-----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, SZtddIXTq4uLsRE/pNGTcFH0TN5sH5Bw4tnv28/iWXpG/32sJwd9UEPXZKGJrGtI mAhqrB4bphMN2QE9KjmgTg== 0000914025-04-000034.txt : 20041105 0000914025-04-000034.hdr.sgml : 20041105 20041105165313 ACCESSION NUMBER: 0000914025-04-000034 CONFORMED SUBMISSION TYPE: 10-Q PUBLIC DOCUMENT COUNT: 6 CONFORMED PERIOD OF REPORT: 20041002 FILED AS OF DATE: 20041105 DATE AS OF CHANGE: 20041105 FILER: COMPANY DATA: COMPANY CONFORMED NAME: PLANTRONICS INC /CA/ CENTRAL INDEX KEY: 0000914025 STANDARD INDUSTRIAL CLASSIFICATION: TELEPHONE & TELEGRAPH APPARATUS [3661] IRS NUMBER: 770207692 STATE OF INCORPORATION: DE FISCAL YEAR END: 0329 FILING VALUES: FORM TYPE: 10-Q SEC ACT: 1934 Act SEC FILE NUMBER: 001-12696 FILM NUMBER: 041123350 BUSINESS ADDRESS: STREET 1: 345 ENCINAL ST CITY: SANTA CRUZ STATE: CA ZIP: 95061-1802 BUSINESS PHONE: 8314265858 MAIL ADDRESS: STREET 1: 345 ENCINAL STREET STREET 2: PO BOX 1802 CITY: SANTA CRUZ STATE: CA ZIP: 95061-1802 FORMER COMPANY: FORMER CONFORMED NAME: PI PARENT CORP DATE OF NAME CHANGE: 19931025 10-Q 1 pltq2f05.htm PLANTRONICS INC., FORM 10-Q SECOND QUARTER FISCAL 2005 Plantronics Inc., Form 10-Q Second Quarter Fiscal 2005


 

 
 
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
 
FORM 10-Q
 
(Mark One)
 
[X] QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
 
For the quarterly period ended September 30, 2004
 
 
OR
 
 
[  ] TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
 
 
For the transition period from ________to _________
 
 
Commission file number 1-12696
 
 
Plantronics, Inc.
 
 
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
 
 
Delaware
 
 
77-0207692
 
 
  (State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization) 
 
 
(I.R.S. Employer Identification Number)
 
345 Encinal Street
Santa Cruz, California   95060
(Address of principal executive offices)
(Zip Code)

(831) 426-5858
(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 [X ] No [ ]
 
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is an accelerated filer (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act) Yes [X ] No [ ]
 
 
  The number of shares outstanding of Plantronics’ common stock as of October 29, 2004 was 48,371,961.
 
 

 
   

 

Plantronics, Inc.
FORM 10-Q
TABLE OF CONTENTS
 
 

 
 
  2  

 

Part I -- FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Item 1. Financial Statements
PLANTRONICS, INC.
(In thousands, except par value amounts)
 
   
March 31,  
   
September 30,
 
     
2004
   
2004
 
ASSETS
             
Current assets:
             
Cash and cash equivalents
 
$
180,616
 
$
210,283
 
Marketable securities
   
-
   
4,000
 
Accounts receivable, net
   
64,999
   
73,892
 
Inventories
   
40,762
   
65,940
 
Deferred income taxes
   
13,967
   
8,046
 
Other current assets
   
10,283
   
10,750
 
Total current assets
   
310,627
   
372,911
 
Property, plant and equipment, net
   
42,124
   
49,959
 
Intangibles, net
   
3,440
   
3,326
 
Goodwill
   
9,386
   
9,386
 
Other assets
   
2,675
   
2,683
 
Total assets
 
$
368,252
 
$
438,265
 
               
               
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
             
Current liabilities:
             
Accounts payable
 
$
19,075
 
$
29,206
 
Accrued liabilities
   
36,469
   
38,292
 
Income taxes payable
   
5,686
   
6,484
 
Total current liabilities
   
61,230
   
73,982
 
Deferred tax liability
   
7,719
   
8,121
 
Total liabilities
   
68,949
   
82,103
 
               
               
Stockholders' equity:
             
Preferred stock, $0.01 par value per share; 1,000 shares authorized, no shares outstanding
   
-
   
-
 
Common stock, $0.01 par value per share; 100,000 shares authorized, 63,635 shares and 64,037 shares outstanding at March 31, 2004 and September 30, 2004, respectively
   
636
   
641
 
Additional paid-in capital
   
248,495
   
260,075
 
Accumulated other comprehensive income
   
681
   
1,000
 
Retained earnings
   
347,629
   
392,253
 
 
   
597,441
   
653,969
 
Less: Treasury stock (common: 16,029 and 15,974 shares at March 31, 2004 and September 30, 2004, respectively) at cost
   
(298,138
)
 
(297,807
)
Total stockholders' equity
   
299,303
   
356,162
 
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity
 
$
368,252
 
$
438,265
 
               
See Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

 
  3  

 
PLANTRONICS, INC.
(In thousands, except per share data)

   
Three Months Ended
 
Six Months Ended
 
   
September 30,
 
September 30,
 
     
2003 
   
2004 
   
2003 
   
2004 
 
Net sales
 
$
95,117
 
$
130,220
 
$
187,903
 
$
261,590
 
Cost of sales
   
46,351
   
60,719
   
93,670
   
122,422
 
Gross profit
   
48,766
   
69,501
   
94,233
   
139,168
 
                           
Operating expenses:
                         
Research, development and engineering
   
8,247
   
10,838
   
16,852
   
20,882
 
Selling, general and administrative
   
22,984
   
25,305
   
44,137
   
54,225
 
Total operating expenses
   
31,231
   
36,143
   
60,989
   
75,107
 
Operating income
   
17,535
   
33,358
   
33,244
   
64,061
 
Interest and other income, net
   
141
   
913
   
633
   
1,248
 
Income before income taxes
   
17,676
   
34,271
   
33,877
   
65,309
 
Income tax expense
   
5,303
   
9,596
   
10,163
   
18,287
 
Net income
 
$
12,373
 
$
24,675
 
$
23,714
 
$
47,022
 
                           
Basic earnings per common share (Note 5)
 
$
0.28
 
$
0.51
 
$
0.54
 
$
0.98
 
Shares used in basic per share calculations
   
44,052
   
47,977
   
43,861
   
47,851
 
                           
Diluted earnings per common share (Note 5)
 
$
0.27
 
$
0.49
 
$
0.52
 
$
0.93
 
Shares used in diluted per share calculations
   
46,372
   
50,638
   
45,672
   
50,532
 
                           
See Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
 
 
 
  4  

 
PLANTRONICS, INC.
(In thousands)

   
Six Months Ended 
 
 
 
September 30,
 
   
2003
 
2004
 
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES
             
Net income
 
$
23,714
 
$
47,022
 
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
             
Depreciation and amortization
   
6,350
   
5,609
 
Deferred income taxes
   
-
   
6,323
 
Income tax benefit associated with stock option exercises
   
3,087
   
1,818
 
Loss on disposal of fixed assets
   
12
   
406
 
Changes in assets and liabilities
         
-
 
Accounts receivable, net
   
(1,530
)
 
(8,893
)
Inventory, net
   
(4,006
)
 
(25,178
)
Other current assets
   
138
   
(467
)
Other assets
   
51
   
(305
)
Accounts payable
   
4,647
   
10,131
 
Accrued liabilities
   
5,305
   
2,465
 
Income taxes payable
   
(5,829
)
 
798
 
Cash provided by operating activities
   
31,939
   
39,729
 
               
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES
             
Proceeds from maturities of marketable securities
   
5,020
   
-
 
Purchase of marketable securities
   
-
   
(4,000
)
Purchase of equity investment
   
(450
)
 
-
 
Capital expenditures and other assets
   
(4,946
)
 
(14,080
)
Cash (used for) investing activities
   
(376
)
 
(18,080
)
               
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES
             
Purchase of treasury stock
   
(1,833
)
 
-
 
Proceeds from sale of treasury stock
   
1,564
   
1,831
 
Proceeds from exercise of stock options
   
6,868
   
8,265
 
Payment of cash dividends
         
(2,398
)
Cash provided by financing activities
   
6,599
   
7,698
 
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents
   
(761
)
 
320
 
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents
   
37,401
   
29,667
 
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of the period
   
54,704
   
180,616
 
Cash and cash equivalents at end of the period
 
$
92,105
 
$
210,283
 
               
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES
             
Cash paid for:
             
Interest
 
$
65
 
$
72
 
Income taxes
 
$
12,932
 
$
16,742
 
See Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
 
  5  

 
PLANTRONICS, INC.
 
1. BASIS OF PRESENTATION
The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements of Plantronics, Inc. ("Plantronics," "we," or "our") have been prepared pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission. These financial statements have been prepared in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America, consistent in all material respects with those applied in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2004. The interim financial information is unaudited, but reflects all normal recurring adjustments which are, in the opinion of management, necessary to provide a fair statement of results for the interim periods presented. Certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles have been condensed or omitted pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission. Certain prior period balances have been reclassified to conform to the current period presentation. The interim financial statements should be read in connection with the financial statements and notes thereto in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2004.
 
Subsequent to our earnings press release dated October 19, 2004, we reclassified approximately $1.7 million from operating cash flows to cash flows from investing activities on our Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows. This reduced our cash provided by operating activities from $8.1 million to $6.4 million and $41.5 million to $39.7 million for the three and six months ended September 30, 2004, respectively. There were no changes to our net increase in cash and cash equivalents line item on the Statement of Cash Flows or to the cash and cash equivalents line item on our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.

2. PERIODS PRESENTED
Our fiscal year-end was April 3, 2004 and the second fiscal quarter-end was October 2, 2004. For purposes of presentation, we have indicated our accounting year as ending on March 31, and our interim quarterly periods as ending on the applicable month-end. Our fiscal quarters ended September 30, 2003 and September 30, 2004 each consisted of thirteen weeks.
 
 
 
  6  

 
3. DETAILS OF CERTAIN BALANCE SHEET COMPONENTS (IN THOUSANDS)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
March 31,
 
September 30,
 
 
 
2004
 
2004
 
Accounts receivable, net:
   
   
 
Accounts receivable
 
$
82,562
 
$
92,995
 
Less: sales returns, promotions and rebates
   
(14,027
)
 
(15,655
)
Less: allowance for doubtful accounts
   
(3,536
)
 
(3,448
)
   
$
64,999
 
$
73,892
 
 
   
   
 
Inventories:
   
   
 
Finished goods
 
$
23,543
 
$
37,683
 
Work in process
   
1,349
   
1,802
 
Purchased parts
   
15,870
   
26,455
 
   
$
40,762
 
$
65,940
 
 
   
   
 
Property, plant and equipment, net:
   
   
 
Land
 
$
6,039
 
$
6,014
 
Buildings and improvements (useful life 7-30 years
   
25,952
   
28,867
 
Machinery and equipment (useful life 2-10 years
   
61,462
   
65,230
 
 
   
93,453
   
100,111
 
Less: accumulated depreciation
   
(51,329
)
 
(50,152
)
   
$
42,124
 
$
49,959
 
 
   
   
 
Accrued liabilities:
   
   
 
Employee benefits
 
$
16,373
 
$
15,314
 
Accrued advertising and sales and marketing
   
3,101
   
4,571
 
Warranty accrual
   
6,795
   
6,340
 
Accrued losses on hedging instruments
   
1,937
   
1,753
 
VAT and other non-income tax accruals
   
2,945
   
2,542
 
Accrued other
   
5,318
   
7,772
 
   
$
36,469
 
$
38,292
 
 
4. FOREIGN CURRENCY TRANSACTIONS
 
The functional currency of our Mexican manufacturing operations and design center, foreign sales and marketing offices, and our foreign research and development facilities is the local currency of the respective operations. For these foreign operations, we translate assets and liabilities into United States dollars using period-end exchange rates in effect as of the balance sheet date and translate revenues and expenses using average monthly exchange rates. The resulting cumulative translation adjustments are included in "Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income" and as a separate component of stockholders' equity in the Consolidated Balance Sheets (see Note 9).
 
The functional currency of our European sales and logistics headquarters is the United States dollar. For this foreign operation, assets and liabilities are remeasured at the period-end or historical rates as appropriate. Revenues and expenses are remeasured at average monthly rates. Currency transaction gains and losses are recognized in current operations.
 
Plantronics has entered into foreign currency forward contracts, which typically mature in one month, to hedge a portion of our exposure to foreign currency fluctuations in expected foreign currency-denominated receivables, payables and cash balances. We record on the balance sheet at each reporting period the fair value of our forward contracts and record any fair value adjustments in results of operations. Gains and losses associated with currency rate changes on the contracts are recorded in results of operations, as other income (expense), offsetting transaction gains and losses on the related assets and liabilities. Plantronics does not enter into foreign currency forward contracts for trading purposes.
 
  7  

 
As of September 30, 2004, we had foreign currency forward contracts of approximately 5.1 million and £1.9 million denominated in Euros and Great British Pounds, respectively. These forward contracts hedge against a portion of our expected foreign currency-denominated receivables, payables and cash balances. The following table summarizes our net currency position, and approximate U.S. dollar equivalent, at Septem ber 30, 2004 (local currency and dollar amounts in thousands):
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Local Currency
 
USD Equivalent
 
Position
 
Maturity
 
EUR
   
5,086
 
$
6,300
   
Sell
   
1 month
 
GBP
   
1,896
 
$
3,400
   
Sell
   
1 month
 
 
Foreign currency transactions, net of the effect of hedging activity on forward contracts, resulted in a net loss of approximately $0.1 million for the fiscal quarter ended September 30, 2004, compared to neither a net gain nor loss for the fiscal quarter ended September 30, 2003, which is included in interest and other income, net in the results of operations.
 
Plantronics periodically hedges foreign currency forecasted transactions related to sales with currency options. These transactions are designated as cash flow hedges. The effective portion of the hedge gain or loss is initially reported as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) and subsequently reclassified into earnings when the hedged exposure affects earnings. Any ineffective portions of related gains or losses are recorded in the statements of operations immediately. On a monthly basis, Plantronics enters into option contracts with a one-year term. Plantronics does not purchase options for trading purposes. As of September 30, 2004, we had foreign currency put and call option contracts of approximately 36.4 million and £11.8 million. Our option contracts hedge a portion of our forecasted foreign denominated sales. The following table summarizes option positions at September 30, 2004 (in thousands):

   
Balance Sheet
 
Income Statement
 
Income Statement
 
   
Accumulated Other
 
Net Sales
 
Net Sales
 
   
Comprehensive Income/(loss)
 
Three Months Ended September 30,
 
Six Months Ended September 30,
 
                           
 
   
March 31, 2004 
   
September 30, 2004
   
2003
   
2004
   
2003
   
2004
 
Realized loss on closed transactions
 
$
-
 
$
-
 
$
(326
)
$
(925
)
$
(510
)
$
(1,413
)
Recognized but unrealized loss on open transactions
   
(1,937
)
 
(1,174
)
 
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
 
   
$
(1,937
)
$
(1,174
)
$
(326
)
$
(925
)
$
(510
)
$
(1,413
)
                                       
Foreign currency transactions related to cash flow hedges on option contracts resulted in a net reduction to revenue of $0.9 million and $1.4 million for the three and six months ended September 30, 2004 and $0.3 million and $0.5 million for the three and six months ended September 30, 2003, respectively.
 
5. COMPUTATION OF EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE
 
Basic Earnings Per Share ("EPS") is computed by dividing net income available to common stockholders (numerator) by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding (denominator) during the period. Basic EPS excludes the dilutive effect of stock options. Diluted EPS gives effect to all dilutive potential common shares outstanding during a period. In computing diluted EPS, the average stock price for the period is used in determining the number of shares assumed to be purchased using the proceeds from the assumed exercise of stock options.

 
  8  

 
The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted earnings per share for the three and six months ended September 30, 2003 and 2004 (in thousands, except earnings per share):

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Three Months Ended
 
Six Months Ended
 
 
 
September 30
 
September 30
 
 
   
2003
   
2004
   
2003
   
2004
 
 
   
   
   
   
 
Net income
 
$
12,373
 
$
24,675
 
$
23,714
 
$
47,022
 
 
   
   
   
   
 
Weighted average shares-basic
   
44,052
   
47,977
   
43,861
   
47,851
 
Effect of potential dilutive employee stock options
   
2,320
   
2,661
   
1,811
   
2,681
 
Weighted average shares-diluted
   
46,372
   
50,638
   
45,672
   
50,532
 
 
   
   
   
   
 
Net income per share-basic
 
$
0.28
 
$
0.51
 
$
0.54
 
$
0.98
 
 
   
   
   
   
 
Net income per share-diluted
 
$
0.27
 
$
0.49
 
$
0.52
 
$
0.93
 
 
   
   
   
   
 
Dilutive potential common shares consist of outstanding employee stock options. Outstanding stock options to purchase approximately 2.1 million and 0.4 million shares of Plantronics' common stock at September 30, 2003 and September 30, 2004, respectively, were excluded from the computation of diluted earnings per share because they were out-of-the-money and therefore anti-dilutive. The higher average market value of Plantronics' common stock during the fiscal quarter ended September 30, 2004 versus the comparable period in 2003 contributed to the increased number of dilutive potential common shares included in the diluted earnings per share calculation.
 
6. PRO FORMA EFFECTS OF STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION
 
Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 123, "Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation" ("SFAS 123"), encourages, but does not require, companies to record compensation cost for stock-based employee compensation plans based on the fair value of options granted. We have elected to continue to account for stock-based compensation using the intrinsic value method prescribed in Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 25, "Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees" and related interpretations, and to provide additional disclosures with respect to the pro forma effects of adoption had we recorded compensation expense as provided in SFAS 123 and Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 148, "Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation-Transition and Disclosure as it Relates to Interim Disclosures."
 
All options in the six months ended September 30, 2003 and 2004, respectively, were granted at an exercise price equal to the market value of Plantronics’ common stock on the date of grant. The following table sets forth net income and earnings per share amounts that would have been reported if Plantronics had applied the fair value recognition provisions of SFAS 123 to stock-based employee compensation for the three and six months ended September 30, 2003 and 2004 (in thousands, except earnings per share):
 
 
Three Months Ended
 
Six Months Ended
 
 
 
September 30,
 
September 30,
 
 
 
2003
 
2004
 
2003
 
2004
 
Net income:
   
   
   
   
 
Net income - as reported
 
$
12,373
 
$
24,675
 
$
23,714
 
$
47,022
 
Less stock based compensation expense determined under fair value based method, net of taxes from:
   
   
   
   
 
Employee stock options plans
   
(3,121
)
 
(4,200
)
 
(6,527
)
 
(8,257
)
Employee stock purchase plans
   
(72
)
 
(100
)
 
(106
)
 
(176
)
Net income - pro forma
 
$
9,180
 
$
20,375
 
$
17,081
 
$
38,589
 
 
   
   
   
   
 
Basic net income per share - as reported
 
$
0.28
 
$
0.51
 
$
0.54
 
$
0.98
 
Basic net income per share - pro forma
 
$
0.21
 
$
0.42
 
$
0.39
 
$
0.81
 
Diluted net income per share - as reported
 
$
0.27
 
$
0.49
 
$
0.52
 
$
0.93
 
Diluted net income per share - pro forma
 
$
0.20
 
$
0.40
 
$
0.37
 
$
0.76
 
 
 
  9  

 
The fair value of options at the date of grant was estimated using the Black-Scholes model. The following assumptions were used and the following weighted-average fair values resulted (share information and pro forma expense amounts are stated in thousands, current period pro forma expenses may not be an indicator of future expense):

 
Stock Option
Stock Option
Employee
Employee
Plans
Plans
Stock Purchase Plan
Stock Purchase Plan
Three Months Ended
Six Months Ended
Three Months Ended
Six Months Ended
September 30,
September 30,
September 30,
September 30,
 
2003
 
2004
 
2003
 
2004
 
2003
 
2004
 
2003
 
2004
 
Expected dividend yield
   
0.0
%
 
0.5
%
 
0.0
%
 
0.5
%
 
0.0
%
 
0.5
%
 
0.0
%
 
0.5
%
Expected life (in years
   
6.0
   
5.0
   
6.0
   
5.1
   
0.5
   
0.5
   
0.5
   
0.5
 
Expected volatility
   
55.6
%
 
58.2
%
 
55.7
%
 
58.3
%
 
31.7
%
 
39.6
%
 
31.7
%
 
39.6
%
Risk-free interest rate
   
3.3
%
 
3.3
%
 
3.2
%
 
3.3
%
 
1.0
%
 
1.8
%
 
1.0
%
 
1.8
%
 
         
               
         
       
Weighted-average fair value
 
$
14.38
 
$
20.56
 
$
16.29
 
$
20.68
 
$
2.58
 
$
7.65
 
$
2.58
 
$
7.65
 
                                                   
(in thousands)
                                                 
Number of underlying shares
   
1,792
   
964
   
1,830
   
1,050
   
60
   
33
   
60
   
33
 
Amount included in pro forma expense, net of taxes
   
143
   
113
   
163
   
211
   
72
   
100
   
106
   
176
 
 
7. RESTRICTED COMMON STOCK AWARDS
 
In lieu of raises to certain of our executive officers, during the second quarter of fiscal 2005, Plantronics issued restricted stock awards, representing an aggregate of 45,500 shares, in accordance with the amended and restated 2003 Stock Plan, for which the exercise price payable by employees is $0.01 per share.  Compensation cost for restricted stock awards is recognized in an amount equal to its fair value at the date of grant.  Such expense is recorded on a straight-line basis over the vesting period of the award unless forfeited in the event of termination of employment, with the offsetting entry to additional paid-in capital.  The amortized compensation expense for the quarter was minimal since the awards were granted on September 22, 2004, which resulted in a shorter amortization period.

8. CASH DIVIDEND PROGRAM
 
In the second quarter of fiscal 2005, the Company’s Board of Directors initiated a quarterly cash dividend of $0.05 per share.  The Company declared a $0.05 per share cash dividend on July 20, 2004 which was paid in September 2004 in the aggregate amount of $2.4 million. The plan approved by the Board of Directors anticipates a total annual dividend of $0.20 per common share for fiscal 2005. The actual declaration of future dividends, and the establishment of record and payment dates, is subject to final determination by the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors of Plantronics each quarter after its review of our financial position.
 
  10  

 
9. COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
 
Comprehensive income includes charges or credits to equity that are not the result of transactions with owners. The components of comprehensive income, net of tax, are as follows (in thousands):
 

 
 
Three Months Ended
 
Six Months Ended
 
 
 
September 30
 
September 30
 
 
 
2003
 
2004
 
2003
 
2004
 
Net income
 
$
12,373
 
$
24,675
 
$
23,714
 
$
47,022
 
 
   
   
   
   
 
Unrealized gain/(loss) on hedges, for the three and six months ended September 30, 2003 and 2004, net of tax of ($95), $74, ($485) and ($329), respectively
   
(222
)
 
190
   
(1,132
)
 
(845
)
Foreign currency translation, for the three and six months ended September 30, 2003 and 2004, net of tax of $34, ($80), $256 and $418, respectively
   
79
   
(207
)
 
597
   
1,075
 
Other comprehensive income
 
$
12,230
 
$
24,659
 
$
23,179
 
$
47,252
 
 
10. PRODUCT WARRANTY OBLIGATIONS
 
Plantronics provides for the estimated costs of product warranties at the time revenue is recognized. The specific terms and conditions of those warranties vary depending upon the product sold. In the case of products manufactured by us, our warranties generally start from the delivery date and continue for up to two years depending on the product purchased. Factors that affect our warranty obligation include product failure rates, material usage, and service delivery costs incurred in correcting product failures. We assess the adequacy of our recorded warranty liabilities quarterly and make adjustments to the liability if necessary.
 
Changes in our warranty obligation, which are included as a component of "Accrued liabilities" on the condensed consolidated balance sheets, during the three and six months ended September 30, 2004, are as follows (in thousands):

Warranty liability at March 31, 2004
 
$
6,795
 
Warranty provision relating to product shipped during the quarter
   
2,606
 
Deductions for warranty claims processed
   
(2,413
)
Warranty liability at June 30, 2004
 
$
6,988
 
Warranty provision relating to product shipped during the quarter
   
1,530
 
Deductions for warranty claims processed
   
(2,178
)
Warranty liability at September 30, 2004
 
$
6,340
 
 
11. SEGMENTS AND ENTERPRISE-WIDE DISCLOSURES
 
SEGMENTS. We are engaged in the design, manufacture, marketing and sales of telecommunications equipment including headsets, telephone headset systems, and other specialty telecommunications products. Plantronics considers itself to operate in one business segment.
 
  11  

 
PRODUCTS AND SERVICES. We focus on headsets for business and consumer applications, and other specialty products for the hearing impaired. With respect to headsets, we make products for office and contact center use, for use with mobile and cordless phones and for use with computers and gaming consoles. The following table presents net revenues by product group (in thousands):

 
 
Three Months Ended
 
Six Months Ended
 
 
 
September 30,
 
September 30,
 
 
 
2003
 
2004
 
2003
 
2004
 
Net revenues from unaffiliated customers:
   
   
   
   
 
Office and contact center
 
$
64,192
 
$
86,204
 
$
126,272
 
$
169,019
 
Mobile
   
18,370
   
28,815
   
36,888
   
63,273
 
Gaming and computer audio
   
5,679
   
8,515
   
11,142
   
15,508
 
Other specialty products
   
6,876
   
6,686
   
13,601
   
13,790
 
   
$
95,117
 
$
130,220
 
$
187,903
 
$
261,590
 
 
   
   
   
   
 
 
MAJOR CUSTOMERS. No customer accounted for 10% or more of total revenues for the three and six months ended September 30, 2003 and 2004, nor did any customer account for 10% or more of accounts receivable from consolidated sales at the end of such periods.
 
GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION. In geographical reporting, revenues are attributed to the geographical location of the sales and service organizations. The following table presents net revenues and long-lived assets by geographic area (in thousands) but may not actually reflect end-user markets:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Three Months Ended
 
Six Months Ended
 
 
 
September 30,
 
September 30,
 
 
 
2003
 
2004
 
2003
 
2004
 
Net revenues from unaffiliated customers:
   
   
   
   
 
 
   
   
   
   
 
United States
 
$
64,929
 
$
89,375
 
$
129,853
 
$
178,464
 
 
   
   
   
   
 
Europe, Middle East and Africa
   
21,826
   
29,794
   
41,009
   
60,978
 
Asia Pacific and Latin America
   
6,010
   
7,902
   
11,405
   
15,397
 
Canada and Other International
   
2,352
   
3,149
   
5,636
   
6,751
 
Total International
   
30,188
   
40,845
   
58,050
   
83,126
 
   
$
95,117
 
$
130,220
 
$
187,903
 
$
261,590
 
 
   
   
   
   
 
 
   
March 31, 
   
September 30,
 
2004
2004
 
   
 
Long-lived assets:
   
   
   
   
 
United States
 
$
24,129
 
$
30,226
   
   
 
International
   
17,995
   
19,733
   
   
 
   
$
42,124
 
$
49,959
   
   
 
 
   
   
   
   
 
 

 
  12  

 
12. INTANGIBLES
 
Aggregate amortization expense relating to intangible assets for the three and six months ended September 30, 2003 was $0.2 million and $0.4 million, respectively. For the three and six months ended September 30, 2004, aggregate amortization expense was $0.2 million and $0.4 million, respectively. The following table presents information on acquired intangible assets (in thousands):

   
March 31, 2004
 
   
Gross Carrying
 
Accumulated
 
Net Carrying
 
Useful
 
Intangible assets
 
Amount
 
Amortization
 
Amount
 
Life
 
                           
Technology
 
$
2,460
 
$
(1,103
)
$
1,357
   
7 years
 
State contracts
   
1,300
   
(418
)
 
882
   
7 years
 
Patents
   
1,170
   
(283
)
 
887
   
7 years
 
Trademarks
   
300
   
(96
)
 
204
   
7 years
 
Non-compete agreements
   
200
   
(90
)
 
110
   
5 years
 
Total
 
$
5,430
 
$
(1,990
)
$
3,440
       
                           
 
    September 30, 2004   
 
   
Gross Carrying 
   
Accumulated
   
Net Carrying
   
Useful
 
 
   
Amount 
   
Amortization
   
Amount
   
Life
 
                           
Technology
 
$
2,000
 
$
(786
)
$
1,214
   
7 years
 
State contracts
   
1,300
   
(511
)
 
789
   
7 years
 
Patents
   
1,420
   
(369
)
 
1,051
   
7 years
 
Trademarks
   
300
   
(118
)
 
182
   
7 years
 
Non-compete agreements
   
200
   
(110
)
 
90
   
5 years
 
Total
 
$
5,220
 
$
(1,894
)
$
3,326
       
 
13. RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS
 
In March 2004, the Financial Accounting Standards Board’s ("FASB") issued a proposed Statement, "Share-Based Payment, an amendment of SFAS Nos. 123 and 95," that addresses the accounting for share-based payment transactions in which a company receives employee services in exchange for either equity instruments of the company or liabilities that are based on the fair value of the company’s equity instruments or that may be settled by the issuance of such equity instruments. The proposed statement would eliminate the ability to account for share-based compensation transactions using the intrinsic value method that the Company currently uses and generally would require that such transactions be accounted for using a "fair-value"-based method and recognized as expense in the Company’s consolidated sta tement of operations. The recommended effective date of the proposed statement is currently for any interim or annual period beginning after June 15, 2005. Should this proposed statement be finalized in its current form, it will have a significant impact on the Company’s consolidated statement of operations as we will be required to expense the "fair value" of the Company’s stock option grants and stock purchases under the Company’s employee stock purchase plan. In addition the proposed standard may have a significant impact on the Company’s consolidated cash flows from operations (no impact to the Company’s total consolidated cash flows) as, under this proposed standard, the Company will be required to reclassify a portion of the Company’s tax benefit on the exercise of employee stock options from cash flows from operating activities to cash flows from financing activities.
 
In March 2004, the FASB’s Emerging Issues Task Force ("EITF") reached a consensus on Issue No. 03-01, "The Meaning of Other-Than-Temporary Impairments and Its Application to Certain Investments" ("EITF 03-01"). EITF 03-01 provides new disclosure requirements for other-than-temporary impairments on debt and equity investments. Investors are required to disclose quantitative information about: (i) the aggregate amount of unr ealized losses, and (ii) the aggregate related fair values of investments with unrealized losses, segregated into time periods during which the investment has been in an unrealized loss position of less than 12 months and greater than 12 months. In addition, investors are required to disclose the qualitative information that supports their conclusion that the impairments noted in the qualitative disclosure are not other-than-temporary. The disclosure requirements of EITF 03-01 were effective December 31, 2003. EITF 03-01 is effective for the first fiscal year or interim period beginning after September 15, 2004. The adoption of EITF 03-01 is not expected to have a material impact on our financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.

 
  13  

 
In January 2003, the FASB issued FASB Interpretation No. 46 ("FIN 46"), "Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities," an Interpretation of ARB No. 51.  FIN 46 requires certain variable interest entities to be consolidated by the primary beneficiary of the entity if the equity investors in the entity do not have the characteristics of a controlling financial interest or do not have sufficient equity at risk for the entity to finance its activities without additional subordinated financial support from other parties. FIN 46 is effective immediately for all new variable interest entities created or acquired after January 31, 2003 and in the quarter ending March 31, 2004 for arrangements entered into prior to February 1, 2003.  Plantronics has not entered into any arrangements with entities it considers to be variable interest entities and as such the adoption of F IN 46 (as revised December 2003) did not have a material effect on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.
 
14. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
 
On October 19, 2004, we announced that our Board of Directors had declared a cash dividend of $0.05 per share of our common stock, payable on December 10, 2004 to shareholders of record on November 12, 2004. The plan approved by the Board of Directors on July 20, 2004, anticipates a total annual dividend of $0.20 per common share for fiscal 2005. The actual declaration of future dividends, and the establishment of record and payment dates, is subject to final determination by the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors of Plantronics each quarter after its review of our financial performance.

 
 
 
  14  

 
Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.
 
 
We are a leading worldwide designer, manufacturer and marketer of lightweight communications headsets, telephone headset systems and accessories for the business and consumer markets. In addition, we manufacture and market specialty telephone products, such as telephones for the hearing-impaired and other related products for people with special communications needs.
 
We are a global company and sell our broad range of communications products into more than 70 countries through a worldwide network of distributors, original equipment manufacturers ("OEM’s"), wireless carriers, retailers and telephony service providers. We have well-developed distribution channels in North America and Europe, where headset use is fairly widespread. Our distribution channels in other regions of the world are less mature and primarily serve the contact center markets in those regions.
 
During the second quarter of fiscal 2005, in comparison to the second quarter one year ago, our growth in revenues was geographically broad based and resulted primarily from increased adoption of our wireless headsets for business professionals as well as the success of the SupraPlus™ headset for the contact center markets. Headsets for mobile, cell and cordless phones were key drivers of the increase in revenues and revenues from Bluetooth based headsets grew 100% compared to the second quarter one year ago, which we believe demonstrates that the desire for wireless freedom is becoming mainstream.* During the first six months of fiscal year 2005 as compared to the same period one year ago, the growth in revenues was primarily driven by the ongoing worldwide adoption of headsets and successful new product i ntroductions. In addition, for the three and six month periods ended September 30, 2004, we were favorably affected by continued improvements in the major global economies, increased promotional activities, benefit from implementation of hands-free legislation and increased promotional activities coupled with increased market acceptance of Bluetooth technologies.
 
Our gross margins improved in the three and six month periods ended September 30, 2004 compared to the same periods one year ago due to benefits of increased volumes on largely fixed overhead, component cost reductions, lower requirements for warranty and inventory provisions, and favorable foreign exchange, despite a somewhat unfavorable product mix shift resulting from higher sales of lower margin mobile and computer products.
 
Our operating expenses increased in the three and six month periods ended September 30, 2004 compared to the same periods one year ago due, in part, to increased marketing programs globally, many of which were designed to assist in increasing sales of mobile headsets especially in places where new hands-free legislation had been enacted or was being enforced. We also increased expenditures to support the expansion of our worldwide sales team. In addition, we have continued to expand our research and development efforts with the goal of bringing more new products to market. Offsetting these expenses was a one time ben efit of $2 million from a favorable court ruling during the second fiscal quarter of 2005, which ended a lawsuit filed by one of our competitors.
 
In addition, during the quarter ended September 30, 2004, we generated $39.7 million in operating cash flows, which in part contributed to the increase in our liquidity and cash balances at September 30, 2004. Our net inventory balances increased $25.2 million from our fiscal year end 2004 and our inventory turns decreased from 5.2 to 3.7 turns. We increased our inventory balance in the second quarter of 2005 largely to support the increased revenue level we anticipate for the third quarter of 2005.* However, approximately $4 million of the increase is attributable to revenue opportunities that we thought were likely to occur in the second quarter, but which did not materialize. Finally, we have also increased our safety stocks on certain key components. We expect our inventory turns to improve in the third quar ter in comparison to the second quarter of 2005.*
 
We intend for the following discussion of our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows to provide information that will assist in understanding our financial statements.

 
  15  

 
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS:
 
The following table sets forth items from the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations as a percentage of net sales:

   
Three Months Ended
 
Six Months Ended
 
 
 
September 30,
 
September 30,
 
   
2003
 
2004
 
2003
 
2004
 
Net sales
   
100.0
%
 
100.0
%
 
100.0
%
 
100.0
%
Cost of sales
   
48.7
   
46.6
   
49.9
   
46.8
 
Gross profit
   
51.3
   
53.4
   
50.1
   
53.2
 
                           
Operating expenses:
                         
Research, development and engineering
   
8.7
   
8.3
   
9.0
   
8.0
 
Selling, general and administrative
   
24.2
   
19.4
   
23.4
   
20.6
 
Total operating expenses
   
32.9
   
27.7
   
32.4
   
28.6
 
Operating income
   
18.4
   
25.7
   
17.7
   
24.5
 
Interest and other income, net
   
0.2
   
0.6
   
0.3
   
0.4
 
Income before income taxes
   
18.6
   
26.3
   
18.0
   
25.0
 
Income tax expense
   
5.6
   
7.4
   
5.4
   
7.0
 
Net income
   
13.0
%
 
18.9
%
 
12.6
%
 
18.0
%
 
Revenues for the quarter ended September 30, 2004, increased 36.9% to $130.2 million from $95.1 million for the same quarter in the prior year. Revenues were higher domestically by 38% and internationally by 35% and for all product lines with the exception of our specialty product line, which are principally our Clarity products sold for hearing impaired individuals. Our office and contact center products increased on the continued strength of our new products, particularly for wireless headsets for office applications and the SupraPlus. Revenues for our mobile products increased due to continued sales related to promotional offers that bundle our headsets with cell phones sold into the U.S. wireless carrier market and our Bluetooth enabled headsets. Gaming and computer audio revenues increased on headsets sold for use with various gaming and voice over IP applications.

For the six month period ended September 30, 2004, compared to the same six month period in the prior year, net sales were up both domestically by 37% and internationally by 43%, primarily driven by demand for office and contact center products, demand for mobile products including both wireless Bluetooth headsets and the MX150 mobile corded headset and favorable exchange rates. Net sales were up across all of our product lines.

GROSS PROFIT. Gross profit for the quarter ended September 30, 2004 increased by 42.5% to $69.5 million (53.4% of net sales), compared to $48.8 million (51.3% of net sales) for the quarter ended September 30, 2003.

As a percentage of revenues, gross margin for the quarter ended September 30, 2004 increased by 2.1 percentage points compared to the same period in the prior year , primarily due to cost reductions and improved economies of scale due to increased volume. Our productivity improvements have enabled us to hold manufacturing overhead costs fairly constant compared to a year ago despite significant increases in unit volume. In addition, a weaker U.S. dollar compared to the Euro and Great British Pound favorably affected revenues and thus gross margin. Partially offsetting these favorable factors was a higher percentage of revenues coming from lower margin mobile products as compared to the same period in the prior year.

Gross profit for the six months ended September 30, 2004 increased as a percentage of revenue by 3.1 percentage points compared to the same period in the prior year, primarily due to better manufacturing efficiencies on higher volumes, component cost reductions, and favorable foreign exchange rates offset a less favorable product mix with higher sales of lower margin mobile and computer products.

 
RESEARCH, DEVELOPMENT AND ENGINEERING. Research, development and engineering expenses for the quarter ended September 30, 2004 were $10.8 million (8.3% of net sales), compared to $8.2 million (8.7% of net sales) for the quarter ended September 30, 2003. The increase was primarily due to incremental spending on new product development particularly for Bluetooth and wireless office products.
 
  16  

 
Research, development and engineering expenses for the six month period ended September 30, 2004 were $20.9 million (8.0% of net sales), compared to $16.9 million (9.0% of net sales) in the first six months of fiscal 2004. The increase in absolute dollars was anticipated, as well as the reduction as a percentage of revenues, as we continue to increase the level of commitment to our new product pipeline, but also continue to make process improvements.
 
SELLING, GENERAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE. Selling, general and administrative expenses for the quarter ended September 30, 2004 increased 10.1% to $25.3 million (19.4% of net sales), compared to $23.0 million (24.2% of net sales) for the quarter ended September 30, 2003. Costs were higher as a result of increased sales and marketing programs globally, particularly to generate demand for our cordless office, gaming and voice over IP products and programs to leverage hands-free regulatory laws. Additionally, we have expanded our world wide sales and marketing teams and unfavorable foreign exchange rates have also driven costs higher. These expenses were partially offset by a one time benefit of approximately $2 million from a favorable court ruling, which ended a lawsuit filed by one of our competitors. Additionally we had an advertising trial campaign that occurred in the same quarter in the prior year, but did not occur in the second quarter of fiscal 2005.
 
Selling, general and administrative expenses for the six month period ended September 30, 2004 increased 22.9% to $54.2 million, compared to $44.1 million for the same period one year ago, also driven by unfavorable foreign exchange rates and the increased level of spending to support new product launches, offset by the one time litigation settlement.
 
OPERATING INCOME. Operating income for the quarter ended September 30, 2004 increased by 90.2% to $33.4 million (25.7% of net sales), compared to $17.5 million (18.4% of net sales) for the quarter ended September 30, 2003.
 
Operating income for the six month period ended September 30, 2004 increased by 92.7% to $64.1 million compared to $33.2 million for the same period one year ago. The increases in both the three and six month periods were driven primarily by higher revenues and lower operating expenses as a percent of revenues.
 
INTEREST AND OTHER INCOME, NET. Interest and other income, net for the quarter ended September 30, 2004, was $0.9 million compared to $0.1 million for the quarter ended September 30, 2003. The increase from the quarter ended September 30, 2003 was driven primarily by interest income earned on higher average cash balances and approximately $0.3 million in interest received from a one time litigation settlement.
 
Interest and other income, net for the six month period ended September 30, 2004 was $1.2 million compared to $0.6 million for the same period one year ago. Compared to the prior year, the increase was primarily due to greater earned interest income and a one time litigation settlement.
 
INCOME TAX EXPENSE. Income tax expense for the three and six month periods ended September 30, 2004 was $9.6 million and $18.3 million compared to $5.3 million and $10.2 million for the three and six month periods ended September 30, 2003, which represented tax rates of 28.0% and 30.0%, respectively for the 2004 and 2003 periods.
 
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND CASH FLOWS:
 
Subsequent to our earnings press release dated October 19, 2004, we reclassified approximately $1.7 million from operating cash flows to cash flows from investing activities on our Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows. This reduced our cash provided by operating activities from $8.1 million to $6.4 million and $41.5 million to $39.7 million for the three and six months ended September 30, 2004, respectively. There were no changes to our net increase in cash and cash equivalents line item on the Statement of Cash Flows or to the cash and cash equivalents line item on our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.
 
OPERATING ACTIVITIES. During the six months ended September 30, 2004, we generated $39.7 million in cash from operating activities, primarily from $47.0 million in net income, an increase in accounts payable and accrued liabilities of $12.6 million, an increase in deferred income taxes of $6.3 million, depreciation and amortization of $5.6 million, an increase in accrued liabilities of $2.5 million, income tax benefit from stock option exercises of $1.8 million, an increase in income taxes payable of $0.8 million, offset by an increase in inventories of $25.2 million, an increase in accounts receivable of $8.9 million and an increase in other assets of $0.8 million. In comparison, during the six months ended September 30, 2003, we generated $31.9 million in cash from operating activities, primarily from $23.7 mi llion in net income, increases in accounts payable and accrued liabilities aggregating $10.0 million, depreciation and amortization of $6.4 million, and an income tax benefit from stock option exercises of $3.1 million, offset by a decrease in taxes payable of $5.8 million, an increase in inventory of $4.0 million and an increase in accounts receivable of $1.5 million.

 
  17  

 
INVESTING ACTIVITIES. During the six months ended September 30, 2004, we incurred capital expenditures of $14.1 million principally for leasehold improvements at our corporate headquarters, machinery and equipment, tooling, computers and software. Additionally we purchased marketable securities primarily composed of an AAA fixed rate Federal Home Loan Banks bond for $4.0 million that matures in August of 2005. In comparison, during the six months ended September 30, 2003, we received $5.0 million from maturities of marketable securities and incurred capital expenditures of $4.9 million principally for building and leasehold improvements, machinery and equipment, and tooling and computers.
 
FINANCING ACTIVITIES. During the six months ended September 30, 2004, we did not repurchase any shares of our common stock under our stock repurchase plan. We reissued through employee benefit plans 55,730 shares of our treasury stock for $1.8 million. During the six months ended September 30, 2003, we repurchased 122,800 shares of our common stock under our stock repurchase plan for $1.8 million and reissued through employee benefit plans 108,088 shares of our treasury stock for $1.6 million. As of September 30, 2004, 142,600 shares remained available for repurchase under our stock repurchase plan. We received $8.3 million in proceeds from the exercise of stock options during the six months ended September 30, 2004 compared to $6.9 million in the six months ended September 30, 2003. During the s econd quarter of fiscal year 2005, we made our first dividend payment under the dividends policy adopted by our Board of Directors in July 2004 totaling $2.4 million.
 
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES. As of September 30, 2004, we had working capital of $299 million, including $210.3 million of cash and cash equivalents, compared to working capital of $249.4 million, including $180.6 million of cash and cash equivalents at March 31, 2004. During the next 12 to 18 months, we will continue to incur capital expenditures related to facilities, including, among other things, the construction of a factory and development center in China and the completion of planned upgrades in our corporate offices in Santa Cruz.* The factory construction in China is in the very early stages; we currently expect to break ground in December of 2004 and we estimate that the total cost of this ini tiative could range from $15 to $20 million.*
 
We have a revolving credit facility with a major bank for $75 million, including a letter of credit subfacility. The facility and subfacility both expire on July 31, 2005. As of October 29, 2004, we had no cash borrowings under the revolving credit facility and $1.8 million outstanding under the letter of credit subfacility. The amounts outstanding under the letter-of-credit subfacility were principally associated with purchases of inventory. The terms of the credit facility contain covenants that materially limit our ability to incur debt and pay dividends, among other matters. Under our current credit facility agreement, we have the ability to declare dividends so long as the aggregate amount of all such dividends declared or paid and common stock repurchased or redeemed in any four consecutive fiscal quarter periods shall not exceed 50% of the amount of cumulative consolidated net income in the eight consecutive fiscal quarter period ending with the fiscal quarter immediately preceding the date as of which the applicable distributions occurred. We are currently in compliance with the covenants and the dividend provision under this agreement.
 
On October 19, 2004, we announced that our Board of Directors had declared a cash dividend of $0.05 per share of our common stock, payable on December 10, 2004 to shareholders of record on November 12, 2004. The plan approved by the Board anticipates a total annual dividend of $0.20 per common share for fiscal 2005. The actual declaration of future dividends, and the establishment of record and payment dates, is subject to final determination by the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors of Plantronics each quarter after its review of our financial position.
 
We believe that our current cash and cash equivalents balance and cash provided by operations, will be sufficient to fund operations for at least the next twelve months.* However, any projections of future financial needs and sources of working capital are subject to uncertainty. See "Certain Forward-Looking Information" and "Risk Factors Affecting Future Operating Results" in this Quarterly Report for factors that could affect our estimates for future financial needs and sources of working capital.

 
  18  

 
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES:
 
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations are based upon Plantronics’ consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. The preparation of these financial statements requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Management bases estimates and judgments on historical experience and on various other factors that Plantronics’ management believes to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of as sets and liabilities. Actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions. Management believes the following critical accounting policies, among others, affect its more significant judgments and estimates used in the preparation of its consolidated financial statements.
 
REVENUE RECOGNITION. We recognize revenue net of estimated product returns and expected payments to resellers for customer programs including cooperative advertising, marketing development funds, volume rebates, and special pricing programs. Estimated product returns are deducted from revenues upon shipment, based on historical return rates, the product stage relative to its expected life cycle, and assumptions regarding the rate of sell-through to end users from our various channels based on historical sell-through rates. Should product lives vary significantly from our estimates, or should a particular selling channel experience a higher than estimated return rate, or a slower sell-through rate causing inventory build-up, then our estimated returns, which net against revenue, may need to be revised. Reductions to revenue for expected and actual payments to resellers for volume rebates and pricing protection are based on actual expenses incurred during the period, on estimates for what is due to resellers for estimated credits earned during the period and any adjustments for credits based on actual activity. If market conditions warrant, Plantronics may take action to stimulate demand, which could include increasing promotional programs, decreasing prices, or increasing discounts. Such actions could result in incremental reductions to revenue and margins at the time such incentives are offered. To the extent that we reduce pricing, we may incur reductions to revenue for price protection based on our estimate of inventory in the channel that is subject to such pricing actions.
 
ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE. We perform ongoing credit evaluations of our customers' financial condition and generally require no collateral from our customers. Plantronics maintains allowances for doubtful accounts for estimated losses resulting from the inability of our customers to make required payments. The allowance for doubtful accounts is reviewed monthly and adjusted if deemed necessary. If the financial condition of our customers should deteriorate, resulting in an impairment of their ability to make payments, additional allowances may be required.
 
INVENTORY. We write down the cost basis of our inventory for estimated excess and obsolete inventory based on projected future shipments using historical selling rates, and taking into account market conditions, inventory on-hand, purchase commitments, product development plans and life expectancy, and competitive factors. If markets for Plantronics’ products and corresponding demand in such markets decline, then additional write-downs may be necessary.
 
WARRANTY. We provide for the estimated cost of warranties at the time revenue is recognized. Our warranty obligation is affected by product failure rates and our costs to repair or replace the products. Should actual failure rates and costs differ from our estimates, revisions to our warranty obligation may be required.
 
GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLES. As a result of acquisitions we have made, we have goodwill and intangible assets on our balance sheet. These assets affect the amount of future amortization expense and possible impairment charges that we may incur. The determination of the value of goodwill and intangible assets, as well as the useful lives of amortizable intangible assets, requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect our financial statements. We perform at least annual impairment reviews of goodwill and intangible assets. If actual or expected revenue significantly declines, we may be required to record an impairment charge.
 
DEFERRED TAXES. We record deferred tax assets at the amounts estimated to be realizable. While we have considered future taxable income and ongoing prudent and feasible tax planning strategies in assessing the value of the corresponding assets, if we were to determine that we would not be able to realize all or part of our net deferred tax assets in the future, then an adjustment would be required.
 
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CERTAIN FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION:
 
This Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 (the "Securities Act") and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the "Exchange Act"), and we may from time to time make oral forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements may generally be identified by the use of such words as "expect," "anticipate," "believe," "intend," "plan," "will," or "shall," and include, among others, all of the statements marked in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q with an asterisk ("*"). These forward-looking statements are based on current expectations and entail various risks and uncertainties. Our actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements as a result of risks and unc ertainties and other factors, including those set forth below under "Risk Factors Affecting Future Operating Results." When reading the sections titled "Results of Operations" and "Financial Condition," you should also read our unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements and related notes included elsewhere herein, our Annual Report on Form 10-K, and the section below entitled "Risk Factors Affecting Future Operating Results." We undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking statements to reflect any developments or events occurring after the date of this Quarterly Report.
 
RISK FACTORS AFFECTING FUTURE OPERATING RESULTS:
 
Investors or potential investors in our stock should carefully consider the risks described below. Our stock price will reflect the performance of our business relative to, among other things, our competition, expectations of securities analysts or investors, general economic and market conditions and industry conditions. You should carefully consider the following factors in connection with any investment in our stock. Our business, financial condition and results of operations could be materially adversely affected if any of the risks occur. Should any or all of the following risks materialize, the trading price of our stock could decline and investors could lose all or part of their investment.
 
If we do not match production to demand, we will be at risk of losing business or our margins could be materially adversely affected.
 
Historically, we have generally been able to increase production to meet increasing demand. However, the demand for our products is dependent on many factors and such demand is inherently difficult to forecast. We have experienced sharp fluctuations in demand, especially for headsets for wireless and cellular phones. Significant unanticipated fluctuations in demand could cause the following operating problems, among others:
  • If forecasted demand does not develop, we would have excess inventories of finished products, components and subassemblies and excess manufacturing capacity. In particular, given the trend of shorter cycles to product obsolescence it is likely we would be unable to sell these inventories and would have to write off some or all of our inventories of excess products and unusable components and subassemblies. In addition, excess manufacturing capacity could lead to higher production costs and lower margins.
  • Rapid increases in production levels to meet unanticipated demand could result in higher costs for components and subassemblies, increased expenditures for freight to expedite delivery of required materials, and higher overtime costs and other expenses. These higher expenditures could lower our profit margins. Further, if production is increased rapidly, there may be decreased manufacturing yields, which may also lower our margins. Therefore, we might not be able to increase production rapidly enough to meet unexpected demand. This could cause us to fail to meet customer expectations. There could be short-term losses of sales while we are trying to increase production. If customers turn to competitive sources of supply to meet their needs, there could be a long-term negative effect on our revenues.
  • Due to the lead times required to obtain certain raw materials, subassemblies, components and products from certain foreign suppliers, we may not be able to react quickly to changes in demand, potentially resulting in either excess inventories of such goods or shortages of the raw materials, subassemblies, components and products. Lead times are particularly long on silicon-based components incorporating radio frequency and digital signal processing technologies and such components are an increasingly important part of our product costs. Failure in the future to match the timing of purchases of raw materials, subassemblies, components and products to demand could increase our inventories and/or decrease our revenues, consequently materially adversely affecting our business, financial condition and results of operations.
 
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Product obsolescence, excess inventory and other asset impairment can negatively affect our results of operations.
 
We operate in a high technology industry which is subject to rapid and frequent technology and market demand changes. These changes can often render existing or developing technologies obsolete. In addition, the introduction of new products and any related actions to discontinue existing products can cause existing inventory to become obsolete. These obsolescence issues can require write-downs in inventory value when it is determined that the recorded value of existing inventory is greater than its fair market value. Also, the pace of change in technology development and in the release of new products has increased and is expected to continue to increase. If sales of one of these products have a negative effect on sales of another of our products, it could significantly increase the inventory levels of the negat ively impacted product. For each of our products, the potential exists for new products to render existing products obsolete, cause inventories of existing products to increase, cause us to discontinue a product or reduce the demand for existing products.
 
We have strong competitors and expect to face additional competition in the future.
 
The markets for our products are highly competitive. We compete with a variety of companies in the various markets for communications headsets. Currently, our single largest competitor is GN Netcom, a subsidiary of GN Great Nordic Ltd., a Danish telecommunications conglomerate. Internationally, Sennheiser Communications is a significant competitor in the computer, office and contact center market.
 
We currently operate principally in a multilevel distribution model - selling most of our products to distributors who, in turn, resell to dealers or end-customers. GN Netcom’s acquisitions indicate it may be moving towards a direct sales model, since six of their nine acquisitions were of companies employing direct sales and marketing models. While we believe that our business and our customers benefit from our current distribution structure, if GN Netcom or other competitors sell directly, they may offer lower prices, placing pricing pressure on our products, which could materially adversely affect our business and results of operations.
 
We also expect to face additional competition from companies that currently do not offer communications headsets. We believe that this is particularly true in the office, mobile, computer and residential markets. For example, the Sony-Ericsson joint venture competes formidably with several Bluetooth hands-free solutions. In addition, we manufacture branded products for a number of large household-name retailers. These retailers directly compete with Plantronics brand products, frequently within the same store. The effect of our retail customers competing directly with our own products has placed pressure on our margins and the negative impact this has on our business could increase in the future.
 
We anticipate other competition from consumer electronics companies that currently manufacture and sell mobile phones or computer peripheral equipment. These new competitors are likely to be larger, offer broader product lines, bundle or integrate with other products communications headset tops and bases manufactured by them or others, offer products containing bases that are incompatible with our headset tops and have substantially greater financial, marketing and other resources than we do.  These companies have such scale, market share and direct consumer interface as the base equipment providers that we accessorize, that they have a great amount of influence over defining the categories in mobile phone, computer and office headsets in terms of price points and marketing.  This affects our business by making our marketing efforts less effective than desired, dictates pricing of our products by influencing the broader market’s expectations thereby placing adverse pressure on our sales and margins.
 
We also expect to face additional competition from companies, principally located in the Far East, which offer very low cost headset products, including products which are modeled on, or are direct copies of our products. These new competitors are likely to offer very low cost products which may result in price pressure in the market. If market prices are substantially reduced by such new entrants into the headset market, our business, financial condition and results of operations could be materially adversely affected.
 
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A significant portion of our sales come from the contact center market and a decline in demand in that market could materially adversely affect our results.
 
We have historically derived a material amount of our net sales from the contact center market, and we expect that this market will continue to account for a significant portion of our net sales. Because of our reliance on the contact center market, we will be affected more by changes in the rate of contact center establishment and expansion and the communications products that contact center agents use than would a company serving a broader market. While we believe that this market may grow in future periods, this growth could be slow or revenues from this market could be flat or decline in response to various factors. Any decrease in the demand for contact centers and related headset products could cause a decrease in the demand for our products, which would materially adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.
 
In addition, we are seeing a proliferation of speech-activated and voice interactive software in the market place. We have been re-assessing long-term growth prospects for the contact center market given the growth rate and the advancement of these new voice recognition-based technologies. Businesses that first embraced these new technologies to resolve labor shortages at the peak of the last economic up cycle are now increasing spending on these technologies in hopes of reducing total costs. We may experience a decline in our sales to the contact center market if businesses increase their adoption of speech-activated and voice interactive software as an alternative to customer service agents. Should this trend continue, it could cause a net reduction in contact center agents and our revenues to this market segm ent could decline rather than grow in future years.
 
We depend on the development of the office, mobile, computer and residential markets, and we could be materially adversely affected if they do not develop as we expect.
 
While the contact center market is still a substantial portion of our business, we believe that our future prospects will depend in large part on the growth in demand for headsets in the office, mobile, computer and residential markets. These communications headset markets are relatively new and continue to be developed. Moreover, we do not have extensive experience in selling headset products to customers in these markets. If the demand for headsets in these markets fails to develop, or develops more slowly than we currently anticipate, or if we are unable to effectively market our products to customers in these markets, it would have a material adverse effect on the potential demand for our products and on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
 
New product development is risky, and our business will be materially adversely affected if we do not respond to changing customer requirements and new technologies.
 
Historically, the technology used in lightweight communications headsets evolved slowly. New products have primarily offered stylistic changes and quality improvements, rather than significant new technologies. The technology used in hands-free communications devices, including our products, is evolving more rapidly now than it has historically and we anticipate that this trend may accelerate. We believe this is particularly true for our newer emerging technology products in the mobile, computer, residential and certain parts of the office markets. We believe products designed to serve these markets generally exhibit shorter lifecycles and are increasingly based on open standards and protocols. As we develop new generations of products more quickly, we expect that the pace of product obsolescence will, increase accordingly. The disposition of inventories of obsolete products may result in reductions to our operating margins and materially adversely affect our earnings and results of operations.
 
Our success depends upon our ability to enhance existing products, to respond to changing market requirements, and to develop and introduce in a timely manner new products that keep pace with technological developments and end-user requirements. The technologies, products and solutions that we choose to pursue may not become as commercially successful as we planned. We may experience difficulties in realizing the expected benefits from our investments in new technologies. If we are unable to develop, manufacture and market enhanced or new products in a timely manner in response to changing market conditions or customer requirements, including changing fashion trends and styles, it will materially adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.
 
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Changes in regulatory requirements may adversely impact our margins as we comply with such changes or reduce our ability to generate revenues if we are unable to comply.
 
Our products must meet the requirements set by regulatory authorities in the numerous jurisdictions in which we sell them. As regulations and local laws change, we must modify, if possible, our products to address those changes. Regulatory restrictions may increase the costs to design and manufacture our products, resulting in a decrease in our margins or a decrease in demand for our products if the costs are passed along. Compliance with regulatory restrictions may affect the technical quality and capabilities of our products, reducing their marketability. New legislation prohibiting the use of phones while operating a motor vehicle may reduce demand for our products.
 
The failure of our suppliers to provide quality components or services in a timely manner could adversely affect our results.
 
Our growth and ability to meet customer demand depend in part on our capability to obtain timely deliveries of raw materials, components, subassemblies and products from our suppliers. We buy raw materials, components and subassemblies from a variety of suppliers and assemble them into finished products. We also have certain of our products manufactured for us by third party suppliers. The cost, quality, and availability of such goods are essential to the successful production and sale of our products. Obtaining raw materials, components, subassemblies and finished products entails various risks, including the following:
  • We obtain certain raw materials, subassemblies, components and products from single suppliers and alternate sources for these items are not readily available. To date, we have experienced only minor interruptions in the supply of these raw materials, subassemblies, components and products, none of which has significantly affected our results of operations. An interruption in supply from any of our single source suppliers in the future would materially adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.
  • Most of our suppliers are not obligated to continue to provide us with raw materials, components and subassemblies. Rather, we buy most raw materials, components and subassemblies on a purchase order basis. If our suppliers experience increased demand or shortages, it could affect the availability or cost of needed inventories. In turn, this would affect our ability to manufacture and sell products that are dependent on those raw materials, components and subassemblies. If this occurs and we are not able to pass these increases on to our customers or to achieve operating efficiencies that would offset the increases, it would have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
  • Although we generally use standard raw materials, parts and components for our products, the high development costs associated with emerging wireless technologies permits us to work with only a single source of silicon chip-sets on any particular new product. We, or our chosen supplier of chip-sets, may experience challenges in designing, developing and manufacturing components in these new technologies which could affect our ability to meet time to market schedules. Due to our dependence on single suppliers for certain chip sets, we could experience higher prices, a delay in development of the chip-set, and/or the inability to meet our customer demand for these new products. Our business, operating results, financial condition or cash flows could therefore be materially adversely affected as a result of these factors.
The introduction of Bluetooth and other wireless headsets presents many significant manufacturing, marketing and other operational risks and uncertainties, including: developing and marketing these wireless headset products; unforeseen delays or difficulties in introducing and achieving volume production of such products; our dependence on third parties to supply key components, many of which have long lead times; and our ability to forecast demand and customer return rates accurately for this new product category for which relevant data is incomplete or not available. We have longer lead times with certain suppliers than commitments from some of our customers.
 
We sell our products through various channels of distribution that can be volatile.
 
We sell substantially all of our products through distributors, retailers, OEM’s and telephony service providers. Our existing relationships with these parties are not exclusive and can be terminated by either party without cause. Our channel partners also sell or can potentially sell products offered by our competitors. To the extent that our competitors offer our channel partners more favorable terms, such partners may decline to carry, de-emphasize or discontinue carrying our products. In the future, we may not be able to retain or attract a sufficient number of qualified channel partners. Further, such partners may not recommend, or continue to recommend, our products. In the future, our OEM customers or potential OEM customers may elect to manufacture their own products, similar to those we currently s ell to them. The inability to establish or maintain successful relationships with distributors, OEM’s, retailers and telephony service providers or to expand our distribution channels could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.
 
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As a result of the growth of our mobile headset business, our customer mix is changing and certain OEM’s, retailers and wireless carriers are becoming significant. This greater reliance on certain large customers could increase the volatility of our revenues and earnings. In particular, we have several large customers whose order patterns are difficult to predict. Offers and promotions by these customers may result in significant fluctuations of their purchasing activities over time. If we are unable to anticipate the purchase requirements of these customers, our quarterly revenues may be adversely affected and/or we may be exposed to large volumes of inventory that cannot be immediately resold to other customers.
 
In particular, we are obligated to absorb from our retailers products which have failed to sell as expected, and in some instances, such products may be returned to our inventory. Should product returns vary significantly from our estimate, then our allowance for estimated returns, which we record as a reduction of revenue, may need to be revised.
 
Our stock price may be volatile and the value of your investment in Plantronics stock could be diminished.
 
The market price for our common stock may continue to be affected by a number of factors, including:
  • the announcement of new products or product enhancements by us or our competitors;
  • the loss of services of one or more of our executive officers or other key employees;
  • quarterly variations in our or our competitors’ results of operations;
  • changes in our published forecasts of future results of operations;
  • changes in earnings estimates or recommendations by securities analysts;
  • developments in our industry; and
  • general market conditions.
Our quarterly operating results may fluctuate significantly and are not a good indicator of future performance.
 
Our quarterly operating results have fluctuated significantly in the past and may vary significantly in the future as a result of a number of factors, many of which are out of our control. These factors include:
  • market acceptance and transition of new product introductions, other new products launched in 2004, new products launched in the future, and product enhancements by us or our existing or potential new competitors;
  • difficult general economic conditions, as has been the case with the recent global economic uncertainty and downturn in technology spending, and specific economic conditions prevailing in the communications industry and other technology industries;
  • the prices and performance of our products and those of our existing or potential new competitors;
  • changes in our sales management and sales organization which could result in disruptions among our channel partners;
  • the timing and size of the orders for our products, in particular OEM demand is very volatile and difficult to forecast;
  • our distribution channels reducing their inventory levels;

 
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  • the level and mix of inventory that we hold to meet future demand;
  • slowing sales by our channel partners to their customers which places further pressure on our channel partners to minimize inventory levels and reduce purchases of our products;
  • the near and long-term impact of terrorist attacks and incidents and any military response or uncertainty regarding any military response to those attacks;
  • the shift in sales mix of products we sell to lower margin products;
  • fluctuations in the level of international sales and our exposure to international currency fluctuations in both revenues and expenses;
  • the cost and availability of components devices used in many of our products;
  • manufacturing costs;
  • the level and cost of warranty claims;
  • future changes in existing financial accounting standards or practices or taxation rules or practices;
  • the impact of disruptions in our operations, for any reason, including the recurrence of SARS or other similar event;
  • the impact of seasonality on our various product lines and geographic regions; and
  • adverse outcomes to litigation.
As a result of these and other factors, we believe that period-to-period comparisons of our historical results of operations are not a good predictor of our future performance. If our future operating results are below the expectations of stock market securities analysts or investors, our stock price will likely decline.
  
Changes in stock option accounting rules may adversely impact our operating results prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, our stock price and our competitiveness in the employee marketplace.
 
Technology companies like ours have a history of using broad based employee stock option programs to hire, incentivize and retain our workforce in a competitive marketplace. Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 123, "Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation" ("SFAS 123"), allows companies the choice of either using a fair value method of accounting for options, which would result in expense recognition for all options granted, or using an intrinsic value method, as prescribed by Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 25, "Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees" ("APB 25"), with pro forma disclosure of the impact on net income (loss) of using the fair value option expense recognition method. We have elected to apply APB 25 and accordingly we generally do not recognize any expense with respect to employee stock options as long as such options are granted at exercise prices equal to the fair value of our common stock on the date of grant.
 
During March 2004 the FASB issued a proposed Statement, "Share-Based Payment, an amendment of FASB Statements No. 123 and 95." The proposed statement eliminates the treatment for share-based transactions using APB 25 and generally would require share-based payments to employees be accounted for using a fair-value-based method and recognized as expenses in our statements of operations. The proposed standard would require the modified prospective method be used, which would require that the fair value of new awards granted from the beginning of the year of adoption plus unvested awards at the date of adoption be expensed over the vesting term. In addition, the proposed statement encourages companies to use the "binomial" approach to value stock options, as opposed to the Black-Scholes option pricing model tha t we currently use to estimate the fair value of our options under SFAS 123 disclosure provisions.
 
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The recommended effective date the proposed standard is for any interim or annual period beginning after June 15, 2005. Should this proposed statement be finalized, it will have a significant impact on our consolidated statement of operations as we will be required to expense the fair value of our stock options rather than disclosing the impact on our consolidated results of operations within our footnotes in accordance with the disclosure provisions of SFAS 123 (see Note 13 of the Notes to the consolidated financial statements). This will result in lower reported earnings per share which could negatively impact our future stock price. In addition, should the proposal be finalized, this could impact our ability to utilize broad based employee stock plans to reward employees and could result in a competitive disadvantage to us in the employee marketplace. We believe that the expected expense related to the fair value of our stock options under the Binomial Model as proposed by the FASB will be slightly less than the Black-Scholes valuation approach.*
 
In addition, if stock options are expensed, it is our expectation that our use of restricted stock, restricted stock units and capped stock appreciation rights for employee awards will increase and our use of stock options will decrease. Although it is anticipated that such a change in the types of employee awards that are issued will create less dilution due to fewer aggregate shares issued, it is also expected that the amount of cash received by us from the exercise of stock options will decline and our financial condition and liquidity could be adversely affected as a result.
 
We have significant foreign operations and there are inherent risks in operating abroad.
 
During the second quarter of fiscal year 2005, approximately 31% of our net sales were derived from customers outside the United States. In addition, we conduct the majority of our headset assembly operations in our manufacturing facility located in Mexico, and we obtain most of the components and subassemblies used in our products from various foreign suppliers. A fire, flood or earthquake, political unrest or other disaster or condition affecting our facilities could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. We also purchase a growing number of turn-key products directly from Asia. The inherent risks of international operations, either in Mexico or in Asia, could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations. The typ es of risks faced in connection with international operations and sales include, among others:
  • fluctuations in foreign exchange rates;
  • cultural differences in the conduct of business;
  • greater difficulty in accounts receivable collection;
  • unexpected changes in regulatory requirements;
  • tariffs and other trade barriers;
  • economic and political conditions in each country;
  • management and operation of an enterprise spread over various countries; and
  • the burden of complying with a wide variety of foreign laws.

 
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Our success depends on our ability to assimilate new technologies in our products and to properly train our channel partners in the use of those products.
 
The markets for video and voice communications and network systems products are characterized by rapidly changing technology, evolving industry standards and frequent new product introductions. The success of our new products depends on several factors, including proper new product definition, product cost, timely completion and introduction of new products, proper positioning of new products in relation to our total product portfolio and their relative pricing, differentiation of new products from those of our competitors and market acceptance of these products. Additionally, properly addressing the complexities associated with compatibility issues, channel partner training, technical and sales support as well as field support are also factors that may affect our success in this market. When we take any significan t actions regarding our product offerings, or acquire new product offerings, it is important to educate and train our channel partners to avoid any confusion as to the desirability of the new product offering compared to our existing product offerings. We may not identify successful new product opportunities and develop and bring products to market in a timely manner or be successful in developing a service provider strategy. Additionally, we cannot assure you that competing technologies developed by others will not render our products or technologies obsolete or noncompetitive. Further, as we introduce new products that can or will render existing products obsolete, these product transition cycles may not go smoothly, causing an increased risk of inventory obsolescence and relationship issues with our channel partners. The failure of our new product development efforts, any inability to service or maintain the necessary third-party interoperability licenses, our inability to properly manage product transiti on and our inability to enter new markets, such as the service provider market, would harm our business and results of operations.
 
We face and might in the future face intellectual property infringement claims that might be costly to resolve.
 
We have from time to time received, and may in the future receive, communications from third parties asserting patent or other intellectual property rights covering our products. In addition, our industry is characterized by uncertain and conflicting intellectual property claims and vigorous protection and pursuit of intellectual property rights or positions which have resulted in significant and protracted and expensive litigation. We cannot assure you that we will prevail in any such litigation, that intellectual property claims will not be made against us in the future or that we will not be prohibited from using the technologies subject to any such claims or be required to obtain licenses and make corresponding royalty payments. In addition, the necessary management attention to, and legal costs associated w ith, litigation can have a significant adverse effect on our operating results and financial condition.
 
We have intellectual property rights that could be infringed by others.
 
Our success will depend in part on our ability to protect our copyrights, patents, trademarks, trade dress, trade secrets, and other intellectual property, including our rights to certain domain names. We rely primarily on a combination of nondisclosure agreements and other contractual provisions as well as patent, trademark, trade secret, and copyright laws to protect our proprietary rights. Effective trademark, patent, copyright, and trade secret protection may not be available in every country in which our products and media properties are distributed to customers. We currently hold 91 United States patents and additional foreign patents and will continue to seek patents on our inventions when we believe it to be appropriate. The process of seeking patent protection can be lengthy and expensive. Patents may n ot be issued in response to our applications, and patents that are issued may be invalidated, circumvented or challenged by others. If we are required to enforce our patents or other proprietary rights through litigation, the costs and diversion of management’s attention could be substantial. In addition, the rights granted under any patents may not provide us competitive advantages or be adequate to safeguard and maintain our proprietary rights. Moreover, the laws of certain countries do not protect our proprietary rights to the same extent as do the laws of the United States. If we do not enforce and protect our intellectual property rights, it could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.
 
We are exposed to potential lawsuits alleging defects in our products and/or hearing loss caused by our products.
 
The use of our products exposes us to the risk of product liability and hearing loss claims. These claims have in the past been, and are currently being, asserted against us. None of the previously resolved claims have materially affected our business, financial condition and results of operations, nor do we believe that any of the pending claims will have such an effect. Although we maintain product liability insurance, the coverage provided under our policies could be unavailable or insufficient to cover the full amount of any such claim. Therefore, successful product liability or hearing loss claims brought against us could have a material adverse effect upon our business, financial condition and results of operations.

 
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Our mobile headsets are used with mobile telephones. There has been continuing public controversy over whether the radio frequency emissions from mobile telephones are harmful to users of mobile phones. We believe that there is no conclusive proof of any health hazard from the use of mobile telephones but that research in this area is incomplete. We have tested our headsets through independent laboratories and have found that use of our headsets reduces radio frequency emissions at the user’s head to virtually zero. However, if research was to establish a health hazard from the use of mobile telephones or public controversy grows even in the absence of conclusive research findings, there could be an adverse impact on the demand for mobile phones, which reduces demands for headset products.
 
There is also continuing and increasing public controversy over the use of mobile telephones by operators of motor vehicles and we may be subject to claims arising from allegations that use of a mobile telephone and headset contributed to a motor vehicle accident. The coverage provided under our product liability as general liability policies could be unavailable or insufficient to cover the full amount of any such claim. Therefore, successful product liability claims brought against us could have a material adverse effect upon our business, financial condition and results of operations.
 
While we believe we comply with environmental laws and regulations, we are still exposed to potential risks from environmental matters.
 
We are subject to various federal, state, local and foreign environmental laws and regulations, including those governing the use, discharge and disposal of hazardous substances in the ordinary course of our manufacturing process. Although we believe that our current manufacturing operations comply in all material respects with applicable environmental laws and regulations, environmental legislation has been enacted and may in the future be enacted or interpreted to create environmental liability with respect to our facilities or operations. We have included in our financial statements a reserve of $1.5 million for possible environmental remediation of the site of one of our previous businesses. While no claims have been asserted against us in connection with this matter, such claims could be asserted in th e future and any liability that might result could exceed the amount of the reserve.
 
We are actively working to gain an understanding of the complete requirements concerning the removal of certain potentially environmentally sensitive materials from our products to comply with the European Union Directives on Restrictions on certain Hazardous Substances on electrical and electronic equipment ("ROHS") and on Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment ("WEEE"). Some of our customers are requesting that we implement these new compliance standards sooner than the legislation would require. While we believe that we will have the resources and ability to fully meet our customers’ requests, and spirit of the ROHS and WEEE directives, if unusual occurrences arise or if we are wrong in our assessment of what it will take to fully comply, there is a risk that we will not be able to meet the aggressive schedule set by our customers or comply with the legislation as passed by the EU member states. If that were to happen, a material negative effect on our financial results may occur.
 
While we believe that we currently have adequate control structures in place, we are still exposed to potential risks from recent legislation requiring companies to evaluate controls under Section 404 of the Sarbanes Oxley Act of 2002.
 
We are working diligently toward evaluating our internal controls systems in order to allow management to report on, and our independent registered public accounting firm to attest to, our internal controls, as required by this legislation. We are performing the system and process evaluation and testing (and any necessary remediation) required in an effort to comply with the management certification and independent registered public accounting firm attestation requirements of Section 404 of the Sarbanes Oxley Act. As a result, we have incurred and expect to incur additional expenses and consumption of management’s time. While we anticipate being able to fully implement the requirements relating to internal controls and all other aspects of Section 404 in a timely fashion, we cannot be certain as t o the timing of completion of our evaluation, testing and remediation actions or the impact of the same on our operations since there is no precedent available by which to measure compliance adequacy. If we are not able to implement the requirements of Section 404 in a timely manner or with adequate compliance, we might be subject to sanctions or investigation by regulatory authorities, such as the Securities Exchange Commission or the New York Stock Exchange. Any such action could adversely effect our financial results.
 
  28  

 
Future acquisitions involve material risks.
 
We may in the future acquire other companies. There are inherent risks in acquiring other companies or businesses that could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations. The types of risks faced in connection with acquisitions include, among others:
 
  • cultural differences in the conduct of business;
  • difficulties in integration of the operations, technologies, and products of the acquired company;
  • the risk that the consolidation of the acquired company may not produce the enhanced efficiencies or be as successful as we may have anticipated;
  • the risk of diverting management’s attention from normal daily operations of the business;
  • difficulties in integrating the transactions and business information systems of the acquired company; and
  • the potential loss of key employees of the acquired company.
     
Mergers and acquisitions, particularly those of high-technology companies, are inherently risky, and no assurance can be given that future acquisitions will be successful and will not materially adversely affect our business, operating results or financial condition. We must also manage any acquisition related growth effectively. Failure to manage growth effectively and successfully integrate acquisitions made by us could materially harm our business and operating results.
 
Provisions in our charter documents and Delaware law and our adoption of a stockholder rights plan may delay or prevent a third party from acquiring us, which could affect the price at which you can sell your stock.
 
Our Board of Directors has the authority to issue preferred stock and to determine the price, rights, preferences, privileges and restrictions, including voting and conversion rights, of those shares without any further vote or action by the stockholders. The issuance of our preferred stock could have the effect of making it more difficult for a third party to acquire us. In addition, we are subject to the anti-takeover provisions of Section 203 of the Delaware General Corporation Law, which could also have the effect of delaying or preventing our acquisition by a third party. Further, certain provisions of our Certificate of Incorporation and bylaws could delay or make more difficult a merger, tender offer or proxy contest, which could adversely affect the market price of our common stock.
 
In 2002, our Board of Directors adopted a stockholder rights plan, pursuant to which we distributed one right for each outstanding share of common stock held by stockholders of record as of April 12, 2002. Because the rights may substantially dilute the stock ownership of a person or group attempting to take us over without the approval of our board of directors, the plan could make it more difficult for a third party to acquire us, or a significant percentage of our outstanding capital stock, without first negotiating with our board of directors regarding such acquisition. 
 
 
  29  

 
Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
 
The following discusses our exposure to market risk related to changes in interest rates and foreign currency exchange rates. This discussion contains forward-looking statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties. Actual results could vary materially as a result of a number of factors including those set forth in "Risk Factors Affecting Future Operating Results."
 
INTEREST RATE RISK
 
At September 30, 2004, we had cash and cash equivalents totaling $210.3 million, compared to $180.6 million at March 31, 2004. At September 30, 2004, we had $4.0 million in marketable securities and none at March 31, 2004. Cash equivalents have an original or remaining maturity when purchased of ninety days or less; marketable securities have an original or remaining maturity when purchased of greater than ninety days, but less than one year. We believe we are not currently exposed to significant interest rate risk as our cash was invested in securities or interest bearing accounts with maturities of less than ninety days. The average maturity period for our investments at September 30, 2004, was less than three months. The taxable equivalent interest rates locked in on those investments averages approximately 2 .23%. Our investment policy requires that we only invest in deposit accounts, certificates of deposit or commercial paper with minimum ratings of A1/P1, money market mutual funds with minimum ratings of AAA, U.S. treasury bills, notes or bonds, federal agency bonds or notes, corporate bonds with minimum ratings of A/A, municipal bonds or notes with minimum ratings of A1/VMIG1, and auction rate preferred stock with a minimum rating of A/A.
 
Our $75 million revolving credit facility and letter of credit subfacility both expire on July 31, 2005. As of October 29, 2004, we had no cash borrowings under the revolving credit facility and $1.8 million outstanding under the letter of credit subfacility. If we choose to borrow under this facility in the future and market interest rates rise, then our interest payments would increase accordingly.
 
FOREIGN CURRENCY EXCHANGE RATE RISK
 
In the second quarter of fiscal 2005, approximately 31% of our net sales were derived from customers outside the United States, with 21% of total revenues denominated in foreign currencies, predominately the Euro and the Great British Pound. In fiscal year 2002, we implemented a hedging strategy to minimize the effect of these currency fluctuations. Specifically, we began to hedge our European transaction exposure, hedging both our Euro and Great British Pound positions. However, we can provide no assurance that exchange rate fluctuations will not materially adversely affect our business in the future.
 
As of September 30, 2004, we had foreign currency forward contracts of approximately 5.1 and £1.9 million denominated in Euros and Great British Pounds, respectively. These forward contracts hedge against a portion of our forecasted foreign currency-denominated receivables, payables and cash balances. The table below provides information about our financial instruments and underlying transactions that are sensiti ve to foreign currency exchange rates, including foreign currency forward-exchange contracts and nonfunctional currency-denominated receivables and payables. If these net exposed currency positions are subjected to either a 10% appreciation or 10% depreciation versus the U.S. dollar we could incur a loss of $0.9 million or a gain of $0.8 million.
 

 
  30  

 

The table below presents the effect on our foreign currency transaction exposure of a hypothetical 10% appreciation and a 10% depreciation of the U.S. dollar against the indicated currencies.

September 30, 2004
                     
(in millions)
     
Net
Underlying
Net
FX
FX
Foreign
Exposed
Gain (Loss)
Gain (Loss)
USD Value
Currency
Long (Short)
From 10%
From 10%
of Net FX
Transaction
Currency
Appreciation
Depreciation
Currency - forward contracts
 
Contracts
 
Exposures
 
Position
 
of USD
 
of USD
 
Euro
 
$
6.3
 
$
13.6
$
7.3
 
$
(0.8)
$
0.7
 
Great British Pound
   
3.4
   
4.4
   
1.0
   
(0.1)
   
0.1
 
                                 
Net position
 
$
9.7
 
$
18.0
 
$
8.3
 
$
(0.9)
 
$
0.8
 

As of September 30, 2004, we had foreign currency put and call option contracts of approximately €36.4 million and £11.8 million denominated in Euros and Great British Pounds, respectively. Our option contracts hedge against a portion of our forecasted foreign denominated sales. The table below provides information about our foreign currency option contracts that are sensitive to foreign currency exchange rates. If these exposed currency positions are subjected to either a 10% appreciation or 10% depreciation ver sus the U.S. dollar we could incur a gain of $5.8 million or a loss of $6.2 million.
 
The table below presents the impact on our currency option contracts of a hypothetical 10% appreciation and a 10% depreciation of the U.S. dollar against the indicated option contract type for cash flow hedges:

September 30, 2004
             
(in millions)
             
   
FX
FX
 
Gain (Loss)
Gain (Loss)
 
USD Value
From 10%
From 10%
of Net FX
Appreciation
Depreciation
 
Currency - option contracts
 
Contracts
 
of USD
 
of USD
 
Call options
 
$
(66.4
)
$
2.1
 
$
(5.2
)
Put options
   
63.5
   
3.7
   
(1.0
)
                     
Net position
 
$
(2.9
)
$
5.8
 
$
(6.2
)

 
  31  

 

 
(a) Evaluation of disclosure controls and procedures. Our management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officer and our Chief Financial Officer, evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) as of the end of the period covered by this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q. Based on that evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and our Chief Financial Officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of the period covered by this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q were effective in ensuring that information required to be disclosed in reports that we file or submit under the Securities Excha nge Act of 1934 is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms.
 
(b) Changes in internal control over financial reporting. There was no change in our internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) that occurred during the period covered by this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
 

 
  32  

 
PART II. -- OTHER INFORMATION
 
 
The appeal in the lawsuit filed on February 8, 2001 in the Superior Court in Santa Clara County, California by GN Hello Direct, Inc. was concluded in our favor on August 10, 2004. We were awarded and received from GN Hello Direct, Inc. a payment of $3.1 million. Plantronics may be entitled to additional attorneys fees and costs. For more information see our form 10-K filed May 26, 2004.
 
ITEM 6. EXHIBITS
 
(a)   Exhibits. The following exhibits are filed as part of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.
 
EXHIBITS INDEX
Exhibit Number
Description of Document
3.1
Amended and Restated By-Laws of the Registrant (incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (3.1) to the Registrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K (File No. 001-12696), filed on September 21, 2002).
3.2.1
Restated Certificate of Incorporation of the Registrant filed with the Secretary of State of Delaware on January 19, 1994 (incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (3.1) to the Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (File No. 001-12696), filed on March 4, 1994).
3.2.2
Certificate of Retirement and Elimination of Preferred Stock and Common Stock of the Registrant filed with the Secretary of State of Delaware on January 11, 1996 (incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (3.3) of the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K (File No. 001-12696), filed on September 27, 1996).
3.2.3
Certificate of Amendment of Restated Certificate of Incorporation of the Registrant filed with the Secretary of State of Delaware on August 7, 1997 (incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (3.1) to the Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (File No. 001-12696), filed on August 8, 1997).
3.2.4
Certificate of Amendment of Restated Certificate of Incorporation of the Registrant filed with the Secretary of State of Delaware on May 23, 2000 (incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (4.2) to the Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form S-8 (File No. 001-12696), filed on October 31, 2000).
3.3
Registrant’s Certificate of Designation of Rights, Preferences and Privileges of Series A Participating Preferred Stock filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware on April 1, 2002 (incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (3.6) to the Registrant’s Form 8-A (File No. 001-12696), filed on March 29, 2002).
4.1
Preferred Stock Rights Agreement, dated as of March 13, 2002 between the Registrant and Equiserve Trust Company, N.A., including the Certificate of Designation, the form of Rights Certificate and the Summary of Rights attached thereto as Exhibits A, B, and C, respectively (incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (4.1) to the Registrant’s Form 8-A (File No. 001-12696), filed on March 29, 2002).
10.1*
Plantronics, Inc. Non-EMEA Quarterly Profit Sharing Plan (incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (10.1) to the Registrant’s Report on Form 10-K (File No. 001-12696), filed on September 1, 2001).
10.2*
Form of Indemnification Agreement between the Registrant and certain directors and executives and Schedule of Other Documents Omitted (incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (10.1) to PI Holdings Inc.’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (File No. 33-26770), filed February 9, 1993).
10.3*
Form of Employment Agreement, Addendum to Employment Agreement and Second Addendum to Employment Agreement between the Registrant and certain executives; and Schedule of Other Documents Omitted (incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (10.2) to PI Holdings Inc.’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (File No. 33-26770), filed February 9, 1993).
10.4.1*
Regular and Supplemental Bonus Plan (incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (10.4(a)) to the Registrant’s Report on Form 10-K (File No. 001-12696), filed on September 1, 2001).
10.4.2*
Overachievement Bonus Plan (incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (10.4(b)) to the Registrant’s Report on Form 10-K (File No. 001-12696), filed on September 1, 2001).
10.5.1
Lease Agreement dated May 2004 between Finsa Portafolios, S.A. DE C.V.and Plamex, S.A. de C.V., a subsidiary of the Registrant, for premises located in Tijuana, Mexico (translation from Spanish original) (incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (10.5.1) of the Registrant's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (File No. 001-12696), filed on August 6, 2004).
10.5.2
Lease Agreement dated May 2004 between Finsa Portafolios, S.A. DE C.V.and Plamex, S.A. de C.V., a subsidiary of the Registrant, for premises located in Tijuana, Mexico (translation from Spanish original) (incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (10.5.2) of the Registrant's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (File No. 001-12696), filed on August 6, 2004).
10.5.3
Lease Agreement dated May 2004 between Finsa Portafolios, S.A. DE C.V.and Plamex, S.A. de C.V., a subsidiary of the Registrant, for premises located in Tijuana, Mexico (translation from Spanish original) (incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (10.5.3) of the Registrant's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (File No. 001-12696), filed on August 6, 2004).
10.5.4
Lease Agreement dated October 2004 between Finsa Portafolios, S.A. DE C.V.and Plamex, S.A. de C.V., a subsidiary of the Registrant, for premises located in Tijuana, Mexico (translation from Spanish original) (incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (10.5.4) of the Registrant's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (File No. 001-12696), filed on August 6, 2004).
10.6
Lease dated December 7, 1990 between Canyge Bicknell Limited and Plantronics Limited, a subsidiary of the Registrant, for premises located in Wootton Bassett, The United Kingdom (incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (10.32) to the Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form S-1 (as amended) (File No.33-70744), filed on October 20, 1993).
10.7*
Amended and Restated 2003 Stock Plan (incorporated herein by reference from the Registrant's Definitive Proxy Statement on Form 14-A (File No. 001-12696), filed on May 26, 2004).
10.8*
1993 Stock Option Plan (incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (10.8) to the Registrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K (File No. 001-12696), filed on September 21, 2002).

 
   33  

 
 
10.9 1*
1993 Director Stock Option Plan (incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (10.29) to the Registrant's Registration Statement on Form S-1 (as amended) (File No. 33-70744), filed on October 20, 1993).
10.9.2*
Amendment to the 1993 Director Stock Option Plan (incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (4.4) to the Registrant's Registration Statement on Form S-8 (File No. 333-14833), filed on October 25, 1996).
10.9.3*
Amendment No. 2 to the 1993 Director Stock Option Plan (incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (10.9(a)) to the Registrant's Report on Form 10-K (File No. 001-12696), filed on September 1, 2001).
10.9.4 *
Amendment No. 3 to the 1993 Director Stock Option Plan (incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (10.9(b)) to the Registrant's Report on Form 10-K (File No. 001-12696), filed on September 1, 2001).
10.9.5*
Amendment No. 4 to the 1993 Director Stock Option Plan (incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (10.9.5) to the Registrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K (File No. 001-12696), filed on September 21, 2002).
10.10.1*
2002 Employee Stock Purchase Plan (incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (10.10.2) to the Registrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K (File Number 001-12696), filed on September 21, 2002).
10.11.1
Trust Agreement Establishing the Plantronics, Inc. Annual Profit Sharing/Individual Savings Plan Trust (incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (4.3) to the Registrant's Registration Statement on Form S-8 (File No. 333-19351), filed on January 7, 1997).
10.11.2*
Plantronics, Inc. 401(k) Plan, effective as of April 2, 2000 (incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (10.11) to the Registrant's Report on Form 10-K (File No. 001-12696), filed on September 1, 2001).
10.12*
Resolutions of the Board of Directors of Plantronics, Inc. Concerning Executive Stock Purchase Plan (incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (4.4) to the Registrant's Registration Statement on Form S-8 (as amended) (File No. 333-19351), filed on March 25, 1997).
10.13.1*
Plantronics, Inc. Basic Deferred Compensation Plan, as amended August 8, 1996 (incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (4.5) to the Registrant's Registration Statement on Form S-8 (as amended) (File No. 333-19351), filed on March 25, 1997).
10.13.2
Trust Agreement Under the Plantronics, Inc. Basic Deferred Stock Compensation Plan (incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (4.6) to the Registrant's Registration Statement on Form S-8 (as amended) (File No. 333-19351), filed on March 25, 1997).
10.13.3
Plantronics, Inc. Basic Deferred Compensation Plan Participant Election (incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (4.7) to the Registrant's Registration Statement on Form S-8 (as amended) (File No. 333-19351), filed on March 25, 1997).
10.14.1*
Employment Agreement dated as of October 4, 1999 between Registrant and Ken Kannappan (incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (10.15) to the Registrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K405 (File No. 001-12696), filed on September 1, 2000).
10.14.2*
Employment Agreement dated as of November 1996 between Registrant and Don Houston (incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (10.14.2) to the Registrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K (File No. 001-12696), filed on September 2, 2003).
10.14.3*
Employment Agreement dated as of March 1997 between Registrant and Barbara Scherer (incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (10.14.4) to the Registrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K (File No. 001-12696), filed on September 2, 2003).
10.14.4*
Employment Agreement dated as of May 1998 between Registrant and Craig May (incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (10.14.3) to the Registrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K (File No. 001-12696), filed on September 2, 2003).
10.14.5*
Employment Agreement dated as of May 2001 between Registrant and Joyce Shimizu (incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (10.14.5) to the Registrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K (File No. 001-12696), filed on September 2, 2003).
10.14.6*
Employment Agreement dated as of June 2004 between Registrant and Mark Brier.
10.15.1
Credit Agreement dated as of October 31, 2003 between Registrant and Wells Fargo Bank N.A. (incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (10.1) of the Registrant's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (File No. 001-12696), filed on November 7, 2003).
10.15.2
First Amendment to Credit Agreement dated as of August, 1, 2004, between Registrant and Wells Fargo Bank N.A.
10.16*
Restricted Stock Award Agreement dated as of October 12, 2004, between Registrant and certain of its executive officers (incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (10.1) of the Registrant's Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 001-12696), filed on October 14, 2004).
31.1
CEO’s Certification Pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a)
31.2
CFO’s Certification Pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a)
32.1
Certification Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 of the CEO and CFO
*
Indicates a management contract or compensatory plan, contract or arrangement in which any Director or any Executive Officer participates.
 
 
 
  34  

 
 
 
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.
 
 
 
 
PLANTRONICS, INC.
   
     
 
 Date: November 5, 2004
 
By: 
 
/s/ Barbara V. Scherer
 
Barbara V. Scherer
 
Senior Vice President - Finance and Administration and Chief Financial Officer
(Principal Financial Officer and Duly Authorized Officer of the Registrant)
 

 
 
  35  

 
EXHIBITS
 
The following exhibits are filed as part of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.
 
EXHIBITS INDEX
Exhibit Number
Description of Document
3.1
Amended and Restated By-Laws of the Registrant (incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (3.1) to the Registrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K (File No. 001-12696), filed on September 21, 2002).
3.2.1
Restated Certificate of Incorporation of the Registrant filed with the Secretary of State of Delaware on January 19, 1994 (incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (3.1) to the Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (File No. 001-12696), filed on March 4, 1994).
3.2.2
Certificate of Retirement and Elimination of Preferred Stock and Common Stock of the Registrant filed with the Secretary of State of Delaware on January 11, 1996 (incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (3.3) of the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K (File No. 001-12696), filed on September 27, 1996).
3.2.3
Certificate of Amendment of Restated Certificate of Incorporation of the Registrant filed with the Secretary of State of Delaware on August 7, 1997 (incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (3.1) to the Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (File No. 001-12696), filed on August 8, 1997).
3.2.4
Certificate of Amendment of Restated Certificate of Incorporation of the Registrant filed with the Secretary of State of Delaware on May 23, 2000 (incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (4.2) to the Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form S-8 (File No. 001-12696), filed on October 31, 2000).
3.3
Registrant’s Certificate of Designation of Rights, Preferences and Privileges of Series A Participating Preferred Stock filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware on April 1, 2002 (incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (3.6) to the Registrant’s Form 8-A (File No. 001-12696), filed on March 29, 2002).
4.1
Preferred Stock Rights Agreement, dated as of March 13, 2002 between the Registrant and Equiserve Trust Company, N.A., including the Certificate of Designation, the form of Rights Certificate and the Summary of Rights attached thereto as Exhibits A, B, and C, respectively (incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (4.1) to the Registrant’s Form 8-A (File No. 001-12696), filed on March 29, 2002).
10.1*
Plantronics, Inc. Non-EMEA Quarterly Profit Sharing Plan (incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (10.1) to the Registrant’s Report on Form 10-K (File No. 001-12696), filed on September 1, 2001).
10.2*
Form of Indemnification Agreement between the Registrant and certain directors and executives and Schedule of Other Documents Omitted (incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (10.1) to PI Holdings Inc.’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (File No. 33-26770), filed February 9, 1993).
10.3*
Form of Employment Agreement, Addendum to Employment Agreement and Second Addendum to Employment Agreement between the Registrant and certain executives; and Schedule of Other Documents Omitted (incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (10.2) to PI Holdings Inc.’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (File No. 33-26770), filed February 9, 1993).
10.4.1*
Regular and Supplemental Bonus Plan (incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (10.4(a)) to the Registrant’s Report on Form 10-K (File No. 001-12696), filed on September 1, 2001).
10.4.2*
Overachievement Bonus Plan (incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (10.4(b)) to the Registrant’s Report on Form 10-K (File No. 001-12696), filed on September 1, 2001).
10.5.1
Lease Agreement dated May 2004 between Finsa Portafolios, S.A. DE C.V.and Plamex, S.A. de C.V., a subsidiary of the Registrant, for premises located in Tijuana, Mexico (translation from Spanish original) (incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (10.5.1) of the Registrant's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (File No. 001-12696), filed on August 6, 2004).
10.5.2
Lease Agreement dated May 2004 between Finsa Portafolios, S.A. DE C.V.and Plamex, S.A. de C.V., a subsidiary of the Registrant, for premises located in Tijuana, Mexico (translation from Spanish original) (incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (10.5.2) of the Registrant's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (File No. 001-12696), filed on August 6, 2004).
10.5.3
Lease Agreement dated May 2004 between Finsa Portafolios, S.A. DE C.V.and Plamex, S.A. de C.V., a subsidiary of the Registrant, for premises located in Tijuana, Mexico (translation from Spanish original) (incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (10.5.3) of the Registrant's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (File No. 001-12696), filed on August 6, 2004).
10.5.4
Lease Agreement dated October 2004 between Finsa Portafolios, S.A. DE C.V.and Plamex, S.A. de C.V., a subsidiary of the Registrant, for premises located in Tijuana, Mexico (translation from Spanish original) (incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (10.5.4) of the Registrant's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (File No. 001-12696), filed on August 6, 2004).
10.6
Lease dated December 7, 1990 between Canyge Bicknell Limited and Plantronics Limited, a subsidiary of the Registrant, for premises located in Wootton Bassett, The United Kingdom (incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (10.32) to the Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form S-1 (as amended) (File No.33-70744), filed on October 20, 1993).
10.7*
Amended and Restated 2003 Stock Plan (incorporated herein by reference from the Registrant's Definitive Proxy Statement on Form 14-A (File No. 001-12696), filed on May 26, 2004).
10.8*
1993 Stock Option Plan (incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (10.8) to the Registrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K (File No. 001-12696), filed on September 21, 2002).

 
     

 
 
10.9 1*
1993 Director Stock Option Plan (incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (10.29) to the Registrant's Registration Statement on Form S-1 (as amended) (File No. 33-70744), filed on October 20, 1993).
10.9.2*
Amendment to the 1993 Director Stock Option Plan (incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (4.4) to the Registrant's Registration Statement on Form S-8 (File No. 333-14833), filed on October 25, 1996).
10.9.3*
Amendment No. 2 to the 1993 Director Stock Option Plan (incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (10.9(a)) to the Registrant's Report on Form 10-K (File No. 001-12696), filed on September 1, 2001).
10.9.4 *
Amendment No. 3 to the 1993 Director Stock Option Plan (incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (10.9(b)) to the Registrant's Report on Form 10-K (File No. 001-12696), filed on September 1, 2001).
10.9.5*
Amendment No. 4 to the 1993 Director Stock Option Plan (incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (10.9.5) to the Registrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K (File No. 001-12696), filed on September 21, 2002).
10.10.1*
2002 Employee Stock Purchase Plan (incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (10.10.2) to the Registrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K (File Number 001-12696), filed on September 21, 2002).
10.11.1
Trust Agreement Establishing the Plantronics, Inc. Annual Profit Sharing/Individual Savings Plan Trust (incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (4.3) to the Registrant's Registration Statement on Form S-8 (File No. 333-19351), filed on January 7, 1997).
10.11.2*
Plantronics, Inc. 401(k) Plan, effective as of April 2, 2000 (incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (10.11) to the Registrant's Report on Form 10-K (File No. 001-12696), filed on September 1, 2001).
10.12*
Resolutions of the Board of Directors of Plantronics, Inc. Concerning Executive Stock Purchase Plan (incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (4.4) to the Registrant's Registration Statement on Form S-8 (as amended) (File No. 333-19351), filed on March 25, 1997).
10.13.1*
Plantronics, Inc. Basic Deferred Compensation Plan, as amended August 8, 1996 (incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (4.5) to the Registrant's Registration Statement on Form S-8 (as amended) (File No. 333-19351), filed on March 25, 1997).
10.13.2
Trust Agreement Under the Plantronics, Inc. Basic Deferred Stock Compensation Plan (incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (4.6) to the Registrant's Registration Statement on Form S-8 (as amended) (File No. 333-19351), filed on March 25, 1997).
10.13.3
Plantronics, Inc. Basic Deferred Compensation Plan Participant Election (incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (4.7) to the Registrant's Registration Statement on Form S-8 (as amended) (File No. 333-19351), filed on March 25, 1997).
10.14.1*
Employment Agreement dated as of October 4, 1999 between Registrant and Ken Kannappan (incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (10.15) to the Registrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K405 (File No. 001-12696), filed on September 1, 2000).
10.14.2*
Employment Agreement dated as of November 1996 between Registrant and Don Houston (incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (10.14.2) to the Registrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K (File No. 001-12696), filed on September 2, 2003).
10.14.3*
Employment Agreement dated as of March 1997 between Registrant and Barbara Scherer (incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (10.14.4) to the Registrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K (File No. 001-12696), filed on September 2, 2003).
10.14.4*
Employment Agreement dated as of May 1998 between Registrant and Craig May (incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (10.14.3) to the Registrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K (File No. 001-12696), filed on September 2, 2003).
10.14.5*
Employment Agreement dated as of May 2001 between Registrant and Joyce Shimizu (incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (10.14.5) to the Registrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K (File No. 001-12696), filed on September 2, 2003).
10.14.6* Employment Agreement dated as of June 2004 between Registrant and Mark Brier.
10.15.1
Credit Agreement dated as of October 31, 2003 between Registrant and Wells Fargo Bank N.A (incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (10.1) of the Registrant's Annual Report on Form 10-Q (File No. 001-12696), filed on November 7, 2003).
10.15.2
First Amendment to Credit Agreement dated as of August, 1, 2004, between Registrant and Wells Fargo Bank N.A.
10.16*
Restricted Stock Award Agreement dated as of October 12, 2004, between Registrant and certain of its executive officers (incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (10.1) of the Registrant's Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 001-12696), filed on October 14, 2004).
31.1
CEO’s Certification Pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a)
31.2
CFO’s Certification Pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a)
32.1
Certification Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 of the CEO and CFO
*
Indicates a management contract or compensatory plan, contract or arrangement in which any Director or any Executive Officer participates.
 
 
 


35
EX-10.14.6 2 brieragr.htm EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT CHIEF MARKETING OFFICER Employment Agreement Chief Marketing Officer

EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT
 
THIS AGREEMENT is made as of June 28, 2004 (the "Effective Date"), by and between Plantronics, Inc., a Delaware corporation (the "Company"), and Mark Breier (the "Employee"), an employee of the Company.
 
Recitals
 
A. The Employee is currently employed by the Company as Chief Marketing Officer.
 
B. The Company and the Employee desire to enter into an agreement that clarifies the rights and obligations of the Company and the Employee in the event that the Employee's employment with the Company is terminated under certain circumstances;
 
NOW, THEREFORE, the parties hereby agree as follows:
 
1. At-Will Employment. The Company and the Employee acknowledge that the Employee's employment is at will, as defined under applicable law. If the Employee's employment terminates for any reason, the Employee shall not be entitled to any payments, benefits, damages, awards or compensation other than as provided by this Agreement, or as may otherwise be available in accordance with the Company's established employee plans and policies at the time of termination.
 
2. Severance Benefits.
 
(a) Termination Following Change of Control. Subject to subsection 2(c) below, if, within the two (2) year period following a "Change of Control" (as defined in subsection 4(c) below) while the Employee is still an employee of the Company, the Employee's employment with the Company terminates, then the Employee shall be entitled to receive severance benefits as follows:
 
(i) Involuntary Termination; Termination for Certain Reasons. If the Employee's employment is terminated by the Company other than for "Cause" (as defined in subsection 4(a) below), or in the event the Employee terminates her employment for "Certain Reasons" (as defined in subsection 4(b) below), then, in lieu of any severance or severance-type benefits to which the Employee may be entitled under any Company plan, policy, program or arrangement, the Company shall continue to pay the Employee the Employee's then current base salary for a period of up to six months following such termination (the "Salary Continuation Period") as severance benefits. If, at the end of such six-month period, the Employee has not obtained employment with a subsequent employer after a good faith effort, then the Salary Continuation Period shall be extended, on a month by month basis, until (i) six months after the expiration of the initial six-month period, or (ii) the Employee obtains employment with a subsequent employer, whichever occurs first. During the Salary Continuation Period (including any extension thereof, as applicable), the Company will continue to provide whatever medical, disability, life or insurance benefits were in effect at the time of termination. However, after the date of termination, the Employee will not be eligible to continue to participate in any Company-sponsored bonus, profit sharing, deferred compensation or incentive compensation plan, program or arrangement.
 
(ii) Termination for Cause; Voluntary Termination. If the Company terminates the Employee's employment for Cause, or if the Employee's employment with the Company is terminated by the Employee voluntarily (other than for Certain Reasons), then the Employee shall not be entitled to receive severance or other benefits under this Agreement or otherwise.
 
(iii) Disability; Death. If the Employee's employment terminates by reason of the Employee's death or disability, then Company shall pay to the Employee or the Employee's beneficiary, if applicable, the Employee's base salary as determined immediately prior to such termination, for a period of twelve (12) months; provided, however, that the Company's obligation under this subparagraph 2(a)(iii) shall be reduced to the extent of life insurance or disability benefits, as applicable, payable for the Employee's benefit under any Company benefit plan or program. If the Employee's employment terminates by reason of the Employee's disability and the Employee is reemployed by the Company, the Company's obligation under this subparagraph 2(a)(iii) shall terminate upon such reemployment.
 
For purposes of this subsection 2(a), a termination by the Company of the Employee's employment shall, except as provided in the next succeeding sentence, be presumed to be a termination by the Company other than for Cause. It is the intention of the parties that unless the Employee's termination is for Cause, any such termination of the Employee's employment by the Company will entitle the Employee to the severance benefits provided under subparagraph 2(a)(i) above.
 
(b) Termination Apart from a Change of Control. In the event the Employee's employment is terminated for any reason after the 24-month period following a Change of Control, then the Employee shall not be entitled to any severance or benefits under this Agreement, but will be entitled to receive severance or other benefits under the terms of the Company's then existing severance and benefit plans and policies at the time of such termination.
 
(c) Conditions to Severance. Notwithstanding the foregoing subsection 2(a), the Company's obligation to pay the Employee severance benefits shall be expressly conditioned upon the Employee's obligations under Section 3 below. In the event the Employee violates the provisions of Section 3, the Company shall have no obligation to pay the Employee the severance benefits described in subsection 2(a) above.
 
3.  Covenant Not to Compete or Solicit.
 
(a) Non-Competition. As an express condition precedent to the Employee's right to severance benefits under subsection 2(a) above, the Employee agrees that for a period of two (2) years following the Employee's termination of employment with the Company for any reason, the Employee will not directly or indirectly engage in (whether as an employee, consultant, proprietor, partner, director or otherwise), or have any ownership interest in, or participate in the financing, operation, management or control of, any person, firm, corporation or business that e ngages in or (to the Employee's knowledge, after due inquiry) intends to engage in a "Restricted Business" (as defined below).
 
Ownership of (i) no more than one percent (1%) of the outstanding voting stock of a publicly traded corporation, or (ii) any stock presently owned by the Employee, shall not constitute a violation of this provision.
 
(b) Non-Solicitation. As an express condition precedent to the Employee's right to severance benefits under subsection 2(a) above, the Employee agrees that for a period of two (2) years following the Employee's termination of employment with the Company for any reason, the Employee shall not
 
(i) solicit, encourage, or take any other action which is intended to induce any other employee of the Company to terminate her employment with the Company, or
 
(ii)  interfere in any manner with the contractual or employment relationship between the Company and any such employee of the Company.
 
The foregoing shall not prohibit any entity with which the Employee may be affiliated from hiring a former employee of the Company.
 
(c) World-wide. The parties acknowledge that the market for the Company's products is world-wide, and that, in this market, products from any nation compete with products from all other nations. Accordingly, the parties agree that the provisions of this Section 3 shall apply to each of the states and counties of the United States, including each county in California, and to each nation worldwide.
 
(d) Severability. The parties intend that the covenants contained in the preceding paragraphs shall be construed as a series of separate covenants, one for each county of California, each state of the Union, and each nation. Except for geographic coverage, each such separate covenant shall be deemed identical in terms to the covenant contained in the preceding paragraphs. If, in any judicial proceeding, a court shall refuse to enforce any of the separate covenants (or any part thereof) deemed included in said paragraphs, then such unenforceable covenant (or such part) shall be deemed eliminated from this Agreement for the pur pose of those proceedings to the extent necessary to permit the remaining separate covenants (or portions thereof) to be enforced. In the event that the provisions of this Section 3 should ever be deemed to exceed the time or geographic limitations, or the scope of this covenant, permitted by applicable law, then such provisions shall be reformed to the maximum time or geographic limitations, as the case may be, permitted by applicable laws.
 
4.  Certain Definitions. For the purposes of this Agreement, the following terms have the meanings set forth below.
 
(a) "Cause" shall mean the Employee's termination only upon:
 
(i) The Employee's willful failure, after receipt of at least one written warning, (A) to comply with the Company's policies and practices applicable to the Company's employees in similar job positions or to the Company's employees generally or (B) to follow the reasonable instructions of the Employee's supervisor;
 
(ii) The Employee's engaging in willful misconduct which is demonstrably and materially injurious to the Company;
 
(iii) The Employee's committing a felony, an act of fraud against, or the misappropriation of property belonging to the Company;
 
(iv) The Employee's breaching in any material respect the terms of this Agreement or the Employee Patent, Secrecy and Invention Agreement between the Employee and the Company.
 
(b) "Certain Reasons" shall mean (i) a reduction by the Company in the Employee's reporting relationship, assignment of Employee, without her consent, to a position or duties inconsistent with his status as Chief Marketing Officer, or total compensation in effect immediately prior to such reduction; (ii) a material reduction by the Company in the kind or level of employee benefits to which the Employee is entitled immediately prior to such reduction with the result tha t the Employee's overall benefits package is significantly reduced; or (iii) the relocation of the Employee to a facility or a location which increases Employee's commute by more than 25 miles, without the Employee's express written consent.
 
(c) "Change of Control" shall mean the occurrence of any of the following events:
 
(i)  Any "person" (as such term is used in Sections 13(d) and 14(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended), becomes the "beneficial owner" (as defined in Rule 13d-3 under said Act), directly or indirectly, of securities of the Company representing forty percent (40%) or more of the total voting power represented by the Company's then outstanding voting securities; or
 
(ii) A change in the composition of the Board of Directors of the Company occurring within a two-year period, as a result of which fewer than a majority of the directors are Incumbent Directors. "Incumbent Directors" shall mean directors who either (A) are directors of the Company as of the date hereof, or (B) are elected, or nominated for election, to the Board of Directors of the Company with the affirmative votes of at least a majority of the Incumbent Directors at the time of such election or nomination (but shall not include an individual whose election or nomination is in connection with an actual or threatened proxy contest relating to the election of directors to the Company);
 

 
--
 
     

 

 
(iii) A merger or consolidation of the Company with any other corporation, other than a merger or consolidation which would result in the voting securities of the Company outstanding immediately prior thereto continuing to represent (either by remaining outstanding or by being converted into voting securities of the surviving entity) at least seventy percent (70%) of the total voting power represented by the voting securities of the Company or such surviving entity outstanding immediately after such merger or consolidation, or the stockholders of the Company approve a plan of complete liquidation of the Company or an agreement for the sale or dispositio n by the Company of all or substantially all the Company's assets; or
 
(iv) Upon the occurrence of any of the following events: (u) the Company commences a voluntary case under Title XI of the United States Code, as amended (the "Bankruptcy Code"); (v) an involuntary case is commenced against the Company under the Bankruptcy Code and relief is ordered against the Company, or the petition is controverted but is not dismissed within sixty (60) days after the commencement of the case; (w) a custodian is appointed for, or takes charge of, all or substantially all of the property of the Company; (x) the Company commences any other judicial, administrative or other governmental proceeding under any reorg anization, arrangement, readjustment of debt, relief of debtors, dissolution, insolvency, liquidation or similar law of any jurisdiction (whether now or hereinafter in effect) relating to the Company, or there is commenced by the Company any such proceeding which remains undismissed for a period of sixty (60) days, or the Company is adjudicated insolvent or bankrupt, or the Company fails to controvert in a timely manner any such case of the Bankruptcy Code or any such proceeding, or any order of relief or other order proving any such case or proceeding is entered; (y) the Company by any act or failure to act indicates its consent to, approval of or acquiescence in any such case or proceeding or the appointment of any custodian or for it in any substantial part of its property or suffers any such appointment to continue undischarged or staid for a period of sixty (60) days; or (z) the Company makes a general assignment for the benefit of its creditors.
 
(d) "Restricted Business" shall mean any business that is engaged in or (to the Employee's knowledge, after due inquiry) preparing to engage in the design, manufacture, marketing, sale or distribution of telephone headsets, telephone handsets, or related products, assemblies, subassemblies, components, and the repair or refurbishment of same.
 
5. Employee's Representations. The Employee represents and warrants to the Company that the Employee is familiar with and approves the covenants not to compete and not to solicit set forth in Section 3, including, without limitation, the reasonableness of the length of time, scope and geographic coverage of these covenants.
 
6. Successors. The Company will require any successor (whether direct or indirect, by purchase, merger, consolidation or otherwise) to all or substantially all of the business and/or assets of the Company to expressly assume and agree to perform this Agreement in the same manner and to the same extent that the Company would be required to perform if no such succession had taken place. The failure of the Company to obtain such assumption agreement prior to the effectiveness of any such succession shall entitle the Employee to the benefits described in subsect ion 2(a) of this Agreement, subject to the terms and conditions therein.
 
7. Miscellaneous.
 
(a) Notices. Any notice, report or other communication required or permitted to be given hereunder shall be in writing to both parties and shall be deemed given on the date of delivery, if delivered, or three days after mailing, if mailed first-class mail, postage prepaid, to the following addresses:
 
(i) If to the Employee, at the address set forth below the Employee's signature at the end hereof.
 
(ii) If to the Company:
 
Plantronics, Inc.
 
345 Encinal Street
 
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
 
Attn: Legal Department
 
or to such other address as any party hereto may designate by notice given as herein provided.
 
(b) Integration. Except with respect to the terms of the Employee's offer letter dated June 28, 2004 (the "Offer Letter") and except with respect to Company benefit plans of general application to the Company's employees, this Agreement represents the entire agreement and understanding between the parties as to the subject matter hereof and supersedes all prior or contemporaneous agreements, whether written or oral. In the event of a conflict between the provisions of this Agreement and the Offer Letter, the Offer Letter shall control.
 
(c) Governing Law. This Agreement shall be governed by and construed and enforced in accordance with the laws of the State of California as applied to agreements made and performed in California by residents of California.
 
(d) Amendments. This Agreement shall not be changed or modified in whole or in part except by an instrument in writing signed by each party.
 
(e) Arbitration. Any dispute or controversy arising under or in connection with this Agreement shall be settled exclusively by arbitration conducted in the San Francisco Bay Area before a neutral arbitrator in accordance with the rules of the American Arbitration Association then in effect. The parties shall each use their best efforts to submit promptly to arbitration any dispute or controversy and to complete the arbitration within sixty (60) days following submission to arbitration.
 
(f) Legal Fees and Expenses. In the event that any dispute or controversy arises under or in connection with this Agreement, the prevailing party shall be reimbursed by the other for legal and other related expenses reasonably incurred in good faith by the prevailing party, provided that any such reimbursement obligation shall not exceed $25,000 times the percentage by which the party prevailed. In the case of a claim by the prevailing party for monetary recovery, the "percentage by which the party prevailed" shall mean the amount recovered divided by the cl aim asserted. In the case of defense against a claim asserted or in cases where non-monetary relief is disputed, the "percentage by which the party prevailed" shall be fixed by the arbitrator or, if arbitration is for any reason avoided, by the judge in the action where the claims are resolved.
 
(g) Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in several counterparts, each of which shall be an original, but all of which together shall constitute one and the same agreement.
 
(h) Effect of Headings. The section headings herein are for convenience only and shall not affect the construction or interpretation of this Agreement.
 
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Agreement as of the date first written above.
 
PLANTRONICS, INC.
 
By:    _________________________________
 
Richard R. Pickard
Vice President - Legal and General Counsel and Secretary
 
 
EMPLOYEE
 
________________________________________
Mark Breier
    Address: 26359 Esperanza Drive
Los Altos Hills, CA 94022
--
 


EX-10.15.2 3 amndcrag.htm FIRST AMENDMENT TO CREDIT AGREEMENT First Amendment to Credit Agreement

FIRST AMENDMENT TO CREDIT AGREEMENT


THIS FIRST AMENDMENT TO CREDIT AGREEMENT (this "Amendment") is entered into as of August 1, 2004, by and between PLANTRONICS, INC., a Delaware corporation ("Company"), and WELLS FARGO BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION ("Bank").


RECITALS

WHEREAS, Company is currently indebted to Bank pursuant to the terms and conditions of that certain Credit Agreement between Company and Bank dated as of July 31, 2003, as amended from time to time ("Credit Agreement").

WHEREAS, Bank and Company have agreed to certain changes in the terms and conditions set forth in the Credit Agreement and have agreed to amend the Credit Agreement to reflect said changes.

NOW, THEREFORE, for valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the parties hereto agree that, effective as of the date hereof, the Credit Agreement shall be amended as follows:

  1. The term "Applicable Commitment Fee Percentage" is hereby amended to read " as follows:

    "Applicable Commitment Fee Percentage" means, on any date, one-tenth of one percent (0.10%) per annum.

  2. In the definition of the term "Revolving Termination Date", the reference to "July 31, 2005" is hereby amended to read "August 1, 2006."

  3. In Section 2.10 ("Commitment Fee"), the phrase:

        "computed on a monthly basis in arrears on the last Business Day of each calendar month based on the daily utilization for that month as calculated by the Bank"

    is hereby amended to read:

        "computed on a quarterly basis in arrears on the last day of each calendar quarter based on the daily utilization for that quarter as calculated by the Bank";

    and, the phrase:

        "due and payable monthly in arrears on the last Business Day of each month commencing on August 31, 2003 through the Revolving Termination Date"

    is hereby amended to read:

        "due and payable quarterly in arrears on the last day of each calendar quarter commencing on September 30, 2004 through the Revolving Termination Date."

  4. Except as specifically provided herein, all terms and conditions of the Credit Agreement remain in full force and effect, without waiver or modification. All terms defined in the Credit Agreement shall have the same meaning when used in this Amendment. This Amendment and the Credit Agreement shall be read together, as one document.

  5. Company hereby remakes all representations and warranties contained in the Credit Agreement and reaffirms all covenants set forth therein. Company further certifies that as of the date of this Amendment there exists no Event of Default as defined in the Credit Agreement, nor any condition, act or event which with the giving of notice or the passage of time or both would constitute any such Event of Default.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Amendment to be executed as of the day and year first written above.
 
 
 
 PLANTRONICS, INC. 
 
By: ____________________________
Barbara V. Scherer
Senior Vice President, Finance &
Administration and
Chief Financial Officer
 
By: ____________________________
Richard R. Pickard
Vice President, Secretary and
General Counsel
WELLS FARGO BANK,
NATIONAL ASSOCIATION
 
By: ____________________________
Patrick Bishop
Vice President
 


 
     

 

EX-31.1 4 ceo302.htm CEO 302 CERTIFICATION CEO 302 Certification

Exhibit 31.1
Certification of CEO Pursuant to
Securities Exchange Act Rules 13a-14 and 15d-14
as Adopted Pursuant to
Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
 
 
I, Ken Kannappan, certify that:
 
1. I have reviewed this quarterly report on Form 10-Q of Plantronics, Inc.;
 
 
2. Based on my knowledge, this 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 report;
 
 
3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this 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 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-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) for the registrant and have:
 
 
  a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, 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 report is being prepared;
 
 
  b) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and
 
 
  c) Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and
 
 
5. The registrant's other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant's auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):
 
 
  a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and
 
 
  b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting.
 
     
  PLANTRONICS, INC.
 
 
 
 
 
 
Date: November 5, 2004 By:   /s/ Ken Kannappan
 
Ken Kannappan
  President and Chief Executive Officer
EX-31.2 5 cfo302.htm CFO 302 CERTIFICATION CFO 302 Certification
Exhibit 31.2
Certification of CFO Pursuant to
Securities Exchange Act Rules 13a-14 and 15d-14
as Adopted Pursuant to
Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
 
 
I, Barbara Scherer, certify that:
 
 
1. I have reviewed this quarterly report on Form 10-Q of Plantronics, Inc.;
 
 
2. Based on my knowledge, this 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 report;
 
 
3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this 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 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-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) for the registrant and have:
 
 
  a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, 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 report is being prepared;
 
 
  b) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and
 
 
  c) Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and
 
 
5. The registrant's other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant's auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):
 
 
  a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and
 
 
  b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting.
 
 
     
  PLANTRONICS, INC.
 
 
 
 
 
 
Date: November 5, 2004  By:   /s/ Barbara Scherer
 
Barbara Scherer
 
Senior Vice President - Finance and Administration and Chief Financial Officer
EX-32.1 6 cert906.htm CEO AND CFO 906 CERTIFICATIONS CEO and CFO 906 Certifications

Exhibit 32.1
 

 
CERTIFICATION OF CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER AND 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, Ken Kannappan, certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that the Quarterly Report of Plantronics, Inc. on Form 10-Q for the fiscal quarter ended October 2, 2004 fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and that information contained in such Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q fairly presents in all material respects the financial condition and results of operations of Plantronics, Inc.
 

By:    /s/ Ken Kannappan
Name: Ken Kannappan
Title: Chief Executive Officer
Date: November 5, 2004

I, Barbara Scherer, certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that the Quarterly Report of Plantronics, Inc. on Form 10-Q for the fiscal quarter ended October 2, 2004 fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and that information contained in such Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q fairly presents in all material respects the financial condition and results of operations of Plantronics, Inc..
 


By:    /s/ Barbara Scherer    
Name: Barbara Scherer
Title: Chief Financial Officer
Date: November 5, 2004

This certification accompanies the Report pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 and shall not, except to the extent required by the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, be deemed filed by the Company for purposes of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.
 
A signed original of this written statement required by Section 906 has been provided to the Company and will be retained by the Company and furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission or its staff upon request.
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