EDGAR 10-K Filing

Company CIK: 14177
Filing Year: 2021
Filename: 14177_10-K_2021_0001493152-21-001208.json

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ITEM 1. BUSINESS
Item 1. Business (dollars in thousands)
This Annual Report on Form 10-K (this “Report”) contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and Bridgford Foods Corporation intends that such forward-looking statements be subject to the safe harbors created thereby. Readers are cautioned that such statements, which may be identified by words including “anticipates,” “believes,” “intends,” “estimates,” “expects,” and similar expressions, are only predictions or estimations and are subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties. These forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the following: general economic and business conditions; the impact of competitive products and pricing; success of operating initiatives; development and operating costs; advertising and promotional efforts; adverse publicity; acceptance of new product offerings; consumer trial and frequency; changes in business strategy or development plans; availability, terms and deployment of capital; availability of qualified personnel; commodity, labor, and employee benefit costs; changes in, or failure to comply with, government regulations; weather conditions; construction schedules; relationships with customers and suppliers; statements regarding the anticipated impact of the COVID-19 pandemic; and other factors referenced in this Report.
The forward-looking statements included herein are based on current expectations that involve a number of risks and uncertainties. These forward-looking statements are based on assumptions regarding our business, which involve judgments with respect to, among other things, future economic and competitive conditions, and future business decisions, all of which are difficult or impossible to predict accurately and many of which are beyond our control. Although we believe that the assumptions underlying the forward-looking statements are reasonable, actual results may differ materially from those set forth in the forward-looking statements. In light of the significant uncertainties inherent in the forward-looking information included herein, the inclusion of such information should not be regarded as representation by us or any other person that the objectives or plans of our company will be achieved. The forward-looking statements contained herein speak as of the date of this Report and we undertake no obligation to update such statements after the date hereof.
COVID-19
We are monitoring and responding to the evolving nature of state and local government actions related to the global novel coronavirus (“COVID-19”) pandemic and its impact on each of our production plant locations as well as our customer base. We coordinate with our local managers for the primary purpose of protecting the health and safety of our team members, ensuring our ability to operate our processing facilities and maintaining the liquidity of our business. We are experiencing multiple challenges related to the pandemic. These challenges increased our operating costs and negatively impacted our volumes during fiscal year 2020 and may continue to do so into fiscal year 2021.
Operationally, we have faced temporary idling of production facilities to ensure team member safety. As a result, we have experienced lower levels of productivity and higher costs of production. This will likely continue at least for the short term until the effects of the pandemic diminish. Both of our business segments have experienced a shift in demand from foodservice to retail. In our Frozen Food Products segment, the volume increases in retail have not been sufficient to offset the losses in foodservice and as a result, we expect continued decreased volume into fiscal year 2021 in this segment. Our Snack Food Products segment has experienced significant volume increases in the short-term.
● Team Members - The health and safety of our team members is our top priority. To protect our team members, we have implemented safety measures recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (“CDC”) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (“OSHA”) in our facilities and have employed social distancing, temperature checks of team members, increased efforts to deep clean and sanitize facilities, the use of protective face coverings in certain environments and making protective face coverings and other protective equipment available to team members. We encourage team members who feel sick to stay at home and provide relaxed attendance policies in some instances. We continue to explore and implement additional ways to promote social distancing in our production facilities by creating additional breakroom space and allowing extra time between shifts to reduce interaction of team members, as well as erecting dividers between workstations or increasing the space between workers on the production floor.
● Customers and Production - The most significant impact from business shutdowns relates to channel shifts and lower production in our Frozen Food Products segment. We are committed to doing our best to ensure the continuity of our business and the availability of our products to customers. We have seen a shift in demand from our foodservice to our retail sales channels as schools and in-dining restaurants have closed across the country. Our production capabilities, including our large scale and geographic proximities, allow us to adapt some of our facilities to the changing demand by shifting certain amounts of production from foodservice to retail. Not all of our facilities can be modified and as a result we expect a net negative impact on our foodservice volumes into fiscal year 2021. In addition, our production facilities are experiencing varying levels of production impacts, including reduced volumes, worker absenteeism and temporary COVID-19-related closures at some of our production facilities. Additionally, we are anticipating the temporary idling of certain production lines that service the foodservice channel as we balance the shifting demand between foodservice and retail sales channels.
● Supply Chain - Our supply chain has stayed largely intact. Although we have experienced some minor disruptions, these events have not significantly impacted our production to date. We have experienced volatility in commodity inputs, in part due to impacts caused by COVID-19 related business disruptions, and we expect this volatility to continue, which may impact our future input costs.
On April 28, 2020, President Trump issued an Executive Order stating the importance of the continued operation of meat and poultry processing facilities and directing the Secretary of Agriculture to issue rules and orders to ensure the continued supply of meat and poultry, consistent with the guidance for the operations of meat and poultry processing facilities jointly issued by the CDC and OSHA.
● Insurance and CARES Act - Although we maintain insurance policies for various risks, we believe most COVID-19 impacts will not be covered by these policies. On March 27, 2020, President Trump signed into law the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act (the “CARES Act”). The CARES Act, among other things, includes provisions relating to refundable payroll tax credits, deferral of the employer portion of social security payments, and expanded income tax net operating loss carryback provisions. While we continue to examine the potential impacts of these actions, we anticipate new regulations related to federal income tax will have a significant impact on our financial statements and cash flow. Late in the second quarter of fiscal 2020 we began implementing the deferral of the employer portion of social security payments and intend to continue this deferral for the duration of its availability which will have a favorable impact on short-term liquidity. The deferral amount as of October 30, 2020 will be approximately $1,103. We did not utilize the refundable payroll tax credit provision.
● Liquidity - Operations provided $9,914 in operating cash flows during the fifty-two weeks ended October 30, 2020. As of that date we had approximately $42,774 of net working capital, which included availability under our revolving line of credit and $4,302 of cash and cash equivalents. We have $4,430 of current debt. Combined with the cash expected to be generated from the Company’s operations, income tax refunds and deferral of social security taxes, we anticipate that we will maintain sufficient liquidity to operate our business into fiscal year 2021 and for completion of the major plant expansion in Chicago, Illinois. We will continue to monitor the impact of COVID-19 on our liquidity and, if necessary, take action to preserve liquidity and ensure that our business can operate during these uncertain times.
Background of Business
Bridgford Foods Corporation (collectively with its subsidiaries, “Bridgford”, the “Company”, “we”, “our”), a California corporation, was organized in 1952. We originally began operations in 1932 as a retail meat market in San Diego, California and evolved into a meat wholesaler for hotels and restaurants, a distributor of frozen food products, a processor and packer of meat, and a manufacturer and distributor of frozen food products for sale on a retail and wholesale basis. Currently, we are primarily engaged in the manufacturing, marketing and distribution of an extensive line of frozen and snack food products throughout the United States. We have not been involved in any bankruptcy, receivership, or similar proceedings since inception nor have we been party to any merger, acquisition, etc. or acquired or disposed of any material amounts of assets during the past five years other than those discussed in Item 7 of this Report. Substantially all of our assets have been acquired in the ordinary course of business.
Description of Business
Bridgford currently operates in two business segments - the processing and distribution of frozen food products and the processing and distribution of snack food products. For information regarding the separate financial performance of the business segments refer to Note 7 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Report.
The following table shows sales, as a percentage of consolidated sales, for each business segment during the last two fiscal years:
Frozen Food Products 21 % 27 %
Snack Food Products 79 % 73 %
100 % 100 %
We manufacture nearly all of our food products and distribute an extensive line of biscuits, bread dough items, roll dough items, dry sausage products and beef jerky. Our direct store delivery network consists of non-refrigerated snack food products. Our frozen food products division serves both food service and retail customers.
Although we have recently introduced several new products, most of these products have not contributed significantly to our revenue growth for fiscal year 2020 with the exception of smokehouse sausage sticks introduced in the second quarter of fiscal year 2018. Our sales are not subject to material seasonal variations. Historically we have been able to respond quickly to the receipt of orders and, accordingly, do not maintain a significant sales backlog. Neither Bridgford nor its industry generally has unusual demands or restrictions on working capital items. During the last fiscal year, we did not enter into any new markets or any significant contractual or other material relationships other than the March 16, 2020 Purchase and Sale Agreement with CRG Acquisition, LLC (“CRG”) and amendments thereto on each of April 10, 2020, June 1, 2020 and November 2, 2020. Refer to Note 1 - Subsequent Events of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Report for further information.
Availability of SEC Filings and Code of Conduct on Internet Website
We maintain an Internet website at www.bridgford.com. Available on this website, free of charge, our annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K and amendments thereto as well as, and reports filed under Section 16 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Our Code of Conduct is also available on the website.
Product Distribution Methods
Our products are delivered to customers using several distinct distribution channels. The distribution channel utilized is dependent upon the needs of our customers, the most efficient proximity to the delivery point, trade customs, and operating segment as well as product type, life and stability. Among our customers are many of the country’s largest broadline and specialty food service distributors. These and other large end purchasers occasionally go through extensive qualification procedures and our manufacturing capabilities are subjected to thorough review by the end purchasers prior to our approval as a vendor. Large end purchasers typically select suppliers that can consistently meet increased volume requirements on a national basis during peak promotional periods. We believe that our manufacturing flexibility, national presence, and long-standing customer relationships should allow us to compete effectively with other manufacturers seeking to provide similar products to our current large food service end purchasers, although no assurances can be given.
The factors that contribute to higher or lower margins generated from each method of distribution depend upon the accepted selling price, level of involvement by our employees in setting up and maintaining displays, distance traveled, and fuel consumed by our company-owned fleet as well as freight and shipping costs depending on the distance the product travels to the delivery point. Management is continually evaluating the profitability of product delivery methods, analyzing alternate methods and weighing economic inputs to determine the most efficient and cost-effective method of delivery to fulfill the needs of our customers.
Major Product Classes
Frozen Food Products
Our frozen food products division serves both food service and retail customers. We sell approximately 140 unique frozen food products through approximately 1,100 wholesalers, cooperatives and distributors.
Frozen Food Products - Food Service Customers
The food service industry is composed of establishments that serve food outside the home and includes restaurants, the food operations of health care providers, schools, hotels, resorts, corporations, and other traditional and non-traditional food service outlets. Growth in this industry has been driven by the increase in away-from-home meal preparation, which has accompanied the expanding number of both dual income and single-parent households. Another trend within the food service industry is the growth in the number of non-traditional food service outlets such as convenience stores, retail stores and supermarkets. These non-traditional locations often lack extensive cooking, storage, or preparation facilities resulting in a need for pre-cooked and prepared foods similar to those we provide. The expansion in the food service industry has also been accompanied by the continued consolidation and growth of broadline and specialty food service distributors, many of which are long-standing customers. Orders from food service customers have decreased as schools and in-dining restaurants have closed across the United States in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Frozen Food Products - Retail Customers
The majority of our existing and targeted retail customers are involved in the resale of branded and private label packaged foods. The same trends which have contributed to the increase in away-from-home meal preparation have also fueled the growth in easy to prepare, microwaveable frozen and refrigerated convenience foods. Among the fastest growing segments is the frozen and refrigerated hand-held foods market. This growth has been driven by improved product quality and variety and the increasing need for inexpensive and healthy food items that require minimal preparation. Despite rapid growth, many categories of frozen and refrigerated hand-held foods have achieved minimal household penetration. We believe we have been successful in establishing and maintaining supply relationships with certain selected leading retailers in this market. Demand from retail customers has increased as consumers opt to buy food from retail establishments for home consumption in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Frozen Food Products - Sales and Marketing
Our frozen food business covers the United States. Products produced by the Frozen Food Products segment are generally supplied to food service and retail distributors who take title to the product upon shipment receipt through company leased long-haul vehicles. In addition to regional sales managers, we maintain a network of independent food service and retail brokers covering most of the United States. Brokers are compensated on a commission basis. We believe that our broker relationships, in close cooperation with our regional sales managers, are a valuable asset providing significant new product and customer opportunities. Regional sales managers perform several significant functions for us, including identifying and developing new business opportunities and providing customer service and support to our distributors and end purchasers through the effective use of our broker network.
Our annual advertising expenditures are directed towards retail and institutional customers. These customers participate in various special promotional and marketing programs and direct advertising allowances we sponsor. We also invest in general consumer advertising in various newspapers, periodicals and coupons to advertise in major markets. We direct advertising toward food service customers with campaigns in major industry publications and through our participation in trade shows throughout the United States. Our advertising strategy includes our presence on social media and online distribution of promotional material.
Snack Food Products
During fiscal year 2020, our snack food products division sold approximately 130 different items through customer-owned distribution centers and a direct-store-delivery network serving approximately 17,000 supermarkets, mass merchandise and convenience retail stores located in 49 states.
Products produced or distributed by the Snack Food Products segment are supplied to customers through either direct delivery to customer warehouses or direct-store-delivery to retail locations. We utilize customer managed warehouse distribution centers to lower distribution cost. Product delivered to the customer’s warehouse is then distributed to the store where it is resold to the end consumer. Our direct-store-delivery system focus emphasizes high quality service of our premium branded product to our customers. We also provide the service of setting up and maintaining the display and restocking our products.
Snack Food Products - Customers
Our customers are comprised of large retail chains and smaller “independent” operators. This part of our business is highly competitive. Proper placement of our product lines is critical to selling success since most items could be considered “impulse” items which are often consumed shortly after purchase. Our ability to sell successfully to this distribution channel depends on aggressive marketing and maintaining relationships with key buyers.
Snack Food Products - Sales and Marketing
Snack food products are distributed across the United States. Regional sales managers perform several significant functions including identifying and developing new business opportunities and providing customer service and support to our customers. We also utilize the services of brokers, where appropriate, to support efficient product distribution and customer satisfaction. We sponsor a fishing team which participates at the highest levels of both the FLW and B.A.S.S. tours.
Product Planning and Research and Development
We continually monitor the consumer acceptance of each product within our extensive product line. Individual products are regularly added to and deleted from our product line. Historically, the addition or deletion of any individual product has not had a material effect on our operations in such fiscal year. We believe that a key factor in the success of our products is our system of carefully targeted research and testing of our products to ensure high quality and that each product matches an identified market opportunity. The emphasis in new product introductions in the past several years has been in single-serve items. We are constantly searching to develop new products to complement our existing product lines and improve processing techniques and formulas. We utilize an in-house test kitchen and consultants to research and experiment with unique food preparation methods, improve quality control and analyze new ingredient mixtures.
Competition
Our products are sold under highly competitive conditions. All food products can be considered competitive with other food products, but we consider our principal competitors to include national, regional and local producers and distributors of refrigerated, frozen and non-refrigerated snack food products. Several of our competitors include large companies with substantially greater financial and marketing resources than ours. Existing competitors may broaden their product lines and potential competitors may enter or increase their focus on our markets, resulting in greater competition for us. We believe that our products compete favorably with those of our competitors. Such competitors’ products compete against ours for retail shelf space, institutional distribution and customer preference.
Effect of Government Regulations
Our operations are subject to extensive inspection and regulation by the United States Department of Agriculture (the “USDA”), the Food and Drug Administration (the “FDA”), and by other federal, state, and local authorities regarding the processing, packaging, storage, transportation, distribution, and labeling of products that we manufacture, produce and process. Our processing facilities and products are subject to continuous inspection by the USDA and/or other federal, state, and local authorities. The USDA has issued strict regulations concerning the control of listeria monocytogenes in ready-to-eat meat and poultry products and contamination by food borne pathogens such as E. coli and salmonella and implemented a system of regulation known as the Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points (“HACCP”) program. The HACCP program requires all meat and poultry processing plants to develop and implement sanitary operating procedures and other program requirements. The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (“OSHA”) oversees safety compliance and establishes certain employer responsibilities to help “assure safe and healthful working conditions” and keep the workplace free of recognized hazards or practices likely to cause death or serious injury. We believe that we are currently in compliance with governmental laws and regulations and that we maintain the necessary permits and licenses relating to our operations.
To date, federal, state, and local environmental laws and regulations, including those relating to the discharge of materials into the environment, have not had a material effect on our business.
Importance of Key Customers
Sales to Wal-Mart® comprised 36.9% of revenues in fiscal year 2020 and 19.8% of total accounts receivable was due from Wal-Mart® as of October 30, 2020. Sales to Wal-Mart® comprised 35.7% of revenues in fiscal year 2019 and 31.9% of total accounts receivable was due from Wal-Mart® as of November 1, 2019. Sales to Dollar General® comprised 13.6% of revenues in fiscal year 2020 and 31.1% of total accounts receivable was due from Dollar General® as of October 30, 2020. Sales to Dollar General® comprised 11.1% of revenues in fiscal year 2019 and 21.7% of total accounts receivable was due from Dollar General® as of November 1, 2019.
Sources and Availability of Raw Materials
We purchase large quantities of pork, beef, and flour. These ingredients are generally available from a number of different suppliers although the availability of these ingredients is subject to seasonal variation. We build ingredient inventories to take advantage of downward trends in seasonal prices or anticipated supply limitations.
Most flour purchases are made at market price without contracts. We also purchase bulk flour under short-term fixed price contracts at current market prices. The contracts are usually effective for a month or less and are not material to our operations. These contracts are settled within a month’s time and no significant contracts remain open at the close of the reporting period. We monitor and manage our ingredient costs to help negate volatile daily swings in market prices when possible. We do not participate in the commodity futures market or hedging to limit commodity exposure.
We continue to monitor the development of the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on our operations including our supply chain and labor force. The pandemic could potentially cause disruptions to our supply chain. Global supply may be restricted causing price pressure on certain ingredients and raw materials used in our products which could disrupt our operations. We are unable to accurately predict the uncertainties related to the future course of the COVID-19 pandemic including overall economic stability, the spread, length and severity of the virus and any future governmental actions.
Employees
We had 563 employees as of October 30, 2020, approximately 35% of whose employment relationship is governed by collective bargaining agreements. These agreements currently expire between March 2022 and February 2024. We believe that our relationship with all of our employees is favorable and that contracts will be settled favorably.
Executive Officers of the Registrant
The names, ages, and positions of all our executive officers as of January 15, 2021 are listed below. William L. Bridgford is the nephew of Allan L. Bridgford. Officers are normally appointed annually by the Board of Directors at their meeting immediately following the annual meeting of shareholders. Three executive officers are full-time employees of our company. Allan L. Bridgford worked 50% of full time during fiscal year 2020. There are no agreements or understandings pursuant to which any of the executive officers was or is selected to serve as an executive officer.
Name
Age
Position(s) with our company
Allan L. Bridgford
Vice President and Chairman of the Executive Committee
William L. Bridgford
Chairman and member of the Executive Committee
John V. Simmons
President and member of the Executive Committee
Raymond F. Lancy
Chief Financial Officer, Executive Vice President, Treasurer and member of the Executive Committee

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ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS
Item 1A. Risk Factors
In addition to the other matters set forth in this Report, the continuing operations and the price of our common stock are subject to the following risks, each of which could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition, and results of operations. The risks described below are only the risks that we currently believe are material to our business. However, additional risks not presently known, or risks that are currently believed to be immaterial, may also impair our business operations.
We are subject to general risks in the food industry, including, among other things, risk relating to changes in consumer preferences and product contamination as well as general economic conditions, any of which risks, if realized, could negatively impact our operating results and financial position.
The food industry, and the markets within the food industry in which we compete, are subject to various risks, including the following: evolving consumer preferences, nutritional and health-related concerns, federal, state and local food inspection and processing controls, consumer product liability claims, risks of product tampering, and the availability and expense of liability insurance. The meat and poultry industries are subject to scrutiny due to the association of meat and poultry products with recent outbreaks of illness, and on rare occasions even death, caused by food borne pathogens. Product recalls are sometimes required in the food industry to withdraw contaminated or mislabeled products from the market. Additionally, the failure to identify and react appropriately to changes in consumer trends, demands and preferences could lead to, among other things, reduced demand and price reduction for our products. Further, we may be adversely affected by changes in domestic or foreign economic conditions, including inflation or deflation, interest rates, availability of capital markets, consumer spending rates, and energy availability and costs (including fuel surcharges). These and other general risks related to the food industry, if realized by us, could have a significant adverse effect on demand for our products, as well as the costs and availability of raw materials, ingredients and packaging materials, thereby negatively affecting our operating results and financial position.
Fluctuations in the prices that we pay for raw materials could negatively impact our financial results.
We purchase large quantities of commodity pork, beef and flour. Historically, market prices for products we process have fluctuated in response to a number of factors, including changes in the United States government farm support programs, changes in international agricultural and trading policies, weather, and other conditions during the growing and harvesting seasons. Our operating results are heavily dependent upon the prices paid for raw materials. The marketing of our value-added products does not lend itself to instantaneous changes in selling prices. Changes in selling prices are relatively infrequent and do not compare with the volatility of commodity markets. While fluctuations in significant cost structure components, such as ingredient commodities and fuel prices, have had a significant impact on profitability over the last three years, the impact of general price inflation on our financial position and results of operations has not been significant. Future volatility of general price inflation or deflation and raw material cost and availability could adversely affect our financial results.
We are subject to extensive government regulations and a failure to comply with such regulations could negatively impact our financial results.
Our operations are subject to extensive inspection and regulation by the USDA, FDA and by other federal, state, and local authorities regarding the processing, packaging, storage, transportation, distribution, and labeling of products that are manufactured, produced and processed by us. Our processing facilities and products are subject to continuous inspection by the USDA and/or other federal, state, and local authorities. The USDA has issued strict regulations concerning the control of listeria monocytogenes in ready-to-eat meat and poultry products and contamination by food borne pathogens such as E. coli and salmonella and implemented a system of regulation known as the HACCP program. The HACCP program requires all meat and poultry processing plants to develop and implement sanitary operating procedures and other program requirements. OSHA oversees safety compliance and establishes certain employer responsibilities to help “assure safe and healthful working conditions” and keep the workplace free of recognized hazards or practices likely to cause death or serious injury. We believe that we are currently in compliance with governmental laws and regulations and that we maintain necessary permits and licenses relating to our operations.
A failure to obtain or a loss of necessary permits and licenses could delay or prevent us from meeting current product demand and could adversely affect our operating performance. Furthermore, we are routinely subject to new or modified laws, regulations and accounting standards. If found to be out of compliance with applicable laws and regulations in these or other areas, we could be subject to civil remedies, including fines, injunctions, recalls, or asset seizures, as well as potential criminal sanctions, any of which could have a significant adverse effect on our financial results.
We depend on our key management, the loss of which could negatively impact our operations.
Our executive officers and certain other key employees have been primarily responsible for the development and expansion of our business, and the loss of the services of one or more of these individuals could adversely affect us. Our success will be dependent in part upon our continued ability to recruit, motivate, and retain qualified personnel. We cannot assure that we will be successful in this regard. We have no employment or non-competition agreements with key personnel except for a consulting agreement with Allan L. Bridgford that is effective after his retirement from employment with our company.
We depend on our major customers and any loss of such customers could have a negative impact on our profitability.
We could suffer significant reductions in revenues and operating income if we lost one or more of our largest customers, including Wal-Mart® and Dollar General®, which accounted for 36.9% and 13.6%, respectively, of sales in fiscal year 2020. Many of our customers, such as supermarkets, warehouse clubs, and food distributors have consolidated in recent years. Such consolidation has produced large, sophisticated customers with increased buying power who are more capable of operating with reduced inventories while demanding lower pricing and increased promotional programs. These customers also may use their shelf space for their own private label products. Failure to respond to these trends could reduce our volume and cause us to lower prices or increase promotional spending for our product lines which could adversely affect our profitability.
With more than 80% of our stock beneficially owned by the Bridgford family, there are risks that they can exert significant influence or control over our corporate matters.
Members of the Bridgford family beneficially own, in the aggregate, more than 80% of our outstanding stock. In addition, two members of the Bridgford family currently serve on the Board of Directors. As a result, members of the Bridgford family have the ability to exert substantial influence or actual control over our management and affairs and over substantially all matters requiring action by our shareholders, including amendments to by-laws, election and removal of directors, any proposed merger, consolidation or sale of all or substantially all of our assets and other corporate transactions. This concentration of ownership may also delay or prevent a change in control otherwise favored by our other shareholders and could depress our stock price. Additionally, as a result of the Bridgford family’s significant ownership of the outstanding voting stock, we have relied on the “controlled company” exemption from certain corporate governance requirements of the NASDAQ stock market. Therefore, among other things, we have elected not to implement the rule that provides for a nominating committee to identify and recommend nominees to the Board of Directors and have instead elected to have the full Board of Directors perform such function. Additionally, pursuant to this exemption, our compensation committee, which is made up of independent directors, does not have sole authority to determine the compensation of our executive officers, including our Chairman of the Board.
We participate in Multiemployer Pension Plans which could negatively impact our operations and profitability.
We participate in “multiemployer” pension plans administered by labor unions on behalf of their employees. We make monthly contributions for healthcare and pension benefit obligations. The contribution amount may change depending upon the ability of participating companies to fund these pension liabilities as well as the actual and expected returns on pension plan assets. Should we withdraw from the union and cease participation in a union plan, federal law could impose a penalty for additional contributions to the plan. The penalty would be recorded as an expense in the consolidated statement of operations. The ultimate amount of the withdrawal liability is dependent upon several factors including the funded status of the plan and contributions made by other participating companies. We continue to participate in other multiemployer union plans. In the event of a full or partial withdrawal from these plans, the impact to our financial statements could be material.
Eminent domain and land risk regulations could negatively impact our financial results and financial position.
We own real property on which we operate our processing and/or our distribution operations. As is the case with any owner of real property, we may be subject to eminent domain proceedings that can impact the value of investments we have made in real property as well as potentially disrupt our business operations. If subject to eminent domain proceedings or other government takings, we may not be adequately compensated.
The COVID-19 pandemic could negatively impact our operations and financial condition.
We have considered the impact of federal, state and local government actions related to the global novel coronavirus pandemic (“COVID-19” or “pandemic”) on our condensed consolidated financial statements. The business disruptions associated with the pandemic had a significant negative impact on our consolidated condensed financial statements for the fiscal year ended October 30, 2020. We expect these events to have future business impacts, the extent of which is uncertain and largely subject to whether the severity worsens, or the duration of current business shutdowns continue. These impacts could include but may not be limited to risks and uncertainty related to shifts in demand between sales channels, market volatility, constraints in our supply chain, our ability to operate production facilities and worker availability. These unknowns may subject the Company to future risks related to long-lived asset impairments, increased reserves for uncollectible accounts, price and availability of ingredients and raw materials used in our products and adjustments to reflect the market value of our inventory.

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ITEM 1B. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS
Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments
Not applicable.

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ITEM 2. PROPERTIES
Item 2. Properties
We own the following properties:
Property Location Building
Square
Footage
Acreage
Anaheim, California * 100,000 5.0
Dallas, Texas * 94,000 4.0
Dallas, Texas * 30,000 2.0
Dallas, Texas * 16,000 1.0
Dallas, Texas * 3,200 1.5
Statesville, North Carolina * 42,000 8.0
Chicago, Illinois ** (1) 156,000 1.5
Chicago, Illinois ** 177,000 8.0
* - property used by Frozen Food Products Segment.
** - property used by Snack Food Products Segment.
(1) - sale pending.
We utilize the foregoing properties for processing, warehousing, distributing and administrative purposes. We also lease warehouse and/or office facilities throughout the United States through month-to-month rental agreements. We believe that our properties are generally adequate to satisfy our foreseeable needs. Additional properties may be acquired and/or plants expanded if favorable opportunities and conditions arise.

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ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
Item 3. Legal Proceedings
No material legal proceedings were pending against us as of October 30, 2020 or as of the date of filing of this Report. We are likely to be subject to claims arising from time to time in the ordinary course of our business. In certain of such actions, plaintiffs may request punitive or other damages that may not be covered by insurance and, accordingly, no assurance can be given with respect to the ultimate outcome of any such possible future claims or litigation or their effect on us. Any adverse litigation trends and outcomes could significantly and negatively affect our financial results.

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ITEM 4. MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURE
Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures
Not applicable.
PART II

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ITEM 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY
Item 5. Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
Common Stock and Dividend Data
Our common stock is traded on the Nasdaq Global Market under the symbol “BRID”.
As of January 12, 2021, there were 718 shareholders of record in our common stock.
The payment of future dividends, if any, will be at the discretion of our Board of Directors and will depend upon future earnings, financial requirements, and other factors.
Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities
During the period covered by this Report, we did not sell or issue any equity securities that were not registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.
Repurchases of Equity Securities by the Issuer
During fiscal year 2020, we did not repurchase any shares of our common stock pursuant to our stock repurchase program previously authorized by the Board of Directors. The following table provides information regarding our repurchases of common stock in each of the four periods comprising the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2020.
Period (1) Total
Number of
Shares
Purchased
Average
Price Paid
Per Share
Total
Number of
Shares
Purchased
As Part of
Publicly
Announced
Plans or
Programs (2)
Maximum
Number of
Shares that
May Yet
Be
Purchased
Under the
Plans or
Programs (2)
July 11, 2020 - August 7, 2020 - $ - - 120,113
August 8, 2020 - September 4, 2020 - - - 120,113
September 5, 2020 - October 2, 2020 - - - 120,113
October 3, 2020 - October 30, 2020 - - - 120,113
Total - $ - -
(1) The periods shown are our fiscal periods during the sixteen-week quarter ended October 30, 2020.
(2) All repurchases reflected in the foregoing table were made on the open market. Our stock repurchase program was approved by the Board of Directors in November 1999 (1,500,000 shares authorized, disclosed in a Form 10-K filed on January 26, 2000) and was expanded in June 2005 (500,000 additional shares authorized, disclosed in a press release and Form 8-K filed on June 17, 2005). Under the stock repurchase program, we are authorized, at the discretion of management and the Board of Directors, to purchase up to an aggregate of 2,000,000 shares of our common stock on the open market. Such purchases of common stock may occur from time to time, in open market transactions pursuant to Rule 10b-18 of the Exchange Act. The daily purchase quantity is defined as a number of shares up to, but not to exceed, each day’s applicable Rule 10b-18 maximum volume limit (i.e. 25% of the prior four calendar weeks’ average daily trading volume); however, once per week a block of stock may be purchased that exceeds the Rule 10b-18 average daily trading volume condition. As of October 30, 2020, the total maximum number of shares that may be purchased under the Purchase Plan is 120,113 at a purchase price not to exceed $10.00 per share for a total maximum aggregate price (exclusive of commission) of $1,201,130. However, our agreement with Citigroup lapsed on its own (by its terms) on October 14, 2019.

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ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
Item 6. Selected Financial Data
Not applicable for a smaller reporting company.

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ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
For a complete understanding, this Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations should be read in conjunction with the Consolidated Financial Statements and Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements contained in this Report.
Certain statements under “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and elsewhere in this Report constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Securities Act of 1933 and the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (refer to Part I., Item 1. Business for more information).
Results of Operations (in thousands except percentages)
Fiscal Year Ended October 30, 2020 (52 weeks) Compared to Fiscal Year Ended November 1, 2019 (52 weeks)
Net Sales-Consolidated
Net sales in fiscal year 2020 increased $9,185 (4.9%) when compared to the prior fiscal year. The changes in net sales were comprised as follows:
Impact on Net Sales-Consolidated % $
Selling price per pound -1.0 (2,068 )
Unit sales volume in pounds 5.3 10,697
Returns activity 0.5
Promotional activity 0.1 (327 )
Increase in net sales 4.9 9,185
Net Sales-Frozen Food Products Segment
Net sales in the Frozen Food Products segment in fiscal year 2020 decreased $9,993 (19.5%) compared to the prior fiscal year. The changes in net sales were comprised as follows:
Impact on Net Sales-Frozen Food Products % $
Selling price per pound 2.8 1,604
Unit sales volume in pounds -23.5 (13,524 )
Returns activity -0.1
Promotional activity 1.3 1,917
Decrease in net sales -19.5 (9,993 )
The decrease in net sales in fiscal year 2020 was attributable to lower unit sales volume partially offset by a higher selling price per pound. The decrease in net sales was primarily driven by a significant decrease in volume in our shelf-stable sandwich business to institutional customers partially offset by an increase in selling prices implemented in the first quarter of fiscal year 2019. Other institutional Frozen Food Product sales, including sheet dough and rolls, decreased 29% by volume while retail sales volume increased 38%. During fiscal year 2020, demand shifted from foodservice to retail sales channels as schools and in-dining restaurants closed across the United States in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Returns activity increased compared to the prior fiscal year. Promotional activity decreased due to lower bid price reductions, rebates and menu allowances as a percentage of sales.
Net Sales-Snack Food Products Segment
Net sales in the Snack Food Products segment in fiscal year 2020 increased $19,178 (13.9%) compared to the prior fiscal year. The changes in net sales were comprised as follows:
Impact on Net Sales-Snack Food Products % $
Selling price per pound -2.5 (3,671 )
Unit sales volume in pounds 16.6 24,222
Returns activity 0.8
Promotional activity -1.0 (2,246 )
Increase in net sales 13.9 19,178
The increase in net sales in fiscal year 2020 was attributable to higher sales through our direct store delivery distribution channel. The weighted average selling price per pound decreased due to significant volume increases in high volume, low margin accounts. Promotional offers increased due to higher sales to high-volume, high-promotion customers. Returns activity decreased slightly compared to the 2019 fiscal year.
Cost of Products Sold and Gross Margin-Consolidated
Cost of products sold from continuing operations increased by $11,331 (8.9%) compared to the prior fiscal year. Higher unit sales volume in the Snack Food Products segment was the primary contributing factor to the increase in cost of products sold. Gross overhead spending decreased but was offset by significant increases in commodity costs, higher production labor and higher inbound freight costs. Costs related to an additional production facility completed at the end of fiscal year 2020 also increased overhead expenses. An increase in commodity costs during fiscal year 2020 contributed to the increase in cost of goods sold. The gross margin decreased from 32.7% to 30.1% during fiscal year 2020 compared to the prior fiscal year.
Change in Cost of Products Sold by Segment $ % Commodity $
Increase
Frozen Food Products Segment (5,757 ) -4.5
Snack Food Products Segment 17,088 13.4 3,815
Total 11,331 8.9 3,885
Cost of Products Sold and Gross Margin-Frozen Food Products Segment
Cost of products sold in the Frozen Food Products segment decreased by $5,757 (17.2%) in fiscal year 2020 compared to the prior fiscal year. Decreased volume and changes in product mix were the primary contributing factors to the decrease. Higher flour commodity costs of approximately $70 partially offset the decrease in costs of goods sold. The gross margin percentage decreased from 34.7% to 32.9% during fiscal year 2020 compared to the prior fiscal year.
Cost of Products Sold and Gross Margin-Snack Food Products Segment
Cost of products sold in the Snack Food Products segment increased by $17,088 (18.2%) compared to the prior fiscal year due primarily to a substantial increase in sales volume. Meat commodity costs increased during fiscal year 2020 adding to the increase in cost of products sold. The cost of meat commodities increased approximately $3,815 during fiscal year 2020 compared to the prior fiscal year. Higher depreciation on processing equipment impacted the cost of products sold. The gross margin earned in this segment decreased from 31.9% to 29.3% during fiscal year 2020 primarily as a result of higher commodity costs.
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses-Consolidated
Selling, general and administrative expenses (“SG&A”) in fiscal year 2020 increased $1,609 (3.0%) when compared to the prior fiscal year. The increase in this category did not directly correspond to the change in sales.
The table below summarizes the primary expense variances in this category:
October 30, 2020
(52 Weeks)
November 1, 2019
(52 Weeks)
Expense Increase
(Decrease)
Healthcare costs $ 1,949 $ 3,091 $ (1,142 )
Pension costs 1,333 1,101
Travel 1,649 2,397 (748 )
Wages and bonus 24,079 23,399
Outside consulting 2,369 1,785
Product advertising 6,714 6,303
Outside storage
Cash surrender value gains (906 ) (666 ) (240 )
Vehicle repairs 1,018
Other SG&A 15,810 15,368
Total - SG&A 54,446 52,837 1,609
Healthcare benefit expense has decreased due to recent favorable claim activity compared to fiscal year 2019. The increase in pension expense was due to a higher unrecognized net loss compared to the prior year. Travel expenses decreased due to travel restrictions and stay-at-home orders in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Higher labor commissions on increased sales resulted in higher wages and bonus expense in fiscal year 2020 compared to the prior year. Outside consulting costs increased due to higher real estate advisory services and other related legal fees. Costs for product advertising increased mainly as a result of higher payments under brand licensing agreements in the Snack Food Products segment during fiscal year 2020. Outside storage costs increased due to limited space at the new facility being used to warehouse products prior to shipment. The gain on cash surrender value of life insurance policies increased substantially due to higher stock market gains compared to fiscal year 2019. Vehicle repairs increased in the Snack Food Products segment. The major components comprising the increase of “Other SG&A” expenses were computer maintenance and utilities.
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses-Frozen Food Products Segment
SG&A expenses in the Frozen Food Products segment decreased by $2,301 (15.5%) to $12,566 during fiscal year 2020 compared to the prior fiscal year. The overall decrease in SG&A expenses was due to lower unit sales volume, profit-sharing accruals and product advertising.
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses-Refrigerated and Snack Food Products Segment
SG&A expenses in the Snack Food Products segment increased by $3,910 (10.3%) to $41,880 during fiscal year 2020 compared to the prior fiscal year. Most of the increase was due to higher unit sales volume partially offset by an allocated gain on cash surrender value of life insurance policies.
Gain or Loss on Sale of Property, Plant and Equipment
The gain or loss during fiscal years 2020 and 2019 was due to ordinary gain or loss on disposal of assets.
Income Taxes
The Company’s effective income tax rate was -42.7% and 24.0% in fiscal years 2020 and 2019, respectively. The effective income tax rate differed from the applicable mixed statutory rate of approximately 26.4% due to the rate differential on our net operating loss carryback available under the CARES Act, non-deductible meals and entertainment, non-taxable gains and losses on life insurance policies and state income taxes. (Refer to Note 4 of Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for more information).
Liquidity and Capital Resources (in thousands except share amounts, percentages and ratios)
The principal source of our operating cash flow is cash receipts from the sale of our products, net of costs to manufacture, store, market and deliver such products. We normally fund our operations from cash balances and cash flow generated from operations. We borrowed $15,000 during fiscal year 2019 and $18,450 during the first half of fiscal year 2020 to purchase specific equipment for our new Chicago processing facility. In addition, we borrowed $4,500 under our line of credit with Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. during the first quarter of fiscal year 2020 to fund operations which was repaid in the third quarter of fiscal 2020. We borrowed $2,000 under the line of credit subsequent to the end of fiscal year 2020 on December 2, 2020.
On March 16, 2020, we entered into a Purchase and Sale Agreement with CRG Acquisition, LLC (“CRG”) as amended, pursuant to which we agreed to sell to CRG a parcel of land including an approximate 156,000 square foot four-story industrial food processing building located at 170 N. Green Street in Chicago, Illinois (the “Property”). Proceeds from the purchase price for the Property of $60,000 are anticipated subject to a due diligence period and certain closing adjustments and prorations, and is conditioned upon, among other customary closing conditions, CRG receiving zoning and other governmental approvals necessary for the construction and development of a mixed use project on the Property in accordance with certain development plans to be approved by the City of Chicago. The cost basis of the Property was immaterial. The escrow account for the transaction has received $1,350 in earnest money through October 30, 2020. We have received a total of $225 which is non-refundable earnest money and thus not part of restricted cash.
Historically, we expect positive operating and cash flows in the first quarter of our fiscal year from the liquidation of inventory and accounts receivable balances related to holiday season sales. Anticipated commodity price trends may affect future cash balances. Certain commodities may be purchased in advance of our immediate needs to lower the ultimate cost of processing.
Cash flows from operating activities:
October 30, 2020
(52 Weeks)
November 1, 2019
(52 Weeks)
Net income $ 7,323 $ 6,484
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation 5,514 4,153
(Recovery of) provision for losses on accounts receivable (8 )
Reduction in promotional allowances (423 ) (852 )
Loss (Gain) on sale of property, plant and equipment (58 )
Deferred income taxes, net 6,385 1,889
Changes in operating working capital (8,816 ) (4,761 )
Net cash provided by operating activities $ 9,917 $ 7,247
For the fifty-two weeks ended October 30, 2020, net cash provided by operating activities was $9,917, an increase of $2,670 compared to the fifty-two weeks ended November 1, 2019. The net increase in cash provided by operating activities primarily related to higher net income of $7,323, deferred income taxes of $6,045 and higher accounts payable of $2,509 partially offset by an increase in inventory of $2,929 and an increase in accounts receivable of $1,512. During fiscal year 2020, we did not contribute towards our defined benefit pension plan. Plan funding strategies may be adjusted depending upon economic conditions, investment options, tax deductibility, or legislative changes in funding requirements.
Our cash conversion cycle (defined as days of inventory and trade receivables less days of trade payables outstanding) was equal to 66 days for the fifty-two weeks ended October 30, 2020 and 67 days for the fifty-two weeks ended November 1, 2019.
For the fifty-two weeks ended November 1, 2019, net cash provided by operating activities was $7,247. The result was primarily related to lower net income, an increase in inventory and deferred income taxes. During fiscal year 2019, we funded $875 towards our defined benefit pension plan.
Cash used in investing activities:
October 30, 2020
(52 Weeks)
November 1, 2019
(52 Weeks)
Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment $ 39 $ 61
Proceeds from deposits in escrow 1,125 -
Additions to property, plant and equipment (24,482 ) (25,739 )
Net cash used in investing activities $ (23,318 ) $ (25,678 )
Expenditures for property, plant and equipment include the acquisition of equipment, upgrading of facilities to maintain operating efficiency and investments in cost effective technologies to lower costs. In general, we capitalize the cost of additions and improvements and expense the cost of repairs and maintenance. We may also capitalize costs related to improvements that extend the life, increase the capacity, or improve the efficiency of existing machinery and equipment. Specifically, capitalization of upgrades of facilities to maintain operating efficiency include acquisitions of machinery and equipment used on packaging lines and refrigeration equipment used to process food products. Proceeds from deposits in escrow of $1,125 relate to the pending sale of a parcel of land including an approximate 156,000 square foot four-story industrial food processing building located at 170 N. Green Street in Chicago, Illinois. Refer to Note 1 - Subsequent Events for more information. We have received a total of $1,350 in deposits in escrow less $225 received as non-refundable earnest money.
The table below highlights the additions to property, plant and equipment for the fifty-two weeks ended:
October 30, 2020
(52 Weeks)
November 1, 2019
(52 Weeks)
Land $ - $ -
Building - -
Building improvements 4,669 10,103
Furniture and fixture -
Temperature control 3,285
Processing equipment 29,466 2,019
Packaging lines 2,641
Vehicles for sales and/or delivery 1,585
Quality control and communication systems
Computer software and hardware
Forklifts -
Change in projects in process (11,455 ) 5,032
Additions to property, plant and equipment $ 24,482 $ 25,739
Expenditures for additions to property, plant and equipment during the fifty-two weeks ended October 30, 2020 include projects in process of $1,090 related to the new facility in Chicago.
Cash provided by financing activities:
October 30, 2020
(52 Weeks)
November 1, 2019
(52 Weeks)
Payments of capital lease obligations $ (24 ) $ (17 )
Proceeds from bank borrowings 18,450 17,000
Repayments of bank borrowings (3,076 ) (3,253 )
Net cash provided by financing activities $ 15,350 $ 13,730
Our stock repurchase program was approved by the Board of Directors in November 1999 and was expanded in June 2005. Under the stock repurchase program, we were authorized, at the discretion of management and the Board of Directors, to purchase up to an aggregate of 2,000,000 shares of our common stock on the open market. As of the end of fiscal year 2020, 120,113 shares remained authorized for repurchase under the program.
The Company leases three long-haul trucks received during fiscal year 2019. The six-year leases for these trucks expire in 2025. Amortization of equipment under capital lease was $71 in 2020. The Company leased one long-haul truck for $40 during fiscal year 2020, and that lease term is two years.
We maintain a line of credit with Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. that extends through March 1, 2022. Under the terms of this line of credit, we may borrow up to $7,500 at an interest rate equal to the bank’s prime rate or LIBOR plus 1.5%. We borrowed $2,000 under this line of credit on November 24, 2019 and $2,500 on January 24, 2020 for a combined total of $4,500. We repaid the balance on this line of credit with Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. on May 13, 2020 of $4,500 with the proceeds from the fifth borrowing of $7,200 under the master collateral loan and security agreement with Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. described below. The Company was in compliance with all covenants as of October 30, 2020. Subsequent to October 30, 2020, we borrowed $2,000 under the line of credit on December 2, 2020.
On December 26, 2018, we entered into a master collateral loan and security agreement with Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. (the “Original Wells Fargo Loan Agreement”) for up to $15,000 in equipment financing as amended to expand facility. Pursuant to the Original Wells Fargo Loan Agreement, we borrowed the following amounts.
Type and Number (1)
Date Funds Received
Rate
Amount
Interest Amount and Date
Equipment Loan No. 01
12/26/18
4.13 %
$ 7,500
$
01/31/19
Equipment Loan No. 02
04/23/19
3.98 %
7,500
05/31/19
Equipment Loan No. 03
12/23/19
3.70 %
3,750
02/03/20
Equipment Loan No. 04
03/06/20
3.29 %
7,500
03/13/20
Equipment Loan No. 05
04/17/20
3.68 %
7,200
05/15/20
Total
$ 33,450
$
(1) Term: 7 years for 84 installment payments.
The Wells Fargo Loan Agreement as amended and line of credit, contain various affirmative and negative covenants that limit the use of funds and define other provisions of the loan. The main financial covenants are listed below:
● Total Liabilities divided by Tangible Net Worth not greater than 2.5 to 1.0 at each fiscal quarter,
● Quick Ratio not less than 1.0 to 1.0 at each fiscal quarter end, and
● Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio not less than 1.25 to 1.0 as of each fiscal quarter end, determined on a trailing 4-quarter basis.
Aggregate contractual maturities of debt in future fiscal years are as follows:
Fiscal Years
Debt Payable
$ 4,429
$ 4,599
$ 4,775
$ 4,958
$ 5,148
2026-2027
$ 5,213
The Company was in compliance with all covenants under the Wells Fargo Loan Agreement and line of credit as of October 30, 2020.
Impact of Inflation
Our operating results are heavily dependent upon the prices paid for raw materials. The marketing of our value-added products does not lend itself to instantaneous changes in selling prices. Changes in selling prices are relatively infrequent and do not compare with the volatility of commodity markets. While fluctuations in significant cost structure components, such as ingredient commodities and fuel prices, have had a significant impact on profitability over the last two fiscal years, the impact of general price inflation on our financial position and results of operations has not been significant. However, future volatility of general price inflation or deflation and raw material cost and availability could adversely affect our financial results.
Management is of the opinion that our strong financial position and our capital resources are sufficient to provide for our operating needs and capital expenditures for fiscal year 2021.
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
We do not currently have any off-balance sheet arrangements within the meaning of Item 303(a)(4) of Regulation S-K.
Contractual Obligations
Except as described above, we had no other debt or other contractual obligations within the meaning of Item 303(a)(5) of Regulation S-K, as of October 30, 2020.
Our expected future liability related to construction of the new Chicago processing facility is approximately $3,006 as of October 30, 2020.
Critical Accounting Policies
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make certain estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported revenues and expenses during the respective reporting periods. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Amounts estimated related to liabilities for self-insured workers’ compensation, employee healthcare and pension benefits are especially subject to inherent uncertainties and these estimated liabilities may ultimately settle at amounts not originally estimated. We record promotions, returns allowances, bad debt and inventory allowances based on recent and historical trends. Management believes its current estimates are reasonable and based on the best information available at the time.
Disclosure concerning our policies on credit risk, revenue recognition, cash surrender or contract value for life insurance policies, deferred income tax and the recoverability of our long-lived assets are provided in Notes 1 and 4 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements and Regulations
Various accounting standard-setting bodies have been active in soliciting comments and issuing statements, interpretations and exposure drafts. For information on new accounting pronouncements and the impact, if any, on our financial position or results of operations, see Note 1 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

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ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
Not applicable for a smaller reporting company.

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ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA
Item 8. Consolidated Financial Statements and Supplementary Data
The consolidated financial statements required by this Item are set forth in Part IV, Item 15 of this Report.

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ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS
Item 9. Changes in and Disagreements With Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure
Not applicable.

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ITEM 9A. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
Item 9A. Controls and Procedures
Evaluation of disclosure controls and procedures
Our management, with the participation and under the supervision of our Chairman and Chief Financial Officer, has evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(e)) as of the end of the period covered by this Report. Based on this evaluation, the Chairman and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of the end of the period covered by this Report in their design and operation to provide reasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed by us in the reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to management, including our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, and recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified by the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosures.
Our management, including our Chairman and Chief Financial Officer, does not expect that our disclosure controls and internal controls will prevent all error and all fraud. A control system, no matter how well conceived and operated, can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurance that the objectives of the control system are met. Further, the design of a control system must reflect the fact that there are resource constraints, and the benefits of controls must be considered relative to their costs. Because of inherent limitations in all control systems, no evaluation of controls can provide absolute assurance that all control issues and instances of fraud, if any, within the Company have been detected. These inherent limitations include the realities that judgments in decision-making can be faulty, and that breakdowns can occur because of simple error or mistake. Additionally, controls can be circumvented by the individual acts of some persons, by collusion of two or more people, or by management override of the control.
The design of any system of controls is also based in part upon certain assumptions about the likelihood of future events, and there can be no assurance that any design will succeed in achieving our stated goals under all potential future conditions; over time, a control may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate. Because of inherent limitations in a cost-effective control system, misstatements due to error or fraud may occur and not be detected.
We maintain and evaluate a system of internal accounting controls, and a program designed to provide reasonable assurance that our assets are protected and that transactions are performed in accordance with proper authorization and are properly recorded. This system of internal accounting controls is continually reviewed and modified in response to evolving business conditions and operations and to recommendations made by our independent registered public accounting firm. We have established a code of conduct. Our management believes that the accounting and internal control systems provide reasonable assurance that assets are safeguarded, and financial information is reliable.
The Audit Committee of the Board of Directors meets regularly with our financial management and counsel, and with the independent registered public accounting firm engaged by us. Internal accounting controls and the quality of financial reporting are discussed during these meetings. The Audit Committee has discussed with the independent registered public accounting firm matters required to be discussed by Statement of Auditing Standards No. 16 (Communication with Audit Committees). In addition, the Audit Committee and the independent registered public accounting firm have discussed the independent registered public accounting firm’s independence from our Company and its management, including the matters in the written disclosures required by Public Company Accounting Oversight Board Rule 3526 “Communicating with Audit Committees Concerning Independence”.
Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reports
There has been no change in our internal control over financial reporting during the last fiscal quarter covered by this Report that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
In order to comply with the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, we have undertaken and continue a comprehensive effort, which includes the documentation and review of our internal controls. In order to comply with the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, we centralized most accounting and many administrative functions at our corporate headquarters in an effort to control the cost of maintaining our control systems.
The Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act, signed into law by the President on July 21, 2010, permanently exempts small public companies with less than $75 million in public float, such as the Company, from the requirement to obtain an external audit on the effectiveness of internal financial reporting controls provided in Section 404(b) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act. As a result, an attestation report on internal controls over financial reporting by an independent registered public accounting firm has not been presented. Section 404(a) is still effective for smaller public companies and requires the disclosure of management attestations on internal controls over financial reporting.
Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting. Our internal control over financial reporting is designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.
Management conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of the internal controls over financial reporting based on the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO) Internal Control-Integrated Framework (2013) and related illustrative documents as an update to Internal Control-Integrated Framework (1992). Management determined that the 17 principles were present and functioning during its assessment of the effectiveness of our internal controls. Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Therefore, even those systems determined to be effective can provide only reasonable assurance with respect to financial statement preparation and presentation. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
Management assessed the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting for our fiscal year ended October 30, 2020. Based on management’s assessment and the above-referenced criteria, management believes that the internal control over financial reporting for our fiscal year ended October 30, 2020 was effective.

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ITEM 9B. OTHER INFORMATION
Item 9B. Other Information
Not applicable.
PART III

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ITEM 10. DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
Item 10. Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance
The information required by this item will be included in the Proxy Statement, which will be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission not later than 120 days after the end of our fiscal year ended October 30, 2020 and is incorporated herein by reference. Information concerning our executive officers is set forth in Part I, Item 1 of this Report under the heading “Executive Officers of the Registrant”.

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ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
Item 11. Executive Compensation
The information required by this item will be included in the Proxy Statement, which will be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission not later than 120 days after the end of our fiscal year ended October 30, 2020 and is incorporated herein by reference.

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ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS
Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters
The information required by this item will be included in the Proxy Statement, which will be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission not later than 120 days after the end of our fiscal year ended October 30, 2020 and is incorporated herein by reference.
Equity Compensation Plan Information
Not applicable, as we do not have any compensation plans under which our equity securities are authorized for issuance.

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ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS
Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence
The information required by this item will be included in the Proxy Statement, which will be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission not later than 120 days after the end of our fiscal year ended October 30, 2020 and is incorporated herein by reference.
We are considered a “controlled company” within the meaning of Rule 5615(c)(1) of the NASDAQ Listing Rules based on the approximate 80% beneficial ownership of our outstanding common stock by Bridgford Industries Incorporated and are therefore exempted from various NASDAQ Listing Rules pertaining to certain “independence” requirements of our directors. Nevertheless, the Board of Directors has determined that Messrs. Andrews and Scott and Ms. Schott who together comprise the Audit Committee and the Compensation Committee, are all “independent directors” within the meaning of Rule 5605 of the NASDAQ Listing Rules.
Our general legal counsel is the son of the former senior chairman of the Board of Directors. As legal counsel to the Board and the Compensation Committee, he currently is paid a fee of $2,480 for each meeting attended. Total fees paid under this arrangement for fiscal year 2020 were approximately $24,600. Legal services are performed on our behalf and billed by a firm in which he is a partner. Total fees billed under this arrangement for fiscal year 2020 were approximately $292,700.
Former director Allan Bridgford Jr., son of the former senior chairman of the Board of Directors, is providing consulting services to the Chicago plant and management. The contract on behalf of the Company with Allan Bridgford Jr. is for consulting services at $1,200 per day. Total fees billed under this arrangement for fiscal year 2020 were approximately $169,000. As a member of the Board of Directors, he was paid a fee of $2,480 for each meeting attended during fiscal year 2020. Total fees paid under this arrangement for fiscal year 2020 were $22,220. Under an arrangement with Allan Bridgford Jr., we accrued approximately $279,400 of profit sharing based on fiscal year 2020 profitability to be paid out in three installments equally over the next three years.
Director Keith Ross currently provides real estate consulting services to the Board and management. He was paid a fee of $2,480 for each Board meeting attended and was paid an aggregate of $24,600 for meetings attended during fiscal year 2020. Fees of approximately $37,780 were paid during fiscal year 2020 for consulting services.

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ITEM 14. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING FEES AND SERVICES
Item 14. Principal Accountant Fees and Services
The information required by this item will be included in the Proxy Statement, which will be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission not later than 120 days after the end of our fiscal year ended October 30, 2020 and is incorporated herein by reference.
PART IV

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ITEM 15. EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES
Item 15. Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules
(a)(1) Financial Statements. The following documents are filed as a part of this Report:
Page
Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
Consolidated Balance Sheets as of October 30, 2020 and November 1, 2019
Consolidated Statements of Operations for years ended October 30, 2020 and November 1, 2019
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for years ended October 30, 2020 and November 1, 2019
Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity for years ended October 30, 2020 and November 1, 2019
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for years ended October 30, 2020 and November 1, 2019
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(2) Financial Statement Schedules
Not applicable for a smaller reporting company.
(3) Exhibits
(a) The exhibits below are filed or incorporated herein by reference.
Incorporated by Reference
Exhibit Number
Exhibit Description
Form
File No.
Exhibit
Filing Date
Filed Herewith
3.1
Restated Articles of Incorporation, as amended.
10-K
000-02396
3.4
01/18/19
3.2
Amended and Restated Bylaws.
10-K/A
000-02396
3.7
02/09/18
4.1
Description of Capital Stock of the Registrant
10-K
000-02396
4.1
01/24/20
X
10.1*
Bridgford Foods Corporation Defined Benefit Pension Plan.
10-K
000-02396
10.1
01/18/19
10.2*
Bridgford Foods Corporation Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan.
10-K
000-02396
10.2
01/18/19
10.3*
Bridgford Foods Corporation Deferred Compensation Savings Plan.
10-K
000-02396
10.3
01/18/19
10.4*
Consulting Agreement, dated August 12, 2019, between the Registrant and Allan L. Bridgford Sr.
8-K
000-02396
10.1
08/16/19
10.5
Purchase and Sale Agreement dated March 16, 2020 between Bridgford Foods Processing Company and CRG Acquisition, LLC.
8-K
000-02396
10.1
03/19/20
21.1
Subsidiaries of the Registrant.
10-K
000-02396
21.1
01/24/20
X
24.1
Power of Attorney (included as part of the signature page).
X
31.1
Certification of Principal Executive Officer, Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
X
31.2
Certification of Principal Financial Officer, Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
X
32.1
Certification Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (Principal Executive Officer).
X
32.2
Certification Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (Principal Financial Officer).
X
101.INS
XBRL Instance Document.
X
101.SCH
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.
X
101.CAL
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.
X
101.DEF
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.
X
101.LAB
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.
X
101.PRE
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.
X
*
Each of these Exhibits constitutes a management contract, compensatory plan or arrangement.