ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS
Our business is subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results and events to differ materially from forward looking statements. The following discussion identifies those risks which we consider to be material. The following discussion of risks is not all inclusive. Additional risks not currently known to us or that we currently deem to be immaterial may also materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition, or results of operations.
COMMERCIAL, COMPETITION, AND INDUSTRY RISKS
Changes in consumer preferences and purchases, and our ability to anticipate or react to them, could negatively affect our business results.
We operate in highly competitive markets, and our success depends on our continued ability to offer our customers and consumers appealing, high-quality products. Customer and consumer preferences and purchases may shift due to a host of factors, many of which are difficult to predict, including:
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•demographic and social trends;
•economic conditions;
•product innovations;
•public health policies and initiatives (including dietary guidelines and labeling requirements regarding alcohol consumption);
•health and wellness trends (including the use of GLP-1 drugs);
•changes in government regulation and taxation of beverage alcohol products;
•the expansion of, legalization of, and increased acceptance or use of cannabis; and
•changes in travel, leisure, dining, entertaining, and beverage consumption trends.
Our success depends in part on fulfilling available opportunities to meet consumer needs and anticipating changes in consumer preferences with successful new brands, products, and product innovations. If our customers and consumers shift away from spirits (particularly brown spirits, such as our bourbon, rye, and other American whiskeys) or shift from purchasing our higher-margin products to our lower-margin products, our business, financial condition, or results of operations could be adversely affected. In addition, consumer pantry, retailer, distributor, or supplier inventory destocking, which we have experienced in the past, could adversely impact our business, financial condition, or results of operations. Additionally, customer contract non-performance, which we have experienced in the past, could adversely impact our business, financial condition, or results of operations.
The markets for our products are very competitive, and our business could be negatively affected if we do not compete effectively. We may also be negatively impacted by industry dynamics and market conditions.
The markets for our products are very competitive. Our principal competitors in these markets have substantial financial, marketing, and other resources, and several are much larger enterprises than us. Many of our current and potential competitors have larger customer bases, greater name recognition, and broader product offerings. In recent years, the industries in which we compete have continued to experience consolidation. Industry consolidation can have varying degrees of impact, including the creation of new and larger competitors. We are dependent on being able to generate sales and other operating income in excess of the costs of products sold in order to obtain margins, profits, and cash flows to meet or exceed our targeted financial performance measures. Competition is based on such factors as product innovation, product characteristics, product taste and quality, pricing, color, as well as name and brand image.
Pricing of our products is partly dependent upon industry capacity, which is impacted by competitor actions to bring online idled capacity or to build new production capacity, and may lead us to adjust our pricing, which could adversely impact our business, financial condition, or results of operations. We have been, and may continue to be, adversely impacted by elevated industry-wide barrel inventories of whiskey. In addition, if market conditions make our Branded Spirits products too expensive or our Distilling Solutions or Ingredient Solutions products too expensive for use in consumer goods, our revenues could be affected. If our competitors were to decrease their pricing, we may choose to do the same, which could adversely affect our margins and profitability. If we did not do the same, our revenues could be adversely affected due to the potential loss of sales.
Damage to our reputation, or that of any of our key customers or their brands, could affect our business performance.
The success of our products depends in part upon the positive image that consumers have of our brands and the third-party brands that use our products. Product contamination, whether arising accidentally or through deliberate third-party action, or other events that harm the integrity or consumer support for our or our customers’ products could affect the demand for our or our customers’ products.
Unfavorable media, whether accurate or not, related to our industry, to us, our products, our brands, our customers’ products, marketing, personnel, operations, business performance, or prospects could negatively affect our reputation, stock price, ability to attract and retain high-quality talent, or the performance of our business. Negative publicity or commentary on social media outlets, whether accurate or not, could cause consumers to react rapidly by avoiding our products or by choosing products offered by our competitors, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, or results of operations. If our environmental, social, and governance (“ESG”) or sustainability positions or practices do not meet investor or other stakeholder expectations and standards, which continue to evolve, our reputation, stock price, ability to attract and retain high-quality talent, and the performance of our business may be negatively affected. Similarly, stakeholders and others who disagree with our ESG or sustainability actions, positions, or statements may speak negatively or advocate against us, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, or results of operations.
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A failure to introduce successful new brands and products or have effective marketing or advertising could adversely affect our results of operations.
Our success depends, in part, on our ability to innovate and develop new brands and products, and customer demands may require us to make internal investments to achieve or sustain competitive advantages and meet customer expectations. The launch and ongoing success of new brands and products are inherently uncertain, especially with regard to their appeal to consumers, and can give rise to a variety of costs. An unsuccessful launch or short-lived popularity of our product innovations, among other things, may affect consumer perception of existing brands or products and our reputation, and may result in inventory write-offs and other costs.
We could also be adversely affected if we are not successful in developing new brands or products as a result of new brand or product introductions by our competitors. Some of our competitors may have greater financial and other resources than we do, making them better positioned to pursue new investment opportunities.
A failure to sufficiently innovate or maintain adequate and effective marketing or advertising could inhibit our ability to maintain our brand relevance and drive product sales. If our competitors increase their spending on advertising and promotions, if our advertising, media, or marketing expenses increase, if our advertising and promotions become less effective than those of our competitors, or if we do not adequately leverage technology and data analytic capabilities needed to generate concise competitive insight, our business, financial condition, or results of operations could be adversely affected.
A change in public opinion about alcohol or our products could reduce demand for our brands and products.
For many years, there has been a high level of social and political attention directed at the beverage alcohol industry. The attention has focused largely on public health concerns related to alcohol abuse, including drunk driving, underage drinking, and the negative health impacts of beverage alcohol. Anti-alcohol groups have, in the past, advocated successfully for more stringent labeling requirements, higher taxes, and other regulations and educational campaigns designed to discourage alcohol consumption. More restrictive regulations, higher taxes, negative publicity regarding alcohol consumption, or changes in consumer perceptions of the relative healthfulness or safety of beverage alcohol could decrease sales and consumption of alcohol, and thus, the demand for our brands and products. This could, in turn, decrease our revenues and our revenue growth, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, or results of operations.
In addition, consumer preferences might change and could lead to a decreased demand for our Ingredient Solutions products. For example, in recent years, we have noticed shifting consumer preferences and media attention directed to gluten, gluten intolerance, and “clean label” products. This could decrease our revenues and revenue growth, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, or results of operations.
Failure of our distributors to distribute our branded spirits adequately within their territories could adversely affect our business.
We are required by law in the U.S. to use state-licensed distributors or, in 17 states known as “control states,” state-owned agencies performing this function, to distribute our branded spirits to retail outlets, including liquor stores, bars, restaurants, and national chains. We have established relationships for our branded spirits with a limited number of wholesale distributors, and one wholesale distributor represented approximately 13 percent of our consolidated net sales for 2024. Failure to maintain those relationships could significantly and adversely affect our business, sales, and growth.
Over the past decade there has been increasing consolidation, both intrastate and interstate, among U.S. distributors. As a result, many U.S. states now have only two or three significant distributors. Also, there are several distributors that now control distribution for several states. If we fail to maintain good relations with a distributor, our branded spirits could, in some instances be excluded from one or more markets entirely. The ultimate success of our branded spirits also depends in large part on our distributors’ ability and desire to distribute and actively promote our branded spirits to our desired U.S. target markets, as we rely significantly on them for product placement and retail store penetration. In addition, all of our distributors also distribute competitive brands and product lines. We cannot assure you that our U.S. distributors will continue to purchase our branded spirits, resell them at our desired or targeted prices, commit sufficient time and resources to promote and market our brands and product lines, or that they can or will sell them to our desired or targeted markets. If they do not, our sales will be harmed, resulting in a decline in our results of operations.
Moreover, the retail industry, particularly in Europe, North America, and other countries in which we operate or may operate in the future, continues to consolidate, resulting in larger retailers with increased purchasing power, which may affect our competitiveness in these markets. Larger retailers may seek to improve their profitability and sales by asking for lower prices
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or increased trade spending. The efforts of retailers could result in reduced profitability for the distilled spirits industry as a whole and indirectly adversely affect our financial results.
Our focus on higher margin specialty ingredients may make us more reliant on fewer, more profitable customer relationships.
Our strategic plan for our Ingredient Solutions segment includes focusing our efforts on the sale of specialty proteins and starches to targeted consumer packaged goods customers, which may make our Ingredient Solutions segment reliant on these customer relationships. In addition, our business, financial condition, or results of operations could be materially adversely affected if our Ingredient Solutions customers were to reduce their new product development (“NPD”) activities or cease using our products in their NPD efforts.
OPERATIONAL RISKS
An interruption of operations or a catastrophic event at our facilities could negatively affect our business.
Although we maintain insurance coverage for various property damage and loss events, including business interruption insurance, an interruption in or loss of operations at any of our production facilities could reduce or postpone production of our products, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, or financial condition. In the past, we have experienced short term interruptions of operations at some of our production facilities due to industrial accidents. Any future accidents or other catastrophic events could result in an extended interruption or reduction of production at our facilities, and we may incur costs or financial losses that are either not insured against or not fully covered through our insurance.
Our customers store a substantial amount of barreled inventory of aged or aging bourbon, rye, and other whiskeys at our warehouses. If a catastrophic event were to occur at our facilities or our warehouses (including any leased warehouses), our customers’ business could be adversely affected. The loss of a significant amount of aged or aging inventory at these facilities through fire, natural disaster, or otherwise could result in customer claims against us, liability for customer losses, and a reduction of warehouse services revenue.
We also store a substantial amount of our own inventory of aged or aging bourbon, rye, and other whiskeys at our warehouses and at other facilities, including facilities owned by certain third-party producers. If a catastrophic event were to occur at any of these locations, our business, financial condition, or results of operations could be adversely affected. The loss of a significant amount of our aged or aging inventory at these facilities through fire, natural disaster, or otherwise could result in a reduction in supply of the affected products and could affect our long-term performance of any affected brands.
To the extent that our products rely on unique or proprietary processes or techniques, replacing production lost as a result of a catastrophic event by purchasing from outside suppliers would be difficult.
Our strategic plan involves significant investment in the aging of barreled distillate. Decisions concerning the quantity of maturing stock of our aged distillate could materially affect our future profitability.
There is an inherent risk in determining the quantity of maturing stock of aged distillate to lay down in a given year for future sales as a result of changes in consumer demand, pricing, new brand launches, changes in product cycles, increase in competitive supply, and other factors. Demand for products could change significantly between the time of production and the date of sale. It has in the past and may continue to be more difficult to accurately predict demand for our products and brands. Inaccurate decisions or estimations could lead to an inability to supply future demand or lead to a future surplus of inventory and consequent write down in the value of aged or aging distillate. As a result, our business, financial condition, or results of operations could be materially adversely affected.
The inability to successfully complete our capital projects or fund necessary capital expenditures could adversely impact us. Warehouse expansion issues could negatively impact our operations and our business.
Any capital project we undertake involves risks, including cost overruns, delays and performance uncertainties, regulatory risks (including our ability to timely obtain necessary approvals and permits), and the risk of potential changes in laws and regulations (including zoning and environmental requirements). The expected benefits from any of our capital or other projects may not be realized. For example, we may not realize the expected benefits from the mini fuel plant being constructed at our Atchison, Kansas location or from the ultimate disposal of the distillery assets from our distillery in Atchison, Kansas that we closed in December 2023. Our capital projects may also result in other unanticipated events or unintended consequences, such as the diversion of management’s attention from other operational matters or disruptions to our ongoing operations.
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Although we currently finance most of our capital expenditures through cash provided by operations, we also may depend on increased borrowing or other financing arrangements to fund future capital expenditures. If we are unable to obtain suitable financing on favorable terms, we may not be able to complete future capital projects and our ability to maintain or expand our operations may be limited. The occurrence of these events could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and results of operations.
In addition, expansion of our business operations requires additional warehouse capacity. In the event additional warehouse capacity is required, there is the risk of cost overruns, delays, regulatory risks, and the risk of potential changes in laws and regulations, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, or results of operations.
We have a high concentration of certain raw material and finished goods purchases from a limited number of suppliers, which exposes us to risk.
We have third-party supply agreements for our grain supply (primarily corn) and wheat flour. We also procure some textured wheat proteins through a third-party toll manufacturer in the U.S. Additionally, we procure barrels, glass, PET containers, caps, labels, aluminum cans, cartons, bottle closures, and other products from third-party vendors. If any of our key suppliers encounters an operational or financial issue, is no longer able to meet our timing, quality, or capacity requirements, ceases doing business with us, or significantly raises prices, and we are not able to promptly develop alternative cost-effective sources of supply or production, it could lead to an interruption in supply to us and higher prices than those we have negotiated or than are available in the market at the time, and in turn, have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, or results of operations.
Work disruptions or stoppages by our unionized workforce could cause interruptions in our operations.
As of December 31, 2024, approximately 197 of our 660 employees were members of a union. Although our relations with our three unions are stable, our failure to renew our collective bargaining agreements on reasonable terms could result in labor disruptions and increased labor costs, which could adversely affect our financial performance. In addition, there is no assurance that we will not experience work disruptions or stoppages in the future, which could interrupt our operations, adversely affect our relationships with our customers, and could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, or results of operations.
Climate change, or legal, regulatory, or market measures to address climate change, may negatively affect our business or operations, and water scarcity or quality could negatively impact our production costs and capacity.
Increasing concentrations of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases in the atmosphere may have an adverse effect on global temperatures, weather patterns, and the frequency and severity of extreme weather events and natural disasters. In the event that the effects of climate change, or legal, regulatory, or market measures enacted to address climate change, has a negative effect on agricultural productivity in the regions from which we procure agricultural products such as corn and wheat, we could be subject to decreased availability or increased prices for these agricultural products, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, or results of operations. Increasing regulation of emissions could increase the cost of energy, including fuel, required to operate our facilities or transport and distribute our products, thereby substantially increasing the production, distribution, and supply chain costs associated with our products. Climate change could also lead to disruptions in the production or distribution of our products.
Water is the main ingredient in substantially all of our distillery products and is also necessary for the production of our food ingredients. It is also a limited resource, facing challenges from climate change, increasing pollution, and poor management. As demand for water continues to increase, water becomes more scarce and the quality of available water deteriorates, we may be affected by increasing production costs or capacity constraints, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, or results of operations.
LEGAL, REGULATORY, AND COMPLIANCE RISKS
We are subject to extensive regulation and taxation, as well as compliance with existing or future laws and regulations, which may require us to incur substantial expenditures.
We are subject to a broad range of federal, state, local, and foreign laws and regulations intended to protect public health and the environment. Our operations are also subject to regulation by various U.S. federal agencies, including the TTB, OSHA, the
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FDA, and the EPA, by various U.S. state and local authorities, and by various foreign authorities. We are also required to conduct business only with holders of licenses to import, warehouse, transport, distribute, and sell beverage alcohol products. We cannot assure you that these and other governmental regulations applicable to our industry will not change or become more stringent. These laws and regulations cover virtually every aspect of our operations, including production and storage/warehouse facilities, distillation, and maturation requirements, importing ingredients, importing and exporting our products, distribution of beverage alcohol products, marketing, pricing, labeling, packaging, advertising, trade practices, water usage, wastewater discharge, disposal of hazardous wastes and emissions, air emissions and quality, and other matters.
Violations of any of these laws and regulations may result, and have in the past resulted, in administrative, civil, or criminal fines or penalties being levied against us, including temporary or prolonged cessation of production, revocation or modification of permits, performance of environmental investigatory or remedial activities, voluntary or involuntary product recalls, or a cease and desist order against operations that are not in compliance with applicable laws.
Changes in laws, regulatory measures, governmental policies, guidelines, initiatives, or the manner in which current ones are interpreted or applied, could cause us to incur material additional costs or liabilities and jeopardize the growth of our business in the affected market. Specifically, we could be required to incur significant additional capital expenditures, increase our operating expenses, or change the manner in which we conduct our business in response to new environmental, food, health, or safety related laws and regulations. In addition, governments may prohibit, impose, or increase limitations on advertising and promotional activities or times or locations where beverage alcohol may be sold or consumed, or adopt other measures that could limit our opportunities to reach consumers or sell our products. Certain countries historically have banned all television, newspaper, magazine, and digital commerce/advertising for beverage alcohol products. Increases in regulation of this nature could substantially reduce consumer awareness of our products in the affected markets and make the introduction of new products more challenging. Governmental agencies may issue dietary guidelines that recommend reduced alcohol consumption, which could impact consumer behavior. These matters may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, or results of operations.
Tariffs imposed by the U.S. and other countries, as well as rapidly changing trade relations, could negatively impact our customers and have a material adverse effect on our business and results of operations.
Changes or proposed changes in U.S. and foreign governments’ trade policies have resulted in, and may continue to result in, new trade agreements, economic sanctions, or new, expanded or retaliatory tariffs against certain countries or covering certain products or ingredients (including recent U.S. tariffs imposed or threatened to be imposed on Mexico, Canada, China, and other countries and any retaliatory actions taken by such countries). For example, during the period from 2018 through mid-year 2022, the United Kingdom and the European Union imposed tariffs on the import of American whiskey in response to tariffs imposed by the U.S. on imports from several countries, including those in the European Union. These tariffs are currently slated to be reinstated and doubled if an agreement is not reached by March 31, 2025. Any new trade agreements, economic sanctions, or new, expanded or retaliatory tariffs could result in an increase in the price of our and our customer’s products, could increase the costs of finished goods and raw materials (including finished goods produced through our joint venture operations in Mexico and our Northern Ireland operations as well as raw materials we procure from outside the U.S.), could prompt consumers to seek alternative products, could result in a supply imbalance in the U.S if we and our competitors have reduced sales in other countries, and could potentially impact our business, financial condition, or results of operations.
Changes in excise taxes, incentives, and customs duties related to products containing alcohol could adversely affect our business.
Products containing alcohol are subject to excise taxation in U.S. markets at the federal, state, and local level. Any increase in federal, state or local excise taxes could have an adverse effect on our business by increasing prices and reducing demand, particularly if excise tax levels increase substantially relative to those for beer and wine. In addition, products containing alcohol are the subject of customs duties in many countries around the world. An unanticipated increase in customs duties in the markets where we may sell our products could also adversely affect our results of operations and cash flows.
We may not be able to adequately protect our intellectual property rights or may be accused of infringing intellectual property rights of third parties.
We regard our trademarks, service marks, copyrights, patents, trade dress, trade secrets, proprietary technology, and similar intellectual property as critical to our success, and we rely on trademark, copyright, and patent law, trade secret protection, and confidentiality and license agreements with our employees, customers, and others to protect our proprietary rights. We may not be able to discover or determine the extent of any unauthorized use of our proprietary rights. Third parties that license our proprietary rights also may take actions that diminish the value of our proprietary rights or reputation. The protection of our
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intellectual property may require the expenditure of significant financial and managerial resources. Moreover, the steps we take to protect our intellectual property may not adequately protect our rights or prevent third parties from infringing or misappropriating our proprietary rights. Our intellectual property rights may not be upheld if challenged. Such results could materially and adversely affect our business. If we are unable to maintain the proprietary nature of our technologies, we may lose any competitive advantage provided by our intellectual property. We and our customers and other users of our products may be subject to allegations that we or they or certain uses of our products infringe the intellectual property rights of third parties. Litigation is costly to defend and the outcome of any litigation is inherently uncertain. Any intellectual property claims, with or without merit, could be time-consuming and expensive to resolve, could divert management attention from executing our business plan, and could require us or our customers or other users of our products to change business practices, pay monetary damages, or enter into licensing or similar arrangements. Any adverse determination related to intellectual property claims or litigation could be material to our business, financial condition, or results of operations.
Failure of our branded spirits to secure and maintain listings in control states could adversely affect our business.
In control states, the state liquor commissions act in place of distributors and decide which products are to be purchased and offered for sale in their respective states. Products selected for listing in control states must generally reach certain volumes or profit levels to maintain their listings. Products in control states are selected for purchase and sale through listing procedures, which are generally made available to new products only at periodically scheduled listing interviews. Products not selected for listings can only be purchased by consumers in the applicable control state through special orders, if at all. If, in the future, we are unable to maintain our current listings in the control states, or secure and maintain listings in those states for any additional branded spirits we may develop or acquire, sales of our branded spirits could decrease significantly, which would have a material adverse financial effect on our results of operations and financial condition.
Significant additional labeling or warning requirements or limitations on the availability of our products could inhibit sales of affected products.
Various jurisdictions have adopted or may seek to adopt significant additional product labeling or warning requirements or limitations on the availability of our products relating to the content or perceived adverse health consequences of some of our products. Several of these labeling regulations or laws require warnings on any product with substances that the jurisdiction lists as potentially associated with cancer or birth defects and heightened requirements could be imposed. If additional or more severe requirements of this type are imposed on one or more of our major products under current or future health, environmental, or other laws or regulations, they could inhibit sales of such products. Further, we cannot predict whether our products will become subject to increased rules and regulations, which, if enacted, could increase our costs or adversely impact sales. For example, in early January 2025, the U.S. Surgeon General suggested requiring that alcohol products have labels with increased and more prominent warnings regarding the health risks of alcohol consumption and in the past, advocacy groups in Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom have called for the consideration of requiring the sale of alcohol in plain packaging with more comprehensive health warnings or have launched additional health-related campaigns in an effort to change drinking habits in those countries. This could result in additional governmental regulations concerning the production, marketing, labeling, or availability of our products, any of which could damage our reputation, make our brands unrecognizable, or reduce demand of our products, which could adversely affect our profitability.
Product recalls or other product liability claims could materially and negatively affect our business.
Selling products for human consumption involves inherent legal and other risks, including product contamination, spoilage, product tampering, allergens, or other adulteration. We could decide to, or be required to, recall products due to suspected or confirmed product contamination, adulteration, misbranding, tampering, or other errors or deficiencies. Although we maintain product recall insurance, product recalls or market withdrawals could result in significant losses due to their costs, the destruction of product inventory, lost sales due to the unavailability of the product for a period of time, and we may incur costs or financial losses that are either not insured against or not fully covered through our insurance. We could be adversely affected if our customers lose confidence in the safety and quality of certain of our products, or if consumers lose confidence in the food and beverage safety system generally. Negative attention about these types of concerns, whether or not valid, may damage our reputation, discourage food processors, branded spirits bottlers, or consumers from buying our products, or cause production and delivery disruptions.
We may also suffer losses if our products or operations cause injury, illness, or death. In addition, we could face claims of false or deceptive advertising or other criticism. A significant product liability or other legal judgment or a related regulatory enforcement action against us, or a significant product recall, may materially and adversely affect our reputation and profitability. Moreover, even if a product liability or other legal or regulatory claim is unsuccessful, has no merit, or is not
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pursued, the negative publicity surrounding assertions against our products or processes and the associated legal and other expenses could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, or results of operations.
Failure to comply with anti-corruption laws, trade sanctions, and restrictions, or similar laws or regulations may have a material adverse effect on our business and financial results.
We market and sell our products in over 50 countries. Some of the countries where we do business have a higher risk of corruption than others. While we are committed to doing business in accordance with applicable anti-corruption laws, trade sanctions and restrictions, and other similar laws and regulations, along with our Code of Conduct and our other policies, we remain subject to the risk that an employee, or one of our business partners, may take action determined to be in violation of international trade, money laundering, anti-corruption, or other laws, sanctions, or regulations, including the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act of 1977, the U.K. Bribery Act 2010, or equivalent laws. Any determination that our operations or activities are not in compliance with applicable laws or regulations, particularly those related to anti-corruption and international trade, could result in investigations, interruption of business, loss of business partner relationships, suspension or termination of licenses and permits (our own or those of our partners), imposition of fines, legal or equitable sanctions, negative publicity, and management distraction. Any media coverage associated with misconduct under these laws and regulations, even if unwarranted or baseless, could damage our reputation and sales. Further, our continued compliance with applicable anti-corruption or other laws or regulations, our Code of Conduct, and our other policies could result in higher operating costs.
We also operate our business and market our products in countries that may be subject to export control regulations, embargoes, economic sanctions and other forms of trade restrictions. New or expanded export control regulations, economic sanctions, embargoes or other forms of trade restrictions imposed on countries in which we or our associates do business may curtail our existing business and may result in serious economic challenges in these geographies, which could have a material adverse effect on our and our associates’ operations, and may result in impairment charges on goodwill or other intangible assets. The conflict and related sanctions have resulted and could continue to result in disruptions to global trade, commodity markets (including grain, corn, wheat, energy, and natural gas markets), and supply chain continuity.
We are, and from time to time may become, subject to litigation, and adverse outcomes in such litigation could have a material adverse effect on our business.
We are, and from time to time may become, subject to litigation and various legal proceedings in the ordinary course of our business, including litigation and proceedings related to commercial disputes, intellectual property matters, privacy and data protection and employment disputes, as well as stockholder derivative suits, class action lawsuits, mass arbitrations and other matters, that may involve claims for substantial amounts of money or for other relief, result in significant costs for legal representation, arbitration fees, or other legal or related services, or necessitate changes to our business or operations.
In particular, we and other companies operating in our industry may face the possibility of class action or similar litigation alleging that the continued excessive use or abuse of beverage alcohol has caused death or serious health problems. It is also possible that governments could assert that the use of alcohol has significantly increased government funded health care costs. Litigation or assertions of this type have adversely affected companies in the tobacco industry, and it is possible that we, as well as our distributors, customers, or suppliers, could be named in litigation of this type. Also, lawsuits have been brought in a number of U.S. states against beverage alcohol manufacturers and marketers alleging improper alcohol marketing, advertising, or distribution practices, including improperly targeting underage consumers in their advertising. While we have not been named in these lawsuits, we could be named in similar lawsuits in the future.
The defense of these actions is time consuming and expensive and may subject us to damages, penalties, or fines as well as reputational damage to our business. We evaluate these litigation claims and legal proceedings to assess the likelihood of unfavorable outcomes and to estimate, if possible, the amount of potential losses. Based on these assessments and estimates, we may establish reserves and disclose the relevant litigation claims or legal proceedings, as and when required or appropriate. These assessments and estimates are based on information available to management at the time of such assessment or estimation and involve a significant amount of judgment. As a result, actual outcomes or losses could differ materially from those envisioned by our current assessments and estimates. Our failure to successfully defend or settle any of these litigations or legal proceedings could result in liability that, to the extent not covered by our insurance, could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and results of operations. See also Part I, “Item 3―Legal Proceedings” and Part II, Item 8, Note 11, Commitments and Contingencies, to our Consolidated Financial Statements.
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RISKS RELATED TO OUR CAPITAL STRUCTURE
Common Stockholders have limited rights under our Articles of Incorporation.
Under our Articles of Incorporation, (i) holders of our preferred stock, par value $10.00 per share (“Preferred Stock”), are entitled to elect five of our nine directors and (ii) only holders of our Preferred Stock are entitled to vote with respect to a merger, dissolution, lease, exchange or sale of substantially all of our assets, or on an amendment to the Articles of Incorporation, unless such action would increase or decrease the authorized shares or par value of the Common or Preferred Stock, or change the powers, preferences or special rights of the Common or Preferred Stock so as to affect the holders of Common Stock adversely. Generally, our Common Stock and Preferred Stock vote as separate classes on all other matters requiring stockholder approval.
As of December 31, 2024, the majority of the outstanding shares of our Preferred Stock is beneficially owned by one individual, who is effectively in control of the election of five of our nine directors under our Articles of Incorporation. Furthermore, a group of stockholders beneficially owning approximately 23 percent of our Common Stock as of December 31, 2024 (excluding shares controlled by certain other stockholders) have a right to nominate up to two of the four directors to be elected by holders of our Common Stock pursuant to the terms of a shareholders’ agreement, provided they continue to hold a certain amount of our Common Stock, and two other individuals who beneficially own approximately 13 percent of our Common Stock as of December 31, 2024 have agreed to vote in favor of those nominees with respect to any shares of Common Stock over which they have sole voting control.
Our two class structure with our Common Stock and Preferred Stock may prevent the inclusion of our Common Stock in certain stock market indices, may cause stockholder advisory firms or others to publish negative commentary about our corporate governance practices or otherwise seek to cause us to change our capital structure, and may result in large institutional investors not purchasing shares of our Common Stock. Any actions or publications by stockholder advisory firms, institutional investors, or others critical of our corporate governance practices or capital structure could also adversely affect the value of our Common Stock or make it difficult for us to attract and retain qualified directors. Any actions we might pursue to eliminate the Preferred Stock would require the support of the holders of our Preferred Stock and would likely involve payment to the holders of our Preferred Stock for redeeming their shares, the amount of which could be material and would involve risks related to the valuation and terms of any such transaction.
The concentrated control of our stock and rights of holders of Preferred Stock under our Articles of Incorporation could delay, defer, or prevent a change of control, merger, consolidation, or sale of all or substantially all of our assets that our other stockholders support, or conversely these factors could result in the consummation of such a transaction that our other stockholders do not support. The concentrated control of our stock and rights of holders of Preferred Stock could also discourage a potential investor from acquiring our Common Stock due to the limited voting power of such stock relative to the Preferred Stock and could have an adverse effect on the market price of our Common Stock. In addition, the sale or prospect of a sale of a substantial number of shares by our principal stockholders could have an adverse effect on the market price of our Common Stock.
We have various mechanisms in place to discourage takeover attempts, which may reduce or eliminate our stockholders’ ability to sell their shares for a premium in a change of control transaction. In addition, we could issue additional shares of Common Stock, which could adversely impact the market price of our Common Stock.
Various provisions of our Articles of Incorporation and bylaws and of Kansas corporate law may discourage, delay, or prevent a change in control or takeover attempt of our Company by a third-party which our management and Board of Directors opposes. Stockholders who might desire to participate in such a transaction may not have the opportunity to do so. These antitakeover provisions could substantially impede the ability of stockholders to benefit from a change of control or change in our management and Board of Directors. These provisions include:
•the rights of holders of our Preferred Stock under our Articles of Incorporation (see “Common Stockholders have limited rights under our Articles of Incorporation”);
•additional shares of Preferred Stock and Common Stock that could be issued by our Board of Directors to make it more difficult for a third-party to acquire, or to discourage a third-party from acquiring, a majority of our outstanding voting stock;
•non-cumulative voting in the election of directors;
•limitations on the ability of stockholders to call special meetings of stockholders; and
•advance notice requirements for nominations of candidates for election to our Board of Directors or for proposing matters that can be acted upon by our stockholders at stockholder meetings.
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Our Board of Directors is authorized to issue additional shares of Common Stock and Preferred Stock and may issue the available authorized shares without notice to, or further action by, our stockholders, unless stockholder approval is required by law or the rules of the Nasdaq Global Select Market. We believe that it is necessary to maintain a sufficient number of available authorized shares of our Common Stock in order to provide us with the flexibility to issue Common Stock for business purposes that may arise as deemed advisable by our Board. The issuance of additional shares of Common Stock or Preferred Stock may significantly dilute the equity ownership of our current stockholders and could have an adverse effect on the market price of our Common Stock.
GENERAL RISKS
Higher costs or unavailability of raw materials, product ingredients, energy resources, or labor could adversely affect our financial results.
Our ability to make and sell our products depends upon the availability of raw materials and energy resources. Prices and supply of all products are subject to market forces, such as inflation, weather, changes in domestic and global demand and supply, and global political or economic issues.
Higher costs or insufficient availability of suitable grain, agave, water, wood, glass, plastics, closures, and other input materials, or higher associated labor costs or insufficient availability of labor, could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, or results of operations. Similarly, when energy costs rise, our transportation, freight, and other operating costs, such as distilling and bottling expenses, also may increase. Our freight cost and the timely delivery of our products could be adversely affected by a number of factors that could reduce the profitability of our operations, including driver or equipment shortages, higher fuel costs, weather conditions, traffic congestion, shipment container availability, rail shut down, increased government regulation, and other matters.
In addition, the relationship between the price we pay for corn and the sales price of distillers feed, the principal co-product of our alcohol production process, can fluctuate significantly and negatively impact our business. The selling price of distillers feed has historically tracked the price of corn, but is also susceptible to other factors, including weather, other available feedstock, and global trade relations. As a result, the profitability of distillers feed could be adversely affected, which could be material to our business, financial condition, or results of operations.
If we cannot offset higher raw material costs with higher selling prices, increased sales volume, or reductions in other costs, our profitability could be adversely affected. There can be no assurance that we can cover these potential cost increases through future pricing actions. Also, as a result of these pricing actions, consumers could purchase less or move from purchasing our higher-margin products to our lower-margin products.
A failure of one or more of our key information technology (“IT”) systems, networks, processes, associated sites, or service providers could have a negative impact on our business.
We rely on IT systems, networks, and services, including internet sites, data hosting and processing facilities and tools, hardware (including laptops and mobile devices), software, and technical applications and platforms, some of which are managed and hosted by third-party vendors, to assist us in the management of our business. The various uses of these IT systems, networks, and services include hosting our internal network and communication systems; enterprise resource planning; processing transactions; summarizing and reporting results of operations; business planning and financial information; complying with regulatory, legal, and tax requirements; providing and managing data security; and handling other processes necessary to manage our business. The Company has previously experienced, and is expected to continue to be exposed to, failures of our IT systems and those of our third-party vendors due to various causes, including those caused by natural disasters, power outages, computer and telecommunications failures, viruses, phishing attempts, cyber-attacks, malware and ransomware attacks, security breaches, failures in maintenance or development of new IT systems, and errors by employees or vendors.
We have technology and processes in place designed to detect and respond to such failures and disruptions; however, because of the techniques used to obtain unauthorized access, disable, or degrade service, or sabotage systems, and because of the unpredictable nature of other potential threats such as natural disasters, our detection and response measures may be ineffective or inadequate. In addition, increased IT security threats and more sophisticated cyber-crime pose a potential risk to the security of our IT systems, networks, and services, as well as the confidentiality, availability, and integrity of our data. This could lead to outside parties having access to our confidential data, strategic information, or information regarding our employees, suppliers, or customers. Ransomware attacks or other cybersecurity breaches have occurred, either internally or at our third-party technology service providers, and have caused and may in the future cause us to be prevented from accessing our data,
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resulting in interruptions or delays in our business, and causing us to incur remediation costs or requiring us to pay ransom to a hacker which takes over our systems, or damage our reputation. Although we maintain insurance coverage for various cybersecurity risks, we may incur costs or financial losses that are either not insured against or not fully covered through our insurance.
All of these potential failures or disruptions of our data security systems or our IT systems could have a material adverse impact on our business, financial conditions, or results of operations. If the IT systems, networks, or service providers we rely upon fail to function properly, we may suffer disruptions to operations, including order processing, invoicing, and production and distribution of our products, as well as reputational, competitive, or business harm, all of which may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, or results of operations. If our critical IT systems or back-up systems or those of our third-party vendors were damaged or ceased to function properly, we might have to make a significant investment to repair or replace them. In addition, these events could result in unauthorized disclosure of confidential information, and we may suffer financial and reputational damage because of lost or misappropriated confidential information belonging to us or to our employees, customers, or suppliers. Additionally, we could be exposed to potential liability, litigation, governmental inquiries, investigations, or regulatory enforcement actions and we could be subject to the payment of fines or other penalties, ransoms, legal claims by our suppliers, customers, or employees, and significant remediation costs.
Our business may suffer from risks related to acquisitions and potential future acquisitions.
Part of our strategic business plan is to grow our business through acquisitions, and we continue to evaluate and engage in discussions concerning potential acquisition opportunities, some of which could be material. For example, in April 2021 we acquired Luxco, Inc. (referred to as “Luxco” and the merger as the “Merger”) and in June 2023 we acquired Penelope Bourbon LLC (“Penelope”). Failure to successfully integrate or otherwise realize the anticipated benefits of our acquisitions could adversely impact our long-term competitiveness and profitability. The integration of any acquisition involves a number of risks that could harm our financial condition, results of operations, or competitive position, including:
•Integration plans for our acquisitions are based on benefits that involve assumptions as to future events, including our ability to successfully achieve anticipated synergies, leveraging our existing relationships, as well as general business and industry conditions, many of which are beyond our control and may not materialize. Unforeseen factors may offset components of our integration plans in whole or in part. As a result, our actual results may vary considerably, or be considerably delayed, compared to our estimates.
•The integration process could disrupt the activities of the businesses that are being combined. The combination of companies requires, among other things, coordination of administrative and other functions. In addition, the loss of key employees, customers, or vendors of acquired businesses could materially and adversely impact the integration of any acquired businesses.
•The execution of our integration plans may divert the attention of our management from other key responsibilities;
•Our financial results may be negatively impacted by cash expenses and non-cash charges incurred in connection with an acquisition if goodwill or other intangible assets we acquire become impaired. For example, in the fourth quarter 2024, we recorded a goodwill impairment charge related to the Branded Spirits reporting unit. See also Part II, Item 7, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Critical Accounting Estimates—Goodwill and Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets” and Part II, Item 8, Note 5, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets, to our Consolidated Financial Statements.
•We may enter new markets or markets in which we have limited prior experience.
•We may incur substantial indebtedness to finance an acquisition, enhancing our vulnerability to increased debt service requirements if interest rates rise, reducing the amount of expected cash flow available for other purposes, including capital expenditures and acquisitions, and limiting our flexibility in planning for or reacting to changes in our businesses and industries.
•We may assume unanticipated liabilities and contingencies or other exposures (including regulatory risks) for which we do not have adequate insurance coverage, indemnification, or other protection.
•Our acquisitions could fail to perform in accordance with our expectations at the time of purchase.
Our ability to grow through the acquisition of additional distilled spirits brands or other businesses is also dependent upon identifying acceptable acquisition targets and opportunities, our ability to consummate prospective transactions on favorable terms, or at all, and the availability of capital to complete the acquisition. The pursuit of potential acquisitions may divert the attention of management and cause us to incur various costs and expenses in identifying, investigating, and pursuing suitable acquisitions, whether or not they are consummated. We may not be able to identify desirable acquisition targets or be successful in entering into an agreement with any particular target. We intend to finance our acquisitions through a combination of our available cash resources, third-party financing and, in appropriate circumstances, the further issuance of equity and debt securities. Any issuance of our Common Stock or securities convertible into our Common Stock to fund an acquisition could
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substantially dilute the ownership percentage of our current stockholders and negatively impact the market price of our Common stock. For example, in connection with the Merger we issued approximately 5.0 million shares of our Common Stock.
Acquiring additional distilled spirits brands or other businesses could have a significant effect on our financial position and could cause substantial fluctuations in our operating results.
An increase in interest rates would increase the cost of servicing our debt and could reduce our profitability.
Our revolving credit facility bears interest at variable rates. The U.S. Federal Reserve began raising the Federal Funds interest rate in early 2022 and continued to do so throughout the first half of 2023. Although the Federal Reserve cut interest rates during 2024, they may again raise interest rates in the future. Any increase in interest rates would increase the cost of servicing our variable rate debt and could materially reduce our profitability and cash flows. In addition, higher interest rates could increase the future cost to refinance our convertible notes or the cost of financing any future acquisitions. Assuming our revolving credit facility was fully drawn up to the current $400 million maximum principal commitment, for each 1% increase in Secured Overnight Financing Rate (“SOFR”) would result in a $4.0 million increase in annual interest expense under the revolving credit facility.
If we were to lose any of our key personnel, we may not be able to fully implement our strategic plan, and our system of internal controls could be impacted.
We rely on the continued services of key personnel involved in management, finance, product development, sales, manufacturing, marketing, human resources, operations, and distribution, and upon the efforts and abilities of our executive management team. The loss of service of any of our key personnel could be disruptive to our operations and create uncertainty
about our business and future direction, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, or on our system of internal controls. On December 31, 2024, David S. Bratcher’s service as our Chief Executive Officer and President ended, and Brandon M. Gall was appointed to serve as our Interim President and Chief Executive Officer effective January 1, 2025, in addition to serving in his current role of Chief Financial Officer. We are currently conducting a search for a permanent President and Chief Executive Officer.
If we cannot attract and retain key personnel, or if our search for qualified personnel is prolonged, our system of internal controls may be affected, which could lead to an adverse effect on our business, financial condition, or results of operations. In addition, it could be difficult, time consuming, and expensive to replace any key management member or other critical personnel, and no guarantee exists that we will be able to recruit suitable replacements or assimilate new key personnel into our organization.
Our global business is subject to commercial, political, and financial risks.
Our products are sold in more than 50 countries; accordingly, we are subject to risks associated with doing business globally, including commercial, political, and financial risks. In addition, we are subject to potential business disruption caused by military conflicts; the results of elections; potentially unstable governments or legal systems; civil or political upheaval or unrest; local labor policies and conditions; possible expropriation, nationalization, or confiscation of assets; problems with repatriation of foreign earnings; economic or trade sanctions; closure of markets to imports; anti-American sentiment; terrorism or other types of violence in or outside the U.S.; and health pandemics. If shipments of our products to international markets were to experience significant disruption, it could have a material adverse effect on our financial results. We are also subject to financial risks and our business has been, and could in the future also be, negatively impacted by unfavorable economic conditions, including inflation, deflation, exchange rate fluctuations, and credit or capital market instability. See also “—Tariffs imposed by the U.S. and other countries, as well as rapidly changing trade relations, could negatively impact our customers and have a material adverse effect on our business and results of operations.”
Covenants and other provisions in our credit arrangements could hinder our ability to operate. Our failure to comply with covenants in our credit arrangements could result in the acceleration of the debt extended under such agreements, limit our liquidity, and trigger other rights of our lenders.
Our credit arrangements contain a number of financial and other covenants that include provisions which require us, in certain circumstances, to meet certain financial tests. These covenants could hinder our ability to operate and could reduce our profitability. The lender may also terminate or accelerate our obligations under our credit arrangements upon the occurrence of various events in addition to payment defaults and other breaches. Any acceleration of our debt or termination of our credit
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arrangements would negatively impact our overall liquidity and might require us to take other actions to preserve any remaining liquidity. Although we anticipate that we will be able to meet the covenants in our credit arrangements, there can be no assurance that we will do so, as there are a number of external factors that affect our operations over which we have little or no control, that could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, or results of operations. See also Part II, Item 8, Note 7, Corporate Borrowings, to our Consolidated Financial Statements.
Pandemics or other health crises could disrupt or otherwise negatively impact our operations, including the demand for our products and our ability to produce and deliver our products.
A pandemic, such as COVID-19, or another widespread health crisis, could have a negative impact on our operations, including voluntary or mandatory temporary closures of our facilities or offices; interruptions to our supply chain, which could impact the cost or availability of raw materials; disruptions or restrictions on our ability to travel or to market and distribute our products; reductions in consumer demand for our products or those of our customers due to bar and restaurant closures or reduced consumer traffic in bars, restaurants, and other locations; and labor shortages.
Furthermore, our facilities and those of our customers and suppliers could be required to comply with new regulations imposed by state and local governments in response to such an outbreak. Compliance with these new measures could cause an increase in the cost, or delay or reduce the volume, of products produced at our facilities or those of our suppliers. A pandemic or other widespread health crisis could disrupt or negatively impact credit markets, which could adversely affect the availability and cost of capital. These impacts could limit our ability to fund our operations and satisfy our obligations.
Cash dividends and share repurchases are subject to uncertainties which could affect the price of our Common Stock.
The payment of dividends, the amount of any dividends, and any share repurchase program require approval of our Board of Directors. Future dividend payments and share repurchases are also subject to our financial results, the availability of statutory surplus funds to pay dividends, restrictions in our debt agreements, and our capital allocation strategy. These or other factors could result in a change to our current policy of paying dividends on our Common Stock, us paying smaller dividends on our Common Stock in the future, or a change in the amount, timing and frequency of any share repurchases. A change in dividend payments or share repurchases could adversely affect the price of our Common Stock. Additionally, any share repurchases may not enhance shareholder value because the market price of our Common Stock may decline below the levels at which we repurchased shares of Common Stock, and short-term stock price fluctuations could reduce the program’s effectiveness.
ITEM 1B. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS
None.
ITEM 1C. CYBERSECURITY
Risk Management and Strategy. We have a multi-pronged approach to assess, identify, and manage material risks from cybersecurity threats that is aligned with the National Institute of Standards and Technology framework. This approach includes system testing and patching, continuous monitoring, end-user training and awareness, multi-layered security, redundancy mechanisms, encryption, and internal audits and assessments. Assessment of cybersecurity risk is part of our overall enterprise risk management (“ERM”) process, which is reviewed by the Audit Committee of our Board of Directors, along with our strategies for managing our cybersecurity risks.
We maintain technical and organizational safeguards, including regular employee training and phishing simulations, incident response capability reviews and exercises, cybersecurity insurance, and business continuity mechanisms for the protection of our assets. If faced with a cybersecurity incident, our IT team is trained to focus on responding to and containing the threat and minimizing any business impact, as appropriate. In the event of an incident, our IT team assesses, among other factors, safety impact, supply chain and manufacturing disruption, data and personal information loss, business operations disruption, projected cost, and potential for reputational harm.
From time to time, our processes are audited and validated by internal and external experts. We leverage third-party cybersecurity experts with the goal of minimizing disruption to our business and production operations, strengthening supply chain resilience in response to cyber-related events, and supporting the integrity of IT systems. We also engage reputable third-party consultants to help evaluate and test our vulnerability to cybersecurity threats as well as to conduct annual penetration
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tests to help identify exploitable cybersecurity vulnerabilities. Our IT team assesses these testing results and implements any appropriate measures to mitigate vulnerabilities identified.
We rely on various third-party service providers and a cybersecurity incident at any of our third-party service providers could materially adversely impact us. We evaluate third-party service providers from a cybersecurity risk perspective using a range of measures, including information security and cybersecurity due diligence assessments, ongoing monitoring and evaluation of our providers, examination of available System and Organization Controls attestation reports, and inclusion security and privacy contractional provisions in our agreements with our providers. However, we rely on our third-party service providers to implement security programs commensurate with their risk, and we cannot ensure that their efforts will be successful.
We have not experienced any material impacts from any cybersecurity threats or incidents in the last three fiscal years. We use each cybersecurity threat or incident as an opportunity to review our protocols and implement enhancements as applicable. For more information about our risks from cybersecurity threats, see Item 1A—Risk Factors—A failure of one or more of our key information technology (“IT”) systems, networks, processes, associated sites, or service providers could have a negative impact on our business.
Governance. The Audit Committee of our Board of Directors is responsible for overseeing risk assessments and risk management, including cybersecurity risks. Our IT team is responsible for assessing and managing our risks from cybersecurity threats.Our IT team is led by our Vice President of Information Technology and Security, who reported to our Chief Financial Officer during 2024. Our Vice President of Information Technology and Security provides updates on cybersecurity threats and risks to the Audit Committee of our Board of Directors throughout the year. In addition, the Audit Committee reviewed cybersecurity risks and mitigation strategies in 2024 as part of their oversight of our enterprise risk management process.
Our Vice President of Information Technology and Security has over 25 years of experience in IT and has held a variety of IT roles across multiple business lines within the financial services, aviation, and hospitality industries. He received both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in information management and holds Certified Information Systems Security Professional (“CISSP”) certification.
Our Vice President of Information Technology and Security monitors our processes for preventing, detecting, mitigating, and remediating cybersecurity incidents through his management of, and participation in, the cybersecurity risk management and strategy processes described above, including through the operation of our incident response plans, which include escalation to our Interim Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate.
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ITEM 2. PROPERTIES
As of February 26, 2025, our material properties include:
Location Principal Activities Segment
United States:
Leawood, Kansas (a) Office space Corporate
Sunman, Indiana Warehousing facility Distilling Solutions
Williamstown, Kentucky Warehousing facility Distilling Solutions
Springfield, Kentucky (a) Warehousing facilities Distilling Solutions
Lebanon, Kentucky Distillery, office space, and retail location Branded Spirits
Cleveland, Ohio Bottling facility and office space Branded Spirits
International:
Arandas, Mexico (b) Distillery, office space, and agave farm Branded Spirits
(a) Facility is leased.
(b) These properties are owned and operated by our joint ventures, Agricola and DGL.
These facilities are generally in good operating condition and are generally suitable for the business activity conducted therein. The properties, except as otherwise indicated above, are owned by the Company. We also own or lease transportation equipment and facilities and a gas pipeline.
ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
The Company is, from time to time, a party to legal or regulatory proceedings arising in the ordinary course of its business. The discussion regarding litigation in Note 11, Commitments and Contingencies, included elsewhere in this Report is incorporated herein by reference.
In accordance with U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (“GAAP”), we record a liability when it is both probable that a liability has been incurred and the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated. These liabilities are reviewed at least quarterly and adjusted to reflect the impacts of negotiations, settlements, rulings, advice of legal counsel, and other information and events pertaining to a particular case or proceeding.
ITEM 4. MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES
Not applicable.
PART II
ITEM 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDERS MATTERS, AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES
Our Common Stock is traded on the Nasdaq Global Select Market under the ticker symbol MGPI. As of February 21, 2025, there were approximately 277 holders of record of our Common Stock. According to reports received from Nasdaq, the average daily trading volume of our Common Stock (excluding block trades) ranged from 70,688 to 3,398,021 shares during the year ended December 31, 2024.
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STOCK PERFORMANCE GRAPH
The following graph compares the cumulative total return of our Common Stock for the five-year period ended December 31, 2024, against the cumulative total return of the S&P 500 Stock Index (broad market comparison), Russell 3000 (broad market comparison), and Russell 2000 - Consumer Staples (line of business comparison). The graph assumes $100 (one hundred dollars) was invested on December 31, 2019, and that all dividends were reinvested.
PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES BY ISSUER
Share repurchase activity during the quarter ended December 31, 2024 was as follows:
(1)On February 29, 2024, we announced that our Board of Directors approved a $100,000 share repurchase program. The repurchase program has no expiration date and may be modified, suspended, or discontinued at any time by the Company without prior notice.
(2)All shares were repurchased under the share repurchase program announced on February 29, 2024.
ITEM 6. [Reserved]
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ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
CAUTIONARY NOTE CONCERNING FACTORS THAT MAY AFFECT FUTURE RESULTS
This Report may contain forward looking statements as well as historical information. All statements, other than statements of historical facts, regarding the prospects of our industries and our prospects, plans, financial position, mission, and strategy may constitute forward looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including without limitation statements about our sources of cash being adequate; our capital expenditures; our ability to support our liquidity and operating needs through cash generated from operations; and our ability to obtain credit funding. Forward looking statements are usually identified by or are associated with such words as “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” “estimate,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “project,” “forecast,” “hopeful,” “should,” “may,” “will,” “could,” “encouraged,” “opportunities,” “potential,” and similar terminology. These forward-looking statements reflect management’s current beliefs and estimates of future economic circumstances, industry conditions, our performance, our financial results, and our financial condition and are not guarantees of future performance.
All forward-looking statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially. For information on these risks and uncertainties and other factors that could affect the Company’s business, see the “Risk Factors” and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Conditions and Results of Operations” of this Report and our other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). Forward-looking statements in this Report are made as of the date of this Report, and we undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking statements or information made in this Report, except as required by law.
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
Management’s Discussion and Analysis (“MD&A”) of Financial Condition and Results of Operations is designed to provide a reader of MGP’s consolidated financial statements with a narrative from the perspective of management. MGP’s MD&A is presented in the following sections:
•Overview
•Results of Operations
•Distilling Solutions Segment
•Branded Spirits Segment
•Ingredient Solutions Segment
•Cash Flow, Financial Condition and Liquidity
•Critical Accounting Estimates
•New Accounting Pronouncements
OVERVIEW
MGP is a leading producer of branded and distilled spirits as well as food ingredient solutions. Distilled spirits include premium bourbon, rye, and other whiskeys (“brown goods”) and grain neutral spirits (“GNS”), including vodka and gin. Our distilled spirits are either sold directly or indirectly to manufacturers of other branded spirits. We have a portfolio of our own high quality branded spirits, which we produce through our distilleries and bottling facilities and sell to distributors. Our branded spirits products account for a range of price points from value products through premium plus brands. Our protein and starch food ingredients serve a host of functional, nutritional, and sensory benefits for a wide range of food products to serve the consumer packaged goods industry. Our ingredients products are sold directly, or through distributors, to manufacturers and processors of finished packaged goods or to bakeries.
Our strategic plan is designed to leverage our history and strengths as well as the positive macro trends we see in the industries in which we compete, while providing better insulation from outside factors, including swings in commodity pricing.
Distilling Solutions Segment
Our Distilling Solutions segment mission is to cultivate lasting partnerships with customers across all product categories by leveraging our technical distilling expertise, strong sales and operating platform, aging whiskey inventory, and unique project development skills. Our Distilling Solutions segment is subject to unfavorable macro industry trends, which include increased competition as industry participants seek to capitalize on consumer trends, inflation and interest rate impacts on customers, overall American whiskey supply and consumer consumption patterns, as well as increased commodity prices. Our strategy for the Distilling Solutions segment is to further develop our existing customer relationships, expand our core strengths through
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innovation, services and stability, cultivate additional domestic customers for brown goods sales, and increase our global presence in the American whiskey market.
We continue to focus on attracting customers and developing customer relationships for our brown goods as well as shifting our focus away from industrial alcohol, fuel grade alcohol, and white beverage alcohol. During 2024, the industry experienced a softening of American whiskey category trends as well as elevated industry-wide barrel whiskey inventories, which led to instances of customer contract non-performance that put pressure on our brown goods business. We expect these trends to continue. Distilling Solutions segment sales for 2024 decreased 26 percent over the prior year.
Branded Spirits Segment
Our Branded Spirits segment mission is to align our product offering and enhance focus on growing spirits categories and price tiers. The favorable macro industry trends we anticipate will benefit our business in the long-term include growth in high-end whiskey and tequila brands as well as long-term growth in the U.S. across all spirit categories in the premium plus price tier. Our Branded Spirits segment is also subject to unfavorable macro industry trends, which include inflation and interest rate impacts on consumers, increased competition as industry participants seek to capitalize on consumer trends, as well as changes in consumer consumption patterns. Our strategy for the Branded Spirits segment is to focus on the right brands at the right price points in the right spirits categories to maximize profit for the Company. Additionally, our strategy is to grow our overall points of distribution, increase innovation, build brand awareness, and continue to invest in our people. Branded Spirits segment sales for 2024 decreased 5 percent over the prior year.
Ingredient Solutions Segment
Our Ingredient Solutions segment mission is to remain a strategic business partner of choice earning meaningful relationships through collaboration, innovation, and dedication to best-in-class customer service. The favorable macro industry trends we anticipate will benefit our business include more consumer focus on high fiber and lower net carbs, high protein, plant-based protein, and non-GMO products. We continue to provide customer solutions, taking advantage of our position within growing consumer trends. Our strategy for the Ingredient Solutions segment is to expand and optimize our dietary fiber, plant proteins, and clean label starches; expand our extruded products platform; and continue to innovate and expand opportunities through research and development. Ingredient Solutions segment sales for 2024 decreased 1 percent over the prior year.
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RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Consolidated results
The table below details the consolidated results for 2024, 2023 and 2022:
Year Ended December 31, % Increase (Decrease)
Impairment of long-lived assets and other 137 19,391 — (99) N/A
Goodwill impairment 73,755 — — N/A N/A
Change in fair value of contingent consideration 16,100 7,100 — 127 N/A
(a)Percentage points (“pp”).
Sales
2024 to 2023 - Sales for 2024 were $703,625, a decrease of 16 percent compared to 2023, which was the result of decreased sales in each segment. Distilling Solutions segment sales decreased 26 percent, primarily due to decreased sales of white goods and other co-products in connection with the December 2023 closure of the Atchison Distillery and decreased brown goods sales. Branded Spirits segment sales decreased 5 percent, primarily due to decreased sales of brands within the mid and value price tiers. Ingredient Solutions segment sales decreased 1 percent, primarily due to decreased sales of specialty wheat proteins and commodity wheat starches, partially offset by increased sales of specialty wheat starches.
2023 to 2022 - Sales for 2023 were $836,523, an increase of 7 percent compared to 2022, which was the result of increased sales in the Distilling Solutions, Branded Spirits, and Ingredient Solutions segments. Distilling Solutions segment sales were up 5 percent, primarily due to an increase in sales of brown goods. Branded Spirits segment sales increased 7 percent, primarily due to increased sales of brands in the premium plus price tier. Ingredient Solutions segment sales increased 14 percent due to increased sales across all Ingredient Solutions product lines.
Gross profit
2024 to 2023 - Gross profit for 2024 was $286,317, a decrease of 6 percent compared to 2023. The decrease was driven by a decrease in gross profit in the Ingredient Solutions and Distilling Solutions segments, partially offset by an increase in gross profit in the Branded Spirits segment. The Ingredient Solutions segment gross profit decreased by $20,773, or 44 percent. The Distilling Solutions segment gross profit decreased by $3,037, or 2 percent. The Branded Spirits segment gross profit increased by $5,415, or 5 percent.
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2023 to 2022 - Gross profit for 2023 was $304,712, an increase of 20 percent compared to 2022. The increase was driven by an increase in gross profit in the Distilling Solutions, Branded Spirits, and Ingredient Solutions segments. The Distilling Solutions segment gross profit increased by $18,682, or 15 percent. The Branded Spirits segment gross profit increased by $17,260, or 18 percent. The Ingredient Solutions segment gross profit increased by $15,464, or 49 percent.
Advertising and promotion expenses
2024 to 2023 - Advertising and promotion expenses for 2024 were $40,508, an increase of 6 percent compared to 2023. This increase was primarily driven by increased advertising and promotion investment in the Branded Spirits segment, specifically in the premium plus price tiers.
2023 to 2022 - Advertising and promotion expenses for 2023 were $38,213, an increase of 29 percent compared to 2022. This increase was primarily driven by increased advertising and promotion investment in the Branded Spirits segment, primarily in the premium plus price tiers.
SG&A expenses
2024 to 2023 - SG&A expenses for 2024 were $81,391, a decrease of 11 percent compared to 2023. The decrease in SG&A expenses was primarily due to reduced incentive compensation expenses.
2023 to 2022 - SG&A expenses for 2023 were $91,395, an increase of 22 percent compared to 2022. The increase in SG&A expenses was primarily due to higher personnel expenses and incentive compensation, inclusive of certain incremental costs incurred relating to our CEO transition, and business acquisition expenses related to the acquisition of Penelope.
Operating income
Operating income % Increase (Decrease)
Increase in gross profit - Distilling Solutions segment(a) 18,682 13 pp(b)
Increase in gross profit - Branded Spirits segment(a) 17,260 12 pp
Increase in gross profit - Ingredient Solutions segment(a) 15,464 10 pp
Increase in advertising and promotion expenses (8,499) (6) pp
Increase in SG&A expenses (16,768) (11) pp
Impairment of long-lived assets and other (19,391) (13) pp
Change in fair value of contingent consideration (7,100) (5) pp
Decrease in gross profit - Ingredient Solutions segment(a) (20,773) (14) pp(b)
Decrease in gross profit - Distilling Solutions segment(a) (3,037) (2) pp
Increase in gross profit - Branded Spirits segment(a) 5,415 4 pp
Increase in advertising and promotion expenses (2,295) (2) pp
Decrease in SG&A expenses 10,004 7 pp
Decrease in impairment of long-lived assets and other 19,254 13 pp
Goodwill impairment (73,755) (50) pp
Change in fair value of contingent consideration (9,000) (6) pp
(a) See segment discussion.
(b) Percentage points (“pp”).
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2024 to 2023 - Operating income for 2024 decreased to $74,426 from $148,613 for 2023, primarily due to the $73,755 goodwill impairment related to the Branded Spirits segment recorded during the fourth quarter 2024, the decrease in gross profit in the Ingredient Solutions segment, the change in fair value of the contingent consideration liability related to the Penelope acquisition, the decrease in gross profit in the Distilling Solutions segment, and the increase in advertising and promotion expenses, as discussed above. These decreases were partially offset by the impact of the impairment of assets and other expenses in the prior year related to the closure of the Atchison Distillery which closed in December 2023, the decrease in SG&A expenses as discussed above, and the increase in gross profit in the Branded Spirits segment.
2023 to 2022 - Operating income for 2023 decreased to $148,613 from $148,965 for 2022, primarily due to the impairment of assets and other expenses of $19,391 related to the closure of the Atchison Distillery, increased SG&A expenses and advertising and promotion expenses as discussed above, and the change in fair value of contingent consideration of $7,100 related to the Penelope acquisition. These impacts were mostly offset by increased gross profit in all three segments.
Income tax expense
2024 to 2023 - Income tax expense for 2024 was $33,977, for an effective tax rate for the year of 49.6 percent. Income tax expense for 2023 was $34,616, for an effective tax rate for the year of 24.4 percent. The 25.2 percentage point increase was primarily due to the nondeductible impairment of goodwill, partially offset by a decrease in valuation allowance.
2023 to 2022 - Income tax expense for 2023 was $34,616, for an effective tax rate for the year of 24.4 percent. Income tax expense for 2022 was $31,300, for an effective tax rate for the year of 22.3 percent. The 2.1 percentage point increase was primarily due to an increase in valuation allowances and lower tax credits.
Basic and diluted EPS
EPS % Increase (Decrease)
Change in operating income(a) (0.02) — pp(b)
Change in interest expense(a) (0.04) (1) pp
Change in other income (expense), net(a) 0.11 2 pp
Change in weighted average shares outstanding(c) (0.02) — pp
Change in effective tax rate (0.15) (3) pp
Impact of dilutive shares outstanding (0.02) (1) pp
EPS % Increase (Decrease)
Change in operating income(a) (2.53) (52) pp(b)
Change in interest expense(a) (0.06) (2) pp
Change in other income (expense), net(a) 0.09 2 pp
Change in weighted average shares outstanding(c) 0.01 — pp
Change in effective tax rate (0.77) (16) pp
(a)Items are net of tax based on the effective tax rate for each base year.
(b)Percentage points (“pp”).
(c)Weighted average shares outstanding change primarily related to the vesting of employee restricted stock units (“RSUs”), our withholding and purchase of vested RSUs from employees to pay withholding taxes, and the granting of Common Stock to directors. Additionally, during 2024, the weighted average shares outstanding were impacted by shares repurchased, pursuant to the Company’s share repurchase program.
2024 to 2023 - Basic and diluted EPS was $1.56 in 2024, compared to $4.82 and $4.80, respectively in 2023. The change in basic and diluted EPS was primarily due to a decrease in operating income and increase in the effective tax rate, both driven primarily by the nondeductible goodwill impairment. Additionally, the decrease was related to an increase in interest expense. These decreases were partially offset by the change other income (expense), net related to equity method investment income.
2023 to 2022 - BasicEPS decreased to $4.82 in 2023 from $4.94 in 2022, primarily due to the increase in effective tax rate, partially offset by a decrease in other income (expense), net. Diluted EPS decreased to $4.80 in 2023 from $4.92 in 2022, primarily due to the above described changes in basic EPS as well as the impact of dilutive shares outstanding related to the conversion feature of the Convertible Senior Notes.
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DISTILLING SOLUTIONS SEGMENT
DISTILLING SOLUTIONS SALES
Year Ended December 31, Year-versus-Year Sales Change Increase/ (Decrease)
Change in Year-versus-Year Sales Attributed to:
Total(a) Volume(b) Net Price/Mix(c)
Brown goods (8)% 5% (13)%
Other Financial Information
Year Ended December 31, Year-versus-Year Increase/(Decrease)
(a) Total sales change is calculated by taking the difference between current period sales dollars and prior period sales dollars, divided by prior period sales dollars.
(b) Volume change is calculated by taking the difference between current period sales volume and prior period sales volume, multiplied by prior period sales per unit. The product is then divided by prior period sales dollars.
(c) Net price/mix change is calculated by taking the difference between current period sales-per-unit and prior period sales-per unit, multiplied by current period sales volume. The product is then divided by prior period sales dollars.
(d) Percentage points (“pp”).
2024 compared to 2023
Total Distilling Solutions sales for 2024 decreased by $118,650, or 26 percent, compared to 2023. The decrease in sales of the Distilling Solution segment is primarily related to the decrease in sales volume of white goods and other co-products, which was due to the closure of the Atchison Distillery during December 2023. The decrease in brown goods was primarily related to a decrease in net price/mix (as defined above), partially offset by increased sales volume. The brown goods decline was primarily the result of softening American whiskey category trends and elevated industry-wide barrel inventories, leading to softer than expected spot sales, and instances of customer contract non-performance. These dynamics put pressure on our brown goods business. These decreases were partially offset by increased sales of warehouse services.
Gross profit decreased year versus year by $3,037, or 2 percent. Gross margin for 2024 increased to 42.7 percent from 32.2 percent for 2023. The decrease in gross profit was due primarily to a decrease in brown goods sales due to net price/mix as we sold younger barrels on average in 2024 compared to 2023. This decline was partially offset by the positive impact the closure of the Atchison Distillery had on white goods and other co-products’ gross profit and gross margin.
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DISTILLING SOLUTIONS SALES
Year Ended December 31, Year-versus-Year Sales Change Increase/ (Decrease)
Change in Year-versus-Year Sales Attributed to:
Total(a) Volume(b) Net Price/Mix(c)
Other Financial Information
Year Ended December 31, Year-versus-Year Increase/(Decrease)
(a) Total sales change is calculated by taking the difference between current period sales dollars and prior period sales dollars, divided by prior period sales dollars.
(b) Volume change is calculated by taking the difference between current period sales volume and prior period sales volume, multiplied by prior period sales per unit. The product is then divided by prior period sales dollars.
(c) Net price/mix change is calculated by taking the difference between current period sales-per-unit and prior period sales-per unit, multiplied by current period sales volume. The product is then divided by prior period sales dollars.
(d) Percentage points (“pp”).
2023 compared to 2022
Total Distilling Solutions sales for 2023 increased by $22,376, or 5 percent, compared to 2022. Sales of brown goods and warehouse services increased while white goods and other co-products decreased compared to 2022. The increase in sales of brown goods was driven by an increase in net price/mix and higher sales volume. This increase was partially offset by a decrease in sales of white goods and other co-products which was driven primarily by lower sales volume in connection with the Atchison Distillery closure, partially offset by higher net price/mix.
Gross profit increased year versus year by $18,682, or 15 percent. Gross margin for 2023 increased to 32.2 percent from 29.5 percent for 2022. The increase in gross profit was due primarily to increased net/price mix and increased volume of higher margin brown goods. This increase was partially offset by larger gross profit losses in the Atchison Distillery.
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BRANDED SPIRITS SEGMENT
BRANDED SPIRITS SALES
Year Ended December 31, Year-versus-Year Sales Change Increase/ (Decrease)
Change in Year-versus-Year Sales Attributed to:
Total(a) Volume(b) Net Price/Mix(c)
Branded Spirits (5)% (7)% 2%
Other Financial Information
Year Ended December 31, Year-versus-Year Increase/(Decrease)
(a) Total sales change is calculated by taking the difference between current period sales dollars and prior period sales dollars, divided by prior period sales dollars.
(b) Volume change is calculated by taking the difference between current period sales volume and prior period sales volume, multiplied by prior period sales per unit. The product is then divided by prior period sales dollars.
(c) Net price/mix change is calculated by taking the difference between current period sales-per-unit and prior period sales-per unit, multiplied by current period sales volume. The product is then divided by prior period sales dollars.
(d) Percentage points (“pp”).
2024 compared to 2023
Total Branded Spirits sales for 2024 decreased by $13,117, or 5 percent, compared to 2023, due primarily to our optimization efforts, including increased pricing on certain lower margin mid and value brands, which resulted in decreased sales volume of select brands within those price tiers. This decrease was partially offset by an increase in sales of brands within the premium plus price tier, which was primarily due to the acquisition and growth of Penelope.
Gross profit increased year versus year by $5,415, or 5 percent. Gross margin for 2024 increased to 49.1 percent compared to 44.4 percent for 2023. The increase in gross profit was primarily driven by increased net price/mix driven primarily by the acquisition of Penelope, and increased pricing on certain mid and value brands. The increase was also driven by lower average unit cost within the segment.
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BRANDED SPIRITS SALES
Year Ended December 31, Year-versus-Year Sales Change Increase/ (Decrease)
Change in Year-versus-Year Sales Attributed to:
Total(a) Volume(b) Net Price/Mix(c)
Branded Spirits 7% (6)% 13%
Other Financial Information
Year Ended December 31, Year-versus-Year Increase/(Decrease)
(a) Total sales change is calculated by taking the difference between current period sales dollars and prior period sales dollars, divided by prior period sales dollars.
(b) Volume change is calculated by taking the difference between current period sales volume and prior period sales volume, multiplied by prior period sales per unit. The product is then divided by prior period sales dollars.
(c) Net price/mix change is calculated by taking the difference between current period sales-per-unit and prior period sales-per unit, multiplied by current period sales volume. The product is then divided by prior period sales dollars.
(d) Percentage points (“pp”).
2023 compared to 2022
Total Branded Spirits sales for 2023 increased by $15,994, or 7 percent compared to 2022. Sales of brands within the premium plus price tier as well as sales within the other category and the value price tier increased while sales of brands within the mid price tier decreased. The increase in sales of brands within the premium plus price tier was primarily due to the acquisition of Penelope, an increase in net price/mix, and an increase in sales volume. Sales within the value and other categories increased primarily due to an increase in net price/mix. These increases were partially offset by decreased sales of brands within the mid price tier, primarily due to decreased sales volume as a result of sales shifting to higher margin accretive brands within the premium plus price tier, partially offset by an increase in net price/mix within the mid price tier.
Gross profit increased year versus year by $17,260, or 18 percent. Gross margin for 2023 increased to 44.4 percent compared to 40.1 percent for 2022. The increase in gross profit was primarily driven by contributions from the acquisition and growth of Penelope as well as by higher net price/mix in the premium plus, value, mid, and other price tiers. These increases were partially offset by increased input costs across all categories.
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INGREDIENT SOLUTIONS SEGMENT
INGREDIENT SOLUTIONS SALES
Year Ended December 31, Year-versus-Year Sales Change Increase/ (Decrease)
Change in Year-versus-Year Sales Attributed to:
Total(a) Volume(b) Net Price/Mix(c)
Total Ingredient Solutions (1)% 4% (5)%
Other Financial Information
Year Ended December 31, Year-versus-year Increase/(Decrease)
(a) Total sales change is calculated by taking the difference between current period sales dollars and prior period sales dollars, divided by prior period sales dollars.
(b) Volume change is calculated by taking the difference between current period sales volume and prior period sales volume, multiplied by prior period sales per unit. The product is then divided by prior period sales dollars.
(c) Net price/mix change is calculated by taking the difference between current period sales-per-unit and prior period sales-per unit, multiplied by current period sales volume. The product is then divided by prior period sales dollars.
(d) Percentage points (“pp”).
2024 compared to 2023
Total Ingredient Solutions sales for 2024 decreased by $1,131, or 1 percent, compared to 2023. The decrease was primarily driven by decreased net price/mix across all product categories, as well as a decrease in sales volume of specialty wheat proteins primarily due to continued export market headwinds. Additionally, the decrease was attributable to a decrease in sales volume of commodity wheat starches. These decreases were partially offset by an increase in sales volume of specialty wheat starches.
Gross profit decreased year versus year by $20,773, or 44 percent. Gross margin for 2024 decreased to 20.1 percent from 35.7 percent for 2023. The decrease in gross profit was primarily driven by higher input costs associated with the removal of the intercompany credit for the waste starch slurry by-product since the closure of the Atchison Distillery, as well as other costs incurred to ready the waste starch for commercial sale. Additionally, we incurred incremental costs for the new extrusion manufacturing facility as well as other unexpected plant related costs during the year. The decrease in gross profit was also attributable to decreased net price/mix and sales volume of specialty wheat proteins.
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INGREDIENT SOLUTIONS SALES
Year Ended December 31, Year-versus-Year Sales Change Increase/ (Decrease)
Change in Year-versus-Year Sales Attributed to:
Total(a) Volume(b) Net Price/Mix(c)
Total Ingredient Solutions 14% (6)% 20%
Other Financial Information
Year Ended December 31, Year-versus-year Increase/(Decrease)
(a) Total sales change is calculated by taking the difference between current period sales dollars and prior period sales dollars, divided by prior period sales dollars.
(b) Volume change is calculated by taking the difference between current period sales volume and prior period sales volume, multiplied by prior period sales per unit. The product is then divided by prior period sales dollars.
(c) Net price/mix change is calculated by taking the difference between current period sales-per-unit and prior period sales-per unit, multiplied by current period sales volume. The product is then divided by prior period sales dollars.
(d) Percentage points (“pp”).
2023 compared to 2022
Total Ingredient Solutions sales for 2023 increased by $15,795, or 14 percent, compared to 2022. The increase in Ingredient Solutions sales was driven by increases in sales in all product lines. The higher sales of specialty wheat proteins was driven by higher net price/mix and higher sales volume. Additionally, sales of specialty wheat starches and commodity wheat starches increased primarily due to higher net price/mix, partially offset by lower sales volume.
Gross profit increased year versus year by $15,464, or 49 percent. Gross margin for 2023 increased to 35.7 percent from 27.2 percent for 2022. The increase in gross profit was primarily driven by higher average selling price across all product categories, partially offset by higher input costs for specialty wheat starches and proteins.
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CASH FLOW, FINANCIAL CONDITION, AND LIQUIDITY
We believe our financial condition continues to be of high quality, as evidenced by our ability to generate adequate cash from operations while having ready access to capital at competitive rates.
Operating cash flow and borrowings through our Credit Agreement, Convertible Senior Notes and Note Purchase Agreement (see Note 7, Corporate Borrowings) provide the primary sources of cash to fund operating needs and capital expenditures. These same sources of cash are used to fund stockholder dividends and other discretionary uses. Our overall liquidity reflects our strong business results and an effective cash management strategy that takes into account liquidity management, economic factors, and tax considerations. We expect our sources of cash to be adequate to provide for budgeted capital expenditures, potential mergers or acquisitions, and anticipated operating requirements for the next 12 months and beyond.
Operating Activities. Cash provided by operating activities was $102,278 during the year ended December 31, 2024. The cash provided by operating activities during 2024 resulted primarily from net income of $34,465 and adjustments for non-cash or non-operating charges of $114,994, including goodwill impairment, depreciation and amortization, the change in fair value of contingent consideration, and share-based compensation, partially offset by uses of cash due to changes in operating assets and liabilities of $47,181. The primary drivers of the changes in operating assets and liabilities were $18,155 use of cash related to an increase in inventories, primarily barreled distillate, and $15,111 use of cash related to accrued expenses and other related to reduced incentive compensation expenses.
Cash provided by operating activities was $83,783 during the year ended December 31, 2023. The cash provided by operating activities during 2023 resulted primarily from net income of $107,130, and adjustments for non-cash or non-operating charges of $56,263, including depreciation and amortization, impairment of long-lived assets and other, share-based compensation, partially offset by uses of cash due to changes in operating assets and liabilities of $79,610. The primary drivers of the changes in operating assets and liabilities were $46,921 use of cash related to an increase in inventories, primarily barreled distillate, and $32,397 use of cash related to an increase in receivables.
Investing Activities. Cash used in investing activities for the year ended December 31, 2024 was $71,558, which primarily resulted from additions to property, plant and equipment of $71,181 (see “Capital Spending”).
Cash used in investing activities for the year ended December 31, 2023 was $159,242, which primarily resulted from $103,712 related to the acquisition of Penelope and additions to property, plant and equipment of $55,267 (see “Capital Spending”).
Capital Spending. We manage capital spending to support our business growth plans. We have incurred $73,161, $61,108, and $47,859 of capital expenditures and have paid $71,181, $55,267, and $45,323 for capital expenditures for the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022, respectively. The difference between the amount of capital expenditures incurred and amount paid is due to the change in capital expenditures in accounts payable. We expect approximately $36,000 in capital expenditures for 2025, which we expect to use for facility improvement and expansion, facility sustenance projects, and environmental health and safety projects.
FinancingActivities. Cash used in financing activities for the year ended December 31, 2024 was $23,803, due to repurchases of Common Stock of $48,773 (see “Treasury Purchases” and “Share Repurchases”), and payments of dividends and dividend
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equivalents of $10,630 (see Note 9, Equity and EPS for additional information), partially offset by net proceeds on long-term debt of $35,600 (see Long-Term and Short-Term Debt).
Cash provided by financing activities for the year ended December 31, 2023 was $45,924, primarily due to net proceeds on long-term debt of $57,400 (see Long-Term and Short-Term Debt), partially offset by payments of dividends and dividend equivalents of $10,675 (see Note 9, Equity and EPS for additional information).
Treasury Purchases. 81,942 RSUs vested and converted to common shares during the year ended December 31, 2024, of which we withheld and purchased for treasury 25,521 shares valued at $2,185 to cover payment of associated withholding taxes.
22,592 RSUs vested and converted to common shares during the year ended December 31, 2023, of which we withheld and purchased for treasury 8,437 shares valued at $801 to cover payment of associated withholding taxes.
Share Repurchases. On February 29, 2024, we announced that our Board of Directors approved a $100,000 share repurchase program. Under the share repurchase program, we can repurchase Common Stock from time to time for cash in open market purchases, privately negotiated transactions, or by other means, in accordance with applicable securities laws and other legal requirements. The repurchase program has no expiration date and may be modified, suspended, or discontinued at any time by the Company without prior notice. During the year ended December 31, 2024, we repurchased 886,936 shares of Common Stock for approximately $46,588, resulting in approximately $53,412 remaining under the share repurchase program.
Long-Term and Short-Term Debt. We maintain debt levels we consider appropriate after evaluating a number of factors, including cash flow expectations, cash requirements for ongoing operations, investment and financing plans (including brand development, Board-approved dividends and share repurchases) and the overall cost of capital. Total debt was $323,541 (net of unamortized loan fees of $5,909) at December 31, 2024 and $287,249 (net of unamortized loan fees of $6,601) at December 31, 2023. Net borrowing on all debt for 2024 and 2023 were $35,600, and $57,400, respectively (see Note 7, Corporate Borrowings for additional information).
Dividends and Dividend Equivalents. See Note 9, Equity and EPS for further discussion.
On February 26, 2025, we announced a dividend payable to stockholders of record of our Common Stock, resulting in dividend equivalents payable to RSU holders, of $0.12 per share and per RSU. The dividend and dividend equivalent are payable on March 28, 2025 to stockholders of record and RSU holders as of March 14, 2025.
Financial Condition and Liquidity
Our principal uses of cash in the ordinary course of business are for input costs used in our production processes, salaries, and investments supporting our strategic plan, such as capital expenditures, the aging of barreled distillate primarily to support our branded spirits segment, and potential mergers or acquisitions. Generally, during periods when commodities prices are rising, our operations require increased use of cash to support inventory levels.
Our principal sources of cash are product sales and borrowings on our various debt agreements. Under these agreements, we must meet certain financial covenants and restrictions, and at December 31, 2024, we met those covenants and restrictions.
At December 31, 2024, our current assets exceeded our current liabilities by $453,686, largely due to our inventories, at cost, of $364,944. At December 31, 2024, our cash balance was $25,273, and we have used our various debt agreements for liquidity purposes, with $295,000 available under our Credit Agreement for additional borrowings and $226,800 available under the Note Purchase Agreement (see Note 7, Corporate Borrowings for additional information). We anticipate being able to support our short-term liquidity and operating needs largely through cash generated from operations. We regularly assess our cash needs and the available sources to fund these needs. We utilize short-term and long-term debt to fund discretionary items, such as capital investments, dividend payments, share repurchases as well as potential mergers or acquisitions. Subject to market conditions, we could also fund future mergers and acquisitions through the issuance of additional shares of Common Stock. In addition, we have strong operating results such that we believe financial institutions should provide sufficient credit funding to meet our short-term financing requirements, if needed.
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Contractual Obligations
The following table provides information on the amounts and payments of our contractual obligations at December 31, 2024:
Payments due by period
Total Short-Term (a) Long-Term
(a)Short-term obligation payments are due within 12 months from the current year end.
(b)Includes open purchase order commitments related to raw materials and packaging used in the ordinary course of business of $68,696.
(c)Excludes variable interest on long-term debt.
Industrial Revenue Bonds
We are in the process of completing several projects that have been financed using industrial revenue bonds in the state of Kentucky. Traditionally, industrial revenue bonds have been used as an economic development tool in the state to attract desirable businesses, including business in the bourbon industry, and have allowed a 15 to 40 year real property tax abatement on our renovated and newly-constructed warehouse buildings and distilleries in Kentucky. As of December 31, 2024, approximately $50,000 of our facilities in Nelson County, Kentucky and approximately $39,300 of our facilities in Williamstown, Kentucky were financed with industrial revenue bonds. The city then leased the facilities back to us under a capital lease, the terms of which provide for the payment of basic rent in an amount sufficient to pay principal and interest on the bonds. Our obligation to pay rent under the lease is in the same amount and due on the same date as the obligation to pay debt service on the bonds which we hold. The lease permits us to present the bonds at any time for cancellation, upon which our obligation to pay basic rent would be canceled. At the bonds’ maturity, the facilities will revert to us without costs. If we were to present the bonds for cancellation prior to maturity, a nominal fee could be incurred. We may not be able to use industrial revenue bonds in the future due to legislative, regulatory, and related changes in the state of Kentucky.
We recorded the land and buildings as assets in property, plant, and equipment, net, on our Consolidated Balance Sheets. Because we own all outstanding bonds, have a legal right to set-off, and intend to set-off the corresponding lease and interest payments, we have netted the capital lease obligation with the bond asset. No amount for our obligation under the capital lease is reflected on our Consolidated Balance Sheets, nor do we reflect an amount for the corresponding industrial revenue bond asset (see Note 11, Commitments and Contingencies for additional information).
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES
The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. The application of certain of these policies places demands on management’s judgment, with financial reporting results relying on estimation about the effects of matters that are inherently uncertain. For all of these policies, management cautions that future events rarely develop as forecast, and estimates routinely require adjustment and may require material adjustment. We have identified the most critical accounting policies which involve the most complex and subjective judgments. These should be read in conjunction with the significant accounting policies discussed in Note 1, Nature of Operations and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies.
Contingent Consideration. The estimated fair value of the contingent consideration obligation associated with the acquisition of Penelope Bourbon LLC (“Penelope”) was determined using a Monte Carlo simulation approach at the acquisition date. This approach requires significant assumptions, including projected net sales, discount rates, and volatility rates. The contingent consideration liability is measured on a quarterly basis and recorded at fair value. The changes in fair value of the obligation result from changes in the key assumptions between measurement dates, such as projected net sales, discount rates, and volatility rates. The adjustment to fair value is recorded in the change in fair value of contingent consideration line on the Consolidated Statements of Income.
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Goodwill and Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets. We test goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets for impairment at least annually, in the fourth quarter, or on an interim basis if events and circumstances occur that would indicate it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than the carrying value. We have the option to evaluate qualitative factors to assess if goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets are impaired before quantifying the fair value of the reporting unit. Management judgment is required in the evaluation of qualitative factors, determination of reporting units, the assignment of assets and liabilities to reporting units, including goodwill, and the determination of fair value of the reporting units. To the extent that the carrying amount exceeds fair value, an impairment of goodwill is recognized and allocated to the reporting units.
During the fourth quarter, we experienced a decrease in stock price and market capitalization as well as experienced the effects of the softening alcohol industry which contributed to declines in current year consolidated results and our forecasted outlook. Based on these factors, we performed a quantitative assessment of goodwill and our indefinite-lived intangible assets.
Goodwill - We engaged a third party valuation specialist to assist in comparing the fair value of the Branded Spirits reporting unit to the respective carrying value. The estimate of fair value of our reporting unit was calculated using equal weighting of the income approach that utilized the discounted cash flow method and the market approach that utilized the guideline public company method. Estimates in the determination of fair value of the reporting unit through the income approach were based on (i) discount rates based on the reporting unit’s weighed average cost of capital, (ii) future expected cash flows including revenue and operating margin projections, and (iii) long-term growth rates based on inflation forecasts, industry growth, and long-term economic growth potential. The market approach compares enterprise value and historical and projected results of public companies that reflect economic conditions and risks that are similar to the reporting unit to calculate an estimated enterprise value. These assumptions are based on historical trends as well as the projections and assumptions used in our budget and long-range plans. These assumptions reflect our estimates of future economic and competitive conditions which can be affected by several factors such as inflation, business valuations in the market, the economy, and market competition. Any changes in these assumptions may affect our fair value estimate and the results of an impairment test.
As a result of the quantitative goodwill impairment test, we recorded an impairment charge of $73,755 to adjust the carrying amount of the Branded Spirits reporting unit to fair value. This goodwill impairment is included as a component of operating income in the Consolidated Statement of Income for the year ended December 31, 2024 and as a reduction of goodwill in the Consolidated Balance Sheet as of December 31, 2024.
Assumptions used in impairment testing are made at a point in time and require significant judgment; therefore, they are subject to change based upon the facts and circumstances present at each impairment test date. Additionally, these assumptions are generally interdependent and do not change in isolation. However, as it is reasonably possible that changes in assumptions could occur, as a sensitivity measure, we have presented the estimated effects of isolated changes in discount rates and long-term growth rates on the fair value of our reporting unit. These estimated changes in fair value are not necessarily representative of the actual impairment that would be recorded in the event of a fair value decline. The most sensitive assumption used in the analysis was a 10 percent discount rate. A 50 basis point increase to the discount rate would result in an approximate $17,000 increase in the impairment expense recorded, while a 50 basis point decrease in the rate would result in an approximate $20,000 decrease in the impairment expense recorded. The revenue projections and long-term growth rate assumptions are less sensitive. All else equal, a 50 basis point change in the average revenue projection or long-term growth rate would result in a change in impairment expense between $5,000 and $15,000.
Indefinite-lived intangibles - Additionally, in connection with the assessment of the same events and circumstances as discussed above, we performed a quantitative impairment test of our indefinite-lived intangible assets. The estimated fair value of our indefinite-lived intangible assets was calculated based on the income approach that utilized the relief from royalty method. When estimating the fair value, we made certain assumptions for our future revenue projections, market royalty rates, and discount rates. These assumptions reflect our estimates of future economic and competitive conditions which consider many factors including macroeconomic conditions, industry growth rates and competition. These factors are subject to change as a result of changing market conditions. Any changes in these assumptions may affect our fair value estimate and the results of an impairment test.
The results of the quantitative assessment indicated that the estimated fair values for the indefinite-lived intangible assets exceed their carrying value and no impairment loss was recognized for the year ended December 31, 2024.
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Assumptions used in impairment testing are made at a point in time and require significant judgment; therefore, they are subject to change based upon the facts and circumstances present at each impairment test date. Additionally, these assumptions are generally interdependent and do not change in isolation. However, as it is reasonably possible that changes in assumptions could occur, as a sensitivity measure, we have presented the estimated effects of isolated changes in discount rates and royalty rates on fair value of indefinite-lived intangible assets. These estimated changes in fair value are not necessarily representative of the actual impairment that would be recorded in the event of a fair value decline. The most sensitive assumption used in the analysis was a 10 percent discount rate. A 50 basis point increase in the discount rate, or a 50 basis point decrease in royalty rates, would not change our conclusion that the indefinite-lived intangible assets were not impaired.
As discussed above, any significant decline in our market capitalization or changes in discount rates, even if due to macroeconomic factors, could put pressure on the carrying value of our goodwill. In addition, if future revenues and contributions to our operating results for any of indefinite-lived intangible assets or Branded Spirits reporting unit deteriorate at rates in excess of our current projections, we may be required to record additional impairment charges to certain intangible assets. A determination that a portion or all of our goodwill or indefinite-lived intangible assets are impaired could have a material adverse effect on our business, consolidated financial condition and results of operations. For a further discussion of our annual impairment testing of goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets and the impairment charge to goodwill that we recorded in 2024, see Note 5, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets.
NEW ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS
For information with respect to recent accounting pronouncements and the impact of these pronouncements on our consolidated financial statements, see Note 1, Nature of Operations and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies.
ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
We are exposed to commodity price and interest rate market risks. We monitor and manage these exposures as part of our overall risk management program. Our risk management program focuses on the unpredictability of financial markets and seeks to reduce the potentially adverse effects that the volatility of these markets may have on our operating results.
Commodity Costs. Certain commodities we use in our production process, or input costs, expose us to market price risk due to volatility in the prices for those commodities. Through our grain supply contracts for our Lawrenceburg facility, our wheat flour supply contract for our Atchison facility, and our natural gas contracts for both facilities, we purchase grain, wheat flour, and natural gas, respectively, for delivery from one to 24 months into the future at negotiated prices. We have determined that the firm commitments to purchase grain, wheat flour, and natural gas under the terms of our supply contracts meet the normal purchases and sales exception as defined under Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 815, Derivatives and Hedging, because the quantities involved are for amounts to be consumed within the normal expected production process.
Interest Rate Exposures. Our Credit Agreement, Convertible Senior Notes and Note Purchase Agreement (Note 7, Corporate Borrowings) expose us to market risks arising from adverse changes in interest rates. Established procedures and internal processes govern the management of this market risk.
Increases in market interest rates would cause interest expense to increase and earnings before income taxes to decrease. The change in interest expense and earnings before income taxes would be dependent upon the weighted average outstanding borrowings during the reporting period following an increase in market interest rates. Based on weighted average outstanding variable-rate borrowings at December 31, 2024, a 100 basis point increase over the current rates actually in effect at such date would increase our interest expense on an annual basis by $1,050. Based on weighted average outstanding fixed-rate borrowings at December 31, 2024, a 100 basis point increase in market rates would result in a decrease in the fair value of our outstanding fixed-rate debt of $25,467, and a 100 basis point decrease in market rates would result in an increase in the fair value of our outstanding fixed-rate debt of $9,138.
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ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA
MANAGEMENT’S REPORT ON INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING
Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting, as such term is defined in Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(f). Internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of consolidated financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. Internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of our assets; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of consolidated financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that our receipts and expenditures are being made only in accordance with authorizations of our management and directors; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of our assets that could have a material effect on the consolidated financial statements.
Because of its inherent limitations, our internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. A control system, no matter how well conceived and operated, can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurance that the objectives of the control system are met. Because of the inherent limitations in all control systems, no evaluation of controls can provide absolute assurance that all control issues and instances of fraud, if any, have been detected. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies and procedures may deteriorate.
With the participation of the Interim Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, our management conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting based on the criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations (“COSO”) of the Treadway Commission. As a result of this assessment, management has concluded that the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2024 was effective.
KPMG, LLP, the independent registered public accounting firm that audited the Company’s consolidated financial statements contained herein, has issued an audit report on our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2024, which is included in Item 8 of this Form 10-K.
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Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
To the Stockholders and the Board of Directors
MGP Ingredients, Inc.:
Opinions on the Consolidated Financial Statements and Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of MGP Ingredients, Inc. and subsidiaries (the Company) as of December 31, 2024 and 2023, the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, changes in stockholders’ equity, and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2024, and the related notes (collectively, the consolidated financial statements). We also have audited the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2024, based on criteria established in Internal Control – Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.
In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of December 31, 2024 and 2023, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2024, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. Also in our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2024 based on criteria established in Internal Control – Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.
Basis for Opinions
The Company’s management is responsible for these consolidated financial statements, for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting, and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying Management's Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s consolidated financial statements and an opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB) and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audits to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud, and whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects.
Our audits of the consolidated financial statements included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the consolidated financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the consolidated financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the consolidated financial statements. Our audit of internal control over financial reporting included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our audits also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinions.
Definition and Limitations of Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit
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preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
Critical Audit Matters
The critical audit matters communicated below are matters arising from the current period audit of the consolidated financial statements that were communicated or required to be communicated to the audit committee and that: (1) relate to accounts or disclosures that are material to the consolidated financial statements and (2) involved our especially challenging, subjective, or complex judgments. The communication of critical audit matters does not alter in any way our opinion on the consolidated financial statements, taken as a whole, and we are not, by communicating the critical audit matters below, providing separate opinions on the critical audit matters or on the accounts or disclosures to which they relate.
Revenue recognition under bill and hold arrangements
As discussed in Note 1 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company’s Distilling Solutions segment routinely enters into bill and hold arrangements, whereby the Company produces and sells aged and unaged distillate to customers. As discussed in Note 3 to the consolidated financial statements, brown goods revenue was $265,873 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2024, a portion of which was for bill and hold arrangements.
We identified the evaluation of revenue recognized under bill and hold arrangements as a critical audit matter because of the extent of additional audit effort required to test the incremental bill and hold revenue recognition criteria. The incremental bill and hold revenue recognition criteria include the evaluation of: 1) the reason for the bill and hold arrangement; 2) the identification of the product as separately belonging to the customer; 3) the product being currently ready for physical transfer to the customer; and 4) the Company’s inability to use the product or direct it to another customer.
The following are the primary procedures we performed to address this critical audit matter. We evaluated the design and tested the operating effectiveness of certain internal controls over the Company’s revenue recognition process, including controls related to bill and hold revenue recognition criteria being met. We examined a sample of bill and hold revenue transactions to assess the incremental bill and hold revenue recognition criteria. Specifically, we inspected documentation received from the customer directing the Company to warehouse distillate after production. Additionally, we observed a sample of customer-owned barrels to determine they were marked with unique identifiers separating them from Company-owned inventory and were ready for physical transfer to the customer upon request. Also, to evaluate that the Company does not have the ability to use the product or direct to another customer, we inspected underlying documentation for the same sample of bill and hold transactions to determine legal title to the product had transferred to the customer.
Fair value measurement of contingent consideration liability
As discussed in Notes 1 and 4 to the consolidated financial statements, on June 1, 2023, the Company acquired Penelope Bourbon LLC (Penelope) in a business combination for cash consideration of $104,638 thousand and contingent consideration of up to $110,800 thousand if the Penelope business achieves certain net sales targets between the acquisition date and December 31, 2025. As of December 31, 2024, management estimated the fair value of the contingent consideration liability to be $85,300 thousand using a Monte Carlo simulation based on certain assumptions including projected net sales over the term of the earn-out period and volatility rate.
We identified the assessment of the fair value measurement of the contingent consideration liability as a critical audit matter. A high degree of subjective auditor judgment was required to evaluate the projected net sales and volatility rate used in the Monte Carlo simulation. Changes in these assumptions could have had a significant impact on the fair value of the contingent consideration liability.
The following are the primary procedures we performed to address this critical audit matter. We evaluated the design and tested the operating effectiveness of certain internal controls over the Company’s fair value measurement of the contingent consideration liability, including controls related to the projected net sales and volatility rate. We performed sensitivity analyses over the projected net sales and volatility rate to assess the impact of changes in those assumptions on the fair value
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of the contingent consideration liability. We assessed the projected net sales by comparing them to Penelope’s actual results since the acquisition, management’s updated forecasts, and industry data. We also involved valuation professionals with specialized skills and knowledge, who assisted us in evaluating the volatility rate used in the Monte Carlo simulation model by comparing it to comparable companies.
Valuation of Branded Spirits goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets
As discussed in Notes 1 and 5 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company recorded goodwill and intangible assets, net of $247,789 thousand and $268,451 thousand, respectively as of December 31, 2024. For the year ended December 31, 2024, the Company recorded goodwill impairment of $73,755 thousand to adjust the carrying amount of the Branded Spirits reporting unit to fair value. The Company tests goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets for impairment at least annually, in the fourth quarter, and on an interim basis if events and circumstances occur that would indicate it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than carrying value. During the fourth quarter, the Company performed a quantitative assessment of goodwill and its indefinite-lived intangible assets. The estimated fair value of the Branded Spirits reporting unit used in the assessment of goodwill was determined through a combination of an income approach and a market approach. The estimated fair value used in the assessment of the Company’s indefinite-lived intangible assets was determined using the relief from royalty method. These fair value estimates were based on certain assumptions made by the Company, including projected revenue and operating margins, and the respective discount rates and market royalty rates.
We identified the evaluation of the fair value of the Branded Spirits reporting unit and indefinite-lived intangible assets within the Branded Spirits reporting unit as a critical audit matter. Subjective and challenging auditor judgment was required to evaluate (1) the revenue growth rates, operating margins and discount rate assumptions used in the determination of the fair value of the Branded Spirits reporting unit, and (2) the revenue growth rates, royalty rates, and discount rates used in the determination of the fair value of certain indefinite-lived intangible assets. A significant degree of auditor judgment was also required in evaluating the guideline public companies used in the market approach for the Branded Spirits reporting unit. Changes to these assumptions could have had a significant effect on the Company’s assessment of the carrying values of the goodwill assigned to the Branded Spirits reporting unit and the associated indefinite-lived intangible assets.
The following are the primary procedures we performed to address this critical audit matter. We evaluated the design and tested the operating effectiveness of certain internal controls related to the critical audit matter. This included controls over the revenue growth rates, operating margins, discount rates and royalty rates used to measure the fair value of the Branded Spirits reporting unit and associated indefinite-lived intangible assets. To assess the Company’s ability to forecast, we compared historical forecasts to actual results. We performed sensitivity analyses over the revenue growth rates, operating margins, discount rates, and royalty rates to assess the impact of changes in these assumptions on the estimated fair values. We evaluated the revenue growth rates and operating margin assumptions by comparing them to past and current performance of the Branded Spirits reporting unit and external industry data. We involved professionals with specialized skills and knowledge, who assisted in:
•evaluating the Company’s royalty rates by determining that the royalty rates used were supported by the associated margins and consistent with other internal and publicly available data.
•evaluating the discount rates used by the Company by comparing the Company’s inputs to the discount rate to publicly available data for comparable entities and assessing the resulting discount rate.
•comparing the guideline public companies used in the market approach to available internal and external data.
/s/ KPMG LLP
We have served as the Company’s auditor since 2008.
Kansas City, Missouri
February 26, 2025
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MGP INGREDIENTS, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
(Dollars in thousands, except share and per share amounts)
Year Ended December 31,
Impairment of long-lived assets and other 137 19,391 —
Goodwill impairment 73,755 — —
Change in fair value of contingent consideration 16,100 7,100 —
Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interest 198 345 590
Income attributable to participating securities (373) (1,074) (871)
Weighted average common shares
Earnings per common share
See Accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
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MGP INGREDIENTS, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
(Dollars in thousands)
Year Ended December 31,
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax:
Changes in Company-sponsored post-employment benefit plan (73) (329) 18
Other comprehensive loss (261) (93) (658)
Comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interest (198) (345) (590)
See Accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
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MGP INGREDIENTS, INC.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(Dollars in thousands, except share amounts and par value)
December 31,
Current Assets
Operating lease right-of-use assets, net 15,540 13,975
Current Liabilities
Current maturities of long-term debt $ 6,400 $ 6,400
Federal and state excise taxes payable 5,358 2,251
Long-term operating lease liabilities 11,940 11,292
Commitments and Contingencies – Note 11
Stockholders’ Equity
Capital stock
Common stock
Accumulated other comprehensive loss (658) (397)
Total MGP Ingredients, Inc. stockholders equity 834,166 850,492
See Accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
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MGPINGREDIENTS, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(Dollars in thousands)
Year Ended December 31,
Cash Flows from Operating Activities
Impairment of long-lived assets and other 137 19,391 —
Goodwill impairment 73,755 — —
Deferred income taxes, including change in valuation allowance 359 (4,041) 1,011
Change in fair value of contingent consideration 16,100 7,100 —
Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of effects of acquisitions:
Cash Flows from Investing Activities
Purchase of business, net of cash acquired — (103,712) —
Contributions to equity method investments — — (2,810)
Cash Flows from Financing Activities
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities (23,803) 45,924 (14,764)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents (32) 34 (38)
See Accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
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MGP INGREDIENTS, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
(Dollars in thousands)
Comprehensive income (loss):
Other comprehensive loss — — — — (658) — — (658)
Share-based compensation — — 4,518 — — — — 4,518
Stock shares awarded, forfeited or vested — — (1,481) — — 1,481 — —
Stock shares repurchased — — — — — (715) — (715)
Comprehensive income (loss):
Other comprehensive loss — — — — (93) — — (93)
Share-based compensation — — 7,840 — — — — 7,840
Stock shares awarded, forfeited or vested — — (1,226) — — 1,226 — —
Stock shares repurchased — — — — — (801) — (801)
Comprehensive income (loss):
Other comprehensive loss — — — — (261) — — (261)
Share-based compensation — — 9,072 — — — — 9,072
Stock shares awarded, forfeited or vested — — (2,330) — — 2,330 — —
Stock shares repurchased — — — — — (49,183) — (49,183)
See Accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
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MGP INGREDIENTS, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Dollars in thousands, unless otherwise noted)
NOTE 1: NATURE OF OPERATIONS AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
The Company. MGP Ingredients, Inc. (“MGP,” or the “Company”) is a leading producer of branded and distilled spirits, as well as food ingredient solutions. Distilled spirits include premium bourbon, rye, and other whiskeys (“brown goods”) and grain neutral spirits (“GNS”), including vodka and gin. The Company’s distilled spirits are either sold directly or indirectly to manufacturers of other branded spirits. The Company has a portfolio of its own high quality branded spirits which are produced through its distilleries and bottling facilities and sold to distributors. The Company’s branded spirits products account for a range of price points from value products through premium plus brands. The Company’s protein and starch food ingredients provide a host of functional, nutritional, and sensory benefits for a wide range of food products to serve the consumer packaged goods industry. The ingredient products are sold directly, or through distributors, to manufacturers and processors of finished packaged goods or to bakeries.
The Company reports three operating segments: Distilling Solutions, Branded Spirits, and Ingredient Solutions.
Principles of Consolidation. The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its wholly owned and majority owned subsidiaries. All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. Certain amounts in the 2022 and 2023 consolidated financial statements have been reclassified to conform to the 2024 presentation.
Use of Estimates. The financial reporting policies of the Company conform to accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”). The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. The application of certain of these policies places demands on management’s judgment, with financial reporting results relying on estimation about the effects of matters that are inherently uncertain. For all of these policies, management cautions that future events may not develop as forecast, and estimates routinely require adjustment and may require material adjustment.
Inventory. Inventory includes finished goods, raw materials in the form of agricultural commodities used in the production process, as well as bottles, caps, and labels used in the bottling process, and certain maintenance and repair items. Bourbons, ryes, and other whiskeys, included in inventory, are normally aged in barrels for several years, following industry practice; all barreled bourbon, rye, and other whiskeys are classified as a current asset. The Company includes warehousing, insurance, and other carrying charges applicable to barreled whiskey in inventory costs.
Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or net realizable value on the first-in, first-out, or FIFO, method. Inventory valuations are impacted by constantly changing prices paid for key materials.
Properties, Depreciation, and Amortization. Property, plant, and equipment are typically stated at cost. Additions, including those that increase the life or utility of an asset, are capitalized and all properties are depreciated over their estimated remaining useful lives. Depreciation and amortization are computed using the straight line method over the following estimated useful lives:
Buildings and improvements(a) 10 – 35 years
Machinery and equipment 3 – 10 years
Office furniture and equipment 5 – 10 years
Computer equipment and software 3 – 5 years
Motor vehicles 5 years
(a)Leasehold improvements are the shorter of economic useful life or life of the lease
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Maintenance costs are expensed as incurred. The cost of property, plant, and equipment sold, retired, or otherwise disposed of, as well as related accumulated depreciation and amortization, are eliminated from the property accounts with related gains and losses reflected in the Consolidated Statements of Income. The Company capitalizes interest costs associated with significant construction projects.Total interest incurred for 2024, 2023, and 2022 is noted below:
Year Ended December 31,