Form 10-Q




UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C.  20549


FORM 10-Q


QUARTERLY REPORT

PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d)

OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934


For the quarterly period ended May 2, 2008


Commission File Number: 001-11421


DOLLAR GENERAL CORPORATION

(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in Its Charter)

TENNESSEE
(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)

61-0502302
(I.R.S. Employer
Identification No.)

 

100 MISSION RIDGE
GOODLETTSVILLE, TN  37072
(Address of principal executive offices, zip code)

 

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code:  (615) 855-4000


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


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

Large accelerated filer [  ]

Accelerated filer [  ]

Non-accelerated filer [X]

Smaller reporting company [  ]


Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).  Yes [  ]  No [X]


The registrant had 555,479,897 shares of common stock outstanding on June 12, 2008.








PART I—FINANCIAL INFORMATION


ITEM 1.

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS


DOLLAR GENERAL CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(In thousands)


 

May 2,
2008

 

February 1,
2008

ASSETS

(Unaudited)

 

(see Note 1)

Current assets:

     

Cash and cash equivalents

$

115,904 

 

$

100,209 

Short-term investments

 

48,571 

  

19,611 

Merchandise inventories

 

1,317,097 

  

1,288,661 

Income taxes receivable

 

33,813 

  

32,501 

Deferred income taxes

 

15,247 

  

17,297 

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

 

64,508 

  

59,465 

Total current assets

 

1,595,140 

  

1,517,744 

Net property and equipment

 

1,250,570 

  

1,274,245 

Goodwill

 

4,344,930 

  

4,344,930 

Intangible assets, net

 

1,359,090 

  

1,370,557 

Other assets, net

 

113,269 

  

148,955 

Total assets

$

8,662,999 

 

$

8,656,431 

      

LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

     

Current liabilities:

     

Current portion of long-term obligations

$

2,830 

 

$

3,246 

Accounts payable

 

592,071 

  

551,040 

Accrued expenses and other

 

356,915 

  

300,956 

Income taxes payable

 

2,924 

  

2,999 

Total current liabilities

 

954,740 

  

858,241 

Long-term obligations

 

4,176,121 

  

4,278,756 

Deferred income taxes

 

490,035 

  

486,725 

Other liabilities

 

302,384 

  

319,714 

      

Redeemable common stock

 

9,112 

  

9,122 

      

Shareholders’ equity:

     

Preferred stock

 

  

Common stock

 

277,740 

  

277,741 

Additional paid-in capital

 

2,482,409 

  

2,480,062 

Retained earnings (accumulated deficit)

 

1,097 

  

(4,818)

Accumulated other comprehensive loss

 

(30,639)

  

(49,112)

Total shareholders’ equity

 

2,730,607 

  

2,703,873 

Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity

$

8,662,999 

 

$

8,656,431 

      

See notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

     






DOLLAR GENERAL CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

(Unaudited)

(In thousands except per share amounts)


 

Successor

 

Predecessor

 

For the 13 weeks ended

 

May 2,
2008

 

May 4,
2007

Net sales

$

2,403,498 

  

$

2,275,267 

 

Cost of goods sold

 

1,710,421 

   

1,642,207 

 

Gross profit

 

693,077 

   

633,060 

 

Selling, general and administrative

 

582,504 

   

577,692 

 

Operating profit

 

110,573 

   

55,368 

 

Interest income

 

(957)

   

(2,573)

 

Interest expense

 

100,871 

   

6,167 

 

Income before income taxes

 

10,659 

   

51,774 

 

Income taxes

 

4,743 

   

16,899 

 

Net income

$

5,916 

  

$

34,875 

 
        

See notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

       






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DOLLAR GENERAL CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(Unaudited)

(In thousands)

 

Successor

 

Predecessor

  
 

For the 13 weeks ended

 

May 2,
2008

 

May 4,
2007

      

Cash flows from operating activities:

     

Net income

$

5,916 

 

$

34,875 

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by
operating activities:

     

Depreciation and amortization

 

61,406 

  

50,451 

Deferred income taxes

 

(5,600)

  

(4,948)

Noncash share-based compensation

 

2,346 

  

3,469 

Tax benefit from stock option exercises

 

  

(3,529)

Change in operating assets and liabilities:

     

Merchandise inventories

 

(28,436)

  

(11,977)

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

 

(3,545)

  

(552)

Accounts payable

 

52,860 

  

(62,870)

Accrued expenses and other

 

67,897 

  

25,647 

Income taxes

 

(1,387)

  

(1,736)

Other

 

104 

  

456 

Net cash provided by operating activities

 

151,561 

  

29,286 

      

Cash flows from investing activities:

     

Purchases of property and equipment

 

(35,373)

  

(34,101)

Purchases of short-term investments

 

(9,903)

  

Sales of short-term investments

 

12,976 

  

6,000 

Purchases of long-term investments

 

  

(5,670)

Proceeds from sale of property and equipment

 

94 

  

169 

Net cash used in investing activities

 

(32,206)

  

(33,602)

      

Cash flows from financing activities:

     

Borrowings under revolving credit facility

 

  

Repayments of borrowings under revolving credit facility

 

(102,500) 

  

Repayments of long-term obligations

 

(1,045) 

  

(2,653)

Payment of cash dividends

 

  

(15,712)

Proceeds from exercise of stock options

 

  

34,281 

Repurchases of common stock

 

(10)

  

Tax benefit from stock option exercises

 

  

3,529 

Other financing activities

 

(105)

  

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities

 

(103,660)

  

19,445 

      

Net increase in cash and cash equivalents

 

15,695 

  

15,129 

Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period

 

100,209 

  

189,288 

Cash and cash equivalents, end of period

$

115,904 

 

$

204,417 

      

Supplemental schedule of noncash investing and financing activities:

     

Purchases of property and equipment awaiting processing for payment,
included in Accounts payable

$

8,620 

 

$

10,639 

Purchases of property and equipment under capital lease obligations

$

 

$

163 

      

See notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

     



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DOLLAR GENERAL CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

(Unaudited)


1.

Basis of presentation


The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements of Dollar General Corporation and its subsidiaries (the “Company”) have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”) for interim financial information and are presented in accordance with the requirements of Form 10-Q and Rule 10-01 of Regulation S-X.  Such financial statements consequently do not include all of the disclosures normally required by U.S. GAAP or those normally made in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K.  Accordingly, the reader of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q should refer to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended February 1, 2008 for additional information.


The Company was acquired on July 6, 2007 through a merger with Buck Acquisition Corp. (“Buck”) accounted for as a reverse acquisition (“Merger”). The Merger was funded primarily through debt financings and cash equity contributions from investment funds affiliated with Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co., L.P. (“KKR”), GS Capital Partners VI Fund, L.P. and affiliated funds (affiliates of Goldman, Sachs & Co.), Citi Private Equity, Wellington Management Company, LLP, CPP Investment Board (USRE II) Inc. and other equity co-investors (collectively, the “Investors”). Although the Company continued as the same legal entity after the Merger, the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements are presented for the “Predecessor” for the 13-week period ended May 4, 2007 and “Successor” for the 13-week period ended May 2, 2008 as a result of the Company applying purchase accounting and a new basis of accounting beginning on July 7, 2007. As a result of purchase accounting, the pre-Merger and post-Merger financial results are not comparable.


Buck’s results of operations (a net loss of $1.2 million) for the period from its formation on March 6, 2007 to May 4, 2007 are not reflected in the condensed consolidated financial statements for the period ended May 4, 2007. This loss was related to certain derivative financial instruments entered into by Buck prior to the Merger, as discussed further in Note 3, and Buck had no other assets, liabilities, or operations prior to the Merger.


The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Company’s customary accounting practices.  In management’s opinion, all adjustments (which are of a normal recurring nature) necessary for a fair presentation of the consolidated financial position as of May 2, 2008 and results of operations for the 13-week quarterly accounting periods ended May 2, 2008 and May 4, 2007 have been made.


The condensed consolidated balance sheet as of February 1, 2008 has been derived from the audited consolidated financial statements at that date but does not include all of the information and notes required by U.S. GAAP for complete financial statements.




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The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires the Company to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the condensed consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes. Ongoing estimates of inventory shrinkage and initial markups and markdowns are included in the interim cost of goods sold calculation.  Because the Company’s business is moderately seasonal, the results for interim periods are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the entire year.


Certain financial statement amounts relating to prior periods have been reclassified to conform to the current period presentation.  


As discussed in Note 3, effective February 2, 2008 the Company changed its accounting for the fair value of certain financial assets and liabilities in connection with the adoption of Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (“SFAS”) No. 157,”Fair Value Measurements”. The adoption resulted in a $4.7 million decrease in liability balances associated with interest rate swaps that the Company uses in an attempt to manage interest rate risk, with the offset reflected in other comprehensive income.

In May 2008, the FASB issued SFAS No. 162, “The Hierarchy of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles.” SFAS 162 identifies the sources of accounting principles and the framework for selecting the principles used in the preparation of financial statements of nongovernmental entities that are presented in conformity with GAAP in the United States (the GAAP hierarchy). SFAS 162 will be effective 60 days following the SEC’s approval of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB) amendments to AU Section 411, “The Meaning of Present Fairly in Conformity With Generally Accepted Accounting Principles.” The Company plans to adopt SFAS 162 once it is effective. The Company is in the process of determining the potential impact of this standard on its financial statements.


2.

Comprehensive income


Comprehensive income consists of the following:


  

Successor

 

Predecessor

   
  

13 Weeks Ended

(in thousands)

 

May 2,

2008

 

May 4,

2007

Net income

 

$

5,916

 

$

34,875 

Unrealized net gain on hedged transactions, net of income taxes (see Note 3)

  

18,473

  

Reclassification of net loss on derivatives

  

  

46 

Comprehensive income

 

$

 24,389

 

$

34,921 


3.

Assets and liabilities measured at fair value

On February 2, 2008, the Company adopted components of SFAS No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements”.  SFAS 157 defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value, and expands disclosures about fair value measurements.  SFAS 157 applies to reported balances that are required or permitted to be measured at fair value under existing accounting pronouncements; accordingly, the standard does not require any new fair value measurements of reported balances.  



5




SFAS 157 emphasizes that fair value is a market-based measurement, not an entity-specific measurement.  Therefore, a fair value measurement should be determined based on the assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability.  As a basis for considering market participant assumptions in fair value measurements, SFAS 157 establishes a fair value hierarchy that distinguishes between market participant assumptions based on market data obtained from sources independent of the reporting entity (observable inputs that are classified within Levels 1 and 2 of the hierarchy) and the reporting entity’s own assumptions about market participant assumptions (unobservable inputs classified within Level 3 of the hierarchy).

Level 1 inputs utilize quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the Company has the ability to access. Level 2 inputs are inputs other than quoted prices included in Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly. Level 2 inputs may include quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets, as well as inputs that are observable for the asset or liability (other than quoted prices), such as interest rates, foreign exchange rates, and yield curves that are observable at commonly quoted intervals. Level 3 inputs are unobservable inputs for the asset or liability, which are typically based on an entity’s own assumptions, as there is little, if any, related market activity. In instances where the determination of the fair value measurement is based on inputs from different levels of the fair value hierarchy, the level in the fair value hierarchy within which the entire fair value measurement falls is based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. The Company’s assessment of the significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement in its entirety requires judgment, and considers factors specific to the asset or liability.


In April 2007, Buck entered into interest rate swaps, contingent upon the completion of the Merger, on a portion of the loans anticipated to result from the Merger. These swaps were designated as cash flow hedges in October 2007. As a result of these swaps, the Company is paying an all-in fixed interest rate of 7.683% on a notional amount equal to $1.6 billion as of May 2, 2008. In February 2008 the Company entered into an additional interest rate swap, which was designated as a cash flow hedge at its inception, resulting in the Company paying an all in fixed interest rate of 5.58% on a notional amount of $350.0 million as of May 2, 2008. The Company uses these interest rate swaps to manage its interest rate risk.

The valuation of the Company’s derivative financial instruments is determined using widely accepted valuation techniques including discounted cash flow analysis on the expected cash flows of each derivative. This analysis reflects the contractual terms of the derivatives, including the period to maturity, and uses observable market-based inputs, including interest rate curves.  The fair values of interest rate swaps are determined using the market standard methodology of netting the discounted future fixed cash payments (or receipts) and the discounted expected variable cash receipts (or payments).  The variable cash receipts (or payments) are based on an expectation of future interest rates (forward curves) derived from observable market interest rate curves. 

To comply with the provisions of SFAS 157, the Company incorporates credit valuation adjustments to appropriately reflect both its own nonperformance risk and the respective counterparty’s nonperformance risk in the fair value measurements.  In adjusting the fair value of



6




its derivative contracts for the effect of nonperformance risk, the Company has considered the impact of netting and any applicable credit enhancements, such as collateral postings, thresholds, mutual puts, and guarantees.


Although the Company has determined that the majority of the inputs used to value its derivatives fall within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, the credit valuation adjustments associated with its derivatives utilize Level 3 inputs, such as estimates of current credit spreads to evaluate the likelihood of default by itself and its counterparties.  However, as of May 2, 2008, the Company has assessed the significance of the impact of the credit valuation adjustments on the overall valuation of its derivative positions and has determined that the credit valuation adjustments are not significant to the overall valuation of its derivatives. As a result, the Company has determined that its derivative valuations in their entirety are classified in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.


The table below presents the Company’s assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of May 2, 2008, aggregated by the level in the fair value hierarchy within which those measurements fall.


(In thousands)

Quoted Prices in
Active Markets
for Identical
Assets and Liabilities

 (Level 1)

Significant
Other
Observable
Inputs

 (Level 2)

 

Significant
Unobservable
Inputs

(Level 3)

 

Balance at
May 2,
2008

Assets:

          

Available-for-sale securities (a)

$

48,571

$

-

 

  $

-

 

$

48,571 

Trading securities (b)

 

14,702

 

-

  

-

  

14,702 

Derivative financial instruments (c)

 

-

 

270

  

-

  

270 

Liabilities:

          

Derivative financial instruments (d)

 

-

 

53,156

  

-

  

53,156 

           

(a) Reflected in the condensed consolidated balance sheet as short-term investments.

(b) Reflected in the condensed consolidated balance sheet as other current assets of $2,904 and other assets, net of $11,798.

(c) Reflected in the condensed consolidated balance sheet as other assets, net

(d) Reflected in the condensed consolidated balance sheet as other (noncurrent) liabilities.


The Company does not have any fair value measurements using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) as of May 2, 2008.


4.

Strategic initiatives


During 2006, the Company began implementing certain strategic initiatives related to its historical inventory management and real estate strategies, as more fully described below.  




7




Inventory management


In 2006, the Company undertook an initiative to discontinue its historical inventory packaway model for virtually all merchandise by the end of fiscal 2007 and recorded a reserve for lower of cost or market inventory impairment estimates. This reserve was reduced by $12.3 million during the 13-week period ended May 4, 2007, to account for sales of products with markdowns below cost, higher than anticipated shrink during the period, and adjustments to the estimates of the remaining below cost markdowns to be taken. In connection with this strategic change, the Company incurred higher markdowns and writedowns on inventory in the first 13-week period of 2007 than in the comparable prior-year periods. As a result of the Merger and in accordance with SFAS 141, the Company’s inventory balances, including the inventory associated with this strategic change, were adjusted to fair value and the related reserve was eliminated.


Exit and disposal activities


In 2006 and 2007, the Company implemented plans to close, in addition to those stores that might be closed in the ordinary course of business, approximately 460 stores, all of which were closed by the end of fiscal 2007. Of such stores, 281 were closed as of May 4, 2007, and the Company incurred pretax costs of $20.7 million in the 13-week period ended May 4, 2007, including $15.3 million of lease contract termination costs, $1.5 million of inventory liquidation fees, $1.1 million of inventory markdowns below cost, and $2.8 million of other associated costs.

All expenses associated with exit and disposal activities are included in selling, general and administrative (“SG&A”) expenses with the exception of the below-cost inventory adjustments, which are included in cost of goods sold in the condensed consolidated statement of income for the 13-week period ended May 4, 2007.


Liability balances related to exit activities discussed above are as follows (in millions):


 

Balance,
February 1,
2008

 

2008
Expenses

 

2008
Payments
and Other

 

Balance,
May 2,
2008

Lease contract termination costs

$

20.1

 

$

0.1

 

$

3.9

 

$

16.3

Other associated store closing costs

 

1.0

  

-

  

0.7

  

0.3

Total

$

21.1

 

$

0.1

 

$

4.6

 

$

16.6


5.

Commitments and contingencies


Leases


The Merger and certain of the related financing transactions may be interpreted as giving rise to certain trigger events (which may include events of default) under leases for three of the Company’s distribution centers (“DCs”). In such event, the Company’s net cost of acquiring the underlying assets could approximate $112 million. At this time, the Company does not believe the resolution of such issues would result in the purchase of these DCs; however, the payments associated with such an outcome would have a negative impact on the Company’s liquidity. To



8




minimize the uncertainty associated with such possible interpretations, the Company is negotiating the restructuring of these leases and the related underlying debt. The ultimate resolution of these negotiations may result in additional losses, which may be material.


Legal proceedings


On August 7, 2006, a lawsuit entitled Cynthia Richter, et al. v. Dolgencorp, Inc., et al. was filed in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Alabama (Case No. 7:06-cv-01537-LSC) (“Richter”) in which the plaintiff alleges that she and other current and former Dollar General store managers were improperly classified as exempt executive employees under the FLSA and seeks to recover overtime pay, liquidated damages, and attorneys’ fees and costs. On August 15, 2006, the Richter plaintiff filed a motion in which she asked the court to certify a nationwide class of current and former store managers. The Company opposed the plaintiff’s motion. On March 23, 2007, the court conditionally certified a nationwide class of individuals who worked for Dollar General as store managers since August 7, 2003. The number of persons who will be included in the class has not been determined, and the court has not approved the Notice that will be sent to the class.


On May 30, 2007, the court stayed all proceedings in the case, including the sending of the Notice, to evaluate, among other things, certain appeals currently pending in the Eleventh Circuit involving claims similar to those raised in this action. That stay has been extended through June 30, 2008. During the stay, the statute of limitations will be tolled for potential class members. At its conclusion, the court will determine whether to extend the stay or to permit this action to proceed. If the court ultimately permits Notice to issue, the Company will have an opportunity at the close of the discovery period to seek decertification of the class, and the Company expects to file such a motion.


The Company believes that its store managers are and have been properly classified as exempt employees under the FLSA and that this action is not appropriate for collective action treatment. The Company intends to vigorously defend this action. However, at this time, it is not possible to predict whether the court ultimately will permit this action to proceed collectively, and no assurances can be given that the Company will be successful in the defense on the merits or otherwise. If the Company is not successful in its efforts to defend this action, the resolution could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial statements as a whole.


On May 18, 2006, the Company was served with a lawsuit entitled Tammy Brickey, Becky Norman, Rose Rochow, Sandra Cogswell and Melinda Sappington v. Dolgencorp, Inc. and Dollar General Corporation (Western District of New York, Case No. 6:06-cv-06084-DGL, originally filed on February 9, 2006 and amended on May 12, 2006 (“Brickey”)). The Brickey plaintiffs seek to proceed collectively under the FLSA and as a class under New York, Ohio, Maryland and North Carolina wage and hour statutes on behalf of, among others, assistant store managers who claim to be owed wages (including overtime wages) under those statutes. At this time, it is not possible to predict whether the court will permit this action to proceed collectively or as a class. However, the Company believes that this action is not appropriate for either collective or class treatment and that the Company’s wage and hour policies and practices comply with both federal and state law. The Company plans to vigorously defend this action;



9




however, no assurances can be given that the Company will be successful in the defense on the merits or otherwise, and, if it is not successful, the resolution of this action could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial statements as a whole.


On March 7, 2006, a complaint was filed in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Alabama (Janet Calvert v. Dolgencorp, Inc., Case No. 2:06-cv-00465-VEH (“Calvert”)), in which the plaintiff, a former store manager, alleged that she was paid less than male store managers because of her sex, in violation of the Equal Pay Act and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended (“Title VII”). The complaint subsequently was amended to include additional plaintiffs, who also allege to have been paid less than males because of their sex, and to add allegations that the Company’s compensation practices disparately impact females. Under the amended complaint, Plaintiffs seek to proceed collectively under the Equal Pay Act and as a class under Title VII, and request back wages, injunctive and declaratory relief, liquidated damages, punitive damages and attorney’s fees and costs.


On July 9, 2007, the plaintiffs filed a motion in which they asked the court to approve the issuance of notice to a class of current and former female store managers under the Equal Pay Act. The Company opposed plaintiffs’ motion. On November 30, 2007, the court conditionally certified a nationwide class of females under the Equal Pay Act who worked for Dollar General as store managers between November 30, 2004 and November 30, 2007. The notice was issued on January 11, 2008, and persons to whom the notice was sent were required to opt into the suit by March 11, 2008. The Company will have an opportunity at the close of the discovery period to seek decertification of the Equal Pay Act class, and the Company expects to file such motion.


The plaintiffs have not yet moved for class certification relating to their Title VII claims.  The Company expects such motion to be filed within the next several months, and will strenuously oppose such a motion.


At this time, it is not possible to predict whether the court ultimately will permit the Calvert action to proceed collectively under the Equal Pay Act or as a class under the Title VII. However, the Company believes that the case is not appropriate for class or collective treatment and that its policies and practices comply with the Equal Pay Act and Title VII.  The Company intends to vigorously defend the action; however, no assurances can be given that the Company will be successful in the defense on the merits or otherwise. If the Company is not successful in defending the Calvert action, its resolution could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial statements as a whole.


On November 9, 2007, the Company was served with an action entitled Sheneica Nunn, et al. v. Dollar General Corporation, et al. (Circuit Court for Dane County, Wisconsin, Case No. 07CV4178) in which the plaintiff, on behalf of herself and a putative class of African-American applicants, alleged that the Company’s criminal background check process disparately impacts African-Americans in violation of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended, and the Wisconsin Fair Employment Act. Subsequent to removal of the case to federal court in the United States District Court for the Western District of Wisconsin, the Company resolved the matter for an amount that is immaterial to the Company’s financial statements as a whole.



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Subsequent to the announcement of the agreement relating to the Merger, the Company and its directors were named in seven putative class actions alleging claims for breach of fiduciary duty arising out of the Company’s proposed sale to KKR. Each of the complaints alleged, among other things, that the Company’s directors engaged in “self-dealing” by agreeing to recommend the transaction to the Company’s shareholders and that the consideration available to such shareholders in the transaction is unfairly low. On motion of the plaintiffs, each of these cases was transferred to the Sixth Circuit Court for Davidson County, Twentieth Judicial District, at Nashville. By order dated April 26, 2007, the seven lawsuits were consolidated in the court under the caption, “In re: Dollar General,” Case No. 07MD-1. On June 13, 2007, the court denied the Plaintiffs’ motion for a temporary injunction to block the shareholder vote that was then held on June 21, 2007. On June 22, 2007, the Plaintiffs filed their amended complaint making claims substantially similar to those outlined above. The matter is currently in discovery. The Company believes that the foregoing lawsuit is without merit and continues to defend the action vigorously; however, if the Company is not successful in that defense, its resolution could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial statements as a whole.

 

From time to time, the Company is a party to various other legal actions involving claims incidental to the conduct of its business, including actions by employees, consumers, suppliers, government agencies, or others through private actions, class actions, administrative proceedings, regulatory actions or other litigation, including under federal and state employment laws and wage and hour laws.  The Company believes, based upon information currently available, that such other litigation and claims, both individually and in the aggregate, will be resolved without a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial statements as a whole. However, litigation involves an element of uncertainty. Future developments could cause these actions or claims to have a material adverse effect on the Company’s results of operations or financial position. In addition, certain of these lawsuits, if decided adversely to the Company or settled by the Company, may result in liability material to the Company’s financial position or may negatively affect our operating results if changes to the Company’s business operation are required.


6.

Income taxes

The Company reports income taxes in accordance with SFAS No. 109, “Accounting for Income Taxes” (”SFAS 109”).  Under SFAS 109, the asset and liability method is used for computing the future income tax consequences of events that have been recognized in the Company’s consolidated financial statements or income tax returns.


Income tax reserves are determined using the methodology established by FASB Interpretation 48, “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes – An Interpretation of FASB Statement 109” (“FIN 48”).  FIN 48 requires companies to assess each income tax position taken using a two step approach.  A determination is first made as to whether it is more likely than not that the position will be sustained, based upon the technical merits, upon examination by the taxing authorities.  If the tax position is expected to meet the more likely than not criteria, the benefit recorded for the tax position equals the largest amount that is greater than 50% likely to be realized upon ultimate settlement of the respective tax position.  




11




Subsequent to the February 3, 2007 adoption of FIN 48, the Company has elected to record income tax related interest and penalties as a component of the provision for income tax expense.


In the 13-week period ended May 4, 2007, the Internal Revenue Service completed an examination of the Company’s federal income tax returns through fiscal year 2003 resulting in a net income tax refund.  There are no unresolved issues related to this examination.  None of the Company’s federal income tax returns are currently under examination; however, fiscal years 2004 and later are still subject to possible examination by the Internal Revenue Service. The Company has various state income tax examinations that are currently in progress.  The estimated liability related to these state income tax examinations is included in the Company’s reserve for uncertain tax positions.  Generally, the Company’s tax years ended in 2004 and forward remain open for examination by the various state taxing authorities.

As of May 2, 2008, the total reserves for uncertain tax benefits, interest expense related to income taxes and potential income tax penalties were $96.9 million, $21.0 million and $1.5 million, respectively.  Of this amount, $25.8 million and $85.2 million are reflected in current liabilities as accrued expenses and other and in noncurrent other liabilities, respectively, in the condensed consolidated balance sheet with the remaining $8.4 million reducing deferred tax assets related to net operating loss carry forwards.  The Company believes that it is reasonably possible that the reserve for uncertain tax positions may be reduced by approximately $64.2 million in the coming twelve months principally as a result of the settlement of currently ongoing state income tax examinations and the anticipated filing of an income tax accounting method change request that is expected to resolve certain uncertainties related to accounting methods employed by the Company.  The reasonably possible change of $64.2 million is included in both current liabilities ($22.4 million) and other noncurrent liabilities ($41.8 million) in the condensed consolidated balance sheet as of May 2, 2008. Also, as of May 2, 2008, approximately $0.6 million of the reserve for uncertain tax positions would impact the Company’s effective income tax rate if the Company were to recognize the tax benefit for these positions.


The effective income tax rate for the 13-week period ended May 2, 2008 was 44.5% or 11.9% higher than the rate of 32.6% for the 13-week period ended May 4, 2007.  The increase in the effective income tax rate is due principally to the reduction in income tax reserves during the 2007 period related to the favorable resolution of certain income tax audits that did not recur in the 2008 period and the unfavorable impact on the effective tax rate in 2008 of a relatively fixed expense (principally income tax related interest expense) being divided by a decreased level of income before tax to determine the effective tax rate.



12




7.

Segment reporting


The Company manages its business on the basis of one reportable segment.  As of May 2, 2008, all of the Company’s operations were located within the United States, with the exception of a Hong Kong subsidiary, the assets and revenues of which are not material.  The following net sales data is presented in accordance with SFAS No. 131, “Disclosures about Segments of an Enterprise and Related Information.”


  

Successor

 

Predecessor

   
  

13 Weeks Ended

(In thousands)

 

May 2,
2008

 

May 4,
2007

Classes of similar products:

      

Highly consumable

 

$

1,680,895

 

$

1,523,793

Seasonal

  

322,126

  

336,449

Home products

  

204,493

  

215,046

Basic clothing

  

195,984

  

199,979

Net sales

 

$

2,403,498

 

$

2,275,267


8.

Related party transactions


The Company is party to a monitoring agreement with an affiliate of KKR and with Goldman Sachs & Co. pursuant to which those entities provide management and advisory services to the Company. Under the terms of the monitoring agreement, among other things, the Company is obligated to pay to those entities an aggregate annual management fee payable in arrears at the end of each calendar quarter plus all reasonable out of pocket expenses incurred in connection with the provision of services under the agreement upon request.  The fees incurred for the Successor period ended May 2, 2008 totaled $1.3 million.  The management fee will be $5.3 million in 2008 and increases at a rate of 5% per year.


The Company utilizes Capstone Consulting, LLC, a team of executives who work exclusively with KKR portfolio companies providing certain consulting services.  The Chief Executive Officer of Capstone serves on the Company’s Board.  Although neither KKR nor any entity affiliated with KKR owns any of the equity of Capstone, prior to January 1, 2007, KKR had provided financing to Capstone.  The aggregate fees incurred for Capstone services for the Successor period ended May 2, 2008 totaled $0.9 million.


9.

Subsequent event


In recent years, pursuant to state regulatory requirements, the Company’s South Carolina-based wholly owned captive insurance subsidiary, Ashley River Insurance Company (“ARIC”), has held cash and cash equivalents and investments balances so as to maintain a percentage of ARIC’s liability and equity balances (primarily insurance liabilities) in the form of certain specified types of assets.  As a result, these investments have not been available for general corporate purposes. In May 2008, the Company received notice that the state of South Carolina had agreed to a change in these regulatory requirements for a portion of these investments. For that portion, the Company has changed its classification of these investments in its May 2, 2008 condensed consolidated balance sheet from held-to-maturity to available-for-sale, which had no



13




material effect on the valuation of these investments.  In addition, $38.3 million of short-term investments reflected on the Company’s condensed consolidated balance sheet as of May 2, 2008 previously would have been reflected as long-term.


10.

Guarantor subsidiaries


Certain of the Company’s subsidiaries (the “Guarantors”) have fully and unconditionally guaranteed on a joint and several basis the Company's obligations under certain outstanding debt obligations. Each of the Guarantors is a direct or indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company. The following consolidating schedules present condensed financial information on a combined basis, in thousands.




14






SUCCESSOR

May 2, 2008

 

DOLLAR GENERAL CORPORATION

 

GUARANTOR SUBSIDIARIES

 

OTHER  SUBSIDIARIES

 

ELIMINATIONS

 

CONSOLIDATED
TOTAL

BALANCE SHEET:

                   

ASSETS

                   

Current assets:

                   

Cash and cash equivalents

$

8,450 

  

$

71,720

  

$

35,734

  

$

  

$

115,904 

 

Short-term investments

 

   

-

   

48,571

   

   

48,571 

 

Merchandise inventories

 

   

1,317,097

   

-

   

   

1,317,097 

 

Income tax receivable

 

56,225 

   

-

   

179

   

(22,591)

   

33,813 

 

Deferred income taxes

 

3,873 

   

-

   

19,813

   

(8,439)

   

15,247 

 

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

 

233,976 

   

408,615

   

17,920

   

(596,003)

   

64,508 

 

Total current assets

 

302,524 

   

1,797,432

   

122,217

   

(627,033)

   

1,595,140 

 

Net property and equipment

 

81,512 

   

1,168,664

   

394

   

   

1,250,570 

 

Goodwill

 

4,344,930 

   

-

   

-

   

   

4,344,930 

 

Intangible assets, net

 

9,800 

   

1,349,290

   

-

   

   

1,359,090 

 

Deferred income taxes

 

36,993 

   

-

   

49,474

   

(86,467)

   

 

Other assets, net

 

2,743,239 

   

110,992

   

66,949

   

(2,807,911)

   

113,269 

 
                    

Total assets

$

7,518,998 

  

$

4,426,378

  

$

239,034

  

$

(3,521,411)

  

$

8,662,999 

 
                    

LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

                   

Current liabilities:

                   

Current portion of long-term obligations

$

  

$

2,830

  

$

-

  

$

  

$

2,830 

 

Accounts payable

 

371,184 

   

807,540

   

135

   

(586,788)

   

592,071 

 

Accrued expenses and other

 

111,205 

   

200,579

   

54,345

   

(9,214)

   

356,915 

 

Income taxes payable

 

   

23,564

   

1,951

   

(22,591)

   

2,924 

 

Deferred income taxes

 

   

8,439

   

-

   

(8,439)

   

 

Total current liabilities

 

482,389 

   

1,042,952

   

56,431

   

(627,032)

   

954,740 

 

Long-term obligations

 

4,155,246 

   

1,920,228

   

-

   

(1,899,353)

   

4,176,121 

 

Deferred income taxes

 

   

576,502

   

-

   

(86,467)

   

490,035 

 

Other liabilities

 

141,644 

   

19,946

   

140,794

   

   

302,384 

 
                    

Redeemable common stock

 

9,112 

   

-

   

-

   

   

9,112 

 
                    

Shareholders’ equity:

                   

Preferred stock

 

   

-

   

-

   

   

 

Common stock

 

277,740 

   

23,753

   

100

   

(23,853)

   

277,740 

 

Additional paid-in capital

 

2,482,409 

   

653,711

   

19,900

   

(673,611)

   

2,482,409 

 

Retained earnings

 

1,097 

   

189,286

   

21,809

   

(211,095)

   

1,097 

 

Accumulated other comprehensive loss

 

(30,639)

   

-

   

-

   

   

(30,639)

 

Total shareholders’ equity

 

2,730,607 

   

866,750

   

41,809

   

(908,559)

   

2,730,607 

 
                    

Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity

$

7,518,998 

  

$

4,426,378

  

$

239,034

  

$

(3,521,411)

  

$

8,662,999 

 




15





SUCCESSOR

February 1, 2008

 

DOLLAR GENERAL CORPORATION

 

GUARANTOR SUBSIDIARIES

 

OTHER  SUBSIDIARIES

 

ELIMINATIONS

 

CONSOLIDATED

TOTAL

BALANCE SHEET:

                   

ASSETS

                   

Current assets:

                   

Cash and cash equivalents

$

8,320 

  

$

59,379

  

$

32,510

  

$

  

$

100,209 

 

Short-term investments

 

   

-

   

19,611

   

   

19,611 

 

Merchandise inventories

 

   

1,288,661

   

-

   

   

1,288,661 

 

Income tax receivable

 

102,273 

   

-

   

-

   

(69,772)

   

32,501 

 

Deferred income taxes

 

3,966 

   

-

   

20,626

   

(7,295)

   

17,297 

 

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

 

221,408 

   

337,741

   

9,341

   

(509,025)

   

59,465 

 

Total current assets

 

335,967 

   

1,685,781

   

82,088

   

(586,092)

   

1,517,744 

 

Net property and equipment

 

83,658 

   

1,190,131

   

456

   

   

1,274,245 

 

Goodwill

 

4,344,930 

   

-

   

-

   

   

4,344,930 

 

Intangible assets, net

 

10,911 

   

1,359,646

   

-

   

   

1,370,557 

 

Deferred income taxes

 

43,890 

   

-

   

47,067

   

(90,957)

   

 

Other assets, net

 

2,629,967 

   

1,652

   

111,597

   

(2,594,261)

   

148,955 

 
                    

Total assets

$

7,449,323 

  

$

4,237,210

  

$

241,208

  

$

(3,271,310)

  

$

8,656,431 

 
                    

LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

                   

Current liabilities:

                   

Current portion of long-term obligations

$

-

  

$

3,246

  

$

-

  

$

  

$

3,246 

 

Accounts payable

 

253,477 

   

736,844

   

40

   

(439,321)

   

551,040 

 

Accrued expenses and other

 

62,957 

   

188,877

   

55,185

   

(6,063)

   

300,956 

 

Income taxes payable

 

   

59,264

   

13,507

   

(69,772)

   

2,999 

 

Total current liabilities

 

316,434 

   

988,231

   

68,732

   

(515,156)

   

858,241 

 

Long-term obligations

 

4,257,250 

   

1,837,715

   

-

   

(1,816,209)

   

4,278,756 

 

Deferred income taxes

 

   

584,976

   

-

   

(98,251)

   

486,725 

 

Other liabilities

 

162,644 

   

21,191

   

135,879

   

   

319,714 

 
                    

Redeemable common stock

 

9,122 

   

-

   

-

   

   

9,122 

 
                    

Shareholders’ equity:

                   

Preferred stock

 

   

-

   

-

   

   

 

Common stock

 

277,741 

   

23,753

   

100

   

(23,853)

   

277,741 

 

Additional paid-in capital

 

2,480,062 

   

653,711

   

19,900

   

(673,611)

   

2,480,062 

 

Retained earnings
(accumulated deficit)

 

(4,818)

   

127,633

   

16,597

   

(144,230)

   

(4,818)

 

Accumulated other comprehensive loss

 

(49,112)

   

-

   

-

   

   

(49,112)

 

Total shareholders’ equity

 

2,703,873 

   

805,097

   

36,597

   

(841,694)

   

2,703,873 

 
                    

Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity

$

7,449,323 

  

$

4,237,210

  

$

241,208

  

$

(3,271,310)

  

$

8,656,431 

 




16





SUCCESSOR

For the 13 weeks ended May 2, 2008

 

DOLLAR GENERAL CORPORATION

 

GUARANTOR SUBSIDIARIES

 

OTHER  SUBSIDIARIES

 

ELIMINATIONS

 

CONSOLIDATED

TOTAL

STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS:

                   

Net sales

$

50,075 

  

$

2,403,498 

  

$

22,971 

  

$

(73,046)

  

$

2,403,498 

 

Cost of goods sold

 

   

1,710,421 

   

   

   

1,710,421 

 

Gross profit

 

50,075 

   

693,077 

   

22,971 

   

(73,046)

   

693,077 

 

Selling, general and administrative

 

46,778 

   

587,972 

   

20,800 

   

(73,046)

   

582,504 

 

Operating profit

 

3,297 

   

105,105 

   

2,171 

   

   

110,573 

 

Interest income

 

(16,582)

   

(8,679)

   

(3,136)

   

27,440 

   

(957)

 

Interest expense

 

109,195 

   

19,112 

   

   

(27,440)

   

100,871 

 

Income (loss) before income taxes

 

(89,316)

   

94,672 

   

5,303 

   

   

10,659 

 

Income taxes

 

(28,367)

   

33,019 

   

91 

   

   

4,743 

 

Equity in subsidiaries’ earnings, net of taxes

 

66,865 

   

   

   

(66,865)

   

 

Net income

$

5,916 

  

$

61,653 

  

$

5,212 

  

$

(66,865)

  

$

5,916 

 


PREDECESSOR

For the 13 weeks ended May 4, 2007

 

DOLLAR GENERAL CORPORATION

 

GUARANTOR SUBSIDIARIES

 

OTHER  SUBSIDIARIES

 

ELIMINATIONS

 

CONSOLIDATED

TOTAL

STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS:

                   

Net sales

$

53,535 

  

$

2,275,267 

  

$

26,723 

  

$

(80,258)

  

$

2,275,267 

 

Cost of goods sold

 

   

1,642,207 

   

   

   

1,642,207 

 

Gross profit

 

53,535 

   

633,060 

   

26,723 

   

(80,258)

   

633,060 

 

Selling, general and administrative

 

45,440 

   

592,175 

   

20,335 

   

(80,258)

   

577,692 

 

Operating profit

 

8,095 

   

40,885 

   

6,388 

   

   

55,368 

 

Interest income

 

(32,767)

   

(8,440)

   

(3,290)

   

41,924 

   

(2,573)

 

Interest expense

 

13,184 

   

34,907 

   

   

(41,924)

   

6,167 

 

Income before income taxes

 

27,678 

   

14,418 

   

9,678 

   

   

51,774 

 

Income taxes

 

12,342 

   

1,372 

   

3,185 

   

   

16,899 

 

Equity in subsidiaries’ earnings, net of taxes

 

19,539 

   

   

   

(19,539)

   

 

Net income

$

34,875 

  

$

13,046 

  

$

6,493 

  

$

(19,539)

  

$

34,875 

 




17





SUCCESSOR

For the 13 weeks ended May 2, 2008

 

DOLLAR GENERAL CORPORATION

 

GUARANTOR SUBSIDIARIES

 

OTHER  SUBSIDIARIES

 

ELIMINATIONS

 

CONSOLIDATED

TOTAL

STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS:

                   

Cash flows from operating activities:

                   

Net income

$

5,916 

  

$

61,653 

  

$

5,212 

  

$

(66,865)

  

$

5,916 

 

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:

                   

Depreciation and amortization

 

8,737 

   

52,605 

   

64 

   

   

61,406 

 

Deferred income taxes

 

(3,970)

   

(36)

   

(1,594)

   

   

(5,600)

 

Noncash share-based compensation

 

2,346 

   

   

   

   

2,346 

 

Equity in subsidiaries’ earnings, net

 

(66,865)

   

   

   

66,865 

   

 

Change in operating assets and liabilities:

             

 

     

Merchandise inventories

 

   

(28,436)

   

   

   

(28,436)

 

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

 

77 

   

(3,657)

   

35 

   

   

(3,545)

 

Accounts payable

 

4,331 

   

48,433 

   

96 

   

   

52,860 

 

Accrued expenses and other

 

56,411 

   

7,411 

   

4,075 

   

   

67,897 

 

Income taxes

 

46,048 

   

(35,700)

   

(11,735)

   

   

(1,387)

 

Other

 

1,092 

   

(900)

   

(88)

   

   

104 

 

Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities

 

54,123 

   

101,373 

   

(3,935)

   

   

151,561 

 

Cash flows from investing activities:

             

 

     

Purchases of property and equipment

 

(2,847)

   

(32,524)

   

(2)

   

   

(35,373)

 

Purchases of short-term investments

 

   

   

(9,903)

   

   

(9,903)

 

Sales of short-term investments

 

   

   

12,976 

   

   

12,976 

 

Proceeds from sale of property and equipment

 

   

94 

   

   

   

94 

 

Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities

 

(2,847)

   

(32,430)

   

3,071 

   

   

(32,206)

 

Cash flows from financing activities:

                   

Borrowings under revolving credit facility

 

   

   

   

   

 

Repayments of borrowings under revolving credit facility

 

(102,500)

   

   

   

   

(102,500)

 

Repayments of long-term obligations

 

   

(1,045)

   

   

   

(1,045)

 

Repurchase of common stock

 

(10)

   

   

   

   

(10)

 

Changes in intercompany note balances, net

 

51,469 

   

(55,557)

   

4,088 

   

   

 

Other financing activities

 

(105)

   

   

   

   

(105)

 

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities

 

(51,146)

   

(56,602)

   

4,088 

   

   

(103,660)

 

Net increase in cash and cash equivalents

 

130 

   

12,341 

   

3,224 

   

   

15,695 

 

Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period

 

8,320 

   

59,379 

   

32,510 

   

   

100,209 

 

Cash and cash equivalents, end of period

$

8,450 

  

$

71,720 

  

$

35,734 

  

$

  

$

115,904 

 




18





PREDECESSOR

For the 13 Weeks ended May 4, 2007

 

DOLLAR GENERAL CORPORATION

 

GUARANTOR SUBSIDIARIES

 

OTHER  SUBSIDIARIES

 

ELIMINATIONS

 

CONSOLIDATED

TOTAL

STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS:

                   

Cash flows from operating activities:

                   

Net income

$

34,875 

  

$

13,046 

  

$

6,493 

  

$

(19,539)

  

$

34,875 

 

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:

                   

Depreciation and amortization

 

5,448 

   

44,948 

   

55 

   

   

50,451 

 

Deferred income taxes

 

(4,158)

   

3,780 

   

(4,570)

   

   

(4,948)

 

Noncash share-based compensation

 

3,469 

   

   

   

   

3,469 

 

Tax benefit from stock option exercises

 

(3,529)

   

   

   

   

(3,529)

 

Equity in subsidiaries’ earnings, net

 

(19,539)

   

   

   

19,539 

   

 

Change in operating assets and liabilities:

             

 

     

Merchandise inventories

 

   

(11,977)

   

   

   

(11,977)

 

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

 

(764)

   

208 

   

   

   

(552)

 

Accounts payable

 

(3,913)

   

(58,959)

   

   

   

(62,870)

 

Accrued expenses and other

 

4,868 

   

17,162 

   

3,617 

   

   

25,647 

 

Income taxes

 

(12,638)

   

3,533 

   

7,369 

   

   

(1,736)

 

Other

 

(486)

   

1,018 

   

(76)

   

   

456 

 

Net cash provided by operating activities

 

3,633 

   

12,759 

   

12,894 

   

   

29,286 

 

Cash flows from investing activities:

             

 

     

Purchases of property and equipment

 

(3,849)

   

(30,208)

   

(44)

   

   

(34,101)

 

Sales of short-term investments

 

   

   

6,000 

   

   

6,000 

 

Purchases of long-term investments

 

   

   

(5,670)

   

   

(5,670)

 

Proceeds from sale of property and equipment

 

50 

   

119 

   

   

   

169 

 

Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities

 

(3,799)

   

(30,089)

   

286 

   

   

(33,602)

 

Cash flows from financing activities:

                   

Repayments of long-term obligations

 

(138)

   

(2,515)

   

   

   

(2,653)

 

Payment of cash dividends

 

(15,712)

   

   

   

   

(15,712)

 

Proceeds from exercise of stock options

 

34,281 

   

   

-

   

   

34,281 

 

Changes in intercompany note balances, net

 

(22,571)

   

24,894 

   

(2,323)

   

   

 

Tax benefit of stock options

 

3,529 

   

   

   

   

3,529 

 

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities

 

(611)

   

22,379 

   

(2,323)

   

   

19,445 

 

Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

 

(777)

   

5,049 

   

10,857 

   

   

15,129 

 

Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period

 

114,310 

   

58,106 

   

16,872 

   

   

189,288 

 

Cash and cash equivalents, end of period

$

113,533 

  

$

63,155 

  

$

27,729 

  

$

  

$

204,417 

 




19




ITEM 2.

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


General

Accounting Periods.  We follow the concept of a 52-53 week fiscal year that ends on the Friday nearest to January 31. The following text contains references to years 2008 and 2007, which represent 52-week fiscal years ending or ended January 30, 2009 and February 1, 2008, respectively.  Consequently, references to quarterly accounting periods for 2008 and 2007 contained herein refer to 13-week accounting periods.


Seasonality. The nature of our business is seasonal to a certain extent.  Primarily because of sales of holiday-related merchandise, sales in the fourth quarter have historically been higher than sales achieved in each of the first three quarters of the fiscal year.  Expenses and, to a greater extent, operating income, vary by quarter.  Results of a period shorter than a full year may not be indicative of results expected for the entire year.  Furthermore, the seasonal nature of our business may affect comparisons between periods.


Merger with KKR.  We were acquired on July 6, 2007 through a merger accounted for as a reverse acquisition (the “Merger”). As a result of the Merger, we are a subsidiary of Buck Holdings, L.P. (“Parent”), a Delaware limited partnership controlled by investment funds affiliated with Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co., L.P. (“KKR”). KKR, GS Capital Partners VI Fund, L.P. and affiliated funds (affiliates of Goldman, Sachs & Co.), Citi Private Equity, Wellington Management Company, LLP, CPP Investment Board (USRE II) Inc. and other equity co-investors (collectively, the “Investors”) indirectly own a substantial portion of our capital stock through their investment in Parent. The Company continued as the same legal entity after the Merger.


The condensed consolidated financial statements for the 2008 13-week period, referred to as the “Successor” period, included in this quarterly report, reflect the impact of the Merger and the resulting application of purchase accounting and a new basis of accounting which began on July 7, 2007.   The condensed consolidated financial statements for the 2007 13-week period are referred to as the “Predecessor.”


Purpose of Discussion. We intend for this discussion to provide the reader with information that will assist in understanding our company and the critical economic factors that affect our company. In addition, this discussion further explains our financial statements, the changes in certain key items in those financial statements from period to period, and the primary factors that accounted for those changes, as well as how certain accounting principles affect our financial statements.


This discussion and analysis is based on, should be read with, and is qualified in its entirety by, the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto. It also should be read in conjunction with the disclosure set forth under “Cautionary Disclosure Regarding Forward-Looking Statements” in this report.



20




Executive Overview


We are the largest discount retailer in the United States by number of stores, with over 8,200 stores located in 35 states, primarily in the southern, southwestern, midwestern and eastern United States. We serve a broad customer base and offer a focused assortment of everyday items, including basic consumable merchandise and other home, apparel and seasonal products. A majority of our products are priced at $10 or less and approximately 30% of our products are priced at $1 or less. We seek to offer a compelling value proposition for our customers based on convenient store locations, easy in and out shopping and quality merchandise at highly competitive prices. We believe our combination of value and convenience distinguishes us from other discount, convenience and drugstore retailers, who typically focus on either value or convenience. As indicated by our historical annual and 2008 first quarter same-stores sales growth, we believe our business model is resilient in both strong and challenging economic environments.


In late 2006, we launched certain strategic operating initiatives aimed at improving our long-term financial performance. Our actions included the closing of 403 under-performing stores, a slowdown in our new store growth plans, and the elimination of our longtime practice of packing away inventories at the end of each season to be sold in future years.  In fiscal 2007, we completed the implementation of these initial actions.  Working with new ownership, we further developed our merchandising and real estate strategies, including the closing of an additional 60 stores, and clearly defined our go-forward operating priorities. Our first quarter 2007 operating results included significant transition costs as we closed stores and eliminated packaway inventories. We are now keenly focused on executing our priorities, which are to: 1) drive productive sales growth; 2) increase gross margins; 3) leverage process improvements and information technology to reduce costs; and 4) strengthen and expand Dollar General’s culture of “serving others.”


Each of our key financial metrics for the first quarter of 2008 reflects improved performance over the comparable 2007 period as follows:


·

Same-store sales for the quarter increased 5.4% compared with the prior year period, with sales per square foot increasing 4.8%.


·

Gross profit, as a percentage of sales, increased to 28.8% compared to 27.8% in the 2007 period as a result of lower markdowns and improvements in shrink and damages. Logistics efficiencies and other cost savings in the supply chain substantially mitigated the impact of higher than anticipated fuel costs.


·

Inventory turnover improved to 5.0 times on a rolling four-quarter basis compared to 4.3 times for the corresponding previous year period.


·

Cash flow from operating activities was $151.6 million, compared to $29.3 million in the 2007 first quarter, primarily reflecting improved accounts payable terms and management.




21




We believe that our merchandising and operating initiatives, in addition to aiding improvement in our financial performance (including shrink), have contributed to a decrease in employee turnover and a dramatic improvement in the overall appearance of our stores. We continue to move forward with our pricing and private label initiatives, and our enhanced merchandising analysis tools are giving us a better platform for decision-making.  


In the 2008 first quarter, we opened 73 new stores, relocated 23 stores, remodeled 102 stores and closed 2 stores. We remain on track to open a total of 200 new stores and to remodel or relocate 400 stores in fiscal 2008. As of May 2, 2008, we operated 8,265 stores in 35 states.  


The above discussion is a summary only.  Readers should refer to the detailed discussion of our operating results below for the full analysis of our financial performance in the current year period as compared with the prior year period.




22




Results of Operations


The following table contains results of operations data for the first 13 weeks of each of 2008 and 2007, and the dollar and percentage variances among those periods:


 

Successor

 

Predecessor

  
    

 

13 Weeks Ended

 

2008 vs. 2007

(amounts in millions)

May 2,
2008

 

May 4,
2007

 

Amount change

 

%
change

Net sales by category:

           

Highly consumable

$

1,680.9

 

$

1,523.8

 

$

157.1

 

10.3

%

% of net sales

 

69.94%

  

66.97%

      

Seasonal

 

322.1

  

336.4

  

(14.3)

 

(4.3)

 

% of net sales

 

13.40%

  

14.79%

      

Home products

 

204.5

  

215.0

  

(10.6)

 

(4.9)

 

% of net sales

 

8.51%

  

9.45%

      

Basic clothing

 

196.0

  

200.0

  

(4.0)

 

(2.0)

 

% of net sales

 

8.15%

  

8.79%

      

Net sales

$

2,403.5

 

$

2,275.3

 

$

128.2

 

5.6

%

Cost of goods sold

 

1,710.4

  

1,642.2

  

68.2

 

4.2

 

% of net sales

 

71.16%

  

72.18%

      

Gross profit

 

693.1

  

633.1

  

60.0

 

9.5

 

% of net sales

 

28.84%

  

27.82%

      

Selling, general and administrative

 

582.5

  

577.7

  

4.8

 

0.8

 

% of net sales

 

24.24%

  

25.39%

      

Operating profit

 

110.6

  

55.4

  

55.2

 

99.7

 

% of net sales

 

4.60%

  

2.43%

      

Interest income

 

(1.0)

  

(2.6)

  

1.6

 

(62.8)

 

% of net sales

 

(0.04)%

  

(0.11)%

      

Interest expense

 

100.9

  

6.2

  

94.7

 

NM

 

% of net sales

 

4.20%

  

0.27%

      

Income before income taxes

 

10.7

  

51.8

  

(41.1)

 

(79.4)

 

% of net sales

 

0.44%

  

2.28%

      

Income taxes

 

4.7

  

16.9

  

(12.2)

 

(71.9)

 

% of net sales

 

0.20%

  

0.74%

      

Net income

$

5.9

 

$

34.9

 

$

(29.0)

 

(83.0)

%

% of net sales

 

0.25%

  

1.53%

      

13 WEEKS ENDED MAY 2, 2008 AND MAY 4, 2007


Net Sales. The 5.6% net sales increase over the 2007 period primarily was attributable to our 5.4% same-store sales increase.  Same-store sales, which includes those stores that have been open at least 13 full fiscal months and remain open at the end of the reporting period, were positively impacted by increases in the number of customer transactions and the average dollar value of transactions during the period. We believe the increase in sales of highly consumables, which drove the same-store sales increase, resulted from our merchandising and store operations initiatives and from favorable customer response to our convenience and value during the current challenging economic environment. While we believe our overall sales benefited during the quarter as customers sought to save money as a result of the current economic downturn, we also believe our mix of sales in the quarter, which included significant increases in highly consumables, partially offset by sales declines in our three higher margin categories, partially resulted from this economic pressure on the discretionary spending of our customers. We



23




continue to focus our efforts on meeting our customers’ consumables needs and becoming more trend relevant in home, seasonal and basic clothing merchandise.


Gross Profit. Lower markdowns and improvements in shrink and damages primarily were responsible for the 2008 gross profit increase as a percentage of sales. Improved distribution logistics efficiencies somewhat mitigated increased fuel costs. In the 2007 period, the gross profit rate was unfavorably impacted by markdowns related to the inventory reduction strategies discussed above, which were partially offset by a reduction of our lower of cost or market inventory impairment estimate for that period.


SG&A Expense.  SG&A expense increased $4.8 million, or 0.8%, in the 2008 period as compared to the 2007 period, and decreased as a percentage of sales to 24.2% in the 2008 period from 25.4% in the 2007 period. The following items represent the more significant changes in SG&A, as a percentage of sales, between the periods. The 2008 period includes $10.3 million related to amortization of leasehold intangibles capitalized in connection with purchase accounting, $6.8 million of severance and related costs resulting from management changes, and approximately $2.2 million relating to the Company’s new ownership, including monitoring, consulting and legal fees. SG&A in the 2007 period included $29.3 million related to strategic real estate initiatives, including lease contract termination costs, incremental store labor and other expenses associated with the closing of 153 stores in the quarter, and $5.6 million of expenses, primarily legal and consulting fees, associated with the proposed Merger. In addition, advertising expense and administrative salaries decreased as a percentage of sales in the 2008 period.


Interest Expense.  The interest expense increase was due to interest on long-term obligations incurred to finance the Merger. See further discussion under “Liquidity and Capital Resources” below.


Income Taxes. The effective income tax rate for the 2008 period was 44.5%, or 11.9% higher than the rate of 32.6% for the 2007 period.  This rate increase is due principally to a reduction in income tax reserves during the 2007 period related to the favorable resolution of certain income tax audits that did not recur in the 2008 period and to the unfavorable impact on the effective tax rate in 2008 of a relatively fixed expense (principally income tax related interest expense) being divided by a decreased level of income before tax to determine the effective tax rate.

Accounting Pronouncements


In May 2008, the FASB issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (“SFAS”) No. 162, “The Hierarchy of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles.” SFAS 162 identifies the sources of accounting principles and the framework for selecting the principles used in the preparation of financial statements of nongovernmental entities that are presented in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) in the United States (the GAAP hierarchy). SFAS 162 will be effective 60 days following the SEC’s approval of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB) amendments to AU Section 411, The Meaning of Present Fairly in Conformity With Generally Accepted Accounting Principles. We plan to



24




adopt SFAS 162 once it is effective, and we are in the process of determining the potential impact of this standard on our financial statements.

Recently Adopted Accounting Standard


We adopted the provisions of SFAS 157, “Fair Value Measurements” effective February 2, 2008.  The adoption resulted in a $4.7 million decrease in liability balances associated with interest rate swaps that we use in an attempt to manage interest rate risk, with the offset reflected in other comprehensive income.

Liquidity and Capital Resources


Credit Facilities


We have two senior secured credit facilities (the “Credit Facilities”) which provide financing of up to $3.425 billion. The Credit Facilities consist of a $2.3 billion senior secured term loan facility and a senior secured asset-based revolving credit facility of up to $1.125 billion (of which up to $350.0 million is available for letters of credit), subject to borrowing base availability. The asset-based revolving credit facility includes borrowing capacity available for letters of credit and for short-term borrowings referred to as swingline loans.


The agreements governing the Credit Facilities provide that we have the right at any time to request up to $325.0 million of incremental commitments under one or more incremental term loan facilities and/or asset-based revolving credit facilities. The lenders under these facilities are not under any obligation to provide any such incremental commitments and any such addition of or increase in commitments will be subject to our not exceeding certain senior secured leverage ratios and certain other customary conditions precedent.  Our ability to obtain extensions of credit under these incremental commitments also will be subject to the same conditions as extensions of credit under the Credit Facilities.


The amount from time to time available under the asset-based revolving credit facility (including in respect of letters of credit) is subject to certain borrowing base limitations. The asset-based revolving credit facility includes a “last out” tranche in respect of which we may borrow up to a maximum amount of $125.0 million.


Borrowings under the Credit Facilities bear interest at a rate equal to an applicable margin plus, at our option, either (a) LIBOR or (b) a base rate (which is usually equal to the prime rate).  The applicable margin for borrowings is (i) under the term loan facility, 2.75% with respect to LIBOR borrowings and 1.75% with respect to base-rate borrowings and (ii) as of May 2, 2008 under the asset-based revolving credit facility (except in the last out tranche described above), 1.25% with respect to LIBOR borrowings and 0.25% with respect to base-rate borrowings and for any last out borrowings, 2.25% with respect to LIBOR borrowings and 1.25% with respect to base-rate borrowings.  The applicable margins for borrowings under the asset-based revolving credit facility (except in the case of last out borrowings) are subject to adjustment each quarter based on average daily excess availability under the asset-based revolving credit facility. We also are required to pay a commitment fee to the lenders under the asset-based revolving credit facility in respect of the unutilized commitments thereunder. At May



25




2, 2008, the commitment fee rate was 0.375% per annum. We also must pay customary letter of credit fees.


The senior secured credit agreement for the term loan facility requires us to prepay outstanding term loans, subject to certain exceptions, with up to 50% of our annual excess cash flow (as defined in the credit agreement), the net cash proceeds of certain non-ordinary course asset sales or other dispositions of property, and the net cash proceeds of any incurrence of debt other than proceeds from debt permitted under the senior secured credit agreement.


In addition, the senior secured credit agreement for the asset-based revolving credit facility requires us to prepay the asset-based revolving credit facility, subject to certain exceptions, with the net cash proceeds of all non-ordinary course asset sales or other dispositions of revolving facility collateral (as defined in the senior secured credit agreement); and to the extent such extensions of credit exceed the then current borrowing base.


We may be obligated to pay a prepayment premium on the amount repaid under the term loan facility if the term loans are voluntarily repaid in whole or in part before July 6, 2009. We may voluntarily repay outstanding loans under the asset-based revolving credit facility at any time without premium or penalty, other than customary “breakage” costs with respect to LIBOR loans.


At May 2, 2008, we had no borrowings, $24.4 million of commercial letters of credit, and $70.4 million of standby letters of credit outstanding under our asset-based revolving credit facility.


Senior Notes due 2015 and Senior Subordinated Toggle Notes due 2017


We have $1,175.0 million aggregate principal amount of 10.625% senior notes due 2015 (the “senior notes”) outstanding, which mature on July 15, 2015, pursuant to an indenture dated as of July 6, 2007 (the “senior indenture”), and $700 million aggregate principal amount of 11.875%/12.625% senior subordinated toggle notes due 2017 (the “senior subordinated notes”) outstanding, which mature on July 15, 2017, pursuant to an indenture dated as of July 6, 2007 (the “senior subordinated indenture”). The senior notes and the senior subordinated notes are collectively referred to herein as the “notes.” The senior indenture and the senior subordinated indenture are collectively referred to herein as the “indentures.” We may redeem some or all of the notes at any time at redemption prices described or set forth in the indentures.


The initial payment of interest on the notes was made on January 15, 2008 and interest is payable on January 15 and July 15 of each year. Interest on the senior notes is payable in cash. Cash interest on the senior subordinated notes accrues at a rate of 11.875% per annum, and PIK interest (as that term is defined below) accrues at a rate of 12.625% per annum. The initial interest payment on the senior subordinated notes was payable in cash. For any interest period thereafter through July 15, 2011, we may elect to pay interest on the senior subordinated notes (i) in cash, (ii) by increasing the principal amount of the senior subordinated notes or issuing new senior subordinated notes (“PIK interest”) or (iii) by paying interest on half of the principal



26




amount of the senior subordinated notes in cash interest and half in PIK interest. After July 15, 2011, all interest on the senior subordinated notes will be payable in cash.


Adjusted EBITDA


Under the agreements governing the Credit Facilities and the indentures, certain limitations and restrictions could arise if we are not able to satisfy and remain in compliance with specified financial ratios. Management believes the most significant of such ratios is the senior secured incurrence test under the Credit Facilities.  This test measures the ratio of the senior secured debt to Adjusted EBITDA. This ratio would need to be no greater than 4.25 to 1 to avoid such limitations and restrictions. As of May 2, 2008, this ratio was 3.1 to 1. Senior secured debt is defined as our total debt secured by liens or similar encumbrances less cash and cash equivalents.  EBITDA is defined as income (loss) from continuing operations before cumulative effect of change in accounting principle plus interest and other financing costs, net, provision for income taxes, and depreciation and amortization. Adjusted EBITDA is defined as EBITDA, further adjusted to give effect to adjustments required in calculating this covenant ratio under our Credit Facilities. EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA are not presentations made in accordance with U.S. GAAP, are not measures of financial performance or condition, liquidity or profitability, and should not be considered as an alternative to (1) net income, operating income or any other performance measures determined in accordance with U.S. GAAP or (2) operating cash flows determined in accordance with U.S. GAAP. Additionally, EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA are not intended to be measures of free cash flow for management’s discretionary use, as they do not consider certain cash requirements such as interest payments, tax payments and debt service requirements and replacements of fixed assets.


Our presentation of EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA has limitations as an analytical tool, and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for analysis of our results as reported under U.S. GAAP. Because not all companies use identical calculations, these presentations of EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA may not be comparable to other similarly titled measures of other companies. We believe that the presentation of EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA is appropriate to provide additional information about the calculation of this financial ratio in the Credit Facilities. Adjusted EBITDA is a material component of this ratio. Specifically, non-compliance with the senior secured indebtedness ratio contained in our Credit Facilities could prohibit us from being able to incur additional secured indebtedness, other than the additional funding provided for under the senior secured credit agreement and pursuant to specified exceptions, to make investments, to incur liens and to make certain restricted payments.  




27




The calculation of Adjusted EBITDA under the Credit Facilities is as follows:


 

13 Weeks Ended

52 Weeks
Ended

52 Weeks
Ended

(in millions)

May 2,

 2008

May 4,

 2007

February 1,
2008

May 2,

 2008

Net income (loss)

$

5.9 

$

34.9 

$

(12.8)

$

(41.8)

Add (subtract):

        

Interest income

 

(1.0)

 

(2.6)

 

(8.8)

 

(7.2)

Interest expense

 

100.9 

 

6.2 

 

263.2 

 

357.9 

Depreciation and amortization

 

58.3 

 

50.5 

 

226.4 

 

234.2 

Income taxes

 

4.7 

 

16.9 

 

10.2 

 

(2.0)

EBITDA

 

168.8 

 

105.9 

 

478.2 

 

541.1 

         

Adjustments:

        

Transaction and related costs

 

 

5.6 

 

102.6 

 

97.0 

Loss on debt retirements, net

 

 

 

1.2 

 

1.2 

Loss on interest rate swaps

 

0.3

 

 

2.4 

 

2.7 

Contingent loss on distribution center leases

 

 

 

12.0 

 

12.0 

Impact of markdowns related to inventory clearance activities, including LCM adjustments, net of purchase accounting adjustments

 

1.3 

 

(3.9)

 

5.7 

 

10.9 

SG&A related to store closing and inventory clearance activities

 

 

29.3 

 

54.0 

 

24.7 

Operating losses (cash) of stores to be closed

 

 

5.3 

 

10.5 

 

5.2 

Monitoring and consulting fees to affiliates

 

2.2 

 

 

4.8 

 

7.0 

Stock option and restricted stock unit expense

 

2.3 

 

 

6.5 

 

8.8 

Indirect merger-related costs

 

7.8 

 

 

4.6 

 

12.4 

Other

 

 

0.7 

 

1.0 

 

0.3 

Total Adjustments

 

13.9 

 

37.0 

 

205.3 

 

182.2 

         

Adjusted EBITDA

$

182.7 

$

142.9 

$

683.5 

$

723.3 


Current Financial Condition / Recent Developments


At May 2, 2008, we had total outstanding debt (including the current portion of long-term obligations) of approximately $4.18 billion. We had $865.7 million available for borrowing under our senior secured asset-based revolving credit facility at that date.  Our liquidity needs are significant, primarily due to our debt service and other obligations. However, we believe our cash flow from operations and existing cash balances, combined with availability under the Credit Facilities, will provide sufficient liquidity to fund our current obligations, projected working capital requirements and capital spending for a period that includes the next twelve months.

Our inventory balance represented approximately 45% of our total assets exclusive of goodwill and other intangible assets as of May 2, 2008. Our proficiency in managing our inventory balances can have a significant impact on our cash flows from operations during a given fiscal year. Inventory purchases are often somewhat seasonal in nature, such as the



28




purchase of warm-weather or Christmas-related merchandise. We have made more efficient inventory management a strategic priority.

 

In recent years, pursuant to state regulatory requirements, our South Carolina-based wholly owned captive insurance subsidiary, Ashley River Insurance Company (“ARIC”), has held cash and cash equivalents and investments balances so as to maintain a percentage of ARIC’s liability and equity balances (primarily insurance liabilities) in the form of certain specified types of assets. As a result, these investments have not been available for general corporate purposes. In May 2008, we received notice that the state of South Carolina had agreed to a change in these regulatory requirements for a portion of these investments. For that portion, we have changed the classification of these investments from held-to-maturity to available-for-sale, which had no material effect on the valuation of these investments. These actions have resulted in $38.3 million of additional short-term investments, increasing our liquidity.


As described in Note 5 to the condensed consolidated financial statements, we are involved in the restructuring of certain leases as well as a number of legal actions and claims, some of which could potentially result in material cash payments.  Adverse developments in those restructuring efforts or actions could materially and adversely affect our liquidity.  We also have certain income tax-related contingencies as more fully described below under “Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates.” Future negative developments could have a material adverse effect on our liquidity.


We may seek, from time to time, to retire the notes (as defined above) through cash purchases on the open market, in privately negotiated transactions or otherwise. Such repurchases, if any, will depend on prevailing market conditions, our liquidity requirements, contractual restrictions and other factors. The amounts involved may be material.


Cash flows from operating activities.  The most significant components of the change in cash flows from operating activities in the 2008 period as compared to the 2007 period were working capital in general and accounts payable in particular. Accounts payable balances increased by $52.9 million in the 2008 period compared to a reduction of $62.9 million in the 2007 period as a result of our implementation of initiatives to aggressively manage our payables and improve payment terms. We are also closely monitoring our inventory balances, which increased by 2% overall during the first quarter of 2008 compared to a 1% overall increase during the first quarter of 2007. Inventory levels in the highly consumable category increased by 3% in the 2008 period compared to a 2% increase in the 2007 period; the seasonal category increased by 3% in the 2008 period compared to a 2% increase in the 2007 period; the home products category declined by 3% in the 2008 period compared to a 7% decline in the 2007 period; and basic clothing increased by 2% in the 2008 period compared to an increase of less than 1% in the 2007 period. The decline in net income in the 2008 period as compared to the 2007 period, as described in more detail above, partially offset the increases in cash flows related to changes in working capital.


Cash flows from investing activities.  Significant components of property and equipment purchases in the 2008 period included the following approximate amounts: $15 million for improvements and upgrades to existing stores; $7 million for remodels and relocations of



29




existing stores; $6 million for new stores; $4 million for distribution and transportation-related capital expenditures; and $3 million for systems-related capital projects.  During the 2008 period, we opened 73 new stores and remodeled or relocated 125 stores.


Significant components of property and equipment purchases in the 2007 period included the following approximate amounts: $15 million for new stores; $5 million for improvements and upgrades to existing stores; $3 million for distribution and transportation-related capital expenditures; and $2 million for systems-related capital projects.  During the 2007 period, we opened 124 new stores and remodeled or relocated 40 stores.

Purchases and sales of short-term investments of $9.9 million and $13.0 million, respectively, during the 2008 period, and sales of short-term investments of $6.0 million and purchases of long-term investments of $5.7 million during the 2007 period relate primarily to ARIC.


Capital expenditures for the 2008 fiscal year are projected to be approximately $200 to $220 million.  We anticipate funding our 2008 capital requirements with cash flows from operations and our asset-based revolving credit facility, if necessary.


Cash flows from financing activities.  We had no borrowings, and repayments of $102.5 million, under our asset-based revolving credit facility in the 2008 period. We had no borrowings or repayments under our prior credit facility in the 2007 period. We paid cash dividends of $15.7 million, or $0.05 per share, on outstanding common stock during the 2007 period, offset by proceeds from the exercise of stock options of $34.3 million during the 2007 period.


Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates


The preparation of financial statements in accordance with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect reported amounts and related disclosures.  In addition to the estimates presented below, there are other items within our financial statements that require estimation, but are not deemed critical as defined below. We believe these estimates are reasonable and appropriate. However, if actual experience differs from the assumptions and other considerations used, the resulting changes could have a material effect on the financial statements taken as a whole.


Management believes the following policies and estimates are critical because they involve significant judgments, assumptions, and estimates. Management has discussed the development and selection of the critical accounting estimates with the Audit Committee of our Board of Directors, and the Audit Committee has reviewed the disclosures presented below relating to those policies and estimates.


Merchandise Inventories. Merchandise inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market with cost determined using the retail last-in, first-out (“LIFO”) method. Under our retail inventory method (“RIM”), the calculation of gross profit and the resulting valuation of inventories at cost are computed by applying a calculated cost-to-retail inventory ratio to the retail value of sales. The RIM is an averaging method that has been widely used in the retail industry due to its practicality. Also, it is recognized that the use of the RIM will result in valuing



30




inventories at the lower of cost or market (“LCM”) if markdowns are currently taken as a reduction of the retail value of inventories.


Inherent in the RIM calculation are certain significant management judgments and estimates including, among others, initial markups, markdowns, and shrinkage, which significantly impact the gross profit calculation as well as the ending inventory valuation at cost. These significant estimates, coupled with the fact that the RIM is an averaging process, can, under certain circumstances, produce distorted cost figures. Factors that can lead to distortion in the calculation of the inventory balance include:


·

applying the RIM to a group of products that is not fairly uniform in terms of its cost and selling price relationship and turnover;


·

applying the RIM to transactions over a period of time that include different rates of gross profit, such as those relating to seasonal merchandise;


·

inaccurate estimates of inventory shrinkage between the date of the last physical inventory at a store and the financial statement date; and


·

inaccurate estimates of LCM and/or LIFO reserves.


Factors that reduce potential distortion include the use of historical experience in estimating the shrink provision (see discussion below) and recent improvements in the LIFO analysis whereby all SKUs are considered in the index formulation. As part of this process we also perform an inventory-aging analysis for determining obsolete inventory. Our policy is to write down inventory to an LCM value based on various management assumptions including estimated markdowns and sales required to liquidate such aged inventory in future periods. Inventory is reviewed on a quarterly basis and adjusted as appropriate to reflect write-downs determined to be necessary.


Factors such as slower inventory turnover due to changes in competitors’ tactics, consumer preferences, consumer spending and unseasonable weather patterns, among other factors, could cause excess inventory requiring greater than estimated markdowns to entice consumer purchases, resulting in an unfavorable impact on our consolidated financial statements. Sales shortfalls due to the above factors could cause reduced purchases from vendors and associated vendor allowances that would also result in an unfavorable impact on our consolidated financial statements.

 

We calculate our shrink provision based on actual physical inventory results during the fiscal period and an accrual for estimated shrink occurring subsequent to a physical inventory through the end of the fiscal reporting period. This accrual is calculated as a percentage of sales at each retail store, at a department level, and is determined by dividing the book-to-physical inventory adjustments recorded during the previous twelve months by the related sales for the same period for each store. To the extent that subsequent physical inventories yield different results than this estimated accrual, our effective shrink rate for a given reporting period will include the impact of adjusting the estimated results to the actual results. Although we perform



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physical inventories in virtually all of our stores on an annual basis, the same stores do not necessarily get counted in the same reporting periods from year to year, which could impact comparability in a given reporting period.


Goodwill and Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets. Under SFAS 142, “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets,” we are required to test goodwill and intangible assets with indefinite lives for impairment annually, or more frequently if impairment indicators occur. Significant judgments required in this testing process may include projecting future cash flows, determining appropriate discount rates and other assumptions. Projections are based on management’s best estimate given recent financial performance, market trends, strategic plans and other available information. Changes in these estimates and assumptions could materially affect the determination of fair value or impairment. Future indicators of impairment could result in an asset impairment charge.


Purchase Accounting. The Merger was accounted for as a reverse acquisition in accordance with the purchase accounting provisions of SFAS 141, “Business Combinations,” under which our assets and liabilities have been accounted for at their estimated fair values as of the date of the Merger. The aggregate purchase price was allocated to the tangible and intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed, based upon an assessment of their relative fair values as of the date of the Merger. These estimates of fair values, the allocation of the purchase price and other factors related to the accounting for the Merger are subject to significant judgments and the use of estimates.


Property and Equipment. Property and equipment are recorded at cost. We group our assets into relatively homogeneous classes and generally provide for depreciation on a straight-line basis over the estimated average useful life of each asset class, except for leasehold improvements, which are amortized over the shorter of the applicable lease term or the estimated useful life of the asset. Certain store and warehouse fixtures, when fully depreciated, are removed from the cost and related accumulated depreciation and amortization accounts. The valuation and classification of these assets and the assignment of useful depreciable lives involves significant judgments and the use of estimates.


Impairment of Long-lived Assets. We review the carrying value of all long-lived assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value of an asset may not be recoverable. In accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (“SFAS”) 144, “Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets,” we review for impairment stores open more than two years for which current cash flows from operations are negative. Impairment results when the carrying value of the assets exceeds the undiscounted future cash flows over the life of the lease. Our estimate of undiscounted future cash flows over the lease term is based upon historical operations of the stores and estimates of future store profitability which encompasses many factors that are subject to variability and are difficult to predict. If a long-lived asset is found to be impaired, the amount recognized for impairment is equal to the difference between the carrying value and the asset’s fair value. The fair value is estimated based primarily upon future cash flows (discounted at our credit adjusted risk-free rate) or other reasonable estimates of fair market value in accordance with U.S. GAAP.




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Insurance Liabilities. We retain a significant portion of the risk for our workers’ compensation, employee health insurance, general liability, property loss and automobile coverage. These costs are significant primarily due to the large employee base and number of stores. At the date of the Merger this liability was discounted in accordance with purchase accounting standards. Subsequent to the Merger, provisions are made to this insurance liability on an undiscounted basis based on actual claim data and estimates of incurred but not reported claims developed using actuarial methodologies based on historical claim trends. If future claim trends deviate from recent historical patterns, we may be required to record additional expenses or expense reductions, which could be material to our future financial results.


Contingent Liabilities – Income Taxes. Income tax reserves are determined using the methodology established by the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Interpretation 48, Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes – An Interpretation of FASB Statement 109 (“FIN 48”).  FIN 48, which we adopted on February 3, 2007, requires companies to assess each income tax position taken using a two step process.  A determination is first made as to whether it is more likely than not that the position will be sustained, based upon the technical merits, upon examination by the taxing authorities.  If the tax position is expected to meet the more likely than not criteria, the benefit recorded for the tax position equals the largest amount that is greater than 50% likely to be realized upon ultimate settlement of the respective tax position.  Uncertain tax positions require determinations and estimated liabilities to be made based on provisions of the tax law which may be subject to change or varying interpretation.  If our determinations and estimates prove to be inaccurate, the resulting adjustments could be material to our future financial results.


Contingent Liabilities - Legal Matters. We are subject to legal, regulatory and other proceedings and claims. We establish liabilities as appropriate for these claims and proceedings based upon the probability and estimability of losses and to fairly present, in conjunction with the disclosures of these matters in our financial statements and SEC filings, management’s view of our exposure. We review outstanding claims and proceedings with external counsel to assess probability and estimates of loss. We re-evaluate these assessments on a quarterly basis or as new and significant information becomes available to determine whether a liability should be established or if any existing liability should be adjusted. The actual cost of resolving a claim or proceeding ultimately may be substantially different than the amount of the recorded liability. In addition, because it is not permissible under U.S. GAAP to establish a litigation liability until the loss is both probable and estimable, in some cases there may be insufficient time to establish a liability prior to the actual incurrence of the loss (upon verdict and judgment at trial, for example, or in the case of a quickly negotiated settlement). See Note 5 to the condensed consolidated financial statements.


Lease Accounting and Excess Facilities. The majority of our stores are subject to short-term leases (usually with initial or primary terms of 3 to 5 years) with multiple renewal options when available. We also have stores subject to build-to-suit arrangements with landlords, which typically carry a primary lease term of 10 years with multiple renewal options. Approximately half of our stores have provisions for contingent rentals based upon a percentage of defined sales volume. We recognize contingent rental expense when the achievement of specified sales targets is considered probable. We recognize rent expense over the term of the lease. We record



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minimum rental expense on a straight-line basis over the base, non-cancelable lease term commencing on the date that we take physical possession of the property from the landlord, which normally includes a period prior to store opening to make necessary leasehold improvements and install store fixtures. When a lease contains a predetermined fixed escalation of the minimum rent, we recognize the related rent expense on a straight-line basis and record the difference between the recognized rental expense and the amounts payable under the lease as deferred rent. We also receive tenant allowances, which we record as deferred incentive rent and amortize as a reduction to rent expense over the term of the lease. We reflect as a liability any difference between the calculated expense and the amounts actually paid. Improvements of leased properties are amortized over the shorter of the life of the applicable lease term or the estimated useful life of the asset.


For store closures (excluding those associated with a business combination) where a lease obligation still exists, we record the estimated future liability associated with the rental obligation on the date the store is closed in accordance with SFAS 146, “Accounting for Costs Associated with Exit or Disposal Activities.” Based on an overall analysis of store performance and expected trends, management periodically evaluates the need to close underperforming stores. Liabilities are established at the point of closure for the present value of any remaining operating lease obligations, net of estimated sublease income, and at the communication date for severance and other exit costs, as prescribed by SFAS 146. Key assumptions in calculating the liability include the timeframe expected to terminate lease agreements, estimates related to the sublease potential of closed locations, and estimation of other related exit costs. If actual timing and potential termination costs or realization of sublease income differ from our estimates, the resulting liabilities could vary from recorded amounts. These liabilities are reviewed periodically and adjusted when necessary.


Share-Based Payments. Our share-based stock option awards are valued on an individual grant basis using the Black-Scholes-Merton closed form option pricing model. The application of this valuation model involves assumptions that are judgmental and highly sensitive in the valuation of stock options, which affects compensation expense related to these options. These assumptions include the term that the options are expected to be outstanding, an estimate of the volatility of our stock price (which is based on a peer group of publicly traded companies), applicable interest rates and the dividend yield of our stock. Other factors involving judgments that affect the expensing of share-based payments include estimated forfeiture rates of share-based awards. If our estimates differ materially from actual experience, we may be required to record additional expense or reductions of expense, which could be material to our future financial results.


Derivative Financial Instruments. The valuation of our derivative financial instruments is determined using valuation techniques including discounted cash flow analysis on the expected cash flows of each derivative. This analysis reflects the contractual terms of the derivatives, including the period to maturity, and uses observable market-based inputs, including interest rate curves.  The fair values of interest rate swaps are determined using a methodology of netting the discounted future fixed cash payments (or receipts) and the discounted expected variable cash receipts (or payments).  The variable cash receipts (or payments) are based on an expectation of future interest rates (forward curves) derived from observable market interest rate curves. In



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addition, we incorporate credit valuation adjustments to appropriately reflect both our own nonperformance risk and the respective counterparty’s nonperformance risk.  To adjust the fair value of derivative contracts for the effect of nonperformance risk, we consider the impact of netting and any applicable credit enhancements, such as collateral postings, thresholds, mutual puts, and guarantees. These valuation techniques and the related inputs include estimates and  assumptions which are judgmental, and in some cases, based on forecasts of future events. If these estimates and assumptions differ materially from actual experience, the resulting adjustments could be material to our future financial results.

ITEM 3.

QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK


There have been no material changes to the disclosures relating to this item from those set forth in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 1, 2008.


ITEM 4.

CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES


(a)

Disclosure Controls and Procedures.  Under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, we conducted an evaluation of our disclosure controls and procedures, as such term is defined under Rule 13a-15(e) or 15d-15(e) promulgated under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”). Based on this evaluation, our principal executive officer and our principal financial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of the end of the period covered by this report.


(b)

Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting.  There have been no changes in our internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(f)) during the quarter ended May 2, 2008 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.


PART II—OTHER INFORMATION


ITEM 1.

LEGAL PROCEEDINGS


The information contained in Note 5 to the condensed consolidated financial statements under the heading “Legal Proceedings” contained in Part I, Item 1 of this Form 10-Q is incorporated herein by this reference.


ITEM 1A.

RISK FACTORS


There have been no material changes to the disclosures relating to this item from those set forth in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 1, 2008.



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ITEM 6.

EXHIBITS


See the Exhibit Index immediately following the signature page hereto, which Exhibit Index is incorporated by reference as if fully set forth herein.



CAUTIONARY DISCLOSURE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS


“Forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the federal securities laws are included throughout this report, particularly under the heading “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations,” among others. You can identify these statements because they are not solely statements of historical fact or they use words such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “expect,” “believe,” “anticipate,” “project,” “plan,” “expect,” “estimate,” “objective,” “forecast,” “goal,” “intend,” “will likely result,” or “will continue” and similar expressions that concern our strategy, plans or intentions. For example, all statements relating to our estimated and projected earnings, costs, expenditures, cash flows, financial results and liquidity, our plans and objectives for future operations, growth or initiatives, the expected outcome or impact of pending or threatened litigation, and expectations regarding a possible reduction in the reserve for uncertain tax positions are forward-looking statements.


All forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that may change at any time, so our actual results may differ materially from those that we expected. We derive many of these statements from our operating budgets and forecasts, which are based on many detailed assumptions that we believe are reasonable. However, it is very difficult to predict the impact of known factors, and we cannot anticipate all factors that could affect our actual results. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the expectations expressed in our forward-looking statements include, without limitation, increased competition; consumer demand, spending patterns and debt levels; changing wages, health care, other benefit, and insurance costs; general economic conditions; fluctuations in the costs of gasoline, diesel fuel and other energy, transportation, and utilities costs; the ability to hire and retain effective employees; our ability to timely open, remodel or relocate stores; interest rate fluctuations; capital market conditions; risks and challenges in connection with sourcing merchandise from domestic and international vendors; disruptions in the supply chain; the level of success of initiatives; the outbreak of war or pandemics; geopolitical events or conditions; natural disasters; weather conditions; regulatory matters; the cost of goods; seasonality; the factors disclosed under “Risk Factors” in Part I, Item 1A of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 1, 2008; the factors disclosed elsewhere in this document (including, without limitation, in conjunction with the forward-looking statements themselves and under the heading “Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates”); and other factors. All written and oral forward-looking statements are expressly qualified in their entirety by these cautionary statements as well as other cautionary statements that we make from time to time in our other SEC filings and public communications. You should evaluate all of our forward-looking statements in the context of these risks and uncertainties.


The important factors referenced above may not contain all of the material factors that are important to you. In addition, we cannot assure you that we will realize the results or



36




developments we expect or anticipate or, even if substantially realized, that they will result in the consequences or affect us or our operations in the way we expect. The forward-looking statements included in this report are made only as of the date hereof. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as otherwise required by law.




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SIGNATURES


Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized, both on behalf of the Registrant and in his capacity as principal financial and accounting officer of the Registrant.


 

DOLLAR GENERAL CORPORATION

   
   

Date: June 16, 2008

By:

/s/ David M. Tehle

  

David M. Tehle

  

Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer



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EXHIBIT INDEX



10.1

Dollar General Corporation 2008 Teamshare Bonus Program for Named Executive Officers.


10.2

Letter Agreement dated April 9, 2008 between Dollar General Corporation and David L. Beré (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated April 9, 2008, filed with the SEC on April 10, 2008 (file no. 001-11421)).


10.3

First Amendment to Employment Agreement with David M. Tehle, dated as of May 9, 2008 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated May 9, 2008, filed with the SEC on May 15, 2008 (file no. 001-11421)).


10.4

First Amendment to Employment Agreement with Kathleen R. Guion, dated as of May 9, 2008 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.2 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated May 9, 2008, filed with the SEC on May 15, 2008 (file no. 001-11421)).


10.5

First Amendment to Employment Agreement with Challis M. Lowe, dated as of May 9, 2008 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.3 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated May 9, 2008, filed with the SEC on May 15, 2008 (file no. 001-11421)).


10.6

Addendum to Employment Agreement with Challis M. Lowe, dated as of May 14, 2008 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.4 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated May 9, 2008, filed with the SEC on May 15, 2008 (file no. 001-11421)).


31

Certifications of CEO and CFO under Exchange Act Rule 13a-14(a).


32

Certifications of CEO and CFO under 18 U.S.C. 1350.



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