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EX-31.1 - EXHIBIT 31.1 - Castle Brands Incv326193_ex31-1.htm

 

 

 

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

FORM 10-Q

 

£ QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(D) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

 

For the quarterly period ended September 30, 2012

 

or

 

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

 

Commission File Number 001-32849

 

CASTLE BRANDS INC.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

Florida   41-2103550
(State or other jurisdiction of   (I.R.S. Employer
incorporation or organization)   Identification No.)
     
122 East 42nd Street, Suite 4700,   10168
New York, New York    (Zip Code)
 (Address of principal executive offices)    

 

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (646) 356-0200

 

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 þ    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 (§ 229.405 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 þ     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 (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)   þ 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 þ

 

The Company had 108,522,301 shares of $.01 par value common stock outstanding at November 13, 2012.    

 

 
 

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

 PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION    
     
 Item 1. Financial Statements:   3
       
  Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as of September 30, 2012 (unaudited) and March 31, 2012   3
       
  Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations for the three months and six months ended September 30, 2012 and 2011 (unaudited)   4
       
  Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for the three months and six months ended September 30, 2012 and 2011 (unaudited)   5
       
  Condensed Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity for the six months ended September 30, 2012 (unaudited)   6
       
  Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the six months ended September 30, 2012 and 2011 (unaudited)   7
       
  Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements   8
       
 Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations   17
       
 Item 4. Controls and Procedures   26
       
 PART II. OTHER INFORMATION    
       
 Item 1. Legal Proceedings   26
       
 Item 6. Exhibits   26

 

2
 

 

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1.            Financial Statements

CASTLE BRANDS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets

 

 

   September 30,
2012
   March 31,
2012
 
   (Unaudited)     
ASSETS:          
Current Assets          
Cash and cash equivalents  $469,833   $484,362 
Accounts receivable — net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $377,580 and $411,272, respectively   6,749,339    6,268,432 
Due from shareholders and  affiliates   268,803    122,640 
Inventories— net of allowance for obsolete and slow moving inventory of $136,496 and $290,316, respectively   11,435,426    10,732,698 
Prepaid expenses and other current assets   882,284    784,331 
           
Total Current Assets   19,805,685    18,392,463 
           
Equipmentnet   559,258    620,840 
Other Assets          
Investment in non-consolidated affiliate, at equity   124,323    130,850 
Intangible assets — net of accumulated amortization of $5,273,443 and $4,906,061, respectively   9,974,282    10,302,288 
Goodwill   1,314,338    1,243,058 
Restricted cash   448,083    468,275 
Other assets   206,377    197,003 
           
Total Assets  $32,432,346   $31,354,777 
           
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY:          
Current Liabilities          
Foreign revolving credit facility  $152,233   $ 
Accounts payable   4,221,691    4,771,140 
Accrued expenses   608,590    442,618 
Due to shareholders and affiliates   2,544,130    1,584,270 
           
Total Current Liabilities   7,526,644    6,798,028 
           
Long-Term Liabilities          
Keltic facility   5,729,289    3,849,831 
Notes payable – GCP Note   216,869    211,580 
Warrant liability   613,411    684,690 
Deferred tax liability   1,740,532    1,814,608 
           
Total Liabilities   15,826,745    13,358,737 
           
Commitments and Contingencies (Note 13)          
           
Equity          
Preferred stock, $.01 par value, 25,000,000 shares authorized, 6,766 and 6,897 shares of series A convertible preferred stock issued and outstanding at September 30 and March 31, 2012, respectively (liquidation value of $7,561,212 and $7,327,262 at September 30 and March 31, 2012, respectively)   67,663    68,965 
Common stock, $.01 par value, 225,000,000 shares authorized, 108,522,301 and 108,052,067 shares issued and outstanding at September 30 and March 31, 2012, respectively   1,085,223    1,080,520 
Additional paid-in capital   142,552,744    142,052,646 
Accumulated deficit   (126,171,976)   (124,076,608)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss   (1,908,123)   (1,801,656)
           
Total controlling shareholders’ equity   15,625,531    17,323,867 
           
Noncontrolling interests   980,070    672,173 
           
Total equity   16,605,601    17,996,040 
           
Total Liabilities and Equity  $32,432,346   $31,354,777 

  

See accompanying notes to the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

3
 

 

CASTLE BRANDS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations

(Unaudited)

 

   Three months ended September 30,   Six months ended September 30, 
   2012   2011   2012   2011 
Sales, net*  $10,317,737   $9,399,954   $20,037,164   $16,792,338 
Cost of sales*   6,594,889    6,107,115    12,881,664    10,753,210 
Provision for obsolete inventory   100,000        100,000     
                     
Gross profit   3,622,848    3,292,839    7,055,500    6,039,128 
                     
Selling expense   2,770,866    2,656,399    5,393,858    5,263,180 
General and administrative expense   1,159,606    1,185,713    2,488,206    2,454,113 
Depreciation and amortization   229,857    225,811    460,939    453,956 
                     
Loss from operations   (537,481)   (775,084)   (1,287,503)   (2,132,121)
                     
Other expense   (16)       (16)    
Gain (loss) from equity investment in non-consolidated affiliate   (11,075)   108    (10,727)   (17,349)
Foreign exchange loss   (218,113)   (116,387)   (22,172)   (238,462)
Interest expense, net   (136,816)   (176,731)   (247,837)   (354,272)
Net change in fair value of warrant liability   162,607    209,899    71,279    185,025 
Income tax benefit   37,038    37,038    74,076    74,076 
                     
Net loss   (703,856)   (821,157)   (1,422,900)   (2,483,103)
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests   (197,440)   (99,514)   (307,897)   (204,578)
                     
Net loss attributable to controlling interests   (901,296)   (920,671)   (1,730,797)   (2,687,681)
                     
Dividend to preferred shareholders   (184,199)   (49,927)   (364,150)   (379,387)
                     
Net loss attributable to common shareholders  $(1,085,495)  $(970,598)  $(2,094,947)  $(3,067,068)
                     
Net loss per common share, basic and diluted,
attributable to common shareholders
  $(0.01)  $(0.01)  $(0.02)  $(0.03)
                     
Weighted average shares used in computation,
basic and diluted, attributable to common
shareholders
   108,491,137    107,452,007    108,441,966    107,327,758 

 

* Sales, net and Cost of sales include excise taxes of $1,532,880 and $1,497,879 for the three months ended September 30, 2012 and 2011, respectively, and $2,914,421 and $2,713,498 for the six months ended September 30, 2012 and 2011, respectively.

 

See accompanying notes to the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

4
 

 

CASTLE BRANDS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Loss

(Unaudited)

 

   Three months ended September 30,   Six months ended September 30, 
   2012   2011   2012   2011 
Net loss  $(703,856)  $(821,157)  $(1,422,900)  $(2,483,103)
Other comprehensive income (loss):                    
Foreign currency translation adjustment   57,575    (169,907)   (106,467)   (111,658)
                     
Total other comprehensive loss:   (646,281)   (991,064)   (1,529,367)   (2,594,761)
                     
Comprehensive loss  $(646,281)  $(991,064)  $(1,529,367)  $(2,594,761)

 

See accompanying notes to the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

5
 

 

CASTLE BRANDS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Condensed Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity

(Unaudited)

 

                           Accumulated         
                   Additional       Other         
   Preferred Stock   Common Stock   Paid-in   Accumulated   Comprehensive   Noncontrolling   Total 
   Shares   Amount   Shares   Amount   Capital   Deficit   Loss   Interests   Equity 
BALANCE, MARCH 31, 2012   6,897   $68,965    108,052,067   $1,080,520   $142,052,646   $(124,076,608)  $(1,801,656)  $672,173   $17,996,040 
                                              
Net (loss) income                            (1,730,797)        307,897    (1,422,900)
Foreign currency translation adjustment                                 (106,467)        (106,467)
Conversion of series A preferred stock and accrued dividends   (131)   (1,302)   470,234    4,703    (2,980)   (421)              
Accrued dividends - series A convertible preferred stock                       364,150    (364,150)              
Stock-based compensation                       138,928                   138,928 
                                              
BALANCE, SEPTEMBER 30, 2012   6,766   $67,663    108,522,301   $1,085,223   $142,552,744   $(126,171,976)  $(1,908,123)  $980,070   $16,605,601 

 

See accompanying notes to the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

6
 

 

CASTLE BRANDS INC. and SUBSIDIARIES

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

(Unaudited)

 

   Six months ended September 30, 
   2012   2011 
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:          
Net loss  $(1,422,900)  $(2,483,103)
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash used in operating activities:          
Depreciation and amortization   460,939    453,956 
Provision for doubtful accounts   12,000    18,034 
Amortization of deferred financing costs   42,412    14,117 
Change in fair value of warrant liability   (71,279)   (185,025)
Deferred tax benefit   (74,076)   (74,076)
Loss from equity investment in non-consolidated affiliate   10,727    17,349 
Effect of changes in foreign exchange   22,172    238,462 
Stock-based compensation expense   138,928    84,513 
Provision for obsolete inventories   100,000     
Changes in operations, assets and liabilities:          
Accounts receivable   (518,956)   (284,902)
Due from affiliates   (146,163)   (171,286)
Inventory   (904,801)   (899,836)
Prepaid expenses and supplies   (99,027)   84,960 
Other assets   (51,788)   (173,284)
Accounts payable and accrued expenses   (349,222)   130,749 
Accrued interest   1,089    210,277 
Due to related parties   959,860    661,730 
           
Total adjustments   (467,185)   125,738 
           
NET CASH USED IN OPERATING ACTIVITIES   (1,890,085)   (2,357,365)
           
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:          
Purchase of equipment   (43,098)   (181,498)
Acquisition of intangible assets   (39,375)   (22,000)
Change in restricted cash   1,500    (26,480)
Payments under contingent consideration agreements   (71,280)   (56,928)
           
NET CASH USED IN INVESTING ACTIVITIES   (152,253)   (286,906)
           
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:          
Keltic facility   1,879,458    1,588,467 
Foreign revolving credit facility   150,143     
$2.5 million revolving credit facility       (2,000,000)
Note payable – Betts & Scholl       (327,648)
Interim notes – affiliate investors       1,005,000 
Issuance of series A convertible preferred stock       2,155,000 
Costs of issuance of series A convertible preferred stock       (263,034)
           
NET CASH PROVIDED BY FINANCING ACTIVITIES   2,029,601    2,157,785 
           
EFFECTS OF FOREIGN CURRENCY TRANSLATION   (1,792)   (13,223)
NET DECREASE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS   (14,529)   (499,709)
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS — BEGINNING   484,362    1,047,372 
           
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS — ENDING  $469,833   $547,663 
           
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES:          
Schedule of non-cash investing and financing activities:          
Issuance of warrant liability in connection with series A convertible preferred stock  $   $347,059 
           
Interest paid  $202,916   $90,028 

 

See accompanying notes to the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

7
 

 

CASTLE BRANDS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

 

NOTE 1 — ORGANIZATION AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

Basis of Presentation

 

The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements do not include all of the information and footnote disclosures normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) and U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) and, in the opinion of management, contain all adjustments (which consist of only normal recurring adjustments) necessary for a fair presentation of such financial information. Results of operations for interim periods are not necessarily indicative of those to be achieved for full fiscal years. The condensed consolidated balance sheet as of March 31, 2012 is derived from the March 31, 2012 audited financial statements. These unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with Castle Brands Inc.’s (the “Company”) audited consolidated financial statements for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2012 included in the Company’s annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended March 31, 2012, as amended (“2012 Form 10-K”). Please refer to the notes to the audited consolidated financial statements included in the 2012 Form 10-K for additional disclosures and a description of accounting policies.

 

A.Description of business and business combination — The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Castle Brands Inc. (the “Company”), its wholly-owned domestic subsidiaries, Castle Brands (USA) Corp. (“CB-USA”) and McLain & Kyne, Ltd. (“McLain & Kyne”), the Company’s wholly-owned foreign subsidiaries, Castle Brands Spirits Group Limited (“CB-IRL”) and Castle Brands Spirits Marketing and Sales Company Limited, and the Company’s 60% ownership interest in Gosling-Castle Partners, Inc. (“GCP”), with adjustments for income or loss allocated based upon percentage of ownership. The accounts of the subsidiaries have been included as of the date of acquisition. All significant intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated.

 

B.Organization and operations — The Company is principally engaged in the importation, marketing and sale of premium and super premium brands of rums, whiskey, liqueurs, vodka, tequila and wine in the United States, Canada, Europe, and Asia. Prior to March 31, 2012, the vodka, Irish whiskeys and certain liqueurs were procured by CB-IRL and billed in Euros to CB-USA, with the risk of foreign exchange gain or loss resting with CB-USA. Beginning April 1, 2012, CB-USA began purchasing these goods directly from the suppliers.

 

C.Equity investments - Equity investments are carried at original cost adjusted for the Company’s proportionate share of the investees’ income, losses and distributions. The Company assesses the carrying value of its equity investments when an indicator of a loss in value is present and records a loss in value of the investment when the assessment indicates that an other-than-temporary decline in the investment exists. The Company classifies its equity earnings of non-consolidated affiliate equity investment as a component of net income or loss.

 

D.Goodwill and other intangible assets — Goodwill represents the excess of purchase price including related costs over the value assigned to the net tangible and identifiable intangible assets of businesses acquired. Goodwill and other identifiable intangible assets with indefinite lives are not amortized, but instead are tested for impairment annually, or more frequently if circumstances indicate a possible impairment may exist. Intangible assets with estimable useful lives are amortized over their respective estimated useful lives, generally on a straight-line basis, and are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable.

 

E.Impairment of long-lived assets — Under Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC") 310, “Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-lived Assets”, the Company periodically reviews whether changes have occurred that would require revisions to the carrying amounts of its definite lived, long-lived assets. When the sum of the expected future cash flows is less than the carrying amount of the asset, an impairment loss is recognized based on the fair value of the asset.

 

F.Excise taxes and duty — Excise taxes and duty are computed at standard rates based on alcohol proof per gallon/liter and are paid after finished goods are imported into the United States and then transferred out of “bond.” Excise taxes and duty are recorded to inventory as a component of the cost of the underlying finished goods. When the underlying products are sold “ex warehouse”, the sales price reflects the taxes paid and the inventoried excise taxes and duties are charged to cost of sales.

 

8
 

 

G.Foreign currency — The functional currency for the Company’s foreign operations is the Euro in Ireland and the British Pound in the United Kingdom. Under ASC 830, “Foreign Currency Matters”, the translation from the applicable foreign currencies to U.S. Dollars is performed for balance sheet accounts using exchange rates in effect at the balance sheet date and for revenue and expense accounts using a weighted average exchange rate during the period. The resulting translation adjustments are recorded as a component of other comprehensive income. Gains or losses resulting from foreign currency transactions are shown as a separate line item in the consolidated statements of operations. Prior to March 31, 2012, the Company’s vodka, Irish whiskeys and certain liqueurs were procured by CB-IRL and billed in Euros to CB-USA, with the risk of foreign exchange gain or loss resting with CB-USA. Beginning April 1, 2012, CB-USA began purchasing these goods directly from the suppliers, with the risk of foreign exchange gain or loss remaining with CB-USA.

 

H.Fair value of financial instruments — ASC 825, “Financial Instruments”, defines the fair value of a financial instrument as the amount at which the instrument could be exchanged in a current transaction between willing parties and requires disclosure of the fair value of certain financial instruments. The Company believes that there is no material difference between the fair-value and the reported amounts of financial instruments in the Company’s balance sheets due to the short term maturity of these instruments, or with respect to the Company’s debt, as compared to the current borrowing rates available to the Company.

 

The Company’s investments are reported at fair value in accordance with authoritative guidance, which accomplishes the following key objectives:

  · Defines fair value as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date;
  · Establishes a three-level hierarchy (“valuation hierarchy”) for fair value measurements;
  · Requires consideration of the Company’s creditworthiness when valuing liabilities; and
  · Expands disclosures about instruments measured at fair value.

  

The valuation hierarchy is based upon the transparency of inputs to the valuation of an asset or liability as of the measurement date. A financial instrument’s categorization within the valuation hierarchy is based upon the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. The three levels of the valuation hierarchy are as follows:

  · Level 1 — inputs to the valuation methodology are quoted prices (unadjusted) for identical assets or liabilities in active markets.
  · Level 2 — inputs to the valuation methodology include quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets, and inputs that are directly or indirectly observable for the asset or liability for substantially the full term of the financial instrument.
  · Level 3 — inputs to the valuation methodology are unobservable and significant to the fair value measurement.

 

  I. Income taxes — Under ASC 740, “Income Taxes”, deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax basis. A valuation allowance is provided to the extent a deferred tax asset is not considered recoverable.

 

The Company has not recognized any adjustments for uncertain tax positions. The Company recognizes interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions in general and administrative expense; however, no such provisions for accrued interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions have been recorded as of September 30, 2012 or 2011.

 

The Company’s income tax benefit for the three and six months ended September 30, 2012 and 2011 consists of federal, state and local taxes attributable to GCP, which does not file a consolidated income tax return with the Company. In connection with the investment in GCP, the Company recorded a deferred tax liability on the ascribed value of the acquired intangible assets of $2,222,222, increasing the value of the asset. The difference between the book basis and tax basis created a deferred tax liability that is being amortized over a period of 15 years (the life of the licensing agreement) on a straight-line basis. For each of the three-month and six-month periods ended September 30, 2012 and 2011, the Company recognized $37,038 and $74,076 of deferred tax benefits, respectively.

 

  J. Accounting standards adopted — In June 2011, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update 2011-05, Presentation of Comprehensive Income ("ASU 2011-05"), which revises the manner in which entities present comprehensive income in their financial statements. The new guidance amends ASC No. 220, Comprehensive Income, and gives reporting entities the option to present the total of comprehensive income, the components of net income, and the components of other comprehensive income in either a continuous statement of comprehensive income or two separate but consecutive statements. ASU 2011-05 does not change the items that must be reported in other comprehensive income. This new guidance was effective for the Company April 1, 2012 and is applied retrospectively. The adoption of this standard did not have a material impact on the Company’s results of operations, cash flows or financial condition.

 

  K. Recent accounting pronouncements — In July 2012, the FASB issued amended guidance that simplifies how entities test indefinite-lived intangible assets other than goodwill for impairment.  After an assessment of certain qualitative factors, if it is determined to be more likely than not that an indefinite-lived asset is impaired, entities must perform the quantitative impairment test.  Otherwise, the quantitative test is optional.  The amended guidance is effective for annual and interim impairment tests performed for fiscal years beginning after September 15, 2012, with early adoption permitted.  The adoption of this guidance is not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s results of operations, cash flows or financial condition.

 

  L. Reclassification — Certain prior year balances have been reclassified to conform to the current year presentation.

 

9
 

 

NOTE 2 — BASIC AND DILUTED NET LOSS PER COMMON SHARE

 

Basic net loss per common share is computed by dividing net loss by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted net loss per common share is computed giving effect to all potentially dilutive common shares that were outstanding during the period that are not anti-dilutive. Potentially dilutive common shares consist of incremental shares issuable upon exercise of stock options and warrants or conversion of convertible preferred stock outstanding and related accrued dividends. In computing diluted net loss per share for the three and six months ended September 30, 2012 and 2011, no adjustment has been made to the weighted average outstanding common shares as the assumed exercise of outstanding options and warrants and the assumed conversion of convertible preferred stock and related accrued dividends is anti-dilutive.

 

Potential common shares not included in calculating diluted net loss per share are as follows:

 

   Six months ended 
   September 30, 
   2012   2011 
Stock options   7,960,765    6,086,400 
Warrants to purchase common stock   11,874,087    5,471,227 
Convertible preferred stock and accrued dividends   24,842,577    7,088,820 
           
Total   44,677,429    18,646,447 

 

NOTE 3 — INVENTORIES

 

   September 30,   March 31, 
   2012   2012 
Raw materials  $2,404,119   $3,107,615 
Finished goods – net   9,031,307    7,625,083 
           
Total  $11,435,426   $10,732,698 

 

As of September 30, 2012 and March 31, 2012, 34% and 22%, respectively, of raw materials and 5% and 3%, respectively, of finished goods were located outside of the United States.

 

The Company estimates the allowance for obsolete and slow moving inventory based on analyses and assumptions including, but not limited to, historical usage, expected future demand and market requirements.

 

Inventories are stated at the lower of weighted average cost or market.

 

NOTE 4 — EQUITY INVESTMENT

 

Investment in DP Castle Partners, LLC

 

In August 2010, CB-USA formed DP Castle Partners, LLC (“DPCP”) with Drink Pie, LLC to manage the manufacturing and marketing of Travis Hasse’s Original Apple Pie Liqueur, Cherry Pie Liqueur and any future line extensions of the brand. DPCP has the exclusive global rights to produce and market Travis Hasse’s Original Pie Liqueurs and CB-USA has the global distribution rights for this brand. DPCP pays a per case royalty fee to Drink Pie, LLC under a licensing agreement. CB-USA purchases the finished product from DPCP at a pre-determined margin and then uses its existing infrastructure, sales force and distributor network to sell the product and promote the brands. Finished goods are sold to CB-USA FOB – Production and CB-USA bears the risk of loss on both inventory and third-party receivables. Revenues and cost of sales are recorded at their respective gross amounts on the books and records of CB-USA. For the three months ended September 30, 2012 and 2011, CB-USA purchased $164,619 and $67,937, respectively, in finished goods from DPCP under the distribution agreement. For the six months ended September 30, 2012 and 2011, CB-USA purchased $324,050 and $67,937, respectively, in finished goods from DPCP under the distribution agreement. As of September 30, 2012, DPCP was indebted to CB-USA in the amount of $143,335, which is included in due from shareholders and affiliates on the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheet. As of March 31, 2012, CB-USA was indebted to DPCP in the amount of $28,469, which is included in due to shareholders and affiliates on the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheet. At September 30, 2012, CB-USA owned 20% of DPCP and, under the terms of the agreement, will increase its stake in DPCP based on achieving case sale targets. CB-USA also earns a defined rate of interest on its capital contribution to DPCP, based on its ownership in DPCP. For the three months and six months ended September 30, 2012 and 2011, CB-USA earned $2,100 and $4,200, respectively, in interest income on its capital contribution to DPCP. The Company has accounted for this investment under the equity method of accounting. This investment balance was $124,323 and $130,850 at September 30, 2012 and March 31, 2012, respectively.

 

10
 

 

NOTE 5 — ACQUISITIONS

 

Acquisition of McLain & Kyne

 

On October 12, 2006, the Company acquired all of the outstanding capital stock of McLain & Kyne. As consideration for the acquisition, the Company paid $2,000,000, consisting of $1,294,800 in cash and 100,000 shares of its common stock, valued at $705,200, at closing. Under the McLain & Kyne purchase agreement, as amended, the Company paid contingent consideration to the sellers based on the financial performance of certain assets of the acquired business through March 31, 2011. The Company is also required to pay contingent consideration, based on the case sales of Jefferson’s Presidential Select bourbon for a specified amount of cases, rather than a fixed period of time. For the six months ended September 30, 2012 and 2011, the sellers earned $71,280 and $56,928, respectively, under this agreement. The contingent consideration payments have been recorded as an increase to goodwill.

 

NOTE 6 — GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS

 

The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill for the three months ended September 30, 2012 were as follows:

   

   Amount 
Balance as of March 31, 2012  $1,243,058 
      
Payments under McLain and Kyne agreement   71,280 
      
Balance as of September 30, 2012  $1,314,338 

 

Intangible assets consist of the following:

 

   September 30,   March 31, 
   2012   2012 
Definite life brands  $170,000   $170,000 
Trademarks   557,947    557,947 
Rights   8,271,555    8,271,555 
Distributor relationships   664,000    664,000 
Product development   82,771    43,395 
Patents   994,000    994,000 
Other   28,480    28,480 
           
    10,748,753    10,729,377 
Less: accumulated amortization   5,273,443    4,906,061 
           
Net   5,495,310    5,823,316 
Other identifiable intangible assets — indefinite lived*   4,478,972    4,478,972 
           
   $9,974,282   $10,302,288 

 

* Other identifiable intangible assets — indefinite lived consists of product formulations.

 

Accumulated amortization consists of the following:

 

   September 30,   March 31, 
   2012   2012 
Definite life brands  $166,220   $160,552 
Trademarks   213,833    197,197 
Rights   4,133,246    3,857,271 
Distributor relationships   200,912    166,978 
Product development   14,245    12,210 
Patents   544,987    511,853 
Other   -    - 
           
Accumulated amortization  $5,273,443   $4,906,061 

 

11
 

 

NOTE 7 — RESTRICTED CASH

 

The Company had €348,556 or $448,083 (translated at the September 30, 2012 exchange rate) and €348,556 or $468,275 (translated at the March 31, 2012 exchange rate) at September 30, 2012 and March 31, 2012, respectively, of cash restricted from withdrawal and held by a bank in Ireland as collateral for overdraft coverage, creditors’ insurance, customs and excise guaranty and a revolving credit facility.

 

NOTE 8 — NOTES PAYABLE

 

   September 30,   March 31, 
   2012   2012 
Notes payable consist of the following:          
Foreign revolving credit facilities (A)  $152,233   $- 
Note payable (B)   216,869    211,580 
Keltic Facility (C)   5,729,289    3,849,831 
           
Total  $6,098,391   $4,061,411 

  

  A.

The Company has arranged various facilities aggregating €350,000 or $449,939 (translated at the September 30, 2012 exchange rate) with an Irish bank, including overdraft coverage, creditors’ insurance, customs and excise guaranty, and a revolving credit facility. These facilities are payable on demand, continue until terminated by either party, are subject to annual review, and call for interest at the lender’s AA1 Rate minus 1.70%. The balance on the credit facilities included in notes payable totaled $152,233 and $0 at September 30, 2012 and March 31, 2012, respectively.

 

  B. In December 2009, GCP issued a promissory note (the “GCP Note”) in the aggregate principal amount of $211,580 to Gosling's Export (Bermuda) Limited in exchange for credits issued on certain inventory purchases. The GCP Note matures on April 1, 2020, is payable at maturity, subject to certain acceleration events, and calls for annual interest of 5%, to be accrued and paid at maturity. At March 31, 2012, $10,579 of accrued interest was converted to amounts due to shareholders and affiliates. At September 30, 2012, $216,869, consisting of $211,580 of principal and $5,289 of accrued interest, due on the GCP Note is included in long-term liabilities. At March 31, 2012, $211,580 of principal due on the GCP Note is included in long-term liabilities.

 

  C.

In August 2011, the Company and CB-USA entered into the Keltic Facility, a revolving loan agreement with Keltic Financial Partners II, LP ("Keltic"), providing for availability (subject to certain terms and conditions) of a facility of up to $5,000,000 for the purpose of providing the Company and CB-USA with working capital.

  

    In July 2012, the Company and CB-USA entered into a First Amendment to Keltic Facility (as amended, the "Loan Agreement") providing for availability (subject to certain terms and conditions) of a facility of up to $7,000,000 for the purpose of providing the Company and CB-USA with working capital. The Company and CB-USA are referred to individually and collectively as the Borrower. The Loan Agreement amends the August 2011 facility between the Borrower and Keltic. Unless sooner terminated in accordance with its terms, the facility expires on August 19, 2014.

The Borrower may borrow up to the maximum amount of the facility, provided that the Borrower has a sufficient borrowing base. The borrowing base equals (a) up to 85% of the aggregate amount of the Borrower’s "Eligible Receivables" (as defined in the Loan Agreement), plus (b) the least of (i) 50% of the "Value" (as defined in the Loan Agreement) of the Borrower’s "Eligible Inventory" (as defined in the Loan Agreement), (ii) $3,000,000 and (iii) 60% of the Borrowing Capacity (as defined in the Loan Agreement) at such time, less (c) the aggregate amount of all Reserves (as defined in the Loan Agreement) in effect at such time.

The facility interest rate is the rate that, when annualized, is the greatest of (a) the Prime Rate plus 3.25%, (b) the LIBOR Rate plus 5.75%, and (c) 6.50%. Interest is payable monthly in arrears, on the first day of every month on the average daily unpaid principal amount of the Keltic Facility. After the occurrence and during the continuance of any "Default" or "Event of Default" (as defined under the Loan Agreement) the Borrower is required to pay interest at a rate that is 3.25% per annum above the then applicable Keltic Facility interest rate. In addition to a $40,000 commitment fee, Keltic will also receive an annual facility fee in an amount equal to 1% per annum of the maximum facility amount and a collateral management fee of $1,000 per month (increased to $2,000 after the occurrence of and during the continuance of an Event of Default).

The Loan Agreement contains standard borrower representations and warranties for asset-based borrowing and a number of reporting obligations and affirmative and negative covenants. The Borrower is required, among other things, to provide Keltic with weekly borrowing base certificates, monthly reports, annual financial statements and other current and periodic financial, operating and business records and reports, as well as tax returns and such other information as Keltic may from time to time request.

  

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    The Loan Agreement includes negative covenants that, among other things, restrict the Borrower’s ability to create additional indebtedness, dispose of properties, incur liens, and make distributions or cash dividends.

The Loan Agreement specifies certain Events of Default that include, among others, payment defaults, violations of affirmative and negative covenants in the Loan Agreement, imposition of certain liens, and events of insolvency and bankruptcy. Upon a Default or Event of Default, Keltic may terminate or suspend its obligation to make further advances and upon an Event of Default Keltic may, among other things, accelerate the Facility repayment and declare all obligations under the Loan Agreement to be immediately due and payable.

In connection with the Loan Agreement, the Company and CB-USA have entered into the following ancillary agreements with Keltic: an Amended and Restated Revolving Note and a Reaffirmation Agreement with certain officers of the Company and CB-USA, including John Glover, the Company's Chief Operating Officer, T. Kelley Spillane, the Company's Senior Vice President - Global Sales, and Alfred J. Small, the Company's Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer, Secretary & Treasurer, which reaffirms the existing Validity and Support Agreements by and among each officer, each Borrower and Keltic.

The obligations of the Borrower under the Loan Agreement are secured by the grant of a pledge and security interest over all of the assets of the Borrower. 
     
    At September 30, 2012, the Company was in compliance, in all material respects, with the covenants under the Keltic Facility.  At September 30, 2012 and March 31, 2012, $5,729,289 and $3,849,831, respectively, due on the Keltic Facility is included in long-term liabilities.

 

NOTE 9 — EQUITY

 

Preferred stock dividends – Holders of the Company’s 10% Series A Convertible Preferred Stock, par value $0.01 per share (“Series A Preferred Stock”), are entitled to receive cumulative dividends at the rate per share (as a percentage of the stated value of $1,000 per share) of 10% per annum, whether or not declared by the Company’s Board of Directors, which are only payable in shares of the Company’s common stock upon conversion of the Series A Preferred Stock or upon a liquidation. For the three months ended September 30, 2012 and 2011, the Company recorded accrued dividends of $184,199 and $49,927, respectively, and for the six months ended September 30, 2012 and 2011 the Company recorded accrued dividends of $364,150 and $60,702, respectively, included as an increase in the accumulated deficit and in additional paid-in capital on the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheets. In the three months ended June 30, 2011, the Company also recognized a related beneficial conversion feature of $318,705 as a fully accreted deemed dividend. This amount is included in dividend to preferred shareholders on the attached condensed consolidated statement of operations for the six months ended September 30, 2011.

 

Preferred stock conversions - In September 2012, a holder of Series A Preferred Stock converted 10.032 of Series A Preferred Stock, and accrued dividends thereon, into 37,235 shares of common stock.

 

In June 2012, a holder of Series A Preferred Stock converted 50 shares of Series A Preferred Stock, and accrued dividends thereon, into 181,561 shares of common stock.

 

In May 2012, holders of Series A Preferred Stock converted 70.1 shares of Series A Preferred Stock, and accrued dividends thereon, into 251,438 shares of common stock.

 

NOTE 10 — WARRANTS

 

The 2011 Warrants issued in connection with the Series A Preferred Stock have an exercise price of $0.38 per share, subject to adjustment, and are exercisable for a period of five years.  The exercise price of the 2011 Warrants is equal to 125% of the conversion price of the Series A Preferred Stock.  

 

The Company accounted for the 2011 Warrants issued in June 2011 in the condensed consolidated financial statements as a liability at their initial fair value of $347,059 and accounted for the 2011 Warrants issued in October 2011 as a liability at their initial fair value of $447,398. Changes in the fair value of the 2011 Warrants are recognized in earnings for each reporting period. At September 30 and March 31, 2012, the fair value of the 2011 Warrants was included in the condensed consolidated balance sheet under the caption Warrant liability of $613,411 and $684,690, respectively. For the three months ended September 30, 2012 and 2011, the Company recorded a gain on the change in the value of the 2011 Warrants of $162,607 and $209,899, respectively, and for the six months ended September 30, 2012 and 2011 the Company recorded again on the change in the value of the 2011 Warrants of and $71,279 and $185,025, respectively.

 

The fair value of the warrants is a Level 3 fair value under the valuation hierarchy and was estimated using the Black-Scholes option pricing model utilizing the following assumptions:

 

   September 30,
 2012
   March 31,
2012
 
Risk-free interest rate   0.31%   0.51%
Expected option life in years   1.38    1.63 
Expected stock price volatility   65%   65%
Expected dividend yield   0%   0%

 

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NOTE 11 — FOREIGN CURRENCY FORWARD CONTRACTS

 

The Company enters into forward contracts from time to time to reduce its exposure to foreign currency fluctuations. The Company recognizes in the balance sheet derivative contracts at fair value, and reflects any net gains and losses currently in earnings. At September 30 and March 31, 2012, the Company had no forward contracts outstanding. Gain or loss on foreign currency forward contracts, which was de minimis during the periods presented, is included in other income and expense.

 

NOTE 12 — STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION

 

In June 2012, the Company granted to certain employees options to purchase an aggregate of 172,166 shares of the Company’s common stock at an exercise price of $0.28 per share under the Company’s 2003 Stock Incentive Plan. The options, which expire in June 2022, vest 33.3% on each of the first three anniversaries of the grant date. The Company has valued the options at $27,547 using the Black-Scholes option pricing model.

 

In June 2012, the Company granted to employees, directors and certain consultants options to purchase an aggregate of 1,443,000 shares of the Company’s common stock at an exercise price of $0.31 per share under the Company’s 2003 Stock Incentive Plan. The options, which expire in June 2022, vest 25% on each of the first four anniversaries of the grant date. The Company has valued the options at $259,740 using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. 

 

 

Stock-based compensation expense for the three months ended September 30, 2012 and 2011 and for the six months ended September 30, 2012 and 2011 amounted to $79,748 and $52,736, respectively and $138,928 and $84,513, respectively. At September 30, 2012, total unrecognized compensation cost amounted to $627,766, representing 4,391,948 unvested options. This cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 8.61 years. There were no options exercised during the six months ended September 30, 2012 and 2011.

 

NOTE 13 — COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

 

  A. The Company has entered into a supply agreement with Irish Distillers Limited (“IDL”), which provides for the production of blended Irish whiskeys for the Company until the contract is terminated by either party in accordance with the terms of the agreement. IDL may terminate the contract if it provides at least six years prior notice to the Company, except for breach. Under this agreement, the Company provides IDL with a forecast of the estimated amount of liters of pure alcohol it requires for the next four fiscal contract years and agrees to purchase that amount, subject to certain annual adjustments. For the contract year ending June 30, 2013, the Company has contracted to purchase approximately €649,073 or $816,306 (translated at the September 30, 2012 exchange rate) in bulk Irish whiskey. The Company is not obligated to pay IDL for any product not yet received. During the term of this supply agreement, IDL has the right to limit additional purchases above the commitment amount.

 

  B. The Company has also entered into a supply agreement with IDL, which provides for the production of single malt Irish whiskeys for the Company until the contract is terminated by either party in accordance with the terms of the agreement. IDL may terminate the contract if it provides at least thirteen years prior notice to the Company, except for breach. Under this agreement, the Company provides IDL with a forecast of the estimated amount of liters of pure alcohol it requires for the next twelve fiscal contract years and agrees to purchase that amount, subject to certain annual adjustments. For the contract year ending June 30, 2013, the Company has contracted to purchase approximately €211,860 or $266,446 (translated at the September 30, 2012 exchange rate) in bulk Irish whiskey. The Company is not obligated to pay IDL for any product not yet received. During the term of this supply agreement, IDL has the right to limit additional purchases above the commitment amount.

 

  C. The Company leases office space in New York, NY, Dublin, Ireland and Houston, TX. The New York, NY lease expires on April 30, 2013 and provides for monthly payments of $16,779. The Dublin lease expires on November 30, 2013 and provides for monthly payments of €1,250 or $1,610 (translated at the September 30, 2012 exchange rate). The Houston, TX lease expires January 31, 2013 and provides for monthly payments of $1,693. The Company has also entered into non-cancelable operating leases for certain office equipment.

 

NOTE 14 — CONCENTRATIONS

 

  A. Credit Risk — The Company maintains its cash and cash equivalents balances at various large financial institutions that, at times, may exceed federally and internationally insured limits. The Company did not exceed the limits in effect as of September 30, 2012 and March 31, 2012.

 

  B. Customers — Sales to three customers accounted for approximately 44.8% and 45.1% of the Company’s revenues for the three months ended September 30, 2012 and 2011, respectively (of which one customer accounted for 31.0% and 32.5%, respectively, of total sales). Sales to three customers accounted for approximately 44.0% and 44.3% of the Company’s revenues for the six months ended September 30, 2012 and 2011, respectively, (of which one customer accounted for 31.7% and 30.3%, respectively, of total sales).  Sales to three customers accounted for approximately 41.4% of accounts receivable at September 30, 2012.

 

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NOTE 15 — GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION

 

The Company operates in one reportable segment — the sale of premium beverage alcohol. The Company’s product categories are rum, liqueur, whiskey, vodka, tequila and wine. The Company reports its operations in two geographic areas: International and United States.

 

The condensed consolidated financial statements include revenues and assets generated in or held in the U.S. and foreign countries. The following table sets forth the amounts and percentage of consolidated revenue, consolidated results from operations, consolidated net loss attributable to common shareholders, consolidated income tax benefit and consolidated assets from the U.S. and foreign countries and consolidated revenue by category.

 

   Three Months ended September 30, 
   2012   2011 
Consolidated Revenue:                    
International  $1,070,467    10.4%  $1,020,058    10.9%
United States   9,247,270    89.6%   8,379,896    89.1%
                     
Total Consolidated Revenue  $10,317,737    100.0%  $9,399,954    100.0%
                     
Consolidated Loss from Operations:                    
International  $(77,634)   14.4%  $(18,994)   2.5%
United States   (459,847)   85.6%   (756,090)   97.5%
                     
Total Consolidated Loss from Operations  $(537,481)   100.0%  $(775,084)   100.0%
                     
Consolidated Net Loss Attributable to Controlling Interests:                    
International  $(94,975)   10.5%  $(64,394)   7.0%
United States   (806,320)   89.5%   (856,277)   93.0%
                     
Total Consolidated Net Loss Attributable to Controlling Interests  $(901,295)   100.0%  $(920,671)   100.0%
                     
Income tax benefit:                    
United States   37,038    100.0%   37,038    100.0%
                     
 Consolidated Revenue by category:                    
Rum  $4,047,647    39.2%  $3,319,600    35.3%
Liqueur   2,437,008    23.7%   2,382,458    25.3%
Whiskey   1,795,671    17.3%   1,733,760    18.5%
Vodka   808,663    7.8%   991,154    10.5%
Tequila   60,989    0.6%   76,528    0.8%
Wine   122,066    1.2%   110,907    1.2%
Other*   1,045,693    10.2%   785,547    8.4%
                     
Total Consolidated Revenue  $10,317,737    100.0%  $9,399,954    100.0%

 

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   Six Months ended September 30, 
   2012   2011 
Consolidated Revenue:                    
International  $2,624,015    13.1%  $1,981,510    11.8%
United States   17,413,149    86.9%   14,810,828    88.2%
                     
Total Consolidated Revenue  $20,037,164    100.0%  $16,792,338    100.0%
                     
Consolidated Loss from Operations:                    
International  $(134,921)   10.5%  $(43,311)   2.0%
United States   (1,152,582)   89.5%   (2,088,810)   98.0%
                     
Total Consolidated Loss from Operations  $(1,287,503)   100.0%  $(2,132,121)   100.0%
                     
Consolidated Net Loss Attributable to Controlling Interests:                    
International  $(146,703)   8.5%  $(250,968)   9.3%
United States   (1,584,094)   91.5%   (2,436,713)   90.7%
                     
Total Consolidated Net Loss Attributable to Controlling Interests  $(1,730,797)   100.0%  $(2,687,681)   100.0%
                     
Income tax benefit:                    
United States   74,076    100.0%   74,076    100.0%
                     
 Consolidated Revenue by category:                    
Rum  $8,174,117    40.9%  $6,416,355    38.2%
Liqueur   4,093,813    20.4%   3,852,473    22.9%
Whiskey   3,615,752    18.0%   2,675,650    15.9%
Vodka   1,811,390    9.0%   1,976,509    11.8%
Tequila   160,751    0.8%   169,022    1.0%
Wine   280,672    1.4%   414,385    2.5%
Other*   1,900,669    9.5%   1,287,944    7.7%
                     
Total Consolidated Revenue  $20,037,164    100.0%  $16,792,338    100.0%

 

   As of September 30, 2012   As of March 31, 2012 
Consolidated Assets:                    
International  $1,785,898    5.5%   2,430,226    7.6%
United States   30,646,448    94.5%   28,924,551    92.4%
                     
Total Consolidated Assets  $32,432,346    100.0%   31,354,777    100.0%

 

 

 

*Includes related non-beverage alcohol products.

 

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

 

Overview

 

We develop and market premium and super premium brands in the following beverage alcohol categories: rum, liqueur, whiskey, vodka, tequila and wine. We distribute our products in all 50 U.S. states and the District of Columbia, in thirteen primary international markets, including Ireland, Great Britain, Northern Ireland, Germany, Canada, South Africa, Bulgaria, France, Russia, Finland, Norway, Sweden, China and the Duty Free markets, and in a number of other countries in continental Europe and Latin America. We market the following brands, among others, Gosling’s Rum®, Gosling’s Dark ‘n Stormy® ready-to-drink cocktail, Jefferson’s®, Jefferson’s Reserve® and Jefferson's Presidential SelectTM bourbons, Jefferson’s Rye whiskey, Clontarf® Irish whiskey, Pallini® liqueurs, Boru® vodka, Knappogue Castle Whiskey®, TierrasTM tequila, Celtic Honey® liqueur, Brady's® Irish Cream, Travis Hasse’s Original® Pie liqueurs, Gozio® amaretto, A. de Fussigny® cognacs and the CC: TM line of wines.

 

Our objective is to continue building a distinctive portfolio of global premium and super premium spirits and wine brands as we move towards profitability. To achieve this, we continue to seek to:

  § increase revenues from our more profitable brands. We continue to focus our distribution relationships, sales expertise and targeted marketing activities on our more profitable brands;
  § improve value chain and manage cost structure. We continue to review and analyze our supply chains and cost structures both on a company-wide and brand-by-brand basis, as well as control general and administrative costs; and
  § selectively add new premium brands to our portfolio. We intend to continue developing new brands and pursuing strategic relationships, joint ventures and acquisitions to selectively expand our premium spirits and wine portfolio, particularly by capitalizing on and expanding our partnering capabilities. Our criteria for new brands focuses on underserved areas of the beverage alcohol marketplace, while examining the potential for direct financial contribution to our company and the potential for future growth based on development and maturation of agency brands. We evaluate future acquisitions and agency relationships on the basis of their potential to be immediately accretive and their potential contributions to our objectives of becoming profitable and further expanding our product offerings. We expect that future acquisitions, if consummated, would involve some combination of cash, debt and the issuance of our stock.

 

Recent Events

 

Keltic Facility

 

In July 2012, we entered into a First Amendment to the revolving loan agreement ("Loan Agreement") with Keltic Financial Partners II, LP ("Keltic"), which we refer to as the Keltic Facility, providing for availability (subject to certain terms and conditions) of a facility of up to $7.0 million for the purpose of providing working capital. The Loan Agreement amends the August 2011 facility between us and Keltic, which provided for a facility of up to $5.0 million. The Keltic Facility expires on August 19, 2014. We may borrow up to the maximum amount of the Keltic Facility, provided that we have a sufficient borrowing base (as defined in the Loan Agreement). The Keltic Facility interest rate is the rate that, when annualized, is the greatest of (a) the Prime Rate plus 3.25%, (b) the LIBOR Rate plus 5.75%, and (c) 6.50%. Interest is payable monthly in arrears, on the first day of every month on the average daily unpaid principal amount of the Keltic Facility. After the occurrence and during the continuance of any "Default" or "Event of Default" (as defined under the Loan Agreement) we are required to pay interest at a rate that is 3.25% per annum above the then applicable Keltic Facility interest rate. Interest has been paid at 6.5% and there have been no Events of Default. In addition to a $100,000 commitment fee paid on the original Loan Agreement and a $40,000 commitment fee paid on the amended Loan Agreement, Keltic will also receive an annual facility fee and a collateral management fee. The Loan Agreement contains standard borrower representations and warranties for asset-based borrowing and a number of reporting obligations and affirmative and negative covenants. The Loan Agreement includes negative covenants that, among other things, restrict our ability to create additional indebtedness, dispose of properties, incur liens, and make distributions or cash dividends. At September 30, 2012, we were in compliance, in all material respects, with the covenants under the Keltic Facility.

 

Currency Translation

 

The functional currencies for our foreign operations are the Euro in Ireland and the British Pound in the United Kingdom. With respect to our consolidated financial statements, the translation from the applicable foreign currencies to U.S. Dollars is performed for balance sheet accounts using exchange rates in effect at the balance sheet date and for revenue and expense accounts using a weighted average exchange rate during the period. The resulting translation adjustments are recorded as a component of other comprehensive income.

 

17
 

 

Where in this report we refer to amounts in Euros or British Pounds, we have for your convenience also in certain cases provided a conversion of those amounts to U.S. Dollars in parentheses. Where the numbers refer to a specific balance sheet account date or financial statement account period, we have used the exchange rate that was used to perform the conversions in connection with the applicable financial statement. In all other instances, unless otherwise indicated, the conversions have been made using the exchange rates as of September 30, 2012, each as calculated from the Interbank exchange rates as reported by Oanda.com. On September 30, 2012, the exchange rate of the Euro and the British Pound in exchange for U.S. Dollars was €1.00 = U.S. $1.28554 (equivalent to U.S. $1.00 = €0.77788) and  £1.00 = U.S. $1.61644 (equivalent to U.S. $1.00 = £0.61864).

 

These conversions should not be construed as representations that the Euro and British Pound amounts actually represent U.S. Dollar amounts or could be converted into U.S. Dollars at the rates indicated.

 

Critical Accounting Policies

 

There are no material changes from the critical accounting policies set forth in Item 7, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” in our annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended March 31, 2012, as amended, which we refer to as our 2012 Annual Report. Please refer to that section for disclosures regarding the critical accounting policies related to our business.

   

Financial performance overview

 

The following table provides information regarding our case sales for the periods presented based on nine-liter equivalent cases, which is a standard spirits industry metric (table excludes related non-beverage alcohol products): 

 

   Three months ended   Six months ended 
   September 30,   September 30, 
   2012   2011   2012   2011 
Cases                    
United States   77,416    71,186    147,586    127,370 
International   15,288    14,962    31,248    28,897 
                     
Total   92,704    86,148    178,834    156,267 
                     
Rum   38,815    33,375    81,257    64,167 
Vodka   17,093    18,197    34,173    36,362 
Liqueur   22,108    21,354    37,193    34,635 
Whiskey   11,539    11,396    20,927    16,877 
Tequila   331    367    867    846 
Fine Wine   2,575    966    4,024    2,732 
Other   243    493    393    648 
                     
Total   92,704    86,148    178,834    156,267 
                     
Percentage of Cases                    
United States   83.5%   82.6%   82.5%   81.5%
International   16.5%   17.4%   17.5%   18.5%
                     
Total   100.0%   100.0%   100.0%   100.0%
                     
Rum   41.9%   38.8%   45.5%   41.1%
Vodka   18.4%   21.1%   19.1%   23.3%
Liqueur   23.8%   24.8%   20.8%   22.2%
Whiskey   12.4%   13.2%   11.7%   10.8%
Tequila   0.4%   0.4%   0.5%   0.5%
Fine Wine   2.8%   1.1%   2.3%   1.7%
Other   0.3%   0.6%   0.2%   0.4%
                     
Total   100.0%   100.0%   100.0%   100.0%

 

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The following table provides information regarding our case sales of non-beverage alcohol products for the periods presented:

 

   Three months ended   Six months ended 
   September 30,   September 30, 
   2012   2011   2012   2011 
Cases                    
United States   72,393    49,190    136,023    86,273 
International   2,600    2,396    8,326    4,793 
                     
Total   74,993    51,586    144,349    51,586 
                     
Percentage of Cases                    
United States   96.5%   95.4%   94.2%   94.7%
International   3.5%   4.6%   5.8%   5.3%
                     
Total   100.0%   100.0%   100.0%   100.0%

 

Results of operations

 

The table below provides, for the periods indicated, the percentage of net sales of certain items in our consolidated financial statements:

 

   Three months ended September 30,   Six months ended September 30, 
   2012   2011   2012   2011 
Sales, net*   100.0%   100.0%   100.0%   100.0%
Cost of sales*   63.9%   65.0%   64.3%   64.0%
Reversal of provision for obsolete inventory   1.0%   0.0%   0.0%   0.0%
                     
Gross profit   35.1%   35.0%   35.2%   36.0%
                     
Selling expense   26.9%   28.3%   26.9%   31.3%
General and administrative expense   11.2%   12.6%   12.4%   14.6%
Depreciation and amortization   2.2%   2.4%   2.3%   2.7%
                     
Loss from operations   (5.2)%   (8.2)%   (6.4)%   (12.7)%
                     
Other expense   0.0%   0.0%   0.0%   0.0%
Loss from equity investment in non-consolidated affiliate   (0.1)%   0.0%   (0.1)%   (0.1)%
Foreign exchange loss   (2.1)%   (1.2)%   (0.1)%   (1.4)%
Interest expense, net   (1.3)%   (1.9)%   (1.2)%   (2.1)%
Net change in fair value of warrant liability   1.6%   2.2%   0.4%   1.1%
Income tax benefit   0.4%   0.4%   0.4%   0.4%
                     
Net loss   (6.8)%   (8.7)%   (7.1)%   (14.8)%
Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests   (1.9)%   (1.1)%   (1.5)%   (1.2)%
                     
Net loss attributable to controlling interests   (8.7)%   (9.8)%   (8.6)%   (16.0)%
                     
Dividend to preferred shareholders   (1.8)%   (0.5)%   (1.8)%   (2.3)%
                     
Net loss attributable to common shareholders   (10.5)%   (10.3)%   (10.5)%   (18.3)%

 

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The following is a reconciliation of net loss attributable to common shareholders to EBITDA, as adjusted:

 

   Three months ended   Six months ended 
   September 30,   September 30, 
   2012   2011   2012   2011 
Net loss attributable to common shareholders  $(1,085,494)  $(970,598)  $(2,094,946)  $(3,067,069)
Adjustments:                    
Interest expense, net   136,816    176,731    247,837    354,272 
Income tax benefit   (37,038)   (37,038)   (74,076)   (74,076)
Depreciation and amortization   229,857    225,811    460,939    453,956 
EBITDA (loss)   (755,859)   (605,094)   (1,460,246)   (2,332,917)
Allowance for doubtful accounts   6,000    11,123    12,000    18,034 
Allowance for obsolete inventory   100,000        100,000     
Stock-based compensation expense   79,748    52,737    138,928    84,513 
Other expense   16        16     
Gain (loss) from equity investment in non-consolidated affiliate   11,075    (108)   10,727    17,349 
Foreign exchange loss   218,113    116,387    22,172    238,462 
Net change in fair value of warrant liability   (162,607)   (209,899)   (71,279)   (185,025)
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests   197,440    99,515    307,898    204,578 
Dividend to preferred shareholders   184,199    49,927    364,150    379,387 
EBITDA (loss), as adjusted   (121,875)   (485,412)   (575,634)   (1,575,619)

 

Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization, or EBITDA, adjusted for allowance for doubtful accounts, non-cash compensation expense, gain (loss) from equity investment in non-consolidated affiliate, foreign exchange, net change in fair value of warrant liability, net income attributable to noncontrolling interests and dividend to preferred shareholders is a key metric we use in evaluating our financial performance. EBITDA is considered a non-GAAP financial measure as defined by Regulation G promulgated by the SEC under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. We consider EBITDA, as adjusted, important in evaluating our performance on a consistent basis across various periods. Due to the significance of non-cash and non-recurring items, EBITDA, as adjusted, enables our Board of Directors and management to monitor and evaluate the business on a consistent basis. We use EBITDA, as adjusted, as a primary measure, among others, to analyze and evaluate financial and strategic planning decisions regarding future operating investments and allocation of capital resources. We believe that EBITDA, as adjusted, eliminates items that are not indicative of our core operating performance or are based on management’s estimates, such as allowance accounts, are due to changes in valuation, such as the effects of changes in foreign exchange or fair value of warrant liability, or do not involve a cash outlay, such as stock-based compensation expense. Our presentation of EBITDA, as adjusted, should not be construed as an inference that our future results will be unaffected by unusual or non-recurring items or by non-cash items, such as non-cash compensation, which is expected to remain a key element in our long-term incentive compensation program.  EBITDA, as adjusted, should be considered in addition to, rather than as a substitute for, income from operations, net income and cash flows from operating activities.

 

Our EBITDA, as adjusted, improved 74.9% to a loss of ($0.1) million for the three months ended September 30, 2012, as compared to a loss of ($0.5) million for the comparable prior-year period, primarily as a result of our increased sales and gross profit. Our EBITDA, as adjusted, improved 63.5% to a loss of ($0.6) million for the six months ended September 30, 2012, as compared to a loss of ($1.6) million for the comparable prior-year period, primarily as a result of our increased sales and gross profit.

 

Three months ended September 30, 2012 compared with three months ended September 30, 2011

 

Net sales. Net sales increased 9.8% to $10.3 million for the three months ended September 30, 2012, as compared to $9.4 million for the comparable prior-year period. Our U.S. case sales as a percentage of total case sales increased to 83.5% for the three months ended September 30, 2012, as compared to 82.6% for the comparable prior-year period due to the organic growth of Gosling’s rums and Jefferson’s bourbons and the introduction of new brands into the U.S. market. Our international case sales grew due to strong growth in our Gosling’s and Irish whiskey sales, offset by a decrease in our vodka sales due to increased price competition. We continue to focus on our faster growing brands and markets, both in the U.S. and internationally. Net sales for the three months ended September 30, 2012 include $0.2 million in revenue from Gozio amaretto, which we launched in January 2012, and $0.1 million in revenue from our Gosling’s Dark ‘n Stormy pre-mixed cocktail, which we launched in February 2012.

 

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 The table below presents the increase or decrease, as applicable, in case sales by product category for the three months ended September 30, 2012 as compared to the three months ended September 30, 2011: 

 

   Increase/(decrease)   Percentage 
   in case sales   increase/(decrease) 
   Overall   U.S.   Overall   U.S. 
Rum   5,440    6,252    16.3%   23.6%
Vodka   (1,104)   (1,565)   (6.1)%   (10.3)%
Liqueurs   754    946    3.5%   4.5%
Whiskey   143    (726)   1.3%   (11.3)%
Tequila   (36)   (36)   (9.8)%   (9.8)%
Wine   1,609   1,609   166.6%   166.6%
Other   (250)   (250)   (50.7)%   (50.7)%
                     
Total   6,556    6,230    7.6%   8.8%

 

Gross profit. Gross profit increased 10.0% to $3.6 million for the three months ended September 30, 2012 from $3.3 million for the comparable prior-year period, while our gross margin increased to 35.1% for the three months ended September 30, 2012 compared to 35.0% for the comparable prior-year period, primarily due to increased sales of our higher margin spirits products. During the three months ended September 30, 2012, we recorded net allowance for obsolete and slow moving inventory of $0.1 million. We recorded this allowance on both raw materials and finished goods, primarily in connection with label and packaging changes made to certain brands, as well as certain cost variances. The net $0.1 million charge has been recorded as an increase to Cost of Sales in the period ended September 30, 2012. Net of the allowance for obsolete inventories, our gross margin for the three months ended September 30, 2012 was 36.1%.

 

Selling expense. Selling expense increased 4.3% to $2.8 million for the three months ended September 30, 2012 from $2.7 million for the comparable prior-year period, primarily due to a $0.1 million increase in freight out and a $0.1 million increase in employee-related charges, including salaries and entertainment expense, partially offset by a $0.1 million decrease in advertising, marketing and promotion expense. The increase in sales resulted in a net decrease of selling expense as a percentage of net sales to 26.9% for the three months ended September 30, 2012 as compared to 28.3% for the comparable prior-year period.

 

General and administrative expense. General and administrative expense was $1.2 million for the each of the three-month periods ended September 30, 2012 and 2011. The increase in sales in the current period resulted in general and administrative expense as a percentage of net sales decreasing to 11.2% for the three months ended September 30, 2012 as compared to 12.6% for the comparable prior-year period.

 

Depreciation and amortization. Depreciation and amortization was $0.2 million for each of the three-month periods ended September 30, 2012 and 2011.

 

Loss from operations. As a result of the foregoing, loss from operations improved 30.7% to ($0.5) million for the three months ended September 30, 2012 from ($0.8) million for the comparable prior-year period. As a result of our focus on our stronger growth markets and better performing brands, and expected growth from our existing brands and recently acquired brands, we anticipate improved results of operations in the near term as compared to comparable prior-year periods, although there is no assurance that we will attain such results.

 

Net change in fair value of warrant liability. We recorded the fair market value of the 2011 Warrants issued in connection with the September 2011 private placement at their initial fair value. Changes in the fair value of the 2011Warrants are recognized in earnings for each reporting period. For the three months ended September 30, 2012 and 2011, we recorded a gain on the change in the value of the 2011 Warrants of $0.2 million.

 

Gain (loss) from equity investment in non-consolidated affiliate. We have accounted for our investment in DP Castle Partners, LLC on the equity method of accounting. We realized a loss of ($0.01) million from this investment in the three months ended September 30, 2012 as compared to a de minimis gain for the comparable prior-year period.

 

Foreign exchange loss. Foreign exchange loss for the three months ended September 30, 2012 was ($0.2) million as compared to a loss of ($0.1) million for the three months ended September 30, 2011 due to the net effects of fluctuations of the U.S. dollar against the Euro and their effects on our Euro-denominated intercompany balances due to our foreign subsidiaries for inventory purchases.

 

Interest expense, net. We had interest expense, net of ($0.1) million for the three months ended September 30, 2012 as compared to interest expense, net of ($0.2) million for the comparable prior-year period. The decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding balances in the quarter ended September 30, 2012 as compared to the prior year period. Average debt balances decreased due to the conversion of debt to equity in connection with our June 2011 private placement, offset by the interest charged on our Keltic Facility.

 

Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests. Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests during the three months ended September 30, 2012 was ($0.2) million as compared to ($0.1) million for the comparable prior-year period, both the result of allocated net income recorded by our 60%-owned subsidiary, Gosling-Castle Partners, Inc.

 

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Dividend to preferred shareholders.  For the three months ended September 30, 2012 and 2011, we recognized a dividend on our Series A Preferred Stock of $0.2 million and $0.05 million, respectively, as required by the terms of the preferred stock. Accrued dividends on our Series A Preferred Stock are only payable in common stock upon conversion or liquidation.

 

Net loss attributable to common shareholders. As a result of the net effects of the foregoing, net loss attributable to common shareholders decreased 11.8% to ($1.1) million for the three months ended September 30, 2012 as compared to ($1.0) million for the comparable prior-year period. Net loss per common share, basic and diluted, was ($0.01) per share for the each of the three-month periods ended September 30, 2012 and 2011, respectively.

 

Six months ended September 30, 2012 compared with six months ended September 30, 2011

 

Net sales. Net sales increased 19.3% to $20.0 million for the six months ended September 30, 2012, as compared to $16.8 million for the comparable prior-year period. Our U.S. case sales as a percentage of total case sales increased to 82.5% for the six months ended September 30, 2012, as compared to 81.5% for the comparable prior-year period due to the organic growth of Gosling’s rums and Jefferson’s bourbons and the introduction of new brands into the U.S. market. Our international case sales grew due to strong growth in our Gosling’s and Irish whiskey sales, offset by a decrease in our vodka sales due to increased price competition. We continue to focus on our faster growing brands and markets, both in the U.S. and internationally. Net sales for the six months ended September 30, 2012 include $0.4 million in revenue from Gozio amaretto, which we launched in January 2012, and $0.5 million in revenue from our Gosling’s Dark ‘n Stormy pre-mixed cocktail, which we launched in February 2012.

 

 The table below presents the increase or decrease, as applicable, in case sales by product category for the six months ended September 30, 2012 as compared to the six months ended September 30, 2011: 

 

   Increase/(decrease)   Percentage 
   in case sales   increase/(decrease) 
   Overall   U.S.   Overall   U.S. 
Rum   17,090    14,953    26.6%   30.2%
Vodka   (2,189)   (561)   (6.0)%   (1.9)%
Liqueur   2,558    2,667    7.4%   7.8%
Whiskey   4,050    2,099    24.0%   21.0%
Tequila   21    21    2.5%   2.5%
Wine   1,292    1,292    47.3%   47.3%
Other   (255)   (255)   (39.4)%   (39.4)%
                     
Total   22,567    20,216    14.4%   15.9%

 

Gross profit. Gross profit increased 16.8% to $7.1 million for the six months ended September 30, 2012 from $6.0 million for the comparable prior-year period, while our gross margin decreased to 35.2% for the six months ended September 30, 2012 compared to 36.0% for the comparable prior-year period. The increase in gross profit was primarily due to increased sales in the current period. During the six months ended September 30, 2012, we recorded net allowance for obsolete and slow moving inventory of $0.1 million. We recorded this allowance on both raw materials and finished goods, primarily in connection with label and packaging changes made to certain brands, as well as certain cost variances. The net ($0.1) million charge has been recorded as an increase to cost of sales in the current period. Net of the allowance for obsolete inventories, our gross margin for the six months ended September 30, 2012 was 35.7%.

 

Selling expense. Selling expense increased 2.5% to $5.4 million for the six months ended September 30, 2012 from $5.3 million for the comparable prior-year period, primarily due to a $0.2 million increase in freight out and a $0.1 million increase in employee-related charges, including salaries and entertainment expense, partially offset by a $0.2 million decrease in advertising, marketing and promotion expense. The increase in sales resulted in a net decrease of selling expense as a percentage of net sales to 26.9% for the six months ended September 30, 2012 as compared to 31.3% for the comparable prior-year period.

 

General and administrative expense. General and administrative expense was $2.5 million for the each of the six-month periods ended September 30, 2012 and 2011. The increase in sales in the current period resulted in general and administrative expense as a percentage of net sales decreasing to 12.4% for the six months ended September 30, 2012 as compared to 14.6% for the comparable prior-year period.

 

Depreciation and amortization. Depreciation and amortization was $0.5 million for each of the six-month periods ended September 30, 2012 and 2011.

 

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Loss from operations. As a result of the foregoing, loss from operations improved 39.6% to ($1.3) million for the six months ended September 30, 2012 from ($2.1) million for the comparable prior-year period. As a result of our focus on our stronger growth markets and better performing brands, and expected growth from our existing brands and recently acquired brands, we anticipate improved results of operations in the near term as compared to comparable prior-year periods, although there is no assurance that we will attain such results.

 

Net change in fair value of warrant liability. We recorded the fair market value of the 2011 Warrants issued in connection with the September 2011 private placement at their initial fair value. Changes in the fair value of the 2011Warrants are recognized in earnings for each reporting period. For the six months ended September 30, 2012, we recorded a gain on the change in the value of the 2011 Warrants of $0.1 million, as compared to a loss of ($0.2) million for the comparable prior-year period.

 

Loss from equity investment in non-consolidated affiliate. We have accounted for our investment in DP Castle Partners, LLC on the equity method of accounting. We realized a loss from this investment of ($0.01) million in the six months ended September 30, 2012 as compared to a loss of ($0.02) million for the comparable prior-year period.

 

Foreign exchange loss. Foreign exchange loss for the six months ended September 30, 2012 was ($0.02) million as compared to a loss of ($0.2) million for the six months ended September 30, 2011 due to the net effects of fluctuations of the U.S. dollar against the Euro and their effects on our Euro-denominated intercompany balances due to our foreign subsidiaries for inventory purchases.

 

Interest expense, net. We had interest expense, net of ($0.2) million for the six months ended September 30, 2012 as compared to interest expense, net of ($0.4) million for the comparable prior-year period. The decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding balances in the six months ended September 30, 2012 as compared to the prior year period. Average debt balances decreased due to the conversion of debt to equity in connection with our June 2011 private placement, offset by the interest charged on our Keltic Facility.

 

Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests. Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests during the six months ended September 30, 2012 was ($0.3) million as compared to ($0.2) million for the comparable prior-year period, both the result of allocated net income recorded by our 60%-owned subsidiary, Gosling-Castle Partners, Inc.

 

Dividend to preferred shareholders.  For the six months ended September 30, 2012, we recognized a dividend on our Series A Preferred Stock of $0.34 million, as required by the terms of the preferred stock. For the six months ended September 30, 2011, we recognized a dividend of $0.4 million on our preferred stock. Included in such amount is a $0.3 million charge for the associated beneficial conversion feature. Accrued dividends on our Series A Preferred Stock are only payable in common stock upon conversion or liquidation.

 

Net loss attributable to common shareholders. As a result of the net effects of the foregoing, net loss attributable to common shareholders improved 31.7% to ($2.1) million for the six months ended September 30, 2012 as compared to ($3.1) million for the comparable prior-year period. Net loss per common share, basic and diluted, was ($0.02) per share for the six months ended September 30, 2012, as compared to ($0.03) for the comparable prior-year period.

 

Liquidity and capital resources

 

Overview

 

Since our inception, we have incurred significant operating and net losses and have not generated positive cash flows from operations. For the six months ended September 30, 2012, we had a net loss of ($1.4) million, and used cash of $1.9 million in operating activities. As of September 30, 2012, we had cash and cash equivalents of $0.5 million and had an accumulated deficit of $126.2 million.

 

In July 2012, we entered into a First Amendment to the Keltic Facility, providing for availability of a facility of up to $7.0 million for the purpose of providing working capital. The Loan Agreement amends the August 2011 facility between us and Keltic, which provided for a facility of up to $5.0 million.

 

We believe that our current cash and working capital, and the availability under the Keltic Facility, will enable us to fund our losses until profitability, ensure continuity of supply of certain of our brands, fund future acquisitions and agency relationships, and support new brand initiatives and marketing programs.

 

Existing Financing

 

In July 2012, we entered into a First Amendment to the Loan Agreement with Keltic as described above in Recent Events.

 

In December 2009, Gosling-Castle Partners, Inc., a 60% owned subsidiary, issued a promissory note (the “GCP Note”) in the aggregate principal amount of $0.2 million to Gosling's Export (Bermuda) Limited in exchange for credits issued on certain inventory purchases. This note matures on April 1, 2020, is payable at maturity, subject to certain acceleration events, and calls for annual interest of 5%, to be accrued and paid at maturity.

 

23
 

 

We have arranged various credit facilities aggregating €350,000 or $449,939 (translated at the September 30, 2012 exchange rate) with an Irish bank, including overdraft coverage, creditors’ insurance, customs and excise guaranty, and a revolving credit facility. These facilities are payable on demand, continue until terminated by either party, are subject to annual review, and call for interest at the lender’s AA1 Rate minus 1.70%.

 

Liquidity Discussion

 

As of September 30, 2012, we had shareholders’ equity of $16.6 million as compared to $18.0 million at March 31, 2012. This decrease is primarily due to our total comprehensive loss for the six months ended September 30, 2012.

 

As of September 30, 2012, we had working capital of $12.3 million as compared to $11.6 million at March 31, 2012, with an increase in inventory and accounts receivable only partially offset by decrease in accounts payable and an increase in due to shareholders and affiliates.

 

We had cash and cash equivalents of approximately $0.5 million at both September 30 and March 31, 2012, with the funding of our operations and working capital needs for the six months ended September 30, 2012, offset by the $1.9 million drawn on the Keltic Facility. At September 30, 2012, we also had approximately $0.4 million of cash restricted from withdrawal and held by a bank in Ireland as collateral for overdraft coverage, creditors’ insurance, revolving credit and other working capital purposes.

 

The following may result in a material decrease in our liquidity over the near-to-mid term:

  § continued significant levels of cash losses from operations;
  § our ability to obtain additional debt or equity financing should it be required;
  § an increase in working capital requirements to finance higher levels of inventories and accounts receivable;
  § our ability to maintain and improve our relationships with our distributors and our routes to market;
  § our ability to procure raw materials at a favorable price to support our level of sales;
  § potential acquisitions of additional brands; and
  § expansion into new markets and within existing markets in the U.S. and internationally.

 

We continue to implement a plan to support the growth of existing brands through sales and marketing initiatives that we expect will generate cash flows from operations in the next few years. As part of this plan, we seek to grow our business through expansion to new markets, growth in existing markets and strengthened distributor relationships. Further, we are actively seeking to reduce certain inventory levels while supporting growth in others in an effort to improve our working capital and provide improved cash flow from operations. We are also seeking additional brands and agency relationships to leverage our existing distribution platform. We intend to finance our brand acquisitions through a combination of our available cash resources, borrowings and, in appropriate circumstances, additional issuances of equity and/or debt securities. Acquiring additional brands could have a significant effect on our financial position, could materially reduce our liquidity and could cause substantial fluctuations in our quarterly and yearly operating results. We continue to look to reduce expense, seek improvements in routes to market and contain production costs to improve cash flows.

 

As of September 30, 2012, we had borrowed $5.7 million of the $7.0 million available under the Keltic Facility, leaving $1.3 million in then potential availability for working capital needs. We believe our current cash and working capital, and the availability under the Keltic Facility, will enable us to fund our losses until we achieve profitability, ensure continuity of supply of our brands, and support new brand initiatives and marketing programs through at least September 2013.

 

Cash flows

 

The following table summarizes our primary sources and uses of cash during the periods presented:

 

   Six months ended
September 30,
 
   2012   2011 
   (in thousands) 
Net cash provided by (used in):          
Operating activities  $(1,890)  $(2,357)
Investing activities   (152)   (287)
Financing activities   2,030    2,157 
           
Effect of foreign currency translation   (2)   (13)
           
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents  $(14)  $(500)

 

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Operating activities. A substantial portion of available cash has been used to fund our operating activities. In general, these cash funding requirements are based on operating losses, driven chiefly by the costs in maintaining our distribution system and our sales and marketing activities. We have also utilized cash to fund our receivables and inventories. In general, these cash outlays for receivables and inventories are only partially offset by increases in our accounts payable to our suppliers.

 

On average, the production cycle for our owned brands is up to three months from the time we obtain the distilled spirits, bulk wine and other materials needed to bottle and package our products to the time we receive products available for sale, in part due to the international nature of our business. We do not produce Gosling’s rums, Pallini liqueurs, Tierras tequila, Gozio amaretto, or A. de Fussigny cognacs. Instead, we receive the finished product directly from the owners of such brands. From the time we have products available for sale, an additional two to three months may be required before we sell our inventory and collect payment from customers. Further, our inventory at September 30, 2012 included stores of bulk wine and bulk bourbon purchased in advance of forecasted production requirements. We expect to reduce these amounts in the normal course of future sales.

 

During the six months ended September 30, 2012, net cash used in operating activities was $1.9 million, consisting primarily of a net loss of $1.4 million, a $0.9 million increase in inventory, a $0.5 million increase in accounts receivable, a $0.3 million decrease in accounts payable, a $0.1 million increase in due from affiliates and a $0.1 million increase in prepaid expenses. These uses of cash were partially offset by a $0.9 million increase in due to related parties, depreciation and amortization expense of $0.5 million, $0.1 million in stock-based compensation expense and $0.1 million in provision for obsolete inventories.

 

During the six months ended September 30, 2011, net cash used in operating activities was $2.4 million, consisting primarily of a net loss of $2.5 million, a $0.9 million increase in inventory, a $0.3 million increase in accounts receivable, a $0.2 million increase in due from affiliates, a $0.2 million increase in other assets and $0.2 million for the net change in fair value of warrant liability. These uses of cash were partially offset by a $0.7 million increase in due to related parties, a net $0.1 million increase in accounts payable and accrued expenses, a $0.1 million decrease in prepaid expenses and depreciation and amortization expense of $0.5 million.   

 

Investing Activities. Net cash used in investing activities was $0.2 million for the six months ended September 30, 2012, representing $0.01 million used in the acquisition of fixed and intangible assets and $0.1 million in payments under contingent consideration agreements.

 

Net cash used in investing activities was $0.3 million for the six months ended September 30, 2011, representing $0.2 million used in the acquisition of fixed and intangible assets, a $0.03 million increase in restricted cash and $0.06 million in payments under contingent consideration agreements. 

 

Financing activities. Net cash provided by financing activities for the six months ended September 30, 2012 was $2.0 million representing $1.9 million drawn on the Keltic Facility and $0.2 million drawn on the foreign revolving credit facility.

 

Net cash provided by financing activities for the six months ended September 30, 2011 was $2.2 million, consisting of $1.9 million from the issuance of our Series A Preferred Stock and 2011 Warrants and $1.0 million from the issuance of interim notes to affiliated parties. These proceeds were offset by net payments of $0.4 million on our credit facilities and the repayment of $0.3 million on a note we issued in connection with our acquisition of Betts & Scholl.

   

Recent accounting standards issued and adopted.

 

We discuss recently issued and adopted accounting standards in the “Accounting standards adopted” and “Recent accounting pronouncements” sections of Note 1 of the “Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements” in the accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward Looking Statements

 

This report includes certain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements, which involve risks and uncertainties, relate to the discussion of our business strategies and our expectations concerning future operations, margins, profitability, liquidity and capital resources and to analyses and other information that are based on forecasts of future results and estimates of amounts not yet determinable. We use words such as “may”, “will”, “should”, “expects”, “intends”, “plans”, “anticipates”, “believes”, “estimates”, “seeks”, “expects”, “predicts”, “could”, “projects”, “potential” and similar terms and phrases, including references to assumptions, in this report to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are made based on expectations and beliefs concerning future events affecting us and are subject to uncertainties, risks and factors relating to our operations and business environments, all of which are difficult to predict and many of which are beyond our control, that could cause our actual results to differ materially from those matters expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. These risks and other factors include those listed under “Risk Factors” in our 2012 Annual Report, and as follows:

 

  § our history of losses and expectation of further losses;
  § the effect of poor operating results on our company;
  § the adequacy of our cash resources and our ability to raise additional capital;
  § our ability to expand our operations in both new and existing markets and our ability to develop or acquire new brands;

 

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  § our relationships with and our dependency on our distributors;
  § the impact of supply shortages and alcohol and packaging costs in general, as well as our dependency on a limited number of suppliers and inventory requirements;
  § the success of our sales and marketing activities;
  § economic and political conditions generally, including the current recessionary economic environment and concurrent market instability;
  § the effect of competition in our industry;
  § negative publicity surrounding our products or the consumption of beverage alcohol products in general;
  § our ability to acquire and/or maintain brand recognition and acceptance;
  § trends in consumer tastes;
  § our and our strategic partners’ abilities to protect trademarks and other proprietary information;
  § the impact of litigation;
  § the impact of currency exchange rate fluctuations and devaluations on our revenues, sales and overall financial results;
  § our executive officers, directors and principal shareholders own a substantial portion of our voting stock; and
  § the impact of federal, state, local or foreign government regulations.

 

We assume no obligation to publicly update or revise these forward-looking statements for any reason, or to update the reasons actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in, or implied by, these forward-looking statements, even if new information becomes available in the future.

 

Item 4. Controls and Procedures

 

Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting. Disclosure controls and procedures are our controls and other procedures that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by us in the reports that we file or submit under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, is recorded, processed, summarized and reported, within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by us in the reports that we file or submit under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding disclosure.

  

Under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, we have 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) as of the end of the period covered by this report, and, based on that evaluation, our principal executive officer and principal financial officer have concluded that these controls and procedures are effective as of such date.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting identified in connection with the evaluation required by paragraph (d) of Rule 13a-15 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, that occurred during the period covered by this report 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

 

We believe that neither we nor any of our subsidiaries is currently subject to litigation which, in the opinion of management after consultation with counsel, is likely to have a material adverse effect on us.

 

We may, however, become involved in litigation from time to time relating to claims arising in the ordinary course of our business. These claims, even if not meritorious, could result in the expenditure of significant financial and managerial resources.

 

Item 6. Exhibits

 

Exhibit    
Number   Description
4.1   First Amendment to Loan and Security Agreement, dated as of July 23, 2012, among Keltic Financial Partners II, LP, the Company and Castle Brands (USA) Corp. (incorporated by reference to exhibit 4.1 to our current report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on July 23, 2012).

 

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4.2   Amended and Restated Revolving Credit Note, dated as of July 23, 2012, in favor of Keltic Financial Partners II, LP (incorporated by reference to exhibit 4.2 to our current report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on July 23, 2012).
     
10.1   Reaffirmation Agreement, dated as of July 23, 2012, among Keltic Financial Partners II, LP, the Company, Castle Brands (USA) Corp. and the officers signatory thereto (incorporated by reference to exhibit 10.1 to our current report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on July 23, 2012).
     
31.1   Certification Pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a), as Adopted Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. *
     
31.2   Certification Pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a), as Adopted Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. *
     
32.1   Certification of CEO and CFO Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. *

   

 101.INS**   XBRL Instance Document.
     
101.SCH**   XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.
     
101.CAL**   XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.
     
101.DEF**   XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.
     
101.LAB**   XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.
     
101.PRE**   XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

*   Filed herewith

 

** Pursuant to Rule 406T of Regulation S-T, these interactive data files are deemed not filed or part of a registration statement or prospectus for purposes of Sections 11 or 12 of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, are deemed not filed for purposes of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and otherwise are not subject to liability under those sections.

  

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SIGNATURES

 

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

 

  CASTLE BRANDS INC.
     
  By: /s/ Alfred J. Small
    Alfred J. Small 
   

Chief Financial Officer

(Principal Financial Officer and

Principal Accounting Officer) 

 

November 16, 2012

 

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