Annual Report (Form 10-K), fiscal year 1993

ITEM 1. BUSINESS
GENERAL
The registrant, an Indiana corporation (hereinafter, the "Company"), is the leading independent designer, manufacturer and supplier of window systems to the combined automobile, light truck and van, bus, heavy truck and recreational vehicle markets in North America. The Company's window systems include various types of automotive windshields; rear, vent, quarter, push out and sliding windows; and window regulator systems, latches, door frames and related components. The Company also manufactures door systems for military and recreational vehicles and injection molded thermoplastic products and other products primarily for sale to the automotive industry. The Company's products are sold to major North American transportation original equipment manufacturers ("OEMs") including Ford, Chrysler, General Motors, AutoAlliance International, Inc. (a joint venture between Ford and Mazda), Mitsubishi, Nissan, Fleetwood, Winnebago, Navistar, Paccar (Peterbilt and Kenworth trucks) and the manufacturers of virtually all of the intra and intercity buses in the United States and Canada.
BUSINESS STRATEGY
The Company's business objective is to expand profitably its position as the leading independent supplier of window systems to the combined automotive, light truck and van, bus, heavy truck and recreational vehicle markets in North America. It also intends to broaden its product offerings to these markets, as well as expand its capabilities to complementary markets. Continued focus on achieving recognition as a world class manufacturer is a key component of this strategy. The Company continually strives for world class status through technical innovation, quality excellence, cost competitiveness and strategic alliances and acquisitions.
Technical Innovation. The Company's most significant innovative achievement has been the development of reaction injection molded ("RIM") modular windows in the mid-1980's. This value-added product resulted from a long internal development effort and accounted for 35% of net sales in 1993. In recent years, as automotive OEMs increasingly shifted design, innovation, quality and product improvement responsibility to their suppliers, the Company increased its research, engineering and development expenditures (from $2.7 million in 1989 to $7.9 million in 1993), including the addition of an advanced design group and Company-wide computer-aided design capability. The Company has also added more sophisticated program management and complex manufacturing information systems. The Company's capabilities now include prototype and product development, specification testing and manufacturing engineering assistance. This has resulted in increased opportunities for the Company to participate earlier in the product planning process and to add value by furnishing engineering and design services and providing a broader range of parts required for vehicle assembly.
Quality Excellence. The Company emphasizes a continuous improvement philosophy to its employees on all facets of operations including product quality. As a result of its commitment to quality, the Company has achieved Q1 and Pentastar quality ratings at its key manufacturing plants from Ford and Chrysler, respectively, and has received quality awards from Fleetwood (a recreational vehicle OEM), Nissan and other OEMs. At the corporate technical center, engineers examine the Company's and its competitors' products to evaluate alternative designs, suggest marketing opportunities and solve potential production problems, all of which serve to improve and maintain the Company's stringent quality standards.
Competitive Cost. The Company strives to achieve a competitive cost to its customers through its emphasis on quality excellence and its involvement in the early stages of product development. The Company is a highly reliable and timely supplier able to meet its customers' demanding delivery requirements, while constantly focusing on reducing OEM inventory levels.
Strategic Alliances. In 1986, Ford entered into a supply agreement (the "Supply Agreement") with the Company. Pursuant to the Supply Agreement, Ford agreed to purchase from the Company at least 70% of the requirements by dollar volume of Ford and Ford Canada for modular framed glass parts using RIM and polyvinyl chloride ("PVC") technology, commencing with the 1990 model year. Ford's purchase obligations are contingent upon the Company being competitive as to technology, quality, service, price and delivery. The Supply Agreement, which is currently scheduled to expire at the end of the 1998 model year, has been complemented by a supply agreement between Ford and the Company dated January 31, 1994 (the "1994 Supply Agreement"), which extends through the 1998 calendar year and which provides for Ford to purchase 100% of its requirements for those parts currently supplied by the Company (including parts other than modular windows), subject to specified annual price reductions. Since 1990, the Company has and is continuing to supply at least 70% of Ford's requirements for modular framed glass, which have predominately been modular windows using RIM technology. The Company works closely with Ford during the development and production by Ford of new products utilizing parts supplied by the Company, and net sales to Ford have increased from $26.7 million in 1985 to $373.1 million in 1993.
The Company also benefits from an exclusive purchase and supply agreement with H.S. Die & Engineering of Grand Rapids, Michigan. H.S. Die supplies the molds (i.e., tooling) to the Company necessary to manufacture modular windows. Working closely with OEMs and H.S. Die, the Company is able to move rapidly from design to finished tooling for modular windows. As a result of this alliance, preproduction lead-times on new programs have been decreased by more than a year, which was demonstrated in Ford's development of the recently introduced Mustang model.
Another strategic alliance links the Company with Schade KG, a modular and conventional window and door systems supplier located in Plettenberg, Germany. Pursuant to a Reciprocal Technology License and Cooperative Venture Agreement, both companies have cooperated in developing new business proposals. Schade helped the Company develop technical capabilities in PVC modular windows. The Company produces PVC windows for the Chrysler New Yorker at its Kentucky manufacturing facility and has been sourced to supply PVC windows for certain 1995 Mitsubishi and Nissan models. In addition, technology acquired from the Company's alliance with Schade has enabled the Company to supply door frames for General Motors's 1994 Saturn Coupe.
In 1992, the Company formed a joint venture with Pollone S.A., a Brazilian automotive parts supplier, for the purpose of supplying encapsulated window assemblies to South American automakers. Located near Sao Paulo, Brazil, the joint venture, Pollexco, is owned 49% by the Company and 51% by Pollone, S.A. Production of products for Autolatina, a joint venture between Ford and Volkswagen, began in late 1993.
Strategic Acquisitions. In acquisitions, the Company seeks processes, products or markets which complement the Company's existing businesses. The Company added high volume conventional window capacity to its product line as a result of a 1986 acquisition from Irvin Industries. In the mid-1980's, Ford--initially the Company's only RIM window customer--started its own subsidiary to manufacture RIM windows in Fulton, Kentucky. In 1986, the Company acquired Ford's RIM window subsidiary and manufacturing facility. In 1988, the Company acquired Nyloncraft, Inc., which manufactures injection molded thermoplastic products primarily for the automotive industry. Nyloncraft also supplies plastic components to six of the Company's manufacturing facilities. In 1990, the Company acquired the window regulator business operated by Hoover Universal, Inc., a subsidiary of Johnson Controls, Inc. The Company's technical capabilities, in particular the corporate technical center, have enabled it to redesign several products, reduce operating expenses and improve overall operations in the newly-acquired window regulator business.
MARKET DESCRIPTION AND INDUSTRY FACTORS
Automotive Market
General. The overall market for new cars and light trucks in North America is large and cyclical, with average annual growth of 1% to 2%. However, considerable growth or decline routinely occurs within specific product segments or model lines. In particular, light truck sales have grown rapidly over the last 15 years as compared to the demand for cars. This growth in light truck demand primarily reflects the increased use of mini-vans and sport utility vehicles. The Company believes it will continue to be well-positioned as a supplier of window systems to OEMs in this higher growth market segment.
Changing Supplier Policies. Several developments have substantially altered the competitive environment for automotive suppliers, including consolidation among suppliers and increased outsourcing of key components by OEMs. During the 1980s, Ford, Chrysler and General Motors began to reduce their supplier base, focusing on long-term sole-source contracts with more capable suppliers. Increasingly, the criteria for selection include not only cost, quality and responsiveness, but also certain full-service capabilities including design, engineering and project management support. OEMs now have rigorous programs for evaluating and rating suppliers which encompass quality, cost control, reliability of delivery, new technology implementation, engineering competence, continuous improvement programs and overall management. Under these programs, each facility operated by a supplier is evaluated independently. The suppliers who obtain superior ratings are favorably considered for new business; those who do not may continue their existing contracts, but normally do not receive additional business. As a result, these new supplier policies have sharply reduced the number of component suppliers. In the 1990's, OEM supply agreements have incorporated productivity provisions which specify annual price reductions which may be offset by product improvements, manufacturing improvements and/or various other mutually agreed upon methods.
Transplants. Over the last ten years, Japanese manufactured vehicles have gained an increasing share of the North American market. In addition, a growing percentage of such vehicles are being made at North American operations of Japanese manufacturers ("Transplants"). Transplants receive component parts from a variety of sources including suppliers in Japan, Japanese suppliers who establish U.S. facilities and existing U.S. component suppliers. Because of the current market share of the Transplants, supplying them is an attractive opportunity. To date, the Company has been selected to supply window systems for certain Nissan, Mazda and Mitsubishi models manufactured in North America. The Company has also been selected to supply fixed vent windows for the new BMW model scheduled to be built in South Carolina in 1995.
Non-Automotive Market
The market for heavy trucks in North America is cyclical, and the Company believes it is well positioned to take advantage of supply opportunities which arise as aging fleets are replaced with new models. The availability of federally funded programs and the price of gasoline and diesel fuel are factors which affect the demand for intracity buses purchased for municipal mass transit systems. The market for recreational vehicles is influenced significantly by the strength of the economy and the level of consumer discretionary spending. Recent growth trends in the sale of recreational vehicles have been positive.
PRODUCTS
The Company designs, engineers, manufactures and supplies plastic and metal framed window assemblies, manual and power glass regulator systems and injection molded thermoplastic products principally for North American car, light truck and van, heavy truck, bus, military and recreational vehicle OEMs. The Company does not manufacture or sell primary glass.
Modular Window Systems. The Company's modular, plastic framed windows are value-added parts because clips, weatherstripping and bright trim are attached during the molding process. The module-manufacturing processes used by the Company give the OEM designers great flexibility in window shape, sealing and aerodynamics. The module supplied to the OEM also lowers its parts inventory, reduces part weight and reduces assembly efforts. The Company produces modular windshields and rear windows, as well as fixed quarter, sliding and push out modular windows.
The Company utilizes RIM technology and also PVC injection molding technology to manufacture modular windows. In RIM technology, liquids are mixed and fed into a mold that holds glass, framing and fastening components. The mixture polymerizes, and the completed module is removed, trimmed, cleaned, inspected and packed for shipment. In PVC injection molding, solid plastic subjected to high temperature and pressure flows in liquid form into the mold where it reverts without chemical reaction to a solid.
Conventional Windows. The Company also produces conventionally framed window assemblies utilizing painted cold-rolled steel, stainless steel, rubber and/or aluminum. The glass or plastic glazed window assemblies supplied for mass transit systems have durable aluminum frames and non-leak weatherstripping. The Company supplies a wide variety of conventional windows to car, light truck and heavy truck OEMs, including pivoting wing ventilator windows, fixed and movable quarter windows and swing-out and sliding windows. The Company's flush-mount recreational vehicle windows seal tightly and feature independent sliding screens, removable storm windows and an anti-theft locking mechanism.
Window Regulator Systems. The Company supplies manual and electrically powered versions of regulators (the mechanisms for lifting and lowering windows) for front and rear side windows and tailgate windows. The Company stresses safety, weight, glass stability, window system integration, parts reduction and enhanced vehicle design flexibility in its window regulators.
Injection Molded Thermoplastic Products. The Company's Nyloncraft division manufactures injection molded inside and outside door handles, door latch components, fan shrouds, airspring pistons, window crank handles and a variety of other custom engineered products. The Company molds parts from nylons, polyesters, acetal and other engineered thermoplastic materials.
Door Systems. The Company designs and manufactures preassembled doors for Class A motorhomes and ballistic door/window systems for the Hummer tactical military vehicle. The Company's preassembled door systems improve the OEMs' installation productivity and assist in design flexibility.
CUSTOMERS AND MARKETING
The Company supplies its products primarily to Ford, Chrysler and General Motors. Historical sales of the Company by customer group are set forth below. The loss of Ford, Chrysler or General Motors as a customer would have a material adverse effect on the Company.
Sales of the Company's products to OEMs are made directly by the Company's sales and engineering personnel located at the Company's offices in the Detroit area and Elkhart, Indiana. Through these sales and engineering offices, the Company services its OEM customers and manages its continuing programs of product design improvement and development.
The Company's customers award contracts that normally cover parts to be supplied for a particular vehicle model. Such contracts typically extend over the life of the model, which is generally four to seven years. The primary risk to the Company is that an OEM will produce fewer units of a model than anticipated. In addition, the Company competes for new business to supply parts for successor models and therefore runs the risk that the OEM will not select the Company to produce parts on a successor model. In order to reduce its reliance on any one model, the Company produces parts for a broad cross- section of both new and more mature models. The Company has been chosen as a supplier on a variety of generally successful car, light truck and van models. The following table presents a summary of the 1994 and 1995 models for which the Company is producing or will produce component parts.
COMPANY 1994/1995 MODELS Ford Escort, Explorer, Taurus, Sable, Aerostar, Windstar, Ranger, Continental, Cougar, Mark VIII, Bronco, Thunderbird, Town Car, Econoline, Crown Victoria, Grand Marquis, Mustang, Probe, Villager, F-Series Truck Chrysler LHS, LeBaron, Fifth Avenue, Imperial, Cherokee, Wrangler, Comanche, Voyager, Avenger, Sebring, Concorde, Intrepid, Vision, New Yorker, Dakota, Ram Truck, Ram Van/Wagon, Talon General Motors Cavalier, Sunbird, Vandura Van, APV Mini-Van, S-10 Truck, Saturn Coupe, Saturn Station Wagon Nissan Quest, Sentra GS, Nissan Truck Mazda MX6 Mitsubishi Eclipse
Based on its ability to service its OEM customers' needs effectively, the Company believes it will be able to maintain its position on most existing models, while also expanding into new models as further consolidation in the OEM supplier base occurs. The Company believes that the presence of Transplants represents an attractive growth opportunity over the next decade. The Company is currently supplying products for Mazda, Nissan and Mitsubishi models. The Company believes that it is favorably positioned to increase its business with the Transplants because of the Company's reputation for technical innovation, quality excellence, reliability and competitive cost.
In the non-automotive markets, the Company sells various types of conventional window systems to North American OEMs of medium and heavy trucks, recreational vehicles and buses. The Company is the dominant supplier of wing ventilator windows for medium and heavy trucks manufactured in the United States and Canada. The Company's customers include Navistar, Freightliner, Volvo GM Heavy Truck Corp., Mack Truck, Paccar (Kenworth and Peterbilt models) and Ford. The Company supplies aluminum framed window systems to Fleetwood and Winnebago, the leading recreational vehicle OEMs in North America, as well as a number of other recreational vehicle manufacturers. The Company is the dominant supplier of metal framed window systems to intra and intercity bus OEMs.
The Company also manufactures preassembled doors for certain recreational vehicle OEMs and door systems for the Hummer tactical military vehicle.
The Company maintains separate sales and engineering groups at its corporate offices in Elkhart, Indiana to service these non-automotive markets. The Company has received "Supplier of the Year" and "Master of Quality" awards from Fleetwood and Freightliner, respectively, as well as recognition for quality and delivery accomplishments from other non-automotive OEMs. The Company believes that its cost competitiveness, quality excellence and design and engineering capabilities obtained in the automotive supply markets enable it to compete effectively in non-automotive markets as well.
COMPETITION
The Company operates in a highly competitive environment in each of its markets. The number of the Company's competitors in the automotive markets is expected to decrease due to the supplier consolidation resulting from changing OEM policies. The Company's major competitors include Donnelly Corporation, Libbey-Owens-Ford Co., Guardian Industries, Dura, Inc., Rockwell International, Hehr International, OEM internal operations and a large number of smaller operations.
The Company principally competes for new business both at the beginning of the development of new models and upon the redesign of existing models by its major customers. New model development generally begins two to four years prior to the marketing of such models to the public. Once a producer has been designated to supply parts to a new program, an OEM will generally continue to purchase those parts from the designated producer for the life of the program. Competitive factors in the market for the Company's products include product quality, design and engineering competence, customer service, product mix, new product innovation, cost and timely delivery. The Company believes that its business strategy allows it to compete effectively in the markets for its products.
The Company believes that it is well-positioned to succeed in this highly competitive supplier environment. The Company's size, emphasis on quality, customer service orientation, manufacturing expertise and technological leadership all contribute to the Company's success in the transportation supply industry.
RESEARCH, ENGINEERING AND DEVELOPMENT
The Company expended approximately $5.2 million, $5.5 million and $7.9 million on research, engineering and development during 1991, 1992 and 1993, respectively. These increased expenditures have improved significantly the Company's capacity to provide complete engineering and design services to support its product lines. The Company also has a corporate technical center in Elkhart, Indiana for basic research and development, as well as a large engineering and design staff in the Detroit area which works closely with automotive OEMs during all phases of new product development and production.
FOREIGN OPERATIONS
In addition to its domestic facilities described below, the Company owns a manufacturing facility in Aurora, Ontario, Canada and leases a manufacturing facility in Juarez, Mexico. The financial information concerning the Canadian operations of the Company is set forth in Notes 10 and 11 to the Company's Consolidated Financial Statements included elsewhere herein.
EMPLOYEES
The Company employs a total of approximately 3,500 persons, of whom approximately 20% are covered by collective bargaining agreements. The Company believes its relationship with its employees is good.
ENVIRONMENTAL MATTERS
The Company believes it is in substantial compliance with federal, state, local and foreign laws regarding discharge of materials into the environment and does not anticipate any material adverse effect on its future earnings, capital expenditures or competitive position as a result of compliance with such laws.
For a discussion of potential environmental liabilities, see "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations-- Liquidity and Capital Resources" and Note 8 to the Company's Consolidated Financial Statements included elsewhere herein.
ITEM 2.



ITEM 2. PROPERTIES
The Company operates 11 manufacturing facilities, all of which are in good condition. The Company manufactures framed window assemblies at its Elkhart, Jacksonville, LaGrange, Aurora, Lawrenceburg, Fulton and Toledo manufacturing facilities. Injection molded thermoplastic parts are manufactured at the Bowling Green and Mishawaka facilities. Window regulator systems, latches and related components are manufactured at the Jacksonville, Pikeville and Juarez, Mexico facilities. Except as noted below, the Company owns all of these facilities.
Approximate Building Size Location (in square feet)
Elkhart 270,000 (1) Jacksonville, Florida 260,000 LaGrange, Indiana 140,000 Aurora, Ontario (Canada) 120,000 Lawrenceburg, Tennessee 150,000 Fulton, Kentucky 80,000 (2) Bowling Green, Kentucky 32,000 Mishawaka, Indiana 120,000 (3) Toledo, Ohio 61,000 (4) Pikeville, Tennessee 101,900 (5) Juarez, Mexico 15,000 (6) _________________________________
(1) Approximately 35,000 square feet of this facility houses the Company's executive offices and approximately 140,000 square feet of the facility are used in manufacturing.
(2) The Company leases the Fulton, Kentucky facility pursuant to a lease which expires in 1994. The Company is entitled to extend the term of the lease for six (6) additional terms of three (3) years each and may, at its option, purchase the facility at any time during the lease.
(3) The Company leases the Mishawaka, Indiana facility pursuant to a lease which expires in 1998. The Company is entitled to extend the term of such lease until 2003 and may, at its option, purchase such facility at any time during the term of the lease.
(4) The Company leases the Toledo, Ohio facility pursuant to a lease which expires on May 31, 1998.
(5) The Company leases the Pikeville, Tennessee facility pursuant to a Lease Purchase Contract entered into as part of agreements for the issuance of two series of industrial development bonds. Title to the facility will be transferred to the Company for Ten Dollars ($10.00) on completion of payment on the bond issues on July 1, 1999. Rent is payable semi- annually with respect to the Series A bonds and is equal to the principal and interest due on the bonds. Semi-annual principal payments on the Series A bonds currently are $75,000. Interest on the outstanding principal balance of the Series B bonds is payable quarterly, with an annual payment of principal in the amount of $200,000.
(6) The Company leases the Juarez, Mexico facility pursuant to a month-to- month lease.
ITEM 3.

ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
On February 22, 1993, the United States filed a lawsuit in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Indiana against the Company and certain other parties. On July 20, 1993, the Indiana Department of Environmental Management ("IDEM") joined the lawsuit. The lawsuit seeks recovery of the costs of enforcement, prejudgment interest and an amount in excess of $6.8 million, which represents costs incurred to date by the United States Environmental Protection Agency ("EPA") and IDEM in connection with the contamination of soil and groundwater on the Company's property in Elkhart, Indiana, and a well field of the City of Elkhart in close proximity to the Company's facility. The lawsuit also seeks a declaration that the Company and the other defendants are liable for any future costs incurred by the EPA and IDEM in connection with the site.
For further information, see "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" and Note 8 to the Company's Consolidated Financial Statements included elsewhere herein.
ITEM 4.

ITEM 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS
None
Executive Officers of the Company
The names and ages of all executive officers of the Company, all positions and offices held by each of them and the period during which each such person has served in these offices and positions is set forth below:
Name Age Position and Offices
James J. Lohman 52 Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer
James O. Futterknecht, Jr.47 President and Chief Operating Officer
Joseph A. Robinson 55 Secretary, Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer
James E. Crawford 47 Vice President-Product Development and Value Engineering
Louis R. Csokasy 46 Vice President-Engineering and Quality
Terrance L. Lindberg 51 Vice President-Specialty Products and General Manager-Nyloncraft
Mr. Lohman has been the Chairman of the Board of Directors since 1985 and Chief Executive Officer since 1983. He joined the Company in 1964 and was Group Vice President from 1978 to 1981 and was President from 1981 to 1992. He has been a director of the Company since 1978.
Mr. Futterknecht joined the Company in 1970, was Vice President - Corporate Sales from 1976 until 1984, was Vice President - Automotive Products from 1986 until 1987, was Vice President - Automotive Sales and engineering from 1987 to 1990, and was Executive Vice President from 1990 to 1992. He was elected as President and Chief Operating Officer and was appointed as a director in 1992.
Mr. Robinson joined the Company as Secretary, Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer in December 1991 and was appointed as a director in 1992. Prior to that time, he was employed by the Standard Products Co., a manufacturer of automotive parts as Vice President from 1990 to 1991 and as Vice President - Finance from 1976 to 1990.
Mr. Crawford joined the Company in 1978, was Product Engineering Manager from 1979 until 1984, was Vice President - Engineering/Research from 1984 until 1987, was Vice President - Modular Operations from 1987 to 1988, and was Vice President-Group Operations/Modular Products from 1988 to 1992. Mr. Crawford has been Vice President-Product Development and Value Engineering since 1992.
Mr. Csokasy joined the Company in 1972. He was General Manager - Recreational Vehicles from 1985 to 1987, Manager of Corporate Engineering from 1987 to 1990, and was Vice President - Engineering from 1990 to 1992. He has been Vice President - Engineering and Quality since 1992.
Mr. Lindberg joined the Company in 1983, was Manager of Mass Transit and Heavy Truck Products from 1984 to 1987, was Manager of Group Operations from 1987 until 1990, was Vice President - Group Operation from 1990 to 1992. Mr. Lindberg has been Vice President - Specialty Products and General Manager - Nyloncraft since 1992.
PART II.
ITEM 5.

ITEM 5. MARKET FOR THE REGISTRANT'S COMMON STOCK AND RELATED SHAREHOLDER MATTERS
The Common Shares are traded on the American Stock Exchange under the symbol EXC. The following table sets forth for the fiscal periods indicated the high and low sale prices of the Common Shares, as reported by the American Stock Exchange, and dividends declared per share.
As of February 15, 1994, there were 502 holders of record of the Common Shares.
The Company has paid cash dividends every quarter since becoming a public company in April 1984. The Company intends to continue to pay quarterly cash dividends on its Common Shares, but the payment of dividends and the amount and timing of such dividends will depend upon the Company's earnings, capital requirements, financial condition and other factors deemed relevant by the Company's Board of Directors.
ITEM 6.

ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
SELECTED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL INFORMATION (Amounts in thousands, except per share amounts)
The following table presents selected consolidated financial data of the Company as of and for the five fiscal years ended December 31, 1993. The selected consolidated financial data have been derived from audited consolidated financial statements of the Company. Such selected consolidated financial data should be read in conjunction with "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" and the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Company and the notes thereto included elsewhere herein. The comparability of the results for the periods presented is significantly affected by certain events, as described in "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations--General."
EXCEL INDUSTRIES, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
1. DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS
Excel Industries, Inc. (Company) is engaged in the manufacture and sale of a broad line of window assemblies, manual and electric window regulators, upper door frames, and injection molded thermoplastic parts. The Company's products are used in the manufacture of automobiles, heavy and light trucks, buses and recreational vehicles.
2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Principles of consolidation
The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its wholly-owned subsidiaries. All significant intercompany transactions, profits and balances are eliminated.
Net income per share
Primary net income per share is computed using the weighted average number of shares outstanding during the period. Shares used to compute primary net income per share were 10,122,000 for 1993, 7,553,000 for 1992, and 6,488,000 for 1991.
Fully diluted earnings per share assumes, when dilative, the conversion of the 10% convertible subordinated notes which were issued on January 2, 1990.
Stock dividends and splits are given retroactive effect in computing the weighted average number of shares outstanding during the period.
Short-term investments and marketable securities
Short-term investments amounting to $5,771,000 at December 31, 1993 consist of investments generally in money market funds.
Marketable securities consist of U.S. Government securities, tax- free municipal securities and municipal fund par value preferred shares with maturities generally longer than 90 days.
Such investments are carried at cost which approximates market.
Other income includes interest income of $1,916,000 in 1993, $1,010,000 in 1992, and $674,000 in 1991.
Inventories
Inventories are valued at the lower of cost or market. Cost is determined using the last-in, first-out (LIFO) method for domestic inventories and the first-in, first-out (FIFO) method for Canadian inventories.
Properties
Plant and equipment are carried at cost and include expenditures for new facilities and those which substantially increase the useful lives of existing plant and equipment.
Depreciation
The Company provides for depreciation of plant and equipment using methods and rates designed to amortize the cost of such equipment over its useful life. Depreciation is computed principally on accelerated methods for new plant and equipment and the straight-line method for used equipment. The estimated useful lives range from 10 to 40 years for buildings and improvements and 2 to 20 years for machinery and equipment.
Goodwill
The excess of purchase price over the fair value of net assets of acquired businesses (goodwill) is amortized on a straight-line basis over 20 to 40 years.
Income taxes
Deferred income taxes are provided using the liability method in accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) No. 109, "Accounting for Income Taxes".
3. RESEARCH, ENGINEERING AND DEVELOPMENT
Research, engineering and development expenditures charged to operations approximated $7,913,000 in 1993, $5,518,000 in 1992, and $5,200,000 in 1991.
4. RESTRUCTURING CHARGE
In the fourth quarter of 1992, the Company provided a reserve of $4,500,000 for restructuring costs. The charge was equivalent to $2,900,000 or 34 cents per share after taxes. This charge represented estimated costs to downsize its Aurora, Ontario, Canada plant and relocate production of certain light truck and van windows to other manufacturing plants of the Company. A total of $1,010,000 was incurred in 1993 to transfer a portion of the planned production.
5. INVENTORIES
Inventories consist of the following:
December 31, 1993 1992 (000 Omitted) Raw materials $17,948 $15,302 Work in process and finished goods 12,378 11,699 LIFO reserve (459) (255)
$29,867 $26,746
6. PENSION AND OTHER EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS
Pension and profit sharing plans
The Company and its subsidiaries provide retirement benefits to substantially all employees through various pension, savings and profit sharing plans. Defined benefit plans provide pension benefits that are based on the employee's final average salary for salaried employees and stated amounts for each year of credited service for hourly employees. Contributions and costs for the Company's various other benefit plans are generally determined based on the employee's annual salary. Total expense relating to the Company's various retirement plans aggregated $2,199,000 in 1993, $2,102,000 in 1992, $1,712,000 in 1991.
Components of net pension expense for all defined benefit pension plans are as follows: Year Ended December 31, 1993 1992 1991 (000 Omitted) Service cost $1,319 $1,312 $1,243 Interest cost 1,344 1,245 1,137 Actual return on assets (617) (1,242) (1,139) Net amortization and deferral (582) 190 222
Net defined benefit pension expense $1,464 $1,505 $1,463
The funded status of defined benefit pension plans is as follows:
December 31, 1993 1992 (000 Omitted) Plan assets at fair value $15,844 $ 14,868 Projected benefit obligations 20,421 17,869
(4,577) (3,001) Unrecognized costs 1,862 472
Net accrued pension costs $(2,715) $(2,529)
Actuarial present value of: Vested benefit obligations $15,644 $13,853
Accumulated benefit obligations $16,655 $14,815
Major assumptions: Discount rate 7.5% 8% Rate of increase in compensation 5% 5% to 8% Expected rate of return on plan assets 8 8%
It is generally the Company's policy to fund the ERISA minimum contribution requirement. Plan assets are invested primarily in corporate equity securities and bonds and insurance annuity contracts.
Supplemental and other postretirement benefits
In addition to providing pension benefits, the Company provides certain health care benefits to substantially all active employees and postretirement health care benefits to management employees. The Company is primarily self-insured for such benefits and prior to 1992 followed the practice of expensing such benefits on a pay-as-you-go basis.
In 1992, the Company adopted the provisions of SFAS No. 106, "Employers' Accounting for Postretirement Benefits Other Than Pensions." The Company elected to immediately recognize the Accumulated Postretirement Benefit Obligation (APBO) as January 1, 1992 in the amount of $6,447,000 (approximately $4,000,000 after-tax or 61 cents per share).
Summary information on the Company's plan is as follows:
December 31, 1993 1992 (000 Omitted) Retirees $1,504 $1,060 Retirement-eligible actives 968 1,245 Other active participants 6,077 5,402 Unrecognized gain 407 -- Accrued liability $8,956 $7,707
Accrued postretirement benefit cost
The Company plans to continue the policy of funding these benefits on a pay-as-you-go basis. The components of net periodic postretirement benefit cost are as follows:
Year Ended December 31, 1993 1992 (000 Omitted) Service costs, benefits attributed to employee service during the year $ 821 $ 750 Interest cost on accumulated postretirement benefit obligation 578 510
Net periodic postretirement benefit cost $1,399 $1,260
The discount rate used in determining the APBO was 7.75% in 1993 and 8% in 1992. The assumed health care cost trend rate used in measuring the accumulated postretirement benefit obligation was 10.25% declining by 1% per year to a rate of 6.25%. An increase of 1% in health care cost trend rate would increase the accrued postretirement benefit cost at December 31, 1993 by $2,066,000 and the 1993 annual expense by $384,000.
7. LONG-TERM DEBT
Following is a summary of long-term debt of the Company:
December 31, 1993 1992 (000 Omitted) 10% Convertible subordinated notes $30,000 $30,000 Industrial Revenue Bonds 5,383 4,533 Capital lease obligations 1,264 1,620
36,647 36,153 Current portion (1,553) (1,561)
$35,094 $34,592
During 1992, the Company prepaid the balance owing on its guaranteed senior notes and was subject to a prepayment premium of approximately $1.3 million. Such amount is included in the accompanying income statement in interest expense.
The convertible notes are due on December 1, 2000 and require aggregate prepayments of $8,000,000 in 1996, $7,000,000 in 1997, $6,000,000 in 1998, $5,000,000 in 1999 and $4,000,000 in 2000. The holders of the notes have the option to convert their notes at any time into common shares of the Company at a current conversion price of $13.214 per share. The Notes are subject to prepayment at the option of the Company if the market value of the Company's common shares equals or exceeds 150% of the conversion price for a specified period. The note agreements provide for maintaining a current ratio of 1.5 to 1, restrict the amount of additional borrowings and limit the amount of dividends that can be paid. Currently the Company has available for payment of dividends $19,615,000 of retained earnings.
The Industrial Revenue Bonds bear interest at rates of interest tied to short-term Treasury rates. Certain plant and equipment purchased with the proceeds of the bonds collateralize these obligations.
The Company had available unused lines of credit of approximately $6,300,000 at December 31, 1993.
Long-term debt maturities are $1,553,000 in 1994, $1,358,000 in 1995, $9,557,000 in 1996, $8,072,000 in 1997, $6,580,000 in 1998, and $9,527,000 thereafter.
8. CONTINGENCIES
A chemical cleaning compound, trichlorethylene (TCE), has been found in the soil and groundwater on the Company's property in Elkhart, Indiana, and in 1981, TCE was found in a well field of the City of Elkhart in close proximity to the Company's facility. The Company has been named as one of nine potentially responsible parties (PRPs) in the contamination of this site.
The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) have conducted a preliminary investigation and evaluation of the site and have undertaken temporary remedial action in the nature of air-stripping towers.
In early 1992, the EPA issued a Unilateral Order under Section 106 of the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act which required the Company and other PRPs to undertake remedial work. The Company and the other PRPs have reached an agreement regarding the funding of groundwater monitoring and the operation of the air-strippers as required by the Unilateral Order. The Company was required to install and operate a soil vapor extraction system to remove TCE from the Company's property. As of February 1, 1994, the Company has installed and is operating the equipment pursuant to the Unilateral Order. In addition, the EPA and IDEM have asserted a claim for reimburesement of their investigatory costs and the costs of installing and operating the air-strippers on the munipal well field (the EPA Costs). On February 22, 1993, the United States filed a lawsuit in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Indiana against eight of the PRPs, including the Company. On July 20, 1993, IDEM joined in the lawsuit. The lawsuit seeks recovery of the costs of enforcement, prejudgment interest and an amount in excess of $6.8 million, which represents costs incurred to date by the EPA and IDEM, and a declaration that the eight defendant PRPs are liable for any future costs incurred by the EPA and IDEM in connection with the site.
The Company does not believe the annual cost to the Company of monitoring groundwater and operating the soil vapor extraction system and the air-strippers will be material. Each of the PRPs, including the Company, is jointly and severally liable for the entire amount of the EPA Costs. Certain PRPs, including the Company, are currently attempting to negotiate an agreed upon allocation of such liability. The Company believes that adequate provisions have been recorded for its costs and its anticipated share of EPA Costs and that its cash on hand, unused lines of credit or cash from operations are sufficient to fund any required expenditures.
The EPA has also named the Company as a PRP for costs at three other disposal sites. It has also asked the Company for information about contamination at other sites. The Company believes it either has no liability as a responsible party or that adequate provisions have been recorded for any costs to be incurred.
There are claims and pending legal proceedings against the Company and its subsidiaries with respect to taxes, workers' compensation, warranties and other matters arising out of the ordinary conduct of the business. The ultimate result of these claims and proceedings at December 31, 1993 is not determinable, but, in the opinion of management, adequate provision for anticipated costs has been made or insurance coverage exists to cover such costs.
9. LEASES
The Company leases certain of its manufacturing facilities, sales offices, transportation and other equipment. Total rental expense for all leases was approximately $3,416,000 in 1993, $2,998,000 in 1992, and $2,123,000 in 1991. Future minimum lease payments under noncancellable operating leases are $1,341,000 in 1994, $1,055,000 in 1995, $826,000 in 1996, $753,000 in 1997 and $143,000 in 1998.
10. INCOME TAXES
Effective January 1, 1992, the Company adopted SFAS No. 109, "Accounting for Income Taxes". This statement mandates the liability approach for computing deferred income taxes similar to SFAS No. 96 previously followed by the Company. The cumulative effect of the change was to increase first quarter 1992 earnings by $800,000 (12 cents per share). The change had no impact on the 1992 income tax provision. Prior year financial statements have not been restated.
Pre-tax income (loss) reported by U.S. and foreign subsidiaries was as follows:
Year Ended December 31, 1993 1992 1991 (000 Omitted) United States $17,933 $8,688 $1,835 Foreign 2,292 (2,677) (1,562) $20,225 $6,011 $ 273
The provision (benefit) for income taxes is summarized below:
Year Ended December 31, 1993 1992 1991 (000 Omitted) Current: US federal $ 6,049 $5,007 $1,615 Foreign 465 38 -- State 645 1,226 714 7,159 6,271 2,329
Deferred: US federal (317) (1,922) (1,388) Foreign 941 (1,256) (685) State 2 (659) (134) 626 (3,837) (2,207) $ 7,785 $2,434 $ 122
Deferred income taxes are provided for the temporary differences between the financial reporting basis and tax basis of the Company's assets and liabilities. At December 31, 1993, current deferred income tax assets of $2,886,000 are classified as prepaid expenses, long-term U.S. deferred income tax assets of $6,094,000 are classified as other assets, and $627,000 of long-term foreign deferred income tax liabilities are classified as other long-term liabilities.
Deferred income taxes are comprised of the following at December 31:
1993 1992 (000 Omitted) Gross deferred tax liabilities Property, plant and equipment $ 2,257 $2,571 Inventories 436 308 Other 680 564 3,373 3,443
Gross deferred tax assets Postretirement benefit obligations 6,296 5,046 Restructuring reserve 1,103 1,655 Other accrued liabilities 3,708 4,210 Loss carryforwards 619 1,453 11,726 12,364
Net deferred tax assets $ 8,353 $ 8,921
The provision for income taxes computed by applying the Federal statutory rate to income before income taxes is reconciled to the recorded provision as follows:
Year Ended December 31, 1993 1992 1991 (000 Omitted) Tax at United States statutory rate $7,079 $2,044 $ 93 State income taxes, net of federal benefit 421 374 383 Canadian rate differential on income/(losses) 344 (134) (154) Other (59) 150 (200)
$7,785 $2,434 $ 122
Provision has been made for U.S. and Canadian taxes on undistributed earnings of the Company's Canadian subsidiary.
The Company possesses approximately $10,570,000 of U.S. state income tax loss carryforwards. U.S. state loss carryforwards expire to the extent of $1,002,000 in the year 2005, $4,758,000 in 2006, and $4,810,000 in 2007.
11. SEGMENT INFORMATION AND MAJOR CUSTOMERS
The Company operates in predominately one industry segment: the design, engineering and manufacture of certain components sold to manufacturers in the ground transportation industry.
The Company, through its subsidiaries, operates primarily in two countries: the United States and Canada. The Company's Canadian subsidiary had net sales of $36,074,000 in 1993, $29,421,000 in 1992, and $21,735,000 in 1991. Total assets of the Canadian subsidiary were approximately $9,416,000 and $12,538,000 at December 31, 1993 and 1992, respectively. Intercompany sales were insignificant.
Sales to three major customers, Ford Motor Company, Chrysler Corporation and General Motors Corporation, were approximately 72%, 11% and 4%, respectively, of the Company's net sales in 1993 as compared to 73%, 9% and 4% in 1992 and 69%, 8% and 8% in 1991. Accounts receivable from General Motors Corporation and Chrysler Corporation approximated 68% of trade accounts receivable at December 31, 1993 and 48% at December 31, 1992. Amounts due from Ford Motor Company are classified as "accounts receivable, related party" in the Company's balance sheet at December 31, 1993 and December 31, 1992. Sales to customers outside of the United States and Canada were not significant.
12. COMMON SHARES
The Company has an incentive stock option plan covering key employees which was approved by shareholders in 1984. The plan provides that options may be granted at not less than fair market value and if not exercised, expire 10 years from the date of grant. At December 31, 1993, there were reserved 48,590 shares for the granting of options and options outstanding for 19,250 shares at an average exercise price of $6.59. During 1993, options for 7,875 shares were exercised at an average exercise price of $6.44. There were no options granted nor did any options expire during 1993.
The Company has an employee stock purchase plan and has reserved 353,717 common shares for this purpose. The plan allows eligible employees to authorize payroll withholdings which are used to purchase common shares from the Company at ninety-percent (90%) of the closing price of the common shares on the date of purchase. Through December 31, 1993, 96,296 shares had been issued under the plan.
The Company has reserved 2,270,319 common shares for possible future issuance in connection with its $30,000,000 convertible notes issued on January 2, 1990.
13. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
Ford Motor Company owned 24% of the Company's common shares at December 31, 1993, 30% at December 31, 1992 and 40% at December 31, 1991. On January 11, 1994, Ford Motor Company donated 1,047,201 of the Company's common shares to the Ford Motor Company Fund. On January 13, 1994, Ford Motor Company and the Ford Motor Company Fund announced their intention to dispose of their combined 24% ownership in the Company through a secondary public offering. Ford officials stated that the disposition of common shares would not impact the customer-supplier relationship between Ford and the Company. Significant related party transactions are as follows:
Year Ended December 31, 1993 1992 1991 (000 Omitted) Product sales $373,000 $311,000 $244,000 Product purchases 124,000 77,000 58,000
14. QUARTERLY RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (UNAUDITED)
The following table sets forth in summary form the quarterly results of operations for the years ended December 31, 1993 and 1992.
ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE
None
PART III
ITEM 10. DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT
The information set forth under the caption "ELECTION OF DIRECTORS" in the Company's proxy statement for the 1994 annual meeting of shareholders (the "Proxy Statement") is incorporated herein by reference. The Proxy Statement has previously been filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
The information set forth under the captions "Compensation of Directors," "Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation," "Compensation of Executive Officers," "Summary Compensation Table," "Pension Plan," and "Deferred Compensation Plans" in the Proxy Statement is incorporated herein by reference.
ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT
The information set forth under the captions "Outstanding Shares," "Principal Shareholders," and "Security Ownership of Management" in the Proxy Statement is incorporated herein by reference.
ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS
The information set forth under the caption "Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation" in the Proxy Statement is incorporated herein by reference.
PART IV
ITEM 14. EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES, AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K
(a) (1) Financial Statements
The following consolidated financial statements of the Company and its subsidiaries are included in Item 8