Item 1. Business.
General
Energizer Holdings, Inc., incorporated in Missouri in 1999, is one of the world's largest manufacturers and marketers of primary batteries, portable lighting and personal care products in the wet shave, skin care, feminine care and infant care categories. On April 1, 2000, all of the outstanding shares of common stock of Energizer were distributed in a tax-free spin-off to shareholders of Ralston Purina Company.
Energizer is the successor to over 100 years of expertise in the battery and portable lighting products industry. Its brand names Energizer and Eveready have worldwide recognition for quality and dependability, and are marketed and sold throughout the world.
On March 28, 2003, we completed the acquisition of the Schick-Wilkinson Sword (SWS) business from Pfizer, Inc. SWS is the second largest manufacturer and marketer of men's and women's wet shave products in the world. Our portfolio of wet shave products include: Hydro Silk, Quattro for Women, Intuition, Lady Protector and Silk Effects Plus women's shaving systems and Hydro, Quattro and Protector men's shaving systems, as well as the Hydro, Quattro, Xtreme 3, and Slim Twin/Exacta disposables. SWS has over 75 years of history in the shaving products industry with a reputation for high quality and innovation in shaving technology. SWS products are sold throughout the world.
At the beginning of fiscal 2008, we completed the acquisition of all of the outstanding stock of Playtex Products, Inc. (Playtex), a leading manufacturer and marketer of well-recognized branded consumer products in North America. Its portfolio of products include Playtex feminine care products, Playtex infant care products, Diaper Genie diaper disposal systems, Wet Ones pre-moistened wipes, Banana Boat and Hawaiian Tropic sun care products, and Playtex household gloves.
On June 5, 2009, we completed the acquisition of the Edge and Skintimate shave preparation brands from S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc. (SCJ). This added U.S. market leading shave preparation brands to our existing wet shave product portfolio.
On November 23, 2010, we completed the acquisition of American Safety Razor, LLC (“ASR”), as we acquired substantially all of the assets of ASR, and assumed substantially all of the liabilities of ASR and its U.S. subsidiaries, for a cash purchase price of $301 million. ASR, founded in 1875, is the leading global manufacturer of private label/value wet shaving razors and blades, and industrial and specialty blades.
On October 23, 2013, we completed the acquisition of the Stayfree pad, Carefree liner and o.b. tampon feminine hygiene brands in the U.S., Canada and the Caribbean from McNeil PPC, Inc. and Johnson & Johnson, Inc., members of the Johnson & Johnson Family of Consumer Companies, for a cash purchase price of $185 million.
Our subsidiaries operate a number of manufacturing and packaging facilities in multiple countries, as listed in Item 2 below, and as of September 30, 2013, employed approximately 13,000 colleagues worldwide.
When we use the terms “Energizer,” the “Company,” “we,” “us” or “our” in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, we mean Energizer Holdings, Inc. and its subsidiaries on a consolidated basis, unless we state or the context implies otherwise.
We use Energizer, Schick, Wilkinson Sword, Playtex, Edge, Skintimate, Personna, Stayfree, Carefree and o.b. and the Energizer, Schick, Wilkinson Sword, Playtex, Edge and Skintimate logos as our trademarks or those of our subsidiaries. Product names appearing throughout in italics are trademarks of Energizer Holdings, Inc. or its subsidiaries. This Annual Report on Form 10-K also may refer to brand names, trademarks, service marks and trade names of other companies and organizations, and these brand names, trademarks, service marks and trade names are the property of their respective owners.
Unless we indicate otherwise, we base the information concerning our industry contained or incorporated by reference herein on our general knowledge of and expectations concerning the industry. Our market position, market share and industry market size is based on our estimates using our internal data and estimates, based on data from various industry analyses, our internal research and adjustments and assumptions that we believe to be reasonable. We have not independently verified data from industry analyses and cannot guarantee their accuracy or completeness. In addition, we believe that data regarding the industry, market size and our market position and market share within such industry provide general guidance but are inherently imprecise. Further, our estimates and assumptions involve risks and uncertainties and are subject to change based on various
factors, including those discussed in the “Risk Factors” section. These and other factors could cause results to differ materially from those expressed in the estimates and assumptions.
Retail sales for purposes of market size, market position and market share information are based on retail sales in U.S. dollars.
Industries
We manufacture and sell products in five product categories: wet shave, skin care, feminine care, infant care, battery and portable lighting products. Our two largest categories by revenue are battery products and wet shave.
The battery category has two primary competitors--Energizer, with our Energizer and Eveready brands, and The Procter & Gamble Company with its Duracell brand. We estimate Energizer and The Procter & Gamble Company collectively represent approximately 65% share in the markets in which we compete. The wet shave category comprises two primary competitors, The Procter & Gamble Company's Gillette and Energizer's Schick-Wilkinson Sword, which we estimate collectively represent more than 80% of the global wet shave market. For information about net sales, earnings before income taxes, depreciation and amortization, total assets and capital expenditures of each of our segments, and geographic segment information, including net sales to customers and long-lived assets, refer to Note 18 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
Personal Care
The Personal Care division includes wet shave products sold under the Schick, Wilkinson Sword, Edge, Skintimate and Personna brand names, skin care products sold under the Banana Boat, Hawaiian Tropic, Wet Ones and Playtex brand names, and feminine care and infant care products sold under the Playtex and Diaper Genie brand names globally. As a result of the acquisition on October 23, 2013, we began selling products under the Stayfree, Carefree and o.b. brand names in the US, Canada and the Caribbean.
We manufacture and distribute Schick and Wilkinson Sword razor systems, composed of razor handles and refillable blades, and disposable shave products for men and women. We market our wet shave products throughout the world. SWS' primary markets are the U.S., Japan and the larger countries of Western Europe. We believe we maintain the #2 global market share position in wet shaving. The category is extremely competitive with competitors vying for consumer loyalty and retail shelf space.
SWS has gained recognition for its innovation and development of new products designed to improve the shaving experience, including the introduction of the Intuition women's system in 2003, a unique system incorporating a three-bladed razor surrounded by a skin conditioning solid which lathers, shaves and provides extra moisture in one step. In 2003, SWS introduced the Quattro men's shaving system, the first four blade razor system for men. In 2010, SWS introduced the Schick Hydro men's shaving system, which incorporates new technologies including innovative skin protectors that act to smooth skin between blade tips and an advanced hydrating gel reservoir that lubricates throughout the shaving process. Schick Hydro is available in three- and five-blade models. Following the launch of Schick Hydro, SWS introduced two additional systems, Schick Hydro Silk for women and Schick Hydro 5 Power Select. In fiscal 2013, we extended the Schick Hydro franchise with the introduction of Schick Hydro men's and women's disposable razors.
In the U.S., we also sell market-leading shave preparation products, including shaving gels and creams under the Edge and Skintimate brands.
We also manufacture, distribute and sell a complete line of private label and value-priced wet shaving disposable razors, shaving systems and replacement blades. These wet shave products are sold primarily under a retailer's store name or under value brand names such as Personna and GEM.
In skin care, we market sun care products under the Banana Boat and Hawaiian Tropic brands. We believe these brands, on a combined basis, hold a leading market share position in the U.S. sun care category. The sun care category in the U.S. is segmented by product type such as general protection, tanning and babies; as well as by method of application such as lotions and sprays. We compete across this full spectrum of sun care products. We also offer Wet Ones, the leader in the U.S. portable hand wipes category, and Playtex household gloves, the branded household glove leader in the U.S.
In feminine care, we market products under the Playtex brand, and in the U.S., Canada and the Caribbean, under the Stayfree, Carefree and o.b. brands. We offer plastic applicator tampons under the Playtex Gentle Glide and Playtex Sport
brands. We also sell Playtex Personal Cleansing Cloths, a pre-moistened wipe for feminine hygiene as well as pads, liners and tampons under the Stayfree, Carefree and o.b. brands.
In Infant Care, we market a broad range of products including bottles, cups, and mealtime products under the Playtex brand name. We also offer a line of pacifiers, including the Ortho-Pro and Binky pacifiers. We believe our Playtex Diaper Genie brand of diaper disposal systems leads the U.S. diaper pail category. The Diaper Genie brand consists of the diaper pail unit and refill liners. The refill liners seal diapers in an odor-proof plastic film. We have recently introduced Litter Genie, a new waste disposal solution for cat owners originating from our Diaper Genie technology.
Household Products
Energizer's Household Products division manufactures and markets one of the most extensive product portfolios in household batteries, specialty batteries and lighting products.
In household batteries, we offer batteries using carbon zinc, alkaline, rechargeable and lithium technologies. These products are marketed and sold in the price, premium and performance segments. This allows us to penetrate a broad range of the market and meet most consumer needs. In addition, Energizer has a portable lighting products business that has evolved with changes in consumer tastes and demands. We distribute our portfolio of household and specialty batteries and portable lighting products through a global distribution network, which also provides a platform for the distribution of our personal care products.
The battery category is highly competitive as brands compete for consumer acceptance and retail shelf space. We continually engage in ongoing reviews of all of our categories. Recent studies have indicated that an increasing number of devices are using built-in rechargeable battery systems, particularly in developed markets. We believe this continues to create a negative impact on the demand for primary batteries. This trend, coupled with aggressive competitive activity in the U.S. and other markets, has and could continue to put additional pressure on segment results going forward.
2013 Restructuring Initiatives
In November 2012, the Company’s Board of Directors authorized an enterprise-wide restructuring, which included the following objectives:
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Reduce global workforce by more than 10%, or approximately 1,500 colleagues;
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Rationalize and streamline operations facilities in the Household Products Division;
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Consolidate general and administrative functional support across the organization;
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Streamline the Household Products Division product portfolio to enable increased focus on our core battery and portable lighting businesses;
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Streamline the marketing organization within our Household Products Division;
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Optimize our go-to-market strategies and organization structures within our international markets;
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Reduce overhead spending, including changes to benefit programs and other targeted spending reductions; and
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Create a center-led purchasing function to drive procurement savings.
The Company estimates that total gross savings from this program will be $225 million, including approximately $103 million realized in fiscal 2013, and will be fully realized in fiscal 2015. In addition, the Company estimates total pre-tax restructuring related costs needed to execute this program will be near $250 million, including approximately $150 million of restructuring and related costs incurred in fiscal 2013.
Sources and Availability of Raw Materials
The principal raw materials used by Energizer - electrolytic manganese dioxide, zinc, silver, nickel, acetylene black, graphite, steel cans, nylon, brass wire, separator paper, and potassium hydroxide, for batteries, and steel, zinc, various plastic resins, synthetic rubber resins, soap based lubricants and various packaging materials, for wet shave products, and certain naturally derived fibers, resin-based plastics and certain chemicals for the Playtex product lines - are sourced on a regional or global basis. The prices and availability of these raw materials have fluctuated over time. Energizer believes that adequate supplies of the raw materials required for its operations are available at the present time, although we cannot predict the future availability or prices of such materials. These raw materials are generally available from a number of different sources, and the prices of those raw materials are susceptible to currency fluctuations and price fluctuations due to transportation, government regulations, price controls, economic climate, or other unforeseen circumstances. In the past, Energizer has not experienced any significant interruption in availability of raw materials. We believe we have extensive experience in purchasing raw materials in the commodity markets. From time to time, management has purchased materials or entered into forward contracts for various ingredients to assure supply and to protect margins on anticipated sales volume.
Sales and Distribution
Energizer's products are marketed primarily through a direct sales force, but also through exclusive and non-exclusive distributors and wholesalers. In the U.S., the Household Products and Personal Care segments have separate dedicated commercial organizations, reflecting the scale and importance of these businesses. Outside the U.S., the commercial teams market our full portfolio of product offerings. Energizer distributes its products to consumers through numerous retail locations worldwide, including mass merchandisers and warehouse clubs, food, drug and convenience stores, electronics specialty stores and department stores, hardware and automotive centers, military stores and e-commerce.
Although a large percentage of Energizer's sales are attributable to a relatively small number of retail customers, in fiscal 2013, only Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. and its subsidiaries, as a group, accounted for more than ten percent of Energizer's annual sales. For fiscal year 2013, this customer accounted for, in the aggregate, approximately 20% of Energizer's sales. Because of the short period between order and shipment date (generally less than one month) for most of our orders, the dollar amount of current backlog is not material and is not considered to be a reliable indicator of future sales volume.
Patents, Technology and Trademarks
Energizer owns a number of U.S., Canadian and foreign trademarks, which Energizer considers of substantial importance and which are used individually or in conjunction with other Energizer trademarks. These include Eveready, Energizer, Energizer Max, Schick, Schick Hydro, Schick Hydro Silk, Wilkinson Sword, Intuition, Hydro, Quattro, Xtreme, Protector, Silk Effects, ST Slim Twin, Exacta, Edge, Skintimate, Personna, Capri, Matrix3, Magnum 5, Speed 3, Vogue, Dermablade, Banana Boat, Hawaiian Tropic, Coolzone, Sport Performance, Ultramist, Binky, Diaper Genie, Drop-Ins, Lil' Gripper, Coolster, Gentle Glide, Play On, 360° Protection & Design, HandSaver, Twist 'N Click & design, Ortho Pro, Sipster, Sport, VentAire, Wet Ones, Stayfree, Carefree, o.b. and the Energizer Bunny and the Energizer Man character. As a result of the Playtex acquisition, Energizer also owns royalty-free licenses in perpetuity to the Playtex and Living trademarks in the United States, Canada and many foreign jurisdictions related to certain feminine hygiene, baby care, gloves and other products, but excluding certain apparel related products.
Energizer's ability to compete effectively in the battery and portable lighting, wet shave, skin care, feminine care and infant care categories depends, in part, on our ability to maintain the proprietary nature of technology and manufacturing processes through a combination of patent and trade secret protection, non-disclosure agreements and licensing agreements. Energizer owns or licenses from third parties a considerable number of patents, patent applications and other technology which Energizer believes are significant to its business. These relate primarily to battery product and lighting device improvements, additional battery product features, shaving product improvements and additional features, plastic applicators for tampons, baby bottles and nipples, disposable liners and plastic holders for the nurser systems, children's drinking cups, pacifiers, sunscreen formulations, diaper disposal systems, breast pump products and improvements, and manufacturing processes.
As of September 30, 2013, Energizer owned (directly or beneficially) approximately 1,450 unexpired United States patents which have a range of expiration dates from October 2013 to March 2038, and had approximately 200 United States patent applications pending. We routinely prepare additional patent applications for filing in the United States. Energizer also actively pursues foreign patent protection in a number of foreign countries. As of September 30, 2013, Energizer owned (directly or beneficially) approximately 3,500 foreign patents and had approximately 800 patent applications pending in foreign countries.
We rely on trademark, trade secret, patent and copyright laws to protect our intellectual property rights. We cannot be sure that these intellectual property rights will be effectively utilized or, if necessary, successfully asserted. There is a risk that we will not be able to obtain and perfect our own intellectual property rights, or, where appropriate, license from others intellectual property rights.
Seasonality
Sales and operating profit for Household Products tends to be seasonal, with increased purchases of batteries by consumers during the December holiday season, and increases in retailer inventories during autumn. In addition, natural disasters such as hurricanes can create conditions that drive increased needs for portable power and spike battery and flashlight sales.
Sales of women's wet shave products are moderately seasonal, with increased consumer demand in the spring and summer months. Customer orders for sun care products are highly seasonal, which has historically resulted in higher sun care sales to retailers during the late winter through mid-summer months.
Competition
The Personal Care and Household Products businesses are highly competitive, both in the United States and on a global basis, as large manufacturers with global operations compete for consumer acceptance and, increasingly, limited retail shelf space. Competition is based upon brand perceptions, product performance, customer service and price.
The global shaving products category is comprised of wet shave blades and razors, electric shavers, shave preparations (gels, lotions and creams). The wet shave segment of that business, the segment in which we participate, is further segmented between razor systems and disposable products. Geographically, North America, Western Europe and Japan represent relatively developed and stable markets. We expect to grow our business in those markets primarily by new premium priced product innovation. Our principal competitors in the wet shave business worldwide are The Procter & Gamble Company, which owns the Gillette brand and is the leading company in the global wet shave segment, and Bic Group, which competes primarily in the disposable segment.
The markets for skin care, feminine care and infant care products are also highly competitive, characterized by the frequent introduction of new products, accompanied by major advertising and promotional programs. Our competitors in these product lines consist of a large number of domestic and foreign companies, including The Procter & Gamble Company and Kimberly-Clark Corp. in feminine care, Merck & Co., Inc. and Johnson & Johnson in skin care, and a variety of competitors in the fragmented infant care market.
Our principal battery competitors in the U.S. are Duracell International, Inc., a subsidiary of The Procter & Gamble Company, and Spectrum Brands, Inc. We believe private-label sales by large retailers also has an impact on the market in some parts of the world, particularly in Europe. Duracell and the Panasonic Corporation are significant competitors in South and Central America, Asia and Europe, and local and regional battery manufacturers in Asia and Europe also compete for battery sales.
Governmental Regulation and Environmental Matters
Energizer's operations are subject to various federal, state, foreign and local laws and regulations intended to protect the public health and the environment.
Energizer has received notices from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, state agencies, and/or private parties seeking contribution, that we have been identified as a “potentially responsible party” (PRP) under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act, and may be required to share in the cost of cleanup with respect to a number of federal “Superfund” sites. We may also be required to share in the cost of cleanup with respect to state-designated sites, and certain international locations, as well as any of our own properties.
The amount of the Company's ultimate liability in connection with those sites may depend on many factors, including the volume and toxicity of material contributed to the site, the number of other PRPs and their financial viability, and the remediation methods and technology to be used. Total environmental capital expenditures and operating expenses are not expected to have a material effect on our total capital and operating expenditures, consolidated earnings or competitive position. However, current environmental spending estimates could be modified as a result of changes in our plans or our understanding of the underlying facts, changes in legal requirements, including any requirements related to global climate change, or other factors.
Many European countries, as well as the European Union, have been very active in adopting and enforcing environmental regulations. In addition, certain regulations have been enacted or are being considered in North America and certain European and Latin American countries with respect to battery recycling programs. As such economies develop, it is possible that new regulations may increase the risk and expense of doing business in such countries.
Certain of Energizer's products are subject to regulation under the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act and are regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (“FDA”).
Available Information
Energizer regularly files periodic reports with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), including annual reports on Form 10-K and quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, as well as, from time to time, current reports on Form 8-K, and amendments to those reports. The SEC maintains an Internet site containing these reports, and proxy and information statements, at www.sec.gov. These filings are also available free of charge on Energizer's website, at www.energizer.com, as soon as reasonably practicable after their electronic filing with the SEC. Information on Energizer's website does not constitute part of this Form 10-K.
Other Matters
Additional descriptions of the business of Energizer in response to Item 1, and the summary of selected financial data appearing under “ENERGIZER HOLDINGS, INC. - MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF RESULTS OF OPERATIONS AND FINANCIAL CONDITION” and appearing under “ENERGIZER HOLDINGS, INC. - NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Note 18 - Segment Information,” are included in Exhibit 13 attached hereto and incorporated herein by reference. This information will also appear in the Energizer Holdings, Inc. 2013 Annual Report.
Item 1A.
Item 1A. Risk Factors.
The following risks and uncertainties could materially adversely affect our business, results of operations, consolidated financial condition and cash flows. Energizer may amend or supplement the risk factors described below from time to time in other reports it files with the SEC.
Energizer faces risks associated with global economic conditions.
Unfavorable global economic conditions, increased unemployment levels and uncertainty about future economic prospects could reduce consumer demand for our products as a result of a reduction in discretionary spending or a shift of purchasing patterns to lower-cost options such as private label or price brands. Similarly, our retailer customers could reduce their inventories, shift to different products or require us to lower our prices to remain on shelf. Declining financial performance by certain of our retailer customers could impact their ability to pay us on a timely basis, or at all. These general risks remain heightened as global economic conditions continue to deteriorate and the recovery in most developed markets remains sluggish. Worsening economic conditions could harm our sales and profitability. Additionally, disruptions in financial markets could reduce our access to debt and equity capital markets, negatively affecting our ability to implement our business plan and strategy.
If Energizer cannot continue to develop new products in a timely manner, and at favorable margins, it may not be able to compete effectively.
The battery and portable lighting products, wet shave, skin care, feminine care and infant care industries have been notable for the pace of innovations in product life, product design and applied technology, and our success depends on future innovations. The successful development and introduction of new products requires retail and consumer acceptance and overcoming the reaction from competitors. New product introductions in categories where we have existing products will likely also reduce the sales of our existing products. Our investments in research and development may not result in successful products or innovation that will recover the costs of such investments. Our customers or end consumers may not purchase our new products once introduced. Our competitors may introduce new or enhanced products that significantly outperform ours, or develop manufacturing technology which permits them to manufacture at a lower cost relative to ours and sell at a lower price. If we fail to develop and launch successful new products, or fail to reduce our cost structure to a competitive level, we may be unable to grow our business and compete successfully.
Competition in Energizer's industries may hinder our ability to execute our business strategy, achieve profitability, or maintain relationships with existing customers.
The categories in which Energizer operates are mature and highly competitive, both in the United States and globally, as a limited number of large manufacturers compete for consumer acceptance, limited retail shelf space and e-commerce opportunities. Because of the highly competitive environment in which we operate as well as increasing retailer concentration, our retailer customers, including on-line retailers, frequently seek to obtain pricing concessions or better trade terms, resulting in either reduction of our margins, or losses of distribution to lower cost competitors. Competition is based upon brand perceptions, product performance and innovation, customer service and price. Energizer's ability to compete effectively may be affected by a number of factors, including:
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our primary competitor in batteries, wet shave and feminine care products, The Procter & Gamble Company, and our other competitors, may have substantially greater financial, marketing, research and development and other resources and greater market share in certain segments than Energizer does, which could provide them with greater scale and negotiating leverage with retailers and suppliers;
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our competitors may have lower production, sales and distribution costs, and higher profit margins, which may enable them to offer aggressive retail discounts and other promotional incentives;
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our competitors may be able to obtain exclusive distribution rights at particular retailers, or favorable in-store placement; and
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we may lose market share to private label brands sold by retail chains, which are typically sold at lower prices than our products.
Loss of reputation of our leading brands or failure of our marketing plans could have an adverse effect on our business.
We depend on the continuing reputation and success of our brands, particularly the Energizer, Eveready, Schick, Wilkinson Sword, Edge, Skintimate, Playtex, Diaper Genie, Wet Ones, Banana Boat and Hawaiian Tropic brands. Our operating results could be adversely affected if one of our leading brands suffers damage to its reputation due to real or perceived quality issues.
Further, the success of these brands can suffer if our marketing plans or new product offerings do not have the desired impact on our brand's image or ability to attract and retain consumers. Additionally, claims made in our marketing campaigns may become subject to litigation alleging false advertising, which if successful could cause us to alter our marketing plans in ways that may materially and adversely affect sales, or result in the imposition of significant damages against us. Further, a boycott or other campaign critical of Energizer, through social media or otherwise, could negatively impact product sales.
Loss of any of our principal customers could significantly decrease our sales and profitability.
Wal-Mart, together with its subsidiaries, is our largest customer, accounting for approximately 20% of net sales in fiscal 2013. Generally, sales to our top customers are made pursuant to purchase orders and we do not have supply agreements or guarantees of minimum purchases from them. As a result, these customers may cancel their purchase orders or reschedule or decrease their level of purchases from us at any time. The loss or a substantial decrease in the volume of purchases by any of our top customers would harm our sales and profitability. For example, our net sales and earnings in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2013 were negatively impacted by distribution losses at two U.S. retail customers. Additionally, increasing retailer customer concentration could result in reduced sales outlets for our products, as well as greater negotiating pressures and pricing requirements on Energizer.
The performance of the primary battery product category may be impacted by further changes in technology and device trends, which could impair Energizer's operating results and growth prospects.
We believe an increasing number of devices are using built-in rechargeable battery systems, particularly in developed markets, leading to a declining volume trend in the battery category, which we expect will continue. This has and will likely continue to have a negative impact on the demand for primary batteries. This trend has and will continue to put additional pressure on segment results going forward, both directly through reduced consumption and indirectly as manufacturers aggressively price and promote their products to seek to retain market share or gain battery shelf space. Development and commercialization of new battery or device technologies not available to Energizer could also negatively impact our results and prospects.
Energizer is subject to risks related to its international operations, including currency fluctuations, which could adversely affect our results of operations.
Energizer's businesses are currently conducted on a worldwide basis, with nearly 50% of our sales in fiscal 2013 arising from foreign countries, and a significant portion of our production capacity and cash located overseas. Consequently, Energizer is subject to a number of risks associated with doing business in foreign countries, including:
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the possibility of expropriation, confiscatory taxation or price controls;
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the inability to repatriate foreign-based cash, which constitutes substantially all of our overall cash, for strategic needs in the U.S. without incurring significant income tax and earnings consequences, as well as the heightened counter-party, internal control and country-specific risks associated with holding cash overseas;
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the effect of foreign income taxes, value-added taxes and withholding taxes, including the inability to recover amounts owed to Energizer by a government authority without extended proceedings or at all;
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the effect of the U.S. tax treatment of foreign source income and losses, and other restrictions on the flow of capital between countries;
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adverse changes in local investment or exchange control regulations;
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restrictions on and taxation of international imports and exports;
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currency fluctuations, including the impact of hyper-inflationary conditions in certain economies;
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political or economic instability, government nationalization of business or industries, government corruption, and civil unrest, including political or economic instability in the countries of the Eurozone, Egypt and the Middle East and across Latin America, including Venezuela and Argentina;
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legal and regulatory constraints, including tariffs and other trade barriers; and
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difficulty in enforcing contractual and intellectual property rights.
A significant portion of Energizer's sales are denominated in local currencies but reported in U.S. dollars, and a high percentage of product costs for such sales are denominated in U.S. dollars. Therefore, although we may hedge a portion of the exposure, the strengthening of the U.S. dollar relative to such currencies can negatively impact our reported sales and operating profits.
A failure of a key information technology system could adversely impact our ability to conduct business.
We rely extensively on information technology systems, including some which are managed by third-party service providers, in order to conduct business. These systems include, but are not limited to, programs and processes relating to communicating within Energizer and with other parties, ordering and managing materials from suppliers, converting materials to finished products, shipping products to customers, processing transactions, summarizing and reporting results of operations, and complying with regulatory, legal or tax requirements. These information technology systems could be damaged or cease to function properly due to the poor performance or failure of third-party service providers, catastrophic events, power outages, security breaches, network outages, failed upgrades or other similar events. If our business continuity plans do not effectively resolve such issues on a timely basis, we may suffer interruptions in conducting our business which may adversely impact our operating results. In addition, we are undertaking a significant implementation of information technology systems globally to facilitate business processes and generate cost savings in connection with our multi-year restructuring, and during this implementation, we face a heightened risk of system interruptions and deficiencies or failures in our internal controls involving our information systems and processes.
We face risks arising from the restructuring of our operations and uncertainty with respect to our ability to achieve the estimated cost savings.
In November 2012, we announced a company-wide restructuring plan. We have incurred and expect to continue to incur additional significant charges related to the restructuring plan, which will reduce our profitability in the periods incurred. If we incur unexpected charges related to the restructuring, or in connection with any potential future restructuring program, our financial condition and results of operations may suffer further.
Execution of the restructuring plan, or any potential future restructuring program, presents a number of significant risks, including:
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actual or perceived disruption of service or reduction in service standards to customers;
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the failure to preserve adequate internal controls as we restructure our general and administrative functions, including our information technology and financial reporting infrastructure;
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the failure to preserve supplier relationships and distribution, sales and other important relationships and to resolve conflicts that may arise;
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loss of sales as we reduce or eliminate staffing on non-core product lines;
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diversion of management attention from ongoing business activities; and
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the failure to maintain employee morale and retaining key employees while implementing benefit changes and reductions in the workforce.
Because of these and other factors, we cannot predict whether we will realize the purpose and anticipated benefits of these measures and, if we do not, our business and results of operations may be adversely affected.
Additionally, there may be delays in implementing the restructuring activities or a failure to achieve the anticipated levels of cost savings and efficiency as a result of the restructuring activities, each of which could materially and adversely impact our business and results of operations. Further restructuring or reorganization activities may also be required in the future beyond what is currently planned, which could further enhance the risks associated with these activities.
Energizer's business is subject to regulation in the U.S. and abroad.
The manufacture, packaging, labeling, storage, distribution, advertising and sale of our products are subject to extensive regulation in the U.S., including by the Food and Drug Administration, the Consumer Product Safety Commission, the Environmental Protection Agency, and by the Federal Trade Commission with respect to advertising. Similar regulations have been adopted by authorities in foreign countries where we sell our products, and by state and local authorities in the U.S. New or more restrictive regulations or more restrictive interpretations of existing regulations could have an adverse impact on our business. Legislative and regulatory changes by taxing authorities have an impact on our effective tax rate, and we may be subject to additional costs arising from new or changed regulations, including those relating to health care and energy. Additionally, a finding that we are in violation of, or not in compliance with, applicable laws or regulations could subject us to material civil remedies, including fines, damages, injunctions or product recalls, or criminal sanctions. Even if a claim is unsuccessful, is not merited or is not fully pursued, the negative publicity surrounding such assertions could jeopardize our reputation and brand image and have a material adverse effect on our businesses, as well as require resources to rebuild our reputation.
We must comply with various environmental laws and regulations in the jurisdictions in which we operate, including those relating to the handling and disposal of solid and hazardous wastes, recycling of batteries, and the remediation of contamination associated with the use and disposal of hazardous substances. A release of such substances due to accident or an intentional act could result in substantial liability to governmental authorities or to third parties. We have incurred, and will continue to incur, capital and operating expenses and other costs in complying with environmental laws and regulations, including remediation costs relating to our current and former properties and third party waste disposal sites. We could become subject to additional environmental liabilities in the future that could cause a material adverse effect on our results of operations or financial condition.
The resolution of Energizer's tax contingencies may result in additional tax liabilities, which could adversely impact our cash flows and results of operations.
Significant estimation and judgment is required in determining our tax provisions for taxes in the U.S. and jurisdictions outside the U.S. In the ordinary course of our business, there are transactions and calculations in which the ultimate tax determination is uncertain. We are regularly under audit by tax authorities, and although we believe our tax positions are defensible and our tax provision estimates are reasonable, the final outcome of tax audits and related litigation could be materially different than that reflected in our income tax provisions and accruals. The unfavorable resolution of any audits or litigation could have an adverse impact on future operating results and our financial condition.
Changes in production costs, including raw material prices, could erode Energizer's profit margins and negatively impact operating results.
Pricing and availability of raw materials, energy, shipping and other services needed for our business can be volatile due to general economic conditions, labor costs, production levels, import duties and tariffs and other factors beyond our control. In the past, substantial increases in the cost of a number of raw materials have been partially offset by price increases. However, there is no certainty that Energizer will be able to offset future cost increases, especially given the competitive environment. This volatility can significantly affect our production cost, and may, therefore, have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.
Energizer's manufacturing facilities or supply channels may be subject to disruption from events beyond our control.
Operations of our manufacturing and packaging facilities worldwide may be subject to disruption for a variety of reasons, including availability of raw materials, work stoppages, industrial accidents, disruptions in logistics, loss or impairment of key manufacturing sites, product quality or safety issues, licensing requirements and other regulatory issues, trade disputes between countries in which we have operations, such as the U.S. and China, and acts of war, terrorism, pandemics, fire, earthquake, flooding or other natural disasters. The supply of our raw materials may be similarly disrupted. There is also a possibility that third party manufacturers, which produce a significant portion of certain of our products, could discontinue production with little or no advance notice, or experience financial problems or problems with product quality or timeliness of product delivery, resulting in manufacturing delays or disruptions, regulatory sanctions, product liability claims or consumer complaints. If a major disruption were to occur, it could result in delays in shipments of products to customers or suspension of operations. The Company maintains business interruption insurance to potentially mitigate the impact of business interruption, but such coverage may not be sufficient to offset the financial or reputational impact of an interruption.
Energizer has a substantial level of indebtedness and is subject to various covenants relating to such indebtedness, which limits its discretion to operate and grow its business.
Energizer's current debt level is approximately $2.2 billion. We may be required to dedicate a substantial portion of our cash to debt service, thereby reducing funds available to fund working capital, capital expenditures, acquisitions and investments and other general corporate purposes. Our failure to make scheduled interest payments or to repay or refinance the indebtedness at maturity or obtain additional financing as needed could have a material adverse effect on our business.
Additionally, many of our debt instruments are subject to certain financial and other covenants, including debt ratio tests. We may be in breach of such covenants in the event of future declines in our operating cash flows or earnings performance, foreign currency movements, or other unanticipated events. In the event of such breach, our lenders may be entitled to accelerate the related debt as well as any other debt to which a cross-default provision applies, and we could be required to seek amendments or waivers under the debt instruments or to refinance the debt. There is no assurance that we would obtain such amendments or waivers or effect such refinancing, or that we would be able to do so on terms similar to our current debt instruments. The covenants and financial ratio requirements contained in our debt instruments could also increase our vulnerability to general adverse economic and industry conditions, limit our flexibility in planning for, or reacting to, changes in our business and the markets in which we operate, place us at a competitive disadvantage as compared to our competitors that have greater financial flexibility or limit, among other things, our ability to borrow additional funds.
Our credit ratings are important to our cost of capital.
The major credit rating agencies periodically evaluate our creditworthiness and have given us specified credit ratings. These ratings are based on a number of factors, which include our financial strength and financial policies as well as our strategies, operations and execution. We aim to maintain our current ratings as they serve to lower our borrowing costs and facilitate our access to sources of capital on terms that we consider advantageous to our business. Failure to maintain our credit ratings could adversely affect the interest rate in future financings, liquidity, competitive position and access to capital markets.
There can be no guarantee that we will continue to make dividend payments or repurchase stock.
Although our Board of Directors has authorized a share repurchase program and initiated a quarterly cash dividend payable on our Common Stock, any determinations to continue to repurchase Common Stock or to continue to pay cash dividends will be based primarily upon our financial condition, results of operations, available U.S. cash, business requirements and the Board of Directors' continuing determination that the repurchase program and the payment of dividends under the dividend policy are in the best interests of shareholders and are in compliance with all laws and agreements applicable to the repurchase and dividend programs.
Impairment of our goodwill and other intangible assets would result in a reduction in net income.
Energizer has a material amount of goodwill, trademarks and other intangible assets, as well as other long-lived assets, which are periodically evaluated for impairment in accordance with current accounting standards. Declines in our profitability and/or estimated cash flows related to specific intangible assets, as well as potential changes in market valuations for similar assets and market discount rates may result in an impairment charge, which could have an adverse impact on our operating results.
If Energizer fails to adequately protect its intellectual property rights, competitors may manufacture and market similar products, which could adversely affect our market share and results of operations.
The vast majority of our total revenues are from products bearing proprietary trademarks and brand names. In addition, Energizer owns or licenses from third parties a considerable number of patents, patent applications and other technology. Energizer relies on trademark, trade secret, patent and copyright laws to protect our intellectual property rights. There is a risk that Energizer will not be able to obtain and perfect or maintain our own intellectual property rights or, where appropriate, license intellectual property rights necessary to support new product introductions. In addition, even if such rights are protected in the United States, the laws of some other countries in which Energizer's products are or may be sold do not protect intellectual property rights to the same extent as the laws of the United States. We cannot be certain that our intellectual property rights will not be invalidated, circumvented or challenged in the future, and Energizer could incur significant costs in connection with legal actions relating to such rights. As patents expire, we could face increased competition or decreased royalties, either of which could negatively impact our operating results. If other parties infringe our intellectual property rights, they may dilute the value of our brands in the marketplace, which could diminish the value that consumers associate with our brands and harm our sales.
Energizer's business involves the potential for product liability and other claims against us, which could affect our results of operations and financial condition.
We face exposure to claims arising out of alleged defects in our products, including for property damage, bodily injury or other adverse effects. We maintain product liability insurance, but this insurance does not cover all types of claims, particularly claims that do not involve personal injury or property damage or claims that exceed the amount of insurance coverage. Further, we may not maintain such insurance on acceptable terms, or at all. In addition to the risk of monetary judgments not covered by insurance, product liability claims could result in negative publicity that could harm our products' reputation and in certain cases require a product recall. Product recalls or product liability claims, and any subsequent remedial actions, could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.
We may not be able to attract, retain and develop key personnel.
Our future performance depends in significant part upon the continued service of our executive officers and other key personnel. The loss of the services of one or more of our executive officers or other key employees could have a material adverse effect on our business, prospects, financial condition and results of operations. Our success also depends on our continuing ability to attract, retain and develop highly qualified personnel. Competition for such personnel is intense, and there can be no assurance that we can retain and motivate our key employees or attract and retain other highly qualified personnel in the future. Additionally, the escalating costs of offering and administering health care benefits for employees could result in reduced profitability.
We may experience losses or be subject to increased funding and expenses related to our pension plans.
The funding obligations for Energizer's pension plans, including those assumed in the ASR acquisition, are impacted by the performance of the financial markets, interest rates and governmental regulations. While in November 2012, we approved and communicated changes to our U.S. pension plan so that, effective January 1, 2014, the pension benefit earned to date by active participants under the legacy Energizer U.S. pension plan will be frozen and future retirement service benefits will no longer be accrued under this retirement program, our pension obligations are expected to remain significant. If the investment of plan assets does not provide the expected long-term returns, interest rates change, or if governmental regulations change the timing or amounts of required contributions to the plans, we could be required to make significant additional pension contributions which may have an adverse impact on our liquidity, our ability to comply with debt covenants and may require recognition of increased expense within our financial statements.
We may not be able to continue to identify and complete strategic acquisitions and effectively integrate acquired companies to achieve desired financial benefits.
We have completed a number of significant acquisitions since becoming an independent company in 2000, including, most recently, the acquisition of the Stayfree, Carefree and o.b. brands in the U.S., Canada and the Caribbean in October 2013. We expect to continue making acquisitions if appropriate opportunities arise. However, we may not be able to identify and successfully negotiate suitable strategic acquisitions at attractive valuations, obtain financing for future acquisitions on satisfactory terms or otherwise complete future acquisitions.
Even if we can complete future acquisitions, we face significant challenges in consolidating functions and effectively integrating procedures, personnel, product lines, and operations in a timely and efficient manner. The integration process can be complex and time consuming, may be disruptive to our existing and acquired business, and may cause an interruption of, or a loss of momentum in, the business. Even if we can successfully complete the integration of acquired businesses into our operations, there is no assurance that anticipated cost savings, synergies, or revenue enhancements will be realized within the expected time frame, or at all.
Additional descriptions of risks impacting Energizer appearing under “ENERGIZER HOLDINGS, INC. - MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF RESULTS OF OPERATIONS AND FINANCIAL CONDITION” are included in Exhibit 13 attached hereto, which will also appear in the Energizer Holdings, Inc. 2013 Annual Report to Shareholders.
Item 1B.
Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments.
None.
Item 2.
Item 2. Properties
Below is a list of Energizer's principal plants and facilities as of the date of filing. Management believes that the Company's production facilities are adequate to support the business and the properties and equipment have been well maintained.
HOUSEHOLD PRODUCTS
North America
Asia
Asheboro, NC (2)
Bogang, People’s Republic of China (1)(9)
Bennington, VT
Cimanggis, Indonesia (8)
Garrettsville, OH
Ekala, Sri Lanka
Marietta, OH
Jurong, Singapore (8)
Walkerton, Ontario, Canada (5)
Tianjin, People’s Republic of China (1)
Westlake, OH (3)
Europe, Middle East and Africa
Alexandria, Egypt
Nakuru, Kenya (4)
PERSONAL CARE
North America
Europe, Middle East and Africa
Milford, CT
Nove Modlany, Czech Republic (1)
Verona, VA
Solingen, Germany
Obregon, Mexico (1)
Nazareth, Israel
Mexico City, Mexico (1)
Knoxville, TN
South America
Dover, DE (6)
Santa Catarina, Brazil (1)
Sidney, OH (7)
Ormond Beach, FL
Asia
Allendale, NJ (1)(3)
Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China (1)
Montreal, Quebec, Canada
ADMINISTRATIVE AND
EXECUTIVE OFFICES
St. Louis, MO (1)
Mississauga, Ontario, Canada (1)
Shelton, CT (1)
Cedar Knolls, NJ (1)
(1) Leased (2) Two plants and separate packaging facility (3) Research facility (4) Less than 20% owned interest (5) Bulk packaging or labeling (6) Three facilities, one of which is leased (7) Two facilities, one of which is leased (8) Facility is owned, but land is leased (9) Two facilities.
In addition to the properties identified above, Energizer and its subsidiaries own and/or operate sales offices, regional offices, storage facilities, distribution centers and terminals and related properties.
Item 3.
Item 3. Legal Proceedings
The Company and its subsidiaries are parties to a number of legal proceedings in various jurisdictions arising out of the operations of the Company's businesses. Many of these legal matters are in preliminary stages and involve complex issues of law and fact, and may proceed for protracted periods of time. The amount of liability, if any, from these proceedings cannot be determined with certainty. However, based upon present information, the Company believes that its liability, if any, arising from such pending legal proceedings, asserted legal claims and known potential legal claims which are likely to be asserted, are not reasonably likely to be material to the Company's financial position, results of operations, or cash flows, taking into account established accruals for estimated liabilities.
See also the discussion captioned “Governmental Regulation and Environmental Matters” under Item 1 above.
Item 4.
Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosure
None.
Item 4a. Executive Officers Of The Registrant.
A list of the executive officers of Energizer and their business experience follows. Ages shown are as of December 31, 2013. Executive officers are appointed by, and hold office at the discretion of, our Board of Directors, subject to the terms of any employment agreements.
Ward M. Klein- Chief Executive Officer of Energizer since January, 2005. Prior to his current position he served as President and Chief Operating Officer from 2004 to 2005, and as President, International from 2002 to 2004. Mr. Klein joined Ralston Purina Company in 1979. He also served as President and Chief Operating Officer - Asia Pacific and PanAm from 2000 to 2002, as Vice President - Asia Pacific for Energizer from March to September, 2000, as Vice President and Area Chairman, Asia Pacific, Africa and Middle East for battery operations from 1998 to 2000, as Area Chairman, Latin America from 1996-98, as Vice President, General Manager Global Lighting Products, 1994-96 and as Vice President of Marketing, 1992-94. Age: 58.
David P. Hatfield- President and Chief Executive Officer, Energizer Personal Care since November, 2007. Prior to his current position and title, he served as President and Chief Executive Officer, Schick-Wilkinson Sword from April to November, 2007, as Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer, Energizer Battery from 2004 to 2007, as Vice President, North American and Global Marketing, from 1999 to 2004. Age: 53.
Alan R. Hoskins- President and Chief Executive Officer, Energizer Household Products since April 2012. Previously, Mr. Hoskins served as Vice President, Asia-Pacific, Africa and Middle East from 2008 to 2012; Vice President, North America Household Products Division from 2005 to 2008; Vice President, Sales and Trade Marketing from 1999 to 2005 and Director, Brand Marketing from 1996 to 1999. Age: 52.
Daniel J. Sescleifer- Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Energizer since October, 2000. Mr. Sescleifer served as Vice President and Treasurer of Solutia Inc. from July-October, 2000, as Vice President and Treasurer of Ralcorp Holdings, Inc, from 1996 to 2000, and as Director, Corporate Finance of Ralcorp Holdings, Inc. from 1994 to 1996. Age: 51.
Peter J. Conrad- Vice President, Human Resources of Energizer since March, 2000. Mr. Conrad joined Eveready Battery Company, Inc. in 1997 and served as Vice President, Human Resources from 1997 to 2000. Mr. Conrad served as Vice President, Human Resources for Protein Technologies International, Inc., a former subsidiary of Ralston Purina Company, from 1995 to 1997. Age: 52.
Brandon P. Davis - Vice President, Global Business Transformation of Energizer since October, 2013. Mr. Davis joined Energizer in 1997 and prior to his current position he served as General Manager of Australia. Prior to that role he served in positions of increasing responsibility including Vice President, Trade Marketing and Vice President, Wal-Mart/Sam's. Age: 40.
Mark S. LaVigne- Vice President, Secretary and General Counsel since April 2012. Previously, Mr. LaVigne served as Vice President, Secretary and Assistant General Counsel from 2010 to 2012 and as a partner in the law firm Bryan Cave LLP from 2007 to 2010. Age: 42.
PART II
Item 5.
Item 5. Market for Registrant's Common Equity and Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities.
ENR Stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange. As of September 30, 2013, there were approximately 10,200 shareholders of record of the ENR Stock.
The following table sets forth the range of market prices for ENR Stock for the period from October 1, 2011 to September 30, 2013.
There have been no unregistered offerings of registrant's equity securities during the period covered by this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
In the fourth quarter of fiscal 2012, the Company initiated a quarterly dividend. The following table sets forth the quarterly dividends paid by the Company over the past two fiscal years.
The Company expects to continue its policy of paying regular quarterly cash dividends. Future dividends are dependent on future earnings, capital requirements and the Company's financial condition and are declared in the sole discretion of the Company's Board of Directors.
Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities. The following table reports purchases of equity securities during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2013 by Energizer and any affiliated purchasers pursuant to SEC rules, including any treasury shares withheld to satisfy employee withholding obligations upon vesting of restricted stock and the execution of net exercises.
ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES
(1)
6,508 shares purchased during the quarter relate to the surrender to the Company of shares of common stock to satisfy tax withholding obligations in connection with the vesting of restricted stock or execution of net exercises.
(2)
On April 30, 2012, the Board of Directors approved a new share repurchase authorization for the repurchase of up to ten million shares. This authorization replaced the prior share repurchase authorization. No shares were repurchased on the open market during the fiscal year under this share repurchase authorization exclusive of the small number of shares related to the net settlement of certain stock awards for tax withholding purposes.
Since the end of fiscal 2013 and through the date of this report, the Company has not repurchased any shares of its common stock, exclusive of a small number of shares related to the net settlement of certain stock awards for tax withholding purposes.
From October 1 through November 8, 2013, an additional 134,344 shares were surrendered to the Company to satisfy tax withholding obligations in connection with the vesting of restricted stock.
The following graph compares the cumulative 5-year total return provided to shareholders on Energizer Holdings, Inc.'s common stock relative to the cumulative total returns of the S&P Midcap 400 index and the S&P Household Products index. An investment of $100 (with reinvestment of all dividends) is assumed to have been made in our common stock and in each of the indexes on September 30, 2008 and its relative performance is tracked through September 30, 2013. These indices are included only for comparative purposes as required by Securities and Exchange Commission rules and do not necessarily reflect management's opinion that such indices are an appropriate measure of the relative performance of the Common Stock. They are not intended to forecast possible future performance of the Common Stock.
Item 6.
Item 6. Selected Financial Data.
See “ENERGIZER HOLDINGS, INC. - SUMMARY SELECTED HISTORICAL FINANCIAL INFORMATION” included as part of Exhibit 13 attached hereto and incorporated by reference herein.
Item 7.
Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.
See the information appearing under “ENERGIZER HOLDINGS, INC. - MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF RESULTS OF OPERATIONS AND FINANCIAL CONDITION” included as part of Exhibit 13 attached hereto and incorporated by reference herein.
Item 7A.
Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosure About Market Risk.
See the information appearing under “ENERGIZER HOLDINGS, INC. - MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF RESULTS OF OPERATIONS AND FINANCIAL CONDITION - Market Risk Sensitive Instruments and Positions” included as part of Exhibit 13 attached hereto and incorporated by reference herein.
Item 8.
Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.
The consolidated financial statements of Energizer and its subsidiaries, together with the report thereon of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, and the supplementary data under “ENERGIZER HOLDINGS, INC. - NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Quarterly Financial Information (Unaudited)” are included as part of Exhibit 13 attached hereto and incorporated by reference herein.
Item 9.
Item 9. Changes in and Disagreements With Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure.
Not applicable.
Item 9A.
Item 9A. Controls and Procedures.
We maintain a comprehensive set of disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our filings under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported accurately and within the time periods specified in the SEC's rules and forms, and that such information is accumulated and communicated to Energizer's management, including its Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosures. As of September 30, 2013, an evaluation was carried out under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based on that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that, as of September 30, 2013, the design and operation of these disclosure controls and procedures were effective to provide reasonable assurance of the achievement of the objectives described above. They have also determined in their evaluation that there was no change in the Company's internal control over financial reporting during the quarter ended September 30, 2013 that has materially affected or is reasonably likely to materially affect the Company's internal control over financial reporting.
Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting and the Report of the Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm of the Energizer Holdings, Inc. is included as part of Exhibit 13 attached hereto and incorporated by reference herein.
Item 9B.
Item 9B. Other Information
Not applicable.
PART III
Item 10.
Item 10. Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance.
The information required by this item, appearing under the Section captioned “Executive Officers of the Registrant” in Item 4a, Part I of this Annual Report on Form 10-K, and the information which will be in our Proxy Statement under the captions “Information about Nominees and other Directors,” and “The Board of Directors and Energizer's Corporate Governance,” is hereby incorporated by reference.
The information required by this item with respect to Section 16(a) beneficial ownership reporting compliance will be set forth in our 2013 Proxy Statement under the caption “Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance” and is incorporated herein by reference.
The Company has adopted business practices and standards of conduct that are applicable to all employees, including its Chief Executive Officer, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, and Controller. The Company has also adopted a code of business conduct applicable to the Board of Directors. The codes have been posted on the Company's website at www.energizerholdings.com under “About Energizer-Codes of Conduct.” In the event that an amendment to, or a waiver from, a provision of one of the codes of ethics occurs and it is determined that such amendment or waiver is subject to the disclosure provisions of Item 5.05 of Form 8-K, the Company intends to satisfy such disclosure by posting such information on its website for at least a 12-month period.
Item 11.
Item 11. Executive Compensation.
The information required by this item, which will be in our Proxy Statement under the captions “The Board of Directors and Energizer's Corporate Governance - Director Compensation”, “Executive Compensation,” “The Board of Directors and Energizer's Corporate Governance - Corporate Governance, Risk Oversight and Director Independence - Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation” and “Nominating and Executive Compensation Committee Report,” is hereby incorporated by reference. The information contained in “Nominating and Executive Compensation Committee Report” shall not be deemed to be “filed” with the Securities and Exchange Commission or subject to the liabilities of the Exchange Act, except to the extent that the Company specifically incorporates such information into a document filed under the Securities Act or the Exchange Act.
Item 12.
Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters.
The information required by this item, which will be in our Proxy Statement under the captions “Stock Ownership Information,” and “Equity Compensation Plan Information” is hereby incorporated by reference.
Item 13.
Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence.
The information required by this item, which will be in our Proxy Statement under the captions “The Board of Directors and Energizer’s Corporate Governance - Corporate Governance, Risk Oversight and Director Independence -
Director Independence” and “Additional Information - Certain Relationships and Related Transactions,” is hereby incorporated by reference.
Item 14.
Item 14. Principal Accounting Fees and Services.
The information required by this item, which will be in our Proxy Statement under the caption “Ratification of Appointment of Independent Auditor,” is hereby incorporated by reference.
PART IV
Item 15.
Item 15. Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules
*Denotes a management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement.
**Denotes filed herewith.
***Exhibits 2.2, 2.3 and 2.4 have been included to provide investors and shareholders with information regarding their terms. Disclosure herein is not intended to provide any factual, business or operational information about Energizer or the other entities referenced therein. The Exhibits contains representations and warranties that the parties to the agreements made solely for the benefit of each other. The assertions embodied in such representations and warranties are qualified by information contained in confidential disclosure schedules in connection with execution of such agreements. These disclosure schedules contain information that modifies, qualifies and creates exceptions to the representations and warranties set forth therein. Moreover, the representations and warranties (i) are subject to materiality standards which may differ from what may be viewed as material by investors and shareholders, (ii) in certain cases, were used for the purpose of allocating risk among the parties rather than establishing matters as facts and (iii) were only made as of the date thereof. Accordingly, investors and shareholders should not rely on such representations and warranties as characterizations of the actual state of facts or circumstances. Moreover, information concerning the subject matter of such representations and warranties may change after the date of such agreements, which subsequent information may or may not be fully reflected in Energizer's public disclosures. Pursuant to Item 601 (b) (2) of Regulation S-K, schedules have been omitted and will be furnished supplementally to the SEC upon request.
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) 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.
ENERGIZER HOLDINGS, INC.
By
/s/ Ward M. Klein
Ward M. Klein
Chief Executive Officer
Date: November 21, 2013
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the Registrant and in the capacities and as of the date indicated.
Signature
Title
/s/ Ward M. Klein
Ward M. Klein (principal executive officer)
Chief Executive Officer and Director
/s/ Daniel J. Sescleifer
Daniel J. Sescleifer (principal financial officer)
Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
/s/ John J. McColgan
John J. McColgan (controller and principal accounting officer)
Vice President and Controller
/s/ J. Patrick Mulcahy
J. Patrick Mulcahy
Chairman of the Board of Directors
/s/ Bill G. Armstrong
Bill G. Armstrong
Director
/s/ Daniel J. Heinrich
Daniel J. Heinrich
Director
/s/ R. David Hoover
R. David Hoover
Director
/s/ John C. Hunter
John C. Hunter
Director
/s/ James C. Johnson
James C. Johnson
Director
/s/ John E. Klein
John E. Klein
Director
/s/ W. Patrick McGinnis
W. Patrick McGinnis
Director
/s/ Pamela Nicholson
Pamela Nicholson
Director
/s/ John R. Roberts
John R. Roberts
Director
Date: November 21, 2013