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EXCEL - IDEA: XBRL DOCUMENT - ADVANCED ENVIRONMENTAL RECYCLING TECHNOLOGIES INCFinancial_Report.xls
EX-32.2 - EXHIBIT 32.2 - ADVANCED ENVIRONMENTAL RECYCLING TECHNOLOGIES INCexh_322.htm
EX-31.2 - EXHIBIT 31.2 - ADVANCED ENVIRONMENTAL RECYCLING TECHNOLOGIES INCexh_312.htm
EX-31.1 - EXHIBIT 31.1 - ADVANCED ENVIRONMENTAL RECYCLING TECHNOLOGIES INCexh_311.htm
EX-32.1 - EXHIBIT 32.1 - ADVANCED ENVIRONMENTAL RECYCLING TECHNOLOGIES INCexh_321.htm
UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-Q
     
[ x ]  
QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the quarterly period ended June 30, 2012

OR

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

Commission File Number 1-10367

Advanced Environmental Recycling Technologies, Inc.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
     
Delaware
 (State or other jurisdiction of
 incorporation or organization)
 
71-0675758
 (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)

914 N. Jefferson Street
  Springdale, Arkansas
 (Address of principal executive offices)
 
72764
 (Zip Code)

(479) 756-7400
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

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

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):
 
Large accelerated filer [  ] Accelerated filer [  ]  
     
Non-accelerated filer [  ] Smaller reporting company [ x ]  
(Do not check if a 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 [ x ]

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer’s classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date. As of June 30, 2012, the number of shares outstanding of the Registrant’s Class A common stock, which is the class registered under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, was 88,165,632 and the number of shares outstanding of the Registrant’s Class B Common Stock was 1,465,530.

 
 

 


   ADVANCED ENVIRONMENTAL RECYCLING TECHNOLOGIES, INC.    
       
 
Form 10-Q Index
   
 
PART I--FINANCIAL INFORMATION
   
       
   
Page
 
Item 1
Financial Statements
   
       
   
       
   
       
   
       
   
       
Item 2
 
       
Item 4
 
       
       
 
PART II--OTHER INFORMATION
   
       
Item 1
 
       
Item 6
 
       
   
       
   
       
       


 
 

 

PART I – FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1. Financial Statements
 
ADVANCED ENVIRONMENTAL RECYCLING TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

(in thousands)

   
December 31,
   
June 30,
 
   
2011
   
2012
 
         
(unaudited)
 
Assets
           
Current assets:
           
   Cash
  $ 1,083     $ 558  
   Restricted cash
    454       -  
   Trade accounts receivable, net of allowance of $137 at December 31,
      2011 and $50 at June 30, 2012
    1,868       3,790  
   Inventories
    11,120       9,859  
   Prepaid expenses
    536       1,094  
         Total current assets
    15,061       15,301  
                 
Land, buildings and equipment:
               
   Land
    1,989       1,989  
   Buildings and leasehold improvements
    16,995       16,995  
   Machinery and equipment
    42,623       43,520  
   Transportation equipment
    215       202  
   Office equipment
    2,168       2,131  
   Construction in progress
    822       2,057  
         Total land, buildings and equipment
    64,812       66,894  
Less accumulated depreciation
    32,700       35,400  
Net land, buildings and equipment
    32,112       31,494  
                 
Other assets:
               
   Debt issuance costs, net of accumulated amortization of $97 at
      December 31, 2011 and $160 at June 30, 2012
    654       591  
   Other assets
    722       467  
         Total other assets
    1,376       1,058  
Total assets
  $ 48,549     $ 47,853  


The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 
1

 

ADVANCED ENVIRONMENTAL RECYCLING TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

(in thousands, except share and per share data)

               
     
December 31,
   
June 30,
 
     
2011
   
2012
 
 
Liabilities and Stockholders' Deficit
       
(unaudited)
 
Current liabilities:            
 
Accounts payable – trade
  $ 4,847     $ 5,844  
 
Accounts payable – related parties
    646       477  
 
Current maturities of long-term debt
    1,680       286  
 
Current maturities of capital lease obligations
    183       78  
 
Accruals related to expected settlement of class action lawsuit
    3,059       2,232  
 
Other accrued liabilities
    3,720       4,561  
 
Accrued product returns
    4,726       151  
 
Working capital line of credit
    6,125       5,525  
 
Notes payable
    -       475  
 
Total current liabilities
    24,986       19,629  
                   
Long-term debt, less current maturities     25,454       28,236  
                   
Commitments and contingencies (See Note 9)                
                   
Series E cumulative convertible preferred stock, $0.01 par value;     
      30,000 shares authorized, 20,524.149 shares issued and outstanding
      at December 31, 2011 and  June 30, 2012, including accrued
      unpaid dividends of $988 and $1,638 at December 31, 2011 and
      June 30, 2012, respectively
    21,512       22,162  
                   
Stockholders' deficit:                
Class A common stock, $.01 par value; 525,000,000 shares
      authorized;  88,165,632 shares issued and outstanding at
      December 31, 2011 and  June 30, 2012, respectively
    882       882  
Class B convertible common stock, $.01 par value; 7,500,000 shares
      authorized; 1,465,530 shares issued and outstanding at
      December 31, 2011 and June 30, 2012, respectively
    15       15  
Additional paid-in capital     53,347       53,660  
Accumulated deficit     (77,647 )     (76,731 )
Total stockholders' deficit     (23,403 )     (22,174 )
Total liabilities and stockholders' deficit   $ 48,549     $ 47,853  
 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 
2

 

ADVANCED ENVIRONMENTAL RECYCLING TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

(unaudited)
(in thousands, except share and per share data)

   
Three Months Ended June 30,
   
Six Months Ended June 30,
 
   
2011
   
2012
   
2011
   
2012
 
Net sales
  $ 17,616     $ 23,561     $ 32,633     $ 45,322  
Cost of goods sold
    14,503       17,837       27,414       35,939  
Gross margin
    3,113       5,724       5,219       9,383  
                                 
Selling and administrative costs
    2,815       3,458       5,839       6,390  
(Gain) loss from fixed asset disposition
    74       -       74       (24 )
Operating income (loss)
    224       2,266       (694 )     3,017  
                                 
Other income and expenses:
                               
   Gain on recapitalization
    284       -       3,029       -  
   Other income
    198       25       204       30  
   Net interest expense
    (706 )     (755 )     (1,598 )     (1,481 )
Income before dividends
    -       1,536       941       1,566  
Dividends on preferred stock
    (308 )     (327 )     (488 )     (650 )
Net income (loss) applicable to common stock
  $ (308 )   $ 1,209     $ 453     $ 916  
                                 
Income (loss) per share of common stock (basic)
  $ (0.00 )   $ 0.00     $ 0.00     $ 0.00  
Income (loss) per share of common stock (diluted)
  $ (0.00 )   $ 0.00     $ 0.00     $ 0.00  
                                 
Weighted average common shares outstanding (basic)
    89,429,437       89,631,162       72,854,899       89,631,162  
Weighted average common shares outstanding (diluted)
    89,429,437       382,212,283       231,971,861       380,038,409  


The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 
3

 

ADVANCED ENVIRONMENTAL RECYCLING TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

(unaudited)
(in thousands)

 
   
Six Months Ended June 30,
 
   
2011
   
2012
 
Cash flows from operating activities:
           
Net income applicable to common stock
  $ 453     $ 916  
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided
   by (used in) operating activities:
               
   Gain on recapitalization
    (3,029 )     -  
   Depreciation and amortization
    2,809       2,815  
   Dividends on preferred stock
    488       650  
   Accrued interest converted to long-term debt
    457       1,054  
   Issuance of stock
    105       -  
   Increase (decrease) in accounts receivable allowance
    335       (87 )
   (Gain) loss from fixed asset disposition
    74       (24 )
   Changes in other assets
    (2,338 )     370  
   Changes in current assets and current liabilities
    (6,566 )     (3,977 )
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities
    (7,212 )     1,717  
                 
Cash flows from investing activities:
               
   Purchases of land, buildings and equipment
    (1,224 )     (2,132 )
   Proceeds from disposition of equipment
    12       4  
Net cash used in investing activities
    (1,212 )     (2,128 )
                 
Cash flows from financing activities:
               
   Payments on line of credit
    (600 )     (600 )
   Payments on notes
    (155 )     (289 )
   Payments on capital lease obligations
    (115 )     (105 )
   Proceeds from issuance of notes
    7,270       426  
   Change in restricted cash
    1,624       881  
   Decrease in cash restricted for financing activities
    (770 )     (427 )
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities
    7,254       (114 )
                 
Decrease in cash
    (1,170 )     (525 )
Cash, beginning of period
    1,655       1,083  
Cash, end of period
  $ 485     $ 558  


The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 
4

 


Note 1: Unaudited Information

          Advanced Environmental Recycling Technologies, Inc. (the Company or AERT) has prepared the financial statements included herein without audit, pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). However, all adjustments have been made to the accompanying financial statements which are, in the opinion of the Company’s management, necessary for a fair presentation of the Company’s operating results. With the exception of the adjustments to report the recapitalization transactions described in Note 8, all adjustments are of a normal recurring nature. 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 such rules and regulations, although the Company believes that the disclosures are adequate to make the information presented herein not misleading. It is recommended that these financial statements be read in conjunction with the financial statements and the notes thereto included in the Company’s latest annual report on Form 10-K.

Note 2: Description of the Company

Advanced Environmental Recycling Technologies, Inc., founded in 1988, recycles polyethylene plastic and develops, manufactures, and markets composite building materials that are used in place of traditional wood or plastic products for exterior applications in building and remodeling homes and for certain other industrial or commercial building purposes. The Company’s products are made primarily from approximately equal amounts of recycled polyethylene plastic, which has been cleaned, processed, and reformulated and waste wood fiber, which has been cleaned, sized and reprocessed utilizing our patented and proprietary technologies. The Company’s products have been extensively tested, and are sold by leading national companies such as BlueLinx Corporation (BlueLinx), Lowe’s Companies, Inc. (Lowe’s) and Therma-Tru Corporation. The Company’s products are primarily used in renovation and remodeling by consumers, homebuilders, and contractors as an exterior environmentally responsible (“Green”) building alternative for decking, railing, and trim products.

The Company currently manufactures all of its composite products at extrusion facilities in Springdale, Arkansas. The Company operates a plastic recycling, blending and storage facility in Lowell, Arkansas, where it also leases warehouses and land for inventory storage. In April 2011, the Company started a new Green Age recycling, cleaning and reformulation facility at Watts, Oklahoma. The marketing and sale of recycled plastic and filler resins to third parties commenced in late 2011 and is expected to increase in 2012.

The Company leases a warehouse in Westville, Oklahoma for inventory storage.

Note 3: Statements of Cash Flows

In order to determine net cash provided by (used in) operating activities, net income has been adjusted by, among other things, changes in current assets and current liabilities, excluding changes in cash, current maturities of long-term debt and current notes payable. Those changes, shown as an (increase) decrease in current assets and an increase (decrease) in current liabilities, are as follows for the six months ended June 30 (in thousands):
 
   
2011
   
2012
 
   
(unaudited)
   
(unaudited)
 
Receivables
  $ (1,323 )   $ (1,835 )
Inventories
    (1,610 )     1,260  
Prepaid expenses and other
    103       -  
Accounts payable – trade and related parties
    (3,821 )     1,160  
Accrued liabilities
    85       (4,562 )
Changes in current assets and liabilities
  $ (6,566 )   $ (3,977 )
Cash paid for interest
  $ 363     $ 223  
 
5

 


Supplemental Disclosures of Non-Cash Investing and Financing Activities (in thousands):
 
   
2011
   
2012
 
   
(unaudited)
   
(unaudited)
 
Forgiven related party loan guaranty fees
    731       313  
Dividends on preferred stock transferred to equity
    2,227       650  
Accrued interest exchanged for equity/notes
    2,237       -  
Accrued interest converted to long-term debt
    457       1,054  
Notes payable exchanged for equity
    20,042       -  
Notes payable for financing insurance policies
    227       673  
Related party accounts payable exchanged for sale of fixed assets
    -       20  
Class A common stock issued in exchange for accrued liabilities
    105       -  

Note 4: Significant Accounting Policies

Revenue Recognition Policy

The Company recognizes revenue when the title and risk of loss have passed to the customer, there is persuasive evidence of an arrangement, shipment has occurred or services have been rendered, the sales price is determinable and collectability is reasonably assured. The Company typically recognizes revenue at the time product is shipped or when segregated and billed under a bill and hold arrangement. Sales are recorded net of discounts, rebates and returns, which were $1.7 million and $2.0 million for the six months ended June 30, 2011 and 2012, respectively.

Estimates of expected sales discounts are calculated by applying the appropriate sales discount rate to all unpaid invoices that are eligible for the discount. The Company’s sales prices are determinable given that its sales discount rates are fixed and given the predictability with which customers take sales discounts.

Accrued Product Returns

Estimates of costs to refresh inventory are based on the original sales price of the product returned per store, the current rate of transportation to AERT’s facility in Springdale, Arkansas, costs for labor and repackaging materials, and costs to dispose of damaged product. Costs are reduced by the per pound cost of any damaged product that can be re-used in the manufacturing process.

An inventory refresh entails replacing existing deck boards at Lowe’s stores with newly designed product that is expected to enhance future sales. This is accounted for as an adjustment to revenue in the period in which the refresh agreement was reached. The replacement deck boards were accounted for as a sale in accordance with our revenue recognition policy. Product returns commenced in December 2011 and will be completed in the third quarter of 2012. The associated costs are estimates.

Shipping and Handling

The Company records shipping fees billed to customers in net sales and records the related expenses in cost of goods sold.

Inventories

Inventories are stated at the lower of cost (first-in, first-out method) or market. Material, labor, and factory overhead necessary to produce the inventories are included at their cost. Inventories consisted of the following (in thousands):
 
   
December 31, 2011
   
June 30, 2012
 
         
(unaudited)
 
Parts and supplies
  $ 743     $ 1,037  
Raw materials
    5,960       5,088  
Work in process
    2,164       1,304  
Finished goods
    2,253       2,430  
    $ 11,120     $ 9,859  

 
6

 
Accounts Receivable

Accounts receivable are carried at original invoice amounts less an estimated reserve for returns and discounts based on a review of historical rates of returns and expected discounts. The carrying amount of accounts receivable is reduced, if needed, by a valuation allowance that reflects management’s best estimate of the amounts that will not be collected. Management individually reviews all overdue accounts receivable balances and, based on an assessment of current creditworthiness, estimates the portion, if any, of the balance that will not be collected. Management provides for probable uncollectible amounts through a charge to earnings and a credit to an allowance account based on its assessment of the current status of the individual accounts. Balances, which remain outstanding after management uses reasonable collection efforts, are written off through a charge to the valuation allowance and a credit to trade accounts receivable. Recoveries of trade receivables previously written off are recorded when received.

Use of Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

Concentration Risk
    
       The Company’s revenues are derived principally from national and regional building products distributors and BlueLinx, the Company’s primary decking customer. The ChoiceDek® brand of decking products sold to BlueLinx are in turn sold exclusively to Lowe’s. BlueLinx is also one of the Company’s MoistureShield® decking customers. The Company extends unsecured credit to its customers. The Company’s concentration in the building materials industry has the potential to impact its exposure to credit risk because changes in economic or other conditions in the construction industry may similarly affect the Company’s customers.

Note 5: Income Taxes

As of June 30, 2012, the Company had net operating loss (NOL) carryforwards for federal income tax purposes, which are available to reduce future taxable income. If not utilized, the NOL carryforwards will expire between 2016 and 2030. In March 2011, H.I.G. AERT, LLC acquired a controlling interest in the Company, which will result in a significant restriction on the utilization of the Company’s net operating loss carryforwards. It is estimated that the utilization of future NOL carryforwards will be limited (per IRC 382) to approximately $0.8 million per year for the next 20 years. The impact of this limitation is approximately $30.0 million in NOL’s, which will expire before the Company can use them.

As there is insufficient evidence that the Company will be able to generate adequate future taxable income to enable it to realize its net operating loss carryforwards prior to expiration, the Company maintained a valuation allowance to recognize its deferred tax assets only to the extent of its deferred tax liabilities.

Based upon a review of its income tax filing positions, the Company believes that its positions would be sustained upon an audit and does not anticipate any adjustments that would result in a material change to its financial position. Therefore, no reserves for uncertain income tax positions have been recorded. The Company recognizes interest related to income taxes as interest expense and recognizes penalties as operating expense.

The Company is subject to routine audits by taxing jurisdictions and is currently under examination by the Internal Revenue Service for the year ended December 31, 2010.  The Company is no longer subject to income tax examinations by tax authorities for years before 2009, except in the State of Texas, for which the 2008 tax year is still subject to examination.

Note 6: Earnings Per Share

The Company utilizes the two-class method for computing and presenting earnings per share. The Company currently has one class of common stock (the Common Stock) and one class of cumulative participating preferred stock, Series E (the Preferred Stock). Pursuant to the Series E Designation, holders of the Series E Preferred Stock are entitled to receive per share dividends equal to 6% per annum of the stated value of $1,000 per share of Series E Preferred Stock when declared by the Company’s Board of Directors. In addition, holders of the Series E Preferred Stock are entitled to participate in any dividends declared on shares of the Company’s Common Stock on an as-converted basis. Therefore, the Preferred Stock is considered a participating security requiring the two-class method for the computation and presentation of net income per share – basic.

 
7

 
The two-class computation method for each period segregates basic earnings per common and participating share into two categories: distributed earnings per share (i.e., the Preferred Stock stated dividend) and undistributed earnings per share, which allocates earnings after subtracting the Preferred Stock dividend to the total of weighted average common shares outstanding plus equivalent converted common shares related to the Preferred Stock. Basic earnings per common and participating share exclude the effect of Common Stock equivalents, and are computed using the two-class computation method.

In computing diluted EPS, only potential common shares that are dilutive—those that reduce earnings per share or increase loss per share—are included. The exercise of options or conversion of convertible securities is not assumed if the result would be antidilutive, such as when a loss from continuing operations is reported. As a result, if there is a loss from continuing operations, diluted EPS would be computed in the same manner as basic EPS is computed, even if an entity has net income after adjusting for discontinued operations, an extraordinary item or the cumulative effect of an accounting change.

The following presents the two-class method for the three and six months ended June 30, 2011 and 2012
 
BASIC EARNINGS PER SHARE
 
(in thousands, except share data)
 
 
                         
   
Three Months Ended
   
Six Months Ended
       
   
June 30, 2011
   
June 30, 2012
   
June 30, 2011
   
June 30, 2012
 
   
(unaudited)
   
(unaudited)
   
(unaudited)
   
(unaudited)
 
Income before dividends
  $ -     $ 1,536     $ 941     $ 1,566  
Preferred stock dividend
    (308 )     (327 )     (488 )     (650 )
Net income (loss) applicable to common stock
    (308 )     1,209       453       916  
                                 
Per share information:
                               
      Basic earnings per common and participating share:
                               
 Distributed earnings per share:
                               
                 Common
  $ 0.00     $ 0.00     $ 0.00     $ 0.00  
                 Preferred
  $ 0.00     $ 0.00     $ 0.00     $ 0.00  
                                 
 Earned, unpaid dividends per share
                               
 Preferred ($0.001 per common equivalent share)
  $ 15.04     $ 15.96     $ 23.79     $ 31.68  
                                 
 Undistributed earnings per share:
                               
                 Common
  $ (0.00 )   $ 0.00     $ 0.00     $ 0.00  
                 Preferred
    -     $ 45.10     $ 15.15     $ 34.12  
                                 
      Basic weighted average common shares:
                               
 Common weighted average number of shares
    89,429,437       89,631,162       72,854,899       89,631,162  
 Participating preferred shares
    275,665,318       292,581,121       159,116,962       290,407,247  
Total weighted average number of shares
    365,094,755       382,212,283       231,971,861       380,038,409  

 
8

 

Reconciliation of the numerator (num) and denominator (den) of the basic Earnings per Share computation
(in thousands, except share data)

   
Three Months Ended
 
   
June 30, 2012
             
   
Income
 
Shares
 
Per Share
 
   
(num)
 
(den)
   
Amount
 
                   
Basic EPS
  $ 284       89,631,162     $ 0.00  
Net income applicable to common stock
 
Effect of Dilutive Securities
    925       292,581,121          
Convertible preferred stock
         
Diluted EPS
                       
Net income applicable to common stock
    plus assumed conversions
  $ 1,209       382,212,283     $ 0.00  
 
   
Six Months Ended
   
June 30, 2011
   
June 30, 2012
 
   
Income
 
Shares
 
Per Share
 
Income
 
Shares
   
Per Share
 
   
(num)
 
(den)
   
Amount
 
(num)
 
(den)
   
Amount
 
                                     
Basic EPS
  $ 142       72,854,899     $ 0.00     $ 216       89,631,162     $ 0.00  
Net income applicable to common stock
                       
Effect of Dilutive Securities
    311       159,116,962               700       290,407,247          
Convertible preferred stock
                                 
Diluted EPS
                                               
Net income applicable to common stock
    plus assumed conversions
  $ 453       231,971,861     $ 0.00     $ 916       380,038,409     $ 0.00  

Although not included in a diluted EPS calculation due to being antidilutive, the Company had potentially dilutive securities outstanding at June 30, 2011 and 2012. The following schedule presents antidilutive securities for the three and six months ended June 30, 2011 and 2012:
 
   
Three Months Ended June 30,
   
Six Months Ended June 30,
 
   
2011
   
2012
   
2011
   
2012
 
   
(unaudited)
   
(unaudited)
   
(unaudited)
   
(unaudited)
 
Options
    525,000       350,000       525,000       350,000  
Series E preferred stock
    278,408,257       -       -       -  

Although these financial instruments were not included due to being antidilutive, such financial instruments may become dilutive and would then need to be included with future calculations of diluted EPS.

Note 7: Debt

 Revolving Line of Credit Agreement

On February 17, 2012, the Company’s line of credit agreement with Liberty Bank of Arkansas was modified pursuant to a Loan Modification Agreement (Revolving Line of Credit). This Agreement was entered into for the purpose of extending and modifying the loan to allow the Company additional time to procure and close additional financing that will be used to retire the indebtedness under the Loan. At June 30, 2012, the principal outstanding on the line of credit was $5.5 million, which is the maximum amount available to borrow. Unpaid principal that exceeds the borrowing base must be paid upon demand. Pursuant to the Agreement, Liberty Bank has waived any non-compliance to the current ratio covenant through December 31, 2012.

The modification to the Revolving Line of Credit Agreement lowered the interest rate to 7.15% per annum effective February 15, 2012 and extended the maturity date of the Agreement to February 15, 2013.

 
9

 
Mortgage, Security Agreement

On February 17, 2012, AERT entered into a Fifth Modification to (A) Mortgage, Security Agreement and Fixture Filing, and (B) Assignment of Leases and Rents (Mortgage, Security Agreement) with Liberty Bank of Arkansas. The purpose of modifying this Agreement was to effect an extension of the Mortgage loan for which the principal amount as of February 15, 2012 was $1.5 million. This Mortgage, Security Agreement evidences an extended and modified loan.

This amendment to the Mortgage, Security Agreement extends the maturity date to February 15, 2014. The interest rate was lowered to 6.5% per annum with payments of $16,000 per month commencing on March 15, 2012 and continuing until February 15, 2014. A balloon payment is due at loan maturity. The balance at June 30, 2012 was $1.5 million.

Note 8: Recapitalization

On March 18, 2011, the Company consummated related recapitalization transactions (the Transactions) with H.I.G. AERT, LLC, an affiliate of H.I.G. Capital, LLC (H.I.G.) and with other existing preferred stockholders, pursuant to which, among other things, H.I.G. exchanged $32,620,816 of its secured debt in the Company, including interest accrued through March 17, 2011, for a combination of new debt and equity. (See Notes Payable – H.I.G. Long-Term Debt.)

Notes Payable

H.I.G. Long-Term Debt

Prior to the consummation of the Transactions, H.I.G. was the sole owner of four distinct obligations representing the Company’s debt: (i) $6,806,656 of principal plus accrued interest owed under that certain Promissory Note, dated July 1, 2009, issued by the Company in favor of H.I.G.; (ii) $13,281,084 of principal plus accrued interest owed under the Adair County Industrial Authority Solid Waste Recovery Facilities Revenue Bonds issued in 2007; (iii) $10,436,409 of principal plus accrued interest owed under the City of Springdale, Arkansas Industrial Development Refunding Revenue Bonds issued in 2008; and (iv) $2,096,667 of principal plus accrued interest owed under the Secured Promissory Note (2010 Note) issued on December 20, 2010. Items (i)-(iv) above are collectively referred to herein as the “Prior Debt.”
 
In connection with the consummation of the Transactions, the Company entered into a Securities Exchange Agreement with H.I.G. (the Exchange Agreement), and a Credit Agreement with H.I.G. (the Credit Agreement), each dated March 18, 2011. Pursuant to the Exchange Agreement and the Credit Agreement, in exchange for the Prior Debt and H.I.G. making approximately $6.9 million in additional new capital available to the Company, H.I.G. was issued (i) a Series A Term Note (Series A Note) in the aggregate principal amount of $10,000,000, (ii) a Series B Senior Term Note (Series B Note, and collectively with the Series A Note, the Notes) in the aggregate principal amount of $9,000,000 (or such lesser amount as is actually borrowed thereunder), and (iii) 20,524.149 shares of Series E Convertible Preferred Stock, par value $0.01 per share, of the Company (the Series E Preferred Stock). As a result, upon consummation of the Transactions (including the Series D Exchange Agreement described hereunder), H.I.G. holds $17,596,667 outstanding principal amount of senior secured debt of the Company and owns less than 80% of the outstanding common equity securities of the Company on a fully diluted, as converted basis. Pursuant to the Exchange Agreement, until such time as H.I.G. no longer owns at least 20% of the Company’s outstanding Common Stock on a fully diluted basis, H.I.G. has the right to purchase securities in any subsequent issuance or sale of securities by the Company in an amount equal to the greater of (i) H.I.G.’s ownership percentage as of the business day prior to its receipt of notice of the proposed issuance or sale by the Company or (ii) 51%.

Pursuant to the Credit Agreement, the Company issued to H.I.G. the Notes, which are secured by a grant of a security interest in all of the Company’s assets in accordance with the terms of a Security Agreement, Patent Security Agreement, Copyright Security Agreement and Trademark Security Agreement, each dated March 18, 2011. The Series A Note matures six years after the closing of the Transactions (the Closing) and, at the Company’s option, either (i) bears cash interest at 8.0% per annum or (ii) bears cash interest at 4.0% per annum, plus a rate of interest equal to 4.0% per annum payable in kind and added to the outstanding principal amount of the Series A Note (with the latter option only being available for the first 24 months following the Closing, after which the Series A Note will bear cash interest at 8.0% per annum). H.I.G. and Liberty Bank of Arkansas (Liberty Bank) concurrently entered into an Amended Intercreditor Agreement pursuant to which H.I.G. has priority vis-à-vis Liberty Bank with respect to its lien on all assets of the Company other than inventory, accounts receivable, deposit accounts, and receipts, revenues, cash and income derived from such inventory and accounts receivable and certain real estate, and Liberty Bank has priority vis-à-vis H.I.G. with respect to its lien on all inventory, accounts receivable, deposit accounts, and receipts, revenues, cash and income derived from such inventory and accounts receivable and certain real estate.
 
 
10

 
Upon the Closing, H.I.G. converted the $2.0 million principal amount of the 2010 Note and accrued interest thereon into borrowings under the Series B Note. An additional $5.5 million was funded and drawn under the Series B Note at Closing. On October 20, 2011 AERT and H.I.G. amended this Credit Agreement to provide the Company with an additional $5.0 million to be drawn, as needed. The company drew down $1.0 million on May 23, 2011, $2.0 million on October 21, 2011, and $1.0 million on November 18, 2011 to help fund operations. With the addition of PIK interest, $1.1 million can be borrowed. The remaining principal balance is available to be drawn down from time to time in the future upon request by the Company, subject to H.I.G.’s approval in its sole discretion. The Series B Note matures six years after the Closing and, at the Company’s option, either (i) bears cash interest at 10.0% per annum or (ii) bears cash interest at 4.0% per annum, plus a rate of interest equal to 6.0% per annum payable in kind and added to the outstanding principal amount of the Series B Term Note. The Series B Note ranks pari passu to the Series A Note.
 
The Credit Agreement contains provisions requiring mandatory payments upon the Notes equal to 50% of the Company’s “Excess Cash Flow” (as defined in the Credit Agreement) and equal to 100% of proceeds from most non-ordinary course asset dispositions, additional debt issuances or equity issuances (subject to certain exceptions in each case or as H.I.G. otherwise agrees), and contains covenant restrictions on the incurrence of additional debt, liens, leases or equity issuances (subject to certain exceptions in each case or as H.I.G. otherwise agrees).

Guaranty Agreement

In connection with the execution of the Credit Agreement, Marjorie S. Brooks entered into a Second Amended and Restated Guaranty Agreement in favor of H.I.G., dated March 18, 2011 (the H.I.G. Guaranty), pursuant to which Ms. Brooks agreed to guarantee the Company’s obligations under the Credit Agreement up to a maximum guaranteed amount of $6.0 million (plus certain potential expenses), replacing a prior guaranty Ms. Brooks had agreed to with respect to certain of the Prior Debt. In consideration for Ms. Brooks entering into the H.I.G. Guaranty and continuing to perform her obligations under a January 16, 2006 Guaranty Agreement, as amended, in favor of Liberty Bank (the Liberty Guaranty), the Company entered into a Guaranty Fee Agreement with Ms. Brooks, dated March 18, 2011 and February 15, 2012 (the Guaranty Fee Agreement), pursuant to which the Company agreed to pay to Ms. Brooks, for as long as the Liberty Guaranty remains in effect, a guaranty fee equal to 4.0% per annum multiplied by the average daily balance of the Company’s obligations under its Loan Agreement with Liberty Bank, as amended, for the month in which the fee is calculated. Ms. Brooks agreed to accept a payment of $0.3 million on or before July 31, 2011 in full satisfaction of previously accrued and unpaid guaranty fees, subject to the terms and conditions set forth in the Guaranty Fee Agreement, which included a $6.0 million guaranty of AERT’s obligation under the Credit Agreement dated March 18, 2011 between AERT and H.I.G. AERT, LLC. In May 2012, AERT received a release from Ms. Brooks, in which she forgave AERT the $0.3 million in loan guarantee fees due. In return, Ms. Brooks was released from her obligation under the H.I.G. Guaranty. Previously accrued loan guaranty fees of $731,000 payable to Ms. Brooks were cancelled in connection with the restructuring transaction.

Advisory Services Agreement

 On March 18, 2011, the Company entered into an Advisory Services Agreement between H.I.G. Capital, LLC, an affiliate of H.I.G., and the Company (the Advisory Services Agreement) that provides for an annual monitoring fee between $250,000 and $500,000 (the Monitoring Fee) and reimbursement of all other out-of-pocket fees and expenses incurred by H.I.G. Capital, LLC. In addition, pursuant to the terms of the Advisory Services Agreement, H.I.G. Capital, LLC will be entitled to a financial advisory fee and a supplemental management fee in connection with any acquisition, disposition or material public or private debt or equity financing of the Company, in each case which has been introduced, arranged, managed and/or negotiated by H.I.G. Capital, LLC or its affiliates. H.I.G. Capital, LLC was paid a $500,000 transaction fee under the Advisory Services Agreement in connection with the recapitalization.
 
Series E Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock

Pursuant to the Exchange Agreement, the Company issued 20,524.149 shares of newly authorized Series E Preferred Stock to H.I.G. at the Closing. The Series E Preferred Stock was authorized by the filing of a Certificate of Designations, Preferences and Rights of the Series E Convertible Preferred Stock of the Company filed on March 17, 2011 with the Delaware Secretary of State (the Series E Designation). Pursuant to the Series E Designation, holders of the Series E Preferred Stock are entitled to receive per share dividends equal to 6% per annum of the stated value of $1,000 per share of Series E Preferred Stock when declared by the Company’s Board of Directors. In addition, holders of the Series E Preferred Stock are entitled to participate in any dividends declared on shares of the Company’s Common Stock on an as-converted basis. Shares of the Series E Preferred Stock and all accrued dividends thereon are convertible at any time at the holder’s election into shares of the Company’s Class A Common Stock (the Conversion Shares) at a conversion price of $0.075 per share, subject to customary anti-dilution adjustments. The Series E Preferred Stock ranks senior to all other equity securities of the Company. Holders of the Series E Preferred Stock have the right to vote their ownership interests in the Series E Preferred Stock on an as-converted basis. In addition, holders of the Series E Preferred Stock also have the right to elect four of the Company’s seven directors for as long as there remain outstanding shares of Series E Preferred Stock representing at least 20% of the outstanding shares of Common Stock on an as-converted basis. If the outstanding shares of Series E Preferred Stock at any time represent less than 20% of the outstanding shares of Common Stock on an as-converted basis, the holders of the Series E Preferred Stock will have the right to elect one of the Company’s seven directors. The Series E Designation contains customary protective voting provisions and other rights customarily granted to holders of preferred equity securities.

 
11

 
 Also, on March 18, 2011, the Company and H.I.G. entered into a Registration Rights Agreement under which, among other things, the Company granted to H.I.G. certain demand and “piggyback” registration rights with regard to its Conversion Shares and Series D Converted Shares. The Registration Rights Agreement provides for the payment of reasonable expenses in connection with such registrations (including the payment of fees of counsel up to $10,000 for each registration statement) and contains other customary provisions.

In order to satisfy its obligations under the Exchange Agreement with regard to the reservation of the Conversion Shares, the Company was contractually obligated to present for stockholder approval an amendment to the Company’s Certificate of Incorporation to authorize 400,000,000 additional shares of the Company’s Class A Common Stock which was subsequently voted on July 14, 2011 with stockholder approval. On March 18, 2011, the Company, H.I.G., all of the prior Series D Preferred Stockholders, certain management stockholders and certain other stockholders, entered into a Voting Agreement undertaking to vote in favor of such increase in authorized capital stock.

Management has the responsibility to determine the fair value of the Company’s Series E Cumulative Preferred stock issued in the recapitalization. The Series E stock was evaluated using a discounted cash flow analysis and comparable data of similar public trading companies and private transactions. Based on this analysis, management has assigned the stated (liquidation) value as the fair value estimate of the Series E cumulative preferred stock.

The Series E convertible Preferred Stock is not redeemable except under certain conditions which may be out of the control of the Company. An event of default under the Series A and B Term notes, for example, the failure to meet specified financial covenants, may trigger a redemption right to the holders of the Series E Convertible Preferred stockholders. As a result, the carrying value of the Series E Convertible Preferred Stock is reported in temporary equity.

The initial conversion price of the Series E Preferred Stock is fixed and will remain the conversion price subject to the anti-dilution adjustments described below. The conversion price of the Series E Preferred Stock is subject to customary weighted-average anti-dilution adjustments, which will be made (subject to certain exceptions) in the event that AERT:
 
·  
issues or sells common stock for consideration per share less than a price equal to the current market price in effect immediately prior to such issuance or sale;
 
·  
pays dividends or other distributions on the common stock in shares of common stock;
 
·  
subdivides, splits or combines the shares of common stock;
 
·  
subject to certain exceptions and limitations, issues options, rights or warrants entitling the holders to purchase common stock at less than the then-current market price (as defined in the certificate of designations for the Series E Preferred Stock);
 
·  
issues or sells any securities that are convertible into or exercisable or exchangeable for common stock and the lowest price per share for which one share of common stock is issuable upon the conversion, exercise or exchange thereof is less than the then-current market price;
 
·  
makes changes to the terms of outstanding options, warrants, or convertible securities (including those that were outstanding as of March 18, 2011, the original issue date of the Series E Preferred Stock) and that would result in a dilutive effect on the Series E Preferred Stock; in general, in such event the adjustment shall be calculated as if the changed terms had been in effect from the initial issuance of such securities and such securities issued before March 18, 2011 shall be treated as if newly issued as of the date of such change; provided that no adjustment will be made in such case if such adjustment would result in an increase in the conversion price then in effect; and
 
·  
takes any action that would result in dilution of the Series E Preferred Stock but is not specifically provided for in the Series E Preferred Stock certificate of designations (including granting of stock appreciation rights, phantom stock rights or other rights with equity features), in which case the Company’s Board of Directors shall in good faith determine and implement an appropriate adjustment in the conversion price so as to protect the rights of the holders of the Series E Preferred Stock, subject to certain qualifications.
 
 
12

 

Common Stock

The Class A common stock and the Class B common stock are substantially similar in all respects except that the Class B common stock has five votes per share while the Class A common stock has one vote per share. Each share of Class B common stock is convertible at any time at the holder’s option to one share of Class A common stock and, except in certain instances, is automatically converted into one share of Class A common stock upon any sale or transfer.

Note 9: Commitments and Contingencies

Class Action Lawsuits

The U.S. District Court, Western District of Washington (Seattle Division), approved a class action settlement in January 2009 related to a purported class action lawsuit seeking to recover on behalf of purchasers of ChoiceDek® composite decking for damages allegedly caused by mold and mildew stains on their decks. The settlement includes decking material purchased from January 1, 2004 through December 31, 2007, along with decking material purchased after December 31, 2007 that was manufactured before October 1, 2006, the date a mold inhibitor was introduced in the manufacturing process.

At June 30, 2012, AERT had a total remaining balance in accrued expenses of $2.2 million associated with the settlement of the class action lawsuit. In 2008, the Company accrued an estimated $2.9 million for resolving claims. In the first quarter of 2009, the Company increased its estimate of costs to be incurred in resolving claims under the settlement by $5.1 million. The estimate was revised due to events that occurred and information that became available after the second quarter of 2009 concerning primarily the number of claims received. The deadline for submitting new claims has now passed. The claim resolution process will have an annual net cost limitation to AERT of $2.0 million until the claim resolution process is completed.

Advanced Environmental Recycling Technologies, Inc. v. Ross Systems, Inc.

The Company currently has a cause of action against the vendor for its enterprise resource planning (ERP) system, Ross Systems, Inc. (Ross). The case is pending in the Circuit Court of Washington County, Arkansas – Civil Division. The Company alleges that Ross engaged in negligent misrepresentation, deceit, deceptive trade practices and breach of contract. The Company is seeking punitive damages and an amount for breach of contract. Ross countersued the Company for the collection of certain billings, but the suit was disallowed by the Court.

Other Matters

AERT is involved from time to time in litigation arising from the normal course of business that is not disclosed in its filings with the SEC. In management's opinion, this litigation is not expected to materially impact the Company's results of operations or financial condition.

 
13

 

Three Months Ended June 30, 2011 Compared to Three Months Ended June 30, 2012

The following table sets forth selected information from our statements of operations (in thousands):
   
Three Months Ended June 30,
 
   
2011
   
2012
   
% Change
 
   
(unaudited)
   
(unaudited)
       
Net sales
  $ 17,616     $ 23,561       33.7 %
Cost of goods sold
    14,503       17,837       23.0 %
   % of net sales
    82.3 %     75.7 %        
Gross margin
    3,113       5,724       83.9 %
   % of net sales
    17.7 %     24.3 %        
                         
Loss from fixed asset disposition
    74       -       *  
Selling and administrative costs
    2,815       3,458       22.8 %
   % of net sales
    16.0 %     14.7 %        
Operating income (loss)
    224       2,266       *  
   % of net sales
    1.3 %     9.6 %        
                         
Other income
    198       25       *  
Gain on recapitalization
    284       -       *  
Net interest expense
    (706 )     (755 )     6.9 %
Income before dividends
    -       1,536       *  
   % of net sales
    0.0 %     6.5 %        
Dividends on preferred stock
    (308 )     (327 )     6.2 %
Net income (loss) applicable to common stock
  $ (308 )   $ 1,209       *  
   % of net sales
    -1.7 %     5.1 %        
______________________________________
* Not meaningful as a percentage change

NetSales

Second quarter 2012 net sales were up $5.9 million or 33.7% from second quarter 2011 primarily due to an increase in ChoiceDek® sales. Sales were depressed in the second quarter of 2011 due to BlueLinx reducing their ChoiceDek® inventory levels. The MoistureShield® sales improved as a result of increased sales to our existing customers, additional BlueLinx MoistureShield® distribution facilities, and the addition of new customers in the second quarter of 2012.

Cost of Goods Sold and Gross Margin

Increased cost of goods sold in the second quarter of 2012 as compared to the second quarter of 2011 reflects increased sales. As a percentage of sales, cost of goods sold decreased by 6.6 percentage points, primarily as a result of plant efficiencies relating to higher production volumes.

Selling and Administrative Costs

Selling and administrative costs were up $0.6 million in the second quarter of 2012 compared to the second quarter of 2011. The increase is primarily due to incentive compensation accrual, additional commissions and advertising associated with increased sales and an increase in professional fees.

 
14

 
Earnings

Operating income improved by $2.0 million in the second quarter of 2012 from $0.2 million in the second quarter of 2011. This increase is due to higher sales volume and improved gross margin.

A gain on recapitalization of $0.3 million resulting from a reduction of accounts payable negotiated with certain vendors was recorded in the second quarter of 2011.

Six Months Ended June 30, 2011 Compared to Six Months Ended June 30, 2012

The following table sets forth selected information from our statements of operations (in thousands):
 
   
Six Months Ended June 30,
 
   
2011
   
2012
   
% Change
 
   
(unaudited)
   
(unaudited)
       
Net sales
  $ 32,633     $ 45,322       38.9 %
Cost of goods sold
    27,414       35,939       31.1 %
   % of net sales
    84.0 %     79.3 %        
Gross margin
    5,219       9,383       79.8 %
   % of net sales
    16.0 %     20.7 %        
                         
(Gain) loss from fixed asset disposition
    74       (24 )     *  
Selling and administrative costs
    5,839       6,390       9.4 %
   % of net sales
    17.9 %     14.1 %        
Operating income (loss)
    (694 )     3,017       *  
   % of net sales
    (2.1 %)     6.7 %        
                         
Other income
    204       30       (85.3 %)
Gain on recapitalization
    3,029       -       *  
Net interest expense
    (1,598 )     (1,481 )     (7.3 %)
Income before dividends
    941       1,566          
   % of net sales
    2.9 %     3.5 %        
Dividends on preferred stock
    (488 )     (650 )     33.2 %
Net income applicable to common stock
  $ 453     $ 916       102.2 %
   % of net sales
    1.4 %     2.0 %        

______________________________________
* Not meaningful as a percentage change

NetSales

Net sales for the first six months of 2012 increased 38.9% from the first half of 2011 due primarily to an increase in ChoiceDek® sales. First half of 2011 ChoiceDek® sales were depressed due to BlueLinx reducing their ChoiceDek® inventory levels. MoistureShield® sales also improved due to increased sales to our existing customers, the addition of BlueLinx MoistureShield® distribution facilities, and the addition of new customers in the first six months of 2012.

Cost of Goods Sold and Gross Margin

Cost of goods sold was higher in the first six months of 2012 compared to the first six months of 2011 due to increased sales. As a percentage of sales, cost of goods sold decreased by 4.7 percentage points, reflecting manufacturing efficiencies associated with increased production.

 
15

 
Selling and Administrative Costs

Selling and administrative costs were up $0.6 million in the first six months of 2012 compared to the same period in 2011. This increase is primarily due to increased compensation incentive accrual, advertising and promotions, and commissions associated with higher sales. The primary components of selling and administrative costs are compensation and benefits, advertising and promotion, depreciation, travel, professional fees, and commissions.

Earnings

Operating income of $3.0 million was generated in the first six months of 2012 compared to an operating loss of $0.7 million the first six months of 2011. This was due primarily to a gross margin increase of $4.2 million as a result of higher sales volume and increased plant efficiencies.

During the first half of 2011 a gain of $3.0 million was recognized as a result of the H.I.G. recapitalization.

Net income was up $0.5 million in the first six months of 2012 as compared to the first six months of 2011 for the reason that the income impact of increased revenue more than offset the recapitalization gain.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

We continue to improve on liquidity by increasing plant efficiencies, decreasing our overhead costs, negotiating longer payment terms with vendors and increasing profitability within our product sector. Our Junction, Texas facility, which is currently unused, is available for sale.

On October 20, 2011, AERT and H.I.G. amended their Credit Agreement on the Series B Senior Term Note with H.I.G. With the addition of PIK interest, as of June 30, 2012, the Company had $1.1 million available to be drawn, as needed.

Cash Flows

Cash Flows from Operations

     Cash provided by operations in the first six months of 2012 was $1.7 million as compared to cash used in operations of $7.2 million in the first six months of 2011. This $8.9 million change is primarily due to payment of accounts payable, change in other assets due to the reduction of debt issuance costs and the gain on the H.I.G. recapitalization in the first six months of 2011 offset by the reduction of the accrued returns accrual associated with Lowe’s inventory refresh for the first six months of 2012.

The changes in our revenue and cost of raw materials significantly impact the Company’s liquidity. The Company participates in the remodeling industry that has been depressed as a result of the reduction in home prices in recent years. There are some indications that this industry will improve within the next 12 months and thus have a positive impact on our sales; however, our business is dependent upon the economy and we cannot accurately predict cyclical economic changes and their impact on consumer buying. The Company has significant customer concentration, with one customer representing approximately 66% of our revenue. A loss of this customer, or a major reduction in their business would cause a significant reduction in our liquidity.

We believe that revenue will continue to recover sufficiently to generate adequate income to meet our cash and liquidity requirements over the next twelve months. However, we cannot be certain about future events and may require additional financing, temporary or permanent, to continue operations. The Company is committed to reducing overhead costs and purchases through continuous monitoring and departmental budget constraints.

 
16

 
Cash Flows from Investing Activities

Cash used in investing activities in the first six months of 2012 increased $0.9 million as compared to the same period in 2011. This increase in cash used resulted from additional capital expenditures at our Watts, Oklahoma plastic recycling facility and increased capital expenditures to improve our extrusion operations in Springdale, Arkansas.

Cash Flows from Financing Activities

Cash used in financing activities was $0.1 in the first six months of 2012 compared to cash provided by financing activities of $7.3 million in the first six months of 2011 that were primarily proceeds from the issuance of notes associated with the H.I.G. recapitalization.

Working Capital

At June 30, 2012, we had a working capital deficit of $4.3 million compared to a working capital deficit of $9.9 million at December 31, 2011. The decrease in our deficit in 2012 was primarily due to the impact of increased sales and the reduction of the accrual for product returns that were associated with the Lowe’s inventory refresh required for the new ChoiceDek® Foundations™ introduction. Components of working capital that fluctuated significantly include accounts receivable, inventory, accounts payable, accrued product returns and current maturities of long term debt.

Buildings and Equipment

The changes in our property, plant and equipment for 2012 are primarily due to increased capital expenditures at our Watts, Oklahoma plastic recycling facility and at our extrusion facilities in Springdale, Arkansas. The depreciation of buildings and equipment is provided on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of the assets. Gains or losses on sales, or other dispositions of property, are credited or charged to income in the period incurred. Repairs and maintenance costs are charged to income in the period incurred, unless it is determined that the useful life of the respective asset has been extended.

For purposes of testing impairment, we group our long-lived assets at the same level for which there are identifiable cash flows independent of other asset groups. Currently, there is only one level of aggregation for our assets. We assess the impairment of long-lived assets, primarily consisting of property, plant, and equipment related to the extrusion and rendering of plastic materials, whenever events or circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable. The Company believes the assets which most significantly drive the cash-flow-generating capacity at our facilities are the assets resulting in property, plant and equipment. As stated in Note 2 of our 10-K, buildings and equipment are stated at cost and depreciated over the estimated useful life of each asset using the straight-line method. Estimated useful lives are: buildings — 15 to 30 years, leasehold improvements — 2 to 6 years, transportation equipment — 3 to 5 years, office equipment — 3 to 6 years, and machinery and equipment — 3 to 10 years. We assess the impairment of long-lived assets, consisting of property, plant, and equipment, whenever events or circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable.

Examples of such events or circumstances include:
·  
an asset group's inability to continue to generate income from operations and positive cash flow in future periods;
·  
loss of legal ownership or title to an asset;
·  
significant changes in our strategic business objectives and utilization of the asset(s); and
·  
the impact of significant negative industry or economic trends.

Based on our last evaluation as of June 30, 2012, undiscounted estimated future cash flows substantially exceeded the carrying value of the asset group.

Recoverability of assets to be held and used in operations is measured by a comparison of the carrying amount of our assets to the undiscounted future net cash flows expected to be generated by the assets. The factors used to evaluate the future net cash flows, while reasonable, require a high degree of judgment and the results could vary if the actual results are materially different than the forecasts. If such assets are considered to be impaired, the impairment to be recognized is measured by the amount that the carrying amount of the assets exceeds the fair value of the assets. Assets to be disposed of are reported at the lower of the carrying amount or fair value less selling costs.

We also periodically review the lives assigned to our assets to ensure that our initial estimates do not exceed any revised estimated periods from which we expect to realize cash flows from the asset. If a change were to occur in any of the above-mentioned factors or estimates, the likelihood of a material change in our reported results would increase.

 
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Debt

In addition to the H.I.G. transaction on March 18, 2011, as discussed in Note 8, we continue to explore financing options, including various financial assistance programs sponsored by state and federal governments.

Line of Credit

The maturity date of the Company’s line of credit agreement with Liberty was extended in 2011 and again in 2012 to a maturity date of February 15, 2013. The Company is currently working to restructure or replace the line, which had a balance of $5.5 million at June 30, 2012. The line is secured by inventory, accounts receivable, chattel paper, general intangibles and other current assets, as well as by fixtures and equipment, and bears an interest rate that was reduced from 7.5% to 7.15% effective February 15, 2012. The full amount of the line is guaranteed as to payment by Marjorie S. Brooks, by Joe G. Brooks, the Company’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, and by Stephen W. Brooks, the Company’s Warehouse and Logistics Manager. Ms. Brooks' guaranty is collateralized by a subordinate lien on all of our assets subject to certain priority liens. Ms. Brooks receives a fee equal to 4% of the balance guaranteed as compensation for her guaranty.

Loan Extensions

Effective February 15, 2012, a $1.5 million mortgage loan from Liberty Bank was extended from April 15, 2012 to February 15, 2014. The interest rate was reduced from 7.0% to 6.5%.

Oklahoma Energy Program Loan

On July 14, 2010, the Company entered into a loan agreement with the Oklahoma Department of Commerce (ODOC) under award number 14215 SSEP09, whereby ODOC agreed to a 15-year, $3.0 million loan to AERT at a fixed interest rate of 3.0%. The loan is being made pursuant to the ARRA State Energy Program for the State of Oklahoma, and is funding the second phase of AERT’s new recycling facility in Watts, Oklahoma. Payments on the loan commenced on May 1, 2012. The full loan amount of $3.0 million was spent on contract labor, contract materials, and equipment. In addition, $9.2 million has been contributed (in-kind) to the project by AERT.

Debt Covenants

Our line of credit contains certain financial covenants:       
                                                      
Liberty Bank Line of Credit Debt Covenants
 
June 30, 2012
 
Compliance
Long-term debt service coverage ratio for last four quarters of at least 2.00 to 1.00
    3.4  
Yes
Current ratio of not less than 1.00 to 1.00
    0.8  
No, Waived
Not more than 10% of accounts payable in excess of 75 days past invoice date
    4 %
Yes
Not more than 20% of accounts receivable in excess of 90 days past invoice date
    0 %
Yes
           
H.I.G  Debt Covenants
 
June 20, 2012
 
Compliance
Leverage Ratio  (5.0:1.00)
    4.5  
Yes
Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio (1.00:1.00)
    1.9  
Yes
Minimun EBITDA ($6.0 million)
 
$7.7 million
 
Yes

Effective February 15, 2012, the maturity date on the Liberty Bank line of credit was extended to February 15, 2013. The current ratio covenant was waived through February 15, 2013, as part of the Sixteenth Amended and Restated Promissory Note.

The current ratio has been evaluated and the Company has determined that this covenant will not be met for future periods. The Company is actively pursuing financing proposals from various lenders to refinance the asset based lending facility and to repay amounts due under the existing facility. It is expected that the new credit facility would have covenants that would be attainable by the Company. If the Company is unsuccessful with the above course of action, we will attempt to renegotiate the facility with the existing lender to agree on covenants which can be met. In the event that we are unsuccessful in negotiating terms, then the bank could either renew or exercise rights to call on the guarantor or demand payment.
 
 
 
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H.I.G. Long Term Debt

On March 18, 2011, the Company consummated related recapitalization transactions (the Transactions) with H.I.G. AERT, LLC, an affiliate of H.I.G. Capital, LLC (H.I.G.) and with other existing preferred stockholders, pursuant to which, among other things, H.I.G. exchanged $32,620,816 of its secured debt in the Company, including interest accrued through March 17, 2011, for a combination of new debt and equity. (See Note 8 for further discussion.)

Uncertainties, Issues and Risks

            There are many factors that could adversely affect AERT’s business and results of operations. These factors include, but are not limited to, general economic conditions, decline in demand for our products, business or industry changes, government rules and regulations, environmental regulations and concerns, litigation, new products / product transition, product obsolescence, competition, acts of war, terrorism, public health issues, concentration of customer base, loss of a significant customer, availability of raw material (plastic) at a reasonable price, management’s failure to execute effectively, inability to obtain adequate financing (i.e. working capital), equipment breakdowns, low stock price, and fluctuations in quarterly performance.

Forward-Looking Information

An investment in our securities involves a high degree of risk. Prior to making an investment, prospective investors should carefully consider the following factors, among others, and seek professional advice. In addition, this Form 10-Q contains certain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act and Section 21E of the Exchange Act. Such forward-looking statements, which are often identified by words such as “believes”, “anticipates”, “expects”, “estimates”, “should”, “may”, “will” and similar expressions, represent our expectations or beliefs concerning future events. Numerous assumptions, risks, and uncertainties could cause actual results to differ materially from the results discussed in the forward-looking statements. Prospective purchasers of our securities should carefully consider the information contained herein or in the documents incorporated herein by reference.

The foregoing discussion contains certain estimates, predictions, projections and other forward-looking statements (within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) that involve various risks and uncertainties. While these forward-looking statements, and any assumptions upon which they are based, are made in good faith and reflect management’s current judgment regarding the direction of the business, actual results will almost always vary, sometimes materially, from any estimates, predictions, projections, or other future performance suggested herein. Some important factors (but not necessarily all factors) that could affect the sales volumes, growth strategies, future profitability and operating results, or that otherwise could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in any forward-looking statement include the following: market, political or other forces affecting the pricing and availability of plastics and other raw materials; accidents or other unscheduled shutdowns affecting us, our suppliers’ or our customers’ plants, machinery, or equipment; competition from products and services offered by other enterprises; our ability to refinance short-term indebtedness; state and federal environmental, economic, safety and other policies and regulations, any changes therein, and any legal or regulatory delays or other factors beyond our control; execution of planned capital projects; weather conditions affecting our operations or the areas in which our products are marketed; adverse rulings, judgments, or settlements in litigation or other legal matters. We undertake no obligation to publicly release the result of any revisions to any such forward-looking statements that may be made to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.
  

Our Chief Executive Officer, Joe G. Brooks, who is our principal executive officer, and our Chief Financial Officer, J. R. Brian Hanna, who is our principal financial and accounting officer, have reviewed and evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the Exchange Act)) as of June 30, 2012. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and our Chief Financial Officer have concluded that, as of June 30, 2012, the end of the period covered by this report, AERT’s disclosure controls and procedures are effective in recording, processing, summarizing and reporting, on a timely basis, information required to be disclosed by AERT in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act and are effective in ensuring that information required to be disclosed by AERT in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to AERT’s management, including AERT’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

During the quarter ended June 30, 2012, there have been no changes in our internal controls over financial reporting that have materially affected, or that are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal controls over financial reporting.
 
 
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PART II – OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1. Legal Proceedings (See Note 9: Commitments and Contingencies)


The exhibits listed in the accompanying Index to Exhibits are filed and incorporated by reference as part of this report.

 
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     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.

     
   
ADVANCED ENVIRONMENTAL
   
RECYCLING TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
     
   
By: /s/ Joe G. Brooks
   
Joe G. Brooks,
   
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer
   
(principal executive officer)
     
   
/s/ J. R. Brian Hanna
   
J. R. Brian Hanna,
   
Chief Financial Officer & Principal Accounting Officer
 
Date: August 10, 2012


 
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Exhibit
Number
 
Description
     
     
     
31.1
 
Certification per Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (Section 302) by the Company's chairman and chief executive officer.
     
31.2
 
Certification per Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (Section 302) by the Company’s chief financial and accounting officer.
     
32.1
 
Certification per Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (Section 906) by the Company's chairman and chief executive officer.
     
32.2
 
Certification per Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (Section 906) by the Company's chief financial and accounting officer.

 
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