10-Q 1 bfb-07312017x10qjuly.htm 10-Q Document
United States
Securities and Exchange Commission
Washington, D.C.  20549

FORM 10-Q
(Mark One)
 
  þ
QUARTERLY REPORT  PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15 (d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the quarterly period ended July 31, 2017
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 No. 001-00123

Brown-Forman Corporation
(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its Charter)
Delaware
61-0143150
(State or other jurisdiction of
(IRS Employer
incorporation or organization)
Identification No.)
 
 
850 Dixie Highway
 
Louisville, Kentucky
40210
(Address of principal executive offices)
(Zip Code)

(502) 585-1100
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code) 
N/A
(Former name, former address and former fiscal year, if changed since last report)
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 þ   No o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).  Yes þ   No o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” “smaller reporting company,” and “emerging growth company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large accelerated filer
þ
 
Accelerated filer
¨
Non-accelerated filer
¨
(Do not check if a smaller reporting company)
Smaller reporting company
¨
 
 
 
Emerging growth company
¨
If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ¨
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).
Yes o     No  þ
 
Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer’s classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date:  July 31, 2017
Class A Common Stock ($.15 par value, voting)
169,061,063

Class B Common Stock ($.15 par value, nonvoting)
215,209,950







2


PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION
 
Item 1.  Financial Statements (Unaudited)


BROWN-FORMAN CORPORATION
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(Unaudited)
(Dollars in millions, except per share amounts)

 
Three Months Ended
 
July 31,
 
2016
 
2017
Sales
$
856

 
$
929

Excise taxes
195

 
206

Net sales
661

 
723

Cost of sales
208

 
230

Gross profit
453

 
493

Advertising expenses
82

 
89

Selling, general, and administrative expenses
163

 
161

Other expense (income), net
(5
)
 
(1
)
Operating income
213

 
244

Interest income
1

 
1

Interest expense
13

 
16

Income before income taxes
201

 
229

Income taxes
57

 
51

Net income
$
144

 
$
178

Earnings per share:
 
 
 
Basic
$
0.37

 
$
0.46

Diluted
$
0.36

 
$
0.46

Cash dividends per common share:
 
 
 
Declared
$
0.3400

 
$
0.3650

Paid
$
0.1700

 
$
0.1825

See notes to the condensed consolidated financial statements.

3


BROWN-FORMAN CORPORATION
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
(Unaudited)
(Dollars in millions)
 
 
Three Months Ended
 
July 31,
 
2016
 
2017
Net income
$
144

 
$
178

Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:
 
 
 
Currency translation adjustments
(67
)
 
34

Cash flow hedge adjustments
12

 
(23
)
Postretirement benefits adjustments
3

 
3

Net other comprehensive income (loss)
(52
)
 
14

Comprehensive income
$
92

 
$
192

See notes to the condensed consolidated financial statements.

4


BROWN-FORMAN CORPORATION
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(Unaudited)
(Dollars in millions)
 
April 30,
2017
 
July 31,
2017
Assets
 
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents
$
182

 
$
238

Accounts receivable, less allowance for doubtful accounts of $7 at April 30 and July 31
557

 
576

Inventories:
 
 
 
Barreled whiskey
873

 
895

Finished goods
186

 
217

Work in process
119

 
117

Raw materials and supplies
92

 
108

Total inventories
1,270

 
1,337

Other current assets
342

 
352

Total current assets
2,351

 
2,503

Property, plant and equipment, net
713

 
719

Goodwill
753

 
755

Other intangible assets
641

 
661

Deferred tax assets
16

 
17

Other assets
151

 
147

Total assets
$
4,625

 
$
4,802

Liabilities
 
 
 
Accounts payable and accrued expenses
$
501

 
$
454

Dividends payable
—

 
70

Accrued income taxes
9

 
57

Short-term borrowings
211

 
258

Current portion of long-term debt
249

 
250

Total current liabilities
970

 
1,089

Long-term debt
1,689

 
1,720

Deferred tax liabilities
152

 
135

Accrued pension and other postretirement benefits
314

 
298

Other liabilities
130

 
140

Total liabilities
3,255

 
3,382

Commitments and contingencies

 

Stockholders’ Equity
 
 
 
Common stock:
 
 
 
Class A, voting, $0.15 par value (170,000,000 shares authorized; 170,000,000 shares issued at April 30 and July 31)
25

 
25

Class B, nonvoting, $0.15 par value (400,000,000 shares authorized; 284,627,000 shares and 217,627,000 shares issued at April 30 and July 31, respectively)
43

 
33

Additional paid-in capital
65

 
47

Retained earnings
4,470

 
1,824

Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax
(390
)
 
(376
)
Treasury stock, at cost (70,540,000 and 3,356,000 shares at April 30 and July 31, respectively)
(2,843
)
 
(133
)
Total stockholders’ equity
1,370

 
1,420

Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity
$
4,625

 
$
4,802

 See notes to the condensed consolidated financial statements.

5


BROWN-FORMAN CORPORATION
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(Unaudited)
(Dollars in millions)
 
Three Months Ended
 
July 31,
 
2016
 
2017
Cash flows from operating activities:
 
 
 
Net income
$
144

 
$
178

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operations:
 
 
 
Depreciation and amortization
15

 
15

Stock-based compensation expense
4

 
4

Deferred income taxes
(11
)
 
(3
)
Changes in assets and liabilities, excluding the effects of acquisition of business
(24
)
 
(92
)
Cash provided by operating activities
128

 
102

Cash flows from investing activities:
 
 
 
Acquisition of business, net of cash acquired
(307
)
 
—

Additions to property, plant, and equipment
(16
)
 
(28
)
Computer software expenditures
(1
)
 
—

Cash used for investing activities
(324
)
 
(28
)
Cash flows from financing activities:
 
 
 
Net change in short-term borrowings
(43
)
 
45

Proceeds from long-term debt
717

 
—

Debt issuance costs
(5
)
 
—

Net payments related to exercise of stock-based awards
(3
)
 
(5
)
Acquisition of treasury stock
(201
)
 
(1
)
Dividends paid
(67
)
 
(70
)
Cash provided by (used for) financing activities
398

 
(31
)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents
(6
)
 
13

Net increase in cash and cash equivalents
196

 
56

Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period
263

 
182

Cash and cash equivalents, end of period
$
459

 
$
238

See notes to the condensed consolidated financial statements.

6


BROWN-FORMAN CORPORATION
NOTES TO THE CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Unaudited)

In these notes, “we,” “us,” and “our” refer to Brown-Forman Corporation.

1.    Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements 
We prepared the accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements pursuant to the rules and regulations of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission for interim financial information. In accordance with those rules and regulations, we condensed or omitted certain information and disclosures normally included in annual financial statements prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP). We suggest that you read these condensed financial statements together with the financial statements and footnotes included in our annual report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended April 30, 2017 (2017 Form 10-K). We prepared the accompanying financial statements on a basis that is substantially consistent with the accounting principles applied in our 2017 Form 10-K.

In our opinion, the accompanying financial statements include all adjustments, consisting only of normal recurring adjustments (unless otherwise indicated), necessary for a fair statement of our financial results for the periods covered by this report.

The BenRiach acquisition occurred during the first fiscal quarter of 2017 and the purchase price allocation was finalized as of June 1, 2017. There have been no material changes to the purchase price allocation.

New accounting pronouncements to be adopted. In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued a new revenue recognition standard that, along with various amendments issued in 2015 and 2016, will replace substantially all existing revenue recognition guidance in U.S. GAAP. The core principle of the standard requires an entity to recognize revenue to depict the transfer of goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration that it expects to be entitled to in exchange for those goods or services. The new standard also requires significantly more financial statement disclosures than existing revenue standards do.

The new standard can be adopted using either of two transition options: a full retrospective transition method or a modified retrospective method. Under the full retrospective method, the guidance would be applied to each prior reporting period presented. Under the modified retrospective method, the cumulative effect of initially applying the new guidance would be recorded as an adjustment to the opening balance of retained earnings for the annual reporting period that includes the date of initial application.

We are continuing to assess the potential impact of the new guidance on our financial statements. Based on our assessment to date, we currently expect our accounting for certain customer incentives to be the area most likely affected by the new recognition requirements. We also expect to disclose additional information about revenues under the new standard. As we progress in our assessment, we are also identifying and preparing to make any changes to our accounting policies and practices, systems, processes, and controls that may be required to implement the new standard. We currently expect to choose the modified retrospective method in transitioning to the new standard, which we will adopt effective May 1, 2018.

We are also currently evaluating the potential impact on our financial statements of the additional new accounting pronouncements described below:
•
In February 2016, the FASB issued a new standard on accounting for leases. Under the new standard, a lessee should recognize on its balance sheet a liability to make lease payments and a right-of-use asset representing its right to use the underlying asset for the lease term. The standard permits an entity to make an accounting policy election not to recognize lease assets and liabilities for leases with a term of 12 months or less. The standard, which also requires additional quantitative and qualitative disclosures about leasing arrangements, will become effective for us beginning fiscal 2020. It is to be applied using a modified retrospective transition approach for leases existing at the beginning of the earliest comparative period presented in the adoption-period financial statements.
•
In August 2016, the FASB issued new guidance on the classification of certain cash receipts and cash payments on the statement of cash flows. The new guidance, which addresses eight specific cash flow classification issues, is intended to reduce diversity in practice. It will become effective for us beginning fiscal 2019 and is to be applied retrospectively.
•
In October 2016, the FASB issued revised guidance that requires the recognition of the income tax consequences (expense or benefit) of an intercompany transfer of assets other than inventory when the transfer occurs. It maintains

7


the existing requirement to defer the recognition of the income tax consequences of an intercompany transfer of inventory until the inventory is sold to an outside party. The guidance will become effective for us beginning fiscal 2019 and is to be applied on a modified retrospective basis through a cumulative-effect adjustment directly to retained earnings as of the beginning of the period of adoption.
•
In January 2017, the FASB issued updated guidance that eliminates the second step of the existing two-step quantitative test of goodwill for impairment. Under the new guidance, the quantitative test will consist of a single step in which the carrying amount of the reporting unit will be compared to its fair value. An impairment charge would be recognized for the amount by which the carrying amount exceeds the reporting unit’s fair value; however, the amount of the impairment would be limited to the total amount of goodwill allocated to the reporting unit. The guidance does not affect the existing option to perform the qualitative assessment for a reporting unit to determine whether the quantitative impairment test is necessary. It will become effective for us beginning fiscal 2021 and is to be applied prospectively.
•
In March 2017, the FASB issued new guidance for the presentation of the net periodic cost (NPC) associated with pension and other postretirement benefit plans. The guidance requires the service cost component of the NPC to be reported in the income statement in the same line item(s) as other compensation costs arising from services rendered by the pertinent employees during the period. The other components of the NPC are to be presented separately from the service cost and outside of income from operations. In addition, the guidance allows only the service cost component of NPC to be eligible for capitalization when applicable. The guidance will become effective for us beginning fiscal 2019. It is to be applied retrospectively for the presentation in the income statement and prospectively, on and after the effective date, for the capitalization of service cost.

Early application of any of the new accounting pronouncements described above is permitted. Although we have not yet determined our plans for adoption, we do not currently expect to apply any of the new guidance before their effective dates.

2.    Inventories 
Inventories are valued at the lower of cost or market. Some of our consolidated inventories are valued using the last-in, first-out (LIFO) method, which we use for the majority of our U.S. inventories. If the LIFO method had not been used, inventories at current cost would have been $272 million higher than reported as of April 30, 2017, and $278 million higher than reported as of July 31, 2017. Changes in the LIFO valuation reserve for interim periods are based on a proportionate allocation of the estimated change for the entire fiscal year.

3.    Income Taxes
Our consolidated interim effective tax rate is based upon our expected annual operating income, statutory tax rates, and income tax laws in the various jurisdictions in which we operate. Significant or unusual items, including adjustments to accruals for tax uncertainties, are recognized in the quarter in which the related event occurs. The effective tax rate of 22.1% for the three months ended July 31, 2017, is lower than the expected tax rate of 29.0% on ordinary income for the full fiscal year, primarily due to (a) a reduction in U.S. tax for certain prior years on foreign exchange gains in non-U.S. entities due to a change in method of accounting for U.S. tax purposes, and (b) the excess tax benefits related to stock-based compensation. Our expected tax rate includes current fiscal year additions for existing tax contingency items.

4.    Earnings Per Share 
We calculate basic earnings per share by dividing net income available to common stockholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted earnings per share further includes the dilutive effect of stock-based compensation awards. We calculate that dilutive effect using the “treasury stock method” (as defined by GAAP).


8


The following table presents information concerning basic and diluted earnings per share:
 
Three Months Ended
 
July 31,
(Dollars in millions, except per share amounts)
2016
 
2017
Net income available to common stockholders
$
144

 
$
178

Share data (in thousands):
 
 
 
Basic average common shares outstanding
393,018

 
384,038

Dilutive effect of stock-based awards
2,991

 
2,349

Diluted average common shares outstanding
396,009

 
386,387

 
 
 
 
Basic earnings per share
$
0.37

 
$
0.46

Diluted earnings per share
$
0.36

 
$
0.46



We excluded common stock-based awards for approximately 1,173,000 shares and 1,375,000 shares from the calculation of diluted earnings per share for the three months ended July 31, 2016 and 2017, respectively. We excluded those awards because they were not dilutive for those periods under the treasury stock method.

5.    Commitments and Contingencies
We operate in a litigious environment, and we are sued in the normal course of business. Sometimes plaintiffs seek substantial damages. Significant judgment is required in predicting the outcome of these suits and claims, many of which take years to adjudicate. We accrue estimated costs for a contingency when we believe that a loss is probable and we can make a reasonable estimate of the loss, and then adjust the accrual as appropriate to reflect changes in facts and circumstances. We do not believe it is reasonably possible that these existing loss contingencies, individually or in the aggregate, would have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations, or liquidity. No material accrued loss contingencies are recorded as of July 31, 2017.

We have guaranteed the repayment by a third-party importer of its obligation under a bank credit facility that it uses in connection with its importation of our products in Russia. If the importer were to default on that obligation, which we believe is unlikely, our maximum possible exposure under the existing terms of the guaranty would be approximately $11 million (subject to changes in foreign currency exchange rates). Both the fair value and carrying amount of the guaranty are insignificant.

As of July 31, 2017, our actual exposure under the guaranty of the importer’s obligation is approximately $5 million. We also have accounts receivable from that importer of approximately $4 million at July 31, 2017, which we expect to collect in full.

Based on the financial support we provide to the importer, we believe it meets the definition of a variable interest entity. However, because we do not control this entity, it is not included in our consolidated financial statements.

6.    Debt
Our long-term debt (net of unamortized discount and issuance costs) consists of:
(Principal and carrying amounts in millions)
April 30,
2017
 
July 31,
2017
1.00% notes, $250 principal amount, due January 15, 2018
$
249

 
$
250

2.25% notes, $250 principal amount, due January 15, 2023
248

 
248

1.20% notes, €300 principal amount, due July 7, 2026
324

 
350

2.60% notes, £300 principal amount, due July 7, 2028
383

 
388

3.75% notes, $250 principal amount, due January 15, 2043
248

 
248

4.50% notes, $500 principal amount, due July 15, 2045
486

 
486

 
1,938

 
1,970

Less current portion
249

 
250

 
$
1,689

 
$
1,720


9


As of April 30, 2017, our short-term borrowings of $211 million included $208 million of commercial paper, with an average interest rate of 1.04% and a remaining maturity of 22 days. As of July 31, 2017, our short-term borrowings of $258 million included $253 million of commercial paper, with an average interest rate of 1.29% and a remaining maturity of 17 days.

7.    Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits 
The following table shows the components of the pension and other postretirement benefit cost recognized for our U.S. benefit plans. Information about similar international plans is not presented due to immateriality.
 
Three Months Ended
 
July 31,
(Dollars in millions)
2016
 
2017
Pension Benefits:
 
 
 
Service cost
$
6

 
$
6

Interest cost
9

 
8

Expected return on plan assets
(10
)
 
(10
)
Amortization of net actuarial loss
6

 
5

Net cost
$
11

 
$
9

 
 
 
 
Other Postretirement Benefits:
 
 
 
Interest cost
$
1

 
$
1

Amortization of prior service cost (credit)
(1
)
 
(1
)
Net cost
$
—

 
$
—


8.    Fair Value Measurements
Fair value is defined as the exchange price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. We categorize the fair values of assets and liabilities into three levels based upon the assumptions (inputs) used to determine those values. Level 1 provides the most reliable measure of fair value, while Level 3 generally requires significant management judgment. The three levels are:
•
Level 1 – Quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.
•
Level 2 – Observable inputs other than those included in Level 1, such as quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar assets and liabilities in inactive markets; or other inputs that are observable or can be derived from or corroborated by observable market data.
•
Level 3 – Unobservable inputs that are supported by little or no market activity.

10


The following table summarizes the assets and liabilities measured or disclosed at fair value on a recurring basis:
(Dollars in millions)
 
Level 1

 
Level 2

 
Level 3

 
Total

April 30, 2017:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Assets:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Currency derivatives
 
$
—

 
$
25

 
$
—

 
$
25

Liabilities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Currency derivatives
 
—

 
10

 
—

 
10

Short-term borrowings
 
—

 
211

 
—

 
211

Current portion of long-term debt
 
—

 
249

 
—

 
249

Long-term debt
 
—

 
1,752

 
—

 
1,752

July 31, 2017:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Assets:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Currency derivatives
 
—

 
9

 
—

 
9

Liabilities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Currency derivatives
 
—

 
28

 
—

 
28

Short-term borrowings
 
—

 
258

 
—

 
258

Current portion of long-term debt
 
—

 
250

 
—

 
250

Long-term debt
 
—

 
1,792

 
—

 
1,792


We determine the fair values of our currency derivatives (forward contracts) using standard valuation models. The significant inputs used in these models, which are readily available in public markets or can be derived from observable market transactions, include the applicable spot rates, forward rates, and discount rates. The discount rates are based on the historical U.S. Treasury rates.

The fair value of short-term borrowings approximates their carrying amount. We determine the fair value of long-term debt primarily based on the prices at which similar debt has recently traded in the market and also considering the overall market conditions on the date of valuation.

We measure some assets and liabilities at fair value on a nonrecurring basis. That is, we do not measure them at fair value on an ongoing basis, but we do adjust them to fair value in some circumstances (for example, when we determine that an asset is impaired). No material nonrecurring fair value measurements were required during the periods presented in these financial statements.

9.    Fair Value of Financial Instruments 
The fair value of cash, cash equivalents, and short-term borrowings approximate the carrying amounts due to the short maturities of these instruments. We determine the fair value of currency derivatives and long-term debt as discussed in Note 8. 

Below is a comparison of the fair values and carrying amounts of these instruments:
 
April 30, 2017
 
July 31, 2017
 
Carrying
 
Fair
 
Carrying
 
Fair
(Dollars in millions)
Amount
 
Value
 
Amount
 
Value
Assets:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents
$
182

 
$
182

 
$
238

 
$
238

Currency derivatives
25

 
25

 
9

 
9

Liabilities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Currency derivatives
10

 
10

 
28

 
28

Short-term borrowings
211

 
211

 
258

 
258

Current portion of long-term debt
249

 
249

 
250

 
250

Long-term debt
1,689

 
1,752

 
1,720

 
1,792


11


10.    Derivative Financial Instruments and Hedging Activities
Our multinational business exposes us to global market risks, including the effect of fluctuations in currency exchange rates, commodity prices, and interest rates. We use derivatives to help manage financial exposures that occur in the normal course of business. We formally document the purpose of each derivative contract, which includes linking the contract to the financial exposure it is designed to mitigate. We do not hold or issue derivatives for trading or speculative purposes.

We use currency derivative contracts to limit our exposure to the currency exchange risk that we cannot mitigate internally by using netting strategies. We designate most of these contracts as cash flow hedges of forecasted transactions (expected to occur within three years). We record all changes in the fair value of cash flow hedges (except any ineffective portion) in accumulated other comprehensive income (AOCI) until the underlying hedged transaction occurs, at which time we reclassify that amount into earnings. We assess the effectiveness of these hedges based on changes in forward exchange rates. The ineffective portion of the changes in fair value of our hedges (recognized immediately in earnings) during the periods presented in this report was not material.

We had outstanding currency derivatives, related primarily to our euro, British pound, and Australian dollar exposures, with notional amounts totaling $1,188 million at April 30, 2017 and $1,225 million at July 31, 2017.

During fiscal 2017, we used some currency derivative forward contracts and foreign currency-denominated long-term debt as after-tax net investment hedges of our investments in certain foreign subsidiaries. Any change in value of the designated portion of the hedging instruments is recorded in AOCI, offsetting the foreign currency translation adjustment of the related net investments that is also recorded in AOCI. As of July 31, 2017, $526 million of our foreign currency-denominated debt was designated as a net investment hedge. Our net investment hedges are intended to mitigate foreign exchange exposure related to non-U.S. dollar net investments in certain foreign subsidiaries against changes in foreign exchange rates. There was no ineffectiveness related to our net investment hedges.

We do not designate some of our currency derivatives and foreign currency-denominated debt as hedges because we use them to at least partially offset the immediate earnings impact of changes in foreign exchange rates on existing assets or liabilities. We immediately recognize the change in fair value of these instruments in earnings.

We use forward purchase contracts with suppliers to protect against corn price volatility. We expect to physically take delivery of the corn underlying each contract and use it for production over a reasonable period of time. Accordingly, we account for these contracts as normal purchases rather than as derivative instruments.

The following tables present the pre-tax impact that changes in the fair value of our derivative instruments and non-derivative hedging instruments had on AOCI and earnings:
 
 
Three Months Ended
 
 
July 31,
(Dollars in millions)
Classification
2016
 
2017
Derivative Instruments
 
 
 
 
Currency derivatives designated as cash flow hedges:
 
 

 
 

Net gain (loss) recognized in AOCI
n/a
$
29

 
$
(36
)
Net gain (loss) reclassified from AOCI into earnings
Net sales
10

 
2

Currency derivatives designated as net investment hedge:
 
 
 
 
Net gain (loss) recognized in AOCI
n/a
8

 
—

Currency derivatives not designated as hedging instruments:
 
 

 
 

Net gain (loss) recognized in earnings
Net sales
1

 
(3
)
Net gain (loss) recognized in earnings
Other income
(5
)
 
9

Non-Derivative Hedging Instruments
 
 
 
 
Foreign currency-denominated debt designated as net investment hedge:
 
 
 
 
Net gain (loss) recognized in AOCI
n/a
(10
)
 
(16
)
Foreign currency-denominated debt not designated as hedging instrument:
 
 
 
 
Net gain (loss) recognized in earnings
Other income
(1
)
 
(16
)


12


We expect to reclassify $10 million of deferred net losses on cash flow hedges recorded in AOCI as of July 31, 2017, to earnings during the next 12 months. This reclassification would offset the anticipated earnings impact of the underlying hedged exposures. The actual amounts that we ultimately reclassify to earnings will depend on the exchange rates in effect when the underlying hedged transactions occur. As of July 31, 2017, the maximum term of our outstanding derivative contracts was 36 months.

The following table presents the fair values of our derivative instruments:

(Dollars in millions)


Classification
 
Fair value of derivatives in a gain position
 
Fair value of derivatives in a
loss position
April 30, 2017:
 
 
 
 
 
Designated as cash flow hedges:
 
 
 
 
 
Currency derivatives
Other current assets
 
$
21

 
$
(2
)
Currency derivatives
Other assets
 
9

 
(4
)
Currency derivatives
Accrued expenses
 
2

 
(8
)
Currency derivatives
Other liabilities
 
1

 
(4
)
Not designated as hedges:
 
 
 
 
 
Currency derivatives
Other current assets
 
2

 
(1
)
Currency derivatives
Accrued expenses
 
—

 
(1
)
July 31, 2017:
 
 
 
 
 
Designated as cash flow hedges:
 
 
 
 
 
Currency derivatives
Other current assets
 
8

 
(7
)
Currency derivatives
Other assets
 
2

 
(1
)
Currency derivatives
Accrued expenses
 
5

 
(17
)
Currency derivatives
Other liabilities
 
3

 
(22
)
Not designated as hedges:
 
 
 
 
 
Currency derivatives
Other current assets
 
7

 
—

Currency derivatives
Accrued expenses
 
4

 
(1
)

The fair values reflected in the above table are presented on a gross basis. However, as discussed further below, the fair values of those instruments that are subject to net settlement agreements are presented in our balance sheets on a net basis.

In our statement of cash flows, we classify cash flows related to cash flow hedges in the same category as the cash flows from the hedged items.

Credit risk. We are exposed to credit-related losses if the counterparties to our derivative contracts default. This credit risk is limited to the fair value of the contracts. To manage this risk, we contract only with major financial institutions that have earned investment-grade credit ratings and with whom we have standard International Swaps and Derivatives Association (ISDA) agreements that allow for net settlement of the derivative contracts. Also, we have established counterparty credit guidelines that are regularly monitored, and we monetize contracts when we believe it is warranted. Because of these safeguards, we believe we have no derivative positions that warrant credit valuation adjustments.

Some of our derivative instruments require us to maintain a specific level of creditworthiness, which we have maintained. If our creditworthiness were to fall below that level, then the counterparties to our derivative instruments could request immediate payment or collateralization for derivative instruments in net liability positions. The aggregate fair value of all derivatives with creditworthiness requirements that were in a net liability position was $9 million at April 30, 2017 and $26 million at July 31, 2017.

Offsetting. As noted above, our derivative contracts are governed by ISDA agreements that allow for net settlement of derivative contracts with the same counterparty. It is our policy to present the fair values of current derivatives (i.e., those with a remaining term of 12 months or less) with the same counterparty on a net basis in the balance sheet. Similarly, we present the

13


fair values of noncurrent derivatives with the same counterparty on a net basis. Current derivatives are not netted with noncurrent derivatives in the balance sheet.

The following table summarizes the gross and net amounts of our derivative contracts:
(Dollars in millions)
Gross Amounts of Recognized Assets (Liabilities)
 
Gross Amounts Offset in Balance Sheet
 
Net Amounts Presented in Balance Sheet
 
Gross Amounts Not Offset in Balance Sheet
 
Net Amounts
April 30, 2017:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Derivative assets
$
35

 
$
(10
)
 
$
25

 
$
(1
)
 
$
24

Derivative liabilities
(20
)
 
10

 
(10
)
 
1

 
(9
)
July 31, 2017:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Derivative assets
29

 
(20
)
 
9

 
(2
)
 
7

Derivative liabilities
(48
)
 
20

 
(28
)
 
2

 
(26
)

No cash collateral was received or pledged related to our derivative contracts as of April 30, 2017 or July 31, 2017.

11.    Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets
The following table summarizes the changes in goodwill and other intangible assets during the three months ended July 31, 2017:
(Dollars in millions)
Goodwill
 
Other Intangible Assets
Balance at April 30, 2017
$
753

 
$
641

Foreign currency translation adjustment
2

 
20

Balance at July 31, 2017
$
755

 
$
661


Our other intangible assets consist of trademarks and brand names, all with indefinite useful lives.

12.    Stockholders’ Equity
The following table summarizes the changes in stockholders’ equity during the three months ended July 31, 2017:
(Dollars in millions)
Class A Common Stock
 
Class B Common Stock
 
Additional Paid-in Capital
 
Retained Earnings
 
AOCI
 
Treasury Stock
 
Total
Balance at April 30, 2017
$
25

 
$
43

 
$
65

 
$
4,470

 
$
(390
)
 
$
(2,843
)
 
$
1,370

Retirement of treasury stock
 
 
(10
)
 
(8
)
 
(2,684
)
 
 
 
2,702

 
—

Net income
 
 
 
 
 
 
178

 
 
 
 
 
178

Net other comprehensive income (loss)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
14

 
 
 
14

Cash dividends
 
 
 
 
 
 
(140
)
 
 
 
 
 
(140
)
Acquisition of treasury stock
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(1
)
 
(1
)
Stock-based compensation expense
 
 
 
 
4

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
4

Stock issued under compensation plans
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
9

 
9

Loss on issuance of treasury stock issued under compensation plans
 
 
 
 
(14
)
 

 
 
 
 
 
(14
)
Balance at July 31, 2017
$
25

 
$
33

 
$
47

 
$
1,824

 
$
(376
)
 
$
(133
)
 
$
1,420


Retirement of Treasury Stock. On May 24, 2017, we retired 67,000,000 shares of Class B common stock previously held as treasury shares. This retirement reduced the number of issued shares of Class B common stock by that same amount.


14


Dividends. The following table summarizes the cash dividends declared per share on our Class A and Class B common stock during the three months ended July 31, 2017:
Declaration Date
 
Record Date
 
Payable Date
 
Amount per Share
May 24, 2017
 
June 5, 2017
 
July 3, 2017
 
$0.1825
July 27, 2017
 
September 7, 2017
 
October 2, 2017
 
$0.1825

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income. The following table summarizes the changes in each component of AOCI, net of tax, during the three months ended July 31, 2017:
(Dollars in millions)
Currency Translation Adjustments
 
Cash Flow Hedge Adjustments
 
Postretirement Benefits Adjustments
 
Total AOCI
Balance at April 30, 2017
$
(204
)
 
$
11

 
$
(197
)
 
$
(390
)
Net other comprehensive income (loss)
34

 
(23
)
 
3

 
14

Balance at July 31, 2017
$
(170
)
 
$
(12
)
 
$
(194
)
 
$
(376
)


13.    Other Comprehensive Income
The following tables present the components of net other comprehensive income (loss):
 
Three Months Ended
 
Three Months Ended
 
July 31, 2016
 
July 31, 2017
(Dollars in millions)
Pre-Tax
 
Tax
 
Net
 
Pre-Tax
 
Tax
 
Net
Currency translation adjustments:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net gain (loss) on currency translation
$
(68
)
 
$
1

 
$
(67
)
 
$
28

 
$
6

 
$
34

Reclassification to earnings
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

Other comprehensive income (loss), net
(68
)
 
1

 
(67
)
 
28

 
6

 
34

Cash flow hedge adjustments:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net gain (loss) on hedging instruments
29

 
(11
)
 
18

 
(36
)
 
14

 
(22
)
Reclassification to earnings1
(10
)
 
4

 
(6
)
 
(2
)
 
1

 
(1
)
Other comprehensive income (loss), net
19

 
(7
)
 
12

 
(38
)
 
15

 
(23
)
Postretirement benefits adjustments:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net actuarial gain (loss) and prior service cost
—

 
—

 
—

 
1

 
—

 
1

Reclassification to earnings2
5

 
(2
)
 
3

 
4

 
(2
)
 
2

Other comprehensive income (loss), net
5

 
(2
)
 
3

 
5

 
(2
)
 
3

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net
$
(44
)
 
$
(8
)
 
$
(52
)
 
$
(5
)
 
$
19

 
$
14

1Pre-tax amount is classified as net sales in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations.
2Pre-tax amount is a component of pension and other postretirement benefit expense (as shown in Note 7, except for amounts related to non-U.S. benefit plans, about which no information is presented in Note 7 due to immateriality).


15


Item 2.  Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
You should read the following discussion and analysis in conjunction with both our unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements and related notes included in Part I, Item 1 of this Quarterly Report and our 2017 Form 10-K. Note that the results of operations for the three months ended July 31, 2017 do not necessarily indicate what our operating results for the full fiscal year will be. In this Item, “we,” “us,” and “our” refer to Brown-Forman Corporation.

Presentation Basis

Volume and Depletions
When discussing volume, unless otherwise specified, we refer to “depletions,” a term commonly used in the beverage alcohol industry. Depending on the context, “depletions” means either (a) our shipments directly to retailers or wholesalers, or (b) shipments from our distributor customers to retailers and wholesalers. We generally record revenues when we ship our products to our customers, so our reported sales for a period do not necessarily reflect actual consumer purchases during that period. We believe that our depletions measure volume in a way that more closely reflects consumer demand than our shipments to distributor customers do.
Volume is discussed on a nine-liter equivalent unit basis (nine-liter cases) unless otherwise specified. At times, we use a “drinks-equivalent” measure for volume when comparing single-serve ready-to-drink (RTD) or ready-to-pour (RTP) brands to a parent spirits brand. “Drinks-equivalent” depletions are RTD and RTP nine-liter cases converted to nine-liter cases of a parent brand on the basis of the number of drinks in one nine-liter case of the parent brand. To convert RTD volumes from a nine-liter case basis to a drinks-equivalent nine-liter case basis, RTD nine-liter case volumes are divided by 10, while RTP nine-liter case volumes are divided by 5.
Non-GAAP Financial Measures
We use certain financial measures in this report that are not measures of financial performance under GAAP. These non-GAAP measures, defined below, should be viewed as supplements to (not substitutes for) our results of operations and other measures reported under GAAP. The non-GAAP measures we use in this report may not be defined and calculated by other companies in the same manner.
“Underlying change” in income statement measures. We present changes in certain income statement measures, or line items, that are adjusted to an “underlying” basis. We use “underlying change” for the following income statement measures: (a) underlying net sales, (b) underlying cost of sales, (c) underlying gross profit, (d) underlying advertising expenses, (e) underlying selling, general, and administrative (SG&A) expenses, (f) underlying other expense (income), (g) underlying operating expenses, and (h) underlying operating income. To calculate these measures, we adjust, as applicable, for (a) acquisitions and divestitures, (b) foreign exchange, and (c) estimated net changes in distributor inventories. We explain these adjustments below.
•
“Acquisitions and divestitures.” In fiscal 2016, we sold our Southern Comfort and Tuaca brands and related assets to Sazerac Company, Inc. and entered into a related transition services agreement (TSA). During fiscal 2017, we completed our obligations under the TSA. This adjustment removes the net sales and operating expenses recognized in fiscal 2017 pursuant to the TSA related to (a) contract bottling services and (b) distribution services in certain markets. On June 1, 2017, we acquired The BenRiach Distillery Company Limited (BenRiach). This adjustment removes (a) transaction and integration costs related to the acquisition and (b) operating activity for the acquisition for the non-comparable period. For both fiscal 2017 and 2018, the non-comparable period is the month of May.
•
“Foreign exchange.” We calculate the percentage change in our income statement line items in accordance with GAAP and adjust to exclude the cost or benefit of currency fluctuations. Adjusting for foreign exchange allows us to understand our business on a constant-dollar basis, as fluctuations in exchange rates can distort the underlying trend both positively and negatively. (In this report, “dollar” always means the U.S. dollar unless stated otherwise.) To eliminate the effect of foreign exchange fluctuations when comparing across periods, we translate current year results at prior-year rates.
•
“Estimated net change in distributor inventories.” This adjustment refers to the estimated net effect of changes in distributor inventories on changes in our income statement line items. For each period compared, we use depletion information provided by our distributors to estimate the effect of distributor inventory changes on our income statement line items.
We use the non-GAAP measures “underlying change” for the following reasons: (a) to understand our performance from period to period on a consistent basis and to compare our performance to that of our competitors; (b) in connection with management incentive compensation calculations; (c) in our planning and forecasting processes; and (d) in communications concerning our

16


financial performance with the board of directors, stockholders, and investment analysts. We provide reconciliations of the “underlying changes in income statement measures” to their nearest GAAP measures in the tables below under “Results of Operations - Year-Over-Year Period Comparisons.” We have consistently applied the adjustments within our reconciliations in arriving at each non-GAAP measure.
Important Information on Forward-Looking Statements:
This report contains statements, estimates, and projections that are “forward-looking statements” as defined under U.S. federal securities laws. Words such as “aim,” “anticipate,” “aspire,” “believe,” “continue,” “could,” “envision,” “estimate,” “expect,” “expectation,” “intend,” “may,” “plan,” “potential,” “project,” “pursue,” “see,” “seek,” “should,” “will,” and similar words identify forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date we make them. Except as required by law, we do not intend to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve risks, uncertainties, and other factors (many beyond our control) that could cause our actual results to differ materially from our historical experience or from our current expectations or projections. These risks and uncertainties include those described in Part I, Item 1A. Risk Factors of our 2017 Form 10-K and those described from time to time in our future reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including:
•
Unfavorable global or regional economic conditions, and related low consumer confidence, high unemployment, weak credit or capital markets, budget deficits, burdensome government debt, austerity measures, higher interest rates, higher taxes, political instability, higher inflation, deflation, lower returns on pension assets, or lower discount rates for pension obligations
•
Risks associated with being a U.S.-based company with global operations, including commercial, political, and financial risks; local labor policies and conditions; protectionist trade policies or economic or trade sanctions; compliance with local trade practices and other regulations, including anti-corruption laws; terrorism; and health pandemics
•
Fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates, particularly a stronger U.S. dollar
•
Changes in laws, regulations, or policies – especially those that affect the production, importation, marketing, labeling, pricing, distribution, sale, or consumption of our beverage alcohol products
•
Tax rate changes (including excise, sales, VAT, tariffs, duties, corporate, individual income, dividends, capital gains) or changes in related reserves, changes in tax rules (for example, LIFO, foreign income deferral, U.S. manufacturing, and other deductions) or accounting standards, and the unpredictability and suddenness with which they can occur
•
Dependence upon the continued growth of the Jack Daniel’s family of brands
•
Changes in consumer preferences, consumption, or purchase patterns – particularly away from larger producers in favor of smaller distilleries or local producers, or away from brown spirits, our premium products, or spirits generally, and our ability to anticipate or react to them; bar, restaurant, travel, or other on-premise declines; shifts in demographic trends; or unfavorable consumer reaction to new products, line extensions, package changes, product reformulations, or other product innovation
•
Decline in the social acceptability of beverage alcohol products in significant markets
•
Production facility, aging warehouse, or supply chain disruption
•
Imprecision in supply/demand forecasting
•
Higher costs, lower quality, or unavailability of energy, water, raw materials, product ingredients, labor, or finished goods
•
Route-to-consumer changes that affect the timing of our sales, temporarily disrupt the marketing or sale of our products, or result in higher implementation-related or fixed costs
•
Inventory fluctuations in our products by distributors, wholesalers, or retailers
•
Competitors’ consolidation or other competitive activities, such as pricing actions (including price reductions, promotions, discounting, couponing, or free goods), marketing, category expansion, product introductions, or entry or expansion in our geographic markets or distribution networks
•
Risks associated with acquisitions, dispositions, business partnerships or investments – such as acquisition integration, or termination difficulties or costs, or impairment in recorded value
•
Inadequate protection of our intellectual property rights
•
Product recalls or other product liability claims; product counterfeiting, tampering, contamination, or product quality issues
•
Significant legal disputes and proceedings; government investigations (particularly of industry or company business, trade or marketing practices)
•
Failure or breach of key information technology systems
•
Negative publicity related to our company, brands, marketing, personnel, operations, business performance, or prospects
•
Failure to attract or retain key executive or employee talent
•
Our status as a family “controlled company” under New York Stock Exchange rules

17


Overview
Fiscal 2018 Year-to-Date Highlights
Key highlights of our operating results for the three months ended July 31, 2017 include:
•
We delivered net sales of $723 million, an increase of 9% compared to the same period last year. Excluding the impact of acquisitions and divestitures, the positive effect of foreign exchange, and the estimated net increase in distributor inventories, we grew underlying net sales 6%.
•
We delivered operating income of $244 million, an increase of 14% compared to the same period last year. Excluding the impact of acquisitions and divestitures, the negative effect of foreign exchange, and the estimated net increase in distributor inventories, we grew underlying operating income 12%.
•
We delivered diluted earnings per share of $0.46, an increase of 27% compared to the same period last year due to an increase in reported operating income, the benefit of a lower effective tax rate, and a reduction in shares outstanding.
Our underlying operating results were driven by the Jack Daniel's family of brands, our tequila brands, and Woodford Reserve. From a geographic perspective, emerging markets and the United States led the growth, Travel Retail net sales accelerated compared to the same period last year, while developed markets grew less than 1%. In addition, our underlying operating results benefited from a reduction in underlying SG&A expenses.
While foreign exchange had a positive effect on net sales, our operating income was negatively affected, driven by the absence of prior year foreign exchange gains in other expense (income). An estimated net increase in distributor inventories due primarily to the United States and Russia positively affected our reported results.
Summary of Operating Performance
 
Three months ended July 31,
(Dollars in millions)
2016
 
2017
 
Reported Change
 
Underlying Change1
Net sales
$
661

 
$
723

 
9
%
 
6
%
Cost of sales
208

 
230

 
11
%
 
6
%
Gross profit
453

 
493

 
9
%
 
6
%
Advertising
82

 
89

 
8
%
 
6
%
SG&A
163

 
161

 
(1
%)
 
(1
%)
Other expense (income), net

(5
)
 
(1
)
 
(85
%)
 
1
%
Operating income
$
213

 
$
244

 
14
%
 
12
%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
As a percentage of net sales
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Gross profit
68.5
%
 
68.1
%
 
(0.4
)pp
 
 
Operating expenses2
36.2
%
 
34.5
%
 
(1.7
)pp
 
 
Operating income
32.2
%
 
33.7
%
 
1.5
 pp
 
 
Interest expense, net
$
12

 
15

 
19
%
 
 
Effective tax rate
28.2
%
 
22.1
%
 
(6.1
)pp
 
 
Diluted earnings per share
$
0.36

 
$
0.46

 
27
%
 
 
Note: Totals may differ due to rounding

 
 
 
 
 
 

 
 
1See “Non-GAAP Financial Measures” above for details on our use of “underlying changes,” including how these measures are calculated and the reasons why we think this information is useful to readers.
2Operating expenses include advertising expense, SG&A expense, and other expense (income), net.


18


Results of Operations – Fiscal 2018 Year-to-Date Highlights
Market Highlights
The following table provides supplemental information for our largest markets for the three months ended July 31, 2017, compared to the same period last year. We discuss results for the markets most affecting our performance below the table. Unless otherwise indicated, all related commentary is for the three months ended July 31, 2017, compared to the same period last year.
Top 10 Markets1 - Fiscal 2018 Net Sales Growth by Geographic Area
 
Percentage change versus prior year period
Three months ended July 31, 2017
Net Sales
Geographic area
Reported
Acquisitions & Divestitures
Foreign Exchange
Net Chg in Est. Distributor Inventories
 
Underlying2
United States
10
%
—
%
—
%
(5
%)
 
5
%
Europe
13
%
—
%
(5
%)
(3
%)
 
4
%
United Kingdom
6
%
(1
%)
(11
%)
—
%
 
(6
%)
Germany
6
%
(1
%)
(5
%)
—
%
 
(1
%)
France
8
%
—
%
(4
%)
—
%
 
4
%
Poland
29
%
—
%
(9
%)
—
%
 
20
%
Russia
NM

—
%
28
%
NM

 
38
%
Rest of Europe
3
%
—
%
(2
%)
3
%
 
4
%
Australia
12
%
5
%
(1
%)
—
%
 
17
%
Other geographies
5
%
(1
%)
1
%
4
%
 
10
%
Mexico
11
%
—
%
1
%
1
%
 
13
%
Japan
(25
%)
—
%
2
%
9
%
 
(14
%)
Canada
—
%
—
%
6
%
(3
%)
 
2
%
Remaining geographies3
11
%
(1
%)
(1
%)
6
%
 
15
%
Travel Retail4
4
%
—
%
3
%
5
%
 
12
%
Other non-branded5
(8
%)
23
%
1
%
—
%
 
16
%
Total
9
%
1
%
(1
%)
(3
%)
 
6
%
Note: Totals may differ due to rounding
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
1“Top 10 markets” are ranked based on percentage of total Fiscal 2017 Net Sales. See 2017 Form 10-K “Results of Operations - Fiscal 2017 Market Highlights” and “Note 15. Supplemental Information.”
2See “Non-GAAP Financial Measures” above for details on our use of “underlying change” in net sales, including how this measure is calculated and the reasons why we think this information is useful to readers.
3“Remaining geographies” represents over 110 countries, with the largest being Brazil, China, and Argentina.
4“Travel Retail” represents our sales to global duty free customers, travel retail customers, and the U.S. military.
5“Other non-branded” includes used barrel, bulk whiskey and wine, and contract bottling sales.
•
United States. Reported net sales grew 10%, while underlying net sales increased 5% after adjusting for an estimated net increase in distributor inventories. Underlying net sales gains were driven primarily by the growth of our American whiskey portfolio, led by the Jack Daniel’s family of brands and Woodford Reserve, and our tequila brands, led by el Jimador and Herradura. This growth was partially offset by declines in Canadian Mist.
•
Europe. Reported net sales increased 13%, while underlying net sales increased 4% after adjusting for the positive effect of foreign exchange driven by the broad weakening of the dollar and an estimated net increase in distributor inventories in Russia. Underlying net sales gains in Poland, Russia, Turkey, and France were partially offset by declines in the United Kingdom.
◦
In Poland, underlying net sales growth was led by volume gains of Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey (JDTW), which has experienced strong consumer takeaway trends.

19


◦
In Russia, underlying net sales growth was driven by favorable price/mix of JDTW and Finlandia. The market remained stable through the first quarter of fiscal 2018, building on growth in the second half of fiscal 2017.
◦
In France, underlying net sales growth was fueled by Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Fire (JDTF) and JDTW, driven by increasing consumer demand despite recent declines in the total whiskey category.
◦
In the United Kingdom, underlying net sales declines were driven by lower volumes of Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Honey (JDTH) and JDTF and unfavorable price/mix on JDTW, partially offset by the launch of JD Cider.
◦
In Germany, underlying net sales declines were primarily due to volume declines of JDTW, reflecting the timing of customer purchases. This reduction was nearly offset by solid growth of JD RTDs, including the launch of JD Lynchburg Lemonade.
◦
The increase in underlying net sales in the Rest of Europe was primarily led by improved trends in Turkey, where growth was driven by the Jack Daniel's family. Our results in the same period last year were affected by political and economic instability.
•
Australia. Reported net sales increased 12%, while underlying net sales increased 17% after adjusting for the net effect of acquisitions and the loss of net sales related to our transition services for divested brands and the positive effect of foreign exchange. Underlying net sales growth was driven by the Jack Daniel’s family of brands, led by (a) Jack Daniel’s & Cola, which benefited from a buy-in ahead of August 1, 2017 price increase, (b) recently launched JD RTD line extensions, and (c) JDTW volume growth.
•
Other geographies. Reported net sales for our other markets increased 5%, while underlying net sales collectively increased 10% after adjusting for (a) the positive effect of acquisitions and divestitures, (b) the negative effect of foreign exchange, and (c) the estimated net decrease in distributor inventories. Underlying net sales growth was led by Mexico, Brazil (which benefited from a buy-in ahead of August 1, 2017 price increase), China, and Latin America. These gains were partially offset by volume declines in Japan due to buy-in ahead of price increases in the same period last year.
•
Travel Retail. Reported net sales increased 4% and underlying net sales increased 12% after adjusting reported results for the negative effect of foreign exchange and an estimated net decrease in distributor inventories. Underlying net sales growth was led by higher volumes of JDTW, Finlandia, and JDTH.
•
Other non-branded. Reported net sales decreased 8%, while underlying net sales increased 16% after adjusting for the net effect of acquisitions and the loss of net sales related to our transition services for divested brands. The underlying net sales growth was driven by higher net sales of used barrels, reflecting an easy comparison to very weak net sales in prior-year period, as well as timing of shipments in the current year.

20


Brand Highlights
The following table highlights the worldwide results of our largest brands for the three months ended July 31, 2017, compared to the same period last year. We discuss results of the brands most affecting our performance below the table. Unless otherwise indicated, all related commentary is for the three months ended July 31, 2017, compared to the same period last year.
Major Brands Worldwide Results
 
Percentage change versus prior year period
Three months ended July 31, 2017
Volumes
 
Net Sales
Brand family / brand
9L Depletions
 
Reported
Foreign Exchange
Net Chg in Est. Distributor Inventories
 
Underlying1
Jack Daniel’s Family
10
%
 
10
%
(1
%)
(3
%)
 
6
%
Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey
4
%
 
9
%
(1
%)
(4
%)
 
4
%
Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Honey
5
%
 
3
%
(1
%)
1
%
 
3
%
Jack Daniel’s RTDs/RTP2
17
%
 
24
%
—
%
(2
%)
 
22
%
Gentleman Jack
8
%
 
7
%
—
%
1
%
 
8
%
Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Fire
19
%
 
21
%
(1
%)
(6
%)
 
14
%
Other Jack Daniel’s whiskey brands3
(6
%)
 
(3
%)
(1
%)
2
%
 
(2
%)
Woodford Reserve
16
%
 
10
%
—
%
6
%
 
16
%
Finlandia
6
%
 
17
%
—
%
(10
%)
 
6
%
el Jimador
11
%
 
19
%
1
%
(7
%)
 
13
%
Herradura
13
%
 
11
%
—
%
7
%
 
18
%
Note: Totals may differ due to rounding
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
1See “Non-GAAP Financial Measures” above for details on our use of “underlying change” in net sales, including how this measure is calculated and the reasons why we think this information is useful to readers; see “Volume and Depletions” above for definitions of volume measures presented here.
2Jack Daniel’s RTD and RTP products include all RTD line extensions of Jack Daniel’s, such as Jack Daniel’s & Cola, Jack Daniel’s & Diet Cola, Jack & Ginger, Jack Daniel’s Country Cocktails, Gentleman Jack & Cola, Jack Daniel’s Double Jack, Jack Daniel’s American Serve, Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Honey RTD, Jack Daniel’s Cider, Jack Daniel’s Lynchburg Lemonade, and the seasonal Jack Daniel’s Winter Jack RTP.
3In addition to the brands separately listed here, the Jack Daniel’s family of brands includes Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel Collection, Jack Daniel’s Sinatra Select, Jack Daniel’s No. 27 Gold Tennessee Whiskey, and Jack Daniel’s 1907 Tennessee Whiskey.

•
Jack Daniel’s family of brands grew reported net sales 10% (underlying 6%), and was the most significant contributor to our overall underlying net sales growth. Reported net sales were helped by the estimated net increase in distributor inventories, and foreign exchange due to the weakening of the dollar against the euro, Polish zloty, Mexican peso, Turkish lira, and the Australian dollar. The following are details about the underlying performance of the Jack Daniel’s family of brands:
◦
JDTW grew underlying net sales in several markets including the United States, Brazil, Poland, Travel Retail, Turkey, China, and Russia. These increases were partially offset by declines in various markets, including Germany and the United Kingdom.
◦
JDTH grew underlying net sales in the United States, its largest market, Latin America, Brazil, Travel Retail, and Russia. These gains were partially offset by declines in the United Kingdom.
◦
The increase in underlying net sales growth for Jack Daniel’s RTDs/RTP was driven by buy-ins ahead of price increases in Australia and growth in Germany, the United States, and the United Kingdom, with all markets also benefiting from new RTD line extensions.
◦
Gentleman Jack grew underlying net sales through volumetric growth in the United States, its largest market.
◦
JDTF grew underlying net sales due to volume growth in the United States and France and the launch of the brand in Brazil. These increases were partially offset by volume declines in the United Kingdom.
◦
Our Other Jack Daniel’s whiskey brands’ decreased underlying net sales were due primarily to Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel Collection declines in the United Kingdom and the United States.

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•
Woodford Reserve led the growth of our super- and ultra-premium American whiskeys with reported net sales increasing 10% and underlying net sales growing 16%. This growth was driven by the United States, where the brand continued to grow volumetrically with strong consumer takeaway trends. Reported net sales were hurt by an estimated net decrease in distributor inventories.
•
Reported net sales for Finlandia grew 17% and underlying net sales increased 6% led by favorable price/mix and higher volumes in Russia and volumetric growth in Travel Retail. Reported net sales were helped by an estimated net increase in distributor inventories, primarily in Russia.
•
Reported net sales for el Jimador increased 19%, while underlying net sales increased 13% driven by volume gains in the United States due to accelerating consumer takeaway trends. Reported net sales were helped by an estimated net increase in distributor inventories in the United States.
•
Herradura grew reported net sales 11% and underlying net sales increased 18% driven primarily by increased volumes in the brand’s largest markets, the United States and Mexico, the latter of which also benefited from favorable price/mix due to consumer-led volumetric growth of Herradura Ultra. Reported net sales were hurt by an estimated net decrease in distributor inventories in the United States.


22


Year-over-Year Period Comparisons
Net Sales
Percentage change versus the prior year period ended July 31
 
 
3 Months
Change in reported net sales
 
 
9
%
Acquisitions and divestitures
 
 
1
%
Foreign exchange
 
 
(1
%)
Estimated net change in distributor inventories
 
 
(3
%)
Change in underlying net sales
 
 
6
%
 
 
 
 
Change in underlying net sales attributed to:
 
 
 
Volume
 
 
4
%
Net price/mix
 
 
2
%
Note: Totals may differ due to rounding
 
 
 
For the three months ended July 31, 2017, net sales were $723 million, an increase of $62 million or 9%, compared to the same period last year. After adjusting reported results for (a) the net effect of acquisitions and loss of net sales related to our transition services for divested brands, (b) the positive effect of foreign exchange, and (c) the estimated net increase in distributor inventories, underlying net sales grew 6%. The change in underlying net sales was driven by 4% volume growth and 2% of price/mix. Volume growth was led by the Jack Daniel's family and the tequilas. Improved price/mix was driven by a shift in sales to higher priced brands, most notably, the Jack Daniel's family and higher average pricing on the tequilas.
The primary factors contributing to the growth in underlying net sales for the three months ended July 31, 2017 were:
•
our American whiskey portfolio in the United States, led by the Jack Daniel’s family, Woodford Reserve, and Old Forester;
•
JDTW in several international markets, most notably, Brazil, Poland, Travel Retail, Turkey, China, and Russia;
•
volume of JD RTDs, driven by buy-in ahead of price increases in Australia and growth in Germany, the United States, and the United Kingdom, with all markets benefiting from new RTD line extensions;
•
our tequila brands, led by (a) volume gains and higher prices of New Mix in Mexico; (b) volume gains of el Jimador in the United States, and (c) higher volume and price of Herradura in the United States and Mexico; and
•
volume of used barrels, which is partially due to the timing of orders.
These gains in underlying net sales were partially offset by declines in volume of JDTW in Germany, which is considered to be timing related.
Cost of Sales
Percentage change versus the prior year period ended July 31
 
 
3 Months
Change in reported cost of sales
 
 
11
%
Acquisitions and divestitures
 
 
3
%
Foreign exchange
 
 
(5
%)
Estimated net change in distributor inventories
 
 
(3
%)
Change in underlying cost of sales
 
 
6
%
 
 
 
 
Change in underlying cost of sales attributed to:
 
 
 
Volume
 
 
4
%
Cost/mix
 
 
2
%
Note: Totals may differ due to rounding

 
 
 
Cost of sales for the three months ended July 31, 2017 increased $22 million, or 11%, to $230 million when compared to the same period last year. Underlying cost of sales increased 6% after adjusting reported costs for (a) the net effect of acquisitions and divestitures, (b) the negative effect of foreign exchange, and (c) the estimated net increase in distributor inventories. The increase in underlying cost of sales was driven by higher volumes, a shift in product mix to higher-cost brands, incremental

23


value-added packaging, and higher wood costs. Looking ahead, we expect that input costs will continue to increase in the low single digits.
Gross Profit
Percentage change versus the prior year period ended July 31
 
 
3 Months
Change in reported gross profit
 
 
9
%
Acquisitions and divestitures
 
 
—
%
Foreign exchange
 
 
1
%
Estimated net change in distributor inventories
 
 
(3
%)
Change in underlying gross profit
 
 
6
%
Note: Totals may differ due to rounding
 
 
 
Gross Margin
For the period ended July 31
3 months
Prior year gross margin
68.5
%
Price/mix
0.1
%
Volume
—
%
Cost
(0.1
%)
Acquisitions and divestitures
0.6
%
Foreign exchange
(1.0
%)
Change in gross margin
(0.4
%)
Current year gross margin
68.1
%
Note: Totals may differ due to rounding
 
Gross profit of $493 million increased $40 million, or 9%, for the three months ended July 31, 2017. Underlying gross profit grew 6% after adjusting reported results for the negative effect of foreign exchange and the estimated net increase in distributor inventories. The increase in underlying gross profit resulted from the same factors that contributed to the increase in underlying net sales and the increase in underlying cost of sales.
For the three months ended July 31, 2017, gross margin decreased approximately 40 basis points to 68.1%, from 68.5% in the same period last year driven primarily by the negative effect of foreign exchange, partially offset by the net effect of acquisitions and divestitures.
Operating Expenses
Three months ended July 31, 2017
Percentage change versus prior year period
 
Reported
Acquisitions & Divestitures
Foreign Exchange
 
Underlying
Advertising
8
%
—
%
(1
%)
 
6
%
SG&A
(1
%)
—
%
—
%
 
(1
%)
Other expense (income), net
(85
%)
(3
%)
90
%
 
1
%
Total
4
%
—
%
(3
%)
 
1
%
Note: Totals may differ due to rounding
 
 
 
 
 
Operating expenses totaled $249 million and increased $9 million, or 4%, for the three months ended July 31, 2017 compared to the same period last year. Underlying operating expenses grew 1% after adjusting for the net effect of foreign exchange driven by the absence of prior year foreign exchange gains in other expense (income).
Reported advertising expenses grew 8%, while underlying advertising expenses grew 6% after adjusting for the negative effect of foreign exchange, as we continued to invest in our American whiskey portfolio, including the Jack Daniel's family and Woodford Reserve.
Reported and underlying SG&A expenses dropped 1% due to lower pension expense and continued tight management of discretionary spending, partially offset by personnel costs driven by investments in our new Spain distribution operation.

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For the three months ended July 31, 2017, operating expenses as a percentage of net sales declined 170 basis points to 34.5%, from 36.2% in the same period last year. The decline in our operating expenses as a percentage of net sales was driven by the reduction in underlying SG&A spend, partially offset by the negative effect of foreign exchange.
Operating Income
Percentage change versus the prior year period ended July 31
 
 
3 Months
Change in reported operating income
 
 
14
%
Acquisitions and divestitures
 
 
(1
%)
Foreign exchange
 
 
5
%
Estimated net change in distributor inventories
 
 
(6
%)
Change in underlying operating income
 
 
12
%
Note: Totals may differ due to rounding
 
 
 
Operating income of $244 million increased $31 million, or 14%, for the three months ended July 31, 2017 compared to the same period last year. Underlying operating income grew 12% after adjusting for (a) the net effect of acquisitions and divestitures, (b) the negative effect of foreign exchange, and (c) the estimated net increase in distributor inventories. The same factors that contributed to the growth in underlying gross profit also contributed to the growth in underlying operating income, partially offset by an increase in total underlying operating expenses.
For the three months ended July 31, 2017, operating margin increased 150 basis points to 33.7%, from 32.2% in the same period last year. The increase in our operating margin was driven by the reduction in underlying SG&A spend, partially offset by the negative effect of foreign exchange.
The effective tax rate in the three months ended July 31, 2017 was 22.1% compared to 28.2% for the same period last year. The decrease in our effective tax rate was primarily driven by (a) a reduction in U.S. tax for current and certain prior years on foreign exchange gains in non-U.S. entities due to a change in method of accounting for U.S. tax purposes, and (b) an increase in the beneficial impact of the excess tax benefits from stock-based awards. We expect our full year effective tax rate to be approximately 28% based on the tax rate of 29.0% on ordinary income for the full fiscal year as adjusted for known discrete items.
Diluted earnings per share of $0.46 in the three months ended July 31, 2017 increased 27% from the $0.36 reported for the same period last year. The increase in diluted earnings per share resulted from an increase in reported operating income, the benefit of a lower effective tax rate, and a reduction in shares outstanding.

Liquidity and Financial Condition
Cash flows. Cash and cash equivalents increased $56 million during the three months ended July 31, 2017, compared to an increase of $196 million during the same period last year. Cash provided by operations of $102 million was down $26 million from the same period last year, reflecting a higher seasonal increase in working capital offset partially by higher earnings. Cash used for investing activities was $28 million during the three months ended July 31, 2017, compared to $324 million for the same prior-year period. The $296 million decrease largely reflects $307 million in cash paid to acquire BenRiach in June 2016, partially offset by a $12 million increase in capital spending during the current period.
Cash used for financing activities was $31 million during the three months ended July 31, 2017, compared to $398 million in cash provided by financing activities during the same prior-year period. The $429 million change largely reflects a $717 million decrease in proceeds from long-term debt, partially offset by a $200 million decline in share repurchases and an $88 million increase in net proceeds from short-term borrowings.

The impact on cash and cash equivalents as a result of exchange rate changes was an increase of $13 million for the three months ended July 31, 2017, compared to a decline of $6 million for the same period last year.
Liquidity. We continue to manage liquidity conservatively to meet current obligations, fund capital expenditures, maintain dividends, and repurchase shares from time to time while reserving adequate debt capacity for acquisition opportunities.
In addition to our cash and cash equivalent balances, we have access to several liquidity sources to supplement our cash flow from operations. One of those sources is our $800 million commercial paper program that we regularly use to fund our short-term credit needs and to maintain our access to the capital markets. During the three months ended July 31, 2017, our

25


commercial paper borrowings averaged $486 million, with an average maturity of 29 days and an average interest rate of 1.15%. Commercial paper outstanding was $208 million at April 30, 2017, and $253 million at July 31, 2017.
Our commercial paper program is supported by available commitments under our currently undrawn $800 million bank credit facility that matures on November 20, 2018. Further, we believe that the markets for investment-grade bonds and private placements are accessible sources of long-term financing that could meet any additional liquidity needs. Although unlikely, under extreme market conditions, one or more participating banks may not be able to fully fund its commitments under our credit facility.
We have high credit standards when initiating transactions with counterparties, and we closely monitor our counterparty risks with respect to our cash balances and derivative contracts. If a counterparty’s credit quality were to deteriorate below our credit standards, we would expect either to liquidate exposures or require the counterparty to post appropriate collateral.
As of July 31, 2017, we had total cash and cash equivalents of $238 million. Of this amount, $180 million was held by foreign subsidiaries whose earnings we expect to reinvest indefinitely outside of the United States. We do not expect to need the cash generated by those foreign subsidiaries to fund our domestic operations. In the unforeseen event that we were to repatriate cash from those foreign subsidiaries, we would be required to provide for and pay U.S. taxes on permanently repatriated earnings.
As announced on July 27, 2017, our Board of Directors declared a regular quarterly cash dividend of $0.1825 per share on our Class A and Class B common stock. Stockholders of record on September 7, 2017, will receive the cash dividend on October 2, 2017.
We believe our current liquidity position is strong and sufficient to meet all of our future financial commitments. A quantitative covenant of our $800 million bank credit facility requires the ratio of consolidated EBITDA (as defined in the agreement) to consolidated interest expense to be at least 3 to 1. As of July 31, 2017, with a ratio of 17 to 1, we were well within the covenant’s parameters.
Item 3.  Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk
We are exposed to market risks arising from adverse changes in (a) foreign exchange rates, (b) commodity prices affecting the cost of our raw materials and energy, and (c) interest rates. We try to manage risk through a variety of strategies, including production initiatives and hedging strategies. Our foreign currency hedging contracts are subject to changes in exchange rates, our commodity forward purchase contracts are subject to changes in commodity prices, and some of our debt obligations are subject to changes in interest rates. Established procedures and internal processes govern the management of these market risks. Since April 30, 2017, there have been no material changes to the disclosure on this matter made in our 2017 Form 10-K.

Item 4.  Controls and Procedures
Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures. Our management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Chief Financial Officer (CFO) (our principal executive and principal financial officers), has evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (Exchange Act)) as of the end of the period covered by this report. Based on that evaluation, our CEO and CFO concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures: are effective to ensure that information required to be disclosed by the company in the reports filed or submitted under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms; and include controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by the company in such reports is accumulated and communicated to the company’s management, including the CEO and the CFO, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting. There has been no change in our internal control over financial reporting during the most recent fiscal quarter that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.


26



PART II - OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1. Legal Proceedings
We operate in a litigious environment and we are sued in the normal course of business. We do not anticipate that any currently pending suits will have, individually or in the aggregate, a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations, or liquidity.

Item 1A. Risk Factors
In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report, you should carefully consider the risks and uncertainties discussed in Part I, Item 1A. Risk Factors in our 2017 Form 10-K, which could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition or future results. There have been no material changes to the risk factors disclosed in our 2017 Form 10-K.

Item 2.  Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds 
The following table provides information about shares of our common stock that we acquired during the quarter ended July 31, 2017:
Period
Total Number of Shares Purchased
Average Price Paid per Share
Total Number of Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Plans or Programs
Approximate Dollar Value of Shares that May Yet Be Purchased under the Plans or Programs
May 1, 2017 – May 31, 2017
23,904

$
48.06

—

$
—

June 1, 2017 – June 30, 2017
—

$
—

—

$
—

July 1, 2017 – July 31, 2017
1,054

$
49.38

—

$
—

Total
24,958

$
48.12

—

 
The shares presented in the above table were acquired from employees to satisfy income tax withholdings triggered by the vesting of restricted shares.

Item 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities
None.

Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures
Not applicable.

Item 5. Other Information
None.

27



Item 6.  Exhibits
The following documents are filed with this Report:
31.1
 
CEO Certification pursuant to Section 302 of Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
31.2
 
CFO Certification pursuant to Section 302 of Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
32
 
CEO and CFO Certification pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (not considered to be filed).
101
 
The following materials from Brown-Forman Corporation's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended July 31, 2017, formatted in XBRL (eXtensible Business Reporting Language): (a) Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations, (b) Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income, (c) Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets, (d) Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows, and (e) Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.



28



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.


 
 
BROWN-FORMAN CORPORATION
 
 
(Registrant)
 
 
 
 
Date:
August 30, 2017
By:
/s/ Jane C. Morreau
 
 
 
Jane C. Morreau
 
 
 
Executive Vice President
and Chief Financial Officer
 
 
 
(On behalf of the Registrant and
as Principal Financial Officer)

29