UNITED STATES
 SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
 Washington D.C. 20549
 
 FORM 10-Q
 (Mark One)
 
 x
QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934For the quarterly period ended July 31, 2010oro
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 1-13026
 
 BLYTH, INC.
 (Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
 DELAWARE
36-2984916(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)
(IRS Employer Identification No.)
 
 One East Weaver Street, Greenwich, Connecticut 06831(Address of principal executive offices)
(Zip Code)
 
 (203) 661-1926
 (Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)
 
 Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.  Yes x  No o
 
 Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files) Yes o       No o
 
 Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
 
 Large accelerated filer o



Non-accelerated filer o
Accelerated filer x



Smaller reporting company o
 
 Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).
 Yes o                         No x
 
 Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer’s classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date.
 
 8,229,234 Common Shares as of August 31, 2010
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 BLYTH, INC.
 
 INDEX
 PagePart I.   Financial InformationItem 1.
Financial Statements (Unaudited):Consolidated Balance Sheets
3Consolidated Statements of Earnings (Loss)
4Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity
5Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
6Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
7-21Item 2.
Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
22-28Item 3.
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
29-30Item 4.
Controls and Procedures
31Part II.   Other InformationItem 1.
Legal Proceedings
32Item 1A.
Risk Factors
32Item 2.
Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds
33Item 3.
Defaults upon Senior Securities
33Item 4.
Removed and Reserved
34Item 5.
Other Information
34Item 6.
Exhibits
34Signatures

35
 
 
 
 
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 Part I.   FINANCIAL  INFORMATIONItem I.   FINANCIAL STATEMENTSBLYTH, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIESCONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETSJuly 31,


January 31,2010


2010(In thousands, except share and per share data)

(Unaudited)ASSETSCurrent assets:Cash and cash equivalents

$
118,100


$
207,394Short-term investments


5,000



5,000Accounts receivable, less allowance for doubtful receivables of $1,799 and $2,243, respectively


28,956



18,694Inventories


124,954



102,203Prepaid and other


27,165



23,997Deferred income taxes


3,068



6,769Total current assets


307,243



364,057Property, plant and equipment, at cost:Less accumulated depreciation of $203,187 and $202,808, respectively


101,556



107,987Other assets:Investments


17,559



19,072Goodwill


2,298



2,298Other intangible assets, net of accumulated amortizationof $12,805 and $12,254, respectively


11,625



12,176Other assets


16,356



17,403Total other assets


47,838



50,949Total assets

$
456,637


$
522,993LIABILITIES AND EQUITYCurrent liabilities:Current maturities of long-term debt

$
1,263


$
582Accounts payable


42,226



57,338Accrued expenses


52,694



60,895Dividends payable


-



8,826Income taxes payable


1,951



4,913Total current liabilities


98,134



132,554Deferred income taxes


1,811



686Long-term debt, less current maturities


110,029



109,962Other liabilities


24,156



24,984Commitments and contingencies


-



-Redeemable noncontrolling interest


(2,033
)


(1,470
)Stockholders' equity:Preferred stock - authorized 10,000,000 shares of $0.01 par value; no shares issued


-



-Common stock - authorized 50,000,000 shares of $0.02 par value; issued 12,785,104 shares and 12,765,919 shares, respectively


256



255Additional contributed capital


145,539



144,233Retained earnings


498,887



494,524Accumulated other comprehensive income


3,950



20,591Treasury stock, at cost,  4,559,178 and 3,972,112 shares, respectively


(424,134
)


(403,329
)Total stockholders' equity


224,498



256,274Noncontrolling interest


42



3Total  equity


224,540



256,277Total liabilities and equity

$
456,637


$
522,993The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
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 BLYTH, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIESCONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EARNINGS (LOSS)(Unaudited)Three months ended July 31,


Six months ended July 31,(In thousands, except per share data)

2010


2009


2010


2009Net sales

$
180,636


$
199,354


$
382,181


$
414,078Cost of goods sold


80,592



93,435



166,936



190,357Gross profit


100,044



105,919



215,245



223,721Selling


68,883



76,733



147,419



162,150Administrative and other


27,026



27,335



56,629



53,934Goodwill and other intangibles impairment


-



16,498



-



16,498Total operating expense


95,909



120,566



204,048



232,582Operating profit (loss)


4,135



(14,647
)


11,197



(8,861
)Other expense (income):Interest expense


1,799



2,055



3,556



4,235Interest income


(230
)


(335
)


(518
)


(886
)Foreign exchange and other


693



(214
)


536



(682
)Total other expense


2,262



1,506



3,574



2,667Earnings (loss) before income taxes


1,873



(16,153
)


7,623



(11,528
)Income tax expense (benefit)


1,177



(323
)


2,826



1,878Net earnings (loss)


696



(15,830
)


4,797



(13,406
)Less: Net earnings (loss) attributable to the noncontrolling interests


(45
)


88



(451
)


(279
)Net earnings (loss) attributable to Blyth, Inc.


741



(15,918
)


5,248



(13,127
)Reversal of accretion of redeemable noncontrolling interest in excess of fair value


-



(356
)


-



-Net earnings (loss) attributable to Blyth, Inc. common stockholders

$
741


$
(15,562
)

$
5,248


$
(13,127
)Basic:Net earnings (loss) attributable per Blyth, Inc. common share

$
0.09


$
(1.74
)

$
0.61


$
(1.47
)Weighted average number of shares outstanding


8,481



8,923



8,657



8,918Diluted:Net earnings (loss) attributable per Blyth, Inc. common share

$
0.09


$
(1.74
)

$
0.60


$
(1.47
)Weighted average number of shares outstanding


8,528



8,923



8,701



8,918Cash dividend declared per share

$
-


$
-


$
0.10


$
0.10The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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 BLYTH, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIESCONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY(Unaudited)(In thousands)Blyth, Inc.'s StockholdersAccumulated











RedeemableAdditional





Other











NoncontrollingCommon


Contributed


Retained


Comprehensive


Treasury


Noncontrolling


Total


Interest


ComprehensiveStock


Capital


Earnings


Income (Loss)


Stock


Interest


Equity


(Temporary Equity)


Income (Loss)For the six months ended July 31, 2009:Balance, February 1, 2009

$
255


$
141,307


$
486,548


$
19,366


$
(398,978
)

$
-


$
248,498


$
893Net earnings (loss) for the period










(13,127
)










102



(13,025
)


(381
)

$
(13,406
)Distribution to noncontrolling interest






















(123
)


(123
)Foreign currency translation adjustments                    (net of tax  benefit of $779)











562











562







562Net unrealized gain on certain investments(net of tax liability of  $298)














485











485







485Realized gain on pension termination (net of tax of $749)














(1,153
)










(1,153
)






(1,153
)Net unrealized loss on cash flow hedging instruments(net of tax benefit of $457)














(844
)










(844
)






(844
)Comprehensive loss


































(14,356
)Comprehensive loss attributable to the noncontrolling interests































(279
)Comprehensive loss attributable to Blyth, Inc.

































$
(14,077
)Stock-based compensation






1,853



















1,853Dividends declared ($.10 per share)










(892
)














(892
)Reversal of accretion of redeemable noncontrolling interest










893















893



(893
)Treasury stock purchases


















(204
)






(204
)Balance, July 31, 2009

$
255


$
143,160


$
473,422


$
18,416


$
(399,182
)

$
(21
)

$
236,050


$
(381
)For the six months ended July 31, 2010:Balance, February 1, 2010

$
255


$
144,233


$
494,524


$
20,591


$
(403,329
)

$
3


$
256,277


$
(1,470
)Net earnings (loss) for the period










5,248











112



5,360



(563
)

$
4,797Distribution to noncontrolling interest






















(73
)


(73
)Foreign currency translation adjustments                 (net of tax liability of $9,940)











(16,913
)










(16,913
)






(16,913
)Net unrealized gain on certain investments(net of tax liability of  $71)














230











230







230Net unrealized gain on cash flow hedging instruments(net of tax liability of $22)














42











42







42Comprehensive loss


































(11,844
)Comprehensive loss attributable to the noncontrolling interests































451Comprehensive loss attributable to Blyth, Inc.

































$
(11,393
)Common stock issued in connection with long-term incentive plan


1



(1
)


















-Stock-based compensation






1,307



















1,307Dividends declared ($0.10 per share)










(885
)














(885
)Treasury stock purchases 1


















(20,805
)






(20,805
)Balance, July 31, 2010

$
256


$
145,539


$
498,887


$
3,950


$
(424,134
)

$
42


$
224,540


$
(2,033
)1) This includes shares withheld in order to satisfy employee withholding taxes upon the distribution of vested restricted stock units.The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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 BLYTH, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIESCONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OFCASHFLOWS(Unaudited)Six months ended July 31(In thousands)

2010


2009Cash flows from operating activities:Net earnings (loss)

$
4,797


$
(13,406
)Adjustments to reconcile net earnings to net cashprovided by (used in) operating activities:Depreciation and amortization


7,011



8,454Gain on sale of assets


(351
)


-Stock-based compensation expense


1,307



1,622Deferred income taxes


8,433



(1,919
)Gain on pension plan termination


-



(1,902
)Goodwill and other intangibles impairment


-



16,498Other


18



63Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net ofeffect of business acquisitions and divestitures:Accounts receivable


(10,908
)


(3,740
)Inventories


(26,601
)


13,223Prepaid and other


(4,107
)


(1,532
)Other long-term assets


1,370



417Accounts payable


(12,524
)


(2,564
)Accrued expenses


(5,450
)


(7,040
)Income taxes payable


(2,511
)


(2,105
)Other liabilities and other


(11,404
)


(2,641
)Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities


(50,920
)


3,428Cash flows from investing activities:Purchases of property, plant and equipment, net of disposals


(4,230
)


(2,835
)Purchases of short-term investments


(5,000
)


-Proceeds from short-term investments


5,000



-Purchases of long-term investments


-



(181
)Proceeds from sale of long-term investments


2,128



1,634Cash settlement of net investment hedges


-



6,563Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities


(2,102
)


5,181Cash flows from financing activities:Purchases of treasury stock


(20,558
)


-Borrowings on long-term debt


840



-Repayments on long-term debt


(256
)


(12,830
)Payments on capital lease obligations


(48
)


(154
)Dividends paid


(9,710
)


(892
)Distributions to noncontrolling interest


(73
)


(123
)Net cash used in financing activities


(29,805
)


(13,999
)Effect of exchange rate changes on cash


(6,467
)


(4,639
)Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents


(89,294
)


(10,029
)Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period


207,394



146,424Cash and cash equivalents at end of period

$
118,100


$
136,395The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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 BLYTH, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 (Unaudited)
 
 Blyth, Inc. (the “Company”) is a multi-channel company competing primarily in the home fragrance and decorative accessories industries.  The Company designs, markets and distributes an extensive array of decorative and functional household products including candles, accessories, seasonal decorations, household convenience items and personalized gifts, as well as products for the foodservice trade,nutritional supplements and weight management products. The Company competes primarily in the global home expressions industry and its products can be found throughout North America, Europe and Australia. Our financial results are reported in three segments: the Direct Selling segment, the Catalog & Internet segment and the Wholesale segment.
 
 1.           Basis of Presentation
 
 The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its subsidiaries.  All intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated.  The investment in a company that is not majority owned or controlled is reported using the equity method and is recorded as an investment.  Certain of the Company’s subsidiaries operate on a 52 or 53-week fiscal year ending on the Saturday closest to January 31.  European operations and one domestic direct selling entity maintain a calendar year accounting period, which is consolidated with the Company’s fiscal period.  In the opinion of management, the accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements include all adjustments (consisting only of items that are normal and recurring in nature) necessary for fair presentation of the Company's consolidated financial position as of July 31, 2010 and the consolidated results of its operations for the three and six month periods ended July 31, 2010 and 2009, and cash flows for the six month periods ended July 31, 2010 and 2009. These interim statements should be read in conjunction with the Company's Consolidated Financial Statements for the fiscal year ended January 31, 2010, as set forth in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K.  Operating results for the three and six months ended July 31, 2010 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the fiscal year ending January 31, 2011.
 
 Recently Adopted Accounting Guidance
 
 In June 2009, the FASB issued SFAS No. 167 “Amendments to FASB Interpretation No. 46(R)” (“SFAS No. 167”). SFAS No. 167 amends the guidance of ASC 810, “Consolidation”, to eliminate the quantitative approach previously required for determining the primary beneficiary of a variable interest entity (“VIE”) and requires that the entity identify the primary beneficiary of the VIE as the enterprise that has both (a) the power to direct activities of the VIE that most significantly impact the VIE’s economic performance and (b) the obligation to absorb losses of the VIE or the right to receive benefits from the VIE. This amendment also requires an ongoing qualitative reassessments of whether an enterprise is the primary beneficiary of a VIE and additional disclosures about an enterprise’s involvement in VIE. The amendment is effective for reporting periods beginning after November 15, 2009 and as such was adopted by the Company as of February 1, 2010.  The adoption of this standard did not have an impact on the Company’s consolidated financial condition or results of operations.
 
 In January 2010, the FASB issued ASU 2010-06, "Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures (Topic 820) - Improving Disclosures about Fair Value Measurements" (“ASU 2010-06”). ASU 2010-06 requires new disclosures regarding transfers in and out of the Level 1 and 2 and activity within Level 3 fair value measurements and clarifies existing disclosures of inputs and valuation techniques for Level 2 and 3 fair value measurements. The new disclosures and clarifications of existing disclosures are effective for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2009, except for the disclosure of activity within Level 3 fair value measurements, which is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2010, and for interim periods within those years. This update did not have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial condition or results of operations.
  7
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  In April 2010, the FASB issued ASU 2010-13, "Compensation—Stock Compensation (Topic 718) - Effect of Denominating the Exercise Price of a Share-Based Payment Award in the Currency of the Market in Which the Underlying Equity Security Trades (A consensus of the FASB Emerging Issues Task Force)" (“ASU 2010-13”). ASU 2010-13 clarifies that a share-based payment award with an exercise price denominated in the currency of a market in which a substantial portion of the entity’s equity securities trades should not be considered to contain a condition that is not a market, performance, or service condition. Therefore, such an award should not be classified as a liability if it otherwise qualifies as equity. This clarification of existing practice is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning on or after December 15, 2010, with early application permitted. The Company's early adoption of this update did not have an impact on the consolidated financial condition or results of operations.
 
 Subsequent Events
 
 The Company assessed events occurring subsequent to July 31, 2010 through the date the consolidated financials were filed for potential recognition and disclosure. There were no notable events that warranted further disclosure between the reporting period end and the filing date.
 
 2.           Business Acquisitions
 
 In August 2008, the Company signed a definitive agreement to purchase ViSalus Holdings, LLC (“ViSalus”), a direct seller of vitamins, weight management products and other related nutritional supplements, through a series of investments.
 
 On October 21, 2008, the Company completed its initial investment and acquired a 43.6% equity interest in ViSalus for $13.0 million in cash. Additionally, as provided in the acquisition agreement, and amended in September 2009, the Company has provided ViSalus with a $3.0 million revolving credit facility through July 2014, of which $3.0 million was outstanding as of July 31, 2010.  The Company may be required to make additional purchases of ViSalus’ equity interest to increase our equity ownership over time to 57.5%, 72.7% and 100.0%.  These additional purchases are conditioned upon ViSalus meeting certain operating targets in calendar year 2010, 2011 and 2012.  The purchase prices of the additional investments are based on ViSalus’ future operating results.  The Company has the option to acquire the remaining interest in ViSalus even if they do not meet the predefined operating targets.
 
 The Company has accounted for the acquisition of ViSalus as a business combination under SFAS No. 141 “Business Combinations”, since the Company obtained control of ViSalus prior to the effective date of ASC 805. The Company analyzed the criteria for consolidation in accordance with ASC 810, and has determined it has control of ViSalus based on the following factors.  ViSalus is currently majority owned collectively by Blyth and Ropart Asset Management Fund, LLC and Ropart Asset Management Fund II, LLC (collectively, “RAM”), a related party (see Note 15 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information).  Moreover, the Company has taken into account the composition of ViSalus’ three-member board of managers, one of whom is an executive officer of the Company, one of whom is a principal of RAM and one of whom is a founder and executive officer of ViSalus.  Additionally, the Company and RAM together control ViSalus’ compensation committee and control the compensation of the ViSalus executive officer who serves on ViSalus’ board of managers.  Consequently, all of the members of ViSalus’ board of managers may be deemed to operate under the Company’s influence.
 
 The Company has also taken into account ViSalus’ governing documents, which afford the Company significant rights with respect to major corporate actions and the right to force the other owners of ViSalus’ equity instruments to sell them in some corporate transactions.  Finally, the Company considered the mechanisms that are in place to permit it to purchase the remaining noncontrolling interest in ViSalus over the next several years.
 
 As discussed above, the Company is required to purchase the remaining noncontrolling interests in ViSalus if ViSalus meets certain operating targets.  As a result, these noncontrolling interests were determined to be redeemable and are accounted for in accordance with the guidance of ASC 480-10-S99-3A, and the non-codified portions of Emerging Issues Task Force Topic D-98, “Classification and Measurement of Redeemable Securities.” Accordingly, the Company had begun recognizing these noncontrolling interests outside of permanent equity and accreted changes in their redemption value through the date of redemption during the time
  8
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  at which it was probable that the noncontrolling interests would be redeemed.  The accretion of the redemption value had been recognized as a charge to retained earnings, and to the extent that the resulting redemption value exceeds the fair value of the noncontrolling interests, the differential was reflected in the Company’s earnings per share (“EPS”).  During the second quarter of fiscal 2010 ViSalus’ revenues forecast for the prior fiscal year was revised downward as a result of lower demand for its product, reflecting lower consumer spending attributed to the domestic economic recession and a higher than anticipated attrition rate in its distributor base. These factors together have required management to focus its efforts on stabilizing its distributor base and curtailing its international expansion plans. Accordingly, management reduced its long-term forecasts in response to the weakening demand for its products. The revisions in ViSalus’ near-term and long-term projections have resulted in management concluding that it is no longer probable that Blyth would be obligated to purchase the remaining ownership interest in ViSalus. Accordingly, during the second quarter of fiscal 2010, the Company reversed both its accretion of its redeemable noncontrolling interest to zero and the previous EPS accretion adjustment for the portion in excess of fair value. As of July 31, 2010, the redeemable noncontrolling interest reflects only the allocation of losses equivalent to the noncontrolling interest’s share of ViSalus, as a result of this redemption feature no longer being probable. If ViSalus meets its current projected operating targets, the total expected redemption value of noncontrolling interest will be approximately $4.5 million paid through 2014. However at these levels Blyth would not be obligated to purchase the remaining interest in ViSalus but could do so at its discretion. The total expected redemption value could increase or decrease depending upon whether ViSalus exceeds or falls short of its operating projections. Upon expiration of the redemption feature the entire amount of noncontrolling interest will be reclassified into the Equity section of the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
 
 The acquisition of ViSalus by Blyth involves related parties, as discussed in Note 15 to the Consolidated Financial Statements. In addition to Blyth, the other owners of ViSalus consist of: its three founders (each of whom currently own approximately 11.7% of ViSalus for a total of 35.3%) (“the founders”), RAM which currently owns 15.2%, and a small group of employees who collectively own approximately 5.9% of ViSalus.  Blyth’s initial investment in ViSalus of $13.0 million was paid to ViSalus ($2.5 million), RAM ($3.0 million) and each of the three founders ($2.5 million each).  Mr. Goergen, Blyth’s chairman and chief executive officer, beneficially owns approximately 33.5% of the Blyth’s outstanding common stock, and together with members of his family, owns substantially all of RAM.
 
 On February 1, 2010, ViSalus received a financing commitment from the founders and RAM for up to $1.2 million to fund its operations for calendar year 2010, $0.6 million of which has been borrowed as of July 31, 2010.  The loan is due February 28, 2011 and interest accrues at 10% per annum payable quarterly in arrears.  In addition to the 10% interest, the loan requires ViSalus to pay a further lump-sum interest payment at maturity of $0.6 million in addition to its principal amount due.  In April 2010, the Company also loaned ViSalus an additional $0.3 million which is due on February 28, 2011.  The loan accrues interest at 10% per annum payable quarterly in arrears.  These loans are secured by ViSalus’ assets and have preference over existing loans from the founders, RAM and the Company.
 
 As of July 31, 2010, ViSalus had outstanding notes payable excluding interest to RAM and the founders of $3.2 million, in addition to $3.3 million due to Blyth.
 
 3.           Restructuring
 
 During fiscal 2007, the Company initiated a restructuring plan within the North American operations of the Company’s Direct Selling segment. As of July 31, 2010, the Company had an accrual for approximately $1.0 million for restructuring charges relating to a lease obligation.  The remaining lease payments will be made through fiscal 2013.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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  The following is a tabular rollforward of the lease obligation accrual described above, included in Accrued expenses:
 
 (In thousands)

Lease ObligationBalance at January 31, 2010

$
1,327Change in estimate during fiscal 2011


71Payments made in fiscal 2011


(402
)Balance at July 31, 2010

$
996
  4.           Investments
 
 The Company’s investments as of July 31, 2010 consisted of a number of financial securities including equity securities, preferred stocks, money markets, short-term and long-term certificates of deposit,an investment in a limited liability company and restricted cash.  The Company accounts for its investments in equity instruments in accordance with ASC 320, “Investments – Debt & Equity Securities”.
 
 The following table summarizes, by major security type, the amortized costs and fair value of the Company’s investments:
  July 31, 2010


January 31, 2010(In thousands)

Cost Basis1


Fair Value


Net unrealized gain (loss) in AOCI


Cost Basis1


Fair Value


Net unrealized gain (loss) in AOCIEquity securities

$
14,751


$
14,565


$
(186
)

$
16,103


$
15,680


$
(423
)Certificates of deposit


7,032



7,032



-



7,413



7,413



-Total available for sale investments

$
21,783


$
21,597


$
(186
)

$
23,516


$
23,093


$
(423
)Equity method investment in LLC 2






962











979Total investments





$
22,559










$
24,0721) The cost basis represents the actual amount paid or the basis assumed following a permanent impairment of that asset. The equity securities consist of $10.0 million for ARS and $4.8 millionfor preferred stock as of July 31, 2010. The basis for the preferred stock was their fair value as of February 1, 2009, the date that they were reclassified from trading to available for sale.2) The equity method investment is reported at cost, adjusted by the Company's proportionate share of investee's earnings or loss. This may not be equal to the investment's fair market value.
  Short-term investments held as of July 31, 2010 and January 31, 2010 consisted of $5.0 million of certificates of deposit that have a maturity greater than three months but less than twelve months.  These investments are recorded at cost and interest earned is recorded in Interest income in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings (Loss).
 
 As of July 31, 2010 and January 31, 2010, the Company held $5.3 million and $6.3 million of preferred stock investments which are classified as long-term available for sale securities. Unrealized losses on these investments that are considered temporary are recorded in AOCI.   These securities are valued based on quoted prices in inactive markets. During the three and six months ended July 31, 2010, the Company recorded a net of tax unrealized loss of $0.1 million and a gain of $0.2 million, respectively, in AOCI.
  The Company holds an equity auction rate security (“ARS”) which is classified as a long-term available for sale investment. Realized gains and losses on this security are determined using the specific identification method and are recorded in Foreign exchange and other. Unrealized losses on these securities that are considered temporary and are not the result of a credit loss are recorded in AOCI.  Unrealized losses that are considered other than temporary are recorded in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings (Loss) in Foreign exchange and other.
 
 As of July 31, 2010 and January 31, 2010, the Company held $9.3 million and $9.4 million, respectively of ARS classified as available-for-sale securities. ARS are instruments that provide liquidity through a Dutch auction process that resets the applicable interest rate at predetermined intervals in days. This mechanism generally allows investors to rollover their holdings and continue to own their respective securities or liquidate their holdings by selling their securities at par value. The Company generally invested in these securities for short periods of time as part of its cash management program. The Company’s auction rate security held as of July 31, 2010 is an AAA/Aaa rated investment in a closed-end fund consisting of preferred stock of various utilities that maintains assets equal to or greater than 200% of the liquidation preference of its preferred stock. This security’s valuation considered the financial conditions of the issuer, as well as the value of the collateral.  The Company has assessed the credit risk associated with the ARS to be minimal. If the credit ratings of the issuer or the collateral deteriorate, the Company may adjust the carrying value of this investment.
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  The weakness within the credit markets has prevented the Company and other investors from liquidating all of their holdings by selling their securities at par value. Historically, the par value of these ARS approximated fair value as a result of the resetting of the interest rate. In the first quarter of fiscal 2009 market auctions, including auctions for substantially all the Company’s ARS, began to fail due to insufficient buyers. As a result of these failed auctions and the uncertainty of when these securities could successfully be liquidated at par (liquidity risk), the Company has recorded a pre-tax unrealized loss of $0.7 million to AOCI as of July 31, 2010 and classified these securities as non-current investments. This instrument has been in a continuous loss position for greater than 12 months, however the Company deems the ARS to be temporarily impaired as management has made the decision to hold the investment until it can be redeemed at par value and the underlying liquidity of the issuer does not indicate that a condition of a permanent impairment exists.
 
 The following table summarizes the proceeds and realized gains and losses on the sale of available for sale investments recorded in Foreign exchange and other within the Consolidated Statements of Earnings (Loss). Gains and losses are calculated using the specific identification method.
  (In thousands)

Three months ended July 31,


Six months ended July 31,2010


2009


2010


2009Net proceeds

$
157


$
-


$
1,748


$
614Realized gains (losses)

$
11


$
(1
)

$
396


$
(4
)
  The Company holds an investment in a limited liability company (“LLC”) obtained through its ViSalus acquisition. The LLC is accounted for under the equity method as the Company holds a significant minority interest in this company. The Company records its share of the LLC’s earnings or loss to its investment balance. During the first six months of fiscal 2011 an insignificant amount of losses were recorded in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings (Loss) in Foreign exchange and other. The investment in this LLC involves related parties as discussed in Note 15.
  Also included in long-term investments are certificates of deposit that are held as collateral for the Company’s outstanding standby letters of credit.  These investments are recorded at cost and interest earned is recorded in Interest income in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings (Loss).
 
 In addition to the investments noted above, the Company holds mutual funds as part of a deferred compensation plan which are classified as available for sale. As of July 31, 2010 and January 31, 2010, the fair value of these securities was $1.1 million and $1.0 million, respectively.  These securities are valued based on quoted prices in an active market. Unrealized gains and losses on these securities are recorded in AOCI.  These mutual funds are included in Other assets in the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
 
 5.           Inventories
 
 The components of inventory are as follows:
 
 
 (In thousands)

July 31, 2010


January 31, 2010Raw materials

$
8,539


$
8,482Work in process


574



-Finished goods


115,841



93,721Total

$
124,954


$
102,203
  As of July 31, 2010 and January 31, 2010, the inventory valuation reserves totaled $14.4 million.
 6.           Goodwill and Other Intangibles
 
 Goodwill is subject to an assessment for impairment using a two-step fair value-based test and as such other intangibles are also subject to impairment reviews, which must be performed at least annually or more frequently if events or circumstances indicate that goodwill or other indefinite lived intangibles might be impaired.
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 The Company performs its annual assessment of impairment as of January 31.  For goodwill, the first step is to identify whether a potential impairment exists. This is done by comparing the fair value of a reporting unit to its carrying amount, including goodwill.  Fair value for each of the Company’s reporting units is estimated utilizing a combination of valuation techniques, namely the discounted cash flow methodology and the market multiple methodology. The discounted cash flow methodology assumes the fair value of an asset can be estimated by the economic benefit or net cash flows the asset will generate over the life of the asset, discounted to its present value. The discounting process uses a rate of return that accounts for both the time value of money and the investment risk factors. The market multiple methodology estimates fair value based on what other participants in the market have recently paid for reasonably similar assets. Adjustments are made to compensate for differences between the reasonably similar assets and the assets being valued. If the fair value of the reporting unit exceeds the carrying value, no further analysis is necessary. If the carrying amount of the reporting unit exceeds its fair value, the second step is performed. The second step compares the carrying amount of the goodwill to the estimated fair value of the goodwill. If fair value is less than the carrying amount, an impairment loss is reported as a reduction to the goodwill and a charge to operating expense.
 
 In the second quarter of fiscal 2010, the ViSalus business, within the Direct Selling segment, revised downward its revenues forecast for the current fiscal year as a result of lower demand for its product reflecting lower consumer spending attributed to the domestic economic recession and a higher than anticipated attrition rate in its distributor base. These factors together have required management to focus its efforts on stabilizing its distributor base and curtailing its international expansion plans. Accordingly management reduced its short term and long-term forecasts in response to the weakening demand for its products. The impairment analysis performed indicated that the goodwill in ViSalus was fully impaired, as its fair value was less than its carrying value, including goodwill. Accordingly, the Company recorded a non-cash pre-tax goodwill impairment charge of $13.2 million, during the second quarter of fiscal 2010.
 
 As of July 31, 2010, the gross value of all goodwill, by operating segment, was $98.0 million in the Wholesale segment, $77.7 million in the Catalog & Internet segment and $15.5 million in the Direct Selling segment. As of January 31, 2010 and July 31, 2010 the carrying amount of the Company’s of goodwill, all within the Direct Selling segment, was $2.3 million.
 
 The Company uses the relief from royalty method to estimate the fair value for indefinite-lived intangible assets. The underlying concept of the relief from royalty method is that the inherent economic value of intangibles is directly related to the timing of future cash flows associated with the intangible asset. Similar to the income approach or discounted cash flow methodology used to determine the fair value of goodwill, the fair value of indefinite-lived intangible assets is equal to the present value of after-tax cash flows associated with the intangible asset based on an applicable royalty rate. The royalty rate is determined by using existing market comparables for royalty agreements using an intellectual property data base. The arms-length agreements generally support a rate that is a percentage of direct sales. This approach is based on the premise that the free cash flow is a more valid criterion for measuring value than “book” or accounting profits.
 
 Other intangible assets include indefinite-lived trade names and trademarks and customer relationships related to the Company’s acquisition of Miles Kimball and Walter Drake in fiscal 2004 and As We Change during fiscal 2009, which are reported in the Catalog and Internet segment and ViSalus, acquired during fiscal 2009, which is reported in the Direct Selling segment. The Company does not amortize the indefinite-lived trade names and trademarks, but rather tests for impairment annually as of January 31st, or sooner if circumstances indicate a condition of impairment may exist. As of July 31, 2010, there were no indications that a review was necessary.
  As part of the previously mentioned impairment analysis performed for the ViSalus business during the second quarter of fiscal 2010, the Company recorded an impairment charge of $3.1 million related to certain of the Company’s trade names and $ 0.2 million related to customer relationships. These impairments were due to adverse economic conditions experienced due to decreased consumer spending and the failure to obtain and retain distributors, as noted previously.
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   As of July 31, 2010, the gross value of all indefinite trade names and trademarks by segment was $28.1 million in the Catalog & Internet segment and $4.2 million in the Direct Selling segment. The gross value of all customer relationships by segment was $15.4 million in the Catalog & Internet segment and $0.3 million in the Direct Selling segment.
 
 Other intangible assets, by segment, consisted of the following:
  Direct Selling Segment


Catalog & Internet Segment


Total(In thousands)

Indefinite-lived trade names and trademarks


Indefinite-lived trade names and trademarks


Customer relationships


Indefinite-lived trade names and trademarks


Customer relationshipsOther intangibles at January 31, 2010

$
1,100


$
7,850


$
3,226


$
8,950


$
3,226Amortization


-



-



(551
)


-



(551
)Other intangibles at July 31, 2010

$
1,100


$
7,850


$
2,675


$
8,950


$
2,675
  Amortization expense is recorded on an accelerated basis over the estimated lives of the customer lists ranging from 5 to 12 years.  Amortization expense for other intangible assets was $0.6 million and $0.7 million for the six months ended July 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.  The estimated annual amortization expense for fiscal year 2011 is $1.1 million.  The estimated amortization expense for the next five fiscal years beginning with fiscal 2012 is as follows:  $0.7 million, $0.6 million, $0.6 million, $0.1 million and an insignificant amount to be amortized in fiscal 2016.
 
 7.           Fair Value Measurements
  The fair-value hierarchy established in ASC 820, prioritizes the inputs used in valuation techniques into three levels as follows:
 
 •

Level 1 – Observable inputs – quoted prices in active markets for identical assets and liabilities;•

Level 2 – Observable inputs other than the quoted prices in active markets for identical assets and liabilities – such as quoted prices for similar instruments, quoted prices for identical or similar instruments in inactive markets, or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data;•

Level 3 – Unobservable inputs – includes amounts derived from valuation models where one or more significant inputs are unobservable and require us to develop relevant assumptions.
  Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis
  The following table summarizes the assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of the measurement date, July 31, 2010, and the basis for that measurement, by level within the fair value hierarchy:
  (In thousands)

Balance as of July 31, 2010


Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1)


Significant other observable inputs (Level 2)


Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3)Financial assetsCertificates of deposit

$
7,032


$
-


$
7,032


$
-Equity securities - auction rate securities


9,319



-



-



9,319Equity securities - preferred stock


5,246



-



5,246



-Foreign exchange forward contracts


541



-



541



-Deferred compensation plan assets 1


1,120



1,120



-



-Total

$
23,258


$
1,120


$
12,819


$
9,3191) There is an offsetting liability for the obligation to its employees in Other liabilities
  
 13
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 The table below summarizes the changes in the fair value of level 3 financial assets and liabilities for the six month period ended July 31, 2010:
  (In thousands)

Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3)Fair value February 1, 2010

$
9,424Unrealized loss 1


(105
)Fair value July 31, 2010

$
9,3191) These unrealized gains/losses on our available for sale investments are recorded as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income.
  The Company values its investments in equity securities within the deferred compensation plan using level 1 inputs, by obtaining quoted prices in active markets.  The deferred compensation plan assets consist of shares of mutual funds, for which there are quoted prices in an active market. The Company also enters into both cash flow and fair value hedges by purchasing forward contracts. These contracts are valued using level 2 inputs, primarily observable forward foreign exchange rates. The Company values certain preferred stock investments using information classified as level 2. This data consists of quoted prices of identical instruments in an inactive market and third party bid offers. The certificates of deposit that are used to collateralize some of the Company’s letters of credit have been valued using information classified as level 2, as these are not traded on the open market and are held unsecured by one counterparty. The equity ARS takes into consideration many factors including the credit quality of the issuer and the value of its collateral, the Company’s discounted cash flow analysis and input from broker-dealers in these types of securities. Since there is not an active observable market currently for these securities, they have been classified as a level 3 input.
 
 The carrying values of cash and cash equivalents, trade and other receivables and trade payables are considered to be representative of their respective fair values.
  Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Nonrecurring Basis
  The Company is required, on a non-recurring basis, to adjust the carrying value or provide valuation allowances for certain assets using fair value measurements in accordance with ASC 820. The Company’s assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis include property, plant and equipment, goodwill, intangibles and other assets. These assets are not measured at fair value on an ongoing basis; however, they are subject to fair value adjustments annually or sooner in certain circumstances, such as when there is evidence that impairment may exist.  No assets or liabilities were determined to be impaired during the six months ended July 31, 2010.
 
 Goodwill and intangibles are subject to impairment testing on an annual basis, or sooner if circumstances indicate a condition of impairment may exist. The valuation uses assumptions such as interest and discount rates, growth projections and other assumptions of future business conditions. These valuation methods require a significant degree of management judgment concerning the use of internal and external data. In the event these methods indicate that fair value is less than the carrying value, the asset is recorded at fair value as determined by the valuation models. As such, the Company classifies the inputs used in valuing goodwill and other intangibles subjected to nonrecurring fair value adjustments as level 3.
 
 The fair value of the Company’s property plant and equipment and assets held for sale are reviewed annually for impairment or sooner if circumstances indicate a condition for impairment may exist. For fiscal 2011 assets held for sale consisted of both a building and land that are classified as assets held for sale and are reported as non-current assets in Deposits and other assets within the Consolidated Balance Sheets. The valuation of these assets uses a significant amount of management’s judgment and relies heavily on the information provided by third parties. The current local real estate market, regional comparatives, estimated concessions and transaction costs are all considered when determining the fair value of these assets. Due to the subjective nature of this information and the assumptions made by management the Company has classified the inputs used in valuing these assets as level 3.
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 The estimated fair value of the Company’s $111.3 million in debt, including the $100 million Senior Notes, recorded at an amortized cost, as of July 31, 2010 was approximately $100.8 million.  The fair value of the liability is determined using the fair value of its notes when traded as an asset in an inactive market and is based on current interest rates, relative credit risk and time to maturity.  Due to nature of the information used the Company considers these inputs to be level 2.
 
 8.           Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities
 
 The Company uses foreign exchange forward contracts to hedge the impact of foreign currency fluctuations on foreign denominated inventory purchases, intercompany payables and loans. It does not hold or issue derivative financial instruments for trading purposes.  The Company has hedged the net assets of certain of its foreign operations through foreign currency forward contracts. As of July 31, 2010 and January 31, 2010 there were no open Net Investment hedges. The cumulative net after-tax gain related to the derivative Net Investment hedges in AOCI as of July 31, 2010 and January 31, 2010 was $5.2 million.
 
 The Company has designated forward exchange contracts on forecasted intercompany purchases and future purchase commitments as Cash Flow hedges and, as such, as long as the hedge remains effective and the underlying transaction remains probable, the effective portion of the changes in the fair value of these contracts will be recorded in AOCI until earnings are affected by the variability of the cash flows being hedged.  With regard to commitments for inventory purchases, upon payment of each commitment, the underlying forward contract is closed and the corresponding gain or loss is transferred from AOCI and is realized in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings (Loss).  If a hedging instrument is sold or terminated prior to maturity, gains and losses are deferred in AOCI until the hedged item is settled.  However, if the hedged item is no longer probable to occur, the resultant gain or loss on the terminated hedge is recognized into earnings immediately.  The net after-tax gain included in accumulated AOCI at July 31, 2010 is $0.1 million and is expected to be transferred into earnings within the next twelve months upon settlement of the underlying commitment.
  The Company has designated its foreign currency forward contracts related to certain foreign denominated loans and intercompany payables as Fair Value hedges.  The gains or losses on the Fair Value hedges are recognized into earnings and generally offset the transaction gains or losses in the foreign denominated loans that they are intended to hedge.
 
 For financial statement presentation, net cash flows from such hedges are classified in the categories of the Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows with the items being hedged. Forward contracts held with each bank are presented within the Consolidated Balance Sheets as a net asset or liability, based on netting agreements with each bank and whether the forward contracts are in a net gain or loss position. The foreign exchange contracts outstanding have maturity dates through January 2011.
 
 The table below details the fair value and location of the Company’s hedges in the Consolidated Balance Sheets:
 
 (In thousands)July 31, 2010


January 31, 2010Derivatives designated as hedging instruments

Prepaid and Other


Prepaid and Other


Accrued ExpensesForeign exchange forward contract in an asset position

$
563


$
144


$
56Foreign exchange forward contract in a liability position


(22
)


(56
)


(125
)Net derivatives at fair value

$
541


$
88


$
(69
)
  Gain and loss activity related to the Company’s Cash Flow hedges for the three and six months ended July 31, are as follows:
 
 Cash Flow Hedging Relationships

Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in AOCI on Derivative (Effective Portion)

Location of Gain (Loss) Reclassified from AOCI into Income (Effective Portion)

Amount of Gain (Loss) Reclassified from AOCI into Income (Effective Portion)(In thousands)

2010


2009



2010


2009Three Months Ended


Six Months Ended


Three Months Ended


Six Months EndedForeign exchange forward contract

$
64


$
(1,301
)
Cost of goods sold

$
441


$
540


$
(522
)

$
(168
)
 
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 For the three month period ended July 31, 2010, the Company recorded a gain of $0.3 million, compared to a loss of  $0.9 million in the comparable prior year period related to foreign exchange forward contracts accounted for as Fair Value hedges to Foreign exchange and other.
 
 For the six month period ended July 31, 2010, the Company recorded losses of $0.1 million, compared to a loss of  $0.9 million in the comparable prior year period related to foreign exchange forward contracts accounted for as Fair Value hedges to Foreign exchange and other.
 
 9.           Long-Term Debt
 
 In May 1999, the Company filed a shelf registration statement for issuance of up to $250.0 million in debt securities with the Securities and Exchange Commission.  On September 24, 1999, the Company issued $150.0 million of 7.90% Senior Notes due October 1, 2009 at a discount of approximately $1.4 million, which was amortized over the life of the notes.  During the first nine months of fiscal 2010, the Company repurchased $12.6 million of these notes, settling the debt early, and made principal payments of $24.7 million, upon maturity.
 
 On October 20, 2003, the Company issued $100.0 million 5.50% Senior Notes due on November 1, 2013 at a discount of approximately $0.2 million, which is being amortized over the life of the notes.  Such notes contain among other provisions, restrictions on liens on principal property or stock issued to collateralize debt.  As of July 31, 2010, the Company was in compliance with such provisions.  Interest is payable semi-annually in arrears on May 1 and November 1. The notes may be redeemed in whole or in part at any time at a specified redemption price.  The proceeds of the debt issuances were used for general corporate purposes.
 
 As of July 31, 2010 and January 31, 2010, Miles Kimball had approximately $7.5 million and $7.7 million, respectively, of long-term debt outstanding under a real estate mortgage note payable which matures June 1, 2020.  Under the terms of the note, payments of principal and interest are required monthly at a fixed interest rate of 7.89%.
 
 As of July 31, 2010 and January 31, 2010, Midwest-CBK had $0.1 million of long-term debt outstanding under an Industrial Revenue Bond (“IRB”), which matures on January 1, 2025. The bond is backed by an irrevocable letter of credit issued by a bank and is collateralized by certain of Midwest-CBK’s assets.  The amount outstanding under the IRB bears interest at short-term floating rates, which on a weighted average was 0.6% at July 31, 2010.  Payments of interest are required monthly under the terms of the bond.
 
 As of July 31, 2010, ViSalus had two long-term loans totaling $3.2 million outstanding related to notes payable to RAM and ViSalus’ three founders. Under the terms of the notes, interest is accrued at a fixed annual interest rate of 10.0% in addition to the $0.6 million interest cost as a result of ViSalus achieving certain performance criteria (see Note 2 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information).
  The Company’s debt is recorded at its amortized cost basis. The estimated fair value of the Company’s $111.3 million total long-term debt (including current portion) at July 31, 2010 was approximately $100.8 million.  The fair value of the liability is determined using the fair value of its notes when traded as an asset in an inactive market and is based on current interest rates, relative credit risk and time to maturity.
 
 As of July 31, 2010, the Company had $2.0 million available under an uncommitted bank facility to be used for letters of credit. The issuance of letters of credit under this facility will be available until January 31, 2011.  As of July 31, 2010, $0.1 million was outstanding under this facility.
 
 As of July 31, 2010 the Company had $2.0 million in standby letters of credit outstanding that are collateralized with a certificate of deposit.
 
 10.           Earnings per Share
 
 Vested restricted stock units issued under the Company’s stock-based compensation plans participate in a cash equivalent of the dividends paid to common shareholders and are not considered contingently issuable shares.
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 Accordingly these RSUs are included in the calculation of basic and diluted earnings per share as common stock equivalents. RSUs that have not vested and are subject to a risk of forfeiture are included in the calculation of diluted earnings per share.
 
 In accordance with ASC 480-10-S99-3A, the accretion of the redeemable noncontrolling interest’s carrying value in excess of its fair value has been reflected in determining EPS for the Company’s common shareholders for the three month period ended July 31, 2009. As discussed in Note 2, there was no effect on EPS for the six month period ended July 31, 2009 as the Company’s redeemable noncontrolling interest obligation was reversed as management determined it was no longer probable that the Company would be obligated to make future investments. For the three months ended July 31, 2009, the effect of reversing the previously recorded non-fair value portion of the redeemable noncontrolling interest of $0.4 million has been included in the determination of EPS.
 
 The components of basic and diluted earnings per share are as follows:
  Three months ended July 31,


Six months ended July 31,(In thousands)

2010


2009


2010


2009Net earnings (loss) attributable to Blyth, Inc.

$
741


$
(15,918
)

$
5,248


$
(13,127
)Reversal of accretion of redeemable noncontrolling interest in excess of fair value


-



(356
)


-



-Earnings available for common shareholders

$
741


$
(15,562
)

$
5,248


$
(13,127
)Weighted average number outstanding:Common shares


8,439



8,902



8,619



8,899Vested restricted stock units


42



21



38



19Weighted average number of common shares outstanding:Basic


8,481



8,923



8,657



8,918Dilutive effect of stock options and non-vested restricted share units


47



-



44



-Diluted


8,528



8,923



8,701



8,918Basic earnings per share

$
0.09


$
(1.74
)

$
0.61


$
(1.47
)Diluted earnings per share

$
0.09


$
(1.74
)

$
0.60


$
(1.47
)
  For the three and six month periods ended July 31, 2010, options to purchase 53,475 shares of common stock are not included in the computation of earnings per share because the effect would be anti-dilutive.  Also, for the three and six month periods ended July 31, 2009, options to purchase 63,625 shares of common stock are not included in the computation of earnings per share because the effect would be anti-dilutive.
 
 11.           Treasury and Common Stock
 
 Treasury StockChanges in Treasury Stock were (In thousands, except shares):

Shares


AmountBalance at February 1, 2009


3,842,224


$
(398,978
)Treasury stock withheld in connection with long-term incentive plan


5,575



(204
)Balance at July 31, 2009


3,847,799


$
(399,182
)Balance at February 1, 2010


3,972,112


$
(403,329
)Treasury stock purchases


582,032



(20,558
)Treasury stock withheld in connection with long-term incentive plan


5,034



(247
)Balance at July 31, 2010


4,559,178


$
(424,134
)
 
 
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 Common StockChanges in Common Stock were (In thousands, except shares):

Shares


AmountBalance at February 1, 2009


12,733,209


$
255Common stock issued in connection with long-term incentive plan


18,238



-Balance at July 31, 2009


12,751,447


$
255Balance at February 1, 2010


12,765,919


$
255Common stock issued in connection with long-term incentive plan


19,185



1Balance at July 31, 2010


12,785,104


$
256
 
 12.           Income Taxes
  The Company’s effective tax rate for the six months ended July 31, 2010 and 2009 was 37% and negative 16%, which resulted in a provision for income taxes of $2.8 million and $1.9 million, respectively.  The effective tax rate for the six months ended July 31, 2010 was primarily affected by the recording of a reserve for various income tax audits, including current period interest on the Company’s income tax reserves, offset by the favorable closure of an income tax audit.  The higher effective rate in the six months ended July 31, 2009 was primarily related to the ViSalus goodwill impairment of $13.2 million for which no tax benefit was recorded, in addition to interest on the Company’s income tax reserves.
  The Company’s effective tax rate for the three months ended July 31, 2010 and 2009 was 63% and 2%, which resulted in a provision for income taxes of $1.2 million and a benefit of $0.3 million, respectively.  The effective tax rate for the three months ended July 31, 2010 was primarily affected by international operating tax losses for which no benefit was recorded and the recording of a reserve for various income tax audits, including current period interest on the Company’s income tax reserves.  The lower effective rate in the three months ended July 31, 2009 was primarily related to the ViSalus goodwill impairment of $13.2 million for which no tax benefit was recorded, in addition to interest on the Company’s income tax reserves.
 
 The Company believes that it is reasonably possible that the total amount of unrecognized tax benefits as of July 31, 2010 that may be resolved within fiscal 2011 is approximately $0.5 million, as a result of filing amended tax returns, closing of statutes, and audit settlements.  Due to the various jurisdictions in which the Company files tax returns and the uncertainty regarding the timing of the settlement of tax audits, it is possible that there could be other significant changes in the amount of unrecognized tax benefits in fiscal 2011 but the amount cannot be estimated.
 
 In August 2008, a state department of revenue proposed to assess additional corporate income taxes on the Company for fiscal years 2002, 2003 and 2004 in the net amount of $34.9 million, which includes interest.  Refer to Note 16 of the Consolidated Financial Statements for further details.
 
 13.       Stock Based Compensation
  As of July 31, 2010, the Company had one active stock-based compensation plan, the 2003 Long-Term Incentive Plan (“2003 Plan”), available to grant future awards and two inactive stock-based compensation plans (the Amended and Restated 1994 Employee Stock Option Plan and the Amended and Restated 1994 Stock Option Plan for Non-Employee Directors), under which vested and unexercised options remain outstanding. As of July 31, 2010, 1,020,449 shares were authorized and approximately 810,000 shares were available for grant under these plans.  The Company’s policy is to issue new shares of common stock for all stock options exercised and restricted stock grants.
 
 The Board of Directors and the stockholders of the Company have approved the adoption and subsequent amendments of the 2003 Plan. The 2003 Plan provides for grants of incentive and nonqualified stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock, restricted stock units, performance shares, performance units, dividend equivalents and other stock unit awards to officers and employees. The 2003 Plan also provides for grants of nonqualified stock options to directors of the Company who are not, and who have not been during the immediately preceding 12-month period, officers or employees of the Company or any of its subsidiaries.
 
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  Restricted stock and restricted stock units (“RSUs”) are granted to certain employees to incent performance and retention. RSUs issued under the plans provide that shares awarded may not be sold or otherwise transferred until restrictions have lapsed. The release of RSUs on each of the vesting dates is contingent upon continued active employment by the employee until the vesting dates. During the six and three months ended July 31, 2010, a total of 41,060 RSUs and 5,250 RSUs were granted, respectively.
 
 Stock-based compensation expense recognized during the period is based on the value of the portion of stock-based payment awards that is ultimately expected to vest during the period. Stock-based compensation expense recognized in the Company’s Consolidated Statements of Earnings (Loss) for the three and six months ended July 31, 2010 and 2009 includes compensation expense for restricted stock, RSUs and other stock-based awards granted subsequent to January 31, 2006 based on the grant date fair value estimated in accordance with the provisions of ASC 718, “Compensation—Stock Compensation” (“ASC 718”). The Company recognizes these compensation costs net of a forfeiture rate for only those awards expected to vest, on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period of the award, which is over periods of 3 years for stock options; 2 to 5 years for employee restricted stock and RSUs; and 1 to 2 years for non-employee restricted stock and RSUs. Forfeitures are estimated at the time of grant and revised, if necessary, in subsequent periods if actual forfeitures differ from those estimates.
 
 Transactions involving restricted stock and RSUs are summarized as follows:
  AggregateWeighted Average


Intrinsic ValueShares


Grant Date Fair Value


(In thousands)Nonvested restricted stock and RSUs at January 31, 2010


101,238


$
45.31Granted


41,060



46.98Vested


29,611



66.59Forfeited


7,853



37.29Nonvested restricted stock and RSUs at July 31, 2010


104,834



40.55


$
4,146Total restricted stock and RSUs at July 31, 2010


147,009


$
53.11


$
5,814
  Compensation expense related to restricted stock and RSUs for three and six months ended July 31, 2010 was approximately $0.3 million and $1.3 million, respectively.  Compensation expense related to restricted stock and RSUs for three and six months ended July 31, 2009 was approximately $0.5 million and $1.6 million, respectively. The total recognized tax benefit for the three and six months ended July 31, 2010 was approximately $0.1 million and $0.5 million, respectively.  The total recognized tax benefit for the three and six months ended July 31, 2009 was approximately $0.3 million and $0.5 million, respectively.
 
 As of July 31, 2010, there was $1.9 million of unearned compensation expense related to non-vested restricted stock and RSU awards. This cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 1.7 years. As of July 31, 2010, 104,834 restricted stock awards with a weighted average grant date fair value of $40.55 are unvested.  The total unrecognized stock-based compensation cost to be recognized in future periods as of July 31, 2010 does not consider the effect of stock-based awards that may be issued in subsequent periods.
 
 Transactions involving stock options are summarized as follows:
  Weighted AverageOption


Weighted Average


Remaining


AggregateShares


Exercise Price


Contractual Life


Intrinsic ValueOutstanding at January 31, 2010


62,125


$
107.68



2.42


$
-Options expired


(8,650
)


99.18



-



-Outstanding and exercisable at July 31, 2010


53,475


$
109.06



2.13


$
-
  Authorized unissued shares may be used under the stock-based compensation plans. The Company intends to issue shares of its common stock to incent performance for its key employees and officers.
  14.           Segment Information
 
 Blyth designs, markets and distributes an extensive array of decorative and functional household products including candles, accessories, seasonal decorations, household convenience items and personalized gifts, as well as products for the foodservice trade,nutritional supplements and weight management products.
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 The Company competes in the global home expressions industry and the Company’s products can be found throughout North America, Europe and Australia. Our financial results are reported in three segments: the Direct Selling segment, the Catalog & Internet segment and the Wholesale segment.
 
 Within the Direct Selling segment, the Company designs, manufactures or sources, markets and distributes an extensive line of products including scented candles, candle-related accessories, fragranced bath gels and body lotions and other fragranced products under the PartyLite® brand.  PartyLite also offers gourmet foods under the Two Sisters Gourmet by PartyLite brand name. The Company also holds a controlling interest in ViSalus, a distributor-based business that sells nutritional supplements, energy drinks and weight management products. All direct selling products are sold directly to the consumer through networks of independent sales consultants and distributors.  Products in this segment are sold primarily in North America, Europe and Australia.
 
 Within the Catalog & Internet segment, the Company designs, sources and markets a broad range of household convenience items, premium photo albums, frames, holiday cards, personalized gifts, kitchen accessories and gourmet coffee and tea.  These products are sold directly to the consumer under the As We Change®, Boca Java®, Easy Comforts®, Exposuresâ, Home Marketplace®, Miles Kimballâ and Walter Drakeâ brands.  These products are sold in North America.
 
 Within the Wholesale segment, the Company designs, manufactures or sources, markets and distributes an extensive line of home fragrance products, candle-related accessories, seasonal decorations such as ornaments and trim and home décor products such as picture frames, lamps and textiles.  Products in this segment are sold primarily in North America to retailers in the premium and specialty channels under the CBK®, Colonial Candle®, Colonial at HOMEâ and Seasons of Cannon Falls® brands.  In addition, chafing fuel and tabletop lighting products and accessories for the Away From Home or foodservice trade are sold through this segment under the Ambria®, HandyFuel® and Sterno® brands.
 
 Operating profit in all segments represents net sales less operating expenses directly related to the business segments and corporate expenses allocated to the business segments.  Other expense includes Interest expense, Interest income, and Foreign exchange and other which are not allocated to the business segments.  Identifiable assets for each segment consist of assets used directly in its operations and intangible assets, if any, resulting from purchase business combinations.  Unallocated Corporate within the identifiable assets include corporate cash and cash equivalents, short-term investments, prepaid income tax, corporate fixed assets, deferred bond costs and other long-term investments, which are not allocated to the business segments.
 
 Three months ended July 31,


Six months ended July 31,(In thousands)

2010


2009


2010


2009Net salesDirect Selling

$
110,191


$
123,318


$
250,100


$
271,852Multi-channel Group:Catalog & Internet


33,756



36,890



67,487



69,326Wholesale


36,689



39,146



64,594



72,900Subtotal Multi-channel Group



70,445



76,036



132,081



142,226Total

$
180,636


$
199,354


$
382,181


$
414,078Operating profit (loss)Direct Selling

$
5,284


$
(10,604
)

$
18,358


$
3,160Multi-channel Group:Catalog & Internet


(1,126
)


(2,794
)


(3,422
)


(4,622
)Wholesale


(23
)


(1,249
)


(3,739
)


(7,399
)Subtotal Multi-channel Group


(1,149
)


(4,043
)


(7,161
)


(12,021
)4,135



(14,647
)


11,197



(8,861
)Other expense


(2,262
)


(1,506
)


(3,574
)


(2,667
)Earnings (loss) before income taxes


$
1,873


$
(16,153
)

$
7,623


$
(11,528
)July 31, 2010


January 31, 2010Identifiable assetsDirect Selling

$
200,353


$
205,615Multi-channel Group:Catalog & Internet


59,102



58,040Wholesale


90,185



81,928Subtotal Multi-channel Group


149,287



139,968Unallocated Corporate


106,997



177,410Total

$
456,637


$
522,993
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  15.           Related Party Transactions
 
 As discussed in Note 2 to the Consolidated Financial Statements, the acquisition of ViSalus by Blyth in October 2008 involved related parties. RAM owns a significant noncontrolling interest in ViSalus.  Robert B. Goergen, Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of the Company; Robert B. Goergen, Jr., Vice President of the Company and President of the Multi-Channel Group; and Todd A. Goergen, son of Robert B. Goergen and Pamela Goergen (who is also a director of the Company), and brother of Robert B. Goergen, Jr., own, directly or indirectly, substantially all of the interests in RAM. Todd A. Goergen was a member of the Board of Managers of ViSalus at the time of acquisition. Mr. Goergen, the Company’s chairman and chief executive officer, beneficially owns approximately 33.5% of the Company’s outstanding common stock, and together with members of his family, owns substantially all of RAM.
 
 On February 1, 2010, ViSalus received a financing commitment from the founders and RAM for up to $1.2 million to fund its operations for calendar year 2010, $0.6 million of which has been borrowed as of July 31, 2010.  The loan is due February 28, 2011 and interest accrues at 10% per annum payable quarterly in arrears.  In addition to the 10% interest, the loan requires ViSalus to pay a further lump-sum interest payment at loan maturity of $0.6 million. The loan is secured by ViSalus’ assets and has preference over existing loans from the founders, RAM and the Company.
 
 As of July 31, 2010 ViSalus had a $1.3 million notes payable due to RAM, $1.9 million to the founders, and $3.3 million due to the Company.
 
 As discussed in Note 4 to the Consolidated Financial Statements, the investment in the LLC involves related parties. RAM holds an approximately 16% interest in the LLC. In addition to this interest they also have significant influence on the management of the LLC and representation on its board of managers.
 
 16.           Contingencies
 
 In August 2008, a state department of revenue proposed to assess additional corporate income taxes on the Company for fiscal years 2002, 2003 and 2004 in the net amount of $34.9 million, which includes interest.  In August 2008, the Company filed a protest of the assessment, which it intends to contest vigorously.  As of July 31, 2010, the Company has a reserve for this matter that it believes is adequate based on existing facts and circumstances.  The ultimate resolution of this matter could exceed the Company’s recorded reserve in the event of an unfavorable outcome.  It is reasonably possible that losses in excess of the Company’s recorded reserve could be incurred; however, the Company cannot estimate such a loss at this time.
 
 The Company has contingent liabilities that have arisen in the ordinary course of its business, including pending litigation.  The Company believes the outcome of these matters will not have a material adverse affect on its consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.
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  Item 2.    MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
 FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
 
 Overview
 
 Blyth, Inc. is a multi-channel company competing primarily in the home fragrance and decorative accessories industry.  We design, market and distribute an extensive array of decorative and functional household products including candles, accessories, seasonal decorations, household convenience items and personalized gifts, as well as products for the foodservice trade,nutritional supplements and weight management products. We compete in the global home expressions industry, and our products can be found throughout North America, Europe and Australia.  Our financial results are reported in three segments: the Direct Selling segment, the Catalog & Internet segment and the Wholesale segment.  These reportable segments are based on similarities in distribution channels, customers and management oversight.
 
 Today, annualized net sales are comprised of approximately $590 million in Direct Selling, approximately $165 million in Catalog & Internet and approximately $165 million in our Wholesale segment.  Sales and earnings results differ in each segment depending on geographic location, market penetration, our relative market share and product and marketing execution, among other business factors.
 
 Our current focus is driving sales growth of our brands so we may more fully leverage our infrastructure.  New product development continues to be critical to all three segments of our business.  In the Direct Selling segment, monthly sales and productivity incentives are designed to attract, retain and increase the earnings opportunity of independent sales consultants.  In the Catalog & Internet segment, product, merchandising and circulation strategy are designed to drive strong sales growth in newer brands and further expand the sales and customer base of our flagship brands.  In the Wholesale segment, sales initiatives are targeted to independent retailers, distributors and national accounts.
 
 RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - Three and six months ended July 31, 2010 versus 2009:
 
 Net Sales
 
 Net sales for the six months ended July 31, 2010 decreased $31.9 million, or 8%, to $382.2 million, from $414.1 million in the comparable prior year period due to the challenging consumer discretionary spending environment that is impacting our business segments in the U.S. and International.
  Net sales for the three months ended July 31, 2010  decreased $18.8 million, or 9%, to $180.6 million, from $199.4 million in the comparable prior year period due to the continued weakness in consumer discretionary spending and the soft housing market through the second quarter of fiscal 2011.
 
 Net Sales - Direct Selling Segment
 
 Net sales in the Direct Selling segment for the six months ended July 31, 2010 decreased $21.8 million, or 8%, to $250.1 million from $271.9 million in the comparable prior year period. PartyLite’s U.S. sales decreased 25% compared to the prior year due to the result of continuing weakness in consumer spending and a decline in active independent sales consultants and shows per consultant, year over year. In addition, PartyLite Canada’s sales decreased 1% in U.S. dollars and 15% in local currency. Higher sales within the ViSalus business partially offset lower PartyLite sales.
 
 Net sales in the Direct Selling segment for the three months ended July 31, 2010 decreased $13.1 million, or 11%, to $110.2 million from $123.3 million in the comparable prior year period. PartyLite’s U.S. sales decreased approximately 20% compared to the prior period. This decline is driven primarily by a decrease in active independent sales consultants and fewer shows per consultant, as well as the effects of the current recession and the associated weakness in consumer discretionary spending. PartyLite Canada’s sales decreased 15% in U.S. dollars and 22% in local currency, driven primarily by the same factors as PartyLite U.S. PartyLite Europe’s sales decreased 12% in U.S. dollars or 6% in local currency, which management believes is attributable to the weakened economic outlook for the European Union.
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  Net Sales - Catalog & Internet Segment
 
 Net sales in the Catalog & Internet segment for the six months ended July 31, 2010 decreased $1.8 million, or 3%, to $67.5 million from $69.3 million in the comparable prior year period. This decrease is due to soft consumer response and circulation reductions in certain of the Miles Kimball Company catalogs, as well as sharply lower sales for the Boca Java brand.
 
 Net sales in the Catalog & Internet segment for the three months ended July 31, 2010 decreased $3.1 million, or 8%, to $33.8 million from $36.9 million in the comparable prior year period.  This decline is mainly due to the soft sales for the Miles Kimball, Exposures and Home Marketplace catalogs, as well as a decline in sales for the Boca Java brand.
 
 Net Sales - Wholesale Segment
 
 Net sales in the Wholesale segment in the six months ended July 31, 2010decreased $8.3 million, or 11% to $64.6 million from $72.9 million in the comparable prior year period. Sales were down in the home décor, seasonal décor and food service businesses mainly due to continued weakness in customer discretionary spending.
 
 Net sales in the Wholesale segment in the three months ended July 31, 2010decreased $2.4 million, or 6% to $36.7 million from $39.1 million in the comparable prior year period. The decrease in sales is primarily due to declines in the home décor, seasonal décor and food service businesses reflecting the continued challenging economic environment and the aforementioned weak housing market.
 
 Gross Profit
 
 Gross profit for the six months ended July 31, 2010, decreased $8.5 million, or 4%, to $215.2 million from $223.7 million in the comparable prior year period. Gross profit margin for the six months ended July 31, 2010 increased to 56.3% of sales from 54.0% in the comparable prior year period. This improvement is principally due to a favorable product costs within PartyLite, lower product costs and price advances at Miles Kimball, in addition to reduced distribution and restructuring costs at Midwest-CBK associated with their merger.
 
 Gross profit for the three months ended July 31, 2010, decreased $5.9 million, or 6%, to $100.0 million from $105.9 million in the comparable prior year period. This decrease is primarily due to lower sales, partially offset by a higher gross profit margin. Gross profit margin for the three months ended July 31, 2010 increased to 55.4% of sales from 53.1% in the comparable prior year period.  The improved gross profit margin is due to a favorable product mix of higher margin sales at Miles Kimball, the consolidation of distribution facilities associated with the merger of Midwest-CBK and lower product costs within PartyLite.
 
 Selling Expense
 
 Selling expense for the six months ended July 31, 2010, decreased $14.8 million, or 9%, to $147.4 million from $162.2 million in the comparable prior year period.  The decrease in selling expense, including commission and promotional expenses, is partly due to its variable nature with sales, which decreased 8% versus the prior year. As a percentage of net sales, selling expense decreased to 38.6% for the six months ended July 31, 2010, compared to 39.2% for the comparable prior year period principally due to a reduction in promotional expenses within PartyLite.
 
 Selling expense for the three months ended July 31, 2010, decreased $7.8 million, or 10%, to $68.9 million from $76.7 million in the comparable prior year period. As noted above, the decrease in selling expense is primarily related to the decrease in sales. As a percentage of net sales, selling expense decreased to 38.1% of net sales for the quarter ended July 31, 2010, compared to 38.5% for the comparable prior year period principally due to a reduction in promotional expenses within PartyLite.
 
 Administrative and Other Expense
 
 Administrative and other expense for the six months ended July 31, 2010, increased $2.7 million, or 5%, to $56.6 million from $53.9 million in the comparable prior year period. The increase in expense is principally due to the non-recurring gain of $1.9 million on the settlement of the Miles Kimball pension plan in fiscal 2010.  As a percent
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  of net sales, administrative and other expense was 14.8% for the first six months of fiscal 2011and 13.0% for the comparable prior year period.
 
 Administrative and other expense for the three months ended July 31, 2010, decreased $0.3 million, or 1%, to $27.0 million from $27.3 million in the comparable prior year period.  As a percent of net sales, administrative expense was 15.0% for the quarter ended July 31, 2010and 13.7% for the comparable prior year period.
 
 Operating Profit (Loss)
  Operating profit for the six months ended July 31, 2010 increased to $11.2 million, compared to an operating loss of $8.9 million in the comparable prior year period. The increase in operating profit is primarily a result of the impact of the goodwill and intangible asset impairment of $16.5 million, along with severance and other related charges of $1.4 million associated with the Midwest-CBK merger, recorded in fiscal 2010.
 
 Operating profit for the three months ended July 31, 2010 increased to $4.1 million, compared to an operating loss of $14.6 million in the comparable prior year period. The increase in operating profit is primarily a result of the impact of the aforementioned goodwill and intangible asset impairment of $16.5 million, as well as severance and other related charges of $0.9 million associated with the Midwest-CBK merger, recorded in the prior year period. In addition, foreign exchange had a negative impact of $0.7 million on this year’s second quarter operating income.
 
 Operating Profit (Loss) - Direct Selling Segment
 
 Operating profit for the six months ended July 31, 2010 in the Direct Selling segment was $18.4 million compared to $3.2 million in the comparable prior year period. The increase is primarily due to the $16.5 million impairment relating to the goodwill and intangibles of ViSalus recorded in the prior year period.
 
 Operating profit for the three months ended July 31, 2010 in the Direct Selling segment was $5.3 million compared to a loss of $10.6 million in the comparable prior year period. The improvement is primarily due to the aforementioned $16.5 million impairment relating to the goodwill and intangibles of ViSalus recorded in the prior year period.
 
 Operating Loss - Catalog & Internet Segment
 
 Operating loss for the six months ended July 31, 2010 in the Catalog & Internet segment was $3.4 million compared to a loss of $4.6 million in the prior year. This reduced loss is primarily due to this year’s improved operating margin within the Miles Kimball Company, partly offset by a gain recorded in FY10 on a pension plan settlement.
 
 Operating loss for the three months ended July 31, 2010 in the Catalog & Internet segment was $1.1 million compared to a loss of $2.8 million in the prior year. This reduced loss is primarily due to this year’s improved operating margin within the Miles Kimball Company.
 
 Operating Loss - Wholesale Segment
  Operating loss for the six months ended July 31, 2010 in the Wholesale segment decreased $3.7 million to $3.7 million versus $7.4 million in the comparable prior year period. The improvement is primarily the result of distribution and administrative cost savings recognized as a result of the Midwest-CBK merger.
  Operating loss for the three months ended July 31, 2010 in the Wholesale segment decreased $1.2 million to approximately break-even versus a $1.2 million loss in the comparable prior year period. This improvement is largely due to the distribution and administrative cost savings associated with the Midwest-CBK merger.
 
 Interest Expense, Interest Income, and Foreign Exchange and Other
 
 Interest expense for the six months ended July 31, 2010 decreased approximately $0.6 million to $3.6 million from $4.2 million in the comparable prior year period. Interest expense for the three months ended July 31, 2010 decreased approximately $0.3 million to $1.8 million from $2.1 million in the comparable prior year period. This
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  decline for both the three and six month periods is due to lower outstanding debt resulting from debt repurchases and the maturity of the 7.90% Senior Notes on October 1, 2009.
  Interest income for the six months ended July 31, 2010 decreased approximately $0.4 million to $0.5 million from $0.9 million in the comparable prior year period. Interest income for the three months ended July 31, 2010 decreased approximately $0.1 million to $0.2 million from $0.3 million in the comparable prior year period. The decrease in interest income is primarily due to lower interest rates being earned on invested cash.
  Foreign exchange and other for the six months ended July 31, 2010 was a loss of $0.5 million, compared to income of $0.7 million in the comparable prior year period. Foreign exchange and other for the three months ended July 31, 2010 was a loss of $0.7 million, compared to income of $0.2 million in the comparable prior year period. The decrease is mainly due to the foreign exchange losses recorded this year primarily resulting from the decline in the Euro versus the U.S. dollar, partially offset by $0.4 million gain from the sale of preferred stock in fiscal 2011.
 
 Income Taxes
  Our effective tax rate for the six months ended July 31, 2010 and 2009 was 37% and negative 16%, which resulted in a provision for income taxes of $2.8 million and $1.9 million, respectively.  The effective tax rate for the six months ended July 31, 2010 was primarily affected by the recording of a reserve for various income tax audits, including current period interest on the Company’s income tax reserves, offset by the favorable closure of an income tax audit.  The higher effective rate in the six months ended July 31, 2009 was primarily related to the ViSalus goodwill impairment of $13.2 million for which no tax benefit was recorded, in addition to interest on the Company’s income tax reserves.
  Our effective tax rate for the three months ended July 31, 2010 and 2009 was 63% and 2%, which resulted in a provision for income taxes of $1.2 million and a benefit of $0.3 million, respectively.  The effective tax rate for the three months ended July 31, 2010 was primarily affected by international operating tax losses for which no benefit was recorded and the recording of a reserve for various income tax audits, including current period interest on our income tax reserves.  The lower effective rate in the three months ended July 31, 2009 was primarily related to the ViSalus goodwill impairment of $13.2 million for which no tax benefit was recorded, in addition to interest on the Company’s income tax reserves.
 
 Net Earnings (Loss) Attributable to Blyth, Inc.
 
 The Net earnings (loss) attributable to Blyth, Inc. exclude the earnings (loss) attributable to the noncontrolling interests. The loss attributable to the noncontrolling interest of businesses that we consolidate was $0.5 million for the six months ended July 31, 2010 compared to $0.3 million in the comparable prior year period. For the three months ended July 31, 2010 losses were $45 thousand compared to earnings of $88 thousand for the comparable prior year period. Included in the Net earnings attributable to Blyth common shareholders in the prior year is an adjustment for the accretion of the redeemable noncontrolling interest in excess of fair value of $0.4 million, which was subsequently reversed since the requirement to purchase additional interests in ViSalus is no longer probable.
 
 The Net earnings attributable to Blyth, Inc. for the six months ended July 31, 2010 was $5.2 million compared to a loss of $13.1 million for the same period in fiscal 2010.  The Net earnings attributable to Blyth, Inc. for the three months ended July 31, 2010 was $0.7 million compared to a loss of $15.9 million for the same period in fiscal 2010.  The improvement for both periods is primarily attributable to the $15.3 million, after tax, impairment to ViSalus’ goodwill and intangibles recorded during the second quarter of fiscal 2010. In addition, we have improved operating expense management, partially offset by lower sales in relation to comparable prior year periods.
  Basic and diluted earnings attributable per Blyth common share includes the effect of the redeemable noncontrolling interest obligation in excess of fair value. The accretion and reversal of redeemable noncontrolling interest had no effect on the EPS for the six months ended July 31, 2009. For the three months ended July 31, 2009, the reversal of the accretion of redeemable noncontrolling interest resulted in an increase of EPS of $0.04.
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  For the six months ended July 31, 2010 basic earnings per Blyth common share was $0.61 and diluted earnings per Blyth common share was $0.60. For the six months ended July 31, 2009 basic and diluted earnings per Blyth common share was a loss of $1.47. The basic and diluted earnings per share for the three month period ended July 31, 2010 was $0.09 compared to a loss of $1.74 in the prior year period.
 
 Liquidity and Capital Resources
 
 Cash and cash equivalents decreased $89.3 million to $118.1 million at July 31, 2010 from $207.4 million at January 31, 2010. This decrease in cash during the first six months of fiscal 2011 was primarily attributed to normal seasonal working capital requirements. In addition, we purchased treasury stock of $20.6 million and paid dividends of $9.7 million in fiscal 2011.
 
 Cash used in operations was $50.9 million in fiscal 2011. This was a decrease of $54.3 million compared to cash provided by operations of $3.4 million in the prior year.  The decrease in cash from operations is due to the impact of our aggressive working capital management program initiated in the latter part of fiscal 2009, which also benefited fiscal 2010. Our cash outflow from operations in fiscal 2011 returned to be more typical as we prepare for the upcoming holiday season which includes various new product offerings. In addition, in fiscal 2011 we endeavored to take advantage of early payment discounts on our accounts payable, thus decreasing the outstanding balance.  Included in current period operating earnings were non-cash charges for depreciation and amortization, and amortization of unearned stock-based compensation of $7.0 million and $1.3 million, respectively.
 
 On an annual basis we typically generate positive cash flow from operations due to favorable gross margins and the variable nature of selling expenses, which constitute a significant percentage of operating expenses.  Due to the seasonal nature of our businesses we typically do not have positive cash flow from operations until our fourth quarter.
 
 Management is presently increasing inventory purchases in preparation of this year’s forecasted sales, and expects a use of cash exceeding the levels experienced in the prior year to meet customer demands and expand our product portfolio. If demand for our products falls short of expectations this could result in us having to maintain higher inventory balances than forecasted and could negatively impact our liquidity. Additionally, the existing credit environment may negatively impact the ability of our customers to obtain credit and consequently could unfavorably impact our sales and the collection of receivables. We have taken steps to limit our exposure to our customers’ credit risk, including adjusting payment terms and expanding our credit approval procedures within some of our businesses.
 
 Net cash used in investing activities was $2.1 million in the first six months of fiscal 2011.  The primary use of cash was $4.2 million on net capital expenditures, partially offset by proceeds received from the sale of investments of $2.1 million.
 
 We anticipate total capital spending of approximately $10 million for fiscal 2011. A major influence on the forecasted expenditures is our investment in the growth of the PartyLite European operations as well as investments in information technology systems. We have grown in part through acquisitions and, as part of this growth strategy, we expect to continue from time to time in the ordinary course of business to evaluate and pursue acquisition opportunities as appropriate.  We believe our financing needs in the short and long-term can be met from cash generated internally.
 
 Net cash used in financing activities was $29.8 million.  This was primarily due to treasury stock purchases of $20.6 million and the payment of dividends of $9.7 million.
 
 On October 21, 2008, we acquired a 43.6% interest in ViSalus for $13.0 million and incurred acquisition costs of $1.0 million for a total cash acquisition cost of $14.0 million.  We intend to and may be required to purchase additional interests in ViSalus that will require additional capital resources, increasing our ownership to 100%. These additional purchases were originally conditioned upon ViSalus meeting certain operating targets in calendar years 2010, 2011 and 2012.  We have the option, but are not required, to acquire the remaining interest in ViSalus if they do not meet these operating targets.  If ViSalus meets its current projected operating targets, the total expected redemption value of the noncontrolling interest will be approximately $4.5 million over calendar years 2011, 2012 and 2013. The purchase prices of the additional investments are equal to a multiple of
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  ViSalus’ earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization, exclusive of certain extraordinary items. The payment, if any, will be out of existing cash balances and expected future cash flows from operations.
 
 The current status of the United States and global credit and equity markets have made it difficult for many businesses to obtain financing on acceptable terms.  If these conditions continue or worsen, our cost of borrowing may increase and it may be more difficult to obtain financing for our businesses. In addition, our borrowing costs can be affected by short and long-term debt ratings assigned by independent rating agencies.  A decrease in these ratings would likely increase our cost of borrowing and/or make it more difficult for us to obtain financing.  Obtaining a new credit facility will more than likely require higher interest costs and may require our providing security to guarantee such borrowings.  Alternatively, we may not be able to obtain unfunded borrowings, which may require us to seek other forms of financing, such as term debt, at higher interest rates and additional expense. A significant amount of our cash and cash equivalents are held by our international subsidiaries in foreign banks, and as such may be subject to foreign taxes, unfavorable exchange rate fluctuations and other factors limiting our ability to repatriate funds to the United States.
 
 In addition, if the economic conditions continue to worsen, we may be subject to future impairments of our assets, including accounts receivable, inventories, property, plant and equipment, investments, deferred tax assets, goodwill and other intangibles, if the valuation of these assets or businesses decline.
 
 As of July 31, 2010, we had $2.0 million available under an uncommitted facility issued by a bank, to be used for letters of credit through January 31, 2011.  As of July 31, 2010, $0.1 million was outstanding under this facility.
 
 As of July 31, 2010, the Company had $2.0 million in standby letters of credit outstanding that are fully collateralized through a certificate of deposit funded by Blyth.
 
 As of July 31, 2010, Miles Kimball had approximately $7.5 million of long-term debt outstanding under a real estate mortgage note payable which matures June 1, 2020.  Under the terms of the note, payments of principal and interest are required monthly at a fixed interest rate of 7.89%.
 
 As of July 31, 2010, Midwest-CBK had $0.1 million of long-term debt outstanding under an Industrial Revenue Bond (“IRB”), which matures on January 1, 2025.  The bond is backed by an irrevocable letter of credit issued by a bank.  The loan is collateralized by certain of Midwest-CBK’s assets.  The amount outstanding under the IRB bears interest at short-term floating rates, which equaled a weighted average interest rate of 0.6% at July 31, 2010.  Payments of interest are required monthly under the terms of the bond.
 
 As of July 31, 2010, ViSalus had two long-term loans totaling $3.2 million outstanding related to notes payable to RAM and ViSalus’ three founders. Under the terms of the notes, interest is accrued at a fixed annual interest rate of 10.0% in addition to the $0.6 million interest cost as a result of ViSalus achieving certain performance criteria (see Note 2 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information).
 
 On December 13, 2007, our Board of Directors authorized a new stock repurchase program for 1,500,000 shares, in addition to 3,000,000 shares authorized under the previous plan. The new stock repurchase program became effective after we exhausted the authorized amount under the old repurchase program.  We have repurchased approximately 582,000 shares during the second quarter of fiscal 2011. As of July 31, 2010, the cumulative total shares purchased under the new and old program was 3,317,602, at a total cost of approximately $249.4 million. The acquired shares are held as common stock in treasury at cost.
 
 Critical Accounting Policies
 
 There were no changes to our critical accounting policies in the first quarter of fiscal 2011.  For a discussion of the Company’s critical accounting policies see our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 31, 2010.
 
 Recent Accounting Standards
 
 The following accounting standard will be adopted in subsequent periods:
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  In January 2010, the FASB issued ASU 2010-06, "Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures (Topic 820) - Improving Disclosures about Fair Value Measurements" (“ASU 2010-06”). ASU 2010-06 requires new disclosures regarding transfers in and out of the Level 1 and 2 and activity within Level 3 fair value measurements and clarifies existing disclosures of inputs and valuation techniques for Level 2 and 3 fair value measurements. The new disclosures and clarifications of existing disclosures are effective for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2009, except for the disclosure of activity within Level 3 fair value measurements, which is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2010, and for interim periods within those years. This update has changed a portion of our disclosures beginning February 1, 2010 and will change our disclosure in fiscal 2012 regarding the activity within Level 3. This update is not expected to have a material impact on our consolidated financial condition or results of operations.
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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  Item 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
 
 Market Risk
 
 We have operations outside of the United States and sell our products worldwide.  Our activities expose us to a variety of market risks, including the effects of changes in interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates and commodity prices. These financial exposures are actively monitored and, where considered appropriate, managed by us. We enter into contracts, with the intention of limiting these risks, with only those counterparties that we deem to be creditworthy, in order to also mitigate our non-performance risk.
 
 Interest Rate Risk
 
 We are subject to interest rate risk on both variable rate debt and our investments in auction rate securities.  As of July 31, 2010, the Company is subject to interest rate risk on approximately $0.1 million of variable rate debt.  A 1-percentage point increase in the interest rate would not have a material impact.  As of July 31, 2010, we held $10.0 million of auction rate securities at par value, with the effective interest rate below 1% and any decrease in the rate of return would not significantly impact pre-tax earnings.
 
 Investment Risk
 
 We are subject to investment risks on our marketable securities due to market volatility.  As of July 31, 2010 we held equity instruments with an adjusted cost basis of $14.8 million which have been adjusted to a fair value of $14.6 million based on current market data.
 
 Foreign Currency Risk
 
 We use foreign exchange forward contracts to hedge the impact of foreign currency fluctuations on foreign denominated inventory purchases, intercompany payables and certain foreign denominated loans. We do not hold or issue derivative financial instruments for trading purposes.  We have, in the past, hedged the net assets of certain of our foreign operations through foreign currency forward contracts. The net after-tax gain related to the derivative net investment hedges in Accumulated other comprehensive income (“AOCI”) as of July 31, 2010 and January 31, 2010 was $5.2 million.
 
 We have designated our forward exchange contracts on forecasted intercompany purchases and future purchase commitments as cash flow hedges and, as such, as long as the hedge remains effective and the underlying transaction remains probable, the effective portion of the changes in the fair value of these contracts will be recorded in AOCI until earnings are affected by the variability of the cash flows being hedged.  With regard to commitments for inventory purchases, upon payment of each commitment, the underlying forward contract is closed and the corresponding gain or loss is transferred from AOCI and is included in the measurement of the cost of the acquired asset.  If a hedging instrument is sold or terminated prior to maturity, gains and losses are deferred in AOCI until the hedged item is settled.  However, if the hedged item is no longer probable to occur, the resultant gain or loss on the terminated hedge is recognized into earnings immediately.  The net after-tax gain included in accumulated AOCI at July 31, 2010 is $0.1 million and is expected to be transferred into earnings within the next twelve months upon settlement of the underlying commitment.
 
 We have designated our foreign currency forward contracts related to certain foreign denominated loans and intercompany payables as fair value hedges.  The gains or losses on the fair value hedges are recognized into earnings and generally offset the transaction gains or losses in the foreign denominated loans that they are intended to hedge.
 
 For consolidated financial statement presentation, net cash flows from such hedges are classified in the categories of the Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows with the items being hedged.
 
 
 
 
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 The following table provides information about our foreign exchange forward contracts accounted for as cash flow hedges as of July 31, 2010:
  U.S. Dollar


Average


Unrealized(In thousands, except average contract rate)

Notional Amount


Contract Rate


Gain (Loss)Canadian Dollar

$
1,000



0.97


$
(3
)Euro


6,475



1.27



212$
7,475






$
209
  The foreign exchange contracts outstanding have maturity dates through January 2011.
 
 
 
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  Item 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
 
 (a) Evaluation of disclosure controls and procedures.
  We conducted an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures (as such term is defined in Rules 13a−15(e) and 15d−15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”)) as of January 31, 2010. Based on that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of July 31, 2010.
 
 (b) Changes in internal control over financial reporting.
  There have been no changes in our internal control over financial reporting identified in connection with the evaluation required by paragraph (d) of Exchange Act Rules 13a-15 or 15d-15 that occurred during the second quarter of fiscal 2011 that has materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
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  Part II.OTHER INFORMATION
 
 Item 1.   Legal Proceedings
 
 None.
 
 Item 1A. Risk Factors
 
 There have been no changes to the risks described in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 31, 2010.
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  Part II.  OTHER INFORMATION(continued)
 
 Item 2.   Unregistered Sales ofEquity Securities and Use of Proceeds
 
 The following table sets forth certain information concerning the repurchase of the Company’s Common Stock made by the Company during the second quarter of the fiscal year ending January 31, 2011.
 
 ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES1
 
 Period

(a) Total Number of Shares Purchased2


(b) Average Price Paid per Share


(c) Total Number of Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Plans or Programs


(d) Maximum of Shares that May Yet Be Purchased Under the Plans or ProgramsMay 1, 2010 –May 31, 2010


-


$
-



-



1,764,430June 1, 2010 –June 30, 2010


524,013



35.42



524,013



1,240,417July 1, 2010 –July 31, 2010


58,019



34.44



58,019



1,182,398Total


582,032


$
35.32



582,032



1,182,398
 
 1 On September 10, 1998, our Board of Directors approved a share repurchase program pursuant to which we were originally authorized to repurchase up to 250,000 shares of Common Stock in open market transactions. From June 1999 to June 2006, the Board of Directors increased the authorization under this repurchase program, five times (on June 8, 1999 to increase the authorization by 250,000 shares to 500,000 shares; on March 30, 2000 to increase the authorization by 250,000 shares to 750,000 shares; on December 14, 2000 to increase the authorization by 250,000 shares to 1.0 million shares; on April 4, 2002 to increase the authorization by 500,000 shares to 1.5 million shares; and on June 7, 2006 to increase the authorization by 1.5 million shares to 3.0 million shares). On December 13, 2007, the Board of Directors authorized a new repurchase program, for 1.5 million shares, which became effective after we exhausted the authorized amount under the old repurchase program.  As of July 31, 2010, we have purchased a total of 3,317,602 shares of Common Stock under the old and new repurchase programs.  The repurchase programs do not have expiration dates.  We intend to make further purchases under the repurchase programs from time to time. The amounts set forth in this paragraph have been adjusted to give effect to the reverse stock split executed in fiscal 2009.
 
 2 This does not include the 14,924 shares that we withheld in order to satisfy employee withholding taxes upon the distribution of vested restricted stock units.
 
 Item 3.   Defaults upon Senior Securities
 
 None
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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  Item 4.  Removed and Reserved
 
 
 Item 5.  Other Information
 
 None
 
 Item 6.   Exhibits
 
 Exhibits
 
  31.1
Certification of Chairman and Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.
  31.2
Certification of Vice President and Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.
  32.1
Certification of Chairman and Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
 
 32.2
Certification of Vice President and 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.
 
 
 BLYTH, INC.
 
 
 
 Date:           September 2, 2010                                                                           By:/s/Robert B. Goergen
 Robert B. Goergen
 Chairman and Chief Executive Officer
 
 
 
 
 Date:           September 2, 2010                                                                           By:/s/Robert H. Barghaus
 Robert H. Barghaus
 Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
 
 
 
 
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