10-Q 1 a06-14941_110q.htm QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTIONS 13 OR 15(D)

 

 

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

 

Form 10-Q

 

 

QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d)

OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

 

For Quarterly Period Ended May 31, 2006

Commission File Number 001-14920

 

McCORMICK & COMPANY, INCORPORATED

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

MARYLAND

 

52-0408290

(State or other jurisdiction of

 

(I.R.S. Employer

incorporation or organization)

 

Identification No.)

 

 

 

18 Loveton Circle, P. O. Box 6000, Sparks, MD

 

21152-6000

(Address of principal executive offices)

 

(Zip Code)

 

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code (410) 771-7301

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 filing requirements for the past 90 days.  Yes x   No o

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.

Large Accelerated Filer x      Accelerated Filer o      Non-Accelerated Filer o

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).

Yes o  No x

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

 

Shares Outstanding

 

 

May 31, 2006

Common Stock

 

13,699,503

 

 

 

Common Stock Non-Voting

 

118,142,107

 

 







 

PART I — FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1   FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

McCORMICK & COMPANY, INCORPORATED
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF INCOME (UNAUDITED)
(in thousands except per share amounts)

 

 

Three months ended

 

Six months ended

 

 

 

May 31,

 

May 31,

 

 

 

2006

 

2005

 

2006

 

2005

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net sales

 

$

639,906

 

$

628,571

 

$

1,249,607

 

$

1,232,195

 

Cost of goods sold

 

389,342

 

387,225

 

759,958

 

762,680

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gross profit

 

250,564

 

241,346

 

489,649

 

469,515

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Selling, general and administrative expense

 

187,347

 

170,864

 

368,975

 

339,775

 

Restructuring charges (credits)

 

8,519

 

(670

)

41,683

 

630

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Operating income

 

54,698

 

71,152

 

78,991

 

129,110

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interest expense

 

12,324

 

11,942

 

25,186

 

23,026

 

Other (income) expense, net

 

(1,775

)

97

 

(2,923

)

43

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income from consolidated operations before income taxes

 

44,149

 

59,113

 

56,728

 

106,041

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income taxes

 

13,068

 

18,916

 

17,093

 

33,933

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income from consolidated operations

 

31,081

 

40,197

 

39,635

 

72,108

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gain on sale of unconsolidated operations

 

26,528

 

 

26,528

 

 

Income from unconsolidated operations

 

4,765

 

3,802

 

12,044

 

9,258

 

Minority interest

 

(730

)

(1,205

)

(2,174

)

(2,537

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income

 

$

61,644

 

$

42,794

 

$

76,033

 

$

78,829

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Earnings per common share — basic

 

$

0.47

 

$

0.32

 

$

0.57

 

$

0.58

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Average shares outstanding — basic

 

132,182

 

134,742

 

132,384

 

135,193

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Earnings per common share — diluted

 

$

0.46

 

$

0.31

 

$

0.56

 

$

0.56

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Average shares outstanding — diluted

 

135,420

 

138,739

 

135,373

 

139,586

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash dividends paid per common share

 

$

0.18

 

$

0.16

 

$

0.36

 

$

0.32

 

 

See notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

3




McCORMICK & COMPANY, INCORPORATED
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET
(in thousands)

 

 

 

May 31,
2006

 

May 31,
2005

 

November 30,
2005

 

 

 

(unaudited)

 

(unaudited)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ASSETS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Current Assets

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents

 

$

74,068

 

$

20,096

 

$

30,263

 

Receivables, net

 

327,066

 

328,117

 

369,277

 

Inventories

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Raw materials and supplies

 

191,379

 

148,643

 

157,005

 

Finished products and work-in process

 

190,484

 

196,638

 

186,999

 

 

 

381,863

 

345,281

 

344,004

 

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

 

49,967

 

45,560

 

56,665

 

Total current assets

 

832,964

 

739,054

 

800,209

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Property, plant and equipment

 

981,744

 

977,089

 

963,883

 

Less: accumulated depreciation

 

(507,045

)

(505,594

)

(494,122

)

Total property, plant and equipment, net

 

474,699

 

471,495

 

469,761

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Goodwill, net

 

721,952

 

674,757

 

663,882

 

Intangible assets, net

 

161,650

 

114,962

 

158,309

 

Prepaid allowances

 

48,480

 

50,078

 

42,301

 

Investments and other assets

 

123,670

 

136,317

 

138,242

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total assets

 

$

2,363,415

 

$

2,186,663

 

$

2,272,704

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Current Liabilities

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Short-term borrowings

 

$

148,696

 

$

194,796

 

$

105,313

 

Current portion of long-term debt

 

2,560

 

226,659

 

739

 

Trade accounts payable

 

174,638

 

167,816

 

198,194

 

Other accrued liabilities

 

377,476

 

293,329

 

394,745

 

Total current liabilities

 

703,370

 

882,600

 

698,991

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Long-term debt

 

462,957

 

271,202

 

463,900

 

Other long-term liabilities

 

283,676

 

197,745

 

280,671

 

Total liabilities

 

1,450,003

 

1,351,547

 

1,443,562

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Minority interest

 

3,359

 

29,128

 

29,190

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Shareholders’ Equity

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Common stock

 

166,274

 

149,272

 

152,823

 

Common stock non-voting

 

253,839

 

222,855

 

234,334

 

Retained earnings

 

384,095

 

375,721

 

385,230

 

Accumulated other comprehensive income

 

105,845

 

58,140

 

27,564

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total shareholders’ equity

 

910,053

 

805,988

 

799,951

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity

 

$

2,363,415

 

$

2,186,663

 

$

2,272,704

 

 

See notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

4




McCORMICK & COMPANY, INCORPORATED
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS (UNAUDITED)
(in thousands)

 

 

 

Six months ended

 

 

 

May 31,

 

 

 

2006

 

2005

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash flows from operating activities

 

 

 

 

 

Net income

 

$

76,033

 

$

78,829

 

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash flow from operating activities:

 

 

 

 

 

Depreciation and amortization

 

39,458

 

35,493

 

Stock-based compensation

 

14,753

 

 

Gain on sale of unconsolidated operations

 

(26,528

)

 

Income from unconsolidated operations

 

(12,044

)

(9,258

)

Changes in operating assets and liabilities

 

(19,708

)

(47,504

)

Dividends from unconsolidated affiliates

 

9,100

 

9,020

 

Net cash flow from operating activities

 

81,064

 

66,580

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash flows from investing activities

 

 

 

 

 

Capital expenditures

 

(33,746

)

(30,316

)

Proceeds from redemption of unconsolidated operations

 

20,000

 

 

Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment

 

298

 

488

 

Net cash flow used in investing activities

 

(13,448

)

(29,828

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash flows from financing activities

 

 

 

 

 

Short-term borrowings, net

 

43,327

 

54,686

 

Long-term debt borrowings

 

198,558

 

5

 

Long-term debt repayments

 

(195,432

)

(352

)

Proceeds from exercised stock options

 

25,235

 

28,983

 

Common stock acquired by purchase

 

(60,393

)

(120,732

)

Dividends paid

 

(47,710

)

(43,337

)

Net cash flow used in financing activities

 

(36,415

)

(80,747

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents

 

12,604

 

(6,244

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

 

43,805

 

(50,239

)

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period

 

30,263

 

70,335

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period

 

$

74,068

 

$

20,096

 

 

See notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

5




McCORMICK & COMPANY, INCORPORATED
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Unaudited)

1.                             ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Basis of Presentation

The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the instructions to Form 10-Q and do not include all the information and notes required by United States generally accepted accounting principles for complete financial statements. In our opinion, the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements contain all adjustments, which are of a normal and recurring nature, necessary to present fairly the financial position and the results of operations for the interim periods.

The results of consolidated operations for the three and six month periods ended May 31, 2006 are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the full year. Historically, our consolidated sales and net income are lower in the first half of the fiscal year and increase in the second half. The increase in sales and earnings in the second half of the year is mainly due to the U.S. consumer business cycle, where customers purchase more products in the fourth quarter holiday season.

For further information, refer to the consolidated financial statements and notes included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended November 30, 2005.

Accounting and Disclosure Changes

In March 2005, the FASB issued Interpretation No. 47, “Accounting for Conditional Asset Retirement Obligations.” Interpretation No. 47 is effective no later than the end of our 2006 fiscal year. We do not expect that there will be a material effect upon adoption of this statement.

In November 2004, the FASB issued SFAS No. 151, “Inventory Costs,” which was adopted in the first quarter of our 2006 fiscal year. There was no material effect upon adoption of this statement.

Reclassifications

Certain amounts in the prior year have been reclassified to conform to the current year presentation. The effect of these reclassifications is not material to the condensed consolidated financial statements.

6




2.                             STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION

In the first quarter of 2006, we adopted SFAS No. 123(R), “Share-Based Payment.”  This statement requires us to expense the fair value of grants of various stock-based compensation programs over the vesting period of the awards. We elected to adopt the “Modified Prospective Application” transition method which does not result in the restatement of previously issued financial statements. Compensation expense is measured and recognized beginning in 2006 as follows:

Awards granted after November 30, 2005 — Awards are measured at their fair value at date of grant. The resulting compensation expense is recognized in the income statement ratably over the vesting period of the award. However, if the employee becomes eligible for retirement during the vesting period, the compensation expense is recognized ratably only until the retirement eligibility date. For employees eligible for retirement on the date of grant, compensation expense is recognized immediately.

Awards granted prior to November 30, 2005 — Awards were measured at their fair value at the date of original grant. Compensation expense associated with the unvested portion of these options at December 1, 2005 is recognized in the income statement ratably over the remaining vesting period without regard to the employee’s retirement eligibility. Upon retirement, any unrecognized compensation expense will be recognized immediately.

For all grants, the amount of compensation expense to be recognized is adjusted for an estimated forfeiture rate which is based on historical data.

For the three and six months ended May 31, 2006, we recognized $5.0 million and $13.7 million, respectively, of compensation expense in selling, general and administrative expense. These amounts included $0.4 million and $5.1 million for the three and six months ended May 31, 2006, respectively, for expenses associated with grants in 2006 to individuals who were eligible for retirement on or before the grant date. Additionally, during the six months ended May 31, 2006, we recognized $1.1 million of expense in restructuring charges representing the acceleration of vesting in accordance with the provisions of the award for employees who are part of our severance charges (see Note 3). During the second quarter of 2006 the amount recognized in restructuring charges representing the acceleration of vesting was insignificant. No stock compensation expense was charged against income in the prior years as we elected to apply the provisions of APB No. 25 to those periods.

SFAS No. 123(R) also requires that the tax benefit from the exercise of options in excess of the compensation expense recognized for those options be reflected in the statement of cash flows as a cash inflow from financing activities. Prior to the adoption of SFAS No. 123(R), these tax benefits had been reflected as a cash inflow from operations. The prior year

7




statement of cash flows has not been restated. The excess tax benefit from the exercise of options was $4.4 million during the six months ended May 31, 2006, and $9.9 million during the six months ended May 31, 2005.

We have two types of stock-based compensation awards:  restricted stock units (“RSU’s”) and stock options, including grants under an employee stock purchase plan (“ESPP”). Below, we have summarized the key terms and methods of valuation for our stock-based compensation awards:

RSU’s

RSU’s are valued at the market price of the underlying stock on the date of grant. Substantially all of the RSU’s vest over a two-year term and are expensed ratably over that period, subject to the retirement eligibility rules.

Stock Options

ESPP — We have an ESPP, approved by the Board of Directors and stockholders, which enables employees to purchase McCormick common stock non-voting at the lower of the stock price at the grant date or purchase date. This plan has a two-year term and is expensed immediately on the date of grant since employees can purchase the full amount of stock upon grant. Historically, we have adopted a new ESPP upon the expiration of an existing plan.

We value our ESPP using the Black-Scholes option pricing model which incorporates the assumptions noted in the table below. We use the Black-Scholes model as opposed to a lattice pricing model since employee exercise patterns are not relevant to this plan. The major assumptions in this model are based on historical data. The risk-free interest rate is based on the U.S. Treasury two-year rate in effect at the time of grant.

Other Option Plans — Stock options are granted with an exercise price equal to the market price of the stock at the date of grant. Substantially all of the options granted are exercisable pursuant to a four-year vesting schedule.

Beginning in the 2005 fiscal year, the fair value of the options was estimated using a lattice option pricing model which incorporates the assumptions noted in the table below. We believe the lattice model provides a better estimated fair value of our options as it can incorporate a range of possible outcomes over an option term and can be adjusted for changes in certain assumptions over time. Expected volatilities are based on the historical performance of our stock. We also use historical data to estimate the timing and amount of option exercises and forfeitures within the valuation model. The expected term of the options is derived from the output of the option pricing model and represents the period of time that options are expected to remain unexercised. The risk-free interest rate for periods

8




within the contractual life of the option is based on the U.S. Treasury yield curve in effect at the time of grant. Previously, we valued our stock options using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. In 2005, the Black-Scholes model would have produced a fair value that was approximately 15% higher than the lattice model.

Under our stock option plans, we may issue shares on a net basis at the request of the option holder. This occurs when the option price is settled by tendering outstanding shares owned by the option holder.

The fair values of grants in the stated periods were computed using the following range of assumptions for our various stock compensation plans for the three and six months ended May 31,:

 

 

Three and six months
ended May 31,
2006

 

Three and six months
ended May 31,
2005

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Risk-free interest rates

 

4.5 – 4.7%

 

2.4 – 4.2%

 

Dividend yield

 

2.0%

 

1.7%

 

Expected volatility

 

18.2 – 25.6%

 

12.4 – 20.5%

 

Expected lives

 

5.4

 

5.9

 

 

The following is a summary of all option activity for the six months ended May 31, 2006:

 

(shares in thousands)

 

Number
of
Shares

 

Weighted-
Average
Exercise
Price

 

Aggregate
Intrinsic
Value

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Outstanding at November 30, 2005

 

17,466

 

$

24.58

 

 

 

Granted

 

555

 

32.96

 

 

 

Exercised

 

1,059

 

19.77

 

 

 

Forfeited

 

118

 

32.87

 

 

 

Outstanding at May 31, 2006

 

16,844

 

25.10

 

$

128,873

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Exercisable at May 31, 2006

 

12,138

 

$

22.34

 

$

126,334

 

 

The following is a summary of our outstanding stock options at May 31, 2006:

 

(shares in thousands)

 

 

 

Options outstanding

 

Options exercisable

 

Range of exercise price

 

 

 

Shares

 

Weighted-
average
remaining
life (yrs)

 

Weighted-
average
exercise
price

 

Shares

 

Weighted-
average
exercise
price

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

$11.00-$17.84

 

2,365

 

3.0

 

$

13.93

 

2,365

 

$

13.93

 

$17.85-$24.68

 

7,577

 

5.1

 

$

20.88

 

6,797

 

$

20.72

 

$24.69-$31.51

 

3,717

 

7.0

 

$

30.54

 

2,014

 

$

30.53

 

$31.52-$38.35

 

3,185

 

7.6

 

$

37.08

 

962

 

$

37.29

 

 

 

16,844

 

5.9

 

$

25.10

 

12,138

 

$

22.34

 

 

9




For the three and six months ended May 31, 2006, the weighted-average grant-date fair value of an option granted was $7.89 and $7.47, respectively. The total intrinsic value, the difference between the exercise price and the market price on the date of exercise, of all options exercised during the three and six months ended May 31, 2006 was approximately $10.4 million and $14.5 million, respectively. Total unrecognized compensation expense from stock options at May 31, 2006 was $23.5 million which is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 1.5 years.

The following is the status of our RSU’s as of May 31, 2006, including changes during the six months ended May 31, 2006:

 

(in thousands, except per share data)

 

Number
of
Shares

 

Weighted-
Average
Grant-Date
Fair Value

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

RSU’s outstanding at November 30, 2005

 

 

 

Granted

 

290

 

$

32.87

 

Vested

 

 

 

Forfeited

 

4

 

32.82

 

RSU’s outstanding at May 31, 2006

 

286

 

$

32.87

 

 

As of May 31, 2006, there was approximately $5.3 million of total unrecognized compensation expense from RSU’s. That cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 1.3 years.

In the prior year, we applied the intrinsic value based method of accounting for stock options prescribed by APB No. 25. Accordingly, no compensation expense was recognized for these stock options since all options granted have an exercise price equal to the market value of the underlying stock on the grant date. If compensation expense had been recognized based on the estimate of the fair value of each option granted in accordance with the provisions of SFAS No. 123 as amended by SFAS No. 148, our net income would have been reduced to the following pro forma amounts as follows:

 

 

 

Three months ended

 

Six months ended

 

 

 

May 31,

 

May 31,

 

 

 

2005

 

2005

 

 

 

(in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income as reported

 

$

42,794

 

$

78,829

 

Add: stock based employee compensation expense recorded, net of tax

 

49

 

124

 

Deduct: pro forma stock based employee compensation expense, net of tax

 

(3,253

)

(7,238

)

Pro forma net income

 

$

39,590

 

$

71,715

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Earnings per common share:

 

 

 

 

 

Basic — as reported

 

$

0.32

 

$

0.58

 

Basic — pro forma

 

$

0.29

 

$

0.53

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Diluted — as reported

 

$

0.31

 

$

0.56

 

Diluted — pro forma

 

$

0.29

 

$

0.51

 

 

10




Pro forma compensation expense recognized under SFAS No. 123 does not consider potential forfeitures and amortizes the compensation expense for retiree eligible individuals over the vesting period without consideration to acceleration of vesting for retirement eligible employees. These computational differences and the differences in the terms and nature of 2006 stock-based compensation awards create incomparability between the pro forma stock compensation presented above and the stock compensation recognized in 2006.

3.                             RESTRUCTURING ACTIVITIES

In November of 2005, the Board of Directors approved a restructuring plan which is intended to consolidate our global manufacturing, rationalize our distribution facilities, improve our go-to-market strategy, eliminate administrative redundancies and rationalize our joint venture partnerships. We originally estimated pre-tax charges of $130-$150 million under this program. However, after considering the $33.7 million pre-tax gain on Signature (see discussion below) and other refinements to the estimates, we now anticipate pre-tax charges of $110-$130 million for this program. The segment breakdown of the total charges is expected to be approximately 65% related to the consumer segment and 35% related to the industrial segment. Of these charges, we expect approximately $75-$85 million will consist of severance and other personnel costs and $40-$45 million of other exit costs. Asset write-offs are expected to be $30-$35 million, offset by the gain on Signature of $34 million. We expect the cash related portion of the charges will be approximately $85 - $100 million, of which approximately $60 million is expected to be spent in 2006. The actions being taken are expected to reduce our global workforce by 800-1,000 over the three-year period.

We estimate $50 million ($34 million after-tax) of annual cost savings will be achieved by 2008 as a result of the restructuring plan with $10 million ($7 million after-tax) to be realized in 2006. We expect that this will improve margins and increase earnings per share. We will invest a portion of these cost savings in sales growth drivers such as brand advertising. These savings will be reflected in both cost of sales and selling, general and administrative expenses in the consolidated statement of income.

Joint venture transactions — We participated in two separate joint ventures with the same joint venture partner, Hero A.G. We owned 50% of Signature Brands, L.L.C. (“Signature”) and 51% of Dessert Products International, S.A.S. (“DPI”) with Hero A.G. being the other owner of each of these businesses. Signature is a cake decorating business in the U.S. and DPI markets the Vahine brand of dessert aids in France and other European countries.

11




 

In the second quarter of 2006, we exchanged the remaining 49% share of DPI for our 50% ownership investment in Signature. In addition, we received $20.0 million in cash with this transaction. There is a purchase price adjustment which will be settled in the third quarter of 2006 whereby we will pay $10.8 million in cash to Hero A.G. The purchase price adjustment has been considered in the calculation of the gain on Signature and the purchase price allocation of DPI.

In recording this transaction, we valued both the investment received and the investment given at their fair value. On the disposition of our Signature investment, the fair value of our investment was $56.0 million as compared to our book value of this unconsolidated subsidiary of $21.7 million. After consideration of disposition costs of $0.6 million and taxes of $7.2 million, we recorded a net after-tax gain of $26.5 million which is shown on the line entitled “Gain on sale of unconsolidated operations” in our income statement. On the acquisition of the 49% minority interest of DPI, the fair value of these shares was assessed at $46.9 million. Since this business was consolidated, the book value of this 49% share was shown as $29.9 million of minority interest on our balance sheet. After consideration of disposition costs of $0.7 million, we preliminarily allocated $17.7 million to goodwill.

This action is part of our plan to simplify our joint venture structure under the restructuring program and focus on those areas we believe have strong growth potential.

Other Restructuring Costs — In the fourth quarter of 2005, we recorded $10.7 million ($7.2 million after-tax) of charges as a result of actions taken under the restructuring plan, of which $10.5 million related to the consumer segment and $0.2 million related to the industrial segment. These charges included certain severance costs associated with the closing of our consumer manufacturing plant in Salinas, California, closing costs for a small plant in Belgium and costs associated with the reorganization of the sales and distribution networks in the U.S. and Europe.

During the three months ended May 31, 2006, we recorded restructuring charges, exclusive of the gain on Signature, of $13.0 million ($7.7 million after-tax), of which $8.5 million is reflected in restructuring charges and $4.5 million is reflected in cost of goods sold in our income statement. We recorded $5.1 million of severance costs associated with our closure of our business in Finland and reorganization of administrative functions in Europe. In addition, we recorded $3.4 million of other exit costs, primarily contract termination costs associated with customers and distributors in connection with the closure of the business in Finland. The $4.5 million of restructuring charges for asset write-downs was all recorded in cost of goods sold and is primarily accelerated depreciation related to the closure of manufacturing facilities in Salinas, California and Hunt Valley,

12




Maryland. Of the expected global workforce reduction of 800-1,000 employees, approximately 580 employees have been notified, of which the majority are expected to leave in 2006.

During the six months ended May 31, 2006, we recorded restructuring charges, exclusive of the gain on Signature, of $46.4 million ($30.5 million after-tax), of which $41.7 million is reflected in restructuring charges and $4.7 million is reflected in cost of goods sold in our income statement. We recorded $36.2 million of severance costs and special early retirement benefits associated with our voluntary separation program in several functions in the U.S.; closures of manufacturing facilities in Salinas, California, Hunt Valley, Maryland, Sydney, Australia and Finland; and reorganization of administrative functions in Europe. In addition, we recorded $5.5 million of other exit costs associated with the consolidation of production facilities and the reorganization of the sales and distribution networks in the U.S. and Europe and contract termination costs associated with customers and distributors in connection with the closure of the business in Finland. The $4.7 million of restructuring charges for asset write-downs was all recorded in cost of goods sold and is primarily accelerated depreciation related to the closure of manufacturing facilities in Salinas, California and Hunt Valley, Maryland. Through the six months ended May 31, 2006, $13.3 million in cash has been spent on the restructuring plan. From inception of the project in November 2005, $14.8 million in cash has been spent on the restructuring plan.

The major components of the restructuring charges and the remaining accrual balance related to the restructuring plan as of May 31, 2006 follow (in thousands):

 

 

 

Severance
and personnel
costs

 

Asset
related charges

 

Other
Exit costs

 

Total

 

Balance at Nov 30, 2005

 

$

8,023

 

$

 

$

649

 

$

8,672

 

First Quarter 2006:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Restructuring charges

 

31,044

 

214

 

2,120

 

33,378

 

Amounts utilized

 

(3,151

)

(214

)

(2,484

)

(5,849

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Balance at Feb 28, 2006

 

35,916

 

 

285

 

36,201

 

Second Quarter 2006:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Restructuring charges

 

5,122

 

4,488

 

3,397

 

13,007

 

Amounts utilized

 

(7,050

)

(4,488

)

(600

)

(12,138

)

Balance at May 31, 2006

 

$

33,988

 

$

 

$

3,082

 

$

37,070

 

 

During the period, we also recognized a net after-tax gain of $26.5 million on the disposition of our investment in Signature.

13




4.                             EARNINGS PER SHARE

The following table sets forth the reconciliation of average shares outstanding (in thousands):

 

 

 

Three months ended

 

Six months ended

 

 

 

May 31,

 

May 31,

 

 

 

2006

 

2005

 

2006

 

2005

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Average shares outstanding — basic

 

132,182

 

134,742

 

132,384

 

135,193

 

Effect of dilutive securities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Stock options and employee stock purchase plan

 

3,238

 

3,997

 

2,989

 

4,393

 

Average shares outstanding — diluted

 

135,420

 

138,739

 

135,373

 

139,586

 

 

The following table sets forth the common stock activity for the three and six months ended May 31, 2006 and 2005 under the Company’s stock option and employee stock purchase plans and the repurchases of common stock under its stock repurchase program (in thousands):

 

 

 

Three months ended

 

Six months ended

 

 

 

May 31,

 

May 31,

 

 

 

2006

 

2005

 

2006

 

2005

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Shares issued under stock option and employee stock purchase plans

 

755

 

835

 

1,059

 

1,681

 

Shares repurchased in connection with the stock repurchase program

 

1,393

 

2,157

 

1,793

 

3,358

 

 

5.                             COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

The following table sets forth the components of comprehensive income (in thousands):

 

 

 

Three months ended

 

Six months ended

 

 

 

May 31,

 

May 31,

 

 

 

2006

 

2005

 

2006

 

2005

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income

 

$

61,644

 

$

42,794

 

$

76,033

 

$

78,829

 

Other comprehensive income (loss), (net of tax):

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Minimum pension liability adjustment

 

(1,639

)

1,245

 

(2,357

)

1,015

 

Foreign currency translation adjustments

 

65,327

 

(63,142

)

78,712

 

(62,877

)

Derivative financial instruments

 

820

 

(2,313

)

1,924

 

419

 

Comprehensive (loss)/income

 

$

126,152

 

$

(21,416

)

$

154,312

 

$

17,386

 

 

6.                             PENSION AND POSTRETIREMENT BENEFITS

The following table presents the components of our pension expense of the defined benefit plans for the three months ended May 31, 2006 and 2005 (in thousands):

 

 

 

United States

 

International

 

 

 

2006

 

2005

 

2006

 

2005

 

Defined benefit plans

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Service cost

 

$

3,300

 

$

2,977

 

$

1,342

 

$

1,410

 

Interest costs

 

5,530

 

5,165

 

2,038

 

1,905

 

Expected return on plan assets

 

(5,637

)

(5,083

)

(1,731

)

(1,752

)

Amortization of prior service costs

 

24

 

4

 

24

 

19

 

Amortization of transition assets

 

 

 

(1

)

(22

)

Recognized net actuarial loss

 

2,630

 

2,858

 

700

 

315

 

Total pension expense

 

$

5,847

 

$

5,921

 

$

2,372

 

$

1,875

 

 

14




The following table presents the components of our pension expense for the six months ended May 31, 2006 and 2005 (in thousands):

 

 

 

United States

 

International

 

 

 

2006

 

2005

 

2006

 

2005

 

Defined benefit plans

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Service cost

 

$

6,599

 

$

5,954

 

$

2,663

 

$

2,835

 

Interest costs

 

11,061

 

10,330

 

4,044

 

3,830

 

Expected return on plan assets

 

(11,274

)

(10,166

)

(3,436

)

(3,523

)

Amortization of prior service costs

 

47

 

8

 

48

 

37

 

Amortization of transition assets

 

 

 

(3

)

(44

)

Recognized net actuarial loss

 

5,260

 

5,716

 

1,390

 

633

 

Total pension expense

 

$

11,693

 

$

11,842

 

$

4,706

 

$

3,768

 

 

On December 31, 2005, we made a $22 million contribution to our major U.S. pension plan. Contributions to international plans are generally funded throughout the year. Total contributions to our pension plans in 2006 are expected to be approximately $35 million.

The following table presents the components of our other postretirement benefits expense for the three and six months ended May 31, 2006 and 2005 (in thousands):

 

 

Three months ended

 

Six months ended

 

 

 

May 31,

 

May 31,

 

 

 

2006

 

2005

 

2006

 

2005

 

Other postretirement benefits

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Service cost

 

$

896

 

$

881

 

$

1,808

 

$

1,586

 

Interest costs

 

1,418

 

1,169

 

2,816

 

2,508

 

Amortization of prior service costs

 

(284

)

(284

)

(567

)

(567

)

Amortization of (gains)/losses

 

252

 

(77

)

506

 

119

 

Total other postretirement expense

 

$

2,282

 

$

1,689

 

$

4,563

 

$

3,646

 

 

7.                             FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

In March 2006, we entered into interest rate swap contracts for a total notional amount of $100 million to receive interest at 5.20% and pay a variable rate of interest based on three-month LIBOR minus .05%. We designated these swaps, which expire on December 15, 2015, as fair value hedges of the changes in fair value of $100 million of the $200 million 5.20% senior notes due December 15, 2015, which are described below. Any unrealized gain or loss on this swap will be offset by a corresponding increase or decrease in value of the hedged debt. No hedge ineffectiveness is recognized as the interest rate swap’s provisions match the applicable provisions of the debt.

15




In December 2005, we issued $200 million of 5.20% senior notes due in 2015. Net interest payments are fixed at 5.20% until maturity and are payable semiannually in arrears in June and December of each year. The net proceeds of this offering were used to pay down $195 million of long-term debt which matured in the first half of 2006.

8.                             BUSINESS SEGMENTS

We operate in two business segments: consumer and industrial. The consumer and industrial segments manufacture, market and distribute seasoning blends, spices, herbs, coating systems and other flavors throughout the world. Our consumer segment sells to retail outlets, including grocery, mass merchandise, discount and drug stores, and warehouse clubs under a variety of brands, including McCormick and Zatarain’s in the U.S., Ducros, Vahine and Silvo in continental Europe, Club House in Canada, and Schwartz in the U.K. Our industrial segment sells to other food manufacturers and food service customers both directly and indirectly through distributors.

We measure segment performance based on operating income excluding restructuring charges for our restructuring program. The segments are managed separately due to their distinct distribution channels and marketing strategies, however, manufacturing and warehousing are often integrated to maximize cost efficiencies. Because of manufacturing integration for certain products within the segments, products are not sold from one segment to another but rather inventory is transferred at cost.

In the first quarter of 2006, we changed the way we internally manage and report our business segment results as follows:

·                  We now allocate 100% of our selling, general and administrative expenses to the business segments. We believe that this allocation better represents the profitability of our two segments.

·                  The sales and income related to warehouse club customers are now managed in the consumer business. Previously, this was managed in the industrial business.

·                  Restructuring charges are managed separately from the business segments and accordingly the segments are measured on operating profit excluding restructuring charges.

In line with these changes, prior year segment results have been restated to be comparable with the current presentation.

16




 

 

 

Consumer

 

Industrial

 

Total

 

 

 

(in thousands)

 

Three months ended May 31, 2006

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net sales

 

$

350,054

 

$

289,852

 

$

639,906

 

Restructuring charges

 

8,698

 

4,309

 

13,007

 

Operating income excluding restructuring charges

 

48,808

 

18,897

 

67,705

 

Income from unconsolidated operations

 

3,771

 

994

 

4,765

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Three months ended May 31, 2005

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net sales

 

$

343,971

 

$

284,600

 

$

628,571

 

Restructuring charges (credits)

 

(481

)

(189

)

(670

)

Operating income excluding restructuring charges

 

53,371

 

17,111

 

70,482

 

Income from unconsolidated operations

 

2,957

 

845

 

3,802

 

 

 

 

 

Consumer

 

Industrial

 

Total

 

 

 

(in thousands)

 

Six months ended May 31, 2006

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net sales

 

$

694,818

 

$

554,789

 

$

1,249,607

 

Restructuring charges

 

30,035

 

16,350

 

46,385

 

Operating income excluding restructuring charges

 

95,013

 

30,363

 

125,376

 

Income from unconsolidated operations

 

10,297

 

1,747

 

12,044

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Six months ended May 31, 2005

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net sales

 

$

684,515

 

$

547,680

 

$

1,232,195

 

Restructuring charges

 

442

 

188

 

630

 

Operating income excluding restructuring charges

 

105,216

 

24,524

 

129,740

 

Income from unconsolidated operations

 

7,607

 

1,651

 

9,258

 

 

The reconciliation of operating income excluding restructuring charges to operating income for the quarters ended May 31, 2006 and 2005 is as follows:

 

 

Three months ended
May 31, 2006

 

Three months ended
May 31, 2005

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Operating income excluding restructuring charges

 

$

67,705

 

$

70,482

 

Restructuring charges (credits)

 

13,007

 

(670

)

Operating income

 

54,698

 

71,152

 

 

 

Six months ended
May 31, 2006

 

Six months ended
May 31, 2005

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Operating income excluding restructuring charges

 

$

125,376

 

$

129,740

 

Restructuring charges

 

46,385

 

630

 

Operating income

 

78,991

 

129,110

 

 

9.                             SUBSEQUENT EVENTS

On June 27, 2006, we purchased the assets of Epicurean International for $97 million in cash. This business operates predominately in North America and will be included in our consumer segment. This business develops, imports and markets a line of authentic, easy-to-prepare Asian products under the Thai Kitchen® and Simply Asia® brands and has annual sales of

17




approximately $50 million. Its primary products include noodle and soup bowls, meal kits, coconut milk, and various sauces and pastes.

The $97 million purchase price was funded with commercial paper.

ITEM 2   MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

OVERVIEW

Sales for the second quarter of 2006 rose to $639.9 million, an increase of 1.8% from the second quarter of 2005. Higher volume driven by new products, marketing programs and pricing actions contributed 2.6% to the increase while unfavorable foreign exchange rates reduced sales 0.8%.

Diluted earnings per share for the second quarter of 2006 were $0.46 compared to $0.31 for the second quarter of 2005. Actions related to our restructuring program, including the gain on the sale of unconsolidated operations, increased diluted earnings per share by $0.14 in 2006. Also, beginning in the first quarter of 2006, we adopted SFAS No. 123(R), requiring all stock-based compensation to be expensed. As a result, we recorded $5.0 million of pre-tax compensation expense in the second quarter which reduced earnings per share by $0.02. Higher sales, improved gross profit margin, increased interest income and income from our unconsolidated operations, and lower shares outstanding combined added $0.03 to earnings per share.

Sales for the six months ended May 31, 2006 were $1,249.6 million, an increase of 1.4% from the same period last year. Higher volume driven by new products, marketing programs, and favorable price and product mix contributed 2.9% to the increase while unfavorable foreign exchange rates reduced sales 1.5%.

Diluted earnings per share for the six months ended May 31, 2006 were $0.56 compared to $0.56 for the same period last year. Actions related to our restructuring program, including the gain on the sale of unconsolidated operations, decreased diluted earnings per share by $0.03 in 2006. The impact of adopting SFAS No. 123(R) resulted in $13.7 million of pre-tax compensation expense which reduced earnings per share by an additional $0.07. Higher sales, improved gross profit margin, income from our unconsolidated operations, and lower shares outstanding combined added $0.10 to earnings per share.

For the six months ended May 31, 2006, net cash flow from operating activities was $81.1 million compared to $66.6 million in the same period of 2005. In 2006, we used operating cash flow and additional borrowings to fund $60.4 million of share repurchases and $47.7 million of dividend payments. In 2005, we used operating cash flow and additional borrowings to fund $120.7 million of share repurchases and $43.3 million of dividend payments.

18




RESULTS OF OPERATIONS — SEGMENTS

In the first quarter of 2006, we changed the way we internally manage and report our business segment results.

·                  We now allocate 100% of our selling, general and administrative expenses to the business segments. We believe that this allocation better represents the profitability of our two segments.

·                  The sales and income related to warehouse club customers are now managed in the consumer business. Previously, this was managed in the industrial business.

·                  Restructuring charges are managed separately from the business segments and accordingly the segments are measured on operating profit excluding restructuring charges.

In line with these changes, prior year segment results have been restated to be comparable with the current presentation.

CONSUMER BUSINESS

 

 

Three months ended

 

Six months ended

 

 

 

May 31,

 

May 31,

 

 

 

2006

 

2005

 

2006

 

2005

 

 

 

(in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net sales

 

$

350,054

 

$

343,971

 

$

694,818

 

$

684,515

 

Operating income excluding restructuring charges

 

48,808

 

53,371

 

95,013

 

105,216

 

 

The Company began recording stock-based compensation expense in the first quarter of 2006. Stock compensation expense recorded in the consumer business operating results was $3.1 million in the second quarter and $8.9 million year-to-date.

For the second quarter of 2006, sales from our consumer business increased 1.8% compared to the same period in 2005. This included a decrease of approximately 1% from the reduction of low margin business, mainly in international regions. The negative effect of foreign exchange rates decreased sales 1.1%. Excluding the negative impact of foreign currency exchange, the overall sales increase was mainly due to favorable price, product mix, new products and marketing programs. Led by North America, advertising for the total Company was up 17% this quarter, including support for new products.

 

19




 

In the Americas, sales increased 6.0% in the second quarter of 2006, compared to the second quarter of 2005, with 0.8% of the increase coming from favorable foreign exchange rates. A U.S. price increase was taken early in 2006 to offset the higher costs of energy, packaging and benefits, which contributed to the second quarter sales increase. We increased sales with higher volumes from existing business and the introduction of new products, including Zatarain’s microwaveable complete meals and McCormick Finishing Sauces. Both products are meeting our targets for consumer takeaway. New products launched in fiscal year 2005, such as seasoning mixes for slow cookers contributed to sales growth, along with products marketed to Hispanic consumers. These products marketed to Hispanic consumers, which are sold under the Mojave and McCormick brands continue to grow and accounted for 1% of the second quarter increase in this region.

Second quarter 2006 sales in Europe declined 6.7% compared to the second quarter of 2005. Foreign exchange rates were unfavorable resulting in a 5.0% negative impact on sales. The 1.7% decline in local currency is due to timing around the March 1, 2006 SAP implementation, which caused an increase in first quarter 2006 sales, as well as our decision to exit the business in Finland. We continue to see a stabilization of competitive conditions for our spice category in France at this time.

In the Asia/Pacific region sales declined 0.6% in the second quarter of 2006 compared to the second quarter of 2005. Of this decrease, 1.9% was due to the impact of unfavorable foreign exchange rates. In Australia, sales of spices and seasonings and Aeroplane branded products were strong, but were offset in part by the discontinuation of some low margin contract packing business.

For the six months ended May 31, 2006, sales from McCormick’s consumer business increased 1.5% compared to the same period of 2005. Higher volume, price and product mix added 3.7%, while unfavorable foreign exchange rates reduced sales by 2.2%.

Second quarter 2006 operating income excluding restructuring charges for our consumer business decreased $4.6 million compared to the same period of 2005. This decrease was mainly due to stock-based compensation expense of $3.1 million which we did not record in prior periods, as well as expense increases in SAP implementation costs in Europe, advertising and incentive compensation. Higher sales and operating income in the Americas offset a portion of these expense increases. In addition, the second quarter of 2005 included the impact of an operational accounting adjustment. Operating income margin excluding restructure charges for the second quarter decreased to 13.9% compared to 15.5% in the comparable period last year. These decreases were mostly the result of stock-based compensation expense recorded in 2006 of $3.1 million.

20




In the second quarter of 2006, $8.7 million of restructuring charges were recorded in the consumer business. Of this amount, $3.4 million was for severance costs associated with our voluntary separation program and closure of manufacturing facilities and reorganization of administration in Europe. The remaining $5.3 million of restructuring charges recorded in the second quarter include additional costs associated with the closure of our business in Finland, accelerated depreciation related to the closure of the Salinas California manufacturing facility and costs associated with the reorganization of the sales and distribution networks in the U.S. and Europe.

For the six months ended May 31, 2006, operating income excluding restructuring charges for the consumer business decreased 9.7% compared to the same period of 2005. Operating income margin excluding restructure charges for the six months ended May 31, 2006 decreased to 13.7% compared to 15.4% in the comparable period last year. These decreases were mostly the result of stock-based compensation expense recorded in 2006 of $8.9 million. As was the case in the second quarter, higher profits in the Americas were offset by higher costs for SAP implementation costs in Europe, incentive compensation and $3.0 million of slotting allowances in the first quarter of 2006.

INDUSTRIAL BUSINESS

 

 

Three months ended

 

Six months ended

 

 

 

May 31,

 

May 31,

 

 

 

2006

 

2005

 

2006

 

2005

 

 

 

(in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net sales

 

$

289,852

 

$

284,600

 

$

554,789

 

$

547,680

 

Operating income excluding restructuring charges

 

18,897

 

17,111

 

30,363

 

24,524

 

 

The Company began recording stock-based compensation expense in the first quarter of 2006. Stock compensation expense recorded in the industrial business operating results was $1.8 million in the second quarter and $4.8 million year-to-date.

For the second quarter of 2006, sales for our industrial business increased 1.8% compared to the same period in 2005, while unfavorable foreign exchange rates decreased sales 0.4%. This increase was driven primarily by higher volumes related to new product introductions by our U.S. customers. The reduction of low margin business reduced sales approximately 1.0%. The sales increase in the Americas was partially offset by lower sales in Europe and the Asia/Pacific region.

In the Americas, industrial sales increased 5.3% in the second quarter of 2006 compared to the same period in 2005, with 1.0% from favorable foreign exchange rates. New products drove a portion of this increase and included beverage flavors, products

21




that flavor several new restaurant menu items, and new snack seasonings.  Sales also benefited from a price increase implemented earlier in 2006 for products sold to food service distributors. As with our U.S. consumer business, this price increase was taken to offset higher costs, including energy, packaging and benefits.

In the second quarter of 2006 we experienced very little impact from the elimination of lower margin SKUs and customer rationalization because many of these communications occurred during the second quarter. However, we expect to see a negative sales impact from these actions beginning in the second half of 2006 for our industrial sales in the Americas, but less of an impact on profits.

In Europe, sales declined 6.4% in the second quarter of 2006 compared to the same period of 2005, which resulted primarily from an unfavorable foreign exchange rate impact of 5.5%. The remaining decrease was primarily due to the reduction of lower margin products. In this region, between 2003 and 2005, we reduced our SKU count by 40%. In 2006, we are targeting another 10% of SKU reductions which will continue to impact sales, but have minimal profit impact.

In the Asia/Pacific region, industrial sales declined 8.2% in the second quarter of 2006 compared to the second quarter of 2005. Favorable foreign exchange rates increased sales 0.5%. The main reason for this decline is the discontinued supply of certain low margin products in Australia, which began in the first quarter. In China, we have continued to grow sales to both food service customers and food manufacturers. While industrial sales in the Asia/Pacific region were down in the first six months of 2006, operating income was up due to a more positive mix of products sold.

For the six months ended May 31, 2006, total industrial sales increased 1.3% compared to the same period last year, with 2.1% from favorable pricing, product mix and volumes and 0.8% from unfavorable foreign exchange rates.

In the second quarter of 2006, industrial business operating income excluding restructuring charges increased $1.8 million compared to the second quarter of 2005. Stock-based compensation of $1.8 million was recorded in the second quarter of 2006 with no corresponding expense in 2005. Operating income in the second quarter was driven by higher sales, offset in part by increases in incentive compensation and the SAP implementation. In addition, the second quarter of 2005 included the impact of an operational accounting adjustment. Operating income margin excluding restructure charges for the second quarter increased to 6.5% compared to 6.0% in the comparable period last year. The increase is primarily the result of the factors discussed above, partially offset by stock-based compensation expense recorded in 2006 of $1.8 million.

22




In the second quarter of 2006, $4.3 million of restructuring charges were recorded in the industrial business. Of this amount, $1.7 million was for severance costs associated with our voluntary separation program and closure of a manufacturing facility. The remaining $2.6 million of restructuring charges recorded in the second quarter of 2006 include other exit costs associated with the consolidation of production facilities and accelerated depreciation related to the closure of manufacturing facilities.

For the six months ended May 31, 2006, operating income excluding restructuring charges for the industrial business increased 23.8% compared to the same period of 2005. Operating income margin excluding restructure charges for the six months ended May 31, 2006 increased to 5.5% compared to 4.5% in the comparable period last year. The increase is primarily the result of the factors discussed above, partially offset by stock-based compensation expense recorded in 2006 of $4.8 million. In addition, in the first quarter of 2005, the industrial business was negatively impacted by a supply of high cost vanilla beans.

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - COMPANY

Gross profit margin (gross profit as a percentage of sales) for the second quarter of 2006 increased to 39.2% compared to 38.4% in the same period last year. The increase is attributable to pricing actions and cost savings initiatives. The gross profit margin in the second quarter of 2005 was adversely affected by an operational accounting adjustment related to a condiment operation in the U.K. Likewise, in the second quarter of 2006, cost of goods sold included $4.5 million of restructuring charges that lowered gross profit margin by 0.7%. Gross profit margin for the six months ended May 31, 2006 was 39.2% compared to 38.1% for the same period last year. In the first half of 2005, gross profit margin was negatively impacted by higher costs of vanilla and an operational accounting adjustment related to our European Industrial operations in the U.K. In addition to an improvement in vanilla margins for our industrial business, we benefited from pricing actions and our cost savings initiatives.

Selling, general and administrative expenses increased in the second quarter of 2006 as compared to the same period of the prior year in dollars and as a percentage of net sales. Selling, general and administrative expenses as a percentage of sales increased to 29.3% in the second quarter of 2006 from 27.2% in the comparable period of the prior year. This increase included the recognition of stock-based compensation expense ($5.0 million for the second quarter and $13.7 million for six months ended May 31, 2006) in accordance with the adoption of SFAS 123(R) effective December 1, 2005. In addition, our incentive compensation increased in line with our improved operating results, we

23




increased advertising for new products and incurred SAP implementation costs in Europe. For the six months ended May 31, 2006, selling, general and administrative expenses as a percentage of sales increased to 29.5% from 27.6% as a result of the same items noted above.

Interest expense increased in the second quarter of 2006 and for the six months ended May 31, 2006 by $0.4 million and $2.2 million, respectively, compared to the same periods last year due to higher average short-term rates.

The effective tax rate for the quarter ended May 31, 2006 was 29.6% versus 32.0% for the quarter ended May 31, 2005. The 2006 tax rate includes $1.1 million of additional tax benefits related to the closure of a manufacturing facility in Finland and a very small facility in Uruguay. Excluding the effect of these additional tax benefits, the tax rate for 2006 is estimated to be 32%.

Income from unconsolidated operations for the second quarter of 2006 increased by $1.0 million to $4.8 million compared to the same period in 2005. This improvement was primarily driven by higher sales and higher income from our joint venture in Mexico. Strong mayonnaise sales and moderate soybean oil prices contributed to the continued improved performance in this joint venture. For the six months ended May 31, 2006, income from unconsolidated operations increased by $2.8 million to $12.0 million compared to the same period in 2005 for the same reason noted above.

RESTRUCTURING CHARGES

As part of our plan to improve margins, we announced in September 2005 significant actions to improve the effectiveness of our supply chain and reduce costs. At that time, we also stated that a comprehensive review of our global industrial business was underway to identify improvements. These actions were included in the comprehensive restructuring plan which the Board of Directors approved in November 2005. As part of this plan, over the next three years, we will consolidate our global manufacturing, rationalize our distribution facilities, improve our go-to-market strategy, eliminate administrative redundancies and rationalize our joint venture partnerships. In addition, for the industrial business, we will reallocate resources to key customers and take pricing actions on lower volume products to meet new margin targets. A new business-wide forecasting process is being installed and the use of technology will be accelerated to monitor and manage the business. Through 2008, these actions are intended to reduce the number of industrial business customers and products in the U.S. by approximately 25%. Sales related to these customers and products represent approximately 2-5% of industrial business sales in the U.S. As these sales have minimal profit, this reduction is expected to lead to higher margins. These reductions will also lead to the consolidation of certain manufacturing facilities.

24




We expect that the restructuring plan will reduce complexity and increase the organizational focus on growth opportunities in both the consumer and industrial businesses. In addition, we are projecting $50 million ($34 million after-tax) of annual cost savings by 2008. In 2006, we expect to realize $10 million ($7 million after-tax) of savings and estimate that another $30 million ($20.4 million after-tax) will be realized in 2007. We expect that this will improve margins and increase earnings per share, as well as allow us to invest a portion of these savings in sales growth drivers such as brand advertising. These savings are expected to be reflected in both cost of sales and selling, general and administrative expenses in the income statement.

Total pre-tax charges under this restructuring plan are estimated to be $110-$130 million with approximately 65% related to the consumer segment and 35% related to the industrial segment. We originally estimated pre-tax charges of $130-$150 million under this program. However, after considering the $33.7 million pre-tax gain on Signature and other refinements to the estimates, we now anticipate pre-tax charges of $110-$130 million for this program. Of these charges, we expect that approximately $75-$85 million will consist of severance and other personnel costs and $40-$45 million of other exit costs. Asset write-offs are expected to be $30-$35 million, offset by the gain on Signature of $34 million. In the fourth quarter of 2005, $10.7 million ($7.2 million after tax) of charges were recorded, of which $10.5 million related to our consumer business. These charges included certain severance costs associated with the closing of our manufacturing plant in Salinas, California, closing costs for a small plant in Belgium and costs associated with reorganization of the sales and distribution networks in the U.S. and Europe. Following the $10.7 million charge recorded in 2005, we expect to record up to $60 million during the 2006 fiscal year. The remaining portion will be incurred approximately 60% in 2007 and 40% in 2008. For the total plan, the cash related portion of the charges will be approximately $85-$100 million, of which approximately $60 million will be spent in 2006. We intend to fund this spending through internally generated funds. A significant portion of the cash expenditures will be related to employee severance. The actions being taken pursuant to the restructuring plan are expected to reduce our global workforce by 800-1,000 over the three-year period. Of the expected global workforce reduction of 800-1,000 employees, approximately 580 employees have been notified, of which the majority are expected to leave in 2006.

Joint venture transactions — We participated in two separate joint ventures with the same joint venture partner, Hero A.G. We owned 50% of Signature Brands, L.L.C. (“Signature”) and 51% of Dessert Products International, S.A.S. (“DPI”) with Hero A.G. being the other owner of each of these businesses. Signature is a cake decorating business in the U.S. and DPI markets the Vahine brand of dessert aids in France and other European countries.

25




In the second quarter of 2006, we exchanged the remaining 49% share of DPI for our 50% ownership investment in Signature. In addition, we received $20.0 million in cash with this transaction. There is a purchase price adjustment which will be settled in the third quarter of 2006 whereby we will pay $10.8 million in cash to Hero A.G. The purchase price adjustment has been considered in the calculation of the gain on Signature and the purchase price allocation of DPI.

In recording this transaction, we valued both the investment received and the investment given at their fair value. On the disposition of Signature shares, the fair value of the shares was $56.0 million as compared to our book value of this unconsolidated subsidiary of $21.7 million. After consideration of disposition costs of $0.6 million and taxes of $7.2 million, we recorded a net after-tax gain of $26.5 million which is shown on the line entitled “Gain on sale of unconsolidated operations” in our income statement. On the acquisition of the 49% minority interest of DPI, the fair value of these shares was assessed at $46.9 million. Since this business was consolidated, the book value of this 49% share was shown as $29.9 million of minority interest on our balance sheet. After consideration of disposition costs of $0.7 million, we preliminarily allocated $17.7 million to goodwill. The impact of this exchange, excluding the $26.5 million gain, on our ongoing sales and net income is expected to be neutral.

This action is part of our plan to simplify our joint venture structure under the restructuring program and focus on those areas we believe have strong growth potential.

Other Restructuring Costs — During the three and six months ended May 31, 2006, we recorded restructuring charges of $13.0 million ($7.7 million after tax) and $46.4 million ($30.5 million after tax), respectively. The costs recorded during 2006 primarily include severance costs and special early retirement benefits associated with our voluntary separation program in several functions in the U.S. and closures of manufacturing facilities in Salinas, California; Hunt Valley, Maryland; Sydney, Australia and Finland; reorganization of administrative functions in Europe; and accelerated depreciation related to the closure of manufacturing facilities in Salinas and Hunt Valley. In addition, we recorded other exit costs associated with the consolidation of production facilities and the reorganization of the sales and distribution networks in the U.S. and Europe and contract termination costs associated with customers and distributors in connection with the closure of the business in Finland. For the six months ended May 31, 2006, these expenses were classified in restructuring charges ($41.7 million) and cost of goods sold ($4.7 million) in the income statement. Through the six months ended May 31, 2006, $13.3 million in cash has been spent on restructuring charges under the 2005 restructuring plan. This is offset by the $20 million in cash received from the sale of

26




Signature referred to above. From inception of the project in November 2005, $14.8 million in cash has been spent on restructuring charges under the 2005 restructuring plan, also offset by the $20 million in cash received from the sale of Signature.

In our income statement, restructuring charges under this program will be displayed in three lines items. The gain related to our disposition of Signature as described under joint venture transactions is on the line entitled “Gain on sale of unconsolidated operations”. Other restructuring costs are included in restructuring charges and cost of goods sold.

HURRICANE KATRINA

In the fourth quarter of 2005, our Zatarain’s facility in Gretna, Louisiana was impacted by Hurricane Katrina. Zatarain’s has transitioned many of its displaced operations back to the Gretna, Louisiana facility. Because of this continuing transition, we are still experiencing higher costs from co-packers which are expected to taper off during the remainder of 2006. Despite this situation, Zatarain’s was able to launch a major new product initiative and increase sales in the second quarter and six months ended May 31, 2006 compared to the same periods in 2005. We are working with our property and casualty insurance and business interruption insurance carriers regarding possible reimbursement of costs. During the quarter we received a partial reimbursement for certain costs already incurred and will continue to pursue additional reimbursement for business interruption costs. We are unable to predict if we will receive any additional reimbursement or other payments. Consequently, we have not recorded a receivable for these potential claims as of May 31, 2006.

MARKET RISK SENSITIVITY

Foreign Exchange Risk

We manage our foreign currency exchange rate exposure by entering into forward and option foreign currency exchange contracts. The fair value of our portfolio of forward and option contracts included an unrealized loss of $1.2 million as of May 31, 2006, compared to unrealized losses of $0.3 million as of May 31, 2005 and $0.6 million as of November 30, 2005. The notional value of our portfolio of forward and option contracts was $28.9 million as of May 31, 2006, compared to the $27.5 million notional value as of May 31, 2005 and the $24.0 million notional value as of November 30, 2005. The increase in notional value since November 30, 2005 is primarily due to an increase in foreign exchange contracts covering Euro and British pound sterling exposures.

 

27




Interest Rate Risk

We manage our interest rate exposure by entering into both fixed and variable rate debt arrangements. In addition, we use interest rate swaps to minimize worldwide financing costs and to achieve a desired mix of fixed and variable rate debt. As of May 31, 2006, we had a total of $225 million, notional value, of interest rate swap contracts outstanding which are discussed below.

In March 2006, we entered into interest rate swap contracts for a total notional amount of $100 million to receive interest at 5.20% and pay a variable rate of interest based on three-month LIBOR minus .05%. We designated these swaps, which expire on December 15, 2015, as fair value hedges of the changes in fair value of $100 million of the $200 million 5.20% fixed rate senior notes maturing on December 15, 2015. As of May 31, 2006, the fair value of this swap contract was an unrealized loss of $3.0 million, which is offset by a corresponding decrease in value of the hedged debt. Any unrealized gain or loss on this swap will be offset by a corresponding increase or decrease in value of the hedged debt. No hedge ineffectiveness is recognized as the interest rate swap’s provisions match the applicable provisions of the debt.

In March 2005, we entered into forward starting interest rate swaps to manage the interest rate risk associated with the anticipated issuance of $100 million of fixed rate medium-term notes. We issued $200 million of 5.20% fixed rate senior notes in December 2005 under our existing shelf registration statement. These swaps were cash settled upon issuance of the senior notes thereby effectively locking in a fixed interest rate in effect at the time the swaps were initiated. The loss of $0.2 million will be amortized over the 10-year term of the senior notes as interest expense in the income statement.

In April 2004, we entered into a $50 million interest rate swap contract in conjunction with the issuance of $50 million of medium-term notes on the same date. This interest rate swap contract receives interest at 3.36% and pays a variable rate of interest based on six-month LIBOR minus 0.21%. We designated this swap, which expires on April 15, 2009, as a fair value hedge of the changes in fair value of $50 million of medium-term notes maturing on April 15, 2009. As of May 31, 2006, the fair value of this swap contract was an unrealized loss of $2.7 million, which is offset by a corresponding decrease in value of the hedged debt, compared to an unrealized loss of $1.2 million in the same period last year and an unrealized loss of $2.2 million as of November 30, 2005. No hedge ineffectiveness is recognized as the interest rate swap’s provisions match the applicable provisions of the debt.

In August 2003, we entered into interest rate swap contracts for a total notional amount of $100 million to receive interest

28




at 6.4% and pay a variable rate of interest based on six-month LIBOR. We designated these swaps, which expired on February 1, 2006, as fair value hedges of the changes in fair value of $100 million of the $150 million 6.4% fixed rate medium-term note which matured on February 1, 2006.

In July 2001, we entered into interest rate swap contracts for a total notional amount of $75 million to pay a fixed rate of interest of 6.35% and receive a variable rate of interest, based on the six-month LIBOR, for the period from 2001 through 2011. The net effect of the interest rate swap contracts effectively fixes the interest rate of $75 million of commercial paper at 6.35%. As of May 31, 2006 the fair value of these swap contracts was an unrealized loss of $3.0 million compared to an unrealized loss of $9.2 million in the same period last year and an unrealized loss of $5.7 million as of November 30, 2005. We have designated these outstanding interest rate swap contracts as cash flow hedges of the variable interest rate risk associated with $75 million of commercial paper. The unrealized loss on these swap contracts is recorded in other comprehensive income, as we intend to maintain the commercial paper outstanding and hold these swap contracts until maturity. Realized gains or losses are reflected in interest expense in the applicable period. Hedge ineffectiveness associated with these hedges was not material in the quarter.

Credit Risk

The customers of the consumer business are predominantly food retailers and food wholesalers. Consolidations in these industries have created larger customers, some of which are highly leveraged. In addition, competition has increased with the growth in alternative channels, including mass merchandisers, dollar stores, warehouse clubs and discount chains. This has caused some customers to be less profitable. This has increased our exposure to credit risk. Several customers over the past two years have filed for bankruptcy protection. However, these bankruptcies have not had a material effect on our results. We believe that we have adequately provided for these risks in our bad debt allowance.

CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS AND COMMERCIAL COMMITMENTS

As of May 31, 2006, there have been no material changes in our contractual obligations and commercial commitments outside the ordinary course of business since November 30, 2005.

LIQUIDITY AND FINANCIAL CONDITION

In the statement of cash flows, the changes in operating assets and liabilities are presented excluding the translation effects of changes in foreign currency exchange rates, as these do not reflect actual cash flows. Accordingly, the amounts in the statement of cash flows do not agree with changes in the operating assets and liabilities that are presented in the balance sheet.

29




Due to the cyclical nature of the business, we generate much of our cash flow in the fourth quarter of the fiscal year. In the statement of cash flows, net cash from operating activities was $81.1 million for the six months ended May 31, 2006 compared to $66.6 million for the six months ended May 31, 2005. The increase in operating cash flow is primarily the result of an increase in accrued liabilities when compared to the same period last year, offset by an increase in inventories attributable to build-up in anticipation of production transfer from facilities that will be closed, as well as increased purchases of certain raw materials. In 2006 operating cash flow includes a cash outflow of $13.3 million related to the restructuring plan. Operating cash flow in the second half of 2006 will be more adversely affected by the restructuring plan, which is described above.

Net cash flow used in investing activities was $13.4 million for the six months ended May 31, 2006 compared to $29.8 million in the same period last year. This decrease is due to $20 million in cash proceeds received from the redemption of our joint venture. See Footnote 3 of the condensed consolidated financial statements for additional information. We also spent $33.4 million on net capital expenditures (capital expenditures less proceeds from sale of fixed assets) in 2006 compared to $29.8 million for 2005. Net capital expenditures for the fiscal year 2006 are expected to be approximately $90 million which is higher than the preceding two years due to the anticipated capital expenditures under our restructuring plan.

Net cash flow used in financing activities was $36.4 million during for the six months ended May 31, 2006 compared to $80.7 million for the same period last year. This significant change in cash used in financing activities when compared to the prior year is primarily due to a decrease in the number of shares of common stock purchased by us pursuant to our share repurchase plan. We have acquired 1.8 million shares of our common stock for $60.4 million in 2006 under our share repurchase plan compared to 3.4 million shares for $120.7 million in 2005. As of May 31, 2006, $301.7 million remained of the $400 million authorization. In the absence of an acquisition or other unanticipated need for cash, we expect to spend approximately $50 million to repurchase shares during the second half of 2006, bringing our share repurchase for the total year to approximately $110 million. During the six months ended May 31, 2006, we received proceeds of $25.2 million from exercised options compared to $29.0 million in the same period in the prior year. We increased dividends paid by 10.1% to $47.7 million for the six months ended May 31, 2006 compared to $43.3 million in the same period last year. Dividends paid in the first quarter of 2006 were declared on November 22, 2005. During the six months ended May 31, 2006, we issued $200 million of senior notes and used the proceeds to repay $195.4 million of long-term debt.

30




Our ratio of debt-to-total capital (total capital includes debt, minority interest and shareholders’ equity) was 40.2% as of May 31, 2006, down from 45.3% at May 31, 2005 and down from 40.7% at November 30, 2005. The increase in capital due to the favorable foreign currency effect on equity for the first six months of 2006 caused the decrease in debt-to-total capital compared to November 30, 2005. When compared to May 31, 2005, the decrease in debt to capital is due to a reduced level of debt. During a quarter, our short-term debt varies. However, it is usually lower at the end of a quarter. The average short-term borrowings outstanding for the six months ended May 31, 2006 and 2005 was $232.5 million and $276.5 million, respectively. Total average debt outstanding for the six months ended May 31, 2006 and 2005 was $776.8 million and $776.6 million, respectively.

On June 27, 2006, we purchased the assets of Epicurean International for $97 million in cash. The transaction was funded with commercial paper. See Note 9 of the condensed consolidated financial statements for further information.

Following the acquisition of the Epicurean business, we entered into an additional $100 million revolving credit facility to back-up our commercial paper program. We also intend to issue up to $100 million of medium term notes in 2006 to refinance short-term borrowings.

The reported values of our assets and liabilities are significantly affected by fluctuations in foreign exchange rates between periods. At May 31, 2006, the exchange rates for the Euro, British pound sterling and Canadian dollar were higher than the same period last year. Exchange rate fluctuations resulted in an increase in accounts receivable of approximately $10 million, inventory of approximately $6 million, goodwill of approximately $22 million and other comprehensive income of approximately $44 million since May 31, 2005.

Management believes that internally generated funds and the existing sources of liquidity under our credit facilities are sufficient to meet current liquidity needs and longer-term financing requirements. If we were to undertake an acquisition that requires funds in excess of our existing sources of liquidity, we would look to sources of funding from additional credit facilities or debt and/or equity issuances.

ACCOUNTING AND DISCLOSURE CHANGES

In the first quarter of 2006, we adopted SFAS No. 123(R), “Share-Based Payment.”  This statement requires us to expense the fair value of grants of various stock-based compensation programs over the vesting period of the awards. We elected to adopt the “Modified Prospective Application” transition method which does not result in the restatement of previously issued financial statements. Compensation expense is measured and recognized

31




beginning in 2006 as follows:

Awards granted after November 30, 2005 — Awards are measured at their fair value at date of grant. The resulting compensation expense is recognized in the income statement ratably over the vesting period of the award. However, if the employee becomes eligible for retirement during the vesting period, the compensation expense is recognized ratably only until the retirement eligibility date. For employees eligible for retirement on the date of grant, compensation expense is recognized immediately.

Awards granted prior to November 30, 2005 — Awards were measured at their fair value at the date of original grant. Compensation expense associated with the unvested portion of these options at December 1, 2005 is recognized in the income statement ratably over the remaining vesting period without regard to the employee’s retirement eligibility. Upon retirement, any unrecognized compensation expense will be recognized immediately.

For all grants, the amount of compensation expense to be recognized is adjusted for an estimated forfeiture rate which is based on historical data.

For the three and six months ended May 31, 2006, we recognized $5.0 million and $13.7 million, respectively, of compensation expense in selling, general and administrative expense. These amounts included $0.4 million and $5.1 million for the three and six months ended May 31, 2006, respectively, for expenses associated with grants in 2006 to individuals who were eligible for retirement on or before the grant date. Additionally, during six months ended May 31, 2006, we recognized $1.1 million of expense in restructuring charges representing the acceleration of vesting in accordance with the provisions of the award for employees who are part of our severance charges (see Note 3). During the second quarter of 2006 the amount recognized in restructuring charges representing the acceleration of vesting was insignificant. No compensation expense was charged against income in the prior years as we elected to apply the provisions of APB No. 25 to those periods as permitted by SFAS No. 123.

SFAS No. 123(R) also requires that the tax benefit from the exercise of options in excess of the compensation expense recognized for those options be reflected in the statement of cash flows as a cash inflow from financing activities. Prior to the adoption of SFAS No. 123(R), these tax benefits have been reflected as a cash inflow from operations. The prior year statement of cash flows has not been restated. The excess tax benefit from the exercise of options was $4.4 million during the six months ended May 31, 2006, and $9.9 million during the six months ended May 31, 2005.

In March 2005, the FASB issued Interpretation No. 47, “Accounting for Conditional Asset Retirement Obligations.”

32




Interpretation No. 47 is effective no later than the end or our 2006 fiscal year. We do not expect that there will be a material effect upon adoption of this statement.

In November 2004, the FASB issued SFAS No. 151, “Inventory Costs,” which was adopted in the second quarter of our 2006 fiscal year. There is no material effect upon adoption of this statement.

FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION

Certain statements contained in this report, including those related to the expected results of operations of businesses acquired by us, the expected impact of the prices of raw materials on our results of operations and gross margins, the expected margin improvements, expected trends in net sales and earnings performance and other financial measures, annualized savings and other benefits from our streamlining and restructuring activities, the holding period and market risks associated with financial instruments, the impact of foreign exchange fluctuations, the adequacy of internally generated funds and existing sources of liquidity, such as our ability to issue additional debt or equity securities, and our expectations regarding purchasing shares of our common stock under the existing authorizations, are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Forward-looking statements are based on management’s current views and assumptions and involve risks and uncertainties that could significantly affect expected results. Operating results may be materially affected by external factors such as: competitive conditions, customer relationships and financial condition, availability and cost of raw and packaging materials, governmental actions and political events, and economic conditions, including fluctuations in interest and foreign currency exchange rates. We undertake no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

ITEM 3   QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

For information regarding our exposure to certain market risks, see “Market Risk Sensitivity” in the Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations above and Item 7A, Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk, in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended November 30, 2005. Except as described in the Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations above, there have been no significant changes in our financial instrument portfolio or market risk exposures since fiscal year end.

33




ITEM 4   CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

Based on our evaluation as of May 31, 2006, the Chairman, President & Chief Executive Officer and the Executive Vice President, Strategic Planning & Chief Financial Officer, have concluded that our “disclosure controls and procedures” as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 are effective based upon the reasonable assurance level.

In conjunction with the SAP implementation in the Company’s European business, changes were made to the Company’s internal controls over financial reporting in order to adapt to the new SAP software environment. Management believes that the new controls are effective based upon the reasonable assurance level.

No other change occurred in our “internal control over financial reporting” (as defined in Rule 13a-15(f)) during our last fiscal quarter which was identified in connection with the evaluation required by Rule 13a-15(a) as materially affecting, or reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

34




PART II — OTHER INFORMATION

ITEM 1. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

There are no material pending legal proceedings in which the Registrant or any of its subsidiaries is a party or in which any of their property is the subject.

ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS

There have been no material changes from the risk factors previously disclosed in the Registrant’s Form 10-K for Fiscal Year Ended November 30, 2005.

ITEM 2. UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS

      The following table summarizes our purchases of Common Stock (CS) and Common Stock Non-Voting (CSNV) during the second quarter of 2006:

35




 

ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES

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 MayYet
Be Purchased
Under
the Plans or Programs

March 1, 2006 to

 

CS — 195,444

 

$34.11

 

195,444

 

$332.8 million

March 31, 2006

 

CSNV — 293,250

 

$33.25

 

293,250

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

April 1, 2006 to

 

CS — 58,600

 

$34.02

 

58,600

 

$318.4 million

April 30, 2006

 

CSNV — 366,450

 

$33.97

 

366,450

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

May 1, 2006 to

 

CS — 53,735

 

$34.91

 

53,735

 

$301.7 million

May 31, 2006

 

CSNV — 425,150

 

$34.87

 

425,150

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total

 

CS — 307,779

 

$34.23

 

307,779

 

$301.7 million

 

 

CSNV — 1,084,850

 

$34.12

 

1,084,850

 

 

 

In June 2005, the Board of Directors approved $400 million to repurchase shares. As of May 31, 2006, $301.7 million remained of the $400 million authorization. In the absence of an acquisition or other unanticipated need for cash, we expect that we will complete all of our available purchases under this authorization by the end of fiscal year 2007.

36




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

(a)  The Company held its Annual Meeting of stockholders on March 22, 2006.

(b)  Response included below in (c).

(c)  1.                                                                   The following individuals were nominees for the Board of Directors. The number of votes for or withheld for each nominee are as follows: Barry H. Beracha - for 12,858,534, withheld 56,884; John P. Bilbrey - for 12,862,208, withheld 53,210; James T. Brady — for 12,853,332, withheld 62,086; Francis A. Contino - for 12,807,584, withheld 107,834; J. Michael Fitzpatrick - for 12,858,815, withheld 56,603; Freeman A. Hrabowski, III - for 12,856,993, withheld 58,425; Robert J. Lawless - for 12,816,520, withheld 98,898; Margaret M.V. Preston - for 12,860,377, withheld 55,041; William E. Stevens - for 12,861,491, withheld 53,927; Karen D. Weatherholtz - for 12,843,415, withheld 72,003.

       2.                                                                  The ratification of the appointment of Ernst & Young LLP as independent auditors. The number of votes for, against or abstaining are as follows: For 12,839,219; Against 62,618; Abstain 13,581; Broker Non-Votes 0.

(d)  No response required.

ITEM 6. EXHIBITS

The following exhibits are attached or incorporated herein by reference:

Exhibit Number

 

Description

(2)

 

Plan of acquisition, reorganization, arrangement, liquidation or succession

 

Not applicable.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(3)

 

Articles of Incorporation and By-Laws

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Restatement of Charter of McCormick & Company, Incorporated dated April 16, 1990

 

Incorporated by reference from Exhibit 4 of Registration Form S-8, Registration No. 33-39582 as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 25, 1991.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Articles of Amendment to Charter of McCormick & Company, Incorporated dated April 1, 1992

 

Incorporated by reference from Exhibit 4 of Registration Form S-8, Registration Statement No. 33-59842 as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 19, 1993.

 

37




 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Articles of Amendment to Charter of McCormick & Company, Incorporated dated March 27, 2003

 

Incorporated by reference from Exhibit 4 of Registration Form S-8, Registration Statement No. 333-104084 as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 28, 2003.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By-Laws of McCormick & Company, Incorporated Restated and Amended on June 27, 2006

 

Incorporated by reference from Exhibit 3(i) of the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on June 29, 2006.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(4)

 

Instruments defining the rights of security holders, including indentures

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(i)

 

See Exhibit 3 (Restatement of Charter)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(ii)

 

Summary of Certain Exchange Rights, incorporated by reference from Exhibit 4.1 of the Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended August 31, 2001 as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on October 12, 2001.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(iii)

 

Indenture dated December 5, 2000 between Registrant and SunTrust Bank, incorporated by reference from Exhibit 4(iii) of Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended August 31, 2003, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on October 14, 2003. Registrant hereby undertakes to furnish to the Securities and Exchange Commission, upon its request, copies of additional instruments of Registrant with respect to long-term debt that involve an amount of securities that do not exceed 10 percent of the total assets of the Registrant and its subsidiaries on a consolidated basis, pursuant to Regulation S-K, Item 601b(4)(iii)(A).

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(9)

 

Voting Trust Agreement

 

Not applicable.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(10)

 

Material contracts

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(i)

 

Asset Purchase Agreement dated June 26, 2003 among Kerr Group, Inc., Kerr Acquisition Sub I, LLC and Setco, Inc., a former wholly-owned subsidiary of Registrant, which agreement is incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10(i) of Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended August 31, 2003, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on October 14, 2003.*

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(ii)

 

Asset Purchase Agreement dated June 26, 2003 among Kerr Group, Inc., Kerr Acquisition Sub II, LLC and Tubed Products, Inc., a former wholly-owned subsidiary of Registrant, which agreement is incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10(ii) of Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended August 31, 2003, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on October 14, 2003.*

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(iii)

 

Asset Purchase Agreement dated June 26, 2003 among Kerr Group, Inc., Kerr Acquisition Sub II, LLC and O.G. Dehydrated, Inc., a former wholly-owned subsidiary of Tubed Products, Inc., which agreement is incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10(iii) of Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended August 31, 2003, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on October 14, 2003.*

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(iv)

 

Registrant’s supplemental pension plan for certain senior officers, as amended and restated effective June 19, 2001, is contained in the McCormick Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan, a copy of which was attached as Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended August 31, 2001, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on October 12, 2001, and incorporated by reference herein. Amendment Number 1 to the Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan, effective January 1, 2005, which agreement is incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10(iv) of Registrant’s 10-K for the fiscal year ended November 30, 2004, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 27, 2005. **

 

38




 

 

(v)

 

The 2001 Stock Option Plan, in which officers and certain other management employees participate, is set forth on pages 33 through 36 of the Registrant’s definitive Proxy Statement dated February 15, 2001, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on February 14, 2001, and incorporated by reference herein.**

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(vi)

 

The 1997 Stock Option Plan, in which officers and certain other management employees participate, is set forth in Exhibit B of the Registrant’s definitive Proxy Statement dated February 19, 1997, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on February 18, 1997, and incorporated by reference herein.**

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(vii)

 

The 2002 McCormick Mid-Term Incentive Plan, which is provided to a limited number of senior executives, is set forth on pages 23 through 31 of the Registrant’s definitive Proxy Statement dated February 15, 2002, as filed with the Commission on February 15, 2002, and incorporated by reference herein.**

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(viii)

 

2004 Long-Term Incentive Plan, in which officers and certain other management employees participate, is set forth in Exhibit A of the Registrant’s definitive Proxy Statement dated February 17, 2004, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on February 17, 2004, and incorporated by reference herein.**

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(ix)

 

2004 Directors’ Non-Qualified Stock Option Plan, provided to members of the Registrant’s Board of Directors who are not also employees of the Registrant, is set forth in Exhibit B of the Registrant’s definitive Proxy Statement dated February 17, 2004 as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on February 17, 2004, and incorporated by reference herein.**

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(x)

 

Directors’ Share Ownership Program, provided to members of the Registrant’s Board of Directors who are not also employees of the Registrant, is set forth on page 28 of the Registrant’s definitive Proxy Statement dated February 17, 2004 as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on February 17, 2004, and incorporated by reference herein.**

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(xi)

 

Deferred Compensation Plan, as restated on January 1, 2000, and amended on August 29, 2000, September 5, 2000 and May 16, 2003, in which directors, officers and certain other management employees participate, a copy of which Plan document and amendments was attached as Exhibit 10(viii) of the Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended August 31, 2003 as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on October 14, 2003, and incorporated by reference herein.**

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(xii)

 

2005 Deferred Compensation Plan, effective January 1, 2005, in which directors, officers and certain other management employees participate, which agreement is incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10(xii) of Registrant’s 10-K for the fiscal year ended November 30, 2004, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 27, 2005.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(xiii)

 

The 2005 Employee Stock Purchase Plan, in which employees participate, is set forth in Exhibit A of the Registrant’s definitive Proxy Statement dated February 16, 2005, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on February 16, 2005, and incorporated by reference herein.**

 

39




 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(xiv)

 

Stock Purchase Agreement dated May 7, 2003 among the Registrant, Zatarain’s Brands, Inc., and the stockholders set forth on the stockholder signature pages of the Agreement, which agreement is incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10(vii) of Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended May 31, 2003, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on July 11, 2003.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(xv)

 

$400,000,000 Credit Agreement, dated January 25, 2005 among Registrant and Certain Financial Institutions, which agreement is incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10(xv) of Registrant’s 10-K for the fiscal year ended November 30, 2004, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 27, 2005.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(xvi)

 

Consulting agreement between Registrant and Robert W. Schroeder dated January 1, 2004, which agreement is incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10(xv) of Registrant’s Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended November 30, 2003, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 29, 2004.**

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(xvii)

 

Retirement Agreement between Registrant and John C. Molan dated January 27, 2004, which agreement is incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10(xvi) of the Registrant’s 10-Q for the quarter ended August 31, 2004, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on October 8, 2004.**

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(11)

 

Statement re computation of per share earnings

 

Not applicable.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(12)

 

Statement re computation of ratios

 

Not applicable.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(13)

 

Annual report to security holders, Form 10-Q and 10-QSB, or quarterly report to security holders

 

Not applicable.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(14)

 

Code of Ethics

 

Not applicable.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(16)

 

Letter re change in certifying accountant

 

Not applicable.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(18)

 

Letter re change in accounting principles

 

Not applicable.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(22)

 

Published report regarding matters submitted to vote of securities holders

 

Not applicable.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(23)

 

Consents of experts and counsel

 

Not applicable.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(24)

 

Power of attorney

 

Not applicable.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(31)

 

Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certifications

 

Attached.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(32)

 

Section 1350 Certifications

 

Attached.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(99)

 

Additional Exhibits

 

None.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


*  Portions of this exhibit have been omitted pursuant to a request for confidential treatment.

** Management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement.

40




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.

 

McCORMICK & COMPANY, INCORPORATED

 

 

 

 

 

Date: July 7, 2006

 

By:

 

/s/ Francis A. Contino

 

 

 

 

Francis A. Contino

 

 

 

 

Executive Vice President, Strategic

 

 

 

 

Planning & Chief Financial Officer

 

 

 

 

 

Date: July 7, 2006

 

By:

 

/s/ Kenneth A. Kelly, Jr.

 

 

 

 

Kenneth A. Kelly, Jr.

 

 

 

 

Vice President & Controller

 

41