10-Q 1 v113220_10q.htm Unassociated Document

 
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, DC 20549

FORM 10-Q

þ
QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the quarter ended March 31, 2008 

OR

o
TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the transition period from________to ________

Commission file number: 001-13337
 
STONERIDGE, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 
Ohio
 
34-1598949
 
 
(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)
 
(IRS Employer
Identification No.)
 

 
9400 East Market Street, Warren, Ohio
 
44484
 
 
(Address of principal executive offices)
 
(Zip Code)
 

(330) 856-2443

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code

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

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

Accelerated filer þ
Non-accelerated filer ࿠
Smaller reporting company ࿠
 
 
(Do not check if a smaller reporting company)
 

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

The number of Common Shares, without par value, outstanding as of April 25, 2008 was 24,667,999.

 
 
INDEX

   
Page No.
PART I–FINANCIAL INFORMATION
 
     
Item 1.
 
 
2
 
3
 
4
 
5
Item 2.
20
Item 3.
26
Item 4.
27
     
PART II–OTHER INFORMATION
 
     
Item 1.
28
Item 1A.
28
Item 2.
28
Item 3.
28
Item 4.
28
Item 5.
28
Item 6.
28
     
29
30
   
EX-31.1  
EX-31.2  
EX-32.1  
EX-32.2  



STONERIDGE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
(in thousands)
 
   
March 31,
2008
 
December 31,
2007
 
ASSETS
 
(Unaudited)
 
(Audited)
 
           
Current Assets:
         
Cash and cash equivalents
 
$
88,273
 
$
95,924
 
Accounts receivable, less reserves of $5,495 and $4,736, respectively
   
136,983
   
122,288
 
Inventories, net
   
66,591
   
57,392
 
Prepaid expenses and other
   
19,662
   
15,926
 
Deferred income taxes
   
10,188
   
9,829
 
Total current assets
   
321,697
   
301,359
 
               
Long-Term Assets:
             
Property, plant and equipment, net
   
91,853
   
92,752
 
Other Assets:
             
Goodwill
   
65,720
   
65,176
 
Investments and other, net
   
43,173
   
39,454
 
Deferred income taxes
   
24,618
   
29,028
 
Total long-term assets
   
225,364
   
226,410
 
Total Assets
 
$
547,061
 
$
527,769
 
               
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
             
               
Current Liabilities:
             
Accounts payable
 
$
76,581
 
$
69,373
 
Accrued expenses and other
   
58,023
   
47,198
 
Total current liabilities
   
134,604
   
116,571
 
               
Long-Term Liabilities:
             
Long-term debt
   
189,000
   
200,000
 
Deferred income taxes
   
2,951
   
2,665
 
Other liabilities
   
2,363
   
2,344
 
Total long-term liabilities
   
194,314
   
205,009
 
               
Shareholders' Equity:
             
Preferred Shares, without par value, authorized 5,000 shares, none issued
   
-
   
-
 
Common Shares, without par value, authorized 60,000 shares, issued 24,687 and 24,601 shares and outstanding 24,668 and 24,209 shares, respectively, with no stated value
    -     -  
Additional paid-in capital
   
154,898
   
154,173
 
Common Shares held in treasury, 19 and 373 shares, respectively, at cost
   
(9
)
 
(383
)
Retained earnings
   
44,919
   
38,372
 
Accumulated other comprehensive income
   
18,335
   
14,027
 
Total shareholders’ equity
   
218,143
   
206,189
 
Total Liabilities and Shareholders' Equity
 
$
547,061
 
$
527,769
 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.


STONERIDGE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
(Unaudited)
(in thousands, except per share data)

   
Three Months Ended
March 31,
 
   
2008
 
2007
 
           
Net Sales
 
$
203,070
 
$
185,028
 
               
Costs and Expenses:
             
Cost of goods sold
   
151,253
   
142,181
 
Selling, general and administrative
   
36,282
   
33,097
 
Restructuring charges
   
1,422
   
41
 
               
Operating Income
   
14,113
   
9,709
 
               
Interest expense, net
   
5,372
   
5,484
 
Equity in earnings of investees
   
(3,819
)
 
(2,120
)
Loss on early extinguishment of debt
   
499
   
-
 
Other loss, net
   
402
   
288
 
               
Income Before Income Taxes
   
11,659
   
6,057
 
               
Provision for income taxes
   
5,112
   
1,187
 
               
Net Income
 
$
6,547
 
$
4,870
 
               
Basic net income per share
 
$
0.28
 
$
0.21
 
Basic weighted average shares outstanding
   
23,286
   
22,990
 
               
Diluted net income per share
 
$
0.28
 
$
0.21
 
Diluted weighted average shares outstanding
   
23,647
   
23,403
 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.


STONERIDGE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
(Unaudited)
(in thousands)

   
Three Months Ended
March 31,
 
   
2008
 
2007
 
OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
         
Net income
 
$
6,547
 
$
4,870
 
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by (used for) operating activities -
             
Depreciation
   
7,287
   
7,165
 
Amortization
   
433
   
398
 
Deferred income taxes
   
3,656
   
434
 
Equity in earnings of investees
   
(3,819
)
 
(2,120
)
Gain on sale of property, plant and equipment
   
(8
)
 
(35
)
Share-based compensation expense
   
1,081
   
587
 
Changes in operating assets and liabilities -
             
Accounts receivable, net
   
(12,189
)
 
(13,325
)
Inventories, net
   
(8,103
)
 
(1,748
)
Prepaid expenses and other
   
(2,560
)
 
(2,462
)
Other assets
   
23
   
324
 
Accounts payable
   
5,690
   
(5,544
)
Accrued expenses and other
   
10,585
   
6,400
 
Net cash provided by (used for) operating activities
   
8,623
   
(5,056
)
               
INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
             
Capital expenditures
   
(5,513
)
 
(6,807
)
Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment
   
36
   
35
 
Business acquisitions and other
   
(1,061
)
 
-
 
Net cash used for investing activities
   
(6,538
)
 
(6,772
)
               
FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
             
Repayments of long-term debt
   
(11,000
)
 
-
 
Share-based compensation activity, net
   
42
   
355
 
Premiums related to early extinguishment of debt
   
(358
)
 
-
 
Net cash (used for) provided by financing activities
   
(11,316
)
 
355
 
               
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents
   
1,580
 
(142
)
               
Net change in cash and cash equivalents
   
(7,651
)
 
(11,615
)
               
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
   
95,924
   
65,882
 
               
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
 
$
88,273
 
$
54,267
 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.


STONERIDGE, INC.
(Unaudited)
(in thousands, except share and per share data, unless otherwise indicated)


(1) Basis of Presentation

The accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared by Stoneridge, Inc. (the “Company”) without audit, pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “Commission”). The information furnished in the condensed consolidated financial statements includes normal recurring adjustments and reflects all adjustments, which are, in the opinion of management, necessary for a fair presentation of such financial statements. Certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles have been condensed or omitted pursuant to the Commission’s rules and regulations. The results of operations for the three months ended March 31, 2008 are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the full year.

Although the Company believes that the disclosures are adequate to make the information presented not misleading, it is suggested that these condensed consolidated financial statements be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto included in the Company’s Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2007.

The Company has reclassified the presentation of certain prior-period information to conform to the current presentation.

(2) Inventories

Inventories are valued at the lower of cost or market. Cost is determined by the last-in, first-out (“LIFO”) method for approximately 64% and 66% of the Company’s inventories at March 31, 2008 and December 31, 2007, respectively, and by the first-in, first-out (“FIFO”) method for all other inventories. Inventory cost includes material, labor and overhead. Inventories consist of the following:
 
   
March 31,
2008
 
December 31,
2007
 
           
Raw materials
 
$
38,846
 
$
36,678
 
Work-in-progress
   
10,029
   
9,065
 
Finished goods
   
19,956
   
13,700
 
Total inventories
   
68,831
   
59,443
 
Less: LIFO reserve
   
(2,240
)
 
(2,051
)
Inventories, net
 
$
66,591
 
$
57,392
 

(3) Fair Value of Financial Instruments

Financial Instruments

A financial instrument is cash or a contract that imposes an obligation to deliver, or conveys a right to receive cash or another financial instrument. The carrying values of cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable and accounts payable are considered to be representative of fair value because of the short maturity of these instruments. The estimated fair value of the Company’s senior notes (fixed rate debt) at March 31, 2008 and December 31, 2007, per quoted market sources, was $191.1 million and $199.2 million, respectively. The carrying value was $189.0 million and $200.0 million as of March 31, 2008 and December 31, 2007, respectively.

Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities

The Company makes use of derivative instruments in foreign exchange and commodity price hedging programs. Derivatives currently in use are foreign currency forward and commodity swap contracts. These contracts are used strictly for hedging and not for speculative purposes. Management believes that its use of these instruments to reduce risk is in the Company’s best interest.


STONERIDGE, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Unaudited)
(in thousands, except share and per share data, unless otherwise indicated)
 

As a result of the Company’s international business presence it is exposed to foreign currency exchange risk. The Company uses derivative financial instruments, including foreign currency forward contracts, to mitigate its exposure to fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates by reducing the effect of such fluctuations on foreign currency denominated intercompany transactions and other foreign currency exposures. The principal currency hedged by the Company is the British pound. In certain instances, the foreign currency forward contracts are marked to market, with gains and losses recognized in the Company’s condensed consolidated statement of operations as a component of other loss, net. The Company’s foreign currency forward contracts substantially offset gains and losses on the underlying foreign currency denominated transactions.

The Company’s foreign currency forward contracts had a notional value of $8,720 and $8,551 at March 31, 2008 and December 31, 2007, respectively. As of March 31, 2008, the purpose of the foreign currency forward contracts is to reduce the risk of exposure related to the Company’s British pound-denominated receivables. At December 31, 2007, the Company also used forward currency contracts to reduce the risk of exposure related to the Company’s Mexican peso- and Swedish krona-denominated receivables. The estimated fair value of the existing contracts at March 31, 2008 and December 31, 2007, per quoted market sources, was approximately $77 and $(28), respectively. For the three months ended March 31, 2008, the Company recognized a $20 gain related to these contracts in the condensed consolidated statement of operations as a component of other loss, net. In 2007, the Company used foreign currency option contracts to reduce the risk of exposures to the Mexican peso. The Company’s foreign currency option contracts expired as of December 31, 2007.

To mitigate the risk of future price volatility and, consequently, fluctuations in gross margins, the Company has entered into fixed price commodity swaps with a bank to fix the cost of copper purchases. We entered into fixed price swap contracts for 480 and 420 metric tonnes of copper in December 2006 and January 2007, respectively. These contracts fixed the cost of copper purchases in 2007 and expired on December 31, 2007. In December 2007, we entered into a fixed price swap contract for 1.0 million pounds of copper, which will last through December 2008. Because these contracts were executed to hedge forecasted transactions, the contracts are accounted for as cash flow hedges. The unrealized gain or loss for the effective portion of the hedge is deferred and reported in the Company’s consolidated balance sheets as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income. The Company deems these cash flow hedges to be highly effective. The effectiveness of the transactions has been and will be measured on an ongoing basis using regression analysis. The fair value of the fixed price commodity swap contract, per quoted market sources, was approximately $740 and $57 at March 31, 2008 and December 31, 2007, respectively. For the three months March 31, 2008, the Company recognized a $68 gain related to these contracts in the condensed consolidated statement of operations as a component of costs of goods sold.

Statement of Financial Accounting Standard No. 157, Fair Value Measurements
 
Effective January 1, 2008, we adopted Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (“SFAS”) No. 157, Fair Value Measurements (“SFAS 157”). SFAS No. 157 clarifies the definition of fair value, prescribes methods for measuring fair value, establishes a fair value hierarchy based on the inputs used to measure fair value and expands disclosures about the use of fair value measurements. In accordance with Financial Accounting Standards Board Staff Position No. FAS 157-2, Effective Date of FASB Statement No. 157 (FSP 157-2), we will defer the adoption of SFAS 157 for our nonfinancial assets and nonfinancial liabilities until January 1, 2009. The adoption of SFAS 157 did not have a material impact on our fair value measurements.

The following table presents our assets that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis and are categorized using the fair value hierarchy. As of March 31, 2008 the Company does not have liabilities that are measured at fair value. The fair value hierarchy has three levels based on the reliability of the inputs used to determine fair value.

   
Fair Value Measurements at March 31, 2008
 
Assets
 
Total
 
Quoted Prices
in Active Markets
for Identical Assets
(Level 1)
 
Significant Other
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2)
 
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
 
Available-for-sale equity investments
 
$
288
 
$
288
 
$
-
 
$
-
 
Derivatives
   
817
   
-
   
817
   
-
 
Total
 
$
1,105
 
$
288
 
$
817
 
$
-
 


STONERIDGE, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Unaudited)
(in thousands, except share and per share data, unless otherwise indicated)

Equity investments are valued using a market approach based on the quoted market prices of identical instruments when available or other observable inputs such as trading prices of identical instruments in active markets.  Our foreign currency forward contracts are valued using an income approach based on the present value of the forward rate less the contract rate multiplied by the notional amount. Commodity swaps are valued using an income approach based on the present value of the commodity index prices less the contract rate multiplied by the notional amount.

(4) Share-Based Compensation

Total compensation related expense recognized in the condensed consolidated statements of operations for share-based compensation arrangements was $1,081 and $587 for the three months ended March 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively. The total income tax benefit recognized in the condensed consolidated statements of operations for share-based compensation arrangements was $378 and $205 for the three months ended March 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively. There was no share-based compensation cost capitalized as inventory or fixed assets for either period.

(5) Comprehensive Income (Loss)

SFAS No. 130, Reporting Comprehensive Income, establishes standards for the reporting and disclosure of comprehensive income.

The components of comprehensive income, net of tax are as follows:
 
   
Three Months Ended
March 31,
 
   
2008
 
2007
 
           
Net income
 
$
6,547
 
$
4,870
 
Other comprehensive income:
             
Currency translation adjustments
   
3,816
   
449
 
Pension and postretirement liability adjustments
   
(9
)
 
(8
)
Unrealized gain (loss) on marketable securities
   
(17
)
 
51
 
Unrecognized gain on derivatives
   
518
   
472
 
Total other comprehensive income
   
4,308
   
964
 
Comprehensive income
 
$
10,855
 
$
5,834
 

Accumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax is comprised of the following:

   
March 31,
 
December 31,
 
   
2008
 
2007
 
           
Foreign currency translation adjustments
 
$
18,328
 
$
14,512
 
Pension and postretirement liability adjustments
   
(437
)
 
(428
)
Unrealized loss on marketable securities
   
(37
)
 
(20
)
Unrecognized gain (loss) on derivatives
   
481
   
(37
)
Accumulated other comprehensive income
 
$
18,335
 
$
14,027
 


STONERIDGE, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Unaudited)
(in thousands, except share and per share data, unless otherwise indicated)

6) Long-Term Debt

Senior Notes

The Company had $189.0 and $200.0 million of senior notes outstanding at March 31, 2008 and December 31, 2007, respectively. During the first quarter of 2008, the Company repurchased and retired $11.0 million in face value of the senior notes. The outstanding senior notes bear interest at an annual rate of 11.50% and mature on May 1, 2012. The senior notes are redeemable, at the Company’s option, at 103.833 until April 30, 2009. The senior notes will remain redeemable at various levels until the maturity date. Interest is payable on May 1 and November 1 of each year.

Credit Facility

On November 2, 2007, the Company entered into an asset-based credit facility, which permits borrowing up to a maximum level of $100.0 million. At March 31, 2008, there were no borrowings on this asset-based credit facility. The available borrowing capacity on this credit facility is based on eligible current assets, as defined. At March 31, 2008, the Company had borrowing capacity of $83.1 million based on eligible current assets. The asset-based credit facility does not contain financial performance covenants; however, restrictions include limits on capital expenditures, operating leases and dividends. The asset-based credit facility expires on November 1, 2011, and requires a commitment fee of 0.25% on the unused balance. Interest is payable quarterly at either (i) the higher of the prime rate or the Federal Funds rate plus 0.50%, plus a margin of 0.00% to 0.25% or (ii) LIBOR plus a margin of 1.00% to 1.75%, depending upon the Company’s undrawn availability, as defined. 


(7) Net Income Per Share

Basic net income per share was computed by dividing net income by the weighted-average number of Common Shares outstanding for each respective period. Diluted net income per share was calculated by dividing net income by the weighted-average of all potentially dilutive Common Shares that were outstanding during the periods presented.

Actual weighted-average shares outstanding used in calculating basic and diluted net income per share are as follows:
 
   
Three Months Ended
March 31,
 
   
2008
 
2007
 
           
Basic weighted-average shares outstanding
   
23,285,848
   
22,989,615
 
Effect of dilutive securities
   
360,828
   
413,185
 
Diluted weighted-average shares outstanding
   
23,646,676
   
23,402,800
 

Options not included in the computation of diluted net income per share to purchase 167,750 and 410,250 Common Shares at an average price of $13.12 and $14.07 per share were outstanding at March 31, 2008 and March 31, 2007, respectively. These outstanding options were not included in the computation of diluted net income per share because their respective exercise prices were greater than the average market price of Common Shares and, therefore, their effect would have been anti-dilutive.
 
As of March 31, 2008, 711,375 performance-based restricted shares were outstanding. These shares were not included in the computation of diluted net income per share because not all vesting conditions were achieved as of March 31, 2008. These shares may or may not become dilutive based on the Company’s ability to exceed future earnings thresholds or attain certain targets of total return to its shareholders measured against a peer group’s performance.


STONERIDGE, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Unaudited)
(in thousands, except share and per share data, unless otherwise indicated)

(8) Restructuring

In January 2005, the Company announced restructuring initiatives related to the rationalization of certain manufacturing facilities in Europe and North America. These restructuring initiatives were completed in 2007.

On October 29, 2007, the Company announced restructuring initiatives to improve manufacturing efficiency and cost position by ceasing manufacturing operations at its Sarasota, Florida, and Mitcheldean, United Kingdom, locations. These rationalizations are part of the Company’s cost reduction initiatives. In connection with these initiatives, the Company recorded restructuring charges of $2,520 in the Company’s consolidated statement of operations for the three months ended March 31, 2008. Restructuring expenses that were general and administrative in nature were included in the Company’s condensed consolidated statements of operations as restructuring charges, while the remaining restructuring related expenses were included in cost of goods sold.

The charges related to the restructuring initiatives announced on October 29, 2007 that belong to the Electronics reportable segment included the following:

   
Severance
Costs
 
Contract
Termination
Costs
 
Other
Associated
Costs
 
Total
 
                   
Total expected restructuring charges
 
$
3,454
 
$
978
 
$
5,582
 
$
10,014
 
                           
Fourth quarter 2007 charge to expense
 
$
468
 
$
-
 
$
103
 
$
571
 
Cash payments
   
-
   
-
   
(103
)
 
(103
)
                           
Accrued balance at December 31, 2007
   
468
   
-
   
-
   
468
 
                           
First quarter 2008 charge to expense
   
873
   
-
   
614
   
1,487
 
Cash payments
   
-
   
-
   
(614
)
 
(614
)
                           
Accrued balance at March 31, 2008
 
$
1,341
 
$
-
 
$
-
 
$
1,341
 
                           
Remaining expected restructuring charge
 
$
2,113
 
$
978
 
$
4,865
 
$
7,956
 

The charges related to the restructuring initiatives announced on October 29, 2007 that belong to the Control Devices reportable segment included the following:

   
Severance
Costs
 
Fixed-Asset
Costs
 
Other
Associated
Costs
 
Total (A)
 
                   
Total expected restructuring charges
 
$
1,851
 
$
296
 
$
4,748
 
$
6,895
 
                           
Fourth quarter 2007 charge to expense
 
$
357
 
$
-
 
$
99
 
$
456
 
Cash payments
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
 
                           
Accrued balance at December 31, 2007
   
357
   
-
   
99
   
456
 
                           
First quarter 2008 charge to expense
   
365
   
-
   
668
   
1,033
 
Cash payments
   
-
   
-
   
(722
)
 
(722
)
                           
Accrued balance at March 31, 2008
 
$
722
 
$
-
 
$
45
 
$
767
 
                           
Remaining expected restructuring charge
 
$
1,129
 
$
296
 
$
3,981
 
$
5,406
 

(A)
Total expected restructuring charges does not include the expected gain from the future sale of the Company’s Sarasota, Florida, facility


STONERIDGE, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Unaudited)
(in thousands, except share and per share data, unless otherwise indicated)

All restructuring charges, except for asset-related charges, result in cash outflows. Severance costs relate to a reduction in workforce. Other associated costs include premium direct labor, inventory and equipment move costs, relocation expense, increased inventory carrying cost and miscellaneous expenditures associated with exiting business activities. No fixed-asset impairment charges were incurred because assets are being transferred to other locations for continued production.


(9) Commitments and Contingencies

In the ordinary course of business, the Company is involved in various legal proceedings and workers’ compensation and product liability disputes. The Company is of the opinion that the ultimate resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the results of operations, cash flows or the financial position of the Company.

Product Warranty and Recall

Amounts accrued for product warranty and recall claims are established based on the Company’s best estimate of the amounts necessary to settle future and existing claims on products sold as of the balance sheet dates. These accruals are based on several factors including past experience, production changes, industry developments and various other considerations. The Company can provide no assurances that it will not experience material claims in the future or that it will not incur significant costs to defend or settle such claims beyond the amounts accrued or beyond what the Company may recover from its suppliers.

The following provides a reconciliation of changes in product warranty and recall liability for the three months ended March 31, 2008 and 2007:

   
2008
 
2007
 
           
Product warranty and recall at beginning of period
 
$
5,306
 
$
5,825
 
Accruals for products shipped during period
   
841
   
557
 
Aggregate changes in pre-existing liabilities due to claims developments
   
664
   
510
 
Settlements made during the period (in cash or in kind)
   
(617
)
 
(1,021
)
Product warranty and recall at end of period
 
$
6,194
 
$
5,871
 

(10) Employee Benefit Plans

The Company has a single defined benefit pension plan that covers certain employees in the United Kingdom and a postretirement benefit plan that covers certain employees in the U.S. The components of net periodic benefit cost under the plans are as follows:

   
Pension Benefit Plan
 
Postretirement Benefit Plan
 
   
Three Months Ended
March 31,
 
Three Months Ended
March 31,
 
   
2008
 
2007
 
2008
 
2007
 
                   
Service cost
 
$
35
 
$
42
 
$
-
 
$
3
 
Interest cost
   
316
   
507
   
-
   
6
 
Expected return on plan assets
   
(361
)
 
(566
)
 
-
   
-
 
Amortization of actuarial loss
   
-
   
110
   
-
   
(1
)
Net periodic benefit cost
 
$
(10
)
$
93
 
$
-
 
$
8
 

The Company previously disclosed in its financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2007 that it expected to contribute $259 to its pension plan in 2008. Of this amount, contributions of $64 have been made to the pension plan as of March 31, 2008.

 
STONERIDGE, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Unaudited)
(in thousands, except share and per share data, unless otherwise indicated)

(11) Income Taxes

The Company recognized a provision for income taxes of $5,112, or 43.9% of pre-tax income, and $1,187, or 19.6% of pre-tax income, for federal, state and foreign income taxes for the three months ended March 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively. The increase in the effective tax rate for the three months ended March 31, 2008 compared to the three months ended March 31, 2007, was primarily attributable to the costs incurred to restructure the Company’s United Kingdom operations. As the Company does not believe that the related tax benefit of those losses will be realized, a valuation allowance was recorded against the deferred tax assets associated with those foreign losses. In addition the effective rate was unfavorably impacted due to the expiration of the federal research and development tax credit at December 31, 2007.

As of December 31, 2007, the Company provided a liability of $4,618, excluding interest and penalties, for unrecognized tax benefits related to various federal, state and foreign income tax matters. The liability for uncertain tax positions is classified as a non-current income tax liability unless it is expected to be paid within one year. At March 31, 2008 the Company has classified $1,544 as a current liability and $3,393 as a reduction to non-current deferred income tax assets. The liability for unrecognized tax positions decreased by $5 for the quarter ended March 31, 2008 resulting in a balance at March 31, 2008 of $4,613. Through a combination of possible state audit settlements and the expiration of certain statutes of limitation, the amount of unrecognized tax benefits could decrease by approximately $290-$800 within the next 12 months.

If the Company’s tax positions are sustained by the taxing authorities in favor of the Company, approximately $4,407 would reduce the Company’s effective tax rate.

The Company classifies interest expense and, if applicable, penalties which could be assessed related to unrecognized tax benefits as a component of income tax expense. For the three months ended March 31, 2008 and 2007, the Company recognized approximately $46 and $(88) of gross interest and penalties, respectively. The Company has accrued approximately $719 and $672 for the payment of interest and penalties at March 31, 2008 and December 31, 2007, respectively.

The Company conducts business globally and, as a result, the Company or a subsidiary of the Company files income tax returns in the U.S. federal jurisdiction and various state and foreign jurisdictions. In the normal course of business, the Company is subject to examination by taxing authorities throughout the world. The following table summarizes the open tax years for each important jurisdiction:
 
Jurisdiction
 
Open Tax Years
U.S. Federal
 
2003-2006
France
 
2003-2006
Mexico
 
2001-2006
Spain
 
2002-2006
Sweden
 
2001-2006
United Kingdom
 
2002-2006

During the third quarter of 2007 the IRS commenced an examination of the Company’s 2005 federal income tax return. It is anticipated that this examination should be completed during the second half of 2008. The Company is also under examination for income and non-income tax filings in various state and foreign jurisdictions that should be completed at various times throughout 2008.


STONERIDGE, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Unaudited)
(in thousands, except share and per share data, unless otherwise indicated)

(12) Accounting Pronouncements

In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 141(R), Business Combinations (“SFAS 141(R)”). This standard improves reporting by creating greater consistency in the accounting and financial reporting of business combinations. Additionally, SFAS 141(R) requires the acquiring entity in a business combination to recognize all (and only) the assets acquired and liabilities assumed in the transaction; establishes the acquisition-date fair value as the measurement objective for all assets acquired and liabilities assumed; and requires the acquirer to disclose to investors and other users all of the information they need to evaluate and understand the nature and financial effect of the business combination. SFAS 141(R) is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008. Early adoption of this standard is prohibited. In the absence of any planned future business combinations, management does not currently expect SFAS 141(R) to have a material impact on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 160, Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements (“SFAS 160”). This standard improves the relevance, comparability and transparency of financial information provided to investors by requiring all entities to report noncontrolling (minority) interests in subsidiaries in the same way. Additionally, SFAS 160 eliminates the diversity that currently exists in accounting for transactions between an entity and noncontrolling interests by requiring they be treated as equity transactions. SFAS 160 is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008. Early adoption of this standard is prohibited. In the absence of any noncontrolling (minority) interests, management does not currently expect SFAS 160 to have a material impact on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

In March 2008, the FASB issued SFAS No. 161, Disclosures about Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities—an amendment of FASB Statement No. 133, (“SFAS 161”). SFAS 161 requires enhanced disclosures about an entity’s derivative and hedging activities, including (i) how and why an entity uses derivative instruments, (ii) how derivative instruments and related hedged items are accounted for under SFAS 133, and (iii) how derivative instruments and related hedged items affect an entity’s financial position, financial performance, and cash flows. This standard becomes effective on January 1, 2009. Earlier adoption of SFAS 161 and, separately, comparative disclosures for earlier periods at initial adoption are encouraged. As SFAS 161 only requires enhanced disclosures, this standard will have no impact on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.


STONERIDGE, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Unaudited)
(in thousands, except share and per share data, unless otherwise indicated)

(13) Segment Reporting

SFAS No. 131, Disclosures about Segments of an Enterprise and Related Information, establishes standards for reporting information about operating segments in financial statements. Operating segments are defined as components of an enterprise that are evaluated regularly by the Company’s chief operating decision maker in deciding how to allocate resources and in assessing performance. The Company’s chief operating decision maker is the president and chief executive officer.

The Company has two reportable segments: Electronics and Control Devices. During the third quarter of 2007, a European business unit in the Control Devices reportable segment experienced a change in future business prospects due to the loss of a significant customer contract. As a result, the Company announced that it would cease manufacturing at this location and transfer remaining production to a business unit in the Electronics reportable segment. In addition, management and oversight responsibilities for this business were realigned to the Electronics reportable segment. Because the Company changed the structure of its internal organization in a manner that caused the composition of its reportable segments to change, the corresponding information for prior periods has been reclassified to conform to the current year reportable segment presentation.
 
The Company’s operating segments are aggregated based on sharing similar economic characteristics. Other aggregation factors include the nature of the products offered and management and oversight responsibilities. The Electronics reportable segment produces electronic instrument clusters, electronic control units, driver information systems and electrical distribution systems, primarily wiring harnesses and connectors for electrical power and signal distribution. The Control Devices reportable segment produces electronic and electromechanical switches, control actuation devices and sensors.
 
The accounting policies of the Company’s reportable segments are the same as those described in Note 2, “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies” of the Company’s December 31, 2007 Form 10-K. The Company’s management evaluates the performance of its reportable segments based primarily on revenues from external customers, capital expenditures and income before income taxes. Inter-segment sales are accounted for on terms similar to those to third parties and are eliminated upon consolidation.

A summary of financial information by reportable segment is as follows:

   
Three Months Ended
March 31,
 
 
 
2008
 
2007
 
Net Sales
 
       
Electronics
 
$
133,216
 
$
110,565
 
Inter-segment sales
   
3,743
   
4,585
 
Electronics net sales
   
136,959
   
115,150
 
               
Control Devices
   
69,854
   
74,463
 
Inter-segment sales
   
1,320
   
1,366
 
Control Devices net sales
   
71,174
   
75,829
 
               
Eliminations
   
(5,063
)
 
(5,951
)
Total consolidated net sales
 
$
203,070
 
$
185,028
 
               
Income Before Income Taxes
             
Electronics
 
$
12,991
 
$
5,153
 
Control Devices
   
2,076
   
4,482
 
Other corporate activities
   
1,907
   
1,948
 
Corporate interest expense
   
(5,315
)
 
(5,526
)
Total consolidated income before income taxes
 
$
11,659
 
$
6,057
 
               
Depreciation and Amortization
             
Electronics
 
$
3,516
 
$
3,168
 
Control Devices
   
3,829
   
3,967
 
Corporate activities
   
(6
)
 
85
 
Total consolidated depreciation and amortization(A)
 
$
7,339
 
$
7,220
 
 
(A) These amounts exclude the amortization of deferred financing costs.
 

 

STONERIDGE, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Unaudited)
(in thousands, except share and per share data, unless otherwise indicated)

   
Three Months Ended
March 31,
 
   
2008
 
2007
 
Interest Expense (Income)
         
Electronics
 
$
57
 
$
(41
)
Control Devices
   
-
   
(1
)
Corporate activities
   
5,315
   
5,526
 
Total consolidated interest expense, net
 
$
5,372
 
$
5,484
 
               
Capital Expenditures
             
Electronics
 
$
1,771
 
$
3,337
 
Control Devices
   
3,694
   
2,804
 
Corporate activities
   
48
   
666
 
Total consolidated capital expenditures
 
$
5,513
 
$
6,807
 
 
 
   
March 31,
2008
   
December 31,
2007
 
Total Assets
             
Electronics
 
$
231,728
 
$
214,119
 
Control Devices
   
189,599
   
180,785
 
Corporate(B)
   
289,521
   
282,695
 
Eliminations
   
(163,787
)
 
(149,830
)
Total consolidated assets
 
$
547,061
 
$
527,769
 

(B) Assets located at Corporate consist primarily of cash, deferred taxes and equity investments.

The following table presents net sales and non-current assets for each of the geographic areas in which the Company operates:

   
Three Months Ended
March 31,
 
 
 
2008
 
2007
 
Net Sales 
         
North America
 
$
147,198
 
$
134,061
 
Europe and other
   
55,872
   
50,967
 
Total consolidated net sales
 
$
203,070
 
$
185,028
 
 
 
   
March 31,
2008
   
December 31,
2007
 
Non-Current Assets
             
North America
 
$
203,080
 
$
204,556
 
Europe and other
   
22,284
   
21,854
 
Total consolidated non-current assets
 
$
225,364
 
$
226,410
 

 
STONERIDGE, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Unaudited)
(in thousands, except share and per share data, unless otherwise indicated)

(14) Investments

PST Eletrônica S.A.

The Company has a 50% equity interest in PST Eletrônica S.A. (“PST”), a Brazilian electronic system provider focused on security and convenience applications primarily for the vehicle and motorcycle industry. The investment is accounted for under the equity method of accounting. The Company’s investment in PST was $33,592 and $29,663 at March 31, 2008 and December 31, 2007, respectively.

Condensed financial information for PST is as follows:

   
Three Months Ended
March 31,
 
   
2008
 
2007
 
           
Revenues
 
$
43,946
 
$
27,351
 
Cost of sales
 
$
21,048
 
$
12,823
 
               
Total pre-tax income
 
$
8,763
 
$
5,325
 
The Company's share of pre-tax income
 
$
4,382
 
$
2,663
 

Equity in earnings of PST included in the condensed consolidated statements of operations was $3,594 and $2,015 for the three months ended March 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively.

Minda Stoneridge Instruments Ltd.

The Company has a 49% interest in Minda Stoneridge Instruments Ltd. (“Minda”), a company based in India that manufactures electronics and instrumentation equipment for the motorcycle and commercial vehicle market. The investment is accounted for under the equity method of accounting. The Company’s investment in Minda was $4,736 and $4,547 at March 31, 2008 and December 31, 2007, respectively. Equity in earnings of Minda included in the condensed consolidated statements of operations was $225 and $105, for the three months ended March 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively.

Business Acquisition

On March 31, 2008, the Company acquired 100% of a Swedish aftermarket distributor of Stoneridge products for net cash of $1,074. Fair value of the assets acquired will be finalized in the second quarter of 2008.


STONERIDGE, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Unaudited)
(in thousands, except share and per share data, unless otherwise indicated)

(15) Guarantor Financial Information

The senior notes are fully and unconditionally guaranteed, jointly and severally, by each of the Company’s existing and future domestic wholly owned subsidiaries (Guarantor Subsidiaries). The Company’s non-U.S. subsidiaries do not guarantee the senior notes (Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries).

Presented below are summarized consolidating financial statements of the Parent (which includes certain of the Company’s operating units), the Guarantor Subsidiaries, the Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries and the Company on a condensed consolidated basis as of March 31, 2008 and December 31, 2007 and for each of the three months ended March 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively.

These summarized condensed consolidating financial statements are prepared under the equity method. Separate financial statements for the Guarantor Subsidiaries are not presented based on management’s determination that they do not provide additional information that is material to investors. Therefore, the Guarantor Subsidiaries are combined in the presentations on the subsequent pages.

   
March 31, 2008
 
   
Parent
 
Guarantor
Subsidiaries
 
Non-
Guarantor
Subsidiaries
 
Eliminations
 
Consolidated
 
                       
ASSETS
                     
                       
Current Assets:
                     
Cash and cash equivalents
 
$
42,764
 
$
52
 
$
45,457
 
$
-
 
$
88,273
 
Accounts receivable, net
   
61,928
   
31,919
   
43,136
   
-
   
136,983
 
Inventories, net
   
30,216
   
12,418
   
23,957
   
-
   
66,591
 
Prepaid expenses and other
   
(286,867
)
 
294,487
   
12,042
   
-
   
19,662
 
Deferred income taxes
   
3,235
   
4,470
   
2,483
   
-
   
10,188
 
Total current assets
   
(148,724
)
 
343,346
   
127,075
   
-
   
321,697
 
                                 
Long-Term Assets:
                               
Property, plant and equipment, net
   
48,619
   
25,285
   
17,949
   
-
   
91,853
 
Other Assets:
                               
Goodwill
   
44,585
   
20,591
   
544
   
-
   
65,720
 
Investments and other, net
   
42,363
   
295
   
515
   
-
   
43,173
 
Deferred income taxes
   
28,630
   
(2,719
)
 
(1,293
)
 
-
   
24,618
 
Investment in subsidiaries
   
445,976
   
-
   
-
   
(445,976
)
 
-
 
Total long-term assets
   
610,173
   
43,452
   
17,715
   
(445,976
)
 
225,364
 
Total Assets
 
$
461,449
 
$
386,798
 
$
144,790
 
$
(445,976
)
$
547,061
 
                                 
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
                               
                                 
Current Liabilities:
                               
Accounts payable
 
$
29,356
 
$
21,445
 
$
25,780
 
$
-
 
$
76,581
 
Accrued expenses and other
   
24,360
   
9,197
   
24,466
   
-
   
58,023
 
Total current liabilities
   
53,716
   
30,642
   
50,246
   
-
   
134,604
 
                                 
Long-Term Liabilities:
                               
Long-term debt
   
189,000
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
189,000
 
Deferred income taxes
   
-
   
-
   
2,951
   
-
   
2,951
 
Other liabilities
   
590
   
393
   
1,380
   
-
   
2,363
 
Total long-term liabilities
   
189,590
   
393
   
4,331
   
-
   
194,314
 
                                 
Shareholders' Equity
   
218,143
   
355,763
   
90,213
   
(445,976
)
 
218,143
 
                                 
Total Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity
 
$
461,449
 
$
386,798
 
$
144,790
 
$
(445,976
)
$
547,061
 


STONERIDGE, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Unaudited)
(in thousands, except share and per share data, unless otherwise indicated)

Supplemental condensed consolidating financial statements (continued):

   
December 31, 2007
 
   
Parent
 
Guarantor
Subsidiaries
 
Non-
Guarantor
Subsidiaries
 
Eliminations
 
Consolidated
 
                       
ASSETS
                     
                       
Current Assets:
                     
Cash and cash equivalents
 
$
48,705
 
$
255
 
$
46,964
 
$
-
 
$
95,924
 
Accounts receivable, net
   
53,456
   
26,798
   
42,034
   
-
   
122,288
 
Inventories, net
   
25,472
   
12,637
   
19,283
   
-
   
57,392
 
Prepaid expenses and other
   
(293,632
)
 
294,298
   
15,260
   
-
   
15,926
 
Deferred income taxes
   
3,152
   
4,591
   
2,086
   
-
   
9,829
 
Total current assets
   
(162,847
)
 
338,579
   
125,627
   
-
   
301,359
 
                                 
Long-Term Assets:
                               
Property, plant and equipment, net
   
48,294
   
25,632
   
18,826
   
-
   
92,752
 
Other Assets:
                               
Goodwill
   
44,585
   
20,591
   
-
   
-
   
65,176
 
Investments and other, net
   
38,783
   
331
   
340
   
-
   
39,454
 
Deferred income taxes
   
33,169
   
(2,843
)
 
(1,298
)
 
-
   
29,028
 
Investment in subsidiaries
   
438,271
   
-
   
-
   
(438,271
)
 
-
 
Total long-term assets
   
603,102
   
43,711
   
17,868
   
(438,271
)
 
226,410
 
Total Assets
 
$
440,255
 
$
382,290
 
$
143,495
 
$
(438,271
)
$
527,769
 
                                 
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
                               
                                 
Current Liabilities:
                               
Accounts payable
 
$
20,924
 
$
19,533
 
$
28,916
 
$
-
 
$
69,373
 
Accrued expenses and other
   
12,546
   
9,198
   
25,454
   
-
   
47,198
 
Total current liabilities
   
33,470
   
28,731
   
54,370
   
-
   
116,571
 
                                 
Long-Term Liabilities:
                               
Long-term debt
   
200,000
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
200,000
 
Deferred income taxes
   
-
   
-
   
2,665
   
-
   
2,665
 
Other liabilities
   
596
   
393
   
1,355
         
2,344
 
Total long-term liabilities
   
200,596
   
393
   
4,020
   
-
   
205,009
 
                                 
Shareholders' Equity
   
206,189
   
353,166
   
85,105
   
(438,271
)
 
206,189
 
                                 
Total Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity
 
$
440,255
 
$
382,290
 
$
143,495
 
$
(438,271
)
$
527,769
 

 
STONERIDGE, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Unaudited)
(in thousands, except share and per share data, unless otherwise indicated)

Supplemental condensed consolidating financial statements (continued):

   
Three Months Ended March 31, 2008
 
   
Parent
 
Guarantor
Subsidiaries
 
Non-
Guarantor
Subsidiaries
 
Eliminations
 
Consolidated
 
                       
Net Sales
 
$
104,046
 
$
52,567
 
$
70,331
 
$
(23,874
)
$
203,070
 
                                 
Costs and Expenses:
                               
Cost of goods sold
   
82,557
   
40,259
   
51,667
   
(23,230
)
 
151,253
 
Selling, general and administrative
   
14,265
   
8,445
   
14,216
   
(644
)
 
36,282
 
Restructuring charges
   
541
   
-
   
881
   
-
   
1,422
 
                                 
Operating Income
   
6,683
   
3,863
   
3,567
   
-
   
14,113
 
                                 
Interest expense (income), net
   
5,523
   
-
   
(151
)
 
-
   
5,372
 
Other (income) loss, net
   
(3,321
)
 
-
   
403
   
-
   
(2,918
)
Equity earnings from subsidiaries
   
(6,125
)
 
-
   
-
   
6,125
   
-
 
                                 
Income Before Income Taxes
   
10,606
   
3,863
   
3,315
   
(6,125
)
 
11,659
 
                                 
Provision for income taxes
   
4,059
   
63
   
990
   
-
   
5,112
 
                                 
Net Income
 
$
6,547
 
$
3,800
 
$
2,325
 
$
(6,125
)
$
6,547
 

   
Three Months Ended March 31, 2007
 
   
Parent
 
Guarantor
Subsidiaries
 
Non-
Guarantor
Subsidiaries
 
Eliminations
 
Consolidated
 
                       
Net Sales
 
$
88,851
 
$
52,071
 
$
63,975
 
$
(19,869
)
$
185,028
 
                                 
Costs and Expenses:
                               
Cost of goods sold
   
78,544
   
36,581
   
46,267
   
(19,211
)
 
142,181
 
Selling, general and administrative
   
12,982
   
8,033
   
12,740
   
(658
)
 
33,097
 
Restructuring charges
   
41
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
41
 
                                 
Operating Income (Loss)
   
(2,716
)
 
7,457
   
4,968
   
-
   
9,709
 
                                 
Interest expense (income), net
   
5,798
   
-
   
(314
)
 
-
   
5,484
 
Other (income) loss, net
   
(2,033
)
 
26
   
175
   
-
   
(1,832
)
Equity earnings from subsidiaries
   
(11,491
)
 
-
   
-
   
11,491
   
-
 
                                 
Income Before Income Taxes
   
5,010
   
7,431
   
5,107
   
(11,491
)
 
6,057
 
                                 
Provision for income taxes
   
140
   
4
   
1,043
   
-
   
1,187
 
                                 
Net Income
 
$
4,870
 
$
7,427
 
$
4,064
 
$
(11,491
)
$
4,870
 


STONERIDGE, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Unaudited)
(in thousands, except share and per share data, unless otherwise indicated)

Supplemental condensed consolidating financial statements (continued):

   
Three Months Ended March 31, 2008
 
   
Parent
 
Guarantor
Subsidiaries
 
Non-
Guarantor
Subsidiaries
 
Eliminations
 
Consolidated
 
                       
Net cash provided by (used for) operating activities
 
$
8,840
 
$
1,151
 
$
(1,368
)
$
-
 
$
8,623
 
                                 
INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
                               
Capital expenditures
   
(3,501
)
 
(1,354
)
 
(658
)
 
-
   
(5,513
)
Proceeds from the sale of fixed assets
   
36
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
36
 
Business acquisitions and other
   
-
   
-
   
(1,061
)
 
-
   
(1,061
)
Net cash used for investing activities
   
(3,465
)
 
(1,354
)
 
(1,719
)
 
-
   
(6,538
)
                                 
FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
                               
Repayments of long-term debt
   
(11,000
)
 
-
   
-
   
-
   
(11,000
)
Share-based compensation activity, net
   
42
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
42
 
Other financing costs
   
(358
)
 
-
   
-
   
-
   
(358
)
Net cash used for financing activities
   
(11,316
)
 
-
   
-
   
-
   
(11,316
)
                                 
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and
cash equivalents
   
-
   
-
   
1,580
   
-
   
1,580
 
Net change in cash and cash equivalents
   
(5,941
)
 
(203
)
 
(1,507
)
 
-
   
(7,651
)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
   
48,705
   
255
   
46,964
   
-
   
95,924
 
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
 
$
42,764
 
$
52
 
$
45,457
 
$
-
 
$
88,273
 

   
Three Months Ended March 31, 2007
 
   
Parent
 
Guarantor
Subsidiaries
 
Non-
Guarantor
Subsidiaries
 
Eliminations
 
Consolidated
 
                       
Net cash provided by (used for) operating activities
 
$
(2,597
)
$
1,504
 
$
(3,663
)
$
(300
)
$
(5,056
)
                                 
INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
                               
Capital expenditures
   
(3,403
)
 
(1,472
)
 
(1,932
)
 
-
   
(6,807
)
Proceeds from the sale of fixed assets
   
35
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
35
 
Net cash used for investing activities
   
(3,368
)
 
(1,472
)
 
(1,932
)
 
-
   
(6,772
)
                                 
FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
                               
Borrowings (repayments) of long-term debt
   
(156
)
 
-
   
(144
)
 
300
   
-
 
Share-based compensation activity, net
   
355
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
355
 
Net cash provided by (used for) financing activities
   
199
   
-
   
(144
)
 
300
   
355
 
                                 
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash
                               
and cash equivalents
   
-
   
-
   
(142
)
 
-
   
(142
)
Net change in cash and cash equivalents
   
(5,766
)
 
32
   
(5,881
)
 
-
   
(11,615
)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
   
28,937
   
12
   
36,933
   
-
   
65,882
 
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
 
$
23,171
 
$
44
 
$
31,052
 
$
-
 
$
54,267
 



Overview

The following Management Discussion and Analysis (“MD&A”) is intended to help the reader understand the results of operations and financial condition of Stoneridge, Inc. (the “Company”). This MD&A is provided as a supplement to, and should be read in conjunction with, our condensed consolidated financial statements and the accompanying notes to the financial statements.

We are an independent designer and manufacturer of highly engineered electrical and electronic components, modules and systems for the automotive, medium- and heavy-duty truck, agricultural and off-highway vehicle markets.

Our revenue for the first quarter of 2008 was favorably affected by both strong electronics sales in North America and Europe and the impact of foreign currency translation. This increase was partially offset by lower sales volumes to our North American automotive and commercial vehicle markets.

We recognized net income for the first quarter ended March 31, 2008 of $6.5 million, or $0.28 per diluted share, compared with net income of $4.9 million, or $0.21 per diluted share, for the first quarter of 2007.

Our first quarter 2008 profitability was favorably affected by new business sales in North America and favorable sales mix relative to the first quarter of 2007. In addition, our PST Eletrônica S.A. (“PST”) joint venture in Brazil continued to perform well, resulting in equity earnings of $3.6 million for the first quarter of 2008 compared to $2.0 million in the first quarter of 2007.

The increase in profitability was partially offset by increased selling, general and administrative expenses (“SG&A”) due to increased design and development expenses related to new product launches and business development in our European commercial vehicle business.

Also affecting our profitability were restructuring initiatives that began in the fourth quarter of 2007 to improve the Company’s manufacturing efficiency and cost position by ceasing manufacturing operations at our Sarasota, Florida, and Mitcheldean, United Kingdom, locations. Related first quarter 2008 expenses were approximately $2.5 million, primarily comprised of one-time termination benefits and line-transfer expenses. We anticipate incurring total pre-tax charges of approximately $9.0 million to $13.0 million in 2008 for the restructuring, net of an expected gain from the future sale of our Sarasota, Florida, facility.

Significant factors inherent to our markets that could affect our results for 2008 include the financial stability of our customers and suppliers as well as our ability to successfully execute our planned productivity and cost reduction initiatives. We are undertaking these initiatives to mitigate commodity price increases and customer-demanded price reductions. Our results for 2008 also depend on conditions in the automotive and commercial vehicle industries, which are generally dependent on domestic and global economies.

Results of Operations

We are primarily organized by markets served and products produced. Under this organizational structure, our operations have been aggregated into two reportable segments: Electronics and Control Devices. The Electronics reportable segment includes results of operations that design and manufacture electronic instrument clusters, electronic control units, driver information systems and electrical distribution systems, primarily wiring harnesses and connectors for electrical power and signal distribution. The Control Devices reportable segment includes results of operations from our operations that design and manufacture electronic and electromechanical switches, control actuation devices and sensors.

During the third quarter of 2007, a European business unit in the Control Devices reportable segment experienced a change in future business prospects due to the loss of a significant customer contract. As a result, the Company announced that it would cease manufacturing at this location and transfer remaining production to a business unit in the Electronics reportable segment. In addition, management and oversight responsibilities for this business were realigned to the Electronics reportable segment. Because the Company changed the structure of its internal organization in a manner that caused the composition of its reportable segments to change, the corresponding information for prior periods has been reclassified to conform to the current year reportable segment presentation.


Three Months Ended March 31, 2008 Compared to Three Months Ended March 31, 2007

Net Sales Net sales for our reportable segments, excluding inter-segment sales, for the three months ended March 31, 2008 and 2007 are summarized in the following table (in thousands):

   
Three Months Ended
March 31,
 
$ Increase /
 
% Increase /
 
 
 
2008
 
2007
 
(Decrease)
 
(Decrease)
 
Electronics
 
$
133,216
   
65.6
%
$
110,565
   
59.8
%
$
22,651
   
20.5
%
Control Devices
   
69,854
   
34.4
   
74,463
   
40.2
   
(4,609
)
 
(6.2)
%
Total net sales
 
$
203,070
   
100.0
%
$
185,028
   
100.0
%
$
18,042
   
9.8
%

The increase in net sales for our Electronics segment was primarily due to new business sales in North America, increased sales volume in our European commercial vehicle operations and favorable foreign currency exchange rates. Favorable foreign currency exchange rates contributed $3.8 million to sales in the first quarter compared with the prior year. The increase was partially offset by lower sales volumes to our North American commercial vehicle markets.

The decrease in net sales for our Control Devices segment was primarily attributable to the loss of sensor product revenue at our Sarasota, Florida, facility and production volume reductions at our major customers in the automotive vehicle market.

Net sales by geographic location for the three months ended March 31, 2008 and 2007 are summarized in the following table (in thousands):

   
Three Months Ended
March 31,
 
$ Increase /
 
% Increase /
 
 
 
2008
 
2007
 
(Decrease)
 
(Decrease)
 
                           
North America
 
$
147,198
   
72.5
%
$
134,061
   
72.5
%
$
13,137
   
9.8
%
Europe and other
   
55,872
   
27.5
   
50,967
   
27.5
   
4,905
   
9.6
%
Total net sales
 
$
203,070
   
100.0
%
$
185,028
   
100.0
%
$
18,042
   
9.8
%

The increase in North American sales was primarily attributable to new business sales of electronics products. The increase was partially offset by lower sales volume in our North American automotive and commercial vehicle markets. Our increase in sales outside of North America for the first quarter was primarily due to increased European commercial vehicle sales volume and favorable foreign currency exchange rates. The favorable effect of foreign currency exchange rates affected net sales outside North America by $3.8 million in the first quarter of 2008 compared with the prior year.


Condensed consolidated statements of operations as a percentage of net sales for the three months ended March 31, 2008 and 2007 are presented in the following table (in thousands):

   
Three Months Ended
March 31,
 
$ Increase /
 
 
 
2008
 
2007
 
(Decrease)
 
                       
Net Sales
 
$
203,070
   
100.0
%
$
185,028
   
100.0
%
$
18,042
 
                                 
Costs and Expenses:
                               
Cost of goods sold
   
151,253
   
74.5
   
142,181
   
76.8
   
9,072
 
Selling, general and administrative
   
36,282
   
17.9
   
33,097
   
17.9
   
3,185
 
Restructuring charges
   
1,422
   
0.7
   
41
   
0.0
   
1,381
 
                                 
Operating Income
   
14,113
   
6.9
   
9,709
   
5.3
   
4,404
 
                                 
Interest expense, net
   
5,372
   
2.6
   
5,484
   
3.0
   
(112
)
Equity in earnings of investees
   
(3,819
)
 
(1.9
)
 
(2,120
)
 
(1.1
)
 
(1,699
)
Loss on early extinguishment of debt
   
499
   
0.3
   
-
   
-
   
499
 
Other expense, net
   
402
   
0.2
   
288
   
0.2
   
114
 
                                 
Income Before Income Taxes
   
11,659
   
5.7
   
6,057
   
3.2
   
5,602
 
                                 
Provision for income taxes
   
5,112
   
2.5
   
1,187
   
0.6
   
3,925
 
                                 
Net Income
 
$
6,547
   
3.2
%
$
4,870
   
2.6
%
$
1,677
 

Cost of Goods Sold. The decrease in cost of goods sold as a percentage of sales was due to a more favorable product mix and new business sales. The decrease was partially offset by unfavorable material costs and restructuring expenses.

Selling, General and Administrative Expenses. Product development expenses included in SG&A were $12.3 million and $10.9 million for the first quarters ended March 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively. The increase was primarily due to development spending in the areas of tachographs and instrumentation.

The increase in SG&A expenses, excluding product development expenses, for the first quarter 2008 compared with the first quarter of 2007 was primarily attributable to the increase in consulting and compensation related expenses.

Restructuring Charges. The increase in restructuring charges was primarily the result of the ratable recognition of one-time termination benefits that will be due to employees upon the closure of our Sarasota, Florida, and Mitcheldean, United Kingdom, locations. No fixed-asset impairment charges were incurred because assets are being transferred to our other locations for continued production. Restructuring expenses that were general and administrative in nature were included in the Company’s condensed consolidated statements of operations as restructuring charges, while the remaining restructuring related expenses were included in cost of goods sold. We expect these initiatives to be substantially completed in 2008.

Restructuring charges recorded by reportable segment during the three months ended March 31, 2008 were as follows (in thousands):

   
Three Months Ended
March 31, 2008
 
   
Electronics
 
Control Devices
 
Total
Consolidated
Restructuring
Charges
 
               
Severance costs
 
$
873
 
$
365
 
$
1,238
 
Other costs
   
8
   
176
   
184
 
Total general and administrative restructuring charges
 
$
881
 
$
541
 
$
1,422
 


Severance costs related to a reduction in workforce. Other associated costs include miscellaneous expenditures associated with exiting business activities.

Restructuring charges recorded by reportable segment during the three months ended March 31, 2007 were as follows (in thousands):

   
Three Months Ended
March 31, 2007
 
   
Electronics
 
Control Devices
 
Total
Consolidated
Restructuring
Charges
 
               
Severance costs
 
$
41
 
$
-
 
$
41
 
Total general and administrative restructuring charges
 
$
41
 
$
-
 
$
41
 

Restructuring related expenses for the first quarter of 2007 were due to severance costs related to the rationalization of certain manufacturing facilities in North America that were previously announced in 2005. These restructuring initiatives were completed in 2007.

Equity in Earnings of Investees. The increase in equity earnings of investees was predominately attributable to the increase in equity earnings recognized from our PST joint venture. The increase primarily reflects higher volume for PST’s security product lines and favorable exchange rates.

Income Before Income Taxes. Income before income taxes is summarized in the following table by reportable segment (in thousands).

   
Three Months Ended
March 31,
 
$ Increase /
 
% Increase /
 
   
2008
 
2007
 
(Decrease)
 
(Decrease)
 
                   
Electronics
 
$
12,991
 
$
5,153
 
$
7,838
   
152.1
%
Control Devices
   
2,076
   
4,482
   
(2,406
)
 
(53.7)
%
Other corporate activities
   
1,907
   
1,948
   
(41
)
 
(2.1)
%
Corporate interest expense
   
(5,315
)
 
(5,526
)
 
211
   
3.8
%
Income before income taxes
 
$
11,659
 
$
6,057
 
$
5,602
   
92.5
%

The increase in income before income taxes in the Electronics segment was related to increased revenue and favorable product mix. These factors were partially offset by higher restructuring related expenses and higher SG&A expenses due to increased development spending in the areas of tachographs and instrumentation.

The decrease in income before income taxes in the Control Devices reportable segment was primarily due to lower revenue and increased restructuring related expenses. These factors were partially offset by decreased operating inefficiencies related to a new product launch in the first quarter of 2007.

The decrease in income before income taxes from other corporate activities was primarily due to an increase in compensation related expenses and the loss recognized on the purchase and retirement of $11.0 million in face value of our senior notes in the first quarter of 2008. The decrease was partially offset by the $1.6 million increase in equity earnings from our PST joint venture.


Income before income taxes by geographic location for the three months ended March 31, 2008 and 2007 is summarized in the following table (in thousands):

   
 Three Months Ended
March 31,
 
$ Increase /
 
% Increase /
 
 
 
2008
 
2007
 
(Decrease)
 
(Decrease)
 
                           
North America
 
$
9,921
   
85.1
%
$
2,394
   
39.5
%
$
7,527
   
314.4
%
Europe and other
   
1,738
   
14.9
   
3,663
   
60.5
   
(1,925
)
 
(52.6)
%
Income before income taxes
 
$
11,659
   
100.0
%
$
6,057
   
100.0
%
$
5,602
   
92.5
%

The increase in our profitability in North America was primarily attributable to new business sales from electronic products. The increase was primarily offset by increased restructuring related expenses and lower North American automotive and commercial vehicle production. The decrease in profitability outside North America was primarily due to increased restructuring related expenses. The decrease was partially offset by increased European commercial vehicle production.

Provision for Income Taxes. We recognized a provision for income taxes of $5.1 million, or 43.9% of pre-tax income, and $1.2 million, or 19.6% of the pre-tax income, for federal, state and foreign income taxes for the first quarters ended March 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively. The increase in the effective tax rate for the first quarter ended March 31, 2008 compared to the first quarter ended March 31, 2007, was primarily attributable to the costs incurred to restructure its United Kingdom operations. As the Company does not believe that the related tax benefit of those losses will be realized, a valuation allowance was recorded against the deferred tax assets associated with those foreign losses. In addition, the effective tax rate was unfavorably impacted by the expiration of the federal research and development tax credit at December 31, 2007.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

Summary of Cash Flows (in thousands):

   
Three Months Ended
March 31,
   
$ Increase /
 
   
2008
 
2007
 
(Decrease)
 
Cash provided by (used for):
                   
Operating activities
 
$
8,623
 
$
(5,056
)
$
13,679
 
Investing activities
   
(6,538
)
 
(6,772
)
 
234
 
Financing activities
   
(11,316
)
 
355
   
(11,671
)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents
   
1,580
   
(142
)
 
1,722
 
Net change in cash and cash equivalents
 
$
(7,651
)
$
(11,615
)
$
3,964
 

The increase in net cash provided by operating activities was primarily due to higher earnings and higher accounts payable balances in the current quarter. The increase in cash provided by operating activities was partially offset by cash used for our restructuring initiatives, primarily to build inventory levels for line-transfers, which will decline as production transfers to our other facilities.

The decrease in net cash used for investing activities reflects a decrease in cash used for capital projects offset by $1.1 million of cash used to acquire a Swedish aftermarket distributor of Stoneridge products in the first quarter of 2008.

The increase in net cash used by financing activities was primarily due to cash used to purchase and retire $11.0 million in par value of the Company’s senior notes.

Future capital expenditures are expected to be consistent with recent levels. Management will continue to focus on reducing its weighted average cost of capital and believes that cash flows from operations and the availability of funds from our credit facilities will provide sufficient liquidity to meet our future growth and operating needs.

 
As outlined in Note 6 to our condensed consolidated financial statements, on November 2, 2007, we finalized our new asset-based credit facility, which permits borrowing up to a maximum level of $100.0 million. This facility provides us with lower borrowing rates and allows us the flexibility to refinance our outstanding debt. At March 31, 2008, there were no borrowings on this asset-based credit facility. The available borrowing capacity on this credit facility is based on eligible current assets, as defined. At March 31, 2008, the Company had borrowing capacity of $83.1 million based on eligible current assets. The Company was in compliance with all covenants at March 31, 2008.

As of May 1, 2008, the Company’s $183.0 million of senior notes were redeemable at 103.833. Given the Company’s senior notes are redeemable, we may seek to retire the senior notes through redemptions, cash purchases, open market purchases, privately negotiated transactions or otherwise. Such redemptions, purchases or exchanges, if any, will depend on prevailing market conditions, our liquidity requirements, contractual restrictions and other factors. The amounts involved may be material. During the first quarter of 2008, we purchased and retired $11.0 million in face value of the Company’s senior notes. In April of 2008, we purchased and retired an additional $6.0 million in face value of the Company’s senior notes.

We announced restructuring initiatives in the fourth quarter of 2007 and expect them to be substantially complete by December 31, 2008. We anticipate incurring total pre-tax charges of approximately $9.0 million to $13.0 million in 2008 for the restructuring, net of the expected gain on the future sale of our Sarasota, Florida, facility.

There have been no material changes to the table of contractual obligations presented on page 24 of the Company’s 2007 Form 10-K.

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates
 
The Company’s significant accounting policies, which include management’s best estimates and judgments, are included in Item 7, Part II to the consolidated financial statements of the Company’s 2007 Form 10-K. Certain of these accounting policies are considered critical as disclosed in the Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates section of Management’s Discussion and Analysis of the Company’s 2007 Form 10-K because of the potential for a significant impact on the financial statements due to the inherent uncertainty in such estimates. There have been no significant changes in the Company’s critical accounting policies since December 31, 2007.

Inflation and International Presence

Given the current economic climate and recent increases in certain commodity prices, we believe that a continuation of such price increases would significantly affect our profitability. Furthermore, by operating internationally, we are affected by the economic conditions of certain countries. Based on the current economic conditions in these countries, we believe we are not significantly exposed to adverse economic conditions.

Forward-Looking Statements

Portions of this report contain “forward-looking statements” under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements appear in a number of places in this report and include statements regarding the intent, belief or current expectations of the Company, our directors or officers with respect to, among other things, our (i) future product and facility expansion, (ii) acquisition strategy, (iii) investments and new product development, and (iv) growth opportunities related to awarded business. Forward-looking statements may be identified by the words “will,” “may,” “designed to,” “believes,” “plans,” “expects,” “continue,” and similar words and expressions. The forward-looking statements in this report are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those expressed in or implied by the statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements include, among other factors:
 
 
·
the loss or bankruptcy of a major customer or supplier;
 
·
the costs and timing of facility closures, business realignment, or similar actions;
 
·
a significant change in automotive, medium- and heavy-duty, agricultural or off-highway vehicle production;
 
·
our ability to achieve cost reductions that offset or exceed customer-mandated selling price reductions;
 
·
a significant change in general economic conditions in any of the various countries in which we operate;
 
·
labor disruptions at our facilities or at any of our significant customers or suppliers;
 
·
the ability of our suppliers to supply us with parts and components at competitive prices on a timely basis;
 
·
the amount of debt and the restrictive covenants contained in our credit facility;


 
·
customer acceptance of new products;
 
·
capital availability or costs, including changes in interest rates or market perceptions;
 
·
the successful integration of any acquired businesses;
 
·
the occurrence or non-occurrence of circumstances beyond our control; and
 
·
those items described in Part I, Item IA (“Risk Factors”) of the Company’s 2007 Form 10-K.


Interest Rate Risk

From time to time, we are exposed to certain market risks, primarily resulting from the effects of changes in interest rates. At March 31, 2008, however, all of our debt was fixed rate debt. At this time, we do not intend to use financial instruments to manage this risk.

Commodity Price Risk

Given the current economic climate and the recent trend in certain commodity costs, we are currently experiencing an increased risk, particularly with respect to the purchase of copper, zinc, resins and certain other commodities. We manage this risk through a combination of fixed-price agreements, staggered short-term contract maturities and commercial negotiations with our suppliers. We may also consider pursuing alternative commodities or alternative suppliers to mitigate this risk over a period of time. The recent increases in certain commodity costs have negatively affected our operating results, and a continuation of such price increases could significantly affect our profitability.

We entered into fixed price swap contracts for 480 and 420 metric tonnes of copper in December 2006 and January 2007, respectively. These contracts fixed the cost of copper purchases in 2007 and expired on December 31, 2007. In December 2007, we entered into fixed price swap contract for 1.0 million pounds of copper, which will last through December 2008. The purpose of these contracts is to reduce our price risk as it relates to copper prices.

Going forward, we believe that our mitigation efforts will offset a substantial portion of the financial impact of these increased costs. However, no assurances can be given that the magnitude or duration of these increased costs will not have a material impact on our future operating results. A hypothetical pre-tax gain or loss in fair value from a 10.0% favorable or adverse change in commodity prices would not significantly affect our results of operations, financial position or cash flows.

Foreign Currency Exchange Risk

We have currency exposures related to buying, selling and financing in currencies other than the local currency in which we operate. In some instances, we choose to reduce our exposures through financial instruments that provide offsets or limits to our exposures. Currently, our most significant currency exposures relate to the Mexican peso and British pound. We have used derivative financial instruments, including foreign currency forward and option contracts, to mitigate our exposure to fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates by reducing the effect of such fluctuations on foreign currency denominated intercompany transactions and other known foreign currency exposures.

As discussed in Note 3 to our condensed consolidated financial statements, we have entered into foreign currency forward contracts related to our British pound exposures. The existing foreign currency forward contracts at March 31, 2008 and December 31, 2007 had a notional value of $8,721 and $8,551, respectively. The estimated net fair value of these contracts at March 31, 2008 and December 31, 2007, per quoted market sources, was approximately $77 and $(28), respectively.

We do not expect the effects of this risk to be material in the future based on the current operating and economic conditions in the countries in which we operate. A hypothetical pre-tax gain or loss in fair value from a 10.0% favorable or adverse change in quoted foreign currencies would not significantly affect our results of operations, financial position or cash flows.



Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures
 
As of March 31, 2008, an evaluation was performed under the supervision and with the participation of the Company’s management, including the chief executive officer (CEO) and chief financial officer (CFO), of the effectiveness of the design and operation of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures. Based on that evaluation, the Company’s management, including the CEO and CFO, concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of March 31, 2008.

Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

There were no changes in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting during the three months ended March 31, 2008 that materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.


PART II–OTHER INFORMATION


The Company is involved in certain legal actions and claims arising in the ordinary course of business. The Company, however, does not believe that any of the litigation in which it is currently engaged, either individually or in the aggregate, will have a material adverse effect on its business, consolidated financial position or results of operations. The Company is subject to the risk of exposure to product liability claims in the event that the failure of any of its products causes personal injury or death to users of the Company’s products and there can be no assurance that the Company will not experience any material product liability losses in the future. In addition, if any of the Company’s products prove to be defective, the Company may be required to participate in government-imposed or other instituted recalls involving such products. The Company maintains insurance against such liability claims.


There were no material changes from risk factors previously disclosed in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2007.


None.


None.


None.


None.


Reference is made to the separate, “Index to Exhibits,” filed herewith.



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.
 
 
STONERIDGE, INC.
Date: May 9, 2008
/s/ John C. Corey
 
John C. Corey
President, Chief Executive Officer and Director
 
(Principal Executive Officer)
   
Date: May 9, 2008
/s/ George E. Strickler
 
George E. Strickler
 
Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer
 
(Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)

 

Exhibit
Number
 
 
Exhibit
     
31.1
 
Chief Executive Officer certification pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, filed herewith.
     
31.2
 
Chief Financial Officer certification pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, filed herewith.
     
32.1
 
Chief Executive Officer certification pursuant to 18 USC Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, filed herewith.
     
32.2
 
Chief Financial Officer certification pursuant to 18 USC Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, filed herewith.

30