-----BEGIN PRIVACY-ENHANCED MESSAGE----- Proc-Type: 2001,MIC-CLEAR Originator-Name: webmaster@www.sec.gov Originator-Key-Asymmetric: MFgwCgYEVQgBAQICAf8DSgAwRwJAW2sNKK9AVtBzYZmr6aGjlWyK3XmZv3dTINen TWSM7vrzLADbmYQaionwg5sDW3P6oaM5D3tdezXMm7z1T+B+twIDAQAB MIC-Info: RSA-MD5,RSA, VNxbMTglpu8xFR9bK/SXh/HeawNMnANyq2BXZFr0Sw8e/wdxPHxfTDE/bTu0fKFe dR0x0blCnfXJEpiz85SArQ== 0001104659-02-004922.txt : 20021015 0001104659-02-004922.hdr.sgml : 20021014 20021015163345 ACCESSION NUMBER: 0001104659-02-004922 CONFORMED SUBMISSION TYPE: 10-Q PUBLIC DOCUMENT COUNT: 4 CONFORMED PERIOD OF REPORT: 20020831 FILED AS OF DATE: 20021015 FILER: COMPANY DATA: COMPANY CONFORMED NAME: CHRISTOPHER & BANKS CORP CENTRAL INDEX KEY: 0000883943 STANDARD INDUSTRIAL CLASSIFICATION: RETAIL-WOMEN'S CLOTHING STORES [5621] IRS NUMBER: 061195422 STATE OF INCORPORATION: DE FISCAL YEAR END: 0302 FILING VALUES: FORM TYPE: 10-Q SEC ACT: 1934 Act SEC FILE NUMBER: 001-31390 FILM NUMBER: 02789430 BUSINESS ADDRESS: STREET 1: 2400 XENIUM LANE NORTH CITY: PLYMOUTH STATE: MN ZIP: 55441-3626 BUSINESS PHONE: 6125515000 MAIL ADDRESS: STREET 1: 2400 XENIUM LN NORTH CITY: PLYMOUTH STATE: MN ZIP: 55441-3626 FORMER COMPANY: FORMER CONFORMED NAME: BRAUNS FASHIONS CORP DATE OF NAME CHANGE: 19930328 10-Q 1 j5305_10q.htm 10-Q

 

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C.  20549

 


 

FORM 10-Q

(Mark One)

 

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

 

For the quarterly period ended August 31, 2002

 

OR

 

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

 

For the transition period from                 to                .

 

Commission File No. 0-19972

 

CHRISTOPHER & BANKS CORPORATION

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

Delaware

 

06 - 1195422

(State or other jurisdiction of

 

(I.R.S. Employer

incorporation or organization)

 

Identification Number)

 

2400 Xenium Lane North, Plymouth, Minnesota

(Address of principal executive offices)

 

55441

(Zip Code)

 

(763) 551-5000

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

 


 

            Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.

YES   ý      NO   o

 

            As of October 4, 2002, 25,762,304 shares of the registrant’s common stock were outstanding.

 

 

 



 

CHRISTOPHER & BANKS CORPORATION

 

 FORM 10-Q QUARTERLY REPORT

 

INDEX

 

PART I

FINANCIAL INFORMATION

 

 

 

 

Item 1.

Consolidated Condensed Financial Statements:

 

 

 

 

 

Consolidated Condensed Balance Sheet As of August 31, 2002, March 2, 2002 and September 1, 2001

 

 

 

 

 

Consolidated Condensed Statement of Income For the Quarters Ended August 31, 2002 and September 1, 2001

 

 

 

 

 

Consolidated Condensed Statement of Income For the Six Months Ended August 31, 2002 and September 1, 2001

 

 

 

 

 

Consolidated Condensed Statement of Cash Flows For the Six Months Ended August 31, 2002 and September 1, 2001

 

 

 

 

 

Notes to Consolidated Condensed Financial Statements

 

 

 

 

Item 2.

Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

 

 

 

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

 

 

 

Item 4.

Controls and Procedures

 

 

 

 

PART II

OTHER INFORMATION

 

 

 

Item 1.

Legal Proceedings

 

Item 2.

Changes in Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Item 3.

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

Item 4.

Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders

 

Item 5.

Other Information

 

Item 6.

Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K

 

 

Signatures

 

 

Certification of Chief Executive Officer

 

 

Certification of Chief Financial Officer

 

 

 

2



 

CHRISTOPHER & BANKS CORPORATION

CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED BALANCE SHEET

 

 

 

 

August 31,

 

March 2,

 

September 1,

 

ASSETS

 

2002

 

2002

 

2001

 

 

 

(Unaudited)

 

(Audited)

 

(Unaudited)

 

Current assets:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents

 

$

19,914,610

 

$

40,874,724

 

$

21,095,195

 

Short-term investments

 

26,862,462

 

 

 

Merchandise inventory

 

24,098,218

 

18,999,118

 

19,876,849

 

Other current assets

 

11,162,500

 

9,083,494

 

7,983,971

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total current assets

 

82,037,790

 

68,957,336

 

48,956,015

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Property, equipment and improvements, net

 

64,410,469

 

57,724,202

 

52,943,153

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other assets

 

1,951,661

 

1,936,289

 

1,796,805

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total assets

 

$

148,399,920

 

$

128,617,827

 

$

103,695,973

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Current liabilities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Accounts payable

 

$

2,638,536

 

$

2,487,171

 

$

2,492,066

 

Accrued liabilities

 

10,257,712

 

11,630,740

 

8,178,640

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total current liabilities

 

12,896,248

 

14,117,911

 

10,670,706

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Long-term liabilities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Long-term debt

 

 

 

5,285,658

 

Other liabilities

 

2,634,605

 

2,523,484

 

2,462,618

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total long-term liabilities

 

2,634,605

 

2,523,484

 

7,748,276

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Stockholders’ equity:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Preferred stock—$0.01 par value, 1,000,000 shares authorized; none outstanding

 

 

 

 

Common stock—$0.01 par value, 74,000,000 shares authorized; 25,637,428, 25,193,806 and 24,780,555 shares issued and outstanding at August 31, 2002, March 2, 2002 and September 1, 2001, respectively

 

274,997

 

270,567

 

266,435

 

Additional paid-in capital

 

50,397,049

 

46,235,880

 

40,561,164

 

Retained earnings

 

85,196,982

 

68,469,946

 

47,499,353

 

Other stockholders’ equity

 

(2,999,961

)

(2,999,961

)

(3,049,961

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total stockholders’ equity

 

132,869,067

 

111,976,432

 

85,276,991

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity

 

$

148,399,920

 

$

128,617,827

 

$

103,695,973

 

 

See accompanying notes to unaudited consolidated condensed financial statements.

 

 

3



 

CHRISTOPHER & BANKS CORPORATION

CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED STATEMENT OF INCOME

(Unaudited)

 

 

 

Quarter Ended

 

 

 

August 31,

 

September 1,

 

 

 

2002

 

2001

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net sales

 

$

73,857,969

 

$

57,805,340

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cost of sales:

 

 

 

 

 

Merchandise, buying and occupancy

 

42,074,753

 

33,657,514

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gross profit

 

31,783,216

 

24,147,826

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Selling, general and administrative

 

18,493,699

 

13,734,250

 

Depreciation and amortization

 

2,260,405

 

1,614,318

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Operating income

 

11,029,112

 

8,799,258

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interest income, net

 

270,206

 

9,442

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income before income taxes

 

11,299,318

 

8,808,700

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income tax provision

 

4,350,238

 

3,479,436

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income

 

$

6,949,080

 

$

5,329,264

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Basic earnings per common share:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income

 

$

0.27

 

$

0.22

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Basic shares outstanding

 

25,586,218

 

24,655,092

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Diluted earnings per common share:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income

 

$

0.26

 

$

0.20

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Diluted shares outstanding

 

26,657,117

 

26,035,877

 

 

See accompanying notes to unaudited consolidated condensed financial statements.

 

 

4



 

CHRISTOPHER & BANKS CORPORATION

CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED STATEMENT OF INCOME

(Unaudited)

 

 

 

Six Months Ended

 

 

 

August 31,

 

September 1,

 

 

 

2002

 

2001

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net sales

 

$

151,613,839

 

$

115,357,314

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cost of sales:

 

 

 

 

 

Merchandise, buying and occupancy

 

84,034,920

 

65,970,449

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gross profit

 

67,578,919

 

49,386,865

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Selling, general and administrative

 

36,401,221

 

26,821,259

 

Depreciation and amortization

 

4,402,337

 

3,132,310

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Operating income

 

26,775,361

 

19,433,296

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interest income, net

 

423,072

 

211,880

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income before income taxes

 

27,198,433

 

19,645,176

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income tax provision

 

10,471,397

 

7,759,845

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income

 

$

16,727,036

 

$

11,885,331

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Basic earnings per common share:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income

 

$

0.66

 

$

0.49

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Basic shares outstanding

 

25,495,095

 

24,445,544

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Diluted earnings per common share:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income

 

$

0.63

 

$

0.46

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Diluted shares outstanding

 

26,645,134

 

26,021,826

 

 

See accompanying notes to unaudited consolidated condensed financial statements.

 

 

5



 

CHRISTOPHER & BANKS CORPORATION

CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS

(Unaudited)

 

 

 

Six Months Ended

 

 

 

August 31,

 

September 1,

 

 

 

2002

 

2001

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash flows from operating activities:

 

 

 

 

 

Net income

 

$

16,727,036

 

$

11,885,331

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

Depreciation and amortization

 

4,402,337

 

3,132,310

 

Income tax benefit on exercise of stock options

 

1,875,401

 

1,443,485

 

Loss on disposal of equipment

 

38,164

 

13,116

 

Increase in other liabilities

 

111,121

 

43,604

 

Interest on 12% Senior Notes added to principal

 

 

78,596

 

Changes in operating assets and liabilities:

 

 

 

 

 

Increase in merchandise inventory and other assets

 

(7,193,478

)

(4,583,166

)

Decrease in accounts payable and accrued liabilities

 

(2,584,400

)

(8,149,844

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net cash provided by operating activities

 

13,376,181

 

3,863,432

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash flows from investing activities:

 

 

 

 

 

Purchase of property, equipment and improvements

 

(9,764,031

)

(21,908,548

)

Purchase of short-term investments

 

(49,297,927

)

 

Redemption of short-term investments

 

22,435,465

 

 

Increase in other liabilities

 

 

1,221,875

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net cash used in investing activities

 

(36,626,493

)

(20,686,673

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash flows from financing activities:

 

 

 

 

 

Proceeds from issuance of common stock

 

2,290,198

 

2,940,725

 

Proceeds from common stock subscriptions receivable

 

 

179,998

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net cash provided by financing activities

 

2,290,198

 

3,120,723

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents

 

(20,960,114

)

(13,702,518

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period

 

40,874,724

 

34,797,713

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period

 

$

19,914,610

 

$

21,095,195

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Supplemental cash flow information:

 

 

 

 

 

Interest paid

 

$

7,385

 

$

238,804

 

Income taxes paid

 

$

8,665,740

 

$

8,329,970

 

Purchases of equipment and improvements accrued, not paid

 

$

1,362,737

 

$

365,705

 

 

See accompanying notes to unaudited consolidated condensed financial statements.

 

 

6



 

CHRISTOPHER & BANKS CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(Unaudited)

 

 

NOTE 1 — BASIS OF PRESENTATION

 

The financial statements included in this Form 10-Q have been prepared by Christopher & Banks Corporation and subsidiaries (the “Company”), without audit, pursuant to the rules and regulations of the United States Securities and Exchange Commission.  Certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America have been condensed, or omitted, pursuant to such rules and regulations.  These financial statements should be read in conjunction with the financial statements and related notes included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended March 2, 2002.

 

The results of operations for the interim periods shown in this report are not necessarily indicative of results to be expected for the fiscal year.  In the opinion of management, the information contained herein reflects all adjustments necessary to make the results of operations for the interim periods a fair statement of such operations.  All such adjustments are of a normal recurring nature.

 

NOTE 2 — SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS

 

In accordance with the Company's investment policy, investments consist of U.S. Government and corporate debt securities that the Company has the positive intent and ability to hold until maturity.  These securities are recorded at amortized cost, which management believes approximates fair value, and consist of the following as of August 31, 2002:

 

 

Description

 

Maturity Dates

 

Amortized Cost

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Corporate debt securities

 

Within one year

 

$

21,862,462

 

U.S. Government debt securities

 

One to two years, callable within one year

 

5,000,000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

26,862,462

 

 

NOTE 3 — NET INCOME PER SHARE

 

Basic earnings per share (“EPS”) is computed based on the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding during the applicable periods while diluted EPS is computed based on the weighted average number of common and common equivalent shares (dilutive stock options) outstanding.

 

The following is a reconciliation of the number of shares and per share amounts used in the basic and diluted EPS computations:

 

 

 

Quarter Ended

 

 

 

August 31, 2002

 

September 1, 2001

 

 

 

 

 

Net

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Shares

 

Income

 

Shares

 

Income

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Basic EPS

 

25,586,218

 

$

0.27

 

24,655,092

 

$

0.22

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Effect of dilutive stock options

 

1,070,899

 

(0.01

)

1,380,785

 

(0.02

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Diluted EPS

 

26,657,117

 

$

0.26

 

26,035,877

 

$

0.20

 

 

 

7



 

 

 

Six Months Ended

 

 

 

August 31, 2002

 

September 1, 2001

 

 

 

 

 

Net

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Shares

 

Income

 

Shares

 

Income

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Basic EPS

 

25,495,095

 

$

0.66

 

24,445,544

 

$

0.49

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Effect of dilutive stock options

 

1,150,039

 

(0.03

)

1,576,282

 

(0.03

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Diluted EPS

 

26,645,134

 

$

0.63

 

26,021,826

 

$

0.46

 

 

 

8



 

ITEM 2.

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF

FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

(Unaudited)

 

General

Christopher & Banks Corporation is a Minneapolis-based retailer of women’s specialty apparel, which operates retail stores through its wholly-owned subsidiaries, Christopher & Banks, Inc. and Christopher & Banks Company. The Company’s stores offer coordinated assortments of exclusively designed sportswear, sweaters, and dresses.  As of October 4, 2002, the Company operated 415 stores in 33 states including 297 Christopher & Banks stores, 90 C.J. Banks stores and 28 Braun’s stores, located primarily in the northern half of the United States.  The Company plans to open 22 additional Christopher & Banks stores and two new C.J. Banks stores during the remainder of fiscal 2003.

 

In the first six months of fiscal 2003, the Company opened 31 Christopher & Banks stores and 32 C.J. Banks stores.  The Company closed six stores in the first half of fiscal 2003.  By December 2002, the Company plans to convert substantially all remaining Braun’s stores to the Christopher & Banks name.  In fiscal 2004, the Company plans to open 100 new stores including 70 Christopher & Banks stores and 30 C.J. Banks stores.

 

On July 17, 2002, the Company listed its common stock on the New York Stock Exchange and began trading under the symbol “CBK”.  Prior to July 17, 2002, the Company’s common stock was traded on the Nasdaq Stock Market under the symbol “CHBS”.

 

 

Results of Operations

The following table sets forth, for the periods indicated, certain items from the Company’s statement of income expressed as a percentage of net sales:

 

 

 

 

Quarter Ended

 

Six Months Ended

 

 

 

August 31,

 

September 1,

 

August 31,

 

September 1,

 

 

 

2002

 

2001

 

2002

 

2001

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net sales

 

100.0

%

100.0

%

100.0

%

100.0

%

Merchandise, buying and occupancy

 

57.0

 

58.2

 

55.4

 

57.2

 

Gross profit

 

43.0

 

41.8

 

44.6

 

42.8

 

Selling, general and administrative

 

25.0

 

23.8

 

24.0

 

23.3

 

Depreciation and amortization

 

3.1

 

2.8

 

2.9

 

2.7

 

Operating income

 

14.9

 

15.2

 

17.7

 

16.8

 

Interest income, net

 

0.4

 

0.0

 

0.2

 

0.2

 

Income before income taxes

 

15.3

 

15.2

 

17.9

 

17.0

 

Income tax provision

 

5.9

 

6.0

 

6.9

 

6.7

 

Net income

 

9.4

%

9.2

%

11.0

%

10.3

%

 

 

 

QUARTER ENDED AUGUST 31, 20002 COMPARED TO QUARTER ENDED SEPTEMBER 1, 2001

 

 

Net Sales.  Net sales for the quarter ended August 31, 2002 were $73.9 million, an increase of  $16.1 million or 28%, from $57.8 million for the quarter ended September 1, 2001.  The increase in total net sales was attributable to a 6% increase in same-store sales combined with an increase in the number of stores operated by the Company.  The 6% same-store sales increase, which follows an 8% increase in same-store sales in the second quarter of fiscal 2002, was driven by strong performance at the Company’s newer stores.  These stores, opened in fiscal 2000, 2001 and 2002, generated low double digit same-store sales increases.  The Company operated 408 stores at August 31, 2002 compared to 333 stores at September 1, 2001.

 

 

9



 

Gross Profit.  Gross profit, which is net sales less cost of merchandise, buying and occupancy expenses, was $31.8 million, or 43.0% of net sales, during the second quarter of fiscal 2003, compared to $24.1 million, or 41.8% of net sales, during the same period in fiscal 2002.  The approximate 120 basis point increase in gross margin as a percent of net sales was due to an improvement in merchandise margins, partially offset by approximately 130 basis points of negative leveraging of occupancy costs.  The improved merchandise margins were equally attributable to more favorable pricing obtained from suppliers and lower markdown expense as more merchandise was sold during the quarter at regular price.  The negative leveraging of occupancy costs was primarily a result of operating more stores in the second quarter of fiscal 2003 which are still in the buildup phase of their sales curve.  The Company has opened 145 new stores in the past 18 months.

 

Selling, General and Administrative Expenses.  Selling, general and administrative expenses for the second quarter of fiscal 2003 were $18.5 million, or 25.0% of net sales, compared to $13.7 million, or 23.8% of net sales, in the second quarter of fiscal 2002. The increase as a percent of net sales was primarily due to one-time charges recorded during the second quarter of fiscal 2003 consisting of $300,000 in severance costs and $200,000 related to the Company’s initial listing on the New York Stock Exchange, as well as the impact of opening a significant number of new stores in the past year.

 

Depreciation and Amortization.  Depreciation and amortization was $2.3 million, or 3.1% of net sales, in the second quarter of fiscal 2003, compared to $1.6 million, or 2.8% of net sales, in the second quarter of fiscal 2002. The greater expense in part resulted from capital expenditures related to the 83 new stores opened during the 12 months ended August 31, 2002.  In addition, the Company purchased its headquarters and distribution center facility in May 2001 and completed the installation of new point-of-sale cash registers in all stores in July 2001.

 

Operating Income.  As a result of the foregoing factors, operating income for the quarter ended August 31, 2002 was $11.0 million, or 14.9% of net sales, compared to operating income of $8.8 million, or 15.2% of net sales, in the quarter ended September 1, 2001.

 

 Interest Income, Net.   For the quarter ended August 31, 2002, net interest income increased to $270,206 from $9,442 for the quarter ended September 1, 2001.  The increase was due to a significantly higher average cash and investment balance in the second quarter of fiscal 2003 compared to the second quarter of fiscal 2002.  In addition, the Company retired the remainder of its long-term debt in December 2001 and incurred no long-term debt related interest expense in the second quarter of fiscal 2003.

 

Income Taxes.  Income tax expense in the second quarter of fiscal 2003 was $4.4 million, with an effective tax rate of 38.5%, compared to $3.5 million, with an effective tax rate of 39.5%, in the second quarter of fiscal 2002.  The decrease in the effective tax rate was due to lower state income taxes.

 

Net Income.  As a result of the foregoing factors, net income for the quarter ended August 31, 2002 was $6.9 million, or 9.4% of net sales and $0.26 per diluted share, compared to $5.3 million, or 9.2% of net sales and $0.20 per diluted share, for the quarter ended September 1, 2001.

 

 

 

SIX MONTHS ENDED AUGUST 31, 2002 COMPARED TO

SIX MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 1, 2001

 

 

Net Sales.  Net sales for the six months ended August 31, 2002 were $151.6 million, an increase of $36.2 million or 31%, from $115.4 million for the six months ended September 1, 2001.  The increase in total net sales was attributable to an 8% increase in same-store sales combined with an increase in the number of stores operated by the Company.  The 8% same-store sales increase, which follows a 9% increase in same-store sales in the first six months of fiscal 2002, was driven by strong performance at the Company’s newer stores opened in fiscal 2000, 2001 and 2002, combined with strong customer acceptance of the Company’s merchandise assortments at its mature stores.  The Company operated 408 stores at August 31, 2002 compared to 333 stores at September 1, 2001.

 

 

10



 

Gross Profit.  Gross profit, which is net sales less cost of merchandise, buying and occupancy expenses, was $67.6 million, or 44.6% of net sales, during the first half of fiscal 2003 compared to $49.4 million, or 42.8% of net sales, during the same period in fiscal 2002.  The approximate 180 basis point increase in gross margin as a percent of net sales was due to an improvement in merchandise margins, partially offset by approximately 80 basis points of negative leveraging of occupancy costs.  The improved merchandise margins were equally attributable to more favorable pricing obtained from suppliers and lower markdown expense as more merchandise was sold at regular price.  The negative leveraging of occupancy costs was primarily a result of operating more stores in the first half of fiscal 2003, which are still in the buildup phase of their sales curve.

 

Selling, General and Administrative Expenses.  Selling, general and administrative expenses for the first half of fiscal 2003 were $36.4 million, or 24.0% of net sales, compared to $26.8 million, or 23.3% of net sales, in the first half of fiscal 2002.  The increase as a percent of net sales was primarily due to one-time charges recorded during the second quarter of fiscal 2003 consisting of $300,000 in severance costs and $200,000 related to the Company’s initial listing on the New York Stock Exchange, as well as the impact of opening a significant number of new stores during the past year.

 

 Depreciation and Amortization.  Depreciation and amortization was $4.4 million, or 2.9% of net sales, in the first half of fiscal 2003, compared to $3.1 million, or 2.7% of net sales, in the first half of fiscal 2002.  The greater expense in part resulted from capital expenditures related to the 83 new stores opened during the 12 months ended August 31, 2002.  In addition, the Company purchased its headquarters and distribution center facility in May 2001 and completed the installation of new point-of-sale cash registers in all stores in July 2001.

 

Operating Income.   As a result of the foregoing factors, operating income for the six months ended August 31, 2002 was $26.8 million, or 17.7% of net sales, compared to operating income of $19.4 million, or 16.8% of net sales, in the six months ended September 1, 2001.

 

 Interest Income, Net.   For the six months ended August 31, 2002, net interest income increased to $423,072 from $211,880 for the six months ended September 1, 2001. The increase was due to a significantly higher average cash and investment balance in the first half of fiscal 2003 compared to the first half of fiscal 2002. In addition, the Company retired the remainder of its long-term debt in December 2001 and incurred no long-term debt related interest expense in the first half of fiscal 2003.

 

Income Taxes.  Income tax expense in the first half of fiscal 2003 was $10.5 million, with an effective tax rate of 38.5%, compared to $7.8 million, with an effective tax rate of 39.5%, in the first half of fiscal 2002.  The decrease in the effective tax rate was due to lower state income taxes.

 

Net Income.  As a result of the foregoing factors, net income for the six months ended August 31, 2002 was $16.7 million, or 11.0% of net sales and $0.63 per diluted share, compared to $11.9 million, or 10.3% of net sales and $0.46 per diluted share, for the six months ended September 1, 2001.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

The Company’s principal on-going cash requirements are to finance the construction of new stores and the remodeling of certain existing stores, to purchase merchandise inventory and to fund other working capital requirements.  Merchandise purchases vary on a seasonal basis, peaking in the fall.  As a result, the Company’s cash requirements historically reach their peak in October and November.  Conversely, cash balances reach their peak in January, after the holiday season is completed.

 

Net cash provided by operating activities totaled $13.4 million for the first six months of fiscal 2003.  The increase in cash flows from operating activities was mainly a result of $16.7 million of net income, combined with $4.4 million of depreciation and amortization expense, partially offset by a $7.2 million increase in merchandise inventory and other assets.  Net cash used in investing activities included net purchases of short-term investments of $26.9 million and $9.8 million of capital expenditures.  The Company opened 63 new stores and completed ten major store remodels during the first six months of fiscal 2003.  Financing activities provided the Company $2.3 million of cash during the six months ended August 31, 2002, as the Company’s officers, directors and key employees exercised stock options.

 

 

11



 

The Company plans to spend approximately $12 million for capital expenditures during the last six months of fiscal 2003 to open approximately 25 additional Christopher & Banks stores and four C.J. Banks stores.  The Company also intends to complete five additional major store remodels and to make various capital improvements at its headquarters and distribution center facility.  Additionally, management anticipates a portion of these capital expenditures will relate to stores which the Company plans to open in the first quarter of fiscal 2004.  The Company plans to open 100 new stores in fiscal 2004, consisting of 70 Christopher & Banks stores and 30 C.J. Banks stores.  The Company expects its cash on hand and held in short-term investments, combined with cash flow from operations, to be sufficient to meet its capital expenditure, working capital and other requirements for liquidity during the remainder of fiscal 2003 and throughout fiscal 2004.

 

The Company maintains an Amended and Restated Revolving Credit and Security Agreement with Wells Fargo Bank, National Association (the “Wells Fargo Revolver”) which expires on June 30, 2004.  The Wells Fargo Revolver provides the Company with revolving credit loans and letters of credit of up to $25 million, subject to a borrowing base formula based on inventory level.

 

Loans under the Wells Fargo Revolver bear interest at Wells Fargo’s base rate, 4.75% as of October 4, 2002, plus 0.25%.  Interest is payable monthly in arrears.  The Wells Fargo Revolver carries a facility fee of 0.25% on the unused portion as defined in the agreement.  The facility fee totaled $3,658 and $2,338 for the six months ended August 31, 2002 and September 1, 2001, respectively. The Wells Fargo Revolver is collateralized by the Company’s equipment, general intangibles, inventory, letters of credit and letter of credit rights.  The Company had no revolving credit loan borrowings under the Wells Fargo Revolver during the first half of fiscal 2003.  Historically, the Wells Fargo Revolver has been utilized by the Company only to open letters of credit to facilitate the importing of merchandise.  The borrowing base at October 4, 2002 was $20.6 million.  As of October 4, 2002, the Company had outstanding letters of credit in the amount of $11.2 million.  Accordingly, the availability of revolving credit loans under the Wells Fargo Revolver was $9.4 million at that date.

 

The Wells Fargo Revolver contains certain restrictive covenants including restrictions on incurring additional indebtedness, limitations on certain types of investments and prohibitions on paying dividends, as well as requiring the maintenance of certain financial ratios.  As of August 31, 2002, the most recent measurement date, the Company was in compliance with all covenants of the Wells Fargo Revolver.

 

 

Merchandise Sourcing

The Company directly imports approximately 90% of its total merchandise purchases.  This reliance on sourcing from foreign countries may cause the Company to be exposed to certain business and political risks.  Import restrictions, including tariffs and quotas, and changes in such restrictions could affect the import of apparel and might result in increased costs, delays in merchandise receipts or reduced supplies of apparel available to the Company and possibly have an adverse effect on the Company’s business, financial condition and results of operations.  The Company’s merchandise flow could also be adversely affected by political instability in any of the countries where its merchandise is manufactured or changes in the United States’ governmental policies in or toward such foreign countries.  In addition, merchandise receipts could be delayed due to interruptions in air, ocean and ground shipments. See further information in the Forward Looking Information and Risk section of Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.

 

Substantially all of the Company’s directly imported merchandise is manufactured in Southeast Asia.  The majority of these goods are produced in Hong Kong, China, Indonesia and Singapore.  The Company is not currently importing merchandise produced in the Middle East.

 

In the first half of fiscal 2003, the Company purchased approximately 40% of its merchandise from its largest overseas supplier.  Although the Company believes that its relationship with this particular vendor is good, there can be no assurance that this relationship can be maintained in the future or that the vendor will continue to supply merchandise to the Company.  If there should be any significant disruption in the supply of merchandise from this vendor, management believes that it can shift production to other suppliers so as to continue to secure the required volume of product.  Nevertheless, there is some potential that any such disruption in supply could have a material adverse impact on the Company’s financial position and results of operations.

 

 

12



 

Quarterly Results and Seasonality

The Company’s sales reflect seasonal variation as sales in the third and fourth quarters, which include the fall and holiday seasons, generally have been higher than sales in the first and second quarters.  Sales generated during the fall and holiday seasons have a significant impact on the Company’s annual results of operations.  Quarterly results may fluctuate significantly depending on a number of factors including adverse weather conditions, shifts in the timing of certain holidays, timing of new store openings, and customer response to the Company’s seasonal merchandise mix.

 

 

Inflation

Although the operations of the Company are influenced by general economic conditions, the Company does not believe that inflation had a material effect on the results of operations during the quarters and six months ended August 31, 2002 and September 1, 2001.

 

 

Forward Looking Information and Risk

Information contained in this Form 10-Q contains certain “forward-looking statements” which reflect the current view of the Company with respect to future events and financial performance.  Wherever used, terminology such as “may”, “will”, “expect”, “intend”, “plan”, “anticipate”, “estimate” or “continue” or the negative thereof or other variations thereon or comparable terminology reflect such forward-looking statements.

 

There are certain important factors that could cause results to differ materially from those anticipated by some of these forward-looking statements.  Investors are cautioned that all forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainty.  The factors, among others, that could cause actual results to differ materially include: changes in general economic conditions, including recessionary effects which may affect consumers’ spending and debt levels; the Company’s ability to execute its business plan including the successful expansion of its Christopher & Banks and C.J. Banks concepts; the Company’s ability to open new stores on favorable terms and the timing of such store openings; the acceptance of the Company’s merchandising strategies by its target customers; the ability of the Company to anticipate fashion trends and consumer preferences; the loss of one or more of the Company’s key executives; continuity of a relationship with or purchases from major vendors, particularly those from whom the Company imports merchandise; timeliness of vendor production and deliveries; competitive  pressures on sales and pricing; increases in other costs which cannot be recovered through improved pricing of merchandise; and the adverse effect of weather conditions from time to time on consumers’ ability or desire to purchase new clothing.  Since the Company relies heavily on sourcing from foreign vendors, there are risks and uncertainties including transportation delays related to ocean, air and ground shipments, political instability, work stoppages and changes in import and export controls. The Company assumes no obligation to publicly update or revise its forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that may arise after the date of this Form  10-Q.

 

On October 9, 2002, the ports on the West Coast of the United States reopened from labor disputes which had closed the ports from September 28, 2002 through October 8, 2002. The federal government has imposed an 80-day cooling-off period between the International Longshore and Warehouse Union and the shippers. The Company imports substantially all of its merchandise through the West Coast ports. The Company's financial position and results of operations could be adversely affected by shipment delays causing lost sales and potential increased freight costs due to the labor disputes.

 

ITEM 3.

QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE

DISCLOSURE ABOUT MARKET RISK

 

 

The Company is potentially exposed to market risk from changes in interest rates relating to its Revolving Credit and Security Agreement with Wells Fargo Bank.  Loans under the Wells Fargo Revolver bear interest at Wells Fargo’s fluctuating base rate, 4.75% as of October 4, 2002, plus 0.25%.  However, the Company had no revolving credit loan borrowings under the Wells Fargo Revolver during the first half of fiscal 2003, and given its existing liquidity position does not expect to utilize the Wells Fargo Revolver in the near future except for its continuing use of the import letter of credit facility.

 

 

13



 

ITEM 4.

CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

 

In the quarter ended August 31, 2002, there have been no significant changes in the internal controls of the Company which would require disclosure under paragraph (b) of Item 307 of Regulation S-K of the United States Securities and Exchange Commission.

 

 

 

PART II.

 

ITEM 1.

LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

 

There are no material legal proceedings pending against the Company.

 

 

ITEM 2.

CHANGES IN SECURITIES

AND USE OF PROCEEDS

 

There have been no material modifications to the Company’s registered securities.

 

 

ITEM 3.

DEFAULTS UPON

SENIOR SECURITIES

 

There has been no default with respect to any indebtedness of the Company.

 

 

ITEM 4.

SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A

VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS

 

The Company held its annual meeting of shareholders on July 31, 2002, in Minneapolis, Minnesota.  The Company solicited proxies and filed definitive proxy statements with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to Regulation 14A.  Holders of 23,733,018 shares of the Company’s common stock were present in person, or by proxy, representing 93.1% of the Company’s 25,483,112 shares outstanding on the record date.  The matters voted upon and the votes cast at the meeting were as follows:

 

Item 1.             Election of three Class 2 Directors to serve on the Board of Directors for a term of three years (expiring in 2005):

 

 

 

Vote

 

 

 

For

 

Withheld

 

Joseph E. Pennington

 

23,379,424

 

353,594

 

Larry C. Barenbaum

 

23,307,951

 

425,067

 

Donald D. Beeler

 

23,309,259

 

423,759

 

 

Other individuals whose term of office as a director continued after the meeting included William J. Prange, James J. Fuld, Jr., Anne L. Jones and Robert Ezrilov.

 

 

14



 

Item 2.             Approval of the Company’s 2002 Non-Employee Director Stock Option Plan:

 

Vote

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Broker

 

For

 

Against

 

Abstain

 

Non-Vote

 

22,027,185

 

1,153,543

 

552,290

 

0

 

 

Item 3.             Ratification of the appointment of PriceWaterhouseCoopers LLP as the Company’s independent auditors for the fiscal year ending March 1, 2003:

 

Vote

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Broker

 

For

 

Against

 

Abstain

 

Non-Vote

 

22,715,440

 

1,004,652

 

12,926

 

0

 

 

 

ITEM 5.

OTHER INFORMATION

 

None.

 

ITEM 6.

EXHIBITS AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K

 

(a)           Exhibits:

 

Exhibit 10.48  Separation Agreement Between Christopher & Banks Corporation and Tammy Leomazzi Boyd

Exhibit 99.1    Written Statement of Chief Executive Officer

Exhibit 99.2    Written Statement of Chief Financial Officer

 

(b)          Reports on Form 8-K:

 

On July 17, 2002, the Company filed a current report on Form 8-K with respect to the announcement that the Company’s common stock commenced trading on the New York Stock Exchange at the open of market on July 17, 2002 under the symbol “CBK” and was de-listed from the Nasdaq Stock Market following the close of market on July 16, 2002.

 

 

15



 

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.

 

 

CHRISTOPHER & BANKS CORPORATION

 

 

Dated:

October 11, 2002

By

/S/ WILLIAM J. PRANGE

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

William J. Prange

 

 

 

Chairman and

 

 

 

Chief Executive Officer

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Signing on behalf of the

 

 

 

Registrant as principal

 

 

 

executive officer.

 

 

 

 

Dated:

October 11, 2002

By

/S/ ANDREW K. MOLLER

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Andrew K. Moller

 

 

 

Senior Vice President and

 

 

 

Chief Financial Officer

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Signing on behalf of the

 

 

 

Registrant as principal

 

 

 

financial officer.

 

 

 

16



 

CERTIFICATION OF

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

 

 

 

I, William J. Prange, certify that:

 

1.               I have reviewed this quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended August 31, 2002 of Christopher & Banks Corporation;

 

2.               Based on my knowledge, this quarterly report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this quarterly report;

 

3.               Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this quarterly report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this quarterly report;

 

4.               The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-14 and 15d-14) for the registrant and have:

 

a)              designed such disclosure controls and procedures to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this quarterly report is being prepared;

b)             evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures as of a date within 90 days prior to the filing date of this quarterly report (the “Evaluation Date”); and

c)              presented in this quarterly report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures based on our evaluation as of the Evaluation Date;

 

5.               The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

 

a)              all significant deficiencies in the design or operation of internal controls which could adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial data and have identified for the registrant’s auditors any material weaknesses in internal controls; and

b)             any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal controls; and

 

6.               The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have indicated in this quarterly report whether or not there were significant changes in internal controls or in other factors that could significantly affect internal controls subsequent to the date of our most recent evaluation, including any corrective actions with regard to significant deficiencies and material weaknesses.

 

 

 

Dated:

October 11, 2002

By

/S/ WILLIAM J. PRANGE

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

William J. Prange

 

 

 

Chairman and

 

 

 

Chief Executive Officer

 

 

17



 

CERTIFICATION OF

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

 

 

 

I, Andrew K. Moller, certify that:

 

1.               I have reviewed this quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended August 31, 2002 of Christopher & Banks Corporation;

 

2.               Based on my knowledge, this quarterly report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this quarterly report;

 

3.               Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this quarterly report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this quarterly report;

 

4.               The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-14 and 15d-14) for the registrant and have:

 

d)             designed such disclosure controls and procedures to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this quarterly report is being prepared;

e)              evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures as of a date within 90 days prior to the filing date of this quarterly report (the “Evaluation Date”); and

f)                presented in this quarterly report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures based on our evaluation as of the Evaluation Date;

 

5.               The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

 

c)              all significant deficiencies in the design or operation of internal controls which could adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial data and have identified for the registrant’s auditors any material weaknesses in internal controls; and

d)             any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal controls; and

 

6.               The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have indicated in this quarterly report whether or not there were significant changes in internal controls or in other factors that could significantly affect internal controls subsequent to the date of our most recent evaluation, including any corrective actions with regard to significant deficiencies and material weaknesses.

 

 

 

Dated:

October 11, 2002

By

/S/ ANDREW K. MOLLER

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Andrew K. Moller

 

 

 

Senior Vice President and

 

 

 

Chief Financial Officer

 

 

18


EX-10.48 3 j5305_ex10d48.htm EX-10.48

Exhibit No. 10.48

 

SEPARATION AGREEMENT

 

 

                                This Separation Agreement (the "Agreement") is entered into between Christopher & Banks Corporation ("Christopher & Banks") and Tammy Leomazzi Boyd ("Boyd") and is effective immediately upon execution.

 

                                Inasmuch as Christopher & Banks and Boyd have each determined that it is desirable and in their respective best interests to amicably sever the employment relationship between Boyd and Christopher & Banks and enter into this Agreement; and because it is the intent of the parties to settle all differences, disputes, grievances, claims, charges and complaints, whether known or unknown, accrued or unaccrued, that (i) Boyd either has or arguably may have against Christopher & Banks, its subsidiaries, affiliates, officers, employees and directors (ii) Christopher & Banks either has or arguably may have against Boyd;

 

                                NOW THEREFORE, in consideration of the foregoing and the mutual covenants and agreements contained herein, Christopher & Banks and Boyd agree as follows:

 

1.             Separation from Employment.  The parties agree that Boyd's employment relationship with Christopher & Banks shall terminate effective August 1, 2002 (the "Departure Date"), and  Christopher & Banks shall discontinue all salary and other compensation payments to Boyd as of that date subject only to the provisions of this Agreement and the provisions of any deferred compensation, 401K or other retirement savings plans in which Boyd is participating as of the date of this Agreement.

 

 



 

2.             Resignation as Officer.    Boyd hereby resigns her positions as Senior Vice President of Christopher & Banks and President of the CJ Banks Division of Christopher & Banks effective as of the Departure Date.

 

3.             Payment Pursuant to Employment Agreement; Release From Non-Compete.  Christopher & Banks will pay Boyd, in due course following the Departure Date, the severance payments provided for in paragraph 11.3 of the Executive Employment Agreement dated as of March 1, 2002 between the parties, subject to all the terms and conditions of that Executive Employment Agreement; provided however, Christopher & Banks and Boyd agree (i) to delete paragraph 6.2 of the Executive Employment Agreement and (ii) paragraph 6.1 of the Executive Employment Agreement is no longer applicable.

 

4.             Additional Severance Payments to Boyd.  As consideration for the promises made in this Agreement including, but not limited to, the releases contained in paragraph 13 below,  and conditioned upon Boyd's execution of this Agreement, Christopher & Banks will pay Boyd $85,000, consisting of (i) a payment of $10,000 following the expiration of the rescission period contained in paragraph 16 below ($2,500 payable to the law firm of Bassford Lockhart Truesdell & Briggs PA and $7,500 payable to Boyd) and (ii) a payment of $75,000 on January 2, 2003, subject to customary withholding.  Boyd expressly acknowledges that these are payments to which she is not otherwise entitled except as a term of this Agreement.  Boyd also expressly acknowledges and agrees that these payments shall not be taken into account as compensation under any Christopher & Banks welfare, pension, deferred compensation or similar plan or program that bases benefits in whole or in part on compensation received from Christopher & Banks.

 

 

2



 

5.             Benefits.  Boyd's rights to continue coverage under any of Christopher & Banks' employee benefit plans in which she is currently participating will be determined by the terms of those plans and applicable federal or state law.  Boyd will be informed of her right to elect continuation coverage in certain benefit plans as required by COBRA and applicable state law.  Subject to applicable law, the terms of this Agreement and the terms of Christopher & Banks' employee benefit plans, Boyd's participation in all other employee benefits in which she was participating as of the date of his separation from employment will end as of the Departure Date.

 

6.             Stock Options.  A summary of the current status of unexercised stock options issued to Boyd during her employment with Christopher & Banks is attached as Exhibit A.  Boyd acknowledges and understands that her failure to exercise any vested options within the time limit provided under her option agreements will result in the expiration of the options according to the terms of the applicable plans.

 

7.             Return Of Company Property.  Boyd agrees that on or before August 1, 2002, she will return to Christopher & Banks all property belonging to Christopher & Banks that may be in her possession including, but not limited to, all credit cards, computers, cellular phones, other equipment, documents, data bases, and other information containing or relating to Christopher & Banks business which may be in her possession.

 

8.             Cooperation.  Boyd agrees that she will cooperate with Christopher & Banks with regard to any claims or lawsuits against Christopher & Banks, its subsidiaries and/or affiliates about which she may have knowledge.  Boyd further agrees that she will not voluntarily aid, assist or cooperate with anyone who has claims against Christopher & Banks, its subsidiaries and/or affiliates, or with their attorneys or agents, in any claims or lawsuits which may be or

 

3



 

have been brought against them.  Boyd understands that she is not, however, prevented from testifying at an administrative hearing, arbitration, deposition or court proceeding, if she is properly served with a lawful subpoena in a proceeding involving Christopher & Banks, its subsidiaries and/or affiliates.

 

Boyd shall be available to Christopher & Banks for consulting services, if needed, solely in connection with assisting Christopher & Banks on litigation matters.  To the extent Christopher & Banks requests Boyd to provide such services, Christopher & Banks agrees to (i) reimburse Boyd for all pre-approved reasonable out-of-pocket expenses, including attorneys fees, and (ii) pay Boyd an hourly fee of $200 per hour for her time (including reasonable travel time) after the aggregate amount of time exceeds thirty-five (35) hours.  For purposes of clarification, Boyd shall not be compensated for the initial thirty-five hours.

 

9.             Boyd to Provide Notice to Christopher & Banks.  Should Boyd receive a subpoena, civil or regulatory investigation demand, or other process from a third party which may be construed to require the disclosure of information or documents relating to Christopher & Banks in any form, she shall immediately give notice to Christopher & Banks, attention William J. Prange, or his successor, at 2400 Xenium Lane No., Plymouth, MN 55441, telephone 763-551-5000; fax 763-551-5199.  Boyd further agrees that she will wait either: (a) 20 days from the date she notifies Christopher & Banks; or (b) the maximum number of days allowed for response in any subpoena, investigatory demand or other process, whichever is shorter,  before making any response to the subpoena, investigatory demand or process seeking disclosure of the confidential information.

 

 

4



 

10.           Confidential or Trade Secret Information.  Boyd agrees that she will not use or disclose to any unauthorized person, without Christopher & Banks' prior written consent, any confidential or trade secret information concerning Christopher & Banks, its subsidiaries and affiliates including, but not limited to, information concerning business processes, plans, products, suppliers, employees and customers, which information was obtained by Boyd while in Christopher & Banks' employ; provided, however, that this provision shall not preclude Boyd from the use or disclosure of information known generally to the public, excluding information which she may have disclosed to the public in breach of this paragraph.

 

11.           Non-Solicitation.  Boyd hereby confirms and acknowledges that she continues to be subject to the limitations set out in the non-solicitation agreement contained in Section 6.3 of the Executive Employment Agreement between the parties.

 

12.           Remedies for Breach of Confidential/Trade Secret Information or Non-Solicitation Provisions.  Any breach by Boyd of the Confidential or Trade Secret Information or Non-Solicitation provisions set out in paragraphs 10 and 11 above will result in immediate, irreparable harm to Christopher & Banks.  Accordingly, Boyd understands and agrees that, in addition to any other remedies legally available to Christopher & Banks, Christopher & Banks shall be entitled to obtain injunctive relief to enjoin any conduct in breach of this Agreement.  The parties also agree that should Christopher & Banks deem it necessary to bring an action or proceeding to enforce any rights it has under paragraphs 12 or 13, and should Christopher & Banks, in such an action or proceeding, be awarded relief because of a breach of this Agreement by Boyd, Christopher & Banks shall be entitled to an award of the attorney's fees and costs paid by the company to pursue that action or proceeding.  The parties further agree that should Boyd

 

 

5



 

deem it necessary to bring an action or proceeding to enforce any rights she has under this Agreement, and should Boyd, in such an action or proceeding, be awarded relief because of a breach of this Agreement by Christopher & Banks, Boyd shall be entitled to an award of the attorney's fees and costs paid by Boyd to pursue that action or proceeding.

 

13.           Mutual Release Of Claims.  In consideration of the terms and conditions set forth in this Agreement, Boyd, her heirs, legal representatives, successors and assigns hereby forever release and discharge Christopher & Banks, its affiliates and subsidiaries, and the officers, shareholders, agents and employees, as well as the successors and assigns of each, from any and all manner of actions, causes of actions, individual or class action claims or demands of every kind whatsoever, whether known, suspected or unknown in law or in equity, and however originating or existing to the date hereof including, but not limited to, all claims or potential claims arising out of state, federal or local law specifically including, but not limited to, any claims under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended, the Civil Rights Act of 1991, the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act, the Minnesota Human Rights Act, the Employee Retirement Income Security Act or any other state, federal or local laws or regulations; including, but not limited to, any claims for breach of contract, intentional interference with contract, discharge in violation of public policy or in violation of Minn. Stat. §181.932, or intentional or negligent infliction of emotional distress, defamation, wrongful or retaliatory discharge, negligence and other claims or any other claims arising out of the acts or statements of any Christopher & Banks employee or the terms and conditions of Boyd's employment by Christopher & Banks or the termination of that employment.

 

 

6



 

Christopher & Banks hereby forever releases and discharges Boyd from any and all manner of actions, causes of actions, claims or demands of every kind whatsoever, whether known, suspected or unknown in law or in equity, and however originating or existing to the date hereof.

 

14.           Confidentiality.  Boyd agrees that the terms of this Agreement are, and shall remain, confidential and that she will not, either directly or indirectly, disclose either the terms or the fact of this Agreement to any person other than her attorney or her accountant, or as may be required by either judicial or administrative order.  Boyd expressly agrees not to disclose the terms of this Agreement to any current or former employees of Christopher & Banks.

 

15.           Consideration Period.  Boyd acknowledges that she has had an opportunity to consult with counsel of her choosing prior to executing this Agreement.  Boyd acknowledges that she is entitled to take up to 21 days to consider the terms of this Agreement before signing it although she is free to sign the Agreement at any time during the 21 day consideration period if she wishes to do so.

 

                                Boyd acknowledges that she has read this Agreement carefully and understands all of its terms.

 

16.           Rescission Period.  Boyd understands that to the extent paragraph 13 of this Agreement acts to release any and all claims she may have under either the Age Discrimination in Employment Act ("ADEA") or the Minnesota Human Rights Act ("MHRA"), she has the right to rescind that paragraph within 15 calendar days of signing this Agreement.  To be effective, any rescission by Boyd of her release of claims under the ADEA or MHRA must be in

 

 

7



 

writing and delivered to Christopher & Banks, to the attention of William J. Prange, either by hand or by mail within the 15 day period.  If sent by mail, the rescission must be:

 

a.             Postmarked within the 15 day period;

 

b.             Properly addressed to William J. Prange; and

 

c.             Sent by certified mail, return receipt requested.

 

Boyd expressly acknowledges and understands that while she has the right under this paragraph to rescind her release of certain of her claims, she relinquishes her right to payment of amounts specified in paragraph 4 above if she does so rescind the release.

 

17.           Letter of Recommendation.  Boyd and Christopher & Banks have prepared a letter of recommendation, a copy of which is attached hereto as Exhibit B, which may be used by Boyd in her search for new employment.  Any inquiries received by Christopher & Banks from prospective employers of Boyd shall be directed to Joe Pennington or another person designated by Mr. Pennington.  Any individual or entity contacting Christopher & Banks with a request for information about Boyd's employment will be provided only with the confirmation of her employment, dates of her employment, her job title, her salary at the time of her resignation and verification of the letter of recommendation attached hereto.

 

18.           Severability.  The parties agree that if any provision of this Agreement is determined by a court to be illegal, invalid or unenforceable, that provision shall not be a part of this Agreement.  The legality, validity and enforceability of the remaining provisions shall not be affected by a determination that a provision of this Agreement is illegal, invalid or unenforceable.

 

 

8



 

19.           Governing Law.  This Agreement shall be construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Minnesota.  Jurisdiction and venue for all proceedings relating to this Agreement or arising out of any dispute as to the terms of this Agreement shall be in Hennepin County District Court in the State of Minnesota.

 

20.           Entire Agreement.  Except as otherwise stated in this Agreement, this Agreement constitutes the entire agreement between the parties hereto and supersedes any prior agreements between the parties.

 

 

* * * * * *

 

 

9



 

                IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Agreement as of the date and year set forth below.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dated this 12th day of September, 2002

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

/s/ Tammy Leomazzi Boyd

 

 

Tammy Leomazzi Boyd

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dated this 16th day of September, 2002

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CHRISTOPHER & BANKS CORPORATION

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By:

/s/ Joseph Pennington

 

 

 

 

 

Its:

President/COO

 

 

 

 

 

10



 

EXHIBIT A

 

STOCK OPTIONS

TAMMY LEOMAZZI BOYD

 

 

On January 5, 2000, Ms. Boyd was granted a stock option to purchase 253,125 shares of common stock of Christopher & Banks (split adjusted), which option vests annually in five equal installments beginning on January 5, 2001.  This stock option currently has 151,875 unvested shares and no vested shares at an exercise price of $5.1111 per share.

 

On January 7, 2002, Ms. Boyd was granted a stock option to purchase 30,000 shares of common stock of Christopher & Banks, which option vests annually in three equal installments beginning on January 7, 2003.  This stock option currently has 30,000 unvested shares at an exercise price of $32.20 per share.

 

 

11



 

 

EXHIBIT B

 

LETTER OF RECOMMENDATION

 

 

 

 

 

12


EX-99.1 4 j5305_ex99d1.htm EX-99.1

EXHIBIT 99.1

 

 

 

Certification of Chief Executive Officer

Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350,

As Adopted Pursuant to

Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

 

 

 

I, William J. Prange, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Christopher & Banks Corporation (the “Company”) certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that to the best of my knowledge:

 

(1)                                  The Quarterly Report of the Company on Form 10-Q for the period ended August 31, 2002 as filed with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the “Report”) fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and

 

(2)                                  The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company.

 

 

 

 

/s/ WILLIAM J. PRANGE

 

 

 

 

 

William J. Prange

 

 

Chairman and

 

 

Chief Executive Officer

 

 

 

 

 

October 11, 2002

 

 

 


EX-99.2 5 j5305_ex99d2.htm EX-99.2

EXHIBIT 99.2

 

 

 

Certification of Chief Financial Officer

Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350,

As Adopted Pursuant to

Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

 

 

 

I, Andrew K. Moller, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Christopher & Banks Corporation (the “Company”) certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that to the best of my knowledge:

 

(1)                                  The Quarterly Report of the Company on Form 10-Q for the period ended August 31, 2002 as filed with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the “Report”) fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and

 

(2)                                  The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company.

 

 

 

 

/s/ ANDREW K. MOLLER

 

 

 

 

 

Andrew K. Moller

 

 

Senior Vice President and

 

 

Chief Financial Officer

 

 

 

 

 

October 11, 2002

 

 

 


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