United States
Securities and Exchange Commission
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-Q
(Mark One)
|X| QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15 (d)
OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the quarterly period ended OCTOBER 31, 2008
OR
|_| TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES
EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from _______________ to _______________
Commission File No. 002-26821
BROWN-FORMAN CORPORATION
(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its Charter)
Delaware 61-0143150
(State or other jurisdiction of (IRS Employer
incorporation or organization) Identification No.)
850 Dixie Highway
Louisville, Kentucky 40210
(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)
(502) 585-1100
(Registrant's telephone number, including area code)
N/A
(Former name, former address and former fiscal year,
if changed since last report)
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required
to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during
the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was
required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing
requirements for the past 90 days. Yes |X| No |_|
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an
accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See
the definitions of "large accelerated filer," "accelerated filer" and "smaller
reporting company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large accelerated filer |X| Accelerated filer |_|
Non-accelerated filer |_| Smaller reporting company |_|
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in
Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes | | No |X|
Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer's classes of
common stock, as of the latest practicable date: November 30, 2008
Class A Common Stock ($.15 par value, voting) 56,609,413
Class B Common Stock ($.15 par value, nonvoting) 94,276,716
BROWN-FORMAN CORPORATION
Index to Quarterly Report Form 10-Q
PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Item 1. Financial Statements (Unaudited) Page
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations
Three months ended October 31, 2007 and 2008 3
Six months ended October 31, 2007 and 2008 3
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets
April 30, 2008 and October 31, 2008 4
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
Six months ended October 31, 2007 and 2008 5
Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements 6 - 12
Item 2. Management's Discussion and Analysis of
Financial Condition and Results of Operations 13 - 22
Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk 22
Item 4. Controls and Procedures 22
PART II - OTHER INFORMATION
Item 1A. Risk Factors 23
Item 6. Exhibits 23
Signatures 24
2
PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Item 1. Financial Statements (Unaudited)
BROWN-FORMAN CORPORATION
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(Unaudited)
(Dollars in millions, except per share amounts)
Three Months Ended Six Months Ended
October 31, October 31,
2007 2008 2007 2008
------- ------- -------- --------
Net sales $ 893.4 $ 934.7 $1,632.5 $1,724.7
Excise taxes 177.8 196.8 329.8 373.0
Cost of sales 245.6 271.2 441.7 504.2
------- ------- -------- --------
Gross profit 470.0 466.7 861.0 847.5
Advertising expenses 112.6 110.0 206.5 207.0
Selling, general, and
administrative expenses 146.7 139.9 289.7 284.2
Amortization expense 1.3 1.3 2.6 2.6
Other (income), net (3.2) (6.2) (5.9) (8.6)
------- ------- -------- --------
Operating income 212.6 221.7 368.1 362.3
Interest income 2.2 1.7 4.2 3.4
Interest expense 14.4 9.6 27.6 18.8
------- ------- -------- --------
Income from continuing operations
before income taxes 200.4 213.8 344.7 346.9
Income taxes 70.9 70.6 119.9 115.5
------- ------- -------- --------
Income from continuing operations 129.5 143.2 224.8 231.4
Loss from discontinued operations,
net of income taxes (0.1) -- (0.2) --
------- ------- -------- --------
Net income $ 129.4 $ 143.2 $ 224.6 $ 231.4
======= ======= ======== ========
Basic earnings per share:
Continuing operations $ 0.84 $ 0.95 $ 1.46 $ 1.54
Discontinued operations -- -- -- --
------- ------- -------- --------
Total $ 0.84 $ 0.95 $ 1.46 $ 1.54
======= ======= ======== ========
Diluted earnings per share:
Continuing operations $ 0.83 $ 0.94 $ 1.44 $ 1.52
Discontinued operations -- -- -- --
------- ------- -------- --------
Total $ 0.83 $ 0.94 $ 1.44 $ 1.52
======= ======= ======== ========
Shares (in thousands) used in the
calculation of earnings per share:
Basic 154,138 150,661 154,068 150,630
Diluted 155,668 151,828 155,594 151,880
Cash dividends per common share:
Declared $0.000 $0.000 $0.484 $0.544
Paid $0.242 $0.272 $0.484 $0.544
Share and per share data have been restated to reflect the stock distribution
effective in October 2008. See notes to the condensed consolidated financial
statements.
3
BROWN-FORMAN CORPORATION
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(Unaudited)
(Dollars in millions)
April 30, October 31,
2008 2008
-------- --------
Assets
------
Cash and cash equivalents $ 118.9 $ 326.8
Accounts receivable, net 453.2 534.4
Inventories:
Barreled whiskey 311.2 316.4
Finished goods 154.2 183.3
Work in process 179.2 129.2
Raw materials and supplies 39.9 54.1
-------- --------
Total inventories 684.5 683.0
Current portion of deferred income taxes 102.3 102.3
Other current assets 97.1 126.5
-------- --------
Total current assets 1,456.0 1,773.0
Property, plant and equipment, net 501.4 486.1
Goodwill 688.0 671.7
Other intangible assets 698.8 687.6
Prepaid pension cost 22.8 25.7
Other assets 38.0 36.5
-------- --------
Total assets $3,405.0 $3,680.6
======== ========
Liabilities
-----------
Accounts payable and accrued expenses $ 379.7 $ 370.9
Accrued income taxes 14.7 8.3
Short-term borrowings 585.3 783.9
Current portion of long-term debt 4.3 3.2
-------- --------
Total current liabilities 984.0 1,166.3
Long-term debt 417.0 412.3
Deferred income taxes 88.8 105.6
Accrued pension and other postretirement benefits 121.2 117.9
Other liabilities 68.8 66.3
-------- --------
Total liabilities 1,679.8 1,868.4
Stockholders' Equity
--------------------
Common stock (see Note 10):
Class A, voting (57,000,000 shares authorized) 8.5 8.5
Class B, nonvoting (100,000,000 shares authorized) 10.4 14.9
Additional paid-in capital 73.8 70.6
Retained earnings 1,931.8 2,072.9
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) 5.0 (57.1)
Treasury stock (5,522,000 and 5,441,000 shares
at April 30 and October 31, respectively) (304.3) (297.6)
-------- --------
Total stockholders' equity 1,725.2 1,812.2
-------- --------
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity $3,405.0 $3,680.6
======== ========
Share data has been restated to reflect the stock distribution effective in
October 2008. See notes to the condensed consolidated financial statements.
4
BROWN-FORMAN CORPORATION
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(Unaudited)
(Dollars in millions)
Six Months Ended
October 31,
2007 2008
------- -------
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income $ 224.6 $ 231.4
Adjustments to reconcile net income to
net cash provided by operations:
Net loss from discontinued operations 0.2 --
Non-cash agave inventory write-down -- 22.4
Depreciation and amortization 25.7 26.6
(Gain) loss on sale of property, plant,
and equipment (2.6) 3.5
Stock-based compensation expense 5.4 4.6
Deferred income taxes 5.1 (3.1)
Changes in assets and liabilities, excluding
the effects of businesses acquired or sold (60.2) (169.2)
Net cash used for operating activities
of discontinued operations (0.2) --
------- -------
Cash provided by operating activities 198.0 116.2
Cash flows from investing activities:
Acquisition of business, net of cash acquired 1.6 --
Acquisition of brand name (12.0) --
Sale of short-term investments 85.6 --
Additions to property, plant, and equipment (24.2) (26.3)
Proceeds from sale of property, plant,
and equipment 5.2 --
Computer software expenditures (8.2) (1.9)
------- -------
Cash provided by (used for)
investing activities 48.0 (28.2)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Net change in short-term borrowings (57.5) 220.4
Repayment of long-term debt (3.8) (2.2)
Net proceeds (payments) from exercise
of stock options 14.8 (4.2)
Excess tax benefits from stock options 5.5 3.4
Acquisition of treasury stock (22.6) (0.3)
Special distribution to stockholders (203.7) --
Dividends paid (74.7) (82.2)
------- -------
Cash (used for) provided by
financing activities (342.0) 134.9
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and
cash equivalents 5.9 (15.0)
------- -------
Net (decrease) increase in cash
and cash equivalents (90.1) 207.9
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period 282.8 118.9
------- -------
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period $ 192.7 $ 326.8
======= =======
See notes to the condensed consolidated financial statements.
5
BROWN-FORMAN CORPORATION
NOTES TO THE CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Unaudited)
In these notes, "we," "us," and "our" refer to Brown-Forman Corporation.
1. Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
We prepared these unaudited condensed consolidated statements using our
customary accounting practices as set out in our annual report on Form 10-K for
the year ended April 30, 2008 (the "2008 Annual Report"), except that effective
May 1, 2008, we adopted certain provisions of FASB Statements No. 157 and No.
158 (see Notes 6 and 9). We made all of the adjustments (which include only
normal, recurring adjustments, unless otherwise noted) needed for a fair
statement of this data.
We condensed or omitted some of the information found in financial statements
prepared according to accounting principles generally accepted in the United
States of America ("GAAP"). You should read these financial statements together
with the 2008 Annual Report, which does conform to GAAP.
2. Inventories
We use the last-in, first-out ("LIFO") method to determine the cost of most of
our inventories. If the LIFO method had not been used, inventories at current
cost would have been $150.1 million higher than reported as of April 30, 2008,
and $168.9 million higher than reported as of October 31, 2008. Changes in the
LIFO valuation reserve for interim periods are based on a proportionate
allocation of the estimated change for the entire fiscal year.
During the three months ended July 31, 2008, a portion of our agave fields
showed signs of abnormally high levels of mortality and disease, which has
significantly reduced the amount of agave we expect to yield from some fields.
As a result, we recorded a provision for inventory losses of $22.4 million
during the three months ended July 31, 2008, which is included in cost of sales.
This amount was based on management's estimates of the extent of the loss in
yield and the effectiveness of the measures we began and plan to continue to
undertake to combat the crop diseases and other agricultural factors
contributing to the lower yield. Although this provision is based on
management's best estimate at this time, it is at least reasonably possible that
actual inventory losses could be significantly different, which could have a
materially adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition.
3. Income Taxes
Our consolidated quarterly effective tax rate is based upon our expected annual
operating income, statutory tax rates, and tax laws in the various jurisdictions
in which we operate. Significant or unusual items, including adjustments to
accruals for tax uncertainties, are recognized in the quarter in which the
related event occurs. The effective tax rate of 33.3% for the six months ended
October 31, 2008, is based on an expected effective tax rate of 32.7% on
ordinary income for the full fiscal year, plus additional interest on previously
provided tax contingencies and the tax effect of other events (provision for
agave inventory losses) occurring through October 31, 2008. Our expected tax
rate from operations includes current fiscal year additions for existing tax
contingency items. However, this rate does not include the effect of the
expected sale of the Bolla and Fontana Candida Italian wines discussed below.
6
As a result of the expected sale of the Bolla and Fontana Candida Italian wine
brands (see Note 12), we estimate that approximately $21.7 million of our
previously reserved capital loss carryforwards will be used to offset the
expected gain on the sale. Currently, we are unaware of any specific
transactions that would allow us to use our remaining capital loss
carryforwards.
We believe it is reasonably possible that the gross unrecognized tax benefits
(included in other liabilities on the accompanying condensed consolidated
balance sheets) may decrease by approximately $3.3 million in the next 12
months, although we expect that the statute of limitations on certain gross
unrecognized state income tax benefits of $4.4 million will expire during this
period.
We file income tax returns in the U.S., including several state and local
jurisdictions, as well as in various other countries throughout the world in
which we conduct business. The major jurisdictions and their earliest fiscal
years that are currently open for tax examinations are 1998 in the U.S.; 2004 in
Ireland and Italy; 2003 in the U.K.; and 2002 in Finland and Poland.
4. Discontinued Operations
Discontinued Operations consisted of Hartmann and Brooks & Bentley, wholly-owned
subsidiaries that we sold in fiscal 2007. Those subsidiaries, along with Lenox,
Inc., the wholly-owned subsidiary that we sold in fiscal 2006, comprised our
former consumer durables business.
5. Earnings Per Share
Basic earnings per share is based upon the weighted average number of all common
shares outstanding during the period. Diluted earnings per share includes the
dilutive effect of stock-based compensation awards, including stock options,
stock-settled stock appreciation rights ("SSARs"), and non-vested restricted
stock. Stock-based awards for approximately 1,438,000 common shares were
excluded from the calculation of diluted earnings per share for the periods
ended October 31, 2008, because the exercise price of the awards was greater
than the average market price of the shares. No stock-based awards were excluded
from the calculation of diluted earnings per share for the periods ended October
31, 2007.
As discussed in Note 10, all previously reported share and per share amounts
have been restated in the accompanying financial statements and related notes to
reflect the stock distribution.
7
The following table presents information concerning basic and diluted earnings
per share:
Three Months Ended Six Months Ended
October 31, October 31,
(Dollars in millions, except per share amounts) 2007 2008 2007 2008
------- ------- ------- -------
Basic and diluted net income (loss):
Continuing operations $129.5 $143.2 $224.8 $231.4
Discontinued operations (0.1) -- (0.2) --
------- ------- ------- -------
Total $129.4 $143.2 $224.6 $231.4
======= ======= ======= =======
Share data (in thousands):
Basic average common shares outstanding 154,138 150,661 154,068 150,630
Dilutive effect of non-vested restricted stock 109 142 105 139
Dilutive effect of stock options and SSARs 1,421 1,025 1,421 1,111
------- ------- ------- -------
Diluted average common shares outstanding 155,668 151,828 155,594 151,880
======= ======= ======= =======
Basic earnings per share:
Continuing operations $0.84 $0.95 $1.46 $1.54
Discontinued operations -- -- -- --
------- ------- ------- -------
Total $0.84 $0.95 $1.46 $1.54
======= ======= ======= =======
Diluted earnings per share:
Continuing operations $0.83 $0.94 $1.44 $1.52
Discontinued operations -- -- -- --
------- ------- ------- -------
Total $0.83 $0.94 $1.44 $1.52
======= ======= ======= =======
6. Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits
On April 30, 2007, we adopted FASB Statement No. 158, "Employer's Accounting for
Defined Benefit Pension and Other Postretirement Plans" (FAS 158). FAS 158
requires that, beginning in fiscal 2009, the assumptions used to measure our
annual pension and other postretirement benefit expenses be determined as of the
balance sheet date, and all plan assets and liabilities be reported as of that
date. Accordingly, as of the beginning of our 2009 fiscal year, we changed the
measurement date for our annual pension and other postretirement benefit
expenses and all plan assets and liabilities from January 31 to April 30. As a
result of this change in measurement date, we recorded an increase of $5.6
million (net of tax of $3.7 million) to stockholders' equity as of May 1, 2008,
as follows:
Pension Other Total
(Dollars in millions) Benefits Benefits Benefits
Retained earnings $(2.8) $(0.8) $(3.6)
Accumulated other comprehensive income 8.4 0.8 9.2
----- ----- -----
Total $ 5.6 $ -- $ 5.6
===== ===== =====
8
The following table shows the components of the pension and other postretirement
benefit expense recognized during the periods covered by this report:
Three Months Ended Six Months Ended
October 31, October 31,
(Dollars in millions) 2007 2008 2007 2008
------ ------ ------ ------
Pension Benefits:
Service cost $3.4 $3.4 $ 6.7 $6.7
Interest cost 6.6 7.5 13.3 15.1
Expected return on plan assets (8.0) (8.7) (16.1) (17.4)
Amortization of:
Prior service cost 0.2 0.2 0.4 0.4
Net actuarial loss 3.0 1.6 6.0 3.2
------ ------ ------ ------
Net expense $5.2 $4.0 $10.3 $8.0
====== ====== ====== ======
Other Postretirement Benefits:
Service cost $0.2 $0.3 $ 0.5 $0.6
Interest cost 0.8 0.9 1.5 1.7
Amortization of net actuarial loss 0.1 -- 0.2 --
------ ------ ------ ------
Net expense $1.1 $1.2 $ 2.2 $2.3
====== ====== ====== ======
As a result of the recent performance of global capital markets, the market
value of our pension plan assets has declined significantly during fiscal 2009,
which could require us to make significant contributions to the plans in the
near term. Based on the current market value of our pension plan assets, we now
expect to contribute approximately $21.3 million to the plans during the second
half of fiscal 2009. However, the U.S. Congress is expected to consider amending
the current regulations regarding pension plan funding, which may impact the
amount that we ultimately contribute in fiscal 2009.
7. Contingencies
We operate in a litigious environment, and we are sued in the normal course of
business. Sometimes plaintiffs seek substantial damages. Significant judgment is
required in predicting the outcome of these suits and claims, many of which take
years to adjudicate. We accrue estimated costs for a contingency when we believe
that a loss is probable and we can make a reasonable estimate of the loss, and
adjust the accrual as appropriate to reflect changes in facts and circumstances.
8. Comprehensive Income
Comprehensive income is a broad measure of the effects of all transactions and
events (other than investments by or distributions to stockholders) that are
recognized in stockholders' equity, regardless of whether those transactions and
events are included in net income. The following table adjusts the Company's net
income for the other items included in the determination of comprehensive
income:
9
Three Months Ended Six Months Ended
October 31, October 31,
(Dollars in millions) 2007 2008 2007 2008
------ ------ ------ ------
Net income $129.4 $143.2 $224.6 $231.4
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Net (loss) gain on cash flow hedges (2.6) 24.1 (3.0) 26.1
Net loss on securities (0.2) -- (0.3) --
Postretirement benefits adjustment 2.0 1.1 4.0 11.2
Foreign currency translation adjustment 21.5 (109.1) 22.9 (99.4)
------ ------ ------ ------
20.7 (83.9) 23.6 (62.1)
------ ------ ------ ------
Comprehensive income $150.1 $ 59.3 $248.2 $169.3
====== ====== ====== ======
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) consisted of the following:
April 30, October 31,
(Dollars in millions) 2008 2008
------ ------
Postretirement benefits adjustment $(87.8) $(76.6)
Cumulative translation adjustment 99.1 (0.3)
Unrealized (loss) gain on
cash flow hedge contracts (6.3) 19.8
------ ------
$ 5.0 $(57.1)
====== ======
9. Fair Value Measurements
In September 2006, the FASB issued Statement No. 157, "Fair Value Measurements"
(FAS 157), which defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair
value, and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. FAS 157 defines
fair value as the exchange price that would be received for an asset or paid to
transfer a liability in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset
or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the
measurement date. FAS 157 establishes a three-level hierarchy based upon the
assumptions (inputs) used to determine fair value. Level 1 provides the most
reliable measure of fair value, while Level 3 generally requires significant
management judgment. The three levels are:
- Level 1: Quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets
or liabilities.
- Level 2: Observable inputs other than those included in Level 1, such as
quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets; quoted
prices for identical or similar assets and liabilities in markets that are
not active; or other inputs that are observable or can be derived from or
corroborated by observable market data.
- Level 3: Unobservable inputs that are supported by little or no market
activity.
In February 2008, the FASB issued FSP 157-2, "Effective Date of FASB Statement
No. 157," which permits a one-year deferral for the implementation of FAS 157 as
it relates to nonfinancial assets and liabilities that are not recognized or
disclosed at fair value in the financial statements on a recurring basis (at
least annually), such as goodwill and other indefinite-lived intangible assets.
We elected to defer adoption of the provisions of FAS 157 that relate to such
items until the beginning of our 2010 fiscal year. We do not expect our adoption
to have a material impact on our financial statements. We adopted the other
provisions of FAS 157 on May 1, 2008, with no material impact on our financial
statements.
10
As of October 31, 2008, the fair values of our financial assets and liabilities
are as follows:
(Dollars in millions) Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3
Assets:
Foreign currency contracts $42.0 -- $42.0 --
Liabilities:
Commodity contracts $4.1 $4.1 -- --
The fair value of commodity contracts is based on quoted prices in active
markets. The fair value of foreign exchange contracts is determined through
pricing from brokers who develop values based on inputs observable in active
markets.
In February 2007, the FASB issued Statement No. 159, "The Fair Value Option for
Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities" (FAS 159). FAS 159, which became
effective as of May 1, 2008, provides the option to measure at fair value many
financial instruments and certain other items for which fair value measurement
is not required. We have currently chosen not to elect this option.
10. Stock Distribution
In September 2008, our Board of Directors authorized a stock split, effected as
a stock dividend, of one share of Class B common stock for every four shares of
either Class A or Class B common stock held by stockholders of record as of the
close of business on October 6, 2008, with fractional shares paid in cash. The
distribution took place on October 27, 2008.
As a result of the stock distribution, we reclassified approximately
$4.5 million from the company's retained earnings account to its common stock
account. The $4.5 million represents the $0.15 par value per share of the shares
issued in the stock distribution.
The following table shows the change in the company's issued shares:
Three Months Ended Six Months Ended
October 31, October 31,
(Shares in thousands) 2007 2008 2007 2008
------- ------- ------- -------
Class A (voting) Common Shares:
Balance at beginning of period 56,925 56,964 56,882 56,925
Stock issued under compensation plans -- -- 43 39
------- ------- ------- -------
Balance at end of period 56,925 56,964 56,925 56,964
======= ======= ======= =======
Class B (nonvoting) Common Shares:
Balance at beginning of period 69,188 69,188 69,188 69,188
Stock distribution -- 30,176 -- 30,176
------- ------- ------- -------
Balance at end of period 69,188 99,364 69,188 99,364
======= ======= ======= =======
All previously reported share and per share amounts have been restated in the
accompanying financial statements and related notes to reflect the stock
distribution.
11
11. Recent Accounting Pronouncements
In December 2007, the FASB issued Statement No. 141(R), "Business Combinations"
(FAS 141(R)), which establishes accounting principles and disclosure
requirements for all transactions in which a company obtains control over
another business.
In December 2007, the FASB issued Statement No. 160, "Noncontrolling Interests
in Consolidated Financial Statements" (FAS 160), which prescribes the accounting
by a parent company for minority interests held by other parties in a subsidiary
of the parent company.
In March 2008, the FASB issued Statement No. 161, "Disclosures about Derivative
Instruments and Hedging Activities" (FAS 161), which requires qualitative
disclosures about objectives and strategies for using derivatives, quantitative
disclosures about fair value amounts of and gains and losses on derivative
instruments, and disclosures about credit-risk-related contingent features in
derivative agreements.
FAS 141(R) and FAS 160 become effective as of the beginning of our 2010 fiscal
year, while FAS 161 becomes effective as of the end of our 2009 fiscal year. We
do not expect our adoption of these pronouncements will have a material impact
on our financial statements.
12. Subsequent Events
On November 20, 2008, our Board of Directors increased the quarterly cash
dividend on Class A and Class B common stock from $0.272 to $0.2875 per share.
Stockholders of record on December 8, 2008 will receive the cash dividend on
January 2, 2009.
On December 1, 2008, we announced the expected sale of the Bolla and Fontana
Candida Italian wine brands to Gruppo Italiano Vini (GIV) during the third
quarter of fiscal 2009. In order to facilitate the transition of the brands to
GIV, we have also agreed to serve as an agent for these brands in the U.S. from
the closing date until the transition is complete, which is expected to occur no
later than April 30, 2009. We expect to recognize a net gain from the sale and
exit of these brands from our portfolio of approximately $0.12 per share during
fiscal 2009.
On December 4, 2008, we announced that our Board of Directors authorized the
repurchase of up to $250 million of our outstanding Class A and Class B common
shares over the next 12 months, subject to market conditions. Under this plan,
we can repurchase shares from time to time for cash in open market purchases,
block transactions, and privately negotiated transactions in accordance with
applicable federal securities laws.
12
Item 2. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition
and Results of Operations
You should read the following discussion and analysis along with our 2008 Annual
Report. Note that the results of operations for the three-month and six-month
periods ended October 31, 2008, do not necessarily indicate what our operating
results for the full fiscal year will be. In this Item, "we," "us," and "our"
refer to Brown-Forman Corporation.
Important Note on Forward-Looking Statements:
This report contains statements, estimates, or projections that constitute
"forward-looking statements" as defined under U.S. federal securities laws.
Generally, the words "expect," "believe," "intend," "estimate," "will,"
"anticipate," and "project," and similar expressions identify a forward-looking
statement, which speaks only as of the date the statement is made. Except as
required by law, we do not intend to update or revise any forward-looking
statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.
We believe that the expectations and assumptions with respect to our
forward-looking statements are reasonable. But by their nature, forward-looking
statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that
in some cases are out of our control. These factors could cause our actual
results to differ materially from Brown-Forman's historical experience or our
present expectations or projections. Here is a non-exclusive list of such risks
and uncertainties:
- continuation of the U.S. or global economic downturn or ongoing turmoil in
world financial markets and related credit and capital market instability and
illiquidity; decreased consumer and trade spending; higher unemployment;
supplier, customer and consumer credit problems, etc.;
- pricing, marketing and other competitive activity focused against our major
brands;
- continued or further decline in consumer confidence or spending, whether
related to U.S. and global economic conditions, war, natural disasters,
terrorist attacks or other factors;
- tax increases, changes in tax rules or rates (e.g., LIFO treatment for
inventory), tariff barriers, and/or other restrictions affecting beverage
alcohol, whether at the U.S. federal or state level or in other major markets
around the world, and the unpredictability or suddenness with which they can
occur;
- limitations and restrictions on distribution and marketing of our products,
including advertising and promotion, from stricter governmental policies in
the U.S. or our other major markets;
- fluctuations in the U.S. Dollar against foreign currencies, especially the
British Pound, Euro, Australian Dollar, Polish Zloty and the South African
Rand;
- reduced bar, restaurant, hotel and other on-premise business, including
consumer shifts to discount stores and other price sensitive purchases and
venues;
- changes in consumer preferences, societal attitudes or cultural trends that
result in the reduced consumption of our premium spirits brands or our
ready-to-drink products;
- changes in distribution or agency arrangements in major markets that
temporarily disrupt our business, reduce our sales, limit our ability to
market or sell our products, or entail exit costs;
- adverse impacts as a consequence of our acquisitions, acquisition strategies,
integration of acquired businesses, or conforming them to the company's trade
practice standards, financial controls environment and U.S. public company
requirements;
- price increases in energy or raw materials, such as grapes, grain, agave,
wood, glass, and plastic;
- changes in climate conditions, agricultural uncertainties, our suppliers'
financial hardships or other supply limitations that adversely affect supply,
price, availability, quality, or health of grapes, agave, grain, glass,
closures or wood;
- negative media related to our company, brands, personnel, shareholders,
operations, business performance or prospects;
- counterfeit production, tampering, or contamination of our products and any
resulting negative effect on our sales, intellectual property rights, or
brand equity;
- adverse developments stemming from state or federal investigations of
beverage alcohol industry marketing or trade practices of suppliers,
distributors or retailers; and
- impairment in the recorded value of inventory, fixed assets, goodwill or
other acquired intangibles.
13
Results of Operations:
Second Quarter Fiscal 2009 Compared to Second Quarter Fiscal 2008
A summary of our operating performance (dollars expressed in millions, except
per share amounts) is presented below. Continuing Operations consist of our
beverage business. Discontinued Operations consisted of Hartmann and Brooks &
Bentley, wholly-owned subsidiaries that we sold in fiscal 2007. Those
subsidiaries, along with Lenox, Inc., the wholly-owned subsidiary that we sold
in fiscal 2006, comprised our former consumer durables business.
Three Months Ended
October 31,
CONTINUING OPERATIONS 2007 2008 Change
------ ------ ------
Net sales $893.4 $934.7 5%
Gross profit 470.0 466.7 (1%)
Advertising expenses 112.6 110.0 (2%)
Selling, general, and
administrative expenses 146.7 139.9 (5%)
Amortization expense 1.3 1.3
Other (income), net (3.2) (6.2)
Operating income 212.6 221.7 4%
Interest expense, net 12.2 7.9
Income before income taxes 200.4 213.8 7%
Income taxes 70.9 70.6
Net income 129.5 143.2 11%
Gross margin 52.6% 49.9%
Effective tax rate 35.4% 33.0%
Earnings per share(1):
Basic $0.84 $0.95 13%
Diluted 0.83 0.94 13%
--------
(1) All per share amounts have been adjusted to reflect the October 27, 2008
Class B common stock distribution. For every four shares of Class A or
Class B common stock, one Class B share was issued.
14
Net sales for the three months ended October 31, 2008 grew $41.3 million, up 5%
over the same prior year period. The major factors driving the increase in net
sales were an acceleration of growth for Jack Daniel's in the U.S. and continued
gains for several developing brands, including Gentleman Jack, Bonterra, and
Woodford Reserve in this same market. Higher net sales for Jack Daniel's in a
number of international markets, including several Eastern European countries,
Mexico, Latin America, Australia, China, Korea, Japan, and South Africa, as well
as continued growth for Finlandia in Eastern Europe also contributed to the
quarter over quarter growth in sales. Partially offsetting these positive
factors were lower volumes in the quarter for Jack Daniel's and Southern Comfort
in several of our most developed markets in Western Europe due in part to
deteriorating economic conditions and shifts in consumer purchasing patterns
from on-premise to off-premise, the loss of sales from exited agency brands, and
the significantly stronger U.S. dollar, which appreciated nearly 20% since July
2008 against our two largest currencies, the British pound and the euro.
The components of the 5% increase in net sales for the quarter were:
Growth vs.
Prior Period
Underlying net sales growth 6%
Estimated net change in trade inventories(2) 2%
Australian excise tax increase(3) 1%
Discontinued agency brands(4) (1%)
Foreign exchange(5) (3%)
-----
Reported net sales growth 5%
=====
--------
(2) Refers to the estimated financial impact of changes in wholesale trade
inventories for the company's brands. We compute this effect using our
estimated depletion trends and separately identify trade inventory changes
in the variance analysis for our key measures. Based on the estimated
depletions and the fluctuations in trade inventory levels, we then adjust
the percentage variances from prior to current periods for our key measures.
We believe it is important to separately identify the impact of this item in
order for management and investors to understand the results of our business
that can arise from varying levels of wholesale inventories.
(3) Refers to the impact of the 70% increase in excise tax of ready-to-drink
products in Australia, implemented on April 27, 2008. Since net sales are
recorded including excise tax, we believe it is important to separately
identify the impact of this item to better understand our sales trends.
(4) Refers to the impact of certain agency brands, primarily Appleton, Amarula,
Durbanville Hills, and Red Bull, distributed in certain geographies, which
exited Brown-Forman's portfolio during fiscal 2008.
(5) Refers to net gains and losses incurred by the company relating to sales and
purchases in currencies other than the U.S. dollar. We use the measure to
understand the growth of the business on a constant dollar basis as
fluctuations in exchange rates can distort the underlying growth of our
business (both positively and negatively). To neutralize the effect of
foreign exchange fluctuations, we have historically translated current year
results at prior year rates. We believe it is important to separately
identify the impact that foreign exchange has on each major line item of
our consolidated statement of operations.
15
Gross profit decreased $3.3 million, or 1% from the second quarter of last year.
The stronger U.S. dollar and higher costs associated with value-added gift packs
and an increase in grain and energy costs offset the factors that drove net
sales in the quarter, resulting in a lower gross margin for the period.
Growth vs.
Prior Period
Underlying gross profit growth 3%
Estimated net change in trade inventories 2%
Discontinued agency brands (1%)
Foreign exchange (5%)
-----
Reported gross profit growth (1%)
=====
Advertising expenses decreased $2.6 million, or 2%, reflecting the absence of
spending behind exited agency brands and the effects of a stronger U.S. dollar
in the quarter. Investments behind several brands increased in the quarter,
including Jack Daniel's, el Jimador (in support of the introduction of the 100%
agave product), Herradura, Chambord, Sonoma-Cutrer, and Woodford Reserve.
Additionally, we significantly increased the spending behind value-added gift
packaging in the quarter, as one of several actions taken to enhance our
competitiveness and relevancy to the consumer during the challenging and
difficult economic environment. While these packaging costs are classified as
cost of sales in our financial statements, we consider these costs to be a form
of advertising spend.
Selling, General and Administrative expenses decreased $6.8 million, or 5%,
reflecting a reduction in transition costs related to the fiscal 2007 Casa
Herradura acquisition, the benefit of a stronger U.S. dollar on spending, and
continued overall tight management of discretionary expenses.
Operating income increased $9.1 million, up 4% from the same period last year.
Reported results for the quarter were adversely impacted by the loss of income
from exited agency brands and the significantly stronger U.S. dollar. Estimated
trade inventory changes, and lower transition expenses associated with the
fiscal 2007 Casa Herradura acquisition increased operating income. As outlined
below, underlying operating income was up 5% in the quarter.
Growth vs.
Prior Period
Underlying operating income growth 5%
Estimated net change in trade inventories 3%
Reduced transition expenses from acquisitions 2%
Discontinued agency brands (1%)
Foreign exchange (5%)
-----
Reported operating income growth 4%
=====
Net interest expense decreased $4.3 million compared to the same prior year
period, reflecting a shift in total debt from higher rate fixed debt to lower
rate variable debt. Additionally, an overall reduction in debt levels also
contributed to this reduction in net interest expense.
16
The effective tax rate in the quarter was 33.0% compared to 35.4% reported in
the second quarter of fiscal 2008. This reduction in tax rate reflects the
absence of event-driven items that affected last year's second quarter tax rate.
Reported diluted earnings per share of $0.94 for the quarter increased 13% from
the $0.83 earned in the same prior year period. The same factors that boosted
the increase in operating income also contributed to the gain in earnings per
share. In addition, earning per share benefitted from lower net interest
expense, a reduction in the effective tax rate, and fewer shares outstanding
following the fiscal 2008 share repurchase.
Results of Operations:
Six Months Fiscal 2009 Compared to Six Months Fiscal 2008
Six Months Ended
October 31,
CONTINUING OPERATIONS 2007 2008 Change
------ ------ ------
Net sales $1,632.5 $1,724.7 6%
Gross profit 861.0 847.5 (2%)
Advertising expenses 206.5 207.0 0%
Selling, general, and
administrative expenses 289.7 284.2 (2%)
Amortization expense 2.6 2.6
Other (income), net (5.9) (8.6)
Operating income 368.1 362.3 (2%)
Interest expense, net 23.4 15.4
Income before income taxes 344.7 346.9 1%
Income taxes 119.9 115.5
Net income 224.8 231.4 3%
Gross margin 52.7% 49.1%
Effective tax rate 34.8% 33.3%
Earnings per share:
Basic $1.46 $1.54 5%
Diluted 1.44 1.52 5%
Net sales for the six months ended October 31, 2008 grew $92.2 million, up 6%
over the same prior-year period. The major factors driving the increase in net
sales were:
Growth vs.
Prior Period
Underlying net sales growth 5%
Estimated net change in trade inventories 1%
Australian excise tax increase 1%
Discontinued agency brands (1%)
-----
Reported net sales growth 6%
=====
17
The underlying growth in net sales reflects higher volumes of Jack Daniel's in
several countries/regions including the U.S., Latin America, Eastern Europe,
Australia, Southeast Asia and India. Continued expansion of Finlandia in Eastern
Europe and gains for other brands in our portfolio, including Bonterra,
Gentleman Jack, Sonoma-Cutrer, Woodford Reserve, Jack Daniel's Single Barrel,
and Tuaca, all largely in the U.S., and New Mix in Mexico, also contributed to
the growth in net sales for the first six months. More specifically, for the
first six months of the fiscal year:
- The Jack Daniel's full-strength whiskies (Jack Daniel's Tennessee Whiskey,
Gentleman Jack, and Jack Daniel's Single Barrel) grew in the mid-single
digits on both a reported and a constant currency basis, reflecting volume
growth. Global depletions(6) increased in the mid-single digits for the
first six months driven by gains in the markets noted above; partially offset
by declines in some markets in Western Europe, particularly Germany, the
U.K., and Spain. Jack Daniel's Tennessee Whiskey reported net sales
increased at mid-single digit rates and constant currency net sales grew at
low single digit rates for the first half of fiscal 2009. Gentleman Jack's
net sales grew at a double-digit rate on both a reported and a constant
currency basis for the six month period.
- Jack Daniel's & Cola depletions increased slightly in the second quarter.
However, depletions for the first half were down as double-digit gains in
Germany were offset by declines in Australia following the substantial
increase in ready-to-drink excises taxes in that country implemented on
April 27, 2008. Global reported and constant currency net sales grew in the
mid-single digits.
- Approaching the 3 million case milestone for the 12 months ended October
2008, Finlandia grew net sales by double digits on both a reported and a
constant currency basis, reflecting higher volumes and pricing gains.
Global depletions grew in the high single digits.
- Southern Comfort net sales declined in the low single digits on a reported
basis and decreased in the mid-single digits on a constant currency basis.
Volume declines showed signs of improvement during the second quarter,
particularly in the U.S., where depletions increased in the low single
digits.
- We continued to experience solid gains on several brands as reported and
constant currency net sales for Sonoma-Cutrer, Bonterra, Woodford Reserve,
and the Casa Herradura portfolio grew at double-digit rates. Chambord and
Tuaca net sales grew at high single digit and mid single digit rates,
respectively.
--------
(6) Depletions are shipments from wholesaler distributors to retail customers,
and are commonly regarded in the industry as an approximate measure of
consumer demand.
18
Our gross profit decreased $13.5 million, or 2%, due primarily to a first
quarter $22.4 million non-cash inventory write-down included in cost of sales
related to agave plants identified as dead or dying. During the three months
ended July 31, 2008, a portion of our agave fields showed signs of abnormally
high levels of mortality and disease, which has significantly reduced the amount
of agave we expect to yield from some fields. The $22.4 million provision
recorded in the first quarter was based on management's estimates of the extent
of the loss in yield and the effectiveness of the measures we began and plan to
continue to undertake to combat the crop diseases and other agricultural factors
contributing to the lower yield. Although this provision is based on
management's best estimate at this time, it is at least reasonably possible that
actual inventory losses could be significantly different, which could have a
materially adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition.
The following table shows the major factors influencing the change in gross
profit for the period:
Growth vs.
Prior Period
Underlying gross profit growth 2%
Foreign exchange (1%)
Non-cash agave inventory write-down(7) (3%)
-----
Reported gross profit growth (2%)
=====
The same factors that drove our underlying net sales growth for the first six
months also contributed to our underlying gross profit growth. Cost inflation on
grain and energy costs, though the rate of growth has slowed considerably
compared to the first quarter, and increased value-added gift packaging costs
partially offset volume and price gains.
Our overall gross margin as a percent of net sales declined for the first six
months of the fiscal year due in part to the non-cash agave inventory
write-down. In addition, an excise tax increase in Australia on ready-to-drink
products impacting sales of Jack Daniel's & Cola in this market, increased
value-added packaging costs and higher cost of grain and fuel suppressed margins
for the period.
Advertising investments were flat for the first half of the year compared to the
first half of last year due primarily to the absence of spending behind agency
brands that we have ceased selling. This factor was partially offset by our
efforts to shift the seasonality of some investments to the holiday season and
to reallocate spending to those brands, markets, and channels where we believe
the consumer and trade are more responsive to the investments.
Selling, general, and administrative expenses decreased 2% over the first half
of last year, reflecting lower transition costs related to the fiscal 2007 Casa
Herradura acquisition, continued tight management of discretionary expenses, and
the leveraging of investments made in prior years.
--------
(7) Refers to an abnormal number of agave plants identified during the period as
dead or dying. Although agricultural uncertainties are inherent in our
tequila or any other business including the growth and harvesting of raw
materials, we believe that the magnitude of this item in the period distorts
the underlying trends of our business.
19
Operating income declined $5.8 million, or 2%, from the first half of last year.
Operating income was impacted by the $22.4 million pre-tax non-cash charge
related to an abnormal number of agave plants identified during the first
quarter as dead or dying, as described above. The following table summarizes the
major factors influencing the change in operating income for the quarter:
Growth vs.
Prior Period
Underlying operating income growth 4%
Reduced transition expenses from acquisitions 1%
Estimated net change in trade inventories 1%
Foreign exchange (1%)
Discontinued agency brands (1%)
Non-cash agave inventory write-down (6%)
-----
Reported operating income growth (2%)
=====
Net interest expense decreased by $8.0 million, reflecting a shift in total debt
from higher rate fixed debt to lower rate variable net debt. Additionally, an
overall reduction in debt levels also contributed to this reduction in net
interest expense.
The effective tax rate for the first half of the year was 33.3%, compared to
34.8% reported in the first half of fiscal 2008. Our effective tax rate was
negatively affected by a lower tax benefit on the provision for agave losses
recorded in the first quarter, offset by a shift in the mix of our income from
higher to lower tax jurisdictions when compared to last year, and the absence of
event-driven items that affected last year's second quarter tax rate.
Reported diluted earnings per share of $1.52 for the six months increased 5%
from the $1.44 earned in the same prior year period. Underlying growth in
operating income, a reduction of net interest expense, a lower effective tax
rate, and fewer shares outstanding following the fiscal 2008 share repurchase
contributed to the growth in earnings per share for the quarter. The impact of
the $0.11 per share (adjusted to reflect the stock distribution) non-cash
write-down of agave inventory recognized in the first quarter only partially
offset these benefits.
FULL-YEAR OUTLOOK
Due to an estimated $0.12 per share net gain from the expected sale of Bolla and
Fontana Candida brands, we have increased our fiscal 2009 full year diluted
earnings per share guidance to a range of $3.00 to $3.20, representing growth of
6% to 13% over prior year diluted earnings per share from continuing operations
of $2.84. This guidance is unchanged from what was provided at the start of the
fiscal year when adjusting for the first quarter agave write-off and the
anticipated net gain resulting from the sale of Bolla and Fontana Candida
brands. The guidance also includes the expectation of maintaining global trends
for Jack Daniel's, Southern Comfort, and Finlandia, although we believe a weaker
than anticipated consumer and trade response due to the current global economic
environment could have a significant effect on our ability to maintain these
trends. The outlook also assumes continued tight management of discretionary
operating expenses, a lower effective tax rate in the second half of the year as
compared to the first half, and the expectation that today's stronger U.S.
dollar relative to our major foreign currencies will continue for the balance of
the year.
20
LIQUIDITY AND FINANCIAL CONDITION
Cash and cash equivalents increased $207.9 million during the six months ended
October 31, 2008, compared to a decrease of $90.1 million during the same period
last year. Cash provided by operations was $116.2 million, down from $198.0
million for the comparable period last year. The decline primarily reflects a
higher seasonal increase in working capital and the absence of a refund of
value-added taxes related to the acquisition of Casa Herradura received in the
first quarter of last year. Cash provided by investing activities declined from
last year by $76.2 million, largely reflecting last year's liquidation of $85.6
million of short-term investments, partially offset by the $12.0 million
acquisition of the Don Eduardo brand name. Cash used for financing activities
decreased by $476.9 million from last year, primarily reflecting the $203.7
million special distribution to shareholders in May 2007 and a $279.5 million
increase in net borrowings to provide for an additional liquidity buffer with
the uncertain capital market environment.
The global credit crisis has imposed exceptional levels of volatility in the
capital markets, severely diminished liquidity and credit availability, caused
declines in asset values and increased counterparty risk. During this time, we
have maintained adequate liquidity to meet current obligations, fund capital
expenditures, and maintain dividends, while reserving adequate capacity for
acquisition opportunities. During the quarter, we built an additional level of
excess cash equivalents as a buffer during these uncertain times. Our short-term
commercial paper program supported by our $800 million undrawn bank credit
facility has continued to fund our needs with attractive rates. While our
short-term commercial paper has continued to attract investors, if we were to
become unable to obtain funding in the short-term commercial paper market, we
expect that we could satisfy our liquidity requirements by drawing upon our
contractually committed bank credit facility with a network of relationship
banks. This facility expires April 30, 2012 and carries favorable terms compared
with current market conditions. However, it could carry somewhat higher interest
rates compared to our commercial paper program and, under extreme market
conditions, there can be no assurance that this agreement would be available or
sufficient. We have also endeavored to monitor our counterparty risks with
respect to our cash balances and derivative contracts (i.e., foreign currency
and commodity hedges). We believe our current liquidity position is strong and
sufficient to meet all of our financial commitments for the foreseeable future,
absent severe further deterioration of market conditions.
As a result of the recent performance of global capital markets, the market
value of our pension plan assets has declined significantly during fiscal 2009,
which could require us to make significant contributions to the plans in the
near term. Based on the current market value of our pension plan assets, we now
expect to contribute approximately $21.3 million to the plans during the second
half of fiscal 2009. However, the U.S. Congress is expected to consider amending
the current regulations regarding pension plan funding, which may impact the
amount that we ultimately contribute in fiscal 2009.
On November 20, 2008, our Board of Directors increased the quarterly cash
dividend on Class A and Class B common stock from $0.272 to $0.2875 per share.
Stockholders of record on December 8, 2008 will receive the cash dividend on
January 2, 2009.
21
On December 4, 2008, we announced that our Board of Directors authorized the
repurchase of up to $250 million of our outstanding Class A and Class B common
shares over the next 12 months, subject to market conditions. Under this plan,
we can repurchase shares from time to time for cash in open market purchases,
block transactions, and privately negotiated transactions in accordance with
applicable federal securities laws.
RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS
In December 2007, the FASB issued Statement No. 141(R), "Business Combinations"
(FAS 141(R)), which establishes accounting principles and disclosure
requirements for all transactions in which a company obtains control over
another business.
In December 2007, the FASB issued Statement No. 160, "Noncontrolling Interests
in Consolidated Financial Statements" (FAS 160), which prescribes the accounting
by a parent company for minority interests held by other parties in a subsidiary
of the parent company.
In March 2008, the FASB issued Statement No. 161, "Disclosures about Derivative
Instruments and Hedging Activities" (FAS 161), which requires qualitative
disclosures about objectives and strategies for using derivatives, quantitative
disclosures about fair value amounts of and gains and losses on derivative
instruments, and disclosures about credit-risk-related contingent features in
derivative agreements.
FAS 141(R) and FAS 160 become effective as of the beginning of our 2010 fiscal
year, while FAS 161 becomes effective as of the end of our 2009 fiscal year. We
do not expect our adoption of these pronouncements will have a material impact
on our financial statements.
Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk
We hold debt obligations, foreign currency forward and option contracts, and
commodity futures contracts that are exposed to risk from changes in interest
rates, foreign currency exchange rates, and commodity prices, respectively.
Established procedures and internal processes govern the management of these
market risks.
Item 4. Controls and Procedures
The Chief Executive Officer ("CEO") and the Chief Financial Officer ("CFO") of
Brown-Forman (its principal executive and principal financial officers) have
evaluated the effectiveness of the company's "disclosure controls and
procedures" (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of
1934 (the "Exchange Act")) as of the end of the period covered by this report.
Based on that evaluation, the CEO and CFO concluded that the company's
disclosure controls and procedures: are effective to ensure that information
required to be disclosed by the company in the reports filed or submitted by it
under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within
the time periods specified in the SEC's rules and forms; and include controls
and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by
the company in such reports is accumulated and communicated to the company's
management, including the CEO and the CFO, as appropriate, to allow timely
decisions regarding required disclosure. There has been no change in the
company's internal control over financial reporting during the most recent
fiscal quarter that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to
materially affect, the company's internal control over financial reporting.
22
PART II - OTHER INFORMATION
Item 1A. Risk Factors
Our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended April 30, 2008, contains
important risk factors that could cause our actual results to differ materially
from our historical experience or our present expectations and projections.
While except for the item below, which amends and replaces the first factor in
the Form 10-K, there are no material changes to those risk factors, they should
be viewed in the context of the potential impact on our business of the recent
economic downturn in the U.S. and around the world, and global economic, capital
and credit market conditions.
ADVERSE MACROECONOMIC AND BUSINESS CONDITIONS MAY SIGNIFICANTLY AND NEGATIVELY
AFFECT OUR REVENUES, PROFITABILITY AND RESULTS OF OPERATION.
Global economic conditions and conditions specific to the United States and/or
other major markets in which we do business could substantially affect our sales
and profitability. Global economic activity has undergone a sudden, sharp
economic downturn, on top of the housing downturn and subprime lending collapse
during the last year. Global credit and capital markets have experienced
unprecedented volatility and disruption. Business credit and liquidity have
tightened in much of the world. Consumer credit has also contracted in a number
of major markets. U.S. unemployment rates have increased significantly. Some of
our suppliers, customers and consumers are facing credit issues, and could
experience cash flow problems and other financial hardships. Consumer confidence
and spending are down significantly.
Changes in governmental banking, monetary and fiscal policies to restore
liquidity and increase credit availability may not be effective. It is difficult
to determine the breadth and duration of the economic and financial market
problems and the many ways in which they may affect our consumers, suppliers,
customers and our business in general. Nonetheless, continuation or further
worsening of these difficult financial and macroeconomic conditions could have
significant adverse effects on our sales, profitability and results of
operations.
Item 6. Exhibits
31.1 CEO Certification pursuant to Section 302 of Sarbanes-Oxley Act
of 2002.
31.2 CFO Certification pursuant to Section 302 of Sarbanes-Oxley Act
of 2002.
32 CEO and CFO Certification pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as
adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
(not considered to be filed).
23
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the
Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
BROWN-FORMAN CORPORATION
(Registrant)
Date: December 8, 2008 By: /s/ Donald C. Berg
Donald C. Berg
Executive Vice President
and Chief Financial Officer
(On behalf of the Registrant and
as Principal Financial Officer)
24
Exhibit 31.1
CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO SECTION 302 OF SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002
I, Paul C. Varga, certify that:
1. I have reviewed this Quarterly report on Form 10-Q of Brown-Forman
Corporation;
2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of
a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the
statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements
were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;
3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial
information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects
the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the
registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;
4. The registrant's other certifying officer and I are responsible for
establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined
in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over
financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and
15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:
a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such
disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision,
to ensure that material information relating to the registrant,
including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others
within those entities, particularly during the period in which this
report is being prepared;
b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such
internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our
supervision, 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;
c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls and
procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the
effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end
of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and
d) Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant's internal control
over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant's most
recent fiscal quarter (the registrant's fourth fiscal quarter in the
case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably
likely to materially affect, the registrant's internal control over
financial reporting; and
5. The registrant's other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our
most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the
registrant's auditors and the audit committee of the registrant's board of
directors (or persons performing the equivalent function):
a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or
operation of internal control over financial reporting which are
reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant's ability to
record, process, summarize and report financial information; and
b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other
employees who have a significant role in the registrant's internal
control over financial reporting.
Date: December 8, 2008 By: /s/ Paul C. Varga
Paul C. Varga
Chief Executive Officer
Exhibit 31.2
CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO SECTION 302 OF SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002
I, Donald C. Berg, certify that:
1. I have reviewed this Quarterly report on Form 10-Q of Brown-Forman
Corporation;
2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of
a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the
statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements
were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;
3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial
information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects
the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the
registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;
4. The registrant's other certifying officer and I are responsible for
establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined
in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over
financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and
15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:
a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such
disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision,
to ensure that material information relating to the registrant,
including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others
within those entities, particularly during the period in which this
report is being prepared;
b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such
internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our
supervision, 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;
c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls and
procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the
effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end
of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and
d) Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant's internal control
over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant's most
recent fiscal quarter (the registrant's fourth fiscal quarter in the
case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably
likely to materially affect, the registrant's internal control over
financial reporting; and
5. The registrant's other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our
most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the
registrant's auditors and the audit committee of the registrant's board of
directors (or persons performing the equivalent function):
a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or
operation of internal control over financial reporting which are
reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant's ability to
record, process, summarize and report financial information; and
b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other
employees who have a significant role in the registrant's internal
control over financial reporting.
Date: December 8, 2008 By: /s/ Donald C. Berg
Donald C. Berg
Chief Financial Officer
Exhibit 32
CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO 18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350, AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO
SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002
In connection with the Quarterly Report of Brown-Forman Corporation ("the
Company") on Form 10-Q for the period ended October 31, 2008, as filed with the
Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the "Report"), each of
the undersigned hereby certifies, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted
pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, in the capacity as an
officer of the Company, that:
(1) The Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) of the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and
(2) The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material
respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company.
Date: December 8, 2008 By: /s/ Paul C. Varga
Paul C. Varga
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer
By: /s/ Donald C. Berg
Donald C. Berg
Executive Vice President
and Chief Financial Officer
A signed original of this written statement required by Section 906 has been
provided to the Company and will be retained by the Company and furnished to the
Securities and Exchange Commission or its staff upon request.
This certificate is being furnished solely for purposes of Section 906 and is
not being filed as part of the Periodic Report.