UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-K
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x | ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 |
For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2015
or
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o | TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 |
Commission file number 1-1043
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Brunswick Corporation
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
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Delaware | | 36-0848180 |
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization) | | (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.) |
1 N. Field Court, Lake Forest, Illinois 60045-4811
(Address of principal executive offices, including zip code)
(847) 735-4700
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Title of each class Name of each exchange on which registered
Common Stock ($0.75 par value) New York Stock Exchange, Chicago Stock Exchange
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. Yes x No o
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act. Yes o No x
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 o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). Yes x No o
Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K (Section 229.405) is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant's knowledge, in the definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K. x
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):
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Large accelerated filer | x | Accelerated filer | o |
Non-accelerated filer | o (Do not check if a smaller reporting company) | Smaller reporting company | o |
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes o No x
As of July 2, 2015, the last business day of the registrant’s most recently completed second fiscal quarter, the aggregate market value of the voting stock of the registrant held by non-affiliates was $4,630,222,823. Such number excludes stock beneficially owned by officers and directors. This does not constitute an admission that they are affiliates.
The number of shares of Common Stock ($0.75 par value) of the registrant outstanding as of February 15, 2016 was 91,029,965.
DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
Part III of this Report on Form 10-K incorporates by reference certain information that will be set forth in the Company's definitive Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Shareholders scheduled to be held on May 4, 2016.
BRUNSWICK CORPORATION
INDEX TO ANNUAL REPORT ON FORM 10-K
December 31, 2015
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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PART I | Page |
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PART II | | |
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PART III | | |
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PART IV | | |
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PART I
Item 1. Business
Brunswick Corporation (Brunswick or the Company) is a Delaware corporation incorporated on December 31, 1907. Brunswick is a leading global designer, manufacturer and marketer of recreation products including marine engines, boats, fitness and active recreation products. Brunswick's engine-related products include: outboard, sterndrive and inboard engines; trolling motors; propellers; engine control systems; and marine parts and accessories. The Company's boat offerings include: fiberglass pleasure boats; luxury yachts, yachts and sport yachts; offshore fishing boats; aluminum and fiberglass fishing boats; pontoon boats; deck boats and inflatable boats. Brunswick's fitness products include cardiovascular and strength training equipment for both the commercial and consumer markets. The Company also sells products and services for productive well-being, a complete line of billiards tables and other gaming tables and accessories.
In 2015, Brunswick concentrated on implementing its growth plan which included investing in innovative products, capacity expansion and focusing on both core businesses and strategic acquisitions in growing markets. In 2016, Brunswick will continue to drive profitable growth through product leadership, research and development programs, targeted acquisitions and expansion into new adjacent markets. In the longer term, Brunswick's strategy remains consistent: to design, develop and introduce high-quality products featuring innovative technology and styling; to distribute products through a model that benefits its partners - dealers and distributors - and to provide world-class service to its customers; to develop and maintain low-cost manufacturing processes and to continually improve productivity and efficiency; to manufacture and distribute products globally with local and regional styling; to continue implementing the Company's capital strategy which includes maintaining strong cash and liquidity positions, spending on organic growth initiatives and strategic acquisition opportunities, funding pension obligations and continuing to return capital to shareholders through dividends and share repurchases; and to attract and retain skilled and knowledgeable people. These strategic objectives support the Company's plans to grow by expanding its existing businesses. The Company's primary objective is to enhance shareholder value by achieving returns on investments that exceed its cost of capital.
Refer to Note 6 – Segment Information and Note 2 – Discontinued Operations in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information regarding the Company's segments and discontinued operations, including net sales, operating earnings and total assets by segment.
Marine Engine Segment
The Marine Engine segment, which had net sales of $2,314.3 million in 2015, consists of the Mercury Marine Group (Mercury Marine). The Company believes its Marine Engine segment is a world leader in the manufacturing and sale of recreational marine engines and marine parts and accessories.
Mercury Marine manufactures and markets a full range of outboard engines, sterndrive propulsion systems and inboard engines under the Mercury, Mercury MerCruiser, Mariner, Mercury Racing, Mercury Sport Jet and Mercury Jet Drive, MotorGuide, Sea Pro, Axius and Zeus brand names. In addition, Mercury Marine manufactures and markets marine parts and accessories under the Quicksilver, Mercury Precision Parts, Mercury Propellers, Attwood, Garelick, Whale, Land 'N' Sea, Kellogg Marine Supply, Diversified Marine Products, Bell Recreational Products, BLA, Seachoice and MotorGuide brand names, including marine electronics and control integration systems, steering systems, instruments, controls, propellers, trolling motors, fuel systems, service parts and marine lubricants. Mercury Marine also supplies integrated, high-speed diesel propulsion systems to the worldwide recreational and commercial marine markets.
Mercury Marine's outboard engines, sterndrive engines and inboard engines are sold to independent boat builders, local, state and foreign governments and to the Company's Boat segment. In addition, Mercury Marine sells outboard engines through a global network of more than 6,000 marine dealers and distributors, specialty marine retailers and marine service centers.
Mercury Marine manufactures four-stroke outboard engine models ranging from 2.5 to 400 horsepower and two-stroke OptiMax outboard engines, all of which feature Mercury's direct fuel injection (DFI) technology, ranging from 75 to 300 horsepower. All of these low-emission engines are in compliance with applicable U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requirements. Mercury Marine's four-stroke outboard engines include Verado, a collection of supercharged outboards ranging from 150 to 400 horsepower, and Mercury Marine's naturally aspirated four-stroke outboards, ranging from 2.5 to 150 horsepower, including the 75 to 115 horsepower FourStroke, introduced in 2014, which has become known for its light weight, fuel efficiency and performance. Mercury Marine also manufactures two-stroke, non-DFI engines for certain markets outside the United States. In addition, most of Mercury's sterndrive and inboard engines are now available with catalyst exhaust treatment and monitoring systems, and all are compliant with applicable state and federal environmental regulations.
Mercury Marine and Mercury Racing manufacture inboard and sterndrive engine models ranging from 115 to 1,650 horsepower. Mercury was awarded the IBEX Innovation Award for Propulsion Parts/Propellers for its Flo-Torq SSR-HD, a propeller hub system designed to improve shift noise and vibration on certain high-horsepower outboards, and MotorGuide won the Innovation Award for the Outboard Engines category for its X5 trolling motor featuring Variable Ratio Steering technology in September 2015 at the 2015 International Boatbuilders Exhibition and Conference. Mercury also won the Innovation Prize of Propulsion System award at the China (Zhoushan Archipelago) International Boat Show for its 350 horsepower Verado outboard engine and its second consecutive Most Eco-Friendly Marine Business Award during the 2015 China (Shanghai) International Boat Show for its 75-115 horsepower FourStroke Outboard Engine platform.
To promote advanced propulsion systems with improved handling, performance and efficiency, Mercury Marine manufactures and markets advanced boat steering and engine control systems under the brand names of Zeus and Axius.
Mercury Marine produces its gasoline sterndrive and outboard engines domestically in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, with outboard engines also produced internationally in China and Japan. Mercury Marine manufactures 40, 50 and 60 horsepower four-stroke outboard engines in a facility in China, and produces smaller outboard engines in Japan pursuant to a joint venture with its partner, Tohatsu Corporation. Mercury Marine sources engine components from a global supply base and manufactures additional engine component parts at its Fond du Lac facility and plants in Florida and Mexico. Mercury Marine also operates a remanufacturing business for engines and service parts in Wisconsin. In addition, Mercury Marine has an equity ownership interest in Bella-Veneet Oy, which manufactures boats under the brand names Bella, Flipper and Aquador in Finland.
On April 27, 2015, the Company acquired 100 percent of privately held BLA, which is based in Brisbane, Australia. BLA is Australia's largest provider of marine parts and accessories and has an extensive dealer network throughout Australia and New Zealand. The Company believes this acquisition will allow the Company to enhance its distribution by expanding reach and customer responsiveness in the Australian marine marketplace. On November 6, 2015, the Company acquired 100 percent of privately held Garelick Mfg. Co., which is based in St. Paul Park, Minnesota, and is a leading manufacturer of premium seat, table hardware and marine products under its respected namesake brand, as well as the well-known “EEz-In”® mark. The Company believes this acquisition will allow it an opportunity to expand the global presence of the marine service, parts and accessories businesses and add depth and breadth to its product portfolio. Garelick and BLA are managed within the Marine Engine segment.
Mercury Marine's parts and accessories distribution and products businesses include: Land 'N' Sea, Kellogg Marine Supply, Diversified Marine Products, Bell Recreational Products, BLA, Attwood Marine, Garelick Mfg. Co. and Whale. These businesses are leading manufacturers and distributors of marine parts and accessories throughout North America, Europe and Asia-Pacific, offering same-day or next-day delivery service to a broad array of marine service facilities.
Intercompany sales to the Company's Boat segment represented approximately 12 percent of Mercury Marine's sales in 2015. Domestic demand for the Marine Engine segment's products is seasonal, with sales generally highest in the second calendar quarter of the year.
Boat Segment
The Boat segment consists of the Brunswick Boat Group (Boat Group), which manufactures and markets the following products: fiberglass pleasure boats; luxury yachts, yachts and sport yachts; offshore fishing boats; aluminum and fiberglass fishing boats; pontoon boats; deck boats and inflatable boats. The Company believes that its Boat Group, which had net sales of $1,274.6 million during 2015, is a world leader in the manufacturing and sale of pleasure motorboats.
The Boat Group manages Brunswick's boat brands; evaluates and optimizes the Boat segment's boat portfolio; promotes recreational boating services and activities to enhance the consumer experience and dealer profitability; and speeds the introduction of new technologies into the boat manufacturing and design processes.
The Boat Group includes the following boat brands: Sea Ray L-Class yachts, yachts, sport yachts, sport cruisers and runabouts; Bayliner sport cruisers and runabouts; Meridian yachts; Boston Whaler and Lund fiberglass fishing boats; and Crestliner, Cypress Cay, Harris, Lowe, Lund and Princecraft aluminum fishing, utility, pontoon boats and deck boats. The Boat Group also includes a commercial and governmental sales unit that sells products to commercial customers, as well as to the United States government and state, local and foreign governments. The Boat Group procures most of its outboard engines, gasoline sterndrive engines and gasoline inboard engines from Brunswick's Marine Engine segment.
The Boat Group also includes several Brunswick boat brands based in Europe and Asia-Pacific, which include Quicksilver, Uttern and Rayglass (Protector and Legend), which are typically equipped with Mercury Marine engines and often include other
parts and accessories supplied by Mercury Marine.
The Boat Group operates manufacturing facilities in Florida, Indiana, Minnesota, Missouri, Tennessee, Brazil, Canada, Mexico, New Zealand and Portugal, and owns an inactive manufacturing facility in North Carolina. The Boat Group utilizes contract manufacturing facilities in Poland.
The Boat Group sells its products through a global network of approximately 3,000 dealers and distributors, which may carry more than one of Brunswick's boat brands. Sales to the Boat Group's largest dealer, MarineMax Inc., which has multiple locations and carries a number of the Boat Group's product lines, represented approximately 21 percent of Boat Group sales in 2015. Domestic demand for pleasure boats is seasonal, with sales generally highest in the second calendar quarter of the year.
Fitness Segment
Brunswick's Fitness segment is comprised of its Life Fitness division (Life Fitness), which designs, manufactures and markets a full line of reliable, high-quality cardiovascular fitness equipment (including treadmills, total body cross-trainers, stair climbers and stationary exercise bicycles) and strength-training equipment under the Life Fitness, Hammer Strength, SCIFIT and Cybex brands. The Fitness segment also includes Brunswick's billiards business and InMovement products and services for productive well-being.
The Company believes that its Fitness segment, which had net sales of $794.6 million during 2015, is the world's largest manufacturer of commercial fitness equipment and a leading manufacturer of high-quality consumer fitness equipment. Life Fitness' commercial sales customers include health clubs, corporations, schools and universities, hotels, professional sports teams, retirement and assisted living facilities and the military and governmental agencies. Life Fitness makes commercial sales through its direct sales force, domestic dealers and international distributors. Consumer products are available at specialty retailers, select mass merchants, sporting goods stores, through international distributors and on the Life Fitness website.
The Fitness segment's billiards business was established in 1845 and is Brunswick's heritage business. The billiards business designs and/or markets billiards tables, table tennis tables, air powered table hockey games and other gaming tables, as well as game room furniture and related accessories, under the Brunswick and Contender brands.
On July 8, 2015, the Company acquired 100 percent of privately held SCIFIT Systems, Inc. (SCIFIT), which is based in Tulsa, Oklahoma. SCIFIT is a provider of fitness equipment designed for active aging seniors, medical wellness and rehabilitation markets. The Company believes this acquisition will expand the Fitness segment's product portfolio and enable entry into these growing adjacent markets. On August 4, 2015, Life Fitness announced the launch of InMovement, a business dedicated to addressing workplace inactivity and combating the harmful effects of a sedentary lifestyle. The Company believes InMovement will further diversify Brunswick's portfolio of lifestyle and recreational products, taking the Company into corporate wellness, an emerging and growing market category, by offering products and services designed to incorporate subtle movement into employee work habits. SCIFIT and InMovement are managed within the Fitness segment.
On January 20, 2016, the Company acquired 100 percent of privately held Cybex International, Inc. (Cybex), a leading manufacturer of commercial fitness equipment. Cybex offers a full line of cardiovascular and strength products. The Company believes the acquisition will expand the Fitness segment's manufacturing footprint to meet current and future demand more effectively and increase the breadth and depth of its product portfolio. Cybex will be managed as part of the Fitness segment.
The Fitness segment's principal manufacturing facilities are located in Illinois, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Wisconsin and Hungary, with third party contract manufacturing partners in China and Taiwan. Life Fitness distributes its products worldwide from regional warehouses and production facilities. Demand for Life Fitness products is seasonal, with sales generally highest in the fourth quarter of the year.
Discontinued Operations
The Company recently divested its retail bowling and bowling products businesses. On July 17, 2014, the Company entered into an agreement to sell its retail bowling business to AMF Bowling Centers, Inc. In connection with its decision to sell its bowling centers, the Company announced its intention to divest its bowling products business. As a result of these actions, these businesses, which were previously recorded in the Bowling & Billiards segment, are reported as discontinued operations in the Consolidated Statements of Operations for all periods presented. The Company does not have or anticipate having any significant continuing involvement or continuing cash flows associated with these businesses. The assets and liabilities of these businesses met the accounting criteria to be classified as held for sale and have been aggregated and reported on separate lines of the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
On September 18, 2014, the Company completed the sale of its retail bowling business to AMF Bowling Centers, Inc. and, in separate transactions, completed the sale of two retail bowling centers in California. On May 22, 2015, the Company completed the sale of its bowling products business to BlueArc Capital Management LLC. Refer to Note 2 – Discontinued Operations in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information regarding the Company's discontinued operations.
Financial Services
The Company, through its Brunswick Financial Services Corporation subsidiary, owns a 49 percent interest in a joint venture, Brunswick Acceptance Company, LLC (BAC). Under the terms of the joint venture agreement, BAC provides secured wholesale inventory floorplan financing to the Company's boat and engine dealers. CDF Ventures, LLC (CDFV), a subsidiary of GE Capital Corporation (GECC), owns the remaining 51 percent. Effective July 31, 2015, the joint venture was extended through December 31, 2019. On October 13, 2015, GECC reached an agreement to sell CDFV to Wells Fargo & Company, including CDFV’s interest in the BAC joint venture. The Company does not anticipate that the sale, expected to be consummated in 2016, will have a material effect on the BAC agreement.
The joint venture agreement contains provisions allowing for the renewal of the agreement or purchase of the other party's interest in the joint venture at the end of its term. Alternatively, either partner may terminate the agreement at the end of its term. In June 2014, the joint venture agreement was amended to adjust a financial covenant that was conformed to the leverage ratio test contained in the Facility as described in Note 16 – Debt in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
Additionally, Brunswick offers financial services through Brunswick Product Protection Corporation, which provides marine dealers the opportunity to offer extended product warranties to retail customers, and through Blue Water Dealer Services, Inc., which provides retail financial services to marine dealers. Each company allows Brunswick to offer a more complete line of financial services to its boat and marine engine dealers and their customers.
Refer to Note 10 – Financial Services in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for more information about the Company's financial services.
Distribution
Brunswick utilizes distributors, dealers and retailers (Dealers) for the majority of its boat sales and significant portions of its sales of marine engine, fitness and billiards products. Brunswick has over 16,000 Dealers serving its business segments worldwide. Brunswick's marine Dealers typically carry one or more of the following product categories - boats, engines and related parts and accessories.
Brunswick owns Land 'N' Sea, Kellogg Marine Supply, Diversified Marine Products, Bell Recreational Products and BLA, which comprise the primary parts and accessories distribution platforms for the Company's Marine Engine segment. The Company believes that these businesses, collectively, are the leading distributors of marine parts and accessories throughout North America, with 16 distribution warehouses located throughout the United States and Canada offering same-day or next-day delivery service to a broad array of marine service facilities and Dealers.
Brunswick's Dealers are independent companies or proprietors that range in size from small, family-owned businesses to a large, publicly-traded corporation with substantial revenues and multiple locations. Some Dealers sell Brunswick's products exclusively, while a majority also carry competitors' products. Brunswick partners with its boat dealer network to improve quality, service, distribution and delivery of parts and accessories to enhance the boating customer's experience.
Demand for a significant portion of Brunswick's products is seasonal, and a number of Brunswick's Dealers are relatively small and/or highly-leveraged. As a result, many Dealers secure floor plan financing from BAC or other third party finance companies, enabling them to provide stable channels for Brunswick's products. In addition to the financing BAC offers, the Company may also provide its Dealers with incentive programs, loan guarantees, inventory repurchase commitments and financing receivable arrangements, under which the Company is obligated to repurchase inventory or receivables from a finance company in the event of a Dealer's default. The Company believes that these arrangements are in its best interest; however, these arrangements expose the Company to credit and business risk. Brunswick's business units, along with BAC, maintain active credit operations to manage this financial exposure, and the Company continually seeks opportunities to sustain and improve the financial health of its various distribution channel partners. Refer to Note 8 – Financing Receivables and Note 13 – Commitments and Contingencies in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for further discussion of these arrangements.
International Operations
Brunswick's sales to customers in markets other than the United States were $1,377.9 million (33 percent of net sales), $1,438.7 million (37 percent of net sales) and $1,385.1 million (38 percent of net sales) in 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively. The Company transacts a portion of its sales in non-U.S. markets in local currencies, and the cost of its products is generally denominated in U.S. dollars. As a result, the strengthening or weakening of the U.S. dollar affects the financial results of Brunswick's non-U.S. operations.
Non-U.S. sales are set forth in Note 6 – Segment Information in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements and are also included in the table below, which details Brunswick's non-U.S. sales by region:
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(in millions) | 2015 | | 2014 | | 2013 |
Europe | $ | 506.0 |
| | $ | 533.5 |
| | $ | 469.0 |
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Canada | 282.9 |
| | 302.4 |
| | 312.6 |
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Asia-Pacific | 307.9 |
| | 286.0 |
| | 281.4 |
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Latin America | 183.2 |
| | 219.0 |
| | 234.6 |
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Africa & Middle East | 97.9 |
| | 97.8 |
| | 87.5 |
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Total | $ | 1,377.9 |
| | $ | 1,438.7 |
| | $ | 1,385.1 |
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Marine Engine segment non-U.S. sales represented approximately 48 percent of Brunswick's non-U.S. sales in 2015. The segment's principal non-U.S. operations include the following:
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• | Distribution, sales, service and applications engineering offices in Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, China, Malaysia, New Zealand and Singapore; |
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• | Sales or representative offices in China, Dubai, Finland, France, Italy, Japan, Norway, Russia, Sweden and Switzerland; |
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• | A component manufacturing facility in Mexico; |
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• | An outboard engine assembly plant in Suzhou, China; |
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• | An outboard engine assembly plant operated by a joint venture in Japan; and |
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• | A parts and accessories manufacturing facility in Northern Ireland. |
Boat segment non-U.S. sales comprised approximately 25 percent of Brunswick's non-U.S. sales in 2015. The Boat Group manufactures or assembles a portion of its products in Brazil, Canada, Mexico, New Zealand and Portugal, as well as in boat plants owned and operated by third parties in Poland that perform contract manufacturing for the Company, and are sold worldwide through Dealers. The Boat Group has sales or import offices in Belgium, Brazil, Canada, France, Italy, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland and Sweden.
Fitness segment non-U.S. sales comprised approximately 27 percent of Brunswick's non-U.S. sales in 2015. Life Fitness sells its products worldwide and has sales and distribution centers in Brazil, Germany, Hong Kong, Japan, the Netherlands, Spain and the United Kingdom. The Fitness segment manufactures strength-training equipment and select lines of cardiovascular equipment in Hungary for its international markets, and has relationships with contract manufacturers in China and Taiwan.
Raw Materials and Supplies
Brunswick purchases a wide variety of raw materials from its supplier base, including aluminum, resins, oil and steel, as well as product parts and components, such as engine blocks and boat windshields. The prices for these raw materials, parts and components fluctuate depending on market conditions. Significant increases in the cost of such materials would raise the Company's production costs, which could reduce the Company's profitability if the Company did not recoup the increased costs through higher product prices.
As Brunswick's manufacturing operations raised production levels in 2015, the Company's need for raw materials and supplies increased. Continuing into 2016, Brunswick's suppliers will need to increase their manufacturing operations to meet the rising demand for their products and, in many cases, may need to hire additional workers in order to fulfill the orders placed by Brunswick and other customers. During 2015, the Company experienced some shortages or delayed delivery of certain materials, parts and supplies essential to its manufacturing operations. The Company has addressed and will continue to address this issue by identifying alternative suppliers, working to secure adequate inventories of critical supplies and continually monitoring the capabilities of its supplier base.
The Company also continues to expand its global procurement operations to better leverage its purchasing power across its divisions and to improve supply chain and cost efficiencies. The Company mitigates its commodity price risk on certain raw material purchases by using derivatives to hedge exposure related to changes in commodity prices.
Intellectual Property
Brunswick has, and continues to obtain, patent rights covering certain features of its products and processes. By law, Brunswick's patent rights, which consist of patents and patent licenses, have limited lives and expire periodically. The Company believes that its patent rights are important to its competitive position in all of its business segments.
In the Marine Engine segment, patent rights principally relate to features of outboard engines and inboard-outboard drives, hybrid drives and pod drives, including: die-cast powerheads; cooling and exhaust systems; drivetrain, clutch and gearshift mechanisms; boat/engine mountings; shock-absorbing tilt mechanisms; ignition systems; propellers; marine vessel control systems; fuel and oil injection systems; supercharged engines; outboard mid-section structures; segmented cowls; hydraulic trim, tilt and steering; screw compressor charge air cooling systems; a range of proprietary metal alloys; and airflow silencers.
In the Boat segment, patent rights principally relate to processes for manufacturing fiberglass hulls, decks and components for boat products, as well as patent rights related to interiors and other boat features and components.
In the Fitness segment, patent rights principally relate to fitness equipment designs and components, including patents covering internal processes, programming functions, displays, design features and styling, as well as billiards table designs and components and active workplace furniture and equipment.
The following are Brunswick's principal trademarks:
Marine Engine Segment: Attwood, Axius, Bell Recreational Products, Diversified Marine Products, Garelick, Kellogg Marine Supply, Land 'N' Sea, Mariner, MerCruiser, Mercury, Mercury Marine, Mercury Parts Express, Mercury Precision Parts, Mercury Propellers, Mercury Racing, MotorGuide, OptiMax, Quicksilver, Seachoice, SeaPro, SmartCraft, Sport-Jet, Swivl-Eze, Valiant, Verado, Whale and Zeus.
Boat Segment: Bayliner, Boston Whaler, Crestliner, Cypress Cay, Harris, Lowe, Lund, Master Dealer, Meridian, Princecraft, Protector, Quicksilver, Rayglass, Sea Ray and Uttern.
Fitness Segment: Air Hockey, Brunswick, Contender, Cybex, Flex Deck, Gold Crown, Hammer Strength, InMovement, Lifecycle, Life Fitness and SCIFIT.
Brunswick's trademark rights have indefinite lives, and many are well known to the public and are considered to be valuable assets.
Competitive Conditions and Position
The Company believes that it has a reputation for quality in each of its highly competitive lines of business. Brunswick competes in its various markets by: utilizing efficient production techniques; developing and strengthening its leading brands; developing and promoting innovative technological advancements; undertaking effective marketing, advertising and sales efforts; providing high-quality, innovative products at competitive prices; and offering extensive aftermarket services.
Strong competition exists in each of Brunswick's product groups, but no single enterprise competes with Brunswick in all product groups. In each product area, competitors range in size from large, highly-diversified companies to small, single-product businesses. Brunswick also indirectly competes with businesses that offer alternative leisure products or activities.
The following summarizes Brunswick's competitive position in each segment:
Marine Engine Segment: The Company believes its Marine Engine segment is a world leader in the manufacture and sale of recreational marine engines and marine parts and accessories. The marine engine market is highly competitive among several major international companies that comprise the majority of the market, including Japanese-based outboard engine manufacturers, as well as several smaller companies including Chinese manufacturers. Competitive advantage in this segment is a function of product features, technological leadership, quality, service, pricing, performance and durability, along with effective promotion and distribution.
Boat Segment: The Company believes that its Boat segment is a world leader in the manufacture and sale of pleasure motorboats. There are several major manufacturers of pleasure and offshore fishing boats, along with hundreds of smaller manufacturers. Consequently, this business is both highly competitive and highly fragmented. The Company believes it has the broadest range of boat product offerings in the world, with boats ranging in size from 10 to 65 feet. In all of its boat operations, Brunswick competes on the basis of product features, technology, quality, brand strength, dealer service, pricing, performance, value, durability and styling, along with effective promotion and distribution.
Fitness Segment: The Company believes it is the world's largest manufacturer of commercial fitness equipment and a leading manufacturer of high-quality consumer fitness equipment and billiards tables. The fitness equipment industry is highly competitive among several major international companies that comprise the majority of the market. Many of the Company's fitness equipment offerings feature industry-leading product innovations, and the Company places significant emphasis on introducing new fitness equipment to the market. Competitive focus is also placed on product quality, technology, service, pricing, state-of-the-art biomechanics and effective promotional activities. The billiards industry continues to experience competitive pressure from low-cost billiards manufacturers outside the United States, and the products and services InMovement offers also face competition, primarily from furniture manufacturers and distributors.
Research and Development
The Company strives to improve its competitive position in all of its segments by continuously investing in research and development to drive innovation in its products and manufacturing technologies. Brunswick's research and development investments support the introduction of new products and enhancements to existing products. Research and development expenses as a percentage of net sales were 3.1 percent, 3.1 percent and 3.2 percent in 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively. Research and development expenses by segment are shown below:
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(in millions) | 2015 | | 2014 | | 2013 |
Marine Engine | $ | 78.9 |
| | $ | 72.5 |
| | $ | 70.6 |
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Boat | 22.3 |
| | 23.8 |
| | 22.4 |
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Fitness | 24.7 |
| | 23.3 |
| | 21.8 |
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Total | $ | 125.9 |
| | $ | 119.6 |
| | $ | 114.8 |
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Number of Employees
The number of employees worldwide is shown below by segment: |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| December 31, 2015 | | December 31, 2014 |
| Total | | Union (domestic) | | Total | | Union (domestic) |
Marine Engine | 5,548 |
| | 1,803 |
| | 5,320 |
| | 1,723 |
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Boat | 4,539 |
| | — |
| | 4,024 |
| | — |
|
Fitness | 2,209 |
| | 143 |
| | 2,026 |
| | 134 |
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Bowling | — |
| | — |
| | 479 |
| | 24 |
|
Corporate | 311 |
| | — |
| | 316 |
| | — |
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Total (A) | 12,607 |
| | 1,946 |
| | 12,165 |
| | 1,881 |
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(A) | All employee numbers exclude temporary employees. |
The Company believes that the relationships between its employees, any labor unions and the Company remain stable.
Environmental Requirements
Refer to Note 13 – Commitments and Contingencies in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for a description of certain environmental proceedings.
Available Information
Brunswick maintains an Internet website at http://www.brunswick.com that includes links to Brunswick's Annual Report on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, Current Reports on Form 8-K and any amendments to those reports, and proxy statements (SEC Filngs). The SEC Filings are available without charge as soon as reasonably practicable following the time that they are filed with, or furnished to, the SEC. Shareholders and other interested parties may request email notification of the posting of these documents through the Investors section of Brunswick's website.
Item 1A. Risk Factors
The Company's operations and financial results are subject to various risks and uncertainties, including those described below, which could adversely affect the Company's business, financial condition, results of operations, cash flows and the trading price of the Company's common stock.
Worldwide economic conditions have adversely affected the Company's industries, businesses and results of operations and may continue to do so.
In times of economic uncertainty and contraction, consumers tend to have less discretionary income and to defer expenditures for discretionary items, which adversely affects the Company's financial performance, especially in its marine businesses. Although the Company has worked to expand the portions of its portfolio that are less susceptible to economic cycles, there is still a portion of the business that remains cyclical and highly sensitive to personal discretionary spending levels. In addition, general economic conditions in certain international markets, including Canada, Brazil and Russia, continue to be challenging with respect to weak currencies, commodity market impacts and corresponding weak economic conditions.
Any deterioration in general economic conditions that diminishes consumer confidence or discretionary income may reduce the Company's sales or the Company may decide to sell its products at a discount, thus adversely affecting its financial results, including increasing the potential for future impairment charges. The Company cannot predict the timing or strength of economic recovery, either worldwide or in the specific markets in which it competes.
Changes in currency exchange rates can adversely affect the Company's results.
A portion of the Company's sales are denominated in a currency other than the U.S. dollar. Consequently, a strong U.S. dollar may adversely affect reported revenues. The Company also maintains a portion of its cost structure in currencies other than the U.S. dollar, which partially mitigates the impact of a strengthening U.S. dollar. This includes manufacturing operations for boats in Europe, Brazil and Canada, fitness equipment in Europe, as well as smaller outboard engines purchased from the Company's joint venture in Japan. A portion of SG&A costs are also transacted in a currency other than the U.S. dollar. The Company maintains hedging programs to reduce its risk to currency fluctuations; however, it is not possible to hedge against all currency risk, especially over the long term. The Company also continues to evaluate its supply chain and cost structure for opportunities to further mitigate risks associated with foreign currency.
The Company sells U.S. manufactured products into certain international markets in U.S. dollars, including the sale of products into Canada, Europe and Latin America. Demand for the Company's products in these markets may be adversely affected by a strengthening U.S. dollar. The Company has certain competitors with cost positions based outside the U.S., including Asian-based outboard engine and fitness equipment manufacturers, European-based large fiberglass boat manufacturers and a European-based fitness equipment manufacturer. A strengthening U.S. dollar may provide a cost advantage to these competitors, which could result in pricing pressures. These factors existed throughout a portion of 2014 and in 2015 and the Company does not believe they resulted in any material change in its competitive position.
The inability to make targeted acquisitions or failure to successfully integrate newly acquired businesses could have an adverse effect on the Company's financial results.
The Company's growth initiatives include making targeted acquisitions, which may depend on the availability of suitable acquisition targets at acceptable terms and the Company's ability to complete such acquisitions. There can be no assurance that acquisitions will be consummated or that, if consummated, they will be successful. Acquisitions pose risks with respect to the Company's ability to project and evaluate market demand, potential synergies and cost savings, make correct accounting estimates and achieve anticipated business goals and objectives. As the Company continues to grow, in part, through acquisitions, its success depends on its ability to anticipate and effectively manage these risks. If acquired businesses do not achieve forecasted results or otherwise fail to meet projections, it could affect the Company's results of operations.
Nor can the Company assure that newly acquired businesses will be timely and successfully integrated into the Company's operations. Acquisitions present a number of integration risks, including that the acquisition may: disrupt operations in core, adjacent or acquired businesses; require more time than anticipated to be fully integrated into Company operations and systems; create more costs than projected; divert management attention; create the potential of losing customer, supplier or other critical business relationships; and pose difficulties retaining employees. The inability to successfully integrate new businesses may result in higher production costs, lost sales or otherwise negatively affect earnings and financial results.
If the Company is not able to successfully implement its strategic plan and growth initiatives, it could have a material adverse effect on the Company's business and financial condition.
The Company's ability to continue generating positive cash flow and profits will depend partly on its sustained successful execution of its strategic plan and growth initiatives, including making acquisitions and expanding into new adjacent markets and customers. The Company's ability to succeed in its strategic plan and growth initiatives will require significant capital investment and management attention, which may result in the diversion of these resources from the core business and other business issues and opportunities. Additionally, any new initiative is subject to certain risks, including customer acceptance, competition, the ability to manufacture the products on schedule and to specification, the ability to create the necessary supply chain and/or the ability to attract and retain qualified management and other personnel. There is no assurance that the Company will be able to develop and successfully implement its strategic plan and growth initiatives to a point at which they will become profitable or generate positive cash flow. If the Company cannot successfully execute its strategic plan and growth initiatives, the Company's financial condition and results of operations may be adversely affected.
Fiscal concerns may negatively impact worldwide credit conditions and could have an adverse effect on the Company's industries, businesses and financial condition.
Concerns regarding fiscal policy could have a material adverse impact on worldwide economic conditions, the financial markets and availability of credit and, consequently, may negatively affect the Company's industries, businesses and overall financial condition. Customers often finance purchases of the Company's products, particularly boats. Credit market conditions continued to improve in 2015, but remained less favorable overall than those in existence prior to the decline in marine retail demand. While interest rates are generally lower, there continue to be fewer lenders, tighter underwriting and loan approval criteria, greater down payment requirements and negative loan equity, particularly in larger products. If credit conditions worsen, and adversely affect the ability of customers to finance potential purchases at acceptable terms and interest rates, it could result in a decrease in sales of the Company's products or delay improvement in its sales.
An inability of the Company's dealers and distributors to secure adequate access to capital could adversely affect the Company's sales.
The Company's dealers require adequate liquidity to finance their operations, including purchasing the Company's products. Dealers are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties that could unfavorably affect their liquidity positions, including, among other things, continued access to adequate financing sources on a timely basis on reasonable terms. These sources of financing are vital to the Company's ability to sell products through its distribution network, particularly to its boat and engine dealers. A significant portion of the Company's domestic and international boat and engine sales to dealers are financed through entities affiliated with GE Capital Corporation (GECC), including BAC (the Company's 49 percent owned joint venture, with the other 51 percent being owned by CDFV, a subsidiary of GECC), which provides floorplan financing to domestic marine dealers. In 2015, GECC reached an agreement with Wells Fargo & Company to sell its Commercial Distribution Finance business, including CDFV and its interest in the BAC joint venture. The transaction is expected to be completed in 2016 and the Company does not anticipate it will have a material effect on BAC.
However, a number of factors will continue to influence the availability and terms of financing offered by the Company's dealer floorplan financing providers, including: their ability to access certain capital markets, including the securitization and the commercial paper markets, and to fund their operations in a cost effective manner; the performance of their overall credit portfolios; their willingness to accept the risks associated with lending to marine dealers; and the overall creditworthiness of those dealers. The Company's sales could be adversely affected if BAC were to be terminated or if financing terms change unfavorably. This could require dealers to find alternative sources of financing, including the Company providing this financing directly to dealers, which could require additional capital to fund the associated receivables.
The Company's financial results may be adversely affected if it is unable to maintain effective distribution.
The Company relies on third-party dealers and distributors to sell the majority of its products, particularly in the marine businesses. The ability to maintain a reliable network of dealers is essential to the Company's success. The Company faces competition from other manufacturers in attracting and retaining distributors and independent boat dealers. A significant deterioration in the number or effectiveness of the Company's dealers and distributors could have a material adverse effect on the Company's financial results.
Weakening demand for marine products could adversely affect the financial performance of the Company's dealers. In particular, reduced cash flow from decreases in sales and tightening credit markets may impair dealers' ability to fund operations. Inability to fund operations can force dealers to cease business, and the Company may be unable to obtain alternate distribution in the vacated market. An inability to obtain alternate distribution could unfavorably affect the Company's net sales
through reduced market presence. If conditions were to worsen, the Company anticipates that dealer failures or voluntary market exits could increase, especially if overall retail demand materially declines.
Finally, labor disruption at major ports and shipping hubs around the world may adversely affect the Company and its distributors' ability to transport raw materials to its facilities and products to its distributors and end-use customers, potentially resulting in increased transportation costs and lost sales.
Adverse economic, credit and capital market conditions could have a negative impact on the Company's financial results.
The Company does not frequently rely on short-term capital markets to meet its working capital requirements, fund capital expenditures, pay dividends or fund employee benefit programs; however, the Company does maintain short-term borrowing facilities which can be used to meet these capital requirements. In addition, over the long term, the Company may determine that it is necessary to access the capital markets to refinance existing long-term indebtedness or for other initiatives.
Adverse global economic conditions, market volatility and heightened governmental regulation could lead to volatility and disruptions in the capital and credit markets. This could adversely affect the Company's ability to access capital and credit markets or increase the cost to do so, which could have a negative impact on its business, financial results and competitive position.
Inventory reductions by major dealers, retailers and independent boat builders could adversely affect the Company's financial results.
The Company and its dealers, retailers and other distributors could decide to reduce the number of units they hold, particularly if demand trails forecasted levels or if new product introductions are expected to replace older products. Such efforts tend to result in wholesale sales reductions in excess of retail sales reductions and would likely result in lower production levels of the Company's products, thus resulting in lower rates of absorption of fixed costs in the Company's manufacturing facilities and lower margins. While actions taken continue to keep dealer inventories at appropriate levels, potential future inventory reductions by dealers and independent boat builder customers could impair the Company's future sales and results of operations.
The Company may be required to repurchase inventory or accounts of certain dealers.
The Company has agreements with certain third-party finance companies to provide financing to the Company's customers to enable the purchase of its products. In connection with these agreements, the Company either may have obligations to repurchase the Company's products from the finance company, or may have recourse obligations to the finance company on the dealer’s receivables. These obligations may be triggered if the Company's dealers default on their debt obligations to the finance companies.
The Company's maximum contingent obligation to repurchase inventory and its maximum contingent recourse obligations on customer receivables have been reduced since the recession and are less than the total balances of dealer financings outstanding under these programs, as the Company's obligations under certain of these arrangements are subject to caps, or are limited based on the age of product. The Company's risk related to these arrangements is mitigated by the proceeds it receives on the resale of repurchased product to other dealers, or by recoveries on receivables purchased under the recourse obligations.
The Company's inventory repurchase obligations relate primarily to the inventory floorplan credit facilities of the Company's boat and engine dealers. The Company's actual historical repurchase experience related to these repurchase arrangements has been substantially less than the Company's maximum contractual obligations. If dealers file for bankruptcy or cease operations, the Company could incur losses associated with the repurchase of the Company's products. In addition, as the repurchases may be triggered by dealer bankruptcies, the Company's net sales and earnings may be unfavorably affected as a result of reduced market coverage and the associated decline in sales.
Declines in marine industry demand could cause an increase in future repurchase activity, or could require the Company to incur losses in excess of established reserves. In addition, the Company's cash flow and loss experience could be adversely affected if repurchased inventory is not successfully distributed to other dealers in a timely manner, or if the recovery rate on the resale of the product declines. The finance companies could require changes in repurchase or recourse terms that would result in an increase in the Company's contractual contingent obligations.
The loss of key customers or critical suppliers could harm the Company's business.
If the Company were to experience the loss of a key customer, its business could be negatively affected in a significant way. Similarly, if one of the Company's most critical suppliers were to close its operations, cease manufacturing or otherwise fail to deliver an essential component necessary to the Company's manufacturing operations, it could have a detrimental effect on the Company's ability to manufacture and sell its products, resulting in an interruption in business operations and/or a loss of sales. Additionally, certain customers may negotiate more favorable pricing of Company products. In an effort to mitigate the risk
associated with reliance on such accounts and suppliers, the Company continually works to monitor such relationships, maintain a complete and competitive product lineup and identify alternative suppliers for key components.
The Company's success depends upon the continued strength of its brands.
The Company believes that its brands, including Mercury, Life Fitness, Sea Ray, Boston Whaler and Lund, significantly contribute to the Company's success, and that maintaining and enhancing the brands are important to expanding the Company's customer base. Failure to continue to promote and protect the Company's brands may adversely affect the Company's business and results of operations. Further, in connection with the divestiture of the bowling businesses, the Company licensed certain trademarks and servicemarks, including use of the name “Brunswick,” to the acquiring companies. The Company's reputation may be adversely affected by the purchasers' inappropriate use of the marks or of the name Brunswick, including potential negative publicity, loss of confidence or other damage to its image due to this licensed use.
The Company has a fixed cost base that can affect its profitability in a declining sales environment.
The fixed cost levels of operating production facilities can put pressure on profit margins when sales and production decline. The Company has maintained discipline over its fixed cost base during the economic recovery; however, the Company's profitability is dependent, in part, on its ability to spread fixed costs over an increasing number of products sold and shipped, and if the Company is required to reduce its rate of production, gross margins could be negatively affected. Consequently, decreased demand or the need to reduce inventories can lower the Company's ability to absorb fixed costs and materially impact its results.
Successfully managing the expansion of its manufacturing footprint is critical to the Company's operating and financial results.
Over the past three years, the Company has made strategic capital investments in capacity expansion activities that will enable the affected businesses to successfully capture growth opportunities and enhance product offerings. Recently, the Company reactivated its Sykes Creek manufacturing facility in Merritt Island, Florida, and has initiated or completed expansion activities at its facilities in Edgewater and Palm Coast, Florida; Ramsey, Minnesota; Fond du Lac, Wisconsin; Petit-Rechain, Belgium; and Kiskoros, Hungary. The Company must carefully manage these capital improvement projects and expansions to ensure they meet cost targets, comply with applicable environmental, safety and other regulations and uphold high-quality workmanship.
Moving production to a different plant or expanding capacity at an existing facility involves risks, including difficulties initiating production within the cost and timeframe estimated, supplying product to customers when expected and attracting sufficient numbers of skilled workers to handle additional production demands. The inability to successfully implement the Company's manufacturing footprint initiatives could adversely affect its ability to meet customer demand for products and could increase the cost of production versus projections, both of which could result in a significant adverse impact on operating and financial results. Additionally, plants experiencing demand increases may face manufacturing inefficiencies, additional expenses, including higher wages, and cost inefficiencies, which could exceed projections and negatively impact financial results.
The Company relies on third-party suppliers for the supply of the raw materials, parts and components necessary to manufacture its products. The Company's financial results may be adversely affected by an increase in cost, disruption of supply, shortage or defect in raw materials, parts or product components.
Outside suppliers and contract manufacturers provide the Company with raw materials used in the Company's manufacturing processes, including oil, aluminum, copper, steel and resins, as well as product parts and components. The prices for these raw materials, parts and components fluctuate depending on market conditions and, in some instances, commodity prices. Substantial increases in the prices of the Company's raw materials, parts and components would increase the Company's operating costs, and could reduce its profitability if the Company could not recoup the increased costs through higher product prices.
In addition, some components used in the Company's manufacturing processes, including certain engine components, furniture, upholstery and boat windshields are available from a sole supplier or a limited number of suppliers. Operational and financial difficulties that these or other suppliers may face in the future could adversely affect their ability to supply the Company with the parts and components it needs, which could significantly disrupt the Company's operations. It may be difficult to find a replacement supplier for a limited or sole source raw material, part or component without significant delay or on commercially reasonable terms. In addition, an uncorrected defect or supplier's variation in a raw material, part or component, either unknown to the Company or incompatible with the Company's manufacturing process, could harm the Company's ability to manufacture products.
Some of the risks that could disrupt the Company's operations, impair the Company's ability to deliver products to the Company's customers and negatively affect the Company's financial results include: an increase in the cost of, defects in or a sustained interruption in the supply or shortage of some of these raw materials, parts or products that may be caused by delayed start-up periods the Company's suppliers experience as they increase production efforts; financial pressures on the Company's suppliers
due to a weakening economy or unfavorable conditions in other end markets; a deterioration of the Company's relationships with suppliers; or events such as natural disasters, power outages or labor strikes. In addition to the risks described above regarding interruption of supplies, which are exacerbated in the case of single-source suppliers, the exclusive supplier of a key component potentially could exert significant bargaining power over price, quality, warranty claims or other terms.
The Company's manufacturing operations increased production in 2015 and are expected to continue to do so in 2016 and, consequently, the Company's need for raw materials and supplies will increase. The Company's suppliers must be prepared to ramp up operations and, in many cases, hire additional workers and/or expand capacity in order to fulfill the orders placed by the Company and other customers. The Company experienced periodic supply shortages in 2015. The Company continues to work to address this issue by identifying alternative suppliers, working to secure adequate inventories of critical supplies and continually monitoring the capabilities of its supplier base. In the future, however, the Company may experience shortages of, delayed delivery of and/or increased prices for key materials, parts and supplies that are essential to its manufacturing operations.
The Company's pension funding requirements and expenses are affected by certain factors outside its control, including the performance of plan assets, the discount rate used to value liabilities, actuarial data and experience and legal and regulatory changes.
The Company's funding obligations and pension expense for its four U.S. qualified pension plans are driven by the performance of assets set aside in trusts for these plans, the discount rate used to value the plans’ liabilities, actuarial data and experience and legal and regulatory funding requirements. Changes in these factors could have an adverse impact on the Company's results of operations, liquidity or shareholders’ equity. In addition, a portion of the Company's pension plan assets are invested in equity securities, which can experience significant declines if economic conditions or financial markets weaken. The level of the Company's funding of its qualified pension plan liabilities was approximately 74 percent as of December 31, 2015. The Company's future pension expenses and funding requirements could increase significantly due to the effect of adverse changes in the discount rate and asset levels along with a decline in the estimated return on plan assets. In addition, as a result of changes in regulations, legal changes could require the Company to make increased contributions to the pension plans; these contributions could be material and negatively affect the Company's cash flow.
The Company is currently mitigating these risks by transitioning the asset allocation in the pensions to a greater percentage of fixed income investments and by lowering plan liabilities through the offering of lump-sum settlements to certain plan participants and transferring obligations to a third party through annuity purchases.
The timing and amount of the Company's share repurchases are subject to a number of uncertainties.
During the fourth quarter of 2014, the Company announced that its Board of Directors had authorized the discretionary repurchase of up to $200 million of the Company's outstanding common stock, to be systematically completed in the open market or through privately negotiated transactions over approximately a two-year period. In 2016, the Board increased the Company's existing share repurchase authorization by $300 million. The amount and timing of share repurchases will be based on a variety of factors. Important considerations that could cause the Company to limit, suspend or delay the Company's stock repurchases include unfavorable market conditions, the trading price of the Company's common stock, the nature of other investment opportunities available to the Company from time to time and the availability of cash. If the Company delays, limits or suspends the Company's stock repurchase program, the Company's stock price and earnings per share may be negatively affected.
Higher energy and fuel costs can affect the Company's results.
Higher energy and fuel costs result in increases in operating expenses at the Company's manufacturing facilities and in the cost of shipping products to customers. In addition, increases in energy costs can adversely affect the pricing and availability of petroleum-based raw materials such as resins and foam that are used in many of the Company's marine products. Also, higher fuel prices may have an adverse effect on demand for marine retail products, as they increase the cost of boat ownership and possibly affect product usage.
The Company's profitability may suffer as a result of competitive pricing and other pressures.
The introduction of lower-priced alternative products by other companies can hurt the Company's competitive position in all of its businesses. The Company is constantly subject to competitive pressures in which predominantly international manufacturers may pursue a strategy of aggressive pricing, particularly during periods when local currency weakens versus the U.S. dollar. Such pricing pressure may limit the Company's ability to increase prices for its products in response to raw material and other cost increases and negatively affect the Company's profit margins.
In addition, international boat builders continue to expand distribution in the U.S. markets, mainly in the large fiberglass boat segment, thereby introducing additional product options into a market in which the Company believes itself to be a market leader. The market for large boats expanded in 2015, partially due to the success of the Company's new product offerings, but as these new entrants introduce potentially lower cost product alternatives, demand could be diverted away from the Company's premium products.
Finally, the Company's independent boat builder customers may react negatively to potential competition for their products from Brunswick’s own boat brands, which can lead them to purchase marine engines and marine engine supplies from competing marine engine manufacturers and may negatively affect demand for the Company's products.
The Company's ability to remain competitive depends on the successful introduction of new product offerings and the ability to meet customer expectations.
The Company believes that its customers rigorously evaluate manufacturers' quality and capability to innovate and develop new products when making purchasing decisions. The Company's ability to remain competitive and meet its growth objectives may be adversely affected by difficulties or delays in product development, such as an inability to develop viable new products, gain market acceptance of new products, generate sufficient capital to fund new product development or obtain adequate intellectual property protection for new products. To meet ever-changing consumer demands, timing of market entry and pricing of new products are critical. As a result, the Company may not be able to introduce new products necessary to remain competitive in all markets that it serves. Furthermore, the Company must deliver quality products that meet or exceed its customers' expectations regarding product quality and after-sales service.
The Company's business operations could be negatively impacted by the failure or a breach of its information technology systems.
The Company manages its global business operations through a variety of information technology (IT) systems which it continually enhances to increase efficiency and security. These systems govern all aspects of the Company's operations around the world. The Company is dependent on these systems for commercial transactions, customer interactions and image projection. Some of the systems are based on legacy technology and operate with a minimal level of available support. Although the Company has invested in strategies to prevent a failure or breach, if one of these legacy systems or another of the Company's key IT systems were to fail or if the Company's IT systems were unable to communicate effectively, this could result in missed or delayed sales or lost opportunities for cost reduction or efficient cash management. The Company exchanges information with hundreds of trading partners across all aspects of its commercial operations. Any breach in security or disruption of the communications could result in erroneous transactions or loss of reputation and confidence. The Company has numerous portals to engage in e-commerce and e-marketing and its systems may also contain personal information in connection with human resources, financial services or other business operations; therefore, the Company must remain diligent in protecting itself from malicious cyber attacks. A successful cyber attack or data security breach could result in a disruption of services, fraudulent transactions or disclosure of confidential information. This could negatively affect the Company's relationships with its customers or trading partners, lead to potential claims against the Company and damage its image and reputation.
The Company competes with a variety of other activities for consumers' scarce discretionary income and leisure time.
The vast majority of the Company's products are used for recreational purposes, and demand for the Company's products can be adversely affected by competition from other activities that occupy consumers' time, including other forms of recreation, religious, cultural and community activities. Additionally, any pressures or slow growth in consumers' discretionary income may influence consumers' willingness to purchase and enjoy the Company's products.
The Company manufactures and sells products that create exposure to potential product liability, warranty liability, personal injury and property damage claims and litigation.
The Company's products may expose it to potential product liability, warranty liability, personal injury or property damage claims relating to the use of those products. The Company's manufacturing footprint actions and production of new products could result in product quality issues, thereby increasing the risk of litigation and potential liability. To address this risk, the Company has established a global, enterprise-wide program charged with the responsibility for addressing, reviewing and reporting on product integrity issues. Historically, the resolution of such claims has not materially adversely affected the Company's business, and the Company maintains what it believes to be adequate insurance coverage to mitigate a portion of these risks. However, the Company may experience material losses in the future, incur significant costs to defend claims or issue product recalls, or experience claims in excess of its insurance coverage or that are not covered by insurance. Furthermore, the Company's reputation may be adversely affected by such claims, whether or not successful, including potential negative publicity about its products. The Company
records reserves for known potential liabilities, but there is the possibility that actual losses may exceed these reserves and therefore negatively impact earnings.
If the Company's intellectual property protection is inadequate, others may be able to use its technologies and thereby impair the Company's ability to compete, which could have a material adverse effect on the Company, its financial condition and results of operations.
The Company regards much of the technology underlying its products as proprietary. The Company relies on a combination of patents, trademark, copyright and trade secret laws; employee and third-party non-disclosure agreements; and other contracts to establish and protect its technology and other intellectual property rights. The steps the Company takes to protect its proprietary technology may be inadequate to prevent misappropriation of the Company's technology, or third parties may independently develop similar technology. Agreements containing protections may be breached or terminated, the Company may not have adequate remedies for any such breach and existing patent, trademark, copyright and trade secret laws may afford limited protection. Policing unauthorized use of the Company's intellectual property is difficult, particularly in many regions outside the United States. A third party could copy or otherwise obtain and use the Company's products or technology without authorization. The Company may be required to litigate to defend against infringement claims or to protect its intellectual property rights, which could result in substantial cost and divert management's attention. Further, the Company might not prevail in such litigation and it may be forced to seek licenses or royalty arrangements from third parties, which the Company may not be able to obtain on reasonable terms, or the Company may be forced to stop using products that included the challenged intellectual property, which could harm its business.
Compliance with environmental, zoning and other obligations under various laws and regulations will increase costs and may reduce demand for the Company's products.
The Company is subject to federal, state, local and foreign laws and regulations, including product safety, environmental, health and safety and other regulations. While the Company believes that it maintains all requisite licenses and permits and that it is in material compliance with all applicable laws and regulations, a failure to satisfy these and other regulatory requirements could cause the Company to incur fines or penalties, and compliance could increase the cost of operations. The adoption of additional laws, rules and regulations, including higher emissions standards, could increase the Company's manufacturing costs, increase consumer pricing and reduce consumer demand for the Company's products.
Environmental restrictions, boat plant emission restrictions and permitting and zoning requirements can limit production capacity, access to water for boating, marina and storage space. In addition, certain jurisdictions both inside and outside the United States require or are considering requiring a license to operate a recreational boat. While such licensing requirements are not expected to be unduly restrictive, they may deter potential customers, thereby reducing the Company's sales. Furthermore, regulations allowing the sale of fuel containing higher levels of ethanol for automobiles, which is not appropriate or intended for use in marine engines, may nonetheless result in increased warranty, service costs, product dissatisfaction and other claims against the Company if boaters mistakenly use this fuel in marine engines, causing damage to and the degradation of components in their marine engines.
The Company's manufacturing processes involve the use, handling, storage and contracting for recycling or disposal of hazardous or toxic substances or wastes. Accordingly, the Company is subject to regulations regarding these substances, and the misuse or mishandling of such substances could expose it to liabilities, including claims for property or natural resources damages or personal injury, or fines. The Company is also subject to laws requiring the cleanup of contaminated property. If a release of hazardous substances occurs at or from any of the Company's current or former properties or another location where it has disposed of hazardous materials, the Company may be held liable for the contamination, regardless of knowledge or whether it was at fault in connection with the release, and the amount of such liability could be material.
Additionally, the Company is subject to laws governing its relationship with its employees, including, but not limited to, employment obligations as a federal contractor and employee wage, hour and benefit issues, such as pension funding and health care benefits. Changes to legislation or regulations governing its employment obligations could increase the cost of the Company's operations.
Increases in income tax rates or changes in income tax laws or enforcement could have a material adverse impact on the Company's financial results.
Changes in domestic and international tax legislation could expose the Company to additional tax liability or possibly require changes which lower deferred tax asset values. Although the Company carefully monitors changes in tax laws and works to mitigate the impact of proposed changes, such changes may negatively impact the Company's financial results. In addition, any increase in individual income tax rates would negatively affect the Company’s potential customers' discretionary income and could
decrease the demand for its products. Finally, governments in many jurisdictions are increasing their audit activity and are engaging in other projects, such as those related to alleged base erosion and profit shifting. This increase in activity involves increased costs to the Company for having to resolve these potential disputes and from the potential additional taxes which may be assessed.
An impairment in the carrying value of goodwill, trade names and other long-lived assets could negatively affect the Company's consolidated results of operations and net worth.
Goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets, such as the Company's trade names, are recorded at fair value at the time of acquisition and are not amortized, but are reviewed for impairment at least annually or more frequently if impairment indicators arise. In evaluating the potential for impairment of goodwill and trade names, the Company makes assumptions regarding future operating performance, business trends and market and economic conditions. Such analyses further require the Company to make certain assumptions about sales, operating margins, growth rates and discount rates. There are inherent uncertainties related to these factors and in applying these factors to the assessment of goodwill and trade name recoverability. The Company could be required to evaluate the recoverability of goodwill or trade names prior to the annual assessment if it experiences disruptions to the business, unexpected significant declines in operating results, a divestiture of a significant component of the Company's business or market capitalization declines.
The Company also continually evaluates whether events or circumstances have occurred that indicate the remaining estimated useful lives of its definite-lived intangible assets and other long-lived assets may warrant revision or whether the remaining balance of such assets may not be recoverable. The Company uses an estimate of the related undiscounted cash flow over the remaining life of the asset in measuring whether the asset is recoverable.
If the future operating performance of the Company's reporting units is not sufficient, the Company could be required to record non-cash impairment charges. Impairment charges could substantially affect the Company's reported earnings in the periods such charges are recorded. In addition, impairment charges could indicate a reduction in business value which could limit the Company's ability to obtain adequate financing in the future. As of December 31, 2015, goodwill was approximately 9 percent of total assets and included $272.5 million of goodwill related to the Life Fitness segment and $26.2 million of goodwill related to the Marine Engine segment.
Some of the Company's operations are conducted by joint ventures that are not operated solely for its benefit.
Some of the Company's operations are carried on through jointly owned companies such as BAC, Bella and Tohatsu Marine Corporation. With respect to these joint ventures, the Company shares ownership and management responsibility of these companies with one or more parties who may not have the same goals, strategies, priorities or resources as the Company. These joint ventures are intended to be operated for the benefit of all co-owners, rather than for the Company's exclusive benefit.
A significant portion of the Company's revenue is derived from international sources, which exposes it to additional uncertainty.
The Company intends to continue to expand its international operations and customer base as part of its growth strategy. Sales outside the United States, especially in emerging markets, are subject to various risks, including government embargoes or foreign trade restrictions, foreign currency effects, tariffs, customs duties, inflation, difficulties in enforcing agreements and collecting receivables through foreign legal systems, compliance with international laws, treaties and regulations and unexpected changes in regulatory environments, disruptions in distribution, dependence on foreign personnel and unions, as well as economic and social instability. In addition, there may be tax inefficiencies in repatriating cash from non-U.S. subsidiaries. If the Company continues to expand its business globally, its success will depend, in part, on the Company's ability to anticipate and effectively manage these and other risks. These and other factors may have a material impact on the Company's international operations or its business as a whole.
The Company's operations are dependent on its ability to attract and retain key contributors and on the successful implementation of its succession plans.
Much of the Company's future success depends on, among other factors, its ability to attract and retain qualified personnel, including executive officers. If the Company is not successful in its efforts, the Company may be unable to meet its operating goals and plans, which may impact the Company's financial results. In order to manage this risk, the Company performs an annual review of management succession plans with the Board of Directors, including reviewing executive officer and other key positions. The most recent executive officer transitions were planned and were subject to this process. The Company believes that this process substantially mitigates the risk associated with these transitions.
Adverse weather conditions can have a negative effect on marine revenues.
Changes in seasonal weather conditions can have a significant effect on the Company's operating and financial results, especially in the marine businesses. Sales of the Company's marine products are generally stronger just before and during spring and summer, and favorable weather during these months generally has had a positive effect on consumer demand. Conversely, unseasonably cool weather, excessive rainfall or drought conditions during these periods can reduce demand. Hurricanes and other storms can result in the disruption of the Company's distribution channel, operations or supply chain. Additionally, in the event that climate change occurs, which could result in environmental changes including, but not limited to, severe weather, rising sea levels or reduced access to water, the Company's business could be disrupted and negatively affected.
Instability in locations where the Company maintains a significant presence could adversely impact the Company's business operations.
The Company has established a global presence, with manufacturing, sales, distribution and retail locations around the world. Changing conditions in those locations, including, but not limited to, political instability, civil unrest and an increase in criminal activity, could have a negative impact on the Company's local manufacturing and other business operations. Decreased stability in those regions where the Company conducts business poses a risk of business interruption and delays in shipments of materials, components and finished goods, as well as a risk of decreased local retail demand for the Company's products in those regions.
Catastrophic events, including natural and environmental disasters, could have a negative effect on the Company's operations and financial results.
The occurrence of natural and environmental disasters, including hurricanes, floods, earthquakes and environmental spills could decrease consumer demand for and sales of the Company's products. If such an occurrence takes place in one of Brunswick's major sales markets, the Company could experience a decrease in sales. Additionally, if such an event occurs near the Company's business, manufacturing facilities or key suppliers' facilities, the affected locations could experience an interruption in business operations and/or their operating systems. The Company could be uniquely affected by a catastrophic event due to the location of certain of its boat facilities in coastal Florida and the size of the manufacturing operation in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin.
Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments
None.
Item 2. Properties
Brunswick's headquarters are located in Lake Forest, Illinois. Brunswick has numerous manufacturing plants, distribution warehouses, sales offices and product test sites around the world. Research and development facilities are primarily located at manufacturing sites.
The Company believes its facilities are suitable and adequate for its current needs and are well maintained and in good operating condition. Most plants and warehouses are of modern, single-story construction, providing efficient manufacturing and distribution operations. The Company believes its manufacturing facilities have the capacity, or is investing to increase capacity, to meet current and anticipated demand. Brunswick owns its Lake Forest, Illinois headquarters and most of its principal plants. Refer to Note 3--Restructuring Activities in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements regarding Brunswick's decision to put its corporate headquarters facility up for sale.
The principal facilities used in Brunswick's operations are in the following locations:
Marine Engine Segment: Fresno, California; Old Lyme, Connecticut; Largo, Miramar, Panama City, Pompano Beach and St. Cloud, Florida; Atlanta, Georgia; Lowell, Michigan; St. Paul Park, Minnesota; Brookfield, Fond du Lac and Oshkosh, Wisconsin; Brisbane, Melbourne and Perth, Australia; Petit Rechain, Belgium; Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Suzhou, China; Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; Juarez, Mexico; Auckland, New Zealand; Bangor, Northern Ireland; and Singapore. The Fresno, California; Old Lyme, Connecticut; Largo, Miramar and Pompano Beach, Florida; Lowell, Michigan; St. Paul Park, Minnesota; Brisbane, Melbourne and Perth, Australia; Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; Auckland, New Zealand; Bangor, Northern Ireland; and Singapore facilities are leased. Brunswick owns the remaining facilities.
Boat Segment: Edgewater, Merritt Island (Sykes Creek) and Palm Coast, Florida; Fort Wayne, Indiana; New York Mills, Minnesota; Lebanon, Missouri; Vonore, Tennessee; Petit Rechain, Belgium; Joinville, Santa Catarina, Brazil; Princeville, Quebec, Canada; Reynosa, Mexico; Auckland, New Zealand; and Vila Nova de Cerveira, Portugal. The facilities in Santa Catarina, Brazil; Auckland, New Zealand; and Brunswick Commercial and Government Products in Edgewater, Florida are leased. Brunswick owns the remaining facilities.
Fitness Segment: Franklin Park and Rosemont, Illinois; Falmouth, Kentucky; Medway, Massachusetts; Owatonna and Ramsey, Minnesota; Tulsa, Oklahoma; Bristol and Delavan, Wisconsin; and Kiskoros, Hungary. The Rosemont office, Tulsa facility and a portion of the Franklin Park facility are leased. Brunswick owns the remaining facilities.
Item 3. Legal Proceedings
Refer to Note 13 – Commitments and Contingencies in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for information about the Company's legal proceedings.
Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures
Not applicable.
Executive Officers of the Registrant
Brunswick's Executive Officers are listed in the following table:
|
| | | | |
Officer | | Present Position | | Age |
| | | | |
Mark D. Schwabero | | Chairman and Chief Executive Officer | | 63 |
William L. Metzger | | Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer | | 54 |
Christopher E. Clawson | | Vice President and President - Life Fitness | | 52 |
Christopher F. Dekker | | Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary | | 47 |
Kevin S. Grodzki | | Vice President of Communications and Public Relations | | 60 |
B. Russell Lockridge | | Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer | | 66 |
Alan L. Lowe | | Vice President - Finance and Controller | | 64 |
John C. Pfeifer | | Vice President and President - Mercury Marine | | 50 |
Mark D. Schwabero was named Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Brunswick in February 2016. He served as President and Chief Operating Officer of Brunswick from 2014 to 2016 and Vice President and President - Mercury Marine from December 2008 to May 2014. Previously, Mr. Schwabero was President - Mercury Outboards from 2004 to 2008.
William L. Metzger was named Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Brunswick in March 2013. Previously, he served as Vice President and Treasurer of Brunswick from 2001 to 2013 and in a number of positions of increasing responsibility since his start with Brunswick in 1987.
Christopher E. Clawson was named Vice President and President - Life Fitness in August 2010. Prior to this appointment, Mr. Clawson served as Chief Executive Officer and President of Johnson Health Tech - North America, a fitness equipment designer and manufacturer. Previously, Mr. Clawson had been with Life Fitness from 1994 to 2004, where he held a number of positions of increasing responsibility in product development and marketing, eventually serving as Vice President Sales and Marketing - Consumer.
Christopher F. Dekker was named Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary of Brunswick in October 2014. Prior to his appointment, Mr. Dekker served as Brunswick's Associate General Counsel, with responsibilities for litigation, employment and compliance matters, from 2010 to 2014.
Kevin S. Grodzki was named Vice President of Communications and Public Relations in December 2014. Previously, Mr. Grodzki, who had been with Mercury since 2005, served as President - Global Sales and Marketing - Mercury Marine from 2012 to 2014 and President - Sales, Marketing and Commercial Operations over Mercury Marine from 2008 to 2012. Prior to his time at Mercury Marine, Mr. Grodzki was President of Brunswick's Life Fitness Division.
B. Russell Lockridge has been Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer of Brunswick since 1999.
Alan L. Lowe has been Vice President - Finance and Controller of Brunswick since May 2013. Previously, he served as Vice President and Controller of Brunswick from 2003 to 2013.
John C. Pfeifer was named Vice President and President - Mercury Marine in May 2014. Prior to his appointment, he was Vice President - Global Operations for Mercury Marine since 2012 and had previously been President of Brunswick Marine in EMEA since 2008 after joining Brunswick in 2006 as President of the Brunswick Asia Pacific Group.
PART II
Item 5. Market for Registrant's Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
Brunswick's common stock is traded on the New York and Chicago Stock Exchanges. Quarterly information with respect to the high and low prices for the common stock and the dividends declared on the common stock is set forth in Note 22 – Quarterly Data (unaudited) in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. As of February 15, 2016, there were 9,009 shareholders of record of the Company's common stock.
In the first, second, third and fourth quarter of 2015, Brunswick paid quarterly dividends on its common stock of $0.125, $0.125, $0.125 and $0.15 per share, respectively. In the first, second, third and fourth quarter of 2014, Brunswick paid quarterly dividends on its common stock of $0.10, $0.10, $0.125 and $0.125 per share, respectively. Brunswick expects to continue to pay quarterly dividends at the discretion of the Board of Directors, subject to continued capital availability and a determination that cash dividends continue to be in the best interest of the Company's shareholders.
Brunswick's dividend and share repurchase policies may be affected by, among other things, the Company's views on future liquidity, potential future capital requirements and restrictions contained in certain credit agreements.
Performance Graph
Comparison of Five-Year Cumulative Total Shareholder Return among Brunswick, S&P 500 Index and S&P 500 Global Industry Classification Standard (GICS) Consumer Discretionary Index
|
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| 2010 | 2011 | 2012 | 2013 | 2014 | 2015 |
Brunswick | 100.00 | 96.63 |
| 155.98 |
| 247.63 |
| 278.14 |
| 276.90 |
|
S&P 500 Index | 100.00 | 102.12 |
| 118.40 |
| 156.35 |
| 177.55 |
| 180.05 |
|
S&P 500 GICS Consumer Discretionary Index | 100.00 | 106.03 |
| 131.08 |
| 187.85 |
| 205.91 |
| 226.74 |
|
The basis of comparison is a $100 investment at December 31, 2010 in each of: (i) Brunswick, (ii) the S&P 500 Index, and (iii) the S&P 500 GICS Consumer Discretionary Index. All dividends are assumed to be reinvested. The S&P 500 GICS Consumer Discretionary Index encompasses industries including automotive, household durable goods, textiles and apparel and leisure equipment. Brunswick believes the companies included in this index provide the most representative sample of enterprises that are in primary lines of business that are similar to Brunswick's.
Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
On October 22, 2014, the Company's Board of Directors authorized a program to repurchase up to $200 million of the Company's outstanding common stock. Share repurchases will be completed in the open market or through privately negotiated transactions over approximately a two-year period. The Company's share repurchase program does not obligate it to acquire any specific number of shares, and the Company may discontinue purchases at any time that management determines additional purchases are not warranted.
During the three months ended December 31, 2015, the Company repurchased the following shares of its common stock:
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Period | Total Number of Shares Purchased | | Weighted Average Price Paid per Share | | Total Number of Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Program | | Maximum Amount of Dollars that May Yet Be Used to Purchase Shares Under the Program |
October 4 to October 31, 2015 | 159,099 |
| | $ | 50.26 |
| | 159,099 |
| | |
November 1 to November 28, 2015 | 98,962 |
| | 54.55 |
| | 98,962 |
| | |
November 29 to December 31, 2015 | 130,100 |
| | 50.71 |
| | 130,100 |
| | |
Total | 388,161 |
| | $ | 51.50 |
| | 388,161 |
| | $ | 60,055,441 |
|
Item 6. Selected Financial Data
The selected historical financial data presented below as of and for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013 has been derived from, and should be read in conjunction with, the historical consolidated financial statements of the Company, including the notes thereto, and Item 7 of this report, including the Matters Affecting Comparability section. The selected historical financial data presented below as of and for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011 has been derived from the consolidated financial statements of the Company for those years and are not included in this Annual Report Form 10-K.
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
(in millions, except per share data) | 2015 | | 2014 | | 2013 | | 2012 | | 2011 |
Results of operations data | | | | | | | | | |
Net sales | $ | 4,105.7 |
| | $ | 3,838.7 |
| | $ | 3,599.7 |
| | $ | 3,416.8 |
| | $ | 3,367.0 |
|
Operating earnings (A) (B) | 331.7 |
| | 328.5 |
| | 281.8 |
| | 237.2 |
| | 189.5 |
|
Earnings before interest, loss on early extinguishment of debt and income taxes (A) (B) (C) | 340.8 |
| | 316.6 |
| | 282.1 |
| | 235.7 |
| | 184.4 |
|
Earnings before income taxes (A) (B) (C) | 315.2 |
| | 287.9 |
| | 208.9 |
| | 156.0 |
| | 88.6 |
|
Net earnings from continuing operations (A) (B) (C) (F) | 227.4 |
| | 194.9 |
| | 756.8 |
| | 124.6 |
| | 70.4 |
|
| | | | | | | | | |
Discontinued operations: | | | | | | | | | |
Net earnings (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax (D) (E) | 14.0 |
| | 50.8 |
| | 12.4 |
| | (74.6 | ) | | 1.5 |
|
Net earnings (A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F) | $ | 241.4 |
| | $ | 245.7 |
| | $ | 769.2 |
| | $ | 50.0 |
| | $ | 71.9 |
|
| | | | | | | | | |
Basic earnings (loss) per common share: | | | | | | | | | |
Earnings from continuing operations (A) (B) (C) (F) | $ | 2.45 |
| | $ | 2.08 |
| | $ | 8.30 |
| | $ | 1.39 |
| | $ | 0.79 |
|
Net earnings (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax (D) (E) | 0.15 |
| | 0.55 |
| | 0.13 |
| | (0.83 | ) | | 0.02 |
|
Net earnings (A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F) | $ | 2.60 |
| | $ | 2.63 |
| | $ | 8.43 |
| | $ | 0.56 |
| | $ | 0.81 |
|
| | | | | | | | | |
Average shares used for computation of basic earnings (loss) per share | 93.0 |
| | 93.6 |
| | 91.2 |
| | 89.8 |
| | 89.3 |
|
| | | | | | | | | |
Diluted earnings (loss) per common share: | | | | | | | | | |
Earnings from continuing operations (A) (B) (C) (F) | $ | 2.41 |
| | $ | 2.05 |
| | $ | 8.07 |
| | $ | 1.35 |
| | $ | 0.76 |
|
Net earnings (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax (D) (E) | 0.15 |
| | 0.53 |
| | 0.13 |
| | (0.81 | ) | | 0.02 |
|
Net earnings (A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F) | $ | 2.56 |
| | $ | 2.58 |
| | $ | 8.20 |
| | $ | 0.54 |
| | $ | 0.78 |
|
| | | | | | | | | |
Average shares used for computation of diluted earnings (loss) per share | 94.3 |
| | 95.1 |
| | 93.8 |
| | 92.4 |
| | 92.2 |
|
| |
(A) | 2015 results and 2014 results include $82.3 million and $27.9 million, respectively, of pension settlement charges as discussed in Note 17 – Postretirement Benefits in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. |
| |
(B) | 2015 results include $12.4 million of pretax restructuring, exit and impairment charges. 2014 results include $4.2 million of pretax restructuring, exit and impairment charges. 2013 results include $16.5 million of pretax restructuring, exit and impairment charges. 2012 results include $25.4 million of pretax restructuring, exit and impairment charges. 2011 results include $19.8 million of pretax restructuring, exit and impairment charges. |
| |
(C) | 2014 results include a $20.2 million charge related to the impairment of a marine equity method investment as discussed in Note 9 – Investments in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. |
| |
(D) | Net earnings (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax in 2015 includes a Gain on disposal of discontinued operations, net of tax of $12.8 million (a pre-tax gain of $12.8 million and a net tax provision of $0.0 million). Net earnings (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax in 2014 includes a Gain on disposal of discontinued operations, net of tax of $52.6 million (a pre-tax gain of $65.6 million and a net tax provision of $13.0 million). Net earnings (loss) from discontinued operations in 2013 includes a Gain on disposal of discontinued operations, net of tax of $1.6 million (a pre-tax loss of $1.4 million and a net tax benefit of $3.0 million). Net earnings (loss) from discontinued operations in 2012 includes an impairment charge on assets held for sale, net of tax of $53.2 million ($52.7 million pre-tax). See Note 2 – Discontinued Operations in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for further discussion. |
| |
(E) | Net earnings (loss) from discontinued operations includes restructuring, exit and impairment charges, net of tax of $4.9 million, $14.9 million and $2.9 million in 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. |
| |
(F) | Net earnings from continuing operations includes an income tax benefit of $599.5 million from the reversal of deferred tax valuation allowance reserves in 2013. |
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
(in millions, except per share and other data) | 2015 | | 2014 | | 2013 | | 2012 | | 2011 |
Balance sheet data | | | | | | | | | |
Total assets of continuing operations | $ | 3,152.5 |
| | $ | 3,087.9 |
| | $ | 2,670.3 |
| | $ | 2,175.5 |
| | $ | 2,169.7 |
|
Debt | | | | | | | | | |
Short-term | $ | 6.0 |
| | $ | 5.5 |
| | $ | 6.4 |
| | $ | 8.2 |
| | $ | 2.4 |
|
Long-term | 442.5 |
| | 446.3 |
| | 449.0 |
| | 557.2 |
| | 681.3 |
|
Total debt | 448.5 |
| | 451.8 |
| | 455.4 |
|
| 565.4 |
|
| 683.7 |
|
Common shareholders' equity (A) | 1,281.3 |
| | 1,171.5 |
| | 1,038.4 |
| | 77.7 |
| | 30.9 |
|
Total capitalization | $ | 1,729.8 |
| | $ | 1,623.3 |
| | $ | 1,493.8 |
| | $ | 643.1 |
| | $ | 714.6 |
|
| | | | | | | | | |
Cash flow data | | | | | | | | | |
Net cash provided by operating activities of continuing operations | $ | 338.3 |
| | $ | 246.9 |
| | $ | 172.2 |
| | $ | 144.1 |
| | $ | 93.8 |
|
Depreciation and amortization | 88.9 |
| | 81.2 |
| | 71.4 |
| | 72.9 |
| | 81.2 |
|
Capital expenditures | 132.5 |
| | 124.8 |
| | 126.5 |
| | 97.9 |
| | 77.3 |
|
Investments | 0.9 |
| | 0.2 |
| | (1.5 | ) | | 1.7 |
| | (0.9 | ) |
Cash dividends paid | 48.3 |
| | 41.7 |
| | 9.1 |
| | 4.5 |
| | 4.5 |
|
| | | | | | | | | |
Other data | | | | | | | | | |
Dividends declared per share | $ | 0.525 |
| | $ | 0.45 |
| | $ | 0.10 |
| | $ | 0.05 |
| | $ | 0.05 |
|
Book value per share (A) | 14.11 |
| | 12.64 |
| | 11.24 |
| | 0.87 |
| | 0.35 |
|
Return on beginning shareholders' equity (A) | 20.6 | % | | 23.7 | % | | NM |
| | 161.8 | % | | 102.1 | % |
Effective tax rate from continuing operations | 27.9 | % | | 32.3 | % | | NM |
| | 20.1 | % | | 20.5 | % |
Debt-to-capitalization rate (A) | 25.9 | % | | 27.8 | % | | 30.5 | % | | 87.9 | % | | 95.7 | % |
Number of employees | 12,607 |
| | 12,165 |
| | 15,701 |
| | 16,177 |
| | 15,356 |
|
Number of shareholders of record | 9,009 |
| | 9,488 |
| | 10,243 |
| | 10,900 |
| | 11,550 |
|
Common stock price (NYSE) | | | | | | | | | |
High | $ | 56.40 |
| | $ | 51.94 |
| | $ | 46.48 |
| | $ | 29.09 |
| | $ | 26.93 |
|
Low | 46.49 |
| | 38.95 |
| | 30.42 |
| | 18.49 |
| | 13.46 |
|
Close (last trading day) | 50.51 |
| | 51.26 |
| | 46.06 |
| | 29.09 |
| | 18.06 |
|
NM = Not meaningful
| |
(A) | The Company recorded an income tax benefit of $599.5 million for the year ending December 31, 2013, from the reversal of deferred tax valuation allowance reserves. |
The Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements should be read in conjunction with the above summary.
Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
Certain statements in Management’s Discussion and Analysis are based on non-GAAP financial measures. GAAP refers to generally accepted accounting principles in the United States. Specifically, the discussion of the Company’s cash flows includes an analysis of free cash flows and total liquidity, the discussion of the Company's net sales includes a discussion of net sales on a constant currency basis and the discussion of the Company's earnings includes a presentation of operating earnings excluding pension settlement charges, restructuring, exit and impairment charges and diluted earnings per common share, as adjusted. A “non-GAAP financial measure” is a numerical measure of a registrant’s historical or future financial performance, financial position or cash flows that excludes amounts, or is subject to adjustments that have the effect of excluding amounts, that are included in the most directly comparable measure calculated and presented in accordance with GAAP in the consolidated statements of operations, balance sheets or statements of cash flows of the issuer; or includes amounts, or is subject to adjustments that have the effect of including amounts, that are excluded from the most directly comparable measure so calculated and presented. Non-GAAP financial measures do not include operating and statistical measures.
The Company includes certain non-GAAP financial measures in Management’s Discussion and Analysis, as Brunswick’s management believes that these measures and the information they provide are useful to investors because they permit investors to view Brunswick’s performance using the same tools that management uses and to better evaluate the Company’s ongoing business performance.
Certain statements in Management’s Discussion and Analysis are forward-looking as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements may include words such as “expect,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “may,” “should,” “could” or “estimate.” These statements involve certain risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from expectations as of the date of this filing. These risks include, but are not limited to, those set forth under Item 1A of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Placing undue reliance on the Company's forward-looking statements should be avoided, as the forward-looking statements represent the Company's views only as of the date this Annual Report is filed. The Company undertakes no obligation to update publicly or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
Overview and Outlook
General
The Company's 2015 results represent the sixth consecutive year of strong improvements in operating performance. The Company looked to achieve the following financial objectives in 2015:
| |
• | Experience an increase in earnings before income taxes, as well as a slight improvement in gross margin percentages; and |
| |
• | Continue to generate strong free cash flow and execute against the Company's capital strategy. |
Achievements against the Company's financial objectives in 2015 were as follows:
Deliver revenue growth:
| |
• | Ended the year with a 7 percent increase in net sales when compared with 2014 on a GAAP basis and 11 percent on a constant currency basis, due to the following: |
| |
• | Favorable demand environment continued in outboard boat and engine markets with increases driven by favorable retail demand trends and successful new product introductions; |
| |
• | Increased sales in the marine service, parts and accessories businesses reflecting benefits from acquisitions, market growth, successful new product launches and market share gains; |
| |
• | Higher average selling prices in the Boat and Marine Engine segments due to a favorable shift in mix and new products; |
| |
• | Fitness segment net sales benefited from higher sales to U.S. health clubs, local and federal governments and hospitality customers as well as an acquisition completed in 2015, partially offset by a slight decline in international markets; |
| |
• | International sales for the Company decreased 4 percent in 2015 when compared with 2014 on a GAAP basis. On a constant currency basis, international net sales increased 7 percent, primarily due to increased sales in European and Asia-Pacific markets; partially offset by |
| |
• | Continuing unfavorable global retail demand trends in certain marine markets, including Canada and Brazil. |
Experience an increase in earnings before income taxes, as well as a slight improvement in gross margin percentage:
| |
• | Reported earnings before income taxes of $315.2 million in 2015 compared with earnings before income taxes of $287.9 million in 2014; |
| |
• | Improved gross margins by 10 basis points when compared with 2014, driven by benefits from cost reductions including benefits related to lower commodity costs and sourcing initiatives and volume leverage, offset by the unfavorable effects of foreign exchange rates; |
| |
• | Increased pension settlement charges; restructuring, exit and impairment charges; and increased investment spending in 2015 compared with 2014, partially offset by the absence of an impairment of an equity method investment recorded in 2014. |
Continue to generate strong free cash flow and execute against the Company's capital strategy:
| |
• | Generated strong free cash flow of $192.6 million in 2015, an increase of $76.3 million compared to 2014, enabling the Company to continue executing its capital strategy as follows: |
| |
• | Funded investments in growth: |
| |
• | Organically through capital expenditures, which included tooling costs for the production of new products and spending for plant capacity expansions, growth initiatives and profit-maintaining investments; and research and development; and |
| |
• | Through acquisition opportunities such as the $29.7 million invested in marine parts and accessories and Fitness segment acquisitions during 2015; |
| |
• | Contributed $73.6 million to the Company's defined benefit pension plans, which included an amount made in connection with settlement payments made to certain pension plan participants in 2015; and |
| |
• | Enhanced shareholder returns by repurchasing $120.0 million of common stock under the Company’s share repurchase program in 2015 and increased cash dividends paid to shareholders in 2015 to $48.3 million. |
| |
• | Ended the year with $668.8 million of cash and marketable securities, a net increase of $32.9 million. |
The Company's net sales increased to $4,105.7 million in 2015 from $3,838.7 million in 2014, due to the factors described above.
Operating earnings during 2015 were $331.7 million, with an operating margin of 8.1 percent. Operating earnings during 2014 were $328.5 million, with an operating margin of 8.6 percent. The 2015 results included $12.4 million of restructuring, exit and impairment charges and a $82.3 million pension settlement charge, while the 2014 results included $4.2 million of restructuring, exit and impairment charges and a $27.9 million pension settlement charge. Improved operating earnings during 2015 mainly resulted from increased sales revenues across all segments, a reduction in operating expenses as a percent of sales through focused expense management and slight improvements in gross margins, partially offset by the unfavorable effects of foreign exchange, increased pension settlement charges and restructuring, exit and impairment charges.
Net earnings increased to $227.4 million in 2015 from $194.9 million in 2014. The 2015 results include an income tax provision of $87.8 million, which included a net tax benefit of $12.1 million, primarily associated with the internal restructuring of foreign
entities and settling prior year audits. The 2014 results include an income tax provision of $93.0 million, which included a net income tax benefit of $6.4 million, primarily associated with the reversal of tax valuation allowance reserves.
Discontinued Operations
On July 17, 2014, the Company entered into an agreement to sell its retail bowling business to AMF Bowling Centers, Inc. In connection with its decision to sell its bowling centers, the Company also announced its intention to divest its bowling products business. On December 31, 2012, the Board of Directors authorized the Company to exit its Hatteras and Cabo boat businesses. In this Annual Report on Form 10-K, the businesses referred to above are being reported as discontinued operations. The Billiards business, which was previously reported in the former Bowling & Billiards segment, remains part of the Company and is being reported in the Fitness segment for all periods presented. The Company's results for all periods presented, as discussed in Management's Discussion and Analysis, reflect continuing operations only, unless otherwise noted.
Outlook for 2016
The Company expects 2016 to be another year of solid earnings growth with strong free cash flow generation. The Company is targeting 9 percent to 11 percent sales growth when compared with 2015, which includes the continuation of solid market growth in the U.S. and Europe as well as benefits from acquisitions, the success of new products and market share gains, partially offset by an unfavorable impact from foreign exchange of approximately 1 percent and weakness in certain international markets. The Company expects growth in outboard boat and engine products, as well as in the global marine service, parts and accessories businesses. The Company also anticipates growth in the Boat segment, however the growth will be at a lower rate versus 2015 as new product introductions replace existing products and revenue contributions are more balanced across the portfolio. In the Fitness segment, the Company anticipates continued revenue growth while maintaining strong operating margins; however 2016 operating margins, as adjusted, are anticipated to be lower due to the impact of the Cybex acquisition. The Company believes the Cybex acquisition will contribute an incremental $0.08 to diluted earnings per share in 2016, excluding planned restructuring and integration costs.
Refer to Note 23 – Subsequent Events in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for further details concerning the Cybex acquisition.
The Company expects to have higher earnings before income taxes in 2016 resulting from increased revenue and slight improvements in both gross margin and operating margin levels, due to benefits from volume leverage, cost reductions and savings related to sourcing initiatives and modest positive product mix factors, partially offset by foreign currency headwinds and incremental investments to support strategic objectives. The Company anticipates that operating earnings comparisons versus 2015 will be negatively affected by $15 million to $20 million, or 4 percent, due to foreign exchange rates, with a significant portion of the impact occurring in the second quarter of 2016. The Company projects operating expenses, including research and development expenses, to be higher in 2016 when compared with 2015 as the Company continues to increase investment spending to support strategic objectives and to acquire businesses. Operating expenses are projected to be slightly lower on a percentage of sales basis in 2016 versus 2015.
The Company is also planning for its effective tax rate in 2016 to be 31 percent to 32 percent based on existing tax law and reflecting the benefits of the internal restructuring of foreign entities.
This outlook, and the statements contained therein, are based on current expectations, estimates, plans and projections about the Company's business which are not guarantees of future performance and involve certain risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from expectations as of the date of this filing. This outlook and the related forward-looking view of the Company's business speak only as of the date of this filing and the Company does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this filing.
Restructuring Activities
The restructuring, exit and impairment charges recorded in the Consolidated Statements of Operations during 2015, 2014 and 2013 by reportable segment, are summarized below:
|
| | | | | | | | | | | |
(in millions) | 2015 | | 2014 | | 2013 |
Boat | $ | 7.7 |
| | $ | 1.5 |
| | $ | 15.8 |
|
Corporate | 4.7 |
| | 2.7 |
| | 0.7 |
|
Total | $ | 12.4 |
| | $ | 4.2 |
| | $ | 16.5 |
|
In the fourth quarter of 2015, the Company recorded impairment charges for certain long-lived assets in Brazil as a result of unfavorable market conditions and declining currency values. The Company also recorded impairment charges in connection with its decision to sell its corporate headquarters facility in Lake Forest, Illinois.
In the fourth quarter of 2015, the Company also recorded charges related to the restructuring of personnel, primarily within the Boat segment and IT organizations. The Company does not anticipate incurring any additional charges in 2016 related to these actions and plans to achieve annual savings of approximately $3 million, with the full benefit being realized in 2016. Future cost savings will primarily be reflected in Selling, general and administrative expenses as reported in the Company's Consolidated Statements of Operations.
In the second quarter of 2014, the Company restructured certain executive positions. The Company achieved annual savings of approximately $1 million beginning in 2015. Cost savings are primarily reflected in Selling, general and administrative expenses as reported in the Company's Consolidated Statements of Operations.
In the fourth quarter of 2013, the Company made the decision to outsource woodworking operations for its yachts and sport yachts, which resulted in long-lived asset impairment charges. The Boat segment achieved annual savings between $1 million and $2 million beginning in 2015. Cost savings are primarily reflected in Cost of sales as reported in the Company's Consolidated Statements of Operations.
The Company announced in the first quarter of 2013 the consolidation of its yacht and motoryacht production at its Palm Coast, Florida manufacturing plant. As a result, the Company suspended manufacturing at its Sykes Creek boat manufacturing facility in Merritt Island, Florida as of the end of June 2013. The Boat segment achieved savings between $3 million and $4 million beginning in 2014. Cost savings are primarily reflected in Cost of sales as reported in the Company's Consolidated Statements of Operations. Due to demand for successful new products, including the large L-Class yachts, the Company reactivated its Sykes Creek boat manufacturing facility in 2015 to expand production.
See Note 3 – Restructuring Activities in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for further details. As a result of the recent acquisition of Cybex, the Company anticipates it will incur restructuring and integration charges of $5 million to $10 million in 2016.
Matters Affecting Comparability
The following events occurred during 2015, 2014 and 2013, which the Company believes affect the comparability of the results of operations:
Changes in Foreign Currency Rates. Percentage changes in net sales expressed in constant currency reflect the impact that changes in currency exchange rates had on net sales. To present this information, 2015 net sales transacted in currencies other than U.S. dollars are translated to U.S. dollars using the average exchange rates from 2014 that were in effect during the comparative period. The percentage change in net sales expressed on a constant currency basis better reflects the changes in the underlying business trends, excluding the impact of translation arising from foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations. Approximately 20 percent of the Company's annual net sales are transacted in a currency other than the U.S. dollar. The Company's most material exposures include sales in Euros, Canadian dollars, Brazilian reais and Australian dollars. The following table sets forth segment net sales comparisons on both a GAAP basis and a constant currency basis for the years ended:
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Net Sales | | 2015 vs. 2014 Increase/(Decrease) | | 2014 vs. 2013 Increase/(Decrease)
|
(in millions) | 2015 | | 2014 | | 2013 | | $ Change | | % Change | | % Change Constant Currency | | $ Change | | % Change |
Marine Engine | $ | 2,314.3 |
| | $ | 2,189.4 |
| | $ | 2,088.1 |
| | $ | 124.9 |
| | 6 | % | | 10% | | $101.3 | | 5% |
Boat | 1,274.6 |
| | 1,135.8 |
| | 1,032.0 |
| | 138.8 |
| | 12 | % | | 16% | | 103.8 | | 10% |
Marine eliminations | (277.8 | ) | | (255.8 | ) | | (236.4 | ) | | | | | | | | | | |
Total Marine | 3,311.1 |
| | 3,069.4 |
| | 2,883.7 |
| | 241.7 |
| | 8 | % | | 12% | | 185.7 | | 6% |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Fitness | 794.6 |
| | 769.3 |
| | 716.0 |
| | 25.3 |
| | 3 | % | | 7% | | 53.3 | | 7% |
Total | $ | 4,105.7 |
| | $ | 3,838.7 |
| | $ | 3,599.7 |
| | 267.0 |
| | 7 | % | | 11% | | 239.0 | | 7% |
Additionally, operating earnings comparisons were negatively affected by foreign exchange rates by approximately $28 million, or 8 percent, in 2015 when compared with 2014. These estimates include the impact of translation on all sales and costs transacted in a currency other than the U.S. dollar, benefits from hedging activities of $12 million, and pricing actions in certain international markets in response to the strengthening U.S. dollar.
Pension settlement charge. In the fourth quarter of 2015 and 2014, the Company recognized an $82.3 million and $27.9 million charge, respectively, related to actions taken to settle a portion of its pension obligations. These actions included making lump-sum payments directly to certain plan participants in 2014 and 2015 as well as transferring certain plan obligations to a third party by purchasing annuities on behalf of plan participants in 2015. These costs are reflected in Pension settlement charge on the Consolidated Statements of Operations. See Note 17 – Postretirement Benefits in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for further details.
Restructuring, exit and impairment charges. During 2015, the Company recorded charges of $12.4 million related to restructuring activities as compared with charges of $4.2 million in 2014 and $16.5 million in 2013. See Note 3 – Restructuring Activities in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for further details.
Impairment of equity method investment. In the fourth quarter of 2014, the Company recorded a $20.2 million impairment charge for an equity method investment in order to reflect the fair value of the Company’s equity method investment in a Finnish boat manufacturer as discussed in Note 9 – Investments in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. The charge is reported as Impairment of equity method investment in the Consolidated Statement of Operations.
Gain on sale of real estate and distribution facility. In the first quarter of 2013, the Company's Marine Engine segment recognized a $5.5 million gain on the sale of real estate in Selling, general and administrative expense on the Consolidated Statements of Operations. There was no comparable gain in the Marine Engine segment in the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014.
Interest expense and loss on early extinguishment of debt. The Company reported interest expense of $27.8 million, $29.8 million and $41.9 million during 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively. Interest expense decreases from 2013 through 2015 were primarily the result of lower interest rates, reflecting benefits from the fixed-to-floating interest rate swaps entered into during 2014. Improvements in debt levels were primarily the result of debt reduction actions completed during 2013.
Additionally, the Company repurchased $0.9 million of debt during 2014 compared with $258.0 million during 2013. In connection with these retirements, the Company recorded losses on early extinguishment of debt of $0.1 million and $32.8 million during 2014 and 2013, respectively. See Note 16 – Debt in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for further details.
Tax items. The Company recognized an income tax provision of $87.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2015, which included a net tax benefit of $12.1 million, primarily associated with the internal restructuring of foreign entities and settling prior year audits. The Company recognized an income tax provision in 2014 of $93.0 million, which included a net benefit of $6.4 million primarily associated with the reversal of tax valuation allowance reserves.
The Company recognized a net income tax benefit of $547.9 million during 2013. The Company recorded a $599.5 million reversal of its deferred tax asset valuation allowance reserves in the fourth quarter of 2013 after determining it was more likely than not that certain deferred tax assets would be realized. In addition to the reversal of its deferred tax asset valuation allowance reserves, the 2013 net income tax benefit included a net charge of $29.0 million, which primarily resulted from unfavorable valuation allowance adjustments related to stock-based compensation, partially offset by the reassessment of tax reserves.
See Note 12 – Income Taxes in Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for further details.
Results of Operations
Consolidated
The following table sets forth certain amounts, ratios and relationships calculated from the Consolidated Statements of Operations for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013:
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | 2015 vs. 2014 Increase/(Decrease) | | 2014 vs. 2013 Increase/(Decrease) |
(in millions, except per share data) | 2015 | | 2014 | | 2013 | | $ | | % | | % Change Constant Currency (C) | | $ | | % |
Net sales | $ | 4,105.7 |
| | $ | 3,838.7 |
| | $ | 3,599.7 |
| | $ | 267.0 |
| | 7.0 | % | | 11.0 | % | | $ | 239.0 |
| | 6.6 | % |
Gross margin (A) | 1,114.6 |
| | 1,036.8 |
| | 949.3 |
| | 77.8 |
| | 7.5 | % | | | | 87.5 |
| | 9.2 | % |
Pension settlement charge | 82.3 |
| | 27.9 |
| | — |
| | 54.4 |
| | NM |
| | | | 27.9 |
| | NM |
|
Restructuring, exit and impairment charges | 12.4 |
| | 4.2 |
| | 16.5 |
| | 8.2 |
| | NM |
| | | | (12.3 | ) | | (74.5 | )% |
Operating earnings | 331.7 |
| | 328.5 |
| | 281.8 |
| | 3.2 |
| | 1.0 | % | | | | 46.7 |
| | 16.6 | % |
Net earnings from continuing operations(B) | 227.4 |
| | 194.9 |
| | 756.8 |
| | 32.5 |
| | 16.7 | % | | | | (561.9 | ) | | (74.2 | )% |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Diluted earnings per common share from continuing operations (B) | 2.41 |
| | 2.05 |
| | 8.07 |
| | $ | 0.36 |
| | 17.6 | % | | | | $ | (6.02 | ) | | (74.6 | )% |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Expressed as a percentage of Net sales: | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | | | | | |
Gross margin | 27.1 | % | | 27.0 | % | | 26.4 | % | | |
| | 10 bpts |
| | | | | | 60 bpts |
|
Selling, general and administrative expense | 13.7 | % | | 14.5 | % | | 14.9 | % | | |
| | (80) bpts |
| | | | | | (40) bpts |
|
Research and development expense | 3.1 | % | | 3.1 | % | | 3.2 | % | | |
| | 0 bpts |
| | | | | | (10) bpts |
|
Operating margin | 8.1 | % | | 8.6 | % |
| 7.8 | % | | |
| | (50) bpts |
| | | | | | 80 bpts |
|
__________
NM = not meaningful
bpts = basis points
| |
(A) | Gross margin is defined as Net sales less Cost of sales as presented in the Consolidated Statements of Operations. |
| |
(B) | Net earnings from continuing operations in 2014 includes a $20.2 million charge for an impairment of an equity method investment. Net earnings from continuing operations in 2013 include an income tax benefit of $599.5 million from the reversal of deferred tax valuation allowance reserves as well as a net charge of $29.0 million, which included unfavorable valuation allowance adjustments primarily related to stock-based compensation, partially offset by the reassessment of tax reserves. |
| |
(C) | For purposes of comparison, 2015 Net sales are shown using 2014 exchange rates for the comparative period to enhance visibility of the underlying business trends, excluding the impact of translation arising from foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations. |
2015 vs. 2014
Net sales increased during 2015 when compared with 2014 on both a GAAP basis and a constant currency basis due to increases across all segments, all of which benefited from the success of new products. Marine Engine segment net sales increased due to solid growth in the marine service, parts and accessories businesses, which benefited from acquisitions, as well as solid increases in outboard engines, which benefited from market share gains, partially offset by declines in sterndrive engines. Boat segment net sales increased due to strong growth rates in fiberglass outboard boats and fiberglass sterndrive and inboard boats, as well as solid gains in the sales of aluminum boats. The Boat segment's net sales also reflected higher average selling prices resulting from a favorable shift in mix and growth in wholesale unit shipments. Fitness segment net sales included growth in the U.S. to health clubs, local and federal governments and hospitality customers. Fitness segment net sales also benefited from an acquisition in the third quarter of 2015. International net sales for the Company decreased 4 percent in 2015 on a GAAP basis when compared with 2014. On a constant currency basis, international net sales increased 7 percent in 2015 driven by strong increases in European and Asia-Pacific markets, partially offset by decreases in Latin America, especially Brazil.
Gross margin percentage increased slightly in 2015 when compared with the same prior year period related to benefits from lower commodity costs and sourcing initiatives along with a more favorable product mix and volume increases, mostly offset by the unfavorable impact from foreign exchange, planned manufacturing costs associated with new product introductions, capacity expansions and production ramp-ups, as well as less favorable warranty adjustments compared with 2014.
Selling, general and administrative expense decreased as a percentage of net sales during 2015 when compared with 2014 as operating expenses benefited from focused expense management as well as a favorable impact from foreign exchange. Partially offsetting these factors was an increase in expenses related to acquired businesses.
Research and development expense increased $6.3 million, or 5 percent, in 2015 when compared with 2014 as the Company increased investment spending to support long-term growth initiatives.
In 2015 and 2014, the Company recorded an $82.3 million and $27.9 million, respectively, charge related to pension settlement payments as discussed in Note 17 – Postretirement Benefits in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for further details.
During 2015, the Company recorded restructuring charges of $12.4 million compared with $4.2 million in 2014. See Note 3 – Restructuring Activities in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for further details.
In 2014, the Company recorded a $20.2 million impairment charge for an equity method investment as discussed in Note 9 – Investments in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
The Company recognized equity earnings of $3.7 million and $1.8 million in 2015 and 2014, respectively, which were mainly related to the Company's marine joint ventures. The Company recognized $5.4 million and $6.5 million in 2015 and 2014, respectively, in Other income, net. Other income, net includes the amortization of deferred income related to a trademark licensing agreement with AMF Bowling Centers, Inc as discussed in Note 2 – Discontinued Operations.
Interest expense decreased $2.0 million in 2015 compared with 2014, due primarily to benefits from fixed-to-floating interest rate swaps entered into during 2014.
The Company recognized an income tax provision of $87.8 million, which included a net tax benefit of $12.1 million, primarily associated with the internal restructuring of foreign entities and settling prior year audits. The Company recognized an income tax provision of $93.0 million for 2014, which included a net tax benefit of $6.4 million, primarily associated with the reversal of tax valuation allowance reserves. The effective tax rate, which is calculated as the income tax benefit or provision as a percentage of pre-tax income, was 27.9 percent and 32.3 percent for 2015 and 2014, respectively. See Note 12 – Income Taxes in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for further details.
Operating earnings, Net earnings from continuing operations and Diluted earnings per common share from continuing operations increased in 2015 when compared with 2014, primarily due to the factors discussed in the preceding paragraphs.
Diluted earnings from continuing operations per common share, as adjusted – defined as Diluted earnings from continuing operations per common share, excluding the earnings or loss per share impact for Pension settlement charge, Restructuring, exit and impairment charges from continuing operations, Impairment of equity method investment, Loss on early extinguishment of debt and special tax items – increased by $0.51 per share, or 21 percent, to $2.93 per share for 2015 when compared with $2.42 per share for 2014. For 2015, Pension settlement charge was $0.54 per share, Restructuring, exit and impairment charges from continuing operations were $0.11 per share and special tax items were a net benefit of $0.13 per share. In 2014, Pension settlement charge was $0.19 per share, Restructuring, exit and impairment charges from continuing operations were $0.04 per share, Impairment charge for an equity investment was $0.21 per share and special tax items were a net benefit of $0.07 per share.
The Company completed the sale of its bowling products business in the second quarter of 2015 and recorded an after-tax gain of $10.3 million. The Company completed the sale of its retail bowling business in the third quarter of 2014 and recorded an after-tax gain of $55.1 million. In 2015, sales from discontinued operations were $37.5 million, pre-tax earnings from discontinued operations were $14.3 million and the income tax provision from discontinued operations was $0.3 million. In 2014, sales from discontinued operations were $236.0 million, pre-tax earnings from discontinued operations were $61.8 million and the income tax provision from discontinued operations was $11.0 million.
2014 vs. 2013
The Company's net sales increased in 2014 when compared with 2013, due to sales increases across all segments. Marine Engine net sales increased due to an increase in outboard engine sales, successful new product introductions, including the 75, 90 and 115 horsepower FourStroke engines, and higher sales in the marine service, parts and accessories businesses, partially offset by declines in sterndrive engine sales. Boat segment net sales increased due to strong growth in the sales of outboard boats and fiberglass sterndrive and inboard boats. Boat segment sales also benefited from several successful new product introductions which contributed to a favorable shift in mix across most of its boat lines, resulting in higher average selling prices along with growth in wholesale unit shipments. Additionally, the Marine Engine and Boat segment net sales were adversely affected by comparatively harsher weather conditions in many North American markets during the first quarter of 2014 when compared to the same period in 2013. Fitness segment net sales increased reflecting growth in the U.S. to health clubs, hospitality, education and local and federal government customers and benefits from successful new product introductions in all regions. International sales for the Company increased 4 percent in 2014 when compared with 2013, primarily due to sales increases in European markets, partially offset by sales declines in Canadian and Latin American markets.
The increase in gross margin percentage in 2014 compared with 2013 reflects net benefits from increased sales, favorable warranty adjustments due to improved claims experience and new products, partially offset by costs associated with new product introductions, capacity expansion and production ramp-ups.
Selling, general and administrative expense decreased as a percentage of net sales during 2014 when compared with 2013 due to higher sales including the impact of the Company continuing to increase investments in strategic initiatives, the absence of a $5.5 million gain on the sale of real estate in the Marine Engine segment in the first quarter of 2013, and the absence of favorable insurance settlements received in the Marine Engine segment in the second quarter of 2013.
Research and development expense increased $4.8 million, or 4 percent, in 2014 when compared with 2013 as the Company increased investment spending to support long-term growth initiatives.
In 2014, the Company recorded a $27.9 million charge related to pension payments as discussed in Note 17 – Postretirement Benefits in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for further details.
During 2014, the Company recorded restructuring charges of $4.2 million compared with $16.5 million in 2013. See Note 3 – Restructuring Activities in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for further details.
In 2014, the Company recorded a $20.2 million impairment charge for an equity method investment as discussed in Note 9 – Investments in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
The Company recognized equity earnings of $1.8 million and equity losses of $2.1 million in 2014 and 2013, respectively, which were mainly related to the Company's marine joint ventures. The Company recognized $6.5 million and $2.4 million in 2014 and 2013, respectively, in Other income, net. In 2014, Other income, net includes the amortization of deferred income related to a trademark licensing agreement with AMF Bowling Centers, Inc as discussed in Note 2 – Discontinued Operations.
Interest expense decreased $12.1 million in 2014 compared with 2013, as a result of lower average outstanding debt levels at a lower average interest rate when compared with 2013 as well as benefits from fixed-to-floating interest rate swaps entered into during 2014.
The Company repurchased $0.9 million of debt during 2014 and recorded losses on early extinguishment of debt of $0.1 million. The Company repurchased $258.0 million of debt during 2013 and recorded losses on early extinguishment of debt of $32.8 million.
The Company recognized an income tax provision of $93.0 million for 2014, which included a net tax benefit of $6.4 million, primarily associated with the reversal of tax valuation allowance reserves. The Company recognized an income tax benefit of $547.9 million in 2013, which included a $599.5 million benefit for the release of deferred tax asset valuation allowance reserves and a net charge of $29.0 million primarily resulting from unfavorable valuation allowance adjustments related to stock-based compensation, partially offset by the reassessment of tax reserves. The effective tax rate, which is calculated as the income tax benefit or provision as a percentage of pre-tax income, was 32.3 percent for 2014, while the effective tax rate for 2013 was not meaningful due to the factors discussed above. See Note 12 – Income Taxes in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for further details.
Operating earnings increased in 2014 when compared with 2013, while Net earnings from continuing operations and Diluted earnings per common share from continuing operations decreased in 2014 from 2013 primarily due to the factors discussed in the preceding paragraphs.
Diluted earnings from continuing operations per common share, as adjusted – defined as Diluted earnings from continuing operations per common share, excluding the earnings or loss per share impact for Pension settlement charge, Restructuring, exit and impairment charges from continuing operations, Impairment of equity method investment, Loss on early extinguishment of debt, reversal of deferred tax valuation allowance reserves and special tax items – decreased by $0.05 per share, or 2 percent, to $2.42 per share for 2014 when compared with $2.47 per share for 2013. For 2014, Pension settlement charge was $0.19 per share, Restructuring, exit and impairment charges from continuing operations were $0.04 per share, Impairment charge for an equity investment was $0.21 per share and special tax items were a net benefit of $0.07 per share. In 2013, Restructuring, exit and impairment charges from continuing operations were $0.16 per share, Loss on early extinguishment of debt was $0.32 per share, reversal of deferred tax valuation allowance reserves was a benefit of $6.39 per share and special tax items were a net provision of $0.31 per share.
The Company completed the sale of its retail bowling business in the third quarter of 2014 and recorded an after-tax gain of $52.6 million. The Company completed the sale of its Hatteras and Cabo boat brands during the third quarter of 2013 and recorded an after-tax gain of $1.6 million. In 2014, sales from discontinued operations were $236.0 million, pre-tax earnings from discontinued operations were $61.8 million and the income tax provision from discontinued operations was $11.0 million. In 2013, sales from discontinued operations were $310.8 million, pre-tax earnings from discontinued operations were $12.3 million and the income tax benefit from discontinued operations was $0.1 million.
Segments
The Company operates in three operating and reportable segments: Marine Engine, Boat and Fitness. Refer to Note 6 – Segment Information in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for details on the operations of these segments.
As discussed in Note 2 – Discontinued Operations, during the third quarter of 2014, the Company began reporting its retail bowling and bowling products businesses as discontinued operations. These businesses were previously reported in the former Bowling & Billiards segment. Additionally, the results of the billiards business are being reported in the Company's Fitness segment for all periods presented. Segment results have been restated for all periods presented to reflect these changes in Brunswick's reported segments.
Marine Engine Segment
The following table sets forth Marine Engine segment results for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013:
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | 2015 vs. 2014 Increase/(Decrease) | | 2014 vs. 2013 Increase/(Decrease) |
(in millions) | 2015 | | 2014 | | 2013 | | $ | | % | | % Change Constant Currency (A) | | $ | | % |
Net sales | $ | 2,314.3 |
| | $ | 2,189.4 |
| | $ | 2,088.1 |
| | $ | 124.9 |
| | 5.7 | % | | 10.0 | % | | $ | 101.3 |
| | 4.9 | % |
Operating earnings | 350.4 |
| | 309.1 |
| | 284.2 |
| | 41.3 |
| | 13.4 | % | | | | 24.9 |
| | 8.8 | % |
Operating margin | 15.1 | % | | 14.1 | % | | 13.6 | % | | |
| | 100 bpts |
| | | | | | 50 bpts |
|
__________
bpts = basis points
| |
(A) | For purposes of comparison, 2015 Net sales are shown using 2014 exchange rates for the comparative period to enhance visibility of the underlying business trends, excluding the impact of translation arising from foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations. |
2015 vs. 2014
Net sales for the Marine Engine segment increased in 2015 when compared with 2014. The increase was mainly due to solid growth in net sales in the marine service, parts and accessories businesses, which benefited from acquisitions completed in 2015 and 2014, new product launches and market share gains. The segment also experienced a solid increase in outboard engine net sales, driven by continued favorable retail demand trends and the success of recently launched new products. Partially offsetting these factors was an unfavorable impact from foreign exchange and a decrease in sterndrive engine net sales due to continuing
unfavorable global retail demand trends. The acquisitions of Whale, Bell, BLA and Garelick as discussed in Note 4 – Acquisitions in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, accounted for 4 percentage points of the Marine Engine segment's overall revenue growth rate in 2015. International net sales were 37 percent of the segment's net sales in 2015, a decrease of 5 percent from the prior year on a GAAP basis. On a constant currency basis, international net sales increased 10 percent in 2015, which included increases in most international regions, which more than offset weakness in Russia and Latin America, especially Brazil.
Marine Engine segment operating earnings increased in 2015 as a result of higher net sales, a favorable product mix including benefits from recently launched outboard products, and cost reductions, including benefits from plant efficiencies, lower commodity costs and savings related to sourcing initiatives. Partially offsetting these factors were the unfavorable effects of foreign exchange.
2014 vs. 2013
Net sales for the Marine Engine segment increased in 2014 when compared with 2013. The increase was mainly due to an increase in outboard engine sales, driven by favorable retail demand trends and successful new product introductions, including the 75, 90 and 115 horsepower FourStroke engines, and higher sales in the marine service, parts and accessories businesses, which benefited from recent acquisitions, new product launches and market share gains. The acquisitions of Whale and Bell, as discussed in Note 4 – Acquisitions in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, accounted for approximately one percentage point of the Marine Engine segment's overall revenue growth rate in 2014. Diesel engine sales increased modestly in 2014. Partially offsetting these factors was a decline in sterndrive engine sales, reflecting continuing unfavorable global retail demand trends. In addition, overall sales in the first quarter of 2014 were adversely affected by comparatively harsher weather conditions in many North American markets. International sales increased in 2014 when compared with the prior year period and remained at 35 percent of the segment's sales during 2014. Sales increases in European and Canadian markets were partially offset by sales decreases in Latin American markets.
Marine Engine segment operating earnings improved in 2014 as a result of an increase in net sales, recently launched outboard products and continued favorable warranty experience. Partially offsetting these factors was the increased investments in growth initiatives, the absence of a $5.5 million gain on the sale of real estate from the first quarter of 2013 and the absence of favorable insurance settlements received in the second quarter of 2013.
Boat Segment
The following table sets forth Boat segment results for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013:
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | 2015 vs. 2014 Increase/(Decrease) | | 2014 vs. 2013 Increase/(Decrease) |
(in millions) | 2015 | | 2014 | | 2013 | | $ | | % | | % Change Constant Currency (A) | | $ | | % |
Net sales | $ | 1,274.6 |
| | $ | 1,135.8 |
| | $ | 1,032.0 |
| | $ | 138.8 |
| | 12.2 | % | | 15.5 | % | | $ | 103.8 |
| | 10.1 | % |
Restructuring, exit and impairment charges (B) | 7.7 |
| | 1.5 |
| | 15.8 |
| | 6.2 |
| | NM |
| | | | (14.3 | ) | | (90.5 | )% |
Operating earnings | 37.6 |
| | 17.2 |
| | (21.8 | ) | | 20.4 |
| | NM |
| | | | 39.0 |
| | NM |
|
Operating margin | 2.9 | % | | 1.5 | % | | (2.1 | )% | | |
| | 140 bpts |
| | | | | | 360 bpts |
|
__________
NM = not meaningful
bpts = basis points
| |
(A) | For purposes of comparison, 2015 Net sales are shown using 2014 exchange rates for the comparative period to enhance visibility of the underlying business trends, excluding the impact of translation arising from foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations. |
| |
(B) | See Note 3 – Restructuring Activities in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for further details. |
2015 vs. 2014
Boat segment net sales increased in 2015 when compared with 2014, due to strong growth rates for fiberglass outboard boats and fiberglass sterndrive and inboard boats as well as solid gains in aluminum boats. Segment net sales also reflected higher average selling prices resulting from a favorable shift in mix and an increase in global wholesale unit shipments, both of which reflected the success of new products. International net sales were 28 percent of the segment's net sales in 2015, a decrease of 8 percent from the prior year on a GAAP basis. On a constant currency basis, international net sales increased 2 percent when compared with the same prior year period due to increases in Europe and Latin America excluding Brazil, partially offset by decreases in Canada and Asia-Pacific.
The Boat segment operating earnings increased in 2015 when compared with 2014 due to higher net sales and a more favorable product mix, as well as lower commodity costs and savings related to sourcing initiatives and cost reductions, partially offset by higher restructuring, exit and impairment charges, planned manufacturing cost increases associated with new product integrations, plant capacity expansions and production ramp-ups.
2014 vs. 2013
Boat segment net sales increased in 2014 versus 2013, reflecting strong growth in the sales of outboard boats as well as fiberglass sterndrive and inboard boats. Segment sales also benefited from several successful new product introductions and a favorable shift in mix across most of its boat lines, including the introduction of new larger, higher priced products, which resulted in higher average selling prices along with growth in wholesale unit shipments. Comparatively harsher weather conditions in many North American markets adversely affected wholesale unit shipments in the first quarter of 2014 when compared to the same period in 2013. International sales were 33 percent of the segment’s sales during 2014, and increased due to higher sales into European markets, mostly offset by sales declines in Canadian and Latin American markets.
The Boat segment reported operating earnings in 2014 compared with an operating loss in 2013 due to higher net sales, which included the benefit from several successful new product introductions as described above, and lower restructuring, exit and impairment charges. Partially offsetting these factors were increased costs associated with new product integrations, capacity expansions, production ramp-up and increased investment spending related to the introduction of new boat models.
Fitness Segment
The following table sets forth Fitness segment results for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013:
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | 2015 vs. 2014 Increase/(Decrease) | | 2014 vs. 2013 Increase/(Decrease) |
(in millions) | 2015 | | 2014 | | 2013 | | $ | | % | | % Change Constant Currency (A) | | $ | | % |
Net sales | $ | 794.6 |
| | $ | 769.3 |
| | $ | 716.0 |
| | $ | 25.3 |
| | 3.3 | % | | 7.0 | % | | $ | 53.3 |
| | 7.4 | % |
Operating earnings | 116.5 |
| | 115.3 |
| | 108.1 |
| | 1.2 |
| | 1.0 | % | | | | 7.2 |
| | 6.7 | % |
Operating margin | 14.7 | % | | 15.0 | % | | 15.1 | % | | |
| | (30) bpts |
| | | | | | (10) bpts |
|
__________
bpts = basis points
| |
(A) | For purposes of comparison, 2015 Net sales are shown using 2014 exchange rates for the comparative period to enhance visibility of the underlying business trends, excluding the impact of translation arising from foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations. |
2015 vs. 2014
Fitness segment net sales increased in 2015 when compared with 2014 on both a GAAP basis and a constant currency basis, reflecting higher sales in the U.S. to health clubs, local and federal governments and hospitality customers. The acquisition of SCIFIT as discussed in Note 4 – Acquisitions in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, accounted for 1 percentage point of the Fitness segment's overall revenue growth rate in 2015. Net sales in all regions benefited from recently introduced successful new products. International net sales were 46 percent of the segment's net sales in 2015 and decreased 2 percent compared with the same prior year period on a GAAP basis. On a constant currency basis the segment's international net sales increased 7 percent when compared with the same prior year period due to net sales increases in certain regions including Asia-Pacific, Europe and the Middle East.
Fitness segment operating earnings increased slightly in 2015 compared with 2014 due to higher net sales, cost reductions and savings related to sourcing initiatives, partially offset by an unfavorable impact from foreign exchange, the absence of a favorable warranty adjustment in the first quarter of 2014 and transaction costs associated with the segment's acquisition strategy.
2014 vs. 2013
Fitness segment net sales increased in 2014 when compared with 2013, reflecting growth in the U.S. to health clubs, hospitality, education and local and federal government customers, as well as sales growth in international markets, especially in the Latin American and Middle East and African markets. International sales were 49 percent of the segment’s sales during 2014. Net sales in all regions benefited from successful new product introductions.
Fitness segment operating earnings increased in 2014 when compared with 2013 as a result of higher sales and favorable warranty expense comparisons, partially offset by continued increases in investments for growth initiatives and the absence of a favorable insurance settlement received in the first quarter of 2013.
Corporate/Other
The following table sets forth Corporate/Other results for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013:
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | 2015 vs. 2014 Increase/(Decrease) | | 2014 vs. 2013 Increase/(Decrease) |
(in millions) | 2015 | | 2014 | | 2013 | | $ | | % | | $ | | % |
Restructuring, exit and impairment charges (A) | $ | 4.7 |
| | $ | 2.7 |
| | $ | 0.7 |
| | $ | 2.0 |
| | (74.1 | )% | | $ | 2.0 |
| | NM |
|
Operating loss | (78.8 | ) | | (70.4 | ) | | (70.0 | ) | | 8.4 |
| | 11.9 | % | | 0.4 |
| | 0.6 | % |
__________
NM = not meaningful
| |
(A) | See Note 3 – Restructuring Activities in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for further details. |
Corporate operating expenses increased in 2015 compared with 2014 due to increased charges relating to share-based compensation expense and higher restructuring and impairment charges.
Corporate operating expenses increased in 2014 compared with 2013 and included higher restructuring charges mainly offset by a reduction in project spending and the absence of losses associated with various legal matters that were recorded in 2013.
Cash Flow, Liquidity and Capital Resources
The following table sets forth an analysis of free cash flow for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013:
|
| | | | | | | | | | | |
(in millions) | 2015 | | 2014 | | 2013 |
Net cash provided by operating activities of continuing operations | $ | 338.3 |
| | $ | 246.9 |
| | $ | 172.2 |
|
Net cash provided by (used for): | |
| | |
| | |
|
Capital expenditures | (132.5 | ) | | (124.8 | ) | | (126.5 | ) |
Proceeds from the sale of property, plant and equipment | 2.4 |
| | 5.8 |
| | 16.9 |
|
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents | (15.6 | ) | | (11.6 | ) | | (4.2 | ) |
Total free cash flow from continuing operations (A) | $ | 192.6 |
| | $ | 116.3 |
| | $ | 58.4 |
|
__________
(A) The Company defines “Free cash flow from continuing operations” as cash flow from operating and investing activities of continuing operations (excluding cash provided by or used for acquisitions and investments, transfers to/reductions in restricted cash, purchases or sales/maturities of marketable securities) and the effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents. Free cash flow from continuing operations is not intended as an alternative measure of cash flow from operations, as determined in accordance with GAAP. The Company uses this financial measure, both in presenting its results to shareholders and the investment community and in its internal evaluation and management of its businesses. Management believes that this financial measure and the information it provides are useful to investors because it permits investors to view Brunswick’s performance using the same tool that management uses to gauge progress in achieving its goals. Management believes that the non-GAAP financial measure “Free cash flow from continuing operations” is also useful to investors because it is an indication of cash flow that may be available to fund investments in future growth initiatives.
Brunswick’s major sources of funds for investments, acquisitions, debt retirements, dividend payments and share repurchase programs are cash generated from operating activities, available cash and marketable securities balances and proceeds from the sale of businesses. The Company evaluates potential acquisitions, divestitures and joint ventures in the ordinary course of business.
2015 Cash Flow
In 2015, net cash provided by operating activities of continuing operations totaled $338.3 million. The primary driver of the cash provided by operating activities was net earnings from continuing operations net of non-cash expense items. An increase in working capital, excluding the impact of acquisitions, had a negative effect on net cash provided by operating activities. Working capital is defined as Accounts and notes receivable, Inventories and Prepaid expenses and other, net of Accounts payable and Accrued expenses as presented in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Accrued expenses decreased $34.2 million during 2015, primarily driven by a reduction in insurance reserves related to the settlement of a product liability matter that was mostly offset by a related reduction in accounts receivable reflecting the impact of insurance proceeds, as well as a reduction in accrued payroll costs due to timing of payrolls.
Net inventories increased $15.2 million due to increases in production to support higher sales volumes and new product introductions; however, increases were at a lower rate than the prior year. Accounts and notes receivable increased $12.3 million, primarily driven by higher fourth quarter sales across all segments.
Net cash used for investing activities of continuing operations during 2015 totaled $84.3 million, which included capital expenditures of $132.5 million. The Company's capital spending was focused on new product introductions, capacity expansion projects in all segments, and other high priority, profit-enhancing projects. Cash paid for the acquisitions of BLA, SCIFIT and Garelick net of cash acquired, totaled $29.7 million in 2015. See Note 4 – Acquisitions in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for further details on the Company's acquisitions. The Company had net proceeds from marketable securities of $71.7 million in 2015. See Note 9 – Investments in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for further details on the Company's investments.
Cash flows used for financing activities of continuing operations were $168.8 million during 2015. The cash outflow was primarily the result of common stock repurchases and cash dividends paid to common stock shareholders.
2014 Cash Flow
In 2014, net cash provided by operating activities of continuing operations totaled $246.9 million. The primary driver of the cash provided by operating activities was net earnings from continuing operations net of non-cash expense items. An increase in working capital, excluding the impact of acquisitions, had a negative effect on net cash provided by operating activities. Net inventories increased $57.1 million due to increases in production and finished goods to support successful new product
introductions and to meet seasonal requirements in advance of the 2015 marine selling season. Accounts and notes receivable increased $24.0 million, primarily driven by higher fourth quarter sales across all segments. Partially offsetting these items was an increase in Accounts payable of $13.0 million, which was a result of increased production.
Net cash used for investing activities of continuing operations during 2014 totaled $239.9 million, which included capital expenditures of $124.8 million. The Company's capital spending was focused on new product introductions and growth initiatives, capacity expansion projects in all segments, and high priority, profit-maintaining capital and investments targeting operating cost reductions. The Company also had net purchases of marketable securities of $70.5 million in 2014. See Note 9 – Investments in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for further details on the Company's investments. Cash paid for the acquisitions of Whale and Bell, net of cash acquired, totaled $41.5 million in 2014. See Note 4 – Acquisitions in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for further details on the Company's acquisitions. The Company also transferred $9.1 million to restricted cash in 2014 as discussed in Note 13 – Commitments and Contingencies in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. Partially offsetting these items were $5.8 million in proceeds from the sale of property, plant and equipment in the normal course of business mainly in the Company's Boat segment.
Cash flows used for financing activities of continuing operations were $60.7 million during 2014. The cash outflow was primarily the result of cash dividends paid to common stock shareholders and common stock repurchases.
2013 Cash Flow
In 2013, net cash provided by operating activities of continuing operations totaled $172.2 million. The primary driver of the cash provided by operating activities was earnings adjusted for non-cash items, including the reversal of deferred tax valuation allowance reserves and debt extinguishment losses. Net cash provided by operating activities also included unfavorable changes in working capital. Inventory increased $22.1 million driven primarily by the Company's Marine Engine segment in response to strong market demand for outboard products, to meet seasonal requirements in advance of the 2014 marine selling season and to support new product introductions. Accounts payable decreased $16.2 million during 2013 due to timing of payments. The increase in Accounts and notes receivable of $14.5 million during 2013 was driven primarily by higher fourth quarter sales across the Company's Marine Engine and Fitness segments when compared with 2012, partially offset by the improved timing of customer payments.
Net cash provided by investing activities of continuing operations during 2013 totaled $26.4 million, which included net proceeds from marketable securities of $131.0 million that were partially used to retire the Company's Senior notes due in 2016 during the second quarter as discussed below and to satisfy working capital requirements. The Company also received $16.9 million in proceeds from the sale of property, plant and equipment in the normal course of business mainly in our Boat and Marine Engine segments. Investing activities during 2013 also included an inflow of $6.5 million resulting from a reduction in the restricted cash required to collateralize a portion of the Company's workers' compensation related obligations. Partially offsetting these items was $126.5 million of capital expenditures in 2013. The Company's capital spending is focused on new product introductions and strategic initiatives, the Marine Engine segment's capacity expansion in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, a new pontoon boat manufacturing facility, other high priority, profit-maintaining capital and investments targeting operating cost reductions.
Cash flows used for financing activities of continuing operations were $116.5 million during 2013. The cash outflow was mainly the result of repurchasing the remaining $249.8 million of the Company's Senior notes due in 2016 and paying a $24.2 million premium above par as well as paying dividends, partially offset by net proceeds received from issuing $150.0 million of new debt due in 2021 and paying $3.4 million in related debt issuance costs.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
The Company views its highly liquid assets as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 as:
|
| | | | | | | |
(in millions) | 2015 | | 2014 |
Cash and cash equivalents | $ | 657.3 |
| | $ | 552.7 |
|
Short-term investments in marketable securities | 11.5 |
| | 83.2 |
|
Total cash, cash equivalents and marketable securities | $ | 668.8 |
| | $ | 635.9 |
|
The following table sets forth an analysis of Total liquidity as of December 31, 2015 and 2014:
|
| | | | | | | |
(in millions) | 2015 | | 2014 |
Cash, cash equivalents and marketable securities | $ | 668.8 |
| | $ | 635.9 |
|
Amounts available under lending facilities(A) | 296.2 |
| | 294.1 |
|
Total liquidity (B) | $ | 965.0 |
| | $ | 930.0 |
|
(A) In June 2014, the Company amended and restated its secured, asset-based borrowing facility it entered into during March 2011 and converted it into a secured facility. Under the terms of the agreement, the security was released as of December 26, 2014.
(B) The Company defines Total liquidity as Cash and cash equivalents and Short-term investments in marketable securities as presented in the Consolidated Balance Sheets, plus amounts available for borrowing under its lending facilities. Total liquidity is not intended as an alternative measure to Cash and cash equivalents and Short-term investments in marketable securities as determined in accordance with GAAP in the United States. The Company uses this financial measure, both in presenting its results to shareholders and the investment community and in its internal evaluation and management of its businesses. Management believes that this financial measure and the information it provides are useful to investors because it permits investors to view the Company’s performance using the same metric that management uses to gauge progress in achieving its goals. Management believes that the non-GAAP financial measure “Total liquidity” is also useful to investors because it is an indication of the Company’s available highly liquid assets and immediate sources of financing.
Cash, cash equivalents and marketable securities totaled $668.8 million as of December 31, 2015, an increase of $32.9 million from $635.9 million as of December 31, 2014. Total debt as of December 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014 was $448.5 million and $451.8 million, respectively. The Company's debt-to-capitalization ratio improved to 25.9 percent as of December 31, 2015, from 27.8 percent as of December 31, 2014.
In June 2014, the Company amended and restated the five-year $300.0 million secured, asset-based borrowing facility it entered into during March 2011 and converted it into a five-year $300.0 million secured facility (Facility) which is in effect through 2019. Under the terms of the agreement, the security was released as of December 26, 2014. As of December 31, 2015, available borrowing capacity totaled $296.2 million, net of $3.8 million of letters of credit outstanding under the Facility. The Company has the ability to issue up to $100.0 million in letters of credit under the Facility. The Company had no borrowings under the Facility during the year ended December 31, 2015. The Company initially paid a facility fee of 25.0 basis points per annum, however in August 2014, the fee was adjusted to 20.0 basis points per annum based on the Company's leverage ratio. Once the Company achieves the Investment Grade Release Conditions, the facility fee per annum will be within a range of 12.5 to 35.0 basis points based on the Company's credit rating. The Investment Grade Release Conditions are defined as the date upon which the Company receives an investment grade credit rating by either Standard & Poor's or Moody's and meets the leverage ratio requirements of less than or equal to 2.25:1.00 for the prior two fiscal quarters. Under the terms of the Facility, the Company has two borrowing options, including borrowing at a rate tied to adjusted LIBOR plus a spread of 130.0 basis points or a base rate plus a margin of 30.0 basis points. The rates are determined by a leverage ratio, with a range of 130.0 to 190.0 basis points for LIBOR rate borrowings and a range of 30.0 to 90.0 basis points for base rate borrowings, until the occurrence of the Investment Grade Release Conditions, on and after which the rate will be determined by the Company’s credit ratings, with a range of 100.0 to 190.0 basis points for LIBOR rate borrowings and a range of 0.0 to 90.0 basis points for base rate borrowings.
The Company is required to maintain compliance with two financial covenants included in the Facility - a minimum interest coverage ratio and a maximum leverage ratio. The minimum interest coverage ratio, as defined in the agreement, is not permitted to be less than 3.50 to 1.00. The maximum leverage ratio, as defined in the agreement, is not permitted to be more than 3.00 to 1.00, unless the Company completes an acquisition of more than $100.0 million, which increases the maximum leverage ratio to 3.25 to 1.00 for the twelve months following the acquisition. As of December 31, 2015, the Company was in compliance with these two financial covenants in the Facility.
Management believes that the Company has adequate sources of liquidity to meet the Company's short-term and long-term needs. As a result of debt retirements completed in 2013, the next significant long-term debt maturity is not until 2021. The Company's debt reduction activities are largely completed, however, the Company may continue to opportunistically retire debt.
On October 22, 2014, the Company’s Board of Directors authorized a program to repurchase up to $200 million of the Company’s outstanding common stock. Share repurchases will be completed in the open market or through privately negotiated transactions. The Company’s share repurchase program does not obligate it to acquire any specific number of shares, and the Company may discontinue purchases at any time that management determines additional purchases are not warranted. As of December 31, 2015, the Company has repurchased $140.0 million of common stock under this program, with $120.0 million repurchased during 2015. The Company expects to systematically complete the remainder of the current program in 2016.
As described earlier, the Company expects to increase earnings before income taxes in 2016 when compared with 2015. The Company's working capital performance in 2016 will be influenced primarily by revenue growth. Additionally, the Company plans to make cash contributions to its defined benefit pension plans of approximately $35 million to $45 million in 2016. Net working capital activity is expected to reflect a usage of cash in 2016 in the range of $60 million to $80 million, including payments under deferred compensation arrangements in connection with planned management transitions. The Company's plans include capital expenditures of approximately 4 percent to 4.5 percent of 2016 net sales, with a substantial portion directed at growth and profit enhancing projects, including executing against capacity expansion plans in each of the Company's segments. Despite higher investment spending levels and a usage of cash for working capital, the Company plans to generate free cash flow in 2016 in excess of $200 million.
The aggregate funded status of the Company's qualified defined benefit pension plans, measured as a percentage of the projected benefit obligation, was approximately 74 percent at December 31, 2015 compared with approximately 76 percent at December 31, 2014. As of December 31, 2015, the Company's qualified defined benefit pension plans were underfunded on an aggregate projected benefit obligation basis by $262.4 million which represented a $47.4 million improvement from 2014 due to higher discount rates partially offset by unfavorable investment experience. See Note 17 – Postretirement Benefits in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for more details.
The Company contributed $70.0 million to its qualified defined benefit pension plans in 2015 compared with $70.2 million of contributions in 2014. The Company also contributed $3.6 million to fund benefit payments in its nonqualified defined benefit pension plan in both 2015 and 2014. Planned Company contributions for 2016 are subject to change based on market conditions, pension funding regulations and Company discretion.
Pension Expense
Pension expense in 2016 is projected to be $15 million, an increase from $11.7 million in 2015. Comparisons between 2016 and 2015 include the impact of a new methodology used to calculate the interest cost component of pension expense and a decline in the assumed rate of return on plan assets, primarily due to shifts in asset allocations toward fixed income investments. In 2015 and prior years, the Company used a single-weighted average discount rate to calculate pension and postretirement interest costs. The Company plans to utilize a "spot rate approach" in the calculation of pension and postretirement interest costs for 2016 and beyond to provide a more precise measurement of service and interest costs. The spot rate approach applies separate discount rates for each projected benefit payment in the calculation of pension and postretirement interest and service costs. This calculation change is considered to be a change in accounting estimate and will be applied prospectively in 2016.
Financial Services
The Company, through its Brunswick Financial Services Corporation subsidiary, owns a 49 percent interest in a joint venture, Brunswick Acceptance Company, LLC (BAC). CDF Ventures, LLC (CDFV), a subsidiary of GE Capital Corporation (GECC), owns the remaining 51 percent. Effective July 31, 2015, the joint venture was extended through December 31, 2019. On October 13, 2015, GECC reached an agreement with Wells Fargo & Company to sell its Commercial Distribution Finance business, including CDFV and its interest in the BAC joint venture. The transaction is expected to be completed in 2016 and the Company does not anticipate it will have a material effect on BAC.
Refer to Note 10 – Financial Services in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for more information about the Company's financial services.
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
Guarantees. The Company has reserves to cover potential losses associated with guarantees and repurchase obligations based on historical experience and current facts and circumstances. Historical cash requirements and losses associated with these obligations have not been significant. See Note 13 – Commitments and Contingencies in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for a description of these arrangements.
Contractual Obligations
The following table sets forth a summary of the Company's contractual cash obligations as of December 31, 2015:
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Payments due by period |
(in millions) | Total | | Less than 1 year | | 1-3 years | | 3-5 years | | More than 5 years |
Contractual Obligations | | | | | | | | | |
Debt (A) | $ | 456.9 |
| | $ | 6.0 |
| | $ | 11.1 |
| | $ | 11.6 |
| | $ | 428.2 |
|
Interest payments on long-term debt | 237.0 |
| | 27.0 |
| | 53.7 |
| | 53.3 |
| | 103.0 |
|
Operating leases (B) | 133.9 |
| | 33.4 |
| | 52.5 |
| | 22.8 |
| | 25.2 |
|
Purchase obligations (C) | 118.6 |
| | 115.5 |
| | 3.1 |
| | — |
| | — |
|
Deferred management compensation (D) | 59.4 |
| | 22.0 |
| | 3.0 |
| | 2.0 |
| | 32.4 |
|
Other tax liabilities (E) | 0.1 |
| | 0.1 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
|
Other long-term liabilities (F) | 175.9 |
| | 37.9 |
| | 84.5 |
| | 33.3 |
| | 20.2 |
|
Total contractual obligations | $ | 1,181.8 |
| | $ | 241.9 |
| | $ | 207.9 |
| | $ | 123.0 |
| | $ | 609.0 |
|
__________
| |
(A) | See Note 16 – Debt in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information on the Company's debt. “Debt” refers to future cash principal payments. Debt also includes the Company's capital leases as discussed in Note 21 – Leases in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. |
| |
(B) | See Note 21 – Leases in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information on the Company's operating and capital leases. |
| |
(C) | Purchase obligations represent agreements with suppliers and vendors at the end of 2015 for raw materials and other supplies as part of the normal course of business. |
| |
(D) | Amounts primarily represent long-term deferred compensation plans for Company management. Payments are assumed to be equal to the remaining liability. |
| |
(E) | Represents the expected cash obligations related to the Company's liability for uncertain income tax positions. As of December 31, 2015, the Company's total liability for uncertain tax positions including interest was $4.9 million. Due to the high degree of uncertainty regarding the timing of potential future cash outflows associated with these liabilities, other than the items included in the table above, the Company was unable to make a reasonably reliable estimate of the amount and period in which these remaining liabilities might be paid. |
| |
(F) | Other long-term liabilities include amounts recorded as secured obligations for lease and other long-term receivables originated by the Company and assigned to third parties where the transfer of assets do not meet the conditions for a sale as a result of the Company's contingent obligation to repurchase the receivables in the event of customer non-payment. Amounts above also include obligations under deferred revenue arrangements and future projected payments related to the Company's nonqualified pension plans. Other long-term liabilities also include $12.6 million of required qualified pension plan contributions to be paid in 2016; however, the Company anticipates contributing additional discretionary contributions to bring the total contributions to qualified and nonqualified pension plans to approximately $38.8 million. Additionally, $4.4 million of scheduled retiree health care and life insurance benefit plan payments are included in other long-term liabilities. Due to the high degree of uncertainty regarding the potential future cash outflows associated with these plans, the Company is unable to provide a reasonably reliable estimate of the amounts and periods in which any additional liabilities might be paid. |
Legal Proceedings
See Note 13 – Commitments and Contingencies in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for disclosure related to certain legal and environmental proceedings.
Environmental Regulation
In its Marine Engine segment, Brunswick continues to develop engine technologies to reduce engine emissions to comply with current and future emissions requirements. The Boat segment continues to pursue fiberglass boat manufacturing technologies and techniques to reduce air emissions at its boat manufacturing facilities. The costs associated with these activities may have an adverse effect on segment operating margins and may affect short-term operating results. Environmental regulatory bodies in the United States and other countries may impose higher emissions standards and/or other environmental regulatory requirements than are currently in effect. The Company complies with current regulations and expects to comply fully with any new regulations; compliance will increase the cost of these products for the Company and the industry, but is not expected to have a material adverse effect on Brunswick's competitive position.
Critical Accounting Policies
The preparation of the consolidated financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States requires management to make certain estimates and assumptions that affect the amount of reported assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements and revenues and expenses during the periods reported. Actual results may differ from those estimates. If current estimates for the cost of resolving any specific matters are later determined to be inadequate, results of operations could be adversely affected in the period in which additional provisions are required. The Company has discussed the development and selection of the critical accounting policies with the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors and believes the following are the most critical accounting policies that could have an effect on Brunswick's reported results.
Revenue Recognition and Sales Incentives. Brunswick's revenue is derived primarily from the sale of boats, marine engines, marine parts and accessories, fitness equipment and billiard tables. Revenue is recognized in accordance with the terms of the sale, primarily upon shipment to customers, once the sales price is fixed or determinable and collectability is reasonably assured. Brunswick offers discounts and sales incentives that include retail promotions, rebates and manufacturer coupons that are recorded as reductions of revenues in Net sales in the Consolidated Statements of Operations. The estimated liability and reduction in revenues for sales incentives is recorded at the later of when the program has been communicated to the customer or at the time of sale. Revenues from freight are included as a part of Net sales in the Consolidated Statements of Operations, whereas shipping, freight and handling costs are included in Cost of sales.
Warranty Reserves. The Company records a liability for product warranties at the time revenue is recognized. The liability is estimated using historical warranty experience, projected claim rates and expected costs per claim. The Company adjusts its liability for specific warranty matters when they become known and the exposure can be estimated. The Company's warranty liabilities are affected by product failure rates as well as material usage and labor costs incurred in correcting a product failure. If actual costs differ from estimated costs, the Company must make a revision to the warranty liability.
Goodwill and Other Intangibles. Goodwill and other intangible assets primarily result from business acquisitions. The excess of cost over net assets of businesses acquired is recorded as goodwill. The Company reviews these assets for impairment at least annually and whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable. The reporting units with goodwill balances are the Company's Fitness and Marine Engine segments.
For 2015, the Company determined through qualitative assessment that it was not “more likely than not” that the fair values of its reporting units are less than their carrying values. As a result, the Company was not required to perform the two-step impairment test for 2015. The Company did not record any goodwill impairments in 2015, 2014 or 2013.
For 2014, the impairment test for goodwill was a two-step process. The first step compared the fair value of each reporting unit with its carrying amount. If the fair value of a reporting unit exceeds its carrying amount, goodwill of the reporting unit is not considered impaired. If the carrying amount of the reporting unit exceeds its fair value, the second step is performed to measure the amount of the impairment loss, if any. In this second step, the implied fair value of the reporting unit’s goodwill is compared with the carrying amount of the goodwill. If the carrying amount of the reporting unit’s goodwill exceeds the implied fair value of that goodwill, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess, not to exceed the carrying amount of the goodwill.
The Company calculated the fair value of its reporting units considering both the income approach and the guideline public company method. The income approach calculates the fair value of the reporting unit using a discounted cash flow approach utilizing a Gordon Growth model. Internally forecasted future cash flows, which the Company believes reasonably approximate market participant assumptions, are discounted using a weighted average cost of capital (Discount Rate) developed for each reporting unit. The Discount Rate is developed using market observable inputs, as well as considering whether or not there is a measure of risk related to the specific reporting unit’s forecasted performance. Fair value under the guideline public company method is determined by applying market multiples for that reporting unit’s comparable public companies to the unit’s financial results. The key uncertainties in these calculations are the assumptions used in a reporting unit’s forecasted future performance, including revenue growth and operating margins, as well as the perceived risk associated with those forecasts, and selecting representative market multiples.
The Company's primary intangible assets are customer relationships and trade names acquired in business combinations. The costs of amortizable intangible assets are amortized over their expected useful lives, typically between three and fifteen years, using the straight-line method. Intangible assets that are subject to amortization are evaluated for impairment using a process similar to that used to evaluate long-lived assets described below. Intangible assets not subject to amortization are assessed for impairment at least annually and whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be
recoverable. The impairment test for indefinite-lived intangible assets consists of a comparison of the fair value of the intangible asset with its carrying amount. An impairment loss is recognized for the amount by which the carrying value exceeds the fair value of the asset. The fair value of trade names is measured using a relief-from-royalty approach, which assumes the value of the trade name is the discounted cash flows of the amount that would be paid to third parties had the Company not owned the trade name and instead licensed the trade name from another company. Higher royalty rates are assigned to premium brands within the marketplace based on name recognition and profitability, while other brands receive lower royalty rates. The basis for future cash flow projections is internal revenue forecasts by brand, which the Company believes represent reasonable market participant assumptions, to which the selected royalty rate is applied. These future cash flows are discounted using the applicable Discount Rate as well as any potential risk premium to reflect the inherent risk of holding a standalone intangible asset. The key uncertainties in this calculation are the selection of an appropriate royalty rate and assumptions used in developing internal revenue growth forecasts, as well as the perceived risk associated with those forecasts in developing the Discount Rate.
The Company did not record any indefinite-lived intangible asset impairments during 2015, 2014 or 2013.
Long-Lived Assets. The Company continually evaluates whether events and circumstances have occurred that indicate the remaining estimated useful lives of its definite-lived intangible assets--excluding goodwill and indefinite-lived trade names--and other long-lived assets may warrant revision or that the remaining balance of such assets may not be recoverable. Once an impairment indicator is identified, the Company tests for recoverability of the related asset group using an estimate of undiscounted cash flows over the remaining asset group's life. If an asset group's carrying value is not recoverable, the Company records an impairment loss based on the excess of the carrying value of the asset group over the long-lived asset group's fair value. Fair value is determined using observable inputs, including the use of appraisals from independent third parties, when available, and, when observable inputs are not available, based on the Company's assumptions of the data that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability, based on the best information available in the circumstances. Specifically, the Company uses discounted cash flows to determine the fair value of the asset when observable inputs are unavailable. The Company tested its long-lived asset balances for impairment as indicators presented themselves during 2015, 2014 or 2013, resulting in impairment charges of $11.9 million, $1.5 million and $7.1 million, respectively, which are recognized in Restructuring, exit and impairment charges and Selling, general and administrative expense in the Consolidated Statements of Operations.
Litigation. In the normal course of business, the Company is subject to claims and litigation, including obligations assumed or retained as part of acquisitions and divestitures. The Company accrues for litigation exposure based upon its assessment, made in consultation with counsel, of the likely range of exposure stemming from the claim. In light of existing reserves, the Company's litigation claims, when finally resolved, will not, in the opinion of management, have a material adverse effect on the Company's consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.
Environmental. The Company accrues for environmental remediation-related activities for which commitments or clean-up plans have been developed and for which costs can be reasonably estimated. Accrued amounts are generally determined in coordination with third-party experts on an undiscounted basis and do not consider recoveries from third parties until such recoveries are realized. In light of existing reserves, the Company's environmental claims, when finally resolved, will not, in the opinion of management, have a material adverse effect on the Company's consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.
Postretirement Benefit Reserves. Postretirement costs and obligations are actuarially determined and are affected by assumptions, including the discount rate, the estimated future return on plan assets, the increase in costs of health care benefits, mortality assumptions and other factors. The Company evaluates assumptions used on a periodic basis and makes adjustments to these liabilities as necessary.
Income Taxes. Deferred taxes are recognized for the future tax effects of temporary differences between financial and income tax reporting using tax rates in effect for the years in which the differences are expected to reverse. The Company evaluates the realizability of net deferred tax assets and, as necessary, records valuation allowances against them. The Company estimates its tax obligations based on historical experience and current tax laws and litigation. The judgments made at any point in time may change based on the outcome of tax audits and settlements of tax litigation, as well as changes due to new tax laws and regulations and the Company's application of those laws and regulations. These factors may cause the Company's tax rate and deferred tax balances to increase or decrease.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
See Note 1 – Significant Accounting Policies in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for the recent accounting pronouncements that have been adopted during the year ended December 31, 2015, or will be adopted in future periods.
Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
The Company is exposed to market risk from changes in foreign currency exchange rates, commodity prices and interest rates. The Company enters into various hedging transactions to mitigate these risks in accordance with guidelines established by the Company's management. The Company does not use financial instruments for trading or speculative purposes.
The Company uses foreign currency forward and option contracts to manage foreign exchange rate exposure related to anticipated transactions, and assets and liabilities that are subject to risk from foreign currency rate changes. The Company's principal currency exposures relate to the Euro, Japanese yen, Canadian dollar, Australian dollar and Brazilian real. The Company hedges certain anticipated transactions with financial instruments whose maturity date, along with the realized gain or loss, occurs on or near the execution of the anticipated transaction. The Company manages foreign currency exposure of certain assets or liabilities through the use of derivative financial instruments such that the gain or loss on the derivative financial instrument offsets the loss or gain recognized on the asset or liability, respectively.
Certain raw materials the Company uses are exposed to the effect of changing commodity prices. Accordingly, the Company uses commodity swap agreements, futures contracts and supplier agreements to manage fluctuations in prices of anticipated purchases of certain raw materials, including aluminum, copper and natural gas.
From time-to-time, the Company enters into forward-starting interest rate swaps to hedge the interest rate risk associated with the future issuance of long-term debt. There were no forward-starting interest rate swaps outstanding at December 31, 2015. The Company uses fixed-to-floating interest rate swaps to convert a portion of the Company's long-term debt from fixed-to-floating rate debt. An interest rate swap is entered into with the expectation that the change in the fair value of the interest rate swap will offset the change in the fair value of the debt instrument attributable to changes in the benchmark interest rate. Each period, the change in the fair value of the interest rate swap asset or liability is recorded as a change in the fair value of the corresponding debt instrument.
The following analyses provide quantitative information regarding the Company's exposure to foreign currency exchange rate risk, commodity price risk and interest rate risk as it relates to its derivative financial instruments. The Company uses a model to evaluate the sensitivity of the fair value of financial instruments with exposure to market risk that assumes instantaneous, parallel shifts in exchange rates and commodity prices. For options and instruments with nonlinear returns, models appropriate to the instrument are utilized to determine the impact of market shifts. There are certain shortcomings inherent in the sensitivity analyses presented, primarily due to the assumption that exchange rates change in a parallel fashion.
The amounts shown below represent the estimated reduction in fair market value that the Company would incur on its derivative financial instruments from a 10 percent adverse change in quoted foreign currency rates, commodity prices and interest rates.
|
| | | | | | | |
(in millions) | 2015 | | 2014 |
Risk Category | | | |
Foreign exchange | $ | 34.1 |
| | $ | 23.5 |
|
Commodity prices | $ | 0.7 |
| | $ | 2.0 |
|
Interest rates | $ | 1.8 |
| | $ | 2.6 |
|
Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data
See Index to Financial Statements and Financial Statement Schedule on page 48.
Item 9. Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure
None.
Item 9A. Controls and Procedures
Conclusion Regarding the Effectiveness of Disclosure Controls and Procedures
Under the supervision and with the participation of the Company's management, including the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer of the Company (its principal executive officer and principal financial officer, respectively), the Company has evaluated its disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Securities Exchange Act Rules 13a -15(e) and 15d -15(e)) as of the end of the period covered by this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Based upon that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that the Company's disclosure controls and procedures are effective.
Management's Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
Pursuant to Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, the Company included a report of management's assessment of the effectiveness of its internal controls as part of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2015. Management's report is included in the Company's 2015 Financial Statements under the captions entitled “Report of Management on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting” and is incorporated herein by reference.
Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
There have been no changes in the Company's internal control over financial reporting during the quarter ended December 31, 2015, that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company's internal control over financial reporting.
Item 9B. Other Information
None.
PART III
Item 10. Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance
Information pursuant to this Item with respect to the Directors of the Company, the Company's Audit Committee and the Company's code of ethics is incorporated by reference from the discussion under the headings Proposal No. 1: Election of Directors and Corporate Governance in the Company's proxy statement for the 2016 Annual Meeting of Stockholders (Proxy Statement). Information pursuant to this Item with respect to compliance with Section 16(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 is incorporated by reference from the discussion under the heading Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Requirements in the Proxy Statement.
The information required by Item 401 of Regulation S-K regarding executive officers is included under “Executive Officers of the Registrant” following Item 4 in Part I of this Annual Report.
Item 11. Executive Compensation
Information pursuant to this Item with respect to compensation paid to Directors of the Company is incorporated by reference from the discussion under the heading Director Compensation in the Proxy Statement. Information pursuant to this Item with respect to executive compensation is incorporated by reference from the discussion under the heading Executive Compensation in the Proxy Statement.
Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters
Information pursuant to this Item with respect to the securities of the Company owned by the Directors and certain officers of the Company, by the Directors and officers of the Company as a group and by the persons known to the Company to own beneficially more than 5 percent of the outstanding voting securities of the Company is incorporated by reference from the discussion under the heading Stock Held by Directors, Executive Officers and Principal Shareholders in the Proxy Statement. Information pursuant to this Item with respect to securities authorized for issuance under the Company's equity compensation plans is hereby incorporated by reference from the discussion under the heading Equity Compensation Plan Information in the Proxy Statement.
Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence
Information pursuant to this Item with respect to certain relationships and related transactions is incorporated from the discussion under the headings Proposal No. 1: Election of Directors and Corporate Governance in the Proxy Statement.
Item 14. Principal Accounting Fees and Services
Information pursuant to this Item with respect to fees for professional services rendered by the Company's independent registered public accounting firm and the Audit Committee's policy on pre-approval of audit and permissible non-audit services of the Company's independent registered public accounting firm is incorporated by reference from the discussion in the Proxy Statement under the heading Proposal No. 3: Ratification of the Appointment of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm.
PART IV
Item 15. Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules
The financial statements and schedule filed as part of this Annual Report on Form 10-K are listed in the accompanying Index to Financial Statements and Financial Statement Schedule on page 48. The exhibits filed as a part of this Annual Report are listed in the accompanying Exhibit Index on page 106.
Index to Financial Statements and Financial Statement Schedule
Brunswick Corporation
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BRUNSWICK CORPORATION
REPORT OF MANAGEMENT ON INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING
The Company's management is responsible for the preparation, integrity and objectivity of the financial statements and other financial information presented in this Annual Report. The financial statements have been prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States and reflect the effects of certain estimates and judgments made by management.
The Company's management is also responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting, as defined in Securities Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(f). Under the supervision and with the participation of the Company's management, including the Company's Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer, the Company conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of its internal control over financial reporting based on the framework in Internal Control - Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (2013 framework).
Based on the Company's evaluation under the framework in Internal Control - Integrated Framework, management concluded that internal control over financial reporting was effective as of December 31, 2015. The effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2015 has been audited by Deloitte & Touche LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, as stated in its attestation report, which is included herein.
Brunswick Corporation
Lake Forest, Illinois
February 17, 2016
BRUNSWICK CORPORATION
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the Board of Directors and Shareholders of Brunswick Corporation
Lake Forest, Illinois
We have audited the internal control over financial reporting of Brunswick Corporation and subsidiaries (the "Company") as of December 31, 2015, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. The Company's management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying Report of Management on Internal Control over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company's internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.
We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.
A company's internal control over financial reporting is a process designed by, or under the supervision of, the company's principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, and effected by the company's board of directors, management, and other personnel to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company's internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company's assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.
Because of the inherent limitations of internal control over financial reporting, including the possibility of collusion or improper management override of controls, material misstatements due to error or fraud may not be prevented or detected on a timely basis. Also, projections of any evaluation of the effectiveness of the internal control over financial reporting to future periods are subject to the risk that the controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
In our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2015, based on the criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.
We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated financial statements and financial statement schedule as of and for the year ended December 31, 2015 of the Company and our report dated February 17, 2016 expressed an unqualified opinion on those financial statements and financial statement schedule.
/s/ DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP
Chicago, Illinois
February 17, 2016
BRUNSWICK CORPORATION
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the Board of Directors and Shareholders of Brunswick Corporation
Lake Forest, Illinois
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Brunswick Corporation and subsidiaries (the "Company") as of December 31, 2015 and 2014, and the related consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive income, shareholders' equity, and cash flows for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014. Our audits also included the financial statement schedule listed in the Index at Item 15. These financial statements and financial statement schedule are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the financial statements and financial statement schedule based on our audits.
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
In our opinion, such consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Brunswick Corporation and subsidiaries at December 31, 2015 and 2014, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Also, in our opinion, such financial statement schedule, when considered in relation to the basic consolidated financial statements taken as a whole, presents fairly, in all material respects, the information set forth therein.
We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the Company's internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2015, based on the criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission and our report dated February 17, 2016 expressed an unqualified opinion on the Company's internal control over financial reporting.
/s/ DELOITTE AND TOUCHE LLP
Chicago, Illinois
February 17, 2016
BRUNSWICK CORPORATION
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
Board of Directors and Shareholders
Brunswick Corporation
We have audited the accompanying consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income, shareholders’ equity, and cash flows of Brunswick Corporation for each year ended December 31, 2013. Our audits also included the financial statement schedule listed in the Index at Item 15. These financial statements and schedule are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements and schedule based on our audit.
We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.
In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated results of operations and cash flows of Brunswick Corporation for the year ended December 31, 2013, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. Also, in our opinion, the related financial statement schedule, when considered in relation to the basic financial statements taken as a whole, presents fairly in all material respects the information set forth therein.
/s/ ERNST & YOUNG LLP
Chicago, Illinois
February 14, 2014, except for Note 2, as to which the date is February 20, 2015
BRUNSWICK CORPORATION Consolidated Statements of Operations
|
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| For the Years Ended December 31 |
(in millions, except per share data) | 2015 | | 2014 | | 2013 |
Net sales | $ | 4,105.7 |
| | $ | 3,838.7 |
| | $ | 3,599.7 |
|
Cost of sales | 2,991.1 |
| | 2,801.9 |
| | 2,650.4 |
|
Selling, general and administrative expense | 562.3 |
| | 556.6 |
| | 536.2 |
|
Research and development expense | 125.9 |
| | 119.6 |
| | 114.8 |
|
Pension settlement charge | 82.3 |
| | 27.9 |
| | — |
|
Restructuring, exit and impairment charges | 12.4 |
| | 4.2 |
| | 16.5 |
|
Operating earnings | 331.7 |
| | 328.5 |
| | 281.8 |
|
Impairment of equity method investment | — |
| | (20.2 | ) | | — |
|
Equity earnings (loss) | 3.7 |
| | 1.8 |
| | (2.1 | ) |
Other income, net | 5.4 |
| | 6.5 |
| | 2.4 |
|
Earnings before interest, loss on early extinguishment of debt and income taxes | 340.8 |
| | 316.6 |
| | 282.1 |
|
Interest expense | (27.8 | ) | | (29.8 | ) | | (41.9 | ) |
Interest income | 2.2 |
| | 1.2 |
| | 1.5 |
|
Loss on early extinguishment of debt | — |
| | (0.1 | ) | |