone, call TOLL FREE
877-381-4019, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. |
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Enter ONLY the Control Number shown below. |
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Have your proxy card ready, then follow the instructions. |
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Your vote will be confirmed and cast as you directed. |
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The deadline for casting your vote is 5:00 p.m., Eastern
Daylight Savings Time on July 12, 2005. |
INTERNET VOTING
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Visit our Internet voting website at http://proxy.georgeson.com
and have your proxy card ready. |
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Enter Federateds Company Number AND the Control
Number shown below and follow the instructions on your screen. |
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You will incur only your usual Internet charges. |
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The deadline for casting your vote is 5:00 p.m., Eastern
Daylight Savings Time on July 12, 2005. |
VOTING BY MAIL
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Simply mark, sign and date your proxy card and return it in the
postage-paid envelope. |
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Federated must receive your executed proxy card by
5:00 p.m., Eastern Daylight Savings Time, on July 12,
2005. |
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If you are voting by telephone or the Internet, please do
not mail your proxy card. |
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COMPANY NUMBER |
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CONTROL NUMBER |
TO VOTE BY MAIL, PLEASE DETACH PROXY CARD HERE
K-1
THE DIRECTORS RECOMMEND A VOTE FOR ITEM 1,
FOR ALL NOMINEES
LISTED IN ITEM 2, AND FOR ITEMS 3, 4 AND 5.
1. To authorize the issuance of Federated common stock
pursuant to the terms of the Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated
as of February 27, 2005, by and among The May Department
Stores Company, Federated and Milan Acquisition LLC, a
wholly owned subsidiary of Federated, pursuant to which May will
merge with Milan Acquisition LLC on the terms and subject
to the conditions contained in the merger agreement.
FOR o AGAINST o ABSTAIN o
2. Election of Directors
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FOR all nominees
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WITHHOLD AUTHORITY to vote |
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*EXCEPTIONS
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listed below
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for all nominees listed below. |
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Nominees for a three-year term: Meyer Feldberg, Terry J.
Lundgren and Marna C. Whittington.
(INSTRUCTIONS: To withhold authority to vote for any individual
nominee, mark the Exceptions box and write that
nominees name in the space below.)
*Exceptions
________________________________________________________________________________
3. To adopt an amendment to Federateds Certificate of
Incorporation to provide for the annual election of directors.
FOR o AGAINST o ABSTAIN o
4. To ratify the appointment of KPMG LLP as
Federateds independent registered public accounting firm
for the fiscal year ending January 28, 2006.
FOR o AGAINST o ABSTAIN o
5. To approve adjournments or postponements of the
Federated annual meeting, if necessary, to permit further
solicitation of proxies if there are not sufficient votes at the
time of the Federated annual meeting to approve the above
proposals.
FOR o AGAINST o ABSTAIN o
For purposes of the 2005 Annual Meeting, proxies will be held in
confidence (subject to certain exceptions as set forth in the
Proxy Statement) unless the undersigned checks the box to the
right. o
If you have a change of address, please indicate those changes
on the information printed on this card and check the Change of
Address Mark box to the
right. o
Unless voting by telephone or Internet, this proxy should be
dated, signed by the stockholder as his or her name appears
hereon, and returned promptly in the enclosed envelope. Joint
owners should each sign personally, and trustees and others
signing in a representative capacity should indicate the
capacity in which they sign.
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Dated: |
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, 2005 |
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Signature of Stockholder |
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Signature of Stockholder |
Votes must be indicated, as in example to the left, in Black
or Blue ink.
K-2
FEDERATED DEPARTMENT STORES, INC.
Proxies Solicited on Behalf of the Board of Directors for
Annual Meeting of Stockholders on July 13, 2005
The undersigned holder of shares of Common Stock of Federated
hereby appoints Earl G. Graves, Sr. and Craig E. Weatherup,
and each of them, as proxies of the undersigned, with full power
of substitution, to act and to vote for and in the name, place
and stead of the undersigned at the Annual Meeting of
Stockholders of Federated to be held at its corporate offices
located at 7 West Seventh Street, Cincinnati, Ohio, 45202 at
11:00 a.m., Eastern Daylight Savings Time, on July 13,
2005 and at any and all postponements and adjournments thereof,
according to the number of votes and as fully as the undersigned
would be entitled to vote if personally present at such meeting,
and particularly with respect to the proposals listed on the
reverse side.
THIS PROXY WILL BE VOTED AS DIRECTED. IF NO DIRECTION IS
INDICATED, THIS PROXY WILL BE VOTED FOR ITEM 1,
FOR ALL NOMINEES LISTED IN ITEM 2, AND
FOR ITEMS 3, 4 AND 5 AND WILL BE VOTED IN THE
DISCRETION OF THE PROXIES IN RESPECT OF SUCH OTHER BUSINESS AS
MAY PROPERLY COME BEFORE THE ANNUAL MEETING.
PLEASE MARK, SIGN AND RETURN THIS PROXY CARD PROMPTLY, USING
THE ENVELOPE PROVIDED.
IF YOU ARE VOTING BY TELEPHONE OR THE INTERNET, PLEASE DO NOT
MAIL YOUR PROXY CARD.
(Continued, and to be dated and signed, on the other side)
K-3
Form of Voting Instruction Card for Profit Sharing Plan
Members
Federated offers stockholders of record three alternative means
of giving their voting instructions:
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By Telephone (using a touch-tone phone)
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Through the Internet (using a browser) |
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By Mail(traditional method) |
Your telephone or Internet vote authorizes the trustee to vote
your shares in the same manner as if you had returned your
voting instruction card. We encourage you to use these cost
effective and convenient ways of voting, 24 hours a day,
7 days a week.
TELEPHONE VOTING Available only for residents of the
United States and Canada.
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On a touch tone telephone, call TOLL FREE
877-381-4019, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. |
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Enter ONLY the Control Number shown below. |
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Have your voting instruction card ready, then follow the
instructions. |
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Your vote will be cast as you directed. |
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The deadline for giving your voting instructions is
5:00 p.m., Eastern Daylight Savings Time on July 11,
2005. |
INTERNET VOTING
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Visit our Internet voting website at http://www.fds.com/vote and
have your voting instruction card ready. |
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Enter Federateds Company Number AND the Control
Number shown below and follow the instructions on your screen. |
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You will incur only your usual Internet charges. |
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The deadline for giving your voting instructions is
5:00 p.m., Eastern Daylight Savings Time on July 11,
2005. |
VOTING BY MAIL
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Simply mark, sign and date your voting instruction card and
return it in the postage-paid envelope. |
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Federated must receive your executed voting instruction card by
5:00 p.m., Eastern Daylight Savings Time, on July 11,
2005. |
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If you are voting by telephone or the Internet, please do
not mail your voting instruction card. |
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COMPANY NUMBER |
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CONTROL NUMBER |
TO VOTE BY MAIL, PLEASE DETACH VOTING INSTRUCTION CARD
HERE
THE DIRECTORS RECOMMEND A VOTE FOR ITEM 1,
FOR ALL NOMINEES
LISTED IN ITEM 2, AND FOR ITEMS 3, 4 AND 5.
K-4
1. To authorize the issuance of Federated common stock
pursuant to the terms of the Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated
as of February 27, 2005, by and among The May Department
Stores Company, Federated and Milan Acquisition LLC, a
wholly owned subsidiary of Federated, pursuant to which May will
merge with Milan Acquisition LLC on the terms and subject
to the conditions contained in the merger agreement.
FOR o AGAINST o ABSTAIN o
2. Election of Directors
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FOR all nominees
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WITHHOLD AUTHORITY to vote |
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*EXCEPTIONS
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listed below
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for all nominees listed below. |
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Nominees for a three-year term: Meyer Feldberg, Terry J.
Lundgren and Marna C. Whittington.
(INSTRUCTIONS: To withhold authority to vote for any individual
nominee, mark the Exceptions box and write that
nominees name in the space below.)
*Exceptions
3. To adopt an amendment to Federateds Certificate of
Incorporation to provide for the annual election of directors.
FOR o AGAINST o ABSTAIN o
4. To ratify the appointment of KPMG LLP as
Federateds independent registered public accounting firm
for the fiscal year ending January 28, 2006.
FOR o AGAINST o ABSTAIN o
5. To approve adjournments or postponements of the
Federated annual meeting, if necessary, to permit further
solicitation of proxies if there are not sufficient votes at the
time of the Federated annual meeting to approve the above
proposals.
FOR o AGAINST o ABSTAIN o
For purposes of the 2005 Annual Meeting, proxies will be held in
confidence (subject to certain exceptions as set forth in the
Proxy Statement) unless the undersigned checks the box to the
right. o
If you have a change of address, please indicate those changes
on the information printed on this card and check the Change of
Address Mark box to the
right. o
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Dated: |
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, 2005 |
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Signature of Participant |
Instructions
1. Read the enclosed materials carefully.
2. Unless voting by telephone or Internet, please complete
and sign this instruction card, and return it promptly in the
enclosed postage paid envelope.
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3. The tabulator is: |
Georgeson Shareholders
Communications, Inc.
c/o Proxyco
P.O. Box 1100
New York, NY 10269-0224 |
Votes must be indicated, as in example to the left, in Black
or Blue ink.
K-5
FEDERATED DEPARTMENT STORES, INC.
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To: |
J.P. Morgan Chase Bank, as Trustee for the Federated
Department Stores, Inc. |
Profit Sharing 401(k) Investment Plan.
I acknowledge receipt of this Letter to Stockholders, the Notice
of Annual Meeting of Stockholders of Federated Department
Stores, Inc. to be held on July 13, 2005, and the related
Proxy Instructions.
As to my proportional interest in any stock of Federated
registered in your name, you are directed as indicated on the
reverse side as to the matters listed in the form of Proxy
solicited by the Board of Directors of Federated.
I understand that if I sign this instruction card on the other
side without otherwise indicating my voting instructions, it
will be understood that I wish my proportional interest in the
shares to be voted in accordance with the recommendations of the
Board of Directors of Federated as to all proposals.
If any such stock is registered in the name of your nominee, the
authority and directions herein shall extend to such nominee.
PLEASE MARK, SIGN AND RETURN THIS VOTING INSTRUCTION CARD
PROMPTLY, USING THE ENVELOPE PROVIDED.
IF YOU ARE VOTING BY TELEPHONE OR THE INTERNET, PLEASE DO NOT
MAIL YOUR VOTING INSTRUCTION CARD.
(Continued, and to be dated and signed, on the other side)
K-6