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EX-32.2 - CERTIFICATION - Swisher Hygiene Inc.swsh_322.htm
EX-32.1 - CERTIFICATION - Swisher Hygiene Inc.swsh_321.htm
EX-31.2 - CERTIFICATION - Swisher Hygiene Inc.swsh_312.htm
EX-31.1 - CERTIFICATION - Swisher Hygiene Inc.swsh_311.htm
EX-21.1 - SUBSIDIARIES - Swisher Hygiene Inc.swsh_ex211.htm
EX-10.39 - LETTER AGREEMENT - Swisher Hygiene Inc.swsh_ex1039.htm
EX-10.38 - EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT - Swisher Hygiene Inc.swsh_ex1038.htm
EXCEL - IDEA: XBRL DOCUMENT - Swisher Hygiene Inc.Financial_Report.xls
EX-23.1 - CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM - Swisher Hygiene Inc.swsh_231.htm


UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
 
FORM 10-K
(Mark One)
 
þ
ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
 
For the fiscal year ended: December 31, 2014
 OR
 
o
TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
 
For the transition period from _______ to _______
 
Commission file number: 001-35067
 
 
SWISHER HYGIENE INC.
(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in Its Charter)
 
Delaware
 
27-3819646
(State or Other Jurisdiction of Incorporation or Organization)
 
(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
 
4725 Piedmont Row Drive, Suite 400, Charlotte, North Carolina
 
28210
(Address of Principal Executive Offices)
 
(Zip Code)
 
Registrant’s Telephone Number, Including Area Code (704) 364-7707
 
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
 
Title of Each Class
 
Name of Each Exchange On Which Registered
Common Stock
 
The NASDAQ Stock Market LLC
$0.001 par value
   
 
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None
 
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.  Yes  o       No  þ
 
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act.  Yes  o       No þ
  
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  o
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§ 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).  Yes  þ        No  o
  
Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K (§ 229.405 of this chapter) is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K.   o
  
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
o
Accelerated filer
þ
Non-accelerated filer
o
Smaller reporting company
o
(Do not check if a smaller reporting company)
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act).  Yes  o       No  þ
  
The aggregate market value of the shares of common stock held by non-affiliates of the registrant as of June 30, 2014 (based on the last reported sales price of such stock on the NASDAQ Global Select Market on such date of $4.30 per share) was approximately $53,344,243.
 
Number of shares outstanding of each of the registrant’s classes of Common Stock at March 25, 2015: 17,617,379 shares of Common Stock, $0.001 par value per share.
 
 
 
 
 
DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
 
Portions of the registrant’s Proxy Statement relating to its 2015 Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be filed with the SEC within 120 days after the end of the fiscal year ended December 31, 2014 are incorporated herein by reference in Part III.
 


 
 
 
 
 
SWISHER HYGIENE INC.
ANNUAL REPORT ON FORM 10-K
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014
TABLE OF CONTENTS
 
PART I
     
ITEM 1.
BUSINESS.
 
1
ITEM 1A. 
RISK FACTORS.
 
8
ITEM 1B.
UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS.
 
14
ITEM 2.
PROPERTIES.
 
14
ITEM 3.
LEGAL PROCEEDINGS.
 
14
ITEM 4.
MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES.
 
16
PART II
     
ITEM 5.
MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES.
 
17
ITEM 6.
SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA.
 
19
ITEM 7.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS.
 
19
ITEM 7A.
QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK.
 
36
ITEM 8.
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA.
 
36
ITEM 9.
CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE.
 
36
ITEM 9A.
CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES.
 
36
ITEM 9B.  
OTHER INFORMATION.
 
38
PART III
     
ITEM 10.
DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE.
 
39
ITEM 11.
EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION.
 
39
ITEM 12.
SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS.
 
39
ITEM 13.
CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE.
 
39
ITEM 14.
PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING FEES AND SERVICES.
 
39
PART IV
     
ITEM 15.
EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES.
 
40
SIGNATURES
 
43

 
 

 

PART I
 
 
ITEM 1.  BUSINESS.
 
This business description should be read in conjunction with our audited consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes thereto appearing elsewhere in this annual report, which are incorporated herein by this reference. All references in this annual report to “Swisher,” “Swisher Hygiene,” the “Company,” “we,” “us,” and “our” refer to Swisher Hygiene Inc. and its consolidated subsidiaries, except where the discussion relates to times or matters occurring before the Merger (described in Note 1 to the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements), in which case these words, as well as “Swisher International,” refer to Swisher International, Inc. and its consolidated subsidiaries.
 
General
 
We provide essential hygiene and sanitizing solutions that include cleaning and sanitizing chemicals, restroom hygiene programs and a full range of related products and services throughout North America and internationally through nine Master License Agreements, with an emphasis on the foodservice, hospitality, retail, and healthcare industries.   During 2013, we made the decision to focus our growth efforts on our core hygiene and sanitizing solutions and certain strategic linen assets and therefore we began an active program to sell non-core linen and route operations as described further in Note 2 “Discontinued Operations and Assets Held for Sale” to the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.  We may continue to provide linen offerings, other than those serviced by our remaining linen assets, as well as other ancillary services to certain customers through strategic third party partnerships.
 
During 2011 and most of 2012 we operated in two segments: (i) Hygiene and (ii) Waste. As a result of the sale of our Waste segment in November 2012, we currently operate in one business segment, Hygiene, and our financial statements and other information for the three years ended December 31, 2014, which are included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, which we refer to as the 2014 Form 10-K, are presented to show the operation of this single segment.  The financial information about our geographical areas is included in Note 18, “Geographic Information,” to the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements in this 2014 Form 10-K, and is incorporated herein by this reference.
 
Our Market
 
We compete in many markets including institutional, retail and industrial cleaning chemicals (which include foodservice chemicals), restroom hygiene, other facility service products, and paper and plastics. In each of these markets there are numerous participants ranging from large multi-national companies to local and regional competitors.   We believe our primary competitors in our legacy hygiene and facilities service market are large facility service and uniform providers, as well as numerous small local and regional providers many of whom may focus on one particular product offering such as uniform rentals. The paper distribution market for the customers we target not only has competition among the providers listed above, but also from the foodservice and janitorial-sanitation distributors. The competitive landscape is made more challenging as consolidation activity increases within many of our customers’ industries, potentially leading to the loss of business. We believe our primary competitors in our chemical services market include numerous small local and region providers which may only compete in one or more of our chemical services categories and a few larger providers that would compete within most of our chemical service offerings footprint.
 
Our Strategy
 
We have developed a strong geographic footprint in the United States and Canada.  We plan to leverage this footprint to generate growth in our core chemical and hygiene operations while offering ancillary services to certain customers through third party partnerships. We believe that customers with national or regional chains are increasingly seeking consistent service providers that can offer multiple products and that our ability to provide a complete chemical offering, complementary kitchen products, restroom hygiene services, hygiene products (such as paper, soap and air fresheners) and facility service items provide the Company with a valuable point of competitive differentiation.
 
We are focused on revenue growth in our key markets via a number of channels including our distribution partnership efforts, ongoing tests with multi-unit national and regional chains and direct selling focused on large independents.  We continue to focus on a number of operating and overhead cost efficiencies that seek to further leverage the integration of our acquisitions and simplify our operations. These efficiencies include: improved purchasing processes and tools, SKU rationalization, freight optimization, reduction and or downsizing of branch locations, route optimization, centralizing office administration functions, standardizing our operating model and aligning field compensation to grow our revenue.
  
 
1

 
 
Products and Services
 
We sell consumable products such as detergents, cleaning chemicals, soap, paper, water filters and supplies, together with the rental and servicing of dish machines and other equipment for the dispensing of those products; as well as additional services such as the cleaning of facilities.
 
Consolidated revenues by product type and service line are as follows:
 
Chemical service and wholesale revenue, which include our laundry, ware washing, disinfectants, sanitizers and other concentrated and ready-to-use cleaning products and soap, accounted for 63.9%, 60.1%, and 62.7% of consolidated revenue in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
 
Hygiene service revenue, which includes restroom cleaning services, hand hygiene, air fresheners and service delivery fees, accounted for 9.9%, 10.8%, and 11.4% of consolidated revenues in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
 
Paper sales accounted for 8.7%, 8.7%, and 8.2% of consolidated revenues in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
 
Rental fees, linen processing, equipment sales, other ancillary product sales and franchise fees comprise the remaining 17.5%, 20.4%, and 17.7% of consolidated revenues in 2014, 2013 and 2012 and none of these individual product lines represented greater than 10.0% of consolidated revenues for each of the three years.  We anticipate that over time our chemical revenue will continue to grow at a faster rate than any of our other product lines.  Certain of our products are registered with the Environmental Protection Agency and follow the Center for Disease Control guidelines for disinfection of surface areas such as children’s playgrounds, hospitals, and assisted living environments.
 
We have placed particular emphasis on the development of our chemical offerings, particularly as it relates to ware washing and laundry solutions. Ware washing products consist of cleaners and sanitizers for washing glassware, flatware, dishes, foodservice utensils and kitchen equipment. Laundry products include detergents, stain removers, fabric conditioners, softeners and bleaches in liquid, powder and concentrate forms to clean items such as bed linen, terry cloth, clothing and table linen. For ware washing customers, we sell or rent, as well as install and service, dishwashing machines and dish tables.  We also provide and install chemical dispensing units and dish racks.  Customers using our laundry services are also offered various dispensing systems. The use of a dispensing system ensures the proper mix of chemicals for safe and effective use.  We enter into service agreements with customers under which we provide 24 hour, seven day-a-week emergency service, and perform regularly scheduled preventative maintenance. Typically, these agreements require customers to purchase from us all of the products used in the equipment and dispensing systems that we install. The chemicals themselves may be delivered to the customer by the Company, a common carrier or one of our third-party distributor partners; however, the service and maintenance is provided directly by a Company employee. Our ware washing and laundry solutions are designed to address the needs of customers ranging from single store restaurant and lodging operators to multi-unit chains, large resorts, cruise ships, casinos and assisted living facilities in the health care market.  We often consult with customers that may have specialized needs or require custom programs to address different fabric or soil types.
 
Our restroom hygiene and facility service business offers a regularly scheduled service that includes cleaning the toilet bowls, urinals and sinks, the application of a germicide to such surfaces to inhibit bacteria growth, and the restocking of air fresheners for a weekly fee. Additionally, we offer other restroom needs by providing and installing soap, tissue and hand towel dispensers, and selling and restocking the soap and paper on an as-needed basis. This entire offering supplements the daily janitorial or custodial requirements of our customers and frees customers from purchasing and securing an inventory of soap and paper products.
 
Sales and Distribution
 
We are committed to our philosophy of Service, People and Profitably and to Selling Through Service.  We market and sell our products and services primarily through: (i) our field sales group, including the service technicians, which pursue new customers and offer existing customers additional products and services; (ii) our corporate account sales team which focuses on broad national and regional level customers; and (iii) independent third-party distributor partners.
 
The field selling organization is comprised of Business Development Representatives, Account Managers and Hygiene Specialists. The Business Development Representatives identify new customer opportunities in which to sell products that leverage current route service and delivery efficiencies as well as focusing on accounts with our distributor partner representatives.  Account Managers are primarily focused on servicing and expanding sales to current customers; however, starting in 2014 they are also responsible for obtaining new customer sales.  Hygiene Specialists focus on current customers with the purpose of expanding the number of products and services provided by leveraging solid business relationships including superior service.
 
 
2

 
 
Selling to new corporate accounts is led by a team that manages a longer sales process that includes either displacing an existing supplier of the products and services or working with the customer to centralize and consolidate disparate purchasing decisions. These prospective customers often go through a vendor qualification process that may involve multiple criteria, and we often work with them in various test locations to validate both product efficacy and our ability to deliver the services on a broader national or regional level. Additionally, large corporate accounts may operate via a franchise network or group purchasing organization; the selection process with such corporate accounts may only result in a vendor qualification allowing us the right to sell our products and services to their franchisees or group members.  To date, vendor qualification processes with larger accounts have ranged from less than three months to over 12 months. Contract terms on corporate account customers typically range from three to five years.
 
In recent years we have expanded our distributor program which provides us with additional opportunities for organic growth. Our distributor program is targeted toward regional and local foodservice and janitorial sanitation distributors that are seeking to increase the revenue and margin they can drive by increasing the number of products they deliver to each customer, which also helps our distributor partner reduce their customer attrition. Foodservice distribution is a highly competitive business operating on low margins. As such, the distributor can typically earn a higher profit margin on the chemicals it sells to customers compared to its food items. Moreover, a distributor partner is then able to market to its customers the “service” required to maintain their dish machines and chemical dispensing equipment. This service is provided by Swisher and documented under a separate contract between Swisher and the customer. In effect, by Swisher partnering to be the chemical sales and service arm for the distributor, we help to generate demand for our equipment and consumable products while providing the distributor a competitive advantage. We contract with distributors on an exclusive or non-exclusive basis depending on the markets they serve and the size of their customer base.
 
With the exception of product sales delivered via distributors and common carriers in select markets, our services and products in the United States are delivered through Company vehicles. We use our hand held computer software to assist in monitoring the sales performance and fleet utilization efficiencies of our sales and service field operations.
 
Manufacturing
 
Although we produce a majority of our chemical products at our plants, we continue to purchase products from third-party manufacturers and suppliers with whom we believe we have good relations. Most of the items we sell are readily available from multiple suppliers in the quantities and quality acceptable to both us and our customers. We do not have any minimum annual or other periodic purchase requirements with any vendors for any of the finished products we use or sell. We entered into a Manufacturing and Supply Agreement (the "Cavalier Agreement") with a chemical manufacturing plant in conjunction with our acquisition of Sanolite in July 2011. The Cavalier Agreement terminated in September 2014 pursuant to terms of the agreement.  The Cavalier Agreement provided for pricing adjustments, up or down, on the first of each month based on the vendor's actual average product costs incurred during the prior month. Additional product payments made by the Company due to pricing adjustments under the Cavalier Agreement were not significant and did not represent costs materially above the market price for such products.
 
We are not currently a party to any agreement, including with our chemical manufacturers, where we bear the commodity risk of the raw materials used in manufacturing; however, nothing prevents (i) the vendor from attempting to pass through the incremental costs of raw materials, or (ii) us from considering alternative suppliers or vendors.
 
We purchased 11.0%, 10.9%, and 14.3% of the chemicals required for our operations in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively, and expect this percentage to decline as we manage and expand our own manufacturing capability.
 
Sources and Availability of Raw Materials
 
The key raw materials we use in our chemical products are caustic soda, solvents, waxes, phosphates, surfactants, polymers and resins, chelates and fragrances, and packaging materials. Many of these raw materials are petroleum-based and, therefore, subject to the availability and price of oil or its derivatives. We purchase most chemical raw materials on the open market.  We believe the raw materials used in products we currently sell are readily available; however, pricing pressure or temporary shortages may from time to time arise resulting in increased costs and, we believe under extreme conditions only, a loss in revenue from our inability to sell certain products.
 
Customer Dependence
 
Our customer base ranges from large multi-national companies and distributor partners to entrepreneurs who operate a single location.  No one customer accounts for 10% or more of our consolidated revenue for 2014, 2013 and 2012.
  
 
3

 
 
Trademarks and Trade Names
 
We maintain a number of trademark registrations in the United States, Canada and in certain other countries. We believe that many of these trademarks, including “Swisher,” “SaniService,” the “Swisher” design, the “Swisher Hygiene” design, and the “S” design are important to our business. Our trademark registrations in the United States are renewable for ten year successive terms and maintenance filings must be made as follows: (i) for the “Swisher” word mark by January 2024, (ii) for the “Swisher” design by January 2023, (iii) for “the Swisher Hygiene” design by April 2015, and (iv) for the “S” design by February 2016.
 
In Canada, we have agreed not to: (i) use the word Swisher in association with any wares/services relating to or used in association with residential maid services other than as depicted in our trademark application and (ii) use the word Swisher with our “S” design mark or by itself as a trade mark at any time in association with wares/services relating to or used in association with cleaning and sanitation of restrooms in commercial buildings. Thus, our company-owned operations operate as SaniService® in Canada. We own, have registered, or have applied to register the Swisher trademark in every other country in which our franchisees or licensees operate.
 
We market the majority of our chemical products under various brands, labeling and product names including, but not limited to, Swisher, Mt. Hood, ProClean, Daley and Cavalier. The majority of our chemical products formulas are owned by us. The remaining chemical products are manufactured by third parties who manufacture our products based on our specifications.
 
Seasonality
 
In the aggregate our business continues to be somewhat seasonal in nature, with the Company’s second and third calendar quarters generating more revenue than the first and fourth calendar quarters. However, our operating results may fluctuate from quarter to quarter or year to year due to factors beyond our control including unusual weather patterns or other events that negatively impact the foodservice and hospitality industries. The majority of our customers are in the restaurant or hospitality industries, and the revenue we earn from these customers is related to the number of patrons they service. As events adversely impact the business of our customers, our business could be adversely impacted.
 
 Regulatory and Environmental
 
We are subject to numerous federal, state and local laws that regulate the manufacture, storage, distribution, transportation and labeling of many of our products, including all of our disinfecting, sanitizing and antimicrobial products. Some of these laws require us to have operating permits for our production and warehouse facilities, and operations. In the event of a violation of these laws and permits, we may be liable for damages and the costs of remedial actions, and may also be subject to revocation, non-renewal or modification of our operating and discharge permits and revocation of product registrations. Federal, state and local laws and regulations vary but generally govern wastewater or storm water discharges, air emissions and the handling, transportation, treatment, storage and disposal of hazardous and non-hazardous waste. These laws and regulations provide governmental authorities with strict powers of enforcement which include the ability to revoke or decline to renew any of our operating permits, obtain injunctions and impose fines or penalties in the event of violations including criminal penalties. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (“EPA”) and various other federal, state and local authorities administer these regulations.
 
We strive to conduct our operations in compliance with applicable laws, regulations and permits. However, we cannot assure you that citations and notices will not be issued in the future despite our regulatory compliance efforts. Furthermore, any material regulatory action such as revocation, non-renewal or modification that may require us to cease or limit the sale of products for any extended period of time from one or more of our facilities may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. The environmental regulatory matters most significant to us are discussed below.
 
Product Registration and Compliance
 
Various federal, state and local laws and regulations govern some of our products and require us to register our products and to comply with specified requirements. In the United States we must register our sanitizing and disinfecting products with the EPA. When we register these products, or our supplier registers them in cases where we are sub-registering, we must also submit to the EPA information regarding the chemistry, toxicology and antimicrobial efficacy for the Agency’s review. Data must be identical to the claims stated on the product label. In addition, each state where these products are sold requires registration and payment of a fee.
 
 
4

 
 
Numerous United States federal, state, local and foreign laws and regulations relate to the sale of products containing ingredients such as phosphorous, volatile organic compounds or other ingredients that may impact human health and the environment. Under the State of California's Proposition 65 for example, label disclosures are required for certain products containing chemicals listed by California. In addition, California, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Oregon and South Carolina have chemical management initiatives that promote pollution prevention through the research and development of safer chemicals and safer chemical processes. Nine states have enacted environmentally-preferable purchasing programs for cleaning products and in recent years have been considered by several other state legislatures. On October 1, 2013, the California Safer Consumer Products Act went into effect.  Applicable to consumer products that enter the stream of commerce in California, the Act's regulations require manufacturers, retailers and importers to seek safer alternatives to harmful chemicals widely used in products.  Through a variety of initiatives such as the "Design for the Environment" program, the U.S. Government is tracking "green chemistry" initiatives.  Some of our cleaning products are subject to these types of regulations and programs and, as such, we may incur additional stay-in-market expenses associated with conducting analyses of alternatives for chemicals of concern.  To date, we have been able to comply with such legislative requirements and compliance with these laws and regulations has not had a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
  
Toxic Substances Control Act
 
The U.S. Congress has been discussing the re-authorization of the Toxic Substances Control Act ("TSCA") and an update of chemicals on the TSCA Inventory (commonly referred to as the "reset" of the TSCA inventory).  The EPA is also more aggressively using TSCA and the TSCA inventory to manage chemicals of concern.  Potential costs are not yet quantifiable, but are not expected to have a material adverse effect on our consolidated results of operations or cash flows in any one reporting period or on our financial position.
 
Occupational Safety and Health Act
 
The Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, as amended (“OSHA”), establishes certain employer responsibilities including maintenance of a workplace free of recognized hazards likely to cause death or serious injury, compliance with standards promulgated by OSHA, and various record keeping, disclosure and procedural requirements. Various OSHA standards may apply to our operations including the Hazardous Communications Standards ("HCS" or "Right to Know" and "Community Right to Know") regulations that govern the procedures and information that must be disclosed to the individuals that work in the manufacture of the products and materials Swisher manufactures or distributes and with the hazards that communities may face in the event our facilities were to be hit with disasters such as fires and floods.  As part of the HCS requirements, we are required to provide Material Safety Data Sheets (“MSDS”) to our customers and distributors.
 
The National Fire Protection Association has aided various state and local governments in the development of a set of safety standards that generally fall under the OSHA Community Right to Know regulations that allow local fire departments to regulate the safety measures needed in a facility in order to prevent the possibilities of fires (i.e., Storage of Flammables) and to protect the safety of the fire fighters in the event they are called in to work at such a facility. In many communities this involves reports and maps that detail where and how various products of different hazards are located and stored within a facility. These reports are generated and then given to local fire authorities to maintain in the event the fire department, local emergency response or hazmat teams are ever needed at the facility.
 
Globally Harmonized System
 
In 2003, the United Nations issued a standard on hazard communication and labeling of chemical products known as the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (“GHS”). GHS is designed to facilitate international trade and increase safe handling and use of hazardous chemicals through a worldwide system that classifies chemicals based on their hazards and communicates information about those hazards through standardized product labels and safety data sheets (“SDSs”). The HCSs were modified in 2012 to adopt the GHS standard and replace MSDSs with SDSs. We have been working on a phased-in approach to mitigate the costs of GHS implementation and do not expect the implementation cost to have a material adverse effect on our consolidated results of operations or cash flows. We expect to be compliant by the GHS mandated deadline of December 31, 2015.
 
Pesticide and Biocide Laws
 
We manufacture and sell certain disinfecting and sanitizing products that kill or reduce microorganisms (bacteria, viruses, fungi) on hard environmental surfaces. Such products are regulated as "pesticides" or "antimicrobial pesticides" under current definitions in the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act ("FIFRA"), as amended by the Food Quality Protection Act of 1996.  We are required to maintain product registrations with the EPA to meet certain efficacy, toxicity and labeling requirements, and to pay associated registration fees.  Each state in which these types of our products are sold requires registration and payment of a fee, and California and certain other states have adopted regulatory programs.  California also imposes a tax on pesticide sales in their state.  To date the cost of complying with pesticide rules has not had a material adverse effect on our consolidated results of operations, financial condition or cash flows to date; however, the costs and approvals associated with these products continue to increase.
 
 
5

 
 
Antimicrobal Product Requirements
 
U.S. Federal, state, local and foreign jurisdictions have enacted various laws and regulations regulating certain products sold by us for controlling microbial growth on humans.  Generally the U.S. Food and Drug Administration administers requirements for these products.  The FDA has proposed regulations for over-the-counter antiseptic drug products which may impose additional requirements for our antimicrobial hand care products and associated costs when finalized by the FDA.  To date such requirements have not had a material adverse effect on our consolidated results of operations, financial position or cash flows.
 
Other Environmental Regulation
 
Our manufacturing facilities are subject to various federal, state and local laws and regulations regarding the discharge, transportation, use, handling, storage and disposal of hazardous substances. These statutes include the Clean Air Act, the Clean Water Act, the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act, and the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act, as well as their analogous state, local and foreign laws. Because we may potentially be a generator of hazardous wastes in the future, we, along with any other person who disposes or arranges for the disposal of our wastes, may be subject to financial exposure for costs associated with the investigation and remediation of contaminated sites. Specifically, we would likely have exposure if we have disposed or arranged for the disposal of hazardous wastes at sites that become contaminated even if we fully complied with applicable environmental laws at the time of disposal. We currently are unaware of any past action which may lead to any liability, but, in the event we do ultimately have liability at some point in the future for past or future actions, the costs of compliance and remediation could likely have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
 
Various laws and regulations pertaining to climate change have been implemented or are being considered for implementation at the national, regional and state levels, particularly as they relate to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. None of these laws directly apply to Swisher at the present time; however, we believe that it is possible that new or additional restrictions may in the future be imposed on our manufacturing, processing and distribution activities, which may result in possible violations, fines, penalties, damages or other significant costs.
 
Employees
 
As of December 31, 2014, we had approximately 1,200 employees. We are not a party to any collective bargaining agreement and have not experienced a work stoppage. We consider our employee relations to be good.
 
Available Information
 
This Form 10-K and our quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K and all amendments to those reports filed or furnished pursuant to section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 are available free of charge through the Investors section of our Internet website (http://www.swsh.com) under the heading “Investors,” “Financial Information,” and “SEC Filings” as soon as reasonably practicable after these reports are electronically filed with, or furnished to, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Our SEC filings are also available for reading and copying at the SEC’s Public Reference Room at 100 F Street, NE, Washington, D.C. 20549. Information on the operation of the Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330. In addition the SEC maintains an Internet site (http://www.sec.gov).  Information on our website does not constitute part of this annual report on Form 10-K or any other report we file or furnish with the SEC.
 
 
6

 
 
Executive Officers of the Registrant
 
Our current executive officers and additional information concerning them are as follows:
 
Name
 
Position
 
Age
 
           
William M. Pierce
 
Director, President and Chief Executive Officer
  63  
William T. Nanovsky
 
Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
  66  
Blake Thompson
 
Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer
  60  
 
William M. Pierce
 
Director, President and Chief Executive Officer
 
Mr. Pierce has served as President and Chief Executive Officer of Swisher Hygiene since September 10, 2013.  He has also served as a director of Swisher since June 2013.  Mr. Pierce has held the position of Senior Vice President of Huizenga Holdings, Inc. since 1990, where he has also served as chief operating officer, chief financial officer and as an officer and director of numerous private and public portfolio companies. Mr. Pierce’s positions have included President of Frederica Hospitality Group, LLC, five years as Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice President of Dolphins Enterprises where he was responsible for all non-football business operations of the Miami Dolphins and Sun Life Stadium, and Chief Operating Officer of two route-based businesses, Sparkle, Inc. and Blue Ribbon Water Company. Previously, Mr. Pierce spent five years as the Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Boca Resorts Inc., a NYSE-traded company until its sale in 2004, where he was primarily responsible for the day-to-day oversight and the growth of the company as well as raising equity and debt in the public markets.  Prior to Huizenga Holdings, Mr. Pierce spent 11 years as a senior operating executive of Sky Chefs, a wholly owned subsidiary of American Airlines, and seven years in senior management positions in the food and beverage industry.  All of Mr. Pierce’s day to day professional efforts and focus are concentrated on Swisher; however, he remains a Senior Vice President of Huizenga Holdings.
 
Mr. Pierce is an experienced officer and director of public and private companies with the skills necessary to serve as a director. As an executive officer and director, Mr. Pierce has developed knowledge and experience of financial, operational and managerial matters. He has helped guide numerous public and private companies from early stage development to significant operating entities.
  
William T. Nanovsky
 
Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
 
Mr. Nanovsky has served as Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Swisher Hygiene since February 18, 2013 and previously served as Interim Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Swisher Hygiene from September 24, 2012 to February 18, 2013. Mr. Nanovsky has over 30 years of experience as a financial executive in environments ranging from emerging growth entities to public companies with annual revenue of more than $20 billion. Since September 2011, he has been a founding Partner of The SCA Group, LLC ("SCA"), which provides C-level services including regulatory solutions, restructuring and interim management to their clients. Before SCA, from May 1998 to September 2011, Mr. Nanovsky was a Partner of Tatum, LLC and served on Tatum's Board of Managers from 2003 through 2007. At Tatum he served as Chief Financial Officer of Specialty Foods Group, Inc., an international manufacturer and marketer of premium-branded, private-label and food service processed meat products. While at Tatum Mr. Nanovsky also served as Chief Accounting Officer of a $3 billion publicly-traded provider of wireless telephone service to 5.5 million customers through 189 majority-owned subsidiaries. Additionally while at Tatum, Mr. Nanovsky served at AutoNation, Inc., a $20 billion automotive retailer, developing the integration and reporting processes for more than 370 franchises preparing for SOX compliance. Prior to Tatum, Mr. Nanovsky served as Chief Financial Officer, Senior Vice President and member of the Board of Directors of Seneca Foods Corporation, a Fortune 500 international food processor and distributor. All of Mr. Nanovsky's professional effort and focus are concentrated on Swisher; however, he remains a Partner of SCA.
 
 
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Blake W. Thompson
 
Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer
 
Mr. Thompson has served as Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Swisher Hygiene since August 2013 and previously served as Senior Vice President – Supply Chain and Manufacturing from June 2012 until August 2013.  Mr. Thompson has over 30 years of supply chain and operations leadership experience.  Before joining Swisher he served as Senior Vice President of Supply Chain from 2006 to 2011 for Snyder’s-Lance, Inc., a manufacturer and distributor of branded and private brand snack products throughout North America, where he restructured the company’s supply chain and grew the contract manufacturing business while improving contribution margins.  Prior to Snyder’s-Lance, Mr. Thompson was Senior Vice President of Supply Chain from 2004 to 2005 at Tasty Baking Co., a regional snack cake company, where he helped rebuild the entire supply chain and optimized the company’s systems and operations.  Previously, Mr. Thompson spent 23 years at Frito-Lay, Inc., where he held a variety of management positions.
  
ITEM 1A.          RISK FACTORS.
 
 Our business, financial condition, results of operations, cash flows and prospects, and the prevailing market price and performance of our common stock, may be adversely affected by a number of factors, including the matters discussed below. Certain statements and information set forth in this 2014 Form 10-K, as well as other written or oral statements made from time to time by us or by our authorized officers on our behalf, constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Federal Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. We intend for our forward-looking statements to be covered by the safe harbor provisions for forward-looking statements contained in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. You should note that forward-looking statements in this document speak only as of the date of this 2014 Form 10-K and we undertake no duty or obligation to update or revise our forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law. Although we believe that the expectations, plans, intentions and projections reflected in our forward-looking statements are reasonable, such statements are subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause our actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. The risks, uncertainties and other factors that our stockholders and prospective investors should consider include the following:
 
We have a history of significant operating losses and as such our future revenue and operating profitability are uncertain.
 
Our future revenue and operating profitability are difficult to predict and are uncertain.  We have recorded significant losses from continuing operations for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively.  We may continue to incur operating losses for the foreseeable future, and such losses may be substantial. We will need to increase revenue in order to generate sustainable operating profit and continue to make improvements on our expense controls. Given our history of operating losses, we cannot assure you that we will be able to achieve or maintain operating profitability on an annual or quarterly basis, or at all.
 
Our independent registered public accounting firm’s report contains an explanatory paragraph that expresses substantial doubt as to our ability to continue as a going concern.
 
Although our consolidated financial statements have been prepared assuming we will continue as a going concern, our independent registered public accounting firm, in its report accompanying our consolidated financial statements as of and for the year ended December 31, 2014, expressed substantial doubt as to our ability to continue as a going concern as of December 31, 2014. The inclusion of a going concern explanatory paragraph may make it more difficult for us to execute our current operating plan, maintain and or secure additional financing or enter into strategic relationships on terms acceptable to us, if at all, and may materially and adversely affect the terms of any current or future financing that we may obtain.
 
The Company may need to raise additional equity or capital in the future and such capital may not be available when needed or at all.
 
The Company's liquidity and capital resources remain limited. There can be no assurance that the Company's liquidity or capital resource position would allow it to continue to pursue its current business strategy.  As a result, the Company may need to raise additional capital in the future to provide it with sufficient capital resources and liquidity to meet its commitments and business needs.  The Company’s ability to raise additional equity or capital, if needed, will depend on, among other things, conditions in the equity or capital markets at that time, which are outside of its control, and its financial performance. Any occurrence that may limit the Company's access to the equity or capital markets may adversely affect the Company’s capital costs and its ability to raise capital and, in turn, its liquidity.  An inability to raise additional equity or capital on acceptable terms when needed could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, financial condition and results of operations. Additionally, future equity transactions could be dilutive to the Company's shareholders.
 
 
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Our failure or inability to meet certain terms of our Credit Facility could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
 
On August 29, 2014, we entered into a $20.0 million credit facility (the “Credit Facility).  Borrowings under the Credit Facility are secured by a first priority lien on certain of the Company’s and its subsidiaries’ assets.  The Credit Facility contains certain customary representations and warranties, and certain customary covenants on the Company’s ability to, among other things, incur additional indebtedness, create liens or other encumbrances, sell or otherwise dispose of assets, and merge or consolidate with other entities or enter into a change of control transaction. We may not be able to satisfy all of these conditions or may default on some of these covenants for various reasons, including matters which are beyond our control. Additionally, the Credit Facility contains various events of default.  If we are unable to borrow under the Credit Facility, we may be unable to meet our business obligations, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
 
We have identified material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting and we may be unable to develop, implement and maintain appropriate controls in future periods. If the material weaknesses are not remediated, then they could result in material misstatements to the financial statements.
 
We have identified material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting and, as a result of such weaknesses, our management, with the participation of our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures and internal control over financial reporting were not effective as of December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013.  These material weaknesses were originally identified in connection with our assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2013, and were determined not to have been remediated as of December 31, 2014. Until remediated, these material weaknesses could result in material misstatements to our interim or annual consolidated financial statements and disclosures that may not be prevented or detected on a timely basis. In addition, we may be unable to meet our reporting obligations or comply with SEC rules and regulations, which could result in delisting actions by The Nasdaq Stock Market ("Nasdaq") and investigation and sanctions by regulatory authorities. Any of these results could adversely affect our business and the trading price of our common stock.
 
Failure to retain our current customers and renew existing customer contracts could adversely affect our business.
 
Our success depends in part on our ability to retain current customers and renew existing customer service agreements. Our ability to retain current customers depends on a variety of factors, including the quality, price, and responsiveness of the services we offer, as well as our ability to market these services effectively and differentiate our offerings from those of our competitors. We cannot assure you that we will be able to renew existing customer contracts at the same or higher rates or that our current customers will not turn to competitors, cease operations, elect to bring the services we provide in-house, or terminate existing service agreements. The failure to renew existing service agreements or the loss of a significant number of existing service agreements could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows.
 
Changes in economic conditions that impact the industries in which our end-users primarily operate in could adversely affect our business.
 
During the last few years, conditions throughout the U.S. and worldwide have been weak and those conditions may not improve in the foreseeable future. As a result, our customers or vendors may have financial challenges, unrelated to us that could impact their ability to continue doing business with us. Economic downturns, and in particular downturns in the foodservice, hospitality, travel, and food processing industries, can adversely impact our end-users, who are sensitive to changes in travel and dining activities. The recent decline in economic activity is adversely affecting these markets. During such downturns, these end-users typically reduce their volume of purchases of cleaning and sanitizing products, which may have an adverse impact on our business. We cannot assure you that current or future economic conditions, and the impact of those conditions on our customer base, will not have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows.
 
The financial condition and operating ability of third parties may adversely affect our business.
 
We purchase the majority of our dispensing equipment and dish machines from a limited number of suppliers. Should any of these third party suppliers experience production delays, we may need to identify additional suppliers, which may not be possible on a timely basis or on favorable terms, if at all. A delay in the supply of our chemicals or equipment could adversely affect relationships with our customer base and could cause potential customers to delay their decision to purchase services or cause them not to purchase our services at all.
 
We market and sell our products and services through independent third-party distributor partners.  In recent years, we have expanded our distributor program, which provides us with additional opportunities for organic growth. Our distributor program is targeted toward regional and local foodservice distributors that are seeking not only to increase the revenue and margin they can drive by increasing the number of products they deliver to each customer. In effect, by us partnering to be the chemical sales and service arm for the distributor, we help to generate demand for our rental equipment and our consumable products.  The loss of one or more of our distributors, or the decision by one or more of them to reduce the number of our products they offer or to carry the product lines of our competitors, could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. The termination of a significant distributor, whether at our or the distributor's initiative, or a disruption in the operations of one or more of our distributors, may adversely affect our business.
 
 
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In the event that any of the third parties with whom we have significant relationships files a petition in or is assigned into bankruptcy or becomes insolvent, or makes an assignment for the benefit of creditors or makes any arrangements or otherwise becomes subject to any proceedings under bankruptcy or insolvency laws with a trustee, or a receiver is appointed in respect of a substantial portion of its property, or such third party liquidates or winds up its daily operations for any reason whatsoever, then our business, financial position, results of operations, and cash flows may be materially and adversely affected.
 
We have recognized significant impairment charges in 2014 and prior years, and may recognize additional impairment charges in the future which could adversely affect our results of operations and financial condition.
 
We assess our intangible assets and long-lived assets for impairment when required by generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”). These accounting principles require that we record an impairment charge if circumstances indicate that the asset carrying values exceed their fair values. Our assessment of intangible assets and long-lived assets could indicate that an impairment of the carrying value of such assets may have occurred that could result in a significant, non-cash write-down of such assets, which could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations.
 
The availability of our raw materials and the volatility of their costs may adversely affect our operations.
 
We use a number of key raw materials in our business. An inability to obtain such key raw materials could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows. Also the prices of many of these raw materials are cyclical. If we are unable to minimize the effects of increased raw material costs through sourcing or pricing actions, future increases in costs of raw materials could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows.
 
We are and may in the future be subject to legal proceedings; the outcome of which are uncertain, and resolutions adverse to us could negatively affect our earnings, financial condition and cash flows.
 
We are and may in the future be subject to legal proceedings.  Litigation is subject to many uncertainties, and we cannot predict the outcome of individual matters with assurance. It is reasonably possible that the final resolution of these matters could require additional expenditures, in excess of established reserves, over an extended period of time and in a range of amounts that could have a material effect on our earnings, financial condition and cash flows.
 
The pricing, terms, and length of customer service agreements may constrain our ability to recover costs and to make a profit on our contracts.
 
The amount of risk we bear and our profit potential will vary depending on the type of service agreements under which products and services are provided. We may be unable to fully recover costs on service agreements that limit our ability to increase prices, particularly on multi-year service agreements. In addition, we may provide services under multi-year service agreements that guarantee maximum costs for the customer based on specific criteria, for example, cost per diner, cost per occupied room, or cost per passenger day, putting us at risk if we do not effectively manage customer consumption. Our ability to manage our business under the constraints of these service agreements may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows.
 
If we are required to change the pricing models for our products or services to compete successfully, our margins and operating results may be adversely affected.
 
The markets in which we operate in are highly competitive. We compete with national, regional, and local providers, some of whom have greater financial and marketing resources than us, and may be perceived to have better brand name recognition, price, product quality, and customer service.  Some of our competitors may bundle products and services that compete with our products and services for promotional purposes as a long-term pricing strategy or may provide guarantees of prices and product implementations. Also, competitors may develop new or enhanced products and services more successfully and sell existing or new products and services better than we do. In addition, new competitors may emerge. These practices could, over time, limit the prices that we can charge for our products and services. If we cannot offset price reductions or other pricing strategies with a corresponding increase in sales or decrease in spending, then the reduced revenue resulting from lower prices would adversely affect our margins, operating costs, and profitability.
 
The consolidation of customers may adversely affect our business, consolidated financial condition or results of operations.
 
Customers in the foodservice, hospitality, retail and healthcare industries have been consolidating in recent years, and we believe this trend may continue. Such consolidation could have an adverse impact on the pricing of our products and services and our ability to retain customers, which could in turn adversely affect our business, consolidated financial condition or results of operations.
 
 
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We may fail to maintain our listing on The Nasdaq Stock Market.
 
Our common stock is listed for trading on The Nasdaq Stock Market (“Nasdaq”) under the trading symbol “SWSH.”  For our common stock to continue to be listed on Nasdaq, we must meet Nasdaq’s continued listing standards.  A failure to meet these standards could result in our common stock being delisted, which could adversely affect the market liquidity of our common stock, impair the value of your investment, and harm our business.  We can provide no assurance that we will continue to satisfy Nasdaq’s continued listing standards and maintain our listing on Nasdaq.
 
The loss of one or more key members of our senior management, or our inability to attract and retain qualified personnel could adversely impact our business, financial condition and results of operations.
 
Our success depends, in part, on the continued efforts and abilities of our senior management team. The loss of one or more key members of our senior management team could disrupt our operations and divert the time and attention of the remaining members of the senior management team, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.  Our success also depends on our ability to attract, retain and motivate our personnel.  Competition for personnel can be intense, and we cannot assure you that we will be able to attract or retain highly qualified personnel needed to support our business. Our inability to attract and retain the necessary personnel may adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations. It may be necessary for us to increase the level of compensation paid to existing or new employees to a degree that our operating expenses could be materially increased, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows.
 
Increases in fuel and energy costs and fuel shortages could adversely affect our results of operations and financial condition.
 
The price of fuel is unpredictable and fluctuates based on events outside our control, including geopolitical developments, supply and demand for oil and gas, actions by the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (“OPEC”) and other oil and gas producers, war and unrest in oil producing countries, regional production patterns, limits on refining capacities, natural disasters and environmental concerns. In recent years, fuel prices have fluctuated widely. An increase in fuel prices raises the costs of operating vehicles and equipment. We cannot predict the extent to which we may experience future increases in fuel costs or whether we will be able to pass these increased costs through to our customers. A fuel shortage, higher transportation costs or the curtailment of scheduled service could adversely impact our profitability. If we experience delays in the delivery of products to our customers, or if the services or products are not provided to the customers at all, relationships with our customers could be adversely impacted, which could have a material adverse effect on our business and prospects. As a result, future increases in fuel costs or fuel shortages could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows.
 
Our products contain hazardous materials and chemicals, which could result in claims against us.
 
We use and sell a variety of products that contain hazardous materials and chemicals. Like all products of this nature, misuse of the hazardous material based products can lead to injuries and damages but in all cases if these products are used at the prescribed usage levels with the proper PPEs (Personal Protection Equipment) and procedures the chances of injuries and accidents are extremely rare. Nevertheless, because of the nature of these substances or related residues, we may be liable for certain costs, including, among others, costs for health-related claims, or removal or remediation of such substances. We may be involved in claims and litigation filed on behalf of persons alleging injury as a result of exposure to such substances or by governmental or regulatory bodies related to our handling and disposing of these substances. Because of the unpredictable nature of personal injury and property damage litigation and governmental enforcement, it is not possible to predict the ultimate outcome of any such claims or lawsuits that may arise. Any such claims and lawsuits, individually or in the aggregate, that are resolved against us, could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows.
 
 We are subject to environmental, health and safety regulations, and may be adversely affected by new and changing laws and regulations, that generate ongoing environmental costs and could subject us to liability.
 
We are subject to laws and regulations relating to the protection of the environment and natural resources, and workplace health and safety. These include, among other things, reporting on chemical inventories and risk management plans, and the management of hazardous substances. Violations of existing laws and enactment of future legislation and regulations could result in substantial penalties, temporary or permanent facility closures, and legal consequences. Moreover, the nature of our existing and historical operations exposes us to the risk of liability to third parties. The potential costs relating to environmental, solid waste, and product registration laws and regulations are uncertain due to factors such as the unknown magnitude and type of possible contamination and clean-up costs, the complexity and evolving nature of laws and regulations, and the timing and expense of compliance. Changes to current laws, regulations or policies could impose new restrictions, costs, or prohibitions on our current practices which could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, financial condition, and cash flows.
 
 
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If our products are improperly manufactured, packaged, or labeled or become adulterated or expire, those items may need to be recalled or withdrawn from sale.
 
We may need to recall, voluntarily or otherwise, the products we sell if products are improperly manufactured, packaged, or labeled or if they become adulterated or expire. Widespread product recalls could result in significant losses due to the costs of a recall and lost sales due to the unavailability of product for a period of time. A significant product recall could also result in adverse publicity, damage to our reputation, and loss of customer confidence in our products, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows.
 
Changes in the types or variety of our service offerings could affect our financial performance.
 
Our financial performance is affected by changes in the types or variety of products and services offered to our customers. For example, as we continue to evolve our business to include a greater combination of products with our services, the amount of money required for the purchase of additional equipment and training for associates may increase. Additionally, the gross margin on product sales is often less than gross margin on service revenue. These changes in variety or adjustment to product and service offerings could have a material adverse effect on our financial performance.
 
Prior acquisitions involve a number of risks and could have an adverse effect on our results of operations.
 
The success of any acquisition depends on management’s ability following the transaction to consolidate operations and integrate departments, systems and procedures, and thereby create business efficiencies, economies of scale, and related cost savings.  As a result, prior acquisitions involve various risks, such as uncertainties in assessing the value, strengths, weaknesses, liabilities, including undisclosed liabilities, and potential profitability of acquired companies. There is a risk of potential losses of key employees and customers of an acquired business and of an inability to achieve identified operating and financial synergies anticipated to result from an acquisition. Any one or more of these factors could cause us not to realize the benefits anticipated to result from the acquisitions or have a negative impact on the fair value of the acquired companies.  Accordingly, intangible assets recorded as a result of acquisitions could become impaired. Additionally, previously undisclosed liabilities could be identified and have a material adverse impact on our results of operations and cash flows. 
 
We may not be able to adequately protect our intellectual property and other proprietary rights that are material to our business.
 
         Our ability to compete effectively depends in part on our rights to service marks, trademarks, trade names, formulas and other intellectual property rights we own or license, particularly our registered brand names, including “Swisher” and “Sani-Service.” We may not seek to register every one of our marks either in the U.S. or in every country in which it is used. As a result, we may not be able to adequately protect those unregistered marks. Furthermore, because of the differences in foreign trademark, patent and other intellectual property or proprietary rights laws, we may not receive the same protection in other countries as we would in the U.S. and Canada. Failure to protect such proprietary information and brand names could impact our ability to compete effectively and could adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows.
 
         Litigation may be necessary to enforce our intellectual property rights and protect our proprietary information, or to defend against claims by third parties that our products or services infringe on their intellectual property rights. Any litigation or claims brought by or against us could result in substantial costs and diversion of our resources. A successful claim of trademark, patent or other intellectual property infringement against us, or any other successful challenge to the use of our intellectual property, could subject us to damages or prevent us from providing certain services under our recognized brand names, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows.
 
 Interruptions in our information and telecommunication systems, or a failure to maintain the security, confidentiality or privacy of sensitive data residing on such systems, could adversely affect our business.
 
We rely extensively on computer systems to process transactions, maintain information and manage our business. Disruptions in the availability of our computer systems could impact our ability to service our customers and adversely affect our sales and results of operations. We are dependent on internal and third party information technology networks and systems, including the Internet and wireless communications, to process, transmit and store electronic information. In particular, we depend on our information technology infrastructure for fulfilling and invoicing customer orders, applying cash receipts, determining reorder points and placing purchase orders with suppliers, making cash disbursements, and conducting digital marketing activities, data processing, and electronic communications among business locations. We also depend on telecommunication systems for communications between company personnel and our customers and suppliers. Our computer systems are subject to damage or interruption due to system conversions, power outages, computer or telecommunication failures, computer viruses, security breaches, catastrophic events such as fires, tornadoes and hurricanes and usage errors by our employees.  Also, our computer systems could be subject to physical or electronic break-ins, unauthorized tampering or other security breaches, resulting in a failure to maintain the security, confidentiality or privacy of sensitive data, including personal information relating to customers, or in the misappropriation of our proprietary information.  Interruptions in information and telecommunication systems, or a failure to maintain the security, confidentiality or privacy of sensitive data residing on such systems, whether due to actions by us or others, could delay or disrupt our ability to do business and service our customers, require us to incur significant investments to fix or replace them, harm our reputation, subject us to regulatory sanctions and other claims, lead to a loss of customers and revenues and otherwise adversely affect our business.
 
 
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Insurance policies may not cover all operating risks and a casualty loss beyond the limits of our coverage could adversely impact our business.
 
Our business is subject to all of the operating hazards and risks normally incidental to the operations of a company in the cleaning and maintenance solutions industry. We maintain insurance policies in such amounts and with such coverage and deductibles that we believe are reasonable and prudent. Nevertheless, our insurance coverage may not be adequate to protect us from all liabilities and expenses that may arise from claims for personal injury or death, property damage, or environmental liabilities arising in the ordinary course of business and our current levels of insurance may not be able to be maintained or available at economical prices. If a significant liability claim is brought against us that is not covered by insurance, we may have to pay the claim with our own funds, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows.
 
Our stock price has been and may in the future be volatile, which could cause purchasers of our common stock to incur substantial losses.
 
The trading price of our common stock has been and may in the future be subject to substantial price volatility. The market price of our common stock may fluctuate significantly in response to numerous factors, many of which are beyond our control, including the factors listed below and other factors described in this “Risk Factors” section:
 
low trading volume, which could cause even a small number of purchases or sales of our stock to have an impact on the trading price of our common stock;
 
price and volume fluctuations in the overall stock market from time to time;
 
significant volatility in the market price and trading volume of comparable companies;
 
short sales, hedging and other derivative transactions involving our common stock; and
 
sales of shares in the open market or the perception that such shares could occur.
 
Certain stockholders may exert significant influence over any corporate action requiring stockholder approval.
 
As of March 25, 2015, Messrs. Huizenga and Berrard own approximately 28% of our common stock.  As a result, these stockholders may be in a position to exert significant influence over any corporate action requiring stockholder approval, including the election of directors, determination of significant corporate actions, amendments to Swisher’s certificate of incorporation and by-laws, and the approval of any business transaction, such as mergers or takeover attempts, in a manner that could conflict with the interests of other stockholders.  Although there are no agreements or understandings between the former Swisher International stockholders as to voting, if they voted in concert, they could exert significant influence over Swisher Hygiene.
 
Provisions of Delaware law and our organizational documents may delay or prevent an acquisition of our Company, even if the acquisition would be beneficial to our stockholders.
 
Provisions of Delaware law and our certificate of incorporation and bylaws may discourage, delay or prevent a change of control that our stockholders may consider favorable, including transactions in which stockholders might otherwise receive a premium for their shares. These provisions may also prevent or delay attempts by stockholders to replace or remove management or members of our board of directors. These provisions include:
   
the absence of cumulative voting in the election of directors, which means that the holders of a majority of our common stock may elect all of the directors standing for election;
 
the inability of our stockholders to call special meetings;
 
the requirement that our stockholders provide advance notice when nominating director candidates or proposing business to be considered by the stockholders at an annual meeting of stockholders;
 
the ability of the our board of directors to make, alter or repeal our bylaws;
 
the requirement that the authorized number of directors be changed only by resolution of the board of directors; and
 
the inability of stockholders to act by written consent.
 
 
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ITEM 1B.
UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS.
 
None
 
ITEM 2.
PROPERTIES.
 
We operate five chemical manufacturing plants in leased facilities in Oregon, Arizona, Illinois, Florida and New York.  We lease our current corporate headquarters facility in Charlotte, North Carolina, pursuant to a lease expiring in February 2017. As of December 31, 2014, we also lease numerous other facilities located in the United States and Canada where we operate our business.  We believe that our facilities are sufficient for our current needs and are in good condition in all material respects.
 
ITEM 3.
LEGAL PROCEEDINGS.
 
We may be involved in litigation from time to time in the ordinary course of business. We do not believe that the ultimate resolution of these matters will have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations. However, the results of these matters cannot be predicted with certainty and we cannot assure you that the ultimate resolution of any legal or administrative proceedings or disputes will not have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
 
Securities Litigation
 
Between March 30, 2012 and May 24, 2012, six stockholder lawsuits were filed in federal courts in North Carolina and New York asserting claims relating to the Company's March 28, 2012 announcement regarding the Company's Board’s conclusion that the Company's previously issued interim financial statements for the quarterly periods ended March 31, 2011, June 30, 2011 and September 30, 2011, and the other financial information in the Company's quarterly reports on Form 10-Q for the periods then ended, should no longer be relied upon and that an internal review by the Company's Audit Committee primarily relating to possible adjustments to the Company's financial statements was ongoing.
 
On March 30, 2012, a purported Company stockholder commenced a putative securities class action on behalf of purchasers of the Company's common stock in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York against the Company, the former President and Chief Executive Officer ("former CEO"), and the former Vice President and Chief Financial Officer ("former CFO"). The plaintiff asserted claims alleging violations of Sections 10(b) and 20(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the "Exchange Act") based on alleged false and misleading disclosures in the Company's public filings. In April and May 2012, four more putative securities class actions were filed by purported Company stockholders in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of North Carolina against the same set of defendants. The plaintiffs in these cases asserted claims alleging violations of Sections 10(b) and 20(a) of the Exchange Act based on alleged false and misleading disclosures in the Company's public filings. In each of the putative securities class actions, the plaintiffs sought damages for losses suffered by the putative class of investors who purchased the Company’s common stock.
 
On May 21, 2012, a stockholder derivative action was brought against the Company's former CEO and former CFO and the Company's then directors for alleged breaches of fiduciary duty by another purported Company stockholder in the Southern District of New York. In this derivative action, captioned Arsenault v. Berrard, et al., 1:12-cv-4028, the plaintiff seeks to recover for the Company damages arising out of the then possible restatement of the Company's financial statements.
 
 
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On May 30, 2012, the Company, its former CEO and former CFO filed a motion with the United States Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation ("MDL Panel") to centralize all of the cases in the Western District of North Carolina by requesting that the actions filed in the Southern District of New York be transferred to the Western District of North Carolina. In light of the motion to centralize the cases in the Western District of North Carolina, the Company, its former CEO and former CFO requested from both courts a stay of all proceedings pending the MDL Panel's ruling. On June 4, 2012, the Southern District of New York adjourned all pending dates in the cases in light of the motion to transfer filed before the MDL Panel. On June 13, 2012, the Western District of North Carolina issued a stay of proceedings pending a ruling by the MDL Panel.
 
On August 13, 2012, the MDL Panel granted the motion to centralize, transferring the actions filed in the Southern District of New York to the Western District of North Carolina as part of MDL No. 2384, captioned In re Swisher Hygiene, Inc. Securities and Derivative Litigation. In response, on August 21, 2012, the Western District of North Carolina issued an order governing the practice and procedure in the actions transferred to the Western District of North Carolina as well as the actions originally filed there.  On October 18, 2012, the Western District of North Carolina held an Initial Pretrial Conference at which it appointed lead counsel and lead plaintiffs for the securities class actions, and set a schedule for the filing of a consolidated class action complaint and defendants' time to answer or otherwise respond to the consolidated class action complaint. The Western District of North Carolina stayed the Arsenault derivative action, pending the outcome of the securities class actions.
 
On April 24, 2013, lead plaintiffs filed their first amended consolidated class action complaint (the "Class Action Complaint") asserting similar claims as those previously alleged as well as additional allegations stemming from the Company's restated financial statements. The Class Action Complaint also named the Company's former Senior Vice President and Treasurer as an additional defendant who was later dismissed from the case. On June 24, 2013, defendants moved to dismiss the Class Action Complaint.  Briefing on the motions to dismiss was completed on August 9, 2013.
 
Although the Company believed it had meritorious defenses to the asserted claims in the securities class actions in the United States, the defendants and plaintiffs agreed to the terms of a settlement and on February 5, 2014 executed a settlement agreement that, following approval by the Western District of North Carolina, would resolve all claims in the securities class actions pending there (the "Settlement").  The Settlement provided that the defendants would make a set cash payment totaling $5,500,000, all from insurance proceeds, to settle all of the securities class actions, and full and complete releases would be provided to defendants.  On March 11, 2014, the Western District of North Carolina issued a preliminary order approving the Settlement, and scheduled a hearing for August 6, 2014.  That same day, the Western District of North Carolina also issued an order terminating defendants’ pending motions to dismiss the Class Action Complaint as moot in light of the Settlement.  On August 6, 2014, following a hearing, the Western District of North Carolina approved the Settlement, and issued an Order and Final Judgment that, among other things, dismissed the securities class actions pending in the United States with prejudice and provided for full and complete releases to defendants. The Arsenault derivative action is still pending.
 
On June 11, 2013, an individual action was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida captioned Miller, et al. v. Swisher Hygiene, Inc., et al., No. 0:13-CV-61292-JAL, against the Company, its former CEO and former CFO, and a former Company director, bringing state and federal claims founded on the allegations that in deciding to sell their company to the Company, plaintiffs relied on defendants' statements about such things as the Company's accounting and internal controls, which, in light of the Company’s restatement of its financial statements, were false. On July 17, 2013, the Company notified the MDL Panel of this action, and requested that it be transferred and centralized in the Western District of North Carolina with the other actions pending there. On July 23, 2013, the MDL Panel issued a Conditional Transfer Order (the "Miller CTO"), conditionally transferring the case to the Western District of North Carolina. On July 29, 2013, plaintiffs notified the MDL Panel that they would seek to vacate the Miller CTO. In light of the proceedings in the MDL Panel, defendants requested that the Southern District of Florida stay all proceedings pending the MDL Panel's ruling. On August 6, 2013, the Southern District of Florida issued a stay of all proceedings pending a ruling by the MDL Panel.  On October 2, 2013, following a briefing on the issue of whether the Miller CTO should be vacated, the MDL Panel issued an order transferring the action to the Western District of North Carolina.    The Company and the individual defendants filed motions to dismiss the complaint on March 20, 2014.  Briefing on the motions to dismiss was completed on May 12, 2014.  On June 2, 2014, plaintiffs filed a motion with the Western District of North Carolina seeking a suggestion for remand from that Court to the MDL Panel. Briefing on that motion was completed on June 26, 2014. Oral argument on the motions to dismiss and motion for suggestion for remand were heard on July 22, 2014.   On August 5, 2014, the Western District of North Carolina denied plaintiffs' motion for suggestion for remand.  On October 22, 2014, the Company filed a notice of supplemental authority in support of its motion to dismiss the complaint in this action.  On November 4, 2014, plaintiffs filed a response to the notice of supplemental authority.
 
 
15

 
 
On July 11, 2013, a purported stockholder filed a derivative action on behalf of the Company in the General Court of Justice, Superior Court Division in the State of North Carolina, Mecklenburg County, captioned Borthwick v. Berrard, et. al., No. 13-CVS-12397. The action asserted claims against the Company as a nominal defendant, its former CEO and former CFO, and certain former and current Company directors for breaches of fiduciary duties, gross mismanagement, abuse of control, waste of corporate assets, and aiding and abetting thereof in connection with the Company's restatement of its financial statements. Among other things, the action sought damages on behalf of the Company and an order directing the Company to implement corporate governance reforms. On August 7, 2013, the Company filed a notice to remove the action from the General Court of Justice, Superior Court Division in the State of North Carolina, Mecklenburg County to the Western District of North Carolina. On August 30, 2013, the Company moved to consolidate this action with the actions previously consolidated before the Western District of North Carolina, and to stay the action. On September 25, 2013, the Western District of North Carolina granted the Company's motion to consolidate and stay the action.  On October 23, 2014, following its approval of the settlement of the securities class actions, the Western District of North Carolina set a briefing schedule whereby the Company, as nominal defendant, filed a motion to dismiss the derivative action on November 4, 2014.  Pursuant to the schedule, the remaining defendants did not need to file any motions to dismiss until after the Court ruled on the Company's motion.  On December 10, 2014, the parties filed a Stipulation and Proposed Order for the dismissal of the complaint filed in this action with prejudice.  On December 11, 2014, the Western District of North Carolina issued an order dismissing the Borthwick action with prejudice.
 
                On December 17, 2013, a purported stockholder commenced a putative securities class action on behalf of purchasers of the Company's common stock on the Toronto Stock Exchange or any other Canadian trading platforms in the Ontario Superior Court of Justice, captioned Edwards v. Swisher Hygiene, Inc., et al., CV 13-20282 CP, against the Company, the former CEO and former CFO.  The action alleges claims under Canadian law for alleged misrepresentations of the Company's financial position relating to its business acquisitions.  On February 13, 2014, a Fresh Statement of Claim and Fresh Notice of Action were filed, adding an additional named plaintiff.  On March 28, 2014, another purported stockholder commenced a putative securities class action on behalf of purchasers of the Company's common stock on the Toronto Stock Exchange or any other Canadian trading platforms in the Ontario Superior Court of Justice, captioned Phillips v. Swisher Hygiene, Inc., et al., CV 14-00501096-0000, against the Company, the former CEO, the former CFO and the Company's former Senior Vice President and Treasurer. The action alleges claims under Canadian law stemming from the Company's restatement.
 
Although the Company believed it had meritorious defenses to the asserted claims in the two securities class actions pending in Canada, the defendants agreed to terms of settlement and executed a settlement agreement resolving all claims in both securities class actions pending there, which was approved by the Ontario Superior Court of Justice by Order dated February 13, 2015 (the "Canadian Settlement").  The Canadian Settlement provides that defendants will make a set cash payment totaling $0.7 million, including legal fees, all from insurance proceeds, to settle all of the Canadian securities class actions, with full and complete releases provided to the defendants.  Notice has been given of the Canadian Settlement.
 
Other Matters
 
The Company has been contacted by the staff of the Atlanta Regional Office of the SEC and by the United States Attorney's Office for the Western District of North Carolina (the "U.S. Attorney's Office") after publicly announcing the Audit Committee's internal review and the delays in filing our periodic reports. The Company has been asked to make certain individuals available and to provide certain information about these matters to the SEC and the U.S. Attorney's Office. The Company is fully cooperating with the SEC and the U.S. Attorney's Office. Any action by the SEC, the U.S. Attorney's Office or other government agency could result in criminal or civil sanctions against the Company and/or certain of its current or former officers, directors or employees.
 
ITEM 4.
MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES.
 
Not applicable.
 
 
16

 
  
PART II
 
ITEM 5.
MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES.
 
Market for Registrant’s Common Equity
 
Our common stock is listed for trading on NASDAQ under the trading symbol “SWSH.” Our common stock commenced trading on NASDAQ on February 2, 2011.  Our common stock was previously listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (“TSX”) until April 30, 2014 when we voluntarily delisted our common stock.  On June 3, 2014, a one-for-ten reverse split of the Company's issued and outstanding common stock, $0.001 par value per share, became effective ("Reverse Stock Split").  Trading of the common stock on a post-Reverse Stock Split adjusted basis began at the open of business on the morning of June 3, 2014. All historic share and per share information, including earnings per share, in this 2014 Form 10-K have been retroactively adjusted to reflect the Reverse Stock Split. The following table sets out the reported low and high sale prices on NASDAQ for the periods indicated as reported by the exchange:
 
      NASDAQ  
      Low/High Prices  
Fiscal Quarter
 
2014
   
2013
 
First
  $ 4.50 – 6.70     $ 11.40 – 18.80  
Second
  $ 2.98 – 5.10     $ 7.50 – 14.60  
Third
  $ 2.77 – 4.73     $ 5.80 – 11.40  
Fourth
  $ 1.58 – 4.20     $ 3.80 –   7.60  
 
Stock Performance Chart
 
The chart and table below compare the cumulative total stockholder return on our common stock from January 10, 2011, the date we became a U.S. reporting company, through December 31, 2014 with the performance of: (i) the Standard and Poor's ("S&P") SmallCap 600 Index and (ii) a self-constructed peer group consisting of other public companies in similar lines of business as of December 31, 2014.  The peer group consists of Cintas Corp, Ecolab, Inc., G&K Services Inc., Unifirst Corp., and ZEP Inc.
 
The comparisons reflected in the graph and tables are not intended to forecast the future performance of our common stock and may not be indicative of future performance. The graph and table assume that $100 was invested on January 10, 2011 in each of our common stock, the S&P SmallCap 600 Index, the peer group and that dividends were reinvested.
 
 
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INDEXED RETURNS
Quarter Ending
 
   
Base
                                           
   
Period
                                                       
Company / Index
 
01/10/11
   
2/02/11
   
3/31/11
   
6/30/11
   
9/30/11
   
12/31/11
   
3/31/12
   
6/30/12
   
9/30/12
   
12/31/12
 
Swisher Hygiene, Inc.
    100       114.55       109.13       99.98       71.92       66.42       43.69       44.66       24.68       31.08  
S&P SmallCap 600 Index
    100       101.46       107.41       107.24       85.97       100.73       112.81       108.77       114.64       117.18  
Peer Group
    100       101.47       104.15       114.43       98.18       117.72       127.58       138.07       135.10       147.00  
                                                                                 
Company / Index
                 
3/31/13
   
6/30/13
   
9/30/13
   
12/31/13
   
3/31/14
   
6/30/14
   
9/30/14
   
12/31/14
 
Swisher Hygiene, Inc.
                    22.55       15.27       10.77       9.13       7.99       7.64       5.40       3.32  
S&P SmallCap 600 Index
                    131.02       136.15       150.76       165.59       167.46       170.92       159.42       175.12  
Peer Group
                    164.65       173.99       201.25       216.60       222.93       230.45       239.98       234.09  
 
The return from January 10, 2011 to February 1, 2011 reflects trades on the TSX in Canadian dollars, converted to U.S. Dollars. The return from February 2, 2011 to December 31, 2014 reflects trades on NASDAQ, which became our primary trading market on February 2, 2011, in U.S. dollars.
 
As of March 25, 2015, there were 17,617,379 shares of our common stock issued and outstanding.  As of March 25, 2015, we had 883 registered stockholders of record.
 
We have not paid any cash dividends on our common stock and do not plan to pay any cash dividends in the foreseeable future. Our Board of Directors will determine our future dividend policy on the basis of many factors including results of operations, capital requirements, general business conditions, and restrictions in our Credit Facility.  Our Credit Facility restricts the payment of dividends on our Common Stock.
 
 
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ITEM 6.
SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA.
 
The following selected consolidated financial data should be read in conjunction with our audited Consolidated Financial Statements and Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements beginning on page F-1.
 
      For the Year Ended December 31,  
   
2014 (2)
   
2013 (2)
   
2012 (1)
   
2011 (1)
   
2010
 
Selected Income Statement Data:
                             
                               
Revenue
  $ 193,757     $ 213,688     $ 230,521     $ 160,617     $ 63,652  
                                         
Loss from continuing operations
  $ (45,234 )   $ (152,472 )   $ (58,929 )   $ (34,574 )   $ (15,113 )
                                         
Net loss from continuing operations
  $ (46,808 )   $ (150,532 )   $ (80,775 )   $ (24,723 )   $ (17,570 )
                                         
Loss per share, continuing operations:
                                       
                                         
Basic and diluted
  $ (2.64 )   $ (8.55 )   $ (4.62 )   $ (1.55 )   $ (2.62 )
                                         
Selected Balance Sheet Data:
                                       
                                         
Total Assets
  $ 113,198     $ 161,717     $ 327,685     $ 478,404     $ 106,234  
                                         
Swisher Hygiene Inc. Stockholders' equity
  $ 81,290     $ 127,186     $ 277,121     $ 343,834     $ 45,917  
                                         
Long-term debt and obligations
  $ 1,185     $ 2,003     $ 5,284     $ 47,267     $ 44,408  
_____________________
(1)    During 2011, we completed acquisitions of nine franchises and 54 acquisitions of independent businesses, including 4 solid waste collection service businesses (Waste segment). In 2012 we disposed of the Waste segment. 2012 and 2011 selected financial data has been restated to reflect discontinued operations treatment of this segment. Refer to Note 2, “Discontinued Operations and Assets Held for Sale” and Note 3, “Acquisitions” in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information regarding these transactions.
 
(2)   During 2014 and 2013, the Company recorded a non-cash goodwill impairment charge of $5.8 million and $93.2 million, respectively.  Refer to Note 5, “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets,” for additional information related to this impairment charge.  Additionally, during 2014 and 2013, the Company recorded $3.0 million and $6.4 million, respectively, in impairment related to its assets held for sale and the adjustment of these assets balances to the lower of net book value or estimated fair value.
 
ITEM 7.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS.
 
You should read the following discussion and analysis in conjunction with the “Selected Financial Data” included in Item 6 and our audited Consolidated Financial Statements and the related notes thereto included in Item 8 “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.” In addition to historical consolidated financial information, this discussion contains forward-looking statements that reflect our plans, estimates, and beliefs. Actual results could differ from these expectations as a result of factors including those described under Item 1A, “Risk Factors,” “Forward-Looking Statements” and elsewhere in this annual report.
 
Business Overview and Outlook
 
We currently operate in one business segment, Hygiene, which encompasses providing essential hygiene and sanitizing solutions to customers in a wide range of end-markets including foodservice, hospitality, retail and the healthcare industries.  Certain of our products are registered with the Environmental Protection Agency and follow the Center for Disease Control guidelines for disinfection of surface areas such as children’s playgrounds, hospitals, and assisted living environments.  We sell consumable products such as detergents, cleaning chemicals, soap, paper, water filters and supplies, together with the rental and servicing of dish machines and other equipment for the dispensing of those products as well as additional services such as the cleaning of restrooms and other facilities.  We continue to see the positive impact of cost efficiencies, integration, capital resource management and planning, plant consolidations and route optimization efforts; however, we believe we still need to increase revenue in order to maximize our profitability. We are committed to our philosophy of Service, People and Profitability and to Selling Through Service.  To that end, we have commenced a realignment of our field service and sales teams to better serve our customers since we believe this will ultimately drive increased revenues through improved customer retention and the ability to leverage our current customer base.  See “Prior Period Reclassification” below for a description of our realignment.
 
 
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Assets Held For Sale
 
During 2013, the Company commenced an active program to sell certain non-core assets and routes related to its linen and dust operations.  Additionally, in 2014 the Company ceased operations at a linen processing plant and in 2013 a chemical manufacturing plant was closed in connection with the Company’s plant consolidation efforts.  In accordance with ASC 360, Property, Plant and Equipment, these assets were classified as assets held for sale in the Consolidated Balance Sheet and the asset balances were adjusted to the lower of historical carrying amounts or fair values.  
 
During 2014, the Company updated its estimates of the fair value of certain linen routes and operations to reflect various events that occurred during the year.  The cumulative impairment loss for the twelve months ended December 31, 2014 was $3.0 million, of which $1.9 million was attributable to a reduction in the estimate of net sales proceeds for a linen processing operation.  The factors driving the $1.9 million reduction were the cancellation notifications received during April and May 2014 from three major customers resulting in a significant loss of forecasted revenue; and the operation’s 2014 year-to-date loss which was in excess of the Company’s estimates. The asset fair value of this linen processing operation was written down to zero in the second quarter of 2014 and was closed during the fourth quarter of 2014.
 
The Company recorded impairment charges for the twelve months ended December 31, 2013 of $6.4 million.  Included in this charge is $3.1 million that was recorded during the fourth quarter of 2013 as follows:  $2.0 million related to the Board of Director’s approval, on November 8, 2013, of additional assets to be disposed of and the resultant adjustment of these assets from net carrying value to fair; $1.1 million impairment adjustments to existing assets held for sale to reflect reductions in the estimated fair value as a result of events that occurred during the fourth quarter which indicated that the estimated net selling prices will be less than anticipated at the end of the third quarter.
 
The Company completed several sales transactions during the twelve months ended December 31, 2014, which resulted in the net receipt of $1.6 million in cash and the remainder in receivables.  A loss on these sales of $0.9 million was incurred and included a write-off of $0.6 million of the receivable balances.  The receivable balances were primarily for contingent sales proceeds that were based on post-closing revenues of previously sold routes which were lower than estimated.  The total loss of $0.8 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2014, is included in “Other expense, net” in the condensed consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive loss.
 
The Company completed several sales transactions during the last half of 2013 totaling $6.3 million in net sales proceeds including $0.6 million in receivable balances that were contingent primarily upon 2014 revenues generated by certain of the sold assets during defined post-close periods.  The resulting $0.2 million gain is included in “Other expense, net” in the consolidated statement of operations.  
 
During March 2015, the Board of Directors of the Company approved a board resolution to sell its remaining non-core linen operation. During the first quarter of 2015, in accordance with ASC 360, Property, Plant and Equipment, these assets will be classified as assets held for sale and will be adjusted to the lower historical carrying amount or fair value. See Note 20, “Subsequent Event” in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
Prior Period Reclassification
 
In the first quarter of 2014, the Company began implementing a realignment of its field service and sales organization and as a result the primary function of certain job titles has shifted from primarily a sales, to a service focus.  The additional service activities involve more frequent field visits to perform preventative maintenance, repairs, evaluation of product and service solutions and required inventory levels.  This realignment of the field service and sales organization was implemented in stages during 2014.  Payroll expense related to these job titles was historically classified within “Selling, general and administrative expenses” in the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Operations and Comprehensive Loss, based on the primary job focuses of sales and administration.  Based on the changes in the job functions, the related payroll expense is classified within “Route expense”, which the Company defines as the employee costs incurred to provide service and deliver products to customers.  To facilitate comparability between the periods presented in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Loss for the twelve months ended December 31, 2013 certain selling, general and administrative expenses have been reclassified to route expense to conform to the current period’s presentation which resulted in an $11.9 million increase in route expense and a $11.9 million decrease in selling, general and administrative expense.  The reclassification for the twelve months ended December 31, 2012 resulted in a $12.5 million increase in route expense and a $12.5 million decrease in selling, general and administrative expense.  There was no impact to loss from continuing operations, net loss or loss per share as a result of the 2013 and 2012 reclassifications.
 
Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates
 
The discussion of the financial condition and the results of operations are based on the Consolidated Financial Statements, which have been prepared in conformity with United States generally accepted accounting principles. As such, management is required to make certain estimates, judgments and assumptions that are believed to be reasonable based on the information available. These estimates and assumptions affect the reported amount of assets and liabilities, revenue and expenses, and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements. Actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions.
 
 
20

 
 
Critical accounting policies are defined as those that are reflective of significant judgments and uncertainties, the most important and pervasive accounting policies used and areas most sensitive to material changes from external factors. See Note 1, “Operations and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies” in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional discussion of the application of these and other accounting policies.
 
Assets Held for Sale
 
We record assets held for sale, in accordance with Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC") 360 "Property, Plant, and Equipment," at the lower of carrying value or fair value less cost to sell. Fair value is based on the estimated net proceeds from the sale of the assets which are derived based on a number of factors including standard industry multiples of revenues or operating metrics and the status of ongoing sales negotiations and asset purchase agreements, where available.  Our estimates of fair value are regularly reviewed and subject to changes based on market conditions, changes in the customer base of the operations or routes and our continuing evaluation as to the assets acceptable sale price.  As described in Note 9, “Fair Value Measurements,” in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements, assets held for sale are measured using Level 3 inputs.
 
Purchase Accounting for Business Combinations
 
The Company accounts for acquisitions by allocating the fair value of the consideration transferred to the fair value of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed on the date of the acquisition and any remaining difference is recorded as goodwill. Adjustments may be made to the preliminary purchase price allocation when facts and circumstances that existed on the date of the acquisition surface during the allocation period subsequent to the preliminary purchase price allocation, not to exceed one year from the date of acquisition. Contingent consideration is recorded at fair value based on the facts and circumstances on the date of the acquisition and any subsequent changes in the fair value are recorded through earnings each reporting period. Transactions that occur in conjunction with or subsequent to the closing date of the acquisition are evaluated and accounted for based on the facts and substance of the transactions.
 
 Goodwill
 
Goodwill is not amortized but rather tested for impairment at least annually. The Company tests goodwill for impairment annually during the fourth quarter of each year. Goodwill is also tested for impairment between annual tests if an event occurs or circumstances change that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of the reporting unit below its carrying amount.  Impairment testing for goodwill is done at the reporting unit level. A reporting unit is an operating segment or one level below an operating segment (also known as a component). A component of an operating segment is a reporting unit if the component constitutes a business for which discrete financial information is available, and segment management regularly reviews the operating results of that component.  The Company has concluded that it has one reporting unit.
 
Determining fair value includes the use of significant estimates and assumptions.  Management utilizes an income approach, specifically the discounted cash flow technique as a means for estimating fair value. This discounted cash flow analysis requires various assumptions including those about future cash flows, customer growth rates and discount rates. Expected cash flows are based on historical customer growth, including attrition, future strategic initiatives and continued long-term growth of the business. The discount rates used for the analysis reflects a weighted average cost of capital based on industry and capital structure adjusted for equity risk and size risk premiums. These estimates can be affected by factors such as customer growth, pricing, and economic conditions that can be difficult to predict. During the second quarter of 2014 and the fourth quarter of 2013, in conjunction with its impairment test, the Company recorded a goodwill impairment charge of $5.8 million and $93.2 million, respectively, as further discussed in Note 5, “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets," in the notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
Other Intangible Assets
 
Identifiable intangible assets include customer relationships, non-compete agreements, trade names and trademarks, and formulas. The fair value of these intangible assets at the time of acquisition is estimated based upon various valuation techniques including replacement cost and discounted future cash flow projections.  Customer relationships are amortized on a straight-line basis over the expected average life of the acquired accounts, which is typically five to ten years based upon a number of factors, including historical longevity of customers and contracts acquired and historical retention rates. The non-compete agreements are amortized on a straight-line basis over the term of the agreements, typically not exceeding five years. Formulas are amortized on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful life of twenty years. The Company reviews the recoverability of these assets if events or circumstances indicate that the assets may be impaired and periodically reevaluates the estimated remaining lives of these assets.
 
 
21

 
 
Trademarks are considered to be indefinite lived intangible assets unless specific evidence exists that a shorter life is more appropriate.  Indefinite lived intangible assets are tested, at a minimum, on an annual basis using an income approach or sooner whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that an asset may be impaired.
 
Long-Lived Assets
 
Fixed assets are reviewed for impairment when events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset or asset group may not be recoverable.  Recoverability of assets to be held and used is measured by a comparison of the carrying amount of an asset to the future net cash flows expected to be generated by the asset.  If such assets or asset groups are considered to be impaired, the impairment to be recognized is measured by the amount by which the carrying amount of the assets or asset groups exceeds the related fair values.  The Company also performs a periodic assessment of the useful lives assigned to the long-lived assets, as previously discussed.
 
Revenue Recognition
 
Revenue from product sales and service is recognized when the product is delivered to the customer or when services are performed, including product and service sales made under multiple deliverable agreements, which outline the pricing of products and the preferred frequency of delivery. Deliverables under these pricing arrangements are considered to be separate units of accounting, as defined by ASC 605-25, Revenue Recognition – Multiple-Element Arrangement, and due to the nature of the Company’s business, the timing of the delivery of products and performance of service is concurrent and ongoing and there are no contingent deliverables.  Franchise and other revenue include product sales, royalties and other fees charged to franchisees in accordance with the terms of their franchise agreements.   Royalties and fees are recognized when earned and product sales are recognized as the product is delivered.
 
The Company’s sales policies provide for limited rights of return and, during the fiscal years 2014, 2013, and 2012, product returns were insignificant. The Company records estimated reductions to revenue for sales returns and for customer programs and incentive offerings, including pricing arrangements, rebates, promotions and other volume-based incentives at the time the sale is recorded.
 
Valuation Allowance for Accounts Receivable
 
We estimate the allowance for doubtful accounts for accounts receivable by considering a number of factors, including overall credit quality of customers, the age of outstanding customer balances, historical write-off experience and specific customer account analysis that projects the ultimate collectability of the outstanding balances. Actual results could differ from these assumptions and the Company periodically evaluates these factors affecting the allowance estimate. Our allowance for doubtful accounts was $1.0 million and $2.0 million as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
 
Income Taxes
 
Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to the differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases and net operating loss carryforwards. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date. Valuation allowances are established when necessary to reduce deferred tax assets where it is more likely than not that deferred tax assets will not be realized.
 
The Company's policy is to evaluate uncertain tax positions under ASC 740-10, Income Taxes.  As of December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, the Company has not identified any uncertain tax positions requiring recognition in the consolidated financial statements. The Company includes interest and penalties accrued in the consolidated financial statements as a component of interest expense.  No significant amounts were required to be recorded for the three year period ended December 31, 2014.
 
 
22

 
 
Stock Based Compensation
 
We measure and recognize all stock based compensation at fair value at the date of grant and recognize compensation expense over the service period for awards expected to vest. Determining the fair value of stock based awards at the grant date requires judgment, including estimating the share volatility, the expected term the award will be outstanding, and the amount of the awards that are expected to be forfeited. We utilize the Black-Scholes option pricing model to determine the fair value. See Note 13, “Equity Matters” in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for further information on these assumptions.
 
Newly Issued Accounting Pronouncements
 
On April 10, 2014, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) No. 2014-08, Reporting Discontinued Operations and Disclosures of Disposals of Components of an Entity. The amendments in this accounting standard raise the threshold for a disposal to qualify as a discontinued operation and require new disclosures of both discontinued operations and certain other disposals that do not meet the definition of a discontinued operation. This accounting standard update is effective for annual periods beginning on or after December 15, 2014, and related interim periods with early adoption allowed. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of this standard and plans to adopt this standard on the stated effective date in fiscal year 2015.
 
On May 28, 2014, the FASB issued ASU Update No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers. This accounting standard creates common revenue recognition guidance for U.S. GAAP and IFRS. The guidance also requires improved disclosures to help users of the financial statements better understand the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of revenue that is recognized. This accounting standard update is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016, and related interim periods. Early adoption is not permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of this standard.
 
In August 2014, the FASB issued ASU Update No. 2014-15, Presentation of Financial Statements – Going Concern (Subtopic 205-40)(Topic 718), Disclosure of Uncertainties about an Entity’s Ability to Continue as a Going Concern.  ASU Update No. 2014-15 provides guidance related to management’s responsibility to evaluate whether there is substantial doubt about the entity’s ability to continue as a going concern and to provide related footnote disclosures.  The new requirements are effective for the annual periods ending after December 15, 2016, and for interim periods and annual periods thereafter.  Early adoption is permitted.  The Company is currently evaluating the impact of this standard and has elected to not adopt the standard early.
 
 
23

 
 
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
 
The following table provides our results of operations for each of the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012, including key financial information relating to our business and operations. This financial information should be read in conjunction with our audited Consolidated Financial Statements and Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item 8.
 
      Year ended December 31,  
   
2014
   
2013
   
2012
 
Revenue
                 
Products
  $ 173,505     $ 189,480     $ 202,968  
Services
    18,877       22,895       26,186  
Franchise and other
    1,375       1,313       1,367  
Total revenue
    193,757       213,688       230,521  
                         
Costs and expenses
                       
Cost of sales (exclusive of route expenses and related depreciation and amortization)
    89,101       95,585       101,914  
Route expenses
    50,595       54,227       54,988  
Selling, general, and administrative
    69,269       94,620       110,975  
Acquisition and merger expenses
    -       -       582  
Depreciation and amortization
    21,216       22,113       20,991  
Impairment related to assets held for sale
    2,989       6,422       -  
Impairment related to goodwill
    5,821       93,194       -  
Total costs and expenses
    238,991       366,160       289,450  
Loss from continuing operations
    (45,234 )     (152,472 )     (58,929 )
                         
Other expense, net
    (1,663 )     (654 )     (3,093 )
Net loss from continuing operations before income taxes
    (46,897 )     (153,126 )     (62,022 )
Income tax benefit (expense)
    89       2,594       (18,753 )
Net loss from continuing operations
    (46,808 )     (150,532 )     (80,775 )
                         
Discontinued operations, net of tax (Note 2)
                       
Net loss from operations through disposal
    -       (2,516 )     (6,245 )
Gain on disposal
    -       -       13,844  
Net (loss) income from discontinued operations
    -       (2,516 )     7,599  
                         
Net loss
  $ (46,808 )   $ (153,048 )   $ (73,176 )
 
Comparison of the years ended December 31, 2014 to December 31, 2013
 
Revenue
 
Revenue from products is primarily comprised of the sales and delivery of consumable products such as detergents and cleaning chemicals, the rental, sales and servicing of dish machines and other equipment used to dispense those products, the sale of paper items, rental fees, linen processing and other ancillary product sales. Revenues from services are primarily comprised of manual cleaning and delivery service fees.  Franchise and other consists of fees charged to franchisees.
 
 
24

 
 
Total revenue and the revenue derived from each revenue type for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 are as follows:
 
   
2014
   
%
   
2013
   
%
 
Revenue
  (In thousands)  
Products
  $ 173,505       89.5 %   $ 189,480       88.7 %
Services
    18,877       9.8 %     22,895       10.7 %
Franchise and other
    1,375       0.7 %     1,313       0.6 %
Total revenue
  $ 193,757       100.0 %   $ 213,688       100.0 %
 
Consolidated revenue decreased $19.9 million or 9.3% to $193.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2014 as compared to 2013.  Excluding revenue generated from linen assets sold or closed for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, consolidated revenue decreased 4.4%.  Product revenue decreased $16.0 million primarily due to an $8.6 million decrease related to linen routes and businesses sold.  Product revenue also decreased due to a $2.7 million decrease from the loss of customers at existing and closed linen operations, partially offset by the addition of $1.7 million in revenue previously classified as service revenue. The remaining product revenue decrease is due to lower product purchases by existing customers and customer attrition.  Service revenue declined $4.0 million due to the reclass with product revenue of $1.7 million and the loss of hygiene customers.  Franchise and other revenue remained consistent period over period.
 
Cost of Sales
 
Cost of sales consists primarily of the cost of chemical, paper, air freshener and other consumable products sold to, or used in the servicing of, our customers. These costs are exclusive of route expense and related depreciation and amortization. Cost of sales for the year ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 are as follows:
 
   
2014
      % (1)       2013       % (1)  
Cost of Sales
  (In thousands)  
Products
  $ 88,287       50.9 %   $ 93,280       49.2 %
Services
    361       1.9 %     1,594       7.0 %
Franchise and other
    453       32.9 %     711       54.2 %
Total cost of sales
  $ 89,101       46.0 %   $ 95,585       44.7 %
_____________________
(1)
Represents cost as a percentage of the respective revenue line.
 
            Cost of sales decreased $6.5 million, or 6.8%, to $89.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2014 compared with 2013 primarily due to a decline in sales volume. During 2014, management undertook an inventory of dish machines located at customer locations, which resulted in an adjustment totaling $0.8 million in product cost of sales. Reported in the 2014 cost of sales is a $1.8 million realignment of freight costs that were classified in selling, general and administrative expenses in 2013.  The Company has elected not to reclassify this amount in its prior period Condensed Consolidated Statement of Operations and Comprehensive Loss for comparability purposes since it is considered immaterial.  As a percentage of sales, cost of sales increased from 44.7% to 46.0%.  Excluding the $0.8 million adjustment for dish machines, 2014 total cost of sales as a percentage of sales would have been 45.6% and 2013 total costs of sales as a percentage of revenue would have also been 45.6% including the $1.8 million realignment.
 
Route Expenses
 
Route expenses consist primarily of the costs incurred by the Company for the delivery of products and providing services to customers. The details of route expenses for the year ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 are as follows:
 
   
2014
      % (1)       2013       % (1)  
Route Expenses
    (In thousands)  
Compensation
  $ 39,147       20.3 %   $ 41,220       19.4 %
Vehicle and other expenses
    11,448       6.0 %     13,007       6.1 %
Total route expenses
  $ 50,595       26.3 %   $ 54,227       25.5 %
_____________________
(1)
Represents cost as a percentage of total non-franchise revenue.
 
 
25

 
 
Route expenses decreased $3.6 million, or 6.7%, to $50.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2014 compared to 2013.  The primary components of this change were decreases in compensation of $2.1 million and decreases in vehicle and other expenses of $1.6 million.  Route expenses as a percentage of total revenue was 26.3% and 25.5% for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
 
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses
 
Selling, general and administrative expenses consist primarily of the costs incurred for:
 
Local office and field management support costs that are related to field operations. These costs include compensation, occupancy expense and other general and administrative expenses.
 
Selling expenses, which include compensation and commissions for local sales representatives and corporate account representatives.
 
Corporate office expenses which include executive management, information technology, marketing, human resources, accounting, purchasing and other support costs.
 
 The details of selling, general and administrative expenses for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 are as follows:
 
   
2014
      % (1)       2013       % (1)  
Selling, General & Administrative Expenses (In thousands)  
Compensation
  $ 38,984       20.1 %   $ 48,823       22.8 %
Occupancy
    7,658       4.0 %     9,935       4.6 %
Other
    22,627       11.7 %     35,862       16.8 %
Total selling, general & administrative expenses
  $ 69,269       35.8 %   $ 94,620       44.3 %
_____________________
(1)
Represents cost as a percentage of total revenue.
 
            Selling, general, and administrative expenses decreased $25.4 million or 26.8% to $69.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2014 as compared to 2013. The components of this change were decreases in compensation of $9.8 million, occupancy of $2.3 million and other expenses of $13.2 million.  Compensation expenses decreased $5.0 million due to on-going cost efficiencies, a reduction in stock based compensation of $1.2 million and a $3.6 million reduction resulting from linen businesses which were sold or closed.  Occupancy decreased $1.2 million due to the sale of linen businesses and due to ongoing efforts to reduce facility infrastructure needs.  Other expenses decreased primarily due to a decrease in professional fees of $9.1 million, which includes investigation and review related fees of $4.8 million in the year ended December 31, 2013, a decrease in office equipment of $0.7 million, a decrease in travel expenses of $0.4 million, a decrease related to realigning freight costs in cost of sales of $1.8 million, a reduction in bad debt expenses of $0.7 million, plus additional expense reduction initiatives.
 
Impairment related to Assets Held for Sale
 
During 2013, the Company made a decision to sell certain assets including linen operations, routes and customers that were not considered to be core to the Company’s overall hygiene and sanitizing business.  The decrease of $3.4 million in impairment expense to $3.0 million in 2014 from $6.4 million in 2013 relates to adjustments that were required to write-down these asset balances to the lower of net carrying value or fair value.
 
Depreciation and Amortization
 
Depreciation and amortization consists of depreciation of property and equipment and the amortization of intangible assets.  Depreciation and amortization for the year ended December 31, 2014 decreased $0.9 million, or 4.1%, to $21.2 million as compared to 2013.
 
Impairment related to Goodwill
 
In conjunction with its goodwill impairment test, the Company incurred a non-cash goodwill impairment charge of $5.8 million during 2014 compared to $93.2 million during 2013, See Note 5, “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets” for further discussion of the impairment.
 
 
26

 
 
Other Expense, Net
 
Other expense, net for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 is as follows:
 
   
2014
   
2013
 
    (In thousands)  
Interest income
  $ 9     $ 41  
Interest expense
    (387 )     (485 )
Foreign currency
    (167 )     (5 )
Other expense
    (1,118 )     (205 )
Total other (expense) income, net
  $ (1,663 )   $ (654 )
 
 The change in other expense is due primarily to a $0.8 million loss on the sale of certain assets held for sale during the year ended December 31, 2014 and a $0.2 million gain during the year ended December 31, 2013.
 
Income tax benefit (expense)
 
For the year ended December 31, 2013, there was a deferred tax liability associated with excess book over tax goodwill as it relates to the Company’s Canadian subsidiary.  As goodwill is considered to be an indefinite lived intangible, this associated deferred tax liability is not allowed to be netted with other deferred tax assets in determining the need for a valuation allowance.  Due to the impairment of goodwill for book purposes during 2014, a deferred tax asset now exists related to goodwill for the Canadian subsidiary.  The change from a net deferred tax liability position to a net deferred tax asset position resulted in a tax benefit of approximately $0.1 million.
  
Comparison of the years ended December 31, 2013 to December 31, 2012
 
Impact of Acquisitions and Discontinued Operations
 
During the year ended December 31, 2012, we acquired four independent businesses and the non-controlling interest in one of our subsidiaries and sold the Waste segment.  As discussed in Note 2, “Discontinued Operations and Assets Held for Sale,” in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements, the Company has applied discontinued operations accounting treatment and disclosures for the sale of our Waste segment.   The term "Acquisitions" refers to the four independent businesses and the remaining non-controlling interest of one of our subsidiaries acquired during the year ended December 31, 2012, including the subsequent growth in existing customer revenue existing at the time of acquisition as well as revenue from new customer relationships created by the acquired business.
 
Revenue
 
Total revenue and the revenue derived from each revenue type for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012 are as follows:
 
   
2013
   
%
   
2012
   
%
 
Revenue
  (In thousands)  
Products
  $ 189,480       88.7 %   $ 202,968       88.0 %
Services
    22,895       10.7 %     26,186       11.4 %
Franchise and other
    1,313       0.6 %     1,367       0.6 %
Total revenue
  $ 213,688       100.0 %   $ 230,521       100.0 %
 
Consolidated revenue decreased $16.8 million to $213.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2013 as compared to 2012. The components of the revenue decrease were a $13.5 million decrease in products revenue, and a $3.3 million decrease in services revenue. These amounts represented revenue decreases of 7.3% for total revenue, 6.6% for products and 12.6% for services. Franchise and other revenue remained consistent period over period.
 
Within products, the $13.5 million in revenue decline from 2012 to 2013 was comprised primarily of a decline in chemical products of $12.6 million or 6.2%.
 
 
27

 
 
Throughout the revenue product lines, decreases in revenue were primarily attributable to 1) the loss of customers, including those resulting from the integration of some of our smaller acquisitions, 2) the loss of three significant accounts, totaling $6.0 million of revenue, including a chemical wholesale customer, 3) the loss of a large distributor customer representing $1.2 million of revenue and 4) the sale in the fourth quarter of 2012 of non-core businesses that resulted in a revenue decrease of approximately $2.2 million.
 
Cost of Sales
 
Cost of sales for the year ended December 31, 2013 and 2012 are as follows:
 
   
2013
      % (1)       2012       % (1)  
Cost of Sales
  (In thousands)  
Products
  $ 93,280       49.2 %   $ 100,089       49.3 %
Services
    1,594       7.0 %     1,496       5.7 %
Franchise and other
    711       54.2 %     329       24.1 %
Total cost of sales
  $ 95,585       44.7 %   $ 101,914       44.2 %
_____________________
(1)
Represents cost as a percentage of the respective revenue line.
 
            Consolidated cost of sales decreased $6.3 million, or 6.2%, to $95.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2013 compared with 2012. As a percentage of sales, consolidated cost of sales increased from 44.2% to 44.7%. Due to the increase in product revenue to 88.7% from 88.0% of total sales, and due to product cost of sales having a cost of sales percentage of 4.5% higher than the overall percentage, consolidated cost of sales increased 0.3% or $0.6 million. In addition, the percentage increase in cost of sales is a result of $0.7 million of one-time costs associated with the consolidation of two of the Company’s chemical manufacturing plants into a new Southwest regional manufacturing facility which occurred during the third quarter of 2013.  These costs included 1) $0.4 million incurred to reposition inventory as well as de-install and re-install equipment and provide for severance payments, and 2) payment of a one-time lease termination fee of $0.5 million, of which $0.3 million is reflected in products costs of sales and the remaining $0.2 million is reflected in Selling, General and Administrative Occupancy expenses.  Cost of sales also includes underutilized fixed costs as a result of the drop in volume as well as the Company’s efforts to reduce inventory on hand which affected production levels. The dollar decrease primarily reflects the decline in volume, while the change in the cost of sales as a percent of revenue is attributable to the revenue mix change including increased chemical sales as a percentage of total revenue and the decrease in hygiene sales.
 
Route Expenses
 
Route expenses consist primarily of the costs incurred by the Company for the delivery of products and providing services to customers. The details of route expenses for the year ended December 31, 2013 and 2012 are as follows:
 
   
2013
      % (1)       2012       % (1)  
Route Expenses
    (In thousands)  
Compensation
  $ 41,220       19.4 %   $ 42,988       18.8 %
Vehicle and other expenses
    13,007       6.1 %     12,000       5.2 %
Total route expenses
  $ 54,227       25.5 %   $ 54,988       24.0 %
_____________________
(1)
Represents cost as a percentage of total non-franchise revenue.
 
Consolidated route expenses decreased $0.8 million, or 1.4%, to $54.2 million and 25.5% of related product and service revenue for the year ended December 31, 2013, as compared to 2012.  The components of this change were a decrease in compensation of $1.8 million and an increase in vehicle and other expenses of $1.0 million.  The decrease in compensation expenses is due primarily to route consolidation efficiencies offset by an increase in workers’ compensation insurance.   The increase in vehicle and other expenses of $1.0 million is due to increases in company leased vehicle expenses, vehicle insurance, fuel expenses and repairs, and maintenance.
 
 
28

 
 
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses
 
Selling, general and administrative expenses consist primarily of the costs incurred for:
 
Local office and field management support costs that are related to field operations. These costs include compensation, occupancy expense and other general and administrative expenses.
 
Selling expenses, which include compensation and commissions for local sales representatives and corporate account representatives.
 
Corporate office expenses which include executive management, information technology, marketing, human resources, accounting, purchasing and other support costs.
 
Investigation and professional fees related to the Audit Committee review, restatement process, and other non-recurring fees related to completing our 2011 and 2012 audits.
 
The details of selling, general and administrative expenses for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012 are as follows:
 
   
2013
      %(1)       2012       %(1)  
Selling, General & Administrative Expenses (In thousands)  
Compensation
  $ 48,823       22.8 %   $ 50,182       21.8 %
Occupancy
    9,935       4.6 %     10,068       4.4 %
Other
    35,862       16.8 %     50,725       22.0 %
Total selling, general & administrative expenses
  $ 94,620       44.3 %   $ 110,975       48.2 %
_____________________
(1)
Represents cost as a percentage of total revenue.
 
 Consolidated selling, general, and administrative expenses decreased $16.4 million or 14.7% to $94.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2013 as compared to 2012. The components of this change were decreases in compensation of $1.4 million, occupancy of $0.1 million and other expenses of $14.9 million.
 
The compensation expense decreased primarily due to ongoing cost efficiencies and reduction in stock based compensation.
 
The Company incurred a one-time expense of $0.5 million related to the relocation of our Southwest chemical plant, of which $0.3 million is reflected in product costs of sales and the remaining $0.2 million is reflected in occupancy expenses.  This was partially offset by as a result of consolidating plants and eliminating facility expenses.
 
Other selling, general and administrative expenses decreased $14.9 million, or 29.3%, to $35.9 million as compared to 2012.   The decrease is primarily comprised of the decrease in professional fees of $7.6 million, the decrease of $1.5 million for the provision for doubtful accounts, plus additional expense reductions.  The decrease in professional fees primarily relates to a decrease in fees related to investigation, review and other non-routine professional fees.
 
Impairment related to Assets Held for Sale
 
During 2013, the Company made a decision to sell certain assets including linen operations, routes and customers that were not considered to be core to the Company’s overall hygiene and sanitizing business.  The increase of $6.4 million in impairment expense relates to adjustments that were required to recognize these asset balances at the lower of net carrying value or fair value.
 
Depreciation and Amortization
 
Depreciation and amortization for the year ended December 31, 2013 increased $1.1 million, or 5.3%, to $22.1 million as compared to 2012 primarily due to depreciation on capital expenditures.
 
Impairment related to Goodwill
 
In conjunction with its annual goodwill impairment test, the Company incurred a non-cash goodwill impairment charge of $93.2 million during 2013, See Note 5, “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets” for further discussion of the impairment.
 
 
29

 
 
Other Expense, Net
 
Other expense, net for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012 is as follows:
 
   
2013
   
2012
 
Other Expense, Net
  (In thousands)  
Interest income
  $ 41     $ 75  
Interest expense
    (485 )     (3,406 )
Realized and unrealized gain (loss) on fair value of convertible notes
    -       66  
Earn-out
    -       170  
Loss from impairment
    -       (507 )
Foreign currency
    (5 )     (15 )
Other (expense) income
    (205 )     524  
Total other (expense) income, net
  $ (654 )   $ (3,093 )
 
The reduction in interest expense reflects the lower borrowings outstanding in 2013 compared to 2012. Other expense, net includes the gain on the sale of certain assets held for sale during 2013 and a gain on the involuntary conversion of assets of approximately $0.6 million during 2012. 
 
Income tax benefit (expense)
 
For the year ended December 31, 2012, there was a deferred tax liability associated with excess book over tax goodwill.  As goodwill is considered to be an indefinite lived intangible, this associated deferred tax liability is not allowed to be netted with other deferred tax assets in determining the need for a valuation allowance.  This resulted in an overall net deferred tax liability after applying the valuation allowance.  Due to the impairment of goodwill for book purposes as of December 31, 2013, a deferred tax asset now exists related to goodwill.  The change from a net deferred tax liability position to a net deferred tax asset position resulted in a tax benefit of approximately $2.6 million.
 
 Net (Loss) Income from Discontinued Operations
 
Net (loss) income from discontinued operations for the year ended December 31, 2013 decreased $10.1 million to a loss of $2.5 million as compared to $7.6 million income during 2012.  The decrease is primarily due to the recognition of a gain on the disposal of the operations in 2012 of $13.8 million.  Loss from discontinued operations during fiscal year 2013 is due to the following: $0.5 million increase to retained worker’s compensation liabilities and $2.0 million, in legal fees and a settlement payment, related to a contractual dispute involving one of the businesses sold that the Company accepted responsibility to resolve as a term of the sales agreement.  
 
 
30

 
 
CASH FLOWS SUMMARY
 
 Cash flows from continuing operations for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012 were:

   
2014
   
2013
   
2012
 
    (In thousands)  
Net cash used in operating activities
  $ (6,322 )   $ (29,873 )   $ (39,244 )
Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities
    (1,544 )     2,016       86,382  
Net cash used in financing activities
    (4,235 )     (7,450 )     (49,417 )
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents from continuing operations
  $ (12,101 )   $ (35,307 )   $ (2,279 )
 
Cash flows from discontinued operations for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012 were:
 
   
2014
   
2013
   
2012
 
    (In thousands)  
Net cash used in operating activities of discontinued operations
  $ (2,131 )   $ (4,647 )   $ (3,519 )
Net cash used in investing activities of discontinued operations
    -       -       (2,861 )
Net cash used in financing activities of discontinued operations
    -       -       (430 )
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents from discontinued operations
  $ (2,131 )   $ (4,647 )   $ (6,810 )
 
Cash flows used in operating activities from discontinued operations in 2014 consisted of payments made related to legal fees and a settlement payment related to a contractual dispute that the Company accepted responsibility to resolve as a part of the sale of the Waste segment.
 
Cash flows used in operating activities from discontinued operations in 2013 consisted of payments made related to legal and professional fees, worker’s compensation insurance and accrued expenses the Company accepted responsibility to pay as a part of the sale of the Waste segment.
 
Cash flows used in operating activities from discontinued operations in 2012 is primarily due to the change in discontinued operations working capital of $4.8 million.  Cash flows used in investing activities of discontinued operations in 2012 consisted of $2.9 million in purchases of property and equipment.  Cash flows used in financing activities of discontinued operations in 2012 consisted of principal payments on debt of $0.4 million.
 
Operating Activities
 
            Net cash used in operating activities from continuing operations decreased $23.6 million or 78.8% to $6.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2014 compared with 2013.  The decrease in net cash used is primarily due to a change in working capital of $9.8 million, a $2.9 million decrease in route expenses and a $26.1 million decrease in selling, general administrative expenses, offset by a $13.4 million decrease in gross margin. Working capital was impacted by the $0.8 million adjustment for dish machines sold.
 
Net cash used in operating activities from continuing operations decreased $9.4 million or 23.9% to $29.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2013 compared with 2012.  The decrease in the net cash used is primarily due to a $1.3 million change in working capital and a decrease in selling general and administrative costs, primarily professional fees related to investigation, review, and other non-routine professional fees.
  
Investing Activities
 
Net cash used in investing activities changed by $3.6 million to a $1.5 million use of cash in 2014 compared to a $2.0 million source of cash in 2013.  This change primarily consists of a decrease of $12.6 million in cash proceeds from the sale of discontinued operations and a $4.8 million decrease in cash received from the sale of assets held for sale, offset by a $8.1 million decrease in purchases of property and equipment and a $5.7 million increase from restricted cash.
 
Net cash provided by investing activities decreased $84.4 million to $2.0 million or 97.7% for the year ended December 31, 2013, compared with net cash used in investing activities of $86.4 million for 2012. This decrease primarily consists of additional cash and receivables related to assets held for sale of $6.3 million, a $2.9 million decrease in cash used in discontinued operations, a decrease in purchases of equipment of $2.0 million, a $4.2 million decrease in cash paid for acquisitions, a change in restricted cash of $5.1 million, offset by a decrease in cash received from the sale of property of $2.7 million and a $99.3 million decrease in cash received on the sale of Choice Environmental Services, Inc. ("Choice").
  
Financing Activities
 
Net cash used in financing activities decreased $3.2 million to $4.2 million or 43.2% for the year ended December 31, 2014, compared with net cash used in financing activities of $7.5 million during 2013. This decrease is primarily due to a decrease in principal payments on debt and capital leases of $1.9 million and an increase in proceeds from notes payable of $1.1 million.
 
Net cash used in financing activities decreased $42.0 million to $7.5 million or 84.9% for the year ended December 31, 2013, compared with net cash provided by financing activities of $49.4 million during 2012. This decrease is primarily due to a decrease in principal payments on debt and capital leases of $15.5 million, a decrease of $25.0 million in payments of lines of credit and a decrease of $2.0 million for payment of a shareholder advance.
  
 
31

 
 
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
 
Going Concern
 
Our consolidated financial statements were prepared on a going concern basis in accordance with U.S. GAAP.  The going concern basis of presentation assumes that we will continue in operation for the next twelve months and will be able to realize our assets and discharge our liabilities and commitments in the normal course of business and does not include any adjustments to reflect the possible future effects on the recoverability and classification of assets or the amounts and classification of liabilities that may result from our inability to continue as a going concern. The Company has suffered recurring losses from operations and has not generated positive cash flows from operations. These factors raise substantial doubt about the Company's ability to continue as a going concern. In order for us to continue operations beyond the next twelve months and be able to discharge our liabilities and commitments in the normal course of business, we must do some or all of the following: (i) improve operating results through improved customer retention, profitable organic revenue growth, and continued improvements in cost efficiencies; (ii) sell additional non-core or non-essential assets; (iii) raise additional equity; or (iv) obtain additional financing through debt.  There can be no assurance that we will be able to improve operating results or obtain additional funds by selling additional non-core or non-essential assets, raising additional equity or obtaining additional financing when needed or that such funds, if available, will be obtainable on terms satisfactory to us.
 
If we are not able to improve operating results or obtain additional funds by selling additional non-core or non-essential assets, raising additional equity or obtaining additional financing, material adverse events may occur including, but not limited to: 1) a reduction in the nature and scope of our operations, 2) our inability to fully implement our current business plan and 3) defaults under the Credit Facility. There can be no assurances that we will be able to successfully improve our liquidity position. Our consolidated financial statements do not reflect any adjustments that might result from the adverse outcome relating to this uncertainty.
 
Cash Requirements
 
As a result of the activities discussed above, our cash and cash equivalents decreased by $14.2 million to $7.2 million at December 31, 2014 compared to $21.5 million at December 31, 2013. Our cash requirements for the next twelve months consist primarily of: (i) capital expenditures associated with dispensing equipment, dish machines and other items in service at customer locations, equipment, vehicles, software; (ii) working capital; and (iii) payment of principal and interest on borrowings under our convertible promissory notes, acquisition notes payable and capital lease obligations and other financing.  We expect that through capital resource management and the use of additional customer equipment programs, our annual capital expenditures in 2015 will be less than 2014 capital expenditures of $7.8 million.
 
We expect that our cash on hand, the cash flow provided by operating activities along with availability under the Credit Facility, and the cash flow from investing activities, including the sale of assets held for sale, will be sufficient to execute our business plan for the next twelve months, however we believe it is contingent upon improved customer retention, profitable organic revenue growth and continued improvement in cost efficiencies in 2015 (see Note 20, "Subsequent Event" in the Notes to the consolidated financial statements for information on assets held for sale). Failure to execute our plan successfully or unforecasted shortfalls in available cash may require us to alter our plan, sell other non-core or non-essential assets, or raise additional equity which could be dilutive to existing shareholders or obtain additional financing through debt. There can be no assurance that such equity and debt may be available and would be likely subject to prevailing market conditions and the company's performance.
 
Long term contractual obligations at December 31, 2014 are as follows:
   
Total
   
Less Than 1 Year
   
1-2 Years
   
3-4 Years
   
5 or More Years
 
    ( In thousands )  
Long-term debt and obligations
  $ 2,887     $ 1,809     $ 695     $ 383     $ -  
Operating and capital leases (1)
    21,424       5,877       8,329       4,895       2,323  
Employment contracts
    1,375       875       500       -       -  
Interest payments
    156       83       62       11       -  
Total long-term contractual cash obligations
  $ 25,842     $ 8,644     $ 9,586     $ 5,289     $ 2,323  
 
(1)
Operating and capital leases consist primarily of facility and vehicle leases.
 
Credit Facility
 
On August 29, 2014, we entered into a $20.0 million revolving credit facility, through the execution of a Loan and Security Agreement, by and among the Company, as Guarantor, and certain subsidiaries of the Company and collectively, as Borrower, and Siena Lending Group LLC, as Lender (the “Credit Facility”). The Credit Facility matures on August 29, 2017.
 
Interest on borrowings under the Credit Facility will accrue at the Base Rate plus 2.00% and will be payable monthly. The Base Rate is defined as the greater of (1) the Prime Rate, (2) the Federal Funds Rate plus 0.50%, or (3) 3.25%.
 
Borrowings and availability under the Credit Facility are subject to a borrowing base and limitations, and compliance with other terms specified in the agreement. Borrowings under the Credit Facility are secured by a first priority lien on certain of the Company’s assets. The calculated borrowing base as of December 31, 2014 was $13.3 million, of which $4.4 million was outstanding under letters of credit and $8.9 million was unused.
 
The Credit Facility contains certain customary representations and warranties, and certain customary covenants on the Company’s ability to, among other things, incur additional indebtedness, create liens or other encumbrances, sell or otherwise dispose of assets, and merge or consolidate with other entities or enter into a change of control transaction. The Credit Facility contains various events of default. The Company was not in default with covenants under the Credit Facility as of December 31, 2014.
 
Inflation and Changing Prices
 
Changes in wages, benefits and energy costs have the potential to materially impact our financial results. We believe that we are able to increase prices to counteract the majority of the inflationary effects of increasing costs and to generate sufficient cash flows to maintain our production capability. During the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, we do not believe that inflation has had a material impact on our financial position, results of operations, or cash flows. However, we cannot predict what effect inflation may have on our operations in the future.
 
 
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Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
 
Other than operating leases, there are no significant off-balance sheet financing arrangements or relationships with unconsolidated entities or financial partnerships, which are often referred to as “special purpose entities.” Therefore, there is no exposure to any financing, liquidity, market or credit risk that could arise, had we engaged in such relationships.
 
In connection with a distribution agreement entered into in December 2010, we provided a guarantee that the distributor’s operating cash flows associated with the agreement would not fall below certain agreed-to minimums, subject to certain pre-defined conditions, over the ten year term of the distribution agreement. If the distributor’s annual operating cash flow does fall below the agreed-to annual minimums, we will reimburse the distributor for any such short fall up to $1.5 million. No value was assigned to the fair value of the guarantee at December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 based on a probability assessment of the projected cash flows. Management currently does not believe that it is probable that any amounts will be paid under this agreement and thus there is no amount accrued for the guarantee in the Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
Fuel
 
Fuel costs represent a significant operating expense. To date, we have not entered into any contracts or employed any strategies to mitigate our exposure to fuel costs. Historically, we have made limited use of fuel surcharges or delivery fees to help offset rises in fuel costs. Such charges have not been in the past, and we believe will not be going forward, applicable to all customers. Consequently, an increase in fuel costs results in a decrease in our operating margin percentage. At current consumption level, a $0.50 change in the price of fuel changes our fuel costs by $0.7 million on an annual basis.
 
 
33

 
 
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
 
Our business, financial condition, results of operations, cash flows and prospects, and the prevailing market price and performance of our common stock, may be adversely affected by a number of factors, including the matters discussed below. Certain statements and information set forth in this 2014 Form 10-K, as well as other written or oral statements made from time to time by us or by our authorized executive officers on our behalf, constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Federal Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. We intend for our forward-looking statements to be covered by the safe harbor provisions for forward-looking statements contained in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, and we set forth this statement and these risk factors in order to comply with such safe harbor provisions. You should note that our forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this 2014 Form 10-K or when made and we undertake no duty or obligation to update or revise our forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law. Although we believe that the expectations, plans, intentions and projections reflected in our forward-looking statements are reasonable, such statements are subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause our actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. The risks, uncertainties and other factors that our stockholders and prospective investors should consider include the following:
  
We have a history of significant operating losses and as such our future revenue and operating profitability are uncertain.
 
Our independent registered public accounting firms's report contains an explanatory paragraph that expresses substantial doubt as to our ability to continue as a going concern.
 
The Company may need to raise additional equity or capital in the future and such capital may not be available when needed or at all.
 
Our failure or inability to meet certain terms of our Credit Facility could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
 
We have identified material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting and we may be unable to develop, implement and maintain appropriate controls in future periods. If the material weaknesses are not remediated, then they could result in material misstatements to the financial statements.
 
Failure to retain our current customers and renew existing customer contracts could adversely affect our business.
 
Changes in economic conditions that impact the industries in which our end-users primarily operate in could adversely affect our business.
 
The financial condition and operating ability of third parties may adversely affect our business.
 
We have recognized significant impairment charges in 2014 and prior years,and may recognize additional impairment charges in the future which could adversely affect our results of operations and financial conditions.
 
The availability of our raw materials and the volatility of their costs may adversely affect our operations.
 
We are and may in the future be subject to legal proceedings, the outcome of which are uncertain, and resolutions adverse to us could negatively affect our earnings, financial condition and cash flows.
 
The pricing, terms, and length of customer service agreements may constrain our ability to recover costs and to make a profit on our contracts.
 
If we are required to change the pricing models for our products or services to compete successfully, our margins and operating results may be adversely affected.
 
 
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The consolidation of customers may adversely affect our business, consolidated financial condition or results of operations.
 
We may fail to maintain our listing on The Nasdaq Stock Market.
 
The loss of one or more key members of our senior management, or our inability to attract and retain qualified personnel could adversely impact our business, financial condition and results of operations.
 
Increases in fuel and energy costs and fuel shortages could adversely affect our results of operations and financial condition.
 
Our products contain hazardous materials and chemicals, which could result in claims against us.
 
We are subject to environmental, health and safety regulations, and may be adversely affected by new and changing laws and regulations, that generate ongoing environmental costs and could subject us to liability.
 
If our products are improperly manufactured, packaged, or labeled or become adulterated or expire, those items may need to be recalled or withdrawn from sale.
 
Changes in the types or variety of our service offerings could affect our financial performance.
 
Prior acquisitions involve a number of risks and could have an adverse effect on our results of operations.
 
We may not be able to adequately protect our intellectual property and other proprietary rights that are material to our business.
 
Interruptions in our information and telecommunication systems, or a failure to maintain the security, confidentiality or privacy of sensitive data residing on such systems, could adversely affect our business.
 
Insurance policies may not cover all operating risks and a casualty loss beyond the limits of our coverage could adversely impact our business.
 
Our stock price has been and may in the future be volatile, which could cause purchasers of our common stock to incur substantial losses.
 
Certain stockholders may exert significant influence over any corporate action requiring stockholder approval.
 
Provisions of Delaware law and our organizational documents may delay or prevent an acquisition of our Company, even if the acquisition would be beneficial to our stockholders.
 
 
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 ITEM 7A.                   QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK.
 
We are exposed to market risks, including changes in interest rates and fuel prices. Borrowings under the Credit Facility are indexed to a variable interest rate.  As of December 31, 2014, there have been no drawings on the Credit Facility.  As of December 31, 2014, we have $4.4 million of letters of credit outstanding at a fixed fee under our Credit Facility.  We do not use financial instruments for speculative trading purposes and we do not hold derivative financial instruments that could expose us to significant market and commodity risk.  We do not currently have any contract with vendors where we have exposure to the underlying commodity prices.  In such event, we would consider implementing price increases and pursue cost reduction initiatives; however, we may not be able to pass on these increases in whole or in part to our customers or realize costs savings needed to offset these increases.  This discussion does not consider the effects that may have an adverse change on the overall economy, and it also does not consider actions we may take to mitigate our exposure to these changes.  We cannot guarantee that the action we take to mitigate these exposures will be successful.
 
Fuel costs represent a significant operating expense. To date, we have not entered into any contracts or employed any strategies to mitigate our exposure to fuel costs.  Historically, we have made limited use of fuel surcharges or delivery fees to help offset rises in fuel costs.  Such potential charges have not been in the past, and we believe will not be going forward, applicable to all customers.  Consequently, an increase in fuel costs normally results in a decrease in our operating margin percentage.  At our current consumption level, a $0.50 change in the price of fuel changes our fuel costs by approximately $0.7 million on an annual basis.
 
ITEM 8.
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA.
 
Swisher Hygiene's Consolidated Financial Statements and the Notes thereto, together with the reports of BDO USA, LLP regarding the Company's financial statements and internal control over financial reporting, each dated March 31, 2015, are filed as part of this report, beginning on page F-1.
 
 ITEM 9.
CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE.
 
None.
 
ITEM 9A.
 CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES.
 
Disclosure Controls and Procedures
 
We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15(d) – 15(e) under the Exchange Act), that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in the reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in SEC rules and forms, and, include controls and procedures designed to ensure that such information is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our CEO and CFO, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.
 
We carried out an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our CEO and CFO, of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures as of December 31, 2014. Based upon that evaluation, our management, including our CEO and CFO, concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were not effective as of December 31, 2014 because of the deficiencies in our internal control over financial reporting discussed in Management's Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting, presented below.
 
Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
 
Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting, as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15(d)-15(f) under the Exchange Act. Our internal control system was designed to provide reasonable assurance to our management and board of directors regarding the preparation and fair presentation of published financial statements. All internal control systems, no matter how well designed, have inherent limitations. Therefore, even those systems determined to be effective can provide only reasonable assurance with respect to financial statement preparation and presentation.
  
 
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Our management, under the supervision of and with the participation of the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer, evaluated the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on the framework set forth in Internal Control-Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.  Based on deficiencies identified during this evaluation and set forth below, management concluded that we did not maintain effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2014 for the following reasons:

●  
We did not maintain an effective control environment as we lacked sufficient oversight of activities related to our internal control over financial reporting. In addition, we did not have a sufficient structure in place to identify and evaluate gaps in the knowledge and technical experience of the accounting personnel responsible for the implementation and execution of our control environment.
 
●  
We did not maintain effective controls over certain control activities.  Specifically, the following individual material weaknesses were identified in connection with our control activities:
 
●  
We did not implement effective controls to properly account for the sale, disposal and movement of dish machines at customer locations and our own facilities, which resulted in substantial post-closing journal entries that our review process failed to identify.
 
●  
We did not implement effective controls to accurately and completely evaluate and calculate our allowance for doubtful accounts.  Additionally, our review process was not sufficient to detect material errors in the methodology and calculation of the allowance resulting in material post-closing adjustments.
 
●  
We did not implement effective controls to properly identify, analyze, and account for  non-routine transactions reflected in the financial statements.
 
●  
We did not develop and implement an overall financial reporting review process that encompassed all significant financial statement accounts or contained an appropriate level of precision. This review process  did not identify the issues surrounding the accounting and recording for our dish machines, allowance for doubtful accounts, and non-routine transactions.
 
●  
We did not design, implement and maintain effective controls over the corporate review of significant journal entries processed at our field-level locations, which represent a significant portion of our business, to ensure that these entries were appropriate in nature and correct.
 
●  
We did not maintain effective controls over user security  and program change management for the information technology systems and accounting software at the field-level locations.
 
●  
We did not maintain effective controls to ensure the timely preparation of financial records sufficient to allow management adequate time to prevent or detect and correct material misstatements and to fulfill its other control activity responsibilities.
 
●  
We did not maintain effective information and communication controls to generate relevant and quality information for use in the financial reporting close process.  These control failures contributed to the transactions involving our dish machines and to information generated relating to the allowance for doubtful accounts.
 
●  
We did not maintain effective information and communication controls with external parties due to delays in our financial statement close process as evidenced by the untimely filing of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014, and our failure to identify and timely disclose existing control deficiencies in previous filings.
 
 ●  
We did not maintain effective monitoring controls sufficient to ascertain whether key components of internal control were present and functioning, as evidenced by our incorrect initial assessment of the effectiveness of our internal controls over financial reporting.
 
●  
We did not maintain effective monitoring controls to communicate the deficiencies in our internal control over financial reporting to our board of directors in sufficient time to allow them to take corrective action.
 
A deficiency in internal control over financial reporting exists when the design or operation of a control does not allow management or employees, in the normal course of performing their assigned functions, to prevent or detect misstatements on a timely basis. A material weakness is a deficiency, or a combination of deficiencies, in internal control over financial reporting, such that there is a reasonable possibility that a material misstatement of the company's annual or interim financial statements will not be prevented or detected on a timely basis. Based on its evaluation of internal control over financial reporting management has determined that the control deficiencies identified above should be considered material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting.
 
As set forth below, management has taken or will take steps to remediate the control deficiencies identified above. Notwithstanding the control deficiencies described above, we have performed additional analyses and other procedures to enable management to conclude that our consolidated financial statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K fairly present, in all material respects, our financial condition and results of operations as of and for the year ended December 31, 2014.
 
BDO USA, LLP, the Company's independent registered public accounting firm, audited the Company’s consolidated financial statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014. Also, BDO USA, LLP has issued their attestation report on management’s internal control over financial reporting. A copy of BDO's reports are included in this 2014 Form 10-K at pages F-2 and F-3.
 
 
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 Management's Remediation Plan
 
 In response to the deficiencies discussed above, we plan to continue efforts already underway to improve internal control over financial reporting:
 
●  
Management will continue to enhance its training programs for our accounting personnel both at the corporate and field-level, emphasizing financial reporting responsibilities and accountability for implementing and maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting.
 
●  
Dish machines will be serialized in the fixed asset system to track the movement of the dish machines and periodic field observations will be performed to ensure the existence and accuracy of these fixed assets.
 
●  
Management will continue to track collection trends across the business and evaluate the accuracy of the assumptions used in the estimates for the allowance for doubtful accounts on an annual basis, at a minimum.
 
●  
Management will put in place controls to properly identify, analyze and account for non-routine transactions and will use the appropriate level of oversight to ensure the transactions are reflected accurately and timely in the financial statements.
 
●  
Management continues to implement controls over user access and change management related to the field-level information technology systems.
 
●  
Management will perform a comprehensive review to re-evaluate our activities related to internal control over financial reporting, including monitoring controls related to the operating effectiveness, timeliness and communication of certain control activities.
 
While management and our audit committee will closely monitor the implementation of these remediation plans, there is no assurance that the aforementioned plans will be sufficient to fully remediate the deficiencies identified above and that additional remediation steps will not be necessary.
   
Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

Material weaknesses previously identified and remediated during the year ended December 31, 2014

Management identified material weaknesses which were reported in our annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2013. Management has made changes to certain internal controls over financial reporting, which remediated some of the previously disclosed material weaknesses, as follows (a recitation of the noted material weakness is set forth followed by steps taken to remediate the material weakness):
 
The effectiveness of controls over proper purchase and maintenance of inventory and fixed assets.  Additionally, proper application of customer payments and review and approval of vendor invoices and related payments.
 
During 2014 significant enhancements have been made to the accounts payable and inventory control processes.  These changes include enhancements to existing accounting and operational processes, development and roll out of new policies, and improvements to the level of retained documentation.  Specifically:
 
●  
Accounts Payable:  An approval matrix has been established and communicated throughout the Company.  Staff was trained on the vendor invoice approval process and policy requirements.  No operating deficiencies were found in this area in 2014.
 
●  
Inventory:  We have established an inventory policy and have improved training to better define and emphasize accountability for control process requirements.
 
The effectiveness of certain information technology controls regarding system generated reports at the field level and key spreadsheets utilized across the Company.  This is comprised of controls over data input, calculations, user access, and management review.
 
Management has remediated deficiencies relating to data input, access to, and changes to key spreadsheets through the implementation of an End User Computing Tools policy.  Management migrated computers running ERP systems outside of corporate to be inside the firewall and under the domain to strengthen security.
 
The effectiveness of the documentation, review, and approval of significant account reconciliations and key underlying reports.  Furthermore, the Company has not defined parameters for its review of key reconciliations and financial analysis.
 
Management has established, communicated, and implemented policies around preparing and properly supporting account reconciliations as well as setting parameters for the review and approval of significant account reconciliations.
 
The effectiveness of the preparation, documentation, review, and approval of journal entries, and a lack of formal written accounting policies.
 
Management has established, communicated, and formally documented, distributed and implemented critical corporate accounting policies in line with company objectives.
 
ITEM 9B.
OTHER INFORMATION
 
On March 26, 2015, the Company entered into a letter agreement, dated as of March 25, 2015 ("Letter Agreement"), with its lender, Siena Lending Group LLC, in respect of the occurrence of a Springing DACA Event, as such term is defined in the Loan and Security Agreement, dated as of August 29, 2014, among the Company, certain of the Company's subsidiaries, and Siena Lending Group LLC.  The Letter Agreement temporarily waives, until April 10, 2015, certain cash management requirements and certain enhanced reporting requirements that would otherwise go into effect upon the occurrence of a Springing DACA Event. The foregoing description is qualified in its entirety by reference to the Letter Agreement which is attached hereto as Exhibit 10.39, and incorporated herein by reference.
 
 
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PART III
 
ITEM 10.
DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE.
 
The information required by Item 10 is incorporated by reference to our Proxy Statement for our 2015 Annual Meeting of Stockholders, except for certain information concerning the Executive Officers of the Company set forth in Part I — Item I hereof under the caption “Executive Officers of the Registrant.” Our Proxy Statement for our 2015 Annual Meeting of Stockholders will be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission no later than 120 days after the end of the fiscal year covered by this Form 10-K.
 
ITEM 11.
EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION.
 
The information required by Item 11 is incorporated by reference to our Proxy Statement for our 2015 Annual Meeting of Stockholders, which will be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission no later than 120 days after the end of the fiscal year covered by this Form 10-K.
 
ITEM 12.
SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS.
 
The information required by Item 12 is incorporated by reference to our Proxy Statement for our 2015 Annual Meeting of Stockholders, which will be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission no later than 120 days after the end of the fiscal year covered by this Form 10-K.
 
ITEM 13.
CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE.
 
The information required by Item 13 is incorporated by reference to our Proxy Statement for our 2015 Annual Meeting of Stockholders, which will be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission no later than 120 days after the end of the fiscal year covered by this Form 10-K.
 
ITEM 14.
PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING FEES AND SERVICES.
 
The information required by Item 14 is incorporated by reference to our Proxy Statement for our 2015 Annual Meeting of Stockholders, which will be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission no later than 120 days after the end of the fiscal year covered by this Form 10-K.
 
  
 
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PART IV
 
 ITEM 15.
EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES.
 
(a)(1) Financial Statements
 
The consolidated financial statements begin on page F-1.
 
 (a)(2) Financial Statement Schedule
 
 Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts
 
All other schedules not included have been omitted because of the absence of conditions under which they are required or because the required information, where material, is shown in the consolidated financial statements or the notes to the consolidated financial statements.
 
(a)(3) Exhibits
 
Exhibit Number   Description
     
2.1   Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated February 13, 2011. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed on February 17, 2011).
2.2   Amendment to Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of February 28, 2011, by and among Swisher Hygiene Inc., SWSH Merger Sub, Inc., Choice Environmental Services, Inc., and the other parties set forth therein. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed on March 4, 2011).
2.3   Stock Purchase Agreement, dated November 15, 2012, by and between Swisher Hygiene Inc. and Waste Services of Florida, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1 of the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on November 16, 2012 and schedules and similar attachments of this exhibit have been omitted pursuant to Item 601(b)(2) of Regulation S-K. The Company undertakes to furnish on a supplemental basis a copy of any omitted schedules and similar attachments to the Securities and Exchange Commission upon request).
3.1   Certificate of Corporate Domestication of CoolBrands International Inc., dated November 1, 2010. (1)
3.2   Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Swisher Hygiene Inc. (2)
3.3   Certificate of Amendment to the Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Swisher Hygiene Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 of the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on June 2, 2014).
3.4   Bylaws of Swisher Hygiene Inc. (1)
10.1   Promissory Note, dated May 26, 2010, as amended, in the principal amount of $21,445,000 to Royal Palm Mortgage Group, LLC. (1)
10.2   Promissory Note, dated August 9, 2010, in the principal amount of $2,000,000 to Royal Palm Mortgage Group, LLC. (1)
10.3   Promissory Note, dated August 9, 2010, in the principal amount of $1,500,000 to Royal Palm Mortgage Group, LLC. (1)
10.4   Credit Agreement among Swisher Hygiene, Inc., the lenders named therein and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, dated March 30, 2011 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on April 5, 2011).
10.5   Pledge and Security Agreement by Swisher Hygiene Inc., certain subsidiaries of Swisher Hygiene, Inc. named therein, and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, dated March 30, 2011 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 of the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on April 5, 2011 and portions of this exhibit have been omitted and filed separately with the Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to a request for confidential treatment).
10.6   Guaranty Agreement by certain subsidiaries of Swisher Hygiene Inc. and Guaranteed Parties named therein, dated March 30, 2011 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 of the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on April 5, 2011).
10.7   CoolBrands International Inc. 2002 Stock Option Plan. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-8, filed on February 14, 2011). †
10.8   Omnibus Amendment Agreement, effective as of February 28, 2011, by and between Swisher International, Inc. HB Service, LLC and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed on March 4, 2011).
10.9   Amended and Restated Swisher Hygiene Inc. 2010 Stock Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-8 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on May 9, 2011).* †
10.10   Swisher Hygiene Inc. Senior Executive Officers Performance Incentive Bonus Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 of the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on May 10, 2011).* †
10.11   Employment and Non-Compete Agreement of Michael Kipp (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 of the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on May 10, 2011).* †
10.12   First Amendment to Credit Agreement and Pledge and Security Agreement, dated August 12, 2011, by and between Swisher Hygiene Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on August 18, 2011).
10.13   General Electric Capital Corporation Loan Commitment Letter, dated August 12, 2011 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 of the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on August 18, 2011).
10.14   Master Loan and Security Agreement, dated August 12, 2011, by and between General Electric Capital Corporation and Choice Environmental Services, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 of the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on August 18, 2011).
 
 
40

 
 
10.15   Amendment to Master Loan and Security Agreement, dated August 12, 2011, by and between General Electric Capital Corporation and Choice Environmental Services, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 of the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on August 18, 2011).
10.16   Wells Fargo Equipment Finance, Inc. Loan Commitment Letter dated August 12, 2011 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.5 of the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on August 18, 2011).
10.17   Master Loan and Security Agreement dated August 12, 2011, by and between Wells Fargo Equipment Finance, Inc. and Choice Environmental Services, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.6 of the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on August 18, 2011).
10.18   Automotive Rentals, Inc. Vehicle Lease Financing Proposal, dated August 12, 2011 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.7 of the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on August 18, 2011).
10.19   Second Amendment to Credit Agreement by and among Swisher Hygiene, Inc., the Subsidiary Guarantors party thereto, the Required Lenders, and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, dated April 12, 2012 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on April 12, 2012).
10.20   Third Amendment to Credit Agreement by and among Swisher Hygiene, Inc., the Subsidiary Guarantors party thereto, the Required Lenders, and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, dated May 15, 2012 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on May 17, 2012).
10.21   Fourth Amendment to Credit Agreement by and among Swisher Hygiene, Inc., the Subsidiary Guarantors party thereto, the Required Lenders, and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, dated May 30, 2012 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on June 5, 2012).
10.22   Fifth Amendment to Credit Agreement by and among Swisher Hygiene, Inc., the Subsidiary Guarantors party thereto, the Required Lenders, and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, dated June 28, 2012 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on June 29, 2012).
10.23   Sixth Amendment to Credit Agreement by and among Swisher Hygiene, Inc., the Subsidiary Guarantors party thereto, the Required Lenders, and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, dated July 30, 2012 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on July 31, 2012).
10.24   Seventh Amendment to Credit Agreement and Pledge and Security Agreement by and among Swisher Hygiene, Inc., the Subsidiary Guarantors party thereto, the Required Lenders, and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, dated August 31, 2012 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 4, 2012 and portions of this exhibit have been omitted and filed separately with the Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to a request for confidential treatment).
10.25   Eighth Amendment to Credit Agreement by and among Swisher Hygiene, Inc., the Subsidiary Guarantors party thereto, the Required Lenders, and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, dated September 27, 2012 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 27, 2012).
10.26   Ninth Amendment to Credit Agreement by and among Swisher Hygiene, Inc., the Subsidiary Guarantors party thereto, the Required Lenders, and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, dated October 31, 2012 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on November 1, 2012).
10.27   Employment Letter, dated June 1, 2012, by and between Swisher Hygiene, Inc. and Brian Krass (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended June 30, 2012, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 15, 2013). †
10.28   Interim Services Agreement, effective September 24, 2012, between Swisher Hygiene Inc. and SCA Group, LLC (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2012, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 18, 2013). †
10.29   Consulting Agreement and Release between Steven R. Berrard and Swisher International, Inc., effective October 26, 2012 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.56 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2012, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on May 1, 2013). †
10.30   Separation Agreement and Release between Hugh Cooper and Swisher International Inc., dated November 15, 2012 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.57 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2012, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on May 1, 2013). †
10.31   Executive Services Agreement, effective June 9, 2013, between Swisher Hygiene Inc. and The SCA Group, LLC (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended June 30, 2013, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on August 9, 2013). †
10.32   Employment Agreement, dated October 16, 2013, between Swisher Hygiene Inc. and William M. Pierce. †
10.33   Employment Agreement, dated October 16, 2013, between Swisher Hygiene Inc. and Thomas C. Byrne. †
10.34   Separation Agreement and Release between Swisher Hygiene Inc. and Thomas E. Aucamp, dated March 7, 2014 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2014, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on May 12, 2014).
10.35   Amendment No. 1 to the Employment Agreement between Swisher Hygiene Inc. and Thomas C. Byrne, dated July 14, 2014 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 of the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2014, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on November 10, 2014).
10.36   Amendment to Employment Agreement by and between Swisher Hygiene Inc. and William M. Pierce, dated August 8, 2014 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 of the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2014, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on November 10, 2014).
 
 
41

 
 
10.37   Loan and Security Agreement by and among Swisher Hygiene Inc., as Guarantor, the Borrowers listed thereto and Siena Lending Group LLC, as Lender, dated August 29, 2014 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 3, 2014). (Portions of this exhibit have been omitted and filed separately with the Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to a request for confidential treatment).
10.38   Second Amendment to Employment Agreement by and between Swisher Hygiene Inc. and William M. Pierce, dated January 31, 2015. †
10.39   Letter Agreement, dated as of March 25, 2015, by and among Siena Lending Group LLC and the Borrowers listed thereto.
21.1   Subsidiaries of Swisher Hygiene Inc.
23.1   Consent of BDO USA, LLP.
31.1   Section 302 Certification of Chief Executive Officer.
31.2   Section 302 Certification of Chief Financial Officer.
32.1   Certification Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.*
32.2   Certification 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.
 101.CAL   XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase.
 101.LAB   XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase.
 101.PRE   XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase.
________________________
 
The following documents are incorporated by reference to the indicated exhibit to the following filings by the Company under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.
  
(1)  
Registration Statement on Form 10, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on November 9, 2010.
(2)  
Registration Statement on Form S-8, filed with the Security and Exchange Commission on May 9, 2011.
 
*
Furnished herewith.
Management contracts or compensatory plans, contracts, or arrangements.
 
 
 
42

 
 
SIGNATURES
 
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) 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.
 
 
SWISHER HYGIENE INC.
(Registrant)
 
       
Dated: March 31, 2015
By:
/s/ William M. Pierce  
   
William M. Pierce
 
   
President and Chief Executive Officer
(Principal Executive Officer)
 
 
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
 
Signature
 
Title
 
Date
         
/s/ William M. Pierce
 
President, Chief Executive Officer, and Director
 
March 31, 2015
William M. Pierce
 
(Principal Executive Officer)
   
         
/s/ William T. Nanovsky
 
Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
 
March 31, 2015
William T. Nanovsky
 
(Principal Financial Officer)
   
         
/s/ Linda C. Wilson-Ingram
 
Vice President, Corporate Controller and
 
March 31, 2015
Linda C. Wilson-Ingram
 
Chief Accounting Officer  (Principal Accounting Officer)
   
         
/s/ Richard L. Handley
 
Chairman of the Board
 
March 31, 2015
Richard L. Handley
       
         
/s/ Joseph Burke
 
Director
 
March 31, 2015
Joseph Burke
       
         
 
 
Director
 
March 31, 2015
Harris W. Hudson
       
         
/s/ William D. Pruitt
 
Director
 
March 31, 2015
William D. Pruitt
       
         
/s/ David Prussky
 
Director
 
March 31, 2015
David Prussky
       
 
 
 
43

 
 
 
INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
 
SWISHER HYGIENE INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
Consolidated Financial Statements as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, and for the Three Years Ended December 31, 2014
 
Reports of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
 
F-2
Consolidated Balance Sheets
 
F-4
Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Loss
 
F-5
Consolidated Statements of Equity
 
F-6
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
 
F-7
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
 
F-8
 
 
 
 

 
  
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
 
 
Board of Directors
Swisher Hygiene Inc. and Subsidiaries
Charlotte, North Carolina
 
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Swisher Hygiene Inc. and Subsidiaries (the "Company") as of December 31, 2014 and 2013 and the related consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive loss, equity, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2014. These consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements based on our audits.
 
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audits to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit also includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
 
In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Swisher Hygiene Inc. and Subsidiaries as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2014, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
 
Also, in our opinion, the financial statement schedule, when considered in relation to the basic consolidated financial statements taken as a whole, presents fairly, in all material respects, the information set forth therein.
 
The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared assuming that the Company will continue as a going concern. As described in Note 1 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company has suffered recurring losses from operations and has not generated positive cash flows from operations. These factors raise substantial doubt about the Company's ability to continue as a going concern. Management's plans in regard to these matters are also described in Note 1. The consolidated financial statements do not include any adjustments that might result from the outcome of this uncertainty.
 
We also audited, in accordance with the Standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), Swisher Hygiene Inc.’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2014, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO) and our report dated March 31, 2015 expressed an adverse opinion thereon.
 
/s/ BDO USA, LLP
Charlotte, North Carolina
 
March 31, 2015
 
 
 
F-2

 
 
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
 
Board of Directors and Stockholders
Swisher Hygiene Inc.
Charlotte, NC
 
We have audited Swisher Hygiene Inc.’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2014, based on criteria established in Internal Control – Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (the COSO criteria). Swisher Hygiene Inc.’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying Item 9A, "Management's Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting". Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.
 
We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our audit also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.
 
A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.
 
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
 
A material weakness is a deficiency, or a combination of deficiencies, in internal control over financial reporting, such that there is a reasonable possibility that a material misstatement of the company’s annual or interim financial statements will not be prevented or detected on a timely basis. Material weaknesses have been identified and described in management’s assessment. These material weaknesses were considered in determining the nature, timing, and extent of audit tests applied in our audit of the 2014 consolidated financial statements, and this report does not affect our report dated March 31, 2015 on those financial statements.
 
In our opinion, Swisher Hygiene Inc. did not maintain, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2014, based on the COSO criteria.
 
We do not express an opinion or any other form of assurance on management’s statements referring to any corrective actions taken by the Company after the date of management’s assessment.
 
We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated balance sheets of Swisher Hygiene Inc. and subsidiaries as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, and the related consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive loss, equity, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2014 and our report dated March 31, 2015 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.
 
 /s/ BDO USA, LLP
Charlotte, NC
 
March 31, 2015
 
  
 
F-3

 
 
SWISHER HYGIENE INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
December 31, 2014 and 2013
(In thousands)
 
   
2014
   
2013
 
ASSETS
           
Current assets
           
Cash and cash equivalents
  $ 7,233     $ 21,465  
Restricted cash
    231       3,558  
Accounts receivable, net
    18,751       21,010  
Inventory, net
    15,426       14,032  
Deferred income taxes
    534       935  
Assets held for sale
    -       4,520  
Other assets
    2,525       5,782  
Total current assets
    44,700       71,302  
Restricted cash
    -       2,117  
Property and equipment, net
    37,037       43,842  
Goodwill
    -       5,821  
Other intangibles, net
    6,654       8,436  
Customer relationships and contracts, net
    22,792       28,575  
Other noncurrent assets
    2,015       1,624  
Total assets
  $ 113,198     $ 161,717  
                 
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
               
Current liabilities
               
Accounts payable
  $ 13,627     $ 8,794  
Accrued payroll and benefits
    3,467       3,819  
Accrued expense
    7,122       8,132  
Long-term debt and obligations due within one year
    1,884       5,251  
Liabilities of discontinued operations
    -       2,131  
Total current liabilities
    26,100       28,127  
Long-term debt and obligations
    1,185       2,003  
Deferred income taxes
    558       1,053  
Other long-term liabilities
    4,065       3,348  
Total noncurrent liabilities
    5,808       6,404  
                 
Commitments and contingencies (Notes 2, 3, 6, 7, 10, 13, 15)
               
                 
Equity (1)
               
Preferred stock, par value $0.001, authorized 10,000,000 shares; no shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2014 and 2013
    -       -  
Common stock, par value $0.001, authorized 600,000,000 shares; 17,612,278 shares and 17,576,741 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2014 and 2013
    18       18  
Additional paid-in capital
    389,942       388,252  
Accumulated deficit
    (307,363 )     (260,555 )
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
    (1,307 )     (529 )
Total equity
    81,290       127,186  
Total liabilities and equity
  $ 113,198     $ 161,717  
 
(1)  
All outstanding share amounts and computations using such amounts have been retroactively adjusted to reflect the June 3, 2014 one-for-ten reverse stock split.
 
See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
 
 
F-4

 
 
SWISHER HYGIENE INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS AND COMPREHENSIVE LOSS
For the Three Years Ended December 31, 2014
(In thousands except share and per share data)
 
   
2014
   
2013
   
2012
 
Revenue
                 
Products
  $ 173,505     $ 189,480     $ 202,968  
Services
    18,877       22,895       26,186  
Franchise and other
    1,375       1,313       1,367  
Total revenue
    193,757       213,688       230,521  
                         
Costs and expenses
                       
Cost of sales (exclusive of route expenses and related depreciation and amortization)
    89,101       95,585       101,914  
Route expenses
    50,595       54,227       54,988  
Selling, general, and administrative expenses
    69,269       94,620       110,975  
Acquisition and merger expenses
    -       -       582  
Depreciation and amortization
    21,216       22,113       20,991  
Impairment loss on assets held for sale
    2,989       6,422       -  
Impairment loss on goodwill
    5,821       93,194       -  
Total costs and expenses
    238,991       366,160       289,450  
Loss from continuing operations
    (45,234 )     (152,472 )     (58,929 )
                         
Other expense, net
    (1,663 )     (654 )     (3,093 )
Net loss from continuing operations before income taxes
    (46,897 )     (153,126 )     (62,022 )
Income tax benefit (expense)
    89       2,594       (18,753 )
Net loss from continuing operations
    (46,808 )     (150,532 )     (80,775 )
                         
Discontinued operations, net of tax (Note 2)
                       
Net loss from operations through disposal
    -       (2,516 )     (6,245 )
Gain on disposal
    -       -       13,844  
(Loss) income from discontinued operations, net of tax
    -       (2,516 )     7,599  
Net loss
    (46,808 )     (153,048 )     (73,176 )
                         
Comprehensive loss
                       
Employee benefit plan adjustment, net of tax
    (747 )     503       (161 )
Foreign currency translation adjustment
    (31 )     (33 )     (3 )
Comprehensive loss
  $ (47,586 )   $ (152,578 )   $ (73,340 )
                         
Loss per share (1)
                       
Basic and diluted (continuing operations)
  $ (2.64 )   $ (8.55 )   $ (4.62 )
Basic and diluted (discontinued operations)
    -     $ (0.14 )   $ 0.43  
                         
Weighted-average common shares used in the computation of loss per share (1)
         
Basic and diluted
    17,723,866       17,599,535       17,500,956  
 
(1)  
All outstanding share amounts and computations using such amounts have been retroactively adjusted to reflect the June 3, 2014 one-for-ten reverse stock split.
 
See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
 
 
F-5

 
 
 
 SWISHER HYGIENE INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EQUITY
FOR THE THREE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014
(In thousands except share data)
 
STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
 
     
Shares
   
Common
Stock (1) 
Amount
   
Additional Paid-in
Capital (1)
   
Accumulated
Deficit
   
Accumulated Other Comprehensive
(Loss)
   
Swisher Hygiene Inc. Stockholders'
Equity
   
Non - Controlling
Interest
   
Total
Equity
 
Balance at December 31, 2011
    17,480,419     $ 17     $ 378,982     $ (34,331 )   $ (835 )   $ 343,833     $ 22     $ 343,855  
Issuance of common stock on contingent earn-out
    9,091       -       170       -       -       170       -       170  
Conversion of promissory notes payable
    1,004       -       37       -       -       37       -       37  
Stock based compensation (including discontinued operations of $2,863)
    -       -       6,384       -       -       6,384       -       6,384  
Issuance of common stock under stock based payment plans
    23,637       -       -       -       -       -       -       -  
Shares issued for non-controlling interest
    1,000       -       37       -       -       37       -       37  
Employee benefit plan adjustment, net of tax
    -       -       -       -       (161 )     (161 )     -       (161 )
Foreign currency translation adjustment
    -       -       -       -       (3 )     (3 )     -       (3 )
Net loss
    -       -       -       (73,176 )     -       (73,176 )     -       (73,176 )
                                                                 
Balance at December 31, 2012
    17,515,151       17       385,610       (107,507 )     (999 )     277,121       22       277,143  
Stock based compensation
    -       -       2,916       -       -       2,916       -       2,916  
Issuance of common stock under stock based payment plans
    88,996       1       -       -       -       1       -       1  
Shares withheld related to income taxes on RSUs
    (27,406 )     -       (274 )     -       -       (274 )     -       (274 )
Liquidation of minority interest
    -       -       -       -       -       -       (22 )     (22 )
Employee benefit plan adjustment, net of tax
    -       -       -       -       503       503       -       503  
Foreign currency translation adjustment
    -       -       -       -       (33 )     (33 )     -       (33 )
Net loss
    -       -       -       (153,048 )     -       (153,048 )     -       (153,048 )
Balance at December 31, 2013
    17,576,741       18       388,252       (260,555 )     (529 )     127,186       -       127,186  
Stock based compensation
    -       -       1,740       -       -       1,740       -       1,740  
Shares withheld related to income taxes on RSUs
    (10,857 )     -       (47 )     -       -       (47 )     -       (47 )
Shares issued in connection with RSU delivery
    46,394       -       (3 )     -       -       (3 )     -       (3 )
Employee benefit plan adjustment, net of tax
    -       -       -       -       (747 )     (747 )     -       (747 )
Foreign currency translation adjustment
    -       -       -       -       (31 )     (31 )     -       (31 )
Net loss
    -       -       -       (46,808 )     -       (46,808 )     -       (46,808 )
Balance at December 31, 2014
    17,612,278       18       389,942       (307,363 )     (1,307 )     81,290       -       81,290  
 
(1)  
All outstanding share amounts and computations using such amounts have been retroactively adjusted to reflect the June 3, 2014 one-for-ten reverse stock split.
 
See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
 
 
F-6

 
 
SWISHER HYGIENE INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
FOR THE THREE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014
(In thousands)
 
   
2014
   
2013
   
2012
 
Operating activities
                 
Net loss
  $ (46,808 )   $ (153,048 )   $ (73,176 )
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to cash used in operating activities:
                 
Net loss (income) from discontinued operations, net of tax
    -       2,516       (7,599 )
Depreciation and amortization
    21,216       22,113       20,991  
Provision for doubtful accounts
    196       936       2,396  
Stock based compensation
    1,740       2,916       3,521  
Realized and unrealized gain on fair value of convertible notes
    -       -       (241 )
Deferred income taxes
    (94 )     (2,553 )     18,370  
Impairment loss on assets held for sale
    2,989       6,422       -  
Impairment loss on goodwill
    5,821       93,194       -  
Loss on disposal of property and equipment
    195       33       -  
Loss (gain) on sale of assets held for sale
    754       (223 )     -  
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
                       
Accounts receivable
    2,325       (279 )     3,739  
Inventory
    (247 )     1,295       448  
Accounts payable, accrued expense and other current liabilities
    3,403       (3,084 )     (6,598 )
Other assets and non-current assets
    2,187       (111 )     (1,095 )
Net cash used in operating activities of continuing operations
    (6,322 )     (29,873 )     (39,244 )
Net cash used in operating activities of discontinued operations
    (2,131 )     (4,647 )     (3,519 )
Cash used in operating activities
    (8,453 )     (34,520 )     (42,763 )
Investing activities
                       
Cash received for sale of discontinued operations
    -       12,571       111,841  
Purchases of property and equipment
    (8,645 )     (16,794 )     (18,820 )
Cash received on sale of property and equipment
    92       329       3,061  
Cash received on sale of assets held for sale
    1,565       6,346       -  
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired
    -       (151 )     (4,310 )
Restricted cash
    5,444       (285 )     (5,390 )
Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities of continuing operations
    (1,544 )     2,016       86,382  
Net cash used in investing activities of discontinued operations
    -       -       (2,861 )
Cash (used in) provided by investing activities
    (1,544 )     2,016       83,521  
Financing activities
                       
Payments on lines of credit
    -       -       (25,000 )
Proceeds from notes payable
    1,097       -       -  
Proceeds from equipment financing
    -       -       209  
Principal payments on debt and capital leases
    (5,282 )     (7,177 )     (22,626 )
Payment of shareholder advances
    -       -       (2,000 )
Proceeds from exercise of stock options
    -       1       -  
Taxes paid related to income tax withheld on settlement of equity awards
    (50 )     (274 )     -  
Net cash used in financing activities of continuing operations
    (4,235 )     (7,450 )     (49,417 )
Net cash provided by financing activities of discontinued operations
    -       -       (430 )
Cash used in financing activities
    (4,235 )     (7,450 )     (49,847 )
                         
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents
    (14,232 )     (39,954 )     (9,089 )
Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the period
    21,465       61,419       70,508  
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the period
  $ 7,233     $ 21,465     $ 61,419  
                         
Supplemental Cash Flow Information
                       
Cash paid for interest (including discontinued operations)
  $ 150     $ 370     $ 4,253  
Cash received for interest (including discontinued operations)
  $ 9     $ 41     $ 75  
Cash paid for income taxes
  $ 51     $ 316     $ 88  
Notes payable issued or assumed on acquisitions (continuing operations)
  $ -     $ -     $ 1,121  
Note payable related to insurance financing
  $ 1,097     $ 2,634     $ 2,732  
Stock issued to purchase property and to settle liabilities (continuing operations)
  $ -     $ -     $ 37  
Property received as payment on accounts receivable
  $ -     $ -     $ 650  
 
See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
  
 
F-7

 
 
SWISHER HYGIENE INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
 
NOTE 1 — OPERATIONS AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
 
Principal Operations
 
Swisher Hygiene Inc. and its wholly-owned subsidiaries (the “Company” or “we” or “our”) provide essential hygiene and sanitizing solutions that include cleaning and sanitizing chemicals, restroom hygiene programs and a full range of related products and services.   We sell consumable products such as detergents, cleaning chemicals, soap, paper, water filters and supplies, together with the rental and servicing of dish machines and other equipment for the dispensing of those products as well as additional services such as the cleaning of facilities.  We serve customers in a wide range of end-markets, with a particular emphasis on the foodservice, hospitality, retail, and healthcare industries.
 
During 2011 and most of 2012, we operated in two segments:  (i) Hygiene and (ii) Waste.  As a result of the sale of the Waste segment in November 2012, we currently operate in one business segment, Hygiene, and the Company has applied discontinued operations accounting treatment and disclosures for this transaction.   See Note 2 "Discontinued Operations and Assets Held for Sale" for further information.
 
Our principal executive offices are located at 4725 Piedmont Row Drive, Suite 400, Charlotte, North Carolina, 28210.  As of December 31, 2014, we have company owned operations and one remaining franchise operation located throughout North America and we have entered into nine Master License Agreements covering the United Kingdom, Portugal, the Netherlands, Singapore, the Philippines, Taiwan, Korea, Hong Kong/Macau/China, and Mexico.  The financial information about our geographical areas is included in Note 18, “Geographic Information” to the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
Merger
 
On August 17, 2010, Swisher International, Inc. (“Swisher International”) entered into a merger agreement under which all of the outstanding common shares of Swisher International were exchanged for common shares of CoolBrands International Inc. (“CoolBrands”), and Swisher International became a wholly-owned subsidiary of CoolBrands (the “Merger”). Immediately before the Merger, CoolBrands completed its redomestication to Delaware from Ontario, Canada and became Swisher Hygiene Inc.  The Merger was completed on November 2, 2010.  After the Merger, the shareholders of CoolBrands held shares of Swisher Hygiene Inc. common stock.
 
Going Concern
 
Our consolidated financial statements were prepared on a going concern basis in accordance with U.S. GAAP. The going concern basis of presentation assumes that we will continue in operation for the next twelve months and will be able to realize our assets and discharge our liabilities and commitments in the normal course of business and does not include any adjustments to reflect the possible future effects on the recoverability and classification of assets or the amounts and classification of liabilities that may result from our inability to continue as a going concern. The Company has suffered recurring losses from operations and has not generated positive cash flows from operations. These factors raise substantial doubt about the Company's ability to continue as a going concern. In order for us to continue operations beyond the next twelve months and be able to discharge our liabilities and commitments in the normal course of business, we must do some or all of the following: (i) improve operating results through improved customer retention, profitable organic revenue growth, and continued improvements in cost efficiencies; (ii) sell additional non-core or non-essential assets; (iii) raise additional equity; or (iv) obtain additional financing through debt. There can be no assurance that we will be able to improve operating results or obtain additional funds by selling additional non-core or non-essential assets, raising additional equity or obtaining additional financing when needed or that such funds, if available, will be obtainable on terms satisfactory to us.
 
If we are not able to improve operating results or obtain additional funds by selling additional non-core or non-essential assets, raising additional equity or obtaining additional financing, material adverse events may occur including, but not limited to: 1) a reduction in the nature and scope of our operations, 2) our inability to fully implement our current business plan and 3) defaults under the Credit Facility. There can be no assurances that we will be able to successfully improve our liquidity position. Our consolidated financial statements do not reflect any adjustments that might result from the adverse outcome relating to this uncertainty.
 
Basis of Presentation and Principles of Consolidation
 
Intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.  Certain reclassifications, including those described further in Note 4, “Prior Period Reclassification,” have been made to prior year amounts for consistency with the current period presentation.  Financial information, other than share and per share data, is presented in thousands of dollars.
 
On June 3, 2014, a one-for-ten reverse split of the Company's issued and outstanding common stock, $0.001 par value per share, became effective ("Reverse Stock Split").  Trading of the common stock on a post-Reverse Stock Split adjusted basis began at the open of business on the morning of June 3, 2014. All historic share and per share information, including loss per share, in this Form 10-K have been retroactively adjusted to reflect the Reverse Stock Split.
 
Use of Estimates
 
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”) requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenue and expenses and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the Consolidated Financial Statements. Actual results could differ from those estimates and such differences could affect the results of operations reported in future periods.
 
 
F-8

 
 
 Segments
 
We operate in one business segment, the manufacturing, distribution and delivery of hygiene and sanitizing services, products and solutions. We define business segments as components of an organization for which discrete financial information is available and operating results are evaluated on a regular basis by the chief operating decision maker (“CODM”) in order to assess performance and allocate resources. Our CODM is the Company’s President and Chief Executive Officer. Characteristics of our organization which were relied upon in making this determination include the similar nature of the products and services we sell, the functional alignment of our organizational structure, and the reports that are regularly reviewed by the CODM for the purpose of assessing performance and allocating resources. Previously we operated in two segments. See Note 2, “Discontinued Operations and Assets Held for Sale.”
 
Cash Equivalents
 
The Company considers all cash accounts and all highly liquid short term investments purchased with an original maturity of three months or less at date of purchase to be cash equivalents. As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, the Company did not have any investments with maturities greater than three months.
 
Restricted Cash
 
Restricted cash at December 31, 2014 consists of amounts held in a collateral account to secure purchase card balances and electronic cash transfers.
 
Accounts Receivable
 
Accounts receivable principally consist of amounts due from customers for product sales and services.  Accounts receivable are reported net of an allowance for doubtful accounts (“allowance”) and interest is generally not charged to customers on delinquent balances. The allowance is management’s best estimate of uncollectible amounts and is based on a number of factors, including overall credit quality of customers, the age of outstanding customer balances, historical write-off experience and specific customer account analysis that projects the ultimate collectability of the outstanding balances. When accounts receivable amounts are considered uncollectible, the amounts are written-off against the allowance for doubtful accounts. The allowance was $1.0 million and $2.0 million at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
 
Inventory
 
Inventory consists of purchased items, materials, direct labor, and other manufacturing related overhead and is stated at the lower of cost or market determined using the first in-first out costing method. The Company routinely reviews inventory for excess and slow moving items as well as for damaged or otherwise obsolete items and for items selling at negative margins. When such items are identified, a reserve is recorded to adjust their carrying value to their estimated net realizable value. The reserve was $0.8 million and $0.9 million at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
 
Assets Held for Sale
 
We record net assets held for sale in accordance with Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC") 360 "Property, Plant, and Equipment" at the lower of carrying value or fair value.  Fair value is based on the estimated sales price, less selling costs, of the assets.  Estimates of the net sales proceeds are based on a number of factors including standard industry multiples of revenues or operating metrics, and the status of ongoing sales negotiations and asset purchase agreements where available.  Our estimates of fair value are regularly reviewed and subject to changes based on market conditions, changes in the customer base of the operations or routes and our continuing evaluation as to the facility's acceptable sale price.  No depreciation or amortization expense is recorded related to the assets held for sale.  As described further below and in Note 9, “Fair Value Measurements,” assets held for sale are measured using Level 3 inputs.
 
 
F-9

 
 
Property and Equipment
 
Property and equipment is stated at cost, less accumulated depreciation and amortization. Depreciation and amortization is provided using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of individual assets or classes of assets as follows:
 
   
Years
 
Items in service
  2 – 7  
Equipment, laundry facility equipment and furniture
  3 - 20  
Vehicles
  5  
Computer equipment
  3  
Computer software
  3 - 7  
Building and leasehold improvements
  1 - 40  
 
Items in service consist of various systems that dispense the Company’s cleaning and sanitizing products, linens, dish machines and dust control products. Included in the capitalized cost of items in service are costs incurred to install certain equipment for customer locations under long-term contracts. These costs include labor, parts and supplies. Costs of significant additions, renewals and betterments, are capitalized and depreciated. Maintenance and repairs are charged to expense when incurred.
 
The Company capitalizes certain costs incurred during the application development stage associated with the development of new software products for internal use. Research and development costs in the preliminary project stage are expensed. Internal and external training costs and maintenance costs in the post-implementation operation stage are also expensed. Capitalized software costs are amortized over the estimated useful lives of the software commencing upon operational use.
 
Purchase Accounting for Business Combinations
 
The Company accounts for acquisitions by allocating the fair value of the consideration transferred to the fair value of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed on the date of the acquisition and any remaining difference is recorded as goodwill. Adjustments may be made to the preliminary purchase price allocation when facts and circumstances that existed on the date of the acquisition surface during the allocation period subsequent to the preliminary purchase price allocation, not to exceed one year from the date of acquisition. Contingent consideration is recorded at fair value based on the facts and circumstances on the date of the acquisition and any subsequent changes in the fair value are recorded through earnings each reporting period. Transactions that occur in conjunction with or subsequent to the closing date of the acquisition are evaluated and accounted for based on the facts and substance of the transactions.
 
Goodwill
 
Goodwill is not amortized but rather tested for impairment at least annually. The Company tests goodwill for impairment annually during the fourth quarter of each fiscal year. Goodwill is also tested for impairment between annual tests if an event occurs or circumstances change that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of the reporting unit below its carrying amount.  Impairment testing for goodwill is done at the reporting unit level. A reporting unit is an operating segment or one level below an operating segment (also known as a component). A component of an operating segment is a reporting unit if the component constitutes a business for which discrete financial information is available, and segment management regularly reviews the operating results of that component.  The Company has concluded that it has one reporting unit.
 
When testing goodwill for impairment, the Company may assess qualitative factors to determine whether it is more likely than not (that is, a likelihood of more than 50 percent) that the Company’s fair value is less than its carrying amount, including goodwill. Alternatively, the Company may bypass this qualitative assessment and perform step 1 of the two-step goodwill impairment test. This step requires the determination of the fair value of the reporting unit. If we perform step 1 and the carrying amount of the reporting unit exceeds its fair value, we would perform step 2 to measure such impairment.
 
Determining fair value includes the use of significant estimates and assumptions.  Management utilizes an income approach, specifically the discounted cash flow technique as a means for estimating fair value. This discounted cash flow analysis requires various assumptions including those about future cash flows, customer growth rates and discount rates. Expected cash flows are based on historical customer growth, including attrition, future strategic initiatives and continued long-term growth of the business. The discount rates used for the analysis reflect a weighted average cost of capital based on industry and capital structure adjusted for equity risk and size risk premiums. These estimates can be affected by factors such as customer growth, pricing, and economic conditions that can be difficult to predict. During the second quarter of 2014 and the fourth quarter of 2013, in conjunction with its impairment test, the Company recorded a goodwill impairment charge of $5.8 million and $93.2 million, respectively, as further discussed in Note 5, “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets”.
 
 
F-10

 
 
Other Intangible Assets
 
Identifiable intangible assets include customer relationships, non-compete agreements, trade names and trademarks, and formulas. The fair value of these intangible assets at the time of acquisition is estimated based upon various valuation techniques including replacement cost and discounted future cash flow projections.  Customer relationships are amortized on a straight-line basis over the expected average life of the acquired accounts, which is typically five to ten years based upon a number of factors, including historical longevity of customers and contracts acquired and historical retention rates. The non-compete agreements are amortized on a straight-line basis over the term of the agreements, typically not exceeding five years. Formulas are amortized on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful life of twenty years. The Company reviews the recoverability of these assets if events or circumstances indicate that the assets may be impaired and periodically reevaluates the estimated remaining lives of these assets.
 
Trade names and trademarks are considered to be indefinite lived intangible assets unless specific evidence exists that a shorter life is more appropriate.   Indefinite lived intangible assets are tested, at a minimum, on an annual basis, using a discounted cash flow approach, or sooner whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that an asset may be impaired.
 
Long-Lived Assets
 
Fixed assets are reviewed for impairment when events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset or asset group may not be recoverable.  Recoverability of assets to be held and used is measured by a comparison of the carrying amount of an asset to the future net cash flows expected to be generated by the asset.  If such assets or asset groups are considered to be impaired the impairment to be recognized is measured by the amount by which the carrying amount of the assets or asset groups exceeds the related fair values.  The Company also performs a periodic assessment of the useful lives assigned to the long-lived assets, as previously discussed.
 
Foreign Currency Translation
 
All assets and liabilities of our Canadian operations are translated into U.S. dollars using the exchange rates in effect at the balance sheet date and statement of operations items are translated using the average exchange rates throughout the period. The translation adjustment is presented as a component of accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income.  The loss was primarily due to unfavorable conversion rates.
 
Financial Instruments
 
The Company’s financial instruments, which may expose the Company to concentrations of credit risk, include cash and cash equivalents and accounts receivables.  The Company maintains cash deposits with major banks, which from time to time may exceed insured limits. The possibility of loss related to the financial condition of major banks is considered minimal.   The Company’s accounts receivable balance is composed of numerous customers of varying sizes in diverse industries and geographies.  This fact, as well as the practice of establishing reasonable credit limits mitigates credit risk. Based on historical trends and experiences, the allowance for doubtful accounts is adequate to cover potential credit risk losses.
 
The carrying amounts of cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable and accounts payable approximate fair value due to the short maturity of these instruments. The fair value of the Company’s debt is estimated based on the current borrowing rates available to the Company for bank loans with similar terms and maturities and approximates the carrying value of these liabilities. Certain convertible promissory notes are recorded at fair value during 2014 and 2013 as further described in Note 8, "Fair Value Measurements.”
 
Revenue Recognition
 
Revenue from product sales and service is recognized when the product is delivered to the customer or when services are performed, including product and service sales made under multiple deliverable agreements, which outline the pricing of products and the preferred frequency of delivery. Deliverables under these pricing arrangements are considered to be separate units of accounting, as defined by ASC 605-25, Revenue Recognition – Multiple-Element Arrangement, and due to the nature of the Company’s business, the timing of the delivery of products and performance of service is concurrent and ongoing and there are no contingent deliverables.  Franchise and other revenue include product sales, royalties and other fees charged to franchisees in accordance with the terms of their franchise agreements.   Royalties and fees are recognized when earned and product sales are recognized as the product is delivered.
 
The Company’s sales policies provide for limited rights of return and, during the fiscal years 2014, 2013, and 2012, product returns were insignificant. The Company records estimated reductions to revenue for sales returns and for customer programs and incentive offerings, including pricing arrangements, rebates, promotions and other volume-based incentives at the time the sale is recorded.
 
 
F-11

 
 
Stock Based Compensation
 
The Company measures and recognizes all stock based compensation at fair value at the date of grant and recognizes compensation expense over the service period for awards expected to vest. Determining the fair value of stock based awards at the grant dates requires judgment, including estimating the share volatility, the expected term the award will be outstanding, and the amount of the awards that are expected to be forfeited. The Company utilizes the Black-Scholes option pricing model to determine the fair value for stock options on the date of grant.
 
Freight Costs
 
Shipping and handling costs for freight expense on goods shipped are included in cost of sales.  Shipping and handling costs for freight expense on goods received are capitalized to inventory where they are relieved to cost of sales when the product is sold.
 
Income Taxes
 
Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to the differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax basis and net operating loss carryforwards. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date. Valuation allowances are established when necessary to reduce deferred tax assets where it is more likely than not that deferred tax assets will not be realized.
 
The Company’s policy is to evaluate uncertain tax positions under ASC 740-10, Income Taxes.  As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, and for the three years ended December 31, 2014, the Company has not identified any uncertain tax positions requiring recognition in the accompanying consolidated financial statements. The Company includes interest and penalties accrued in the consolidated financial statements as a component of interest expense.  No significant amounts were required to be recorded for the three year period ended December 31, 2014.
 
Loss per Common Share
 
Basic net loss from continuing operations and basic net loss from discontinued operations attributable to common stockholders per share is computed by dividing the applicable net loss by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Vested restricted stock units, of 0.1 million which have been deferred, are included in this weighted average number of common shares calculation.  Diluted net loss from continuing operations per share was the same as basic net loss from continuing operations attributable to common stockholders per share for all periods presented, since the effects of any potentially dilutive securities are excluded as they are antidilutive due to the Company’s net losses. Diluted net earnings per share from discontinued operations was calculated in the same manner as diluted net loss from continuing operations per share in accordance with ASC 260, Earnings per Share.
 
Comprehensive Loss
 
Comprehensive loss includes net loss, foreign currency translation adjustments and an employee benefit plan adjustment consisting of changes to unrecognized pension actuarial gains and losses, net of tax.
 
 
F-12

 
 
Fair Value Measurements
 
The Company determines the fair value of certain assets and liabilities based on assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the assets or liabilities. Fair value is defined 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, or the “exit price.” The Company utilizes a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value and gives precedence to observable inputs in determining fair value. An instrument’s level within the hierarchy is based on the lowest level of any significant input to the fair value measurement. The hierarchy gives the highest priority to unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (Level 1 measurements) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (Level 3 measurements). Assets and liabilities are classified based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. The following is a discussion of the levels established for each input.
 
Level 1:  Inputs that are quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the reporting entity has the ability to access at the measurement date. Active markets are those in which transactions for the asset or liability occur with sufficient frequency and volume to provide pricing information on an ongoing basis. Instruments classified as Level 1 consist of financial instruments such as listed equities and fixed income securities.
 
Level 2:  Inputs other than quoted prices, included in Level 1, that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly.
 
Level 3:  Unobservable inputs for the asset or liability. These are inputs for which there is no market data available or observable inputs that are adjusted using Level 3 assumptions.
 
Pension Plan
 
An acquired subsidiary of CoolBrands maintained a defined benefit pension plan ("the Plan") covering approximately 90 employees. Subsequent to the acquisition by Coolbrands in 2000, all future participation and all benefits under the Plan were frozen. The Plan provides retirement benefits based primarily on employee compensation and years of service up to the date of acquisition.  The Company recognizes in its consolidated balance sheet the overfunded or underfunded status of the Plan measured as the difference between the fair value of Plan assets and the benefit obligation. The Company recognizes as a separate component of comprehensive loss the actuarial gains and losses that arise during the period that are not recognized as components of net periodic benefit cost. The Company measures the Plan assets and the Plan obligations as of December 31 and discloses additional information in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements about certain effects on net periodic benefit cost in the upcoming fiscal year that arise from delayed recognition of the actuarial gains and losses.
 
The calculation of net periodic benefit cost and the corresponding net liability requires the use of critical assumptions, including the expected long-term rate of return on Plan assets and the assumed discount rate. Changes in these assumptions can result in different expense and liability amounts. Net periodic benefit cost increases as the expected rate of return on Plan assets decreases. Future changes in Plan asset returns, assumed discount rates and other factors related to the participants in the Company’s Plan will impact the Company’s future net periodic benefit cost and liabilities. The Company cannot predict with certainty what these factors will be in the future however they are not expected to have a material effect on the Company’s operating results, financial position or cash flows.
 
Newly Issued Accounting Pronouncements
 
On April 10, 2014, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) No. 2014-08, Reporting Discontinued Operations and Disclosures of Disposals of Components of an Entity. The amendments in this accounting standard raise the threshold for a disposal to qualify as a discontinued operation and requires new disclosures of both discontinued operations and certain other disposals that do not meet the definition of a discontinued operation. This accounting standard update is effective for annual periods beginning on or after December 15, 2014, and related interim periods with early adoption allowed. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of this standard and plans to adopt this standard on the stated effective date in fiscal year 2015.
 
On May 28, 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers. This accounting standard creates common revenue recognition guidance for U.S. GAAP and IFRS. The guidance also requires improved disclosures to help users of the financial statements better understand the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of revenue that is recognized. This accounting standard update is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016, and related interim periods. Early adoption is not permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of this standard.
 
In August 2014, the FASB issued ASU Update No. 2014-15, Presentation of Financial Statements – Going Concern (Subtopic 205-40) (Topic 718), Disclosure of Uncertainties about an Entity’s Ability to Continue as a Going Concern.  ASU Update No. 2014-15 provides guidance related to management’s responsibility to evaluate whether there is substantial doubt about the entity’s ability to continue as a going concern and to provide related footnote disclosures.  The new requirements are effective for the annual periods ending after December 15, 2016, and for interim periods and annual periods thereafter.  Early adoption is permitted.  The Company is currently evaluating the impact of this standard and has elected to not adopt the standard early.
 
 
F-13

 
 
NOTE 2 — DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS AND ASSETS HELD FOR SALE
 
Discontinued Operations – Waste Segment
 
On November 15, 2012, the Company completed a stock sale of Choice, and other acquired businesses, including Lawson Sanitation LLC, Central Carting Disposal, Inc., FSR Transporting and Crane Services, Inc., that comprised the Waste segment to Waste Services of Florida, Inc. for $123.3 million resulting in a gain of $13.8 million, net of tax. The Company applied discontinued operations accounting treatment and disclosures related to this transaction.  The stock purchase agreement stipulated customary purchase price adjustments related to closing balance sheet working capital targets and in addition, that $12.5 million of the purchase price consideration would be reserved and held back in escrow by the purchaser ("the holdback amount") and paid subject to financial adjustments regarding defined long-term assets and 2012 third quarter EBITDA targets. Management recorded the holdback amount in the calculation of the gain on sale of the Waste segment and the amount is classified on the balance sheet as "Accounts receivable due from sale of discontinued operations" at December 31, 2012. Proceeds from the holdback plus $0.1 million in working capital adjustments were received during the first half of 2013.
 
The following table presents summarized operating results for these discontinued operations for the fiscal years ended 2014, 2013 and 2012.
 
   
2014
   
2013
   
2012
 
Revenue
  $ -     $ -     $ 60,874  
Net (loss) income after taxes and 2012 gain on disposal of $13.8 million
    -       (2,516 )     7,599  

Any corporate management overhead charged to the Waste segment in prior year filings has been included in continuing operations in the periods subsequent to the discontinuance as the overhead amounts are not expected to change as a result of the sale of the Waste segment.  During fiscal year 2013, the Company incurred $2.5 million in expenses related to the discontinued operation as follows: $0.5 million increase to retained worker’s compensation liabilities and $2.0 million in legal fees and a settlement payment related to a contractual dispute involving one of the businesses sold that the Company accepted responsibility to resolve as a term of the sales agreement.  
 
Net cash of $2.1 million used in connection with discontinued operations for the twelve months ended December 31, 2014 principally represents payment for legal fees and the settlement of a contractual dispute that the Company accepted responsibility to resolve as a part of the sale of the Waste segment.  For the twelve months ended December 31, 2013, net cash of $4.6 million used in connection with discontinued operations principally represents the payment of certain liabilities for severance and professional fees, previously accrued as a part of the sale, as well as cash payments related to retained worker’s compensation liabilities and litigation accruals. There were no cash inflows related to discontinued operations in 2014 or 2013.
 
Assets Held For Sale
 
During 2013, the Company commenced an active program to sell certain non-core assets and routes related to its linen and dust operations.  Additionally, in 2014 the Company ceased operations at a linen processing plant and in 2013 a chemical manufacturing plant was closed in connection with the Company’s plant consolidation efforts.  In accordance with ASC 360, Property, Plant and Equipment, these assets were classified as assets held for sale in the Consolidated Balance Sheet and the asset balances were adjusted to the lower of historical carrying amounts or fair values.  
 
During 2014, the Company updated its estimates of the fair value of certain linen routes and operations to reflect various events that occurred during the year.  The cumulative impairment loss for the twelve months ended December 31, 2014 was $3.0 million, of which $1.9 million was attributable to a reduction in the estimate of net sales proceeds for a linen processing operation.  The factors driving the $1.9 million reduction were the cancellation notifications received during April and May 2014 from three major customers resulting in a significant loss of forecasted revenue; and the operation’s 2014 year-to-date loss which was in excess of the Company’s estimates. The asset fair value of this linen processing operation was written down to zero in the second quarter of 2014 and was closed during the fourth quarter of 2014.
 
The Company recorded impairment charges for the twelve months ended December 31, 2013 of $6.4 million.  Included in this charge is $3.1 million that was recorded during the fourth quarter of 2013 as follows:  $2.0 million related to the Board of Director’s approval, on November 8, 2013, of additional assets to be disposed of and the resultant adjustment of these assets from net carrying value to fair value; $1.1 million impairment adjustments to existing assets held for sale to reflect reductions in the estimated fair value as a result of events that occurred during the fourth quarter which indicated that the estimated net selling prices will be less than anticipated at the end of the third quarter.
 
 
F-14

 
 
The Company completed several sales transactions during the twelve months ended December 31, 2014, which resulted in the net receipt of $1.6 million in cash and the remainder in receivables.  A loss on these sales of $0.9 million was incurred and included a write-off of $0.6 million of the receivable balances.  The receivable balances were primarily for contingent sales proceeds that were based on post-closing revenues of previously sold routes which were lower than estimated.  The total loss of $0.8 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2014, is included in “Other expense, net” in the consolidated statement of operations and comprehensive loss.
 
The Company completed several sales transactions during the last half of 2013 totaling $6.3 million in net sales proceeds including $0.6 million in receivable balances that were contingent primarily upon 2014 revenues generated by certain of the sold assets during defined post-close periods.  The resulting $0.2 million gain is included in “Other expense, net” in the consolidated statement of operations and comprehensive loss.  
 
There were no assets held for sale as of December 31, 2014.  The major classes of assets held for sale as of December 31, 2013 are as follows:
  
   
December 31,
 
   
2013
 
Property and equipment, net
  $ 2,410  
Goodwill
    1,272  
Customer relationships, net
    833  
Other, net
    5  
Total
  $ 4,520  
 
None of the disposal groups that could be classified as discontinued operations were material, individually or in the aggregate, to the Company’s consolidated financial statements and therefore these results were not separately classified in discontinued operations.  The remaining portfolio of assets held for sale did not meet the criteria for discontinued operations as they did not represent operations and cash flows that are clearly distinguished, operationally and for financial reporting purposes consistent with the Company’s strategy of integrating these acquired assets into its existing business operations.  Additionally, the Company anticipates maintaining continuing  revenues with respect to a the majority of the sold routes and/or customers through the sale of chemical, paper and its other core hygiene and sanitizing products and services.  
  
NOTE 3 — ACQUISITIONS
 
2013 Acquisitions
 
During fiscal year 2013, the Company acquired a franchise located in Ottawa, Canada for $0.2 million primarily in cash plus receivables, resulting in a $0.1 million addition to goodwill.   This acquisition is immaterial to the Company’s consolidated financial statements and therefore supplemental pro-forma information is not presented.  
 
 
F-15

 
 
2012 Acquisitions
 
The following table summarizes the Company’s 2012 acquisitions and the estimated aggregate fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the date of acquisition:
 
   
2012
 
Number of businesses acquired
    4  
         
Net assets acquired:
       
Accounts receivable and other assets
  $ 263  
Inventory
    86  
Property and equipment
    2,085  
Other intangibles
       
Customer relationships
    1,276  
Non-compete agreements
    120  
Trademarks
    130  
Accounts payable and accrued expenses
    (42 )
Total net assets acquired
    3,918  
Goodwill
    1,550  
Total purchase price
    5,468  
Less: debt issued or assumed
    (1,121 )
Less: issuance of shares
    (37 )
Cash Paid
  $ 4,310  
 
During 2012, the Company acquired four independent businesses and purchased the remaining non-controlling interest in one of its subsidiaries. The results of operations of these acquisitions have been included in the Company's consolidated financial statements and include $3.1 million in revenue and the related loss was insignificant to the Company's overall net loss from continuing operations. None of these acquisitions were significant individually or in the aggregate to the Company's consolidated financial results and therefore, supplemental pro forma financial information is not presented.
 
 
F-16

 
 
NOTE 4 — PRIOR PERIOD RECLASSIFICATION
 
In the first quarter of 2014, the Company began implementing a realignment of its field service and sales organization and as a result the primary function of certain job titles has shifted from primarily a sales, to a service focus.  The additional service activities involve more frequent field visits to perform preventative maintenance, repairs, evaluation of product and service solutions and required inventory levels.  This realignment of the field service and sales organization was implemented in stages during 2014.  Payroll expense related to these job titles was historically classified within “Selling, general and administrative expenses” in the Consolidated Statement of Operations and Comprehensive Loss, based on the primary job focuses of sales and administration.  Based on the changes in the job functions, the related payroll expense is classified within “Route expense”, which the Company defines as the employee costs incurred to provide service and deliver products to customers.  To facilitate comparability between the periods presented in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Loss for the twelve months ended December 31, 2013 certain selling, general and administrative expenses have been reclassified to route expense to conform to the current period’s presentation which resulted in an $11.9 million increase in route expense and a $11.9 million decrease in selling, general and administrative expense.  The reclassification for the twelve months ended December 31, 2012 resulted in a $12.5 million increase in route expense and a $12.5 million decrease in selling, general and administrative expense.  There was no impact to loss from continuing operations, net loss or loss per share as a result of the 2013 and 2012 reclassifications.
 
NOTE 5 — GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS
 
Goodwill and other intangible assets have been recognized in connection with the Company’s acquisitions and substantially all of the balance is expected to be fully deductible for income tax purposes over 15 years.  Changes in the carrying amount of goodwill during the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 were as follows:
 
   
2014
   
2013
 
Gross balance- beginning
  $ 5,821     $ 107,228  
Additions related to acquisitions (Note 3)
    -       150  
Adjustment to the lower of carrying or fair market value for Assets Held for Sale (Note 2)
    -       (4,703 )
Reclassification of goodwill to Assets Held for Sale (Note 2)
    -       (2,790 )
Dispositions (Note 2)
    -       -  
                 
Gross balance – ending
    5,821       99,885  
Accumulated impairment loss
    (5,821 )     (94,064 )
Net balance – ending
  $ -     $ 5,821  
  
The Company’s accounting policy was to perform an annual goodwill impairment test in the fourth quarter or more frequently whenever events or circumstances indicated that goodwill or the carrying value of intangible assets may not be recoverable.  On a quarterly basis, we monitor the key drivers of fair value to detect the existence of indicators or changes that would warrant an interim impairment test for our goodwill and intangible assets.   Due to a shortfall in sales compared to expectations in the quarter ended June 30, 2014, the Company elected to bypass the qualitative analysis step and proceed directly to step 1 of the goodwill impairment test.  Step 1 of the goodwill impairment test was performed with the assistance of an independent valuation specialist using the discounted cash flow method (“DCF”.)  Based on this analysis, it was determined that the Company’s net book value exceeded its fair value thereby necessitating the performance of step 2 of the goodwill impairment test.  The decrease in estimated fair value was driven by lower actual revenue compared to 2014 projections.  The growth rates for the second half of 2014 and the first half of 2015 were revised to reflect the lower revenue during the six months ended June 30, 2014.  The effect of these revisions resulted in a loss of estimated fair value resulting in a write-off of the remaining goodwill balance with a non-cash impairment charge of $5.8 million during 2014.  
 
In connection with its 2013 fourth quarter evaluation of goodwill, the Company elected to bypass the qualitative analysis step and proceed directly to step 1 of the goodwill impairment test.  This decision was based largely on the results of the 2013 third quarter interim impairment test that indicated the Company’s goodwill was at high risk of impairment given the narrow difference identified between fair value and book value.  It was determined that the Company’s net book value exceeded its fair value thereby necessitating the performance of step 2 of the goodwill impairment test.  In performing Step 2 of the impairment test, with the assistance of valuation specialists, we compared the implied fair value of the reporting unit’s goodwill to its carrying value.  This test resulted in a non-cash impairment charge of $93.2 million in 2013.  The goodwill impairment can be attributed to the Company’s history of operating losses and continued deterioration of its stock price.
 
We believe the cash flow projections and valuation assumptions used were reasonable and consistent with market participants. The key variables that drive our cash flows are customer growth and attrition and operational efficiencies.  The terminal value growth rate assumption as well as the WACC rate both represent additional key variables in the DCF model.  The estimates and assumptions used are subject to uncertainty. 
 
 
F-17

 
 
Other Intangible Assets
 
   
Weighted-average Amortization Period (Years)
   
Carrying Amount
   
Accumulated Amortization
   
Net
 
At December 31, 2014
                       
Customer relationships
    8.9     $ 50,635     $ (27,838 )   $ 22,792  
Non-compete agreements
    4       9,098       (8,032 )     1,066  
Formulas
    20       4,544       (767 )     3,777  
Trademarks/ Trade names
 
(A
)     2,151       (340 )     1,811  
Total
          $ 66,428     $ (36,982 )   $ 29,446  
                                 
At December 31, 2013
                               
Customer relationships
    8.9     $ 50,635     $ (22,060 )   $ 28,575  
Non-compete agreements
    4       9,098       (6,380 )     2,718  
Formulas
    20       4,544       (545 )     3,999  
Trademarks/ Trade names
 
(A
)     2,059       (340 )     1,719  
Total
          $ 66,336     $ (29,325 )   $ 37,011  
 
(A) Consist of indefinite lived and finite lived intangible assets.
 
The fair value of the customer relationships acquired is based on future discounted cash flows expected to be generated from those customers. These customer relationships will be amortized on a straight-line basis over five to ten years, which is primarily based on historical customer attrition rates.  The fair value of the non-compete agreements will be amortized on a straight-line basis over the length of the agreements, typically with terms of five years or less.  The fair value of formulas is amortized on a straight-line basis over twenty years.  As of December 31, 2012, all trademarks and trade names are considered indefinite lived intangibles. 
 
During 2013, approximately $2.5 million in customer relationships and non-compete assets were reclassified to assets held for sale as further discussed in Note 3, “Discontinued Operations and Assets Held for Sale.”  The Company recorded $0.6 million in impairment losses related to customer relationships and non-compete agreements that was recognized and included in other expense, net. 
 
Amortization expense was $7.7 million, $8.1 million, and $8.7 million for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. At December 31, 2014, estimated future amortization of separately identifiable intangibles for each of the next five years and thereafter is: 2015 -$6.3 million, 2016 - $4.2 million, 2017 - $3.5 million, 2018 - $3.5 million, 2019 - $3.5 million and thereafter - $6.6 million.
 
NOTE 6 — INVENTORY
 
Inventory is comprised of the following components at December 31, 2014 and 2013:
 
      December 31,  
   
2014
   
2013
 
Finished goods
  $ 12,285     $ 11,587  
Raw materials
    2,781       2,042  
Work in process
    360       403  
Total
  $ 15,426     $ 14,032  
 
 
F-18

 
 
NOTE 7 — PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT
 
Property and equipment, net as of December 31, 2014 and 2013 consist of the following:
  
      December 31,  
   
2014
   
2013
 
Items in service
  $ 48,928     $ 47,851  
Equipment, laundry facility equipment and furniture
    10,276       9,456  
Vehicles
    2,380       2,723  
Computer equipment
    2,312       2,480  
Computer software
    7,378       7,236  
Building and leasehold improvements
    6,191       6,127  
      77,465       75,873  
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization
    (40,428 )     (32,031 )
Property and equipment, net
  $ 37,037     $ 43,842  
 
        Depreciation and amortization expense on property and equipment for the years ended December 2014, 2013, and 2012 was $13.6 million, $14.0 million, and $12.3 million, respectively. The cost and accumulated depreciation of fully depreciated assets are removed from the accounts when assets are disposed.
 
As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, computer software includes costs of $6.3 million and $6.1 million, respectively, for upgrades to our enterprise reporting management system and the development of our technology platform for field service operations, accounting, billing and collections. The accumulated depreciation was $5.0 million and $4.1 million as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. The weighted average amortization period for capitalized software costs is 7 years. Depreciation and amortization expense for capitalized computer software costs was $0.9 million for each of the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012. At December 31, 2014, estimated amortization of computer software costs for each of the next five years is: 2015 - $0.4 million, 2016 - $0.3 million, 2017 - $0.3 million, 2018 - $0.2 million, and $0.1 million thereafter.
 
As of December 31, 2014, property and equipment includes $0.4 million in recorded capital leases with $0.2 million in accumulated depreciation. The gross amount of property and equipment recorded under capital leases consists of $0.2 million in computers and $0.2 million in machinery and equipment.  As of December 31, 2013, property and equipment includes $0.9 million recorded in capital leases with $0.4 million in accumulated depreciation. The gross amount of property and equipment recorded under capital leases consists of $0.2 million in computers, $0.1 million in machinery and equipment and $0.6 million in dish machines.
  
NOTE 8 — LONG-TERM DEBT AND OBLIGATIONS
 
The major components of debt as of December 31, 2014 and 2013 consist of the following:
 
      December 31,  
   
2014
   
2013
 
Notes payable
  $ 1,193     $ 1,721  
Convertible promissory notes, 4.0%: maturing at various dates through 2016
    832       2,679  
Capitalized lease obligations and other financing
    1,044       2,854  
Total debt and obligations
    3,069       7,254  
Long-term debt and obligations due within one year
    (1,884 )     (5,251 )
Long-term debt and obligations
  $ 1,185     $ 2,003  
 
 
F-19

 
 
At December 31, 2014, principal debt payments due for each of the next five years and thereafter are: 2015 - $1.9 million, 2016 - $0.5 million, 2017 - $0.3 million, 2018 - $0.3 million, and thereafter – $0.1 million.
 
Acquisition Related Notes Payable
 
In connection with certain acquisitions, the Company incurred or assumed notes payable as part of the purchase price. Two of the seller notes payable totaling $1.2 million as of December 31, 2014 are secured by letters of credit and the remaining notes payable are secured by the Company. At December 31, 2014 and 2013, these obligations bore interest at rates ranging between 3.7% and 4.0%.
 
Capital lease obligations and Other Financing
 
The Company has entered into capitalized lease obligations with third party finance companies to finance the cost of certain dish machines. At December 31, 2014 and 2013, these obligations bore interest at rates ranging between 4.0% and 18.4%.  The Company has also entered into notes payables with third party finance companies to pay various insurance premiums.  At December 31, 2014 and 2013, these obligations bore interest at rates ranging between 2.3% and 2.8%.
 
Convertible promissory notes
 
During 2012 and 2011, the Company issued eighteen convertible promissory notes with an aggregate principal value of $10.9 million as part of total consideration paid for acquisitions that were recorded at fair value on the date of issuance. The Company makes quarterly cash payments through each note’s maturity date. The ability to settle these notes with shares exist at the Company’s election into a maximum of 2,823,853 shares of common stock. The Company may settle these notes at any time prior to and including the maturity date any portion of the outstanding principal amount, plus accrued interest in a combination of cash and shares of common stock. To the extent that the Company’s common stock is part of such settlement, the settlement price is the most recent closing price of the Company’s common stock on the trading day prior to the date of settlement.  Although none of these notes have been settled to date with shares, if all notes outstanding at December 31, 2014 were to be settled with shares, the Company would issue approximately 444,886 shares of common stock. These notes do not require remeasurement to fair value after the business combination dates.
 
During 2011, the Company issued two convertible promissory notes with an aggregate principal value of $3.4 million as part of total consideration paid for acquisitions and were recorded at fair value on the date of issuance, maturing in 2012 and 2013. The holder was able to convert all or a portion of the principal and interest into shares of the Company’s common stock at any time, but not later than the maturity date at a fixed conversion rate of $5.00 per share. In addition, the Company had the option to deliver at any time prior to and including the maturity date any portion of the outstanding principal and accrued interest in shares of common stock. The conversion price at which the principal and accrued interest subject to settlement would be converted to common stock is the lesser of (i) the volume weighted average price for the five trading days on NASDAQ immediately prior to the date of conversion, and (ii) the fixed conversion rate; provided, however, that the closing price per share of common stock as reported on NASDAQ on the trading day immediately preceding the date of conversion was not less than $5.00. The notes were convertible by the holder into a maximum 675,040 shares of the Company’s common stock although conversion never occurred. The Company made the last required cash payment on these notes during the fourth quarter of 2012.  These notes were carried at fair value and the Company adjusted their carrying value to fair value through operating results as described further in Note 9, “Fair Value Measurements."
 
 Equipment Financing
 
In August 2011, the Company entered into an agreement, which provided financing up to $16.4 million for new and used trucks, carts, compactors, and containers for the Waste segment. The financing consisted of one or more fixed rate loans that had a term of five years. The interest rate for borrowings under this facility was determined at the time of each such borrowing and was based on a spread over the five year U.S. swap rate. The commitment letter had an expiration date of February 2012, with a renewal option of six months, if approved. During 2011, the Company made borrowings of $8.9 million at an average interest rate of 3.55%.  Separately in August 2011, the Company entered into an agreement to finance new and replacement vehicles for its fleet that allowed for one or more fixed rate loans totaling, in the aggregate, no more than $18.6 million. The commitment, which expired in June 2012, was secured by Waste segment’s vehicles and containers. The interest rate for borrowings under this facility were determined at the time of the loan and were based on a spread above the U.S. swap rate for the applicable term, either four or five years. Borrowings under this loan commitment were subject to the same financial covenants as the $100.0 million credit facility discussed below and were $6.9 million during 2011. Borrowings under these agreements were subsequently paid off using proceeds from the disposition of the Waste segment as discussed in Note 2, “Discontinued Operations and Assets Held for Sale.”
 
 
F-20

 
 
2011 Revolving Credit Facilities
 
In March 2011, we entered into a $100.0 million senior secured revolving Credit Facility (the "Credit Facility"), which replaced the Company’s former credit facilities. Under the Credit Facility, the Company had an initial borrowing availability of $32.5 million, which increased to the fully committed $100.0 million upon delivery of our unaudited quarterly financial statements for the quarter ended March 31, 2011 and satisfaction of certain financial covenants regarding leverage and coverage ratios and a minimum liquidity requirement, which requirements we met as of March 31, 2011.   Borrowings under the Credit Facility were secured by a first priority lien on substantially all existing and subsequently acquired assets, including $25.0 million of cash on borrowings in excess of $75.0 million. Furthermore, borrowings under the facility were guaranteed by all domestic subsidiaries and secured by substantially all assets and stock of domestic subsidiaries and substantially all stock of foreign subsidiaries. Interest on borrowings under the Credit Facility typically accrued at London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) plus 2.5% to 4.0%, depending on the ratio of senior debt to “Adjusted EBITDA” (as such term is defined in the credit facility, which included specified adjustments and allowances authorized by the lender). The Company also had the option to request swingline loans and borrowings using a base rate. Interest was payable monthly or quarterly on all outstanding borrowings.
 
Borrowings and availability under the Credit Facility were subject to compliance with financial covenants, including achieving specified consolidated Adjusted EBITDA levels and maintaining leverage and coverage ratios and a minimum liquidity requirement. The Credit Facility also placed restrictions on our ability to incur additional indebtedness, to make certain acquisitions, to create liens or other encumbrances, to sell or otherwise dispose of assets, and to merge or consolidate with other entities or enter into a change of control transaction. In August 2011, the Company entered into an amendment to the Credit Facility that modified the covenants, including an increase in permitted new indebtedness to $40.0 million. The Credit Facility was subject to other standard default provisions.  During 2012, we amended our Credit Facility with Wells Fargo Bank, National Association on each of April 12, 2012, May 15, 2012, June 28, 2012, July 30, 2012, August 31, 2012, September 27, 2012, and October 31, 2012, in each case, primarily to extend the dates by which we were required to file our 2011 Form 10-K and Forms 10-Q for the quarters ended March 31, 2012, June 30, 2012 and September 30, 2012 and to avoid potential defaults for not timely filing these reports. In addition, the August 31, 2012 amendment reduced the Company’s maximum borrowing limit to $50.0 million, provided that the Company met certain borrowing base requirements. The September 27, 2012 amendment further reduced the Company’s maximum borrowing limit to $25.0 million, provided that the Company met certain modified borrowing base requirements. The October 31, 2012 amendment required the Company to place certain amounts in a collateral account under the sole control of the administrative agent to meet the Company’s unencumbered liquidity requirements. In connection with the sale of our Waste segment on November 15, 2012, as discussed in Note 2 “Discontinued Operations and Assets Held for Sale,” we paid off the Credit Facility which resulted in its termination.
 
2014 Revolving Credit Facility
 
On August 29, 2014, the Company entered into a $20.0 million revolving credit facility, through the execution of a Loan and Security Agreement, by and among the Company, as Guarantor, and certain subsidiaries of the Company, collectively, as Borrower, and Siena Lending Group LLC, as Lender (the “Credit Facility”).  The Credit Facility matures on August 29, 2017.  Interest on borrowings under the Credit Facility will accrue at the Base Rate plus 2.00% and will be payable monthly.  Base Rate is defined as the greater of (1) the Prime Rate, (2) the Federal Funds Rate plus 0.50%, or (3) 3.25%.  Borrowings and availability under the Credit Facility are subject to a borrowing base and limitations, and compliance with other terms specified in the agreement.  Borrowings under the Credit Facility are secured by a first priority lien on certain of the Company’s and its subsidiaries’ assets.  The calculated borrowing base as of December 31, 2014 was $13.3 million, of which $4.4 million was outstanding under letters of credit and $8.9 million was unused.  The Credit Facility contains certain customary representations and warranties, and certain customary covenants on the Company’s ability to, among other things, incur additional indebtedness, create liens or other encumbrances, sell or otherwise dispose of assets, pay dividends, and merge or consolidate with other entities or enter into a change of control transaction. The Credit Facility contains various events of default.  The Company was not in default with covenants under the Credit Facility as of December 31, 2014. As of March 30, 2015, the balance on the Credit Facility is $3.2 million.
 
 NOTE 9 — FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS
 
The fair value of the above convertible promissory notes issued as part of acquisitions is based primarily on a Black-Scholes pricing model. The significant management assumptions and estimates used in determining the fair value include the expected term and volatility of the Company’s common stock. The expected volatility is based on an analysis of industry peer's historical stock price over the term of the note, which is estimated at approximately 25.0%. The Company believes that using a peer group stock volatility rate is appropriate given the Company’s relatively short history as a public company, which involved a high growth phase and the audit committee investigation, discussed further in Note 16 “Commitments and Contingencies,” which resulted in the delinquent filings of certain of the Company's financial statement filings with the SEC related to 2011 and 2012. The convertible promissory notes are Level 3 financial instruments since they are not traded on an active market and there are unobservable inputs, such as expected volatility used to determine the fair value of these instruments.
  
 
F-21

 
 
In addition, during 2011, the Company issued an earn-out that was to be settled in up to 90,909 shares of common stock held in escrow within one year from the date of acquisition or once the acquired business’s revenue achieves an agreed upon level. In 2012, the Company released from escrow all 90,909 shares of common stock to the sellers. The following table is a reconciliation of changes in fair value of the notes and contingent earn-outs that are required to be marked to market each subsequent reporting period under generally acceptable accounting principles, and have been classified as Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013:
 
   
2014
   
2013
 
             
Balance at beginning of period
  $ -     $ 886  
Settlement/conversion of convertible promissory notes
    -       (886 )
Balance at end of period
  $ -     $ -  
 
         In connection with a distribution agreement entered into in December 2010, the Company provided a guarantee that the distributor's operating cash flows associated with the agreement would not fall below certain agreed-to minimums, subject to certain pre-defined conditions, over the ten year term of the distribution agreement.  If the distributor's annual operating cash flow does fall below the agreed-to annual minimums, the Company will reimburse the distributor for any such short fall up to a pre-designated amount. No value was assigned to the fair value of the guarantee at December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013 based on a probability assessment of the projected cash flows. This liability would be considered a Level 3 financial instrument given the unobservable inputs used in the projected cash flow model.  There have been no transfers between Level 1, 2, and 3 financial instruments during the three years ended December 31, 2014.
 
Non-Recurring Fair Value Measurements
 
 There were no assets held for sale at December 31, 2014.  The asset held for sale balance at December 31, 2013 was $4.5 million.   Total impairment adjustments to the estimated fair value of the Company’s assets held for sale for the twelve months ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 were $3.0 million and $6.4 million, respectively.  Fair value is based on the estimated net proceeds from the sale of the assets which are derived based on a number of factors; including standard industry multiples of revenues or operating metrics and the status of ongoing sales negotiations and asset purchase agreements where available.  Our estimates of fair value are regularly reviewed and subject to changes based on market conditions, changes in the customer base of the operations or routes and our continuing evaluation as to the facility's acceptable sale price. These assets are measured using Level 3 inputs.
 
NOTE 10 — ADVANCES FROM SHAREHOLDERS
 
In August 2010, the Company borrowed $2.0 million for working capital purposes, pursuant to an unsecured note payable to one of its shareholders that bore interest at the short-term Applicable Federal Rate. The note was paid in full following the sale of the Waste segment which is discussed in Note 2 “Discontinued Operations and Assets Held for Sale”. As of the date of the Merger, the Company had borrowed $21.4 million under an unsecured note payable to one of its shareholders. The note bore interest at the one month LIBOR plus 2.0%. Interest accrued on the note was included in accrued expenses and was $0.8 million as of the date of the Merger. These advances plus accrued interest were converted into equity upon completion of the Merger.
 
NOTE 11 —OTHER RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
 
The Company paid fees for training course development and utilization of the delivery platform from a company, the majority of which is owned by a partnership in which a former director and two former executives of the Company have a controlling interest.  Fees paid during fiscal years 2014, 2013 and 2012 were $0.1 million in each of the three years.
 
 The Company purchased chemical products from an entity owned, in full or in part, by a Company employee.  Purchases were $5.4 million, $7.2 million and $7.4 million for the fiscal years ended 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively.  At December 31, 2014 and 2013, the Company has $0.3 million and $0.6 million included in accounts payable to these entities, respectively.  
 
During the year ended December 31, 2014, the Company was obligated to make lease payments pursuant to certain real property and equipment lease agreements with employees that were former owners of acquired companies. During 2014, 2013, and 2012, the Company paid $0.9 million, $1.2 million and $1.3 million, respectively, related to these leases.
 
In connection with the acquisition of Choice, we entered into capital leases that had initial terms of five or ten years with companies owned by former shareholders of Choice, to finance the cost of leasing office buildings and properties, including warehouses.  The Company sold its Waste segment, which consisted principally of Choice, during the fourth quarter of 2012, as more fully described in Note 2, “Discontinued Operations and Assets Held for Sale,” and in connection therewith transferred all remaining capital lease obligations to the buyers.
 
 
F-22

 
 
NOTE 12 — INCOME TAXES
 
Net loss from continuing operations before income taxes for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 includes:
 
   
 
2014
   
2013
   
2012
 
Domestic
  $ (42,457 )   $ (152,061 )   $ (61,400 )
Foreign
    (4,440 )     (1,065 )     (622 )
                         
Net loss from continuing operations before income taxes
  $ (46,897 )   $ (153,126 )   $ (62,022 )
 
The components of the income tax (benefit) expense on continuing operations for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 includes:
 
 
   
 
2014
   
2013
   
2012
 
Current Federal, state and foreign
  $ 2     $ (41 )   $ 383  
Deferred:
                       
Federal and state
    13       (2,596 )     18,565  
Foreign
    (104 )     43       (195 )
Total income tax (benefit) expense
  $ (89 )   $ (2,594 )   $ 18,753  

    A reconciliation of the statutory U.S. Federal income tax rate to the Company’s effective income tax rate applicable to continuing operations for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012 is as follows:
 
   
2014
   
2013
   
2012
 
                   
U.S. Federal statutory rate
    35 %     35 %     35 %
State and local taxes, net of Federal benefit
    3       3       3  
Goodwill impairment
    (1 )     (3 )     -  
Other permanent expenses
    (1 )     -       -  
Change in valuation allowance
    (36 )     (33 )     (68 )
Effective income tax rate
    -   %     2 %     (30 ) %

 
F-23

 
 
Deferred income taxes reflect the net tax effect of temporary differences between amounts recorded for financial reporting purposes and amounts used for tax purposes. The major components of deferred tax assets and liabilities from continuing operations are as follows:
 
   
2014
   
2013
 
Deferred tax assets
           
Basis difference in goodwill
  $ 26,449     $ 29,040  
Net operating loss carryforward
    55,862       39,772  
Basis difference in other intangible assets
    3,462       2,838  
Stock based compensation
    3,498       3,382  
Allowance for uncollectible receivables
    1,184       908  
State basis difference in property and equipment
    890       916  
Inventory
    550       1,559  
Accrued liabilities
    1,827       2,205  
Other
    127       127  
Total deferred income tax assets
    93,849       80,747  
Valuation allowance
    (86,784 )     (71,363 )
Net deferred tax assets
    7,065       9,384  
                 
Deferred tax liabilities
               
Basis difference in property and equipment
    7,089       9,502  
Total deferred tax liabilities
    7,089       9,502  
                 
Total net deferred income tax liabilities
  $ 24     $ 118  

The net deferred income tax liability of $0.1 million as of December 31, 2014 consists of the current asset of $0.5 million and non-current liability of $0.6 million.  The net deferred income tax liability of $0.1 million as of December 31, 2013 consists of the current asset of $0.9 million and non-current liability of $1.0 million.
  
For the year ended December 31, 2013, there was a deferred tax liability associated with excess book over tax goodwill as it relates to the Company’s Canadian subsidiary.  As goodwill is considered to be an indefinite lived intangible, this associated deferred tax liability is not allowed to be netted with other deferred tax assets in determining the need for a valuation allowance.  This resulted in an overall net deferred tax liability after applying the valuation allowance.
 
Due to the impairment of goodwill for book purposes as of June 30, 2014, a deferred tax asset exists related to goodwill for the Canadian subsidiary.  Given the change from 2013 to 2014, from a deferred tax liability to a deferred tax asset, a tax benefit for 2014 of approximately $0.1 million was recognized.
 
On September 13, 2013 the U.S. Department of the Treasury issued final regulations that provide guidance on capitalization of tangible property.  These regulations will result in our adoption of certain accounting method changes with respect to property and equipment, inventory and supplies.  We are currently analyzing these accounting method changes, which will be adopted during the 2015 tax year, but we do not believe they will have a material impact on the consolidated financial statements.
 
The Company has incurred significant net losses for financial reporting purposes. Recognition of deferred tax assets will require generation of future taxable income. A valuation allowance is required to reduce the deferred tax assets reported if, based on the weight of the evidence, it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. During the twelve month period ended December 31, 2014, the Company concluded that the likelihood of realization of the benefits associated with its U.S. deferred tax assets does not reach the level of more likely than not.  As a result, the Company continues to recognize a full valuation allowance on all U.S. deferred tax assets as of at December 31, 2014.   As of each reporting date, the Company will consider new evidence, both positive and negative, that could impact its view with regard to future realization of deferred tax assets.  The Company does not consider the deferred tax liabilities related to indefinite lived intangible assets when determining the need for a valuation allowance.
 
At December 31, 2014 and 2013, net operating loss (“NOL”) carryforwards for federal income tax purposes were $145.9 million and $104.4 million. The Federal NOL’s will begin to expire in 2030 and the various state NOL’s will begin to expire between the years 2025 and 2030.
 
We have no recorded uncertain tax positions, therefore, there would be no impact to the effective tax rate. The Company includes interest and penalties accrued in the consolidated financial statements as a component of interest expense. No significant amounts were required to be recorded as of December 31, 2014 and 2013 or during the three year period ended December 31, 2014. The tax years ended December 31, 2011 through December 31, 2014 are considered to be open under statute and therefore may be subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service and various state jurisdictions. We do not expect the unrecognized tax benefits to change significantly over the next 12 months.
 
 
F-24

 
 
NOTE 13 — EQUITY MATTERS
 
Comprehensive Loss
 
A summary of the changes in each component of accumulated other comprehensive loss for the year ended December 31, 2014 is provided below:
 
  
 
Foreign Exchange
   
Defined Benefit Plan
   
Total
 
Balance at December 31, 2013
  $ (94 )   $ (435 )   $ (529 )
Current period other comprehensive loss
    (31 )     (747 )     (778 )
Balance at December 31, 2014
  $ (125 )   $ (1,182 )   $ (1,307 )
 
Stock Based Compensation
 
In November 2010, our board of directors approved, subject to shareholder approval, the Swisher Hygiene Inc. 2010 Stock Incentive Plan (the “SIP Plan”) to attract, retain, motivate and reward key officers and employees. The SIP Plan, which was approved by shareholders in May 2011 allows for the grant of stock options, restricted stock units and other equity instruments up to a total of 1,140,000 shares of the Company’s common stock.
 
All options are exercisable at a price equal to the closing market value of the Company’s common stock on the date immediately preceding the grant.  Options generally vest in four equal annual installments beginning on the first anniversary of the grant date and generally expire ten years from the date of grant.  Restricted stock units are issued at the closing market value of the Company’s common stock on the date immediately preceding the grant and generally vest over four years with the first vesting occurring twelve months after the award and the remaining vesting occurring on the subsequent anniversary dates of the award.  Recipients of both options and restricted stock units may not sell or transfer their shares until the recipient receives the shares underlying the award.
 
 Stock Option Activity
 
A summary of the Company’s stock option activity and related information for 2014 and 2013 is as follows:
  
    Outstanding Options  
   
Number of Options
   
Weighted Average Exercise Price
   
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term (in years)
   
Aggregate Intrinsic Value (in millions)
 
                         
Balance at December 31, 2012
    305,366     $ 43.84              
Options granted
    321,632     $ 7.89              
Options cancelled
    (101,118 )   $ 46.14              
Options exercised
    -                      
Balance at December 31, 2013
    525,880     $ 22.05              
Options granted
    378,000     $ 4.10              
Options cancelled
    (194,634 )   $ 18.00              
Options exercised
    -                      
Balance at December 31, 2014
    709,246     $ 13.59       8.66     $ -  
                                 
Expected to Vest after December 31, 2014
    138,094     $ 12.21       8.47     $ -  
Exercisable at December 31, 2014
    153,924     $ 33.85       7.05     $ -  
 
    The aggregate intrinsic value represents the value of the Company’s closing stock price on the last trading day of the fiscal period in excess of the weighted average exercise price multiplied by the number of options outstanding or exercisable.  Total intrinsic value of options at time of exercise was $0.0 million, $0.0 million and $0.2 million for 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.  The weighted average grant-date fair value of options granted was $1.47, $2.80 and $7.20 for 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
 
 
F-25

 
 
In connection with the Merger, options previously issued by CoolBrands that were outstanding at the date of the Merger were fully vested and all related compensation expense was recognized by CoolBrands prior to November 2, 2010, the Merger date. At December 31, 2012, 17,500 options remain outstanding and exercisable at a weighted average price of $7.89, weighted average remaining contractual life of 1.6 years and an aggregate intrinsic value of $0.2 million. At December 31, 2013, 17,500 options remain outstanding and exercisable at a weighted average price of $7.89, weighted average remaining contractual life of 0.6 years and an aggregate intrinsic value of $0.0 million.  At December 31, 2014, 6,000 options remain outstanding and exercisable at a weighted average price of $11.50, weighted average remaining contractual life of 0.2 years and an aggregate intrinsic value of $0.0 million.
 
The exercise prices for options granted during 2014 and 2013 ranged from $4.04 to $4.80 per share and $5.90 to $9.30 per share, respectively. 
 
Restricted Stock Units
 
A summary of the Company’s restricted stock activity for 2014 and 2013 is as follows:
 
   
Number of Restricted Stock Units
   
Weighted - Average Grant Date Fair Value
   
Aggregate Intrinsic Value (in millions)
 
                   
Balance at December 31, 2012
    89,660     $ 51.47     $ 1.6  
Granted
    32,229     $ 12.32          
Vested
    (66,921 )   $ 31.57          
Forfeited
    (16,782 )   $ 40.53          
Balance at December 31, 2013
    38,186     $ 56.06     $ 0.2  
Granted
    53,873     $ 3.71          
Vested
    (73,786 )   $ 17.67          
Forfeited
    (11,507 )   $ 42.26          
Balance at December 31, 2014
    6,766     $ 81.38     $ -  
 
Stock Based Compensation
 
Stock based compensation cost for stock options as calculated by the Company using Black-Scholes option-pricing model with the following assumptions:
  
   
 
2014
   
2013
   
2012
 
                   
Expected dividend yield
    -       -       -  
Risk free interest rate
    1.9% - 2.0 %     1.5% - 1.9 %     0.9% - 1.2 %
Expected volatility
    32.70 %     30.70 %     30.70 %
Expected life (years)
    6.25       6.25       6.25  
 
The expected dividend yield was assumed to be zero as we have not paid, and do not anticipate paying, cash dividends on our shares of common stock. The risk-free interest rate is determined based on a yield curve of U.S. treasury rates based on the expected life of the options granted. The expected volatility was based on an analysis of industry peers historical stock price and the terms of the equity awards.  The Company believes that using a peer group stock volatility rate is appropriate given the Company’s relatively short history as a public company, which involved a high growth phase and the audit committee investigation  discussed further in Note 15 “Commitments and Contingencies,” both of which occurred in 2012.  The expected life is based on the simplified method as we do not have sufficient historical exercise data to provide a reasonable basis upon which to estimate the expected life of our stock options. The Company estimates forfeitures based on estimated turnover by relevant employee categories.  The Company recognizes stock based compensation on a straight line basis over the requisite service period.
 
 
F-26

 
 
For the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, the Company recognized stock based compensation expense of $1.7 million, $2.9 million and $3.5 million, respectively, in the consolidated statements of operations for both stock options and restricted stock units.  At December 31, 2014, the total unrecognized compensation costs related to outstanding stock options and restricted stock units is $1.0 million.
 
Subsequent to the Company’s notification from NASDAQ in June of 2013, that indicated the Company had completed all outstanding filing requirements and had regained compliance with NASDAQ listing rules, the Company was in a position to settle previously vested RSUs. During 2013, the Company issued the underlying 832,819 shares of common stock and withheld 274,061 shares to cover the required statutory withholding tax totaling $0.2 million, which was determined based on the closing price of our common stock on the date of issuance.  These shares are considered retired under the provisions of the Swisher Hygiene Inc. 2010 Stock Incentive Plan. See Note 16, "Commitments and Contingencies" - in the Other Related Matters section.
 
NOTE 14 — RETIREMENT PLAN
 
An acquired subsidiary of CoolBrands maintained a defined benefit pension plan (the "Plan") covering substantially all salaried and certain executive employees.  Subsequent to the acquisition of this subsidiary in 2000 by CoolBrands, all future participation and all benefits under the Plan were frozen. The Plan provides retirement benefits based primarily on employee compensation and years of service up to the date of acquisition. As part of the Merger, on November 2, 2010, Swisher recorded the net underfunded pension obligation of $0.6 million.
 
 The following table reconciles the changes in benefit obligations and Plan assets as of December 31, 2014 and 2013 and reconciles the funded status to accrued benefit cost at December 31, 2014 and 2013:
 
   
Benefit Obligation (In thousands)
 
       
At December 31, 2012
  $ 3,421  
Interest cost
    125  
Actuarial gain
    (353 )
Benefit payments
    (117 )
At December 31, 2013
    3,076  
Interest cost
    139  
Actuarial loss
    697  
Benefit payments
    (117 )
At December 31, 2014
  $ 3,795  
 
   
Plan Assets (In thousands)
 
         
At December 31, 2012
  $ 2,045  
Actual return on plan assets
    272  
Employer contributions
    21  
Benefit payments
    (117 )
At December 31, 2013
    2,221  
Actual return on plan assets
    108  
Employer contributions
    98  
Benefit payments
    (117 )
At December 31, 2014
  $ 2,310  
 
As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, the net underfunded status of the defined benefit plan is $1.5 million and $0.8 million, respectively, which is recognized as accrued benefit cost in other long-term liabilities on the Consolidated Financial Statements.  Unrecognized (gains) losses recorded in accumulated other comprehensive loss in the consolidated financial statements were ($1.2) million, ($0.5) million and $0.1 million for the periods ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
 
 
F-27

 
            
The following table provides the components of the net periodic benefit cost (income) for each of the respective fiscal years:
  
   
2014
   
2013
   
2012
 
                   
Interest cost
  $ 139     $ 125     $ 131  
Expected return on Plan assets
    (166 )     (149 )     (138 )
Recognized net actuarial loss
    8       27       21  
Net periodic benefit cost (income)
  $ (19 )   $ 3     $ 14  
 
 The key assumptions used in the measurement of the benefit obligation are the discount rate and the expected return on Plan assets for each of the respective years are:
 
   
 
2014
   
2013
   
2012
 
                   
Discount rate
   
3.8
%
   
4.6
%
   
3.7
Expected return on Plan assets
   
7.5
%
   
7.5
%
   
7.5
 
The rate used to discount pension benefit plan liabilities was based on the Citigroup Pension Discount Curve at December 31, 2014 and 2013. The estimated future cash flows for the pension obligation were matched to the corresponding rates on the yield curve to derive a weighted average discount rate.
 
The expected return on Plan assets was developed by determining projected stock and bond returns and then applying these returns to the target asset allocations of the employee benefit trusts, resulting in a weighted average return on Plan assets. The actual historical returns of the Plan assets were also considered.
 
Based on the latest actuarial report as of December 31, 2014, the Company expects that there will be minimum regulatory funding requirements of $0.1 million that will need to be made during fiscal 2015.
 
Expected benefit payments under the Plan over future years are:  2015 - $0.1 million, 2016 - $0.2 million, 2017 - $0.2 million, 2018 - $0.2 million, 2019 - $0.2 million and 2020 to 2024 – $1.0 million.
 
 Plan Assets
 
The Company’s investment strategy is to obtain the highest possible return commensurate with the level of assumed risk. Investments are well diversified within each of the major asset categories. The Company’s allocation of Plan assets and target allocations are as follows:
 
   
 
Fair Value Measurements
 
   
Level 1 as of December 31,
 
   
2014
   
2013
 
Equities:
           
  U. S.
  $ 1,116     $ 1,205  
  International
    337       340  
Fixed Income:
               
  U. S.
    560       554  
  International
    82       81  
Cash, cash equivalents and other
    215       51  
Total
  $ 2,310     $ 2,231  

 
F-28

 
 
The U.S. and International equities are actively traded on a public exchange and are considered Level 1 assets. The fixed income securities are corporate and government bonds that are valued based on prices in active markets for identical transactions and are considered Level 1 assets. There were no Plan assets categorized as Level 2 or Level 3 as of December 31, 2014 or 2013. There were no significant transfers between Level 1, 2, or Level 3 during the fiscal years 2014 or 2013. See Note 1, “Operations and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies,” for a description of the fair value hierarchy.
 
 NOTE 15 — LOSS PER SHARE
 
        Basic net loss from continuing operations and discontinuing operations attributable to common stockholders per share is computed by dividing the applicable net loss attributable to common stockholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period.  Shares of common stock underlying outstanding stock options of which the market price of the common stock is lower than the exercise price of the related options were not considered for any dilutive earnings per share calculation.  Shares of common stock underlying unvested restricted stock awards of 6,766, 38,234 and 395,180 were not included in the computation of diluted loss per share for 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively, as their inclusion would be anti-dilutive.
 
NOTE 16 — COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
 
We may be involved in litigation from time to time in the ordinary course of business. We do not believe that the ultimate resolution of these matters will have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations. However, the results of these matters cannot be predicted with certainty and we cannot assure you that the ultimate resolution of any legal or administrative proceedings or disputes will not have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
 
Securities Litigation 
 
Between March 30, 2012 and May 24, 2012, six stockholder lawsuits were filed in federal courts in North Carolina and New York asserting claims relating to the Company's March 28, 2012 announcement regarding the Company's Board’s conclusion that the Company's previously issued interim financial statements for the quarterly periods ended March 31, 2011, June 30, 2011 and September 30, 2011, and the other financial information in the Company's quarterly reports on Form 10-Q for the periods then ended, should no longer be relied upon and that an internal review by the Company's Audit Committee primarily relating to possible adjustments to the Company's financial statements was ongoing.
 
On March 30, 2012, a purported Company stockholder commenced a putative securities class action on behalf of purchasers of the Company's common stock in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York against the Company, the former President and Chief Executive Officer ("former CEO"), and the former Vice President and Chief Financial Officer ("former CFO"). The plaintiff asserted claims alleging violations of Sections 10(b) and 20(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the "Exchange Act") based on alleged false and misleading disclosures in the Company's public filings. In April and May 2012, four more putative securities class actions were filed by purported Company stockholders in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of North Carolina against the same set of defendants. The plaintiffs in these cases asserted claims alleging violations of Sections 10(b) and 20(a) of the Exchange Act based on alleged false and misleading disclosures in the Company's public filings. In each of the putative securities class actions, the plaintiffs sought damages for losses suffered by the putative class of investors who purchased the Company’s common stock.
 
On May 21, 2012, a stockholder derivative action was brought against the Company's former CEO and former CFO and the Company's then directors for alleged breaches of fiduciary duty by another purported Company stockholder in the Southern District of New York. In this derivative action, captioned Arsenault v. Berrard, et al., 1:12-cv-4028, the plaintiff seeks to recover for the Company damages arising out of the then possible restatement of the Company's financial statements.
 
            On May 30, 2012, the Company, its former CEO and former CFO filed a motion with the United States Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation ("MDL Panel") to centralize all of the cases in the Western District of North Carolina by requesting that the actions filed in the Southern District of New York be transferred to the Western District of North Carolina.  In light of the motion to centralize the cases in the Western District of North Carolina, the Company, its former CEO and former CFO requested from both courts a stay of all proceedings pending the MDL Panel's ruling. On June 4, 2012, the Southern District of New York adjourned all pending dates in the cases in light of the motion to transfer filed before the MDL Panel. On June 13, 2012, the Western District of North Carolina issued a stay of proceedings pending a ruling by the MDL Panel.
 
On August 13, 2012, the MDL Panel granted the motion to centralize, transferring the actions filed in the Southern District of New York to the Western District of North Carolina as part of MDL No. 2384, captioned In re Swisher Hygiene, Inc. Securities and Derivative Litigation. In response, on August 21, 2012, the Western District of North Carolina issued an order governing the practice and procedure in the actions transferred to the Western District of North Carolina as well as the actions originally filed there.  On October 18, 2012, the Western District of North Carolina held an Initial Pretrial Conference at which it appointed lead counsel and lead plaintiffs for the securities class actions, and set a schedule for the filing of a consolidated class action complaint and defendants' time to answer or otherwise respond to the consolidated class action complaint. The Western District of North Carolina stayed the Arsenault derivative action pending the outcome of the securities class actions.
 
On April 24, 2013, lead plaintiffs filed their first amended consolidated class action complaint (the "Class Action Complaint") asserting similar claims as those previously alleged as well as additional allegations stemming from the Company's restated financial statements. The Class Action Complaint also named the Company's former Senior Vice President and Treasurer as an additional defendant who was later dismissed from the case. On June 24, 2013, defendants moved to dismiss the Class Action Complaint.  Briefing on the motions to dismiss was completed on August 9, 2013.
 
 
F-29

 
 
Although the Company believed it had meritorious defenses to the asserted claims in the securities class actions in the United States, the defendants and plaintiffs agreed to the terms of a settlement and on February 5, 2014 executed a settlement agreement that, following approval by the Western District of North Carolina, would resolve all claims in the securities class actions pending there (the "Settlement").  The Settlement provided that the defendants would make a set cash payment totaling $5,500,000, all from insurance proceeds, to settle all of the securities class actions, and full and complete releases would be provided to defendants.  On March 11, 2014, the Western District of North Carolina issued a preliminary order approving the Settlement, and scheduled a hearing for August 6, 2014.  That same day, the Western District of North Carolina also issued an order terminating defendants’ pending motions to dismiss the Class Action Complaint as moot in light of the Settlement.  On August 6, 2014, following a hearing, the Western District of North Carolina approved the Settlement, and issued an Order and Final Judgment that, among other things, dismissed the securities class actions pending in the United States with prejudice and provided for full and complete releases to defendants. The Arsenault derivative action is still pending.
 
On June 11, 2013, an individual action was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida captioned Miller, et al. v. Swisher Hygiene, Inc., et al., No. 0:13-CV-61292-JAL, against the Company, its former CEO and former CFO, and a former Company director, bringing state and federal claims founded on the allegations that in deciding to sell their company to the Company, plaintiffs relied on defendants' statements about such things as the Company's accounting and internal controls, which, in light of the Company’s restatement of its financial statements, were false. On July 17, 2013, the Company notified the MDL Panel of this action, and requested that it be transferred and centralized in the Western District of North Carolina with the other actions pending there. On July 23, 2013, the MDL Panel issued a Conditional Transfer Order (the "Miller CTO"), conditionally transferring the case to the Western District of North Carolina. On July 29, 2013, plaintiffs notified the MDL Panel that they would seek to vacate the Miller CTO. In light of the proceedings in the MDL Panel, defendants requested that the Southern District of Florida stay all proceedings pending the MDL Panel's ruling. On August 6, 2013, the Southern District of Florida issued a stay of all proceedings pending a ruling by the MDL Panel.  On October 2, 2013, following briefing on the issue of whether the Miller CTO should be vacated, the MDL Panel issued an order transferring the action to the Western District of North Carolina.  The Company and the individual defendants filed motions to dismiss the complaint on March 20, 2014.  Briefing on the motions to dismiss was completed on May 12, 2014.  On June 2, 2014, plaintiffs filed a motion with the Western District of North Carolina seeking a suggestion for remand from that Court to the MDL Panel. Briefing on that motion was completed on June 26, 2014. Oral argument on the motions to dismiss and motion for suggestion for remand were heard on July 22, 2014.   On August 5, 2014, the Western District of North Carolina denied plaintiffs' motion for suggestion for remand.  On October 22, 2014, the Company filed a notice of supplemental authority in support of its motion to dismiss the complaint in this action.  On November 4, 2014, plaintiffs filed a response to the notice of supplemental authority.
 
On July 11, 2013, a purported stockholder filed a derivative action on behalf of the Company in the General Court of Justice, Superior Court Division in the State of North Carolina, Mecklenburg County, captioned Borthwick v. Berrard, et. al., No. 13-CVS-12397. The action asserted claims against the Company as a nominal defendant, its former CEO and former CFO, and certain former and current Company directors for breaches of fiduciary duties, gross mismanagement, abuse of control, waste of corporate assets, and aiding and abetting thereof in connection with the Company's restatement of its financial statements. Among other things, the action sought damages on behalf of the Company and an order directing the Company to implement corporate governance reforms. On August 7, 2013, the Company filed a notice to remove the action from the General Court of Justice, Superior Court Division in the State of North Carolina, Mecklenburg County to the Western District of North Carolina. On August 30, 2013, the Company moved to consolidate this action with the actions previously consolidated before the Western District of North Carolina, and to stay the action. On September 25, 2013, the Western District of North Carolina granted the Company's motion to consolidate and stay the action.  On October 23, 2014, following its approval of the settlement of the securities class actions, the Western District of North Carolina set a briefing schedule whereby the Company, as nominal defendant, filed a motion to dismiss the derivative action on November 4, 2014.  Pursuant to the schedule, the remaining defendants did not need to file any motions to dismiss until after the Court ruled on the Company's motion.  On December 10, 2014, the parties filed a Stipulation and Proposed Order for the dismissal of the complaint filed in this action with prejudice.  On December 11, 2014, the Western District of North Carolina issued an order dismissing the Borthwick action with prejudice.
 
On December 17, 2013, a purported stockholder commenced a putative securities class action on behalf of purchasers of the Company's common stock on the Toronto Stock Exchange or any other Canadian trading platforms in the Ontario Superior Court of Justice, captioned Edwards v. Swisher Hygiene, Inc., et al., CV 13-20282 CP, against the Company, the former CEO and former CFO.  The action alleges claims under Canadian law for alleged misrepresentations of the Company's financial position relating to its business acquisitions.  On February 13, 2014, a Fresh Statement of Claim and Fresh Notice of Action were filed, adding an additional named plaintiff.  On March 28, 2014, another purported stockholder commenced a putative securities class action on behalf of purchasers of the Company's common stock on the Toronto Stock Exchange or any other Canadian trading platforms in the Ontario Superior Court of Justice, captioned Phillips v. Swisher Hygiene, Inc., et al., CV 14-00501096-0000, against the Company, the former CEO, the former CFO and the Company's former Senior Vice President and Treasurer. The action alleges claims under Canadian law stemming from the Company's restatement.
 
Although the Company believed it had meritorious defenses to the asserted claims in the two securities class actions pending in Canada, the defendants agreed to terms of settlement and executed a settlement agreement resolving all claims in both securities class actions pending there, which was approved by the Ontario Superior Court of Justice by Order dated February 13, 2015 (the "Canadian Settlement").  The Canadian Settlement provides that defendants will make a set cash payment totaling $0.7 million, including legal fees, all from insurance proceeds, to settle all of the Canadian securities class actions, with full and complete releases provided to the defendants.  Notice has been given of the Canadian Settlement.
 
 
F-30

 
 
Other Matters
 
The Company was contacted by the staff of the Atlanta Regional Office of the SEC and by the United States Attorney's Office for the Western District of North Carolina (the "U.S. Attorney's Office") after publicly announcing the Audit Committee's internal review and the delays in filing our periodic reports. The Company has been asked to make certain individuals available and to provide certain information about these matters to the SEC and the U.S. Attorney's Office. The Company is fully cooperating with the SEC and the U.S. Attorney's Office. Any action by the SEC, the U.S. Attorney's Office or other government agency could result in criminal or civil sanctions against the Company and/or certain of its current or former officers, directors or employees.
 
Purchase Obligations and Leases
 
In connection with a distribution agreement entered into in December 2010, the Company provided a guarantee that the distributor's operating cash flows associated with the agreement would not fall below certain agreed-to minimums, subject to certain pre-defined conditions, over the ten year term of the distribution agreement. If the distributor's annual operating cash flow does fall below the agreed-to annual minimums, the Company will reimburse the distributor for any such short fall up to a pre-designated amount. As discussed in Note, 9 “Fair Value Measurements” no value was assigned to the fair value of the guarantee at December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013 based on a probability assessment of the projected cash flows. Management currently does not believe that it is probable that any amounts will be paid under this agreement and thus there is no amount accrued for the guarantee in the Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
The Company entered into a Manufacturing and Supply Agreement (the "Cavalier Agreement") with another plant in conjunction with its acquisition of Sanolite in July of 2011.  The Cavalier Agreement, which was scheduled to expire on December 31, 2012, was extended for an additional two year period with an automatic 18-month renewal term and a 6-month termination option.  The Cavalier Agreement provides for pricing adjustments, up or down, on the first of each month based on the vendor's actual average product costs incurred during the prior month. Additional product payments made by the Company due to pricing adjustments under the Cavalier Agreement have not been significant and have not represented costs materially above the market price for such products. The Cavalier Agreement was terminated in September 2014 pursuant to the terms of the agreement.
 
 The Company leases its headquarters and other facilities, equipment and vehicles under operating leases that expire at varying times through 2024. Future minimum lease payments for operating leases that had initial or remaining non-cancelable lease terms in excess of one year as of December 31, 2014 are:  2015 - $5.8 million, 2016 - $4.8 million , 2017 - $3.5 million, 2018 - $2.5 million, 2019 - $2.3 million, and thereafter - $2.3 million.
 
Total rent expense for operating leases, including those with terms of less than one year was $6.5 million, $6.3 million and $6.2 million for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
 
 
F-31

 
 
NOTE 17 — OTHER EXPENSE, NET
 
Other expense consists of the following for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012:
 
 
 
2014
   
2013
   
2012
 
                   
Interest Income
  $ 9     $ 41     $ 75  
Interest Expense
    (387 )     (485 )     (3,406 )
Realized and unrealized gain/(loss) on fair value of convertible notes
    -       -       66  
Earn-out
    -       -       170  
Foreign Currency
    (167 )     (5 )     (15 )
Loss from impairment
    -       -       (507 )
Other
    (1,118 )     (205 )     524  
Total other expenses
  $ (1,663 )   $ (654 )   $ (3,093 )

“Other” primarily consists of the loss related to the sale of assets held for sale for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 as described further in Note 2, “Discontinued Operations and Assets Held for Sale”.  During fiscal year 2012, a fire occurred at a linen warehouse of one of the Company’s subsidiaries in Tampa, Florida. The fire heavily damaged the leased building and its contents requiring the building to be demolished. After consideration of the insurance recoveries received, we recorded a gain in other (expense), net on the involuntary conversion of assets of approximately $0.6 million in the fourth quarter of 2012. 
 
 
F-32

 
 
NOTE 18 — GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION
 
The following table includes our revenue from geographic locations for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012 were:
 
 Geographic Information
 
 
 
2014
   
2013
   
2012
 
Revenue
                 
United States
  $ 184,854     $ 203,453     $ 220,624  
Canada
    8,903       10,235       9,897  
Total revenue
  $ 193,757     $ 213,688     $ 230,521  
 
The following table summarizes our foreign long-lived assets, which relate to our Canadian subsidiaries, as of December 31, 2014 and 2013:
 
   
2014
   
2013
 
Long-Lived Assets
           
Property and equipment, net
  $ 739     $ 589  
Goodwill
  $ -     $ 3,291  
Other intangibles, net
  $ 528     $ 1,478  
 
 
F-33

 
 
NOTE 19 — QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA (UNAUDITED)
 
2014
 
First Quarter
   
Second Quarter
   
Third Quarter
   
Fourth Quarter
   
Year
 
Revenue
  $ 48,295     $ 49,955     $ 49,650     $ 45,857     $ 193,757  
Gross profit (1)
  $ 26,483     $ 26,982     $ 26,979     $ 24,212     $ 104,656  
Loss from continuing operations
  $ (13,038 )   $ (14,706 )   $ (7,613 )   $ (9,877 )   $ (45,234 )
Net loss from continuing operations
  $ (13,792 )   $ (15,147 )   $ (7,776 )   $ (10,093 )   $ (46,808 )
Basic and diluted loss per share
  $ (0.78 )   $ (0.86 )   $ (0.44 )   $ (0.56 )   $ (2.64 )
                                         
2013
                                       
Revenue
  $ 52,022     $ 55,386     $ 55,916     $ 50,364     $ 213,688  
Gross profit (1)
  $ 29,457     $ 30,987     $ 30,682     $ 26,977     $ 118,103  
Loss from operations
  $ (16,742 )   $ (14,456 )   $ (12,778 )   $ (108,496 )   $ (152,472 )
Net loss from continuing operations
  $ (17,240 )   $ (14,885 )   $ (13,192 )   $ (105,215 )   $ (150,532 )
Basic and diluted loss per share
  $ (0.98 )   $ (0.88 )   $ (0.75 )   $ (5.94 )   $ (8.55 )
 
(1)           Revenue less cost of sales, which is exclusive of route expense and related depreciation and amortization.
 
The following non-recurring transactions occurred during the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2013:  (i) a $93.2 million non-cash goodwill impairment charge recorded in conjunction with the performance of the Company’s annual impairment test that is further described in Note 5, “Goodwill and Other Intangibles” in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements and (ii) a $3.1 million impairment charge related to assets held for sale that is further described in Note 2, Discontinued Operations and Assets Held for Sale,” in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
NOTE 20 – SUBSEQUENT EVENT
 
During March 2015, the Board of Directors of the Company approved a board resolution to sell its remaining non-core linen operation. During the first quarter of 2015, in accordance with ASC 360, Property, Plant and Equipment, these assets will be classified as assets held for sale and will be adjusted to the lower of historical carrying amount or fair value.  The estimated fair value is derived based on the assessment of potential net selling prices.  The carrying value of the assets will be compared to the estimated fair value and if applicable, any write down will be recognized in the first quarter of 2015.  The Company expects the linen operation will be sold in the second quarter of 2015.  The carrying value of the major classes of the assets are as follows:
 
   
December 31,
 
   
2014
 
Accounts receivable, net
    445  
Property and equipment, net
    1,957  
Customer relationships, net
    477  
Other intangibles, net
    330  
Total
  $ 3,209  
 
On March 26, 2015, the Company entered into a letter agreement, dated as of March 25, 2015 ("Letter Agreement"), with its lender, Siena Lending Group LLC, in respect of the occurrence of a Springing DACA Event, as such term is defined in the Credit Facility.  The Letter Agreement temporarily waives, until April 10, 2015, certain cash management requirements and certain enhanced reporting requirements that would otherwise go into effect upon the occurrence of a Springing DACA Event.  
 
 
 
F-34

 
 
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULE II
VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS
FOR THE THREE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014
 
In thousands
                       
   
Balance at the Beginning of the Year
   
Charged to Costs and Expenses
   
Deductions from Allowance
   
Balance at the End of the Year
 
31-Dec-14
                       
Allowances for receivables
  $ 1,999     $ 196     $ 1,219     $ 976  
Other allowances
    892       -       76       816  
    $ 2,891     $ 196     $ 1,295     $ 1,792  
31-Dec-13
                               
Allowances for receivables
  $ 2,335     $ 936     $ 1,272     $ 1,999  
Other allowances
    437       455       -       892  
    $ 2,772     $ 1,391     $ 1,272     $ 2,891  
31-Dec-12
                               
Allowances for receivables
  $ 2,185     $ 2,396     $ 2,246     $ 2,335  
Other allowances
    471       -       34       437  
    $ 2,656     $ 2,396     $ 2,280     $ 2,772  
 
 
 
F-35

 
 
EXHIBIT INDEX
 
Exhibit Number   Description
10.38   Second Amendment to Employment Agreement by and between Swisher Hygiene Inc. and William M. Pierce, dated January 31, 2015.
10.39   Letter Agreement, dated as of March 25, 2015, by and among Siena Lending Group LLC and the Borrowers listed thereto.
21.1   Subsidiaries of Swisher Hygiene Inc.
23.1   Consent of BDO USA, LLP.
31.1   Section 302 Certification of Chief Executive Officer.
31.2   Section 302 Certification of Chief Financial Officer.
32.1   Certification Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.*
32.2   Certification 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.
101.CAL   XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase.
101.LAB   XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase.
101.PRE   XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase.
__________________
*           Furnished herewith.