UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

FORM 10-Q

(Mark One)

xQuarterly Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

 

For the Quarterly Period Ending March 31, 2014

 

¨Transition Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

 

For the transition period from                      to                      

 

Commission File Number: 333-187164

 

 

TRUETT-HURST, INC.

 

 

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

DELAWARE 46-1561499

(State or other jurisdiction of

incorporation or organization)

(I.R.S. employer

identification number)

   
4035 Westside Road, Healdsburg, California 95448
(Address of principal executive offices) (zip code)

 

707.431.4423

(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   ¨

 

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 definition of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

 

Large accelerated filer           ¨   Accelerated filer                           ¨
Non-accelerated filer             ¨   Smaller reporting company          x
(Do not check if a smaller reporting company)    

 

Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the 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.

 

Class   Number of Shares Outstanding
Common stock, par value $0.001 per share   3,599,778

 

 
 

 

TRUETT-HURST INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

FORM 10-Q

 

INDEX TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

  

Part I.

Financial Information

 
  Item 1. Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements:  
    Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as of March 31, 2014 (unaudited) and June 30, 2013 3
    Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations for the Three and Nine Months Ended March 31, 2014 and 2013 4
    Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Nine Months Ended March 31, 2014 and 2013 5
    Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements 6
  Item 2. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations 20
  Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk 29
  Item 4. Controls and Procedures 29
Part II.  

Other Information

 
  Item 1. Legal Proceedings 31
  Item 1A. Risk Factors 31
  Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Securities and Use of Proceeds 31
  Item 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities 31
  Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures 31
  Item 5. Other Information 31
  Item 6. Exhibits 32
  Signatures 33

 

2
 

 

PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION

 

ITEM 1. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

TRUETT-HURST INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

(Prior to June 26, 2013, H.D.D. LLC and Subsidiary)

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(In thousands, except share data)

(unaudited)

 

   March 31, 2014   June 30, 2013 
        
ASSETS          
Current assets:          
Cash  $5,117   $11,367 
Accounts receivable   2,523    2,816 
Inventories   17,184    13,222 
Bulk wine deposit   1,125    - 
Other current assets   205    245 
Total current assets   26,154    27,650 
Property and equipment, net   5,575    5,383 
Goodwill   134    134 
Intangible assets, net   659    706 
Deferred tax asset, net   2,669    - 
Other assets, net   369    259 
Total assets  $35,560   $34,132 
           
LIABILITIES and STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY          
           
Current liabilities:          
Line of credit  $6,582   $6,887 
Accounts payable   2,020    2,123 
Accrued expenses   933    1,710 
Due to related parties   331    71 
Current portion of deferred taxes   -    96 
Current maturities of related party notes   73    70 
Current maturities of long-term debt   332    250 
Total current liabilities   10,271    11,207 
           
Long-term debt, net of current maturities   3,611    3,454 
Due to related parties pursuant to tax receivable agreement   2,512    - 
Deferred taxes, net of current portion   -    127 
Deferred rent liability   51    53 
Related party notes, net of current maturities   12    67 
Total liabilities   16,457    14,908 
           
Commitments and contingencies (Note 8)          
           
Stockholders' equity          
Preferred stock, par value of $0.001 per share, 5,000,000 shares authorized and zero issued and outstanding   -    - 
Class A common stock, par value of $0.001 per share, 7,000,000 authorized and 3,599,778 issued and outstanding at March 31, 2014 and 2,700,000 at June 30, 2013   4    3 
Class B common stock, par value of $0.001 per share,1,000 authorized and 10 issued and outstanding   -    - 
Additional paid-in capital   13,786    10,977 
Accumulated deficit   (3,645)   (3,467)
Total Truett-Hurst, Inc. equity   10,145    7,513 
Non-controlling interests   8,958    11,711 
Total equity   19,103    19,224 
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity  $35,560   $34,132 

 

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

3
 

 

TRUETT-HURST INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

(Prior to June 26, 2013, H.D.D. LLC and Subsidiary)

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

(In thousands, except share data)

(unaudited)

 

   Quarters Ended
March 31,
   Nine-Month Periods
Ended March 31,
 
   2014   2013   2014   2013 
         
Sales  $5,280   $3,666   $16,957   $12,477 
Less excise tax   (120)   (92)   (415)   (342)
Net sales   5,160    3,574    16,542    12,135 
                     
Cost of sales   3,408    2,242    10,880    8,057 
                     
Gross profit   1,752    1,332    5,662    4,078 
                     
Operating expenses:                    
Sales and marketing   1,252    1,005    3,582    2,653 
General and administrative   738    571    2,285    1,677 
Provision for loss of deposit   400    -    400    - 
Bulk wine sales, net (gain) loss   -    -    (1)   - 
Total operating expenses   2,390    1,576    6,266    4,330 
Loss from operations   (638)   (244)   (604)   (252)
Other income (expense):                    
Interest expense   (42)   (73)   (123)   (253)
Other   (56)   58    (26)   (17)
Total other income (expense)   (98)   (15)   (149)   (270)
Loss before income taxes   (736)   (259)   (753)   (522)
Income tax (benefit) expense   (111)   -    (100)   2 
Net loss before non-controlling interests   (625)   (259)   (653)   (524)
Less: Net income (loss) attributable to non-controlling interest: The Wine Spies, LLC   (13)   4    (74)   (44)
Net loss attributable to Truett-Hurst, Inc. and H.D.D. LLC   (612)  $(263)   (579)   (480)
Less: Net loss attributable to non-controlling interest: H.D.D. LLC   (428)        (402)     
Net loss attributable to Truett-Hurst, Inc.  $(184)       $(177)     
                     
Net earnings per share:                    
Basic and diluted  $(0.06)       $(0.07)     
                     
Weighted average shares used in computing net loss per share:                    
Basic and diluted   2,936,894         2,704,752      

 

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

4
 

 

TRUETT-HURST INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

(Prior to June 26, 2013, H.D.D. LLC and Subsidiary)

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(In thousands)

(unaudited)

 

   Nine-Month Periods Ended
March 31,
 
   2014   2013 
Cash flows from operating activities:          
Net loss  $(653)  $(524)
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash used in operating activities:          
Depreciation and amortization   394    256 
Stock-based compensation   253    56 
Deferred taxes   (100)   - 
Loss (gain) on fair value of warrant and interest rate swap   (3)   18 
Deferred rent   (2)   (3)
Contributed rent   -    35 
           
Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net          
Accounts receivable   293    (87)
Inventories   (3,962)   (4,749)
Bulk wine deposit   (1,125)   (486)
Other current assets   44    (664)
Accounts payable and accrued expenses   (880)   1,367 
Net cash used in operating activities   (5,741)   (4,781)
           
Cash flows from investing activities:          
Acquisition of property and equipment   (472)   (725)
Acquisition of intangible and other assets   (180)   (52)
Acquisition of The Wine Spies, LLC   -    (325)
Proceeds from sale of assets   1    - 
Net cash used in investing activities   (651)   (1,102)
           
Cash flows from financing activities:          
Net proceeds from (payments on) line of credit   (305)   5,415 
Advances from related parties   -    683 
Net proceeds (payments to) related parties   260    (77)
Proceeds from related party notes   -    350 
Payments on related party notes   (52)   (450)
Proceeds from long-term debt   425    3,881 
Payments on long-term debt   (186)   (3,544)
Payments on amount due factor   -    (869)
Proceeds from exercise of warrant   -    498 
Net cash provided by financing activities   142    5,887 
           
Net increase (decrease) in cash   (6,250)   4 
Cash at beginning of period   11,367    167 
Cash at end of period  $5,117   $171 
           
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information:          
Cash paid for interest  $125      
Cash paid for income taxes  $2   $1 
           
Supplemental disclosure of non-cash transactions          
Contributed rent for membership interest  $-   $36 
Deferred tax asset arising from LLC unit exchange  $2,791   $- 
Due to related parties pursuant to tax receivable agreement  $2,512   $- 
Equity benefit on LLC unit exchange  $279   $- 

 

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

5
 

 

TRUETT-HURST INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

(Prior to June 26, 2013, H.D.D. LLC and Subsidiary)

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands)

(Unaudited)

 

NOTE 1 - BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

Basis of Presentation

 

The unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements for the quarter and nine-month periods ended March 31, 2014 and the June 30, 2013 balance sheet, include the results of Truett-Hurst, Inc. (“THI”) and its subsidiaries: H.D.D. LLC (“LLC”) and its consolidated subsidiary, The Wine Spies, LLC (“Wine Spies”) (collectively, “we,” “Truett-Hurst,” “our,” “us,” or “the Company”). THI consolidates the financial results of the LLC and its consolidated subsidiary, and records a non-controlling interest for the economic interest in the LLC and its consolidated subsidiary. Non-controlling interest represents the portion of equity ownership in subsidiaries that are not attributable to THI. The unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements for the quarters and nine-month period ended March 31, 2013 reflect the results of the LLC and Wine Spies. THI’s fiscal 2013 period is from June 26, 2013 to June 30, 2013 due to the completion of the Company’s initial public offering (“IPO”) on June 25, 2013. Unless the context suggests otherwise, references in this report to THI refer (1) prior to the June 2013 IPO of THI and related transactions, to the LLC and its consolidated subsidiary and (2) after our IPO and related formation transactions, to THI and its consolidated subsidiaries.

 

At March 31, 2014, the Company's and the non-controlling unit holders’ economic interest in the LLC was 52% and 48% compared to 40% and 60%, at June 30, 2013. For additional information see “Note 12 – LLC Units” to the Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Quarterly Report. Net income attributable to the non-controlling interest on the condensed consolidated statements of operations represents the portion of earnings or loss attributable to the economic interest in the LLC held by the non-controlling unit holders. All material intercompany accounts and transactions are eliminated in consolidation. For additional information see “Note 12 – LLC Units” to the Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Quarterly Report.

 

The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared by management in accordance with United States (“U.S.”) generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) for interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X. Accordingly, the accompanying unaudited financial statements do not include all of the information and footnotes required by GAAP for complete financial statements. We prepared the accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements on the same basis as the audited financial statements included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2013, and, in the opinion of management, these financial statements include all adjustments, consisting only of normal recurring adjustments, necessary for a fair presentation of the results of the interim periods presented. The operating results for the interim periods presented are not necessarily indicative of the results expected for the full fiscal year. These unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2013 filed with the SEC on September 27, 2013.

 

References to “FY” or “fiscal year” refer to our fiscal year ending on June 30th of the designated year or prior year. For example, “FY13” and “fiscal year 2013” each refer to the fiscal year ended June 30, 2013 and “FY14” and “fiscal year 2014” each refer to the fiscal year ended June 30, 2014. Other references to “years” mean calendar years.

 

Certain reclassifications have been made to these FY13 quarter condensed consolidated financial statements to conform to the current FY14 quarter presentation. Reclassifications had no material impact on previously reported results of operations, financial position or cash flows.

 

Unless otherwise indicated, the notes to the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements relate to the discussion of our continuing operations.

 

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

 

Critical accounting policies are those we believe are most important to portraying our financial condition and results of operations and also require the greatest amount of subjective or complex judgments by management. The preparation of the condensed consolidated financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of the assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Judgments and uncertainties regarding the application of these policies and estimates may result in materially different amounts being reported under various conditions or using different assumptions. There have been no material changes to the critical accounting policies and estimates previously disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2013.

 

6
 

 

TRUETT-HURST INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

(Prior to June 26, 2013, H.D.D. LLC and Subsidiary)

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands)

(Unaudited)

 

Accounting Pronouncements

 

In July 2013, the Financial Accounting Standard Board ("FASB") issued ASU 2013-11, "Income Taxes (Topic 740): Presentation of an Unrecognized Tax Benefit When a Net Operating Loss Carry Forward, a Similar Tax Loss, or a Tax Credit Carry Forward Exists." The updated guidance requires an entity to net its unrecognized tax benefits against the deferred tax assets for all same jurisdiction net operating loss carry forwards, a similar tax loss, or tax credit carry forwards. A gross presentation will be required only if such carry forwards are not available or would not be used by the entity to settle any additional income taxes resulting from disallowance of the uncertain tax provision. The guidance is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2013 on either a prospective or retrospective basis with early adoption permitted. We do not believe the adoption of this update will have a material impact on our financial position, results of operations or cash flow, and the disclosure requirements for our consolidated financial statements.

 

We believe there are no additional new accounting pronouncements adopted but not yet effective that is relevant to the readers of our financial statements.

 

NOTE 2 - ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE PLEDGED UNDER FACTORING AGREEMENT

 

In November 2011, January 2012 and April 2012, we entered into three agreements with a factor borrowing a total of $2.6 million in order to finance three transactions with a vendor. We agreed to assign and sell receivables related to these transactions to the factor at a rate of 100% of each receivable plus 1.25% per month of the unpaid principal amount of the loan. We were fully and unconditionally liable for the principal and interest on the loans; therefore, we accounted for the transfer of receivables as a secured financing. Interest expense includes finance costs associated with these factoring activities.

 

The addition of John D. Fruth to our board of directors, subsequent to the IPO, caused the factor agreement to become a related party transaction. The April 2012 agreement for the amount due of $0.9 million at June 30, 2012 was paid subsequent to FY12 year end. Interest of $nil was paid under these agreements for the quarter periods ended March 31, 2014 and 2013 and interest of $nil and $0.03 million was paid under these agreements for the nine-month period ended March 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

 

NOTE 3 – INVENTORIES

 

Inventories consisted of the following:

 

   March 31, 2014   June 30, 2013 
   ( in thousands) 
Bulk wine  $6,261   $6,245 
Bottled wine   10,585    6,688 
Capitalized cultural costs   54    124 
Bottling materials and other   284    165 
Total  $17,184   $13,222 

 

NOTE 4 – OTHER CURRENT ASSETS

 

Other current assets at March 31, 2014 and June 30, 2013 includes the fair market value of an interest rate swap for $0.1 million and other prepaid amounts totaling $0.1 million. For information regarding the interest rate swap see “Note 14 – Fair Value of Financial Instruments” to the Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Quarterly Report.

 

7
 

 

TRUETT-HURST INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

(Prior to June 26, 2013, H.D.D. LLC and Subsidiary)

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands)

(Unaudited)

 

NOTE 5 – PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, net

 

Property and equipment consisted of the following:

 

   March 31, 2014   June 30, 2013 
   ( in thousands) 
Building and improvements  $1,740   $1,740 
Furniture and fixtures   228    158 
Land and land improvements   2,804    2,804 
Leasehold improvements   90    66 
Machinery and equipment   1,228    960 
Vehicles   93    77 
Vineyard development   353    353 
Vineyard equipment   327    330 
    6,863    6,488 
           
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization   (1,288)   (1,105)
           
Total  $5,575   $5,383 

 

Depreciation and amortization totaled $0.1 million and $0.2 million for the quarter periods ended March 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. Depreciation and amortization totaled $0.2 million and $0.4 million for the nine-month periods ended March 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

 

NOTE 6 – GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS, net

 

Pursuant to the membership interest purchase agreement dated August 1, 2012, we purchased 50% of the outstanding membership interests in Wine Spies.  The operating agreement of Wine Spies, also dated August 1, 2012, entitles the LLC to a 50% allocation of Wine Spies gains and losses. We hold three of the four management control positions and have accounted for the acquisition as a business combination. The LLC consolidates Wine Spies and records a non-controlling interest for the economic interest in the Wine Spies. We recorded the tangible and intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on their estimated fair values at the date of acquisition. The fair values assigned to the identifiable intangible assets acquired were based on estimates and assumptions determined by management and totaled $0.5 million. The intangibles are being amortized over their estimated lives ranging from four to ten years. We recorded the excess of consideration transferred over the aggregate fair values as goodwill in the amount of $0.1 million. The purchase consideration was $0.3 million, consisting of cash and a non-interest bearing note, which was paid in full March 1, 2013.

 

We perform our annual goodwill, indefinite lived intangible or finite lived assets impairment review as of April 1 each year and also perform interim impairment reviews if triggering events occur. Under the authoritative guidance we elected to perform a qualitative assessment for our annual impairment test and based on our qualitative assessment, we concluded that it was more likely than not that the goodwill, indefinite lived intangible or finite lived assets was greater than its carrying amount, and therefore no further testing or impairment was required. Our qualitative analysis included macroeconomic and industry and market specific considerations, financial performance indicators and measurements, and other factors. Historically, we have recorded no goodwill impairment charges. Changes in economic and operating conditions that occur after the annual impairment analysis or an interim impairment analysis, and that impact these assumptions, may result in a future impairment charge.

 

8
 

 

TRUETT-HURST INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

(Prior to June 26, 2013, H.D.D. LLC and Subsidiary)

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands)

(Unaudited)

  

NOTE 6 – GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS, net, continued

 

Intangible asset balances are summarized as follows:

 

   March 31, 2014   June 30, 2013 
   ( in thousands) 
Finite lives:          
Customer lists  $213   $213 
Trademarks   169    169 
Proprietary technology   95    95 
Non-compete agreement   38    38 
Patent   40    25 
    555    540 
Less accumulated amortization   (164)   (91)
    391    449 
Indefinite lives:          
Trademarks   268    257 
Total  $659   $706 

 

Amortization expense of intangible assets and other assets totaled $0.04 million and $0.06 million for the quarter periods ended March 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. Amortization expense of intangible assets and other assets totaled $0.1 million for the nine-month periods ended March 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. Expected future amortization expense at March 31, 2014:

 

Years ending June 30:
(in thousands)
2014  $38 
2015   151 
2016   150 
2017   84 
2018   47 
Thereafter   194 
      
Total  $664 

 

NOTE 7 – OTHER ASSETS, net

 

Other assets consist of the following:

 

   March 31, 2014   June 30, 2013 
   ( in thousands) 
Label design costs  $226   $218 
Loan fees   18    18 
Lease costs - related party   23    23 
Software   126    - 
Website design costs   55    41 
Other   6    1 
    454    301 
Less accumulated amortization   (85)   (42)
           
   $369   $259 

 

9
 

 

TRUETT-HURST INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

(Prior to June 26, 2013, H.D.D. LLC and Subsidiary)

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands)

(Unaudited)

 

NOTE 8 – COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

 

Leases

 

In February 2011, we entered into a lease agreement for a tasting room and winery.  The lease is for five years, commencing on March 1, 2011 and ending on February 29, 2016, and contains one option to extend for an additional period of five years.  We have the right of first refusal in the event the lessor desires to sell the leased property.  Annual rent for the tasting room is $0.1 million, due monthly.  The winery rent is subject to adjustment based on the actual number of cases produced each year; however, future payments are based on a minimum number of cases, as specified in the agreement.  Beginning on September 1, 2012 and annually thereafter, tasting room and winery rent is increased by 3%.  Lease expense is accounted for on a straight-line basis.

 

In October 2013, we entered into a lease agreement for administrative office space. The lease commenced on October 15, 2013 and ends on October 31, 2016, and contains three one-year renewal options with adjustment to market rents.

 

Lease expense for these facilities for the quarter periods ended March 31, 2014 and 2013 was $0.08 million and $0.07 million, respectively. Lease expense for these facilities for the nine-month periods ended March 31, 2014 and 2013 was $0.2 million, respectively. At March 31, 2014, future lease payment commitments totaled approximately $0.7 million.

 

Credit Facilities

 

At March 21, 2014, the bank committed to renewing our credit facilities which are collateralized by substantially all of our assets, require compliance with certain financial covenants and are guaranteed by certain members of the LLC. For information regarding guarantors see “Security Agreements and Limited Guaranties” below. The credit facilities include a line of credit for $9.0 million, carry an interest rate of 1.75% above the London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) and are due on July 15, 2015 and $0.5 million capital equipment line to purchase new equipment at 2.25% above the floating One-Month LIBOR Rate and is due on July 15, 2015. In addition, we have a $0.1 million foreign exchange facility that has not yet been funded, that carries a 10% credit percentage and allows us to enter into any spot or forward transaction to purchase from or sell to our bank a foreign currency and is due on May 31, 2014. For additional information regarding bank loans see “Borrowings” below. The loan agreement contains usual and customary provisions, including, without limitation:

 

·limitation on incurring senior indebtedness;

 

·limitation on making loans and advances;

 

·limitation on investments, acquisitions, and capital expenditures;

 

·limitation on liens, mergers and sales of assets; and

 

·limitations on new activities of the Company.

 

In addition, the loan agreement contains negative and financial covenants, including, without limitation, a minimum current assets to current liabilities ratio (measured quarterly), debt to effective tangible net worth ratio (measured quarterly) and debt service coverage ratio (measured annually). At March 31, 2014, we were in compliance with all negative and financial covenants.

 

In March 2013, in connection with the bank issuance of a waiver for the financial covenants, we amended and restated a LLC member warrant to allow for the immediate exercise of the warrant for a 3% member interest.  The original common stock warrant, issued in May 2012, was for 20% of the contributed members’ equity interest equal to $0.5 million. The obligation was satisfied with the exercise of the warrant in March 2013 for $0.5 million. 

 

Additionally, related party obligations of $0.7 million were subordinated and $0.4 million of newly issued, convertible, subordinated debt was received from four members of the LLC. The debt bears interest at 10% per annum, with interest and principal due March 1, 2014. Upon completion of the IPO on June 25, 2013, all amounts were released from subordination and paid in full.

 

10
 

 

TRUETT-HURST INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

(Prior to June 26, 2013, H.D.D. LLC and Subsidiary)

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands)

(Unaudited)

 

NOTE 8 – COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES, continued

 

Related Party Transactions

 

Notes Payable

 

We executed a $0.2 million unsecured promissory note payable to a member of the LLC, in connection with our repurchase of his Put Interest. The note bears interest at 4.5% per annum and is payable monthly in principal and interest payments of $0.01 million, with any unpaid principal and interest due and payable May 3, 2015.

 

Note to a related party consisted of the following (in thousands, except payments in footnotes):

 

   March 31, 2014   June 30, 2013 
Related party note:  ( in thousands) 
Note 1(1) $85   $137 
           
Less current maturities   (73)   (70)
Total  $12   $67 

 

(1)Note payable to a member for the repurchase of a certain percentage of their ownership interest in the LLC pursuant to exercise of put right; unsecured; payable monthly in principal and interest payments of $6,245; matures May 3, 2015, at 4.5% interest.

 

Future principal and interest payments for the related party note at March 31, 2014 is as follows:

 

Years ending June 30:
( in thousands)
2014  $18 
2015   67 
    85 
Add: Estimated interest   2 
Total  $87 

 

Exchange Agreement

 

Prior to the completion of the IPO, we entered into an exchange agreement with the existing owners of the LLC, several of whom are directors and/or officers of THI.  Under the exchange agreement, each existing owner (and certain permitted transferees thereof) may (subject to the terms of the exchange agreement), exchange their LLC Units for shares of Class A common stock of the Company on a one-for-one basis, subject to customary conversion rate adjustments for stock splits, stock dividends and reclassifications, or for cash, at our election. As a holder exchanges their LLC Units, THI's interest in the LLC will be correspondingly increased. During the nine-months ended March 31, 2014, certain members exchanged 0.8 million LLC units, on a one-for-one basis, for shares of Class A common stock of the Company, under the exchange agreement.

 

Tax Receivable Agreement

 

We entered into a tax receivable agreement with the LLC unit holders which provides for payment by THI to the LLC unit holders an amount equal to 90% of the amount of the benefit, if any, that are realized as a result of (i) increases in tax basis associated with the election effected under Section 754 of the Code, and (ii) certain other tax benefits related to our entering into the tax receivable agreement, including tax benefits attributable to payments under the tax receivable agreement. Any payments under the tax receivable agreement will depend upon whether we have taxable income to utilize the benefit of the increase in the tax basis of the assets owned by the company.

 

We entered into a tax receivable agreement with the LLC unit holders which provides for payment by the Company to the LLC unit holders who convert their units to shares, an amount equal to 90% of the amount of the benefit, if any, that are realized as a result of (i) increases in tax basis associated with the election effected under Section 754 of the Code, and (ii) certain other tax benefits related to our entering into the tax receivable agreement, including tax benefits attributable to payments under the tax receivable agreement. Any payments under the tax receivable agreement will depend upon whether we have taxable income to utilize the benefit.

 

We recorded deferred tax assets of $2.7 million related to the exchange of 0.8 million LLC units for an equal amount of THI Class A common stock. We recorded a $2.5 million long-term liability due to LLC unit holders who converted their units to shares which represents 90% of the estimated tax benefits and $0.3 million for the difference in the recorded deferred tax asset and computed TRA liability and recorded as an adjustment to equity.

 

11
 

 

TRUETT-HURST INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

(Prior to June 26, 2013, H.D.D. LLC and Subsidiary)

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands)

(Unaudited)

 

NOTE 8 – COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES, continued

 

liability due to members of the LLC which represents 90% of the estimated tax benefits. The remaining $0.3 million is the difference between the recorded deferred tax asset and the computed TRA liability and is recorded as an adjustment to equity.

 

Borrowings

 

Borrowings consisted of the following (in thousands, except payments in footnotes):

 

      March 31, 2014   June 30, 2013 
      ( in thousands) 
Long term debt:             
Note 1  (1)  $3,156   $3,257 
Note 2  (2)   82    117 
Note 3  (3)   280    330 
Note 4  (4)   425    - 
Total bank notes payable      3,943    3,704 
              
Less current maturities      (332)   (250)
Total     $3,611   $3,454 

 

(1)Note payable to a bank, collateralized by a deed of trust on property payable monthly in principal payments of $11,270 plus interest, matures May 31, 2022, variable interest of 2.25% above LIBOR.

 

(2)Note payable to a bank, collateralized by equipment payable monthly with principal and interest payments of $4,226, matures November 1, 2015; at 3.75% interest.

 

(3)Note payable to a bank, collateralized by equipment payable monthly with principal and interest payments of $6,535, matures January 15, 2018; at 3.75% interest.

 

(4)Note payable to a bank, collateralized by equipment payable monthly with principal and interest payments of $7,783, matures March 1, 2019; at 3.75% interest.

 

Future principal and interest payments for the long-term debt at March 31, 2014 are as follows:

 

Years ending June 30:
( in thousands)
2014  $82 
2015   333 
2016   311 
2017   296 
2018   269 
Thereafter   2,652 
      
    3,943 
Add: Estimated interest   918 
Total  $4,861 

 

Security Agreements and Limited Guaranties

 

In connection with our entry into bank loans, certain of our executive officers and members of the LLC, as well as certain trusts and other entities under their respective control, entered into guarantee agreements. For information regarding the bank loan see “Credit Facilities” above.

 

12
 

 

TRUETT-HURST INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

(Prior to June 26, 2013, H.D.D. LLC and Subsidiary)

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands)

(Unaudited)

 

NOTE 8 – COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES, continued

 

Limited Guaranty – Hurst Trust: On July 16, 2012, the Hurst Revocable Trust (“Hurst Trust”) , a member of the LLC, and Phillip L. Hurst , director and CEO of the LLC and THI and a co-trustee of the Hurst Trust, entered into a Limited Guaranty pursuant to which the Hurst Trust and Mr. Hurst, together, guarantees the full payment to the bank of all sums presently due and owing and all sums which shall in the future become due and owing to the bank from us. The liability of the Hurst Trust and Mr. Hurst, as guarantor, is limited to 42% of the sum of all obligations due to the bank, plus the costs, expenses and interest associated with the collection of amounts recoverable under this guarantee.

 

Limited Guaranty – Hambrecht Trust: On July 16, 2012, the Hambrecht Trust and William R. Hambrecht, a director of the LLC and THI and trustee of the Hambrecht Trust, entered into a Limited Guaranty pursuant to which the Hambrecht Trust and Mr. Hambrecht, together, guarantees the full payment to the bank of all sums presently due and owing and all sums which shall in the future become due and owing to the bank from us.  The liability of the Hambrecht Trust and Mr. Hambrecht, as guarantor, is limited to 35% of the sum of all obligations due to the bank, plus the costs, expenses and interest associated with the collection of amounts recoverable under this guarantee. On September 30, 2013, Mr. Hambrecht notified the Company that he would not stand for re-election and his director’s term expired November 20, 2013.

 

Limited Guaranty – Dolan 2005 Trust: On July 16, 2012, the Dolan 2005 Trust, a member of the LLC, and Heath E. Dolan, a director of the LLC and THI and a co-trustee of the Dolan 2005 Trust, entered into a Limited Guaranty pursuant to which the Dolan 2005 Trust and Mr. Dolan, together, guarantees the full payment to the bank of all sums presently due and owing and all sums which shall in the future become due and owing to the bank from us.  The liability of the Dolan 2005 Trust and Mr. Dolan, as guarantor, is limited to 26% of the sum of all obligations due to the bank, plus the costs, expenses and interest associated with the collection of amounts recoverable under this guarantee.

 

Limited Guaranty – Dolan 2003 Trust: On July 16, 2012, the Dolan 2003 Trust, a member of the LLC, and Paul E. Dolan, III, a director of the LLC and THI and trustee of the Dolan 2003 Trust, entered into a Limited Guaranty pursuant to which the Dolan 2003 Trust and Mr. Dolan, together, guarantees the full payment to the bank of all sums presently due and owing and all sums which shall in the future become due and owing to the bank from us.  The liability of the Dolan 2003 Trust and Mr. Dolan, as guarantor, is limited to 26% of the sum of all obligations due to the bank, plus the costs, expenses and interest associated with the collection of amounts recoverable under this guarantee.

 

Limited Guaranty – Carroll-Obremskey Trust: On July 16, 2012, the Carroll-Obremskey Trust, a member of the LLC, and Daniel A. Carroll, a director of the LLC and THI and a co-trustee of the Carroll-Obremskey Trust, entered into a Limited Guaranty pursuant to which the Carroll-Obremskey Trust and Mr. Carroll, together, guarantees the full payment to the bank of all sums presently due and owing and all sums which shall in the future become due and owing to the bank from us.  The liability of the Carroll-Obremskey Trust and Mr. Carroll, as guarantor, is limited to 26% of the sum of all obligations due to the bank, plus the costs, expenses and interest associated with the collection of amounts recoverable under this guarantee.

 

Unlimited Guaranty – Hambrecht Wine Group: On July 16, 2012, the Hambrecht Wine Group, a member of the LLC, entered into an Unlimited Guaranty pursuant to which Hambrecht Wine Group guarantees the full payment to the bank of all sums presently due and owing and all sums which shall in the future become due and owing to the bank from us.  The liability of Hambrecht Wine Group, as guarantor, is unlimited. On September 30, 2013, Mr. Hambrecht notified the Company that he would not stand for re-election and his director’s term expired November 20, 2013.

 

Supply Contract

 

On February 26, 2013, we executed a supply of goods agreement for our paper wine bottle production.  The term of the agreement is seven years and has a $0.8 million minimum purchase commitment for each of the first two years.  At March 5, 2014, the supplier entered into administration in the United Kingdom (“U.K.”), a process similar to the U.S. bankruptcy process and we subsequently terminated the supply contract. As a result of the administrative filing, we recorded a one-time provision for loss on deposit of approximately $0.4 million relating to amounts previously paid in advance and for estimated legal costs for filing a U.K. administrative claim. Our policy is to include direct costs associated with the provision. We are unable at this time to predict the legal outcome of our claim and believe it is unlikely that any amount will be recovered.

 

We entered into a two-year supply agreement (with three, one-year renewal options) with a new supplier in the U.S. to provide paper bottles.

 

13
 

 

TRUETT-HURST INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

(Prior to June 26, 2013, H.D.D. LLC and Subsidiary)

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands)

(Unaudited)

 

NOTE 8 – COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES, continued

 

At March 31, 2014, future purchase commitments for finished goods (including paper bottles) total approximately $4.3 million and are expected to be primarily fulfilled by fiscal 2016.

 

We enter into short and long-term contracts to supply a portion of our future grapes and bulk wine inventory requirements with third parties and related party growers.  Future minimum inventory commitments at March 31, 2014 are as follows:

 

Years ending June 30:  Third
Parties
   Related
Parties
   Total 
   (in thousands) 
2015  $3,980   $612   $4,592 
2016   3,057    224    3,281 
Total  $7,037   $836   $7,873 

 

For the quarter periods ended March 31, 2014 and 2013, grape inventory payments under the agreements with related parties totaled $0.02 million and $0.6 million, respectively.  For the nine-month periods ended March 31, 2014 and 2013, grape inventory payments under the agreements with related parties totaled $0.8 million and $1.1 million, respectively. 

 

Litigation

 

We may be subject to various litigation matters arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time.  However, we are not aware of any current pending legal matters or claims, individually or in the aggregate, that are expected to have a material adverse impact on our consolidated financial position, results of operations, or cash flows.

 

Indemnification

 

From time to time we enter into certain types of contracts that contingently require us to indemnify various parties against claims from third parties.  These contracts primarily relate to (i) certain real estate leases, under which we may be required to indemnify property owners for environmental and other liabilities, and other claims arising from our use of the applicable premises, (ii) certain agreements with our officers, directors, and employees, under which we may be required to indemnify such persons for liabilities arising out of their employment relationship, (iii) contracts under which we may be required to indemnify customers against third-party claims that our product infringes a patent, copyright, or other intellectual property right, and (iv) procurement or license agreements, under which we may be required to indemnify licensors or vendors for certain claims that may be brought against them arising from our acts or omissions with respect to the supplied products or technology.

 

Generally, a maximum obligation under these contracts is not explicitly stated.  Because the obligated amounts associated with these types of agreements are not explicitly stated, the overall maximum amount of the obligation cannot be reasonably estimated.  Historically, we have not been required to make payments under these obligations, and no liabilities have been recorded at March 31, 2014 and June 30, 2013, for these obligations on our balance sheets.

 

14
 

 

TRUETT-HURST INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

(Prior to June 26, 2013, H.D.D. LLC and Subsidiary)

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands)

(Unaudited)

 

NOTE 9 - ACCRUED EXPENSES

 

Accrued expenses consisted of the following:

 

   March 31, 2014   June 30, 2013 
   ( in thousands) 
IPO related fees  $99   $999 
Accrued bulk and grapes payable   258    331 
Other   194    123 
Commissions   161    - 
Distributor obligations   111    94 
Personnel   56    163 
Professional fees   54    - 
Total  $933   $1,710 

 

NOTE 10 – STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION

 

We have granted restricted stock awards and have the right to grant stock options and other stock-based awards to employees, directors and non-employees under our 2012 Stock Incentive Plan. For a complete discussion of 2012 Stock Incentive Plan, please refer to the Note 14 - “Stock-based Compensation” to our consolidated financial statements included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended June 30, 2013.

 

On December 28, 2012, we granted restricted stock to an officer of our company which vests over three years and had a fair value at date of grant of $0.1 million for a 1% interest in the LLC.  The objective of FASB ASC Topic 718 – Compensation – Stock Compensation (“ASC Topic 718”) is to recognize the employee services received in exchange for the equity issued over the period the services are provided at the fair value of the equity issued.  Stock-based compensation is included in general and administrative expenses in our consolidated statement of operations. On December 28, 2013, 14,000 shares vested and were released to the grantee.

 

On February 4, 2013, we granted restricted stock to an independent contractor who serves as our Creative Director.  The award vests over three years, and had a fair value at the date of grant of $0.9 million for a 5% interest in the LLC.  The objective of ASC Topic 718 is to recognize the employee services received in exchange for the equity issued over the period the services are provided at the fair value of the equity issued.  Additionally, FASB ASC Subtopic 505-50, Equity — Equity Based Payments to Non-Employees defines the measurement date as the earlier of the date at which the commitment for performance is reached, or the date at which the performance is complete is the day that the fair value of the equity award is expensed.  Stock-based compensation is included in sales and marketing expenses in our consolidated statement of operations. On February 4, 2014, 70,000 shares vested and were released to the grantee.

 

On December 9, 2013, we granted restricted stock to certain directors of our company which vests over three years and has a fair value at date of grant of $0.03 million. The fair value of restricted stock was measured on the date of grant using the price of the Company’s common stock on grant date. Stock-based compensation is included in general and administrative expenses in our consolidated statement of operations.

 

The following table summarizes restricted stock unit activity:

 

   Number of
Shares
   Aggregate
Intrinsic Value
 
   (in thousands, except shares) 
Unvested at June 30, 2013   252,000   $1,348 
Granted   8,928    31 
Released   (84,000)   (326)
Cancelled/forfeited/expired   -    - 
Unvested at March 31, 2013   176,928   $1,053 

 

15
 

 

TRUETT-HURST INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

(Prior to June 26, 2013, H.D.D. LLC and Subsidiary)

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands)

(Unaudited)

 

NOTE 10 – STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION, continued

 

The following table shows total stock-based compensation expense included in the unaudited condensed consolidated statement of operations:

 

   Quarter Ended
March 31, 2014
   Nine-Month
Period Ended
March 31, 2014
 
   (in thousands) 
Sales and Marketing  $40   $224 
General and administrative   11    29 
Total   51    253 

 

NOTE 11 – STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

 

The following table presents the changes in our Class A common stock shares outstanding during the nine months ended March 31, 2014, with amounts in thousands:

 

Class A Common Stock  March 31, 2014 
Balance at June 30, 2013   2,700,000 
Exchange of LLC Units into Class A common stock   815,778 
Restricted stock vesting   84,000 
Balance at March 31, 2014   3,599,778 

 

At March 31, 2014 and June 30, 2013 there were 10 shares of Class B common stock, respectively, issued and held by LLC members.

 

NOTE 12 – LLC UNITS

 

Changes in the non-controlling and our interests in the LLC for the nine months ended March 31, 2014 are presented in the following table:

 

   Members
LLC Units
   THI Units   Total Units   LLC
Member
%
   Company
%
   Total
%
 
Balance as of June 30, 2013   4,102,644    2,700,000    6,802,644    60%   40%   100%
LLC units converted   (815,778)   815,778    -    (12)%   12%   - 
Balance as of March 31, 2014   3,286,866    3,515,778    6,802,644    48%   52%   100%

 

16
 

 

TRUETT-HURST INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

(Prior to June 26, 2013, H.D.D. LLC and Subsidiary)

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands)

(Unaudited)

 

NOTE 13 – LOSS PER SHARE

 

The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted loss per share with amounts in thousands except per share data:

 

(in thousands, except share data)  Quarter Ended
March 31, 2014
   Nine-Month
Period Ended
March 31, 2014
 
         
Net loss attributable to Truett-Hurst, Inc.  $(184)  $(177)
           
Loss Per Share          
Basic and diluted   (0.06)   (0.07)
           
Basic and diluted Class A common stock used in computing loss per share   2,936,894    2,704,752 

 

Basic net loss per share is computed by dividing net loss attributable to THI, by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the period.  Diluted net loss per share is computed by giving effect to all potential dilutive common shares, including convertible LLC units and restricted stock.  The assumed exchange of 3,286,866 LLC units for Class A common stock and the vesting of 176,928 shares of restricted stock are expected to have an anti-dilutive effect.  Accordingly, the effect of exchanging LLC units and restricted stock have been excluded from net income available to Class A common stock per share. Basic net loss per share information is not applicable for reporting periods prior to June 26, 2013, the completion of our initial public offering. 

 

The shares of Class B common stock do not share in our earnings and therefore are not participating securities.  Accordingly, basic and diluted net income per share of Class B common stock has not been presented.

 

NOTE 14 – FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

 

Fair value is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability, otherwise known as the “exit price,” in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. We use the three tier fair value hierarchy as a basis for our assumptions. The hierarchy of inputs used for measuring fair value are as follows: Level 1 – observable inputs such as quoted prices in active markets; Level 2 – inputs other than quoted prices in active markets that are observable either directly or indirectly in active markets; Level 3 – unobservable inputs in which there is little or no market data and as a result, management assumptions are developed.

 

The carrying values of cash, accounts receivable, accounts payable, accrued expenses and long-term debt approximate fair value.

 

In October 2012, we executed an interest rate swap obligation that was measured using observable inputs such as the LIBOR and Ten-year Treasury interest rates, and therefore has been categorized as Level 2. Future volatility of the interest rate swap obligation could have a material impact in future periods. This derivative is not designated as a hedging instrument and has been recorded at fair value on our consolidated balance sheets.  Changes in the fair value of this instrument have been recognized in our consolidated statements of operations in other income (expense).  

 

The following tables set forth our fair values at March 31, 2014 and at June 30, 2013 by level within the fair value hierarchy:

 

      Fair Value as of
March 31, 2014
   Significant Other
Observable Inputs
 
      (in thousands) 
         (Level 2) 
Assets           
Interest rate swap  (1)  $113   $113 
Total     $113   $113 

 

17
 

 

TRUETT-HURST INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

(Prior to June 26, 2013, H.D.D. LLC and Subsidiary)

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands)

(Unaudited)

 

NOTE 14 – FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS, continued

 

      Fair Value as of
June 30, 2013
   Significant Other
Observable Inputs
 
      (in thousands) 
          (Level 2) 
Assets             
Interest rate swap  (1)  $110   $110 
Total     $110   $110 

 

NOTE 15 – TAXES

 

The effective tax rate for the quarter and nine-month period ended March 31, 2014 was 14.60% and 15.02%, respectively. The tax provision for the current year period is based on an estimate of our annualized income tax rate. Our effective tax rate includes a rate benefit attributable to the fact our subsidiaries operate as a limited liability company which is not subject to federal or state income tax.  Accordingly, a portion of our earnings are not subject to corporate level taxes.  The Company did not have an effective tax rate for the quarters and nine-month periods ended March 31, 2013 due to the completion of the Company’s IPO on June 25, 2013.

 

We had no unrecognized tax benefits at March 31, 2014 and did not incur any income tax related interest expense or penalties related to uncertain tax positions.

 

NOTE 16 – SIGNIFICANT CUSTOMER INFORMATION, SEGMENT REPORTING AND GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION

 

In accordance with ASC Topic 280, Segment Reporting, our chief operating decision-maker has been identified as the CEO, who reviews sales, cost of sales, and gross profit to make decisions about allocating our resources and assessing our performance. Operating and other expenses are not allocated between operating segments; therefore, operating and net income information for the respective segments is not available. In addition, discreet financial information related to segment specific assets is not available.

 

Our primary reporting segments are identified by each distribution channel: wholesale, direct to consumer and internet.  Wholesale sales include our retail exclusive brand label model and four fully-owned brands sold and marketed through the traditional three-tier distribution system.  Direct to consumer sales of our own brands occur through our tasting rooms and wine clubs.  Internet sales occur through Wine Spies and are principally comprised of brands not owned by us.  Sales and cost of sales are reported by segment.

 

Net Sales

 

The following table reflects net sales, cost of sales and gross margin percentage by segment for each of the quarters and nine-month periods ended March 31, 2014 and 2013:

 

   Quarters Ended March 31,   Nine-Month Period Ended March 31, 
Net Sales (in thousands)  2014   2013   2014   2013 
Wholesale  $3,511   $2,277   $11,890   $8,741 
Direct to consumer   993    849    3,012    2,357 
Internet   656    448    1,640    1,037 
Total  $5,160   $3,574   $16,542   $12,135 

 

18
 

 

TRUETT-HURST INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

(Prior to June 26, 2013, H.D.D. LLC and Subsidiary)

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands)

 

NOTE 16 – SIGNIFICANT CUSTOMER INFORMATION, SEGMENT REPORTING AND GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION, continued

 

   Quarters Ended March 31,   Nine-Month Period Ended March 31, 
Cost of Sales (in thousands)  2014   2013   2014   2013 
Wholesale  $2,616   $1,659   $8,660   $6,479 
Direct to consumer   385    372    1,189    1,021 
Internet   407    211    1,031    557 
Total  $3,408   $2,242   $10,880   $8,057 

 

 

   Quarters Ended March 31,   Nine-Month Period Ended March 31, 
Gross Margin Percentage  2014   2013   2014   2013 
Wholesale   25%   27%   27%   26%
Direct to consumer   61%   56%   61%   57%
Internet   38%   53%   37%   46%

 

Significant Customer Information:

 

The following tables set forth concentrations of wholesale sales and accounts receivable as a percent of each total:

 

   Percent of Total Net Sales   Percent of Total
Accounts Receivable
 
   Three Months Ended
March 31,
   Nine-Month Period
Ended March 31,
   March 31, 
   2014   2013   2014   2013   2014   2013 
Customer A   6%   9%   8%   17%   3%   6%
Customer B   1%   -    1%   7%   -    - 
Customer C   7%   9%   7%   8%   5%   4%
Customer D   7%   13%   25%   10%   8%   3%
Customer E   -    24%   -    16%   -    36%
Customer F   4%   4%   2%   6%   3%   3%
Customer G   3%   1%   2%   2%   6%   6%
Customer H   43%   -    32%   -    45%     

 

International net sales were $0.4 million and $1.1 million for the third quarter and nine-months of FY14 compared to $0.01 million and $0.2 million for the third quarter and nine-months of FY13, respectively.

 

NOTE 17 – SUBSEQUENT EVENTS

 

We have evaluated all subsequent event activity through the issue date of these condensed consolidated financial statements and concluded that no additional subsequent events have occurred that would require recognition in the condensed consolidated financial statements or disclosure in the notes to the condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

19
 

 

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

 

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

 

This Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations and other parts of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q contain 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. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, regarding our strategy, future operations, financial position, prospects, plans, opportunities, and objectives constitute “forward-looking statements.” The words “may,” “will,” “expect,” “plan,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “potential,” or “continue” and similar types of expressions identify such statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain these identifying words. These statements are based upon information that is currently available to us and or management’s current expectations, speak only as of the date hereof, and are subject to risks and uncertainties. We expressly disclaim any obligation, except as required by federal securities laws, or undertaking to update or revise any forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect any change or expectations with regard thereto or to reflect any change in events, conditions, or circumstances on which any such forward-looking statement is based, in whole or in part. Our actual results may differ materially from the results discussed in or implied by such forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause such differences include, but are not limited to, a reduction in the supply of grapes and bulk wine available to us; significant competition; any change in our relationships with retailers which could harm our business; we may not achieve or maintain profitability in the future; the loss of key employees; a reduction in our access to, or an increase in the cost of, the third-party services we use to produce our wine; credit facility restrictions on our current and future operations; failure to protect, or infringement of, trademarks and proprietary rights; these factors should not be construed as exhaustive and should be read in conjunction with the other cautionary statements that are included in this report. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or review any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise. Risks that may affect our operating results include, but are not limited to, those discussed in the “Risk Factors” section of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for FY13 filed with the Securities Exchange Commission (“SEC”) on September 27, 2013. Readers should carefully review the risk factors described in the Annual Report on Form 10-K for fiscal 2013 and in other documents that we file from time to time with the SEC.

 

The following management’s discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations for the quarters and nine-month periods ended March 31, 2014 and the June 30, 2013 balance sheet, include the results of Truett-Hurst, Inc. (“THI”) and its subsidiaries: H.D.D. LLC (“LLC”) and its consolidated subsidiary, The Wine Spies, LLC (“Wine Spies”) (collectively, “we,” “Truett-Hurst,” “our,” “us,” or “the Company”). We consolidate the financial results of the LLC and its consolidated subsidiary, and record non-controlling interest for the economic interest in the LLC and its consolidated subsidiary. Non-controlling interest’s represent the portion of equity ownership in subsidiaries that are not attributable to THI. The unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements for the quarters and nine-month periods ended March 31, 2013 reflect the results of the LLC and Wine Spies. THI’s fiscal 2013 period is from June 26, 2013 to June 30, 2013 due to the completion of the Company’s initial public offering (“IPO”) on June 25, 2013. Unless the context suggests otherwise, references in this report to THI refer (1) prior to the June 2013 IPO of THI and related transactions, to the LLC and its consolidated subsidiary and (2) after our IPO and related formation transactions, to THI and its consolidated subsidiaries.

 

Certain reclassifications have been made to these fiscal 2013 quarter condensed consolidated financial statements to conform to the current fiscal 2014 quarter presentation. Reclassifications had no material impact on previously reported results of operations, financial position or cash flows.

 

References to “FY” or “fiscal year” refer to our fiscal year ending on June 30th of the designated year or prior year. For example, “FY13” and “fiscal year 2013” each refer to the fiscal year ended June 30, 2013 and “FY14” and “fiscal year 2014” each refer to the fiscal year ended June 30, 2014. Other references to “years” mean calendar years.

 

OVERVIEW OF BUSINESS

 

We produce and sell premium, super-premium, ultra-premium and luxury wines from grapes grown from our estate vineyard, purchased from growers, bulk wine procured under contracts or on a spot basis, and finished goods from both foreign and domestic producers. We are headquartered in Sonoma County, California with tasting rooms in the Dry Creek and Russian River valleys. Our wines include Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Zinfandel, Syrah, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon and are sold across a number of price points for three distinct distribution channels: three-tier, direct to consumer and internet. We own, design and develop our brands, including those sold on a retailer exclusive basis. Our brands are marketed through innovative packaging and label designs.

 

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Wine sales in the three tier channel are sold to distributors with programs available to the broad market or on a retailer exclusive basis. Our traditional three-tier distribution business consists of sales of Truett-Hurst, VML, Healdsburg Ranches and Bradford Mountain branded wines. Through our retailer exclusive brand label model we collaboratively work with our retail alliances to develop innovative brands which resonate with their customers and increase consumer store traffic and grow sales. Our “retail exclusive label” model allows us to own the brands we create, which we believe differentiates us from the traditional private label model, and allows us to potentially expand the brands into national and international broad markets, further building our brand equity.  Our direct to consumer channel consists of sales through our tasting rooms and wine clubs, which increases brand visibility and loyalty, and through our 50% ownership interest in Wine Spies, an internet wine retailer specializing in short-lived “flash” sales and other limited offerings.

 

RECENT TRENDS AND EVENTS

 

During the year to date, there have been certain key trends within the wine industry, which include (Unified Wine Symposium):

·The estimated value of 2013 wine shipments is $36 billion, a 5% increase from 2012. This makes the U.S. the largest wine market in terms of revenues;
·An increase in global wine consumption, with premium wines growing faster than value-priced wines;
·Wine sales have been growing at a rate of 2 to 3% per year in the U.S. market for the past 21 years, and
·Of the 330 million people in the U.S., 101 million now drink wine.

 

The California 2013 vintage grape harvest totaled 4.7 million tons which was up 7% from the 2012 harvest (USDA, National Agriculture Service 2013 Final Grape Crush Report). The 2012 harvest was approximately 13% higher than the 2011. The 2012 and 2013 harvests are expected to align domestic supply and demand particularly in light of the smaller harvests of 2010 and 2011.

 

In August 2013, we launched California Square, an ultra-premium wine program. It was featured at the 65th Annual Emmy Awards Ceremony on September 21 and 22, 2013. California Square was presented to celebrities and VIPs throughout the awards weekend in Los Angeles California. The California Square wine portfolio includes: Russian River Valley Chardonnay, Paso Robles Cabernet Sauvignon, and Paso Robles red blend.  After nine months of retailer exclusivity, California Square is being introduced into the national and international markets at the request of several top key retailers.

 

In October 2013, the LLC entered into a co-ownership trademark agreement with wine industry veteran Daryl Groom, for a fifty-percent ownership in and all rights, titles and interest in the Colby Red trademark. Colby Red is a California cuvée of Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, Shiraz, Merlot, and Petite Sirah with a suggested retail bottle price ranging between $11.99-$13.99. The brand is contributing positively to our net sales and gross margins during the third quarter of fiscal 2014.

 

In November 2013, we launched PaperBoy, the first paper wine bottle in the United States. PaperBoy’s bottle is made from 100% recycled cardboard and has a plastic insert with proven “bag in a box” technology. The package is 85% lighter than a glass bottle and is easily recyclable. Its carbon footprint is significantly smaller than glass and provides an easy alternative to enjoying wine outdoors where glass is prohibited. After ninety days of retailer exclusivity and growing awareness of the brand, PaperBoy has been introduced to several top key retailers in the national and international markets and we expect to see additional distributors in the upcoming quarters.

 

We continue to receive positive feedback from our retailers, national publications and newspapers for our wine quality and packaging innovation. In December 2013, Robert Parker, one of the industry’s most highly regarded wine critics, evaluated and rated selected VML wines (Wine Advocate #210). Mr. Parker not only provided high scores but also favorably commented on our innovative design and packaging. We believe these scores and the resulting consumer awareness of our brands can be leveraged by our distributors with industry gate keepers to expand points of distribution in the marketplace.

 

During the third quarter of fiscal 2014, certain retail exclusive brands exclusivity periods have expired: Evocative Wraps, California Square and PaperBoy. We are in discussions with several top key retailers to carry the brands. Our ownership of the brands allows us to expand upon these brands awareness into national and international markets, further building our brand equity.

 

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SIGNIFICANT TRANSACTIONS

 

Formation Transactions

 

On June 19, 2013, the limited liability company agreement of the LLC was amended and restated to, among other things, modify its capital structure by replacing the different classes of interests previously held by our then-existing owners with a single new class of units that we refer to as “LLC Units.” We and our then-existing owners also entered into an exchange agreement under which (subject to the terms of the exchange agreement) they have the right to exchange their LLC Units for shares of our Class A common stock on a one-for-one basis, subject to customary conversion rate adjustments for stock splits, stock dividends and reclassifications. At March 31, 2014, there were 3,286,866 LLC Units held by parties other than THI which upon exercise of the right to exchange would exchange for Class A common stock on a one-for-one basis. During the third quarter of FY14, certain members converted 815,778 LLC units into Class A common stock. Our LLC owners control approximately 46.5% of the voting power of our outstanding Class A common stock and accordingly, our LLC existing owners have the ability to elect all of the members of our board of directors, and thereby control our management and affairs.

 

In connection with the IPO, one share of Class B common stock was distributed to each existing holder of LLC Units, each of which provides its owner with no economic rights but entitles the holder, without regard to the number of shares of Class B common stock held by such holder, to one vote on matters presented to our stockholders for each LLC Unit held by such holder. Holders of our Class A common stock and Class B common stock vote together as a single class on all matters presented to our stockholders for their vote or approval, except as otherwise required by applicable law.

 

Initial Public Offering

 

Our IPO closed on June 25, 2013 and pursuant to the IPO, we offered and sold 2,700,000 shares of Class A common stock. We received gross IPO proceeds of approximately $16.2 million and used approximately $15.1 million of the IPO proceeds to purchase 2,700,000 newly-issued LLC Units. We caused the LLC to use approximately $1.6 million of the $15.1 million IPO net proceeds from the sale of such newly-issued LLC Units to repay outstanding indebtedness and related IPO expenses. In addition, we paid approximately $1.1 million to the Placement Agent.

 

As a result of the IPO and formation transactions in June 2013, we became the sole managing member of, and have a controlling equity interest in, the LLC. As the sole managing member of the LLC, we operate and control all of the business and affairs of the LLC and through the LLC and its consolidated subsidiary (Wine Spies) conduct our business. We consolidate the financial results of the LLC and its consolidated subsidiary, and record non-controlling interest for the economic interest of the LLC and its consolidated subsidiary. Non-controlling interest’s represent the portion of equity ownership in subsidiaries that are not attributable to THI.

 

Other

 

We are a holding company and our sole material asset is a controlling membership interest in the LLC. As the sole managing member of the LLC, we operate and control all of the business and affairs of the LLC and, through the LLC and its subsidiary, conduct our business. We consolidate the financial results of the LLC and its subsidiary, and the ownership interest of the other LLC members is reflected as a non-controlling interest in our consolidated financial statements. At March 31, 2014, the Company's and the non-controlling unit holders’ economic interest in the LLC was 52% and 48% compared to 40% and 60%, at June 30, 2013.

 

SEASONAL TRENDS

 

There is seasonality in the growing, procurement and transportation of grapes.  The wine industry, typically experiences increased sales in October, November and December. Our sales have historically followed several distinct trends. Sales are typically higher upon the launch of a new product into the marketplace and when retailers promote brands through in-store displays and advertisements. We expect these trends to continue. 

 

STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES

 

Wine industry sales are defined by four major categories: sub-premium (below $7 per bottle retail price), super-premium (between $7 – $14 per bottle retail price), ultra-premium (over $14 - $25 per bottle retail price) and luxury ($25+ per bottle retail price). We focus on the super, ultra-premium and luxury wine categories with a sales price up to $50 per bottle. Our wholesale sales channel targets the super and ultra-premium categories, our direct to consumer channel targets the luxury category through our wine clubs and tasting rooms and our fifty percent investment in The Wine Spies represents internet sales of super-premium and luxury wines.

 

Our business strategy includes (i) developing innovative products, (ii) building private label brands for large U.S. retailers (iii) building national brands within the existing portfolio of brands, (iv) expanding our retail base and distribution channels, (v) expanding our direct to consumer and internet business, and (vi) continuing to develop new ways to engage customers and to distribute our wines. Continued growth of our net sales, gross profit and net income will depend upon our execution of new brand introductions with innovative packaging designs and our ability to leverage existing brands in our portfolio with our distributors, retailer exclusive alliances, direct to consumer and internet sales channels.

 

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We remain committed to our strategic objectives of growing sales, expanding margins, achieving and growing earnings per share growth and increased cash flow.

 

Results of Operations

 

Net Sales. Net sales include sales from each distribution channel: wholesale, direct to consumer and internet. Wholesale sales include our brands sold in the broad market and on a retailer exclusive basis through the three-tier distribution system. Direct to consumer sales of our own brands occur through our tasting rooms and wine clubs. Internet sales occur through Wine Spies and are principally comprised of brands not owned by us. The following tables compare net sales by segment for the quarters and nine-month periods ended March 31, 2014 and 2013:

 

   Quarters Ended March 31,   Nine-Month Periods Ended March 31, 
   2014   2013   Increase
(Decrease)
   %
Change
   2014   2013   Increase
(Decrease)
   %
Change
 
   (in thousands, except percentages)   (in thousands, except percentages) 
Wholesale  $3,511   $2,277   $1,234    54%  $11,890   $8,741   $3,149    36%
Direct to consumer   993    849    144    17%   3,012    2,357    655    28%
Internet   656    448    208    46%   1,640    1,037    603    58%
Total  $5,160   $3,574   $1,586    44%  $16,542   $12,135   $4,407    36%

 

We experienced growth in all sales channels. Wholesale net sales increased 54% and 36% in the third quarter and nine-months of FY14, respectively. The increase resulted primarily from continued sales of our brands including California Square, Colby Red, our evocative wraps program and PaperBoy. Direct to consumer net sales increased 17% and 28% in the third quarter and nine-months of FY14, respectively. Direct to consumer net sales increased due to our continued efforts to grow the channel through wine club sales and leveraging Sonoma County tourism to drive traffic to our tasting rooms. Internet net sales increased 46% and 58% in the third quarter and nine-months of FY14, respectively. Internet sales improved as we had nine-months of operations compared to only eight months in FY13 (acquired August 2012). In addition, the increase was due to increased website traffic and sales mix, including higher priced, limited production wines.

 

International net sales were $0.4 million and $1.1 for the third quarter and nine-months of FY14 compared to $0.01 million and $0.2 million for the third quarter and nine-months of FY13, respectively. Our international shipments include Canada and Mexico.

 

We record sales discounts and depletion allowances as a reduction of sales. For the quarter periods ended March 31, 2014 and 2013, sales discounts and depletion allowances totaled $0.3 million and $0.04 million, respectively. For nine-months 2014 and 2013, sales discounts and depletion allowances totaled $0.6 million and $1.0 million, respectively.

 

Cost of Sales. Costs of sales includes costs associated with direct and indirect grape growing costs, external grape, bulk wine and finished goods purchases, packaging materials, direct and indirect winemaking production costs. No further costs are allocated to inventory once the product is bottled and ready for sale. The following tables compare cost of sales by segment for the three and nine-month periods ended March 31, 2014 and 2013:

 

   Quarters Ended March 31,   Nine-Month Periods Ended March 31, 
   2014   2013   Increase
(Decrease)
   %
Change
   2014   2013   Increase
(Decrease)
   %
Change
 
   (in thousands, except percentages)   (in thousands, except percentages) 
Wholesale  $2,616   $1,659   $957    58%  $8,660   $6,479   $2,181    34%
Direct to consumer   385    372    13    4%   1,189    1,021    168    16%
Internet   407    211    196    93%   1,031    557    474    85%
Total  $3,408   $2,242   $1,166    52%  $10,880   $8,057   $2,823    35%

 

 

Cost of sales increase for the third quarter and nine-months of FY14 was attributable to the related increase in sales, sales mix and a $0.08 million inventory write-down to market. Total cost of sales was 52% and 35% compared to net sales increase of 44% and 36% for the third quarter and nine-months of FY14, respectively

 

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Gross Profit / Gross Profit Margin.

 

The following table compares gross profit and gross profit margins for the quarters and nine-month periods ended March 31, 2014 and 2013:

 

   Quarters Ended March 31,   Nine-Month Period Ended March 31, 
(in thousands, except percentages )  2014   2013   2014   2013 
Net Sales  $5,160   $3,574   $16,542   $12,135 
Cost of sales   3,408    2,242    10,880    8,057 
Gross Profit  $1,752   $1,332   $5,662   $4,078 
                     
Gross profit margin   34.0%   37.3%   34.2%   33.6%

 

The following table compares gross profit margin by segments for the quarters and nine-month periods ended March 31, 2014 and 2013:

 

   Quarters Ended March 31,   Nine-Month Period Ended March 31, 
Gross Margin Percentage  2014   2013   2014   2013 
Wholesale   25%   27%   27%   26%
Direct to consumer   61%   56%   61%   57%
Internet   38%   53%   37%   46%

 

Wholesale gross profit margins for FY14’s quarter was down compared to FY13 principally due to the inventory write-down to market, while up for the nine months. Direct to consumer gross profit margins increased compared to the same prior-quarter period and was attributable to sales mix, reduced discounting, and selected price increases associated with certain vintage transitions.  The internet gross profit margin decreased as we continue to emphasize gross profit over gross margin by offering higher priced wines.

 

Sales and Marketing. Sales and marketing expenses consist primarily of non-production personnel costs, advertising and other marketing promotions. Advertising costs are expensed as incurred. For the third quarter and nine-months of FY14, advertising expense totaled approximately $0.06 million and $0.2 million, respectively. For the third quarter and nine-months of FY13, advertising expense totaled approximately $0.03 million and $0.05 million, respectively.  Our sales and marketing variable expenses increase proportionately with increased sales. The following tables compare sales and marketing expenses for the quarters and nine-month periods ended March 31, 2014 and 2013:

 

   Quarters Ended March 31,   Nine-Month Periods Ended March 31, 
   2014   2013   Increase
(Decrease)
   %
Change
   2014   2013   Increase
(Decrease)
   %
Change
 
   (in thousands, except percentages)   (in thousands, except percentages) 
Sales and marketing  $1,252   $1,005   $247    25%  $3,582   $2,653   $929    35%
                                         
Percent of net sales   24.3%   28.1%             21.7%   21.9%          

 

Sales and marketing expense increased 25% and 35% during the third quarter and nine months of FY14 compared to the same prior periods in FY13. These increases were primarily due to our continued expansion of our brand related programming, promotions and incentives, increased headcount and related expenses, and marketing expenses associated with increased sales.

 

We report the amounts billed to our customers for shipping and handling as sales, and we report the costs we incur for shipping and handling as a sales and marketing expense. Shipping costs were $0.3 million and $0.6 million compared to $0.2 million and $0.4 million for the third quarter and nine-months of FY14 and FY13, respectively.

 

General and Administrative. General and administrative expenses include the costs associated with our administrative staff, costs associated with being a public company and other expenses related to our non-manufacturing functions. The following tables compare general and administrative expenses for the quarters and nine-month periods ended March 31, 2014 and 2013:

 

   Quarters Ended March 31,   Nine-Month Periods Ended March 31, 
   2014   2013   Increase
(Decrease)
   %
Change
   2014   2013   Increase
(Decrease)
   %
Change
 
   (in thousands, except percentages)   (in thousands, except percentages) 
General and administrative  $738   $571   $167    29%  $2,285   $1,677   $608    36%
                                         
Percent of net sales   14.3%   16.0%             13.8%   13.8%          

 

General and administrative expense increased 29% and 36% during the third quarter and nine months of FY14 compared to the same prior periods in FY13. These increases were primarily due to the continued expansion of our infrastructure including increased headcount and related expenses, Sarbanes Oxley compliance, professional fees, costs of a public company and office facility lease.

 

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Loss on Deposit

 

We recognized a one-time provision for loss on deposit of approximately $0.4 million relating to amounts previously paid in advance to a supplier of paper bottles. We believe the financial impact is isolated to the third quarter of FY14, however we are unable to predict the legal outcome of our claim in the U.K. administrative process and believe it is unlikely that we will recover any amount. For additional information see “Supply Contract” and “Note 8 – Commitments and Contingencies” to the Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Quarterly Report.

 

Interest Expense

 

Interest expense was $0.04 million and $0.1 million compared to $0.07 million and $0.3 million for the third quarter and first nine-months of FY14 and FY13, respectively, based upon average borrowings being down.

 

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

 

General

 

Our primary sources of available cash are from operations, the revolving loan portion of our credit facility and equity offerings. Our primary cash needs are to fund working capital requirements, including costs associated with the development, release and sale of new brands, and capital expenditures for barrels and other equipment to facilitate increased production, repay our indebtedness (interest and principal payments) and operating expenses.  Working capital requirements for our wholesale and direct to consumer segments is supported by grapes (grown or purchased), semi-finished bulk wine (purchased under contract or on the spot market), and on a limited basis finished goods procured from international and domestic sources. The actual wine programs and segments in which the grapes and bulk wine procured will be used are not known until our winemaker has completed the winemaking, blending and oak aging production process.  It is not possible to accurately assign inventory costs to each segment because the bottled inventory may be sold in multiple segments.   Inventory for our internet segment is purchased as finished goods based on the day’s orders or procured for limited offerings.

 

Borrowings under our credit facilities are at the London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”), plus a credit spread.  Borrowings under the equipment line of credit are converted to term notes, annually. For information regarding the loans and loan guarantees see below “Indebtedness” and “Security Agreements and Limited Guarantees” below and “Note 8 – Commitments and Contingencies” to the Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Quarterly Report. The availability is subject to our compliance with certain contractual financial and non-financial covenants. The terms of our credit facility require, among other things, compliance with certain financial covenants, including, without limitation, a minimum current assets to current liabilities ratio (measured quarterly), debt to effective tangible net worth ratio (measured quarterly) and debt service coverage ratio (measured annually).  We were in compliance with the loan covenants at March 31, 2014.

 

We currently do not have any material commitments for capital expenditures.  We have experienced no material trends or changes in the type or cost of our capital resources.  We do not currently plan on entering into any lease arrangements for barrels or other equipment.

 

We believe that our cash position and availability under our senior secured credit facility will be adequate to finance working capital needs and planned capital expenditures for at least the next twelve months. We may, however, require additional liquidity as we continue to execute our business strategy. We anticipate that, to the extent that we require additional liquidity, it will be funded through the incurrence of indebtedness, additional equity financings or a combination of these potential sources of liquidity, although no assurance can be given that such forms of capital will be available to us, or available to us on terms which are acceptable, at such time.

 

Our working capital decreased $0.5 million to $15.9 million at March 31, 2014 from $16.4 million at June 30, 2013. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to a decrease in cash and accounts receivable. Cash consists of cash and money market accounts. Cash decreased by $6.3 million to $5.1 million for the period ended March 31, 2014 from $11.4 million at the end of FY13.

 

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Cash Flows from Operating Activities

 

Net cash used in operating activities increased $0.9 million to $5.7 million compared to $4.8 million for the nine-months ended March 2014 and 2013, respectively.  The significant changes in cash flows used in operating activities is attributable to the net loss, increase in bulk wine deposit and decrease in accounts payable and accrued expenses offset by a reduction in accounts receivable, inventories and other current assets. Management believes cash flows from operations, available cash balances and short-term borrowings will be sufficient to fund the Company’s future operating liquidity needs.

 

Cash Flows from Investing Activities

 

Net cash used in investing activities decreased $0.4 million to $0.7 million compared to $1.1 million for the nine-months ended March 2014 and 2013, respectively.  The significant changes in cash flows used in investing activities is attributable to a decrease in property and equipment purchases and investment in Wine Spies offset by an increase in intangibles and other assets.

 

Cash Flows from Financing Activities

 

Net cash provided by financing activities decreased $5.8 million to $0.1 million compared to $5.9 million for the nine-months ended March 2014 and 2013, respectively.  The significant changes in cash flows provided by financing activities is attributable to decreased borrowings and related proceeds. Loan proceeds of $0.4 million were realized as we entered into a formal term loan for current year capital additions previously paid from the line of credit.

 

Contractual Obligations and Commitments

 

Financing Agreements

 

Indebtedness

 

Our primary sources of indebtedness are the bank loan (as defined below) and notes payable to a member. For information regarding the loan guarantees see below “Security Agreements and Limited Guarantees” below and “Note 8 – Commitments and Contingencies” to the Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Quarterly Report.

 

Bank Loans.

 

·$9.0 million Line of Credit Note: Our line of credit expires on July 15, 2015 and the aggregate principal balance outstanding bears interest at 1.75% above LIBOR.

 

·$0.5 million Equipment Purchase Line of Credit Note: We received an equipment purchase line of credit note which matures on July 15, 2015. The aggregate principal balance outstanding bears interest at 2.25% above the floating One-Month LIBOR Rate.

 

·$0.1 million Foreign Exchange Note: We received a foreign exchange note in the principal amount of $0.1 million from the bank due on or before May 31, 2014 that carries a 10% credit percentage and permits us to enter into any spot or forward transaction to purchase from or sell to the bank a foreign currency of an agreed amount.

 

The bank loan contains usual and customary covenants, including, without limitation:

 

·limitation on incurring senior indebtedness;

 

·limitation on making loans and advances;

 

·limitation on investments, acquisitions, and capital expenditures;

 

·limitation on liens, mergers and sales of assets; and

 

·limitations on new activities of THI.

 

In addition, the bank loan contains negative and financial covenants, including, without limitation, a minimum current assets to current liabilities ratio (measured quarterly), debt to effective tangible net worth ratio (measured quarterly) and debt service coverage ratio (measured annually).

 

We were in compliance in all material aspects with all covenants at March 31, 2014.

 

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Covenant Breaches. In March 2013, in connection with the bank issuance of a waiver for the financial covenants, we amended and restated a member warrant to allow for the immediate exercise of the warrant for a 3% member interest.  The original common stock warrant, issued in May 2012, was for 20% of the contributed members’ equity interest equal to $0.5 million. The obligation was satisfied with the exercise of the warrant in March 2013 for $0.5 million. 

 

Additionally, $0.7 million in related party obligations was subordinated and $0.4 million of newly issued, convertible, subordinated debt was received from four of our members. The debt bears interest at 10% per annum, with interest and principal due before March 1, 2014. Upon completion of the IPO on June 25, 2013, all amounts were released from subordination and paid in full.

 

Factoring Agreements. In November 2011, January 2012 and April 2012, we entered into three agreements with a factor borrowing a total of $2.6 million in order to finance three transactions with a vendor. We agreed to assign and sell receivables related to these transactions to the factor at a rate of 100% of each receivable plus 1.25% per month of the unpaid principal amount of the loan. We were fully and unconditionally liable for the principal and interest on the loan; therefore, we accounted for the transfer of receivables as a secured financing. Interest expense includes finance costs associated with factoring activities.

 

The addition of John D. Fruth to our board of directors, subsequent to the IPO, caused the factor agreement to become a related party transaction. The April 2012 agreement for the amount due of $0.9 million at June 30, 2012 was paid subsequent to fiscal 2012 year end. Interest of $nil was paid under these agreements for the quarter periods ended March 31, 2014 and 2013 and interest of $nil and $0.03 million was paid under these agreements for the nine-month period ended March 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

 

Security Agreements and Limited Guaranties

 

In connection with our entry into bank loans, certain of our executive officers and members of the LLC, as well as certain trusts and other entities under their respective control, entered into guarantee agreements. For information regarding the bank loan see “Credit Facilities” above.

 

Limited Guaranty – Hurst Trust: On July 16, 2012, the Hurst Revocable Trust (“Hurst Trust”) , a member of the LLC, and Phillip L. Hurst , director and CEO of the LLC and THI and a co-trustee of the Hurst Trust, entered into a Limited Guaranty pursuant to which the Hurst Trust and Mr. Hurst, together, guarantees the full payment to the bank of all sums presently due and owing and all sums which shall in the future become due and owing to the bank from us.  The liability of the Hurst Trust and Mr. Hurst, as guarantor, is limited to 42% of the sum of all obligations due to the bank, plus the costs, expenses and interest associated with the collection of amounts recoverable under this guarantee.

 

Limited Guaranty – Hambrecht Trust: On July 16, 2012, the Hambrecht Trust and William R. Hambrecht, a director of the LLC and THI and trustee of the Hambrecht Trust, entered into a Limited Guaranty pursuant to which the Hambrecht Trust and Mr. Hambrecht, together, guarantees the full payment to the bank of all sums presently due and owing and all sums which shall in the future become due and owing to the bank from us.  The liability of the Hambrecht Trust and Mr. Hambrecht, as guarantor, is limited to 35% of the sum of all obligations due to the bank, plus the costs, expenses and interest associated with the collection of amounts recoverable under this guarantee. On September 30, 2013, Mr. Hambrecht notified the Company that he would not stand for re-election and his director’s term expired November 20, 2013.

 

Limited Guaranty – Dolan 2005 Trust: On July 16, 2012, the Dolan 2005 Trust, a member of the LLC, and Heath E. Dolan, a director of the LLC and THI and a co-trustee of the Dolan 2005 Trust, entered into a Limited Guaranty pursuant to which the Dolan 2005 Trust and Mr. Dolan, together, guarantees the full payment to the bank of all sums presently due and owing and all sums which shall in the future become due and owing to the bank from us.  The liability of the Dolan 2005 Trust and Mr. Dolan, as guarantor, is limited to 26% of the sum of all obligations due to the bank, plus the costs, expenses and interest associated with the collection of amounts recoverable under this guarantee.

 

Limited Guaranty – Dolan 2003 Trust: On July 16, 2012, the Dolan 2003 Trust, a member of the LLC, and Paul E. Dolan, III , a director of the LLC and THI and trustee of the Dolan 2003 Trust, entered into a Limited Guaranty pursuant to which the Dolan 2003 Trust and Mr. Dolan, together, guarantees the full payment to the bank of all sums presently due and owing and all sums which shall in the future become due and owing to the bank from us.  The liability of the Dolan 2003 Trust and Mr. Dolan, as guarantor, is limited to 26% of the sum of all obligations due to the bank, plus the costs, expenses and interest associated with the collection of amounts recoverable under this guarantee.

 

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Limited Guaranty – Carroll-Obremskey Trust: On July 16, 2012, the Carroll-Obremskey Trust, a member of the LLC, and Daniel A. Carroll, a director of the LLC and THI and a co-trustee of the Carroll-Obremskey Trust, entered into a Limited Guaranty pursuant to which the Carroll-Obremskey Trust and Mr. Carroll, together, guarantees the full payment to the bank of all sums presently due and owing and all sums which shall in the future become due and owing to the bank from us.  The liability of the Carroll-Obremskey Trust and Mr. Carroll, as guarantor, is limited to 26% of the sum of all obligations due to the bank, plus the costs, expenses and interest associated with the collection of amounts recoverable under this guarantee.

 

Unlimited Guaranty – Hambrecht Wine Group: On July 16, 2012, the Hambrecht Wine Group, a member of the LLC, entered into an Unlimited Guaranty pursuant to which Hambrecht Wine Group guarantees the full payment to the bank of all sums presently due and owing and all sums which shall in the future become due and owing to the bank from us.  The liability of Hambrecht Wine Group, as guarantor, is unlimited. On September 30, 2013, Mr. Hambrecht notified the Company that he would not stand for re-election and his director’s term expired November 20, 2013.

 

Concentration of Credit Risk and Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

We maintain our cash with highly rated credit institutions. Although we try to limit the amount of credit exposure with any one financial institution, we do in the normal course of business maintain cash balances in excess of federally insured limits.

 

Our accounts receivable consists primarily of trade receivables from customers. We review accounts receivable regularly and make estimates for allowance for doubtful accounts when there is doubt as to the collectability of individual balances. Our accounts receivable credit risk is not concentrated within any one geographic area or customer group. We believe our accounts receivable credit risk exposure is limited and we have not experienced significant write-downs in our accounts receivable balances.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

We do not have off-balance sheet risks related to foreign exchange contracts, option contracts or other foreign hedging arrangements.

 

Leases and Commitments

 

We lease a winery, tasting room facility, office space and certain office equipment. We enter into short and long-term contracts to supply a portion of our future grapes and bulk wine inventory requirements with third parties and related party growers.  Future minimum inventory commitments at March 31, 2014 are as follows:

 

Years ending June 30:  Third
Parties
   Related
Parties
   Total 
   (in thousands) 
2015  $3,980   $612   $4,592 
2016   3,057    224    3,281 
Total  $7,037   $836   $7,873 

 

Supply Contract

 

On February 26, 2013, we executed a supply of goods agreement for our paper wine bottle.  The term of the agreement is seven years and the minimum purchase commitment for the first two years is $0.8 million for each year.  At March 5, 2014, the supplier entered into administration in the United Kingdom (“U.K.”), a process similar to the U.S. bankruptcy process and subsequently terminated the supply contract. As a result of the administrative filing, we recorded a one-time provision for loss on deposit of approximately $0.4 million relating to amounts previously paid in advance and for estimated legal costs to file a U.K. administrative claim. Our policy is to include direct costs associated with the provision. We believe the financial impact is isolated to the third quarter of fiscal 2014.

 

Demand for the PaperBoy brand exceeds our paper bottle supply which could affect the brand’s sales growth.

 

On February 18, 2014, we entered into a two-year supply agreement (with three, one-year renewal options) with a U.S supplier and we believe the supply relationship will provide the volume to meet our PaperBoy sales goals. Production is expected to be received from the supplier in the fourth quarter of FY14.

 

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At March 31, 2014, future purchase commitments for finished goods (including paper bottles) total approximately $4.3 million and are expected to be primarily fulfilled by fiscal 2016.

 

Effects of Inflation and Changing Prices

 

Our results of operations and financial condition have not been significantly affected by inflation and changing prices. We intend to pass along rising costs through increased selling prices, subject to normal competitive conditions. There can be no assurances, however, that we will be able to pass along rising costs through increased selling prices. In addition, we continue to identify on-going cost savings initiatives.

 

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

 

Critical accounting policies are those we believe are most important to portraying our financial conditions and results of operations and also require the greatest amount of subjective or complex judgments by management. The preparation of the consolidated financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of the assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Judgments and uncertainties regarding the application of these policies and estimates may result in materially different amounts being reported under various conditions or using different assumptions. There have been no material changes to the critical accounting policies and estimates previously disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2013.

 

Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements

 

We adopted ASU 2013-11, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Presentation of an Unrecognized Tax Benefit When a Net Operating Loss Carry-forward, a Similar Tax Loss, or a Tax Credit Carry-forward Exists. Topic 740, Income Taxes, does not include explicit guidance on the financial statement presentation of an unrecognized tax benefit when a net operating loss carry-forward, a similar tax loss, or a tax credit carry-forward exists. There is diversity in practice in the presentation of unrecognized tax benefits in those instances. The objective of the amendments in this Update is to eliminate that diversity in practice. The amendments are effective for entities beginning after December 15, 2013. The adoption of ASU 2013-11 did not have a material impact on the Company’s condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

We have reviewed all recently issued, but not yet effective, accounting pronouncements and we do not believe the future adoption of any such pronouncements may be expected to cause a material impact on our financial condition or the results of our operations.

 

ITEM 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

 

We are a smaller reporting company as defined by Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act and are not required to provide the information required under this Item.

 

ITEM 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

 

Based on an evaluation under the supervision and with the participation of our management, our principal executive officer and principal financial officer have concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act were effective at June 30, 2013 to provide reasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed by us in reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is (i) recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission rules and forms and (ii) accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

Management did not perform an assessment regarding the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting at March 31, 2014. As a newly public company, management is not required to perform an assessment of internal control over financial reporting and such an assessment will be required at June 30, 2014. However, in connection with the audits of our consolidated financial statements as of the fiscal years ended June 30, 2011 and 2012, a material weakness in our internal control over financial reporting was identified. The material weakness pertains to deficiencies in the accounting research and reporting functions and the closing and reporting process due to our lack of accounting documentation and procedures, lack of segregation of duties, potential for management override of controls and lack of current expertise in reporting requirements.

 

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The internal control weakness described above continued into our FY13 primarily due to not having sufficient time to formally document and test our internal controls and procedures. We have discussed this material weakness with our independent registered public accounting firm and our Audit Committee. We are taking significant actions to remediate the material weakness related to our internal controls and will continue to do so throughout FY14. With the oversight of senior management, we have begun taking steps to remediate the underlying causes of the material weakness, primarily through the documentation and implementation of formal policies and improved accounting control processes and procedures, as well as the hiring of additional finance personnel. In particular, in July 2012 we hired a new CFO. In April 2013, we hired a Director of Reporting and Finance to assist with the development and monitoring of internal controls. In October 2013, we hired a Vice President, Controller and Information System. The actions that we are taking are subject to ongoing senior management and Audit Committee review.

 

We believe that these corrective actions, taken as a whole, will remediate the control deficiencies identified above. We will continue to monitor the effectiveness of these actions and intend to make any other changes or take such other actions as we determine to be appropriate. We are in the process of developing a plan for testing our internal controls and management’s related assessment of internal control over financial reporting as required under Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. We expect to complete the documentation and testing of our formal internal controls and procedures during FY14. If we are unable to correct the material weakness we have identified prior to the end of FY14, or if we experience other problems that prevent the favorable assessment of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting, we will be required to conclude and report that our internal control over financial reporting is not effective as of that date and investor confidence and our stock price could be adversely affected.

 

Notwithstanding the material weakness described above, we believe our financial statements included in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q present fairly, in all material respects, our financial position, results of operations and cash flows for the periods presented. Our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have certified to their knowledge that this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q does not contain any untrue statements of material fact or omit to state any 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 in this Quarterly Report.

 

Changes to Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

During the quarter ended March 31, 2014, there were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

 

Limitations on Effectiveness of Controls

 

Our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, does not expect that our disclosure controls and procedures or our internal controls will prevent all errors and all fraud. A control system, no matter how well conceived and operated, can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurance that the objectives of the control system are met. Further, the design of a 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 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

 

We may be subject to various litigation matters arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time.  However, we are not aware of any current pending legal matters or claims, individually or in the aggregate, that are expected to have a material adverse impact on our consolidated financial position, results of operations, or cash flows.

 

Paul Dolan, a former employee of Mendocino Wine Group (“MWG”), left MWG in 2012. Dolan filed suit against MWG in connection with establishing a fair price for his interest in MWG, and MWG filed a cross-complaint alleging Dolan breached his duty to, and competed with, MWG, and shared confidential information with others, including people at the Company. The suit is pending in Mendocino County Superior Court. In May 2013, the Company was subpoenaed to produce documents but not named in the suit. A trial date is yet to be scheduled and the plaintiff has appointed a new attorney who has indicated a desire to settle the matter with Dolan. We estimate that our response costs will not be material. At March 31, 2014, there were no changes.

 

ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS.

 

There have been no material changes in information regarding our risk factors as described in Item 1A of our Fiscal 2013 Form 10-K as filed with the SEC on September 27, 2013.

 

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

 

None

 

ITEM 3. DEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES

 

Not Applicable

 

ITEM 4. MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES

 

Not Applicable

 

ITEM 5. OTHER INFORMATION

 

Not Applicable

 

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ITEM 6. EXHIBITS.

 

  31.1 Certification of the Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
     
  31.2 Certification of the Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
     
  32.1 Certification of the Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
     
  32.2 Certification of the Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

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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, in the City of Healdsburg, State of California, on the 15th day of May, 2014.

 

TRUETT-HURST, INC.  
   
/s/ Phillip L. Hurst     May 15, 2014 
   
Phillip L. Hurst  
President and Chief Executive Officer  
(Principal Executive Officer)  
   
/s/ James D. Bielenberg May 15, 2014 
   
James D. Bielenberg  
Chief Financial Officer  
(Principal Financial/Accounting Officer)  

 

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