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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 July 29, 2012

OR

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

Commission File Number 0-20269

 

 

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Registrant's telephone number including area code: (785) 263-3350

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

NONE

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:

Common Stock, par value $.0001 per share

(Title of Class)

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 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 definitions of "accelerated filer", "large accelerated filer" and "smaller reporting company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).   YES         NO      X   

APPLICABLE ONLY TO CORPORATE ISSUERS:

3,724,875 shares of common stock, $.0001 par value (the issuer's only class of common stock), were outstanding as of September 7, 2012.

 

 

 

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ALCO STORES, INC.

 

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PART I – FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1.  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

ALCO Stores, Inc.

Balance Sheets

(dollars in thousands, except share data) 

See accompanying notes to unaudited financial statements. 

ALCO Stores, Inc.

Statements of Operations

(dollars in thousands, except share data)

(Unaudited)

 

 

*Fiscal year 2012 amounts have been revised to reflect the change in accounting for inventory.  See Note 2 for more information.

 

See accompanying notes to unaudited financial statements.

ALCO Stores, Inc.
Statements of Cash Flows

(dollars in thousands)

(Unaudited)

 

 

*Fiscal year 2012 amounts have been revised to reflect the change in accounting for inventory.  See Note 2 for more information.

 

See accompanying notes to unaudited financial statements.

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ALCO Stores, Inc.

Notes to Unaudited Financial Statements

(1)           Basis of Presentation

 

The accompanying unaudited financial statements of ALCO Stores, Inc. (the "Company") are for interim periods and have been prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles for interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Regulation S-X. Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and footnotes required by U.S. generally accepted accounting principles for complete financial statements.  The accompanying unaudited financial statements should be read in conjunction with the financial statements included in the Company's fiscal 2012 Annual Report on Form 10-K. In the opinion of management of the Company, the accompanying unaudited financial statements reflect all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring accruals) necessary to present fairly the financial position of the Company and the results of its operations and cash flows for the interim periods. Because the Company's business is moderately seasonal, the results from interim periods are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the entire year.

 

Fiscal 2013 is a 53-week period consisting of three thirteen week periods and one fourteen week period with each period referred to as a quarter.  During Fiscal 2013, the fourteen week period will occur in the fourth quarter.  Fiscal 2012 was a 52-week period consisting of four thirteen week periods.  The thirteen weeks ended July 29, 2012 and July 31, 2011 are referred to herein as the second quarter of fiscal 2013 and 2012, respectively.

 

The depreciation and amortization amounts from the Statements of Operations may not agree to the related amounts in the Statements of Cash Flows due to the fact that a portion of the depreciation and amortization is included in earnings (loss) from discontinued operations, net of income tax expense (benefit) line of the Statements of Operations.

 

(2)           Change in Accounting Method

During the fourth quarter of fiscal 2012, the Company elected to change its method of accounting for inventory from the retail inventory method to the weighted average cost method.  The change has been retroactively applied and decreased cost of sales and increased gross margin for the quarter ended July 31, 2011 and the twenty-six weeks ended July 31, 2011 by $1.7 million and $2.3 million, respectively.  Additionally, inventory increased by $2.3 million as of July 31, 2011.    

 

(3)           Share-Based Compensation

The Company recognizes compensation expense for its share-based payments based on the fair value of the awards at grant date.  Share-based payments consist of stock option grants and the related compensation cost is recognized over the requisite service period of the award.  For both the second quarter of fiscal 2013 and the second quarter of fiscal 2012, share-based compensation decreased pre-tax income by $0.1 million.  For both the twenty-six weeks ended July 29, 2012 and July 31, 2011, share-based compensation decreased pre-tax income by $0.2 million.  

 

Forfeitures are estimated at the time of valuation and reduce expense ratably over the vesting period. This estimate is adjusted periodically based on the extent to which actual forfeitures differ, or are expected to differ, from the previous estimate. 

Equity Incentive Plans

On June 27, 2012, the Company's stockholders approved the Company's 2012 Equity Incentive Plan (the "Plan"), which is administered by the Compensation Committee of the Company's Board of Directors.  Under the Plan, the Company may grant up to 500,000 shares of Company stock in the form of stock options, awards and rights to officers, key employees and consultants of the Company; provided however, the Company's directors are not permitted to be participants in the Plan.  According to the terms of the Plan, the per share exercise price of stock options granted shall not be less than the fair market value of the stock on the date of grant and such options will expire no later than ten years from the date of grant.  The stock options, awards and rights granted under the Plan vest over a certain period of time, as determined by the Compensation Committee in its sole discretion, beginning from the grant date unless certain Company events occur as further provided under the terms of the Plan.  In the case of a stockholder owning more than 10% of the outstanding voting stock of the Company, the exercise price of an incentive stock option may not be less than 110% of the fair market value of the stock on the date of grant and such options will expire no later than five years from the date of grant.  Also, the aggregate fair market value of the stock with respect to which incentive stock options are exercisable on a tax deferred basis for the first time by an individual in any calendar year may not exceed $100,000. In the event that the foregoing results in a portion of an option exceeding the $100,000 limitation, such portion of the option in excess of the limitation shall be treated as a non-qualified stock option. No more than 100,000 shares of the Company's stock may be awarded in a single calendar year to any individual participating in the Plan. As of July 29, 2012, the Company had 397,500 shares authorized for future option grants.  Upon exercise, the Company issues these shares from the unissued shares authorized.

Under the Company's 2003 Incentive Stock Option Plan (the "2003 Plan"), options to purchase shares of Company stock may be granted to officers and key employees, not to exceed 500,000 shares.  According to the terms of the 2003 Plan, the per share exercise price of options granted shall not be less than the fair market value of the stock on the date of grant and such options will expire no later than five years from the date of grant. The options vest in equal amounts over a four year requisite service period beginning from the grant date unless certain Company events occur. In the case of a stockholder owning more than 10% of the outstanding voting stock of the Company, the exercise price of an incentive stock option may not be less than 110% of the fair market value of the stock on the date of grant and such options will expire no later than five years from the date of grant.  Also, the aggregate fair market value of the stock with respect to which incentive stock options are exercisable on a tax deferred basis for the first time by an individual in any calendar year may not exceed $100,000. In the event that the foregoing results in a portion of an option exceeding the $100,000 limitation, such portion of the option in excess of the limitation shall be treated as a non-qualified stock option.  No more than 100,000 shares of the Company's stock may be awarded in a single calendar year to any individual participating in the 2003 Plan. As of July 29, 2012, the Company had 227,620 shares authorized for future option grants.  Upon exercise, the Company issues these shares from the unissued shares authorized.  This 2003 Plan will expire on May 22, 2013.  

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Under the Company's Non-Qualified Stock Option Plan for Non-Management Directors, options may be granted to Directors of the Company who are not otherwise officers or employees of the Company, not to exceed 200,000 shares.  According to the terms of the plan, the per share exercise price of options granted shall not be less than the fair market value of the stock on the date of grant and such options will expire five years from the date of grant.  The options vest in equal amounts over a four year requisite service period beginning from the grant date unless certain Company events occur.  All options under the plan shall be non-qualified stock options.  As of July 29, 2012, the Company had 73,957 shares remaining to be issued under this plan.  Upon exercise, the Company will issue these shares from the unissued shares authorized.

 

The fair value of each option grant is separately estimated. The fair value of each option is amortized into share-based compensation on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period as discussed above.  We have estimated the fair value of all stock option awards as of the date of the grant by applying a modified Black-Scholes pricing valuation model.  The application of this valuation model involves assumptions that are judgmental and highly sensitive in the determination of share-based compensation, including expected stock price volatility.  The assumptions used in determining the fair value of options granted and a summary of the methodology applied to develop each assumption are as follows:

The following summarizes information concerning stock option grants during fiscal 2013 and 2012:

 

EXPECTED PRICE VOLATILITY -- This is a measure of the amount by which a price has fluctuated or is expected to fluctuate. The Company uses actual historical changes in the market value of its stock to calculate expected price volatility because management believes that this is the best indicator of future volatility. The Company calculates monthly market value changes from the date of grant over a past period to determine volatility. An increase in the expected volatility will increase share-based compensation.

RISK-FREE INTEREST RATE -- This is the applicable U.S. Treasury rate for the date of the grant over the expected term.  An increase in the risk-free interest rate will increase share-based compensation.

EXPECTED LIVES -- This is the period of time over which the options granted are expected to remain outstanding and is based on management's expectations in relation to the holders of the options. Options granted have a maximum term of five or ten years. An increase in the expected life will increase share-based compensation.

 

DIVIDEND YIELD --- The Company has not made any dividend payments nor does it have plans to pay dividends in the foreseeable future. An increase in the dividend yield will decrease share-based compensation.

As of July 29, 2012, total unrecognized share-based compensation related to non-vested stock options is $0.5 million with a weighted average expense recognition period of 2.8 years.

 

(4)           Accounting for Income Taxes

 

The statute of limitations for the Company's federal income tax returns is open for fiscal 2009 through fiscal 2011.  The Company files in numerous state jurisdictions with varying statutes of limitation.  The Company's state returns are subject to examination by the taxing authorities for fiscal 2008 through fiscal 2011 or fiscal 2009 through fiscal 2011, depending on each state's statute of limitations.   

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(5)           Fair Value Measurements

  

The financial instruments of the Company consist of cash, short-term receivables, property held for sale, and accounts payable, accrued expenses and long-term debt instruments, including capital leases.  Property held for sale is presented at the lower of cost or fair value less costs of disposal.  For notes payable under revolving loan, fair value approximates the carrying value due to the variable interest rate.  For capital leases, the carrying value approximates the fair value.  For all other financial instruments, including cash, short-term receivables, accounts payable and accrued expenses, the carrying amounts approximate fair value due to the short maturity of those instruments.

 

(6)           Earnings Per Share

 

        Basic earnings per share is computed by dividing net earnings by the weighted average number of shares outstanding.  Diluted earnings per share reflects the potential dilution that could occur if contracts to issue securities (such as stock options) were exercised, except for those periods with a loss where the effect would be anti-dilutive.  The weighted average number of shares used in computing earnings per share was as follows:

(7)          Store Closings and Discontinued Operations

 

When the operation of a store is discontinued and the store is closed, the Company reclassifies historical operating results from continuing operations to discontinued operations.  The Company closed one store during both the second quarter of fiscal 2013 and the second quarter of fiscal 2012.  During the twenty-six weeks of fiscal 2013, the Company closed three stores, whereas the Company closed one store during the twenty-six weeks of fiscal 2012.

 

(8)           Long-Term Debt

 

          On July 21, 2011, the Company entered into a five-year revolving Credit Agreement (the "Facility") with Wells Fargo Bank, National Association and Wells Capital Finance, LLC (collectively "Wells Fargo").  The $120.0 million Facility replaced the Company's previous $120.0 million credit facility with Bank of America, N.A. and Wells Fargo Retail Finance, LLC, and expires July 20, 2016.  The completion of the agreement for the new Facility resulted in the accelerated amortization of the remaining deferred financing fees associated with the participation of Bank of America, N.A in the previous facility.  The accelerated costs were $0.5 million and included nominal fees paid to Bank of America, N.A. upon the termination of the former facility.  Additional costs paid to Wells Fargo in connection with the new facility were $0.5 million.  Those fees have been deferred and will be amortized over the term of the new facility.  The loan agreement contains various restrictions that are applicable when outstanding borrowings exceed $102.0 million, including limitations on additional indebtedness, prepayments, acquisition of assets, granting of liens, certain investments and payments of dividends.  The Company's loan agreement contains various covenants including limitations on additional indebtedness and certain financial tests, as well as various subjective acceleration clauses.  The balance sheet classification of the borrowings under the revolving loan credit facility has been determined in accordance with ASC 470, Balance Sheet Classification of Borrowings Outstanding under Revolving Credit Agreements that Include both a Subjective Acceleration Clause and a Lock-Box Arrangement.  As of July 29, 2012, the Company was in compliance with all covenants and subjective acceleration clauses of the debt agreements. Accordingly, this obligation has been classified as a long-term liability in the accompanying balance sheet.

 

Based on the Company's average excess availability, the amount advanced to the Company on any Base Rate Loan (as such term is defined in the Facility) bears interest at the highest of (a) the rate of interest in effect for such day as publicly announced from time to time by Wells Fargo as its "prime rate"; (b) the Federal Funds Rate for such day, plus 1.0%; and (c) the LIBO Rate for a 30 day interest period as determined on such day, plus 2.0%.  Amounts advanced with respect to any LIBO Borrowing for any Interest Period (as those terms are defined in the Facility) shall bear interest at an interest rate per annum (rounded upwards, if necessary, to the next 1/16 of one percent) equal to (a) the LIBO Rate for such Interest Period multiplied by (b) the Statutory Reserve Rate (as defined in the Facility).  The interest rates on outstanding borrowings at July 29, 2012 were 2.25% on $30.0 million, 2.23% on $10 million and 4.25% on $1.5 million.

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On July 27, 2012,  the Company entered into a new Rule 10b5-1 and Rule 10b-18 Stock Repurchase Agreement with William Blair and Company, LLC (the "Stock Repurchase Agreement") whereby the Company authorized the repurchase of up to 175,000 shares of the Company's common stock with a par value of $.0001 ("Common Stock") under the Company's stock repurchase program (the "Program").

The Program was initially authorized by the Company on March 23, 2006, whereby the Board of Directors of the Company authorized the repurchase of 200,000 shares of the Company's Common Stock, and the Company repurchased 3,337 shares of Common Stock under the Program. The Company's Board of Directors reinstated the Program on August 13, 2008 and the Company repurchased 22,197 shares of Common Stock under the Program during such period of reinstatement. The Board of Directors of the Company approved the reinstatement of the Program again on January 6, 2012 and the Company repurchased an additional 34,407 shares of Common Stock during such reinstatement. On April 25, 2012, the Board of Directors of the Company authorized the Company to repurchase an additional 500,000 shares of Common Stock for a total of 700,000 shares of Common Stock authorized for repurchase under the Program. The Stock Repurchase Agreement only authorizes William Blair and Company, LLC to repurchase a portion of the total shares available for repurchase under the Program as stated above. Under the terms of the Program, the Company can terminate the proposed buy back at any time.

During the second quarter of fiscal 2013, the Company did not repurchase any shares of Common Stock under the Program.  During the twenty-six weeks of fiscal 2013, the Company repurchased 34,407 shares of Common Stock under the Program. As of July 29, 2012, the Company had repurchased a total of 59,941 shares under the Program since it was initially approved in 2006.  Therefore, there were 640,059 shares of Common Stock available to be repurchased by the Company, as of July 29, 2012.  As of September 7, 2012, the Company had repurchased an additional 83,463 shares of Common Stock under the Program leaving 556,596 shares of Common Stock available to be repurchased by the Company.  The Company subsequently retires all repurchased shares.

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ITEM 2.     MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

 

Certain statements contained in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q that are not statements of historical fact may constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 21E of the Exchange Act. These statements are subject to risks and uncertainties, as described below. Examples of forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to: (i) projections of revenues, income or loss, earnings or loss per share, capital expenditures, store openings, store closings, payment or non-payment of dividends, capital structure and other financial items, (ii) statements of plans and objectives of the Company's management or Board of Directors, including plans or objectives relating to inventory, store development, marketing, competition, business strategy, store environment, merchandising, purchasing, pricing, distribution, transportation, store locations and information systems, (iii) statements of future economic performance, and (iv) statements of assumptions underlying the statements described in (i), (ii) and (iii). Forward-looking statements can often be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology, such as "believes," "expects," "may," "will," "should," "could," "intends," "plans," "estimates", "projects" or "anticipates," variations thereof or similar expressions.

 

Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance or results.  They involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions.  The Company's future results of operations, financial condition and business operations may differ materially from the forward-looking statements or the historical information stated in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.  Stockholders and investors are cautioned not to put undue reliance on any forward-looking statement.

There are a number of factors and uncertainties that could cause actual results of operations, financial condition or business contemplated by the forward-looking statements to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements made herein or elsewhere orally or in writing, by, or on behalf of, the Company, including those factors described below. Other factors not identified herein could also have such an effect. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements and from historical information include, but are not limited to, those factors described below.

 

Economic conditions:  The economic slowdown continues to cause disruptions and significant volatility in financial markets, increased rates of mortgage loan default and personal bankruptcy, and declining consumer and business confidence, which has led to decreased customer traffic and reduced levels of consumer spending, particularly on discretionary items.  This decline in consumer and business confidence and the decreased levels of customer traffic and consumer spending have negatively impacted our business.  We cannot predict how long the current economically challenging conditions will persist and how such conditions might affect us and our customers.  Decreased customer traffic and reduced consumer spending, particularly on discretionary items, would, however, over an extended period of time negatively affect our financial condition, operating performance, revenues and earnings.  In addition, we cannot predict how current or worsening economic conditions will affect our critical suppliers and distributors and any negative impact on our critical suppliers or distributors may also have an adverse impact on our business results or financial condition.

Management does not believe that its merchandising operations, net sales, revenue or results from continuing operations have been materially impacted by inflation during the past two fiscal years.

Operations.  The Company is a regional broad line retailer operating in 23 states.

The Company's fiscal year ends on the Sunday closest to January 31.  Fiscal 2013 is a 53-week period consisting of three thirteen week periods and one fourteen week period with each period referred to as a quarter.  During Fiscal 2013, the fourteen week period will occur in the fourth quarter.  Fiscal 2012 was a 52-week period consisting of four thirteen week periods.  For purposes of this management's discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations, the financial numbers are presented in thousands unless otherwise noted. 

Strategy.  The Company's overall business strategy involves identifying and opening stores in locations that will provide the Company with the highest return on investment.  The Company competes for retail sales with national and broad line retail stores as well as other entities, such as mail order companies, specialty retailers, stores, manufacturer's outlets and the internet.

The Company initiated a transactional web site during November 2011.  In July 2012, the Company expanded the product selection on its website to include more than 10,000 items of high-quality merchandise.  Products offered on the ALCOstores.com website include video games and electronics, housewares, appliances and furniture, health & beauty aids, baby goods, office supplies, automotive and sporting goods, and much more. As in traditional ALCO Stores, consumers can choose from a wide range of well-known brand names.  In addition, the website includes brands not found in the Company's retail stores.

The Company has also adopted regional pricing and merchandising.  Regional pricing will allow the Company to identify opportunities to price specific items differently in different ALCO markets, depending on regional competitive situations, while maintaining ALCO's superior value positioning with shoppers in each market.  Regional merchandising consists of tailoring product offerings for specific needs in ALCO regions, such as adding fire-retardant clothing in stores in oil-drilling areas and higher-end outdoor apparel in areas frequented by outdoors enthusiasts, such as Colorado and other Western states.

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The Company uses a variety of broad-based targeted marketing and advertising strategies to reach consumers.  These strategies include full-color photography advertising circulars of eight to 20 pages distributed through newspaper insertion or, in the case of inadequate newspaper coverage, through direct mail.  During fiscal 2013, the Company will distribute approximately 48 circulars in ALCO markets.  The Company also uses in-store marketing.  The Company's merchandising and marketing teams work together to present the products in an engaging and innovative manner, which is coordinated so that it is consistent with the current print advertisements.  The Company regularly changes its banners and in-store promotions, which are advertised throughout the year, to attract consumers to the stores, to generate strong customer frequency and to increase average sales per customer.  Net marketing and promotion costs represented approximately 1.0% and 0.9% of net sales in the second quarter of fiscal year 2013 and in the second quarter of fiscal year 2012, respectively.  Management believes it has developed a comprehensive marketing strategy that will increase customer traffic and same-store sales.  The Company continues to operate as a high-low retailer and has included cross departmental products in many of its marketing vehicles.  For example, the Company has used an Elder Care page with over-the-counter products, "as seen on TV" items, and dry meals—all targeting customers who have reached retirement age.  The Company believes that by providing the breadth of these key items to this targeted audience we can serve our customers' needs more efficiently and garner a greater share of the purchases made by this demographic.  The Company's stores offer a broad line of merchandise consisting of approximately 35,000 items, including automotive, consumables and commodities, crafts, domestics, electronics, furniture, hardware, health and beauty aids, housewares, jewelry, ladies', men's and children's apparel and shoes, pre-recorded music and video, sporting goods, seasonal items, stationery and toys.  During the third quarter of fiscal year 2013, the Company intends to expand its offering of temperature controlled food. 

The Company is constantly evaluating the appropriate mix of merchandise to improve sales and gross margin performance.  Corporate merchandising is provided to each store to ensure a consistent Company-wide store presentation.  To facilitate long-term merchandising planning, the Company divides its merchandise into three core categories: primary, secondary, and convenience.  The primary core receives management's primary focus, with a wide assortment of merchandise being placed in the most accessible locations within the stores and receiving significant promotional consideration.

The secondary core consists of categories of merchandise for which the Company maintains a strong assortment that is easily and readily identifiable by its customers.  The convenience core consists of categories of merchandise for which the Company maintains convenient (but limited) assortments, focusing on key items that are in keeping with customers' expectations for a broad line retail store.  Secondary and convenience cores include merchandise that the Company feels is important to carry, as the target customer expects to find them within a broad line retail store and they ensure a high level of customer traffic.  The Company continually evaluates and ranks all product lines, shifting product classifications when necessary to reflect the changing demand for products. In addition, the Company's merchandising systems are designed to integrate the key retailing functions of seasonal merchandise planning, purchase order management, merchandise distribution, sales information and inventory maintenance and replenishment.  All of the Company's stores have point-of-service computer terminals that capture sales information and transmit such information to the Company's data processing facilities where it is used to drive management, financial, and supply chain functions.

Store Expansion.  The continued growth of the Company is dependent, in large part, upon the Company's ability to open and operate new stores on a timely and profitable basis.  The Company currently intends to open no less than five stores in fiscal 2013.  While the Company believes that adequate sites are currently available, the rate of new store openings is subject to various contingencies, many of which are beyond the Company's control.  These material contingencies include: 

·	the Company's ability to hire, train, and retain qualified personnel;

·	the availability of adequate capital resources for us to purchase inventory, equipment, and fixtures and make other capital expenditures necessary for store expansion; and

·	the ability of our landlords and developers to find appropriate financing in the current credit market to develop property to be leased by the Company.

Historically, we have been able to hire, train, and retain qualified personnel and we anticipate being able to do so in the future.  In order to address this contingency, the Company has initiated an Assistant Manager Training Program whereby the Company provides general management training to manager candidates at monthly seminars held at the Company's corporate offices.  We anticipate that this program will increase our ability to train and retain qualified personnel.  We currently believe that we will have the capital resources necessary to purchase the inventory, equipment, and fixtures, and to fund the other capital expenditures necessary for the store expansions.  If we lack such capital resources, however, it would limit our expansion plans and negatively impact our operations going forward.  The Company has been working closely with multiple developers and landlords that the Company believes have the financial resources to develop property to be leased by the Company and hold such property as a long-term investment in their portfolios.  If such developers and landlords do not have, and cannot obtain, the financial resources to develop and hold such property, it would limit our expansion plans and negatively impact our operations going forward. 

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Recent Events

·	On April 25, 2012, the Board of Directors of the Company approved an increase in the number of shares of the Company's Common Stock authorized for repurchase under the Company's Stock Repurchase Program from 200,000 to 700,000.

·

On April 30, 2012 the Compensation Committee of the Company's Board of Directors approved of the award of 7,500 stock options to the following executive officers of the Company: Wayne S. Peterson, Tom L. Canfield, Jr. and Edmond C. Beaith. Each of the aforementioned executive officers entered into a Stock Option Agreement with the Company effective as of April 30, 2012 upon such terms and conditions as stated on Form 8-K filed by the Company with the Securities and Exchange Commission on May 3, 2012.

·

On June 27, 2012, at the annual meeting of shareholders, an amendment to the Articles of Incorporation was approved to change the Company's name to ALCO Stores, Inc. and its ticker symbol on the NASDAQ to ALCS upon such terms and conditions as stated on Form 8-K filed by the Company with the Securities and Exchange Commission on June 29, 2012.

·	On June 27, 2012, the Company's shareholders approved the 2012 Equity Incentive Plan upon such terms and conditions as stated on Form S-8 filed by the Company with the Securities and Exchange Commission on July 11, 2012.

·

On July 2, 2012, under the Independent Director Compensation Policy, each director was issued 5,000 stock options, and the Chairman of the Board was issued 7,500 stock options.  Each director entered into a Stock Option Agreement with the Company effective as of July 2, 2012 upon such terms and conditions as stated on Form 8-K filed by the Company with the Securities and Exchange Commission on July 10, 2012.

·	On July 6, 2012, the Compensation Committee of the Company's Board of Directors approved a new incentive bonus plan upon such terms and conditions as stated on Form 8-K filed by the Company with the Securities and Exchange Commission on July 13, 2012.

·	On July 6, 2012, the Company executed an Employment Agreement for new executive officer Brent A. Streit upon such terms and conditions as stated on Form 8-K filed by the Company with the Securities and Exchange Commission on July 13, 2012.

·

On July 11, 2012, the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors approved dismissal of KPMG LLP and appointed Grant Thornton LLP to serve as the Company's independent registered public accounting firm effective July 16, 2012 as stated on Form 8-K filed by the Company with the Securities and Exchange Commission on July 17, 2012.

·

On July 12, 2012, the Compensation Committee of the Company's Board of Directors approved of the award of both a Time Based Incentive Stock Option Agreement and a Performance Based Incentive Stock Option Agreement to each Richard E. Wilson, Wayne S. Peterson, Edmond C. Beaith, Tom L. Canfield, Jr., and Brent A. Streit, as stated on Form 8-K filed by the Company with the Securities and Exchange Commission on July 13, 2012.

·	On July 18, 2012, the Company issued a press release relating to the launch of the Company's Ecommerce store, as stated on Form 8-K filed by the Company with the Securities and Exchange Commission on July 19, 2012.

·

On July 27, 2012, the Company again reinstated the Company's Stock Repurchase Program and authorized William Blair and Company, LLC to repurchase up to 175,000 shares of the Company's Common Stock as stated on Form 8-K filed by the Company with the Securities and Exchange Commission on August 2, 2012.

Key Items in Second Quarter Fiscal 2013.

 

The Company measures itself against a number of financial metrics to assess its performance.  Some of the important financial items during the second quarter of fiscal 2013 were:

·	Net sales from continuing operations, excluding fuel, increased $1.2 million, or 1.0%, to $119.8 million compared to $118.6 million for the second quarter of fiscal 2012.

·	Gross margin percentage increased to 32.7% of net sales compared to 32.5% in the second quarter of fiscal 2012.

·	Net earnings per share were $0.52 compared to $0.60 per share in the second quarter of fiscal 2012.

·

Earnings from continuing operations before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization, share-based compensation, preopening store costs, executive and staff severance, and gain loss on sale of assets ("Adjusted EBITDA") was $6.7 million compared to $7.4 million in the second quarter of fiscal 2012.

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Thirteen Weeks Ended July 29, 2012 Compared to Thirteen Weeks Ended July 31, 2011

Net Sales

Net sales from continuing operations, excluding fuel, increased $1.2 million, or 1.0%, in the second quarter of fiscal 2013 to $119.8 million compared to $118.6 million for the second quarter of fiscal 2012.  Non-comparable store sales increased $3.5 million due to the opening of six new stores subsequent to the second quarter of fiscal 2012; two stores opened during the second quarter of fiscal 2013, one store opened during the third quarter of fiscal 2012, and three stores opened during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2012.

Sales from comparable stores, excluding fuel, decreased $2.3 million, or 1.9%, in the second quarter of fiscal 2013, primarily due to a 6.1% decrease in comparable store transactions and partially offset by a 4.5% increase in average transaction size.

Gross Margin

Gross margin in the second quarter of fiscal 2013 was $39.9 million, or 32.7% of net sales, compared to $39.1 million, or 32.5% of net sales, in the second quarter of fiscal 2012.  The increase in gross margin was attributable to the increase in net sales from continuing operations and a 20 basis point increase in gross margin rate.  The gross margin rate was positively impacted by less net mark-downs on merchandise, primarily due to buying efficiencies and competitive pricing opportunities implemented during the second quarter of fiscal 2013.

SG&A

Selling, general and administrative (SG&A) expenses increased $1.7 million, or 5.5%, to $33.4 million during the second quarter of fiscal 2013 compared to $31.7 million during the second quarter of fiscal 2012.  As a percentage of net sales, SG&A expenses during the second quarter of fiscal 2013 were 27.5%, compared to 26.3% during the second quarter of fiscal 2012.  SG&A, excluding share-based compensation, executive and corporate staff severance, and preopening store costs, ("Adjusted SG&A"), was $33.1 million, or 27.2% of net sales, in the second quarter of fiscal 2013 compared to $31.7 million, or 26.3% of net sales, during the second quarter of fiscal 2012.  The increase in Adjusted SG&A is primarily attributable to the increase of non-same store expenses ($1.2 million) and partially offset by reductions in store support center and warehouse expenses ($0.2 million).

Depreciation and Amortization Expense

Depreciation and amortization expense from continuing operations was $2.1 million in both the second quarter of fiscal 2013 and in the second quarter of fiscal 2012.

Interest Expense

Interest expense decreased $0.9 million, or 52.0%, to $0.8 million during the second quarter of fiscal 2013 compared to $1.7 million during the second quarter of fiscal 2012.  The decrease in interest expense is primarily attributable to lower interest rates assessed under the current credit agreement with Wells Fargo Bank, National Association and Wells Capital Finance, LLC, the decrease in the average outstanding balance of the revolving line of credit, and the recognition of unamortized financing fees, in the amount of $0.5 million, from the Company's previous credit agreement during the second quarter of fiscal 2012.

Income Taxes

The Company's effective tax rate on earnings from continuing operations before income taxes during the second quarter of fiscal 2012 was 40.5% compared to 37.1% during the second quarter of fiscal 2011.  Certain tax credits were available to the Company during fiscal 2012, but are not currently available for fiscal 2013.  This has caused an increase in the expected effective tax rate for fiscal 2013.

Discontinued Operations

Loss from discontinued operations, net of income tax benefit, was $0.1 million during the second quarter of fiscal 2013 compared to $0.0 million during the second quarter of fiscal 2012.  The Company closed one store during the second quarter of fiscal 2013 and closed one store during the second quarter of fiscal 2012.

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Twenty-six Weeks Ended July 29, 2012 Compared to Twenty-six Weeks Ended July 31, 2011

Net Sales

Net sales from continuing operations, excluding fuel, increased $5.7 million, or 2.5%, for the twenty-six weeks ended July 29, 2012 to $235.1 million compared to $229.4 million for the twenty-six weeks ended July 31, 2011.  Non-comparable store sales increased $6.1 million due to the opening of six new stores subsequent to the second quarter of fiscal 2012.

Sales from comparable stores, excluding fuel, decreased $0.4 million, or 0.2%, for the twenty-six weeks ended July 29, 2012, primarily due to a 4.1% decrease in comparable store transactions and partially offset by a 4.0% increase in average transaction size.

Gross Margin

Gross margin for the twenty-six weeks ended July 29, 2012 was $74.4 million, or 31.2% of net sales, compared to $72.4 million, or 31.0% of net sales, for the twenty-six weeks ended July 31, 2011.  The increase in gross margin was attributable to the increase in net sales from continuing operations and a 20 basis point increase in gross margin rate.  The gross margin rate was positively impacted by less net mark-downs on merchandise, primarily due to buying efficiencies and competitive pricing opportunities implemented during the second quarter of fiscal 2013.

SG&A

Selling, general and administrative (SG&A) expenses increased $2.9 million, or 4.5%, to $66.9 million during the twenty-six weeks ended July 29, 2012 compared to $64.1 million during the twenty-six weeks ended July 31, 2011.  As a percentage of net sales, SG&A expenses were 28.0% during the twenty-six weeks ended July 29, 2012 compared to 27.5% during the twenty-six weeks ended July 31, 2011.  SG&A, excluding share-based compensation, executive and corporate staff severance, and preopening store costs, ("Adjusted SG&A Expenses"), was $66.8 million, or 28.0% of net sales, during the twenty-six weeks ended July 29, 2012 compared to $64.1 million, or 27.5% of net sales, during the twenty-six weeks ended July 31, 2011.  The increase in Adjusted SG&A is primarily attributable to the increase of non-same store expenses ($2.2 million) and partially offset by reductions in store support center and warehouse expenses ($0.3 million). 

Depreciation and Amortization Expense

 

Depreciation and amortization expense from continuing operations was $4.2 million during the twenty-six weeks ended July 29, 2012 compared to $4.3 million during the twenty-six weeks ended July 31, 2011.

Interest Expense

Interest expense decreased $1.2 million, or 43.5%, to $1.5 million during the twenty-six weeks ended July 29, 2012 compared to $2.7 million during the twenty-six weeks ended July 31, 2011.  The decrease in interest expense is primarily attributable to lower interest rates assessed under the current credit agreement with Wells Fargo Bank, National Association and Wells Capital Finance, LLC, the decrease in the average outstanding balance of the revolving line of credit, and the recognition of unamortized financing fees, in the amount of $0.5 million, from the Company's previous credit agreement during the twenty-six weeks ended July 31, 2011.

 

Income Taxes

The Company's effective tax rate on earnings from continuing operations before income taxes during the twenty-six weeks ended July 29, 2012 was 39.7% compared to 41.7% during the twenty-six weeks ended July 31, 2011.

 

Discontinued Operations

Loss from discontinued operations, net of income tax benefit, was $0.3 million during the twenty-six weeks ended July 29, 2012 compared to $0.0 million during the twenty-six weeks ended July 31, 2011.  The Company closed three stores during the twenty-six weeks ended July 29, 2012, whereas the Company closed one store during the twenty-six weeks ended July 31, 2011.

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The Company has included Adjusted SG&A and Adjusted EBITDA, non-GAAP performance measures, as part of its disclosure as a means to enhance its communications with stockholders. Certain stockholders have specifically requested this information to assist them in comparing the Company to other retailers that disclose similar non-GAAP performance measures. Further, management utilizes these measures with respect to internal evaluation, review of performance and to compare the Company's financial measures to those of its peers. Adjusted EBITDA differs from the most comparable GAAP financial measure (earnings (loss) from continuing operations) in that it does not include certain items, as does Adjusted SG&A. These items are excluded by management to better evaluate normalized operational cash flow and expenses excluding unusual, inconsistent and non-cash charges.  To compensate for the limitations of evaluating the Company's performance using Adjusted SG&A and Adjusted EBITDA, management also utilizes GAAP performance measures such as gross margin, return on investment, return on equity and cash flow from operations.  As a result, Adjusted SG&A and Adjusted EBITDA may not reflect important aspects of the results of the Company's operations.

 

(1)	Store support center includes severance and gain (loss) on sale of assets

(2)

These amounts may not agree with 10-Qs and 10-Ks of previous quarters due to stores that had reached their fourteenth period of operation.  In addition, these amounts may not agree with 10-Qs and 10-Ks of previous quarters due to subsequent store closures. These closed stores are now included in discontinued operations.

(3)	Non same-stores are those stores which have not reached their fourteenth period of operation

(4)	Average selling square feet is calculated as beginning square feet plus ending square feet divided by 2

(5)	Adjusted EBITDA per average selling square foot is calculated as Adjusted EBITDA divided by average selling square feet

(6)	Average store level merchandise inventory is calculated as beginning inventory plus ending inventory divided by 2

(7)	Excludes inventory for unopened stores

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SG&A expenses for the twenty-six week period ended July 29, 2012 increased $2.9 million which was attributable to the increase of non-same store expenses ($2.2 million) and same-store expenses ($0.9 million), and partially offset by reductions in store support center and warehouse expenses ($0.3 million).

 

The following table shows the reconciliation of Adjusted EBITDA to net earnings (loss) from continuing operations:

 

 

 

(1)	These amounts may not agree with 10-Qs and 10-Ks of previous quarters due to subsequent store closures. These closed stores are now included in discontinued operations.

(2)	These costs are not consistent quarter to quarter as the Company does not open the same number of stores in each quarter of each fiscal year.  These costs are directly associated with the number of stores that have been or will be opened and are incurred prior to the grand opening of each store.

(3)	During fiscal years 2013 and 2012, the Company made departmental restructuring changes resulting in severance.

(4)	On September 9, 2011, the Company received a $2.3 million settlement from Factory Mutual Insurance Company for damage sustained during the second quarter of fiscal 2012, due to wind and hail.

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At July 29, 2012, working capital (defined as current assets less current liabilities) was $123.9 million compared to $134.3 million at the end of fiscal 2012.

The Company's primary sources of funds are cash flow from operations, borrowings under its revolving loan credit facility, and vendor trade credit financing.

Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities aggregated $15.0 million and ($1.7) million, for the twenty-six week periods ended July 29, 2012 and July 31, 2011, respectively.  The increase in cash provided by operating activities resulted primarily from the increase in accounts payable of $11.5 million, partially offset by an increase in merchandise inventory of ($2.8) million, and net earnings, excluding depreciation and amortization of $5.0 million.

On July 21, 2011, the Company entered into a five-year revolving Credit Agreement (the "Facility") with Wells Fargo Bank, National Association and Wells Capital Finance, LLC (collectively "Wells Fargo").  The $120.0 million Facility replaced the Company's previous $120.0 million credit facility with Bank of America, N.A. and Wells Fargo Retail Finance, LLC, and expires July 20, 2016.  The completion of the agreement for the new Facility resulted in the accelerated amortization of the remaining deferred financing fees associated with the participation of Bank of America, N.A in the previous facility.  The accelerated costs were $0.5 million and included nominal fees paid to Bank of America, N.A. upon the termination of the former facility.  Additional costs paid to Wells Fargo in connection with the new facility were $0.5 million.  Those fees have been deferred and are being amortized over the term of the new facility.  During the twenty-six weeks of fiscal 2013, the Company had net pay downs of $10.5 million on its revolving credit facility. 

The Company uses its revolving loan credit facility and vendor trade credit financing to fund the buildup of inventories periodically during the year for its peak selling seasons and to meet other short-term cash requirements.  The revolving loan credit facility provides up to $120 million of financing in the form of notes payable.  The loan agreement expires July 20, 2016.  The revolving loan note payable of $41.5 million together with outstanding letters of credit at July 29, 2012 resulted in an available line of credit at that date of approximately $62.1 million, subject to a borrowing base calculation.  Loan advances are secured by a security interest in the Company's inventory and credit card receivables.  The loan agreement contains various restrictions that are applicable when outstanding borrowings exceed $102.0 million, including limitations on additional indebtedness, prepayments, acquisition of assets, granting of liens, certain investments and payments of dividends.  The Company's loan agreement contains various covenants including limitations on additional indebtedness and certain financial tests, as well as various subjective acceleration clauses.  The balance sheet classification of the borrowings under the revolving loan credit facility has been determined in accordance with ASC 470, Balance Sheet Classification of Borrowings Outstanding under Revolving Credit Agreements that Include both a Subjective Acceleration Clause and a Lock-Box Arrangement.  As of January 29, 2012, the Company was in compliance with all covenants and subjective acceleration clauses of the debt agreements. Accordingly, this obligation has been classified as a long-term liability in the accompanying balance sheet. Short-term trade credit represents a significant source of financing for inventory to the Company.  Trade credit arises from the willingness of the Company's vendors to grant payment terms for inventory purchases.

Cash used in investing activities for the twenty-six week periods of fiscal years 2013 and 2012 totaled $4.0 million and $1.8 million, respectively, and consisted primarily of capital expenditures. 

For a discussion of our other contractual obligations, see a discussion of future commitments under Item 7, "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations," in our Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 29, 2012. There have been no significant developments with respect to our contractual obligations since January 29, 2012.

 

The Company has no off-balance sheet arrangements that affect the Company's current or future financial condition.

 

 

The following chart indicates the percentage of sales, excluding fuel sales, represented by each of our major product categories:

 

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ITEM 3.  CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

 

(a)  Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

The Company carried out an evaluation required by the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "1934 Act"), under the supervision and with the participation of our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the 1934 Act) as of July 29, 2012. Based on this evaluation, our principal executive officer and principal financial officer concluded that, as of July 29, 2012, our disclosure controls and procedures were effective to ensure that information required to be disclosed by us in the reports that we file or submit under the 1934 Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission's rules and forms.

 

Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the 1934 Act is accumulated and communicated to the issuer's management, including its principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

(b)   Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There have been no changes in our internal control over financial reporting during fiscal 2013 that have materially affected or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II - OTHER INFORMATION

 

ITEM 1.  LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

 

There are no material pending legal proceedings, other than routine litigation incidental to the business, to which the Company is a party or to which any property is subject.

ITEM 1A.  RISK FACTORS

 

There have been no material changes to our risk factors as previously disclosed in our Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 29, 2012.

 

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ITEM 2.  UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS

 

On July 27, 2012,  the Company entered into a new Rule 10b5-1 and Rule 10b-18 Stock Repurchase Agreement with William Blair and Company, LLC (the "Stock Repurchase Agreement") whereby the Company authorized the repurchase of up to 175,000 shares of the Company's Common Stock under the Company's stock repurchase program (the "Program").

The Program was initially authorized by the Company on March 23, 2006, whereby the Board of Directors of the Company authorized the repurchase of 200,000 shares of the Company's Common Stock, and the Company repurchased 3,337 shares of Common Stock under the Program. The Company's Board of Directors reinstated the Program on August 13, 2008 and the Company repurchased 22,197 shares of Common Stock under the Program during such period of reinstatement. The Board of Directors of the Company approved the reinstatement of the Program again on January 6, 2012 and the Company repurchased an additional 34,407 shares of Common Stock during such reinstatement. On April 25, 2012, the Board of Directors of the Company authorized the Company to repurchase an additional 500,000 shares of Common Stock for a total of 700,000 shares of Common Stock authorized for repurchase under the Program. The Stock Repurchase Agreement only authorizes William Blair and Company, LLC to repurchase a portion of the total shares available for repurchase under the Program as stated above. Under the terms of the Program, the Company can terminate the proposed buy back at any time.

During the second quarter of fiscal 2013, the Company did not repurchase any shares of Common Stock under the Program.  During the twenty-six weeks of fiscal 2013, the Company repurchased 34,407 shares of Common Stock under the Program. As of July 29, 2012, the Company had repurchased a total of 59,941 shares under the Program since it was initially approved in 2006.  Therefore, there were 640,059 shares of Common Stock available to be repurchased by the Company, as of July 29, 2012.

As of September 7, 2012, the Company had repurchased an additional 83,463 shares of Common Stock under the Program leaving 556,596 shares of Common Stock available to be repurchased by the Company.

The following are details of repurchases under this program for the period covered by this report, in accordance with Rule 10b-1 and Rule 10b-18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934:

Period		Total Number of Shares Repurchased as Part of Publicly Announced Plans or Programs				Weighted Average Price Paid Per Share				Total Number of Shares Authorized to be Repurchased				Total Number of Shares that May Yet Be Repurchased Under The Plans or Programs
As of January 29, 2012			25,534			$	14.97				200,000				174,466
Fiscal 2013:
First quarter:			34,407			$	8.69				500,000				640,059
Second quarter:
Month 1			—				—				—				—
Month 2			—				—				—				—
Month 3			—				—				—				—
As of July 29, 2012			59,941			$	11.36				700,000				640,059

ITEM 3.  DEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES

 

Not applicable.

 

ITEM 4.  MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES

Not applicable.

  

ITEM 5.  OTHER INFORMATION

 

None.

 

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ITEM 6.  EXHIBITS

EXHIBIT INDEX

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Number		Description
10.15		Employment agreement entered into by the Company and Ted Beaith dated March 15, 2012 is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.15 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K dated March 22, 2012.
10.16		Employment agreement entered into by the Company and Tom L. Canfield, Jr. dated March 15, 2012 is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.16 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K dated March 22, 2012.
10.17		Stock Option Agreement between the Company and Wayne S. Peterson dated April 30, 2012 incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.17 to Current Report Form 8-K of the Company dated May 3, 2012.
10.18		Stock Option Agreement between the Company and Tom L. Canfield, Jr. dated April 30, 2012 incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.18 to Current Report Form 8-K of the Company dated May 3, 2012.
10.19		Stock Option Agreement between the Company and Edmond C. Beaith dated April 30, 2012 incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.19 to Current Report Form 8-K of the Company dated May 3, 2012.
10.20		Stock Option Agreement between the Company and Dennis E. Logue dated June 29, 2012 incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.20 to Current Report Form 8-K of the Company dated July 10, 2012.
10.21		Stock Option Agreement between the Company and Dennis E. Logue dated June 29, 2012 incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.21 to Current Report Form 8-K of the Company dated July 10, 2012.
10.22		Stock Option Agreement between the Company and Terrence M. Babilla dated June 29, 2012 incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.22 to Current Report Form 8-K of the Company dated July 10, 2012.
10.23		Stock Option Agreement between the Company and Lolan C. Mackey dated June 29, 2012 incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.23 to Current Report Form 8-K of the Company dated July 10, 2012.
10.24		Stock Option Agreement between the Company and Royce Winsten dated June 29, 2012 incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.24 to Current Report Form 8-K of the Company dated July 10, 2012.
10.25		2012 Equity Incentive Plan is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.25 to the Form S-8 of the Company dated July 11, 2012.
10.26		Incentive Bonus Plan is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.26 to the Current Report on Form 8-K of the Company dated July 13, 2012.
10.27		Employment agreement entered into by the Company and Brent A. Streit dated March 15, 2012 is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.27 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K dated July 13, 2012.
10.28		Time Based Incentive Stock Option Agreement between the Company and Richard E. Wilson dated July 6, 2012 incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.28 to Current Report Form 8-K of the Company dated July 13, 2012.
10.29		Performance Based Incentive Stock Option Agreement between the Company and Richard E. Wilson dated July 6, 2012 incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.29 to Current Report Form 8-K of the Company dated July 13, 2012.
10.30		Time Based Incentive Stock Option Agreement between the Company and Wayne S. Peterson dated July 6, 2012 incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.30 to Current Report Form 8-K of the Company dated July 13, 2012.
10.31		Performance Based Incentive Stock Option Agreement between the Company and Wayne S. Peterson dated July 6, 2012 incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.31 to Current Report Form 8-K of the Company dated July 13, 2012.
10.32		Time Based Incentive Stock Option Agreements between the Company and Tom L. Canfield dated July 6, 2012 incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.32 to Current Report Form 8-K of the Company dated July 13, 2012.
10.33		Performance Based Incentive Stock Option Agreements between the Company and Tom L. Canfield dated July 6, 2012 incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.33 to Current Report Form 8-K of the Company dated July 13, 2012.
10.34		Time Based Incentive Stock Option Agreements between the Company and Edmond C. Beaith dated July 6, 2012 incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.34 to Current Report Form 8-K of the Company dated July 13, 2012.
10.35		Performance Based Incentive Stock Option Agreements between the Company and Edmond C. Beaith dated July 6, 2012 incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.35 to Current Report Form 8-K of the Company dated July 13, 2012.
10.36		Time Based Incentive Stock Option Agreements between the Company and Brent A. Streit dated July 6, 2012 incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.36 to Current Report Form 8-K of the Company dated July 13, 2012.
10.37		Performance Based Incentive Stock Option Agreements between the Company and Brent A. Streit dated July 6, 2012 incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.37 to Current Report Form 8-K of the Company dated July 13, 2012.

Number		Description
10.38		Appointment of new independent registered public accounting firm incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.38 to Current Report Form 8-K of the Company dated July 17, 2012.
18.1		LIFO Accounting Change Preferability Letter from Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm is incorporated by reference to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K dated April 15, 2011.
18.2		Retail Accounting Change Preferability Letter from Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm is incorporated by reference to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K dated April 13, 2012.
31.1		Certification of Chief Executive Officer of ALCO Stores, Inc., dated September 7, 2012, pursuant to Rule 13a-4(a) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
31.2		Certification of Chief Financial Officer of ALCO Stores, Inc., dated September 7, 2012, pursuant to Rule 13a-4(a) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
32.1		Certification of Chief Executive Officer of ALCO Stores, Inc., dated September 7, 2012, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, which is furnished with this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q  and is not treated as filed in reliance upon § 601(b)(32) of Regulations S-K.

Signature and Title			Date
/s/ Richard E. Wilson			September 7, 2012
Richard E. Wilson
President and Chief Executive Officer
(Principal Executive Officer)
/s/ Wayne S. Peterson			September 7, 2012
Wayne S. Peterson
Senior Vice President - Chief Financial Officer
(Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)