azzform10q113008.htm


UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C.  20549

FORM 10-Q

T
QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
 
For the quarterly period ended November 30, 2008

OR

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

Commission file number 1-12777
AZZ incorporated
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
 
AZZ Logo

TEXAS
 
75-0948250
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)
 
(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
     
University Centre I, Suite 200
   
1300 South University Drive
   
Fort Worth, Texas
 
76107
(Address of principal executive offices)
 
(Zip Code)

(817) 810-0095
Registrant's telephone number, including area code:

NONE
(Former name, former address and former fiscal year, if changed since last report)


Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.
Yes T
 
No £

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, or a non-accelerated filer or a smaller reporting company. See definitions of "large accelerated filer", "accelerated filer" and "smaller reporting company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.  (Check one):
Large accelerated filer £
 
Accelerated filer  T
 
Non-accelerated filer  £
 
Smaller Reporting Company  £

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).
Yes £
 
No  T

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

Title of each class:
 
Outstanding at November 30, 2008:
Common Stock, $1.00 par value per share
 
 12,609,160


 
 

 

AZZ incorporated
INDEX


     
PAGE NO.
PART I.
 
FINANCIAL INFORMATION
 
Item 1.
 
Condensed Financial Statements
 
   
Consolidated Balance Sheets at November 30, 2008 and February 29, 2008
3
   
Consolidated Income Statements for the Three and Nine Months Ended November 30, 2008 and November 30, 2007
4
   
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Nine Months Ended November 30, 2008 and November 30, 2007
5
   
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
6-10
Item 2.
 
Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.
11-19
Item 3.
 
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk.
19
Item 4.
 
20
       
PART II.
   
Item 1.
 
Legal Proceedings
20
Item 1A.
 
Risk Factors.
20
Item 2.
 
Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of  Proceeds.
20
Item 3.
 
Defaults Upon Senior Securities.
20
Item 4.
 
Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders.
20
Item 5.
 
Other Information.
20
Item 6.
 
Exhibits.
21
       
   
21
       
   
22


 

 
2

 

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Item 1.                 Financial Statements
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

   
011/30/08
   
02/29/08
 
Assets
 
(UNAUDITED)
       
             
Current Assets
           
Cash And Cash Equivalents
  $ 13,907,991     $ 2,226,941  
Accounts Receivable (Net of Allowance for Doubtful Accounts)
    72,075,709       38,901,577  
 Inventories:
               
Raw Material
    33,035,159       26,554,997  
Work-In-Process
    23,139,762       14,182,685  
Finished Goods
    2,713,556       2,688,786  
Costs And Estimated Earnings In Excess Of Billings On Uncompleted Contracts
    15,849,403       13,044,076  
Deferred Income Taxes
    3,434,471       4,391,398  
Prepaid Expenses And Other
    1,551,365       1,004,383  
                 
Total Current Assets
    165,707,416       102,994,843  
                 
Property, Plant And Equipment, Net
    85,576,498       48,284,910  
 Goodwill
    66,531,763       40,962,104  
 Intangibles
    17,486,808       986,869  
 Other Assets
    1,980,368       90,554  
                 
    $ 337,282,853     $ 193,319,280  
Liabilities And Shareholders' Equity
               
                 
Current Liabilities:
               
  Accounts Payable
  $ 20,038,697     $ 16,035,932  
  Income Tax Payable
    143,768       706,966  
Accrued Salaries And Wages
    4,854,487       4,919,804  
Other Accrued Liabilities
    14,749,650       15,119,610  
Customer Advance Payment
    11,866,582       2,115,330  
Billings In Excess Of Costs And Estimated Earnings On Uncompleted Contracts
    1,074,961       3,798,179  
                 
Total Current Liabilities
    52,728,145       42,695,821  
                 
Long-Term Debt
    100,000,000       -  
Deferred Income Taxes
    7,288,421       4,466,834  
                 
Shareholders' Equity:
               
Common Stock, $1 Par Value
               
Shares Authorized, 25,000,000
               
Shares Issued and Outstanding, 12,609,160
    12,609,160       12,609,160  
Capital In Excess Of Par Value
    17,996,247       16,369,938  
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
    (2,831,157 )     -  
 Retained Earnings
    151,788,338       119,549,115  
Less Common Stock Held In Treasury, At Cost (464,944 And 480,188 Shares At November 30, 2008 And February 29, 2008, Respectively)
    (2,296,301 )     (2,371,588 )
                 
Total Shareholders' Equity
    177,266,287       146,156,625  
                 
    $ 337,282,853     $ 193,319,280  

 
3

 



PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Item 1.                 Financial Statements

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENTS

   
THREE MONTHS ENDED
   
NINE MONTHS ENDED
 
   
11/30/08
   
11/30/07
   
11/30/08
   
11/30/07
 
   
(UNAUDITED)
   
(UNAUDITED)
   
(UNAUDITED)
   
(UNAUDITED)
 
                         
Net Sales
  $ 108,860,233     $ 86,593,180     $ 312,077,957     $ 243,576,501  
                                 
Costs And Expenses
                               
Cost Of Sales
    79,372,838       66,369,431       226,844,620       182,943,181  
Selling, General and Administrative
    11,316,621       7,449,000       32,545,198       27,816,380  
Interest Expense
    1,681,641       341,954       4,484,091       1,261,297  
Net (Gain) Loss On Sale of Property, Plant and Equipment, and Insurance Proceeds
    9,351       (33,819 )     (1,135,868 )     (32,725 )
Other (Income)
    (314,904 )     (236,639 )     (1,378,144 )     (793,009 )
      92,065,547       73,889,927       261,359,897       211,195,124  
                                 
Income Before Income Taxes
    16,794,686       12,703,253       50,718,060       32,381,377  
Income Tax Expense
    5,981,668       4,611,672       18,478,836       12,021,508  
                                 
Net Income
  $ 10,813,018     $ 8,091,581     $ 32,239,224     $ 20,359,869  
                                 
Earnings Per Common Share
                               
Basic Earnings Per  Share
  $ 0.89     $ 0.67     $ 2.66     $ 1.70  
                                 
Diluted Earnings Per  Share
  $ 0.88     $ 0.66     $ 2.62     $ 1.67  
                                 




 
 
4

 

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Item I.                 Financial Statements.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
   
NINE MONTHS ENDED
 
   
11/30/08
   
11/30/07
 
   
(Unaudited)
   
(Unaudited)
 
Cash Flows From Operating Activities:
           
Net Income
  $ 32,239,224     $ 20,359,869  
                 
Adjustments To Reconcile Net Income To Net Cash and Cash Equivalents
               
Provided By Operating Activities:
               
Provision For Doubtful Accounts
    360,604       34,405  
Amortization And Depreciation
    10,763,444       6,071,592  
Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
    3,778,372       (327,490 )
      Net (Gain) Loss On Sale Or Insurance Settlement Of Property, Plant & Equipment
    (1,145,564 )     (32,725 )
Non-Cash Compensation Expense
    1,597,901       751,788  
                 
Effects Of Changes In Assets & Liabilities:
               
                 
Accounts Receivable
    (23,322,405 )     (181,163 )
Inventories
    (3,066,270 )     (381,590 )
Prepaid Expenses And Other
    (448,842 )     1,055,739  
Other Assets
    (94,926 )     (89,283 )
  Net Change In Billings Related To Costs And Estimated Earnings On Uncompleted Contracts
    (5,528,544 )     (2,290,074 )
Accounts Payable
    2,793,946       (6,341,168 )
 Other Accrued Liabilities And Income Taxes
    3,444,266       1,467,508  
                 
Net Cash Provided By Operating Activities
    21,371,206       20,107,593  
                 
Cash Flows Used For Investing Activities:
               
Proceeds From Sale Or Insurance Settlement Of Property, Plant, And Equipment
    2,499,110       217,748  
Purchase Of Property, Plant And Equipment
    (14,631,353 )     (8,084,593 )
Acquisition Of Subsidiaries, Net Of Cash Acquired
    (95,450,673 )     -  
                 
Net Cash Used In Investing Activities
    (107,582,916 )     (7,866,845 )
                 
Cash Flows From Financing Activities:
               
Proceeds From Exercise Of Stock Options
    31,242       3,364,792  
Excess Tax Benefits From Stock Options Exercises
    72,453       3,053,649  
Proceeds From Long-Term Debt (Net of Debt Origination Costs)
    98,000,000       -  
  Payments On Long Term Debt
    -       (18,200,000 )
                 
Net Cash Provided By (Used In) Financing Activities
    98,103,695       (11,781,559 )
                 
Effect Of Exchange Rate Changes On Cash and Cash Equivalents
    (210,935 )     -  
                 
Net Increase In Cash & Cash Equivalents
    11,681,050       459,189  
                 
Cash & Cash Equivalents At Beginning Of Period
    2,226,941       1,703,092  
                 
Cash & Cash Equivalents At End Of Period
  $ 13,907,991     $ 2,162,281  
                 
Supplemental Disclosures
               
Cash Paid For Interest
  $ 3,273,333     $ 1,385,741  
                 
Cash Paid For Income Taxes
  $ 15,526,438     $ 8,657,785  

 
5

 

AZZ incorporated
FINANCIAL NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS
 
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

1.
Basis of presentation.

 
These interim unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements were prepared pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”).  Certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America have been condensed or omitted pursuant to the SEC rules and regulations referred to above.  Accordingly, these financial statements should be read in conjunction with the audited financial statements and related notes for the fiscal year ended February 29, 2008 included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K covering such period.  For purposes of the report, “AZZ”, the “Company”, “we”, “our”, “us” or similar reference means AZZ incorporated and our consolidated subsidiaries.

 
Our fiscal year ends on the last day of February and is identified as the fiscal year for the calendar year in which it ends.  For example, the fiscal year that ended February 29, 2008 is referred to as fiscal 2008.

 
In the opinion of management of the Company, the accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements contain all adjustments (consisting only of normal recurring adjustments) necessary to present fairly the financial position of the Company as of November 30, 2008, and the results of its operations for the three-month and nine-month periods ended November 30, 2008 and 2007, and cash flows for the nine-month periods ended November 30, 2008 and 2007.  Operating results for the three and nine months ended November 30, 2008 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the year ending February 28, 2009.

2.
Earnings per share.

 
Earnings per share is based on the weighted average number of shares outstanding during each period, adjusted for the dilutive effect of stock awards.  The shares and earnings per share have been adjusted to reflect our two-for-one stock split, effected in the form of a share dividend on May 4, 2007.

 
The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted earnings per share:

   
Three Months Ended Nov. 30,
   
Nine Months Ended Nov. 30,
 
   
2008
   
2007
   
2008
   
2007
 
   
(Unaudited)
 
   
(In thousands except share and per share data)
 
Numerator:
  Net income for basic and diluted earnings per common share
  $ 10,813     $ 8,092     $ 32,239     $ 20,360  
Denominator:
   Denominator for basic earnings per common share–weighted average shares
    12,144,216       12,101,722       12,138,797       11,976,296  
Effect of dilutive securities:
   Employee and Director stock awards
    150,776       192,018       170,997       222,216  
   Denominator for diluted earnings per common share
    12,294,992       12,293,740       12,309,794       12,198,512  
                                 
Earnings per share basic and diluted:
                               
    Basic earnings per common share
  $ .89     $ .67     $ 2.66     $ 1.70  
    Diluted earnings per common share
  $ .88     $ .66     $ 2.62     $ 1.67  


 
6

 


3.             Stock-based Compensation.

On April 7, 2005, the Company implemented Stock Appreciation Rights Plans (the “Plans”) for its key employees and directors. The purpose of the Plans is to enable the Company to attract and retain qualified key employees and directors by offering to them the opportunity to share in increases in the value of the Company to which they contribute. The Company made awards under the Plans in fiscal 2006. There were 207,660 Stock Appreciation Rights awards granted in fiscal 2006. The awards for fiscal 2006 were fully vested on February 29, 2008 and were paid in cash during the second quarter ended August 31, 2008 in the amount of $4.8 million.   The Company recognized $4.8 million for compensation expense related to the fiscal 2006 Stock Appreciation Rights Plan prior to February 29, 2008.  There was no additional compensation expense recorded for these Stock Appreciation Rights during the nine-month period ended November 30, 2008.

During fiscal 2006, the Company adopted the AZZ incorporated 2005 Long-Term Incentive Plan (“2005 Plan”). The purpose of the 2005 Plan is to promote the growth and prosperity of the Company by permitting the Company to grant to its employees and directors restricted stock, performance awards, stock appreciation rights (“SARs” or “Stock Appreciation Rights”) and options to purchase Common Stock of the Company. The maximum number of shares that may be issued under the 2005 Plan is 1 million shares. On June 1, 2006, 234,160 SARs were issued under the 2005 Plan with an exercise price of $11.55. As of November 30, 2008, 209,920 SARs were outstanding due to the accelerated vesting of 24,240 SARs as a result of the retirement of two directors and two employees.  These awards qualify for equity treatment in accordance with FAS 123R. These stock appreciation rights have a three year cliff vesting schedule, but may vest early if accelerated vesting provisions in the plan are met. The weighted average fair value of SARs granted on June 1, 2006 was determined to be $2.915 based on the following assumptions: risk-free interest rate of 5%, dividend yield of 0.0%, expected volatility of 27.81% and expected life of 3 years.  Compensation expense related to the June 1, 2006 grant was $392,000 and $152,000 for fiscal 2007 and fiscal 2008, respectively. Additional compensation in the amount of $101,000 was recognized during the nine month period ended November 30, 2008. As of November 30, 2008, we had unrecognized cost of $38,000 related to the June 1, 2006 SAR grants.

On March 1, 2007, 147,740 Stock Appreciation Rights were awarded under the 2005 Plan with an exercise price of $19.88. These Stock Appreciation Rights have a three year cliff vesting schedule, but may vest early if accelerated vesting provisions in the plan are met and qualify for equity treatment under SFAS 123R. The weighted average fair value of SARs granted on March 1, 2007, was determined to be $5.535 based on the following assumptions: risk-free interest rate of 5%, dividend yield of 0.0%, expected volatility of 29.52% and expected life of 3 years.  As of November 30, 2008, 140,840 SARs were outstanding due to the accelerated vesting of 6,900 SARs as a result of the retirement of two directors and one employee. Compensation expense in the amount of $512,000 was recognized during fiscal 2008. Additional compensation expense in the amount of $167,000 was recognized in the nine month period ended November 30, 2008. We had unrecognized cost of $139,000 related to the March 1, 2007 SAR grants as of November 30, 2008.

On March 1, 2008, 129,800 Stock Appreciation Rights were awarded under the 2005 Plan with an exercise price of $35.88. These Stock Appreciation Rights have a three year cliff vesting schedule, but may vest early if accelerated vesting provisions in the plan are met and qualify for equity treatment under SFAS 123R. The weighted average fair value of SARs awarded on March 1, 2008, was determined to be $11.80 based on the following assumptions: risk-free interest rate of 5%, dividend yield of 0.0%, expected volatility of 41.81% and expected life of 3 years.  Compensation expense in the amount of $989,000 was recognized in the nine month period ended November 30, 2008. We had unrecognized cost of $543,000 related to the March 1, 2008 SAR grants as of November 30, 2008.

 
7

 

On September 1, 2008, we implemented an employee stock purchase plan. The purpose of the Plan is to allow employees of the Company to purchase common stock of the Company through accumulated payroll deductions. Offerings under the Plan have a duration of 24 months.  On the first day of an offering period (the Enrollment Date), the participant is granted the option to purchase shares on each exercise date during the offering period up to 10% of the participant’s compensation at the lower of 85% of the fair market value of a share of stock on the Enrollment Date or 85% of the fair market value of a share of stock on the Exercise Date.  The participant’s right to purchase stock in the Plan is restricted to no more than $25,000 per calendar year.  A participant may terminate their interest in a given offering, or a given exercise period, by withdrawing all, but not less that all, of the accumulated payroll deductions of the account at any time prior to the end of the offering period.  The estimated shares to be issued on the first enrollment are 36,100 shares after estimated forfeitures. The weighted average fair value of these shares was determined to be $14.69 based on the following assumptions risk-free interest rate of 2%, dividend yield of 0.0%, expected volatility of 50.40% and expected life of 2 years.  Compensation expense in the amount of $66,000 was recognized in the nine month period ended November 30, 2008. We had unrecognized cost of $464,000 related to the employee stock purchase plan as of November 30, 2008.


4.
Segments.

We have two operating segments as defined in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended February 29, 2008.  Information regarding operations and assets by segment is as follows:

   
Three Months Ended Nov. 30,
   
Nine Months Ended Nov. 30,
 
   
2008
   
2007
   
2008
   
2007
 
   
(Unaudited)
 
   
($ In thousands)
 
Net Sales:
                       
   Electrical and Industrial Products
  $ 61,960     $ 51,455     $ 165,925     $ 137,479  
   Galvanizing Services
  $ 46,900     $ 35,138       146,153       106,098  
    $ 108,860     $ 86,593     $ 312,078     $ 243,577  
                                 
Operating Income (a):
                               
   Electrical and Industrial Products
  $ 10,411     $ 8,032     $ 28,140     $ 22,318  
   Galvanizing Services
    13,125       8,336       41,961       26,177  
    $ 23,536     $ 16,368     $ 70,101     $ 48,495  
                                 
General Corporate Expense (b)
  $ 5,183     $ 3,308     $ 15,292     $ 14,825  
Interest Expense
    1,681       342       4,484       1,261  
Other (Income) Expense, Net (c)
    (123 )     15       (393 )     28  
    $ 6,741     $ 3,665     $ 19,383     $ 16,114  
                                 
Income Before Income Taxes
  $ 16,795     $ 12,703     $ 50,718     $ 32,381  
                                 
                                 
Total Assets:
                               
   Electrical and Industrial Products
  $ 170,861     $ 124,196     $ 170,861     $ 124,196  
   Galvanizing Services
    144,785       76,370       144,785       76,370  
   Corporate
    21,637       6,634       21,637       6,634  
    $ 337,283     $ 207,200     $ 337,283     $ 207,200  


 
8

 

 (a)
Segment operating income consists of net sales, less cost of sales, specifically identifiable selling, general and administrative expenses, and other income and expense items that are specifically identifiable to a segment.
 (b)
General Corporate Expense consists of selling, general and administrative expenses that are not specifically identifiable to a segment.
 (c)
Other (income) expense, net includes gains and losses on sale of property, plant and equipment and other (income) expenses not specifically identifiable to a segment.
 
5.
Warranty reserves
 
A reserve has been established to provide for the estimated future cost of warranties on a portion of the Company’s products for our Electrical and Industrial Segment and is classified within accrued liabilities on the consolidated balance sheet.  Management periodically reviews the reserves and makes adjustments accordingly.  Warranties cover such factors as non-conformance to specifications and defects in material and workmanship.  The following table shows changes in the warranty reserves since the end of fiscal 2007:
 
   
Warranty
Reserve
 
   
(Unaudited)
 
   
($ In thousands)
 
       
Balance at February 28, 2007
  $ 1,578  
Warranty costs incurred
    (1,034 )
Additions charged to income
    1,188  
Balance at February 29, 2008
  $ 1,732  
Warranty costs incurred
    (910 )
Additions charged to income
    1,054  
Balance at November 30, 2008
  $ 1,876  

6.
Acquisition.

On March 31, 2008, AZZ incorporated entered into an Asset Purchase Agreement to acquire substantially all of the assets of AAA Industries, Inc. The purchase price of the transaction was approximately $81,600,000, subject to adjustment as more fully described in the Asset Purchase Agreement filed as an exhibit to our Current Report on Form 8-K on April 2, 2008. The purchased assets included six galvanizing plants (three plants located in Illinois, one plant located in Indiana, one plant located in Minnesota and one plant located in Oklahoma) and related equipment and supplies. This acquisition will be included in the Galvanizing Services Segment.  The acquisition was made to compliment our existing facilities in this region and to expand our geographic footprint.

The following table summarizes the preliminary purchase price allocation as of the date of acquisition:

Purchase Price Allocation
 
March 31, 2008
 
   
(unaudited)
$ in Thousands
 
Current Assets
  $ 18,064  
Property and Equipment
  $ 32,934  
Intangible Assets
  $ 16,070  
Goodwill
  $ 15,716  
Total Assets
  $ 82,784  
Current Liabilities
  $ (1,187 )
Cost of Acquisition, net of cash received
  $ 81,597  


 
9

 

Of the $16.1 million of intangible assets acquired, $1.8 million, $1.2 million and $13.1 million was assigned to non-compete agreements, trade names and customer relationships, respectively. These intangible assets are being amortized and have a weighted average life of 13.8 years. Goodwill of $15.7 million arising from the acquisition has been allocated to the Galvanizing Services Segment and will be deductible for income tax purposes.

The following pro forma information is based on the assumption the acquisition took place on March 1, 2007 for the income statement for the three month and nine month period ended November 30, 2008 and 2007.


   
Three Months Ended Nov. 30,
   
Nine Months Ended Nov. 30,
 
   
2008
   
2007
   
2008
   
2007
 
         
(Unaudited, $ in Thousands)
       
Net Sales
  $ 108,860     $ 101,226     $ 316,628     $ 289,188  
                                 
Net Income
    10,813       9,158       32,270       22,549  
                                 
Earnings Per Common Share:
                               
Basic Earnings Per Share
  $ 0.89     $ 0.76     $ 2.66     $ 1.88  
Diluted Earnings Per Share
  $ 0.88     $ 0.75     $ 2.62     $ 1.85  


On June 26, 2008, we announced the signing of an asset purchase agreement with Chriscot Holdings, Ltd, a privately held company, to acquire substantially all of the assets related to Blenkhorn and Sawle, Ltd., headquartered in St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada.  The acquisition closed on June 30, 2008.   The purchase price was approximately $13.8 million in cash plus assumption of certain current liabilities. Blenkhorn and Sawle has been a premier supplier of electrical equipment since 1948.  As a custom turn-key solutions provider and certified professional engineering house they have supplied products to the major utility companies, as well as to the oil and gas, mining, industrial and nuclear power industries.  This acquisition will be included in our Electrical and Industrial Products Segment.  The acquisition was made to obtain a local manufacturer of electrical products to expand our served markets to include the Canadian Utility market.

7.
Comprehensive Income.

We consider the Canadian dollar to be the functional currency of Blenkhorn and Sawle (B&S) because it conducts substantially all of its business in Canadian currency.  B&S's assets and liabilities are translated into United States dollars at exchange rates existing at the balance sheet date, revenue and expense are translated at weighted average exchange rates and shareholders' equity and intercompany balances are translated at historical exchange rates.  The foreign currency translation adjustment is recorded as a separate component of shareholders equity and is included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss).

Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 130 Reporting Comprehensive Income (SFAS 130), requires the reporting of comprehensive income in addition to net income.  Comprehensive income is a more inclusive financial reporting methodology that includes disclosure of certain financial information that historically has not been recognized in the calculation of net income.  The Company's comprehensive income includes net income and foreign translation adjustments.  Comprehensive income for the three and nine month periods ended November 30, 2008 was $8,727,561 and $29,408,067, respectively.  Comprehensive income for fiscal 2008 was equal to net income.

 
10

 

Item 2.    Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS

This Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q may contain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.  These statements are generally identified by the use of words such as “anticipate,” “expect,” “estimate,” “intend,” “should,” “may,” “believe,” and terms with similar meanings.  Although we believe that the current views and expectations reflected in those forward-looking statements are reasonable, those views and expectations, and the related statements, are inherently subject to risks, uncertainties, and other factors, many of which are not under our control.  Those risks, uncertainties, and other factors could cause the actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements.  Those risks, uncertainties, and factors include, but are not limited to: the level of customer demand for and response to products and services offered by the Company, including demand by the power generation markets, electrical transmission and distribution markets, the general industrial market, and the hot dip galvanizing markets; raw material and utility costs, including cost of zinc and natural gas which are used in the hot dip galvanizing process and steel, aluminum and copper costs which are used in the Electrical and Industrial Segment; changes in economic conditions of, and recessions in, the various markets we serve, both foreign and domestic; customer requested delays of shipments; acquisition opportunities, currency exchange rates, adequacy of financing and availability of experienced management employees to implement our growth strategy.  We expressly disclaim any obligation to release publicly any updates or revisions to these forward-looking statements to reflect any change in our views or expectations. We can give no assurances that such forward-looking statements will prove to be correct.

The following discussion should be read in conjunction with management’s discussion and analysis contained in our 2008 Annual Report on Form 10-K, as well as with the condensed consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.


RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

We have two operating segments as defined in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year-ended February 29, 2008. Management believes that the most meaningful analysis of our results of operations is to analyze our performance by segment.  We use revenue and operating income by segment to evaluate our business.  Segment operating income consists of net sales less cost of sales, specifically identifiable selling, general and administrative expenses, and other (income) expense items that are specifically identifiable to a segment.  The other (income) expense items included in segment operating income are generally insignificant.  For a reconciliation of segment operating income to pretax income, see Note 4 to our quarterly consolidated financial statements included in this report.

Revenues

Our entire backlog relates to our Electrical and Industrial Products Segment. Our backlog was $195.2 million as of November 30, 2008, an increase of $60.3 million or 45%, as compared to $134.9 million at February 29, 2008.  Our book-to-ship ratio was 1.04 to 1 for the third quarter ended November 30, 2008, as compared to .98 to 1 for the same period in the prior year.  Incoming orders for the three and nine month periods increased 34% and 33%, respectively, over the same period a year ago. The increase in incoming orders during the third quarter of fiscal 2009 over the same quarter in fiscal 2008 was due primarily to increased international orders.  Orders included in the backlog are represented by contracts and purchase orders that we believe to be firm. The following table reflects our bookings and shipments on a quarterly basis for the period ended November 30, 2008, as compared to the same period in the prior fiscal year.


 
11

 

Backlog Table
(In thousands)

 
Period Ended
     
Period Ended
     
Backlog
2/29/08
  $ 134,876  
2/28/07
  $ 120,666  
Bookings
      106,834         99,483  
Shipments
      99,958         75,377  
Backlog
5/31/08
  $ 141,752  
5/31/07
  $ 144,772  
Book to Ship Ratio
      1.07         1.32  
Bookings
      139,084         86,030  
Acquired Backlog
      13,244         -  
Shipments
      103,260         81,606  
Backlog
8/31/08
  $ 190,820  
8/31/07
  $ 149,196  
Book to Ship Ratio
      1.35         1.05  
Bookings
      113,280         84,537  
Shipments
      108,860         86,594  
Backlog
11/30/08
  $ 195,240  
11/30/07
  $ 147,139  
Book to Ship Ratio
      1.04         .98  


The following table reflects the breakdown of revenue by segment:

   
Three Months Ended
   
Nine Months Ended
 
   
11/30/2008
   
11/30/2007
   
11/30/2008
   
11/30/2007
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Revenue:
                       
Electrical and Industrial Products
  $ 61,960     $ 51,455     $ 165,925     $ 137,479  
Galvanizing Services
    46,900       35,138       146,153       106,098  
Total Revenue
  $ 108,860     $ 86,593     $ 312,078     $ 243,577  

For the three and nine-month periods ended November 30, 2008, consolidated net revenues were $108.9 million and $312.1 million, a 26% and 28% increase, respectively, as compared to the same period in fiscal 2008. For the quarter ended November 30, 2008, the Electrical and Industrial Products Segment contributed 57% of the Company’s revenues, and the Galvanizing Services Segment accounted for the remaining 43% of the combined revenues. The Electrical and Industrial Products Segment contributed 53% of the Company’s revenues, and the Galvanizing Services Segment accounted for the remaining 47% of the combined revenues for the nine-month period ended November 30, 2008.

Revenues for the Electrical and Industrial Products Segment increased $10.5 million or 20% for the three-month period ended November 30, 2008, and increased $28.4 million or 21% for the nine-month period ended November 30, 2008, as compared to the same period in fiscal 2008. The acquisition of Blenkhorn & Sawle Ltd. combined with a continuation of improved market demand, primarily from our high voltage transmission, power generation, utility distribution, and the energy infrastructure market resulted in the increased revenues for the compared periods.

Revenues in the Galvanizing Services Segment increased $11.8 million or 33% for the three-month period ended November 30, 2008, as compared to the same period in fiscal 2008 and increased $40.1 million or 38% for the nine-month period ended November 30, 2008, as compared to the same period in fiscal 2008.  Revenues for the three and nine-months periods ended November 30, 2008 were favorably impacted by the acquisition of AAA Industries, Inc. as well as increased production levels in our existing facilities. Revenues from our acquisition of AAA Industries, Inc. on March 31, 2008, were $11.8 million and $33.7 million for the three and nine months ended November 30, 2008, respectively. Excluding the acquisition of

 
12

 

AAA Industries, Inc., revenue was unchanged for the three-month period ended November 30, 2008 and increased $6.4 million or 6% for the nine-month period ended November 30, 2008. The volume of steel processed in our historical operations, excluding the acquisition of AAA Industries, Inc., increased 11% for the nine month period ended November 30, 2008, as compared to same period last year, while selling price decreased 2% for the compared periods.  Revenues from by-products accounted for the remining 3% decrease in revenues.  Historically, revenues for this segment have followed closely the condition of the industrial sector of the general economy.

Segment Operating Income

The following table reflects the breakdown of total operating income by segment:

   
Three Months Ended
 
Nine Months Ended
 
   
11/30/2008
   
11/30/2007
 
11/30/2008
   
11/30/2007
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Segment Operating Income:
                       
Electrical and Industrial Products
  $ 10,411     $ 8,032     $ 28,140     $ 22,318  
Galvanizing Services
    13,125       8,336       41,961       26,177  
Total Segment Operating Income
  $ 23,536     $ 16,368     $ 70,101     $ 48,495  

Our total segment operating income increased 44% and 45% for the three and nine-month periods ended November 30, 2008, to $23.5 million and $70.1 million, respectively, as compared to $16.4 million and $48.5 million for the same periods in fiscal 2008.

Segment operating income in the Electrical and Industrial Products Segment increased 30% and 26% for the three and nine-month periods ended November 30, 2008, to $10.4 million and $28.1 million, respectively, as compared to $8 million and $22.3 million for the same periods in fiscal 2008. Operating margins were 17% for the three month and nine-month periods ended November 30, 2008, as compared to 16% for the comparable periods in fiscal 2008. Increased operating profit resulted from higher revenues and improved price realization as a result of favorable market conditions.

In the Galvanizing Services Segment, operating income increased 57% and 60% for the three and nine-month periods ended November 30, 2008, to $13.1 million and $42 million, respectively, as compared to $8.3 million and $26.2 million for the same periods in fiscal 2008. Operating margins were 28% and 29% for the three and nine-month periods ended November 30, 2008, respectively, as compared to 24% and 25% for the comparable periods in fiscal 2008. The operating income and margins reflect the positive impact of an insurance settlement related to a fire at one of our facilities during the second quarter of fiscal 2009. This resulted in a gain of $1.3 million and is included in the operating income for the nine-month period ended November 30, 2008. Without this gain, operating margins would be 28% for the nine-month period ended November 30, 2008. The increased operating income during the third quarter ended November 30, 2008, as compared to the same period last year resulted from higher volumes, primarily from our acquisition of AAA Industries, Inc., and lower costs for zinc. Margins in future quarters could be impacted by a reduction in pricing if market demand decreases for galvanizing services.

General Corporate Expenses

General corporate expenses, (see Note 4 to consolidated financial statements) not specifically identifiable to a segment, for the three-month period ended November 30, 2008, were $5.2 million compared to $3.3 million for the same period in fiscal 2008.  For the nine-month period ended November 30, 2008, general corporate expenses were $15.3 million as compared to $14.8 million for the comparable period last year. As a percentage of sales, general corporate expenses were relatively unchanged and were 5% and 5% for the three and nine-month periods ended November 30, 2008, as compared to 4% and 6% for the same periods in fiscal 2008.

 
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Other (Income) Expense

For the three-month and nine-month periods ended November 30, 2008, the amounts in other (income) expense not specifically identifiable with a segment (see Note 4 to consolidated financial statements) were insignificant.

Interest

Net interest expense for the three and nine-month periods ended November 30, 2008 increased 392% and 256%, respectively, as compared to the same periods in fiscal 2008 to $1.7 million for the three months and $4.5 million for the nine months ended November 30, 2008. Interest expense increased due to higher levels of debt resulting from a $100 million Note Purchase Agreement entered into by the Company pursuant to which the Company issued $100 million aggregate principal amount of it’s 6.24% unsecured Senior Notes.  As of November 30, 2008, we had outstanding long term debt of $100 million, an increase of $83 million, as compared to $17 million at the end of the same period in fiscal 2008. The increase in debt funded the acquisition of AAA Industries, Inc. on March 31, 2008 and Blenkhorn & Sawle Ltd. on June 30, 2008.  Our long-term debt to equity ratio was .56 to 1 at November 30, 2008, as compared to .12 to 1 for the same period in fiscal 2008.

Income Taxes

The provision for income taxes reflects an effective tax rate of 36% for the three-month period and 36% for the nine-month period ended November 30, 2008, and 37% for the three-month period and 37% for the nine-month period ended November 30, 2007.  On December 15, 2008, the IRS began an audit of our Fiscal 2007 federal income tax return. We do not anticipate any significant adjustments as a result of this audit.


LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

Historically, we have met our cash needs through a combination of cash flows from operating activities and financial institution borrowings.  Our cash requirements are generally for operating activities, capital improvements, debt repayment and acquisitions.  Management believes that working capital, borrowing capabilities and funds generated from operations should be sufficient to finance anticipated operational activities, capital improvements, scheduled debt payments and possible future acquisitions for the remainder of fiscal 2009.

Net cash provided by operations was $21.4 million for the nine-month period ended November 30, 2008, as compared to $20.1 million provided from operations for the same period in the prior fiscal year. Cash flow from operations for the nine-month period ended November 30, 2008, included $32.2 million in net income, $10.8 million in depreciation and amortization of intangibles, and other adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash in the amount of $4.6 million. Included in other adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash was provision for bad debt, deferred income taxes, gain or loss on the sale of assets or insurance settlement and non-cash adjustments. Positive cash flow was recognized due to increased accounts payable and accrued liabilities in the amount of $2.8 million and $3.4 million, respectively.  These positive cash flow items were offset by increases in accounts receivables, inventories, other assets, prepaid expenses and revenues in excess of billings in the amount of $23.3 million, $3.1 million, $.1 million, $.4 million and $5.5 million, respectively. These increases result from additional working capital needed to support our increased business levels.  Accounts receivable days outstanding were 51 days at November 30, 2008, as compared to 49 days at February 29, 2008.  Working capital increased to $113 million as of November 30, 2008, as compared to $60.3 million at February 29, 2008. As of November 30, 2008, we had cash of $13.9 million.

 
14

 

For the nine-month period ended November 30, 2008, cash flow was used to make capital improvements of $14.6 million of which $2.5 million was related to the fire damage at one of our galvanizing facilities.  Debt increased by $100 million from the issuance of Senior Notes to fund the acquisition of AAA Industries, Inc. and Blenkhorn and Sawle, Ltd. in the amount of $95.4 million.

On May 25, 2006, we entered into the Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement (the “Credit Agreement”), which replaced our Amended and Restated Revolving and Term Credit Agreement dated as of November 2001.

The Credit Agreement provides for a $60 million revolving line of credit with one lender, Bank of America, N.A., maturing on May 25, 2011. This is an unsecured revolving credit facility to be used to provide for working capital needs, capital improvements, future acquisitions, and letter of credit needs. At November 30, 2008, we had no outstanding debt borrowed against the revolving credit facility.  However, we had letters of credit outstanding in the amount of $13.3 million, which left approximately $46.7 million of additional credit available under the revolving credit facility.

On March 31, 2008, the Company entered into a Note Purchase Agreement pursuant to which the Company issued $100 million aggregate principal amount of its 6.24% unsecured Senior Notes (the "Notes") due March 31, 2018 through a private placement (the "Note Offering").  Pursuant to the Note Purchase Agreement, the Company’s payment obligations with respect to the Notes may be accelerated upon any Event of Default (as defined in the Note Purchase Agreement). No principal payments are due on the Notes until February FY 2013. Deferred costs in the amount of $2 million were incurred for upfront costs paid in connection with Note Offering. These costs will be expensed using the imputed interest method over the life of the loan.

In connection with the Note Offering, the Company entered into the Second Amendment to Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, (the “Second Amendment”) with Bank of America, N.A. (“Bank of America”), which amended the Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement by and among the Company and Bank of America dated as of May 25, 2006. The Second Amendment contains the consent of Bank of America to the Note Offering and amended the Credit Agreement to provide that the Note Offering will not constitute a default under the Credit Agreement.

The Notes provide for various financial covenants of a) Minimum Consolidated Net Worth - Maintain on a consolidated basis net worth equal to at least the sum of $116.9 million plus 50% of future net income; b) Maximum Ratio of Consolidated Indebtedness to Consolidated EBITDA – Maintain a ratio of indebtedness to EBITDA (as defined in Note Purchase Agreement) not to exceed 3.25:1.00;  c) Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio – Maintain on a consolidated basis a Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio (as defined in the Note Purchase Agreement) of at least 2.0:1.0; d) Priority Indebtedness – The Company will not at any time permit aggregate amount of all Priority Indebtedness (as defined in the Note Purchase Agreement) to exceed 10% of Consolidated Net Worth.  In conjunction with Note Offering, the Credit Agreement with Bank of America was amended to reflect the same debt covenants as described above. As of November 30, 2008, we were in compliance with all debt covenants.

OFF BALANCE SHEET TRANSACTIONS AND RELATED MATTERS

Other than operating leases discussed below, there are no off-balance sheet transactions, arrangements, obligations (including contingent obligations), or other relationships with unconsolidated entities or other persons that have, or may have, a material effect on financial condition, changes in financial condition, revenues or expenses, results of operations, liquidity, capital expenditures or capital resources of the Company.


 
15

 

CONTRACTUAL COMMITMENTS

        Leases

We lease various facilities under non-cancelable operating leases with an initial term in excess of one year. The future minimum payments required under these operating leases as of November 30, 2008 are summarized in the table under operating leases.

             Commodity pricing

We manage our exposure to commodity prices through the use of the following.

In the Electrical and Industrial Products Segment, we have exposure to commodity pricing for copper, aluminum and steel. Because the Electrical and Industrial Products Segment does not commit contractually to minimum volumes, increases in price for these items are normally managed through escalation clauses in customer contracts, although during difficult market conditions these escalation clauses may not be obtainable.

In the Galvanizing Services Segment, we utilize contracts with our zinc suppliers that include protective caps to guard against rising zinc prices.  We also secure firm pricing for natural gas supplies with individual utilities when possible.  There are no contracted volume purchase commitments associated with the zinc or natural gas agreements.  Management believes these agreements ensure adequate supplies and partially offset exposure to commodity price swings.

Other

At November 30, 2008, we had outstanding letters of credit in the amount of $13.3 million.  These letters of credit are issued in lieu of performance and bid bonds, and to a portion of our customers to cover any potential warranty costs that the customer might incur.  In addition, as of November 30, 2008, a warranty reserve in the amount of $1.9 million has been established to offset any future warranty claims.

The following summarizes our operating leases, and long-term debt and interest expense for the next five years, and thereafter.

Fiscal Year
 
Operating Leases
   
Long-Term Debt
   
Interest on Long Term Debt
   
Total
 
(Unaudited, In thousands)
 
2009
  $ 841     $ -     $ -     $ 841  
2010
    3,322       -       6,240       9,562  
2011
    3,295       -       6,240       9,535  
2012
    2,554       -       6,240       8,794  
2013
    2,284       14,286       5,794       22,364  
Thereafter
    13,817       85,714       16,046       115,577  
Total
  $ 26,113     $ 100,000     $ 40,560     $ 166,673  


 
 
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CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES

The preparation of the condensed consolidated financial statements requires us to make estimates that affect the reported value of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses. Our estimates are based on historical experience and various other factors that we believe are reasonable under the circumstances, and form the basis for our conclusions. We continually evaluate the information used to make these estimates as business and economic conditions change. Accounting policies and estimates considered most critical are allowances for doubtful accounts, accruals for contingent liabilities, revenue recognition, impairment of long-lived assets, identifiable intangible assets and goodwill, accounting for income taxes, and stock options and stock appreciation rights. Actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions.  The development and selection of the critical accounting policies and the related disclosures below have been reviewed with the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors. More information regarding significant accounting policies can be found in Note 1 of the Notes to Annual Consolidated Financial Statements filed in our Form 10-K for the year ended February 29, 2008.

Allowance for Doubtful Accounts- The carrying value of our accounts receivable is continually evaluated based on the likelihood of collection. An allowance is maintained for estimated losses resulting from our customer’s inability to make required payments. The allowance is determined by historical experience of uncollected accounts, the level of past due accounts, overall level of outstanding accounts receivable, information about specific customers with respect of their inability to make payments and future expectations of conditions that might impact the collectibility of accounts receivable. If the financial condition of our customers were to deteriorate, resulting in an impairment of their ability to make payments, additional allowances may be required.

Accruals for Contingent Liabilities- The amounts we record for estimated claims, such as self insurance programs, warranty, environmental, and other contingent liabilities, requires us to make judgments regarding the amount of expenses that will ultimately be incurred. We use past history and experience, as well as other specific circumstances surrounding these claims in evaluating the amount of liability that should be recorded. Actual results may be different than what we estimate.

Revenue Recognition- Revenue is recognized for the Electrical and Industrial Products Segment upon transfer of title and risk to customers, or based upon the percentage of completion method of accounting for electrical products built to customer specifications under long term contracts.  We recognize revenue for the Galvanizing Services Segment upon completion of the galvanizing process performed on the customers’ material or shipment of this material. Revenue for the Galvanizing Service Segment is typically recognized at completion of the service unless we specifically agree with the customer to hold its material for a predetermined period of time after the completion of the galvanizing process and, in that circumstance, we invoice and recognize revenue upon shipment. Customer advanced payments presented in the balance sheet arise from advanced payments received from our customers prior to shipment of the product and are not related to revenue recognized under the percentage of completion method.  The extent of progress for revenue recognized using the percentage of completion method is measured by the ratio of contract costs incurred to date to total estimated contract costs at completion.  Contract costs include direct labor and material, and certain indirect costs.  Selling, general and administrative costs are charged to expense as incurred. Provisions for estimated losses, if any, on uncompleted contracts are made in the period in which such losses are able to be determined. The assumptions made in determining the estimated cost could differ from actual performance resulting in a different outcome for profits or losses than anticipated.

 
17

 

Impairment of Long-Lived Assets, Identifiable Intangible Assets and Goodwill- We record impairment losses on long-lived assets, including identifiable intangible assets, when events and circumstances indicate that the assets might be impaired and the undiscounted projected cash flows associated with those assets are less than the carrying amounts of those assets. In those situations, impairment losses on long-lived assets are measured based on the excess of the carrying amount over the asset’s fair value, generally determined based upon discounted estimates of future cash flows. A significant change in events, circumstances or projected cash flows could result in an impairment of long-lived assets, including identifiable intangible assets. An annual impairment test of goodwill is performed in the fourth quarter of each fiscal year.  The test is calculated using the anticipated future cash flows after tax from our operating segments. Based on the present value of the future cash flows, we will determine whether impairment may exist.  A significant change in projected cash flows or cost of capital for future years could result in an impairment of goodwill in future years. Variables impacting future cash flows include, but are not limited to, the level of customer demand for and response to products and services we offer to the power generation market, the electrical transmission and distribution markets, the general industrial market and the hot dip galvanizing market; changes in economic conditions of these various markets; raw material and natural gas costs; and availability of experienced labor and management to implement our growth strategies.

Accounting for Income Taxes-  We account for income taxes under the provisions of SFAS No. 109, "Accounting For Income Taxes" ("SFAS No. 109").  The objectives of accounting for income taxes are to recognize the amount of taxes payable or refundable for the current year and deferred tax liabilities and assets for the future tax consequences of events that have been recognized in our financial statements or tax returns.  SFAS No. 109 also requires that deferred tax assets be reduced by a valuation allowance if it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax asset will not be realized. Developing our provision for income taxes requires significant judgment and expertise in federal and state income tax laws, regulations and strategies, including the determination of deferred tax assets and liabilities and, if necessary, any valuation allowances that may be required for deferred tax assets.  Our judgments and tax strategies are subject to audit by various taxing authorities.

On March 1, 2007, the Company adopted FASB Interpretation No. 48, "Accounting for interpretation of FASB No. 109" ("FIN 48"), which prescribes a recognition that recording in the financial statements uncertain tax positions taken or expected to be taken in a guidance on derecognition, classification, accounting in interim periods and disclosure requirement.

Stock Options and Stock Appreciation Rights- Our employees and directors are periodically awarded stock options or Stock Appreciation Rights by the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors. In fiscal 2007, we adopted the provisions of SFAS No. 123R, Share-Based Payment.  Under the provisions of SFAS No. 123R, the compensation cost of all employee stock-based compensation awards is measured based on the grant-date fair value of those awards and that cost is recorded as compensation expense over the period during which the employee is required to perform service in exchange for the award (generally over the vesting period of the award). The valuation of stock based compensation awards is complex in that there are a number of variables included in the calculation of the value of the award:

 
·
Volatility of our stock price
 
·
Expected term of the awards
 
·
Expected dividend yield
 
·
Risk-free interest rate over the expected term
 
·
Expected number of awards that will not vest
 
·
Expected forfeitures

We have elected to use a Black-Scholes pricing model in the valuation of our awards for stock options and stock appreciation rights.

These variables are developed using a combination of our internal data with respect to stock price volatility and exercise behavior of option holders and information from outside sources.  The development of each of these variables requires a significant amount of judgment.  Changes in the values of the above variables will result in different option valuations and, therefore, different amounts of compensation cost.

 
18

 

RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS

In February 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 159, "The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities, including an amendment of FASB Statement No. 115" ("SFAS No. 159").  This standard permits an entity to choose to measure many financial instruments and certain items at fair value. Most of the provisions in SFAS No. 159 are elective; however, the amendment to FASB SFAS No. 115, "Accounting for Certain Investments in Debt and Equity Securities", applies to all entities with available –for-sale and trading securities.  The provisions of SFAS No. 159 are effective as of the beginning of an entity's first fiscal year that begins after November 15, 2007.  The adoption of SFAS No. 159 did not have an impact on our consolidated financial statements.

In September 2006, the FASB issued SFAS No. 157, "Fair Value Measurements" ("SFAS No. 157"), which defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value and expands disclosures about fair value measurements.  The provisions of SFAS No. 157 are effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007.  In February of 2008, the FASB issued FASB Staff position No. 157-2 which delays the effective date of SFAS No. 157 for non-financial assets and liabilities which are not measured at fair value on a recurring basis (at least annually) until fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2008. The adoption of SFAS No. 157 did not have an impact on our consolidated financial statements.  We are still evaluating the non-financial assets and liability provision on the consolidated financial statement

In December 2007, the Financial Accounting Standard board ("FASB") issued SFAS No. 141, (revised 2007), "Business Combinations" ("SFAS No. 141(R)"), which continues the evolution toward fair value reporting and significantly changes the accounting for acquisitions that close beginning in 2009, both at the acquisition date and in subsequent periods.  SFAS No. 141(R) introduces new accounting concepts and valuation complexities, and many of the changes have the potential to generate greater earnings volatility after an acquisition.  SFAS No. 141(R) applies to acquisitions on or after March 1, 2009 and will impact the Company's reporting prospectively only for future acquisitions.
 

Item 3.
 
Market risks relating to our operating results are primarily from changes in commodity prices. We have only limited involvement with derivative financial instruments and we are not a party to any leveraged derivatives.

In the Electrical and Industrial Product Segment, we have exposure to commodity pricing for copper, aluminum, and steel. Because the Electrical and Industrial Products Segment does not commit contractually to minimum volumes, increases in the price for these items are normally managed through escalation clauses attached to our customer’s contracts, although during difficult market conditions these escalation clauses may be difficult to obtain.

We manage our exposure to commodity prices through various methods. In the Galvanizing Services Segment, we utilize agreements with zinc suppliers that include protective caps to guard against rising zinc prices. We believe these agreements ensure adequate supplies and partially offset exposure to commodity price swings.

Management does not believe the risk associated with our commodity or interest rate commitments has changed materially since February 29, 2008.

 
19

 

The Company has exposure to foreign currency exchange related to our Canadian operation.
 
We do not believe that a hypothetical change of 10% of commodity prices would have a significant adverse effect on our results of operations, financial position, or cash flows. However, there can be no assurance that either interest rates or commodity prices will not change in excess of the 10% hypothetical amount, which could have an adverse effect on our results of operations, financial position, and cash flows if we are unable to pass along these increase to our customers.
 
Item 4.
 
We performed an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures pursuant to Exchange Act Rules 13a-15 and 15d-15 as of the end of the period covered by this report.  Based upon that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of that date to ensure that information required to be disclosed by us in our reports filed or submitted under the Exchange Act is (a) accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and financial officers, as appropriate to allow timely discussions regarding required disclosure and (b) recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms.

There have been no significant changes in our internal control over financial reporting during the period covered by this report that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

While we believe that its existing disclosure controls and procedures have been effective to accomplish their objectives, we intend to continue to examine, refine and document our disclosure controls and procedures and to monitor ongoing developments in this area. Because of the inherent limitations in all control systems, no evaluation of controls can provide absolute assurance that all control issues and instances of fraud, if any, within our company have been detected.


PART II. OTHER INFORMATION
 
Item 1.        Legal Proceedings.

We are involved from time to time in various suits and claims arising in the normal course of business.  In management’s opinion, the ultimate resolution of these matters will not have a material effect on our financial position or results of operations.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors.

There have been no material changes in the risk factors disclosed under Part I, Item 1A of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended February 29, 2008.

Item 2.        Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds.  None.
 
Item 3.
Defaults Upon Senior Securities.  None.
 
Item 4.
Submissions of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders.  None.
 
Item 5.
Other Information.  None.

 
 
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Item 6.           Exhibits.

Exhibits Required by Item 601 of Regulation S-K.

A list of the exhibits required by Item 601 of Regulation S-K and filed as part of this report is set forth in the Index to Exhibits on page 22, which immediately precedes such exhibits.



SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 
AZZ incorporated
 
(Registrant)
   
Date:   01/09/09
/s/ Dana Perry
 
Dana Perry, Senior Vice President for Finance Principal Financial Officer

 

 
 
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EXHIBIT
 INDEX
 

EXHIBIT NUMBER
DESCRIPTION OF EXHIBIT
   
3.1
Articles of Incorporation, and all amendments thereto (incorporated by reference to the Annual Report on Form 10-K filed by Registrant for the fiscal year ended February 28, 1981).
3.2
Articles of Amendment to the Article of Incorporation of the Registrant dated June 30, 1988  (incorporated by reference to the Annual Report on Form 10-K filed by Registrant for the fiscal year ended February 29, 2000).
3.3
Articles of Amendment to the Articles of Incorporation of the Registrant dated October 25, 1999  (incorporated by reference to the Annual Report on Form 10-K filed by Registrant for the fiscal year ended February 29, 2000).
3.4
Articles of Amendment to the Articles of Incorporation dated July 17, 2000 (incorporated by reference to the Quarterly Report Form 10-Q filed by Registrant for the quarter ended August 31, 2000).
3.5
Amended and Restated Bylaws of AZZ incorporated (incorporated by reference to the Exhibit 3(1) to the current Report on Form 8-K filed by the Registrant on November 27, 2007.
10.1
Note Purchase Agreement dated March 31, 2008, by and among AZZ incorporated and the Purchasers listed therein (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Form 8-K filed by the Registrant on March 31, 2008).
10.2
Asset Purchase Agreement dated March 31, 2008, by and among AZZ incorporated, Arbor Crowley, Inc., AAA Industries, Inc for itself and its wholly-owned subsidiaries identified therein, and the shareholders of AAA Industries, Inc. identified therein (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed by the Registrant on April 2, 2008).
10.3
Second Amendment to Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement with Bank of America, N.A., dated March 31, 2008 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(3) of the Form 8-K filed by the Registrant on March 31, 2008).
10.4
Asset Purchase Agreement dated June 26, 2008, and made effective as of June 30, 2008, by and among AZZ incorporated, AZZ Blenkhorn & Sawle Limited wholly-owned subsidiaries and Blenkhorn and Sawle Limited and Chriscot Holdings Limited (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed by the Registrant on July 2, 2008).
10.5
AZZ incorporated Amended and Restated 2005 Long-Term Incentive Plan and AZZ incorporated Employee Stock Purchase Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 and 10.2 to the current report on Form 8-K filed by the Registrant on July 11, 2008).
31.1
Chief Executive Officer Certificate pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 dated January 9, 2009. Filed Herewith.
31.2
Chief Financial Officer Certificate pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 dated January 9, 2009.  Filed Herewith.
32.1
Chief Executive Officer Certificate pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 dated January 9, 2009.  Filed Herewith.
32.2
Chief Financial Officer Certificate pursuant to 18 U.S.C. 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 dated January 9, 2009. Filed Herewith.




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