ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Overview of Financial Performance
The following discussion should be read in conjunction with our consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto. This discussion summarizes the significant factors affecting our results of operations and the financial condition of our business during each of the fiscal years in the two-year period ended December 31, 2024. Discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations for fiscal year 2023, and comparisons of fiscal years 2023 and 2022 can be found in Part II, Item 7. “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023.
December 31,
(In thousands, except per share data) 2024 2023
Operating income % 5.5 % 6.8 %
Earnings from continuing operations before income taxes 73,989 81,716
Loss from discontinued operations, net of income taxes (26,128) (28,996)
Net earnings attributable to noncontrolling interest 976 204
Per share data attributable to SMP – Diluted:
Continuing operations $ 2.41 $ 2.85
Discontinued operations (1.17) (1.31)
Net earnings per common share $ 1.24 $ 1.54
Consolidated net sales for 2024 were $1,463.8 million, a increase of $105.6 million, or 7.8% compared to net sales of $1,358.3 million in 2023. The increase in net sales in 2024 reflects the impact of multiple factors including:
•strong demand in our Temperature Control operating segment primarily reflecting the impact of warmer year-over-year seasonal weather conditions,
•net sales of $35.7 million for the period from acquisition to December 31, 2024 in our new segment, Nissens Automotive, created with the acquisition of Nissens Automotive, a leading European supplier of thermal management and engine efficiency products for the automotive aftermarket, on November 1, 2024,
•stable demand in our Vehicle Control aftermarket segment across our major product groups, and
•a slight increase in net sales in our Engineered Solutions operating segment with growth from business wins and successful cross-selling efforts offset by slowing customer production in the fourth quarter.
Gross margin as a percentage of net sales in 2024 was 28.9% as compared to 28.6% in 2023. Overall, the gross margin increase as a percentage of sales in 2024 primarily reflects the positive impact of higher sales volumes leading to higher fixed manufacturing cost absorption, improved operating performance including the impact of cost control measures, and increased pricing, which more than offset lingering inflationary increases in certain materials and labor costs. We anticipate that the ongoing benefits from our cost-savings initiatives and strong gross margins in our newly acquired operating segment, Nissens Automotive, will mitigate continued pressure on margins resulting from inflationary headwinds. While our business in U.S. markets could be impacted by additional tariffs, we expect to mitigate the impact with a combination of price increases and cost reduction efforts.
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Operating margin as a percentage of net sales in 2024 was 5.5% as compared to 6.8% in 2023. Included in our operating margin were selling, general and administrative expenses of $335.1 million, or 22.9% of net sales in 2024 compared to$293.6 million, or 21.6% of net sales in 2023. The $41.5 millionincrease in selling, general and administrative expenses in 2024 is principally due to (i) $14.3 million of selling, general and administrative expenses for Nissens Automotive as the results of our new operating segment are consolidated into our financial statements for the two months from the close of the acquisition, (ii) higher distribution and freight expenses in our legacy business primarily due to higher sales, (iii) costs associated with our acquisition of Nissens Automotive, and (iv) increased rent and incremental expenses as we transition away from our Edwardsville, Kansas distribution center to our new distribution facility in Shawnee, Kansas. The new larger distribution center will integrate new distribution technologies including a mechanized material handling system designed to deliver improved logistics capabilities, operational efficiencies, as well as enhanced employee, customer and supplier experiences and is expect to be fully operational later in 2025. We will incur additional costs in 2025 during the phase-in period while we operate the two facilities.
Overall, our core automotive aftermarket business remains strong, and we are both excited and optimistic for the growth potential in our newly acquired operating segment, Nissens Automotive and the long-term growth potential of the complementary markets served in our Engineered Solutions operating segment.
Separation Program
During the second quarter of 2024 we offered a voluntary retirement incentive package of severance and other benefit enhancements to eligible employees in the United States and Canada as part of our commitment to optimizing our cost structure and providing professional development opportunities to our employees. The offer period ended on June 14, 2024. During the third quarter of 2024, we expanded the program to include involuntary separations. We recorded expenses of $7.1 million in 2024, with additional expenses to be recorded of approximately $0.6 million in 2025, and $0.1 million in 2026 for an aggregate cost of approximately $7.7 million. It is anticipated that the overall separation program will reduce operating expenses in 2025. Expenses incurred pursuant to the program are recorded in restructuring and integration expenses in our statement of operations.
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Results of Operations
Sales. Consolidated net sales for 2024 were $1,463.8 million, an increase of $105.6 million, or 7.8%, compared to $1,358.3 million in 2023, with the majority of our net sales to customers located in the United States. Consolidated net sales increased in all our operating segments when compared to the prior fiscal year.
The following table summarizes consolidated net sales by segment and by major product group within each segment for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023 (in thousands):
Year Ended December 31,
Vehicle Control
Engine Management (Ignition, Emissions and Fuel Delivery) $ 467,460 $ 450,180
Temperature Control
Engineered Solutions
Nissens Automotive
Air Conditioning 9,214 —
Engine Efficiency 7,244 —
Other — —
Vehicle Control’s net sales for 2024increased $24.6 million, or 3.3%, to $762.6 million compared to $737.9 million in 2023. Demand in the Vehicle Control segment remained relatively stable across our major product groups.
Temperature Control’s net sales for 2024 increased $42.3 million, or 12.5%, to $380.1 million compared to $337.8 million in 2023. The higher year-over-year Temperature Control net sales reflects higher customer demand due to the impact of warmer seasonal weather conditions in the U.S. compared to 2023. Demand for our Temperature Control products may vary significantly with summer weather conditions and customer inventory levels.
Engineered Solutions’ net sales for 2024 increased $2.9 million, or 1%, to $285.5 million compared to $282.6 million in 2023. Overall, net sales in our Engineered Solutions operating segment showed year-over-year improvement driven by new
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business wins as well as successful cross-selling efforts, partly offset by slowing customer production schedules in the fourth quarter.
Net sales of $35.7 million, or 2.4% of total SMP's net sales, for our newly acquired operating segment, Nissens Automotive, are included in our consolidated results for the two months from the closing date of the acquisition. We expect Nissens Automotive's net sales to follow a similar annual seasonal pattern as the Temperature Control segment, as demand for many of Nissens Automotive's products increase with warmer weather. We also expect to benefit from revenue synergies resulting from the acquisition starting in 2026 and beyond.
Gross Margins. Gross margins, as a percentage of consolidated net sales, increased to 28.9% for 2024, compared to 28.6% for 2023. The following table summarizes gross margins by segment for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively (in thousands):
Compared to 2023, gross margin percentage decreased from 32.3% to 32.0% at Vehicle Control, increased from 28.4% to 31.0% at Temperature Control, and decreased from 19.4% to 17.5% at Engineered Solutions. Gross margin percentage for the Nissens Automotive segment was 32.2% for the two months from the closing date of the acquisition.
The gross margin percentage in our Vehicle Control operating segment remained relatively flat reflecting higher sales volume and higher fixed cost absorption due to higher production levels than those achieved in 2023, partially offset by inflationary cost increases.
The gross margin percentage increase in our Temperature Control operating segment reflected higher sales volume, some increased pricing, improved operating performance from cost savings initiatives, and favorable fixed cost absorption due to higher production levels than those achieved in 2023.
The gross margin percentage decrease at our Engineered Solutions operating segment is driven primarily by cost inflation and an unfavorable customer sales mix, partially offset by some higher pricing. We expect some pressure on demand into 2025 for our Engineered Solutions products as production schedules at customers slow.
The gross margin percentage at our Nissens Automotive operating segment was negatively impacted by $3.1 million of amortization for inventory fair value adjustments related to the application of accounting for business combinations. Amortization of the remaining inventory fair value adjustment will continue through Q2 2025.
While we anticipate continued margin pressure resulting from inflationary headwinds and a competitive market environment, we believe that our cost savings and product rationalization initiatives should mitigate much of this impact to our gross margins as well as, cost synergies related to our acquisition of Nissens Automotive. While our business in U.S. markets could be impacted by additional tariffs, we expect to mitigate the impact with a combination of price increases and cost reduction efforts.
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses. Selling, general and administrative expenses increased $41.5 million to $335.1 million, or 22.9% of consolidated net sales in 2024, as compared to $293.6 million, or 21.6% of consolidated net sales in 2023. Excluding the $14.3 million impact of including Nissens Automotive into our financial statements for the two months from the acquisition date, the increase in selling, general and administrative expenses is principally due to the impact of (i) $10.5 million higher distribution and freight expenses in our legacy business primarily due to higher sales, (ii) $10.3 million of costs associated with our acquisition of Nissens Automotive, including $2.3 million of derivative losses on
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forward foreign exchange contract used to economically hedge the purchase price, and (iii) $4.6 million of increased rent and incremental expenses as we transition away from our Edwardsville, Kansas distribution center to our new distribution facility in Shawnee, Kansas.
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Restructuring and Integration Expenses. Restructuring and integration expenses were $7.7 million in 2024 compared to $2.6 million in 2023. Restructuring and integration expenses incurred in 2024 relate primarily to the Separation Program announced in the second quarter of 2024, and expanded to encompass involuntary separations in the third quarter of 2024, as part of our commitment to optimizing our cost structure and providing professional development opportunities to our employees. We anticipate that the program will be substantially complete by the end of 2027. Restructuring and integration expenses in 2024 consist of $7.3 million of costs related to workforce reductions and severance costs, and $0.4 million for the relocation of machinery and equipment; while 2023 expenses primarily related to the Cost Reduction Initiative consist of $2 million of costs related to workforce reductions and severance costs, and $0.7 million for the relocation of machinery and equipment.
Operating Income. Operating income was $80.6 million, or 5.5%, of consolidated net sales in 2024, compared to $92.7 million, or 6.8%, of consolidated net sales in 2023. The year-over-year decrease in operating income of $12.1 million is primarily the result of higher selling, general and administrative expenses, including costs associated with the acquisition of Nissens Automotive, and higher restructuring and integration expenses, partially offset, by the impact of higher net sales and improved gross margin percentage.
Other Non-Operating Income, Net. Other non-operating income, net was $6.9 million in 2024, compared to $2.3 million in 2023. The year-over-year increase in other non-operating income, net results from the increase in year-over-year equity income from our joint ventures, and the favorable impact of changes in foreign currency exchange rates. Equity income from our joint ventures increased irrespective of the year-over-year decline in the equity income of Gwo Yng, reflecting the impact of our acquisition of an additional 15% equity interest in Gwo Yng in July 2023. Commencing on the date of our equity interest increase, the financial results of Gwo Yng were no longer accounted for under the equity method of accounting. Instead, Gwo Yng’s financial results are reported on a consolidated basis. As such, other non-operating income, net includes equity income of Gwo Yng of $0.7 million in 2023.
Interest Expense. Interest expense increased to $13.5 million in 2024, compared to $13.3 million in 2023. The year-over-year increase in interest expense reflects the impact of higher average outstanding balances due to borrowings under our 2024 Credit Agreement to fund our acquisition of Nissens Automotive, partly offset by slightly lower year-over-year average interest rates on our credit facilities, including the impact of our interest swap agreements. We expect interest expense to increase in 2025 due to higher overall outstanding balances under our 2024 Credit Agreement connected to our acquisition of Nissens Automotive.
Income Tax Provision. The income tax provision for 2024 was $19.4 million at an effective tax rate of 26.2%, compared to $18.4 million at an effective tax rate of 22.5% in 2023. The higher effective tax rate in 2024 compared to 2023 reflects the impact of non-deductible transaction costs associated with our acquisition of Nissens Automotive, an increase in earnings from international as compared to U.S. operations, and the effective tax rate impact of lower year-over-year pre-tax income.
Loss From Discontinued Operations. Loss from discontinued operations, net of income tax, reflects information contained in the actuarial studies performed as of August 31, 2024 and 2023, as well as other available information, and legal expenses and other costs associated with our asbestos-related liability. During the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, we recorded a net loss of $26.1 million and $29 million from discontinued operations, respectively. The loss from discontinued operations for the year ended December 31, 2024 and 2023 includes (i) a $29.3 million and $23.8 million pre-tax provision, respectively, to increase our indemnity liability in line with the 2024 and 2023 actuarial studies; (ii) legal and other miscellaneous expenses, before taxes, of $4.8 million and $4.9 million for 2024 and 2023, respectively, and (iii) a $10.5 million pre-tax provision in 2023 related to a breach of contract legal proceeding. As discussed more fully in Note 23 “Commitments and Contingencies” of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 8 of this Report, we are responsible for certain future liabilities relating to alleged exposure to asbestos containing products.
Net Earnings Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest. Net earnings attributable to noncontrolling interest relates to the minority shareholders’ interest in our 70% owned joint venture in Hong Kong, with operations in Shanghai and Wuxi, China (“Trombetta Asia, Ltd.”) and, in our 80% ownership in Gwo Yng, commencing in July 2023 upon the completion of our step acquisition. Net earnings attributable to the noncontrolling interest were $1.0 million and $0.2 million during the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. For additional information on the Gwo Yng step acquisition, see Note 2, “Business Combinations,” in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 8 of this Report.
Restructuring and Integration Programs
For a detailed discussion on the restructuring and integration costs, see Note 3, “Restructuring and Integration Expenses,” of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 8 of this Report.
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Liquidity and Capital Resources
Our primary cash requirements include working capital, capital expenditures, quarterly dividends, stock repurchases, principal and interest payments on indebtedness and acquisitions. The following table summarizes our primary sources of funds including ongoing net cash flows from operating activities and availability under our credit agreements (in thousands).
December 31,
Operating Activities. During 2024, cash provided by operating activities was $76.7 million as compared to cash provided by operating activities of $144.3 million in 2023.
Net earnings during 2024 were $28.5 million compared to $34.4 million in 2023. The decrease in cash provided by operating activities resulted primarily from an increase in inventories of $36.9 million compared to a decrease of $29.5 million in the prior year, as well as increases in other working capital accounts primarily due to higher net sales and preparation for pre-season orders in our Temperature Control segment, and lower net earnings.
During the year ended December 31, 2023, we generated significant operating cash flow by reducing our inventory to more normalized levels while actively managing our accounts receivable and accounts payable. We continue to actively manage our working capital to maximize our operating cash flow.
Investing Activities.Cash used in investing activities was $418.7 million in 2024 as compared to $25.7 million in 2023. Investing activities during 2024 primarily consisted of (i) $372.5 million of cash paid for the acquisition of 100% of the shares of Nissens Automotive, net of cash acquired of $24.6 million, and (ii) capital expenditures of $44 million. The year-over-year increase in capital expenditures primarily relates to the implementation of upgraded automation equipment, racking and other equipment, as we invest in the start-up of our new distribution facility in Shawnee, Kansas.
Cash used in investing activities during 2023 primarily consisted of (i) the payment of $4.0 million for our acquisition of an additional 15% equity interest in Foshan GWO YNG SMP Vehicle Climate Control & Cooling Products Co., Ltd. (“Gwo Yng”) and (ii) capital expenditures of $28.6 million, partially offset by $6.8 million of cash acquired in the Gwo Yng step acquisition.
Financing Activities. Cash provided by financing activities was $349.5 million in 2024 as compared to cash used in financing activities of $109.6 million in 2023. In September 2024, the Company refinanced its existing 2022 Credit Agreement with a new five-year Credit Agreement with JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as administrative agent, and a syndicate of lenders (“2024 Credit Agreement”). Borrowings under the 2024 Credit Agreement were used to repay all outstanding borrowings under the 2022 Credit Agreement and to finance the Company's acquisition of Nissens Automotive and related transaction costs, and will be used for general corporate purposes of the Company and its subsidiaries.
During 2024, we (i) increased our borrowings under our 2024 Credit Agreement by $392 million, (ii) paid dividends to SMP shareholders of $25.3 million, and (iii) made cash payments for the repurchase of shares of our common stock of $10.4 million. These activities were funded with cash provided by our operating activities, in addition to borrowings under our 2024 Credit Agreement.
During 2023, we (i) reduced our borrowings under our 2022 Credit Agreement by $83.5 million; and (ii) paid dividends of $25.2 million and $0.7 million to SMP shareholders and shareholders of our noncontrolling interests, respectively. Cash provided by our operating activities was used to reduce our borrowings under our 2022 Credit Agreement, fund our investing activities and pay dividends.
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Quarterly dividends were paid at a rate of $0.29 in 2024 and 2023.
Liquidity
Our primary sources of funds are ongoing net cash flows from operating activities and availability under our 2024 Credit Agreement (as detailed below).
In May 2024 and July 2024, the Company amended it's then-existing Credit Agreement with JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as administrative agent, and a syndicate of lenders ("2022 Credit Agreement"), to transition from the Canadian Dollar Offered Rate (“CDOR”) to the Canadian Overnight Repo Rate Average (“CORRA”) for benchmark borrowings denominated in Canadian dollars and to provide for a new $125 million term loan and the use of funds available under the revolving credit facility to finance the acquisition of Nissens Automotive and related transaction costs. For additional information on our agreement to acquire Nissens Automotive see Note 2, “Business Combinations,” in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 8 of this Report.
In September 2024, the Company refinanced its existing 2022 Credit Agreement with a new five-year Credit Agreement with JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as administrative agent, and a syndicate of lenders (“2024 Credit Agreement”). The 2024 Credit Agreement matures on September 16, 2029 and provides for an approximately $750 million credit facility, comprised of (i) a $430 million multi-currency revolving credit facility ("global tranche"); (ii) a $10 million multi-currency revolving credit facility, available to one or more wholly-owned Danish subsidiaries of the Company ("Danish tranche"); (iii) a $200 million delayed draw term loan facility in U.S. dollars; and (iv) a 100 million euros delayed draw term loan facility. The revolving credit facility has a $25 million sublimit for the issuance of letters of credit, and a $30 million sublimit for the borrowing of swingline loans.
Borrowings under the 2024 Credit Agreement were used to repay all outstanding borrowings under the 2022 Credit Agreement and to finance the Company's acquisition of Nissens Automotive and related transaction costs, and will be used for general corporate purposes of the Company and its subsidiaries. The term loans amortize in quarterly installments of 1.25% in each of the first two years following the funding, 1.875% for the next year, and 2.50% in each quarter thereafter. The Company may request up to two one-year extensions of the maturity date.
The Company may, subject to customary conditions, increase the global tranche or obtain incremental term loans in an aggregate amount not to exceed (x) the greater of (i) $168 million and (ii) 100% of consolidated EBITDA for the four fiscal quarters ended most recently before such date, plus (y) any voluntary prepayment of term loans, plus (z) any amount that, after giving effect to the increase, the pro forma First Lien Net Leverage Ratio (as defined in the 2024 Credit Agreement) does not exceed 2.75 to 1.00. The Company may also, subject to customary conditions, request to increase the Danish tranche by up to $5 million.
Borrowings bear interest at the applicable interest rate index selected by the Company based on the particular currency borrowed plus a credit spread adjustment depending on the index, and a margin ranging from 1.25% to 2.25% per annum based on the total net leverage ratio of the Company and its restricted subsidiaries. The Company may select interest periods of one, three or six months depending on the index. Interest is payable at the end of the selected interest period, but no less frequently than quarterly.
The Company may prepay the borrowings, in whole or in part, at any time without premium or penalty, subject to certain conditions.
The Company’s obligations under the 2024 Credit Agreement are guaranteed by its material domestic subsidiaries (each, a “Guarantor”), and secured by a first priority perfected security interest in substantially all of the existing and future personal property of the Company and each Guarantor, subject to certain exceptions. The collateral security described above also secures certain banking services obligations and interest rate swaps and currency or other hedging obligations of the Company owing to any of the then existing lenders or any affiliates thereof.
Outstanding borrowings at December 31, 2024 under the 2024 Credit Agreement were $545.4 million, net of deferred financing costs, consisting of current borrowings of $25.2 million and long-term debt of $520.1 million; while outstanding borrowings at December 31, 2023, were $156 million, consisting of current borrowings of $5 million and long-term debt of $151 million. Letters of credit outstanding under the Credit Agreement were $2.5 million and $2.3 million at December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively.
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To manage the interest rate risk on the 2024 Credit Agreement, the Company has entered into interest rate swap agreements designated as cash flow hedges of a portion of the borrowings under the 2024 Credit Agreement to swap floating rate interest to a fixed rate. For additional information see Note 17, "Derivative Financial Instruments" of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 8 of this Report.
At December 31, 2024, the weighted average interest rate on borrowings under the 2024 Credit Agreement was 5.6%, primarily consisting of Term SOFR for borrowings in U.S. dollars and EURIBOR for borrowings in euros, adjusted for the impact of the interest rate swap agreement on $100 million of the U.S. dollar borrowings. At December 31, 2023, the weighted average interest rate under our 2022 Credit Agreement was 5.0%, under Term SOFR, adjusted for the impact of the interest rate swap agreement on $100 million of borrowings. During the year ended December 31, 2024, our average daily alternative base rate loan balance was $0.7 million, compared to a balance of $0.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2023.
The 2024 Credit Agreement contains customary covenants limiting, among other things, the incurrence of additional indebtedness, the creation of liens, mergers, consolidations, liquidations and dissolutions, sales of assets, dividends and other payments in respect of equity interests, acquisitions, investments, loans and guarantees, subject, in each case, to customary exceptions, thresholds and baskets. The 2024 Credit Agreement also contains customary events of default.
In November 2023, our Polish subsidiary, SMP Poland sp. z.o.o., further amended its overdraft facility with HSBC Continental Europe (Spolka Akcyjna) Oddzial w Polsce. The overdraft facility, as amended, provides for borrowings under the facility in euros and U.S. dollars. Under the amended terms, the overdraft facility provides for borrowings of up to Polish zloty 30 million (approximately $7.3 million) if borrowings are solely in Polish zloty, or up to 85% of the Polish zloty 30 million limit (approximately $6.2 million) if borrowings are in euros and/or U.S. dollars. The overdraft facility had an original maturity date in March 2024, with automatic three-month renewals until June 2027, subject to cancellation by either party, at its sole discretion, at least 30 days prior to the commencement of the three-month renewal period. The facility automatically renewed in December 2024 to a March 2025 maturity date. Borrowings under the amended overdraft facility will bear interest at a rate equal to (i) the one month Warsaw Interbank Offered Rate (“WIBOR”) + 1.0% for borrowings in Polish zloty, (ii) the one month Euro Interbank Offered Rate (“EURIBOR”) + 1.0% for borrowings in Euros, and (iii) the Mid-Point of the Fed Target Range + 1.25% for borrowings in U.S dollars. Borrowings under the overdraft facility are guaranteed by Standard Motor Products, Inc., the ultimate parent company. There were no borrowings outstanding under the overdraft facility at both December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023.
In order to reduce our accounts receivable balances and improve our cash flow, we are party to several supply chain financing arrangements, in which we may sell certain of our customers’ trade accounts receivable to such customers’ financial institutions. We sell our undivided interests in certain of these receivables at our discretion when we determine that the cost of these arrangements is less than the cost of servicing our receivables with existing debt. Under the terms of the agreements, we retain no rights or interest, have no obligations with respect to the sold receivables, and do not service the receivables after the sale. As such, these transactions are accounted for as a sale.
Pursuant to these agreements, we sold $884.7 million and $830.8 million of receivables for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. Receivables presented at financial institutions and not yet collected as of December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023 were approximately $5.8 million and $4.5 million, respectively, and remained in our accounts receivable balance for those periods. All receivables sold were reflected as a reduction of accounts receivable in the consolidated balance sheet at the time of sale. A charge in the amount of $48.5 million, $46 million and $32 million related to the sale of receivables is included in selling, general and administrative expenses in our consolidated statements of operations for the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
To the extent that these arrangements are terminated, our financial condition, results of operations, cash flows and liquidity could be adversely affected by extended payment terms, delays or failures in collecting trade accounts receivables. The utility of the supply chain financing arrangements also depends upon a benchmark reference rate for the purpose of determining the discount rate applicable to each arrangement. If the benchmark reference rate increases significantly, we may be negatively impacted as we may not be able to pass these added costs on to our customers, which could have a material and adverse effect upon our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
In January 2023, one of our customers filed a petition for bankruptcy and we recorded a $7 million pre-tax charge in selling, general and administrative expenses in our consolidated statement of operations during the year ended December 31, 2022 to reduce our accounts receivable balance to our estimated recovery.
In July 2022, our Board of Directors authorized the purchase of up to $30 million of our common stock under a stock repurchase program. Stock will be purchased under the program from time to time, in the open market or through private
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transactions, as market conditions warrant. To date, there have been 321,229 shares repurchased for a total cost of $10.4 million, all of which occurred during the first half of 2024. As of December 2023 there had been no repurchases of our common stock under the program.
Material Cash Commitments
Material cash commitments as of December 31, 2024 consist of required cash payments to service our outstanding borrowings of $545.4 million under our 2024 Credit Agreement with JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as agent and the future minimum cash requirements of $144.8 million through 2034 under operating leases. All of our other cash commitments as of December 31, 2024 are not material. For additional information related to our material cash commitments, see Note 7, “Leases,” and Note 11, “Credit Facilities and Long-Term Debt,” of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 8 of this Report.
We anticipate that our cash flow from operations, available cash, and available borrowings under our 2024 Credit Agreement will be adequate to meet our future liquidity needs for at least the next twelve months. Significant assumptions underlie this belief, including, among other things, that we will be able to mitigate the future impact, if any, of disruptions in the supply chain caused by geo-political risks, future increases in interest rates, and significant inflationary cost increases in raw materials, labor and transportation that we are unable to pass through our customers, macroeconomic uncertainty, and that there will be no material adverse developments in our business, liquidity or capital requirements. If material adverse developments were to occur in any of these areas, there can be no assurance that our business will generate sufficient cash flow from operations, or that future borrowings will be available to us under our 2024 Credit Agreement in amounts sufficient to enable us to pay the principal and interest on our indebtedness, or to fund our other liquidity needs. In addition, if we default on any of our indebtedness, or breach any financial covenant in our 2024 Credit Agreement, our business could be adversely affected.
For further information regarding the risks in our business, refer to Item 1A, “Risk Factors,” of this Report.
Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates
We have identified the two accounting policies and estimates below as critical to our business operations and the understanding of our results of operations. The impact and any associated risks related to these policies and estimates on our business operations is discussed throughout “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations,” where such policies and estimates affect our reported and expected financial results. For a detailed discussion on the application of these and other accounting policies, see Note 1, “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies,” of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 8 of this Report.
The preparation of our consolidated financial statements requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amount of assets and liabilities, the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of our consolidated financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the reporting periods. We can give no assurances that actual results will not differ from those estimates. Although we do not believe that there is a reasonable likelihood that there will be a material change in the future estimates, or in the assumptions that we use in calculating the estimates, the uncertain future effects, if any, of the disruptions in the supply chain caused by geo-political risks, future increases in interest rates, inflation, macroeconomic uncertainty, and other unforeseen changes in the industry, or business, could materially impact the estimates, and may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
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Valuation of Long‐Lived and Intangible Assets and Goodwill
The company accounts for business combinations using the acquisition method and accordingly, the identifiable assets acquired, the liabilities assumed, and any noncontrolling interest in the acquiree are generally recorded at their acquisition date fair values. At acquisition, we estimate and record the fair value of purchased intangible assets, which primarily consist of customer relationships, trademarks and trade names, and patents, developed technology and intellectual property. Intangible assets acquired through business combinations are subject to potential adjustments within the measurement period, which is up to one year from the acquisition date.
Valuing intangible assets requires the use of significant estimates and assumptions. Significant estimates and assumptions used in valuing customer relationships include but are not limited to: (i) forecasted revenues attributable to existing customers; (ii) forecasted margins; (iii) customer attrition rates; and (iv) the discount rate. Identifiable intangible assets with finite lives are amortized over their useful lives generally on a straight-line basis.
Goodwill is the excess of the purchase price over the fair value of identifiable net assets acquired in business combinations. The primary drivers that generate goodwill are the value of synergies between the acquired entities and the company and the acquired assembled workforce, neither of which qualifies as a separately identifiable intangible asset. Goodwill and certain other intangible assets having indefinite lives are not amortized to earnings, but instead are subject to periodic testing for impairment. Intangible assets determined to have definite lives are amortized over their remaining useful lives. We believe that the fair value of acquired identifiable net assets, including intangible assets, are based upon reasonable estimates and assumptions.
We assess long‐lived assets, identifiable intangible assets and goodwill for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable. With respect to goodwill and identifiable intangible assets having indefinite lives, we test for impairment on an annual basis or in interim periods if an event occurs or circumstances change that may indicate the fair value is below its carrying amount. Factors we consider important, which could trigger an impairment review, include the following: (a) significant underperformance relative to expected historical or projected future operating results; (b) significant changes in the manner of our use of the acquired assets or the strategy for our overall business; and (c) significant negative industry or economic trends. We review the fair values using the discounted cash flows method and market multiples.
When performing our evaluation of goodwill for impairment, if we conclude qualitatively that it is not more likely than not that the fair value of the reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, then a quantitative impairment test would not be required. If we are unable to reach this conclusion, then we would perform a quantitative impairment test. In performing the quantitative impairment test, the fair value of the reporting unit is compared to its carrying amount. A charge for impairment is recognized by the amount by which the reporting unit’s carrying amount exceeds its fair value, not to exceed the total amount of goodwill allocated to the reporting unit.
Identifiable intangible assets having indefinite lives are reviewed for impairment on an annual basis using a methodology similar with that used to evaluate goodwill. Intangible assets having definite lives and other long-lived assets are reviewed for impairment whenever events such as product discontinuance, plant closures, product dispositions or other changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable. In reviewing intangible assets having definite lives and other long-lived assets for impairment, we compare the carrying value of such assets to the estimated undiscounted future cash flows expected from the use of the assets and their eventual disposition. When the estimated undiscounted future cash flows are less than their carrying amount, an impairment loss is recognized equal to the difference between the assets fair value and their carrying value.
There are inherent assumptions and estimates used in developing future cash flows requiring our judgment in applying these assumptions and estimates to the analysis of identifiable intangibles and long‐lived asset impairment including projecting revenues, interest rates, tax rates and the cost of capital. Many of the factors used in assessing fair value are outside our control and it is reasonably likely that assumptions and estimates will change in future periods. These changes can result in future impairments. In the event our planning assumptions were modified resulting in impairment to our assets, we would be required to include an expense in our statement of operations, which could materially impact our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Asbestos Litigation
In evaluating our potential asbestos-related liability, we have considered various factors including, among other things, an actuarial study of the asbestos related liabilities performed by an independent actuarial firm, our settlement amounts and whether there are any co-defendants, the jurisdiction in which lawsuits are filed, and the status and results of such claims.
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As is our accounting policy, we consider the advice of actuarial consultants with experience in assessing asbestos-related liabilities to estimate our potential claim liability; and perform an actuarial evaluation in the third quarter of each year and whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that additional provisions may be necessary. The methodology used to project asbestos-related liabilities and costs in our actuarial study considered: (i) historical data available from publicly available studies; (ii) an analysis of our recent claims history to estimate likely filing rates into the future; (iii) an analysis of our currently pending claims; (iv) an analysis of our settlements and awards of asbestos-related damages to date; and (v) an analysis of closed claims with pay ratios and lag patterns in order to develop average future settlement values. Based on the information contained in the actuarial study and all other available information considered by us, we have concluded that no amount within the range of settlement payments and awards of asbestos-related damages was more likely than any other and, therefore, in assessing our asbestos liability we compare the low end of the range to our recorded liability to determine if an adjustment is required. Future legal costs are expensed as incurred and reported in earnings (loss) from discontinued operations in the accompanying statement of operations.
We plan to perform an annual actuarial evaluation during the third quarter of each year for the foreseeable future and whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that additional provisions may be necessary. Given the uncertainties associated with projecting such matters into the future and other factors outside our control, we can give no assurance that additional provisions will not be required. We will continue to monitor events and changes in circumstances surrounding these potential liabilities in determining whether to perform additional actuarial evaluations and whether additional provisions may be necessary. At the present time, however, we do not believe that any additional provisions would be reasonably likely to have a material adverse effect on our liquidity or consolidated financial position. See Note 23, “Commitments and Contingencies,” of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 8 of this Report for additional information.
Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements
For a detailed discussion on recently issued accounting pronouncements and their impact on our consolidated financial statements, see Note 1, “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies” of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 8 of this Report.
ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk
We are exposed to market risk, primarily related to foreign currency exchange and interest rates. These exposures are actively monitored by management. Our exposure to foreign exchange rate risk is due to certain costs, revenues and borrowings being denominated in currencies other than one of our subsidiary’s functional currency and net investments in our foreign subsidiaries. Similarly, we are exposed to market risk as the result of changes in interest rates, which may affect the cost of our financing. It is our policy and practice to use derivative financial instruments only to the extent necessary to manage exposures. We do not hold or issue derivative financial instruments for trading or speculative purposes.
Exchange Rate Risk
We have exchange rate exposure, primarily, with respect to the Canadian dollar, the euro, the British pound, the Polish zloty, the Hungarian forint, the Mexican peso, the Danish kroner, the Taiwan dollar, the Chinese yuan renminbi and the Hong Kong dollar. As of December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, our monetary assets and liabilities which are subject to this exposure are immaterial, therefore, the potential immediate loss to us that would result from a hypothetical 10% change in foreign currency exchange rates would not be expected to have a material impact on our earnings or cash flows. This sensitivity analysis assumes an unfavorable 10% fluctuation in the exchange rates affecting the foreign currencies in which monetary assets and liabilities are denominated and does not take into account the incremental effect of such a change on our foreign currency denominated revenues.
Interest Rate Risk
We manage our exposure to interest rate risk through the proportion of fixed rate debt and variable rate debt in our debt portfolio. To reduce our market risk for changes in interest rates on our variable rate borrowings, and to manage a portion of our exposure to changes in interest rates, we occasionally enter into interest rate swap agreements.
In 2022, we entered into an interest rate swap agreement with a notional amount of $100 million that matures in May 2029. The interest rate swap agreement is designated as a cash flow hedge of interest payments on $100 million of borrowings
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under our 2024 Credit Agreement. Under the terms of the swap agreement, we will receive monthly variable interest payments based on one month Term SOFR and will pay interest based on a fixed rate of 2.683% per annum.
In October 2024, we entered into an interest rate swap agreement with an initial notional amount of €100 million that matures in March 2030. At December 31, 2024, the notional amount was $103.9 million or €100 million. The interest rate swap agreement is designated as a cash flow hedge of interest payments on euro denominated borrowings under our 2024 Credit Agreement equal to the notional amount of the interest rate swap agreement. The notional amount of the interest rate swap will decrease quarterly starting from June 2025. Under the terms of the swap agreement, we will receive monthly variable interest payments based on one month EURIBOR and will pay interest based on a fixed rate of 2.11% per annum.
As of December 31, 2024, we had approximately $545.4 million of outstanding borrowings under our 2024 Credit Agreement, net of deferred financing costs, of which approximately $445.4 million bears interest at variable rates of interest and $100 million bears interest at fixed rates, after consideration of the interest rate swap agreements entered into in June 2022 and October 2024. Additionally, we invest our excess cash in highly liquid short-term investments. Based upon our current level of borrowings under our 2024 Credit Agreement and our excess cash, the effect of a hypothetical, instantaneous and unfavorable change of 100 basis points in the interest rate may have an approximate $5 million annualized negative impact on our earnings or cash flows.
In addition, we are party to several supply chain financing arrangements, in which we may sell certain of our customers’ trade accounts receivable to such customers’ financial institutions. We sell our undivided interests in certain of these receivables at our discretion when we determine that the cost of these arrangements is less than the cost of servicing our receivables with existing debt. During the year ended December 31, 2024, we sold $884.7 million of receivables. Depending upon the level of sales of receivables pursuant these agreements, the effect of a hypothetical, instantaneous and unfavorable change of 100 basis points in the margin rate may have an approximate $8.8 million negative impact on our earnings or cash flows. The charge related to the sale of receivables is included in selling, general and administrative expenses in our consolidated statements of operations.
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ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA
INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Page No.
Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting 41
Reports of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm 42
Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2024 and 2023 48
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 51
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MANAGEMENT’S REPORT ON INTERNAL CONTROL
OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING
To the Stockholders of
Standard Motor Products, Inc. and Subsidiaries:
Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 13a-15(f) or 15d-15(f) of the Exchange Act). Our internal control system was designed to provide reasonable assurance to our management and Board of Directors regarding the preparation and fair presentation of published financial statements.
All internal control systems, no matter how well designed, have inherent limitations. Because of these inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting can provide only reasonable assurance with respect to financial statement preparation and presentation, and may not prevent or detect misstatements. 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.
We assessed the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2024. In making this assessment, we used the criteria set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO) in the 2013 Internal Control - Integrated Framework. Based on our assessment using those criteria, we concluded that, as of December 31, 2024, our internal control over financial reporting is effective.
As permitted by SEC guidance, the scope of management's assessment of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2024 excluded AX V Nissens III ApS (now known as SMP Nissens III ApS) and its direct and indirect subsidiaries (“Nissens Automotive”), which we acquired in November 2024. Nissens Automotive's total assets and net sales represented approximately 27% and 2%, respectively, of the consolidated total assets and net sales of Standard Motor Products, Inc. as of and for the year ended December 31, 2024. We are currently in the process of evaluating and integrating the acquired operations, processes and internal controls.
Our independent registered public accounting firm, KPMG LLP, has audited our consolidated financial statements as of and for the year ended December 31, 2024 and has also audited the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2024. KPMG’s report appears on the following pages of this “Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.”
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REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the Stockholders and Board of Directors
Standard Motor Products, Inc. and Subsidiaries:
Opinion on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
We have audited Standard Motor Products, Inc and Subsidiaries’ (the Company) 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 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.
We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), the consolidated balance sheets of the Company as of December 31, 2024 and 2023, the related consolidated statements of operations, 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 and financial statement Schedule II, Valuation and Qualifying Accounts (collectively, the consolidated financial statements), and our report dated February 27, 2025 expressed an unqualified opinion on those consolidated financial statements.
The Company acquired Nissens Automotive during 2024, and management excluded from its assessment of the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2024, Nissens Automotive’s internal control over financial reporting associated with 27% of total assets and 2% of total revenues included in the consolidated financial statements of the Company as of and for the year ended December 31, 2024. Our audit of internal control over financial reporting of the Company also excluded an evaluation of the internal control over financial reporting of Nissens Automotive.
Basis for Opinion
The Company’s management is responsible 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 internal control over financial reporting based on our audit. We are a public accounting firm registered with the 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 audit in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. 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 audit also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.
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 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.
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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.
/s/ KPMG LLP
New York, New York
February 27, 2025
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REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the Stockholders and Board of Directors
Standard Motor Products, Inc. and Subsidiaries:
Opinion on the ConsolidatedFinancial Statements
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Standard Motor Products, Inc. and Subsidiaries’ (the Company) as of December 31, 2024 and 2023, the related consolidated statements of operations, 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 and financial statement Schedule II Valuation and Qualifying Accounts (collectively, the “consolidated financial statements”). In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements 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.
We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), 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, and our report dated February 27, 2025 expressed an unqualified opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.
Basis for Opinion
These consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the 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 audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. Our audits 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. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
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.
Asbestos liability and litigation
As discussed in Notes 1 and 23 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company is involved in asbestos litigation and has a potential asbestos liability. As of December 31, 2024, the accrued asbestos liability was $94.6 million. The Company’s asbestos liability represents the low end of the actuarially determined range of the undiscounted liability for settlement payments and awards of asbestos related damages, excluding legal costs and any potential recovery from insurance carriers.
We identified the assessment of the asbestos liability recorded as a critical audit matter. This required subjective auditor judgment, due to the nature of the estimate and assumptions, including the applicability of those assumptions to
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the current facts and circumstances, as well as judgments about future events and uncertainties. Specialized skills were needed to evaluate the Company’s key assumptions. The key assumptions included future claim filings, closed with pay ratios, closed with pay lag patterns, settlement values, and large claims. Minor changes to these key assumptions could have had a significant effect on the Company’s assessment of the accrual for the asbestos 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 related to the asbestos liability estimation process. This included controls related to the key assumptions and the claims data utilized in the process, and the potential need for an updated actuarial valuation. We evaluated the asbestos related legal cases settled during the year and the number of open cases as of year-end by reading letters received directly from the Company’s external and internal legal counsel. We tested a selection of claims data used in the actuarial model by comparing the selection items to underlying claims documentation. We involved an actuarial professional with specialized skills and knowledge, who assisted in evaluating (1) the future claim filings assumption by developing an independent expectation and comparing it against the Company’s future claim filing assumption, and (2) the closed with pay ratios, closed with pay lag patterns, settlement values, and large claims by comparing them to the Company’s historical experience.
Fair value of a tradename and customer relationships intangible assets acquired in the Nissens Automotive transaction
As discussed in Notes 1 and 2 to the consolidated financial statements, on November 1, 2024, the Company acquired all issued and outstanding shares of European automotive aftermarket parts supplier, AX V Nissens III ApS (now known as SMP Nissens III ApS) and its direct and indirect subsidiaries (Nissens Automotive), which was accounted for as a business combination. The purchase price was €366.8 million (approximately $397.1 million), of which, a preliminary estimated fair value of $76.7 million and $150.4 million was allocated to tradenames and customer relationships intangible assets, respectively. The fair value measurements of the tradename and customer relationships intangible assets was determined using the multi-period excess earnings method and the relief-from-royalty method under the income approach for customer relationships and trade names, respectively.
We identified the evaluation of the acquisition-date preliminary fair values of the acquired tradename and the customer relationships intangible assets as a critical audit matter. A high degree of subjective auditor judgement was required to evaluate the revenue growth rates, expected customer attrition rate, and the discount rate applied. Changes in these assumptions could have a significant effect on the fair values. Additionally, the evaluation of the discount rate and the attrition rate required specialized skills and knowledge.
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 Company’s acquisition-date valuation process. This included controls related to the determination of the revenue growth rates, expected customer attrition rate, and discount rate used in the Company’s model. We evaluated the revenue growth rates by comparing to Nissens Automotive’s historical financial results and forecasted revenue trends of certain peer companies and relevant industry data. In addition, we involved valuation professionals with specialized skills and knowledge, who assisted in:
•evaluating the Company’s discount rate by comparing it to an independently developed range of discount rates using publicly available market data for comparable entities
•evaluating the customer attrition rate by comparing it to attrition rates implied from the useful lives sourced from benchmarking similar transactions in the Company’s industry
/s/ KPMG LLP
We have served as the Company’s auditor since 2010.
New York, New York
February 27, 2025
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STANDARD MOTOR PRODUCTS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
Year Ended December 31,
(In thousands, except share and per share data) 2024 2023 2022
Earnings from continuing operations before income taxes 73,989 81,716 98,332
Net earnings attributable to noncontrolling interest 976 204 84
Net earnings (loss) attributable to SMP
Per common share data
Basic:
Net earnings attributable to SMP per common share $ 1.26 $ 1.57 $ 2.55
Diluted:
Net earnings attributable to SMP per common share 1.24 1.54 2.50
Dividends declared per common share $ 1.16 $ 1.16 $ 1.08
(a)Throughout this Form 10-K, “SMP” refers to Standard Motor Products, Inc. and subsidiaries.
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
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STANDARD MOTOR PRODUCTS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
Year Ended December 31,
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:
Postretirement benefit plans (11) (13) (15)
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax (19,959) 6,510 (4,414)
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interest, net of tax:
Foreign currency translation (101) 14 (113)
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
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STANDARD MOTOR PRODUCTS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
December 31,
(In thousands, except share data) 2024 2023
ASSETS
CURRENT ASSETS:
Prepaid expenses and other current assets 25,703 26,100
Investments in unconsolidated affiliates 24,842 24,050
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
CURRENT LIABILITIES:
Current portion of revolving credit facility $ 10,800 $ —
Current portion of term loan and other debt 16,317 5,029
Noncurrent operating lease liabilities 98,214 88,974
Commitments and contingencies
Stockholders’ equity:
Common Stock - par value $2.00 per share:
Accumulated other comprehensive income (25,832) (5,974)
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
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STANDARD MOTOR PRODUCTS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
Year Ended December 31,
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
Amortization of deferred financing cost 1,911 491 421
Increase (decrease) to allowance for expected credit losses 732 2,943 (757)
Customer bankruptcy charge — — 7,002
(Increase) in deferred income taxes (9,996) (6,952) (713)
Change in assets and liabilities:
(Increase) decrease in accounts receivable (8,753) 7,965 6,916
Net changes in other assets and liabilities 908 (8,578) (5,242)
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
Acquisitions of and investments in businesses (372,491) (3,954) (1,934)
Cash acquired in acquisitions — 6,779 —
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Net borrowings (repayments) of other debt and lease obligations 595 (58) (2,895)
Payments of debt issuance costs (5,133) — (2,128)
Increase (decrease) in overdraft balances 166 (189) (595)
Dividends paid to noncontrolling interest (2,347) (700) —
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash 4,343 2,427 (755)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents 11,900 11,376 (605)
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information:
Cash paid during the year for:
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
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STANDARD MOTOR PRODUCTS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Years Ended December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022
Noncontrolling interest in step acquisition — — — — — — 5,273 5,273
Dividends paid to noncontrolling interest — — — — — — (700) (700)
Dividends paid to noncontrolling interest — — — — — — (2,347) (2,347)
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
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STANDARD MOTOR PRODUCTS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
Principles of Consolidation & Basis of Presentation
Standard Motor Products, Inc. and its subsidiaries (referred to hereinafter in these notes to the consolidated financial statements as “we,” “us,” “our,” “SMP,” or the “Company”) is a leading manufacturer and distributor of premium replacement parts in the automotive aftermarket, and a custom-engineered solutions provider to vehicle and equipment manufacturers in diverse non-aftermarket end markets. Our automotive aftermarket is comprised of three segments, Vehicle Control, Temperature Control and Nissens Automotive, while our Engineered Solutions segment offers a broad array of conventional and future-oriented technologies in markets for commercial and light vehicles, construction, agriculture, power sports, marine, hydraulics and lawn and garden. We sell our products primarily to retailers, warehouse distributors, original equipment manufacturers and original equipment service part operations in the United States, Canada, Europe, Asia, Mexico and other Latin American countries. In addition to our legacy SMP business, we acquired European automotive aftermarket parts supplier AX V Nissens III ApS (now known as SMP Nissens III ApS) and its direct and indirect subsidiaries (“Nissens Automotive”) in a transaction which closed on November 1, 2024. Nissens Automotive develops, manufactures and markets products within the areas of engine cooling, air conditioning climate systems, and engine efficiency within the automotive aftermarket industry, primarily in Europe. Nissens Automotive will serve as our fourth business segment. For further information and disclosures regarding the Nissens Automotive acquisition, refer to Note 2, "Business Combinations."
These consolidated financial statements are prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States ("U.S. GAAP") and include our accounts and all domestic and international companies that we control. In addition, we use the equity method, to include our share of the results of certain affiliates based on our economic interest, our ability to exercise significant influence over the operating or financial decisions of these affiliates or our ability to direct their economic resources. We do not control these affiliates, as our ownership in these other affiliates is generally 50% or less. All significant inter-company items have been eliminated.
Reclassification
Certain prior period amounts in the accompanying consolidated financial statements and related notes have been reclassified to conform to the 2024 presentation.
Use of Estimates
The preparation of consolidated annual and quarterly financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amount of assets and liabilities, the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of our consolidated financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the reporting periods. We have made a number of estimates and assumptions in the preparation of these consolidated financial statements. We can give no assurance that actual results will not differ from those estimates. Although we do not believe that there is a reasonable likelihood that there will be a material change in the future estimates, or in the assumptions that we use in calculating the estimates, the uncertain future effects, if any, of disruptions in the supply chain caused by geo-political risks, future increases in interest rates, inflation, macroeconomic uncertainty, and other unforeseen changes in the industry, or business, could materially impact the estimates, and may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. Some of the more significant estimates include allowances for expected credit losses, cash discounts, valuation of inventory, valuation of long-lived assets, goodwill and other intangible assets, depreciation and amortization of long-lived assets, product liability exposures, asbestos, environmental and litigation matters, valuation of deferred tax assets, share based compensation and sales returns and other allowances.
Reportable Segments
Our business comprises of four operating segments – Vehicle Control, Temperature Control and Engineered Solutions from our legacy SMP business and a fourth operating segment, Nissens Automotive, which was created in the fourth quarter of 2024 as a result of our acquisition of Nissens Automotive. Our operating segment structure aligns our operations with our strategic focus on diversifying our business, provides greater transparency into our positioning to capture
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STANDARD MOTOR PRODUCTS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
opportunities for growth in the future, and provides clarity regarding the unique dynamics and margin profiles of the markets served by each segment.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
We consider all highly liquid investments purchased with a maturity of three months or less to be cash equivalents.
Allowance for Expected Credit Losses and Cash Discounts
We do not generally require collateral for our trade accounts receivable. Accounts receivable have been reduced by an allowance for amounts that may become uncollectible in the future. These allowances are established based on a combination of write-off history, supportable forecasts, aging analysis, and specific account evaluations. When a receivable balance is known to be uncollectible, it is written off against the allowance for expected credit losses. Cash discounts are provided based on an overall average experience rate applied to qualifying accounts receivable balances.
Inventories
Inventories are valued at the lower of cost and net realizable value. Cost is determined on the first-in first-out basis. Where appropriate, standard cost systems are utilized for purposes of determining cost; the standards are adjusted as necessary to ensure they approximate actual costs. Estimates of lower of cost and net realizable value of inventory are determined by comparing the actual cost of the product to the estimated selling prices in the ordinary course of business less reasonably predictable costs of completion, disposal and transportation of the inventory.
We also evaluate inventories on a regular basis to identify inventory on hand that may be obsolete or in excess of current and future projected market demand. For inventory deemed to be obsolete, we provide a reserve on the full value of the inventory. Inventory that is in excess of current and projected use is reduced by an allowance to a level that approximates our estimate of future demand. Future projected demand requires management judgment and is based upon (a) our review of historical trends and (b) our estimate of projected customer specific buying patterns and trends in the industry and markets in which we do business. Using rolling twelve month historical information, we estimate future demand on a continuous basis. The historical volatility of such estimates has been minimal. We maintain provisions for inventory reserves of $43.7 million and $42.9 million as of December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively.
We utilize cores (used parts) in our remanufacturing processes for air conditioning compressors, diesel injectors, and diesel pumps. The production of air conditioning compressors, diesel injectors, and diesel pumps involves the rebuilding of used cores, which we acquire either in outright purchases from used parts brokers, or from returns pursuant to an exchange program with customers. Under such exchange programs, at the time of sale of air conditioning compressors, diesel injectors, and diesel pumps, we estimate the core expected to be returned from the customer and record the estimated return as unreturned customer inventory.
In addition, many of our customers can return inventory to us based upon customer warranty and overstock arrangements within customer specific limits. At the time products are sold, we accrue a liability for product warranties and overstock returns and record an asset for unreturned customer inventory based on our estimate of anticipated customer returns. Estimates are based upon historical information on the nature, frequency and probability of the customer return. Unreturned core, warranty and overstock customer inventory is recorded at standard cost. Revision to these estimates is made when necessary, based upon changes in these factors. We regularly study trends of such claims.
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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
Property, Plant and Equipment
Property, plant and equipment are recorded at historical cost and are depreciated using the straight-line method of depreciation over the estimated useful lives as follows:
Estimated Life
Building improvements 10 to 25 years
Machinery and equipment 5 to 12 years
Tools, dies and auxiliary equipment 3 to 8 years
Furniture and fixtures 3 to 12 years
Leasehold improvements are depreciated over the shorter of the estimated useful life or the term of the lease. Costs related to maintenance and repairs which do not prolong the assets useful lives are expensed as incurred. We assess our property, plant and equipment to be held and used for impairment when indicators are present that the carrying value may not be recoverable.
Leases
We determine if an arrangement is a lease at inception. For operating leases, we include and report operating lease right-of-use (“ROU”) assets, sundry payables and accrued expenses, and noncurrent operating lease liabilities on our consolidated balance sheet for leases with a term longer than twelve months. Finance leases are reported on our consolidated balance sheets in property, plant and equipment, current portion of other debt, and long-term debt.
Operating lease ROU assets and operating lease liabilities are recognized at the lease commencement date based on the present value of the total lease payments over the lease term. Our ROU assets represent the right to use an underlying leased asset over the existing lease term, and the corresponding lease liabilities represent our obligation to make lease payments arising from the lease agreement. As most of our leases do not provide for an implicit rate, we use our incremental borrowing rate based on the information available when determining the present value of our lease payments. Our lease terms may include options to terminate, or extend, our lease when it is reasonably certain that we will execute the option. Lease agreements may contain lease and non-lease components, which are generally accounted for separately. Operating lease expense is recognized on a straight-line basis over the lease term.
Business Combinations and Intangible Assets Including Goodwill
The company accounts for business combinations using the acquisition method and accordingly, the identifiable assets acquired, the liabilities assumed, and any noncontrolling interest in the acquiree are generally recorded at their acquisition date fair values. At acquisition, we estimate and record the fair value of purchased intangible assets, which primarily consist of customer relationships, trademarks and trade names, and patents, developed technology and intellectual property. Intangible assets acquired through business combinations are subject to potential adjustments within the measurement period, which is up to one year from the acquisition date.
Valuing intangible assets requires the use of significant estimates and assumptions. Significant estimates and assumptions used in valuing customer relationships include but are not limited to: (i) forecasted revenues attributable to existing customers; (ii) forecasted margins; (iii) customer attrition rates; and (iv) the discount rate. Identifiable intangible assets with finite lives are amortized over their useful lives generally on a straight-line basis.
Goodwill is the excess of the purchase price over the fair value of identifiable net assets acquired in business combinations. The primary drivers that generate goodwill are the value of synergies between the acquired entities and the company and the acquired assembled workforce, neither of which qualifies as a separately identifiable intangible asset. Goodwill and certain other intangible assets having indefinite lives are not amortized to earnings, but instead are subject to periodic testing for impairment. Intangible assets determined to have definite lives are amortized over their remaining useful lives. We believe that the fair value of acquired identifiable net assets, including intangible assets, are based upon reasonable estimates and assumptions.
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Acquisition related costs, including advisory, legal, accounting, valuation and pre-close and other costs, are typically expensed in the periods in which the costs are incurred and are recorded in selling, general and administrative expenses within the statement of operations. The results of operations of acquired businesses are included in the Consolidated Financial Statements from the acquisition date.
Impairment
We assess long‐lived assets, identifiable intangible assets and goodwill for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable. With respect to goodwill and identifiable intangible assets having indefinite lives, we test for impairment on an annual basis or in interim periods if an event occurs or circumstances change that may indicate the fair value is below its carrying amount. Factors we consider important, which could trigger an impairment review, include the following: (a) significant underperformance relative to expected historical or projected future operating results; (b) significant changes in the manner of our use of the acquired assets or the strategy for our overall business; and (c) significant negative industry or economic trends. We review the fair values using the discounted cash flows method and market multiples.
When performing our evaluation of goodwill for impairment, if we conclude qualitatively that it is not more likely than not that the fair value of the reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, then a quantitative impairment test would not be required. If we are unable to reach this conclusion, then we would perform a quantitative impairment test. In performing the quantitative impairment test, the fair value of the reporting unit is compared to its carrying amount. A charge for impairment is recognized by the amount by which the reporting unit’s carrying amount exceeds its fair value, not to exceed the total amount of goodwill allocated to the reporting unit.
Identifiable intangible assets having indefinite lives are reviewed for impairment on an annual basis using a methodology similar with that used to evaluate goodwill. Intangible assets having definite lives and other long-lived assets are reviewed for impairment whenever events such as product discontinuance, plant closures, product dispositions or other changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable. In reviewing intangible assets having definite lives and other long-lived assets for impairment, we compare the carrying value of such assets to the estimated undiscounted future cash flows expected from the use of the assets and their eventual disposition. When the estimated undiscounted future cash flows are less than their carrying amount, an impairment loss is recognized equal to the difference between the assets fair value and their carrying value.
There are inherent assumptions and estimates used in developing future cash flows requiring our judgment in applying these assumptions and estimates to the analysis of identifiable intangibles and long‐lived asset impairment including projecting revenues, interest rates, tax rates and the cost of capital. Many of the factors used in assessing fair value are outside our control and it is reasonably likely that assumptions and estimates will change in future periods. These changes can result in future impairments. In the event our planning assumptions were modified resulting in impairment to our assets, we would be required to include an expense in our statement of operations, which could materially impact our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Foreign Currency Translation
Assets and liabilities of our foreign operations are translated into U.S. dollars at year-end exchange rates. Income statement accounts are translated using the average exchange rates prevailing during the year. The resulting translation adjustments are recorded as a separate component of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) and remain there until the underlying foreign operation is liquidated or substantially disposed of. Foreign currency transaction gains or losses are recorded in other non-operating income (expense), net in our statement of operations.
Revenue Recognition
We derive our revenue primarily from vehicle aftermarket sales in our Vehicle Control, Temperature Control and Nissens Automotive segments, and non-aftermarket sales in our Engineered Solutions Segment. We recognize revenues when our performance obligation has been satisfied and the control of products has been transferred to a customer which typically occurs upon shipment. Revenue is measured as the amount of consideration we expect to receive in exchange for the transfer of goods or provision of services. The amount of consideration we receive and revenue we recognize depends on the marketing incentives, product warranty and overstock returns we offer to our customers. For certain of our sales of remanufactured products, we also charge our customers a deposit for the return of a used core component which we can use
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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
in our future remanufacturing activities. Such deposit is not recognized as revenue at the time of the sale but rather carried as a core liability. At the same time, we estimate the core expected to be returned from the customer and record the estimated return as unreturned customer inventory. The liability is extinguished when a core is actually returned to us, or at period end when we estimate and recognize revenue for the core deposits not expected to be returned. We estimate and record provisions for cash discounts, quantity rebates, sales returns and warranties in the period the sale is recorded, based upon our prior experience and current trends. Significant management judgments and estimates are made in estimating sales returns and allowances relating to revenue recognized in any accounting period.
Product Warranty and Overstock Returns
Many of our products carry a warranty ranging from a 90-day limited warranty to a lifetime limited warranty, which generally covers defects in materials or workmanship and failure to meet industry published specifications and/or the result of installation error. In addition to warranty returns, we also permit our customers to return new, undamaged products to us within customer-specific limits (which are generally limited to a specified percentage of their annual purchases from us) in the event that they have overstocked their inventories. At the time products are sold, we accrue a liability for product warranties and overstock returns as a percentage of sales based upon estimates established using historical information on the nature, frequency and average cost of the claim and the probability of the customer return. At the same time, we record an estimate of anticipated customer returns as unreturned customer inventory. Significant judgments and estimates are made in connection with establishing the sales returns and other allowances in any accounting period. Revision to these estimates is made when necessary, based upon changes in these factors. We regularly study trends of such claims.
New Customer Acquisition Costs
New customer acquisition costs refer to arrangements pursuant to which we incur change-over costs to induce a new customer to switch from a competitor’s brand. In addition, change-over costs include the costs related to removing the new customer’s inventory and replacing it with our inventory commonly referred to as a stock lift. New customer acquisition costs are recorded as a reduction to revenue when incurred.
Selling, General and Administration Expenses
Selling, general and administration expenses include shipping costs and advertising, which are expensed as incurred. Shipping and handling charges, as well as freight to customers, are included in distribution expenses as part of selling, general and administration expenses.
Accounting for Income Taxes
Income taxes are calculated using the asset and liability method. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined based on the estimated future tax effects of temporary differences between the financial statement carrying amounts and the tax bases of assets and liabilities, as measured by the current enacted tax rates.
We maintain valuation allowances when it is more likely than not that all or a portion of a deferred asset will not be realized. In determining whether a valuation allowance is warranted, we consider all positive and negative evidence and all sources of taxable income such as prior earnings history, expected future earnings, carryback and carryforward periods and tax strategies to estimate if sufficient future taxable income will be generated to realize the deferred tax asset. The assessment of the adequacy of our valuation allowance is based on our estimates of taxable income by jurisdiction in which we operate and the period over which our deferred tax assets will be recoverable. In the event that actual results differ from these estimates, or we adjust these estimates in future periods for current trends or expected changes in our estimating assumptions, we may need to modify the level of valuation allowance which could materially impact our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Tax benefits are recognized for an uncertain tax position when, in management’s judgment, it is more likely than not that the position will be sustained upon examination by a taxing authority. For a tax position that meets the more-likely-than-not recognition threshold, the tax benefit is measured as the largest amount that is judged to have a greater than 50% likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement with a taxing authority. The liability associated with unrecognized tax benefits is adjusted periodically due to changing circumstances and when new information becomes available. Such adjustments are recognized entirely in the period in which they are identified.
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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
Asbestos Litigation
In evaluating our potential asbestos-related liability, we have considered various factors including, among other things, an actuarial study of the asbestos related liabilities performed by an independent actuarial firm, our settlement amounts and whether there are any co-defendants, the jurisdiction in which lawsuits are filed, and the status and results of such claims. As is our accounting policy, we consider the advice of actuarial consultants with experience in assessing asbestos-related liabilities to estimate our potential claim liability; and perform an actuarial evaluation in the third quarter of each year and whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that additional provisions may be necessary. The methodology used to project asbestos-related liabilities and costs in our actuarial study considered: (i) historical data available from publicly available studies; (ii) an analysis of our recent claims history to estimate likely filing rates into the future; (iii) an analysis of our currently pending claims; (iv) an analysis of our settlements and awards of asbestos-related damages to date; and (v) an analysis of closed claims with pay ratios and lag patterns in order to develop average future settlement values. Based on the information contained in the actuarial study and all other available information considered by us, we have concluded that no amount within the range of settlement payments and awards of asbestos-related damages was more likely than any other and, therefore, in assessing our asbestos liability we compare the low end of the range to our recorded liability to determine if an adjustment is required. Future legal costs are expensed as incurred and reported in earnings (loss) from discontinued operations in the accompanying statement of operations.
We plan to perform an annual actuarial evaluation during the third quarter of each year for the foreseeable future and whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that additional provisions may be necessary. Given the uncertainties associated with projecting such matters into the future and other factors outside our control, we can give no assurance that additional provisions will not be required. We will continue to monitor events and changes in circumstances surrounding these potential liabilities in determining whether to perform additional actuarial evaluations and whether additional provisions may be necessary. At the present time, however, we do not believe that any additional provisions would be reasonably likely to have a material adverse effect on our liquidity or consolidated financial position.
Loss Contingencies
We have loss contingencies, for such matters as legal claims and legal proceedings. Establishing loss reserves for these matters requires estimates, judgment of risk exposure and ultimate liability. We record provisions when the liability is considered probable and reasonably estimable. Significant judgment is required for both the determination of probability and the determination as to whether an exposure can be reasonably estimated. We maintain an ongoing monitoring and identification process to assess how the activities are progressing against the accrued estimated costs. As additional information becomes available, we reassess our potential liability related to these matters. Adjustments to the liabilities are recorded in the statement of operations in the period when additional information becomes available. Such revisions of the potential liabilities could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations.
Concentrations of Credit Risk
Financial instruments that potentially subject us to significant concentrations of credit risk consist principally of cash investments, accounts receivable and derivative financial instruments used to reduce our market risk for changes in interest rates on our variable rate borrowings. We place our cash investments with high quality financial institutions and limit the amount of credit exposure to any one institution. Derivative financial instruments used to reduce our market risk for changes in interest rates on our variable rate borrowings are entered into with high quality financial institutions, with their credit worthiness reviewed on a quarterly basis. Although we are directly affected by developments in the vehicle parts industry, management does not believe significant credit risk exists.
With respect to accounts receivable, such receivables are primarily from warehouse distributors and major retailers in the automotive aftermarket industry located in the U.S. We perform ongoing credit evaluations of our customers’ financial conditions. A significant portion of our net sales are concentrated from our three largest individual customers. The loss of one or more of these customers or, a significant reduction in purchases of our products from any one of them, could have a materially adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
For further information on net sales to our three largest customers and our concentration our customer risk, see Note 21, “Industry Segment and Geographic Data.”
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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
Foreign Cash Balances
Substantially all of the cash and cash equivalents, including foreign cash balances, at December 31, 2024 and 2023 were uninsured. Foreign cash balances at December 31, 2024 and 2023 were $42.5 million and $30.5 million, respectively.
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities
We occasionally use derivative financial instruments to reduce our market risk for changes in interest rates on our variable rate borrowings. Derivative financial instruments are recorded at fair value in other current and long-term assets, and other current and long-term liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets. For derivative financial instruments that have been formally designated as cash flow hedges, provided that the hedging instrument is highly effective, the entire change in the fair value of the derivative will be deferred and recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income (“AOCI”) in the consolidated balance sheets. When the underlying hedged transaction is realized (i.e., when the interest payments on the underlying borrowing are recognized in the consolidated statements of operations), the gain/loss included in AOCI is recorded in earnings and reflected on the same line as the gain/loss on the hedged item attributable to the hedged risk (i.e., interest expense for cash flow hedges of interest rate risk). At the inception of each transaction, we formally document the hedge relationship, including the identification of the hedge instrument, the related hedged items, the effectiveness of the hedge, as well as its risk management objectives and strategies.
Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements
ASU 2023-07, Segment Reporting (Topic 280): Improvements to Reportable Segment Disclosures
In November 2023, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued ASU 2023-07, Segment Reporting (Topic 280): Improvements to Reportable Segment Disclosures. This accounting standards update improves segment disclosure requirements, primarily through expanding the disclosures to include significant segment expenses incurred by the business. To achieve these disclosures the following items are required by ASU 2023-07: (i) significant segment expenses that are regularly provided to the chief operating decision maker (“CODM”) and included within each reported measure of segment profit or loss; (ii) the amount and description of the composition of other segment items to reconcile to segment profit and loss; and (iii) the CODM’s title and position and how the CODM uses the reported segment measures to allocate resources. Additionally, ASU 2023-07 requires interim disclosures of all reportable segment profit or loss and assets previously required annually by Topic 280. This ASU is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2023 and as such we have expanded our disclosures in Note 21, "Industry Segment and Geographic Data," of the notes to our consolidated financial statements and recast comparative periods.
Standards that are not yet adopted as of December 31, 2024
ASU 2023-09, Income Taxes (Topic 270): Improvements to Income Tax Disclosures
In December 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-09, Income Taxes (Topic 270): Improvements to Income Tax Disclosures. This accounting standards update will improve transparency and decision making usefulness of income tax disclosures. ASU 2023-09 will expand the annual required income effective tax rate reconciliation disclosures to include disclosure of (i) eight specific categories of rate reconciling items; (ii) additional information for reconciling items that meet or exceed a quantitative threshold; and (iii) expand the required disclosures to include reconciling percentages as well as reported
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amounts. Additionally, ASU 2023-09 will expand required interim and annual disclosures of income taxes paid to include the disaggregation by federal, state and foreign jurisdictions, with expanded disclosures required annually.
The ASU is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2024, which for us is January 1, 2025, with full retrospective application required to all prior periods presented. Early adoption is permitted.
We are currently evaluating the full impact of adopting ASU 2023-09 on our consolidated financial statements, disclosures, processes and controls. We will adopt the guidance when it becomes effective.
ASU 2024-03, Income Statement - Reporting Comprehensive Income - Expense Disaggregation Disclosures (Subtopic 220-40)
In November 2024, the FASB issued ASU 2024-03, Income Statement - Reporting Comprehensive Income - Expense Disaggregation Disclosures (Subtopic 220-40). This accounting standards update seeks to provide investors and users of the financial statements with clearer information regarding companies' cost structures by disaggregating expense line items in the income statement. ASU 2024-03 requires the following disclosures, in tabular format in the notes to the financial statements for public business entities, at each interim and annual reporting period: (a) purchases of inventory, (b) employee compensation, (c) depreciation, (d) intangible asset amortization, (e) depreciation, depletion, and amortization recognized as part of oil and gas producing activities that are already included in each relevant expense caption. The ASU defines a relevant expense caption as an expense caption presented on the face of the income statement within continuing operations that contains any of the expense categories listed in (a)–(e).
Furthermore, the ASU requires the disclosure table to include (i) certain amounts that are already required to be disclosed
under U.S. GAAP in the same disclosure as the other disaggregation requirements, (ii) a qualitative description of the amounts remaining in relevant expense captions that are not separately disaggregated quantitatively, and (iii) the total amount of selling expenses and, in annual reporting periods, an entity’s definition of selling expenses.
ASU 2024-03 is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2026 and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2027, which for us is January 1, 2027 and January 1, 2028, respectively. The requirements will be applied prospectively with the option for retrospective application. Early adoption is permitted.
This new standard, once adopted, will require us to disclose expenses in a more detailed and granular way than we do in these consolidated financial statements. We are currently evaluating the full impact of adopting ASU 2024-03 on our consolidated financial statements, disclosures, processes and controls. We will adopt the guidance when it becomes effective.
We have reviewed all other recently issued accounting pronouncements and concluded they were either not applicable or not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
2. Business Combinations
Acquisition of Nissens Automotive
On November 1, 2024, we acquired all the issued and outstanding shares of European automotive aftermarket parts supplier, AX V Nissens III ApS (now known as SMP Nissens III ApS) and its direct and indirect subsidiaries (“Nissens Automotive”) for €366.8 million (approximately $397.1 million), the purchase price consideration, from Nordic private equity firm, Axcel V K/S, and the Nissen family. The acquired Nissens Automotive business was paid for with cash funded by borrowing from our revolving credit facility and term loans, under the 2024 Credit Agreement. The acquisition of Nissens Automotive, a leading European supplier of thermal management and engine efficiency products for the automotive aftermarket, aligns with our strategy to become an aftermarket leader in North America and Europe across our key product categories. Through this acquisition, we will take advantage of collaboration for growth through cross-selling
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opportunities as well as bi-directional synergies with significant savings potential. The Nissens Automotive operating segment was created in the fourth quarter as a result of the acquisition.
As of February 27, 2025, the purchase price allocation is considered preliminary and was based upon a preliminary valuation. The primary areas of the preliminary purchase price allocation that are not yet finalized relate to the valuation of identifiable intangible assets acquired.
We determined the fair value of acquired intangible assets using the multi-period excess earnings method and the relief-from-royalty method under the income approach for customer relationships and trade names, respectively. These methods generally forecast expected future net cash flows discretely associated with each of the identified intangible assets and adjust the forecasts to present value by applying a discount rate intended to reflect risk factors associated with the cash flows and the time value of money.
In addition to the consideration transferred to complete the transaction, we incurred closing and other acquisition related costs of $8 million recorded as selling, general and administrative costs within the statement of operations during the year ended December 31, 2024.
The following table summarizes the allocation of the acquisition purchase consideration to the identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on their fair values (in thousands):
Total purchase consideration(a) $ 397,111
Cash and cash equivalents 24,620
Accounts receivable 48,460
Unreturned customer inventories 1,820
Prepaid expenses and other current assets 1,033
Property, plant and equipment 29,048
Operating lease right-of-use assets 8,625
Customer relationships intangibles(c) 150,400
Other intangibles(c) 78,871
Other assets 407
Current portion of term loan and other debt 1,749
Sundry payables and accrued expenses 19,836
Accrued customer returns 3,360
Payroll and commissions 3,294
Noncurrent operating lease liabilities 5,501
Other accrued liabilities 1,371
Deferred tax liabilities 37,870
Total liabilities assumed 146,704
(a) Total purchase consideration is the cash paid of $397.1 million for the acquisition.
(b) Goodwill is deductible for tax purposes
(c) Intangible assets comprise of capitalized computer software of $2.2 million and the following preliminary valuation of identifiable intangible assets (in thousands):
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Gross Carrying Amount Weighted-Average Useful Life (in Years)
Trade names - Nissens & AVA 75,600 Indefinite
Unaudited Supplemental Pro Forma Financial Information
The following unaudited supplemental pro forma information presents the combined results of operations for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively, as if the Nissens Automotive acquisition was completed on January 1, 2023. The pro forma financial information presented below is for illustrative purposes and is not indicative of the operating results that would have been realized if the acquisition had been completed on January 1, 2023, nor is it indicative of future operating results (in thousands):
Year Ended December 31,
The unaudited supplemental pro forma financial information includes adjustments for (i) amortization and depreciation totaling $3.4 million and $4.1 million for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively, that would have been recognized for the acquired intangible assets and the fair value adjustment of property, plant and equipment; (ii) amortization expense for deferred financing costs of $14.5 million and $18.2 million for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively and (iii) the estimated income tax benefit on the unaudited pro forma financial adjustments.
The unaudited supplemental pro forma financial information assumes that the following were incurred during the year ended December 31, 2023: (i) $9.4 million for amortization of the inventory fair-value adjustment, (ii) $1.6 million for acquisition related transaction costs, (iii) $1.8 million for employee retention bonus expense and (iv) the related estimated income tax benefits. The pro forma financial information does not reflect any expected revenue or cost synergies.
Increase in Equity Investment - Foshan GWO YNG SMP Vehicle Climate Control & Cooling Products Co. Ltd. (2023)
In July 2023, we acquired an additional 15% equity interest in our 65% owned joint venture, Foshan GWO YNG SMP Vehicle Climate Control & Cooling Products Co. Ltd. (“Gwo Yng”), for Chinese renminbi ("RMB") 27,378,290 (approximately $4 million), thereby increasing our equity interest in Gwo Yng to 80%. In connection with the transaction, we amended and restated the charter documents of Gwo Yng to remove all minority shareholder substantive participating rights, giving SMP control of Gwo Yng. As a result, as of the closing date of the transaction, Gwo Yng was accounted for as a business combination achieved in stages (“a step acquisition”). Accordingly, commencing on the closing of the transaction, we reported the results of Gwo Yng on a consolidated basis with the minority ownership interest reported as a noncontrolling interest.
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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
The following table summarizes the allocation of the total step acquisition purchase consideration to the identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on their fair values (in thousands):
Total purchase consideration(a) $ 21,725
Assets acquired and liabilities assumed:
Cash and cash equivalents $ 6,779
Other current assets 528
Property, plant and equipment 2,924
Operating lease right-of-use assets 4,372
Intangible assets(b) 532
Long term investments and other assets 7,257
Current liabilities (6,004)
Noncurrent operating lease liabilities (3,455)
Fair value of acquired noncontrolling interest (5,273)
Total purchase consideration allocated to net assets acquired $ 21,725
(a) Total purchase consideration is the sum of the fair value of the previously held equity investment interest in Gwo Yng of $17.7 million and the cash paid of $4 million for the acquisition of the additional 15% equity ownership interest.
(b) Intangible assets consists of customer relationships of $0.4 million that will be amortized on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful life of 10 years and capitalized software of $0.1 million.
Goodwill of $2.2 million was allocated to the Temperature Control and Engineered Solutions segments in the amounts of $1.2 million and $1 million, respectively.
3. Restructuring and Integration Expenses
Separation Program
During the second quarter of 2024 we offered a voluntary retirement incentive package of severance and other benefit enhancements to eligible employees in the United States and Canada as part of our commitment to optimizing our cost structure and providing professional development opportunities to our employees. The offer period ended on June 14, 2024. During the third quarter of 2024, we expanded the program to include involuntary separations. Costs primarily comprise of compensation expense and enhanced medical benefits, and are charged to restructuring and integration expenses in our statement of operations as a one-time termination benefit. Voluntary retirement incentive costs were recognized when the employee accepted the offer or are being recognized over their remaining period of service based on the agreed retirement date. We anticipate that the program will be substantially complete by the end of 2027. Additional pre-tax restructuring costs related to the program are expected to be $0.6 million in 2025, $0.1 million in 2026 and an immaterial amount in 2027 for an aggregate cost of approximately $7.7 million.
Activity for year ended December 31, 2024 related to the separation program workforce reduction consisted of the following (in thousands):
Exit activity liability at December 31, 2023 $ —
Restructuring and integration costs:
Amounts provided for during 2024 (a) 7,116
Cash payments (2,485)
Stock-based compensation 150
Foreign currency translation (5)
Exit activity liability at December 31, 2024 $ 4,776
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(a) Restructuring and integration expenses incurred during the year ended December 31, 2024 consist of $3.8 million in our Vehicle Control segment, $0.8 million in our Temperature Control segment, $0.8 million in our Engineered Solutions segment and $1.7 million in our Other segment.
Cost Reduction Initiative
During the fourth quarter of 2022, to further our ongoing efforts to improve operating efficiencies and reduce costs, we announced plans for a reduction in our sales force, and initiated plans to relocate certain product lines from our Independence, Kansas manufacturing facility and from our St. Thomas, Canada manufacturing facility to our manufacturing facilities in Reynosa, Mexico. The cumulative restructuring expenses incurred to date for the program are $4.6 million. We anticipate that the Cost Reduction Initiative will be substantially completed by the end of 2026. Additional restructuring costs related to the initiative are expected to be immaterial.
Activity for the year ended ended December 31, 2024 related to the cost reduction initiative consisted of the following (in thousands):
WorkforceReduction Other ExitCosts Total
Restructuring and integration costs:
Reclassification of environmental liability — (92) (92)
Foreign currency translation 38 — 38
Restructuring and integration costs:
Foreign currency translation (28) — (28)
(a) Includes $0.1 million of integration expenses recognized and cash payments made for the Particulate Matter Sensor Product Line Relocation program related to the relocation of inventory and equipment in connection with the 2021 acquisitions of certain product lines. The program was completed in 2022.
(b) Restructuring and integration expenses incurred during the year ended December 31, 2024 consist of $0.4 million in our Vehicle Control segment, $0.1 million in our Temperature Control segment and an immaterial amount in our Engineered Solutions segment.
Restructuring and integration activities are included within "sundry payables and accrued expenses" and "other current liabilities" in the consolidated balance sheet.
4. Sale of Receivables
We are party to several supply chain financing arrangements, in which we may sell certain of our customers’ trade accounts receivable to such customers’ financial institutions. We sell our undivided interests in certain of these receivables at our discretion when we determine that the cost of these arrangements is less than the cost of servicing our receivables with existing debt. Under the terms of the agreements, we retain no rights or interest, have no obligations with respect to the sold receivables, and do not service the receivables after the sale. As such, these transactions are accounted for as a sale.
Pursuant to these agreements, we sold $884.7 million and $830.8 million of receivables for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. Receivables presented at financial institutions and not yet collected as of December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023 were approximately $5.8 million and $4.5 million, respectively, and remained in our accounts receivable balance for those periods. All receivables sold were reflected as a reduction of accounts receivable in the consolidated balance sheet at the time of sale. A charge in the amount of $48.5 million, $46 million and $32 million related
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to the sale of receivables is included in selling, general and administrative expenses in our consolidated statements of operations for the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
To the extent that these arrangements are terminated, our financial condition, results of operations, cash flows and liquidity could be adversely affected by extended payment terms, delays or failures in collecting trade accounts receivables. The utility of the supply chain financing arrangements also depends upon a benchmark reference rate for the purpose of determining the discount rate applicable to each arrangement. If the benchmark reference rate increases significantly, we may be negatively impacted as we may not be able to pass these added costs on to our customers, which could have a material and adverse effect upon our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
5. Inventories
December 31,
6. Property, Plant and Equipment
December 31,
Depreciation expense was $20.6 million in 2024, $19.7 million in 2023 and $19 million in 2022.
7. Leases
We have operating and finance leases for our manufacturing facilities, warehouses, office space, automobiles, and certain equipment. Our leases have remaining lease terms of up to ten years, some of which may include one or more five-year renewal options. We have not included any of the renewal options in our operating lease payments, as we concluded that it is not reasonably certain that we will exercise any of these renewal options. Leases with an initial term of twelve months or
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less are not recorded on the balance sheet. Operating lease expense is recognized on a straight-line basis over the lease term. Finance leases are not material.
The following tables provide quantitative disclosures related to our operating leases and includes all operating leases acquired from the date of the acquisition (in thousands, except where otherwise indicated):
Year Ended December 31,
Assets
Liabilities
Sundry payables and accrued expenses $ 19,992 $ 17,139
Noncurrent operating lease liabilities 98,214 88,974
Weighted Average Remaining Lease Term 7.7 years 8.3 years
Weighted Average Discount Rate 5.0 % 4.8%
Year Ended December 31,
Lease Expense
Variable and other lease expense(a) 3,907 3,272
(a) Variable and other lease expense relate to non-lease components such as maintenance, property taxes, etc., and operating lease expense for leases with an initial term of 12 months or less which are not material.
Year Ended December 31,
Supplemental Cash Flow Information
(a)During the year ended December 31, 2024 includes $4.7 millionof right-of-use assets related to the lease modification and extension for our manufacturing facility in Bialystok, Poland and$10.8 millionof right-of-use assets related to the new lease agreement for our manufacturing facility in Reynosa, Mexico.
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Minimum Lease Payments
At December 31, 2024, we are obligated to make minimum lease payments through 2034, under operating leases, which are as follows (in thousands):
Present value of lease liabilities $ 118,206
8. Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets
We completed our annual impairment test of goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets as of December 31, 2024. As of December 31, 2024, we qualitatively assessed whether it was more likely than not that the fair value of any of our reporting units was less than carrying value, and concluded that the quantitative impairment test would not be required, and no goodwill impairment charge was required as of December 31, 2024. While we concluded that we did not have a goodwill impairment charge as of December 31, 2024, and we do not believe that future impairments are probable, we will need to maintain the current ongoing performance levels at each of our reporting units in future periods to sustain their goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets carrying values.
In connection with our operating segment reorganization on January 1, 2023, we reassessed our reporting units and reallocated goodwill from the reporting units that existed prior to the change to the new reporting units, using a relative fair value approach similar to that used when a portion of a reporting unit is to be disposed of. We performed goodwill impairment tests as of January 1, 2023 on both the reporting units in place prior to the change and the new reporting units, and concluded that the estimated fair values of each of the reporting units exceeded their respective carrying amounts and, therefore, no impairment charge was necessary.
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Goodwill
Changes in the carrying values of goodwill by reporting unit during the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023 are as follows (in thousands):
VehicleControl TemperatureControl Engineered Solutions Nissens Automotive Total
Balance as of December 31, 2022:
Accumulated impairment losses (38,488) — — — (38,488)
Balance as of December 31, 2023:
Accumulated impairment losses (38,488) — — — (38,488)
Balance as of December 31, 2024:
Accumulated impairment losses (38,488) — — — (38,488)
Acquired Intangible Assets
Acquired identifiable intangible assets as of December 31, 2024 and 2023 consist of (in thousands):
December 31,
Patents, developed technology and intellectual property 14,123 14,123
(a) Applies to all intangible assets, except for trademarks/trade names totaling $74.9 million, which have indefinite useful lives and, as such, are not being amortized.
Total amortization expense for acquired intangible assets was $10 million for the year ended December 31, 2024, $8.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2023, and $8.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2022.
The following table summarizes the amortization expense on our intangible assets and the estimated amortization expenses in future periods based on the current estimated useful lives assigned to our intangible assets (in thousands):
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Amortization Expense(a)
(a) Estimated amortization expenses based on the current estimated useful lives assigned to our intangible assets
For information related to identified intangible assets acquired in the Nissens acquisition, see Note 2, “Business Acquisitions and Investments,” of the notes to our consolidated financial statements.
Other Intangible Assets
Other intangible assets include computer software. Computer software as of December 31, 2024 and 2023 totaled $21.4 million and $19.1 million, respectively. Total accumulated computer software amortization as of December 31, 2024 and 2023 was $18.3 million and $18.0 million, respectively. Computer software is amortized over its estimated useful life of 3 to 10 years. Amortization expense for computer software was $0.8 million, $0.8 million and $0.7 million for the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
9. Investments in Unconsolidated Affiliates
December 31,
Foshan FGD SMP Automotive Compressor Co. Ltd. $ 19,994 $ 18,426
Foshan Che Yijia New Energy Technology Co., Ltd. 2,401 3,128
Investment in Foshan FGD SMP Automotive Compressor Co. Ltd.
In November 2017, we formed Foshan FGD SMP Automotive Compressor Co., Ltd., a 50/50 joint venture with Foshan Guangdong Automotive Air Conditioning Co., Ltd. (“FGD”), a manufacturer of automotive belt driven air conditioning compressors based in China. We acquired our 50% interest in the joint venture for approximately $12.5 million. We determined that due to a lack of a voting majority, and other qualitative factors, we do not control the operations of the joint venture and accordingly, our investment in the joint venture is accounted for under the equity method of accounting. During the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, we made purchases from the joint venture of approximately $60 million and $44.1 million, respectively.
Investment in Foshan Che Yijia New Energy Technology Co., Ltd.
In August 2019, we acquired an approximate 29% minority interest in Foshan Che Yijia New Energy Technology Co., Ltd. (“CYJ”), a manufacturer of automotive electric air conditioning compressors based in China, for approximately $5.1 million. In October 2022, we acquired an additional 3.55% equity interest in CYJ for RMB 1.7 million (approximately $242,000), increasing our interest to approximately 33%. Our minority interest in CYJ is accounted for using the equity method of accounting. During the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, purchases we made from CYJ were not material.
In December 2021, Standard Motor Products (Hong Kong), Ltd., (“SMP HK”), a subsidiary of Standard Motor Products, Inc., entered into an unsecured loan agreement with CYJ. Under the terms of the loan agreement, CYJ shall have the right to borrow from SMP HK, as lender, up to an aggregate principal amount of $4 million, with interest calculated on the basis of simple interest of five percent (5%) per annum and a maturity date of November 30, 2023, subject to extension by SMP HK at its sole discretion. In September 2023, the loan agreement was extended through November 30, 2025. Outstanding borrowings under the loan agreement at December 31, 2024 were $4.0 million.
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Investment in Orange Electronic Co. Ltd.