form10q_071008.htm
 
 
 



 
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-Q

   (Mark One)

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

    For the quarterly period ended May 31, 2008

          
[   ]
TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

   For the transition period from __________ to __________

Commission file no. 1-11107

 
FC Logo
FRANKLIN COVEY CO.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)



Utah
(State of incorporation)
 
 
87-0401551
(I.R.S. employer identification number)
2200 West Parkway Boulevard
Salt Lake City, Utah
(Address of principal executive offices)
 
 
84119-2099
(Zip Code)
Registrant’s telephone number,
Including area code
 
 
 
(801) 817-1776


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   T     No   £

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company.  See definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.  (Check one):

Large accelerated filer
£
 
Accelerated filer
T
     

Non-accelerated filer
£
(Do not check if a smaller reporting company)
Smaller reporting company
£

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

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer’s classes of Common Stock as of the latest practicable date:

19,615,444 shares of Common Stock as of July 1, 2008

 
 



 

PART I.  FINANCIAL INFORMATION
ITEM 1.  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS


FRANKLIN COVEY CO.

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(in thousands, except per share amounts)

   
May 31,
2008
   
August 31,
2007
 
   
(unaudited)
 
ASSETS
           
Current assets:
           
Cash and cash equivalents
  $ 4,815     $ 6,126  
Accounts receivable, less allowance for doubtful accounts of $777 and $821
    24,597       27,239  
Inventories
    7,034       24,033  
Deferred income taxes
    3,697       3,635  
Prepaid expenses and other assets
    4,837       9,070  
Assets of operations held for sale (Note 2)
    30,754       -  
Total current assets
    75,734       70,103  
                 
Property and equipment, net
    25,807       36,063  
Intangible assets, net
    73,223       75,923  
Deferred income taxes
    105       101  
Other assets
    16,934       14,441  
    $ 191,803     $ 196,631  
                 
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
               
Current liabilities:
               
Current portion of long-term debt and financing obligation
  $ 667     $ 629  
Line of credit
    8,223       15,999  
Accounts payable
    8,341       12,190  
Income taxes payable
    57       2,244  
Accrued liabilities
    21,145       30,101  
Liabilities of operations held for sale (Note 2)
    10,415       -  
Total current liabilities
    48,848       61,163  
                 
Long-term debt and financing obligation, less current portion
    32,504       32,965  
Deferred income tax liabilities
    4,455       565  
Other liabilities
    1,652       1,019  
Total liabilities
    87,459       95,712  
                 
Shareholders’ equity:
               
Common stock – $0.05 par value; 40,000 shares authorized, 27,056 shares issued and outstanding
    1,353       1,353  
Additional paid-in capital
    183,836       185,890  
Common stock warrants
    7,602       7,602  
Retained earnings
    23,119       19,489  
Accumulated other comprehensive income
    2,039       970  
Treasury stock at cost, 7,249 and 7,296 shares
    (112,956 )     (114,385 )
Other comprehensive loss held for sale
    (649 )     -  
Total shareholders’ equity
    104,344       100,919  
    $ 191,803     $ 196,631  
                 








See notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

 
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FRANKLIN COVEY CO.

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENTS
(in thousands, except per share amounts)

   
Quarter Ended
   
Three Quarters Ended
 
                         
   
May 31,
2008
   
June 2,
2007
   
May 31,
2008
   
June 2,
2007
 
   
(unaudited)
   
(unaudited)
 
Net sales:
                       
Products
  $ 25,197     $ 30,857     $ 105,872     $ 118,248  
Training and consulting services
    33,864       33,652       101,891       98,666  
      59,061       64,509       207,763       216,914  
Cost of sales:
                               
Products
    11,883       14,619       46,565       52,528  
Training and consulting services
    11,421       10,254       32,807       31,163  
      23,304       24,873       79,372       83,691  
Gross profit
    35,757       39,636       128,391       133,223  
                                 
Selling, general, and administrative
    34,210       35,287       110,634       112,803  
Gain on sale of manufacturing facility
    -       -       -       (1,227 )
Depreciation
    1,497       1,060       4,044       3,463  
Amortization
    902       906       2,702       2,708  
Income (loss) from operations
    (852 )     2,383       11,011       15,476  
                                 
Interest income
    55       124       78       682  
Interest expense
    (725 )     (867 )     (2,396 )     (2,203 )
Income (loss) before provision for income taxes
    (1,522 )     1,640       8,693       13,955  
Benefit (provision) for income taxes
    11       (753 )     (5,063 )     (6,939 )
Net income (loss)
    (1,511 )     887       3,630       7,016  
Preferred stock dividends
    -       (348 )     -       (2,215 )
Net income (loss) available to common shareholders
  $ (1,511 )   $ 539     $ 3,630     $ 4,801  
                                 
Net income (loss) available to common
shareholders per share:
                               
Basic
  $ (.09 )   $ .03     $ .19     $ .24  
Diluted
  $ (.09 )   $ .03     $ .18     $ .24  
                                 
Weighted average number of common shares:
                               
Basic
    16,132       19,412       19,542       19,637  
Diluted
    16,132       19,738       19,815       19,933  





















See notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

 
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FRANKLIN COVEY CO.

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(in thousands)

   
Three Quarters Ended
 
   
May 31,
2008
   
June 2,
2007
 
   
(unaudited)
 
Cash flows from operating activities:
           
Net income
  $ 3,630     $ 7,016  
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
               
Depreciation and amortization
    7,699       7,503  
Deferred income taxes
    3,130       4,824  
Loss (gain) on disposals of property and equipment
    274       (1,283 )
Share-based compensation expense (benefit)
    (936 )     894  
Changes in assets and liabilities:
               
Increase in accounts receivable, net
    (2,031 )     (4,408 )
Decrease (increase) in inventories
    3,033       (2,951 )
Decrease in other assets
    747       1,236  
Decrease in accounts payable and accrued liabilities
    (2,884 )     (4,357 )
Decrease in other long-term liabilities
    (81 )     (188 )
Increase (decrease) in income taxes payable
    (775 )     411  
Net cash provided by operating activities
    11,806       8,697  
                 
Cash flows from investing activities:
               
Proceeds on notes receivable from disposals of subsidiaries
    1,110       -  
Purchases of property and equipment
    (2,784 )     (7,855 )
Curriculum development costs
    (2,860 )     (4,234 )
Proceeds from sales of property and equipment
    60       2,596  
Net cash used for investing activities
    (4,474 )     (9,493 )
                 
Cash flows from financing activities:
               
Proceeds from line-of-credit borrowing
    61,689       30,429  
Payments on line-of-credit borrowing
    (69,465 )     (12,585 )
Redemption of preferred stock
    -       (37,345 )
Principal payments on long-term debt and financing obligation
    (478 )     (402 )
Proceeds from sales of common stock from treasury
    311       206  
Proceeds from management stock loan payments
    -       27  
Purchases of treasury shares
    -       (2,561 )
Payment of preferred stock dividends
    -       (2,215 )
Net cash used for financing activities
    (7,943 )     (24,446 )
                 
Effect of foreign exchange rates on cash and cash equivalents
    (662 )     (175 )
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents
    (1,273 )     (25,417 )
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of the period
    6,126       30,587  
Cash and cash equivalents at end of the period
  $ 4,853     $ 5,170  
                 
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information:
               
Cash paid for interest
  $ 2,475     $ 2,048  
Cash paid for income taxes
  $ 3,117     $ 1,804  
                 
Non-cash investing and financing activities:
               
Acquisition of property and equipment through accounts payable
  $ 1,060       -  










See notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

 
4

 

FRANKLIN COVEY CO.

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(unaudited)



NOTE 1 – BASIS OF PRESENTATION

Franklin Covey Co. (hereafter referred to as us, we, our, or the Company) provides integrated consulting, training, and performance enhancement solutions to organizations and individuals in strategy execution, productivity, leadership, sales force effectiveness, effective communications, and other areas.  Each integrated solution may include components of training and consulting, assessment, and other application tools that are generally available in electronic or paper-based formats.  Our products and services are available through professional consulting services, public seminars, retail stores, catalogs, and the internet at www.franklincovey.com.  Historically, the Company’s best-known offerings include the FranklinCovey Planner™ and a suite of individual-effectiveness and leadership-development training products based on the best-selling book, The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People.  We also offer a range of training and assessment products to help organizations achieve superior results by focusing and executing on top priorities, building the capability of knowledge workers, and aligning business processes.  These offerings include the following popular workshops and curricula: FOCUS: Achieving Your Highest Priorities™; Leadership: Great Leaders, Great Teams, Great Results™; The 4 Roles of Leadership™; Building Business Acumen: What the CEO Wants You to Know™; the Advantage Series communication workshops; and the Execution Quotient (xQ™) organizational assessment tool.  During fiscal 2007 we also introduced a new leadership program based upon principles found in The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People.

The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements reflect, in the opinion of management, all adjustments (which include only normal recurring adjustments, except as discussed in Note 2) necessary to present fairly the financial position and results of operations of the Company as of the dates and for the periods indicated.  Certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America have been condensed or omitted pursuant to Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) rules and regulations.  The information included in this quarterly report on Form 10-Q should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and related notes included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2007.

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the dates of the financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting periods.  Actual results could differ from those estimates.

The Company utilizes a modified 52/53-week fiscal year that ends on August 31 of each year.  Corresponding quarterly periods generally consist of 13-week periods that ended on December 1, 2007, March 1, 2008, and May 31, 2008 during fiscal 2008.  Under the modified 52/53-week fiscal year, the quarter ended May 31, 2008 had the same number of business days as the quarter ended June 2, 2007 and the three quarters ended May 31, 2008 had one less business day than the three quarters ended June 2, 2007.

The results of operations for the quarter and three quarters ended May 31, 2008 are not necessarily indicative of results expected for the entire fiscal year ending August 31, 2008.


 
5

 

NOTE 2 – SALE OF CONSUMER SOLUTIONS BUSINESS UNIT ASSETS

On May 22, 2008, we signed a definitive agreement with Peterson Partners to create a new company, Franklin Covey Products, LLC (Franklin Covey Products).  This new company will purchase substantially all of the assets of our Consumer Solutions Business Unit (CSBU) and will focus on expanding sales of Franklin Covey products pursuant to a comprehensive license agreement.  The CSBU is primarily responsible for sales of our products to both domestic and international consumers through a variety of channels (Note 8).  Subsequent to May 31, 2008, we completed the sale of substantially all of the CSBU assets to Franklin Covey Products, which becomes effective during the quarter ended August 31, 2008.  Franklin Covey Products, which is controlled by Peterson Partners, purchased the CSBU assets for $32.0 million in cash, subject to adjustments for working capital on the closing date of the sale.  On the date of the sale closing, the Company invested approximately $1.8 million to purchase a 19.5 percent voting interest in Franklin Covey Products, made a $1.0 million preferred capital contribution with a 10 percent priority return, and will have the opportunity to earn contingent license fees if Franklin Covey Products achieves specified performance objectives.

Based upon the guidance found in Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) No. 144, Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets, we determined that the assets and liabilities of the CSBU, which constitutes an entire operating segment of the Company, should be classified as held for sale at May 31, 2008.  The sale transaction was completed during our fourth fiscal quarter ended August 31, 2008 and we expect to recognize a gain on the sale of the CSBU assets.  The carrying amounts of the assets and liabilities of our CSBU, which were classified as held for sale in our May 31, 2008 condensed consolidated balance sheet were as follows (in thousands):

Description
     
Cash and cash equivalents
  $ 38  
Accounts receivable, net
    5,266  
Inventories
    14,340  
Other current assets
    2,852  
Property and equipment, net
    8,100  
Other assets
    158  
Total assets held for sale
  $ 30,754  
         
Accounts payable
  $ 4,284  
Accrued liabilities
    6,131  
Total liabilities held for sale
  $ 10,415  

As a result of Franklin Covey Products’ structure as a limited liability company with separate owner capital accounts and the guidance found in Emerging Issues Task Force (EITF) Issue No. 03-16, Accounting for Investments in Limited Liability Companies, we determined that the Company’s investment in Franklin Covey Products is more than minor and the Company will therefore be able to exercise significant influence over the operations of Franklin Covey Products.  Combined with the possibility of receiving future cash distributions from Franklin Covey Products for returns of capital and dividends, plus possible participation in Franklin Covey Products’ cash flows through the license agreement, we determined that the financial results of the CSBU should not be reported as discontinued operations in the accompanying condensed consolidated income statements or in future periods.


NOTE 3 – INVENTORIES

Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market, cost being determined using the first-in, first-out method, and were comprised of the following (in thousands):

 
6

 


   
May 31,
2008
   
August 31,
2007
 
             
Finished goods
  $ 6,670     $ 20,268  
Work in process
    -       743  
Raw materials
    364       3,022  
    $ 7,034     $ 24,033  


NOTE 4 – SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION

We utilize various share-based compensation plans as integral components of our overall compensation and associate retention strategy.  Our shareholders have approved various stock incentive plans that permit us to grant performance awards, unvested share awards, employee stock purchase plan (ESPP) shares, and stock options.  In addition, our Board of Directors and shareholders may, from time to time, approve fully vested stock awards.  The compensation cost of our share-based compensation plans was included in selling, general, and administrative expenses in the accompanying condensed consolidated income statements and no share-based compensation was capitalized during the three quarters ended May 31, 2008.  The Company generally issues shares of common stock for its share-based compensation plans from shares held in treasury.  The following is a description of recent developments in our share-based compensation plans.

Performance Awards

The Company has a performance-based long-term incentive plan (the LTIP) that provides for annual grants of share-based performance awards to certain managerial personnel and executive management as directed by the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors.  The LTIP performance awards cliff vest at the completion of a three-year performance period that begins on September 1 in the fiscal year of the grant.  The number of common shares that are finally awarded to LTIP participants is variable and is based entirely upon the achievement of a combination of performance objectives related to sales growth and cumulative operating income during the three-year performance period.  Due to the variable number of common shares that may be issued under the LTIP, we reevaluate our LTIP grants on a quarterly basis and adjust the number of shares expected to be awarded based upon actual and estimated financial results of the Company compared to the performance goals set for the award.  Adjustments to the number of shares awarded, and to the corresponding compensation expense, are made on a cumulative basis at the adjustment date based upon the revised estimate of common shares that are expected to be awarded.

The Company granted performance awards under provisions of the LTIP in fiscal 2006, which vest on August 31, 2008, and in fiscal 2007, which vest on August 31, 2009.  The following is a description of the accounting for the fiscal 2006 and fiscal 2007 LTIP awards as of May 31, 2008.

Fiscal 2006 LTIP Award – Based upon actual financial performance through December 1, 2007 and estimated performance through the remaining service period of the fiscal 2006 LTIP grant, the Company determined that no shares of common stock would be awarded to participants under the terms of the fiscal 2006 LTIP grant.  Although we expect sufficient levels of cumulative operating income to be recognized for the fiscal 2006 award, anticipated sales growth is below the minimum threshold for shares to be awarded under the plan.  Our anticipated sales growth in training and consulting sales is expected to be insufficient to offset forecasted product sales declines, which were revised using actual product sales levels late in our first fiscal quarter and early second fiscal quarter, and the impact of eliminated sales resulting from the sales of our subsidiary in Brazil and our training operations in Mexico, which occurred during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2007.  As a result of this determination, we recorded a cumulative adjustment in the quarter ended December 1, 2007 that reduced our selling, general, and administrative expenses by $0.7 million and we did not record any compensation expense for the fiscal 2006 LTIP award during the quarters ended March 1, 2008 or May 31, 2008.

 
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Fiscal 2007 LTIP Award – Consistent with our policy as stated above, we reevaluated the fiscal 2007 LTIP award at May 31, 2008 based upon revised estimates for sales growth and cumulative operating income.  As a result of this reevaluation, we determined that no shares of common stock would be awarded to participants under the terms of the fiscal 2007 LTIP grant.  Consistent with the analysis of the fiscal 2006 LTIP grant, we expect sufficient levels of operating income to be recognized for the fiscal 2007 award, but sales growth is expected to be insufficient for any shares to be awarded under this plan.  The revised sales projections included actual performance through May 31, 2008 and estimated sales performance through fiscal 2009 based upon revised assumptions, which were adversely affected by slowing economic conditions in the United States and other countries in which the Company has operations.  Although training and consulting sales are expected to increase in fiscal 2009, the growth rate was insufficient to offset expected declines in product sales and the impact of transitioning our Mexico and Brazil offices to licensees.  As a result of this determination, we recorded cumulative adjustments totaling $1.0 million to reduce selling, general, and administrative expenses during the three quarters ended May 31, 2008.

Unvested Stock Awards

The fair value of our unvested stock awards is calculated based on the number of shares issued and the closing market price of our common stock on the date of the grant.  The corresponding compensation cost of unvested stock awards is amortized to selling, general, and administrative expense on a straight-line basis over the vesting period of the awards, which generally range from three to five years.  The following information applies to our unvested stock awards granted to members of the Board of Directors under the Directors’ Plan and to employees through the three quarters ended May 31, 2008:

   
 
Number of Shares
   
Weighted-Average Grant-Date Fair Value Per Share
 
Unvested stock awards at August 31, 2007
    410,670     $ 3.80  
Granted(1)
    36,000       7.50  
Vested(2)
    (87,590 )     3.01  
Forfeited
    -       -  
Unvested stock awards at May 31, 2008
    359,080     $ 4.62  

(1)  
Shares granted during the three quarters ended May 31, 2008 consisted of shares awarded to our Board of Directors under the provisions of the Directors’ Plan.

(2)  
Share awards that vested during the three quarters ended May 31, 2008 consisted of 76,090 shares that were awarded to members of our Board of Directors in fiscal 2005 under the Directors’ Plan and 11,500 shares that were granted to certain employees and were vested on an accelerated basis because the employees’ area of responsibility met specified financial performance criteria.  The compensation expense from the accelerated vesting of these shares totaled approximately $37,000.

Employee Stock Purchase Plan

We have an employee stock purchase plan that offers qualified employees the opportunity to purchase shares of our common stock at a price equal to 85 percent of the average fair market value of the Company’s common stock on the last trading day of the calendar month in each fiscal quarter.  During the quarter and three quarters ended May 31, 2008, a total of 18,089 and 52,116 shares were issued to participants in the ESPP and the corresponding share-based compensation expense from the discount totaled approximately $22,000 and $61,000, respectively.

 
8

 

Stock Options

The Company has an incentive stock option plan whereby options to purchase shares of our common stock are issued to key employees at an exercise price not less than the market price of the Company’s common stock on the date of grant.  The term, not to exceed ten years, and exercise period of each incentive stock option awarded under the plan are determined by the Compensation Committee of our Board of Directors.

Information related to stock option activity during the three quarters ended May 31, 2008 is presented below:

   
 
Number of Stock Options
   
Weighted Avg. Exercise Price Per Share
 
 
Outstanding at August 31, 2007
    2,058,300     $ 12.72  
Granted
    -       -  
Exercised
    (12,500 )     1.70  
Forfeited
    (18,000 )     9.69  
Outstanding at May 31, 2008
    2,027,800     $ 12.82  
                 
Options vested and exercisable at May 31, 2008
    2,027,800     $ 12.82  


NOTE 5 – INCOME TAXES

Income Tax Provision

In order to determine our quarterly provision for income taxes, we use an estimated annual effective tax rate, which is based on expected annual income and statutory tax rates in the various jurisdictions in which we operate.  Certain significant or unusual items are separately recognized in the quarter during which they occur and can be a source of variability in our effective tax rates from quarter to quarter.

Our effective tax rate for the three quarters ended May 31, 2008 of approximately 58 percent was higher than statutory combined rates primarily due to the accrual of taxable interest income on the management stock loan program and withholding taxes on royalty income from foreign licensees.

Adoption of FIN 48

In July 2006, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued Interpretation No. 48, Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes - an Interpretation of FASB Statement No. 109 (FIN 48).  This interpretation addresses the determination of whether tax benefits claimed or expected to be claimed on a tax return should be recorded in the financial statements.  Under FIN 48, we may recognize the tax benefit from an uncertain tax position only if it is more likely than not that the tax position will be sustained on examination by the taxing authorities, based on the technical merits of the position.  The tax benefits recognized in the financial statements from such a position are measured based on the largest benefit that has a greater than 50 percent likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement.  Interpretation No. 48 also provides guidance on de-recognition, classification, interest and penalties on income taxes, accounting for income taxes in interim periods, and requires increased disclosure of various income tax items.

We adopted the provisions of FIN 48 on September 1, 2007.  The amount of gross unrecognized tax benefits at September 1, 2007 totaled $4.3 million, of which $3.1 million would affect our

 
9

 

effective tax rate, if recognized.  The gross unrecognized tax benefit includes $2.9 million related to individual states’ net operating loss carryforwards.  The Company has determined that all material temporary differences, except for certain states’ net operating loss carryforwards, can be fully recognized for FIN 48 purposes.  At the date of adoption, we had approximately $0.2 million of accrued interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions.  Based upon guidance in FIN 48, interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions are now recognized as components of income tax expense.  The amount of our unrecognized tax benefits did not change significantly during the three quarters ended May 31, 2008.

Prior to the adoption of FIN 48, the reserve for uncertain tax positions was classified as a component of income taxes payable in our consolidated balance sheets.  Consistent with the guidance found in FIN 48, our unrecognized income tax benefits related to net operating loss carryforwards now reduce the related deferred income tax asset and have the effect of increasing our net deferred income tax liability.  All other unrecognized income tax benefits, which totaled $0.7 million, were reclassified as other long-term liabilities in our consolidated balance sheets.

The Company anticipates that it is reasonably possible that unrecognized tax benefits, including interest and penalties, of up to $0.3 million could be recognized within the next twelve months due to the lapse of applicable statutes of limitation, of which $0.2 million would affect our effective tax rate in those periods.

We file United States federal income tax returns as well as income tax returns in various states and foreign jurisdictions. The tax years that remain subject to examinations for the Company’s major tax jurisdictions are shown below.  Additionally, any net operating losses that were generated in prior years and utilized in these years may be subject to examination.
 
2000-2007
Canada
2002-2007
Japan, Mexico, United Kingdom
2003-2007
United States – state and local income taxes
2004-2007
United States – federal income tax


NOTE 6 – COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

Comprehensive income is based on net income (loss) and includes charges and credits to equity accounts that were not the result of transactions with shareholders.  Comprehensive income (loss) for the Company was calculated as follows (in thousands):

   
Quarter Ended
   
Three Quarters Ended
 
   
May 31,
2008
   
June 2,
2007
   
May 31,
2008
   
June 2,
2007
 
Net income (loss)
  $ (1,511 )   $ 887     $ 3,630     $ 7,016  
Other comprehensive income (loss) items, net of tax:
                               
Foreign currency translation adjustments
    (121 )     (30 )     420       (14 )
Comprehensive income (loss)
  $ (1,632 )   $ 857     $ 4,050     $ 7,002  


NOTE 7 – EARNINGS PER SHARE

Basic earnings per common share (EPS) is calculated by dividing net income available to common shareholders by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding for the period.  Diluted EPS is calculated by dividing net income available to common shareholders by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding plus the assumed exercise of all dilutive securities using the treasury stock method or the “as converted” method, as appropriate.  Due to modifications to our management stock loan program, we determined that the shares of management stock loan participants that were placed in the escrow account are participating securities as defined by EITF Issue No. 03-6, Participating Securities and the Two-Class Method

 
10

 

under FASB Statement No. 128, because they continue to have equivalent common stock dividend rights.  Accordingly, these management stock loan shares are included in our basic EPS calculation during periods of net income and excluded from the basic EPS calculation in periods of net loss.

The following table presents the computation of our EPS for the periods indicated (in thousands, except per share amounts):

   
Quarter Ended
   
Three Quarters Ended
 
   
May 31,
2008
   
June 2,
2007
   
May 31,
2008
   
June 2,
2007
 
Numerator for basic and diluted earnings per share:
                       
Net income
  $ (1,511 )   $ 887     $ 3,630     $ 7,016  
Preferred stock dividends
    -       (348 )     -       (2,215 )
Net income (loss) available to common shareholders
  $ (1,511 )   $ 539     $ 3,630     $ 4,801  
                                 
Denominator for basic and diluted earnings per share:
                               
Basic weighted average shares outstanding(1)
    16,132       19,412       19,542       19,637  
Effect of dilutive securities:
                               
Stock options(2)
    -       34       7       31  
Unvested stock awards(2)
    -       292       266       265  
Common stock warrants(3)
    -       -       -       -  
Diluted weighted average shares outstanding
    16,132       19,738       19,815       19,933  
                                 
Basic and diluted EPS:
                               
Basic EPS
  $ (.09 )   $ .03     $ .19     $ .24  
Diluted EPS
  $ (.09 )   $ .03     $ .18     $ .24  

 
(1)
Since the Company recognized a net loss for the quarter ended May 31, 2008, basic weighted-average shares for that period excludes 3.5 million shares of common stock held by management stock loan participants that were placed in escrow.  Basic weighted-average shares include the 3.5 million management stock loan shares for all other periods presented.

 
(2)
Due to the net loss reported for the quarter ended May 31, 2008, the dilutive effects of in-the-money stock options and unvested stock awards were excluded from the Company’s EPS calculation for the quarter because these items were anti-dilutive.

 
(3)
The conversion of 6.2 million common stock warrants is not assumed because the average share price of our common stock was less than the exercise price of the warrants and such conversion would be anti-dilutive for the periods presented.

At both May 31, 2008 and June 2, 2007, we had approximately 1.9 million stock options outstanding, which were not included in the computation of diluted EPS because the options’ exercise prices were greater than the average market price of the Company’s common shares for the respective periods.  Although these shares were not included in our calculation of diluted EPS, these stock options, and other dilutive securities, may have a dilutive effect on the Company’s EPS calculation in future periods if the price of our common stock increases.



 
11

 

NOTE 8 – SEGMENT INFORMATION

The Company currently has two segments:  the Consumer Solutions Business Unit (CSBU) and the Organizational Solutions Business Unit (OSBU).  The following is a description of our segments, their primary operating components, and their significant business activities:

Consumer Solutions Business Unit – This business unit is primarily focused on product sales to individual customers and small business organizations and includes the results of our domestic retail stores, consumer direct operations (primarily eCommerce and call center), wholesale operations, international product channels in certain countries, and other related distribution channels, including government product sales and domestic printing and publishing sales.  The CSBU results of operations also include the financial results of our paper planner manufacturing operations.  Although CSBU sales primarily consist of products such as planners, binders, software, totes, books, and various accessories, virtually any component of our leadership, productivity, and strategy execution solutions may be purchased through our CSBU channels.  As described in Note 2, during the quarter ended May 31, 2008 the Company entered into an agreement to sell substantially all of the assets of the CSBU to a newly formed company.  Refer to Note 2 for further information regarding the sale of CSBU assets.

Organizational Solutions Business Unit – The OSBU is primarily responsible for the development, marketing, sale, and delivery of strategic execution, productivity, leadership, sales force performance, and communication training and consulting solutions directly to organizational clients, including other companies, the government, and educational institutions.  The OSBU includes the financial results of our domestic sales force, public programs, and certain international operations.  The domestic sales force is responsible for the sale and delivery of our training and consulting services in the United States.  Our international sales group includes the financial results of our directly owned foreign offices and royalty revenues from licensees.

The Company’s chief operating decision maker is the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), and each of the segments has a president who reports directly to the CEO.  The primary measurement tool used in business unit performance analysis is earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA), which may not be calculated as similarly titled amounts calculated by other companies.  For segment reporting purposes, our consolidated EBITDA can be calculated as our income or loss from operations excluding depreciation and amortization charges.

In the normal course of business, the Company may make structural and cost allocation revisions to its segment information to reflect new reporting responsibilities within the organization.  During fiscal 2008, we transferred our public programs operations from CSBU to OSBU and made other less significant organizational changes.  All prior period segment information has been revised to conform to the most recent classifications and organizational changes.  The Company accounts for its segment information on the same basis as the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements.   
      
SEGMENT INFORMATION
(in thousands)
                             
 
Quarter Ended
May 31, 2008
 
Sales to External Customers
   
 
Gross Profit
   
 
EBITDA
   
 
Depreciation
   
 
Amortization
 
Consumer Solutions          
   Business Unit:
                             
Retail
  $ 7,896     $ 4,626     $ (1,737 )   $ 218     $ -  
Consumer direct
    6,949       4,127       2,107       85       -  
Wholesale
    5,046       2,698       2,569       -       -  
CSBU International
    1,119       471       (62 )     6       -  
Other CSBU
    1,280       3       (5,314 )     99       -  
Total CSBU
    22,290       11,925       (2,437 )     408       -  
                                         
Organizational Solutions 
    Business Unit:
                                       
Domestic
    23,111       14,058       482       257       899  

 
12

 


International
    13,660       9,774       4,014       187       3  
Total OSBU
    36,771       23,832       4,496       444       902  
Total operating segments
    59,061       35,757       2,059       852       902  
Corporate and eliminations
    -       -       (512 )     645       -  
Consolidated
  $ 59,061     $ 35,757     $ 1,547     $ 1,497     $ 902  
                                         
Quarter Ended
June 2, 2007
                                       
Consumer Solutions           
   Business Unit:
                                       
Retail
  $ 10,010     $ 5,706     $ (715 )   $ 169     $ -  
Consumer direct
    7,890       4,561       2,522       66       -  
Wholesale
    6,901       3,851       3,704       -       -  
CSBU International
    1,125       628       (176 )     -       -  
Other CSBU
    1,523       281       (4,765 )     190       -  
Total CSBU
    27,449       15,027       570       425       -  
                                         
Organizational Solutions                  
    Business Unit:
                                       
Domestic
    23,143       15,078       2,706       185       899  
International
    13,917       9,531       3,375       215       7  
Total OSBU
    37,060       24,609       6,081       400       906  
Total operating segments
    64,509       39,636       6,651       825       906  
Corporate and eliminations
    -       -       (2,302 )     235       -  
Consolidated
  $ 64,509     $ 39,636     $ 4,349     $ 1,060     $ 906  
                                         
 
Three Quarters Ended
May 31, 2008
 
Sales to External Customers
   
 
Gross Profit
   
 
EBITDA
   
 
Depreciation
   
 
Amortization
 
Consumer Solutions           
   Business Unit:
                                       
Retail
  $ 38,659     $ 23,416     $ 2,930     $ 697     $ -  
Consumer direct
    35,335       20,836       13,588       233       -  
Wholesale
    12,227       6,707       6,282       -       -  
CSBU International
    6,692       3,543       1,223       39       -  
Other CSBU
    3,721       432       (17,626 )     464       -  
Total CSBU
    96,634       54,934       6,397       1,433       -  
                                         
Organizational Solutions                  
    Business Unit:
                                       
Domestic
    66,436       41,511       1,844       1,076       2,697  
International
    44,693       31,946       13,385       414       5  
Total OSBU
    111,129       73,457       15,229       1,490       2,702  
Total operating segments
    207,763       128,391       21,626       2,923       2,702  
Corporate and eliminations
    -       -       (3,869 )     1,121       -  
Consolidated
  $ 207,763     $ 128,391     $ 17,757     $ 4,044     $ 2,702  
                                         
Three Quarters Ended
June 2, 2007
                                       
Consumer Solutions           
    Business Unit:
                                       
Retail
  $ 43,402     $ 25,966     $ 5,195     $ 546     $ -  
Consumer direct
    38,674       22,792       15,630       154       -  
Wholesale
    15,059       8,561       8,114       -       -  
CSBU International
    6,153       3,721       1,020       -       -  
Other CSBU
    4,360       394       (17,425 )     963       -  
Total CSBU
    107,648       61,434       12,534       1,663       -  
                                         
Organizational Solutions                  
    Business Unit:
                                       
Domestic
    66,432       42,848       5,999       453       2,701  
International
    42,834       28,941       9,592       625       7  
Total OSBU
    109,266       71,789       15,591       1,078       2,708  
Total operating segments
    216,914       133,223       28,125       2,741       2,708  
Corporate and eliminations
    -       -       (7,705 )     722       -  
Consolidated
  $ 216,914     $ 133,223     $ 20,420     $ 3,463     $ 2,708  
                                         


 
13

 

A reconciliation of operating segment EBITDA to consolidated income before taxes is provided below (in thousands):

   
Quarter Ended
   
Three Quarters Ended
 
   
May 31,
2008
   
June 2,
2007
   
May 31,
2008
   
June 2,
2007
 
Reportable segment EBITDA
  $ 2,059     $ 6,651     $ 21,626     $ 28,125  
Corporate expenses
    (512 )     (2,302 )     (3,869 )     (7,705 )
Consolidated EBITDA
    1,547       4,349       17,757       20,420  
Gain on sale of manufacturing facility
    -       -       -       1,227  
Depreciation
    (1,497 )     (1,060 )     (4,044 )     (3,463 )
Amortization
    (902 )     (906 )     (2,702 )     (2,708 )
Income (loss) from operations
    (852 )     2,383       11,011       15,476  
Interest income
    55       124       78       682  
Interest expense
    (725 )     (867 )     (2,396 )     (2,203 )
Income (loss) before provision for income taxes
  $ (1,522 )   $ 1,640     $ 8,693     $ 13,955  

The cumulative adjustments resulting from revisions to share-based compensation awards described in Note 4 are included in corporate expenses in the above tables.


NOTE 9 – LICENSE AGREEMENT SETTLEMENT

In August 2005, EpicRealm Licensing (EpicRealm) filed an action in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Texas against the Company for patent infringement.  The action alleges that the Company infringed upon two of EpicRealm’s patents directed to managing dynamic web page requests from clients to a web server that in turn uses a page server to generate a dynamic web page from content retrieved from a data source.  The Company has denied liability in the patent infringement and has filed certain counter-claims related to the case since the filing of the action in District Court.  However, during the quarter ended May 31, 2008, the Company paid EpicRealm a one-time license fee of $1.0 million for a non-exclusive, irrevocable, perpetual, and royalty-free license to use any product, system, or invention covered by the disputed patents.  In connection with the purchase of the license, EpicRealm and the Company agreed to dismiss their claims with prejudice and we are released from further action regarding these patents.
 
14

ITEM 2.  MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIALCONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS


Management’s discussion and analysis contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.  These statements are based upon management’s current expectations and are subject to various uncertainties and changes in circumstances.  Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking statements are set forth below under the heading “Safe Harbor Statement Under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.”

The Company suggests that the following discussion and analysis be read in conjunction with the Consolidated Financial Statements and Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended August 31, 2007.


RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Overview

During the quarter ended May 31, 2008, we announced that we had entered into a definitive agreement with Peterson Partners to create a new company, Franklin Covey Products, LLC (Franklin Covey Products).  This new company purchased substantially all of the assets of our Consumer Solutions Business Unit (CSBU) and will focus on expanding sales of Franklin Covey products pursuant to a comprehensive license agreement.  The CSBU is primarily responsible for sales of our products to both domestic and international consumers through a variety of channels.  Subsequent to May 31, 2008, we completed the sale of the CSBU assets to Franklin Covey Products, which becomes effective during our fiscal quarter ended August 31, 2008.  Franklin Covey Products, which is controlled by Peterson Partners, purchased the CSBU assets for $32.0 million in cash, subject to adjustments for working capital on the closing date of the sale.  On the closing date of the sale, we invested $1.8 million to purchase a 19.5 percent voting interest in Franklin Covey Products, made a $1.0 million preferred capital contribution with a 10 percent priority return, and have the opportunity to earn contingent license fees if Franklin Covey Products achieves specified performance objectives.  As a result of the sale of the CSBU assets, certain forward-looking statements made in this management’s discussion and analysis will be materially affected by the completion of the sale, the elimination of CSBU operating results in future periods, and the accounting for our investment in Franklin Covey Products.

Our third fiscal quarter, which includes the months of March, April, and May, has historically reflected stronger training and consulting sales, but seasonally weaker product sales when compared to our first two fiscal quarters.  For the quarter ended May 31, 2008, our income from operations decreased to a $0.9 million operating loss compared to $2.4 million in operating income in the prior year.  Our income (loss) before taxes also declined compared to the prior year and was a loss of $1.5 million compared to $1.6 million of income for the same period of fiscal 2007 and our net income (loss) available to common shareholders decreased to a $1.5 million loss compared to $0.5 million of income in the corresponding quarter of the prior year.

The primary factors that influenced our operating results during the quarter ended May 31, 2008 were as follows:

·  
SalesOur consolidated sales declined $5.4 million, which was the result of a $5.7 million decrease in product sales that was partially offset by a slight increase in training and consulting services sales.  Product sales declined primarily due to reduced retail sales, consumer direct sales, and wholesale sales compared to the prior year.  We

 
15

 

believe that declining product sales were also impacted by weakening economic conditions, especially in the United States.  Training and consulting services sales increased despite the unfavorable impact of the sales and conversions of our Brazil and Mexico offices to licensee operations.

·  
Gross Profit – Our consolidated gross profit totaled $35.8 million for the quarter ended May 31, 2008 compared to $39.6 million for the same quarter in fiscal 2007.  The decrease was primarily due to decreased product sales during fiscal 2008 compared to the prior year.  Our consolidated gross margin, which is gross profit stated in terms of a percentage of sales, decreased to 60.5 percent of sales compared to 61.4 percent in fiscal 2007.  The decrease in gross margin percentage was primarily attributable to lower gross margins on our training and consulting sales.  However, the impact of decreased training and consulting gross margins was partially offset by the continued shift toward increased training and consulting sales as a percent of total sales since training and consulting sales generally have higher gross margins than our product sales.  Training and consulting service sales increased to 57 percent of total sales in the quarter ended May 31, 2008 compared to 52 percent in the same quarter of the prior year.

·  
Operating Costs – Our operating costs decreased by $0.6 million compared to the prior year, which was the result of a $1.1 million decrease in selling, general, and administrative expenses and a $0.4 million increase in depreciation expense.  Amortization expense from our definite-lived intangible assets did not differ appreciably from the prior year.

Further details regarding these factors and their impact on our operating results and liquidity are provided throughout the following management’s discussion and analysis.

Quarter Ended May 31, 2008 Compared to the Quarter Ended June 2, 2007

Sales

The following table sets forth sales data by category and for our operating segments (in thousands):

   
Quarter Ended
   
Three Quarters Ended
 
   
May 31,
2008
   
June 2,
2007
   
Percent Change
   
May 31,
2008
   
June 2,
2007
   
Percent Change
 
Sales by Category:
                                   
Products
  $ 25,197     $ 30,857      
(18
)   $ 105,872     $ 118,248       (10 )
Training and consulting services
    33,864       33,652       1       101,891       98,666       3  
    $ 59,061     $ 64,509       (8 )   $ 207,763     $ 216,914       (4 )
                                                 
Consumer Solutions Business Unit:
                                               
Retail Stores
  $ 7,896     $ 10,010       (21 )   $ 38,659     $ 43,402       (11 )
Consumer Direct
    6,949       7,890       (12 )     35,335       38,674       (9 )
Wholesale
    5,046       6,901       (27 )     12,227       15,059       (19 )
CSBU International
    1,119       1,125       (1 )     6,692       6,153       9  
Other CSBU
    1,280       1,523       (16 )     3,721       4,360       (15 )
      22,290       27,449       (19 )     96,634       107,648       (10 )
Organizational Solutions Business Unit:
                                               
Domestic
    23,111       23,143       -       66,436       66,432       -  
International
    13,660       13,917       (2 )     44,693       42,834       4  
      36,771       37,060       (1 )     111,129       109,266       2  
Total Sales
  $ 59,061     $ 64,509       (8 )   $ 207,763     $ 216,914       (4 )

Product SalesConsolidated product sales, which primarily consist of planners, binders, totes, software and related accessories that are primarily sold through our CSBU channels, declined $5.7 million compared to the prior year.  The decline in overall product sales during the quarter ended May 31, 2008 was primarily due to the following performance in our CSBU delivery channels:

 
16

 


·  
Retail Stores – The decline in retail sales was primarily due to reduced traffic in our retail locations, which was partially due to a significant increase in the number of wholesale outlets that sell our products and compete directly against Company-owned retail stores, reduced demand for technology and related products, and fewer store locations, which had a $0.9 million impact on retail sales.  Our retail store traffic, or the number of consumers entering our retail locations, declined by approximately 19 percent on a comparable basis (for stores which were open during the comparable periods) compared to the third quarter of fiscal 2007 and resulted in decreased sales of “core” products (e.g. planners, binders, totes, and accessories).  Due to declining demand for electronic handheld planning products, during late fiscal 2007 we decided to exit the low-margin handheld device and related electronics accessories business, which reduced retail sales by $0.3 million compared to the prior year.  These factors combined to produce a 10 percent decline in year-over-year comparable store sales versus the prior year.  We closed 4 retail locations during the quarter ended May 31, 2008 and were operating 73 domestic retail locations at May 31, 2008 compared to 87 locations at June 2, 2007.

·  
Consumer Direct – Sales through our consumer direct channels (primarily eCommerce and call center) decreased $0.9 million, primarily due to a decline in the number of customers visiting our website and a decline in the number of orders that are being processed through the call center.  Visits to our website decreased from the prior year by approximately 15 percent.  Declining consumer orders through the call center continues a long-term trend and decreased by approximately 18 percent compared to the prior year, which we believe is partially the result of a transition of customers to our other product channels.

·  
Wholesale – Sales through our wholesale channel, which includes sales to office superstores and other retail chains, decreased $1.9 million primarily due to the transition of a portion of our wholesale business to a new distributor and the timing of sales as the new distributor builds inventories.

·  
CSBU International – This channel includes the product sales of our directly owned international offices in Canada, the United Kingdom, Mexico, and Australia.  Product sales remained flat through these channels compared to the prior year.

·  
Other CSBU – Other CSBU sales consist primarily of domestic printing and publishing sales and building sublease revenues.  The decrease in other CSBU sales was primarily due to a $0.2 million decrease in external printing sales compared to the prior year.  The decrease in printing sales was primarily due to reduced demand for these products.

Following completion of the sale of our CSBU assets to Franklin Covey Products, we expect that our product sales will decline sharply as the majority of sales reported through the above channels are transitioned to Franklin Covey Products beginning in the quarter ended August 31, 2008.

Training and Consulting ServicesWe offer a variety of training courses, training related products, and consulting services focused on leadership, productivity, strategy execution, sales force performance, and effective communications that are provided both domestically and internationally through the Organizational Solutions Business Unit (OSBU).  Our consolidated training and consulting service sales increased by $0.2 million compared to the prior year, and were significantly impacted by the sales and transitions of our offices in Brazil and Mexico to licensees, which decreased sales by $1.3 million compared to the prior year.  On a comparable basis, which excludes the impact of Brazil and Mexico direct office sales in fiscal 2007, our training and consulting sales increased by 5 percent when compared to fiscal 2007.  Training and consulting service sales performance during the quarter ended May 31, 2008 was primarily influenced by the following factors in our OSBU divisions:

17

 
·  
DomesticOur domestic division includes sales from our five geographic and two vertical direct sales offices, public programs, the sales performance group, book and audio channels, and various other sources.  Our domestic division sales were flat compared to the prior year.  Increased sales from 5 of our 7 direct sales offices and certain specialized events were offset by decreased sales in 2 of our direct offices, lower sales from our sales performance group, and our public program and media channels.  The relatively flat domestic sales performance during the quarter was reflective of the successful launch of the Company’s new leadership offering during the second quarter of fiscal 2007, which also had a favorable impact on domestic training and consulting sales during the third quarter of fiscal 2007.

Sales in our 5 geographical regions and 2 vertical market direct offices are comprised of sales from our core product offerings, which includes The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People, Leadership: Great Leaders, Great Teams, Great Results, and The 4 Disciplines of Execution programs.  Our client-led facilitator training sales increased 7 percent compared to the prior year even though the prior year facilitator sales were favorably impacted by the release of our new leadership offerings.  However, increased facilitator sales were offset by decreased consultant-led programs.  During mid-April, the Company experienced a softening in our booking pace that has lasted through the remainder of the quarter ended May 31, 2008.  As a result, the number of domestic onsite program days delivered in the quarter decreased by 11 percent compared to fiscal 2007.

·  
International International sales decreased $0.3 million compared to the same quarter of fiscal 2007 primarily as a result of the elimination of sales from our wholly owned offices in Brazil and Mexico.  We sold these operations to external licensees during fiscal 2007 and we now receive royalty revenue from their operations based upon gross sales.  The conversion of these operations to licensees had a $1.3 million unfavorable impact on our international sales, but the conversion of these entities improved our income from their operations during the quarter.  Sales increased 11 percent over the prior year at our directly owned offices and from foreign licensee royalty revenues.  The translation of foreign sales to United States dollars resulted in a $1.1 million favorable impact to our consolidated sales as foreign currencies strengthened against the United States dollar during the quarter ended May 31, 2008.

We do not expect the sale of CSBU assets to Franklin Covey Products to have a material impact on our OSBU sales in future periods.

Gross Profit

Gross profit consists of net sales less the cost of goods sold or the cost of services provided.  Our consolidated gross profit totaled $35.8 million for the quarter ended May 31, 2008 compared to $39.6 million in fiscal 2007.  The decrease in gross profit was primarily due to decreased product sales during fiscal 2008 compared to the same quarter of the prior year.  Our consolidated gross margin, which is gross profit stated in terms of a percentage of sales, decreased slightly to 60.5 percent of sales compared to 61.4 percent in fiscal 2007.  The decrease in gross margin percentage was primarily attributable to lower margins on our training and consulting sales, which was partially offset by the continuing shift toward increased training and consulting sales, which generally have higher margins than our product sales.  Training and consulting service sales increased to 57 percent of total sales in the quarter ended May 31, 2008 compared to 52 percent in the same quarter of fiscal 2007.

Our gross margin on product sales remained relatively consistent at 52.8 percent of sales compared to 52.6 percent in fiscal 2007.
 
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For the quarter ended May 31, 2008, our training and consulting services gross margin decreased to 66.3 percent compared to 69.5 percent in the prior year.  The decline in gross margin was primarily attributable to increased amortization of capitalized development costs and increased sales of low-margin specialized seminar events.

Following the sale of the CSBU assets, we anticipate that our consolidated gross profit will decline as the majority of our product sales are transitioned to Franklin Covey products.  However, we anticipate that our overall gross margin will improve to a percentage closer to the current OSBU gross margin.

Operating Expenses

Selling, General and AdministrativeOur selling, general, and administrative (SG&A) expenses decreased by $1.1 million, or 3 percent, compared to the prior year.  The decrease in our consolidated SG&A expenses was primarily due to 1) the sales and conversions of our Brazil and Mexico offices to licensee operations, which reduced SG&A expenses by $1.0 million; 2) a $0.7 million decrease in share-based compensation expense that was primarily due to the determination that no shares will be awarded under our fiscal 2007 long-term incentive plan and the corresponding reversal of accumulated share-based compensation expense related to that plan; and 3) decreased rent and utility expenses totaling $0.7 million that were primarily attributable to a $0.4 million lease buyout received from one of our tenants, the receipt of a $0.2 million contingent refund of telephone expenses from one of our vendors based on usage through a contracted period, and an overall reduction in rent, utilities, and related expenses resulting from the closure of retail stores.  These decreases in our SG&A spending were partially offset by a $0.6 million increase in retail store closure costs, a $0.3 million increase in public programs promotional spending, and smaller increases in various other areas of the Company’s operations.

We regularly assess the operating performance of our retail stores, including previous operating performance trends and projected future profitability.  During this assessment process, judgments are made as to whether under-performing or unprofitable stores should be closed.  As a result of this evaluation process, we closed 4 retail store locations during the quarter ended May 31, 2008.  The costs associated with closing retail stores are typically comprised of charges related to vacating the premises, which may include a provision for the remaining term on the lease, and severance and other personnel costs, which are included as a component of SG&A expenses.

DepreciationDepreciation expense for the quarter ended May 31, 2008 increased to $1.5 million compared to $1.1 million in the prior year.  Our depreciation expense increased primarily due to the acceleration of $0.3 million of depreciation on a payroll software module due to a revision in the estimated useful life of the software.

Following completion of the sale of CSBU assets, we anticipate that our operating expenses in future periods will decline beginning in the quarter ended August 31, 2008.

Income Taxes

For the quarter ended May 31, 2008 we recorded an income tax benefit totaling $11,000 compared to an income tax provision of $0.8 million for the quarter ended June 2, 2007.  The change in our income tax provision was primarily due to the recognition of a pre-tax loss during the quarter ended May 31, 2008 compared to pre-tax income in the prior year.  Our income tax benefit rate for the quarter was less than statutory combined rates primarily due to the accrual of taxable interest income on the management stock loan program and withholding taxes on royalty income from foreign licensees.


 
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Preferred Dividends

Due to the redemption of all remaining shares of Series A preferred stock in the third quarter of fiscal 2007, our preferred dividend obligation decreased $0.3 million compared to the prior year.


Three Quarters Ended May 31, 2008 Compared to the Three Quarters Ended June 2, 2007

Sales

Product SalesOur consolidated product sales, which are primarily generated by our CSBU channels, declined by $12.4 million compared to the prior year.  We believe that the product sales declines experienced during the first three quarters of fiscal 2008 were impacted by deteriorating economic conditions in the United States, which generally reduced consumer spending during the 2007 holiday shopping season.  The following is a description of sales performance in our CSBU channels for the three quarters ended May 31, 2008:

·  
Retail Stores – The decline in retail sales was primarily due to reduced traffic in our retail locations, reduced demand for technology and related products, and fewer store locations, which had a $1.9 million impact on retail sales.  Our retail store traffic declined by approximately 8 percent compared to the first three quarters of fiscal 2007 and resulted in decreased sales of “core” products compared to the prior year.  Due to declining demand for electronic handheld planning products, during late fiscal 2007 we decided to exit the low-margin handheld device and related electronics accessories business, which reduced retail sales by $0.8 million compared to the prior year.  These factors combined to produce a 5 percent decline in year-over-year comparable store sales versus the prior year.

·  
Consumer Direct – Sales through our consumer direct channels decreased by $3.3 million, primarily due to a decline in the number of customers visiting our website and a decline in the number of orders that are being processed through our call center.  Website visits decreased by 13 percent compared to the prior year and declining customer orders through the call center continues a long-term trend and decreased by 17 percent, which we believe is partially due to consumers transitioning to our other product channels.

·  
Wholesale – Sales through our wholesale channel, which includes sales to office superstores and other retail chains, decreased $2.8 million primarily due to the transition of a portion of our wholesale business to a new wholesale distribution partner.

·  
CSBU International – This channel includes the product sales of our directly owned international offices in Canada, the United Kingdom, Mexico, and Australia.  Sales performance through these channels increased $0.5 million compared with the prior year primarily due to increased demand for products in certain countries.

·  
Other CSBU – The $0.6 million decrease in other CSBU sales was primarily due to decreased printing services sales that occurred during the second and third quarters of fiscal 2008.

Following completion of the sale of our CSBU assets to Franklin Covey Products, we expect that our product sales will decline sharply as the majority of sales reported through the above channels are transitioned to Franklin Covey Products beginning in the quarter ended August 31, 2008.

Training and Consulting ServicesOur consolidated training and consulting service sales increased $3.2 million compared to the prior year.  Training and consulting service sales

 
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performance during the first three quarters of fiscal 2008 was influenced by the following performance and trends in the OSBU divisions:

·  
DomesticOur domestic training sales were flat compared to the three quarters ended June 2, 2007, primarily due to lower sales from our public programs, sales performance group, and book and audio divisions.  Decreased sales from these groups were partially offset by increased sales from our combined geographical and vertical market sales offices and by increased sales from specialized seminar events.  During the first 2 fiscal quarters of 2008, sales through our direct sales offices improved over the prior year as acceptance of our core product offerings, which includes The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People, Leadership: Great Leaders, Great Teams, Great Results, and The 4 Disciplines of Execution continued to strengthen.

·  
International International sales increased $1.9 million compared to the prior year.  Combined sales from our remaining directly owned foreign offices as well as from licensee royalty revenues increased $6.0 million, or 17 percent, compared to the prior year.  Partially offsetting these increases was the elimination of sales from our wholly owned subsidiary in Brazil and our training operations located in Mexico.  We sold these operations to external licensees during fiscal 2007 and we now receive royalty revenue from their operations based upon gross sales.  The conversion of these operations to licensees had a $3.6 million unfavorable impact on our international sales but improved our income from these operations compared to the prior year.  The translation of foreign sales to United States dollars had a $3.0 million favorable impact on our consolidated sales as foreign currencies strengthened against the United States dollar during the three quarters ended May 31, 2008.

We do not expect the sale of CSBU assets to Franklin Covey Products to have a material impact on our OSBU sales in future periods.

Gross Profit

For the three quarters ended May 31, 2008, our consolidated gross profit decreased to $128.4 million compared to $133.2 million in the same period of fiscal 2007.  The decrease was primarily attributable to decreased product sales during fiscal 2008 compared to the prior year.  Our consolidated gross margin, which is gross profit stated in terms of a percentage of sales, improved to 61.8 percent of sales compared to 61.4 percent in the first three quarters of fiscal 2007.  The slight increase in gross margin percentage was primarily attributable to the continuing shift toward increased training and consulting sales, which generally have higher margins than our product sales.  Training and consulting service sales increased to 49 percent of total sales for the three quarters ended May 31, 2008 compared to 45 percent in the prior year.

Our gross margin on product sales remained relatively consistent at 56.0 percent of sales compared to 55.6 percent in the prior year.

During the first three quarters of fiscal 2008, our training and consulting services gross margin decreased to 67.8 percent compared to 68.4 percent in the prior year.  The slight decrease was primarily attributable to increased amortization of capitalized curriculum costs during the fiscal year, which was partially offset by increased licensee royalty revenues, which have virtually no corresponding cost of sales.

Following the sale of the CSBU assets, we anticipate that our consolidated gross profit will decline as the majority of our product sales are transitioned to Franklin Covey products.  However, we anticipate that our overall gross margin will improve to a percentage closer to the current OSBU gross margin.


 
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Operating Expenses

Selling, General and AdministrativeConsolidated SG&A expenses decreased $2.2 million, or 2 percent, compared to the prior year (excluding the gain on the sale of a manufacturing facility in the second quarter of fiscal 2007).  The decrease in SG&A expenses was primarily due to 1) the fiscal 2007 sale of our subsidiary in Brazil and the training and consulting operations of our subsidiary in Mexico, which reduced SG&A expenses by $2.9 million; 2) a $1.8 million decrease in share-based compensation primarily due to the determination that no shares will be awarded under our fiscal 2006 or fiscal 2007 long-term incentive plans and the corresponding reversal of share-based compensation expense from those plans; and 3) a $0.5 million decrease in audit and related consulting costs primarily resulting from improved processes and procedures combined with revised internal control testing standards.  These decreases were partially offset by 1) a $1.3 million increase in promotional costs in our OSBU, which were primarily comprised of increased spending for “Greatness Summit” programs for our clients and increased spending on public programs promotional materials; 2) a $0.6 million increase in retail store closure costs that were primarily incurred in connection with the buyout of two leases; and 3) smaller increases in SG&A spending in various other areas of our operations.

Gain on Sale of Manufacturing Facility – In August 2006, we initiated a project to reconfigure our printing operations to improve our printing services’ efficiency, reduce operating costs, and improve our printing services’ flexibility to potentially increase external printing service sales.  Our reconfiguration plan included moving our printing operations a short distance from its existing location to our corporate headquarters campus and the sale of the manufacturing facility and certain printing presses.  During the quarter ended March 3, 2007, we completed the sale of the manufacturing facility.  The sale price was $2.5 million and, after deducting customary closing costs, the net proceeds to the Company from the sale totaled $2.3 million in cash.  The carrying value of the manufacturing facility at the date of sale was approximately $1.1 million and we recognized a $1.2 million gain on the sale of the manufacturing facility during the quarter ended March 3, 2007, which is included in operating results for the three quarters ended June 2, 2007.

Depreciation and AmortizationConsolidated depreciation expense increased to $4.0 million compared to $3.5 million for the first three quarters of fiscal 2007.  The increase in our depreciation expense in fiscal 2008 was primarily due to the acceleration of $0.3 million of depreciation on a payroll software module that had a revision to its estimated useful life as we decided to outsource our payroll services and an impairment charge totaling $0.3 million for software that did not function as anticipated and was written off.  Depreciation expense in the prior year also included an impairment charge totaling $0.3 million that we recorded to reduce the carrying value of one of our printing presses to be sold to its anticipated sale price.  Based upon write-offs recorded in fiscal 2008, the sale of CSBU assets, anticipated capital spending in the remainder of fiscal 2008, and purchases in prior years, we expect that total depreciation expense in fiscal 2008 will decrease compared to overall fiscal 2007 depreciation expense.

Amortization expense from definite-lived intangible assets totaled $2.7 million for the three quarters ended May 31, 2008 and June 2, 2007.  We currently expect that intangible asset amortization expense will total $3.6 million in fiscal 2008.

Following completion of the sale of CSBU assets, we anticipate that our operating expenses in future periods will decline beginning in the quarter ended August 31, 2008.


 
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Interest Income and Expense

Interest Income – Our interest income decreased compared to the prior year primarily due to reduced cash balances compared to the prior year and a reduction of interest rates on our depository accounts.

Interest Expense – Interest expense increased primarily due to borrowings on our line of credit facility during the three quarters ended May 31, 2008.

Income Taxes

Our income tax provision for the three quarters ended May 31, 2008 totaled $5.1 million compared to $6.9 million for the comparable period of fiscal 2007.  The decrease in our income tax provision was primarily due to reduced pre-tax income compared to the prior year.  Our effective tax rate for the three quarters ended May 31, 2008 of approximately 58 percent was higher than statutory combined rates primarily due to the accrual of taxable interest income on the management stock loan program and withholding taxes on royalty income from foreign licensees.

The adoption of FIN 48 during our first quarter of fiscal 2008 did not have a material impact on our income tax provision.

Preferred Stock Dividends

Due to the redemption of all remaining shares of Series A preferred stock in the third quarter of fiscal 2007, our preferred dividend obligation decreased by $2.2 million compared to the prior year.


LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

At May 31, 2008 we had $4.9 million of cash and cash equivalents compared to $6.1 million at August 31, 2007.  During the quarter ended May 31, 2008 we announced the sale of substantially all of the assets of our CSBU.  Subsequent to the quarter ended May 31, 2008, we completed the sale transaction.  The sale price was $32.0 million in cash and concurrent with the closing of the sale agreement, the Company contributed approximately $1.8 million to the new entity for approximately 19.5 percent of the voting interest and another $1.0 million in the form of a preferred contribution (refer to Note 2 to the condensed consolidated financial statements for further information regarding the sale of CSBU assets).  

Our debt structure consists of a $25.0 million line of credit that may be used for working capital and other general needs, a long-term variable rate mortgage on our Canadian building, and a long-term lease on our corporate campus that is accounted for as a financing obligation.  The $25.0 million line of credit carries an interest rate equal to LIBOR plus 1.10 percent and expires on March 14, 2010.  We may draw on the line of credit facility, repay, and draw again, on a revolving basis, up to the maximum loan amount of $25.0 million so long as no event of default has occurred and is continuing.  The working capital line of credit also contains customary representations and guarantees as well as provisions for repayment and liens.

In addition to customary non-financial terms and conditions, our line of credit agreements require us to be in compliance with specified financial covenants, including: (i) a funded debt to earnings ratio; (ii) a fixed charge coverage ratio; (iii) a limitation on annual capital expenditures; and (iv) a defined amount of minimum net worth.  In the event of noncompliance with these financial covenants and other defined events of default, the lenders are entitled to certain remedies, including acceleration of the repayment of amounts outstanding on the line of credit.  In connection

 
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with the anticipated sale of our Consumer Solutions Business Unit, we obtained a letter of consent from the lending institutions on our $25.0 million line of credit facility that prevented an instance of non-compliance with certain terms and conditions related to material changes and transfers of assets.  During the quarter ended May 31, 2008, we believe that we were in compliance with the other terms and financial covenants of our credit facilities.  At May 31, 2008, we had $8.2 million outstanding on the line of credit, which was classified as a current liability on our condensed consolidated balance sheets.

Subsequent to May 31, 2008, and in connection with the sale of CSBU assets, we signed an agreement to modify our line of credit facility.  Under terms of the modification agreement, our available borrowing capacity will remain at $25.0 million until June 30, 2009, when the borrowing capacity will be reduced to $15.0 million.  In addition, the interest rate on the credit facility will increase from LIBOR plus 1.10 percent to LIBOR plus 1.50 percent, effective on the date of the modification agreement.

The following discussion is a description of the primary factors affecting our cash flows and their effects upon our liquidity and capital resources during the three quarters ended May 31, 2008.

Cash Flows From Operating Activities

Our cash provided by operating activities totaled $11.8 million for the three quarters ended May 31, 2008 compared to $8.7 million during the same period of the prior year.  Our primary source of cash from operating activities was the sale of goods and services to our customers in the normal course of business.  The primary uses of cash for operating activities were payments to suppliers for materials used in products sold, payments for direct costs necessary to conduct training programs, and payments for selling, general, and administrative expenses.  Cash provided by or used for changes in working capital during the three quarters ended May 31, 2008 was primarily related to 1) decreased inventory balances resulting from the sale of goods during our seasonally busy months of December and January and improved management of inventory levels during our third fiscal quarter; 2) payments to reduce accounts payable and accrued liabilities from seasonally high balances at August 31; and 3) increased accounts receivable balances primarily resulting from wholesale shipments during the quarter ended May 31, 2008, increased OSBU sales, and the effects of foreign exchange rates on our international receivables.  We believe that our continued efforts to optimize working capital balances, combined with existing and planned sales growth programs and cost-reduction initiatives, will improve our cash flows from operating activities in future periods.  However, the success of these efforts, and their eventual contribution to our cash flows, is dependent upon numerous factors, many of which are not within our control.

Cash Flows From Investing Activities and Capital Expenditures

Net cash used for investing activities totaled $4.5 million for the three quarters ended May 31, 2008.  Our primary uses of cash for investing activities were the purchase of property and equipment and additional spending on curriculum development.  Our purchases of property and equipment, which totaled $2.8 million, consisted primarily of computer hardware, computer software, and leasehold improvements.  During the three quarters ended May 31, 2008, we capitalized $2.9 million related to the development of various programs and curriculum.  Partially offsetting these uses of cash was the receipt of $1.1 million on notes receivable from the sales of our subsidiary in Brazil and our training operations in Mexico, which were completed at August 31, 2007 through the use of notes receivable financing and the receipt of $0.1 million from sales of property and equipment.

Cash Flows From Financing Activities

Net cash used for financing activities through the three quarters ended May 31, 2008 totaled $7.9 million, which primarily consisted of payments on our line of credit and other debt obligations.  During the three quarters ended May 31, 2008 we used substantially all of our available cash to reduce our line of credit borrowings from $16.0 million at August 31, 2007 to $8.2 million at May 31, 2008.


 
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Sources of Liquidity

Going forward, we will continue to incur costs necessary for the operation and potential growth of the business.  We anticipate using cash on hand, cash provided by the sale of goods and services to our clients on the condition that we can continue to generate positive cash flows from operating activities, proceeds from our line of credit, and other financing alternatives, if necessary, for these expenditures.  We anticipate that our existing capital resources should be adequate to enable us to maintain our operations for at least the upcoming twelve months.  However, our ability to maintain adequate capital for our operations in the future is dependent upon a number of factors, including sales trends, our ability to contain costs, purchases of our common stock, levels of capital expenditures, collection of accounts receivable, and other factors.  Some of the factors that influence our operations are not within our control, such as economic conditions and the introduction of new technology and products by our competitors.  We will continue to monitor our liquidity position and may pursue additional financing alternatives, if required, to maintain sufficient resources for future growth and capital requirements.  However, there can be no assurance that such financing alternatives will be available to us on acceptable terms.

Contractual Obligations

The Company has not structured any special purpose or variable interest entities, or participated in any commodity trading activities, which would expose us to potential undisclosed liabilities or create adverse consequences to our liquidity.  Required contractual payments primarily consist of 1) payments to EDS for outsourcing services related to information systems, warehousing and distribution, and call center operations; 2) payments on a financing obligation resulting from the sale of our corporate campus; 3) minimum rent payments for retail store and sales office space; 4) mortgage payments on certain buildings and property; and 5) short-term purchase obligations for inventory and other products or services to be delivered in fiscal 2008.  Through May 31, 2008, there have been no significant changes to our expected required contractual obligations from those disclosed at August 31, 2007.

Our contractual obligations as disclosed in our Form 10-K for the year ended August 31, 2007 exclude unrecognized tax benefits under FIN 48 of $4.3 million for which we cannot make a reasonably reliable estimate of the amount and period of payment.  For further information regarding the adoption of FIN 48, refer to Note 5 of the notes to the condensed consolidated financial statements contained in this Form 10-Q.

Other Items

The Company is the creditor for a loan program that provided the capital to allow certain management personnel the opportunity to purchase shares of our common stock.  For further information regarding our management common stock loan program, refer to Note 10 to our consolidated financial statements on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2007.  The inability of the Company to collect all, or a portion, of these receivables could have an adverse impact upon our financial position and future cash flows compared to full collection of the loans.


USE OF ESTIMATES AND CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Our consolidated financial statements were prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.  The significant accounting polices that we used to prepare our consolidated financial statements are outlined in Note 1 to the consolidated financial statements, which are presented in Part II, Item 8 of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2007.  Some of those accounting policies require us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in our consolidated financial statements.  Management regularly evaluates its estimates and assumptions and bases those estimates and assumptions on historical experience, factors that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances, and requirements under accounting principles generally accepted in the United

 
25

 

States of America.  Actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions, including changes in economic conditions and other circumstances that are not within our control, but which may have an impact on these estimates and our actual financial results.

The following items require significant judgment and often involve complex estimates:

Revenue Recognition

We derive revenues primarily from the following sources:

·  
Products – We sell planners, binders, planner accessories, handheld electronic devices, and other related products that are mainly sold through our CSBU channels.

·  
Training and Consulting Services – We provide training and consulting services to both organizations and individuals in leadership, productivity, strategic execution, goal alignment, sales force performance, and communication effectiveness skills.  These training programs and services are principally sold through our OSBU channels.

The Company recognizes revenue when: 1) persuasive evidence of an agreement exists, 2) delivery of product has occurred or services have been rendered, 3) the price to the customer is fixed and determinable, and 4) collectibility is reasonably assured.  For product sales, these conditions are generally met upon shipment of the product to the customer or by completion of the sale transaction in a retail store.  For training and service sales, these conditions are generally met upon presentation of the training seminar or delivery of the consulting services.

Some of our training and consulting contracts contain multiple deliverable elements that include training along with other products and services.  In accordance with Emerging Issues Task Force (EITF) Issue 00-21, Accounting for Revenue Arrangements with Multiple Deliverables, sales arrangements with multiple deliverables are divided into separate units of accounting if the deliverables in the sales contract meet the following criteria: 1) the delivered training or product has value to the client on a standalone basis; 2) there is objective and reliable evidence of the fair value of undelivered items; and 3) delivery of any undelivered item is probable.  The overall contract consideration is allocated among the separate units of accounting based upon their fair values, with the amount allocated to the delivered item being limited to the amount that is not contingent upon the delivery of additional items or meeting other specified performance conditions.  If the fair value of all undelivered elements exits, but fair value does not exist for one or more delivered elements, the residual method is used.  Under the residual method, the amount of consideration allocated to the delivered items equals the total contract consideration less the aggregate fair value of the undelivered items.  Fair value of the undelivered items is based upon the normal pricing practices for the Company’s existing training programs, consulting services, and other products, which are generally the prices of the items when sold separately.

Revenue is recognized on software sales in accordance with Statement of Position (SOP) 97-2, Software Revenue Recognition as amended by SOP 98-09.  Statement 97-2, as amended, generally requires revenue earned on software arrangements involving multiple elements such as software products and support to be allocated to each element based on the relative fair value of the elements based on vendor specific objective evidence (VSOE).  The majority of the Company’s software sales have elements, including a license and post-contract customer support (PCS).  Currently the Company does not have VSOE for either the license or support elements of its software sales.  Accordingly, revenue is deferred until the only undelivered element is PCS and the total arrangement fee is recognized ratably over the support period.

Our international strategy includes the use of licensees in countries where we do not have a wholly-owned operation.  Licensee companies are unrelated entities that have been granted a license to

 
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translate our content and curriculum, adapt the content and curriculum to the local culture, and sell our training seminars and products in a specific country or region.  Licensees are required to pay us royalties based upon a percentage of the licensee’s sales.  The Company recognizes royalty income each period based upon the sales information reported to us from the licensees.

Revenue is recognized as the net amount to be received after deducting estimated amounts for discounts and product returns.

Share-Based Compensation

During fiscal 2006, we granted performance based compensation awards to certain employees in a Board of Director approved long-term incentive plan (the LTIP).  These performance-based share awards allow each participant the right to receive a certain number of shares of common stock based upon the achievement of specified financial goals at the end of a predetermined performance period.  The LTIP awards vest on August 31 of the third fiscal year from the grant date, which corresponds to the completion of a three-year performance cycle.  For example, the LTIP awards granted in fiscal 2006 vest on August 31, 2008.  The number of shares that are finally awarded to LTIP participants is variable and is based entirely upon the achievement of a combination of performance objectives related to sales growth and cumulative operating income during the performance period.  Due to the variable number of shares that may be issued under the LTIP, we reevaluate the LTIP grants on a quarterly basis and adjust the number of shares expected to be awarded for each grant based upon financial results of the Company as compared to the performance goals set for the award.  Adjustments to the number of shares awarded, and to the corresponding compensation expense, are based upon estimated future performance and are made on a cumulative basis at the date of adjustment based upon the probable number of shares to be awarded.

The Compensation Committee initially granted awards for 378,665 shares (the Target Award) of common stock under the LTIP during fiscal 2006.  However, based upon actual financial performance through December 1, 2007 and estimated performance through the remaining service period of the fiscal 2006 LTIP grant, the Company determined that no shares of common stock would be awarded under the terms of the fiscal 2006 LTIP grant.  We expect that our anticipated sales growth in training and consulting sales will be insufficient to offset forecast product sales declines, which were revised using actual product sales levels late in our first fiscal quarter and early second fiscal quarter, and the impact of eliminated sales resulting from the disposal and conversion of our subsidiary in Brazil and our training operations in Mexico to licensees.  Although we expect sufficient levels of cumulative operating income to be recognized for the fiscal 2006 award, anticipated sales growth was below the minimum 7.5 percent threshold for shares to be awarded under the plan (refer to the table below).  As a result of this determination, we recorded a cumulative adjustment in the quarter ended December 1, 2007 that reduced our selling, general, and administrative expenses by $0.7 million and no compensation expense was recognized from the fiscal 2006 LTIP award during the quarters ended March 1, 2008 or May 31, 2008.

Sales Growth
 
Percent of Target Shares Awarded
30.0%
115%
135%
150%
175%
200%
22.5%
90%
110%
125%
150%
175%
15.0%
65%
85%
100%
125%
150%
11.8 %
50%
70%
85%
110%
135%
7.5%
30%
50%
65%
90%
115%
 
$36.20
$56.80
$72.30
$108.50
$144.60
 
Cumulative Operating Income (millions)

During fiscal 2007, the Compensation Committee granted performance awards for 429,312 shares of common stock under the terms of the LTIP.  The Company must achieve minimum levels of sales growth and cumulative operating income in order for participants to receive any shares under the fiscal 2007 LTIP grant.  As shown in the table below, the minimum sales growth for the fiscal 2007 LTIP is 10.0 percent (fiscal 2009 compared to fiscal 2007) and the minimum cumulative operating income total during the service period is $41.3 million.  We recorded compensation

 
27

 

expense on the fiscal 2007 LTIP using a 5 percent estimated forfeiture rate during the vesting period.  However, the total amount of compensation expense recorded for the fiscal 2007 LTIP will equal the number of shares awarded multiplied by $5.78 per share.

Based upon our assessment of the fiscal 2007 LTIP at May 31, 2008, we determined that no shares of common stock would be awarded to participants under the terms of the fiscal 2007 LTIP grant.  Consistent with the analysis of the fiscal 2006 LTIP grant, we expect sufficient levels of operating income to be recognized for the fiscal 2007 award, but expected sales growth is expected to be insufficient for any shares to be awarded under this plan.  The revised sales projections included actual performance through May 31, 2008 and estimated sales performance through fiscal 2009 based upon revised assumptions, which were adversely affected by slowing economic conditions in the United States and other countries in which the Company has operations.  Although training and consulting sales are expected to increase in fiscal 2009 compared to fiscal 2008, the growth rate was insufficient to offset expected declines in product sales and the impact of transitioning our Mexico and Brazil offices to licensees.  As a result of this determination, we recorded cumulative adjustments totaling $1.0 million to reduce selling, general, and administrative expenses during the three quarters ended May 31, 2008.

The number of shares finally awarded to LTIP participants under the fiscal 2007 LTIP grant is based upon the combination of factors as shown below:

Sales Growth
 
Percent of Target Shares Awarded
40.0%
115%
135%
150%
175%
200%
30.0%
90%
110%
125%
150%
175%
20.0%
65%
85%
100%
125%
150%
15.7%
50%
70%
85%
110%
135%
10.0%
30%
50%
65%
90%
115%
 
$41.30
$64.90
$82.60
$123.90
$165.20
 
Cumulative Operating Income (millions)

The analysis of our LTIP plans contains uncertainties because we are required to make assumptions and judgments about the eventual number of shares that will vest in each LTIP grant.  The assumptions and judgments that are essential to the analysis include forecasted sales and operating income levels during the LTIP service periods.  The evaluation of LTIP performance awards and corresponding use of estimated amounts may produce additional volatility in our consolidated financial statements as we record cumulative adjustments to the estimated number of common shares to be awarded under the LTIP grants.  Actual results could differ, and differ materially, from estimates made during the service, or vesting, period.

We estimate the value of our stock option awards on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option pricing model.  However, the Company did not grant any stock options during the quarter or three quarters ended May 31, 2008 or the fiscal years ended August 31, 2007 and 2006, and we did not have any remaining unrecognized compensation expense associated with unvested stock options at May 31, 2008.

Accounts Receivable Valuation

Trade accounts receivable are recorded at the invoiced amount and do not bear interest.  The allowance for doubtful accounts represents our best estimate of the amount of probable credit losses in the existing accounts receivable balance.  We determine the allowance for doubtful accounts based upon historical write-off experience and current economic conditions and we review the adequacy of our allowance for doubtful accounts on a regular basis.  Receivable balances over 90 days past due, which exceed a specified dollar amount, are reviewed individually for collectibility.  Account balances are charged off against the allowance after all means of collection have been exhausted and the probability for recovery is considered remote.  We do not have any off-balance sheet credit exposure related to our customers.

 
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Our allowance for doubtful accounts calculations contain uncertainties because the calculations require us to make assumptions and judgments regarding the collectibility of customer accounts, which may be influenced by a number of factors that are not within our control, such as the financial health of each customer.  We regularly review the collectibility assumptions of our allowance for doubtful accounts calculation and compare them against historical collections.  Adjustments to the assumptions are then based upon the comparison, which may either increase or decrease our total allowance for doubtful accounts.  For example, a 10 percent increase to our allowance for doubtful accounts at May 31, 2008 would reduce our reported income from operations by approximately $0.1 million.

Inventory Valuation

Our inventories are comprised primarily of dated calendar products and other non-dated products such as binders, stationery, training products, and other accessories.  Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market with cost determined using the first-in, first-out method.  Inventories are reduced to their fair market value through the use of inventory loss reserves, which are recorded during the normal course of business.

Our inventory loss reserve calculations contain uncertainties because the calculations require us to make assumptions and judgments regarding a number of factors, including future inventory demand requirements and pricing strategies.  During the evaluation process we consider historical sales patterns and current sales trends, but these may not be indicative of future inventory losses.  While we have not made material changes to our inventory reserves methodology during the past three years, our inventory requirements may change based on projected customer demand, technological and product life cycle changes, longer or shorter than expected usage periods, and other factors that could affect the valuation of our inventories.  If our estimates regarding consumer demand and other factors are inaccurate, we may be exposed to losses that may have a materially adverse impact upon our financial position and results of operations.  For instance, a 10 percent increase in our inventory loss reserves at May 31, 2008 would reduce our income from operations by approximately $0.4 million.

Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets

Intangible assets that are deemed to have an indefinite life are not amortized, but rather are tested for impairment on an annual basis, or more often if events or circumstances indicate that a potential impairment exists.  The Covey trade name intangible asset has been deemed to have an indefinite life.  This intangible asset is assigned to the OSBU and is tested for impairment using the present value of estimated royalties on trade name related revenues, which consist primarily of training seminars, international licensee royalties, and related products.  If the carrying value of the Covey trade name exceeds the fair value of its discounted estimated royalties on trade name related revenues, an impairment loss is recognized for the difference.  The adjusted basis becomes the carrying value until a future impairment assessment determines that additional impairment charges are necessary.

Our impairment evaluation calculation for the Covey trade name contains uncertainties because it requires us to make assumptions and apply judgment in order to estimate future cash flows, to estimate an appropriate royalty rate, and to select a discount rate that reflects the inherent risk of future cash flows.  Our valuation methodology for the Covey trade name was developed by an independent valuation firm and has remained materially unchanged during the past three years.  However, if forecasts and assumptions used to support the carrying value of our indefinite-lived intangible asset change in future periods, significant impairment charges could result that would have an adverse effect upon our results of operations and financial condition.  Based upon the fiscal 2007 evaluation of the Covey trade name, our trade-name related revenues and licensee royalties would have to suffer significant reductions before we would be required to impair the Covey trade name.


 
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Impairment of Long-Lived Assets

Long-lived tangible assets and definite-lived intangible assets are reviewed for possible impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of such assets may not be recoverable.  We use an estimate of undiscounted future net cash flows of the assets over their remaining useful lives in determining whether the carrying value of the assets is recoverable.  If the carrying values of the assets exceed the anticipated future cash flows of the assets, we calculate an impairment loss.  The impairment loss calculation compares the carrying value of the asset to the asset’s estimated fair value, which may be based upon discounted cash flows over the estimated remaining useful life of the asset.  If we recognize an impairment loss, the adjusted carrying amount of the asset becomes its new cost basis, which is then depreciated or amortized over the remaining useful life of the asset.  Impairment of long-lived assets is assessed at the lowest levels for which there are identifiable cash flows that are independent from other groups of assets.

Our impairment evaluation calculations contain uncertainties because they require us to make assumptions and apply judgment in order to estimate future cash flows, forecast the useful lives of the assets, and select a discount rate that reflects the risk inherent in future cash flows.  Although we have not made any material changes to our long-lived assets impairment assessment methodology during the past three years, if forecasts and assumptions used to support the carrying value of our long-lived tangible and definite-lived intangible assets change in the future, significant impairment charges could result that would adversely affect our results of operations and financial condition.  We do not believe that the sale of the CSBU assets will result in any material asset impairments to the Company’s long-lived assets.

Income Taxes

We regularly evaluate our United States federal and various state and foreign jurisdiction income tax exposures.  On September 1, 2007, the Company adopted FIN 48, which addresses the determination of whether tax benefits claimed or expected to be claimed on a tax return should be recorded in the financial statements.  Under the provisions of FIN 48, we may recognize the tax benefit from an uncertain tax position only if it is more likely than not that the tax position will be sustained upon examination by the taxing authorities, based on the technical merits of the position.  The tax benefits recognized in the financial statements from such a position are measured based on the largest benefit that has a greater than 50 percent likelihood of being realized upon final settlement.  The provisions of FIN 48 also provide guidance on de-recognition, classification, interest, and penalties on income taxes, accounting for income taxes in interim periods, and requires increased disclosure of various income tax items.  Taxes and penalties are components of our overall income tax provision.  Prior to the adoption of FIN 48, interest on income tax items was recorded as a component of consolidated interest expense.  Beginning on September 1, 2007, in conjunction with the adoption of FIN 48, interest on income taxes is included as a component of overall income tax expense.

The Company records previously unrecognized tax benefits in the financial statements when it becomes more likely than not (greater than a 50 percent likelihood) that the tax position will be sustained.  To assess the probability of sustaining a tax position, the Company considers all available evidence.  In many instances, sufficient positive evidence may not be available until the expiration of the statute of limitations for audits by taxing jurisdictions, at which time the entire benefit will be recognized as a discrete item in the applicable period.

Our unrecognized tax benefits result from uncertain tax positions about which we are required to make assumptions and apply judgment to estimate the exposures associated with our various tax filing positions.  The calculation of our income tax provision or benefit, as applicable, requires estimates of future taxable income or losses.  During the course of the fiscal year, these estimates are compared to actual financial results and adjustments may be made to our tax provision or benefit to reflect these revised estimates.  Our effective income tax rate is also affected by changes in tax law and the results of tax audits by various jurisdictions.  Although we believe that our

 
30

 

judgments and estimates discussed herein are reasonable, actual results could differ, and we could be exposed to losses or gains that could be material.


NEW ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS

Fair Value Measures – In September 2006, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) No. 157, Fair Value Measures.  This statement establishes a single authoritative definition of fair value, sets out a framework for measuring fair value, and requires additional disclosures about fair-value measurements.  Statement No. 157 only applies to fair-value measurements that are already required or permitted by other accounting standards except for measurements of share-based payments and measurements that are similar to, but not intended to be, fair value.  This statement is effective for the specified fair value measures for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007, and will thus be effective for the Company in fiscal 2009.  Subsequent to the issuance of SFAS No. 157, the FASB provided for a one-year deferral of certain provisions related to non-financial assets and liabilities that are recognized or disclosed on a non-recurring basis.  We have not yet completed our analysis of the impact of SFAS No. 157 on our financial statements.

Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities – In February 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 159, The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities including an Amendment of FASB Statement No. 115.  Statement No.159 permits entities to choose to measure many financial instruments and certain other items at fair value.  The provisions of SFAS No. 159 are effective for our fiscal year beginning September 1, 2008 (fiscal 2009).  We have not yet completed our analysis of the impact of SFAS No. 159 on our financial statements.

Business Combinations – In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 141 (revised 2007), Business Combinations (SFAS No. 141R) and SFAS No. 160, Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements.  These standards aim to improve, simplify, and converge internationally the accounting for business combinations and the reporting of noncontrolling interests in consolidated financial statements.  The provisions of SFAS No. 141R and SFAS No. 160 are effective for our fiscal year beginning September 1, 2009.  Although we have not yet completed our analysis of the impact of these provisions, we do not currently anticipate that they will have a material impact upon our financial condition or results of operations.

Derivatives Disclosures – In March 2008, the FASB issued SFAS No. 161, Disclosures about Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities.  Statement No. 161 is intended to improve financial reporting about derivative instruments and hedging activities by requiring enhanced disclosures to enable investors to better understand their effects on an entity's financial position, financial performance, and cash flows.  The provisions of SFAS No. 161 are effective for our third quarter of fiscal 2009.  The Company is currently evaluating the impact of the provisions of SFAS No. 161, but due to our limited use of derivative instruments we do not currently anticipate that the provisions of SFAS No. 161 will have a material impact on our financial statements.


SAFE HARBOR STATEMENT UNDER THE PRIVATE SECURITIES LITIGATION REFORM ACT OF 1995

Certain written and oral statements made by the Company or our representatives in this report, other reports, filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, press releases, conferences, internet web casts, or otherwise, are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 as amended (the Exchange Act).  Forward-looking statements include, without limitation, any statement that may predict, forecast, indicate, or imply future results, performance, or achievements, and may contain words such as “believe,” “anticipate,” “expect,” “estimate,”

 
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“project,” or words or phrases of similar meaning.  In our reports and filings we may make forward-looking statements regarding the impact to the Company and its financial performance of the sale of the CSBU, future product and training sales activity, anticipated expenses, projected cost reduction and strategic initiatives, expected levels of depreciation and amortization expense, expectations regarding tangible and intangible asset valuation expenses,  expected improvements in cash flows from operating activities, the adequacy of our existing capital resources, future compliance with the terms and conditions of our line of credit, expected timing of the repayment of our line of credit, estimated capital expenditures, and cash flow estimates used to determine the fair value of long-lived assets.  These, and other forward-looking statements, are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements.  These risks and uncertainties are disclosed from time to time in reports filed by us with the SEC, including reports on Forms 8-K, 10-Q, and 10-K.  Such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the matters discussed in Item 1A of our report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2007, entitled “Risk Factors.”  In addition, such risks and uncertainties may include unanticipated developments in any one or more of the following areas:  unanticipated costs or capital expenditures; difficulties encountered by EDS in operating and maintaining our information systems and controls, including without limitation, the systems related to demand and supply planning, inventory control, and order fulfillment; delays or unanticipated outcomes relating to our strategic plans; dependence on existing products or services; the rate and consumer acceptance of new product introductions; competition; the number and nature of customers and their product orders, including changes in the timing or mix of product or training orders; pricing of our products and services and those of competitors; adverse publicity; and other factors which may adversely affect our business.

The risks included here are not exhaustive.  Other sections of this report may include additional factors that could adversely affect our business and financial performance, including the risk factors noted in Item 1A of our report on Form 10-K for the year ended August 31, 2007.  Moreover, we operate in a very competitive and rapidly changing environment.  New risk factors may emerge and it is not possible for our management to predict all such risk factors, nor can we assess the impact of all such risk factors on our business or the extent to which any single factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements.  Given these risks and uncertainties, investors should not rely on forward-looking statements as a prediction of actual results.

The market price of our common stock has been and may remain volatile.  In addition, the stock markets in general have experienced increased volatility.  Factors such as quarter-to-quarter variations in revenues and earnings or losses and our failure to meet expectations could have a significant impact on the market price of our common stock.  In addition, the price of our common stock can change for reasons unrelated to our performance.  Due to our low market capitalization, the price of our common stock may also be affected by conditions such as a lack of analyst coverage and fewer potential investors.

Forward-looking statements are based on management’s expectations as of the date made, and the Company does not undertake any responsibility to update any of these statements in the future except as required by law.  Actual future performance and results will differ and may differ materially from that contained in or suggested by forward-looking statements as a result of the factors set forth in this Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations and elsewhere in our filings with the SEC.


ITEM 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

Market Risk of Financial Instruments

The Company is exposed to financial instrument market risk primarily through fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates and interest rates.  To manage risks associated with foreign currency exchange and interest rates, we make limited use of derivative financial instruments.

 
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Derivatives are financial instruments that derive their value from one or more underlying financial instruments.  As a matter of policy, our derivative instruments are entered into for periods consistent with the related underlying exposures and do not constitute positions that are independent of those exposures.  In addition, we do not enter into derivative contracts for trading or speculative purposes, nor are we party to any leveraged derivative instrument.  The notional amounts of derivatives do not represent actual amounts exchanged by the parties to the instrument, and, thus, are not a measure of exposure to us through our use of derivatives.  Additionally, we enter into derivative agreements only with highly rated counterparties and we do not expect to incur any losses resulting from non-performance by other parties.

Foreign Currency Sensitivity

Due to the global nature of our operations, we are subject to risks associated with transactions that are denominated in currencies other than the United States dollar, as well as the effects of translating amounts denominated in foreign currencies to United States dollars as a normal part of the reporting process.  The objective of our foreign currency risk management activities is to reduce foreign currency risk in the consolidated financial statements.  In order to manage foreign currency risks, we make limited use of foreign currency forward contracts and other foreign currency related derivative instruments.  Although we cannot eliminate all aspects of our foreign currency risk, we believe that our strategy, which includes the use of derivative instruments, can reduce the impacts of foreign currency related issues on our consolidated financial statements.  The following is a description of our use of foreign currency derivative instruments.

During the quarter and three quarters ended May 31, 2008 we utilized foreign currency forward contracts to manage the volatility of certain intercompany financing transactions and other transactions that are denominated in foreign currencies.  Because these contracts do not meet specific hedge accounting requirements, gains and losses on these contracts, which expire on a quarterly basis, are recognized currently and are used to offset a portion of the gains or losses of the related accounts.  The gains and losses on these contracts were recorded as a component of SG&A expense in our consolidated income statements and had the following net impact on the periods indicated (in thousands):

   
Quarter Ended
   
Three Quarters Ended
 
   
May 31,
2008
   
June 2,
2007
   
May 31,
2008
   
June 2,
2007
 
Losses on foreign exchange contracts
  $ (90 )   $ (137 )   $ (417 )   $ (210 )
Gains on foreign exchange contracts
    11       49       11       82  
Net gain (loss) on foreign exchange contracts
  $ (79 )   $ (88 )   $ (406 )   $ (128 )

At May 31, 2008, the fair value of our foreign currency forward contracts, which was determined using the estimated amount at which contracts could be settled based upon forward market exchange rates, was insignificant.  The notional amount of our foreign currency sell contracts that did not qualify for hedge accounting was as follows at May 31, 2008 (in thousands):

 
 
 
Contract Description
 
Notional Amount in Foreign Currency
   
Notional Amount in U.S. Dollars
 
             
Great British Pounds
    570     $ 1,147  

During the quarter and three quarters ended May 31, 2008, we did not utilize any derivative contracts that qualified for hedge accounting.  However, the Company may utilize net investment hedge contracts or other foreign currency derivatives in future periods as a component of our overall foreign currency risk strategy.


 
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Interest Rate Sensitivity

The Company is exposed to fluctuations in United States interest rates primarily as a result of our line of credit borrowings.  At May 31, 2008, our debt balances consisted primarily of a fixed-rate financing obligation associated with the sale of our corporate headquarters facility, a variable-rate line of credit arrangement, and a variable rate long-term mortgage on certain of our buildings and property.  The addition of the variable-rate line of credit in fiscal 2007 increased our interest rate sensitivity and in the future our overall interest rate sensitivity will be influenced by the amounts borrowed on the line of credit and the prevailing interest rates, which may create additional expense if interest rates increase in future periods.

Our interest expense has benefitted from declining interest rates on our variable-rate debt and reduced borrowing during the three quarters ended May 31, 2008; however, at May 31, 2008 borrowing levels, a 1 percent increase on our variable rate debt would increase our interest expense over the next year by approximately $0.1 million.

During the quarter and three quarters ended May 31, 2008 we were not party to any interest rate swap or other interest related derivative instruments that would increase our interest rate sensitivity.

ITEM 4.  CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in the Company’s Exchange Act reports is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms and that such information is accumulated and communicated to our management, including the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate, to allow for timely decisions regarding required disclosure.  In designing and evaluating the disclosure controls and procedures, management recognizes that any controls and procedures, no matter how well designed and operated, can provide only reasonable assurance of achieving the desired control objectives, and management is required to apply its judgment in evaluating the cost-benefit relationship of possible controls and procedures.

We evaluated the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures, as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) of the Exchange Act, as of the end of the period covered by this report.  Based on this evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of the end of the period covered by this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 13a-15(f) or 15d-15(f)) during the most recently completed fiscal quarter that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal controls over financial reporting.

 
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PART II.  OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.            LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

In August 2005, EpicRealm Licensing (EpicRealm) filed an action in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Texas against the Company for patent infringement.  The action alleges that the Company infringed upon two of EpicRealm’s patents directed to managing dynamic web page requests from clients to a web server that in turn uses a page server to generate a dynamic web page from content retrieved from a data source.  The Company has denied liability in the patent infringement and has filed certain counter-claims related to the case since the filing of the action in District Court.  However, during the quarter ended May 31, 2008, the Company paid EpicRealm a one-time license fee of $1.0 million for a non-exclusive, irrevocable, perpetual, and royalty-free license to use any product, system, or invention covered by the disputed patents.  In connection with the purchase of the license, EpicRealm and the Company agreed to dismiss their claims with prejudice and the Company is released from further action regarding these patents.

Item 1A.         RISK FACTORS

For information regarding Risk Factors, please refer to Item 1A in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2007.

Item 2.            UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS

The Company acquired the following shares of its outstanding securities during the fiscal quarter ended May 31, 2008:

 
 
Period
 
Total Number of Shares Purchased
   
 
 
 
Average Price Paid Per Share
 
 
Total Number of Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Plans or Programs
 
Approximate Dollar Value of Shares That May Yet Be Purchased Under the Plans or Programs
(in thousands)
 
Common Shares:
                   
March 2, 2008 to April 5, 2008
    -     $ -  
 
none
  $ 2,413  
                           
April 6, 2008 to May 3, 2008
    -       -  
 
none
    2,413  
                           
May 4, 2008 to May 31, 2008
    -       -  
 
none
    2,413 (1)
                           
Total Common Shares
    -     $ -  
none
       

 
(1)
In January 2006, our Board of Directors approved the purchase of up to $10.0 million of our outstanding common stock.  All previously authorized common stock purchase plans were canceled.  Following the approval of this common stock purchase plan, we have purchased a total of 1,009,300 shares of our common stock for $7.6 million through May 31, 2008.


 
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Item 5.             OTHER INFORMATION

On July 3, 2008, the Company and the other selling companies identified therein, and Franklin Covey Products, LLC and the other purchasing companies identified therein, entered into a letter agreement (the Amendment) related to, and amending, the Master Asset Purchase Agreement (the Purchase Agreement), dated as of May 22, 2008, by and among the Company, the other selling companies identified in the Purchase Agreement, and Franklin Covey Products, LLC.

Pursuant to the Amendment, among other things, the Company has undertaken to form a wholly-owned subsidiary as a bankruptcy remote special purpose entity following the closing of the transaction and to contribute to the special purpose entity all of the intellectual property that the Company will license to Franklin Covey Products, LLC, pursuant to a license agreement to be entered into between the Company and Franklin Covey Products, LLC at the closing of the asset sale.

The foregoing description of the Amendment and related matters is qualified in its entirety by reference to the Amendment, which is filed as Exhibit 2.2 hereto and incorporated herein by reference.
 

 
Item 6.    EXHIBITS

(A)  
Exhibits:
 
2.1
Master Asset Purchase Agreement between Franklin Covey Products, LLC and Franklin Covey Co. dated May 22, 2008 (filed as exhibit 2.1 to Form 8-K/A as filed with the Commission on May 29, 2008 and incorporated herein by reference).
 
2.2
Amendment to Master Asset Purchase Agreement between Franklin Covey Products, LLC and Franklin Covey Co. dated May 22, 2008**
 
31.1
Rule 13a-14(a) Certifications of the Chief Executive Officer**
 
31.2
Rule 13a-14(a) Certifications of the Chief Financial Officer**
 
32
Section 1350 Certifications**

 
**     Filed herewith.

 
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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.
       
 
       
FRANKLIN COVEY CO.
 
 
Date:
July 10, 2008
 
By:
  /s/ Robert A. Whitman
       
Robert A. Whitman
Chief Executive Officer
 
 
Date:
July 10, 2008
 
By:
  /s/ Stephen D. Young
       
Stephen D. Young
Chief Financial Officer
 
 
 
 

 
37

 

ex22_071008.htm
 
 


Exhibit 2.2

 
Franklin Covey Co.
2200 West Parkway Blvd.
Salt Lake City, UT  84119

July 3, 2008

Franklin Covey Products, LLC
2250 West Parkway Blvd.
Salt Lake City, UT  84119

Re:  Agreements Related to and Amendment of Master Asset Purchase Agreement

Reference is made to that certain Master Asset Purchase Agreement (the “Purchase Agreement”), dated as of May 22, 2008, by and among Franklin Covey Products, LLC (“Buyer”), Franklin Covey Co. (the “Company”), and the other Selling Companies identified therein, and that certain Purchase Companies Assignment Agreement of even date herewith, by and among Buyer, Franklin Covey Products Canada ULC, a Canadian corporation (“FCP Canada”), FC Products de Mexico, S. de R. L. de C.V., a Mexican company (“FCP Mexico”), and Franklin Covey Products Europe Limited, a company registered in the UK (“FCP Europe,” and together with Buyer, FCP Mexico and FCP Canada, the “Purchasing Companies”).  The Company, Buyer, the other Purchasing Companies and the other Selling Companies, wish to amend the Purchase Agreement and enter into the other agreements related to the Purchase Agreement as set forth herein.  Capitalized terms used but not otherwise defined herein shall have the meanings given to such terms in the Purchase Agreement.

1. The following exhibits to this letter agreement, in the form attached hereto, are deemed to be the exhibits to the Purchase Agreement as if delivered on the date of and in connection with the execution of the Purchase Agreement:
 
Exhibit A – Master License Agreement
Exhibit B – Master Shared Services Agreement
Exhibit C – Buyer Operating Agreement
Exhibit D – Supply Agreement
Exhibit E1 – Lease Agreement (Office)
Exhibit E2 – Sub-sublease (Warehouse)
Exhibit F – Bill of Sale
Exhibit F1 – Bill of Sale for FC Mexico
Exhibit G – Assignment and Assumption Agreement
Exhibit G1 – Assignment and Assumption Agreement for FC Mexico
 
2. Each of Schedule 3.4, Schedule 6.5(a)(i) and Schedule 6.5(a)(ii) to the Purchase Agreement, as attached to the Purchase Agreement and delivered to Buyer in connection with the execution of the Purchase Agreement, is replaced in its entirety with Schedule 3.4, Schedule 6.5(a)(i) and Schedule 6.5(a)(ii), respectively, as attached hereto, and any reference to Schedule 3.4, Schedule 6.5(a)(i) or Schedule 6.5(a)(ii) in the Purchase Agreement is deemed to refer to Schedule 3.4, Schedule 6.5(a)(i) or Schedule 6.5(a)(ii), respectively, as attached hereto.
 
3. For purposes of preparing the Estimated Closing Date Balance Sheet and the Closing Date Balance Sheet, and in determining the Estimated Closing Date Net Current Assets and the
 

 
 

 

Closing Date Net Current Assets, any assets of Franklin Covey de Mexico S. de R. L. de C.V. (“FC Mexico”) and relating to the Mexican Business (as defined in the Master Shared Services Agreement) will be deemed to be Acquired Assets, and any liabilities of FC Mexico relating to the Mexican Business will be deemed to be Assumed Liabilities.  Upon receipt by FCP Mexico of all Mexican Authorizations (as defined in the Master Shared Services Agreement), FC Mexico will deliver to FCP Mexico a bill of sale for such Acquired Assets relating to the Mexican Business that are Tangible Personal Property, in substantially the form of Exhibit F1, and an assignment and assumption agreement for Acquired Assets relating to the Mexican Business that are Acquired Contracts and Acquired Leases, in substantially the form of Exhibit G1, duly executed by FC Mexico.
 
4. The first sentence of Section 2.1 of the Purchase Agreement is hereby amended and restated to read as follows (with new text shown in bold and italics):
 
“2.1           Purchase and Sale of Acquired Assets.  At the Closing and on the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in this Agreement, the Company agrees to sell, or to cause the Selling Subsidiaries to sell (the Company and the Selling Subsidiaries being collectively referred to herein as the “Selling Companies”), to Buyer or such directly or indirectly wholly-owned Subsidiaries of Buyer as Buyer may designate in writing to the Company prior to the Closing (Buyer and such designated directly or indirectly wholly-owned Subsidiaries being collectively referred to as the “Purchasing Companies”), and Buyer agrees to buy, or to cause the other Purchasing Companies to buy, from the Selling Companies, free and clear of all Encumbrances other than Permitted Encumbrances and Encumbrances listed on Schedule 3.7(c), all right, title and interest in and to all of the assets of the Company or the Selling Subsidiary, as applicable, that are used exclusively in the Business as conducted on the date hereof (collectively, the “Acquired Assets”), as more specifically described below (but excluding the Excluded Assets):”
 
5. Section 2.9(b)(i)(D) of the Purchase Agreement is hereby amended and restated in full to read as follows (with new text shown in bold and italics):
 
“(D)           a contribution of $1,755,000 to Buyer from Franklin Covey Client Sales, Inc., by wire transfer of immediately available funds to the account designated by Buyer to the Company no later than three business days prior to the Closing, to acquire a 19.5% equity interest in Buyer, before giving effect to any grants of interest to certain employees of the Company in connection with the Closing, as contemplated in the Buyer Operating Agreement;”
 
6. Section 2.9(b)(i)(E) of the Purchase Agreement is hereby amended and restated in full to read as follows (with new text shown in bold and italics):
 
“(E)           a contribution of $1,000,000 to Buyer from Franklin Covey Client Sales, Inc., by wire transfer of immediately available funds to the account designated by Buyer to the Company no later than three business days prior to the Closing, constituting the FC Priority Contribution (as defined in the Buyer Operating Agreement);”
 

 
2

 


 
7. The first sentence of Section 9.3(a) of the Purchase Agreement is hereby amended and restated to read as follows (with new text shown in bold and italics):
 
“(a)           Any party (the “Indemnifying Party”) will indemnify, defend and hold harmless the other party and its officers, directors, employees, agents, shareholders and Affiliates (collectively, the “Indemnified Parties”) against any Loss arising from, relating to or constituting any Litigation instituted by any third party arising out of the actions or inactions of the Indemnifying Party (or allegations thereof) whether occurring prior to, on or after the Closing Date that are or may be Losses, other than those relating solely to a breach by the Buyer or the Company, as applicable, of this Agreement (any such third party action or proceeding being referred to as a “Third Party Action”).”
 
8. Buyer hereby waives the following conditions to the obligations of Buyer in the Purchase Agreement to take the actions required of it at the Closing:
 
(a)  
The condition set forth in Section 7.1(d) of the Purchase Agreement requiring the Company to obtain each Required Consent, except for Required Consents relating to the leasehold interests in the real property leased or otherwise used or occupied by the Company exclusively for the Business as listed on Schedule 2.1(a)(i) of the Purchase Agreement, as such schedule may have been updated pursuant to Section 10.11(b) of the Purchase Agreement prior to the Closing, will have been obtained and be in full force and effect.  The Company has obtained the Consents listed on Attachment 1 to this letter agreement.
 
(b)  
The condition set forth in Section 7.1(e) of the Purchase Agreement requiring the Company to obtain at least 70% of Required Consents relating to the leasehold interests in the real property leased or otherwise used or occupied by the Company exclusively for the Business as listed on Schedule 2.1(a)(i) of the Purchase Agreement, as such schedule may have been updated pursuant to Section 10.11(b) of the Purchase Agreement prior to the Closing will have been obtained and be in full force and effect.  The Company has obtained the lease Consents listed on Attachment 2 to this letter agreement.  The Company acknowledges and agrees that it will continue to use commercially reasonable efforts to obtain the Required Consents relating to the leasehold interests, and will promptly inform the Buyer of any changes in the status thereof.
 
9. The following are hereby amended and restated:
 
(a)  
Article I of the Purchase Agreement is hereby amended by adding the following definitions:
 
““Additional Reimbursable Expenses” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.10(d)(iii).”
 

 
3

 

““Estimated Reimbursable Expenses” means the Company’s good faith estimate, as of the Closing Date, for Reimbursable Expenses delivered to Buyer on or prior to the Closing Date.”
 
““Paid Reimbursable Expenses” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.10(a).”
 
““Reimbursable Expense Set-Off” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.10(d)(iv).”
 
(b)  
The definition of “Reimbursable Expenses” in Article I of the Purchase Agreement is hereby amended and restated in full to read as follows (with revised text shown in bold and italics):
 
““Reimbursable Expenses means all costs and expenses paid or accrued by the Company for the benefit of the Buyer at the Buyer’s written request or with the Buyer’s written consent prior to or after the Closing Date.”
 
(c)  
The first sentence of Section 2.8(a) of the Purchase Agreement is hereby amended and restated in full to read as follows (with revised text shown in bold and italics):
 
“(a)           At Closing, a cash amount equal to the Estimated Purchase Price plus the amount of the Estimated Reimbursable Expenses; provided, however, that if the sum or difference, as applicable, of the aggregate amount of the Estimated Reimbursable Expenses plus the amount, if any, by which the Estimated Closing Date Net Current Assets exceeds the Target Net Current Assets or minus the amount, if any, by which the Target Net Current Assets exceeds the Estimated Closing Date Net Current Assets results in a positive amount payable by Buyer to the Company (collectively, the “Estimated Buyer Shortfall Amount”), then, only to the extent Buyer reasonably determines in good faith that it has insufficient Available Cash to fund the payment of the Estimated Buyer Shortfall Amount, Buyer may deliver to the Company at Closing a subordinated promissory note with an aggregate principal amount equal to such amount of the Estimated Buyer Shortfall Amount that Buyer is not able to fund in cash (the “Working Capital Note”) (the amount of cash to be delivered to the Company at Closing pursuant to this Section 2.8(a) shall be referred to as the “Cash Payment Amount”).”
 
(d)  
Section 2.8(b) of the Purchase Agreement is hereby amended and restated in full to read as follows (with revised text shown in bold and italics):
 
“(b)           If the parties determine there are Excess Net Current Assets or Additional Reimbursable Expenses pursuant to Section 2.10(d), Buyer will pay to the Company an aggregate cash amount equal to such Excess Net Current Assets or Additional Reimbursable Expenses, as applicable, as set forth in Sections 2.10(d) and (e); provided, however, if Buyer reasonably determines in good faith that it has insufficient Available Cash to fund such cash payment of the amount of such Excess Net Current Assets or Additional Reimbursable Expenses, as
 

 
4

 

applicable, then Buyer may deliver to the Company an additional subordinated promissory note with an aggregate principal amount equal to the aggregate amount of such Excess Net Current Assets and Additional Reimbursable Expenses, as applicable that Buyer is not able to fund in cash (the “Adjustment Note” and together with the Working Capital Note, the “Buyer Notes”).  The Adjustment Note will be in a form reasonably acceptable to the Company and Buyer, each acting in good faith, and will be payable and will bear interest on the same terms as the Working Capital Note.”
 
(e)  
Section 2.10 of the Purchase Agreement is hereby amended and restated in full to read as follows (with additional text shown in bold and italics and deleted text shown in bold and struckthrough):
 
2.10           Post-Closing Adjustment to Estimated Purchase Price
 
(a)           The Company will promptly prepare and deliver to Buyer within 60 days after the Closing Date (i) a balance sheet (the “Closing Date Balance Sheet”) for the Business as of the close of business on the Closing Date with respect to the Acquired Assets and the Assumed Liabilities and in accordance with GAAP applied on a basis consistent with the preparation of the Latest Financial Statements, and (ii) a final list of all Reimbursable Expenses paid by the Company (the “Paid Reimbursable Expenses”).  The Closing Date Balance Sheet will include a determination of the Closing Date Net Current Assets of the Business as of the close of business on the Closing Date.  “Closing Date Net Current Assets” means the excess of Current Assets over Current Liabilities shown on the Closing Date Balance Sheet.  “Current Assets” means the current assets shown on a balance sheet that are Acquired Assets and are not Excluded Assets.  “Current Liabilities” means the current liabilities shown on a balance sheet that are Assumed Liabilities and are not Retained Liabilities, excluding the short term portion of any long term Liability.  The Company will make the workpapers and back up materials used in preparing the Closing Date Balance Sheet and the Paid Reimbursable Expenses available to Buyer and its accountants and other representatives at reasonable times and upon reasonable notice during (i) the review by Buyer of the Closing Date Balance Sheet and the Paid Reimbursable Expenses and (ii) the resolution by the Company and Buyer of any objections to the Closing Date Balance Sheet or the Paid Reimbursable Expenses.
 
(b)           Buyer may object to the Closing Date Balance Sheet on the basis that it was not prepared in accordance with GAAP applied on a basis consistent with the preparation of the Latest Financial Statements or that the calculation of Closing Date Net Current Assets contains mathematical errors.  If Buyer has any objections to the Closing Date Balance Sheet, or the Closing Date Net Current Assets or the Paid Reimbursable Expenses, Buyer will deliver a detailed statement describing such objections to the Company within 30 days after receiving the Closing Date Balance Sheet and the Paid Reimbursable Expenses.  Buyer and the Company will attempt in good faith to resolve any such objections.  If Buyer and the Company do not reach a resolution of all objections within 30 days after the Company has received the statement of objections, Buyer and the
 

 
5

 

Company will select a mutually acceptable accounting firm to resolve any remaining objections.  If Buyer and the Company are unable to agree on the choice of an accounting firm, they will select a nationally recognized accounting firm by lot (after excluding the regular outside accounting firms of Buyer and the Company).  The accounting firm will determine, (i) in accordance with GAAP applied on a basis consistent with the preparation of the Latest Financial Statements, the amounts to be included in the Closing Date Balance Sheet and the Closing Date Net Current Assets, and (ii) the Paid Reimbursable Expenses.  The parties will provide the accounting firm, within 10 days of its selection, with a definitive statement of the position of each party with respect to each unresolved objection and will advise the accounting firm that the parties accept the accounting firm as the appropriate Person to interpret this Agreement for all purposes relevant to the resolution of the unresolved objections.  The Company and the Buyer, as applicable, will provide the accounting firm access to the books and records of the Company.  The accounting firm will have 30 days to carry out a review of the unresolved objections and prepare a written statement of its determination regarding each unresolved objection.  The determination of any accounting firm so selected will be set forth in writing and will be conclusive and binding upon the parties.  The Company will revise the Closing Date Balance Sheet and the determination of the Closing Date Net Current Assets as appropriate to reflect the resolution of any objections to the Closing Date Balance Sheet pursuant to this Section 2.10(b).
 
(c)           If Buyer and the Company submit any unresolved objections to an accounting firm for resolution as provided in Section 2.10(b), Buyer and the Company will each bear their respective costs and expenses and will share equally in the fees and expenses of the accounting firm.
 
(d)           Within 10 business days after the date on which both the Closing Date Net Current Assets and the Paid Reimbursable Expenses are finally determined pursuant to this Section 2.10:
 
(i)           If the Closing Date Net Current Assets exceeds the Estimated Closing Date Net Current Assets (the amount of such excess, the “Excess Net Current Assets”), Buyer will pay to the Company an aggregate amount equal to the Excess Net Current Assets, or, as provided in Section 2.8(b), deliver to the Company the Adjustment Note.
 
(ii)           If the Closing Date Net Current Assets is less than the Estimated Net Current Assets (the amount of such difference, the “Net Current Assets Shortfall”), the aggregate amount of accrued interest and then principal owing pursuant to the Working Capital Note, if any, will be reduced by an amount equal to the Net Current Assets Shortfall, and, to the extent the Net Current Assets Shortfall exceeds the amount owing pursuant to the Working Capital Note, if any, the Company will pay the balance to Buyer.
 
(iii)           If the Paid Reimbursable Expenses exceed the Estimated Reimbursable Expenses (the amount of such excess, the “Additional
 

 
6

 

Reimbursable Expenses”), Buyer will pay to the Company an aggregate amount equal to the Additional Reimbursable Expenses, or, as provided in Section 2.8(b), deliver to the Company the Adjustment Note.
 
(iv)           If the Paid Reimbursable Expenses are less than Estimated Reimbursable Expenses (the amount of such difference, the “Reimbursable Expense Set-Off”), the aggregate amount of first accrued interest and then principal owing pursuant to the Working Capital note, if any, will be reduced by an amount equal to the Reimbursable Expense Set-Off, and, to the extent the Reimbursable Expense Set-Off exceeds the amount owing pursuant to the Working Capital note, if any, the Company will pay the balance to Buyer.
 
(e)           All payments of cash to be made to Buyer or the Company pursuant to this Section 2.10 will be made by wire transfer of immediately available funds to the accounts designated by Buyer or the Company, as applicable.
 
(f)           Any payment made pursuant to this Section 2.10 will be the exclusive remedy provided in this Agreement or otherwise for any breach of representation or warranty with respect to any element of the Closing Date Balance Sheet.
 
(g)           Judgment upon the award rendered by the accounting firm may be entered in any court of competent jurisdiction.
 
10. Article 2 of the Purchase Agreement is hereby amended by adding a new Section 2.15 to read as follows:
 
2.15                      Formation of Delaware Special Purpose Entity.  Within ninety (90) days following the Closing Date, the Company will form a bankruptcy remote special purpose entity that will be a Delaware limited liability company (“Delaware Newco”) and be wholly-owned by the Company and formed pursuant to the Delaware Limited Liability Company Act, Title 6, Chapter 18, of Delaware Code Annotated, as amended from time to time (the “Delaware LLC Act”), all in the form and manner as mutually satisfactory to Buyer and the Company and consented to by those lending institutions providing the Financing and the Company’s secured lenders.  In forming Delaware Newco, the Company will take the following actions:

(a)           The Company will prepare a customary certificate of formation for Delaware Newco (the “Certificate of Formation”), which may also include, to the extent mutually agreed by Buyer and the Company, one or more of the provisions described in Section 2.15(b) below and other customary separateness covenants.

(b)           The Company shall prepare a limited liability company agreement for the operation and governance of Delaware Newco (such agreement, the “Newco LLC Agreement”), which Newco LLC Agreement will be in a form

 
7

 

mutually agreed upon between the Company and Buyer and contain customary terms and conditions for a bankruptcy remote special purpose entity, including, but not limited to, the following provisions:

(i)           setting forth the purpose of Delaware Newco to engage in the following activities:  (A) acquire, own and hold the Licensed Materials (as defined in the Master License Agreement), (B) to exclusively license such Licensed Materials to Buyer and the Company on terms consistent with the Master License Agreement, and (C) to engage in any lawful act or activity and to exercise any powers permitted to limited liability companies organized under the laws of the State of Delaware that are related or incidental to and necessary, convenient or advisable for the accomplishment of the above-mentioned purposes;

(ii)           customary covenants limiting the activities of Delaware Newco, as well as covenants aimed at respecting the separate legal entity status of Delaware Newco;

(iii)           a provision restricting the ability to (A) dissolve Delaware Newco, (B) sell all or substantially all of the assets of Delaware Newco, (C) amend the  provisions of the Newco LLC Agreement relating to the matters described in paragraph (b)(iv) of this Section 2.15, and (D) preclude Delaware Newco from incurring any financial obligation or granting any Encumbrance with respect to its assets;

(iv)           a requirement that Delaware Newco shall have at all times at least one (1) independent manager as defined in the Newco LLC Agreement (the “Independent Director”), whose consent shall be required for Delaware Newco to take any action set forth in subsection 2.15(b)(iii) above or any action relating to the bankruptcy of Delaware Newco (“Bankruptcy”), including, without limitation, the bankruptcy or insolvency of Delaware Newco, including any voluntary or involuntary commencement of any case under the Bankruptcy Code, Title 11 of the United States Code, or commencement of any other bankruptcy arrangement, reorganization, receivership, custodianship, or similar proceeding under any federal, state, or foreign law (provided, however, such Independent Director shall have a right to consent only to such actions and shall not participate in or receive information with respect to any other matters or decisions coming before the board of managers or directors of Delaware Newco).  The Newco LLC Agreement, pursuant to Section 18-1101 of the Delaware Limited Liability Company Act, shall provide that the Independent Director shall have no liability for a breach of fiduciary duties, except for a breach of fiduciary duties in connection with the actions of Independent Director relating to the actions set forth in subsection 2.15(b)(iii) above or relating to the Bankruptcy of Delaware Newco;

 
8

 


(v)           a provision providing that the Bankruptcy of the Company (or its successor in interest) shall not cause the Company (or its successor in interest) to cease to be a member of Delaware Newco, and upon the occurrence of such an event, Delaware Newco will continue without dissolution;

(vi)           a provision providing that upon dissolution of the sole initial member of Delaware Newco, the Independent Director shall, without any action of any Person or simultaneously with the Company ceasing to be a member of the Company, automatically be admitted to Delaware Newco as a special member thereof (the “Special Member”); provided that no Special Member shall (A) have any interest in the profits, losses and capital of Delaware Newco or any right to receive any distribution of Delaware Newco’s assets, (B) be required to make any capital contributions to Delaware Newco, (C) receive any limited liability company interest in Delaware Newco, (D) possess any authority to bind Delaware Newco, in such capacity as a Special Member, or (E) have any right to vote on, approve or otherwise consent to any action by, or matter relating to, Delaware Newco, except as required by any mandatory provision of the Delaware LLC Act; and

(vii)           a waiver of the Company (or its successor in interest) and any Independent Director of any right it might have to agree in writing to dissolve Delaware Newco upon the Bankruptcy of the Company (or its successor in interest) or the occurrence of an event that causes the Company (or its successor in interest) to cease to be a member of Delaware Newco.

(c)           The Company and the Buyer will attempt in good faith to jointly select the one (1) individual to serve as the Independent Director (as defined in Section 2.15(b) above) of Newco Delaware;

(d)           The Company will deliver the form of the Certificate of Formation and the Newco LLC Agreement to Buyer for Buyer’s approval, and within fifteen (15) days from receipt thereof Buyer shall either (i) provide the Company with the Buyer’s confirmation of approval as to the provided form of such documents, or (ii) provide the Company with notice of Buyer’s withholding of approval, which notice shall include in detail the Buyer’s reasonable objections to the form of such documents so provided.  Until the form of each of the Certificate of Formation and the Newco LLC Agreement is expressly approved in writing by the Buyer, the Company shall have the right to supplement, modify or otherwise alter such documents, but in each event subject to the consent of Buyer, which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed.  Buyer and the Company may otherwise act in good faith in jointly preparing the Certificate of Formation and the Newco LLC Agreement.
 
(e)           Upon approval of the form of the Certificate of Formation and the Newco LLC Agreement between Buyer and the Company and consented to by those lending institutions providing the Financing and the Company’s secured
 

 
9

 

lenders, the Company will (i) file the Certificate of Formation with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware, and (ii) execute and deliver the Newco LLC Agreement.
 
(f)           As soon as reasonably practicable following the execution and delivery of the Newco LLC Agreement pursuant to Section 2.15(d), the Company shall contribute to Delaware Newco, (i) all of its right, title and interest in and to the Licensed Materials, free and clear of all Encumbrances, and (ii) all of its right, title and interest in and to the License Agreement, it being understood that such assignment shall be by a separate instrument in a form mutually agreeable to Buyer and the Company, and (iii) capital from time to time in amounts reasonably sufficient to allow Delaware Newco to perform its obligations under the Master License Agreement and the Newco LLC Agreement.
 
(g)           As soon as reasonably practicable following the execution and delivery of the Newco LLC Agreement, the Company, acting diligently, shall initiate recording of the assignments of the Licensed Materials and License Agreement or related documents, as required, with each of the applicable Trademark and Copyright Offices (as defined in the Master License Agreement) throughout the world.  Buyer will either pay directly or reimburse the Company for all costs associated with the work done at Buyer’s request or with Buyer’s consent pursuant to this paragraph (g); such costs to include, without limitation, legal fees and recording, registration and similar costs.
 
(h)           As soon as reasonably practicable following the execution and delivery of the Newco LLC Agreement, the Company and Buyer shall amend the Master License Agreement to the extent necessary to (i) accurately reflect the assignment of the Company’s rights thereunder, and (ii) provide for the license of the Licensed Materials to the Company and the Buyer as appropriate or necessary in order that the Company and Buyer are able to perform their respective obligations under such agreement, as amended.”
 
11. The parties hereto acknowledge that Buyer has assigned a portion of its rights under the Purchase Agreement to the Purchasing Companies to purchase a portion of the Acquired Assets, all pursuant to that Assignment Agreement, dated as of July 3, 2008, by and among Buyer and the other Purchasing Companies.
 
Except as expressly modified herein, the Purchase Agreement remains in full force and effect in accordance with its terms.  In the event of any conflict or inconsistency between the Purchase Agreement and this letter agreement with respect to the subject matter hereof, this letter agreement shall control.  This letter agreement may be executed in one or more counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original and all of which shall constitute one agreement.
 

 


[Remainder of page left intentionally blank; signature page follows]



 
10

 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this letter agreement as of the date first set forth above.
 

BUYER:
 
FRANKLIN COVEY PRODUCTS, LLC
 
 
By:
 
Name:
James B. Nelson
Title:
Manager
 
 
THE COMPANY:
 
FRANKLIN COVEY CO.
 
 
By:
 
Name:
Robert A. Whitman
Title:
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer
 
 
THE SELLING SUBSIDIARIES:
 
FRANKLIN COVEY CANADA, LTD.
 
 
By:
 
Name:
Robert A. Whitman
Title:
President
 
 
FRANKLIN COVEY DE MEXICO S. DE R.L. DE C.V.
 
 
By:
 
Name:
Robert A. Whitman
Title:
President

 
 

 


FRANKLIN COVEY EUROPE, LTD.
 
 
By:
 
Name:
Robert A. Whitman
Title:
President
 
 
FRANKLIN COVEY CLIENT SALES, INC.
 
 
By:
 
Name:
Sarah Merz
Title:
President
 
 
FRANKLIN COVEY CATALOG SALES, INC.
 
 
By:
 
Name:
Sarah Merz
Title:
President
 
 
FRANKLIN COVEY PRODUCT SALES, INC.
 
 
By:
 
Name:
Sarah Merz
Title:
President
 
 
FRANKLIN COVEY PRINTING, INC.
 
 
By:
 
Name:
Robert A. Whitman
Title:
President

 
 

 


FRANKLIN COVEY PRODUCTS EUROPE LIMITED
 
 
By:
 
Name:
Sarah Merz
Title:
Director
 
 
FRANKLIN COVEY PRODUCTS CANADA ULC
 
 
By:
 
Name:
 
Title:
 
 
 
FC PRODUCTS DE MEXICO, S. DE R.L. DE C.V.
 
 
By:
 
Name:
Sarah Merz
Title:
Manager


ex31_1.htm
 
 
 


 
Exhibit 31.1
 

 
SECTION 302 CERTIFICATION

I, Robert A. Whitman, certify that:

1.  
I have reviewed this quarterly report on Form 10-Q of Franklin Covey Co.;
2.  
Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;
3.  
Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;
4.  
The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:
a)  
Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;
b)  
Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, 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;
c)  
Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and
d)  
Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and
5.  
The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):
a)  
All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and
b)  
Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.
 
 
 
 
 
 
Date:
  July 10, 2008
  /s/ Robert A. Whitman
   
Robert A. Whitman
   
Chief Executive Officer
 

 
 

 

ex31_2.htm
 
 


 
Exhibit 31.2

SECTION 302 CERTIFICATION

I, Stephen D. Young, certify that:

1.  
I have reviewed this quarterly report on Form 10-Q of Franklin Covey Co.;
2.  
Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;
3.  
Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;
4.  
The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:
a)  
Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;
b)  
Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, 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;
c)  
Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and
d)  
Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and
5.  
The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):
a)  
All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and
b)  
Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.
 
 
 


Date:
  July 10, 2008
  /s/ Stephen D. Young
   
Stephen D. Young
   
Chief Financial Officer


 
   


 
 

 

ex32.htm
 
 
 



 
Exhibit 32 

CERTIFICATION

In connection with the quarterly report of Franklin Covey Co. (the “Company”) on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended May 31, 2008, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “Report”), we, Robert A. Whitman, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Company, and Stephen D. Young, Chief Financial Officer of the Company, hereby certify as of the date hereof, solely for purposes of Title 18, Chapter 63, Section 1350 of the United States Code, that to the best of our knowledge:

1.  
The Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d), as applicable, of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and
 
2.  
The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company at the dates and for the periods indicated.

This Certification has not been, and shall not be deemed, “filed” with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
 
 
 

  /s/ Robert A. Whitman     /s/ Stephen D. Young
Robert A. Whitman
 
Stephen D. Young
Chief Executive Officer
 
Chief Financial Officer
Date:  July 10, 2008
 
Date:  July 10, 2008