ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
This Item 7 contains forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements in this Annual Report on Form 10-K are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, some of which are beyond our control. Our actual results, performance, prospects or opportunities could differ materially from those expressed in or implied by the forward-looking statements. Additional risks of which we are not currently aware or which we currently deem immaterial could also cause our actual results to differ, including those discussed in the sections entitled “Forward-Looking Statements” and “Risk Factors” included elsewhere in this Annual Report.
Overview
Compass Diversified Holdings, a Delaware statutory trust, was incorporated in Delaware on November 18, 2005. Compass Group Diversified Holdings LLC, a Delaware limited liability Company, was also formed on November 18, 2005. In accordance with the Third Amended and Restated Trust Agreement, dated as of August 3, 2021 (as amended and restated, the "Trust Agreement"), the Trust is sole owner of 100% of the Trust Interests (as defined in the Company's Sixth Amended and Restated Operating Agreement, dated as of August 3, 2021 (as amended and restated, the "LLC Agreement") of the Company and, pursuant to the LLC Agreement, the Company has outstanding the identical number of Trust Interests as the number of outstanding shares of the Trust. Sostratus LLC owns all of our Allocation Interests. The Company is the operating entity with a board of directors and other corporate governance responsibilities, similar to that of a Delaware corporation.
The Trust and the Company were formed to acquire and manage a group of small and middle-market businesses headquartered in North America. We characterize small and middle market businesses as those that generate annual cash flows of up to $75 million. We focus on companies of this size because we believe that these companies are more able to achieve growth rates above those of their relevant industries and are also frequently more amenable to efforts to improve earnings and cash flow.
In pursuing new acquisitions, we seek businesses with the following characteristics:
•North American base of operations;
•stable and growing earnings and cash flow;
•maintains a significant market share in defensible industry niche (i.e., has a “reason to exist”);
•solid and proven management team with meaningful incentives;
•low technological and/or product obsolescence risk; and
•a diversified customer and supplier base.
Our management team’s strategy for our subsidiaries involves:
◦utilizing structured incentive compensation programs tailored to each business in order to attract, recruit and retain talented managers to operate our businesses;
◦regularly monitoring financial and operational performance, instilling consistent financial discipline, and supporting management in the development and implementation of information systems to effectively achieve these goals;
◦assisting management in their analysis and pursuit of prudent organic cash flow growth strategies (both revenue and cost related);
◦identifying and working with management to execute attractive external growth and acquisition opportunities; and
◦forming strong subsidiary level boards of directors, including independent directors, to supplement management in their development and implementation of strategic goals and objectives.
Based on the experience of our management team and its ability to identify and negotiate acquisitions, we believe we are well positioned to acquire additional attractive businesses. Our management team has a large network of deal intermediaries to whom it actively markets and who we expect to expose us to potential acquisitions. Through this network, as well as our management team’s active proprietary transaction sourcing efforts, we typically have a substantial pipeline of potential acquisition targets. In consummating transactions, our management team has, in the past, been able to successfully navigate complex situations surrounding acquisitions, including corporate spin-
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offs, transitions of family-owned businesses, management buy-outs and reorganizations. We believe the flexibility, creativity, experience and expertise of our management team in structuring transactions provides us with a strategic advantage by allowing us to consider non-traditional and complex transactions tailored to fit a specific acquisition target.
In addition, because we intend to fund acquisitions through the utilization of our 2021 Revolving Credit Facility, we do not expect to be subject to delays in or conditions by closing acquisitions that would be typically associated with transaction specific financing, as is typically the case in such acquisitions. We believe this advantage is a powerful one and is highly unusual in the marketplace for acquisitions in which we operate.
Initial public offering and Company formation
On May 16, 2006, we completed our initial public offering of 13,500,000 shares of the Trust (the “IPO”). Subsequent to the IPO the Company’s board of directors engaged our Manager to externally manage the day-to-day operations and affairs of the Company, oversee the management and operations of the businesses and to perform those services customarily performed by executive officers of a public company.
From May 16, 2006 through December 31, 2021, we purchased twenty-two businesses (each of our businesses is treated as a separate operating segment) and disposed of eleven businesses. The tables below reflect summarized information relating to our acquisitions and dispositions from the date of our IPO through December 31, 2021 (in thousands):
Acquisitions
Ownership Interest - December 31, 2021
Business Acquisition Date CODI Purchase Price Primary Diluted
(1)The total purchase price for CBS Holdings includes the acquisition of Staffmark Investment LLC in January 2008 for a purchase price of $128.6 million. The Company renamed its CBS Personnel business Staffmark subsequent to the acquisition.
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(2) Velocity Outdoor (formerly "Crosman Corp.") was purchased by the Company in May 2006 and subsequently sold in January 2007. We reacquired Velocity Outdoor in June 2017.
(3)The total purchase price does not reflect add-on acquisitions made by our businesses subsequent to their purchase by CODI unless indicated.
(4) FOX completed an IPO of its common stock in August 2013 in which we sold a 22% interest in FOX, reducing our ownership interest to 53%.9. In July 2014, FOX completed a secondary offering in which we sold a 12% interest in FOX, reducing our ownership interest to 41% and resulting in the deconsolidation of FOX from our financial results. We subsequently sold our remaining shares of FOX and now hold no ownership interest in FOX. We recognized total net proceeds from the sale of our FOX shares of approximately $465.1 million.
(5) The total purchase price of Sterno includes the acquisition of Rimports in February 2018 for a purchase price of $154.4 million.
Dispositions
(1) CODI portion of the net proceeds from disposition includes debt and equity proceeds and reflects the accounting for the redemption of the sold business's minority shareholders and transaction expenses.
(2) Gain (loss) recognized on sale of our businesses is calculated by deducting our total invested capital from the net sale proceeds received.
(3) Sale price of Manitoba Harvest was C$370 million. Translation to USD is as of the date of sale.
* We made loans to and purchased a controlling interest in FOX on January 4, 2008, for approximately $80.4 million. In August 2013, FOX completed an initial public offering of its common stock. As a result of the initial public offering, our ownership interest in FOX was reduced to approximately 53.9%. No gain was reflected as a result of the sale of our FOX shares in the initial public offering because our majority classification of FOX did not change. FOX used a portion of their net proceeds received from the sale of their shares as well as proceeds from a new external FOX credit facility to repay $61.5 million in outstanding indebtedness to us under their existing credit facility with us. In July 2014, through a secondary offering, our ownership in FOX was lowered from approximately 54% to approximately 41%, and as a result we deconsolidated FOX as of July 10, 2014. In March and August 2016, through two more secondary offerings and a share repurchase by FOX, our ownership in the outstanding common stock of FOX was further lowered to approximately 23% as of September 30, 2016. In November 2016, through another secondary offering, our ownership in the outstanding common stock of FOX was further lowered to approximately 14%. On March 13, 2017, FOX closed on a secondary public offering of 5,108,718 shares of FOX common stock held by CODI, which represented CODI's remaining investment in FOX. We recognized total net proceeds from the sales of our FOX shares of approximately $465.1 million, plus proceeds from the repayment of the FOX credit facility of $61.5 million upon completion of their initial public offering, and a total gain of $428.7 million.
We are dependent on the earnings of, and cash receipts from, the businesses that we own in order to meet our corporate overhead and management fee expenses and to pay distributions. The earnings and distributions of our
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businesses are generally lowest in the first quarter, and strongest in the third and fourth quarter, of each fiscal year. These earnings and distributions, net of any non-controlling interest in these businesses, are available to:
•meet capital expenditure requirements, management fees and corporate overhead charges;
•fund distributions from the businesses to the Company; and
•be distributed by the Trust to shareholders.
2021 Highlights and Recent Events
Trust Tax Reclassification
On August 3, 2021, the shareholders of CODI approved amendments to the Second Amended and Restated Trust Agreement of the Trust and the Fifth Amended and Restated Operating Agreement of the Company to allow the Company’s Board of Directors (the “Board”) to cause the Trust to elect to be treated as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes (the “tax reclassification”) and, at its discretion in the future, cause the Trust to be converted to a corporation. Following the shareholder vote, the Board resolved to cause the Trust to elect to be treated as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes. Such election became effective September 1, 2021, prior to which the Trust had been taxed as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes since January 1, 2007.
The tax reclassification resulted in a taxable gain to the Trust for U.S. federal income tax purposes of approximately $328 million, which gain was allocated and passed through to the Trust’s common shareholders of record as of the close of business on August 31, 2021. This taxable gain created current tax liability for those shareholders and will be reported on the Trust’s final 2021 Schedule K-1. Consequently, the Trust paid a special distribution of $0.88 cents per share on September 7, 2021 to Trust common shareholders of record as of the close of business on August 31, 2021 that was intended to partially cover the taxable income incurred by those shareholders.
Following the tax reclassification, determinations, declarations, and payments of distributions to holders of Trust common shares will continue to be at the sole discretion of the Board. Historically, our distribution policy has been to make regular distributions on outstanding common shares. Because the Trust will incur entity level income taxes following the tax reclassification, we reduced our anticipated annual distribution from the current $1.44 per Trust common share per year to $1.00 per Trust common share per year. Our distribution policy may be changed at any time at the discretion of the Board.
We will issue final Schedule K-1s with respect to our final taxable period as a partnership beginning January 1, 2021 and ending August 31, 2021, the last day on which the Trust was treated as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes. Thereafter, items of income, gain loss, and deduction will not flow through to Trust shareholders and the Trust will no longer issue Schedule K-1s. Common shareholders will no longer be allocated taxable income as a result of their investment in the Trust and shareholders subject to rules regarding “unrelated business taxable income” (or “UBTI”) will no longer be allocated UBTI.
The Trust will be required to file Form 1120, U.S. Corporation Income Tax Return on an annual basis and for all taxable periods beginning on or after the tax reclassification. In addition, distribution with respect to Trust shares (including Trust preferred shares) will now be treated as corporate distributions and reported on Form 1099-DIV, instead of on Schedule K-1. Distributions from the Trust will be taxable as dividends to the extent the Trust has positive earnings and profits, as determined for U.S. federal income tax purposes. Dividends from the Trust with respect to Trust shares should be eligible for preferential tax treatment as “qualified dividends” to the extent the Trust shareholders receiving such dividends meet certain holding period requirements.
The foregoing description addresses only certain U.S. federal income tax consequences of the tax reclassification applicable to shareholders generally. We do not provide tax advice and nothing herein should be considered as such. Each shareholder should consult its tax advisor concerning the particular U.S. federal income, U.S. federal estate or gift, state, local, foreign and other tax consequences of the tax reclassification and holding Trust shares.
Acquisition of Lugano Diamonds
On September 3, 2021, the Company, through its newly formed acquisition subsidiaries, Lugano Holding, Inc., a Delaware corporation (“Lugano Holdings”), and Lugano Buyer, Inc., a Delaware corporation (“Lugano Buyer”) and a wholly-owned subsidiary of Lugano Holdings, acquired the issued and outstanding shares of stock of Lugano Diamonds and Jewelry Inc. ("Lugano") other than certain rollover shares described below (the “Lugano Transaction”). The Lugano Transaction was effectuated pursuant to a Stock Purchase Agreement (the “Lugano
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Purchase Agreement”), also dated September 3, 2021, by and among Lugano Buyer, the sellers named therein (“Lugano Sellers”) and Mordechai Haim Ferder in his individual capacity and as initial representative of the Sellers. Based in Newport Beach, California and founded in 2004, Lugano makes one-of-a-kind jewelry for some of the world’s most discerning clientele. In addition to its product offerings, Lugano frequently partners with local, influential organizations to host and sponsor more than 100 equestrian, social and charity events throughout the year.
The Company made loans to, and purchased a 60% equity interest in, Lugano. The purchase price, including proceeds from noncontrolling shareholders and net of transaction costs, was $263.3 million. The selling shareholders invested in the transaction along with the Company, representing 40% initial noncontrolling interest on both a primary and fully diluted basis. The fair value of the noncontrolling interest was determined based on the enterprise value of the acquired entity multiplied by the ratio of the number of shares acquired by the minority holders to total shares. The transaction was accounted for as a business combination. CGM acted as an advisor to the Company in the acquisition and will continue to provide integration services during the first year of the Company's ownership of Lugano. CGM will receive integration service fees of $2.3 million payable quarterly over a twelve month period as services are rendered which payments began in the quarter ended December 31, 2021. The Company incurred $1.8 million of transaction costs in conjunction with the Lugano acquisition, which was included in selling, general and administrative expense in the consolidated statements of operations during the third quarter of 2021. The Company funded the acquisition with cash on hand and a $120 million draw on its 2021 Revolving Credit Facility.
2021 Credit Facility
On March 23, 2021, we entered into a Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement (the "2021 Credit Facility") to amend and restate the 2018 Credit Facility. The 2021 Credit Facility provides for revolving loans, swing line loans and letters of credit (the "2021 Revolving Credit Facility") up to a maximum aggregate amount of $600 million and also permits the Company, prior to the applicable maturity date, to increase the revolving loan commitment and/or obtain term loans in an aggregate amount of up to $250 million, subject to certain restrictions and conditions. All amounts outstanding under the 2021 Revolving Credit Facility will become due on March 23, 2026, which is the maturity date of loans advanced under the 2021 Revolving Credit Facility.
Senior Notes Issuance
On March 23, 2021, we consummated the issuance and sale of $1,000 million aggregate principal amount of our 5.250% Notes due 2029 (the "2029 Notes") offered pursuant to a private offering to qualified institutional buyers in accordance with Rule 144A under the Securities Act, and to non-U.S. persons under Regulation S under the Securities Act. The 2029 Notes were issued pursuant to an indenture, dated as of March 23, 2021 (the “2029 Notes Indenture”), between the Company and U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee. The 2029 Notes bear interest at the rate of 5.250% per annum and will mature on April 15, 2029. Interest on the 2029 Notes is payable in cash on April 15th and October 15th of each year. The 2029 Notes are general unsecured obligations of the Company and are not guaranteed by our subsidiaries.
The proceeds from the sale of the 2029 Notes was used to repay debt outstanding under the 2018 Credit Facility in connection with our entry into the 2021 Credit Facility and to redeem our 2026 Notes.
On November 17, 2021, we consummated the issuance and sale of $300 million aggregate principal amount of our 5.000% Notes due 2032 (the "2032 Notes") offered pursuant to a private offering to qualified institutional buyers in accordance with Rule 144A under the Securities Act, and to non-U.S. persons under Regulation S under the Securities Act. The 2032 Notes were issued pursuant to an indenture, dated as of November 17, 2021 (the “2032 Notes Indenture”), between the Company and U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee. The Notes bear interest at the rate of 5.000% per annum and will mature on January 15, 2032. Interest on the Notes is payable in cash on January 15th and July 15th of each year. The 2032 Notes are general unsecured obligations of the Company and are not guaranteed by our subsidiaries. The proceeds from the sale of the 2032 Notes was used to repay debt outstanding under the 2021 Revolving Credit Facility.
Common Share Offering
On September 7, 2021, we filed a prospectus supplement pursuant to which we may, but we have no obligation to, issue and sell up to $500 million shares of the common shares of the Trust in amounts and at times to be determined by us. Actual sales will depend on a variety of factors to be determined by us from time to time, including, market conditions, the trading price of Trust common shares and determinations by us regarding appropriate sources of funding. In connection with this offering, we entered into an At Market Issuance Sales
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Agreement with B. Riley Securities, Inc. (“B. Riley”) and Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC (“Goldman” and, together with B. Riley, the “Sales Agents”) pursuant to which we may sell common shares of the Trust having an aggregate offering price of up to $500 million, from time to time through B. Riley and Goldman, acting as sales agents and/or principals. We sold 3,387,385 Trust common shares during the year ended December 31, 2021 and received net proceeds of approximately $115.1 million. We incurred approximately $2.1 million in commissions payable to the Sales Agents during the year ended December 31, 2021.
Disposition of Liberty Safe
On July 16, 2021, the Company, as majority stockholder of Liberty Safe Holding Corporation (“Liberty”) and as Sellers Representative, entered into a definitive Stock Purchase Agreement (the “Liberty Purchase Agreement”) with Independence Buyer, Inc. (“Liberty Buyer”), Liberty and the other holders of stock and options of Liberty to sell to Liberty Buyer all of the issued and outstanding securities of Liberty, the parent company of the operating entity, Liberty Safe and Security Products, Inc. On August 3, 2021, Liberty Buyer completed the acquisition of Liberty pursuant to the Liberty Purchase Agreement, as amended. The sale price of Liberty was based on an aggregate total enterprise value of $147.5 million, and is subject to customary adjustments. After the allocation of the sale proceeds to Liberty's non-controlling shareholders, the repayment of intercompany loans to the Company (including accrued interest) of $26.5 million, and the payment of transaction expenses of approximately $4.5 million, the Company received approximately $128.0 million of total proceeds from the sale at closing. The Company recognized a gain on the sale of Liberty of $72.8 million during the year ended December 31, 2021.
Sale of Advanced Circuits
On October 13, 2021, the Company, as the representative (the “Sellers Representative”) of the holders (the “AC Sellers”) of stock and options of Compass AC Holdings, Inc. (“Advanced Circuits”), a majority owned subsidiary of the Company, entered into a definitive Agreement and Plan of Merger (the “AC Agreement”) with Tempo Automation, Inc. (“AC Buyer”), Aspen Acquisition Sub, Inc. (“AC Merger Sub”) and Advanced Circuits, pursuant to which AC Buyer will acquire all of the issued and outstanding securities of Advanced Circuits, the parent company of the operating entity, Advanced Circuits, Inc., through a merger of AC Merger Sub with and into Advanced Circuits, with Advanced Circuits surviving the merger and becoming a wholly owned subsidiary of AC Buyer (the “AC Merger”). Under the terms of the AC Agreement, the AC Sellers will receive consideration in the amount of $310 million, composed of $240 million in cash and $70 million in common stock of a publicly traded special purpose acquisition company (“SPAC”) selected by AC Buyer to acquire AC Buyer (the “SPAC Transaction”) upon the closing of the transaction, excluding certain working capital and other adjustments. In addition, the AC Sellers may receive 2.4 million additional shares of SPAC common stock within five years, subject to SPAC stock price performance. The Company owns approximately 67% of the outstanding stock of Advanced Circuits on a fully diluted basis and expects to receive approximately 77% of the gross consideration payable under the AC Agreement. This amount is in respect of the Company’s outstanding loans to Advanced Circuits and its equity interests in Advanced Circuits. The closing of the transaction is expected to occur in the second quarter of 2022, however, there can be no assurances that all of the conditions to closing, which include the closing of the SPAC transaction, will be satisfied.
Common shares - For the 2021 fiscal year we declared distributions to our common shareholders totaling $2.21 per share, inclusive of our special cash distribution of $0.88 per share in connection with our tax reclassification.
Preferred shares - For the 2021 fiscal year we declared distributions to our preferred shareholders totaling $1.8125 per share on our Series A Preferred Shares and $1.96875 on our Series B Preferred Shares and $1.96875 on our Series C Preferred Shares.
2021 Outlook and Significant Trends
COVID-19 Update
In March 2020, the World Health Organization categorized COVID-19 as a pandemic. The continued spread of COVID-19 and new variants of the virus around the world continue to present significant risks to our business. The economic and health conditions in the United States and across most of the globe have continued to change since the beginning of the pandemic and the ultimate impact of COVID-19 on our business is dependent on future developments, including the duration of the pandemic, the emergence of variants of the virus and the related length of its impact on the global economy, which are highly uncertain and difficult to accurately predict. The public health situation, global response measures and corresponding impacts on various markets remain fluid and uncertain. The health of our team and various stakeholders is our highest priority, and we have taken multiple steps to provide support and a safe work environment. The Company anticipates that COVID-19 will continue to impact the results of
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operations, including a potential decrease in gross margins, operating income and Adjusted EBITDA at certain of our businesses during 2022.
The following are two significant trends resulting from COVID-19 that we anticipate may negatively impact our operating performance in 2022:
Global Supply Chain
The disruption in the global supply chain due to transportation delays and U.S. port congestion are expected to continue in 2022 and continue to place constraints on several of our businesses. Surges in demand and shifts in shopping patterns related to COVID-19, as well as other factors, have continued to strain the global supply chain network, which has resulted in carrier-imposed capacity restrictions, carrier delays, and longer lead times. U.S. ports that have been unable to keep pace with unprecedented inbound container volume, which has led to shipping and unloading backlogs. The situation has been further exacerbated by COVID-19 protocols at many port locations. Due to the backlog at the ports and other supply chain disruptions, most of our businesses are experiencing shortages in materials and products, and significant increases in freight costs. Many of our companies are relying on expensive air freight to import goods to meet customer demand. We are also seeing the availability of raw materials, components and finished goods impacted by the supply chain challenges which has led to shortages of certain materials and led to pressure on revenue growth. In addition, the closure of certain Asian manufacturing facilities as a result of a lack of COVID-19 vaccines, local government quarantine efforts and electricity shortages have impacted our ability to import products timely. Further, in the U.S., the surge in demand along with COVID-19 related government stimulus and rising hourly labor wages, are creating labor shortages and higher labor costs. We expect these cost trends to continue in 2022.
Inflationary Cost Environment
During 2021, we experienced inflationary cost increases in our materials, labor and transportation costs. We expect that these inflationary cost increases will continue but will be partially mitigated by pricing actions implemented in 2021, as well as those that we plan to implement in 2022. In 2022, we expect changing market conditions and continued inflationary pressures to impact consumer spending. In December 2021, the Consumer Price Index increased approximately 7% year-over-year. and with price pressures unlikely to abate and expected changes in monetary policies, consumer spending may be negatively impacted in 2022.
Business Outlook
The Company anticipates that the areas of focus for 2022, which are generally applicable to each of our businesses, include:
•Achieving sales growth through a combination of new product development, increasing distribution, new customer acquisitions and international expansion;
•Raising prices on our goods due to rising input costs to preserve operating margins,
•Taking market share, where possible, in each of our niche market leading companies, generally at the expense of less well capitalized competitors;
•Striving for excellence in supply chain management, manufacturing and technological capabilities;
•Continuing to pursue expense reduction and cost savings in lower margin business lines or in response to lower production volume;
•Continuing to grow through disciplined, strategic acquisitions and rigorous integration processes; and
•Driving free cash flow through increased net income and effective working capital management, enabling continued investment in our businesses.
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Results of Operations
The following discussion reflects a comparison of the historical results of operations of our consolidated business for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, and components of the results of operations as well as those components presented as a percent of net revenues, for each of our businesses on a stand-alone basis.
We acquired Lugano Diamonds in September 2021, BOA in October 2020 and Marucci Sports in April 2020. In the following results of operations, we provide (i) our actual Consolidated Results of Operations for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, which includes the historical results of operations of each of our businesses (operating segments) from the date of acquisition in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States ("GAAP" or "US GAAP") and (ii) comparative historical components of the results of operations for each of our businesses on a stand-alone basis (“Results of Operations – Our Businesses”), for each of the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, where all years presented include relevant pro-forma adjustments for pre-acquisition periods and explanations where applicable. For the 2021 acquisition of Lugano Diamonds, the pro forma results of operations have been prepared as if we purchased this business on January 1, 2020. For the 2020 acquisitions of Marucci Sports and BOA, the pro forma results of operations have been prepared as if we purchased these businesses on January 1, 2019. We believe this presentation enhances the discussion and provides a more meaningful comparison of operating results. The following operating results of our businesses are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for a full year, going forward.
All dollar amounts in the financial tables are presented in thousands. References in the financial tables to percentage changes that are not meaningful are denoted by "NM."
Consolidated Results of Operations — Compass Diversified Holdings
Year Ended December 31,
Asset impairment expense — — 32,881
Year ended December 31, 2021 compared to the Year ended December 31, 2020
Net revenues
Net revenues for the year ended December 31, 2021 increased by approximately $482.1 million or 35.5% compared to the corresponding period in 2020. Our Marucci business, which we acquired in April 2020, contributed $74.7 million in incremental net revenue during the year ended December 31, 2021, and our BOA business, which we acquired in October 2020, contributed $139.9 million in incremental revenue in 2021. Our Lugano business, which we acquired in September 2021, had $54.4 million in revenue during the period of our ownership. During the year ended December 31, 2021 as compared to the year ended December 31, 2020, we saw notable sales increases at 5.11 ($43.9 million increase), and Velocity ($54.4 million increase) as a result of an increased consumer focus on
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outdoor related brands. Our Altor Solutions business also saw an increase in net revenues of $50.2 million, primarily as a result of add-on acquisitions that occurred in July 2020 and October 2020. We also saw notable increases in net revenue in 2021 as compared to 2020 at several of our other business which saw increased sales compared to the prior year, which was negatively impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. These increases in net revenue occurred at Ergobaby ($18.9 million increase), Arnold ($41.0 million increase, which was partially attributable to an add-on acquisition in March 2021) and Sterno ($5.1 million increase). Refer to "Results of Operations - Our Businesses" for a more detailed analysis of net revenue by business segment.
We do not generate any revenues apart from those generated by the businesses we own. We may generate interest income on the investment of available funds, but expect such earnings to be minimal. Our investment in our businesses is typically in the form of loans from the Company to such businesses, as well as equity interests in those businesses. Cash flows coming to the Trust and the Company are the result of interest payments on those loans, amortization of those loans and, in some cases, dividends on our equity ownership. However, on a consolidated basis these items will be eliminated.
Cost of revenues
On a consolidated basis, cost of revenues increased approximately $251.1 million during the year ended December 31, 2021, compared to the corresponding period in 2020, primarily as a result of the increase in net revenues. Our Marucci and BOA businesses contributed $84.7 million of the increase, and our Lugano business had $30.2 million in cost of revenues in 2021. Gross profit as a percentage of net revenues was approximately 39.4% in year ended December 31, 2021 compared to 36.4% in 2020. We recognized $5.9 million in expense related to the amortization of the inventory step-up resulting from our purchase price allocation of Marucci Sports and BOA and Altor's acquisition of Polyfoam during the year ended December 31, 2020, and $2.8 million in expense related to the inventory step-up resulting from our purchase price allocation for Lugano during the year-ended December 31, 2021. Excluding the effect of the amortization of inventory step-up, gross profit as a percentage of net revenues was 39.7% and 36.8%, respectively, for 2021 and 2020. The increase in gross profit percentage in 2021 as compared to 2020 was primarily related to the increase in net revenue at our branded consumer businesses, which have higher gross margins than our niche industrial businesses. The gross margins at our niche industrial businesses have been impacted by global supply chain constraints and increased costs of materials and components. The impact from these factors has been mostly offset by gains in operating efficiencies and price increases to our customers. Refer to "Results of Operations - Our Businesses" for a more detailed analysis of gross profit by business segment.
Selling, general and administrative expense
Consolidated selling, general and administrative expense increased approximately $114.8 million during the year ended December 31, 2021, compared to the corresponding period in 2020. $20.2 million of the increase is attributable to our Marucci business, which was acquired in April 2020, and $38.9 million of the increase is attributable to BOA, which was acquired in October 2020. $12.0 million of the increase is attributable to Lugano, including $1.8 million in transaction costs related to the acquisition of Lugano in the current year. We also saw an increase in selling, general and administrative expense at several of our subsidiaries versus the prior year as spending on variable expenses was reduced in the prior year in response to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, with the current year spend reflecting more normal levels of selling, general and administrative spend. Refer to "Results of Operations - Our Businesses" for a more detailed analysis of selling, general and administrative expense by business segment. At the corporate level, general and administrative expense increased from $14.2 million in 2020 to $17.3 million in 2021. The increase in corporate general and administrative expense during 2021 is primarily due to increased professional fees associated with our election for the Trust to be treated as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and an increase in variable spending that had been reduced in the prior year as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Fees to manager
Pursuant to the Management Services Agreement, we pay CGM a quarterly management fee equal to 0.5% (2.0% annually) of our consolidated adjusted net assets. We accrue for the management fee on a quarterly basis. For the year ended December 31, 2021, we incurred approximately $46.9 million in management fees as compared to $33.7 million in fees in the year ended December 31, 2020. The increase in management fees is primarily attributable to our acquisition of Marucci in April 2020, BOA in October 2020 and Lugano in September 2021, offset by our sale of Liberty in August 2021. CGM has entered into a waiver of the MSA for a period through December 31, 2021 to receive a 1% annual management fee related to BOA, rather than the 2% called for under the MSA, which resulted in a lower management fee paid during 2021 than would have normally been due. In the first quarter of 2021, the Company and CGM entered into a waiver agreement whereby CGM agreed to waive the portion of the management fee related to the amount of the cash proceeds deposited with the Trustee that was in excess of the amount payable related to the 2026 Notes at March 31, 2021. Additionally, CGM has entered into a waiver of the MSA at December 31, 2021 to exclude the cash balances held at the LLC from the calculation of the management fee. In the first quarter of 2020, as a proactive measure to provide the Company with additional liquidity in light of the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Company drew $200 million down on the 2018 Revolving Credit Facility. The Company and CGM entered a waiver agreement whereby CGM agreed to waive the portion of the management fee attributable to cash balances at March 31, 2020 which reduced the amount of management fee that would have been paid in the first quarter of 2020. Additionally, as a result of an expected decline in earnings and cash flows in the second quarter of 2020 in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, CGM agreed to waive 50% of the management fee calculated at June 30, 2020.
Amortization expense
Amortization expense for the year ended December 31, 2021 increased $18.6 million to $80.3 million as compared to the prior year, primarily as a result of the acquisitions of Marucci in April 2020, BOA in October 2020 and Lugano in September 2021.
Interest Expense
We recorded interest expense totaling $58.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2021 compared to $45.8 million for the comparable period in 2020, an increase of $13.1 million. The increase in interest expense in the current year reflects the higher amount outstanding on our senior notes during the current year after we redeemed $600.0 million of our 8.000% 2026 Senior Notes and issued $1000.0 million of 5.250% 2029 Notes in March of 2021, and issued an additional $300.0 million of 5.000% Senior Notes due in 2032 in November 2021. We also had an increase in the average amount outstanding under our Revolving Credit Facility during 2021 compared to the prior year. The average amount outstanding on our Revolving Credit Facility in 2021 was approximately $125.2 million, while the average amount outstanding during 2020 was $101.4 million.
Income Taxes
We had income tax expense of $18.3 million with an effective income tax rate of 42.5% during the year ended December 31, 2021 compared to income tax expense of $10.2 million with an effective income tax rate of 229.5% during the same period in 2020. Our net income from continuing operations before income taxes for the year ended December 31, 2021 increased $38.8 million as compared to income from continuing operations before taxes for the year ended December 31, 2020 ($43.2 million in 2021 compared to $4.4 million in 2020). Our income tax provision increased by $8.2 million in 2021 as compared to 2020. The tax provision reflects the effect of state and local taxes, foreign taxes and the related allocation of income at our subsidiaries, in addition to the effect of the losses at our parent company. The effective tax rate for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020 includes a loss at our parent company, which was previously taxed as a partnership.
On September 1, 2021, the Trust elected to “check-the-box” to have the Trust treated as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes. The Trust recorded a deferred tax benefit of $12.1 million at December 31, 2021 to reflect the effect of the classification of ACI as held-for-sale.
Year ended December 31, 2020 compared to the Year ended December 31, 2019
Net revenues
Net revenues for the year ended December 31, 2020 increased by approximately $96.3 million or 7.6% compared to the corresponding period in 2019. During the year ended December 31, 2020 as compared to the year ended
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December 31, 2019, we saw notable sales increases at 5.11 ($12.5 million increase) and Velocity ($68.2 million increase) as a result of an increased consumer focus on outdoor related brands. Our Altor business also saw an increase in net revenues of $8.6 million as a result of an add-on acquisition that occurred in July 2020. Our Marucci business, which we acquired in April 2020, had net sales of $43.4 million during our ownership period in 2020, and our BOA business, which we acquired in October 2020, had net sales of $25.3 million during our period of ownership. These increases in net revenue were partially offset by decreases in net revenue in 2020 as compared to 2019 at our other businesses, primarily as a result of the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, notably Ergobaby ($15.3 million decrease), Arnold ($21.0 million decrease) and Sterno ($25.5 million decrease). Refer to "Results of Operations - Our Businesses" for a more detailed analysis of net revenue by business segment.
We do not generate any revenues apart from those generated by the businesses we own. We may generate interest income on the investment of available funds, but expect such earnings to be minimal. Our investment in our businesses is typically in the form of loans from the Company to such businesses, as well as equity interests in those businesses. Cash flows coming to the Trust and the Company are the result of interest payments on those loans, amortization of those loans and, in some cases, dividends on our equity ownership. However, on a consolidated basis these items will be eliminated.
Cost of revenues
On a consolidated basis, cost of revenues increased approximately $58.2 million during the year ended December 31, 2020, compared to the corresponding period in 2019, primarily as a result of the increase in net revenues. Gross profit as a percentage of net revenues was approximately 36.4% in year ended December 31, 2020 compared to 36.2% in 2019. We recognized $5.9 million in expense related to the amortization of the inventory step-up resulting from our purchase price allocation of Marucci Sports and BOA and Altor's acquisition of Polyfoam during the year ended December 31, 2020. Excluding the effect of the amortization of inventory step-up, gross profit as a percentage of net revenues was 36.8%. Refer to "Results of Operations - Our Businesses" for a more detailed analysis of gross profit by business segment.
Selling, general and administrative expense
Consolidated selling, general and administrative expense increased approximately $36.0 million during the year ended December 31, 2020, compared to the corresponding period in 2019. The increase in selling, general and administrative expense primarily relates to the acquisition of Marucci Sports in April 2020 and BOA in October 2020. In addition to the incremental selling, general and administrative expense incurred by these businesses subsequent to their acquisition, we incurred $4.8 million in acquisition costs and $2.1 million in integration related fees from these acquisitions in 2020. Refer to "Results of Operations - Our Businesses" for a more detailed analysis of selling, general and administrative expense by business segment. At the corporate level, general and administrative expense decreased from $14.9 million in 2019 to $14.2 million in 2020, primarily due to decreased travel costs, partially offset by costs associated with an unsuccessful acquisition.
Fees to manager
Pursuant to the Management Services Agreement, we pay CGM a quarterly management fee equal to 0.5% (2.0% annually) of our consolidated adjusted net assets. We accrue for the management fee on a quarterly basis. Concurrent with the September 2019 sale of Clean Earth, CGM agreed to waive the management fee on cash balances held at the Company, commencing with the quarter ended September 30, 2019 and continuing until the quarter during which the Company next borrowed under the 2018 Revolving Credit Facility. In March 2020, as a proactive measure to provide the Company with additional cash liquidity in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Company elected to draw down $200 million on our 2018 Revolving Credit Facility. The Company and CGM entered into a waiver agreement whereby CGM agreed to waive the portion of the management fee attributable to the cash balances held at the Company as of March 31, 2020. Additionally, as a result of an expected decline in earnings and cash flows in the second quarter of 2020, CGM agreed to waive 50% of the management fee calculated at June 30, 2020 that was paid in July 2020. Further, for the third quarter of 2020, the Company and CGM entered into a waiver agreement whereby CGM agreed to waive the portion of the management fee attributable to the cash balances held at the Company as of September 30, 2020. The result of these waivers was a decrease in the management fee during the year ended December 31, 2020 as compared to the prior year, despite the addition of the Marucci business in April 2020. CGM has also entered into a waiver of the MSA for a period through December 31, 2021 to receive a 1% annual management fee related to BOA, rather than the 2% called for under the MSA, which reduced the management fee paid for the fourth quarter of 2020.
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Amortization expense
Amortization expense for the year ended December 31, 2020 increased $8.1 million to $61.7 million as compared to the prior year, primarily as a result of the acquisitions of Marucci in April 2020 and BOA in October 2020.
Impairment expense
Velocity Outdoor performed an interim impairment test of their goodwill during the quarter ended September 30, 2019 as a result of operating results below forecasts in the current period as well as a re-forecast of the Velocity business in which planned earnings and revenue fell below the forecasts of prior periods. The impairment test resulted in Velocity Outdoor recording impairment expense of $32.9 million in the prior year ended December 31, 2019.
Interest Expense
We recorded interest expense totaling $45.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2020 compared to $58.2 million for the comparable period in 2019, a decrease of $12.4 million. The decrease in interest expense for the year ended December 31, 2020 reflects the repayment of our 2018 Term Loan during 2019 using a portion of the proceeds from the sale of Clean Earth and proceeds from the issuance of preferred shares, offset by an increase in interest expense related to our issuance of an additional $200 million of our 8.000% Senior Notes in May 2020.
Income Taxes
We had income tax expense of $10.2 million with an effective income tax rate of 229.5% during the year ended December 31, 2020 compared to income tax expense of $9.9 million with an effective income tax rate of 16.5% during the same period in 2019. The effective tax rate for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019 includes a loss at our parent company, which was previously taxed as a partnership. Although we had income from continuing operations before income taxes for the year ended December 31, 2020 as compared to a loss from continuing operations for the year ended December 31, 2019 ($4.4 million income in 2020 compared to a $60.1 million loss in 2019), our income tax provision increased by only $0.3 million in 2020 as compared to 2019. The tax provision reflects the effect of state and local taxes, foreign taxes and the related allocation of income at our subsidiaries, in addition to effect of the losses at our parent company. The effective income tax rate in the prior year also reflects the effect of the impairment expense recognized at Velocity and the utilization of tax credits.
Results of Operations — Our Businesses
We categorize the businesses we own into two separate groups of businesses (i) branded consumer businesses, and (ii) niche industrial businesses. Branded consumer businesses are characterized as those businesses that we believe capitalize on a valuable brand name in their respective market sector. We believe that our branded consumer businesses are leaders in their particular category. Niche industrial businesses are characterized as those businesses that focus on manufacturing and selling particular products or services within a specific market sector. We believe that our niche industrial businesses are leaders in their specific market sector.
Branded Consumer Businesses
5.11
Overview
5.11 is a leading provider of purpose-built technical apparel and gear for law enforcement, firefighters, EMS, and military special operations as well as outdoor and adventure enthusiasts. 5.11 is a brand known for innovation and authenticity and works directly with end users to create purpose-built apparel, footwear and gear designed to enhance the safety, accuracy, speed and performance of tactical professionals and enthusiasts worldwide. 5.11 operates sales offices and distribution centers globally, and 5.11 products are widely distributed in uniform stores, military exchanges, outdoor retail stores, its own retail stores and on 511tactical.com.
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Results of Operations
Year ended December 31,
Year ended December 31, 2021 compared to the Year ended December 31, 2020
Net sales
Net sales for the year ended December 31, 2021 were $445.0 million, an increase of $43.9 million, or 10.9%, compared to the same period in 2020. This increase is due primarily to direct-to-consumer growth of $35.0 million, up 22% from the prior year comparable period. Retail sales grew largely due to fifteen new retail store openings since December 2020 (bringing the total store count to eighty-seven as of December 31, 2021) as well as positive growth in same-store sales for the year ended December 31, 2021 as compared to the same period last year which was negatively impacted by the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Net sales were also positively impacted by wholesale sales growth of $18.6 million, up 8% from the prior year which was negatively impacted by the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. The increase in sales from direct-to-consumer and wholesale was partially offset by a decrease of $8.4 million in sales in our direct to agency business (DTA) as we fulfilled a large contract in 2020 which did not repeat in 2021.
Gross profit
Gross profit as a percentage of net sales increased from 50.4% in the year ended December 31, 2020 to 52.9% in the year ended December 31, 2021. Growth in gross margin was driven by channel mix as direct-to-consumer sales, which realize a higher gross margin than wholesale sales, grew versus the prior period. The growth in gross profit percentage for the year ended December 31, 2021 as compared to the year ended December 31, 2020 was partially offset by increases in inbound ocean and air freight as logistic challenges caused by the COVID-19 pandemic increased supply chain costs.
Selling, general and administrative expense
Selling, general and administrative expenses for the year ended December 31, 2021 increased to $186.1 million or 41.8% of net sales compared to $162.4 million or 40.5% of net sales for the year ended December 31, 2020. The increase in selling, general and administrative expense for the year ended December 31, 2021 as compared to the prior year comparable period was driven by the costs associated with additional retail stores (eighty-seven open in 2021 versus seventy-three open in 2020 during the comparable period), as well as additional sales and marketing spend to drive digital sales. For the year ended December 31, 2020, management significantly reduced variable expenses, including payroll, bonus, travel and entertainment, and sales and marketing, as a response to decreased sales from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. While management continues to control and reduce variable expenses, payroll and bonus for fiscal 2021 increased in correlation with the increase in net sales.
Income from operations
Income from operations for the year ended December 31, 2021 was $39.4 million, an increase of $9.3 million when compared to the same period in 2020, based on the factors described above.
Year ended December 31, 2020 compared to the Year ended December 31, 2019
Net sales
Net sales for the year ended December 31, 2020 were $401.1 million, an increase of $12.5 million, or 3.2%, compared to the same period in 2019. This increase is due primarily to growth in e-commerce and retail sales growth of $30.2 million, or 31.2%, driven by growing demand in direct-to-consumer channels, specifically digital. Retail sales grew largely through twelve new retail store openings since December 2019 (bringing the total store count to seventy-three as of December 31, 2020) as well as the full-year impact of the sixteen stores opened in
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2019. The increase in net sales for the year ended December 31, 2020 were further increased by Direct-to-Agency (“DTA”) contracts fulfilled in 2020. The increase in net sales for the year ended December 31, 2020 as compared to the prior year was offset by the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on store traffic in our wholesale channels and our own retail stores.
Gross Profit
Gross profit as a percentage of net sales increased from 49.3% in the year ended December 31, 2019 to 50.4% in the year ended December 31, 2020. Growth in gross margin was driven by channel mix as direct-to-consumer sales, which realize a higher gross margin than wholesale sales, grew versus the prior period. The growth in gross profit for the year ended December 31, 2020 as compared to the year ended December 31, 2019 was partially offset by additional inventory reserves and duty drawback accrual (increase in cost of goods sold) for audited duty drawback claims.
Selling, general and administrative expense
Selling, general and administrative expenses for the year ended December 31, 2020 increased to $162.4 million or 40.5% of net sales compared to $159.4 million or 41.0% of net sales for the year ended December 31, 2019. The decrease in selling, general and administrative expense as a percentage of net sales was driven by management’s decision to reduce variable expenses, including travel and entertainment, sales and marketing, and payroll as a response to decreased sales from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. The decrease was partially offset by an increase in marketing spend to drive demand in the growing direct to consumer channels and by the costs associated with additional retail stores (seventy-three open in 2020 versus sixty-one open in 2019 during the comparable period).
Income from operations
Income from operations for the year ended December 31, 2020 was $30.1 million, an increase of $7.7 million when compared to the same period in 2019, based on the factors described above.
BOA
Overview
BOA, creator of the revolutionary, award-winning, patented BOA Fit System, partners with market-leading brands to make the best gear even better. Delivering fit solutions purpose-built for performance, the BOA Fit System is featured in footwear across snow sports, cycling, hiking/trekking, golf, running, court sports, workwear as well as headwear and medical bracing. The system consists of three integral parts: a micro-adjustable dial, high-tensile lightweight laces, and low friction lace guides creating a superior alternative to laces, buckles, Velcro, and other traditional closure mechanisms. Each unique BOA configuration is engineered for fast, effortless, precision fit, and is backed by The BOA Lifetime Guarantee. BOA is headquartered in Denver, Colorado and has offices in Austria, Greater China, South Korea, and Japan.
Results of Operations
In the following results of operations, we provide comparative pro forma results of operations for BOA for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019 as if we had acquired the business on January 1, 2019. The results of operations that follow include relevant pro-forma adjustments for pre-acquisition periods and explanations where applicable. The operating results for BOA have been included in the consolidated results of operation from the date of acquisition, October 16, 2020.
Year ended December 31,
(in thousands) Pro forma Pro forma
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Pro forma financial information for BOA for the year ended December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019 includes pre-acquisition results of operations for the period from January 1, 2020 through October 16, 2020, the acquisition date of BOA, and January 1, 2019 through December 31, 2019, for comparative purposes. The historical results of BOA have been adjusted to reflect the purchase accounting adjustments recorded in connection with the acquisition. Pro forma results of operations include the following pro forma adjustments as if we had acquired BOA January 1, 2019:
•Depreciation expense associated with the increase in depreciable lives of capital assets of $0.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2019.
•Amortization expense associated with the intangible assets recorded in connection with the purchase price allocation for BOA of $11.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2020, and $15.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2019.
•Management fees that would have been payable to the Manager during each period.
Year ended December 31, 2021 compared to the Pro forma Year ended December 31, 2020
Net sales
Net sales for the year ended December 31, 2021 were $165.2 million, an increase of $58.8 million or 55.3% when compared to net sales of $106.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2020. This increase is due to underlying category and BOA momentum within key markets including Snow Sports, Cycling, Athletic, Outdoor & Workwear. The three factors primarily impacting growth rates were market share gains in key categories, consumer participation increases as well as accelerated production ordering by BOA’s customers due to longer lead times resulting from overall global supply chain constraints.
Gross profit
Gross profit as a percentage of net sales was 61.1% for the year ended December 31, 2021 compared to 59.1% for the same period in 2020. The cost of sales for the year ended December 31, 2020 includes $1.5 million related to the amortization of inventory step-up resulting from the acquisition purchase price allocation. Excluding the effect of the inventory step-up, the gross profit as a percentage of net sales for the year ended December 31, 2020 was 60.5%. The increase in gross profit as a percentage of net sales during the current year is attributable primarily to product mix.
Selling, general and administrative expense
Selling, general and administrative expense for the year ended December 31, 2021 was $50.6 million, an increase of $9.7 million as compared to selling, general and administrative expense of $40.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2020. Selling general and administrative expense in the current year includes $3.3 million in integration services fees paid to CGM. The remainder of the increase in selling, general, and administrative expense is due to increased employee costs related to BOA's bonus plan, incremental headcount and marketing investments. Selling, general and administrative expense for the year ended December 31, 2020 included $2.5 million in transaction costs related to the acquisition of BOA, and $1.1 million in integration services fees paid to CGM.
Income from operations
Income from operations was $34.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2021 as compared to $5.8 million in income from operations in the year ended December 31, 2020, an increase of $28.2 million based on the factors noted above.
Pro forma Year ended December 31, 2020 compared to the Pro forma Year ended December 31, 2019
Net sales
Net sales for the year ended December 31, 2020 were $106.4 million, an increase of $0.1 million or 0.1% when compared to net sales of $106.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2019.
Gross profit
Gross profit as a percentage of net sales was 59.1% for the year ended December 31, 2020 compared to 58.0% for the same period in 2019. The cost of sales for the year ended December 31, 2020 includes $1.5 million related to the amortization of inventory step-up resulting from the acquisition purchase price allocation. Excluding the effect of the inventory step-up, the gross profit as a percentage of net sales for the year ended December 31, 2020 was 60.5%. The increase in gross profit as a percentage of net sales during the current year is attributable primarily to product mix.
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Selling, general and administrative expense
Selling, general and administrative expense for the year ended December 31, 2020 was $40.8 million, an increase of $1.7 million as compared to selling, general and administrative expense of $39.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2019. Selling, general and administrative expense for the year ended December 31, 2020 included $2.5 million in transaction costs related to the acquisition of BOA, and $1.1 million in integration services fees paid to CGM. Excluding these nonrecurring costs, selling, general and administrative expense for the year ended December 31, 2020 was approximately $37.2 million, a decrease of $2.0 million compared to the year ended December 31, 2019. This decrease was primarily attributable to a reduction in marketing activity and a reduced level of travel during 2020.
Income from operations
Income from operations was $5.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2020 as compared to $6.3 million in income from operations in the year ended December 31, 2019, a decrease of $0.5 million based on the factors noted above.
Ergobaby
Overview
Ergobaby, headquartered in Torrance, California, is a designer, marketer and distributor of wearable baby carriers and accessories, blankets and swaddlers, nursing pillows, strollers, and related products. Ergobaby primarily sells its Ergobaby and Baby Tula branded products through brick-and-mortar retailers, national chain stores, online retailers, its own websites and distributors and derives more than half of its sales from outside of the United States.
Results of Operations
Year ended December 31,
Year ended December 31, 2021 compared to the Year ended December 31, 2020
Net sales
Net sales for the year ended December 31, 2021 were $93.6 million, an increase of $18.9 million or 25.3% compared to the same period in 2020. During the year ended December 31, 2021, international sales were approximately $60.3 million, representing an increase of $12.2 million over the corresponding period in 2020 primarily as a result of increased sales to APAC and EMEA distributors as well as increased sales in EMEA direct territories through key accounts and e-commerce channels. Domestic sales were $33.3 million during the year ended December 31, 2021, reflecting an increase of $6.6 million compared to the corresponding period in 2020. The increase in domestic sales was primarily attributable to strong e-commerce sales across both the Ergo and Tula brands as well as increased key accounts sales.
Gross profit
Gross profit as a percentage of net sales was 65.3% for the year ended December 31, 2021 compared to 66.0% for the same period in 2020. The decrease in gross profit as a percentage of net sales was primarily due to increased inbound freight as a result of continued supply chain shortages. This more than offset favorable shifts in the mix of sales channels and mix of products sold during the year ended December 31, 2021.
Selling, general and administrative expense
Selling, general and administrative expense for the year ended December 31, 2021 increased to approximately $43.9 million or 46.9% of net sales compared to $36.3 million or 48.6% of net sales for the same period of 2020.
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The increase in selling, general and administrative expense for the year ended December 31, 2021 as compared to the year ended December 31, 2020 is a result of increases in variable expenses tied to sales (primarily outbound freight), marketing expenses related to multiple new product launches, as well as increased payroll expenses.
Income from operations
Income from operations for the year ended December 31, 2021 increased $3.9 million, to $9.1 million, compared to $5.2 million for the same period of 2020, primarily as a result of the factors described above.
Year ended December 31, 2020 compared to the Year ended December 31, 2019
Net sales
Net sales for the year ended December 31, 2020 were $74.7 million, a decrease of $15.3 million or 17.0% compared to the same period in 2019. During the year ended December 31, 2020, international sales were approximately $48.1 million, representing a decrease of $13.9 million over the corresponding period in 2019 primarily as a result of reduced sales volume at Ergobaby's Asia-Pacific and EMEA distributors as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Domestic sales were $26.7 million during the year ended December 31, 2020, reflecting a decrease of $1.4 million compared to the corresponding period in 2019. The decrease in domestic sales was driven by the Tula brand, primarily in the specialty account channel.
Gross Profit
Gross profit as a percentage of net sales was 66.0% for the year ended December 31, 2020 compared to 63.4% for the same period in 2019. The increase in gross profit as a percentage of net sales was due to the mix of sales channels, mix of products sold, as well as reduced freight costs and warranty expense during the year ended December 31, 2020.
Selling, general and administrative expense
Selling, general and administrative expense for the year ended December 31, 2020 decreased to approximately $36.3 million or 48.6% of net sales compared to $38.9 million or 43.2% of net sales for the same period of 2019. The decrease in selling, general and administrative expense for the year ended December 31, 2020 as compared to the year ended December 31, 2019 is a result of decreases in variable expenses in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and non-recurring expenses in the prior year.
Income from operations
Income from operations for the year ended December 31, 2020 decreased $5.2 million, to $5.2 million, compared to $10.4 million for the same period of 2019, primarily as a result of the factors described above.
Lugano
Overview
Lugano is a leading designer, manufacturer and marketer of high-end, one-of-a-kind jewelry sought after by some of the world’s most discerning clientele. Lugano conducts sales via its own retail salons as well as pop-up showrooms at Lugano-hosted or sponsored events in partnership with influential organizations in the equestrian, art and philanthropic community. Lugano is headquartered in Newport Beach, California.
Results of Operations
In the following results of operations, we provide comparative pro forma results of operations for Lugano for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020 as if we had acquired the business on January 1, 2020. The results of operations that follow include relevant pro-forma adjustments for pre-acquisition periods and explanations where applicable. The operating results for Lugano have been included in the consolidated results of operation from the date of acquisition, September 3, 2021.
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Year ended December 31,
Pro forma Pro forma
Pro forma financial information for Lugano for the year ended December 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020 includes pre-acquisition results of operations for the period from January 1, 2021 through September 3, 2021, the acquisition date of Lugano, and January 1, 2020 through December 31, 2020, for comparative purposes. The historical results of Lugano have been adjusted to reflect the purchase accounting adjustments recorded in connection with the acquisition. Pro forma results of operations include the following pro forma adjustments as if we had acquired Lugano January 1, 2020:
•Depreciation expense associated with the increase in depreciable lives of capital assets of $0.3 million and $0.6 million, for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively.
•Amortization expense associated with the intangible assets recorded in connection with the purchase price allocation for Lugano of $5.0 million for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020.
•Management fees that would have been payable to the Manager during each period.
Pro forma Year ended December 31, 2021 compared to the Pro forma Year ended December 31, 2020
Net sales
Net sales for the year ended December 31, 2021 increased approximately $57.9 million or 86.1%, to $125.1 million, compared to the corresponding year ended December 31, 2020. Lugano sells high-end jewelry primarily through retail salons in California, Florida and Colorado, and via pop-up showrooms at multiple equestrian, social and charitable functions each year. The effects of the COVID-19 pandemic in the prior year severely impacted both the operations of the retail salons and the number of events attended by Lugano which led to reduced net sales as compared to the current year.
Gross profit
Gross profit as a percentage of net sales totaled approximately 47.0% in the year ended December 31, 2021 compared to 49.4% in the year ended December 31, 2020. Lugano has an extensive network of suppliers through which they procure high quality diamonds and gemstones, which make up a significant percentage of the cost of sales. The uniqueness of the Lugano jewelry can lead to fluctuations in margins from period to period based on what designs are sold during the period. In the current period, Lugano recorded $2.8 million in amortization to cost of goods sold related to the amortization of inventory step-up resulting from the acquisition purchase price allocation. Excluding the effect of the inventory step-up, the gross profit as a percentage of net sales for the year ended December 31, 2021 was 53.0%.
Selling, general and administrative expense
Selling, general and administrative expense for the year ended December 31, 2021 increased to approximately $23.8 million or 19.1% of net sales compared to $12.6 million or 18.8% of net sales for the same period of 2020. The effects of the COVID-19 pandemic in the prior year led to a reduction in variable costs, particularly marketing spend, in the year ended December 31, 2021. The selling, general and administrative expense in the current year reflects a more normalized level of spending.
Income from operations
Income from operations increased $14.3 million during the year ended December 31, 2021 to $29.2 million compared to income from operations of $14.8 million during the same period in 2020, principally as a result of the increase in sales and gross profit in 2021, as described above.
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Marucci Sports
Overview
Founded in 2009 and headquartered in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Marucci is a leading designer, manufacturer, and marketer of premium wood and metal baseball bats, fielding gloves, batting gloves, bags, grips, protective gear, sunglasses, on and off-field apparel, and other baseball and softball equipment used by professional and amateur athletes. Marucci also develops and licenses franchises for sports training facilities. Marucci products are available through owned websites, their team sales organization, Big Box Retailers, and third party e-commerce & resellers.
Results of Operations
In the following results of operations, we provide comparative pro forma results of operations for Marucci for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019 as if we had acquired the business on January 1, 2019. The results of operations that follows include relevant pro-forma adjustments for pre-acquisition periods and explanations where applicable. The operating results for Marucci have been included in the consolidated results of operation from the date of acquisition, April, 20, 2020.
Year ended December 31,
(in thousands) Pro forma Pro forma
Pro forma financial information for Marucci for the year ended December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019 includes pre-acquisition results of operations for the period from January 1, 2020 through April 20, 2020, the acquisition date of Marucci, and January 1, 2019 through December 31, 2019, for comparative purposes. The historical results of Marucci have been adjusted to reflect the purchase accounting adjustments recorded in connection with the acquisition. Pro forma results of operations include the following pro forma adjustments as if we had acquired Marucci January 1, 2019:
•Depreciation expense associated with the increase in depreciable lives of capital assets of $0.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2020, and $0.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2019.
•Amortization expense associated with the intangible assets recorded in connection with the purchase price allocation for Marucci of $1.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2020, and $4.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2019.
•Management fees that would have been payable to the Manager during each period.
Year ended December 31, 2021 compared to the Pro forma Year ended December 31, 2020
Net sales
Net sales for the year ended December 31, 2021 were $118.2 million, an increase of $52.2 million as compared to net sales of $65.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2020. The increase in net sales was primarily due to increased customer demand and market share in many of Marucci's key product lines including aluminum and wood bats, batting gloves, and bags. The increased sales from these products occurred in both retail and direct channels. In the prior year, the shutdown of professional and youth baseball and softball in March as a response to the COVID-19 pandemic led to a significant drop off in demand for product through the first half of 2020, with demand beginning to pick up during the back half of 2020 after the resumption of professional and youth sports.
Gross profit
Gross profit for the year ended December 31, 2021 increased $30.6 million as compared to the year ended December 31, 2020. Gross profit as a percentage of sales was 54.5% for the year ended December 31, 2021 as compared to 51.2% for the year ended December 31, 2020. The cost of sales for the year ended December 31, 2020 includes $4.3 million related to the amortization of inventory step-up resulting from the acquisition purchase price allocation. Excluding the effect of the inventory step-up, the gross profit as a percentage of net sales for the year ended December 31, 2020 was 57.7%. During the current year, Marucci's facilities in Baton Rouge were damaged by floodwaters, which resulted in the write-off of $1.8 million in inventory, negatively impacting the gross profit in 2021 and resulting in a decrease versus adjusted gross profit percentage from 2020. Gross profit as a
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percentage of net sales during the year ended December 31, 2021 was also impacted by various factors including a shift of product mix in favor of higher margin products, mainly its aluminum bats, and channel mix, with increased sales through Marucci's higher margin direct-to-consumer and e-commerce channels, as well as increased freight costs.
Selling, general and administrative expense
Selling, general and administrative expense for the year ended December 31, 2021 was $40.8 million, or 34.5% of net sales compared to $30.5 million, or 46.2% of net sales for the year ended December 31, 2020. The increase in selling, general and administrative expense correlates to the increase in net sales, with increases in credit card expenses, royalties, commissions, business development fees, and other variable expenses.
Income (loss) from operations
Income from operations for the year ended December 31, 2021 was $16.4 million compared to loss from operations of $3.9 million for the same period in 2020, primarily as a result of the factors noted above.
Pro forma Year ended December 31, 2020 compared to the Pro forma Year ended December 31, 2019
Net sales
Net sales for the year ended December 31, 2020 were $65.9 million, a decrease of $0.6 million as compared to net sales of $66.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2019. During 2020, Marucci was affected by the economic slowdown resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic with baseball and softball seasons postponed in the spring and early summer throughout much of the United States. Marucci's “brick and mortar” retail partners were forced to close as a result of the pandemic thus Marucci did not receive fill-in orders during this period. As a result, sales of aluminum and wood bats were significantly less in the first and second quarter of 2020 when compared to the same period last year. Additionally, Major League Baseball postponed the beginning of their season eliminating the need for wood bats to be purchased for the professional season. During June 2020, Marucci began to see demand pick up as the baseball and softball seasons began and in August 2020, the company launched its CAT9 line of aluminum and composite bats.With the success of this launch, the demand pickup continued through the remainder of 2020.
Gross profit
Gross profit for the year ended December 31, 2020 decreased $2.1 million as compared to the year ended December 31, 2019. Gross profit as a percentage of sales was 51.2% for the year ended December 31, 2020 as compared to 53.9% for the year ended December 31, 2019. The cost of sales for the year ended December 31, 2020 includes $4.3 million related to the amortization of inventory step-up resulting from the acquisition purchase price allocation. Excluding the effect of the inventory step-up, the gross profit as a percentage of net sales for the year ended December 31, 2020 was 57.7%. The increase in gross profit as a percentage of net sales was attributable to an increase in retail sales price of Marucci's aluminum bats, specifically the CAT9, increased e-commerce sales resulting from the closure of retail brick and mortar stores at various times during 2020, and greater operating efficiencies resulting from Marucci's consolidation of its wood mills during the latter part of 2019.
Selling, general and administrative expense
Selling, general and administrative expense for the year ended December 31, 2020 was $30.5 million, or 46.2% of net sales compared to $30.9 million, or 46.5% of net sales for the year ended December 31, 2019. Selling, general and administrative expense for the year ended December 31, 2020 includes $2.0 million in acquisition related costs that were expensed at the close of the Marucci acquisition, and $1.0 million in integration service fees paid to CGM. Excluding the effect of the acquisition costs and integration service fees, selling, general and administrative expense for the year ended December 30, 2020 was $27.5 million, with the decrease in expense attributable to reductions in travel and entertainment as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, a reduction in royalty fees related to the acquisition in 2019 of a technology used with Marucci's aluminum bats, and a decrease in commission expense due to bringing the Marucci's sales team in-house.
Loss from operations
Loss from operations for the year ended December 31, 2020 was $3.9 million compared to loss from operations of $0.6 million for the same period in 2019, primarily as a result of the factors noted above.
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Velocity Outdoor
Overview
Velocity Outdoor is a leading designer, manufacturer, and marketer of airguns, archery products, laser aiming devices and related accessories. Velocity Outdoor offers its products under the highly recognizable Crosman, Benjamin, LaserMax, Ravin and Centerpoint brands that are available through national retail chains, mass merchants, dealer and distributor networks. The airgun product category consists of air rifles, air pistols and a range of accessories including targets, holsters and cases. Velocity Outdoor's other primary product categories are archery, with products including Centerpoint and Ravin crossbows, consumables, which includes steel and plastic BBs, lead pellets and CO2 cartridges, lasers for firearms, and airsoft products.
Results of Operations
Year ended December 31,
Impairment expense $ — — % $ — — % $ 32,881 22.2 %
Year ended December 31, 2021 compared to the Year ended December 31, 2020
Net sales
Net sales for the year ended December 31, 2021 were $270.4 million compared to net sales of $216.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2020, an increase of $54.4 million or 25.2%. The increase in net sales during the year ended December 31, 2021 is attributable to launching innovative new products, new branding initiatives, along with an increase in consumer participation in Velocity categories.
Gross profit
Gross profit as a percentage of net sales was 31.5% for the year ended December 31, 2021 as compared to 30.9% in the year December 31, 2020. The increase in gross profit as a percentage of net sales was primarily attributable to the impact of new, feature rich, higher margin products across Airgun and Archery divisions..
Selling general and administrative expense
Selling, general and administrative expense for the year ended December 31, 2021 was $35.8 million, or 13.2% of net sales compared to $32.3 million, or 14.9% of net sales, for the year ended December 31, 2020. The increase in selling, general and administrative expense is primarily related to volume driven expenses that correlate to the increase in sales, as well as additional investments in branding and marketing initiatives.
Income from operations
Income from operations for the year ended December 31, 2021 was $39.7 million, an increase of $14.8 million when compared to income from operations of $24.9 million for the comparable period in 2020. The increase in operating income in the year ended December 31, 2021 reflects the factors noted above.
Year ended December 31, 2020 compared to the Year ended December 31, 2019
Net sales
Net sales for the year ended December 31, 2020 were $216.0 million compared to net sales of $147.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2019, an increase of $68.2 million or 46.1%. The increase in net sales during the year ended December 31, 2020 is due to a significant increase in customer demand that we have experienced in the current year reflecting consumer focus on outdoor branded products, as well as the introduction of several new products during 2020.
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Gross Profit
Gross profit as a percentage of net sales was 30.9% for the year ended December 31, 2020 as compared to 27.5% in the year December 31, 2019. The increase in gross profit as a percentage of net sales was primarily attributable to product and customer mix.
Selling general and administrative expense
Selling, general and administrative expense for the year ended December 31, 2020 was $32.3 million, or 14.9% of net sales compared to $25.3 million, or 17.1% of net sales, for the year ended December 31, 2019. The increase in selling, general and administrative expense is primarily related to volume driven expenses that correlate to the increase in sales, as well as additional investments in marketing.
Income (loss) income from operations
Income from operations for the year ended December 31, 2020 was $24.9 million, an increase of $52.1 million when compared to loss from operations of $27.1 million for the comparable period in 2019. Velocity recognized impairment expense of $32.9 million in 2019 after determining that interim impairment testing was necessary in the prior year. The increase in operating income in the year ended December 31, 2020 reflects the factors noted above, and the effect of the impairment expense on the operating income in 2019.
Niche Industrial Businesses
Altor Solutions
Overview
Founded in 1957 and headquartered in Scottsdale, Arizona, Altor Solutions is a designer and manufacturer of custom molded protective foam solutions and original equipment manufacturer (OEM) components made from expanded polystyrene (EPS) and expanded polypropylene (EPP). Altor operates 16 molding and fabricating facilities across North America and provides products to a variety of end-markets, including appliances and electronics, pharmaceuticals, health and wellness, automotive, building products and others.
Results of Operations
Year ended December 31,
(in thousands)
Year ended December 31, 2021 compared to the Year ended December 31, 2020
Net sales
Net sales for the year ended December 31, 2021 were $180.2 million, an increase of $50.2 million, or 38.6%, compared to the year ended December 31, 2020. The increase in net sales during the year was primarily due to the acquisition of Polyfoam in July 2020, the acquisition of Plymouth Foam in October 2021, the continued recovery from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic experienced in the prior year, organic growth and contractual increases in selling prices during the current year.
Gross profit
Gross profit as a percentage of net sales was 24.3% and 30.3%, respectively, for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020. The decrease in gross profit as a percentage of net sales in the year ended December 31, 2021 was primarily due to increases in the price of Altor's primary raw material, EPS, during 2021, margin dilution due to the acquisition of Polyfoam and Plymouth Foam, which have historically had lower margins than the legacy
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business, and increased operating expenses, including labor, utilities and supplies.
Selling, general and administrative expense
Selling, general and administrative expense for the year ended December 31, 2021 was $17.1 million as compared to $14.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2020, an increase of $2.6 million. The increase in selling, general and administrative expense for the year ended December 31, 2021 is primarily attributable to the acquisition of Polyfoam in the third quarter of 2020 and Plymouth Foam in the fourth quarter of 2021, and increased information technology and professional fees incurred during the current year.
Income from operations
Income from operations was $18.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2021 as compared to $15.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2020, an increase of $2.0 million based on the factors noted above.
Year ended December 31, 2020 compared to the Year ended December 31, 2019
Net sales
Net sales for the year ended December 31, 2020 were $130.0 million, an increase of $8.6 million, or 7.1%, compared to the year ended December 31, 2019. The increase in net sales during the year was primarily due to the acquisition of Polyfoam in July 2020, partially offset by a slow-down in the appliance and automotive customer sectors, as well as a general slow-down across other customer segments in April and May, as a result of the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on our customers' operations. While most of our customer sectors saw improved performance beginning in June, the appliance and automotive sectors continued to see a slowdown in sales through the end of the second quarter. During the latter half of 2020, appliance sales continued to trend lower versus the prior year due to lower demand and supply chain and labor constraints resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic.
Gross profit
Gross profit as a percentage of net sales was 30.3% and 28.3%, respectively, for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019. The increase in gross profit as a percentage of net sales in the year ended December 31, 2020 was primarily due to the decreasing price of expanded polystyrene ("EPS") resin. A majority of Altor's products are made with EPS resin, an oil and natural gas derived polymer with an added expansion agent, therefore raw material costs will fluctuate based on the price of oil and natural gas.
Selling, general and administrative expense
Selling, general and administrative expense for the year ended December 31, 2020 was $14.4 million as compared to $11.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2019, an increase of $3.3 million. The increase in selling, general and administrative expense for the year ended December 31, 2020 is primarily attributable to the acquisition of Polyfoam in the third quarter of 2020 and an increase in performance based compensation versus the prior year.
Income from operations
Income from operations was $15.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2020 as compared to $14.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2019, an increase of $1.6 million based on the factors noted above.
Arnold
Overview
Arnold serves a variety of markets including aerospace and defense, general industrial, motorsport/ automotive, oil and gas, medical, energy, reprographics and advertising specialties. Over the course of more than 100 years, Arnold has successfully evolved and adapted our products, technologies, and manufacturing presence to meet the demands of current and emerging markets. Arnold produces high performance permanent magnets (PMAG), turnkey electric motors ("Ramco"), precision foil products (Precision Thin Metals or "PTM"), and flexible magnets (FlexmagTM) that are mission critical in motors, generators, sensors and other systems and components. Arnold has expanded globally and built strong relationships with our customers worldwide.Arnold is the largest and, we believe, the most technically advanced U.S. manufacturer of engineered magnetic systems. Arnold is headquartered in Rochester, New York.
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Results of Operations
Year ended December 31,
Year ended December 31, 2021 compared to the Year ended December 31, 2020
Net sales
Net sales for the year ended December 31, 2021 were approximately $139.9 million, an increase of $41.0 million compared to the same period in 2020. The increase in net sales is primarily a result of increased demand in defense and industrial markets driven in part by the acquisition of Ramco Electric Motors, Inc. ("Ramco") in March 2021. International sales were $43.0 million and $37.9 million for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively, an increase of $5.1 million.
Gross profit
Gross profit was $39.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2021 as compared to $23.5 million for the same period in 2020. Gross profit as a percentage of net sales increased to 28.2% in 2021 from 23.8% in 2020, principally due to increased volume, favorable product mix and improvements in operating efficiencies.
Selling, general and administrative expense
Selling, general and administrative expense in the year ended December 31, 2021 was $22.8 million as compared to approximately $17.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2020. The increase in selling, general and administrative expense was due to higher staffing related costs, acquisition costs, recruiting costs and increased information technology costs. Selling, general and administrative expense represented 16.3% of net sales for the year ended December 31, 2021 as compared to 17.9% for the same period in 2020. The decrease in selling, general and administrative expense as a percentage of net sales was due to overall higher sales volume as compared to the prior year.
Income from operations
Arnold had income from operations of approximately $12.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2021, as compared to income from operations of $2.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2020, an increase of $9.9 million year over year based on the factors stated above.
Year ended December 31, 2020 compared to the Year ended December 31, 2019
Net sales
Net sales for the year ended December 31, 2020 were approximately $99.0 million, a decrease of $21.0 million compared to the same period in 2019. The decrease in net sales is primarily a result of softness in the commercial aerospace, oil and gas and advertising specialty markets caused by the global COVID-19 pandemic. International sales were $37.9 million and $47.4 million for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively, a decrease of $9.5 million.
Gross Profit
Gross profit was $23.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2020 as compared to $31.2 million for the same period in 2019. Gross profit as a percentage of net sales decreased to 23.8% in 2020 from 26.0% in 2019, principally due to the lower volume in the markets as noted above, partially offset by improved operating efficiencies.
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Selling, general and administrative expense
Selling, general and administrative expense in the year ended December 31, 2020 was $17.7 million as compared to approximately $19.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2019. The decrease in selling, general and administrative expense was due to lower staffing related costs and lower travel and meeting expenses. Selling, general and administrative expense represented 17.9% of net sales for the year ended December 31, 2020 as compared to 15.9% for the same period in 2019. The increase in selling, general and administrative expense as a percentage of net sales was due to overall lower sales volume.
Income from operations
Arnold had income from operations of approximately $2.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2020, as compared to income from operations of $8.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2019, a decrease of $6.3 million year over year based on the factors stated above.
Sterno
Overview
Sterno, headquartered in Corona, California, is the parent company of Sterno LLC ("Sterno Products"), Sterno Home Inc. ("Sterno Home"), and Rimports Inc. ("Rimports"). Sterno is a leading manufacturer and marketer of portable food warming systems, creative indoor and outdoor lighting, and home fragrance solutions for the consumer markets. Sterno offers a broad range of wick and gel chafing systems, butane stoves and accessories, liquid and traditional wax candles, catering equipment and lamps through Sterno Products, flameless candles and outdoor lighting products through Sterno Home, and scented wax cubes and warmer products used for home decor and fragrance systems through Rimports. During 2021, Sterno made the strategic decision to incorporate the product lines of Sterno Home into Rimports.
Results of Operations
Year ended December 31,
Year ended December 31, 2021 compared to the Year ended December 31, 2020
Net sales
Net sales for the year ended December 31, 2021 were approximately $375.1 million, an increase of $5.1 million or 1.4% compared to net sales for the year ended December 31, 2020. The increase in net sales reflects an increase in sales at both Sterno Products and Rimports as compared to the prior year. Sterno Products began to see a return of demand in the food service and hospitality industries in the latter half of 2021, while Rimports has continued to see strong consumer demand for their products at the retail level.
Gross profit
Gross profit as a percentage of net sales decreased from 21.1% for the year ended December 31, 2020 to 19.2% for the same period ended December 31, 2021. The decrease in gross profit as a percentage of net sales during 2021 as compared to 2020 was attributable to sales mix, additional inventory reserves recorded in 2021 due to product rationalization as Sterno Home integrated with Rimports, and increases in distribution costs, wages and raw materials.
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Selling, general and administrative expense
Selling, general and administrative expense for the year ended December 31, 2021 was approximately $32.9 million as compared to $34.9 million in the year ended December 31, 2020, a decrease of $2.1 million or 5.9%, reflecting lower salaries, commissions, and various cost savings initiatives implemented to address the effects of decreased demand from COVID-19. Selling, general and administrative expense represented 8.8% of net sales for the year ended December 31, 2021 and 9.4% for the year ended December 31, 2020.
Income from operations
Income from operations for the year ended December 31, 2021 was approximately $19.9 million, a decrease of $5.9 million when compared to the same period in 2020, based on the factors noted above.
Year ended December 31, 2020 compared to the Year ended December 31, 2019
Net sales
Net sales for the year ended December 31, 2020 were approximately $370.0 million, a decrease of $25.5 million or 6.4% compared to net sales for the year ended December 31, 2019. The net sales variance reflects a decrease in sales at Sterno Products and Sterno Home as a result of the effect of COVID-19 on the food service and retail industries beginning in the latter half of March, partially offset by favorable sales volume at Rimports of wax and essential oils during 2020. The food service industry continues to be negatively impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021.
Gross Profit
Gross profit as a percentage of net sales decreased from 25.8% for the year ended December 31, 2019 to 21.1% for the same period ended December 31, 2020. The decrease in gross profit as a percentage of net sales during 2020 as compared to 2019 was attributable to product mix, with lower margin sales in 2020, as well as higher freight and tariff costs.
Selling, general and administrative expense
Selling, general and administrative expense for the year ended December 31, 2020 was approximately $34.9 million as compared to $39.7 million in the year ended December 31, 2019, a decrease of $4.8 million or 12.1%, reflecting lower salaries, commissions, and various cost savings initiatives implemented to address the effects of decreased demand from COVID-19.
Income from operations
Income from operations for the year ended December 31, 2020 was approximately $25.8 million, a decrease of $19.0 million when compared to the same period in 2019, based on the factors noted above.
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Liquidity and Capital Resources
We generate cash primarily from the operations of our subsidiaries, and we have the ability to borrow under our 2021 Credit Facility to fund our operating, investing and financing activities. In 2021, we filed a prospectus supplement pursuant to which we may, but we have no obligation to, issue and sell up to $500 million shares of the common shares of the Trust in amounts and at times to be determined by us. Actual sales will depend on a variety of factors to be determined by us from time to time, including, market conditions, the trading price of Trust common shares and determinations by us regarding appropriate sources of funding. Our principal uses of cash are operating expenses, payment of management fees, capital expenditures, working capital needs, debt service, dividends on our common and preferred Trust shares, and strategic growth initiatives, including acquisitions. We had total available cash and cash equivalents of $157.1 million and $60.0 million as of December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively.
Our liquidity requirements primarily relate to our debt service requirements, payments of our common and preferred share distributions, management fees paid to our Manager, working capital needs and purchase commitments at our subsidiaries. As of December 31, 2021, we had $1000.0 million of indebtedness associated with our 5.250% 2029 Notes, and $300 million of indebtedness associated with our 5.000% 2032 Notes. There are no required quarterly principal payments on our 2029 Notes or 2032 Notes. Long-term debt liquidity requirements consist of the payment in full of our Notes upon their respective maturity dates.
The following table summarizes our cash activity for the years presented:
Year ended December 31,
Effect of exchange rates on cash and cash equivalents 228 914 (1,178)
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents $ 89,989 $ (29,570) $ 46,988
Cash Flow from Operating Activities
2021
Cash flows provided by operating activities totaled approximately $134.1 million for December 31, 2021, which represents a decrease of $14.6 million compared to cash flow from operating activities of $148.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2020. The decrease in cash flows in 2021 is primarily attributable to an increase in cash used for working capital. Cash used in operating activities for working capital for the year ended December 31, 2021 was $81.0 million, as compared to cash provided by operating activities for working capital of $2.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2020. We typically have a higher usage of cash for working capital in the first half of the year as most of our companies will build up inventories after the fourth quarter. In the current year, several of our businesses had higher inventory levels than normal given significantly longer lead times due to supply chain issues, which led to higher than normal levels of inventory at December 31, 2021. In the prior year, the COVID-19 pandemic led our businesses to implement a variety of steps to conserve cash and increase liquidity given the uncertainty in the economy, resulting in a lower usage of cash for working capital. The increase in cash used in operating activities for working capital also reflects the acquisition of Marucci Sports and BOA in the second and fourth quarter, respectively, of the prior year, and Lugano in the third quarter of the current year. We expect that Lugano will use cash to build inventory over the next twelve months to support its anticipated sales growth.
2020
Cash flows provided by operating activities totaled approximately $148.6 million for December 31, 2020, which represents an increase of $64.1 million compared to cash flow from operating activities of $84.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2019. The increase in cash flows in 2020 is attributable to an increase in income from continuing operations in the year ended December 31, 2020, driven by strong performance at our 5.11, Liberty and Velocity businesses, and an increase in cash provided by working capital. In the prior year, the Company incurred interest expense related to the 2018 Term Loan, which we paid off in the third and fourth quarter of 2019 using the proceeds from the sale of Clean Earth and our Series C Preferred Share Offering. The payoff of the 2018 Term
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Loan, partially offset by the increase in interest expense related to $200 million in our 8% Senior Notes issued in May 2020, resulted in a decrease in our interest expense in the current year as compared to 2019 by approximately $12.4 million. In the prior year, we also recognized a loss of $10.2 million related to the sale of common shares received as part of the consideration for the sale of Manitoba Harvest. Cash provided by operating activities for working capital for the year ended December 31, 2020 was $3.3 million as compared to cash used in operating activities for working capital of $15.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2019. The increase in cash provided by working capital in the current year primarily reflects steps our businesses have taken to maintain liquidity in the current economy.
2019
Cash flows provided by operating activities totaled approximately $84.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2019, which represents a decrease of $29.9 million compared to cash flow from operating activities of $114.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2018. The decrease in cash provide by operating activities is primarily due to the effect of cash flows from discontinued operations and reflects the timing of the sale of Manitoba Harvest and Clean Earth in fiscal year 2019. Cash used in operating activities of discontinued operations in the year ended December 31, 2019 was $10.1 million while cash provided by operating activities of discontinued operations was $42.6 million in year ended December 31, 2018. Fiscal year 2018 reflects a full year of operations of our discontinued operations while 2019 reflects the effect of the sales of Manitoba Harvest in February 2019 and Clean Earth in June 2019. Cash used in operating activities for working capital for the year ended December 31, 2019 was $15.2 million as compared to cash used for working capital of $7.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2018. The increase in cash used for working capital purposes in the current year primarily reflects the effect of our acquisitions that occurred in February 2018 which resulted in an increase in cash needed to fund working capital, particularly at Rimports.
Cash Flow from Investing Activities
2021
Cash flows used in investing activities totaled approximately $317.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2021, compared to $700.8 million used in investing activities during the year ended December 31, 2020. Investing activities in the current year reflect our acquisition of Lugano in September 2021, plus add-on acquisitions at Arnold (Ramco Electric Motors), Altor Solutions (Plymouth Foam) and Marucci (Lizard Skins) ($404.3 million), while investing activities in the prior year reflect our acquisition of Marucci in April 2020, BOA in October 2020 and an add-on acquisition by Altor Solutions in July 2020 ($667.1 million). The cash flows used in investing activities in the current year was offset by the proceeds received from our sale of Liberty Safe in August 2021 ($101.0 million in proceeds).
Our spending on capital expenditures increased $11.1 million during the year ended December 31, 2021 as compared to the year ended December 31, 2020, with $39.9 million in capital expenditures in 2021 and $28.8 million in capital expenditures in 2020. The additional capital expenditures reflects our acquisitions of Marucci in the second quarter of 2020 and BOA in the fourth quarter of 2020, as well as an increase in expenditures in the current year after reduced spending in 2020 as our businesses limited spending during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic. We expect capital expenditures for fiscal year 2022 to be approximately $70 million to $80 million.
2020
Cash flows used in investing activities totaled approximately $700.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2020, compared to $743.1 million provided by investing activities during the year ended December 31, 2019. Cash provided by investing activities in the prior year primarily related to the proceeds received from the sale of our Manitoba Harvest and Clean Earth businesses, while investing activities in the current year reflect our acquisition of Marucci in April 2020, BOA in October 2020 and an add-on acquisition by Altor Solutions in July 2020 ($667.1 million). Capital expenditures in the year ended December 31, 2020 decreased $4.1 million compared to the year ended December 31, 2019, which reflects a reduction in our capital spending in the current year in response to the anticipated effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on our cash flows.
2019
Cash flows provided by investing activities totaled approximately $743.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2019, compared to $604.1 million used in investing activities during the year ended December 31, 2018. Cash flows from Clean Earth and Manitoba Harvest, which are reflected as discontinued operations, totaled $279.2 million in
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fiscal year 2019 and reflects the effect of the sale transactions. Cash provided by investing activities in the current year primarily relates to the proceeds received from the sales of Clean Earth and Manitoba. In the year ended December 31, 2018, we had a platform acquisition in the first quarter, Altor, and several add-on acquisitions at our subsidiaries. Sterno acquired Rimports in February 2018, and our Velocity Outdoor subsidiary acquired Ravin in September 2018. The total cash paid for these acquisitions during 2018 was $495.1 million. Capital expenditures in the year ended December 31, 2019 decreased $6.1 million, due primarily to expenditures at our 5.11 business related to investments in various infrastructure and systems projects in 2018 that were nonrecurring in 2019.
Cash Flow from Financing Activities
2021
Cash flows provided by financing activities totaled approximately $273.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2021, as compared to cash flows used in financing activities of $521.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2020. During the first quarter of 2021, we completed an offering of $1,000.0 million of our 2029 Notes, and used the proceeds to pay down our 2018 Revolving Credit Facility and pay off the existing 2026 Notes. In the fourth quarter of 2021, we completed an offering of $300.0 million of our 2032 Notes, and used the proceeds to pay down our 2021 Revolving Credit Facility. Financing activities in both periods reflect the payment of our common and preferred share distributions. In the current year, we also paid a special common share distribution of $57.1 million to our shareholders upon the reclassification of the Trust to a corporation for income tax purposes. In September 2021, we filed a prospectus supplement and entered into a Sales Agreement for an At The Market program pursuant to which we may sell common shares of the Trust. We received $114.6 million in net cash proceeds from the sale of Trust common shares under this program in the current year. During the year ended December 31, 2021, we made a distribution to the Allocation Member of $17.3 million related to the five-year Holding Event of our Liberty, Ergobaby and ACI business, and $16.8 million related to the Sale Event of Liberty Safe. In the prior year, we made a distribution to the Allocation Member of $9.1 million related to the five-year Holding Event for our Sterno business.
2020
Cash flows provided by financing activities totaled approximately $521.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2020, as compared to cash flows used in financing activities of $779.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2019. Financing activities in both periods reflect the payment of our common and preferred share distributions, with a $6.3 million increase in the preferred share distribution as a result of the issuance of our Series C Preferred Shares in November 2019. In the prior year, we used the proceeds from our sale of Manitoba Harvest and Clean Earth to repay amounts outstanding under our 2018 Revolving Credit Facility and 2018 Term Loan, while in the current year, we completed a common share offering and the issuance of $200 million in additional 2026 Notes, resulting in net proceeds of $285.9 million. We drew approximately $200 million on our 2018 Revolving Credit Facility that was used in the financing of our Marucci acquisition, and $300 million that was used in the financing of our BOA acquisition. A portion of the proceeds received from the issuance of the additional 2026 Notes and common share offering was used to pay down the amount outstanding on our 2018 Revolving Credit facility subsequent to the Marucci acquisition. During the year ended December 31, 2020, we also made a distribution to the Allocation Member of $9.1 million related to the five year Holding Event for our Sterno business.
2019
Cash flows used by financing activities totaled approximately $779.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2019, as compared to cash flows provided by financing activities of $500.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2018. During 2019, we used the proceeds from our sales of Manitoba Harvest and Clean Earth as well as the proceeds from our Series C Preferred Share offering to repay $832.3 million of the outstanding amount under our 2018 Credit Facility, which represented all of the amount outstanding under our 2018 Term Loan, as well as the outstanding amounts under our 2018 Revolving Credit Facility. In additional to the payment of our common and preferred share distributions, we also made a distribution during 2019 to our Allocation Interest holders of $60.4 million related to the sales of Manitoba Harvest and Clean Earth.
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Total Liabilities and Intercompany loans to our businesses
The following table summarizes the total liabilities and intercompany debt of our business as of December 31, 2021:
(in thousands) Intercompany Loans Total Liabilities
Liabilities held-for-sale — 29,127
(1) In October 2021, the Company entered into a merger agreement to sell all of the outstanding securities of Advanced Circuits. The transaction is expected to close in the second quarter of 2022 and Advanced Circuits has been presented as held-for-sale at December 31, 2021.
Each loan has a scheduled maturity and each business is entitled to repay all or a portion of the principal amount of the outstanding loans, without penalty, prior to maturity. A component of our acquisition financing strategy that we utilize in acquiring the businesses we own and manage is to provide both equity capital and debt capital, raised at the parent level through our existing credit facility. Our strategy of providing intercompany debt financing within the capital structure of the businesses that we acquire and manage allows us the ability to distribute cash to the parent company through monthly interest payments and amortization of the principle on these intercompany loans. Certain of our businesses have paid down their respective intercompany debt balances through the cash flow generated by these businesses and we have recapitalized, and expect to continue to recapitalize, these businesses in the normal course of our business. The recapitalization process involves funding the intercompany debt using either cash on hand at the parent or our revolving credit facility, and serves the purpose of optimizing the capital structure at our subsidiaries and providing the noncontrolling shareholders with a distribution on their ownership interest in a cash flow positive business.
In August 2021, we completed a recapitalization at 5.11 whereby the Company entered into an amendment to the intercompany loan agreement with 5.11 (the "5.11 Loan Agreement"). The 5.11 Loan Agreement was amended to provide for additional term loan borrowings of $55.0 million to fund a distribution to shareholders. The Company owned 97.7% of the outstanding shares of 5.11 on the date of the distribution and received $53.7 million. The remaining amount of the distribution went to minority shareholders.
In November 2020, the Company completed a recapitalization of ACI whereby the Company entered into an amendment to the intercompany loan agreement with ACI (the "ACI Loan Agreement"). The ACI Loan Agreement was amended to (i) provide for term loan borrowings of $48.8 million to fund the repurchase of shares from an existing shareholder and to fund a distribution to shareholders, and ii) extend the maturity dates of the term loans, and termination date of the revolving loan commitment. In connection with the recapitalization, ACI repurchased 47,870 shares of ACI capital stock, and distributed $42.8 million to shareholders. The Company owned 71.8% of the outstanding shares of ACI on the date of the distribution and received $30.7 million. The remaining amount of the distribution went to minority shareholders.
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In September 2021, BOA repurchased shares of its issued and outstanding common shares from its largest minority shareholder for a total payment of $48.0 million, which BOA financed by borrowing under their intercompany credit facility with the Company (the "BOA Credit Agreement"). The BOA Credit Agreement was amended to (i) provide for additional term loan borrowings of $38.0 million, and (ii) consent to the repurchase of the shares from the minority shareholder.
In the fourth quarter of 2021, we amended the Arnold intercompany credit agreement to increase capital expenditure allowable under the credit agreement to account for additional growth capital expenditure opportunities, and amended the financial covenants to reflect the increased allowable expenditure. In the fourth quarter of 2020, we amended the Arnold intercompany credit agreement to increase the revolving credit commitment available under the credit agreement, and amended the financial covenants to reflect the increased commitment. In the first quarter of 2019, we amended the 5.11 intercompany credit agreement to update the definition of capital expenditures to exclude capital expenditures made with respect to 5.11's retail stores from the calculation of the fixed charge coverage ratio. All of our subsidiaries were in compliance with the financial covenants included within their intercompany credit arrangements at December 31, 2021.
Our primary source of cash is from the receipt of interest and principal on our outstanding loans to our businesses. Accordingly, we are dependent upon the earnings and cash flow of these businesses, which are available for (i) operating expenses; (ii) payment of interest of our 2029 and 2032 Notes; (iii) payments to CGM due or potentially due pursuant to the MSA and the LLC Agreement; (iv) cash distributions to our shareholders; and (v) investments in future acquisitions. Payments made under (i) through (iii) above are required to be paid before distributions to shareholders and may be significant and exceed the funds held by us, which may require us to dispose of assets or incur debt to fund such expenditures.
We believe that we currently have sufficient liquidity and capital resources to meet our existing obligations, including quarterly distributions to our shareholders, as approved by our board of directors, over the next twelve months.
Financing Arrangements
2021 Credit Facility
On March 23, 2021, we entered into a Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement to amend and restate the 2018 Credit Facility. The 2021 Credit Facility provides for revolving loans, swing line loans and letters of credit up to a maximum aggregate amount of $600 million and also permits the Company, prior to the applicable maturity date, to increase the revolving loan commitment and/or obtain term loans in an aggregate amount of up to $250 million, subject to certain restrictions and conditions. All amounts outstanding under the 2021 Revolving Credit Facility will become due on March 23, 2026, which is the maturity date of loans advanced under the 2021 Revolving Credit Facility. At December 31, 2021, we had nothing outstanding under our 2021 Revolving Credit Facility.
The 2021 Credit Facility provides for letters of credit under the 2021 Revolving Credit Facility in an aggregate face amount not to exceed $100 million outstanding at any time, as well as swing line loans of up to $25 million outstanding at one time. At no time may the (i) aggregate principal amount of all amounts outstanding under the 2021 Revolving Credit Facility, plus (ii) the aggregate amount of all outstanding letters of credit and swing line loans, exceed the borrowing availability under the 2021 Credit Facility.
The 2021 Credit Facility is secured by all of the assets of the Company, including all of its equity interests in, and loans to, its consolidated subsidiaries. At December 31, 2021, we had letters of credit totaling $1.0 million outstanding under the 2021 Revolving Credit Facility. We had approximately $599.0 million in borrowing base availability under this facility at December 31, 2021. (See "Note I - Debt" to the consolidated financial statements for more detail regarding our 2018 Credit Facility).
2018 Credit Facility
In April 2018, we entered into an Amended and Restated Credit Agreement (the "2018 Credit Facility") to amend and restate our credit agreement entered into in 2014. The 2018 Credit Facility provided for (i) revolving loans, swing line loans and letters of credit (the “2018 Revolving Credit Facility”) up to a maximum aggregate amount of $600 million, and (ii) a $500 million term loan (the “2018 Term Loan”). The 2018 Credit Facility also permitted the Company, prior to the applicable maturity date, to increase the revolving loan commitment and/or obtain additional term loans in an aggregate amount of up to $250 million, subject to certain restrictions and conditions. In 2019, we repaid the amounts due under the 2018 Term Loan. We used a portion of the proceeds from the issuance of the
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2029 Notes offering to pay all amounts outstanding under the 2018 Revolving Credit Facility in March 2021. The 2018 Credit Facility was replaced by the 2021 Credit Facility.
Senior Notes
2032 Notes
On November 17, 2021, we consummated the issuance and sale of $300 million aggregate principal amount of our 5.000% Senior Notes due 2032 (the "2032 Notes") offered pursuant to a private offering to qualified institutional buyers in accordance with Rule 144A under the Securities Act, and to non-U.S. persons under Regulation S under the Securities Act. The 2032 Notes were issued pursuant to an indenture, dated as of November 17, 2021 (the “2032 Notes Indenture”), between the Company and U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee. The 2032 Notes bear interest at the rate of 5.000% per annum and will mature on January 15, 2032. Interest on the 2032 Notes is payable in cash on July 15th and January 15th of each year. The 2032 Notes are general unsecured obligations of the Company and are not guaranteed by our subsidiaries. The proceeds from the sale of the 2032 Notes were used to repay debt outstanding under the 2021 Credit Facility.
2029 Notes
On March 23, 2021, we consummated the issuance and sale of $1,000 million aggregate principal amount of our 5.250% Senior Notes due 2029 (the “2029 Notes”) offered pursuant to a private offering to qualified institutional buyers in accordance with Rule 144A under the Securities Act, and to non-U.S. persons under Regulation S under the Securities Act.The 2029 Notes were issued pursuant to an indenture, dated as of March 23, 2021 (the “2029 Notes Indenture”), between the Company and U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee. The 2029 Notes bear interest at the rate of 5.250% per annum and will mature on April 15, 2029. Interest on the 2029 Notes is payable in cash on April 15th and October 15th of each year. The 2029 Notes are general unsecured obligations of the Company and are not guaranteed by our subsidiaries.
The proceeds from the sale of the 2029 Notes was used to repay debt outstanding under the 2018 Credit Facility in connection with our entry into the 2021 Credit Facility, as described above, and to redeem our 8.000% Senior Notes due 2026 (the “2026 Notes”).
2026 Notes
On April 18, 2018, we consummated the issuance and sale of $400 million aggregate principal amount of our 2026 Notes offered pursuant to a private offering to qualified institutional buyers in accordance with Rule 144A under the Securities Act, and to non-U.S. persons under Regulation S under the Securities Act. The 2026 Notes were issued pursuant to an indenture, dated as of April 18, 2018 (the “2026 Notes Indenture”), between the Company and U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee. .On May 7, 2020, we consummated the issuance and sale of an additional $200 million aggregate principal amount of the 2026 Notes. The proceeds from the 2026 Notes were used to pay down the amount outstanding on the Company's then existing credit facilities and for general corporate purposes. All of the 2026 Notes were redeemed, on April 1, 2021, with proceeds from the sale of the 2020 Senior Notes.
The 2029 Notes Indenture and the 2032 Notes Indenture contain several restrictive covenants including, but not limited to, limitations on the following: (i) the incurrence of additional indebtedness, (ii) restricted payments, (iii) the purchase, redemption or retirement of capital stock or subordinated debt, (iv) dividends and other payments affecting restricted subsidiaries, (v) transactions with affiliates, (vi) asset sales and mergers and consolidations, (vii) future subsidiary guarantees and (viii) incurring liens, (ix) entering into sale-leaseback transactions and (x) making certain investments, subject in each case to certain exceptions.
The following table reflects required and actual financial ratios as of December 31, 2021 included as part of the affirmative covenants in our 2021 Credit Facility:
Description of Required Covenant Ratio Covenant Ratio Requirement Actual Ratio
Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio Greater than or equal to 1.50:1.00 5.07:1.00
Total Secured Debt to EBITDA Ratio Less than or equal to 3.50:1.00 0.00:1.00
Total Debt to EBITDA Ratio Less than or equal to 5.00:1.00 2.96:1.00
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We intend to use the availability under our 2021 Credit Facility and cash on hand to pursue acquisitions of additional businesses, to fund distributions (if and to the extent approved by our board of directors) and to provide for other working capital needs. We believe that we currently have sufficient liquidity and capital resources, which include amounts available under our 2021 Revolving Credit Facility, to meet our existing obligations over the next twelve months.
Interest Expense
We incurred interest expense totaling $58.8 million in the year ended December 31, 2021, as compared to $45.8 million in the year ended December 31, 2020 and $58.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2019.
The components of interest expense on our outstanding debt are as follows (in thousands):
Years ended December 31,
Amortization of bond premium/ original issue discount (83) (222) —
Unrealized (gain) loss on interest rate derivatives (1) — — 3,486
(1) On September 16, 2014, we purchased an interest rate swap (“Swap”) with a notional amount of $220 million effective April 1, 2016 through June 6, 2021. The agreement required us to pay interest on the notional amount at the rate of 2.97% in exchange for the three-month LIBOR rate. In connection with the repayment of the 2018 Term Loan in December 2019, the Company terminated the Swap with a payment of $4.9 million, the fair value of the Swap as of the date of settlement.
Income Taxes
On August 3, 2021, the shareholders of CODI approved amendments to the Second Amended and Restated Trust Agreement of the Trust and the Fifth Amended and Restated Operating Agreement of the Company to allow the Company’s Board of Directors (the “Board”) to cause the Trust to elect to be treated as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes (the “tax reclassification”) and, at its discretion in the future, cause the Trust to be converted to a corporation. Following the shareholder vote, the Board resolved to cause the Trust to elect to be treated as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes. Such election became effective September 1, 2021, prior to which the Trust had been taxed as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes since January 1, 2007. The Company was treated as a partnership prior to the Trust’s tax reclassification and it will continue to be treated as a partnership following the Trust’s tax reclassification.
Each of the Company’s majority owned subsidiaries are subject to Federal, state and in some cases, foreign income taxes. We recorded an income tax provision of $18.3 million with an annual effective rate of 42.5% during the year ended December 31, 2021, an income tax provision of $10.2 million with an annual effective tax rate of 229.5% during the year ended December 31, 2020, and $9.9 million in income tax benefit with an effective tax rate of 16.5% during the year ended December 31, 2019.
During the fourth quarter of 2021, the Company recorded a $12.1 million deferred tax benefit as a result of the accounting treatment of Advanced Circuits as held-for-sale at December 31, 2021.
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The components of our income tax (benefit) expense as a percentage of income from continuing operations before income taxes for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019 are as follows:
Year ended December 31,
United States Federal Statutory Rate 21.0 % 21.0 % (21.0) %
State income taxes (net of Federal benefits) 4.8 34.8 3.2
Impairment expense — — 9.4
Impact of subsidiary employee stock options (0.3) 7.2 0.1
Non-deductible acquisition costs 0.6 11.5 —
Non-recognition of various carryforwards at subsidiaries (2.3) (24.5) 2.0
Utilization of tax credits (5.2) 2.6 (2.6)
Foreign-derived intangible income (FDII) and GILTI tax (2.4) (5.0) 2.4
Effect of classification of assets held for sale (16.8) — —
(1)The effective income tax rate for each of the years presented includes losses at the Company’s parent, which was taxed as a partnership through August 1, 2021. Effective September 1, 2021, the Company's parent is taxed as a corporation.
Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures
From time to time we may publicly disclose certain “non-GAAP” financial measures in the course of our investor presentations, earnings releases, earnings conference calls or other venues. A non-GAAP financial measure is a numerical measure of historical or future performance, financial position or cash flow that excludes amounts, or is subject to adjustments that effectively exclude amounts, included in the most directly comparable measure calculated and presented in accordance with GAAP in our financial statements, and vice versa for measures that include amounts, or are subject to adjustments that effectively include amounts, that are excluded from the most directly comparable measure as calculated and presented. GAAP or US GAAP refers to generally accepted accounting principles in the United States.
Non-GAAP financial measures are provided as additional information to investors in order to provide them with an alternative method for assessing our financial condition and operating results. These measures are not meant to be a substitute for GAAP, and may be different from or otherwise inconsistent with non-GAAP financial measures used by other companies.
The tables below reconcile the most directly comparable GAAP financial measures to EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA and Cash Flow Available for Distribution and Reinvestment (“CAD”).
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Reconciliation of Net income (loss) to EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA
EBITDA – Earnings before Interest, Income Taxes, Depreciation and Amortization (“EBITDA”) is calculated as net income (loss) from continuing operations before interest expense, income tax expense (benefit), depreciation expense and amortization expense. Amortization expenses consist of amortization of intangibles and debt charges, including debt issuance costs, discounts, etc.
Adjusted EBITDA– Is calculated utilizing the same calculation as described above in arriving at EBITDA further adjusted by: (i) non-controlling shareholder compensation, which generally consists of non-cash stock option expense; (ii) successful acquisition costs, which consist of transaction costs (legal, accounting, due diligence, etc.) incurred in connection with the successful acquisition of a business expensed during the period in compliance with ASC 805; (iii) management fees, which reflect fees due quarterly to our Manager in connection with our MSA; (iv) impairment charges, which reflect write downs to goodwill or other intangible assets; (v) other income or expense, including gains or losses recorded in connection with the sale of fixed assets; (vi) changes in the fair value of contingent consideration subsequent to initial purchase accounting, and (vii) integration service fees, which reflect fees paid by newly acquired companies to the Manager for integration services performed during the first year of ownership.
We believe that EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA provide useful information to investors and reflect important financial measures as they exclude the effects of items which reflect the impact of long-term investment decisions, rather than the performance of near term operations. When compared to net income (loss) these financial measures are limited in that they do not reflect the periodic costs of certain capital assets used in generating revenues of our businesses or the non-cash charges associated with impairments. This presentation also allows investors to view the performance of our businesses in a manner similar to the methods used by us and the management of our businesses, provides additional insight into our operating results and provides a measure for evaluating targeted businesses for acquisition.
We believe these measurements are also useful in measuring our ability to service debt and other payment obligations. EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA are not meant to be a substitute for GAAP, and may be different from or otherwise inconsistent with non-GAAP financial measures used by other companies.
The following tables reconcile EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA to net income (loss), which we consider to be the most comparable GAAP financial measure (in thousands):
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Adjusted EBITDA
Adjusted for:
Loss on debt extinguishment 33,305 — — — — — — — — — 33,305
(1)Net income (loss) does not include income (loss) from discontinued operations for the year ended December 31, 2021.
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Adjusted EBITDA
Adjusted for:
(1) Net income (loss) does not include income (loss) from discontinued operations for the year ended December 31, 2020.
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Adjusted EBITDA
Corporate 5.11 Ergobaby Velocity Outdoor Altor Arnold Sterno Consolidated
Adjusted for:
Loss on debt extinguishment 12,319 — — — — — — 12,319
Integration services fee — — — — 281 — — 281
Adjustment to earnout provision — — — 2,022 — — — 2,022
(Gain) loss on foreign currency transaction and other 10,193 — — — — — — 10,193
(1)Net income (loss) does not include income (loss) from discontinued operations for the year ended December 31, 2019.
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Cash Flow Available for Distribution and Reinvestment
The table below details cash receipts and payments that are not reflected on our income statement in order to provide an additional measure of management’s estimate of cash available for distribution ("CAD"). CAD is a non-GAAP measure that we believe provides additional information to our shareholders in order to enable them to evaluate our ability to make anticipated quarterly distributions. Because other entities do not necessarily calculate CAD the same way we do, our presentation of CAD may not be comparable to similarly titled measures provided by other entities. We believe that our historic and future CAD, together with our cash balances and access to cash via our debt facilities, will be sufficient to meet our anticipated distributions over the next twelve months. The table below reconciles CAD to net income and to cash flow provided by operating activities, which we consider to be the most directly comparable financial measure calculated and presented in accordance with GAAP.
Year ended December 31,
Adjustment to reconcile net income to cash provided by operating activities:
Impairment expense — — 32,881
Amortization of debt issuance costs and premium/ discount 2,896 2,232 3,773
Plus:
Realized loss from foreign currency effect (2) — — 363
Earnout provision adjustment (3) — — 2,022
Loss on sale of Tilray common stock — — 10,193
Changes in operating assets and liabilities 87,835 — 45,293
Less:
Changes in operating assets and liabilities — 3,349 —
Payment on interest rate swap — — 675
Maintenance capital expenditures: (5)
Compass Group Diversified Holdings LLC — — —
Clean Earth (divested in June 2019) — — 3,495
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(1)Represents fees paid by newly acquired companies to the Manager for integration services performed during the first year of ownership, payable quarterly.
(2)Represents the foreign currency transaction gain or loss resulting from the Canadian dollar intercompany loans issued to Manitoba Harvest.
(3)Earnout provision adjustment related to the change in estimate of contingent consideration that was recorded in the consolidated statement of operations.
(4)Represents the effect on earnings of reserves for inventory and accounts receivable.
(5)Represents maintenance capital expenditures that were funded from operating cash flow and excludes growth capital expenditures of approximately $14.1 million, $13.7 million and $16.4 million incurred during the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, respectively.
On August 3, 2021, the Company's Board of Directors declared a special cash distribution on the Trust's common shares in order to offset a portion of the tax liability incurred by shareholders as a result of the tax election to cause the Trust to be treated as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes. A cash distribution of $57.1 million was made on September 7, 2021 to Trust common shareholders as of the close of business on August 31, 2021.
Seasonality
The following table presents the net sales by quarter as a percentage of our annual net sales.
Year Ended December 31,
Earnings of certain of our operating segments are seasonal in nature due to various recurring events, holidays and seasonal weather patterns, as well as the timing of our acquisitions during a given year. Historically, the third and fourth quarter produce the highest net sales during our fiscal year.
Related Party Transactions and Certain Transactions Involving our Businesses
We have entered into related party transactions with our Manager, CGM including the following:
•Management Services Agreement
•LLC Agreement
•Integration Services Agreements
•Cost Reimbursement and Fees
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Management Services Agreement
We entered into the MSA with CGM effective May 16, 2006. Our Chief Executive Officer is a partner of CGM. The MSA provides for, among other things, CGM to perform services for us in exchange for a management fee paid quarterly and equal to 0.5% of our adjusted net assets. The management fee is required to be paid prior to the payment of any distributions to shareholders. For the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020, and 2019, we incurred $46.9 million, $33.7 million, and $36.0 million, respectively, in management fees to CGM.
Pursuant to the MSA, CGM is entitled to enter into off-setting management service agreements with each of our businesses. The amount of the fee is negotiated between CGM and the operating management of each segment and is based upon the value of the services to be provided. The fees paid directly to CGM by the segments offset on a dollar for dollar basis the amount due to CGM by the Company under the MSA. CGM has entered into a waiver of the MSA for a period through December 31, 2021 to receive a 1% annual management fee related to BOA, rather than the 2% called for under the MSA, which resulted in a lower management fee paid during 2021 than would have normally been due. In the first quarter of 2021, the Company and CGM entered into a waiver agreement whereby CGM agreed to waive the portion of the management fee related to the amount of the proceeds deposited with the Trustee that was in excess of the amount payable related to the 2026 Notes at March 31, 2021. Additionally, CGM has entered into a waiver of the MSA at December 31, 2021 to exclude the cash balances held at the LLC from the calculation of the management fee.
In March 2020, as a proactive measure to provide the Company with additional cash liquidity in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Company elected to draw down $200 million on our 2018 Revolving Credit Facility. The Company and CGM entered into a waiver agreement whereby CGM agreed to waive the portion of the management fee attributable to the cash balances held at the Company as of March 31, 2020. In addition, due to the unprecedented uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, CGM agreed to waive 50% of the management fee calculated at June 30, 2020 that was paid in July 2020. Further, for the third quarter of 2020, the Company and CGM entered into a waiver agreement whereby CGM agreed to waive the portion of the management fee attributable to the cash balances held at the Company as of September 30, 2020.
Concurrent with the June 2019 sale of Clean Earth (refer to Note D - Discontinued Operations) CGM agreed to waive the management fee on cash balances held at the Company, commencing with the quarter ended June 30, 2019 and continuing until the quarter during which the Company next borrowed under the 2018 Revolving Credit Facility.
The Company paid CGM $0.4 million and $0.1 million, respectively, in the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, representing the management fee due from Arnold for the fourth quarter of 2020 and the first three quarters of 2021. At December 31, 2021, Arnold reimbursed the Company for the management fee paid on their behalf.
LLC Agreement
As distinguished from its provision of providing management services to us, pursuant to the amended MSA, members of CGM are owners of 50.0% of the Allocation Interests in us through their ownership in Sostratus LLC. The LLC agreement gives the holders of Allocation Interests the right to distributions pursuant to a profit allocation formula upon the occurrence of a Sale Event or a Holding Event. The Allocation Interest Holders are entitled to receive and as such can elect to receive the positive contribution-based profit allocation payment for each of the business acquisitions during the 30-day period following the fifth anniversary of the date upon which we acquired a controlling interest in that business (Holding Event) and upon the sale of the business (Sale Event). Holders received $34.1 million,$9.1 million and $60.4 million in distributions related to Sale and Holding Events that occurred during 2021, 2020 and 2019, respectively. Refer to "Note K - Stockholders' Equity" for a description of the profit allocation payments.
Certain persons who are employees and partners of the Manager, including the Company’s Chief Executive Officer, beneficially owned (through Sostratus LLC) 57.8% of the Allocation Interests at December 31, 2021, and 45% of the Allocation Interests at December 31, 2020. Of the remaining 42.2% at December 31, 2021 and 55% at December 31, 2020, 5.0% was held by CGI Diversified Holdings LP, 5.0% was held by the Chairman of the Company’s Board of Directors, and the remaining Allocation Interests were held by the former founding partners of the Manager.
Integration Services Agreements
Integration services represent fees paid by newly acquired companies to the Manager for integration services
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performed during the first year of ownership. Under the Integration Services Agreement ("ISA"), CGM provides services for new platform acquisitions to, amongst other things, assist the management at the acquired entities in establishing a corporate governance program, implement compliance and reporting requirements of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, as amended, and align the acquired entity's policies and procedures with our other subsidiaries. Lugano, which was acquired in September 2021, entered into an ISA with CGM whereby Lugano will pay CGM an integration services fee of $2.3 million quarterly over a twelve month period beginning in the quarter ended December 31, 2021. BOA, which was acquired in October 2020, Marucci Sports, which was acquired in April 2020, and Altor Solutions, which was acquired in 2018 each entered into an ISA with CGM. Each ISA was for the twelve month period subsequent to the acquisition and was payable quarterly. BOA paid CGM a total of $4.4 million under the ISA, beginning in the quarter ended December 31, 2020. Marucci paid CGM a total of $2.0 million in integration services fees, beginning in the quarter ended September 30, 2020. Altor paid CGM a total of $2.3 million in integration services fees, with $0.3 million paid in 2019.
During the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, CGM received $4.9 million, $2.1 million, and $0.3 million, respectively, in total integration service fees.
Cost Reimbursement and Fees
We reimbursed CGM approximately $5.4 million, $5.2 million, and $5.6 million, principally for occupancy and staffing costs incurred by CGM on our behalf during the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, respectively.
The Company and its businesses have the following significant related party transactions:
5.11
Related Party Vendor Purchases - 5.11 purchases inventory from a vendor who is a related party to 5.11 through one of the executive officers of 5.11 via the executive's 40% ownership interest in the vendor. During the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, 5.11 purchased approximately $1.1 million, $2.7 million, and $4.4 million, respectively, in inventory from the vendor.
Recapitalization - In August 2021, the Company completed a recapitalization of 5.11 whereby the Company entered into an amendment to the intercompany loan agreement with 5.11 (the "5.11 Loan Agreement"). The 5.11 Loan Agreement was amended to provide for additional term loan borrowings of $55.0 million to fund a distribution to shareholders. The Company owned 97.7% of the outstanding shares of 5.11 on the date of the distribution and received $53.7 million. The remaining amount of the distribution went to minority shareholders.
BOA
Repurchase of Noncontrolling Interest - In September 2021, BOA repurchased shares of its issued and outstanding common shares from its largest minority shareholder for a total payment of $48.0 million, which BOA financed by borrowing under their intercompany credit facility with the Company (the "BOA Credit Agreement"). The BOA Credit Agreement was amended to (i) provide for additional term loan borrowings of $38.0 million, and (ii) consent to the repurchase of the shares from the minority shareholder. The transaction was accounted for in accordance with ASC 810 - Consolidation, whereby the carrying amount of the noncontrolling interest was adjusted to reflect the change in the ownership interest in BOA that occurred as a result of the share repurchase. The difference between the fair value of the consideration paid of $48.0 million and the amount by which the noncontrolling interest was adjusted of $39.4 million was recognized in equity attributable to the Company.
Related Party Vendor Purchases - A contract manufacturer used by BOA as the primary supplier of molded injection parts is a noncontrolling shareholder of BOA. During the year ended December 31, 2021 and for the period from October 16, 2020 (date of acquisition) through December 31, 2020, BOA purchased approximately $48.3 million and $6.7 million, respectively, in parts from this supplier.
Advanced Circuits
Recapitalization - In November 2020, the Company completed a recapitalization of ACI whereby the Company entered into an amendment to the intercompany loan agreement with ACI (the "ACI Loan Agreement"). The ACI Loan Agreement was amended to (i) provide for term loan borrowings of $48.8 million to fund the repurchase of shares from an existing shareholder and to fund a distribution to shareholders, and ii) extend the maturity dates of the term loans, and termination date of the revolving loan commitment. In connection with the recapitalization, ACI repurchased 47,870 shares of ACI capital stock, and distributed $42.8 million to shareholders. The Company owned
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71.8% of the outstanding shares of ACI on the date of the distribution and received $30.7 million. The remaining amount of the distribution was paid to minority shareholders.
Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates
The preparation of our financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to adopt accounting policies and make estimates and judgments that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes. Such estimates and judgments may involve varying degrees of uncertainty. Actual results could differ from these estimates under different assumptions and changes in other facts and circumstances, and potentially could result in materially different results. Our critical accounting estimates are discussed below. For a summary of our significant accounting policies, including those policies discussed below, refer to "Note B - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies" to our consolidated financial statements.
Business Combinations
The acquisitions of our businesses are accounted for under the acquisition method of accounting. Accounting for business combinations requires the use of estimates and assumptions in determining the fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed in order to allocate the purchase price. The estimates of fair value of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed are based upon assumptions believed to be reasonable using established valuation methods, taking into consideration information supplied by the management of the acquired entities and other relevant information. Determining the fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed requires management's judgment and often involves the use of assumptions with respect to future cash inflows and outflows, discount rates, royalty rates, customer attrition rates, asset lives and market multiples, among other items. The determination of fair values requires significant judgment both by our management team and, when appropriate, valuations by independent third-party appraisers. We amortize intangible assets, such as trademarks and customer relationships, as well as property, plant and equipment, over their economic useful lives, unless those lives are indefinite. We consider factors such as historical information, our plans for the asset and similar assets held by our previously acquired businesses. The impact could result in either higher or lower amortization and/or depreciation expense.
Goodwill and Intangible Assets
Goodwill represents the excess amount of the purchase price over the fair value of the assets acquired. Our goodwill and indefinite lived intangible assets are tested for impairment on an annual basis as of March 31st, and if current events or circumstances require, on an interim basis. Goodwill is allocated to various reporting units, which are generally an operating segment or one level below the operating segment. Each of our businesses represents a reporting unit.