10-Q 1 d10q.htm FORM 10-Q Form 10-Q

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, D. C. 20549

 


FORM 10-Q

 


 

x QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the quarterly period ended December 29, 2006

Commission file number 0-26188

 


PALM HARBOR HOMES, INC.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 


 

Florida   59-1036634
(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)
  (I.R.S. Employer
Identification Number)

15303 Dallas Parkway, Suite 800, Addison, Texas 75001-4600

(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip code)

972-991-2422

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

 


Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports) and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.    Yes  x    No  ¨.

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, or a non-accelerated filer. See definition of “accelerated filer and large accelerated filer” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

Large accelerated filer  ¨    Accelerated filer  x    Non-accelerated filer  ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).    Yes  ¨    No  x

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer’s classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date.

Shares of common stock $.01 par value, outstanding on February 5, 2007 – 22,851,793.

 



PALM HARBOR HOMES, INC.

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(in thousands)

 

     December 29,
2006
    March 31,
2006
 
     (Unaudited)     (Note 1)  

Assets

    

Cash and cash equivalents

   $ 47,850     $ 73,407  

Restricted cash

     29,996       18,207  

Investments

     21,984       24,744  

Trade receivables

     34,907       50,553  

Consumer loans receivable, net

     215,802       167,466  

Inventories

     140,007       149,568  

Prepaid expenses and other assets

     14,097       14,014  

Deferred income taxes

     12,311       11,120  

Property, plant and equipment, net

     62,864       65,512  

Goodwill

     78,506       78,506  
                

Total assets

   $ 658,324     $ 653,097  
                

Liabilities and shareholders’ equity

    

Accounts payable

   $ 16,995     $ 31,120  

Accrued liabilities

     77,844       103,253  

Floor plan payable

     43,959       37,908  

Warehouse revolving debt

     91,372       37,413  

Securitized financing

     94,727       105,379  

Convertible senior notes

     75,000       75,000  
                

Total liabilities

     399,897       390,073  

Commitments and contingencies

    

Shareholders’ equity:

    

Common stock, $.01 par value

     239       239  

Additional paid-in capital

     54,149       54,149  

Retained earnings

     220,516       224,854  

Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)

     (284 )     114  
                
     274,620       279,356  

Less treasury shares

     (15,896 )     (16,200 )

Unearned compensation

     (297 )     (132 )
                

Total shareholders’ equity

     258,427       263,024  
                

Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity

   $ 658,324     $ 653,097  
                

See accompanying notes.

 

1


PALM HARBOR HOMES, INC.

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

(in thousands, except per share data)

(Unaudited)

 

     Three Months Ended     Nine Months Ended  
    

December 29,

2006

   

December 30,

2005

   

December 29,

2006

    December 30,
2005
 

Net sales

   $ 151,402     $ 193,193     $ 525,341     $ 530,359  

Cost of sales

     115,568       143,368       397,394       394,665  

Selling, general and administrative expenses

     36,577       40,909       122,857       118,882  
                                

Income (loss) from operations

     (743 )     8,916       5,090       16,812  

Interest expense

     (4,174 )     (2,916 )     (11,298 )     (8,691 )

Impairment of limited partnership

     —         —         (4,385 )     —    

Equity in earnings (loss) of limited partnership

     —         200       (324 )     1,229  

Interest income and other

     1,249       957       3,545       3,763  
                                

Income (loss) before income taxes

     (3,668 )     7,157       (7,372 )     13,113  

Income tax benefit (expense)

     1,052       (2,885 )     3,033       (5,199 )
                                

Net income (loss)

   $ (2,616 )   $ 4,272     $ (4,339 )   $ 7,914  
                                

Net income (loss) per common share:

        

Basic

   $ (0.11 )   $ 0.19     $ (0.19 )   $ 0.35  
                                

Assuming dilution

   $ (0.11 )   $ 0.18     $ (0.19 )   $ 0.35  
                                

Weighted average common shares outstanding:

        

Basic

     22,852       22,832       22,852       22,832  
                                

Assuming dilution

     22,852       25,726       22,852       22,832  
                                

See accompanying notes.

 

2


PALM HARBOR HOMES, INC.

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(in thousands)

(Unaudited)

 

     Nine Months Ended  
     December 29,
2006
    December 30,
2005
 

Operating Activities

    

Net income (loss)

   $ (4,339 )   $ 7,914  

Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash used in operating activities:

    

Depreciation and amortization

     7,068       8,444  

Provision for credit losses

     2,911       2,486  

Loss (gain) on disposition of assets

     717       (1,540 )

Gain on sale of short-term investments

     (345 )     —    

Provision for long-term incentive plan

     139       73  

Impairment of limited partnership

     4,385       —    

Deferred income taxes

     (1,191 )     (305 )

Equity in loss (earnings) of limited partnership

     324       (1,229 )

Changes in operating assets and liabilities:

    

Restricted cash

     (11,789 )     (2,816 )

Trade receivables

     15,646       (3,334 )

Consumer loans originated for investment

     (71,248 )     (40,043 )

Principal payments on consumer loans originated

     20,001       15,167  

Inventories

     9,561       (3,631 )

Prepaid expenses and other assets

     (5,454 )     (1,475 )

Accounts payable and accrued expenses

     (39,265 )     20,212  
                

Net cash used in operating activities

     (72,879 )     (77 )

Investing Activities

    

Purchases of property, plant and equipment, net of proceeds from disposition

     (4,478 )     (1,961 )

Purchases of investments

     (6,758 )     (8,232 )

Sales of investments

     9,200       3,984  
                

Net cash used in investing activities

     (2,036 )     (6,209 )

Financing Activities

    

Net proceeds from (payments on) floor plan payable

     6,051       (5,640 )

Net proceeds from (payments on) warehouse revolving debt

     53,959       (83,520 )

Proceeds from securitized financing

     —         118,440  

Payments on securitized financing

     (10,652 )     (9,231 )
                

Net cash provided by financing activities

     49,358       20,049  

Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

     (25,557 )     13,763  

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period

     73,407       46,197  
                

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period

   $ 47,850     $ 59,960  
                

Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information:

    

Cash paid during the period for:

    

Interest

   $ 11,070     $ 8,474  

Income taxes

     3,966       3,416  

See accompanying notes.

3


PALM HARBOR HOMES, INC

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(Unaudited)

 

1. Basis of Presentation

The condensed consolidated financial statements reflect all adjustments, which include only normal recurring adjustments, which are, in the opinion of management, necessary for a fair presentation in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles. Certain footnote disclosures normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States have been omitted. The condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the audited financial statements for the year ended March 31, 2006 included in the Company’s Form 10-K. Results of operations for any interim period are not necessarily indicative of results to be expected for a full year.

The balance sheet at March 31, 2006 has been derived from the audited financial statements at that date but does not include all of the information and footnotes required by generally accepted accounting principles for complete financial statements.

Certain accounts were reclassified to consumer loans receivable, net from trade receivables, prepaid expenses and other assets and accrued liabilities in the March 31, 2006 condensed consolidated balance sheet to conform to the current period’s presentation. This reclassification had no effect on previously reported operating income, net earnings or shareholders’ equity.

The Company’s fiscal year ends on the last Friday in March. The three months ended December 29, 2006 contained 13 weeks and the three months ended December 30, 2005 contained 14 weeks. The nine months ended December 29, 2006 contained 39 weeks and the nine months ended December 30, 2005 contained 40 weeks.

 

2. Inventories

Inventories consist of the following (in thousands):

 

     December 29,
2006
   March 31,
2006

Raw materials

   $ 13,498    $ 14,392

Work in process

     11,623      12,752

Finished goods – factory-built

     2,836      3,675

Finished goods – retail

     112,050      118,749
             
   $ 140,007    $ 149,568
             

 

3. Investment in Limited Partnership

In June 2002, the Company invested $3.0 million to become the sole limited partner and 50% owner of an existing mortgage banking firm, BSM Financial L. P. (“BSM”) which was being accounted for using the equity method of accounting.

 

4


PALM HARBOR HOMES, INC

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

(Unaudited)

 

During the second quarter of fiscal year 2007, the Company filed a petition for the dissolution of its partnership with BSM. The investment in BSM of $4.4 million was written off effective September 29, 2006. Subsequent to September 29, 2006, the Company received a countersuit from BSM alleging, among other things, breach of contract and related claims. The Company intends to vigorously defend itself against these claims and pursue its own claims. The revenues and net income (loss) of the limited partnership for the six months ended September 29, 2006 and September 23, 2005 were as follows (in thousands):

 

     Six Months Ended
     September 29,
2006
    September 23,
2005

Revenues

   $ 25,220     $ 28,006

Net income (loss)

     (648 )     2,058

 

4. Consumer Loans Receivable and Allowance for Loan Losses

Consumer loans receivable, net of allowance for loan losses, consist of the following (in thousands):

 

     December 29,     March 31,  
     2006     2006  

Consumer loans receivable

   $ 220,960     $ 174,307  

Land/home loan advances

     8,594       4,346  

Deferred financing costs, net

     (6,266 )     (4,826 )

Allowance for loan losses

     (7,486 )     (6,361 )
                

Consumer loans receivable, net

   $ 215,802     $ 167,466  
                

The allowance for loan losses and related additions and deductions to the allowance during the nine months ended December 29, 2006 and December 30, 2005 are as follows (in thousands):

 

    

December 29,

2006

   

December 30,

2005

 

Allowance for loan losses, beginning of period

   $ 6,361     $ 5,365  

Provision for credit losses

     2,911       2,486  

Loans charged off, net of recoveries

     (1,786 )     (1,525 )
                

Allowance for loan losses, end of period

   $ 7,486     $ 6,326  
                

 

5. Floor Plan Payable

The Company has an agreement with a financial institution for a $70.0 million floor plan facility, expiring March 30, 2009. The advance rate for the facility is 90% of manufacturer’s invoice. This facility is used to finance a portion of the new home inventory at the Company’s retail superstores and is secured by new home inventory and a portion of receivables from financial institutions. The interest rate on the facility is prime (8.25% at December 29, 2006) plus 0.6% or prime plus 1.0% to 3.0% for aged units, of which the Company has none as of December 29, 2006. The floor plan facility contains certain provisions requiring the Company to maintain minimum amounts of liquidity, profitability, inventory turns and tangible

 

5


PALM HARBOR HOMES, INC

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

(Unaudited)

 

 

net worth in order to borrow against the facility. As of December 29, 2006, the Company was not in compliance with the minimum net profitability covenant. The Company is required to maintain a minimum total net profitability of $7.5 million for the most recent four quarters. The Company obtained a waiver from the financial institution for the quarter ended December 29, 2006. In the event the Company is not in compliance with any of its floor plan facility covenants in the future, it would seek a waiver of any default from the lending institution and, if no such waiver was obtained, maturities of outstanding debt could be accelerated. The Company had $44.0 million and $37.9 million outstanding under its floor plan credit facility at December 29, 2006 and March 31, 2006, respectively.

 

6. Debt Obligations

On May 5, 2004, the Company issued $65.0 million aggregate principal amount of 3.25% Convertible Senior Notes due 2024 (the “Notes”) in a private, unregistered offering. Interest on the Notes is payable semi-annually in May and November. On June 8, 2004, the initial purchaser of the Notes exercised its option to purchase an additional $10.0 million aggregate principal amount of the Notes. On September 15, 2004, for the benefit of the Note holders, the Company filed a shelf registration statement covering resales of the Notes and the shares of the Company’s common stock issuable upon the conversion of the Notes. The Notes are senior, unsecured obligations and rank equal in right of payment to all of the Company’s existing and future unsecured and senior indebtedness. Each $1,000 in principal amount of the Notes is convertible, at the option of the holder, at a conversion price of $25.92, or 38.5803 shares of the Company’s common stock upon the satisfaction of certain conditions and contingencies. For the three months ended December 29, 2006 and the nine months ended December 29, 2006 and December 30, 2005, the effect of converting the senior notes to 2,894,000 shares of common stock was anti-dilutive, and was, therefore, not considered in determining diluted earnings per share.

On July 12, 2005, the Company, through its subsidiary CountryPlace, completed its initial securitization for approximately $141.0 million of loans, which was funded by issuing bonds totaling approximately $118.4 million. The bonds were issued in four different classes: Class A-1 totaling $36.3 million with a coupon rate of 4.23%; Class A-2 totaling $27.4 million with a coupon rate of 4.42%; Class A-3 totaling $27.3 million with a coupon rate of 4.80%; and Class A-4 totaling $27.4 million with a coupon rate of 5.20%. Maturity of the bonds is at varying dates beginning in 2006 through 2015 and were issued with a weighted average maturity of 4.66 years. The proceeds from the securitization were used to repay approximately $115.7 million of borrowings on the Company’s warehouse revolving debt with the remaining proceeds being used for general corporate purposes, including originating new loans. For accounting purposes, this transaction was structured as a securitized borrowing.

The Company, through its subsidiary CountryPlace, has an agreement with a financial institution for a $125.0 million warehouse borrowing facility to fund loans originated by CountryPlace. The facility is collateralized by specific consumer loans receivable pledged to the facility and bears interest at the rate of LIBOR (5.375% as of December 29, 2006) plus 1.25%. The facility terminates March 16, 2007; however, amounts outstanding under the facility are effectively settled and re-borrowed on a monthly basis. The Company anticipates that it will renew the facility with similar terms upon expiration in March 2007, although no assurances can be made that it will be successful in this regard. The facility provides for an advance of 88% against the outstanding principal balance of eligible consumer loan receivables and draws at an 80% advance rate against land-home loans in various stages of

 

6


PALM HARBOR HOMES, INC

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

(Unaudited)

 

completion. CountryPlace had outstanding borrowings under the warehouse facility of $91.4 million as of December 29, 2006 and $37.4 million as of March 31, 2006. The facility contains certain requirements relating to the performance and composition of the consumer loans receivable pledged to the facility and financial covenants regarding maintenance of a certain loan delinquency ratio, minimum ratio of liabilities to stockholders’ equity for CountryPlace and a minimum capitalization for CountryPlace, which is customary in the industry. As of December 29, 2006, CountryPlace was in compliance with these requirements. As CountryPlace continues to expand and draw down on its warehouse facility, the Company will fund the difference between the amounts advanced under the warehouse borrowing facility and the balance of any additional loan originations. For CountryPlace to increase its borrowings under the facility to the maximum $125.0 million, CountryPlace would have to originate an additional $40.1 million of new loans, of which $5.6 million would have to be funded through the Company’s operations.

 

7. Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)

The difference between net income (loss) and total comprehensive income (loss) for the three and nine months ended December 29, 2006 and December 30, 2005 is as follows (in thousands):

 

     Three Months Ended     Nine Months Ended  
     December 29,
2006
    December 30,
2005
    December 29,
2006
    December 30,
2005
 

Net income (loss)

   $ (2,616 )   $ 4,272     $ (4,339 )   $ 7,914  

Unrealized gain (loss) on securities available-for- sale, net of tax

     (145 )     (125 )     (394 )     183  

Change in fair value of interest rate hedge, net of tax

     (1 )     —         (4 )     (1,089 )
                                

Comprehensive income (loss)

   $ (2,762 )   $ 4,147     $ (4,737 )   $ 7,008  
                                

 

8. Commitments and Contingencies

The Company is contingently liable under the terms of repurchase agreements covering independent retailers’ floor plan financing. Under such agreements, the Company agrees to repurchase homes at declining prices over the term of the agreement, generally 12 to 18 months. At December 29, 2006, the Company estimates that its potential obligations under all repurchase agreements were approximately $14.3 million. It is management’s opinion that no material loss will occur from the repurchase agreements.

The Company is subject to various legal proceedings and claims that arise in the ordinary course of business. In the opinion of management, the amount of ultimate liability with respect to these actions will not materially affect the financial position or results of operations or cash flows of the Company.

 

9. Accrued Product Warranty Obligations

The Company provides the retail homebuyer a one-year limited warranty covering defects in material or workmanship in home structure, plumbing and electrical systems. The amount of warranty reserves recorded are estimated future warranty costs relating to homes sold, based upon the Company’s assessment of historical experience factors, such as actual number of warranty calls and the average cost per warranty call.

 

7


PALM HARBOR HOMES, INC

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

(Unaudited)

 

The accrued product warranty obligation is classified as accrued liabilities in the condensed consolidated balance sheets. The following table summarizes the accrued product warranty obligations at December 29, 2006 and December 30, 2005 (in thousands):

 

     December 29,
2006
    December 30,
2005
 

Accrued warranty balance, beginning of period

   $ 7,354     $ 5,406  

Net warranty expense provided

     17,634       14,067  

Cash warranty payments

     (19,530 )     (13,705 )
                

Accrued warranty balance, end of period

   $ 5,458     $ 5,768  
                

 

10. Computation of Earnings Per Share

Basic net income (loss) per common share is computed by dividing net income (loss) by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding. Diluted net income (loss) per common share is adjusted for any potential dilutive securities that were outstanding during the period. Potential dilutive securities consist of convertible senior notes, regardless of whether the market price trigger has been met. For the three and nine months ended December 29, 2006, and the nine months ended December 30, 2005, the effect of converting the senior notes to 2,894,000 shares of common stock was anti-dilutive, and was, therefore, not considered in determining diluted earnings per share.

For the three months ended December 30, 2005, basic and diluted earnings per share were calculated as follows:

 

     Three months Ended
    

December 30,

2005

Net income

   $ 4,272

Interest on contingently convertible senior notes, net of tax

     436
      

Net income for diluted earnings per share calculation

   $ 4,708
      

Weighted average number of common shares outstanding – basic

     22,832

Incremental share effect from: Contingently convertible senior notes

     2,894
      

Weighted average number of common shares outstanding – assuming dilution

     25,726
      

Net income per common share:

  

Basic

   $ 0.19

Assuming dilution

   $ 0.18

 

8


PALM HARBOR HOMES, INC

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

(Unaudited)

 

11. New Accounting Pronouncement

In December 2004, the FASB issued Statement No. 123 (revised 2004), “Share-Based Payment” (“SFAS 123R”). SFAS 123R requires that the compensation cost relating to share-based payment transactions, including grants of employee stock options, be recognized in financial statements. That cost will be measured based on the fair value of the equity or liability instruments issued. SFAS 123R permits entities to use any option-pricing model that meets the fair value objective in the statement. The Company adopted SFAS 123R in the first quarter of fiscal 2007. The adoption of the standard did not have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial position or results of operations.

 

12. Business Segment Information

The Company operates principally in two segments: (1) factory-built housing, which includes manufactured housing, modular housing and retail operations and (2) financial services, which includes finance and insurance. The following table details net sales and income (loss) from operations by segment for the three and nine months ended December 29, 2006 and December 30, 2005 (in thousands):

 

     Three Months Ended     Nine Months Ended  
    

December 29,

2006

    December 30,
2005
    December 29,
2006
    December 30,
2005
 

Net sales

        

Factory-built housing

   $ 141,413     $ 185,629     $ 497,604     $ 507,697  

Financial services

     9,989       7,564       27,737       22,662  
                                
   $ 151,402     $ 193,193     $ 525,341     $ 530,359  
                                

Income (loss) from operations

        

Factory-built housing

   $ (629 )   $ 10,339     $ 7,600     $ 21,567  

Financial services

     5,525       3,796       13,832       10,426  

General corporate expenses

     (5,639 )     (5,219 )     (16,342 )     (15,181 )
                                
   $ (743 )   $ 8,916     $ 5,090     $ 16,812  
                                

Interest expense

   $ (4,174 )   $ (2,916 )   $ (11,298 )   $ (8,691 )

Impairment of limited partnership

     —         —         (4,385 )     —    

Equity in earnings (loss) of limited partnership

     —         200       (324 )     1,229  

Interest income and other

     1,249       957       3,545       3,763  
                                

Income (loss) before income taxes

   $ (3,668 )   $ 7,157     $ (7,372 )   $ 13,113  
                                

 

9


PART I. Financial Information

 

Item 1. Financial Statements

See pages 1 through 9.

 

Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

Executive Overview

We are one of the nation’s leading manufacturers and marketers of factory-built homes. We market nationwide through vertically integrated operations, encompassing manufactured and modular housing, chattel financing and insurance. As of December 29, 2006, we operated 15 manufacturing facilities that sell homes through 111 company-owned retail superstores and builder locations and approximately 350 independent retail dealers, builders and developers. Through our 80% owned subsidiary, CountryPlace, we offer chattel and non-conforming land/home loans to purchasers of factory built homes sold by Company-owned retail superstores and certain independent retail dealers, builders and developers. The loans originated through CountryPlace are held for our own investment portfolio and ultimately securitized. We also provide property and casualty insurance for owners of manufactured homes through our wholly-owned subsidiary, Standard Casualty.

During fiscal 2005, we began to serve as a general contractor with respect to virtually all aspects of the sale and construction process in certain regions of the country. This could include foundation work, driveways, landscape installations and other amenities the customer requests to complete the home. During the third quarter of fiscal 2007, we completed 125 jobs for our company-owned retail superstores and builder locations and 55 for independent dealers, builders and developers.

During the third quarter of fiscal 2007, one of our factories was destroyed by a fire. We have business interruption and general liability insurance that will cover the losses. We expect to record the settlement in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2007.

Difficult market conditions have plagued our traditional HUD business for the past seven years. Prior to 2006, the increases in HUD code shipments to Florida, Arizona and California were the main factor in maintaining HUD shipments at approximately 130,000 per year. In 2006, however, the dynamics fueling increased HUD demand in these states changed quickly. Site built homes in these states experienced rapid price appreciation driven by high land cost and speculative building, resulting in excess inventory. This has caused prices to fall and buyers and sellers are postponing their home buying decisions. It has also greatly reduced the number of over age 55 buyers of manufactured housing since they typically must sell their site built home to buy a manufactured home. In the latest three months reported, shipments to Florida, Arizona and California were down nearly 40%.

During the second quarter of fiscal 2007, we reduced our retail housing operations by eight stores and closed one less-than-efficient factory. In response to this challenging marketplace, we have focused on ways to improve our competitive position. The modular housing industry continues to create growth opportunities for us. Our revenues for modular products were up approximately 45 percent through the first nine months of fiscal 2007 and now account for approximately 32 percent of our recurring revenues. Additionally, we are broadening our product lines of both manufactured and modular housing at both ends of the pricing spectrum, we have embarked upon a year-long television advertising campaign designed to reach creditworthy prospects who own rural land, and we continue to aid in building replacement homes for the Gulf Coast.

 

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We will continue to execute our strategy of expanding our consumer financing capabilities through CountryPlace. CountryPlace originated $20.4 million in new chattel loans this quarter. In July 2005, CountryPlace, the only new originator of factory-built housing loans, completed an asset backed securities transaction totaling approximately $141.0 million of loans. We have now accumulated enough new loans and expect to execute a second asset backed securities transaction during the fourth quarter. For the third quarter, 23% of our retail customers were financed by CountryPlace.

During the second quarter of fiscal 2007, we filed a petition for the dissolution of our partnership with BSM Financial, L.P., a conventional real estate mortgage bank of which we are the 50% sole limited partner, and we wrote off our investment in BSM of $4.4 million. Subsequently, we received a countersuit from BSM alleging, among other things, breach of contract and related claims. We intend to vigorously defend ourselves against these claims and pursue our own claims.

The following table sets forth certain items of the Company’s condensed consolidated statements of operations as a percentage of net sales for the periods indicated.

 

     Three Months Ended     Nine Months Ended  
     December 29,
2006
    December 30,
2005
    December 29,
2006
    December 30,
2005
 

Net sales

   100.0 %   100.0 %   100.0 %   100.0 %

Cost of sales

   76.3     74.2     75.6     74.4  
                        

Gross profit

   23.7     25.8     24.4     25.6  

Selling, general and administrative expenses

   24.2     21.2     23.4     22.4  
                        

Income (loss) from operations

   (0.5 )   4.6     1.0     3.2  

Interest expense

   (2.7 )   (1.5 )   (2.2 )   (1.6 )

Impairment of limited partnership

   —       —       (0.8 )   —    

Equity in earnings (loss) of limited partnership

   —       0.1     (0.1 )   0.2  

Interest income and other

   0.8     0.5     0.7     0.7  
                        

Income (loss) before income taxes

   (2.4 )   3.7     (1.4 )   2.5  

Income tax (expense) benefit

   0.7     (1.5 )   0.6     (1.0 )
                        

Net income (loss)

   (1.7 )%   2.2 %   (0.8 )%   1.5 %
                        

 

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The following table summarizes certain key sales statistics as of and for the three and nine months ended December 29, 2006 and December 30, 2005.

 

     Three Months Ended    Nine Months Ended
     December 29,
2006
   December 30,
2005
   December 29,
2006
   December 30,
2005

Homes sold through Company - owned retail superstores and builder locations

     869      1,154      3,161      3,421

Homes sold to independent dealers, builders and developers

     620      1,524      2,308      3,375

Total new factory-built homes sold

     1,489      2,678      5,469      6,796

Average new manufactured home price – retail

   $ 78,000    $ 70,000    $ 78,000    $ 74,000

Average new manufactured home price – wholesale

   $ 68,000    $ 57,000    $ 66,000    $ 59,000

Average new modular home price – retail

   $ 171,000    $ 151,000    $ 165,000    $ 147,000

Average new modular home price – wholesale

   $ 77,000    $ 76,000    $ 79,000    $ 75,000

Number of Company-owned retail superstores at end of period

     107      111      107      111

Number of Company-owned builder locations at end of period

     4      4      4      4

Our fiscal year ends on the last Friday in March. The three months ended December 29, 2006 contained 13 weeks and the three months ended December 30, 2005 contained 14 weeks. The nine months ended December 29, 2006 contained 39 weeks and the nine months ended December 30, 2005 contained 40 weeks.

Three Months Ended December 29, 2006 Compared to Three Months Ended December 30, 2005

Net Sales. Net sales decreased 21.6% to $151.4 million in the third quarter of fiscal 2007 from $193.2 million in the third quarter of fiscal 2006. This $41.8 million decrease in net sales is comprised of a $44.2 million decrease in factory-built housing revenues and a $2.4 million increase in financial services revenues. The decrease in factory-built housing revenues is the result of $12.3 million, or 445 homes, sold to FEMA in the third quarter of fiscal 2006 and a 33.3% decrease in total factory-built homes sold (excluding FEMA business) offset by an increase in the average selling prices of new manufactured and modular homes. The 33.3% decrease in total factory-built homes sold (excluding FEMA business) is largely due to a decrease in demand for HUD code homes in Florida, California and Arizona, which are typically some of our most profitable states (see the Executive Overview section above for more details). The average retail selling price of a new manufactured home increased 11.4% and a new modular home increased 13.2% while the average wholesale selling price of a new manufactured home increased 19.3% and a new modular home increased 1.3%. These increases in average selling prices are the result of customers purchasing larger, more complex homes as well as the pass through of rising material costs. The increase in financial services revenue reflects an increase in interest income resulting from an increase in consumer loans receivable from $154.1 million as of December 30, 2005 to $215.8 million as of December 29, 2006.

 

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Gross Profit. In the quarter ended December 29, 2006, gross profit decreased to $35.8 million, or 23.7% of net sales, from $49.8 million, or 25.8% of net sales, in the quarter ended December 30, 2005. Gross profit for the factory-built housing segment decreased from 23.7% of net sales in the third quarter of fiscal 2006 compared to 20.0% in the third quarter of fiscal 2007. The decrease is directly due to a reduction in retail and wholesale deliveries in Florida, California and Arizona. Gross profit for the financial services segment increased $1.8 million due to the increase in financial services revenue as explained above in net sales.

Selling, General and Administrative Expenses. As a percentage of net sales, selling, general and administrative expenses increased to 24.2% for the quarter ended December 29, 2006 from 21.2% for the quarter ended December 30, 2005. Selling, general and administrative expenses decreased to $36.6 million in the third quarter of fiscal 2007 as compared to $40.9 million in the third quarter of fiscal 2006. Of this $4.3 million decrease, $4.2 million was for the factory-built housing segment, $0.2 million was for general corporate purposes and the financial services segment was essentially flat. The decrease in selling, general and administrative expenses for the factory-built housing segment was largely the result of the cost savings measures taken in the second quarter of fiscal 2007 (reducing retail operations by eight stores and closing one less-than-efficient manufacturing facility) plus our ongoing cost savings efforts.

Interest Expense. Interest expense increased 43.1% to $4.2 million in the third quarter of fiscal 2007 as compared to $2.9 million in the third quarter of fiscal 2006. This is primarily due to a $1.2 million increase in interest expense on the warehouse revolving debt, which increased from $22.8 million as of December 30, 2005 to $91.4 million as of December 29, 2006.

Equity in Earnings (Loss) of Limited Partnership. Equity in earnings of limited partnership decreased from $0.2 million in the third quarter of fiscal 2006 to zero in the third quarter of fiscal 2007. As a result of our filing a petition for dissolution of our partnership with BSM in the second quarter of fiscal 2007, our equity in BSM’s earnings (loss) was not recorded for the third quarter of fiscal 2007.

Interest Income and Other. Interest income increased 30.5% to $1.2 million in the third quarter of fiscal 2007 from $1.0 million in the third quarter of fiscal 2006. This increase is due to a $0.2 million gain on the sale of available-for-sale securities.

Nine Months Ended December 29, 2006 Compared to Nine Months Ended December 30, 2005

Net Sales. Net sales decreased 0.9% to $525.3 million in the first nine months of fiscal 2007 as compared to $530.4 in the first nine months of fiscal 2006. This $5.0 million decrease in net sales is comprised of a $10.1 million decrease in factory-built housing revenues and a $5.1 million increase in financial services revenues. The decrease in factory-built housing revenues is the result of $15.4 million, or 533 homes, sold to FEMA in the first nine months of fiscal 2006 and a 12.3% decrease in total factory-built homes sold (excluding FEMA business) offset by an increase in the average selling prices of new manufactured and modular homes. The 12.7% decrease in total factory-built homes sold (excluding FEMA business) is largely due to a decrease in demand for HUD code homes in Florida, California and Arizona, which are typically some of our most profitable states (see the Executive Overview section above for more details). The average retail selling price of a new manufactured home increased 11.9% and a new modular home increased 12.2% while the average wholesale selling price of a new manufactured home increased 5.4% and a new modular

 

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home increased 5.3%. These increases in average selling prices are the result of customers purchasing larger, more complex homes as well as the pass through of rising material costs. The increase in financial services revenue reflects an increase in interest income resulting from an increase in consumer loans receivable from $154.1 million as of December 30, 2005 to $215.8 million as of December 29, 2006.

Gross Profit. For the nine months ended December 29, 2006, gross profit decreased to $127.9 million, or 24.4% of net sales, from $135.7 million, or 25.6% of net sales, in the nine months ended December 30, 2005. Gross profit for the factory-built housing segment decreased from 23.5% of net sales in the first nine months of fiscal 2006 compared to 21.7% in the first nine months of fiscal 2007. This decrease is due to the $1.6 million charge in the second quarter of fiscal 2007 to close eight retail stores and one manufacturing facility as well as the reduction in retail and wholesale deliveries in Florida, California and Arizona. Gross profit for the financial services segment increased $3.9 million due to the increase in net sales as explained above and offset by losses incurred at Standard Casualty as a result of Hurricane Rita during fiscal 2006.

Selling, General and Administrative Expenses. As a percentage of net sales, selling, general and administrative expenses increased to 23.4% for the nine months ended December 29, 2006 from 22.4% for the nine months ended December 30, 2005. Selling, general and administrative expenses increased to $122.9 million in the first nine months of fiscal 2007 as compared to $118.9 million in the first nine months of fiscal 2006. Of this $4.0 million increase, $1.9 million was for the factory-built housing segment, $1.6 million was for general corporate purposes and $0.4 million was for the financial services segment. The increase in the factory-built housing segment was primarily due to the $2.4 million charge for closing the eight retail stores and one factory in the second quarter of fiscal 2007. The increase in general corporate expenses is due primarily to increases in advertising costs and various other administrative expenses.

Interest Expense. Interest expense increased 30.0% to $11.3 million in the first nine months of fiscal 2007 as compared to $8.7 million in the first nine months of fiscal 2006. This is due to a $1.4 million increase in interest expense on the warehouse revolving debt, which increased from $22.8 million as of December 30, 2005 to $91.4 million as of December 29, 2006 and a $1.0 million increase in interest expense on the securitized financing, which was completed in May of fiscal 2006.

Impairment of Limited Partnership and Equity in Earnings (Loss) of Limited Partnership. During the second quarter of fiscal year 2007, we filed a petition for dissolution of our partnership with BSM. The investment in BSM of $4.4 million as of September 2006 was written off effective September 29, 2006. Subsequently, we received a countersuit from BSM alleging, among other things, breach of contract and related claims. We intend to vigorously defend ourselves against these claims and pursue our own claims. As a result of our writing off our investment in BSM during the second quarter of fiscal 2007, our equity in BSM’s earnings (loss) was not recorded for the third quarter of fiscal 2007.

Interest Income and Other. Interest income decreased 5.8% to $3.5 million in the first nine months of fiscal 2007 from $3.8 million in the first nine months of fiscal 2006. This decrease was primarily due to $1.5 million earned on a real estate investment in fiscal 2006 offset by a $1.0 million increase in interest and dividend income on our cash, investments and construction lending program as well as a $0.3 million gain on the sale of available-for-sale securities.

 

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Liquidity and Capital Resources

Net cash used in operating activities was $73.0 million in the first nine months of fiscal 2007 compared to $0.1 million in the first nine months of fiscal 2006. The $72.8 million increase in net cash used in operating activities is primarily the result of a $59.4 million decrease in accounts payable and accrued liabilities, $26.4 million increase in net consumer loans originated for investment, $9.0 million in restricted cash relating to customer deposits held in trust accounts and letters of credit supporting insurance policies, offset by a $19.0 decrease in trade receivables and a $13.1 million decrease in inventories.

Net cash used in investing activities decreased to $2.0 million in the first nine months of fiscal 2007 as compared to $6.2 million in the first nine months of fiscal 2006. Of this $4.2 million decrease in cash used in investing activities, $6.7 million was due to increased sales of investments and less purchases of investments in fiscal 2007 as compared to fiscal 2006, offset by $2.5 million in additional purchases of property, plant and equipment.

Net cash provided by financing activities totaled $49.4 million in the first nine months of fiscal 2007 compared to $20.0 million in the first nine months of fiscal 2006. The $29.3 million increase in cash provided by financing activities in the first nine months of fiscal 2007 as compared to the first nine months of fiscal 2006 is due to an increase in net proceeds from the securitized financing and warehouse revolving debt of $17.6 million as well as an increase in net proceeds on the floor plan payable of $11.7 million.

We have an agreement with a financial institution for a $70.0 million floor plan facility expiring March 30, 2009. The advance rate for the facility is 90% of manufacturer’s invoice. This facility is used to finance a portion of the new home inventory at our retail superstores and is secured by new home inventory and a portion of receivables from financial institutions. The interest rate on the facility is prime (8.25% at December 29, 2006) plus 0.6% or prime plus 1.0% to 3.0% for aged units, of which we had none as of December 29, 2006. The floor plan facility contains certain provisions requiring us to maintain minimum amounts of liquidity, profitability, inventory turns and tangible net worth in order to borrow against the facility. As of December 29, 2006, we were not in compliance with the minimum net profitability covenant. We are required to maintain a minimum total net profitability of $7.5 million for the most recent four quarters. We obtained a waiver from the financial institution for the quarter ended December 29, 2006. In the event we are not in compliance with any of our floor plan facility covenants in future periods, we would seek a waiver of any default from the lending institution and, if no such waiver was obtained, maturities of outstanding debt could be accelerated. We had $44.0 million and $37.9 million outstanding under our floor plan credit facility at December 29, 2006 and March 31, 2006, respectively.

On May 5, 2004, Palm Harbor issued $65.0 million aggregate principal amount of 3.25% Convertible Senior Notes due 2024 (the “Notes”) in a private, unregistered offering. Interest on the Notes is payable semi-annually in May and November. On June 8, 2004, the initial purchaser of the Notes exercised its option to purchase an additional $10.0 million aggregate principal amount of the Notes. On September 15, 2004, for the benefit of the Note holders, we filed a shelf registration statement covering resales of the Notes and the shares of Palm Harbor’s common stock issuable upon the conversion of the Notes. The Notes are senior, unsecured obligations and rank equal in right of payment to all of our existing and future unsecured and senior indebtedness. Each $1,000 in principal amount of the Notes is convertible, at the option of the holder, at a conversion price of $25.92, or 38.5803 shares of Palm Harbor’s common stock upon the satisfaction of certain conditions and contingencies. For the three months ended December 29, 2006 and the nine months ended December 29, 2006 and December 30, 2005, the effect of converting the senior notes to 2,894,000 shares of common stock was anti-dilutive, and was, therefore, not considered in determining diluted earnings per share.

 

15


CountryPlace has an agreement with a financial institution for a $125.0 million warehouse borrowing facility to fund loans originated by CountryPlace. The facility is collateralized by specific consumer loans receivable pledged to the facility and bears interest at the rate of LIBOR (5.375% at December 29, 2006) plus 1.25%. The facility terminates March 16, 2007; however, amounts outstanding under the facility are effectively settled and re-borrowed on a monthly basis. CountryPlace anticipates that they will renew the facility with similar terms upon expiration in March 2007, although no assurances can be made that they will be successful in this regard. The facility provides for an advance of 88% against the outstanding principle balance of eligible consumer loan receivables and draws at an 80% advance rate against land-home loans in various stages of completion. CountryPlace had outstanding borrowings under the warehouse facility of $91.4 million as of December 29, 2006 and $37.4 million as of March 31, 2006. The facility contains certain requirements relating to the performance and composition of the receivables pledged to the facility and financial covenants regarding the maintenance of a certain loan delinquency ratio, minimum ratio of liabilities to stockholder’s equity for CountryPlace and a minimum capitalization for CountryPlace, which are customary in the industry. As of December 29, 2006, CountryPlace was in compliance with these requirements. As CountryPlace continues to expand and draw down on its warehouse facility, the Company will fund the difference between the amounts advanced under the warehouse borrowing facility and the balance of any additional loan originations. For CountryPlace to increase its borrowings under the facility to the maximum $125.0 million, CountryPlace would have to originate an additional $40.1 million of new loans, of which $5.6 million would have to be funded through the Company’s operations.

On July 12, 2005, we, through our subsidiary CountryPlace, completed our initial securitization for approximately $141.0 million of loans, which was funded by issuing bonds totaling approximately $118.4 million. The bonds were issued in four different classes: Class A-1 totaling $36.3 million with a coupon rate of 4.23%; Class A-2 totaling $27.4 million with a coupon rate of 4.42%; Class A-3 totaling $27.3 million with a coupon rate of 4.80%; and Class A-4 totaling $27.4 million with a coupon rate of 5.20%. Maturity of the bonds is at varying dates beginning in 2006 through 2015 and were issued with a weighted average maturity of 4.66 years. The proceeds from the securitization were used to repay approximately $115.7 million of borrowings on the Company’s warehouse revolving debt with the remaining proceeds being used for general corporate purposes, including origination of new loans. For accounting purposes, this transaction was structured as a securitized borrowing.

We believe that the proceeds from the securitization, the issuance of the convertible senior notes, floor plan financing, borrowings on the warehouse facility and any other available borrowing alternatives will be adequate to support our working capital needs, currently planned capital expenditure needs and expansion of CountryPlace for the foreseeable future. However, because future cash flows and the availability of financing will depend on a number of factors, including prevailing economic and financial conditions, business, the market for asset backed securitizations and other factors beyond our control, no assurances can be given in this regard.

Forward-Looking Information/Risk Factors

Certain statements contained in this report are forward-looking statements within the safe harbor provisions of the Securities Litigation Reform Act. Forward-looking statements give our current expectations or forecasts of future events and can be identified by the fact that they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts. Investors should be aware that all forward-looking

 

16


statements are subject to risks and uncertainties and, as a result of certain factors, actual results could differ materially from these expressed in or implied by such statements. These risks include such assumptions, risks, uncertainties and factors associated with the following:

Financing for our retail customers may be limited, which could affect our sales volume.

Our retail customers who do not use BSM or CPM, generally either pay cash or secure financing from third party lenders, which have been negatively affected by adverse loan experience. Several major lenders, which had provided financing for our customers, have withdrawn from the manufactured housing finance business. Reduced availability of such financing is currently having an adverse effect on the manufactured housing business and our home sales. Availability of financing is dependent on the lending practices of financial institutions, financial markets, governmental policies and economic conditions, all of which are largely beyond our control. Quasi-governmental agencies such as Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, which are important purchasers of loans from financial institutions, have tightened standards relating to the manufactured housing loans that they will buy. Most states classify manufactured homes as personal property rather than real property for purposes of taxation and lien perfection, and interest rates for manufactured homes are generally higher and the terms of the loans shorter than for site-built homes. Financing for the purchase of manufactured homes is often more difficult to obtain than conventional home mortgages. There can be no assurance that affordable retail financing for manufactured homes will continue to be available on a widespread basis. If third party financing were to become unavailable or were to be further restricted, this could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations.

If CountryPlace is unable to adequately and timely service its loans, it may adversely affect its results of operations.

Although CountryPlace has originated loans since 1995, it has limited loan servicing and collections experience. In 2002, it implemented new systems to service and collect the portfolio of loans it originates. The management of CountryPlace has industry experience in managing, servicing and collecting loan portfolios; however, many borrowers require notices and reminders to keep their loans current and to prevent delinquencies and foreclosures. If there is a substantial increase in the delinquency rate that results from improper servicing or loan performance, the profitability and cash flow from the loan portfolio in CountryPlace could adversely affect CountryPlace’s ability to continue to securitize its loans.

If CountryPlace’s customers are unable to repay their loans, CountryPlace may be adversely affected.

CountryPlace makes loans to borrowers that it believes are creditworthy based on its credit guidelines. However, the ability of these customers to repay their loans may be affected by a number of factors, including, but not limited to:

 

    national, regional and local economic conditions;

 

    changes or continued weakness in specific industry segments;

 

    natural hazard risks affecting the region in which the borrower resides;

 

    employment, financial or life circumstances.

If customers do not repay their loans, the profitability and cash flow from the loan portfolio could adversely affect CountryPlace’s ability to continue to securitize its loans.

 

17


If CountryPlace is unable to continue to securitize its loans, it will be required to seek other sources of long-term funding, which funding may not be available.

The loans that are originated by CountryPlace are funded with proceeds from its warehouse borrowing facility and borrowings from us. On July 12, 2005, CountryPlace successfully completed its initial securitization for approximately $141.0 million of loans which were funded by issuing bonds totaling approximately $118.4 million. We anticipate CountryPlace will continue to securitize its loans as a primary source of funding. The proceeds from future securitizations will be used to repay any borrowings from the warehouse facility and from us, as well as to originate new loans. The securitization market is dependent upon a number of factors, including general economic conditions, conditions in the securities market generally and conditions in the asset-backed securities market specifically. Although the asset-backed securitization market for manufactured housing lenders has improved slightly in the past year in terms of access to the markets, as well as pricing and credit enhancement levels, poor performance of any loans we may securitize in the future could harm our future access to the securitization market. If CountryPlace is unable to continue to securitize its loans on terms that are economical, or if there is a decline in the securitization market for manufactured housing loans, and if CountryPlace is unable to obtain additional sources of long-term funding, it could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, financial condition and business prospects.

We face increased competition from on site builders of residential housing, which may reduce our revenues.

Our homes increasingly compete with homes that are built on site. The sales of site built homes are declining, which is resulting in more site built homes being available at lower prices. The decreased price of site built homes and the availability of sub prime mortgage financing could make them more competitive with our homes. As a result, the sales of our homes could decrease, which could negatively impact our results of operations.

Our business is highly cyclical, in a prolonged down cycle, highly competitive, seasonal and there may be significant fluctuations in our quarterly results.

The factory-built housing industry is highly cyclical, in a prolonged down cycle, highly competitive, seasonal and has experienced wide fluctuations in aggregate sales in the past. We are subject to volatility in operating results due to external factors beyond our control such as:

 

    access to capital markets

 

    the level and stability of interest rates;

 

    unemployment trends;

 

    the availability of retail financing;

 

    the availability of wholesale financing;

 

    the availability of homeowners’ insurance in coastal markets;

 

    housing supply and demand;

 

    industry availability of used or repossessed manufactured homes;

 

    international tensions and hostilities;

 

    levels of consumer confidence;

 

    inventory levels;

 

    severe weather conditions;

 

    regulatory and zoning matters; and

 

    changes in general economic conditions.

 

18


Sales in our industry are also seasonal in nature, with sales of homes traditionally being stronger in the spring, summer and fall months. The cyclical and seasonal nature of our business causes our revenues and operating results to fluctuate and makes it difficult for management to forecast sales and profits in uncertain times. As a result of seasonal and cyclical downturns, results from any quarter should not be relied upon as being indicative of performance in future quarters.

Reduced availability of wholesale financing may adversely affect our inventory levels of new homes.

We finance a portion of our new inventory at our retail superstores through wholesale “floor plan” financing arrangements. Through these arrangements, financial institutions provide us with a loan for the purchase price of the home. Since the beginning of the industry downturn in 1999, several major floor plan lenders have exited the floor plan financing business. Although we currently have a floor plan facility with a financial institution totaling $70 million, there can be no assurance that we will continue to have access to such facility or that we will not be forced to reduce our new home inventory at our retail superstores.

Our repurchase agreements with floor plan lenders could result in increased costs.

In accordance with customary practice in the manufactured housing industry, we enter into repurchase agreements with various financial institutions pursuant to which we agree, in the event of a default by an independent retailer in its obligation to these credit sources, to repurchase manufactured homes at declining prices over the term of the agreements, typically 12 to 18 months. The difference between the gross repurchase price and the price at which the repurchased manufactured homes can then be resold, which is typically at a discount to the original sale price, is an expense to us. Thus, if we were obligated to repurchase a large number of manufactured homes in the future, this would increase our costs, which could have a negative effect on our earnings. Tightened credit standards by lenders and more aggressive attempts to accelerate collection of outstanding accounts with retailers could result in defaults by retailers and consequently repurchase obligations on our part may be higher than has historically been the case. During the third quarters of fiscal 2007 and 2006, $12,000 of net gains and $71,000 of net losses, respectively, were incurred under these repurchase agreements.

We are dependent on our principal executive officer and the loss of his service could adversely affect us.

We are dependent to a significant extent upon the efforts of our principal executive officer, Larry H. Keener, Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer. The loss of the services of our principal executive officer could have a material adverse effect upon our business, financial condition and results of operations. Our continued growth is also dependent upon our ability to attract and retain additional skilled management personnel.

We are controlled by two shareholders, who may determine the outcome of all elections.

Approximately 52% of our outstanding common stock is beneficially owned or controlled by our Chairman Emeritus, Lee Posey, and Capital Southwest Corporation and its affiliates. As a result, these shareholders, acting together, are able to determine the outcome of elections of our directors and thereby control the management of our business.

 

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Increased prices and unavailability of raw materials could have a material adverse effect on us.

Our results of operations can be affected by the pricing and availability of raw materials. In fiscal 2006 and 2005, for example, we experienced an increase in prices of our raw materials of approximately 5% and 6%, respectively. Although we attempt to increase the sales prices of our homes in response to higher materials costs, such increases typically lag behind the escalation of materials costs. Although lumber costs have moderated, three of the most important raw materials used in our operations, lumber, gypsum wallboard and insulation, have experienced significant price fluctuations in the past several fiscal years. Although we have not experienced any shortage of such building materials today, there can be no assurance that sufficient supplies of lumber, gypsum wallboard and insulation, as well as other materials, will continue to be available to us on terms we regard as satisfactory.

If inflation increases, we may not be able to offset inflation through increased selling prices.

If there is a material increase in inflation in the future, it is unlikely that we will be able to increase our selling prices to completely offset the material increase in inflation and as a result, our operating results may be adversely affected.

The manufactured housing industry is highly competitive and some of our competitors have stronger balance sheets and cash flow, as well as greater access to capital, then we do. As a result of these competitive conditions, we may not be able to sustain past levels of sales or profitability.

The manufactured housing industry is highly competitive, with relatively low barriers to entry. Manufactured and modular homes compete with new and existing site-built homes and to a lesser degree, with apartments, townhouses and condominiums. Competition exists at both the manufacturing and retail levels and is based primarily on price, product features, reputation for service and quality, retailer promotions, merchandising and terms of consumer financing. Some of our competitors have substantially greater financial, manufacturing, distribution and marketing resources than we do. As a result of these competitive conditions, we may not be able to sustain past levels of sales or profitability.

If our retail customers are unable to obtain insurance for factory-built homes, our sales volume and results of operations may be adversely affected.

We sell our factory-built homes to retail customers located throughout the United States including in coastal areas, such as Florida. In the third quarter of fiscal 2007, approximately 18.7% of our revenues were generated in Florida. Some of our retail customers in these areas have experienced difficulty obtaining insurance for our factory-built homes due to adverse weather-related events in these areas, primarily hurricanes. If our retail customers face continued and increased difficulty in obtaining insurance for the homes we build, our sales volume and results of operations may be adversely affected.

We are concentrated geographically, which could harm our business.

In the third quarter of fiscal 2007, approximately 21.7% of our revenues were generated in Texas, approximately 18.7% were generated in Florida and approximately 10.7% were generated in Arizona. A decline in the demand for factory-built housing in these three states and/or a decline in the economies of these three states could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations.

 

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Item 3. Quantitive and Qualitative Disclosure About Market Risk

We are exposed to market risks related to fluctuations in interest rates on our variable rate debt, which consists primarily of our liabilities under retail floor plan financing arrangements and warehouse revolving debt. For variable interest rate obligations, changes in interest rates generally do not impact fair market value, but do affect future earnings and cash flows. Assuming our and CountryPlace’s level of variable rate debt as of December 29, 2006 is held constant, each one percentage point increase in interest rates occurring on the first day of the year would result in an increase in interest expense for the coming year of approximately $1.4 million.

We are also exposed to market risks related to our fixed rate consumer loans receivable balances and our convertible senior notes. For fixed rate loans receivable, changes in interest rates do not change future earnings and cash flows from the receivables. However, changes in interest rates could affect the fair market value of the loan portfolio. Assuming CountryPlace’s level of loans held for investment as of December 29, 2006 is held constant, a 10% increase in average interest rates would decrease the fair value of CountryPlace’s portfolio by approximately $4.2 million. For our fixed rate convertible senior notes, changes in interest rates could affect the fair market value of the related debt. Assuming the amount of convertible senior notes as of December 29, 2006 is held constant, a 10% decrease in interest rates would increase the fair value of the notes by approximately $1.5 million.

CountryPlace is exposed to market risk related to the accessibility and terms of financing in the asset-backed securities market. On July 12, 2005, CountryPlace successfully completed its initial securitized financing of approximately $141.0 million of loans. CountryPlace intends to continue to securitize its loan originations as a means to obtain long-term fixed interest rate funding. The inability to continue to securitize its loans would require CountryPlace to seek other sources of funding or to reduce or eliminate its loan originations if other sources of funding are not available.

 

Item 4. Controls and Procedures

Under the supervision and with the participation of our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, management has evaluated the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) of the Securities Exchange act of 1934) as of December 29, 2006. Based on that evaluation, our principal executive officer and out principal financial officer have concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of December 29, 2006.

There has been no change to our internal control over financial reporting during the quarter ended December 29, 2006 that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

 

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PART II. Other Information

 

Item 1.   Legal Proceedings - Not applicable
Item 2.   Unregistered Sales of Equity in Securities and Use of Proceeds - Not applicable
Item 3.   Defaults upon Senior Securities - Not applicable
Item 4.   Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders – Not applicable
Item 5.   Other information – Not applicable
Item 6.   Exhibits
 

(a)    The following exhibits are filed as part of this report:

 

Exhibit No.  

Description

31.1   Certificate of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
31.2   Certificate of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
32.1   Certificate of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
32.2   Certificate of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

 

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SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

Date: February 5, 2007

 

Palm Harbor Homes, Inc.

(Registrant)

By:

 

/s/ Kelly Tacke

  Kelly Tacke
 

Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

By:

 

/s/ Larry H. Keener

  Larry H. Keener
 

Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer

 

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