EDGAR 10-K Filing

Company CIK: 14177
Filing Year: 2024
Filename: 14177_10-K_2024_0001493152-24-004024.json

---

ITEM 1. BUSINESS
Item 1. Business
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, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), 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; supply chain constraints and resulting cost pressures; changes in, or failure to comply with, government regulations; weather conditions; construction schedules; relationships with customers and suppliers; 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.
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 23 % 21 %
Snack Food Products 77 % 79 %
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 2023. 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.
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 780 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.
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.
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. The Company plans to shift away from Company-leased long-haul vehicles toward less costly transportation methods such as common carriers. 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 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 2023, our snack food products division sold approximately 160 different items through customer-owned distribution centers and a direct-store-delivery network serving approximately 20,000 supermarkets, mass merchandise and convenience retail stores located in 50 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 and supply of our premium branded products 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. Bridgford is the primary sponsor for several professional anglers that compete at the highest level of competitive bass fishing.
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 at the end of the 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 on single-serve items. We are constantly striving 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. 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 29.1% of revenues in fiscal year 2023 and 26.5% of total accounts receivable was due from Wal-Mart® as of November 3, 2023. Sales to Wal-Mart® comprised 29.8% of revenues in fiscal year 2022 and 26.1% of total accounts receivable was due from Wal-Mart® as of October 28, 2022. Sales to Dollar General® comprised 16.3% of revenues in fiscal year 2023 and 20.5% of total accounts receivable was due from Dollar General® as of November 3, 2023. Sales to Dollar General® comprised 16.9% of revenues in fiscal year 2022 and 19.9% of total accounts receivable was due from Dollar General® as of October 28, 2022.
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.
We purchase bulk flour under short-term fixed price contracts at current market prices. The contracts are usually effective for and settle within three months or less. 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.
Employees
We had 688 employees (671 full-time employees) as of November 3, 2023, approximately 44% of whose employment relationship is governed by collective bargaining agreements. These agreements either “are currently”, “have expired” or “will expire” between September 2023 and March 2027. We believe that our relationship with all of our employees is favorable and that any pending contracts will be settled favorably.
Availability of SEC Filings and Code of Conduct on Internet Website
We maintain a website at www.bridgford.com. Available through the “Investors” link on this website, free of charge, are our annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K and amendments thereto, and reports filed under Section 16 of the Securities Exchange Act, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Our Code of Conduct is also available on the website through the “Governance” link.

---

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.
Climate change and related climate change regulations, including with respect to greenhouse gas effects, may negatively affect our results of operations.
Climate change and rising global temperatures may contribute to changing weather patterns, droughts, heavier or more frequent storms and wildfires, and increased frequency and severity of natural disasters. If such climate change has a negative impact on agricultural productivity, we may have decreased availability or less favorable pricing for the raw materials necessary for our operations. Increased frequency or duration of extreme weather conditions could cause disruptions in our operations and supply chain, or impact demand for our products.
Increasing concern over climate change also may result in additional legal or regulatory requirements designed to manage greenhouse gas emissions, climate risks, and resulting environmental impacts. If such requirements are enacted, we could experience significant cost increases in our operations and supply chain.
Further, such requirements may obligate us to make certain climate-related disclosures and set goals for reducing our carbon footprint. While we are committed to mitigating our impact on the environment and to manage greenhouse gas emissions, there can be no assurance that we will accomplish such goals. If we fail to achieve any such goals related to climate change or the related expectations from stakeholders and consumers are not met, the resulting negative publicity could adversely impact our results of operations in part as a consequence of changes in consumer preferences for our products.
Fluctuations in commodity prices and the availability of 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, as well as the available supply of commodities. Commodity costs have and may continue to fluctuate due to political and economic conditions, including the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia. The marketing of our value-added products does not lend itself to instantaneous changes in selling prices. In addition, if we increase prices to offset higher costs, we could experience lower demand for our products and sales volumes. Conversely, decreases in our commodity and other input costs may create pressure on us to decrease our prices. Changes in selling prices are relatively infrequent and do not compare with the volatility of commodity markets. Production and pricing of commodities, on the other hand, are determined by constantly changing market forces of supply and demand over which we have limited or no control. Such factors include, among other things, weather patterns throughout the world, outbreaks of disease, the global level of supply inventories and demand for grains and other feed ingredients, as well as agricultural and energy policies of domestic and foreign governments. 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. However, current inflationary market conditions may have a negative impact on future earnings. 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. However, we have consulting agreements with each of (1) our former Vice President and current director Allan L. Bridgford Sr., (2) our former Chief Financial Officer and current director Raymond F. Lancy, (3) our former director and President of Bridgford Food Processing Corporation Allan Bridgford Jr.
Labor shortages and increased turnover or increases in employee and employee-related costs could have adverse effects on our profitability.
We have recently experienced increased labor shortages at some of our production facilities and other locations. We have historically experienced some level of ordinary course of business turnover of employees. A number of factors have had and may continue to have adverse effects on the labor force available to us, including reduced employment pools, federal unemployment subsidies, and other government regulations, which include laws and regulations related to workers’ health and safety, wage and hour practices and immigration. Labor shortages and increased turnover rates within our team members have led to and could in the future lead to increased costs, such as increased overtime to meet demand and increased wage rates to attract and retain employees and could negatively affect our ability to efficiently operate our production facilities or otherwise operate at full capacity. An overall or prolonged labor shortage, lack of skilled labor, increased turnover or labor inflation could have a material adverse impact on our operations, results of operations, liquidity, or cash flows.
We depend on our major customers and any loss of such customers could have a negative impact on our profitability.
Sales to Wal-Mart® comprised 29.1% of revenues in fiscal year 2023 and 26.5% of total accounts receivable was due from Wal-Mart® as of November 3, 2023. Sales to Dollar General® comprised 16.3% of revenues in fiscal year 2023 and 20.5% of total accounts receivable was due from Dollar General® as of November 3, 2023. 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 approximately 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, approximately 80% of our outstanding stock. In addition, two members of the Bridgford family currently serve on the Board of Directors and two members of the Bridgford family serve on the Executive Committee. 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. However, we have not elected to rely on the exemption with respect to our compensation committee, which is made up entirely of independent directors and has 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. Volatility in the capital markets or interest rates can impact the market value of plan assets and cause volatility in the net periodic benefit cost and our future funding requirements. The exact amount of cash contributions made to the pension plans in any year is dependent upon a number of factors, including minimum funding requirements. In addition, 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.

---

ITEM 1B. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS
Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments
None.

---

ITEM 2. PROPERTIES
Item 2. Properties
We own the following properties as of November 3, 2023:
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 ** 177,000 8.0
* - property used by Frozen Food Products Segment.
** - property used by Snack Food Products Segment.
We utilize each of 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.

---

ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
Item 3. Legal Proceedings
No material legal proceedings were pending against us as of November 3, 2023, 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.

---

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

---

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 11, 2024, there were 969 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
Our stock repurchase program was approved by our Board of Directors in November 1999 and was expanded in June 2005. Under the stock repurchase program, we are authorized, at the discretion of management and our Board of Directors, to purchase up to an aggregate of 2,000,000 shares of our common stock on the open market. During fiscal years 2023 and 2022, we did not repurchase any shares of our common stock pursuant to our stock repurchase program previously authorized by the Board of Directors. As of November 3, 2023, 120,113 shares remained authorized for repurchase under the program.

---

ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
Item 6. [Reserved]

---

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 (dollars in thousands)
Fiscal Year Ended November 3, 2023 (53 weeks) Compared to Fiscal Year Ended October 28, 2022 (52 weeks)
Net Sales-Consolidated
Net sales in fiscal year 2023 decreased $14,262 (5.4%) 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 1.5 4,218
Unit sales volume in pounds -5.4 (15,410 )
Returns activity -0.8 (1,752 )
Promotional activity -0.7 (1,318 )
Decrease in net sales -5.4 (14,262 )
Net Sales-Frozen Food Products Segment
Net sales in the Frozen Food Products segment in fiscal year 2023 increased $1,384 (2.5%) 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 5.3 3,345
Unit sales volume in pounds -1.6 (994 )
Returns activity -0.2 (123 )
Promotional activity -1.0 (844 )
Increase in net sales 2.5 1,384
The increase in net sales for fiscal year 2023 primarily relates to higher selling prices per pound partially offset by lower unit sales volume in pounds. The increase in net sales was primarily driven by a significant increase in volume to institutional customers and an increase in selling price per pound due to price increases implemented during the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2023. Other institutional Frozen Food Products sales, including sheet dough and rolls, increased 8% by volume and retail sales volume increased 2%. Returns activity increased compared to the 2022 fiscal year. Promotional activity was higher in fiscal year 2023 as a percentage of sales due to increased sales to high promotion customers.
Net Sales-Snack Food Products Segment
Net sales in the Snack Food Products segment in fiscal year 2023 decreased $15,646 (7.5%) 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 0.4
Unit sales volume in pounds -6.5 (14,416 )
Returns activity -1.0 (1,629 )
Promotional activity -0.4 (474 )
Decrease in net sales -7.5 (15,646 )
Net sales of Snack Food Products decreased due to lower sales through our direct-store-delivery distribution channel during the fiscal year 2023. The weighted average selling price per pound increased compared to fiscal year 2022 due to price increases implemented in response to increased meat commodity input costs experienced in fiscal year 2022. Unit sales volume in pounds was lower as compared to the prior fiscal year. We believe demand decreased primarily due to inflationary pressure on consumer spending habits as consumers have pulled back on meat product purchases. Returns activity was higher compared to the 2022 fiscal year. Promotional offers increased slightly compared to fiscal year 2022.
Cost of Products Sold and Gross Margin-Consolidated
Cost of products sold from continuing operations decreased by $12,558 (6.5%) during fiscal year 2023 compared to the prior fiscal year. The gross margin increased from 27.1% to 28.0% during fiscal year 2023 compared to the prior fiscal year.
Change in Cost of Products Sold by Segment $ Consolidated
% Commodity $
Decrease
Frozen Food Products Segment 2,080 1.1 (164 )
Snack Food Products Segment (14,638 ) -7.6 (7,737 )
Total (12,558 ) -6.5 (7,901 )
Cost of Products Sold and Gross Margin-Frozen Food Products Segment
Cost of products sold in the Frozen Food Products segment increased by $2,080 (5.1%) in fiscal year 2023 compared to the prior fiscal year. Increased volume and changes in the product mix were the primary contributing factors to this increase. The cost of purchased flour decreased approximately $164, which partially offset the increase in costs of goods sold. The gross margin percentage decreased from 26.9% to 25.1% during fiscal year 2023 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 decreased by $14,638 (9.6%) during fiscal year 2023 compared to the prior fiscal year due primarily to lower unit sales volume in our direct-store-delivery distribution channel. The cost of meat commodities decreased approximately $7,737 during fiscal year 2023 compared to the prior fiscal year due to favorable fluctuations in commodity markets. We increased our net realizable value reserve by $161 during fiscal year 2023 after determining that the market value on some meat products was less than the costs associated with production and sale of the product. We maintained a net realizable reserve of $513 on products as of November 3, 2023. The gross margin earned in this segment increased from 27.1% to 28.8% during fiscal year 2023.
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses-Consolidated
Selling, general and administrative expenses (“SG&A”) in fiscal year 2023 increased $332 (0.5%) 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:
November 3, 2023
(53 Weeks)
October 28, 2022
(52 Weeks)
Expense Increase
(Decrease)
Wages and bonus $ 26,716 $ 27,937 $ (1,221 )
Outside storage 1,630
Insurance expenses 2,069 1,355
Healthcare cost 2,721 3,265 (544 )
Travel expenses 2,570 2,151
Fuel expenses 2,119 2,524 (405 )
Pension cost (1,160 ) (904 ) (256 )
Postage expenses (213 )
Storage unit rent 2,638 2,420
Vehicle repairs and maintenance 1,590 1,374
Other SG&A 24,202 23,519
Total - SG&A 65,567 65,235
Lower sales commissions resulted in lower wages and bonus expenses in the 2023 fiscal year compared to the 2022 fiscal year. Outside storage increased primarily as a result of the need for additional warehouse capacity to store products. The increase in insurance expenses was driven by higher premiums on property insurance and increased reserves on aged claims. Healthcare costs have decreased due to favorable claim trends. Travel expenses increased due to participation in food shows and in-person business meetings. The decrease in fuel expense was driven by per gallon fuel price decreases compared to the prior year as a result of lower cost trends in petroleum markets and to a lesser extent due to a reduction in the number of company-owned long-haul trucks. The decrease in pension cost was a result of an increase in pension plan assets caused by the performance of the underlying markets that support them as well as higher pension discount rates resulting in lower liability. Postage expenses have decreased due to partnering with outside distributors and carriers to transport products to minimize postage expenses. Rent for storage units that house inventory increased due to inflationary price pressure. Vehicle repairs and maintenance on vehicles have increased compared to the prior year period mainly due to an aging fleet. None of the changes individually or as a group of expenses in “Other SG&A” were significant enough to merit separate disclosure. The major components comprising the increase of “Other SG&A” expenses were higher product advertising expenses, sales taxes, office supplies and professional fees.
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses-Frozen Food Products Segment
SG&A expenses in the Frozen Food Products segment decreased by $171 (1.2%) during fiscal year 2023 compared to the prior fiscal year. The overall decrease in SG&A expenses was due to lower unit sales volume and lower fuel expenses related to a reduction in the number of company-owned long-haul trucks partially offset by an increase in insurance expenses and broker commissions.
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses-Refrigerated and Snack Food Products Segment
SG&A expenses in the Snack Food Products segment increased by $503 (1.0%) during fiscal year 2023 compared to the prior fiscal year. Most of the increase was due to higher property insurance expense, higher outside storage fees and higher vehicle repairs partially offset by lower fuel and healthcare costs.
Loss (Gain) on Sale of Property, Plant and Equipment
The loss during fiscal year 2023 and gain during fiscal year 2022 was due to ordinary disposal of assets and the sale of real property located at 170 N. Green Street in Chicago, respectively.
Income Taxes
Income tax for fiscal years 2023 and 2022, respectively, was as follows:
November 3, 2023 October 28, 2022
Provision for (benefit on) income taxes $ 1,021 $ 16,341
Effective tax rate 22.7 % 26.6 %
We recorded a tax provision of $1,021 and $16,341, for fiscal years 2023 and 2022, respectively, related to federal and state taxes, based on the Company’s expected annual effective tax rate. The effective tax rate was 22.7% and 26.6% for fiscal years 2023 and 2022, respectively. In addition, the effective tax rates for fiscal years 2023 and 2022 were impacted by such items as 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 Consolidated Financial Statements for more information).
Liquidity and Capital Resources (dollars in thousands)
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. However, on June 1, 2022, we received approximately $60,000 in gross proceeds, from the closing of the sale of real property located at 170 N. Green Street in Chicago pursuant to the terms of the Purchase and Sale Agreement dated March 16, 2020, as amended, between Bridgford Food Processing Corporation and CRG Acquisition, LLC (the “CRG Purchase Agreement”). Additionally, we have maintained a revolving line of credit with Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. pursuant to the terms of the credit agreement dated March 1, 2018, as amended to date. We borrowed an aggregate of $18,000 under such revolving line of credit from inception through January 24, 2022. The line of credit was paid off on June 7, 2022, using $18,000 in proceeds from the sale of real property at 170 N. Green Street. The revolving line of credit continued in effect per its terms until November 30, 2023, when it was replaced with a new revolving line of credit as described below. Further, we entered into a bridge loan with Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. on August 30, 2021, for up to $25,000, of which we used $18,653 to pay off a portion of our existing equipment loans as they came out of the lock out period and could be prepaid. We prepaid and terminated the bridge loan on June 2, 2022, using $18,653 in proceeds from the sale of real property at 170 N. Green Street.
On November 30, 2023, we entered into a fifth amendment to the credit agreement with Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., and also executed a new revolving line of credit note pursuant to the amendment. Under the terms of this amendment and the revolving line of credit note, we may borrow up to $7,500 from time to time up to November 30, 2024. As of November 3, 2023, we had $1,045 of current debt on equipment loans, $69,496 of net working capital and $7,500 available under our revolving line of credit with Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. Refer to the Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements included within this Report for further information. The Company was in compliance with all loan covenants as of November 3, 2023.
Despite higher commodity costs like we experienced in fiscal year 2022, we may not be able to increase our product prices in a timely manner or sufficiently to offset such increased commodity costs due to consumer price sensitivity, pricing in relation to competitors and the reluctance of retailers to accept the price increase. Instances of higher interest rates, labor shortages or supply chain issues could result in material changes in the Company’s liquidity. Higher product prices could potentially lower demand for our product and decrease volume. Management believes there are various options available to generate additional liquidity to repay debt or fund operations such as mortgaging real estate, should that be necessary. Our ability to increase liquidity will depend upon, among other things, our business plans and the performance of operating divisions and economic conditions of capital markets. If we are unable to increase liquidity through mortgaging real estate or additional borrowing, or generate positive cash flow necessary to fund operations, we may not be able to compete successfully, which could negatively impact our business, operations, and financial condition. With the cash expected to be generated from the Company’s operations, we anticipate that we will maintain sufficient liquidity to operate our business for at least the next twelve months. We will continue to monitor the impact of inflation and interest rate volatility on our liquidity and, if necessary, take action to preserve liquidity and ensure that our business can operate during these uncertain times.
Cash flows provided by (used in) operating activities:
November 3, 2023
(53 Weeks)
October 28, 2022
(52 Weeks)
Net income $ 3,474 $ 45,066
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization 6,558 6,682
Provision for losses on accounts receivable
(Reduction in) provision for promotional allowances (679 ) (98 )
Loss (gain) on sale of property, plant and equipment (57,745 )
Deferred income taxes, net (631 ) 5,070
Changes in assets and liabilities (5,045 ) (6,862 )
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities $ 3,985 $ (7,830 )
For the fifty-three weeks ended November 3, 2023, net cash provided by operating activities was $3,985, an increase of $11,815 compared to the fifty-two weeks ended October 28, 2022. The increase in net cash provided by operating activities primarily relates to net income of $3,474 and a reduction in accounts receivable of $6,480, partially offset by a decrease in accounts payable of $6,457 and lower non-current liabilities of $1,836. During fiscal year 2023, 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 83 days for the fifty-three weeks ended November 3, 2023, and 83 days for the fifty-two weeks ended October 28, 2022.
For the fifty-two weeks ended October 28, 2022, net cash used in operating activities was $7,830. The result was primarily related to a gain on sale of property, plant, and equipment of $57,745, an increase in accounts receivable of $10,116 and an increase in inventory of $3,762, partially offset by a decrease in refundable income taxes of $4,955 and an increase in deferred taxes of $5,070. During fiscal year 2022, we did not contribute towards our defined benefit pension plan.
Cash flows (used in) provided by investing activities:
November 3, 2023
(53 Weeks)
October 28, 2022
(52 Weeks)
Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment $ 227 $ 60,115
Additions to property, plant and equipment (2,603 ) (3,770 )
Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities $ (2,376 ) $ 56,345
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 for repairs and maintenance. We received $60,000 in gross sales proceeds on June 1, 2022, from the closing of the real estate transaction for the real property located at 170 N. Green Street, pursuant to the terms of the CRG Purchase Agreement. 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.
The table below highlights the additions to property, plant and equipment for the fifty-three and fifty-two weeks ended:
November 3, 2023
(53 Weeks)
October 28, 2022
(52 Weeks)
Building and leasehold improvements $ 192 $
Furniture and fixture -
Temperature control -
Processing equipment
Packaging lines
Vehicles for sales and/or delivery 1,390
Quality control and communication systems
Computer software and hardware -
Forklifts
Change in projects in process 1,639
Additions to property, plant and equipment $ 2,603 $ 3,770
Expenditures for additions to property, plant and equipment during the fifty-three weeks ended November 3, 2023, include projects in process of $837 related to the production facility in Chicago.
Cash flows used in financing activities:
November 3, 2023
(53 Weeks)
October 28, 2022
(52 Weeks)
Payment of capital lease obligations $ (1,151 ) $ (400 )
Proceeds from bank borrowings - 6,000
Repayments of bank borrowings (1,083 ) (38,157 )
Net cash used in financing activities $ (2,234 ) $ (32,557 )
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 2023, 120,113 shares remained authorized for repurchase under the program.
The Company leases three long-haul trucks pursuant to six-year leases that expire in 2025. Amortization of equipment under capital lease was $96 in 2023. The Company also leased one long-haul truck for $75 during fiscal year 2022, and that lease term is two years.
The following table reflects major components of our line of credit and borrowing agreements as of November 3, 2023, and October 28, 2022, respectively.
November 3, 2023 October 28, 2022
Revolving credit facility $ - $ -
Equipment notes:
3.70% note due 12/21/26, out of lockout 12/23/21 - -
3.29% note due 03/05/27, out of lockout 03/06/22 - -
3.68% note due 04/16/27, out of lockout 04/17/22 3,831 4,913
SOFR plus 2.00% bridge loan due 03/01/23 - -
Total debt 3,831 4,913
Less current debt (1,045 ) (1,089 )
Total long-term debt $ 2,786 $ 3,824
Revolving Credit Facility
On November 30, 2023, we entered into a fifth amendment to the credit agreement with Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. dated March 1, 2018, as amended, and also executed a revolving line of credit note pursuant to the amendment. The revolving line of credit note replaces the existing note that expired by its terms on November 30, 2023. Under the terms of this amendment and the revolving line of credit note, we may borrow up to $7,500 from time to time up to November 30, 2024, at an interest rate equal to (a) the daily simple secured overnight financing rate plus 2.0%, or if unavailable, (b) the prime rate, in each case as determined by the bank. The line of credit has an unused commitment fee of 0.35% of the available loan amount, payable on a quarterly basis. Amounts may be repaid and reborrowed during the term of the note. Accrued interest is payable on the first day of each month and the outstanding principal balance and remaining interest are due and payable on November 30, 2024.
Equipment Notes Payable
On each of December 26, 2018, April 18, 2019, December 19, 2019, March 5, 2020, and April 17, 2020 (collectively referred to as the “Wells Fargo Loan Agreements”), we entered into master collateral loan and security agreements with Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. Pursuant to the Wells Fargo Loan Agreements, we owe the amounts as stated as equipment notes in the table on the previous page.
Bridge Loan
On August 30, 2021, we entered into a loan commitment note for a bridge loan of up to $25,000 to obtain capital to pay off the existing equipment loans as they came out of the lock out period and could be prepaid. The outstanding principal balances of the bridge loan became due and payable in full one Federal Reserve business day after the closing of the real estate transactions contemplated under the CRG Purchase Agreement. We prepaid $18,653 in equipment loans utilizing proceeds from the new bridge loan. The Company evaluated the exchange under ASC 470 and determined that the exchange should be treated as a debt modification prospectively. The Company accounted for this transaction as a debt modification and did not incur any gain or loss relating to the modification. The debt modification did not meet the greater than ten percent test and was deemed not substantial. We prepaid and terminated the bridge loan and related loan commitment note on June 2, 2022, using $18,653 in proceeds from the gain on the sale of a land parcel in Chicago pursuant to the CRG Purchase Agreement.
Loan Covenants
The Wells Fargo Loan Agreements and the credit agreement contain various affirmative and negative covenants that limit the use of funds and define other provisions of the loans. Material financial covenants are listed below, and the capitalized terms are defined in the applicable agreements:
● Total Liabilities divided by Tangible Net Worth not greater than 2.0 to 1.0 at each fiscal quarter end,
● Quick Ratio not less than 1.25 to 1.0 at each fiscal quarter end,
● Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio not less than 1.25 to 1.0 at each fiscal quarter end.
As of November 3, 2023, the Company was in compliance with all covenants under the Wells Fargo Loan Agreements and the credit agreement.
Aggregate contractual maturities of debt in future fiscal years are as follows as of November 3, 2023:
Fiscal Years Debt Payable
$ 1,044
$ 1,083
$ 1,124
$ 580
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. All of our operating segments have been impacted by inflation, including higher costs for labor, freight, and specific materials. We expect this trend to continue through fiscal year 2024. Management is of the opinion that the Company’s financial position and its capital resources are sufficient to provide for its operating needs and capital expenditures for fiscal year 2024. However, future volatility of general price inflation or deflation and raw material cost and availability could adversely affect our financial results.
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
We do not currently have any off-balance sheet arrangements within the meaning of Item 303(b) 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(b) of Regulation S-K, as of November 3, 2023.
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.

---

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.

---

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.

---

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

---

ITEM 9A. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
Item 9A. Controls and Procedures
Evaluation of disclosure controls and procedures
Disclosure controls and procedures are designed to help ensure that information required to be disclosed by us in our Exchange Act reports is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules, regulations and forms, and that such information is collected and communicated to our management, including our Chairman of the Board and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.
Our management, with the participation and under the supervision of our Chairman of the Board 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 of the Board and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of the end of the period covered by this Report.
Our management, including our Chairman of the Board 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”.
Remediation of previously reported material weakness
As reported in the Company’s Form 10-K for year ended October 28, 2022, management previously identified a material weakness in internal control over financial reporting due to the failure to timely report to accounting a change in lease terms from a month-to-month lease to a five-year term lease. A material weakness (within the meaning of PCAOB Auditing Standard No. 5) is a deficiency, or a combination of deficiencies, in internal control over financial reporting, such that there is a reasonable possibility that a material misstatement of our annual or interim financial statements will not be prevented or detected on a timely basis. The material weakness warranted the attention of the Audit Committee and those charged with governance.
Management implemented a remediation plan with steps that improved our internal control over financial reporting, including modifying the design of the related internal controls to include verbal communication with plant managers on a quarterly basis, and expanding notification to Operating Committee members which include key plant managers for feedback on any additional information on new contractual arrangements for revenue, leases or other types of agreements impacting accounting. In the case of the lease misstatement, we believe the failure to notify management was a one-time oversight and not indicative of a pattern or continuing weakness in the proper functioning of the controls.
The Company’s management, under the oversight of the Audit Committee, executed the remediation steps discussed above and, as a result determined that, as of November 3, 2023, such material weakness has been remediated. Completion of remediation does not provide assurance that our remediation or other controls will continue to operate properly or remain adequate. The enhanced controls have operated for a sufficient period of time and management has concluded, through testing, that the related controls are effective. However, we cannot be certain that other such material weaknesses and control deficiencies will not occur in the future. If material weaknesses are identified in the future, or we are not able to comply with requirements of Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 in a timely manner, our reported financial results could be materially misstated or we could be subject to investigations or sanctions by regulatory authorities, which would require additional financial and management resources and the value of our common stock could decline.
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 in an effort to control the cost of maintaining our control systems.
The Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act permanently exempts smaller reporting 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 reporting companies and requires the disclosure of management attestations on internal controls over financial reporting as set forth below.
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 November 3, 2023. Based on management’s assessment and the above-referenced criteria, management believes that the internal control over financial reporting was effective as of November 3, 2023.
Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reports
As described above, during fiscal year 2023 we took steps to remediate the material weakness in our internal control over financial reporting that we identified and existed at the end of fiscal year 2022. Other than in connection with the remediation process described above, no change in our internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Exchange Act) occurred during the last quarter of fiscal year ended November 3, 2023 that has materially affected or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

---

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

---

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 our definitive proxy statement on Schedule 14A related to our 2024 annual meeting of stockholders (the “Proxy Statement), which will be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to Regulation 14A under the Exchange Act not later than 120 days after the end of our fiscal year ended November 3, 2023, and is incorporated herein by reference.

---

ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
Item 11. Executive Compensation
The information required by this item will be included in the Proxy Statement and is incorporated herein by reference.

---

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 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.

---

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 and is incorporated herein by reference.

---

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 is incorporated herein by reference.
PART IV

---

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
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm (PCAOB ID: 23)
Consolidated Balance Sheets as of November 3, 2023, and October 28, 2022
Consolidated Statements of Operations for the fiscal years ended November 3, 2023, and October 28, 2022
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for the fiscal years ended November 3, 2023, and October 28, 2022
Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity for the fiscal years ended November 3, 2023, and October 28, 2022
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the fiscal years ended November 3, 2023, and October 28, 2022
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(2) Financial Statement Schedules
Not applicable for a smaller reporting company.
(3) Exhibits
(a) The exhibits below are filed herewith 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
01/15/21
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 Food Processing Corporation and CRG Acquisition, LLC.
8-K
000-02396
10.1
03/19/20
10.6*
Consulting Agreement dated February 2, 2023, between the Registrant and Raymond F. Lancy.
8-K
000-02396
10.1
02/02/23
21.1
Subsidiaries of the Registrant.
10-K
000-02396
21.1
01/15/21
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
Inline XBRL Instance Document.
X
101.SCH
Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.
X
101.CAL
Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.
X
101.DEF
Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.
X
101.LAB
Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.
X
101.PRE
Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.
X
Cover Page Interactive Data File (embedded within the Inline XBRL Document contained in Exhibit 101).
*
Each of these Exhibits constitutes a management contract, compensatory plan or arrangement.