Form 10-Q (First Quarter Fiscal 2007)


UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549


FORM 10-Q

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

For the quarterly period ended September 30, 2006

or

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


Commission file number: 000-23192



CELADON GROUP, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Delaware
13-3361050
(State or other jurisdiction of
(IRS Employer
incorporation or organization)
Identification Number)
   
9503 East 33rd Street
 
One Celadon Drive
 
Indianapolis, IN
46235-4207
(Address of principal executive offices)
(Zip Code)
   
(317) 972-7000
(Registrant's telephone number, including area code)

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.

Yes x
No o

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, or a non-accelerated filer. See definition of "accelerated filer and large accelerated filer" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):

Large accelerated filer o
Accelerated filer x
Non-accelerated filer o

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12-b2 of the Exchange Act).

Yes o
No x

As of October 30, 2006 (the latest practicable date), 23,418,648 shares of the registrant's common stock, par value $0.033 per share, were outstanding.



CELADON GROUP, INC.

Index to
September 30, 2006 Form 10-Q


Part I.        Financial Information
 
       
 
Item 1.
Financial Statements
 
       
   
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets at September 30, 2006 (Unaudited)
and June 30, 2006
 
       
   
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations for the three months
ended September 30, 2006 and 2005 (Unaudited)
 
       
   
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the three months
ended September 30, 2006 and 2005 (Unaudited)
 
       
   
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)
       
 
Item 2.
Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition
and Results of Operations
 
       
 
Item 3.
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk
       
 
Item 4.
Controls and Procedures
       
Part II.      Other Information
 
       
 
Item 1.
Legal Proceedings
       
 
Item 1A.
Risk Factors
       
 
Items 2., 3., 4., and 5.
Not Applicable
       
 
Item 6.
Exhibits


 


PART I.       FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1.      Financial Statements

CELADON GROUP, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
September 30, 2006 and June 30, 2006
(Dollars in thousands, except share amounts)

   
September 30,
2006
 
June 30,
2006
 
A S S E T S
 
(unaudited)
     
           
Current assets:
             
Cash and cash equivalents 
 
$
1,081
 
$
1,674
 
Trade receivables, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of
$1,332 and $1,269 at September 30, 2006 and June 30, 2006
   
57,542
   
55,462
 
Prepaid expenses and other current assets 
   
13,284
   
10,132
 
Tires in service 
   
2,828
   
2,737
 
Income tax receivable 
   
2,630
   
5,216
 
Deferred income taxes 
   
1,240
   
1,867
 
Total current assets
   
78,605
   
77,088
 
Property and equipment 
   
130,688
   
121,733
 
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization 
   
31,189
   
30,466
 
Net property and equipment
   
99,499
   
91,267
 
Tires in service 
   
1,654
   
1,569
 
Goodwill  
   
19,137
   
19,137
 
Other assets 
   
934
   
1,005
 
Total assets
 
$
199,829
 
$
190,066
 
               
L I A B I L I T I E S   A N D   S T O C K H O L D E R S'   E Q U I T Y
             
               
Current liabilities:
             
Accounts payable 
 
$
7,756
 
$
4,369
 
Accrued salaries and benefits 
   
12,821
   
16,808
 
Accrued insurance and claims 
   
7,362
   
7,048
 
Accrued fuel expense 
   
5,615
   
6,481
 
Other accrued expenses 
   
13,728
   
12,018
 
Current maturities of long-term debt 
   
1,493
   
975
 
Current maturities of capital lease obligations 
   
478
   
507
 
Total current liabilities
   
49,253
   
48,206
 
Long-term debt, net of current maturities 
   
8,845
   
9,608
 
Capital lease obligations, net of current maturities 
   
886
   
933
 
Deferred income taxes 
   
10,954
   
9,867
 
Minority interest 
   
25
   
25
 
Stockholders' equity:
             
Preferred stock, $1.00 par value, authorized 179,985 shares; no
shares issued and outstanding
   
   
 
Common stock, $0.033 par value, authorized 40,000,000 shares;
     Issued 23,418,648 and 23,111,367 shares at September 30, 2006 
     and June 30, 2006 
   
773
   
763
 
Additional paid-in capital 
   
91,997
   
90,828
 
Retained earnings  
   
39,205
   
32,092
 
Accumulated other comprehensive loss 
   
(2,109
)
 
(2,256
)
Total stockholders' equity
   
129,866
   
121,427
 
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity
 
$
199,829
 
$
190,066
 

See accompanying notes to the condensed consolidated financial statements.



 
3


CELADON GROUP, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
For the three months ended September 30, 2006 and 2005
(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)
(Unaudited)


   
2006
 
2005
 
           
Revenue:
         
Freight revenue 
 
$
107,665
 
$
103,340
 
Fuel surcharges 
   
20,063
   
14,595
 
     
127,728
   
117,935
 
               
Operating expenses:
             
Salaries, wages and employee benefits 
   
35,289
   
34,863
 
Fuel 
   
30,674
   
26,220
 
Operations and maintenance 
   
7,634
   
7,282
 
Insurance and claims 
   
4,231
   
3,386
 
Depreciation and amortization 
   
3,466
   
3,163
 
Revenue equipment rentals 
   
9,333
   
10,372
 
Purchased transportation 
   
18,340
   
17,823
 
Cost of products and services sold 
   
1,867
   
1,294
 
Professional and consulting fees 
   
522
   
852
 
Communications and utilities 
   
1,094
   
1,019
 
Operating taxes and licenses 
   
2,089
   
2,061
 
General and other operating 
   
1,548
   
1,504
 
Total operating expenses
   
116,087
   
109,839
 
               
Operating income   
   
11,641
   
8,096
 
               
Other (income) expense:
             
Interest income 
   
(7
)
 
(1
)
Interest expense 
   
301
   
302
 
Other (income) expense, net 
   
(15
)
 
25
 
Income before income taxes 
   
11,362
   
7,770
 
Provision for income taxes 
   
4,249
   
3,086
 
Net income  
 
$
7,113
 
$
4,684
 
               
Earnings per common share:
             
Diluted earnings per share (1) 
 
$
0.30
 
$
0.20
 
Basic earnings per share (1) 
 
$
0.31
 
$
0.21
 
Average shares outstanding:
             
Diluted (1) 
   
23,542
   
23,207
 
Basic (1) 
   
23,272
   
22,631
 

(1)
Earnings per share amounts and average number of shares outstanding have been adjusted to give retroactive effect to the three-for-two stock splits effected in the form of two 50% stock dividends paid on February 15, 2006 and June 15, 2006

See accompanying notes to the condensed consolidated financial statements.

 
4


CELADON GROUP, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
For the three months ended September 30, 2006 and 2005
(Dollars in thousands)
(Unaudited)
 
   
2006
 
2005
 
           
Cash flows from operating activities:
         
Net income 
 
$
7,113
 
$
4,684
 
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash (used in) provided
by operating activities:
             
Depreciation and amortization
   
3,914
   
3,155
 
(Gain) loss on sale of equipment
   
(448
)
 
8
 
Provision (benefit) for deferred income taxes
   
1,714
   
(506
)
Provision for doubtful accounts
   
204
   
138
 
Stock based compensation expense
   
(1,160
)
 
873
 
Changes in assets and liabilities:
             
Trade receivables
   
(2,284
)
 
(2,365
)
Income tax recoverable
   
2,586
   
1,096
 
Tires in service
   
(175
)
 
70
 
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
   
(3,153
)
 
(5,264
)
Other assets
   
147
   
(2,091
)
Accounts payable and accrued expenses
   
2,115
   
(1,092
)
Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities 
   
10,573
   
(1,294
)
               
Cash flows from investing activities:
             
Purchase of property and equipment 
   
(18,872
)
 
(10,788
)
Proceeds on sale of property and equipment 
   
9,034
   
8,073
 
Net cash used in investing activities
   
(9,838
)
 
(2,715
)
               
Cash flows from financing activities:
             
Proceeds from issuances of common stock 
   
782
   
205
 
Payments on long-term debt 
   
(2,034
)
 
(371
)
Principal payments on capital lease obligations 
   
(76
)
 
(618
)
Net cash used in financing activities
   
(1,328
)
 
(784
)
               
Decrease in cash and cash equivalents 
   
(593
)
 
(4,793
)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period 
   
1,674
   
11,115
 
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period 
 
$
1,081
 
$
6,322
 
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information:
             
Interest paid 
 
$
239
 
$
281
 
Income taxes paid 
 
$
121
 
$
2,359
 
Supplemental disclosure of non-cash flow investing activities:
             
Lease obligation/debt incurred in the purchase of equipment 
 
$
1,789
 
$
1,025
 
 
See accompanying notes to the condensed consolidated financial statements.

 
5


CELADON GROUP, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
September 30, 2006
(Unaudited)
1.     Basis of Presentation

The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Celadon Group, Inc. and its majority owned subsidiaries (the "Company"). All material intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

The unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP") in the United States of America pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission for interim financial statements. Certain information and footnote disclosures have been condensed or omitted pursuant to such rules and regulations. In the opinion of management, the accompanying unaudited financial statements reflect all adjustments (all of a normal recurring nature), which are necessary for a fair presentation of the financial condition and results of operations for these periods. The results of operations for the interim period are not necessarily indicative of the results for a full year. These condensed consolidated financial statements and notes thereto should be read in conjunction with the Company's condensed consolidated financial statements and notes thereto, included in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2006.

The preparation of the financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

2.     Stock Splits

On January 18, 2006, the Board of Directors approved a three-for-two stock split, effected in the form of a fifty percent (50%) stock dividend. The stock split distribution date was February 15, 2006, to stockholders of record as of the close of business on February 1, 2006. On May 4, 2006, the Board of Directors approved a second three-for-two stock split, effected in the form of a fifty percent (50%) stock dividend. The stock split distribution date was June 15, 2006, to stockholders of record as of the close of business of June 1, 2006.

Unless otherwise indicated, all share and per share amounts have been adjusted to give retroactive effect to these stock splits.

3.    Earnings Per Share

The difference in basic and diluted weighted average shares is due to the assumed exercise of outstanding stock options. A reconciliation of the basic and diluted earnings per share calculation was as follows (amounts in thousands, except per share amounts): 

   
For the three months ended
September 30,
 
   
2006
 
2005
 
           
Net income 
 
$
7,113
 
$
4,684
 
               
Denominator
             
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding
   
23,272
   
22,631
 
Equivalent shares issuable upon exercise of stock options
   
270
   
576
 
               
Diluted shares 
   
23,542
   
23,207
 
               
Earnings per share
             
Basic 
 
$
0.31
 
$
0.21
 
Diluted 
 
$
0.30
 
$
0.20
 

 
6


CELADON GROUP, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
September 30, 2006
(Unaudited)

4.    Segment Information and Significant Customers

The Company operates in two segments, transportation and e-commerce. The Company generates revenue in the transportation segment, primarily by providing truckload-hauling services through its subsidiaries, Celadon Trucking Services, Inc., ("CTSI"), Celadon Logistics Services, Inc., ("CLSI"), Servicios de Transportacion Jaguar, S.A. de C.V. ("Jaguar"), and Celadon Canada, Inc. ("CelCan"). The Company provides certain services over the Internet through its e-commerce subsidiary, TruckersB2B, Inc. ("TruckersB2B"). The e-commerce segment generates revenue by providing discounted fuel, tires, and other products and services to small and medium-sized trucking companies. The Company evaluates the performance of its operating segments based on operating income (amounts below in thousands).

   
Transportation
 
E-commerce
 
Consolidated
 
Three months ended September 30, 2006
             
Operating revenue
 
$
125,052
 
$
2,676
 
$
127,728
 
Operating income
   
11,228
   
413
   
11,641
 
                     
Three months ended September 30, 2005
                   
Operating revenue
 
$
115,960
 
$
1,975
 
$
117,935
 
Operating income
   
7,741
   
355
   
8,096
 

Information as to the Company's operating revenues by geographic area is summarized below (in thousands). The Company allocates operating revenues based on country of origin of the tractor hauling the freight:

   
United States
 
Canada
 
Mexico
 
Consolidated
 
Three months ended September 30, 2006
                 
Operating revenue
 
$
104,829
 
$
15,964
 
$
6,935
 
$
127,728
 
                           
Three months ended September 30, 2005
                         
Operating revenue
 
$
96,638
 
$
14,755
 
$
6,542
 
$
117,935
 

No customer accounted for more than 10% of the Company's total revenue during any of its two most recent fiscal years.

5.    Stock Based Compensation

On July 1, 2005, the Company adopted Statement Financial Accounting Standard ("SFAS") 123(R) which requires all share-based payments to employees, including grants of employee stock options, be recognized in the financial statements based upon a grant-date fair value of an award. In January 2006, shareholders approved the 2006 Omnibus Plan ("2006 Plan"), that provides various vehicles to compensate the Company's key employees. The 2006 Plan utilizes such vehicles as stock options, restricted stock grants, and stock appreciation rights ("SARs"). The 2006 Plan authorized the Company to grant 1,687,500 shares. In fiscal 2007, the Company granted 20,000 stock options. The Company is authorized to grant an additional 869,031 shares.

The following table summarizes the components of our stock based compensation program expense:

   
For the three months ended
September 30,
 
   
2006
 
2005
 
           
Stock options expense
 
$
243
 
$
 
Restricted stock expense
   
154
   
234
 
Stock appreciation rights expense
   
(1,557
)
 
586
 
Total stock related compensation expense
 
$
(1,160
)
$
820
 

 
7


CELADON GROUP, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
September 30, 2006
(Unaudited)

The Company has granted a number of stock options under various plans. Options granted to employees have been granted with an exercise price equal to the market price on the grant date and expire on the tenth anniversary of the grant date. The majority of options granted to employees vest 25 percent per year, commencing with the first anniversary of the grant date. Options granted to non-employee directors have been granted with an exercise price equal to the market price on the grant date, vest over three or four years, commencing with the first anniversary of the grant date, and expire on the tenth anniversary of the grant date.

A summary of the activity of the Company's stock option plans as of September 30, 2006 and changes during the period then ended is presented below:

Options
 
Shares
 
Weighted-
Average
Exercise
Price
 
Weighted-
Average
Remaining Contractual
Term
 
Aggregate
Intrinsic
Value
 
                   
Outstanding at July 1, 2006
   
1,446,710
 
$
7.44
   
   
 
Granted
   
20,000
 
$
18.84
   
   
 
Exercised
   
(307,282
)
$
2.55
   
   
 
Forfeited or expired
   
   
   
   
 
Outstanding at September 30, 2006
   
1,159,428
 
$
8.94
   
7.48
 
$
8,931,987
 
Exercisable at September 30, 2006
   
475,296
 
$
3.11
   
4.87
 
$
6,431,662
 

The fair value of each option grant is estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model with the following weighted-average:

 
Fiscal 2007
 
Fiscal 2006
Weighted average grant date fair value
$9.97
 
$12.58
Dividend yield
0
 
0
Expected volatility
64.2%
 
50.1%
Risk-free interest rate
4.92%
 
4.35%
Expected lives
4 years
 
4 years

Restricted Shares

   
Number of Shares
 
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
 
Unvested at July 1, 2006
   
274,230    
 
 
$8.96    
 
Granted
   
    
   
    
 
Vested
   
    
   
    
 
Forfeited
   
    
   
    
 
Unvested at September 30, 2006
   
274,230    
 
 
$8.96    
 

Restricted shares granted to employees have been granted with a share price equal to the market price on the grant date and vesting at 25 percent per year, commencing with the first anniversary of the grant date. In addition, there are certain financial targets which must be met for these shares to vest. The weighted average grant date share price was $12.81 in fiscal 2006.


 
8


CELADON GROUP, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
September 30, 2006
(Unaudited)

As of September 30, 2006, we had $3.2 million and $1.6 million of total unrecognized compensation expense related to stock options and restricted stock, respectively, that is expected to be recognized over the remaining period of approximately 3.9 years for stock options and 3.4 years for restricted stock.

Stock Appreciation Rights

   
Number of Shares
 
Weighted Average
Grant Date Fair Value
 
Unvested at July 1, 2006
   
571,437     
 
 
$7.73    
 
Granted
   
     
   
    
 
Paid
   
 (7,871)    
    
 
$4.48    
 
Forfeited
   
(309,176)    
 
 
$7.10    
 
Unvested at September 30, 2006
   
254,390     
 
 
$8.59    
 

SARs granted to employees vest on a 3 or 4 year vesting schedule; in addition, certain financial targets must be met for these shares to vest. During the first quarter of fiscal 2007, the Company gave SARs grantees the opportunity to enter into an alternative fixed compensation arrangement whereby the grantee would forfeit all rights to SARs compensation in exchange for a guaranteed quarterly payment for the remainder of the underlying SARs term. This alternative arrangement is subject to continued service to the Company or one of its subsidiaries. The number of forfeited SARs reported above reflects entry into this alternative arrangement. These fixed payments will be accrued quarterly from July 1, 2006 to March 31, 2009. The Company offered this alternative arrangement to mitigate the volatility to earnings from stock price variance on the SARs.

6.    Comprehensive Income

Comprehensive income consisted of the following components for the three months ended September 30, 2006 and 2005, respectively (in thousands):

   
For the three months ended
September 30,    
 
   
2006
 
2005
 
           
Net income
 
 
$7,113    
 
 
$4,684    
 
Foreign currency translation adjustments
   
147    
   
47    
 
               
Total comprehensive income
 
 
$7,260    
 
 
$4,731    
 

7.    Commitments and Contingencies

There are various claims, lawsuits, and pending actions against the Company and its subsidiaries in the normal course of the operations of its businesses with respect to cargo, auto liability, or income taxes. The Company believes many of these proceedings are covered in whole or in part by insurance and that none of these matters will have a material adverse effect on its consolidated financial position or results of operations in any given period.

8.    Reclassification

Certain reclassifications have been made to the September 30, 2005 financial statements to conform to the September 30, 2006 presentation.


 
9


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

Disclosure Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This Quarterly Report contains certain statements that may be considered forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors which may cause the actual results, events, performance, or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, events, performance, or achievements expressed in or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such statements may be identified by the fact that they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts. These statements generally use words such as "believe," "expect," "anticipate," "project," "forecast," "should," "estimate," "plan," "outlook," "goal," and similar expressions. While it is impossible to identify all factors that may cause actual results to differ from those expressed in or implied by forward-looking statements, the risks and uncertainties that may affect the Company's business include, but are not limited to, those discussed in the section entitled Item 1A. Risk Factors, set forth below.

All such forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this Form 10-Q. You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements. The Company expressly disclaims any obligation or undertaking to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect any change in the Company's expectations with regard thereto or any change in the events, conditions, or circumstances on which any such statement is based.

References to the "Company," "we," "us," "our," and words of similar import refer to Celadon Group, Inc. and its consolidated subsidiaries.

Business Overview

We are one of North America's twenty largest truckload carriers as measured by revenue. We generated $480.2 million in operating revenue during our fiscal year ended June 30, 2006. We have grown significantly since our incorporation in 1986 through internal growth and a series of acquisitions since 1995. As a dry van truckload carrier, we generally transport full trailer loads of freight from origin to destination without intermediate stops or handling. Our customer base includes many Fortune 500 shippers.

In our international operations, we offer time-sensitive transportation in and between the United States and its two largest trading partners, Mexico and Canada. We generated approximately one-half of our revenue in fiscal 2006 from international movements, and we believe our annual border crossings make us the largest provider of international truckload movements in North America. We believe that our strategically located terminals and experience with the language, culture, and border crossing requirements of each North American country provide a competitive advantage in the international trucking marketplace.

We believe our international operations, particularly those involving Mexico, offer an attractive business niche for several reasons. The additional complexity and the need to establish cross-border business partners and to develop a strong organization and an adequate infrastructure in Mexico afford some barriers to competition that are not present in traditional U.S. truckload service. In addition, the expected continued growth of Mexico's economy, particularly exports to the U.S., positions us to capitalize on our cross-border expertise.

Our success is dependent upon the success of our operations in Mexico and Canada, and we are subject to risks of doing business internationally, including fluctuations in foreign currencies, changes in the economic strength of the countries in which we do business, difficulties in enforcing contractual obligations and intellectual property rights, burdens of complying with a wide variety of international and United States export and import laws, and social, political, and economic instability. Additional risks associated with our foreign operations, including restrictive trade policies and imposition of duties, taxes, or government royalties by foreign governments, are present but largely mitigated by the terms of NAFTA.

 
10


In addition to our international business, we offer a broad range of truckload transportation services within the United States, including long-haul, regional, dedicated, and logistics. With the acquisitions of certain assets of CX Roberson in January 2005, Highway Express in August 2003, and Erin Truckways LTD., d/b/a Digby Truck Line Inc. ("Digby") in October 2006, we expanded our operations and service offerings within the United States and significantly improved our lane density, freight mix, and customer diversity.

We also operate TruckersB2B a profitable marketing business that affords volume purchasing power for items such as fuel, tires, and equipment to approximately 19,700 member trucking fleets representing approximately 410,000 tractors. TruckersB2B represents a separate operating segment under generally accepted accounting principles.

Recent Results and Financial Condition

For the first quarter of fiscal 2007, operating revenue increased 8.3% to $127.7 million, compared with $117.9 million for the first quarter of fiscal 2006. Net income increased to $7.1 million from $4.7 million, and diluted earnings per share improved to $0.30 from $0.20. We believe that a favorable relationship between freight demand and the industry-wide supply of tractor and trailer capacity, as well as our dedication to pricing discipline, yield management, and customer service, contributed to higher freight rates and, along with continued focus on cost controls, resulted in increased earnings for the first quarter of fiscal 2007 compared to the first quarter of fiscal 2006.

At September 30, 2006, our total balance sheet debt was $11.7 million and our total stockholders' equity was $129.9 million, for a total debt to capitalization ratio of 8.3%. At September 30, 2006, we had $47.2 million of available borrowing capacity under our revolving credit facility and $1.1 million of cash on hand.

Revenue

We generate substantially all of our revenue by transporting freight for our customers. Generally, we are paid by the mile or by the load for our services. We also derive revenue from fuel surcharges, loading and unloading activities, equipment detention, other trucking related services, and from TruckersB2B. The main factors that affect our revenue are the revenue per mile we receive from our customers, the percentage of miles for which we are compensated, the number of tractors operating, and the number of miles we generate with our equipment. These factors relate to, among other things, the U.S. economy, inventory levels, the level of truck capacity in our markets, specific customer demand, the percentage of team-driven tractors in our fleet, driver availability, and our average length of haul.

We also derive revenue from fuel surcharges, loading and unloading activities, equipment detention, and other accessorial services. We believe that eliminating the impact of this sometimes volatile source of revenue affords a more consistent basis for comparing our results of operations from period to period.

Expenses and Profitability

The main factors that impact our profitability on the expense side are the variable costs of transporting freight for our customers. These costs include fuel expense, driver-related expenses, such as wages, benefits, training, and recruitment, and independent contractor costs, which we record as purchased transportation. Expenses that have both fixed and variable components include maintenance and tire expense and our total cost of insurance and claims. These expenses generally vary with the miles we travel, but also have a controllable component based on safety, fleet age, efficiency, and other factors. Our main fixed cost is the acquisition and financing of long-term assets, primarily revenue equipment. We have other mostly fixed costs, such as our non-driver personnel and facilities expenses. In discussing our expenses as a percentage of revenue, we sometimes discuss changes as a percentage of revenue before fuel surcharges, in addition to absolute dollar changes, because we believe the high variable cost nature of our business makes a comparison of changes in expenses as a percentage of revenue more meaningful at times than absolute dollar changes.



 
11


The trucking industry has experienced significant increases in expenses over the past three years, in particular those relating to equipment costs, driver compensation, insurance, and fuel. As the United States economy has expanded, many trucking companies have been able to raise freight rates to cover the increased costs. This is primarily due to industry-wide tight capacity of drivers. Competition for drivers has become increasingly intense, as the expanding economy has provided alternative jobs at the same time as increasing freight demand. To obtain capacity, shippers have been willing to accept significant rate increases. As long as freight demand continues to exceed truck capacity, we expect increases in driver pay by many carriers, including us, and higher freight rates.

Revenue Equipment and Related Financing

Excluding purchases associated with the Digby acquisition, we expect our tractor and trailer purchases will be primarily for replacement and expect to maintain the average age of our tractor fleet at approximately 2.0 years and the average age of our trailer fleet at 4.0 years or less during the 2007 fiscal year.  At September 30, 2006, we had future operating lease obligations totaling $183.5 million, including residual value guarantees of approximately $76.4 million.

   
September 30, 2006
 
September 30, 2005
 
   
Tractors
 
Trailers
 
Tractors
 
Trailers
 
Owned equipment  
   
981    
   
687    
   
367    
   
1,544    
 
Capital leased equipment  
   
    
   
110    
   
    
   
161    
  
Operating leased equipment  
   
1,424    
   
6,433    
   
1,868    
   
5,471    
 
Independent contractors  
   
363    
   
    
   
344    
   
    
 
Total 
   
2,768    
   
7,230    
   
2,579    
   
7,176    
 

Independent contractors are utilized through a contract with us to supply one or more tractors and drivers for our use. Independent contractors must pay their own tractor expenses, fuel, maintenance, and driver costs and must meet our specified guidelines with respect to safety. A lease-purchase program that we offer provides independent contractors the opportunity to lease-to-own a tractor. As of September 30, 2006, there were 363 independent contractors providing a combined 13.1% of our tractor capacity.
 
Outlook

Looking forward, our profitability goal is to achieve an operating ratio of approximately 88%. We expect this to require additional improvements in rate per mile and decreased non-revenue miles, to overcome expected additional cost increases. Because a large percentage of our costs are variable, changes in revenue per mile affect our profitability to a greater extent than changes in miles per tractor. For fiscal 2007, the key factors that we expect to have the greatest effect on our profitability are our freight revenue per tractor per week, our compensation of drivers, our cost of revenue equipment (particularly in light of the 2007 EPA engine requirements), our fuel costs, and our insurance and claims. To overcome cost increases and improve our margins, we will need to achieve increases in freight revenue per tractor, particularly in revenue per mile, which we intend to achieve by increasing rates and continuing to shift to more profitable freight. Operationally, we will seek improvements in safety, driver recruiting and retention. Our success in these areas primarily will affect revenue, driver-related expenses, and insurance and claims expense.

Subsequent Event

On October 6, 2006, we acquired certain assets of Digby. Pursuant to the asset purchase agreement, our wholly-owned subsidiary, CTSI, acquired Digby's truckload business, including approximately 270 tractors and 590 trailers for approximately $21.0 million. In connection with the acquisition, we also have offered employment to approximately 150 qualified former Digby drivers. According to Digby's unaudited financial statements, the Nashville, Tennessee-based transportation company generated approximately $48 million in gross revenue in 2005. The Company plans to retain approximately 90 of the newest tractors and approximately 180 of the newest trailers from the acquisition and dispose of the balance.


 
12


We expect to integrate the acquired operations promptly. As part of the integration process, we expect to optimize the combined customer, driver, and equipment base to improve asset productivity. We believe we can enhance the service to Digby's former customers through an upgraded equipment fleet, excellent technology, more available assets for dispatch, and an outstanding safety record.

Results of Operations

The following table sets forth the percentage relationship of expense items to freight revenue for the periods indicated:

   
For the three months
ended September 30,
 
   
2006
 
2005
 
Freight revenue(1)
   
100.0%    
 
 
100.0%    
 
               
Operating expenses:
             
Salaries, wages, and employee benefits
   
32.8%    
 
 
33.7%    
 
Fuel(1)
   
9.9%    
 
 
11.2%    
 
Operations and maintenance
   
7.1%    
 
 
7.0%    
 
Insurance and claims
   
3.9%    
 
 
3.3%    
 
Depreciation and amortization
   
3.2%    
 
 
3.1%    
 
Revenue equipment rentals
   
8.7%    
 
 
10.0%    
 
Purchased transportation
   
17.0%    
 
 
17.2%    
 
Costs of products and services sold
   
1.7%    
 
 
1.3%    
 
Professional and consulting fees
   
0.5%    
 
 
0.8%    
 
Communications and utilities
   
1.0%    
 
 
1.0%    
 
Operating taxes and licenses
   
1.9%    
 
 
2.0%    
 
General and other operating
   
1.5%    
 
 
1.6%    
 
               
Total operating expenses
   
89.2%    
 
 
92.2%    
 
               
Operating income
   
10.8%    
 
 
7.8%    
 
               
Other expense:
             
Interest expense
   
0.3%    
 
 
0.3%    
 
               
Income before income taxes
   
10.5%    
 
 
7.5%    
 
Provision for income taxes
   
3.9%    
 
 
3.0%    
 
               
Net income
   
6.6%    
 
 
4.5%    
 

(1)
Freight revenue is total revenue less fuel surcharges. In this table, fuel surcharges are eliminated from revenue and subtracted from fuel expense. Fuel surcharges were $20.1 million and $14.6 million for the first quarter of fiscal 2007 and 2006, respectively.

Comparison of Three Months Ended September 30, 2006 to Three Months Ended September 30, 2005

Operating revenue increased by $9.8 million, or 8.3%, to $127.7 million for the first quarter of fiscal 2007, from $117.9 million for the first quarter of fiscal 2006.

Freight revenue increased by $4.4 million, or 4.3%, to $107.7 million for the first quarter of fiscal 2007, from $103.3 million for the first quarter of fiscal 2006. This increase was primarily attributable to a 2.2% improvement in average freight revenue per total mile to $1.39 from $1.36, offset by a decrease in the average miles per tractor per week from 2,181 miles to 2,064 miles. The improvement in average freight revenue per total mile resulted primarily from better overall freight rates driven by a favorable relationship between freight demand and truckload capacity, a decrease in the percentage of our freight comprised of automotive parts, and a corresponding increase in the percentage of our freight comprised of consumer non-durables. As a result of the foregoing factors, average freight revenue per tractor per week, which is our primary measure of asset productivity, decreased 3.6% to $2,870 in the first quarter of fiscal 2007, from $2,976 for the first quarter of fiscal 2006. With total miles remaining flat compared to fiscal 2006, the average number of seated tractors increased to 2,266 for the first quarter in fiscal 2007 from 2,105 for the first quarter in fiscal 2006.

 
13


Revenue for TruckersB2B was $2.7 million in the first quarter of fiscal 2007, compared to $2.0 million for the first quarter of fiscal 2006.

Salaries, wages, and employee benefits were $35.3 million, or 32.8% of freight revenue, for fiscal 2007, compared to $34.9 million, or 33.7% of freight revenue, for the first fiscal quarter of fiscal 2006. The increase in the overall dollar amount was primarily related to an increase in paid driver miles offset by a decrease of $1.2 million in stock related compensation expenses in the first quarter of fiscal 2007 compared to the first quarter of fiscal 2006.

Fuel expenses, net of fuel surcharge revenue of $20.1 million and $14.6 million for the first fiscal quarters of 2007 and 2006, respectively, decreased to $10.6 million, or 9.9% of freight revenue, for the first fiscal quarter of 2007, compared to $11.6 million, or 11.2% of freight revenue, for the first fiscal quarter of 2006. Fuel prices increased approximately $.34 per gallon from the September 2006 quarter offset by increased fuel surcharge. Higher fuel prices and lower fuel economy will increase our operating expenses to the extent we cannot offset them with surcharges.

Operations and maintenance increased to $7.6 million for the first quarter of fiscal 2007, from $7.3 million for the first quarter of fiscal 2006. Operations and maintenance increased slightly at 7.1% of freight revenue for the first quarter of fiscal 2007, from 7.0% for the first quarter of fiscal 2006. Operations and maintenance consist of direct operating expense, maintenance, and tire expense. This increase is attributed to an increase in various direct operating expenses such as tolls and an increase on damage repairs to tractors. We expect maintenance expense to remain constant as a percentage of freight revenue in future periods as a result of the effects of our fleet upgrade keeping the average age of tractors at approximately 2.0 years.

Insurance and claims expense increased to $4.2 million, or 3.9% of freight revenue, for the first quarter of fiscal 2007, compared to $3.4 million, or 3.3% of freight revenue, for the first quarter of fiscal 2006. Insurance consists of premiums for liability, physical damage, and cargo damage insurance. In the fiscal 2007 quarter we experienced increases in our cargo claims expense and workers' compensation claims. Our insurance program involves self-insurance at various risk retention levels. Claims in excess of these risk levels are covered by insurance in amounts we consider to be adequate. We accrue for the uninsured portion of claims based on known claims and historical experience. We continually revise and change our insurance program to maintain a balance between premium expense and the risk retention we are willing to assume.

Depreciation and amortization, consisting primarily of depreciation of revenue equipment, increased to $3.5 million for the first quarter of fiscal 2007 from $3.2 million in first quarter of fiscal 2006. Depreciation and amortization increased slightly to 3.2% of freight revenue in the first quarter of fiscal 2007, compared to 3.1% of freight revenue for the first quarter of fiscal 2006. Our increased use of cash and borrowings to acquire tractors was offset by gains on the disposition of revenue equipment. As a result, depreciation and amortization was essentially flat. For the remainder of fiscal 2007, we expect depreciation to increase and revenue equipment rentals to decrease as a percentage of revenue. Because of higher equipment prices and higher interest rates (which affect lease payments) we expect our total costs of depreciation and amortization to increase in fiscal 2007. Revenue equipment held under operating leases is not reflected on our balance sheet and the expenses related to such equipment are reflected on our statements of operations in revenue equipment rentals, rather than in depreciation and amortization and interest expense, as is the case for revenue equipment that is financed with borrowings or capital leases. In the near term, we expect to purchase new tractors, excluding tractors acquired in acquisitions, with cash generated from operations.

Revenue equipment rentals were $9.3 million, or 8.7% of freight revenue, for the first quarter of fiscal 2007, compared to $10.4 million, or 10.0% of freight revenue, for the first quarter of fiscal 2006. This decrease is attributable to a decrease in our tractor fleet financed under operating leases. At September 30, 2006, 1,424 tractors, or 59.2% of our Company tractors, were held under operating leases compared to 1,868 tractors, or 83.6% of our Company tractors, at September 30, 2005. As we expect to purchase most of our new tractors, excluding tractors acquired in acquisitions, with cash generated from operations, we expect revenue equipment rentals will continue to decrease going forward, offset somewhat by our purchases of new trailers with operating leases.

 
14


Purchased transportation increased to $18.3 million, or 17.0% of freight revenue, for the first quarter of fiscal 2007, from $17.8 million, or 17.2% of freight revenue, for the first quarter of fiscal 2006. The increase in the overall dollar amount is primarily related to increased owner-operator fuel surcharge reimbursement and an increase in the number of independent contractors to 363 at September 30, 2006, from 344 at September 30, 2005. Independent contractors are drivers who cover all their operating expenses (fuel, driver salaries, maintenance, and equipment costs) for a fixed payment per mile. We expect the majority of our equipment additions to come in our Company-operated fleet. As a result, the percentage of our fleet comprised of independent contractors may continue to decline, with a corresponding decrease in this expense category. It has become difficult to recruit and retain independent contractors.
 
All of our other operating expenses are relatively minor in amount, and there were no significant changes in such expenses. Accordingly, we have not provided a detailed discussion of such expenses.

Our pretax margin, which we believe is a useful measure of our operating performance because it is neutral with regard to the method of revenue equipment financing that a company uses, improved 300 basis points to 10.5% of freight revenue for the first quarter of fiscal 2007, from 7.5% of freight revenue for the first quarter of fiscal 2006.

Income taxes increased to $4.2 million, with an effective tax rate of 37.4%, for the first quarter of fiscal 2007, from $3.1 million, with an effective tax rate of 39.7%, for the first quarter of fiscal 2006. The effective tax rate decreased as a result of increased earnings, which reduced the effect of non-deductible expenses related to our per diem pay structure. As per diem is a non-deductible expense, our effective tax rate will fluctuate as net income fluctuates in the future.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

Trucking is a capital-intensive business. We require cash to fund our operating expenses (other than depreciation and amortization), to make capital expenditures and acquisitions, and to repay debt. Other than ordinary operating expenses, we anticipate that capital expenditures for the acquisition of revenue equipment and repayment of debt incurred in connection with the Digby acquisition will constitute our primary cash requirements over the next twelve months. Our principal sources of liquidity are cash generated from operations, bank borrowings, lease financing of revenue equipment, proceeds from the sale of used revenue equipment, and, to a lesser extent, the sale of shares of our common stock.

As of September 30, 2006, we had on order 725 tractors and 800 trailers for delivery through 2007. These revenue equipment orders represent a capital commitment of approximately $86.0 million, before considering the proceeds of equipment dispositions. In fiscal 2006, we purchased most of our new tractors and we acquired most of the new trailers under off-balance sheet operating leases. At September 30, 2006, our total balance sheet debt, including capital lease obligations and current maturities, was $11.7 million, compared to $7.4 million at September 30, 2005. Our debt-to-capitalization ratio (total balance sheet debt as a percentage of total balance sheet debt plus total stockholders' equity) was 8.3% at September 30, 2006.

We believe we will be able to fund our operating expenses, as well as our current commitments for the acquisition of revenue equipment in connection with our fleet upgrade over the next twelve months with a combination of cash generated from operations, borrowings available under our primary credit facility, and lease financing arrangements. We will continue to have significant capital requirements over the long term, and the availability of the needed capital will depend upon our financial condition and operating results and numerous other factors over which we have limited or no control, including prevailing market conditions and the market price of our common stock. However, based on our improving operating results, anticipated future cash flows, current availability under our credit facility, and sources of equipment lease financing that we expect will be available to us, we do not expect to experience significant liquidity constraints in the foreseeable future.

 
15


Cash Flows

Cash provided by operations was $10.6 million for the first quarter of fiscal 2007, compared to $1.3 million used for the first quarter of fiscal 2006. The increase in cash provided by operations in the first quarter of fiscal 2007 from the first quarter of fiscal 2006 is due primarily to the increase in net income offset by changes in operating assets and liabilities related to increased prepaid expenses and trade receivables offset by decreased income taxes, and an increase in accounts payable.

Investing activities consumed $9.8 million for the first quarter of fiscal 2007, compared to $2.7 million for the first quarter of fiscal 2006. Cash used in (provided by) investing includes the net effect of acquisitions and dispositions of revenue equipment during each period. Capital expenditures primarily for tractors and trailers (including lease buyouts and new equipment purchases) totaled $18.9 million for the first quarter of fiscal 2007 and $10.8 million for the first quarter of fiscal 2006. We generated proceeds from the sale of property and equipment of $9.0 million during the first quarter of fiscal 2007, compared to $8.1 million in proceeds for the first quarter of fiscal 2006.

Financing activities consumed $1.3 million for the first quarter of fiscal 2007, compared to cash used $0.8 million for the first quarter of fiscal 2006. Financing activity represents borrowings (new borrowings, net of repayment) and payments of the principal component of capital lease obligations. Although capital expenditures increased for the first quarter of fiscal 2007, we used cash on hand for a greater percentage of our financing activities, rather than borrowing.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

Operating leases have been an important source of financing for our revenue equipment. We lease a significant portion of our tractor and trailer fleet using operating leases. In connection with substantially all of our operating leases, we have issued residual value guarantees, which provide that if we do not purchase the leased equipment from the lessor at the end of the lease term, then we are liable to the lessor for an amount equal to the shortage (if any) between the proceeds from the sale of the equipment and an agreed value. With respect to a small portion of our equipment held under operating leases, we have obtained from the manufacturers residual value guarantees that meet or exceed the amount of our guarantee to the lessor. To the extent the expected value at the lease termination date is lower than the residual value guarantee, we would accrue for the difference over the remaining lease term. We currently believe that proceeds from the sale of equipment held under operating leases would exceed the amount of our residual obligation on all operating leases.

Prior to our fiscal 2007 and 2006 purchase of new tractors with cash generated from operations, we historically have financed many of our new tractors and trailers under operating leases, which are not reflected on our balance sheet. The use of operating leases also affects our statements of cash flows. For assets subject to these operating leases, we do not record depreciation as an increase to net cash provided by operations, nor do we record any entry with respect to investing activities or financing activities.

Our operating leases include some under which we do not guarantee the value of the asset at the end of the lease term ("walk-away leases") and some under which we do guarantee the value of the asset at the end of the lease term ("residual value"). Therefore, we are subject to the risk that equipment value may decline in which case we would suffer a loss upon disposition and be required to make cash payments because of the residual value guarantees. At September 30, 2006, we had future operating lease obligations totaling $183.5 million, including residual value guarantees of approximately $76.4 million. We were obligated for payments related to operating leases of $107.1 million and $70.5 million at September 30, 2006 and 2005, respectively. A portion of these amounts is covered by repurchase and/or trade agreements we have with the equipment manufacturer. We believe that any residual payment obligations that are not covered by the manufacturer will be satisfied, in the aggregate, by the value of the related equipment at the end of the lease. We anticipate that in the short term we will continue to use operating leases to finance the acquisition of trailers and we will use cash generated from operations to purchase tractors.

 

 
16


Primary Credit Agreement

On September 26, 2005, the Company, CTSI, and TruckersB2B entered into an unsecured Credit Agreement with LaSalle Bank National Association, as administrative agent, and LaSalle Bank National Association, Fifth Third Bank (Central Indiana), and JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as lenders, which matures on September 24, 2010 (the "Credit Agreement"). The Credit Agreement was used to refinance the Company's existing credit facility and is intended to provide for ongoing working capital needs and general corporate purposes. Borrowings under the Credit Agreement are based, at the option of the Company, on a base rate equal to the greater of the federal funds rate plus 0.5% and the administrative agent's prime rate or LIBOR plus an applicable margin between 0.75% and 1.125% that is adjusted quarterly based on cash flow coverage. The Credit Agreement is guaranteed by Celadon E-Commerce, Inc., CelCan, and Jaguar, each of which is a subsidiary of the Company.

The Credit Agreement has a maximum revolving borrowing limit of $50.0 million, and the Company may increase the revolving borrowing limit by an additional $20.0 million, to a total of $70.0 million. Letters of credit are limited to an aggregate commitment of $15.0 million and a swing line facility has a limit of $5.0 million. A commitment fee that is adjusted quarterly between 0.15% and 0.225% per annum based on cash flow coverage is due on the daily unused portion of the Credit Agreement. The Credit Agreement contains certain restrictions and covenants relating to, among other things, dividends, tangible net worth, cash flow, mergers, consolidations, acquisitions and dispositions, and total indebtedness. We were in compliance with these covenants at September 30, 2006, and expect to remain in compliance for the foreseeable future. At September 30, 2006, $3.0 million of our credit facility was utilized as outstanding borrowings and $4.8 million was utilized for standby letters of credit.

We believe we will be able to fund our operating expenses, as well as our current commitments for the acquisition of revenue equipment in connection with our fleet upgrade over the next twelve months with a combination of cash generated from operations, borrowings available under our primary credit facility, and lease financing arrangements. We will continue to have significant capital requirements over the long term, and the availability of the needed capital will depend upon our financial condition and operating results and numerous other factors over which we have limited or no control, including prevailing market conditions and the market price of our common stock. However, based on our improving operating results, anticipated future cash flows, current availability under our credit facility, and sources of equipment lease financing that we expect will be available to us, we do not expect to experience significant liquidity constraints in the foreseeable future.

Contractual Obligations and Commercial Commitments

As of September 30, 2006, our bank loans, capitalized leases, operating leases, other debts, and future commitments have stated maturities or minimum annual payments as follows:

   
Payments Due by Period
 
       
   
 
Total
 
Less than
1 year
 
1-3
years
 
3-5
years
 
More than
5 years
 
                       
Operating Leases
 
$
107,077
 
$
33,048
 
$
35,708
 
$
22,075
 
$
16,246
 
Lease residual value guarantees
   
76,440
   
8,402
   
32,906
   
10,338
   
24,794
 
Capital Lease Obligations(1) 
   
1,523
   
538
   
402
   
584
   
 
Long-Term debt(1)
   
11,550
   
2,205
   
5,009
   
4,336
   
 
Subtotal
 
$
196,590
 
$
44,193
 
$
74,025
 
$
37,333
 
$
41,040
 
                                 
Future purchase of revenue equipment 
 
$
85,991
 
$
57,577
 
$
14,593
 
$
3,343
 
$
10,478
 
Employment and consulting agreements(2)
   
898
   
717
   
138
   
42
   
 
Standby letters of credit 
   
4,775
   
4,775
   
   
   
 
                                 
Total 
 
$
288,254
 
$
107,262
 
$
88,756
 
$
40,718
 
$
51,518
 

(1)
Includes interest.
(2)
The amounts reflected in the table do not include amounts that could become payable to our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer under certain circumstances if their employment by the Company is terminated.

 
17


Critical Accounting Policies

The preparation of our financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles requires us to make estimates and assumptions that impact the amounts reported in our consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes. Therefore, the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues, expenses, and associated disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities are affected by these estimates and assumptions. We evaluate these estimates and assumptions on an ongoing basis, utilizing historical experience, consultation with experts, and other methods considered reasonable in the particular circumstances. Nevertheless, actual results may differ significantly from our estimates and assumptions, and it is possible that materially different amounts would be reported using differing estimates or assumptions. We consider our critical accounting policies to be those that require us to make more significant judgments and estimates when we prepare our financial statements. Our critical accounting policies include the following:

Depreciation of Property and Equipment. We depreciate our property and equipment using the straight-line method over the estimated useful life of the asset. We generally use estimated useful lives of 2 to 7 years for tractors and trailers, and estimated salvage values for tractors and trailers generally range from 35% to 50% of the capitalized cost. Gains and losses on the disposal of revenue equipment are included in depreciation expense in our statements of operations.

We review the reasonableness of our estimates regarding useful lives and salvage values of our revenue equipment and other long-lived assets based upon, among other things, our experience with similar assets, conditions in the used equipment market, and prevailing industry practice. Changes in our useful life or salvage value estimates or fluctuations in market values that are not reflected in our estimates, could have a material effect on our results of operations.

Revenue equipment and other long-lived assets are tested for impairment whenever an event occurs that indicates an impairment may exist. Expected future cash flows are used to analyze whether an impairment has occurred. If the sum of expected undiscounted cash flows is less than the carrying value of the long-lived asset, then an impairment loss is recognized. We measure the impairment loss by comparing the fair value of the asset to its carrying value. Fair value is determined based on a discounted cash flow analysis or the appraised or estimated market value of the asset, as appropriate.

Operating leases. We have financed a substantial percentage of our tractors and trailers with operating leases. These leases generally contain residual value guarantees, which provide that the value of equipment returned to the lessor at the end of the lease term will be no lower than a negotiated amount. To the extent that the value of the equipment is below the negotiated amount, we are liable to the lessor for the shortage at the expiration of the lease. For approximately 16% of our tractors and 22% of our trailers under operating lease, we have residual value guarantees from the manufacturer at amounts equal to our residual obligation to the lessors. For all other equipment (or to the extent we believe any manufacturer will refuse or be unable to meet its obligation), we are required to recognize additional rental expense to the extent we believe the fair market value at the lease termination will be less than our obligation to the lessor.

In accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards ("SFAS") 13, "Accounting for Leases," property and equipment held under operating leases, and liabilities related thereto, are not reflected on our balance sheet. All expenses related to revenue equipment operating leases are reflected on our statements of operations in the line item entitled "Revenue equipment rentals." As such, financing revenue equipment with operating leases instead of bank borrowings or capital leases effectively moves the interest component of the financing arrangement into operating expenses on our statements of operations.


 
18


Claims Reserves and Estimates. The primary claims arising for us consist of cargo liability, personal injury, property damage, collision and comprehensive, workers' compensation, and employee medical expenses. We maintain self-insurance levels for these various areas of risk and have established reserves to cover these self-insured liabilities. We also maintain insurance to cover liabilities in excess of these self-insurance amounts. Claims reserves represent accruals for the estimated uninsured portion of reported claims, including adverse development of reported claims, as well as estimates of incurred but not reported claims. Reported claims and related loss reserves are estimated by third party administrators, and we refer to these estimates in establishing our reserves. Claims incurred but not reported are estimated based on our historical experience and industry trends, which are continually monitored, and accruals are adjusted when warranted by changes in facts and circumstances. In establishing our reserves we must take into account and estimate various factors, including, but not limited to, assumptions concerning the nature and severity of the claim, the effect of the jurisdiction on any award or settlement, the length of time until ultimate resolution, inflation rates in health care, and in general interest rates, legal expenses, and other factors. Our actual experience may be different than our estimates, sometimes significantly. Changes in assumptions as well as changes in actual experience could cause these estimates to change in the near term. Insurance and claims expense will vary from period to period based on the severity and frequency of claims incurred in a given period.

Accounting for Income Taxes. Deferred income taxes represent a substantial liability on our consolidated balance sheet. Deferred income taxes are determined in accordance with SFAS No. 109, "Accounting for Income Taxes." Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the expected future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases, and operating loss and tax credit carry-forwards. We evaluate our tax assets and liabilities on a periodic basis and adjust these balances as appropriate. We believe that we have adequately provided for our future tax consequences based upon current facts and circumstances and current tax law. However, should our tax positions be challenged and not prevail, different outcomes could result and have a significant impact on the amounts reported in our consolidated financial statements.

The carrying value of our deferred tax assets (tax benefits expected to be realized in the future) assumes that we will be able to generate, based on certain estimates and assumptions, sufficient future taxable income in certain tax jurisdictions to utilize these deferred tax benefits. If these estimates and related assumptions change in the future, we may be required to reduce the value of the deferred tax assets resulting in additional income tax expense. We believe that it is more likely than not that the deferred tax assets, net of valuation allowance, will be realized, based on forecasted income. However, there can be no assurance that we will meet our forecasts of future income. We evaluate the deferred tax assets on a periodic basis and assess the need for additional valuation allowances.

Federal income taxes are provided on that portion of the income of foreign subsidiaries that is expected to be remitted to the United States.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

In June 2006, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued Interpretation No. 48, Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes, an interpretation of FASB Statement No. 109 ("FIN 48"). FIN 48 prescribes a recognition threshold and measurement attribute for the financial statement recognition and measurement of a tax position taken or expected to be taken in a tax return. FIN 48 also provides guidance on derecognition, classification, interest and penalties, accounting in interim periods, disclosure and transition. Our effective date of this interpretation is July 1, 2007, the first fiscal year beginning after December 15, 2006. We are continuing to evaluate the impact of the adoption of FIN 48 on our consolidated financial statements.

Seasonality

We have substantial operations in the Midwestern and Eastern United States and Canada. In those geographic regions, our tractor productivity may be adversely affected during the winter season because inclement weather may impede our operations. Moreover, some shippers reduce their shipments during holiday periods as a result of curtailed operations or vacation shutdowns. At the same time, operating expenses generally increase, with fuel efficiency declining because of engine idling and harsh weather creating higher accident frequency, increased claims, and more equipment repairs.

 
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Inflation

Many of our operating expenses, including fuel costs, revenue equipment, and driver compensation are sensitive to the effects of inflation, which result in higher operating costs and reduced operating income. The effects of inflation on our business during the past three years were most significant in fuel. The effects of inflation on revenue were not material in the past three years. We have limited the effects of inflation through increases in freight rates and fuel surcharges.

Item 3.      Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk

We experience various market risks, including changes in interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates, and fuel prices. We do not enter into derivatives or other financial instruments for trading or speculative purposes, nor when there are no underlying related exposures.

Interest Rate Risk. We are exposed to interest rate risk principally from our primary credit facility. The credit facility carries a maximum variable interest rate of either the bank's base rate or LIBOR plus 1.125%. At September 30, 2006, the interest rate for revolving borrowings under our credit facility was LIBOR plus 0.875%. At September 30, 2006, we had $3.0 million variable rate term loan borrowings outstanding under the credit facility. A hypothetical 10% increase in the bank's base rate and LIBOR would be immaterial to our net income.

Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Risk. We are subject to foreign currency exchange rate risk, specifically in connection with our Canadian operations. While virtually all of the expenses associated with our Canadian operations, such as independent contractor costs, Company driver compensation, and administrative costs, are paid in Canadian dollars, a significant portion of our revenue generated from those operations is billed in U.S. dollars because many of our customers are U.S. shippers transporting goods to or from Canada. As a result, increases in the Canadian dollar exchange rate adversely affect the profitability of our Canadian operations. Assuming revenue and expenses for our Canadian operations identical to that in the first quarter of fiscal 2007 (both in terms of amount and currency mix), we estimate that a $0.01 increase in the Canadian dollar exchange rate would reduce our annual net income by approximately $259,000. In June 2000, the FASB issued SFAS 138, "Accounting for Certain Derivative Instruments and Certain Hedging Activity, an Amendment of SFAS 133", which requires that all derivative instruments be recorded on the balance sheet at their respective fair values. Derivatives that are not hedges must be adjusted to fair value through earnings. As of September 30, 2006, we had no currency derivatives in place. Derivative contracts had no material impact on our results of operations for the first quarter of fiscal 2007.

We generally do not face the same magnitude of foreign currency exchange rate risk in connection with our intra-Mexico operations conducted through our Mexican subsidiary, Jaguar, because our foreign currency revenues are generally proportionate to our foreign currency expenses for those operations. For purposes of consolidation, however, the operating results earned by our subsidiaries, including Jaguar, in foreign currencies are converted into United States dollars. As a result, a decrease in the value of the Mexican peso could adversely affect our consolidated results of operations. Assuming revenue and expenses for our Mexican operations identical to that in the first quarter of fiscal 2007 (both in terms of amount and currency mix), we estimate that a $0.01 decrease in the Mexican peso exchange rate would reduce our annual net income by approximately $90,000.

Commodity Price Risk. Shortages of fuel, increases in prices, or rationing of petroleum products can have a materially adverse effect on our operations and profitability. Fuel is subject to economic, political, and market factors that are outside of our control. Historically, we have sought to recover a portion of short-term increases in fuel prices from customers through the collection of fuel surcharges. However, fuel surcharges do not always fully offset increases in fuel prices. In addition, from time to time we may enter into derivative financial instruments to reduce our exposure to fuel price fluctuations. In accordance with SFAS 138, we adjust any derivative instruments to fair value through earnings on a monthly basis. As of September 30, 2006, we had no derivative financial instruments to reduce our exposure to fuel price fluctuations.


 
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Item 4.      Controls and Procedures

As required by Rules 13a-15 and 15d-15 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act"), the Company has carried out an evaluation of the effectiveness of the design and operation of the Company's disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of the period covered by this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q. This evaluation was carried out under the supervision and with the participation of the Company's management, including our Chief Executive Officer and our Chief Financial Officer. Based upon that evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of the end of the period covered by this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q. There were no changes in the Company's internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the first quarter of fiscal 2007 that have materially affected, or that are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company's internal control over financial reporting.

Disclosure controls and procedures are controls and other procedures that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in the Company's reports filed or submitted under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the rules and forms of the Securities and Exchange Commission. Disclosure controls and procedures include controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in Company reports filed under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to management, including the Company's Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding disclosures.

The Company has confidence in its disclosure controls and procedures. Nevertheless, the Company's management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, does not expect that our disclosure controls and procedures will prevent all errors or intentional fraud. An internal control system, no matter how well conceived and operated, can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurance that the objectives of such internal controls are met. Further, the design of an internal control system must reflect the fact that there are resource constraints, and the benefits of controls must be considered relative to their costs. Because of the inherent limitations in all internal control systems, no evaluation of controls can provide absolute assurance that all control issues and instances of fraud, if any, within the Company have been detected.

 
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PART II.    OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.      Legal Proceedings

There are various claims, lawsuits, and pending actions against the Company and its subsidiaries which arose in the normal course of the operations of its business. The Company believes many of these proceedings are covered in whole or in part by insurance and that none of these matters will have a material adverse effect on its consolidated financial position or results of operations in any given period.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

While we attempt to identify, manage, and mitigate risks and uncertainties associated with our business, some level of risk and uncertainty will always be present. Our Form 10-K for the year ended June 30, 2006, in the section entitled Item 1A. Risk Factors, describes some of the risks and uncertainties associated with our business. These risks and uncertainties have the potential to materially affect our business, financial condition, results of operations, cash flows, projected results, and future prospects.

In addition to the risk factors set forth on our Form 10-K, we believe that the recent acquisition of certain assets of Digby increases the level of risk and uncertainty present in our business. The risks and uncertainties, include, without limitation, the risk that integration of the acquired operation will not proceed as planned; the risk that the Company will lose key components of the acquired operation, including customers, key management, and drivers, none of whom is bound to remain with the acquired operation; the risk that we will not be able to improve the profitability of the acquired operation and operate it near the level of the Company's profitability; the risk of receiving less than expected for tractors and trailers expected to be disposed of and recording a loss on disposal of such equipment; the risk of unknown liabilities related to the acquired operation; the risk that acquired operations will not be accretive to earnings per share on the expected schedule or at all; and the risk that integrating and managing the acquired operation will distract management from other operations.

Item 6.      Exhibits
   
3.1
Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of the Company. (Incorporated by reference to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ending December 31, 2005, filed with the SEC on January 30, 2006.)
3.2
Certificate of Designation for Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2000, filed with the SEC on September 28, 2000.)
3.3
By-laws. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Company's Registration Statement on Form S-1, Registration No. 33-72128, filed with the SEC on November 24, 1993.)
4.1
Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of the Company. (Incorporated by reference to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ending December 31, 2005, filed with the SEC on January 30, 2006.)
4.2
Certificate of Designation for Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2000, filed with the SEC on September 28, 2000.)
4.3
Rights Agreement, dated as of July 20, 2000, between Celadon Group, Inc. and Fleet National Bank, as Rights Agent. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to the Company's Registration Statement on Form 8-A, filed with the SEC on July 20, 2000.)
4.4
By-laws. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Company's Registration Statement on Form S-1, Registration No. 33-72128, filed with the SEC on November 24, 1993.)
Certification pursuant to Item 601(b)(31) of Regulation S-K, as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, by Stephen Russell, the Company's Chief Executive Officer.*
Certification pursuant to Item 601(b)(31) of Regulation S-K, as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, by Paul Will, the Company's Chief Financial Officer.*
Certification pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, by Stephen Russell, the Company's Chief Executive Officer.*
Certification pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, by Paul Will, the Company's Chief Financial Officer.*
_________________________
* Filed herewith

 
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SIGNATURES

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


 
Celadon Group, Inc.
 
(Registrant)
   
   
 
/s/ Stephen Russell
 
Stephen Russell
 
Chairman of the Board and
Chief Executive Officer
   
   
 
/s/ Paul Will
 
Paul Will
 
Chief Financial Officer, Executive Vice President, Treasurer, and Assistant Secretary
   
Date: October 31, 2006