Alliance One's 10-K Filing



UNITED STATES
SECURITIES
AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, D.C.  20549

FORM 10-K


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

           ACT OF 1934 FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED March 31, 2008

 

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

            EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934


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Alliance One International, Inc.

Virginia

001-13684

54-1746567

(State or other jurisdiction
of Incorporation)

(Commission File Number)

(I.R.S. Employer
Identification No.)


8001 Aerial Center Parkway

Morrisville, North Carolina 27560-8417

(Address of principal executive offices)

 

Telephone Number (919) 379-4300

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

 

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

 

Title of Each Class

Name of Exchange On Which Registered

Common Stock (no par value)

New York Stock Exchange

 

 

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:   None

 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.                                                                                                                                                         Yes [X]    No [  ]

 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Exchange Act.                                                                                                                                         Yes [  ]   No [X]

 

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, and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.                                                                                                           Yes [X]  No [  ]

 

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant's knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K.                                 [  ]

 

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 [X]                                       

Non-Accelerated filer    [  ]                                                                    Smaller Reporting Company  [  ]                   
(Do not check if a 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 [X]

 

As of September 30, 2007 the aggregate market value of the registrant’s common stock held by non-affiliates of the registrant was approximately $551 million based on the closing sale price of the common stock as reported on the New York Stock Exchange.  As of June 5, 2008, there were 88,897,000 shares of Common Stock outstanding (no par value).

 

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

Certain information contained in the Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Shareholders (to be held July 31, 2008) of the registrant is incorporated by reference into Part III hereof.


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TABLE OF CONTENTS

PART I

 

ITEM 1.

BUSINESS

ITEM 1A.

RISK FACTORS

ITEM 1B.

UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS

ITEM 2.

PROPERTIES

ITEM 3.

LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

ITEM 4.

SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS

 

 

PART II

 

ITEM 5.

MARKET FOR REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES

ITEM 6.

SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

ITEM 7.

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

ITEM 7A.

QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

ITEM 8.

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA

 

STATEMENTS OF CONSOLIDATED OPERATIONS AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

 

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET

 

STATEMENT OF CONSOLIDATED STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY

 

STATEMENT OF CONSOLIDATED CASH FLOWS

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

REPORTS OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRMS

ITEM 9.

CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE

ITEM 9A.

CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

ITEM 9B.

OTHER INFORMATION

PART III

 

 

 

ITEM 10.

DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

ITEM 11.

EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

ITEM 12.

SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS

ITEM 13.

CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE

ITEM 14.

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES

PART IV

 

 

 

ITEM 15.

EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES




 

PART I



ITEM 1.  BUSINESS

 

In this section, unless the context indicates otherwise, the terms “Alliance One,” “we,” “us” and “our” refer to the combined business of DIMON and Standard after completion of the merger of Standard with and into DIMON on May 13, 2005.  The term “DIMON” refers to DIMON Incorporated and its subsidiaries prior to the merger.  The term “Standard” refers to Standard Commercial Corporation and its subsidiaries prior to the merger.

 

AVAILABLE INFORMATION

 

We are required to file annual, quarterly and current reports, proxy statements and other information with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”).  The public may read and copy any materials that we file with the SEC at the SEC’s Public Reference Room at 100 F Street, NE, Washington, D.C. 20549.  Information on the Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330.  In addition, the SEC maintains an internet site that contains reports, proxy and information statements, and other information regarding issuers that file with the SEC at http://www.sec.gov.


          Our website address is http://www.aointl.com. We make available free of charge through our website our annual report on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K and all amendments to those reports as soon as reasonably practicable after such material is electronically filed with or furnished to the SEC.  The information contained on our website shall not be deemed part of this annual report on Form 10-K for any reason.


OVERVIEW


Alliance One is one of only two global independent leaf tobacco merchants, each with substantially similar global market shares. We have broad geographic processing capabilities, a diversified product offering and an established customer base, including all of the major consumer tobacco product manufacturers. We select, purchase, process, store, pack and ship tobacco grown in more than 45 countries, serving manufacturers of cigarettes and other consumer tobacco products in more than 90 countries around the world. We process tobacco through a complex mechanized threshing and separating operation and then dry it to meet precise moisture levels in accordance with the customer’s specifications. The processing of leaf tobacco facilitates shipping and prevents spoilage and is an essential service to our customers because the quality of processed leaf tobacco substantially affects the quality of the manufacturer’s end product. In an increasing number of important markets, we also provide agronomy expertise for growing leaf tobacco.


          Alliance One holds a leading position in most tobacco growing regions in the world, including the principal export markets for flue-cured, burley and oriental tobacco: the United States, Brazil, Malawi, Turkey, Argentina, India and Thailand. In addition, we process tobacco in more than 50 owned and third party facilities around the world.  We sell our processed tobacco primarily to large multinational cigarette manufacturers, including Philip Morris International, Inc., Philip Morris USA, Inc., Japan Tobacco, British American Tobacco, Imperial Tobacco, R. J. Reynolds Tobacco Company, Lorillard, Eastern and others.


          Alliance One is a Virginia corporation, and our common stock has been traded on the New York Stock Exchange since 1995. Through our predecessor companies, we have a long operating history in the leaf tobacco industry and have maintained relationships with many of our major customers for more than 50 years, with some of these relationships beginning in the early 1900s.  Our company was renamed Alliance One International, Inc. on May 13, 2005 concurrent with the merger of Standard with and into DIMON, the third largest and second largest global independent leaf tobacco merchants, respectively. Accordingly, the information contained herein regarding our fiscal year ended March 31, 2005 and for any other time prior to the completion of the merger relates only to DIMON.


Product


The world's large multinational cigarette manufacturers, with one exception, rely primarily on independent leaf tobacco merchants such as Alliance One to supply the majority of their leaf tobacco needs.  Leaf tobacco merchants select, purchase, process, store, pack and ship tobacco and, in a growing number of markets, provide agronomy expertise.  Our revenues are primarily comprised of sales of processed tobacco and fees charged for processing and related services to manufacturers of tobacco products around the world.  Processing and other revenues are less than 5% of our total revenues.  We do not manufacture cigarettes or other consumer tobacco products.


          We deal primarily in flue-cured, burley, and oriental tobaccos that are used in international brand cigarettes.  International brand cigarettes include Virginia cigarettes that contain only flue-cured tobaccos as well as American blend cigarettes.  American blend cigarettes contain approximately 50% flue-cured, 35% burley and 15% oriental tobacco, contain less tar and nicotine and taste milder than locally produced cigarettes containing dark and semi-oriental tobacco historically consumed in certain parts of the world.  Several of the large multinational cigarette manufacturers have expanded their operations throughout the world, particularly in Asia, Eastern Europe and the former Soviet Union, in order to increase their access to and penetration of international brand cigarette markets.  


          As cigarette manufacturers continue to expand their global operations, we believe that demand will increase for local sources of leaf tobacco and local tobacco processing and distribution, primarily due to beneficial tariff rates and lower freight costs.  We believe that the international expansion of the large multinational cigarette manufacturers will cause these manufacturers to place greater reliance on the services of leaf tobacco merchants with the ability to source and process tobacco on a global basis and to help develop higher quality local sources of tobacco by improving local agronomic practices.


Geographic Regions of Operation


We have developed an extensive international network through which we purchase, process and sell tobacco.  We own or have an interest in processing facilities in Argentina, Brazil, India, Tanzania and the United States, the most significant exporters of flue-cured tobacco; Brazil, Malawi and the United States, the leading exporters of burley tobacco, and Kyrgyzstan, Macedonia, Bulgaria and Turkey, the leading exporters of oriental tobacco.  We also have processing facilities in Germany and Indonesia.  We have historically contracted with third parties for the processing of tobacco in certain countries including Argentina, Canada, China, Guatemala, India, Thailand and certain countries of the former Soviet Union.  In addition, we have entered into contracts, joint ventures and other arrangements for the purchase of tobacco grown in substantially all other countries that produce export-quality flue-cured and burley tobacco, including Argentina, Canada, China, India, Indonesia and Thailand.


          We purchase tobacco in more than 45 countries.  During the three years ended March 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006, approximately 77%, 77%, and 76%, respectively, of our purchases of tobacco were from the seven countries noted in the table below.  The remaining amounts were purchased in more than 38 different countries with no single country accounting for more than 5% of the amount purchased.  The following table summarizes the tobacco purchase percentages for each country of the dollar value of tobacco Alliance One purchased during the periods indicated:


 

Years Ended March 31,                   

 

2008

2007

2006

Brazil

35%

35%

29%

United States

10%

12%

21%

Turkey

8%

6%

8%

Argentina

6%

7%

6%

China

6%

6%

5%

Malawi

6%

6%

5%

Thailand

5%

5%

3%

 

77%*

77%

76%*

 

 

 

 

*Amounts do not equal column totals due to rounding

 

 

 


          The purchasing, processing, selling and storing of leaf tobacco is similar throughout our business.  However, we maintain regional operating and financial management in North America, South America, Europe, Africa and Asia to monitor our various operations in these areas.  In reviewing these operations, we have concluded that the economic characteristics of South America are dissimilar from the other operating regions.  Based on this fact, we are disclosing South America separately and have aggregated the remaining four operating segments, Africa, Asia, Europe and North America into one reportable segment “Other Regions.”  Our financial performance is reviewed at this level and these regions represent our operating segments.  See Note N “Segment Information” to the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” for further information.


 

Purchasing


Tobacco is primarily purchased directly from growers ("direct contract buying") with small quantities still sold at auction. Prior to the 2004 crop in the United States, flue-cured and burley tobacco crops were purchased at public auction, but these markets have undergone a fundamental change.  In addition to the leaf merchants, a number of our U.S. customers purchase green tobacco directly from the growers. Although our U.S. facilities continue to process the tobacco purchased directly from growers by these customers, we no longer take ownership of that tobacco and no longer record sales revenues associated with its resale.  The majority of our purchases of U.S. flue-cured and burley tobacco are made through the direct contract buying system where we buy the farmer’s entire crop.  With respect to tobacco purchased by us through this system (and to which we still take title) and consistent with industry practices, we assume the risk of matching the quantities and grades required by our customers to the entire crop we must purchase under contract.  As a result, we work closely with our customers in advance of the crop to estimate our customer requirements and use these estimates as the basis to contract tobaccos directly from farmers.  However, this arrangement has increased the possibility that we may accumulate inventories of grades of tobacco that our customers do not need.  When purchases are made from an auction system, tobaccos are purchased primarily to match specific customer orders.  

 

         Principal auction markets include Canada, India and Malawi.  We usually purchase tobacco at those auction markets after receiving specific customer orders or indications of customers' upcoming needs.  Our network of tobacco operations and buyers allows us to cover the major auctions of flue-cured and burley tobacco throughout the world.  These buyers are experts in differentiating hundreds of grades of tobacco based on customer specifications and preferences that take into account, among other factors, the texture, visual appearance and aroma of the tobacco.


          In non-auction markets such as Argentina, Brazil, Bulgaria, China, Greece, Guatemala, Indonesia, Kyrgyzstan, Tanzania, Turkey and Zambia, we purchase tobacco directly from growers or from local entities that have arranged for purchase from growers.  We often make these direct purchases based upon our projection of the needs of our long-standing customers rather than against specific purchase orders.  Our arrangements with growers vary from locale to locale depending on our predictions of future supply and demand, local historical practice and availability of capital.  For example, in Brazil, we generally contract to purchase a grower's entire tobacco crop at the market price per grade at the time of harvest based on the quality of the tobacco delivered.  Pursuant to these purchase contracts, we provide growers with fertilizer and other materials necessary to grow tobacco and may either directly loan or guarantee Brazilian rural credit loans to growers to finance the crop.  Under longer-term arrangements with growers, we may also refinance borrowings as well as finance or guarantee financing on growers' capital assets.  In addition, our agronomists maintain frequent contact with growers prior to and during the growing and curing seasons to provide technical assistance to improve the quality and yield of the crop.  In other non-auction markets, such as Argentina and China, we buy tobacco from local entities that have purchased tobacco from growers and supervise the processing of that tobacco by those local entities.  We believe that our long-standing relationships with our customers are vital to our purchasing operations outside of the auction markets.


Processing


We process tobacco to meet each customer's specifications as to quality, yield, chemistry, particle size, moisture content and other characteristics.  We own and operate 15 tobacco processing facilities in 10 countries.  Unprocessed tobacco is a semi-perishable commodity that generally must be processed within a relatively short period of time to prevent fermentation or deterioration in quality.  Accordingly, we have located our processing facilities in proximity to our principal sources of tobacco.


          Upon arrival at our processing plants, flue-cured and burley tobacco is first reclassified according to grade.  Most of that tobacco is then blended to meet customer specifications regarding color, body and chemistry, threshed to remove the stem from the leaf and further processed to produce strips of tobacco and sieve out small scrap.  We also sell a small amount of processed but unthreshed flue-cured and burley tobacco in loose-leaf and bundle form to certain customers.


          Processed flue-cured and burley tobacco is redried to remove excess moisture so that it can be held in storage by customers or us for long periods of time.  After redrying, whole leaves, bundles, strips or stems and scrap are separately packed in cases, bales, cartons or hogsheads for storage and shipment.  Packed flue-cured and burley tobacco generally is transported in the country of origin by truck or rail, and exports are moved by ship.  Prior to and during processing, steps are taken to ensure consistent quality of the tobacco, including the regrading and removal of undesirable leaves, dirt and other non-tobacco related material.  Customer representatives are frequently present at our facilities to monitor the processing of their particular orders.  Throughout the processing, our technicians use quality control laboratory test equipment to ensure that the product meets all customer specifications.

 

Seasonality


The purchasing and processing activities of our tobacco business are seasonal.  Flue-cured tobacco grown in the U.S. is purchased, processed and sold generally during the five-month period beginning in July and ending in November.  U.S.-grown burley tobacco is purchased, processed and sold usually from late November through January or February.  Tobacco grown in Brazil is usually purchased, processed and sold from January through July and in Africa from April through September.  Other markets around the world have similar purchasing periods, although at different times of the year.


          During the purchasing, processing and sales seasons, inventories of unprocessed tobacco, inventories of redried tobacco and trade accounts receivable normally reach peak levels in succession.  Current liabilities, particularly advances from customers and short-term notes payable to banks, normally reach their peak in this period as a means of financing the seasonal expansion of current assets.  At March 31, the end of our fiscal year, the seasonal components of our working capital reflect primarily the operations related to foreign grown tobacco.


Customers and Selling Arrangements


Customers


We ship tobacco to manufacturers of cigarettes and other consumer tobacco products located in more than 90 countries around the world.  We ship to international locations designated by these manufacturers.  A majority of the shipments of tobacco are to factories or storage facilities of these manufacturers that are located outside the United States.  In certain countries we also use commissioned agents to supplement our selling efforts.

 

          The consumer tobacco business is dominated by a relatively small number of large multinational cigarette manufacturers and by government controlled entities.  For the years ended March 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006, Altria Group, Inc. (“Altria”) and Japan Tobacco Inc., including their respective affiliates, accounted for more than 10% of our revenues from continuing operations. On March 28, 2008, Altria completed the spin-off of its international tobacco business, Philip Morris International, Inc. (“PMI”). We conduct business with both PMI and Altria’s retained domestic tobacco business, Philip Morris USA, Inc., and we believe that the spin-off will have no material effects on our results.  The following table summarizes the percentage of Alliance One’s sales and other operating revenues from Altria and Japan Tobacco Inc. for the periods indicated:


 

Years Ended March 31,                   

 

2008

2007

2006

Altria Group, Inc.

33%

34%

34%

Japan Tobacco Inc.

22%

19%

18%

 

55%

53%

52%


          In 2008, Alliance One delivered approximately 51% of its tobacco sales to customers in Europe and approximately 17% to customers in the United States.  One customer directs shipments to its Belgium storage and distribution center before shipment to its manufacturing facilities in Europe and Asia.  In 2008, these Belgium sales accounted for 39% of sales to customers in Europe.  The remaining sales are to customers located in Asia, Africa and other geographic regions of the world.


Selling Arrangements


We typically make our leaf tobacco purchases pursuant to customer orders or supply contracts or customer indications of anticipated need, with most purchases made based on indications.  Customers are legally bound to purchase tobacco acquired by us pursuant to orders, but no contractual obligation exists with respect to tobacco purchased in response to indications.  However, we have done business with most of our customers for many years and have never experienced a significant failure of customers to purchase tobacco for which they have given indications.


          Generally, our agreements with customers establish a framework for pricing our services that is negotiated with respect to crop year, grade of tobacco leaf or type of service provided based on market prices. The majority of these agreements do not provide for minimum purchases and are terminable upon reasonable notice.


          We recognize sales revenue when persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, the price to the customer is fixed, collectibility is reasonably assured and title and risk of ownership is passed to the customer, which is upon shipment or delivery. Individual shipments may be large, and since the customer typically specifies shipping dates, our financial results may vary significantly between reporting periods due to timing of sales. In some markets, principally the United States, we process tobacco that is owned by our customers, and revenue is recognized when the processing is completed.


          Our normal customer payment terms are either cash against documents, payment against invoice or customer letter of credit.  Most of our sales throughout the world are denominated in U.S. dollars.  While we can receive payment for tobacco sold after we have processed and shipped it, some of the larger customers advance payments to us throughout the buying and processing season as we purchase and process tobacco for the customers' accounts.


Competition


Alliance One is one of only two global independent leaf tobacco merchants, with substantially similar global market shares in markets in which we both operate.  We expect to maintain a major position in most major tobacco growing regions in the world, including the principal export markets for flue-cured, burley and oriental tobacco and, as a result of our scale, global reach, and financial resources, we believe we are well-suited to serve the needs of all cigarette manufacturers.


          The leaf tobacco industry is highly competitive.  Competition among leaf tobacco merchants is based primarily on the price charged for products and services as well as the merchant's ability to meet customer specifications in the buying, processing and financing of tobacco.  In addition, there is competition in all countries to buy the available leaf tobacco and in many areas, total leaf tobacco processing capacity exceeds demand.


          In addition to the primary global independent leaf tobacco merchants, the cigarette manufacturers increasingly buy tobacco directly from farmers, and other independent leaf merchants with low fixed costs and overhead who have entered the leaf purchasing and processing business on a local basis.    

 

Research and Development


We routinely cooperate with both our customers and the manufacturers of the equipment used in our processing facilities to improve processing technologies.  However, no material amounts are expended for research and development, and we hold no material patents, licenses, franchises, or concessions.


Alliance One Employees


Alliance One’s consolidated entities employed approximately 4,700 persons, excluding seasonal employees, in our worldwide operations at March 31, 2008.  In the U.S. operations, Alliance One’s consolidated entities employed approximately 400 employees at March 31, 2008.  During processing periods the seasonal employees in the United States would number approximately 550.  Most U.S. seasonal employees are covered by collective bargaining agreements.  None of Alliance One’s full-time employees are covered by collective bargaining agreements with the exception of approximately 150 factory personnel.  In the non-U.S. operations, Alliance One’s consolidated entities employed approximately 4,300 persons, excluding approximately 10,600 seasonal employees, at March 31, 2008.  We consider Alliance One’s employee relations to be satisfactory.


Government Regulation and Environmental Compliance


See Item 1A. “Risk Factors” for a discussion of government regulation.  Currently there are no material estimated capital expenditures related to environmental control facilities.

 


EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF ALLIANCE ONE INTERNATIONAL, INC.



The following information is furnished with respect to the Company’s executive officers as of April 1, 2008 and the capacities in which they serve.  These officers serve at the pleasure of the Board of Directors and are elected at each annual organizational meeting of the Board.


NAME

AGE

                                  TITLE

Robert E. Harrison

54

Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer

 

 

 

Robert A. Sheets

54

Executive Vice President - Chief Financial Officer

 

 

 

Hilton Kappaun

48

Executive Vice President – Global Operations

 

 

 

J. Pieter Sikkel

44

Executive Vice President – Business Strategy and Relationship Management

 

 

 

Henry C. Babb

63

Senior Vice President - Chief Legal Officer and Secretary

 

 

 

Michael K. McDaniel

58

Senior Vice President - Human Resources

 

 

 

William D. Pappas

55

Senior Vice President - Chief Information Officer


The business experience summaries provided below for the Company’s executive officers describe positions held by the named individuals during the last five years.


Robert E. Harrison has served as President and Chief Executive Officer since January 2007 and as Chairman since August 2007.  Previously he served as President and Chief Operating Officer of Alliance One from May 2005 to January 2007, and as was President and Chief Executive Officer of Standard from August 1996, and its Chairman from August 2003 to May 2005.


Robert A. Sheets has served as Executive Vice President – Chief Financial Officer since April 2008.  Previously, he served as a member of the Board of Directors and as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Standard until its merger with DIMON in May 2005.  


Hilton Kappaun has served as Executive Vice President – Global Operations since April 2007.  Previously, he served as Regional Director of South America for Alliance One from May 2005 to April 2007 and served as Regional Executive of South America for DIMON from January 2002 to May 2005.


J. Pieter Sikkel has served as Executive Vice President – Business Strategy and Relationship Management since April 2007.  Previously, he served as Regional Director of Asia for Alliance One from May 2005 to April 2007, Senior Vice President of Asia for Standard from April 2004 to May 2005 and Regional Manager of Asia from 1999 to April 2004.


Henry C. Babb has served as Senior Vice President - Chief Legal Officer and Secretary of Alliance One since May 2005.  Previously, he served as Senior Vice President - Public Affairs, General Counsel and Secretary of Standard from April 2004 to May 2005 and served as Secretary from June 1998 to April 2004.


Michael K. McDaniel has served as Senior Vice President - Human Resources of Alliance One since May 2005.  Previously, he served as Senior Vice President - Human Resources of Standard from April 2004 to May 2005 and served as Vice President - Human Resources from June 1997 to April 2004.


William D. Pappas has served as Senior Vice President - Chief Information Officer of Alliance One since May 2005.  Previously, he served as Chief Information Officer of DIMON from December 2004 to May 2005 and served as Vice President - Chief Technology Officer from October 2001 to December 2004.  


 

ITEM 1A.    RISK FACTORS


The following risk factors should be read carefully in connection with evaluating our business and the forward-looking statements contained in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Any of the following risks could materially adversely affect our business, our operating results, our financial condition and the actual outcome of matters as to which forward-looking statements are made in this Annual Report.

          We may from time to time make written or oral forward-looking statements, including statements contained in filings with the SEC, in reports to stockholders and in press releases and investor calls and webcasts. You can identify these forward-looking statements by use of words such as “strategy,” “expects,” “continues,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “believes,” “will,” “estimates,” “intends,” “projects,” “goals,” “targets” and other words of similar meaning. You can also identify them by the fact that they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts.

          We cannot guarantee that any forward-looking statement will be realized, although we believe we have been prudent in our plans and assumptions. Achievement of future results is subject to risks, uncertainties and inaccurate assumptions. Should known or unknown risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove inaccurate, actual results could vary materially from those anticipated, estimated or projected. Investors should bear this in mind as they consider forward-looking statements and whether to invest in or remain invested in Alliance One International, Inc. securities. In connection with the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, we are identifying important risk factors that, individually or in the aggregate, could cause actual results and outcomes to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements made by us; any such statement is qualified by reference to the following cautionary statements. We elaborate on these and other risks we face throughout this document. You should understand that it is not possible to predict or identify all risk factors. Consequently, you should not consider the following to be a complete discussion of all potential risks or uncertainties. We do not undertake to update any forward-looking statement that we may make from time to time.


Risks Relating to Our Operations


Global shifts in sourcing customer requirements may negatively impact our organizational structure and asset base.

The global leaf tobacco industry is experiencing shifts in the sourcing of customer requirements for tobacco. For example, significant tobacco production volume decreases have occurred and may continue to occur in the United States, Zimbabwe and Western Europe from historical levels. At the same time, production volumes in other sourcing origins, such as Brazil and other areas of Africa, are stabilizing.  Additional shifts in sourcing may occur as a result of currency fluctuations, including devaluation of the U.S. dollar.  A shift in sourcing origins in Europe has been influenced by modifications to the tobacco price support system in the European Union (EU). Customer requirements are changing due to these variations in production, therefore influencing our ability to plan effectively for the longer term in Europe.

          We may not be able to timely or efficiently adjust to these shifts in sourcing origins, and adjusting to these shifts may require changes in our production facilities in certain origins and changes in our fixed asset base. We have incurred, and may continue to incur, restructuring charges as we continue to adjust to these shifts in sourcing. Adjusting our capacity and adjusting to these shifts in sourcing may have an adverse impact on our ability to manage our costs, and could have an adverse effect on our financial performance.


Our financial results will vary according to growing conditions, customer indications and other factors, which reduces your ability to gauge our quarterly and annual financial performance.

Our financial results, particularly the quarterly financial results, may be significantly affected by fluctuations in tobacco growing seasons and crop sizes which affect the supply of tobacco. The cultivation period for tobacco is dependent upon a number of factors, including the weather and other natural events, such as hurricanes or tropical storms, and our processing schedule and results of operations can be significantly altered by these factors.

          We have experienced higher costs of acquiring tobacco due to smaller crop sizes and increased competition in certain markets in which we purchase tobacco.  In Malawi, a smaller 2007 crop and increased competition in the Malawi market increased green tobacco costs at auction by almost 100%.  Processing and overhead costs also increased in Malawi.  Furthermore, short crops in periods of high demand translate into higher average green prices, higher throughput costs and less volume to sell.

          Further, the timing and unpredictability of customer indications, orders and shipments cause us to keep tobacco in inventory, increase our risk and result in variations in quarterly and annual financial results. The timing of shipments can be materially impacted by shortages of containers and vessels for shipping as well as infrastructure and accessibility issues in ports we use for shipment. For example, shortages in shipping containers was a major factor in shipping delays in Brazil during our 2006 fiscal year. In the prior fiscal year, infrastructure and accessibility issues have materially delayed shipments from the African port of Beira, from which we ship much of the tobacco we source in Malawi and other African origins.  We may from time to time in the ordinary course of business keep a significant amount of processed tobacco in inventory for our customers to accommodate their inventory management and other needs. Sales recognition by us and our subsidiaries is based on the passage of ownership, usually with shipment of product. Because individual shipments may represent significant amounts of revenue, our quarterly and annual financial results may vary significantly depending on our customers’ needs and shipping instructions. These fluctuations result in varying volumes and sales in given periods, which also reduces your ability to compare our financial results in different periods or in the same periods in different years.

 

Farmers who have historically grown tobacco and from whom we have purchased tobacco have recently begun to grow other items instead of tobacco, which affects the world supply of tobacco and may impact our quarterly and annual financial performance.

In recent years, prices for crops other than tobacco, such as corn and soybeans, have increased dramatically, and farmers who have historically grown tobacco, and from whom we have purchased tobacco, have recently begun to grow these other, more profitable items instead of tobacco.  A decrease in the volume of tobacco available for purchase may increase the purchase price of such tobacco.  As a result, we could experience an increase in acquisition costs which may impact our quarterly and annual financial performance.


Our extension of credit to tobacco growers could expose us to losses.

We make advances to tobacco growers in many countries to finance their growing of tobacco for sale to us. Crop advances to growers are generally secured by the grower’s agreement to deliver green tobacco. In the event of crop failure, recovery of advances could be delayed until deliveries of future crops or indefinitely. The temporary or permanent loss of these advances to growers could result in losses.


When we purchase tobacco directly from growers, we bear the risk that the tobacco will not meet our customers’ quality and quantity requirements.

In countries where we contract directly with tobacco growers, including Argentina, Brazil, the United States and certain African countries, we bear the risk that the tobacco delivered will not meet quality and quantity requirements of our customers. If the tobacco does not meet such market requirements, we may not be able to sell the tobacco we agreed to buy and may not be able to meet all of our customers’ orders, which would have an adverse effect on profitability and results of operations.


Weather and other conditions can affect the marketability of our inventory.

Like other agricultural products, the quality of tobacco is affected by weather and the environment, which can change the quality or size of the crop. If a weather event is particularly severe, such as a major drought or hurricane, the affected crop could be destroyed or damaged to an extent that it would be less desirable to our customers, which would result in a reduction in revenues. If such an event is also widespread, it could affect our ability to acquire the quantity of products required by customers. In addition, other items can affect the marketability of tobacco, including, among other things, the presence of:

·

non-tobacco related material;

·

genetically modified organisms; and

·

excess residues of pesticides, fungicides and herbicides.

          A significant event impacting the condition or quality of a large amount of any of the tobacco crops we buy could make it difficult for us to sell such tobacco or to fill our customers’ orders.


Our reliance on a small number of significant customers may adversely affect our results of operations.

Our customers are manufacturers of cigarette and other tobacco products. Several of these customers individually account for a significant portion of our sales in a normal year.

          Approximately 33%, 34% and 34%, respectively, of our consolidated tobacco sales in 2008, 2007 and 2006, were to various tobacco customers which are owned by or under common control of Altria Group, Inc. and approximately 22%, 19% and 18%, respectively, were to various tobacco customers which are owned by or under common control of Japan Tobacco, Inc. No other customer accounts for more than 10% of our sales.

          In addition, tobacco product manufacturers are experiencing consolidation and further consolidation among our customers could decrease such customers’ demand for our leaf tobacco or processing services. The loss of any one or more of such customers could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition or results of operations.


We face increased risks of doing business due to the extent of our international operations.

We do business in more than 45 countries, many of which do not have stable economies or governments. Our international operations are subject to international business risks, including unsettled political conditions, expropriation, import and export restrictions, exchange controls, inflationary economies, currency risks and risks related to the restrictions on repatriation of earnings or proceeds from liquidated assets of foreign subsidiaries. These risks are exacerbated in countries where we have advanced substantial sums or guaranteed local loans or lines of credit for the purchase of tobacco from growers.

          We have expanded our international operations in areas where the export of tobacco has increased due to increased demand for lower priced tobacco. We have significant investments in our purchasing, processing and exporting operations in Argentina, Brazil, Malawi, Tanzania and Turkey.

          In recent years, economic problems in Zimbabwe and Brazil have received wide publicity related to devaluation and appreciation of the local currency and inflation. Devaluation and appreciation can affect our purchase costs of tobacco and our processing costs.

          Zimbabwe remains in a period of civil unrest and has a deteriorating economy.  At March 31, 2006, as a result of the political environment, economic instability, foreign currency controls and governmental regulations, we deconsolidated our subsidiaries and recorded an impairment charge of $47.9 million to reduce our investment in Zimbabwe to its estimated fair value. Governmental authorization is required before any dividends can be paid from a Zimbabwe operation. Our Zimbabwe operations had tried unsuccessfully to pay dividends in prior years due to certain unattainable criteria set by the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe and the government not granting the necessary authorizations. We do not consider any further dividends from our Zimbabwe subsidiary in the near future a possibility. Economic and political conditions continued to decline in fiscal 2007 and 2008 as inflation, lending rates and investment rates have deteriorated. General farming operations are being negatively impacted by the lack of foreign exchange to buy crop inputs and fuel. As a result, several significant operational changes were made including the closure of the Zimbabwe processing factory, outsourcing the 2006 crop tobacco processing and a significant reduction in permanent personnel. During fiscal 2007, we evaluated the fair value of the Zimbabwe operations and determined that the net investment in the Zimbabwe operations exceeded the estimated fair value. Accordingly, we recorded an additional non-cash impairment charge of $13.2 million to write down the net investment in the Zimbabwe operations to zero. Notwithstanding the foregoing conditions, we continue to provide advances for the purchase of tobacco in Zimbabwe and these advances may be subject to a risk of loss.

          We are subject to potentially inconsistent actions by the governments of certain foreign countries in which we operate which may have a significant impact on our financial results. For example, in 2006, our concession to promote tobacco production in the Chifunde district of Mozambique was terminated by the government. Thereafter, we assessed our remaining Mozambique operations without the Chifunde district and determined that it was not in our economic interest to remain in Mozambique without this strategic district. Consequently, we discontinued our operations within Mozambique after the 2006 crop.


Our exposure to changes in foreign tax regimes could adversely impact our business.

We do business in countries that have tax regimes in which the rules are not clear, are not consistently applied and are subject to sudden change. This is especially true with regard to international transfer pricing. Our earnings could be reduced by the uncertain and changing nature of these tax regimes.

          Effective January 1, 2005, the government of Rio Grande do Sul, the state in which our subsidiaries operate in Brazil, adopted changes in their Imposto Sobre Circulacao de Mercadorias e Servicos (“ICMS”), a tax on the transfer of goods and services between states within Brazil. Prior to this change, our transfers of leaf tobacco and processed tobacco inventory between states in Brazil was taxed, but these transfers generated tax credits that were used to offset ICMS tax obligations or were transferred to third parties. Pursuant to the change, the credits generated from the payment of ICMS taxes could not be used to reduce the overall tax exposure by third parties by more than 10% of the generating company’s tax liability in any tax year, severely reducing the ability to sell excess tax credits to others. In conjunction with this change, we recorded a reserve against the $25.1 million of ICMS credits recorded as a receivable as of March 31, 2006. This reserve remained as we entered into negotiations with the government of Rio Grande do Sul.

          Effective on May 23, 2006, we entered into an agreement with the government of Rio Grande do Sul which provided for the sale of a certain amount of ICMS credits each month through 2011. Based on our evaluation of the agreement and the ability to sell ICMS credits to third parties each month, the reserve was reversed during the quarter ended June 30, 2006 as it related to inventory that had already been sold.

          On January 1, 2007, a new government took office in the state of Rio Grande do Sul. The government requested a review of the terms to the agreement entered into in May 23, 2006. In March 2007, we renegotiated the terms related to the ICMS credits that the government will allow to be sold to third parties on a monthly basis.

          On October 26, 2007, the government in the Brazilian State of Parana issued a tax assessment with respect to local intrastate trade tax credits that result primarily from tobacco transferred between states within Brazil.  The assessment for intrastate trade tax credits taken is approximately $7.5 million and the total assessment including penalties and interest through March 31, 2008 is approximately $13.2 million.  The assessment represents intrastate trade tax credit amounts which were offset against intrastate trade tax receivables.  We believe we have properly complied with Brazilian law and will contest any assessment through the judicial process.  Should we lose in the judicial process, the loss of the intrastate trade tax credits would have a material impact on our results of operations.

 

Fluctuations in foreign currency exchange and interest rates could adversely affect our results of operations.

We conduct our business in many countries around the world. Our business is generally conducted in U.S. dollars, as is the business of the leaf tobacco industry as a whole. However, we generally must purchase tobacco in non-U.S. countries using local currency. As a result, local country operating costs, including the purchasing and processing costs for tobaccos, are subject to the effects of exchange fluctuations of the local currency against the U.S. dollar.  When the U.S. dollar weakens against foreign currencies, our costs for purchasing and processing tobacco in such currencies increases.  We attempt to minimize such currency risks by matching the timing of our working capital borrowing needs against the tobacco purchasing and processing funds requirements in the currency of the country where the tobacco is grown. Fluctuations in the value of foreign currencies can significantly affect our operating results.

          In particular, the devaluation of the U.S. dollar against the Brazilian real has recently increased the cost of our inventory and operating costs generally in Brazil, only a portion of which can be passed on to our customers. As the international leaf industry continues to place greater emphasis on Brazil, the weakness of the U.S. dollar in relation to the Brazilian real will increasingly impact our consolidated operating results and operating margins, and we do not foresee a reversal of this trend occurring in the immediate future. In addition, the historically weak real in relation to the dollar has tended to offset the normal escalation in crop prices in Brazil, which will have a more significant impact to the extent the real is stronger against the dollar.

          In recent years, economic problems in Zimbabwe have resulted in significant devaluation of the local currency and inflation. If we are unable to minimize Zimbabwe currency risk by effectively matching the timing of our working capital borrowing needs against the tobacco purchasing and processing funds requirements in the local currency then devaluation can have a material affect on our tobacco purchase and processing costs.

          In addition, the devaluation of foreign currencies, particularly Asian and Eastern European currencies, has resulted and may in the future result in reduced purchasing power from customers in these areas. We may incur a loss of business as a result of the devaluation of these currencies now or in the future.


Competition could erode our earnings.

The leaf tobacco industry is highly competitive. We are one of two global competitors in the leaf tobacco industry, each with approximately equal market share. Competition is based primarily on the prices charged for products and services as well as the merchant’s ability to meet customer specifications in the buying, processing and financing of tobacco. In addition, there is competition in all countries to buy the available tobacco. The loss or substantial reduction of any large or significant customer could reduce our earnings.

          In addition to the two primary global independent leaf tobacco merchants, the cigarette manufacturers increasingly buy tobacco directly from farmers, and new independent leaf merchants are entering the leaf purchasing and processing business. We face increasing competition from new local and regional independent leaf merchants with low fixed costs and overhead and good customer connections at the local level. These new independent merchants are buying an increasing portion of the crops in certain international markets, particularly Brazil, where the new entrants have been able to capitalize in the global transition to that market. In the United States, the Flue-Cured Tobacco Stabilization Cooperative (“FCTSC”) has purchased the Vector facility in Roxboro, North Carolina. That facility enables the FCTSC to process tobacco and manufacture cigarettes. The FCTSC also has a specialty products operation at this facility which competes with our specialty products operations. In addition, the FCTSC and burley stabilization pools received inventory in lieu of cash from the Commodity Credit Corporation under the congressional quota buyout bill. Any of these sources of new competition may result in less tobacco available for us to purchase and process in the applicable markets.


Our adoption and application of certain standards in financial accounting could cause our annual and quarterly financial results to vary and will reduce your ability to gauge our performance, increasing the risk of an investment in our securities.

In June 2006, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Interpretation No. 48, Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes (“FIN 48”). FIN 48 prescribes a “more likely than not” threshold for financial statement recognition and measurement of a tax position taken or expected to be taken in a tax return. This Interpretation also provides guidance on de-recognition of income tax assets and liabilities, classification of current and deferred income tax assets and liabilities, accounting for interest and penalties associated with tax positions, accounting for income taxes in interim periods, and income tax disclosures. FIN 48 requires us to establish reserves for uncertain tax positions if it is not “more likely than not” that we will prevail on the merits if audited and challenged. FIN 48 was applicable to us beginning April 1, 2007.  FIN 48 has had and could have a material impact on our financial performance in the future because we do business in countries that do not have clear tax rules concerning transfer pricing and other tax matters. This lack of clarity in the tax rules creates uncertainty which cannot be easily analyzed or predicted. As a result, we may have tax presence liabilities that could give rise to accruals under FIN 48 that will never reverse.

          In addition, we adopted SFAS No. 142, “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets,” effective July 1, 2002. As a result of adoption of SFAS No. 142, we no longer amortize goodwill. However, if we determine that there has been a material impairment to goodwill, we will recognize the amount of that impairment as a charge to earnings in the applicable reporting period.  As a result of certain reporting units failing Step 1 during our 2006 annual test for impairment of goodwill, we measured the impairment loss, if any, by comparing the implied fair value of the reporting unit with the carrying amount of goodwill (Step 2). The fair value of the reporting unit was estimated using the expected present value of future cash flows. Based on this analysis we recorded a total goodwill impairment charge of $256.9 million during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2006 related to the operating segments of North America and South America.


We have identified several material weaknesses related to our internal control over financial reporting existing at the 2008 fiscal year end as well as in prior periods, and there can be no assurance that we have successfully remedied our material weaknesses in internal control over financing reporting or that additional material weaknesses will not be identified.

As a result of our testing of our internal control over financial reporting for the year ended March 31, 2008, we identified certain matters involving our internal control over financial reporting that we and our registered public accounting firm determined to be material weaknesses under standards established by the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board. These material weaknesses related to:


·

accounting for income taxes; and

·

maintaining a sufficient complement of personnel in certain operating locations with an appropriate level of technical accounting knowledge, experience, or training to communicate to corporate financial reporting management or determine proper application of GAAP to various complex financial accounting and reporting requirements, including farmer advance financing, pensions and postretirement plans and other technical accounting matters.


          We have described these matters in more detail in Item 9A herein. We have also identified other material weaknesses at previous fiscal year and fiscal quarter ends. As a result of these material weaknesses, we have had to restate our financial statements periodically, including all quarterly reports for fiscal year 2007 and the second quarterly report in fiscal 2008.

          Although we have attempted to remedy the material weaknesses in internal control over financial reporting identified by implementing a number of actions aimed at strengthening our financial reporting processes, we cannot assure you that the remedial measures we have taken will adequately address the identified material weaknesses or that other material weaknesses will not occur. Moreover, we have only recently implemented processes to address the material weaknesses identified. We will continue to take further remedial actions to improve our internal control over financial reporting in order to continue to meet the requirements for being a public company, including the rules under Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, but there can be no assurance that the improvements we have made or will make will be sufficient to ensure that we maintain adequate controls over our financial processes and reporting in the future. Any failure to implement required new or improved controls, or difficulties encountered in their implementation, could cause us to fail to meet our reporting obligations or result in misstatements in our financial statements in amounts that could be material. Inferior internal controls could cause investors to lose confidence in our reported financial information, which could have a negative effect on the value of our common stock and could also require additional restatements of our prior reported financial information.


Risks Relating to Our Capital Structure


We may not continue to have access to the capital markets to obtain long-term and short-term financing on acceptable terms and conditions.

From time to time we access the long-term and short-term capital markets to obtain financing.  Although we believe that we can continue to access the capital markets in fiscal 2009 on acceptable terms and conditions, our access and the availability of acceptable terms and conditions are impacted by many factors, including:  (i) our credit ratings; (ii) the liquidity and volatility of the overall capital markets, which has been negatively impacted by the U.S. sub-prime debt turmoil; and (iii) the current state of the economy, including the tobacco industry.  There can be no assurances that we will continue to have access to the capital markets on terms acceptable to us.

 

We may not have access to available capital to finance our local operations in non-U.S. jurisdictions.

We have typically financed our non-U.S. local operations with uncommitted short term operating credit lines at the local level. These operating lines are typically seasonal in nature, normally extending for a term of 180 to 270 days corresponding to the tobacco crop cycle in that location. These facilities are typically uncommitted in that the lenders have the right to cease making loans or demand payment of outstanding loans at any time. In addition, each of these operating lines must be renewed with each tobacco crop season in that jurisdiction. Although our foreign subsidiaries are the borrowers under these lines, many of them are guaranteed by us.

          As of March 31, 2008, we had approximately $387.2 million drawn and outstanding on foreign seasonal lines totaling $722.4 million. Additionally against these lines there was $28.6 million available in unused letter of credit capacity with $22.2 million issued but unfunded.

          Because the lenders under these operating lines typically have the right to cancel the loan at any time and each line must be renewed with each crop season, there can be no assurance that this capital will be available to our subsidiaries. If a number of these lenders cease lending to our subsidiaries or dramatically decrease such lending, it could have a material adverse affect on our liquidity.


Failure of foreign banks in which our subsidiaries deposit funds or the failure to transfer funds or honor withdrawals may affect our results of operations.

Funds held by our foreign subsidiaries are often deposited in their local banks. Banks in certain foreign jurisdictions may be subject to a higher rate of failure or may not honor withdrawals of deposited funds. In addition, the countries in which these local banks operate may lack sufficient regulatory oversight or suffer from structural weaknesses in the local banking system. Due to uncertainties and risks relating to the political stability of certain foreign governments, these local banks also may be subject to exchange controls and therefore unable to perform transfers of certain currencies. If our ability to gain access to these funds was impaired, it could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations.


We have substantial debt which may adversely affect us by limiting future sources of financing, interfering with our ability to pay interest and principal on the notes and subjecting us to additional risks.

We have a significant amount of indebtedness and debt service obligations. As of March 31, 2008, we had approximately $970.2 million of indebtedness. In addition, the indenture governing the notes allows us to incur additional indebtedness under certain circumstances. If we add new indebtedness to our current indebtedness levels, the related risks that we now face could increase.

          Our substantial debt will have important consequences, including:

·

that our indebtedness may make it more difficult for us to satisfy our obligations with respect to the notes and our other obligations;

·

that our indebtedness may limit our ability to obtain additional financing on satisfactory terms and to otherwise fund working capital, capital expenditures, debt refinancing, acquisitions and other general corporate requirements;

·

that a significant portion of our cash flow from operations must be dedicated to paying interest on and the repayment of the principal of our indebtedness. This reduces the amount of cash we have available for making principal and interest payments under the notes and for other purposes and makes us more vulnerable to a decrease in demand for leaf tobacco, increases in our operating costs or general economic or industry conditions;

·

that our ability to adjust to changing market conditions and to compete with other global leaf tobacco merchants may be hampered by the amount of debt we owe;

·

increasing our vulnerability to general adverse economic and industry conditions;

·

placing us at a competitive disadvantage compared to our competitors that have less debt or are less leveraged;

·

limiting our flexibility in planning for, or reacting to, changes in our business and the industry in which we operate; and

·

restricting us from making strategic acquisitions or exploiting business opportunities.

          In addition, the indenture governing the notes and our senior secured credit facility each contain financial and other restrictive covenants that will limit our ability to engage in activities that may be in our long-term best interests. Our failure to comply with those covenants could result in an event of default which, if not cured or waived, could result in the acceleration of all of our debt. Also, a substantial portion of our debt, including borrowings under our senior secured credit facility, bears interest at variable rates. If market interest rates increase, variable-rate debt will create higher debt service requirements, which would adversely affect our cash flow. While we may enter into agreements limiting our exposure to higher debt service requirements, any such agreements may not offer complete protection from this risk.


Despite current indebtedness levels, we may still be able to incur substantially more debt. This could exacerbate further the risks associated with our significant leverage.

We may be able to incur substantial additional indebtedness in the future. The terms of the indenture governing the notes will restrict, but will not completely prohibit, us from doing so. Our senior secured credit facility provides for a $250.0 million revolving credit line. There were no borrowings under this facility at March 31, 2008. If new debt is added to our current debt levels, the related risks we now face could intensify.  


The indentures governing the notes and our senior secured credit facility contain, and in the future could contain additional, covenants and tests that limit our ability to take actions or cause us to take actions we may not normally take.

The indentures governing the notes and our senior secured credit facility contain a number of significant covenants. These covenants limit our ability to, among other things:

·

incur additional indebtedness;

·

issue preferred stock;

·

merge, consolidate or dispose of substantially all of our assets;

·

grant liens on our assets;

·

pay dividends, redeem stock or make other distributions or restricted payments;

·

repurchase or redeem capital stock or prepay subordinated debt;

·

make certain investments;

·

agree to restrictions on the payment of dividends to us by our subsidiaries;

·

sell or otherwise dispose of assets, including equity interests of our subsidiaries;

·

enter into transactions with our affiliates; and

·

enter into certain sale and leaseback transactions.


          Our senior secured credit facility and the indentures require us to meet certain financial tests. Complying with these covenants and tests may cause us to take actions that we otherwise would not take or not take actions that we otherwise would take. The failure to comply with these covenants and tests would cause a default under the credit facility and, under the indenture, would prevent us from taking certain actions, such as incurring additional debt, paying dividends or redeeming senior notes or subordinated debt. A default, if not waived, could result in the debt under our senior secured credit facility and the indenture becoming immediately due and payable and could result in a default or acceleration of our other indebtedness with cross-default provisions. If this occurs, we may not be able to pay our debt or borrow sufficient funds to refinance it. Even if new financing is available, it may not be on terms that are acceptable to us.


We have had to obtain waivers and amendments under our existing financing arrangements to avoid future defaults or cure past defaults.

In the recent past, we have sought and obtained waivers and amendments under our existing financing arrangements to avoid future non-compliance with financial covenants and cure past defaults under restrictive covenants. We also paid significant fees to obtain these waivers and consents.  You should consider this in evaluating our ability to comply with restrictive covenants in our debt instruments and the financial costs of our ability to do so.  Any future defaults for which we do not obtain waivers or amendments could result in the acceleration of a substantial portion of our indebtedness, much of which is cross-defaulted to other indebtedness.


We will require a significant amount of cash to service our indebtedness. Our ability to generate cash depends on many factors beyond our control.

Our ability to make payments on and to refinance our indebtedness, including the notes, and to fund planned capital expenditures will depend on our ability to generate cash in the future. This is subject to general economic, financial, competitive and other factors that may be beyond our control. We cannot assure you that our business will generate sufficient cash flow from operations or that future borrowings will be available to us under our senior secured credit facility or otherwise in an amount sufficient to enable us to pay our indebtedness, including the notes, or to fund our other liquidity needs. We may need to refinance all or a portion of our indebtedness, including the notes, on or before maturity. We cannot assure you that we will be able to refinance any of our debt, including our senior secured credit facility or the notes, on commercially reasonable terms or at all.  Additionally, to the extent permitted under our senior secured credit agreement and indentures, we may repurchase, repay or tender for our bank debt, senior notes or senior subordinated notes, which may place pressure on future cash requirements to the extent that the debt repurchased, repaid or tendered cannot be redrawn.


If we refinance our current credit facilities, we may not be able to obtain the same credit availability or at interest rates similar to our current credit facilities.

If the recent worsening of credit market conditions continues or increases, it could have a material adverse impact on our ability to refinance our current credit facilities on similar or better terms than our current credit facility.


Risks Relating to the Tobacco Industry


Reductions in demand for consumer tobacco products could adversely affect our results of operations.

The tobacco industry, both in the United States and abroad, continues to face a number of issues that may reduce the consumption of cigarettes and adversely affect our business, sales volume, results of operations, cash flows and financial condition.

          These issues, some of which are more fully discussed below, include:

·

governmental actions seeking to ascribe to tobacco product manufacturers liability for adverse health effects associated with smoking and exposure to environmental tobacco smoke;

·

smoking and health litigation against tobacco product manufacturers;

·

tax increases on consumer tobacco products;

·

current and potential actions by state attorneys general to enforce the terms of the Master Settlement Agreement, or MSA, between state governments in the United States and tobacco product manufacturers;

·

governmental and private bans and restrictions on smoking;

·

actual and proposed price controls and restrictions on imports in certain jurisdictions outside the United States;

·

restrictions on tobacco product manufacturing, marketing, advertising and sales;

·

the diminishing social acceptance of smoking;

·

increased pressure from anti-smoking groups;

·

other tobacco product legislation that may be considered by Congress, the states, municipalities and other countries; and

·

the impact of consolidation among multinational cigarette manufacturers.


Tobacco product manufacturer litigation may reduce demand for our services.

Our primary customers, the leading cigarette manufacturers, face thousands of lawsuits brought throughout the United States and, to a lesser extent, the rest of the world. The effects of the lawsuits on our customers could reduce their demand for tobacco from us. These lawsuits have been brought by plaintiffs, including (1) individuals and classes of individuals alleging personal injury and/or misleading advertising, (2) governments (including governmental and quasi-governmental entities in the United States and abroad) seeking recovery of health care costs allegedly caused by cigarette smoking, and (3) other groups seeking recovery of health care expenditures allegedly caused by cigarette smoking, including third-party health care payors, such as unions and health maintenance organizations. Damages claimed in some of the smoking and health cases range into the billions of dollars. The United States Department of Justice is currently engaged in a lawsuit against the leading cigarette manufacturers, seeking to recover billions of dollars. There have been several jury verdicts in tobacco product litigation during the past several years. Additional plaintiffs continue to file lawsuits.

          In November 1998, certain United States tobacco product manufacturers entered into the MSA with 46 states and certain territories to settle asserted and unasserted health care cost recovery and other claims. These manufacturers had previously settled similar claims brought by Mississippi, Florida, Texas and Minnesota and an environmental tobacco smoke and health class action brought on behalf of airline flight attendants. The MSA has received final judicial approval in all 52 settling jurisdictions.

          The MSA and other state settlement agreements include provisions relating to advertising and marketing restrictions, public disclosure of industry documents, limitations on challenges to tobacco product control and underage use laws, lobbying activities and other provisions. The provisions of the Master Settlement Agreement and any similar settlement agreements could have a material adverse impact on our customers’ purchases from us.


Legislative and regulatory initiatives could reduce consumption of consumer tobacco products and demand for our services.

In recent years, members of Congress have introduced legislation, some of which has been the subject of hearings or floor debate, that would subject cigarettes to various regulations under the Department of Health and Human Services or regulation under the Consumer Products Safety Act, establish anti-smoking educational campaigns or anti-smoking programs, provide additional funding for governmental anti-smoking activities, further restrict the advertising of cigarettes, including requiring additional warnings on packages and in advertising, provide that the Federal Cigarette Labeling and Advertising Act and the Smoking Education Act could not be used as a defense against liability under state statutory or common law, or allow state and local governments to restrict the sale and distribution of cigarettes and eliminate or reduce the tax deductibility of tobacco product advertising. If any or all of the foregoing were to be implemented, our business, volume, results of operations, cash flows and financial condition could be materially adversely affected.

          Reports with respect to the harmful physical effects of cigarette smoking have been publicized for many years, and the sale, promotion and use of cigarettes continue to be subject to increasing governmental regulation. Since 1964, the Surgeon General of the United States and the Secretary of Health and Human Services have released a number of reports linking cigarette smoking with a broad range of health hazards, including various types of cancer, coronary heart disease and chronic lung disease, and recommending various governmental measures to reduce the incidence of smoking. More recent reports focus upon the addictive nature of cigarettes, the effects of smoking cessation, the decrease in smoking in the United States, the economic and regulatory aspects of smoking in the Western Hemisphere, and cigarette smoking by adolescents, particularly the addictive nature of cigarette smoking in adolescence.

          A number of foreign nations also have taken steps to restrict or prohibit cigarette advertising and promotion, to increase taxes on cigarettes and to discourage cigarette smoking. In some cases, such restrictions are more onerous than those in the United States. For example, advertising and promotion of cigarettes has been banned or severely restricted for a number of years in Australia, Canada, Finland, France, Italy, Singapore and other countries. Further, in May of 2003, the World Health Organization adopted a treaty, the Framework Convention for Tobacco Control, which requires signatory nations to enact legislation that would require, among other things, specific actions to prevent youth smoking; restrict or prohibit tobacco product marketing; inform the public about the health consequences of smoking and the benefits of quitting; regulate the content of tobacco products; impose new package warning requirements including the use of pictorial or graphic images; eliminate cigarette smuggling and counterfeit cigarettes; restrict smoking in public places; increase and harmonize cigarette excise taxes; abolish duty-free tobacco sales; and permit and encourage litigation against tobacco product manufacturers. The treaty will take effect after forty countries ratify it and must be implemented by national laws in the ratifying nations. To date, 168 parties have signed the treaty, and 144 countries are parties to the treaty.

          Due to the present regulatory and legislative environment, a substantial risk exists that past growth trends in tobacco product sales may not continue and that existing sales may decline.


We have been, and continue to be, subject to governmental investigations into, and litigation concerning, leaf tobacco industry buying practices.

The leaf tobacco industry, from time to time, has been the subject of government investigations regarding trade practices. For example, in 1998 we were the subject of an investigation by the Antitrust Division of the United States Department of Justice into certain buying practices alleged to have occurred in the industry. More recently, we were named defendants in the DeLoach, et al. v. Philip Morris Companies Inc. et al., antitrust class action litigation alleging a conspiracy to rig bids in the tobacco auction markets. We, along with all but one of the other defendants, entered into a settlement agreement with the plaintiffs which received final approval, and which accorded us a full release from all the claims. In exchange for such settlement, we contributed $13.0 million towards a larger total settlement agreement.

          In October 2001, the Directorate General for Competition (DGCOMP) of the European Commission (EC) began an administrative investigation into certain tobacco buying and selling practices alleged to have occurred within the leaf tobacco industry in some countries within the European Union, including Spain, Italy, Greece and potentially other countries. Our subsidiaries in Spain, Italy and Greece have been subject to these investigations. In 2004, the EC fined us and our Spanish subsidiaries €4.4 million ($5.7 million) solely relating to the investigations in Spain. In respect of the Italian investigation, in October 2005, the EC announced that we and Mindo (our former subsidiary) have been assessed a fine in the aggregate amount of €10.0 million ($12.0 million) and that, in addition, we and Transcatab, a subsidiary of Standard prior to its merger into DIMON, have been assessed a fine in the aggregate amount of €14.0 million ($16.8 million). Several tobacco processors, growers and agricultural associations that were the subject of the investigation in Italy were assessed fines in various amounts totaling €56.0 million ($67.0 million), inclusive of the fines imposed on us and our subsidiaries. We, along with the applicable subsidiaries, have appealed the decisions of the EC with respect to Spain and Italy to the Court of First Instance of the EC for the annulment or modification of the decision; but the outcome of the appeals process as to both timing and results is uncertain.

          In March 2005, the EC informed us that it had closed its investigation in relation to the Greek leaf tobacco industry buying and selling practices. In relation to these investigations into certain tobacco buying and selling practices, the DGCOMP could decide to pursue investigations into other countries and additional fines may be assessed in those countries.

          We have recently been made aware of a review by the Malawi Government of the operation of its tobacco auction markets. Although the Government’s preliminary report suggests that there may have been violations by the leaf dealer industry of certain Malawi competition laws, the review is at an early stage and it is not possible to predict its outcome or its possible impact on us. We will continue to cooperate with the relevant authorities and are conducting our own internal investigation. 

          In March 2004, we discovered potential irregularities with respect to certain bank accounts in southern Europe and central Asia. The Audit Committee of our Board of Directors engaged an outside law firm to conduct an investigation of activity relating to these accounts. That investigation revealed that, although the amounts involved were not material and had no material impact on our historical financial statements, there were payments from these accounts that may have violated the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act. In May 2004, we voluntarily reported the matter to the U.S. Department of Justice (“Justice”). Soon thereafter, we closed the accounts in question, implemented personnel changes and other measures designed to prevent similar situations in the future, including the addition of new finance and internal audit staff and enhancement of existing training programs, and disclosed these circumstances in our filings with the SEC. In August 2006, we learned that the SEC has issued a formal order of investigation of us and others to determine if these or other actions, including those in other countries in which we do business, may have violated certain provisions of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and rules thereunder. We are cooperating fully with the SEC with respect to the investigation.  In May 2008, we learned that Justice is conducting an investigation into possible violations of federal law stemming from the same actions being investigated by the SEC.  If the U.S. authorities determine that there have been violations of federal laws, they may seek to impose sanctions on us that may include, among other things, injunctive relief, disgorgement, fines, penalties and modifications to business practices. It is not possible to predict at this time whether the authorities will determine that violations have occurred, and if they do, what sanctions they might seek to impose. It is also not possible to predict how the government’s investigation or any resulting sanctions may impact our business, results of operations or financial performance. Any monetary penalty assessed may be material to our results of operations in the quarter in which it is imposed.



ITEM 1B.    UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS


None.



 

ITEM 2.    PROPERTIES

 

Following is a description of Alliance One’s material properties as of March 31, 2008.


Corporate

Our corporate headquarters are located in Morrisville, North Carolina.

 

Facilities

We own a total of 15 processing facilities in 10 countries.  We operate each of our tobacco processing plants for seven to nine months during the year to correspond with the applicable harvesting season.  While we believe our processing facilities have been efficiently utilized, we continually compare our production capacity and organization with the transitions occurring in global sourcing of tobacco.  We also believe our domestic processing facilities and certain foreign processing facilities have the capacity to process additional volumes of tobacco if required by customer demand.

          The following is a listing of the various material properties used in operations all of which are owned by Alliance One:  


                              LOCATION

              USE

AREA IN     
SQUARE FEET

 

SOUTH AMERICA SEGMENT

SOUTH AMERICA

 

 

VENANCIO AIRES, BRAZIL

FACTORY/STORAGE

1,393,000

SANTA CRUZ, BRAZIL

FACTORY/STORAGE

1,422,000

VERA CRUZ, BRAZIL

STORAGE

311,000

EL CARRIL, ARGENTINA

FACTORY/STORAGE

389,000

 

 

 

OTHER REGIONS SEGMENT

UNITED STATES

 

 

WILSON, N.C.

FACTORY/STORAGE

1,618,000

FARMVILLE, N.C.

FACTORY/STORAGE

895,000

DANVILLE. VA

STORAGE

503,000

 

 

 

AFRICA

 

 

LILONGWE, MALAWI

FACTORY/STORAGE

1,253,000

MOROGORO, TANZANIA

FACTORY/STORAGE

640,000

 

 

 

EUROPE

 

 

IZMIR, TURKEY

FACTORY/STORAGE

1,431,000

KARLSRUHE, GERMANY

FACTORY/STORAGE

236,000

 

 

 

ASIA

 

 

NGORO, INDONESIA

FACTORY/STORAGE

348,000


ITEM 3.    LEGAL PROCEEDINGS


In March 2004, the Company discovered potential irregularities with respect to certain bank accounts in southern Europe and central Asia.  The Audit Committee of the Company’s Board of Directors engaged an outside law firm to conduct an investigation of activity relating to these accounts.  That investigation revealed that, although the amounts involved were not material and had no material impact on the Company’s historical financial statements, there were payments from these accounts that may have violated the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (the “FCPA”).  In May 2004, the Company voluntarily reported the matter to the U.S. Department of Justice (“Justice”).  Soon thereafter, the Company closed the accounts in question, implemented personnel changes and other measures designed to prevent similar situations in the future, including the addition of new finance and internal audit staff and enhancement of existing training programs, and disclosed these circumstances in its filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”).  In August 2006, the Company learned that the SEC had issued a formal order of investigation of the Company and others to determine if these or other actions, including those in other countries in which the Company does business, may have violated certain provisions of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and rules thereunder.  The Company is cooperating fully with the SEC with respect to the investigation.  In May 2008, the Company learned that Justice is conducting an investigation into possible violations of federal law stemming from the same actions being investigated by the SEC.

          If the U.S. authorities determine that there have been violations of federal laws, they may seek to impose sanctions on the Company that may include, among other things, injunctive relief, disgorgement, fines, penalties and modifications to business practices.  It is not possible to predict at this time whether the authorities will determine that violations have occurred, and if they do, what sanctions they might seek to impose.  It is also not possible to predict how the government’s investigation or any resulting sanctions may impact the Company’s business, results of operations or financial performance, although any monetary penalty assessed may be material to the Company’s results of operations in the quarter in which it is imposed.

         The Company had previously disclosed that it had received notice from Mindo, S.r.l., the purchaser in June, 2004, of the Company’s Italian subsidiary Dimon Italia, S.r.l., of its intent to assert against the Company, or its subsidiaries, a claim arising out of that sale transaction.  That claim, which may be followed by additional claims, was filed before the Court of Rome on April 12, 2007.  The claim seeks the recovery of €7.4 million (US$11.6 million) plus interest and costs and allegedly arising from a guaranty letter issued by a consolidated subsidiary of the Company in connection with the sale transaction.  The Company believes the claim to be without merit and intends to vigorously defend it.

           On December 13, 2007, the Public Prosecutors’ offices in the States of Santa Catarina and Parana filed claims against the Company’s Brazilian subsidiary, Alliance One Brazil Exportadora de Tobaccos Ltda. and a number of other tobacco processors, on behalf of all tobacco farmers in those states.  The lawsuits primarily assert that there exists an employment relationship between tobacco processors and tobacco farmers.  The Company believes these claims to be without merit and intends to vigorously defend them.

           At the initial hearing in Santa Catarina, on January 29, 2008, the Court granted the Company’s motion to have the case moved to the Labor Court in Brazilia.  No hearing date has yet been set.

           In the state of Parana, the relief sought by the Public Prosecutor was granted by the local Labor Court.  The Company appealed that initial ruling and it was overturned in part and affirmed in part.  The Company has appealed from that part of the initial ruling which was affirmed and no ruling has yet been rendered on the appeal.  The Company has separately asserted, on April 11, 2008, a lack of jurisdiction motion similar to that which it asserted in the case in Santa Catarina which resulted in the transfer of that case to the Labor Court in Brazilia.  No hearing date for that motion has been set.


ITEM 4.    SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS

 

None.


PART II


ITEM 5.    MARKET FOR REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND                    ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES

 

Alliance One’s common stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange, under the ticker symbol "AOI."

          The following table sets forth for the periods indicated the high and low reported sales prices of our common stock as reported by the NYSE and the amount of dividends declared per share for the periods indicated.


 

Alliance One                
Common Stock             

 

High 

Low 

Dividends
Declared 

Year Ended March 31, 2008

Fourth Quarter

$ 6.31

$3.48

$.000  

Third Quarter

7.10

3.50

.000  

Second Quarter

10.23

5.77

.000  

First Quarter

12.19

9.14

.000  

 

Year Ended March 31, 2007

Fourth Quarter

$ 9.35

$6.75

$.000  

Third Quarter

7.31

3.97

.000  

Second Quarter

4.41

3.57

.000  

First Quarter

4.95

3.57

.000  


          As of March 31, 2008, there were approximately 7,670 shareholders, including approximately 6,570 beneficial holders of our common stock.

          The payment of dividends by Alliance One is subject to the discretion of our board of directors and will depend on business conditions, compliance with debt agreements, achievement of anticipated cost savings, financial condition and earnings, regulatory considerations and other factors.  

 


Alliance One International, Inc. Comparison of Cumulative Total Return to Shareholders


The following line graph and table presents the cumulative total shareholder return of a $100 investment including reinvestment of dividends and price appreciation over the last five years in each of the following: Alliance One International, Inc. (AOI) common stock, the S&P 500 Index, the S&P 600 Small Cap Index and an index of peer companies. The sole company in the peer group is Universal Corporation (UVV).

[aoi10k2008002.gif]




Cumulative Total Return

 

 

Fiscal Year Ending

 

 

6/30/03  

 

3/31/04  

 

3/31/05  

 

3/31/06  

 

3/31/07  

 

3/31/08  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Alliance One International, Inc.

 

$100.00  

 

$102.39  

 

$  94.60  

 

$  74.99  

 

$142.43  

 

$  93.20  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Custom Selected Stock List

 

$100.00  

 

$123.19  

 

$114.66  

 

$  95.82  

 

$167.07  

 

$184.05  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

S&P 500 Index

 

$100.00  

 

$117.09  

 

$124.93  

 

$139.58  

 

$156.09  

 

$148.17  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

S&P Small Cap 600 Index

 

$100.00  

 

$130.55  

 

$147.63  

 

$183.16  

 

$192.85  

 

$172.40  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 



 


 

EQUITY COMPENSATION PLAN INFORMATION
as of March 31, 2008

 

Plan Category

Number of Securities to be Issued Upon Exercise of Outstanding Options, Warrants and Rights
(a)

Weighted-Average Exercise Price of  Outstanding Options, Warrants and Rights
(b)

Number of Securities Remaining Available for Future Issuance Under Equity Compensation Plans
(excluding securities reflected in column (a))
(c) (1)

 

 

 

 

Equity Compensation Plans Approved by Security Holders

3,155,235

6.28

3,679,600

 

 

 

 

Equity Compensation Plans Not Approved by Security Holders

0

Not Applicable

0

 

 

 

 

Total

3,155,235

6.28

3,679,600


(1)

The 2007 Incentive Plan allows for these shares to be issued in a variety of forms, including stock options, stock appreciation rights, stock awards, stock units, performance awards and incentive awards.  Further, the Number of Securities Remaining Available for Future Issuance as set forth in this column (c) will increase by the Number of Securities to be Issued (as reflected in column (a)) which are associated with options, rights and warrants plus other stock awards that are forfeited from time to time.


 

ITEM 6.    SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

 

FIVE-YEAR FINANCIAL STATISTICS

Alliance One International, Inc. and Subsidiaries


The information presented in the table below includes periods ending prior to the completion of our merger with Standard Commercial Corporation on May 13, 2005.  Accordingly, the information presented does not include any results of operations or other information related to Standard for the year ended March 31, 2005 and nine months ended March 31, 2004.


 

 

 

Nine Months

  

Years Ended March 31,

Ended

(in thousands, except per share amounts and number of stockholders)

2008

2007

2006

2005

March 31, 2004 (4)

Summary of Operations

 

 

 

 

 

   Sales and other operating revenues

$2,011,503   

$1,979,078   

$2,112,685   

$1,300,118   

$   797,525  

   Goodwill impairment

-   

-   

256,916   

-   

-  

   Restructuring  and asset impairment

 

 

 

 

 

      charges

19,580   

29,773   

85,411   

2,836   

16,398  

   Debt retirement expense

5,909   

3,860   

66,474   

-   

-  

   Income (loss) from continuing  operations

9,006   

(2,615)  

(423,342)  

24,441   

(17,511) 

   Income (loss) from discontinued operations

7,855   

(18,730)  

(24,104)  

(11,153)  

(15,357) 

      Net income (loss)

16,861   

(21,597)  

(447,446)  

13,288   

(32,868) 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Per Share Statistics

 

 

 

 

 

   Basic Earnings (Loss) Per Share:

 

 

 

 

 

   Income (loss) from continuing operations

$.10   

$(.03)  

$(5.21)  

$.55   

$(.40) 

   Income (loss) from discontinued operations

.09   

(.22)  

(.30)  

(.25)  

(.33) 

      Net income (loss)

.19   

(.25)  

(5.51)  

.30   

(.73) 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   Diluted Earnings (Loss) Per Share:

 

 

 

 

 

   Income (loss) from continuing operations

$.10   

$(.03)  

$(5.21)  

$.54   

$(.40) 

   Income (loss) from discontinued operations

.09   

(.22)  

(.30)  

(.25)  

(.33) 

      Net income (loss) (1)

.19   

(.25)  

(5.51)  

.29   

(.73) 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   Cash dividends paid

-   

-   

.105   

.30   

.225  

   Book value

2.38   

2.55   

2.46   

9.13   

9.19  

 

 

 

 

 

 

Balance Sheet Data

 

 

 

 

 

   Working capital

$   440,213   

$   531,983   

$   538,913   

$   473,063   

$   426,605  

   Total assets

1,712,865   

1,653,872   

1,904,124   

1,404,059   

1,357,404  

   Long-Term Debt

563,973   

726,625   

744,494   

486,412   

421,009  

   Stockholders’ equity

211,467   

225,546   

214,187   

414,312   

414,885  

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other Data

 

 

 

 

 

   Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges (2)

1.02   

1.12   

-   

1.65   

-  

   Common shares outstanding at year end

88,897   

88,614   

87,110   

45,368   

45,162  

   Number of stockholders at year end (3)

7,670   

7,612   

7,658   

7,641   

5,945  


1)   For the year ended March 31, 2005 and the nine months ended March 31, 2004 the assumed conversion
      of Convertible Debentures at the beginning of the period has an antidilutive effect on earnings (loss) per share. In connection
      with the closing of the merger with Standard many of the Company’s financing arrangements were refinanced, including in July of 2005,
      the Company’s $73,328 of convertible subordinated debentures due 2007.  For the years ended March 31, 2007, March 31, 2006 and
      the nine months ended March 31, 2004, all outstanding restricted stock and stock options are excluded because their inclusion would
      have an antidilutive effect on the loss per share.


2)   In 2006 and 2004, fixed charges exceeded earnings by approximately $442,087 and $17,312, respectively.


3)   Includes the number of stockholders of record and non-objecting beneficial owners.


4)   In June 2003, we changed our fiscal year to March 31.  As a result of this change, we reported a nine month transition year ending
       March 31, 2004.


 

ITEM 7.    MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL
                   CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS


General

Our company was renamed Alliance One International, Inc. on May 13, 2005, concurrent with the merger of Standard Commercial Corporation with and into DIMON Incorporated, the third largest and second largest global independent leaf tobacco merchants, respectively.


Executive Overview


The following executive overview is intended to provide significant highlights of the discussion and analysis that follows.


Financial Results

Overall, our 2008 fiscal year results continued to demonstrate the successful execution of our strategy. Current year results improved from the prior year, although current year gross margin decreased, principally as a result of the increased costs associated with the Malawi 2007 burley crop, the strength of local currencies against the U.S. dollar and significant farmer debt costs, particularly in Brazil. Overall selling, administrative and general expenses decreased despite the increases in the current year amounts resulting from the strength of local currencies against the U.S. dollar. Current year other income was significant as a result of the sales of Malawi and Greek assets. We had also incurred additional restructuring charges during the year as we continued to refine our operational footprint. Additional impairment charges were reflected relative to the sale of our non-core dark tobacco operations and reductions in the European flue cured and burley tobacco volumes.


Liquidity

As planned, we continued to deleverage our balance sheet during the year with cash flows from operations and non-core asset sale proceeds, reducing higher cost debt prudently, while maintaining adequate credit and cash availability. At the same time further devaluation of the U.S. dollar throughout the year along with increasing commodity and green tobacco costs necessitated further working capital line availability. Our access to shorter term capital remains strong and our financing partners around the world are providing the corresponding required capital as expected. Disruption that began mid-year in the U.S. and European capital markets has placed upward pressure on short term borrowing spreads worldwide.  Increased spreads were partially offset by our improving credit outlook, while underlying indices declined at similar levels, leaving “all-in” shorter term working capital borrowing costs, on average, approximately unchanged. As a result of these events we have consciously increased our credit and cash positions and maintain appropriate levels of liquidity throughout the year through a combination of long term commitments in concert with various shorter term seasonal credit lines, ongoing customer pre-financing and available cash on hand.


          During the year the following played a role in our liquidity position:


·

March 31, 2007 total available credit including letter of credit and cash were $631.1 million comprised of $538.0 million of credit lines, $12.8 million for letters of credit and $80.3 million of cash;

·

$250.0 million senior secured revolver remained unfunded and no letters of credit were issued under this facility during the fiscal year;

·

$55.0 million accounts receivable sale program was upsized to $100.0 million while the pricing was improved and the maturity extended to 5 years from the March 31, 2008 closing;

·

$65.6 million in net cash proceeds from non-core asset divestitures were collected during the year;

·

$145.0 million senior secured term loan B was repaid in full as of September 28, 2007;

·

$315.0 million 11% senior unsecured notes due 2012 were permanently reduced to $272.7 million; and

·

March 31, 2008 total available credit including letters of credit and cash were $696.9 million, a 10.4% increase over the prior year, comprised of $556.1 million of credit lines, $28.6 million for letters of credit and $112.2 million of cash.


Outlook


Global supply and demand continues to be tight in the marketplace with very little uncommitted inventories available.  Production costs continue to rise and customer selling prices are increasing as well in most origins. Farmer prices have escalated rapidly this year in most origins for tobacco and across many other commodities. This remains a critical issue to our industry and farmer flight will continue in certain areas as farmers migrate to other crops with good returns and lower labor requirements.  Nonetheless, we will continue working to improve profitability.  We will continue to challenge all of our operations to achieve appropriate return targets and to effect actions which will positively improve future performance. The strategy behind our merger and the creation of Alliance One is simple, and has not changed: We are seeking to create the profile of a strategic leaf supply partner with the footprint and scale necessary to drive efficiency, sustainability and long-term shareholder value in what remains an intensely competitive global industry.








          In fiscal 2008, we completed the exit of several marginal and/or unprofitable origins or businesses as well as we substantially completed the exit from our discontinued operations.  In addition, we focused on profit improvement and debt reduction.  Our focus in 2009 will be on continued profit improvement and debt reduction.  While we will again face challenges associated with the weaker U.S. dollar and increased costs as a result of the decreased volume available, we remain totally committed to our customer-focused strategy, and we are confident that our strategy will position us to enhance our already strong customer relationships and allow us to grow with our customers. As such, we will continue to focus our attention and resources on those origins that are growing in market importance, on delivering outstanding customer service, exercising expense discipline, and above all, delivering the full benefits of the merger.









Results of Operations


Consolidated Statement of Operations

 

Twelve Months Ended March 31,

 

 

Change          

 

Change         

 

(in millions)

2008  

$   

%   

2007     

$      

%  

2006 (1)  

Sales and other operating revenues

$2,011.5  

$  32.4 

1.6 

$1,979.1   

$(133.6)  

(6.3)

$2,112.7   

Gross profit

250.4  

(45.3)

(15.3)

295.7   

71.0   

31.6 

224.7   

Selling, administrative and general
        expenses

157.4  

(0.9)

(0.6)

158.3   

(5.8)  

(3.5)

164.1   

Other income

20.2  

14.1 

 

6.1   

3.6   

 

2.5   

Goodwill impairment

-  

 

-   

(256.9)  

 

256.9   

Restructuring and asset impairment
        charges

19.6  

(10.2)

 

29.8   

(55.6)  

 

85.4   

Debt retirement expense

5.9  

2.0 

 

3.9   

(62.6)  

 

66.5   

Interest expense

101.9  

(3.7)

 

105.6   

(3.0)  

 

108.6   

Interest income

16.2  

7.6 

 

8.6   

1.5   

 

7.1   

Derivative financial instruments
        income

-  

(0.3)

 

0.3   

(4.8)  

 

5.1   

Income tax expense (benefit)

(5.5) 

(21.6)

 

16.1   

33.6   

 

(17.5)  

Equity in net income of investee
        companies

1.8  

0.8 

 

1.0   

-   

 

1.0   

Minority interests (income)

0.4  

(0.3)

 

0.7   

0.9   

 

(0.2)  

Income (loss) from discontinued
        operations

7.9  

26.6 

 

(18.7)  

5.4   

 

(24.1)  

Cumulative effect of accounting
        changes, net of income tax

-  

0.3 

 

(0.3)  

(0.3)  

 

-   

Net income (loss)

$     16.9*

$   38.5 

 

$   (21.6)*

$  425.8   

 

$  (447.4)*

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  *  Amounts do not equal column totals due to rounding.


Sales and Other Operating Revenue Supplemental Information

 

Twelve Months Ended March 31,

 

 

Change          

 

Change        

 

(in millions, except per kilo amounts)

2008  

$     

%   

2007  

$      

%  

2006 (1)

Tobacco sales and other operating
        revenues:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

     Sales and other operating revenues

$  1,933.0

$ 23.7 

1.2 

$  1,909.3

$ (147.8)

(7.2)

$2,057.1

     Kilos

556.1

(28.8)

(4.9)

584.9

(80.5)

(12.1)

665.4

     Average price per kilo

$       3.48

$ 0.22 

6.7 

$       3.26

$    0.17 

5.5 

$     3.09

Processing and other revenues

$       78.5

8.7 

12.5 

$       69.8

14.2 

25.5 

$     55.6

Total sales and other operating revenues

$  2,011.5

$ 32.4 

1.6 

$  1,979.1

$ (133.6)

(6.3)

$2,112.7

 

(1)  The merger of DIMON and Standard was completed May 13, 2005, which was during the first quarter of fiscal       2006. As a result, total revenues and expenses for the twelve months ended March 31, 2006 exclude Standard’s       results from April 1 to May 13, 2005.









Comparison of the Year Ended March 31, 2008 to the Year Ended March 31, 2007

 

Sales and other operating revenues.  The increase of 1.6% from $1,979.1 million in 2007 to $2,011.5 million in 2008 is the result of a 6.7% or $0.22 per kilo increase in average sales prices and a 12.5% or $8.7 million increase in processing and other revenues partially offset by a 4.9% or 28.8 million kilo decrease in quantities sold.


South America region.  Tobacco revenues increased $121.5 million, reflecting increases of 32.6 million kilo in quantities sold and $0.05 per kilo in average sales prices versus the prior year.  The return of certain customer sales in the current year as well as increased demand for Brazilian tobacco are the primary reasons for the increase in the South America operating segment revenues.  


Other regions.  Tobacco revenues decreased $97.8 million due to a 61.3 million kilo decrease in quantities sold, partially offset by a $0.32 per kilo increase in average sales prices.  The decrease in volumes is primarily as a result of opportunistic sales of U.S. inventories that occurred in the prior year.  The decrease in sales also reflected the exit from the European markets in Greece and Spain, decreased volumes available in Zimbabwe and reduced sales from Malawi and Zambia due to smaller 2007 crops.  These decreases were partially offset by Asian sales due to increased demand for these tobaccos.  Processing and other revenues increased 12.5% from $69.8 million in 2007 to $78.5 million in 2008 primarily as a result of increased processing volumes and prices in the United States.


Gross profit as a percentage of sales.  Gross profit decreased 15.3% from $295.7 million in 2007 to $250.4 million in 2008 and the gross profit percentage decreased from 14.9% in 2007 to 12.4% in 2008.


South America region.  Gross profit declined $38.8 million in 2008 compared to 2007.  Although current year volumes increased, prior year results included the reversal of a reserve for interstate trade tax assets from the State of Rio Grande do Sul as the assets were determined to be realizable due to an amended agreement with the government.  In addition, gross margin was negatively impacted by a $37.5 million bad debt provision associated with farmer accounts related to the cumulative impact of the lower quality of the 2006 crop and smaller 2007 crop. The continued impact of the strengthening Brazilian real also had a negative impact on gross margin as we experienced substantial increases in both green tobacco and tobacco processing costs for the 2006 and 2007 crops.  Management considers the 2007 crop to be of improved quality.  However, as a result of the poor quality of the 2006 crop and the resulting surplus quantities on hand, 2007 crop production and purchases declined as planned.  The decline in market conditions again resulted in an increased grower bad debt provision for the 2007 crop.  During 2008, a provision of $6.2 million related to interstate trade taxes receivable from the State of Parana was recorded which also negatively impacted Brazilian gross profits.  See Note P “Contingencies - Non-Income Tax” to the “Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements” for further information.  These cost increases in 2008 were partially offset by an $8.6 million inventory valuation adjustment in 2007 as a result of poor quality crops.


Other Region.  The current year gross profit decreased $6.5 million primarily as a result of the increased cost of the 2007 burley crop in Malawi that is being sold.  A smaller crop size due to weather, coupled with an increase of competition within the Malawi market, almost doubled the average auction prices for the 2007 crop in Malawi. In addition, the reduction in crop purchases also increased the per kilo processing and overhead costs allocated to the 2007 crop.  Negotiated sales price increases were insufficient to compensate for lost volumes thereby resulting in decreased current year margins. These factors will have a material negative impact on Other Region gross profit as the remainder of the 2007 Malawi burley crop is sold in fiscal 2009. Also negatively impacting gross profit in the Africa region was the short crop in Zambia and the decrease in volumes available from Zimbabwe.  Partially offsetting these decreases in gross profit were increases in gross profit from the Asia, Europe and North America operating segments.  The increases in gross profit were primarily related to decreased inventory valuation adjustments of approximately $6.3 million as well as the timing of shipments in the current year in the oriental markets in Bulgaria and Serbia and increased volumes in certain Asian markets.


Selling, administrative and general expenses decreased $0.9 million or 0.6% from $158.3 million in 2007 to $157.4 million in 2008.  The decrease is primarily due to decreased legal and professional fees and compensation costs.  The weak U.S. dollar negatively impacted expenses denominated in foreign currencies, primarily Brazilian Reals, Euros and Pounds Sterling.  Foreign currency denominated expenses accounted for approximately 33.1% and 32.9% of the total selling, administrative and general expenses in 2008 and 2007, respectively.








Other income increased $14.1 million from $6.1 million in 2007 to $20.2 million in 2008.  The increase is primarily attributable to the gains of approximately $9.5 million and $7.0 million on the sales of the Malawi factory and Greek properties, respectively.  These sales occurred primarily during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2008. The remaining 2008 income is primarily other gains on sales of fixed assets.  The 2007 income is primarily related to the final collection of pre-1991 Gulf War Iraqi receivables written off in prior years and gains on fixed asset sales.  See Note A “Significant Accounting Policies” to the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” for further information.


Restructuring and asset impairment charges were $19.6 million in 2008 compared to $29.8 million in 2007.  During 2008, we incurred asset impairment charges of $10.6 million which are primarily the result of a $6.1 million charge from the sale of CdF.  In addition, we reported an impairment charge of $2.7 million related to long-lived assets in Turkey as a result of significant reductions in future Turkish flue cured and burley tobacco volumes. The remaining restructuring charges of $9.0 million are substantially employee severance charges primarily in Malawi due to the sale of one of the Malawi factories, in Turkey due to the significant reductions in future volumes, in Brazil due to the sale of one of the operating facilities as previously disclosed and other employee severance charges as we continue the execution of our merger integration plan.  The 2007 costs relate to additional impairment charges of $13.2 million to write down our Zimbabwe operations to zero as a result of the continuing political and economic strife as well as the further decline in crop size.  Other asset impairment charges of $6.7 million related to assets in the United States, Thailand and Greece, primarily machinery and equipment.  The remaining $9.9 million in 2007 relates primarily to employee severance and other integration related charges as a result of the merger.  See Note D “Restructuring and Assets Impairment Charges” to the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” for further information.


Debt retirement expense of $5.9 million in 2008 relates to accelerated amortization of debt issuance costs as a result of debt prepayment and retirement as well as other one time costs associated with the retirement of senior notes including tender premiums paid for the repurchase of the senior notes and other debt related fees.  Debt retirement expense of $3.9 million in 2007 relates to one time costs of refinancing our senior secured credit facility.  


Interest expense decreased $3.7 million from $105.6 million in 2007 to $101.9 million in 2008 primarily due to lower average borrowings.


Interest income was $16.2 million in 2008 and $8.6 million in 2007.  The increase of $7.6 million was primarily due to higher cash balances in 2008 and increased interest income from Brazilian farmer refinancing.


Effective tax rates were a benefit of (268.8)% in 2008 and an expense of 122.7% in 2007.  Effective tax rates are largely determined by the distribution of taxable income among various taxing jurisdictions as well as management’s judgment on the ability to realize the tax benefits of deferred tax assets.  The significant variance from the statutory tax rate in 2008 is due primarily to permanent differences related to local goodwill amortization and to exchange gains and losses and currency translation adjustments, partially offset by increases to valuation allowance.  The significant unfavorable variance from the statutory rate in 2007 is primarily due to the inability to recognize the benefit of losses in certain jurisdictions and the additional income tax accrual for the tax audit in Germany.  See Note L “Income Taxes” to the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” for further information.  The effective rate was favorably impacted as a result of the reduction in tax rates in Turkey and a reduction in valuation allowance related to U.S. foreign tax credit carryovers.


Income (loss) from discontinued operations was $7.9 million in 2008 compared to $(18.7) million in 2007.  The increase of $26.6 million is primarily due to gains on the sale of the remaining wool assets of $7.2 million, 2007 charges of $9.3 million related to finalizing our exit from the Italian market and a 2007 fair value adjustment to inventory in Mozambique for $1.1 million.  The remaining increase of $9.0 million is due to our exit from the discontinued operations in Italy, Mozambique and wool operations.  See Note C “Discontinued Operations” to the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” for further information.








Comparison of the Year Ended March 31, 2007 to the Year Ended March 31, 2006

 

Sales and other operating revenues.  The decrease of 6.3% from $2,112.7 million in 2006 to $1,979.1 million in 2007 is the result of a 12.1% or 80.5 million kilo decrease in quantities sold, offset by a 5.5% or $0.17 per kilo increase in average sales prices and a 25.5% or $14.2 million increase in processing and other revenues.


South America region.  Tobacco revenues decreased $34.5 million, reflecting a 37.1 million kilo decrease in quantities sold versus the prior year primarily related to the timing of 2005 shipments that had been delayed to 2006 and a decrease in demand primarily resulting from the quality of the 2006 crop.  This was offset by a $0.36 per kilo increase in average sales prices, attributable primarily to the increased costs of the 2006 crop.  


Other regions.  Tobacco revenues decreased $113.3 million due to a 43.4 million kilo decrease in quantities sold, partially offset by a $0.06 per kilo increase in average sales prices.  The decrease in volume resulted primarily from prior year opportunistic sales in the oriental market as well as the exit from certain European markets during 2007.  The decrease in volume also reflected diminished prior year low margin sales from Thailand and China, and the delay of U.S. shipments into fiscal year 2008.  The increase in average sales prices resulted from the product mix in Asian origin sales as well as higher costs of 2006 Asian crops.  Other region processing and other revenues increased $14.2 million primarily related to greater quantities of U.S. customer-owned tobacco processed.


Gross profit as a percentage of sales.  The $71.0 million increase in gross profit, or 31.6%, from $224.7 million in 2006 to $295.7 million in 2007, as well as the gross profit percentage increased from 10.6% in 2006 to 14.9% in 2007, is primarily attributable to two factors:


          First, gross profit in the South American region increased approximately $63.5 million. As disclosed in the quarterly and annual reports for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2006, gross profit in Brazil was negatively impacted by the poor quality of the 2005 crop, the strength of the local currency against the U.S. dollar on prices paid to growers and related processing costs, and increased costs from the absorption of local intrastate trade taxes from a change in local laws.  In the first quarter of 2007 we entered into an agreement with the government of Rio Grande do Sul allowing us to transfer accumulated intrastate trade tax credits related to the 2005 crop. As a result, intrastate trade taxes related to the 2005 crop of $19.2 million previously recorded as cost of goods and services sold in fiscal 2006 were reversed during the current year.  The impact of this agreement in the current year coupled with 2006 crop sales price increases resulted in an increase in gross profit when comparing 2007 with 2006.  Partially offsetting the impact of the items noted above which increased the gross profit in the South American region during 2007, was the quality of the 2006 crop and decreased demand.  While the 2006 Brazilian crop had been expected to be of average quality, weather related growing conditions in the latter part of the season significantly impacted quality and demand declined.  As a result, we increased the provision for grower bad debt, impacting the current year gross profit by $8.3 million compared to the prior year, as well as future quarters relative to 2006 crop sales.


          Second, as required by SFAS No. 141, we adjusted Standard’s inventory to its fair value less selling costs.  These purchase accounting adjustments impacting gross profit on sales of inventory acquired in the merger were reduced by $16.6 million from $18.0 million in 2006 compared to $1.4 million in 2007, primarily in the Other Regions reportable segment.  There will be no further impact on gross profit related to purchase accounting adjustments resulting from the merger.  This cost reduction was partially offset by a $6.9 million increase in the tobacco market valuation adjustment recorded in 2007 compared to 2006 that was primarily in the South America reportable segment as a result of poor quality crops.


Selling, administrative and general expenses decreased $5.8 million or 3.5% from $164.1 million in 2006 to $158.3 million in 2007.  The decrease is primarily due to the deconsolidation of Zimbabwe and a significant reduction in merger and integration related travel expenses.


Other income increased $3.6 million from $2.5 million in 2006 to $6.1 million in 2007.  The increase is primarily attributable to the recovery of receivable previously written off and increased gains on fixed asset sales.


Goodwill impairment is tested for each reporting unit annually as of the first day of the last quarter of the fiscal year and whenever events or circumstances indicate that impairment may have occurred.  In 2007, there were no indications of impairment.  Based on the impairment analysis in 2006, we recorded a total goodwill impairment charge of $256.9 million during the fourth quarter related to the reporting units of North America ($75.7 million) and South America ($181.2 million).  See Note E “Goodwill and Other Intangibles” to the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” for further information.


Restructuring and asset impairment charges were $29.8 million in 2007 compared to $85.4 million in 2006.  At March 31, 2006, in accordance with ARB 51, we deconsolidated our Zimbabwe operations.  A non-cash impairment charge of $47.9 million was recorded in 2006 to adjust the investment in those operations to estimated fair value. In 2007, an additional non-cash impairment charge of $13.2 million was recorded to write down our Zimbabwe investment to zero.  Neither of these charges was deductible for income tax purposes.  Other impairment charges in 2006 relate to $22.2 million for employee severance and other integration charges related to the merger and $15.3 million for asset impairments primarily related to the decision to sell the dark air-cured tobacco business, including intangibles of the Indonesian dark air-cured operation.  Other impairment charges in 2007 relate to $6.7 million for asset impairments in Greece, Thailand and Turkey, primarily machinery and equipment, and $9.9 million for employee severance and other integration related charges as a result of the merger.  See Note D “Restructuring and Assets Impairment Charges” to the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” for further information.


Debt retirement expense of $3.9 million in 2007 relates to one time costs of refinancing our senior secured credit facility.  Debt retirement expense of $66.5 million in 2006 relates to one time costs of retiring DIMON debt as a result of the merger.  These costs include tender premiums paid for the redemption of senior notes and convertible subordinated debentures, the expense recognition of debt issuance costs associated with former DIMON debt instruments, termination of certain interest rate swap agreements and other related costs.  


Interest expense decreased $3.0 million from $108.6 million in 2006 to $105.6 million in 2007 due to lower average borrowings offset by higher average rates.


Interest income increased $1.5 million from $7.1 million in 2006 to $8.6 million in 2007 primarily due to the interest income received from the release of Brazilian PIS/Cofins escrow deposits during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2007.


Derivative financial instruments resulted in a benefit of $0.3 million in 2007 and $5.1 million in 2006.  These items are derived from changes in the fair value of non-qualifying interest rate swap agreements.


Effective tax rates were an expense of 122.7% in 2007 and a benefit of 4.0% in 2006.  Effective tax rates are largely determined by the distribution of taxable income among various taxing jurisdictions as well as management’s judgment on the ability to realize the tax benefits of deferred tax assets.  The significant unfavorable variance from the statutory rate in 2007 is primarily due to the inability to recognize the benefit of losses in certain jurisdictions and the additional income tax accrual for the tax audit in Germany.  See Note P “Contingencies and Other Information” to the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” for further information.  The effective rate was favorably impacted as a result of the reduction in tax rates in Turkey and a reduction in valuation allowance related to U.S. foreign tax credit carryovers.  The difference from the statutory rate in 2006 is primarily due to significant goodwill impairment charges for which no tax benefit is realized.  See Note L “Income Taxes” to the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” for further information.


Losses from discontinued operations were $18.7 million in 2007 and $24.1 million in 2006.  The decrease of $5.4 million is due to a $12.0 million assessment in 2006 related to an administrative investigation into tobacco buying and selling practices within the leaf tobacco industry in Italy by the Directorate General for Competition.  Also included in the decrease is reduced losses of $2.7 million from our non-tobacco, Italian and Mozambique tobacco operations as well as our wool operations.  Substantially offsetting this decrease is $9.3 million in charges in 2007 related to finalizing our exit from the Italian market.  See Note C “Discontinued Operations” to the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” for further information.








Liquidity and Capital Resources


Overview

Historically we have needed capital in excess of cash flow from operations to finance accounts receivable, inventory and advances to farmers for pre-financing tobacco crops in certain foreign countries.  Purchasing, processing and selling activities of our business are seasonal and our need for capital fluctuates with corresponding peaks where outstanding indebtedness may be significantly greater or less as a result.  Our long term borrowings consist of unsecured senior and subordinated notes as well as a senior secured revolving credit facility. We also have short term lines of credit available with a number of banks throughout the world to provide needed seasonal working capital to correspond with regional peaks of our business. Over the fiscal year a combination of further devaluation of the U.S. dollar versus most of the currencies that we experience costs in, coupled with lower customer advances, as well as increased inflationary pressure on commodity and green tobacco costs have required higher working capital shorter term credit line availability and utilization, while overall working capital has decreased since March 31, 2007.  In conjunction with our pre-financing activities, we reported $95.2 million of farmer rural credit lines on our balance sheet as our debt as of March 31, 2008.  We have guaranteed these farmer obligations.  


          Over the last twelve months and in line with one of management’s stated areas of focus after excluding the farmer rural credit which has been reported as debt of the Company, we have reduced debt, net of cash, by $67.9 million from $830.7 million as of March 31, 2007 to $762.8 million as of March 31, 2008. After giving effect to capitalized farmer rural credit, debt net of cash increased marginally by $27.3 million to $858.0 million. Improved working capital management, as well as both excess cash flow from operations and non-core asset sale proceeds, were the significant debt reduction drivers. The $145.0 million senior secured term loan B was repaid in full as of September 28, 2007. From time to time in the future, we may elect to purchase, redeem, repay, retire or cancel indebtedness prior to stated maturity under our senior secured credit agreement or indentures, as permitted therein.


          At March 31, 2008, we had $112.2 million in cash on our balance sheet, no borrowings under our $250.0 million revolving credit facility with $250.0 million available, $387.2 million outstanding under foreign lines with $284.5 million available under those lines and $58.1 million outstanding of other debt with $21.6 million available for a total of $668.3 million of debt availability and cash on hand around the world, excluding $22.2 million in issued but unfunded letters of credit with $28.6 million available. Another source of liquidity as of March 31, 2008 was $54.7 million funded under our $100.0 million receivable sale program which was increased from $55.0 million as of March 31, 2008, with improved pricing and its maturity extended for five years from origination.  Additionally, customers pre-financed purchases of $91.9 million.  To the extent that these customers do not provide this advance funding, we must provide financing for their inventories.  Should customers pre-finance less in the future for committed inventories, this action could negatively affect our short term liquidity.  At March 31, 2008, we had no material capital expenditure commitments other than our previously announced SAP software implementation.  We believe that the sources of capital we possess, or have access to, will be sufficient to fund our anticipated needs for fiscal year 2009.  No cash dividends were paid to stockholders during the twelve months ended March 31, 2008.  See Note G “Short-term Borrowing Arrangements” and Note Q “Sale of Receivables” to the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” for further information.


          Seasonal liquidity beyond cash flow from operations is provided by our revolving credit facility, seasonal working capital lines throughout the world, advances from customers and sale of accounts receivable.  As of March 31, 2008, we are in our working capital build and nearing our high point in seasonally adjusted working capital borrowing. Borrowings related to South America are approaching full utilization as tobacco from the most recent crop is being purchased and processed, while the peak tobacco sales season for South America is at its beginning stages. Africa is also in the middle of its buying, processing and selling season and is utilizing working capital funding as well, including a new $120.0 million limited syndicated facility.  North America and Europe are still selling and planning for the next crop that is now being grown.


Working Capital

Our working capital decreased from $531.9 million at March 31, 2007 to $440.2 million at March 31, 2008.  Our current ratio was 1.6 to 1 at March 31, 2008 compared to 1.9 to 1 at March 31, 2007.  The decrease in working capital is primarily related to an increase in notes payable to banks partially offset by decreased advances from customers.  Notes payable to banks at March 31, 2007 were significantly reduced as a result of using excess cash on hand instead of short term financing in 2007 to finance almost $100.0 million of the 2007 Brazil crop.  Consequently, as short term financing levels returned to normal at March 31, 2008, the impact was a significant decrease in working capital compared to the previous year.

          The following table is a summary of items from the Consolidated Balance Sheet and Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows.


 

As of March 31,                                             

 

 

Change          

 

Change         

 

(in millions except for current ratio)

2008  

$     

%   

2007   

$      

%  

2006  

Cash and cash equivalents

$  112.2   

$   31.9 

39.7 

$    80.3   

$   54.3 

208.7 

$    26.0 

Net trade receivables

181.0   

(36.8)

(16.9)

217.8   

(103.1)

(32.1)

320.9 

Inventories and advances on purchases
   of tobacco

801.8   

71.5 

9.8 

730.3   

(145.0)

(16.6)

875.3 

Total current assets

1,191.9   

60.3 

5.3 

1,131.6   

(236.6)

(17.3)

1,368.2 

Notes payable to banks

387.2   

208.1 

16.2 

179.1   

(120.8)

(40.3)

299.9 

Accounts payable

158.5   

(29.5)

(15.7)

188.0   

12.1 

6.9 

175.9 

Advances from customers

91.9   

(33.5)

(26.7)

125.4   

(101.0)

(44.6)

226.4 

Total current liabilities

751.7   

152.0 

25.3 

599.7   

(229.6)

(27.7)

829.3 

Current ratio

1.6 to 1   

 

 

1.9 to 1   

 

 

1.6 to 1 

Working capital

440.2   

(91.7)

(17.2)

531.9   

(7.0)

(1.3)

538.9 

Total long term debt

564.0   

(162.6)

(22.4)

726.6   

(17.9)

(2.4)

744.5 

Stockholders’ equity

211.5   

(14.0)

(6.2)

225.5   

11.3 

5.3 

214.2 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net cash provided (used) by:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

      Operating activities

37.8   

(149.7)

 

187.5   

95.1 

 

92.4 

      Investing activities

57.4   

13.1 

 

44.3   

1.0 

 

43.3 

      Financing activities

(68.4)  

110.7 

 

(179.1)  

(55.4)

 

(123.7)











Operating Cash Flows

Net cash provided by operating activities decreased $149.7 million in 2008 compared to 2007 which increased $95.1 million compared to 2006.  The decrease in cash provided by operations in 2008 is primarily due to the increase in inventories and advances on purchases of tobacco and the change in cash used by discontinued operations which are partially offset by increases in accounts payable and accrued expenses.  The increase in cash provided in 2007 is primarily due to significantly improved results of operations in 2007 compared to 2006.  Decreases in accounts receivable and inventories and advances on purchases of tobacco were offset by a corresponding decrease in advances from customers.  Decreases in accounts payable and accrued expenses were substantially offset by the change in deferred items.


Investing Cash Flows

Net cash provided by investing activities increased $13.1 million in 2008 compared to 2007 which increased $1.0 million compared to 2006.  The increase in cash provided in 2008 compared to 2007 is primarily the increase in cash provided by discontinued operations as a result of the sale of the remaining wool assets.  The increase in cash provided in 2007 compared to 2006 is primarily a result of the surrender of life insurance policies, increased proceeds from the sale of fixed assets identified as part of the merger process to be redundant and the return of capital from our Zimbabwe operation in 2007 offset by the cash acquired in the prior year as a result of the purchase and merger of Standard into Alliance One.  








Financing Cash Flows

Net cash used by financing activities decreased $110.7 million in 2008 compared to 2007 which increased $55.4 million compared to 2006.  The decrease in cash used in 2008 compared to 2007 is primarily due to the change in short-tem borrowings as a result of a significant portion of the 2007 Brazil crop being financed with excess cash on hand in the prior year instead of short-term financing.  Substantially offsetting this increase in 2008 is the net decrease in proceeds and repayments from long-term borrowings as a result of the debt refinancing arrangements in the prior year.  The increase in cash used in 2007 compared to 2006 is primarily due to lower net proceeds from borrowings in 2007 as a result of the new debt arrangements entered into in the prior year as a result of the merger.  

         The following table summarizes our debt financing as of March 31, 2008:


 

 

 

March 31, 2008

 

 

Outstanding

Lines and

 

 

 

March 31,             

Letters

Interest

 

Repayment/Amortization Schedule (4)

(in millions except for interest rates)

2007    

2008    

Available

Rate

 

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

Later

Senior secured credit facility:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

     Revolver

$        -

$         -

$250.0

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

     Term loan B

145.0

-

-

 

 

$     - 

$   - 

$     - 

$   - 

$       - 

$    - 

 

145.0

-

250.0

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Senior notes:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

     11% senior notes due 2012

315.0

272.7

-

11.0%

 

272.7 

     8 ½% senior notes due 2012

149.3

149.4

-

8.5%

 

(.1)

(.1)

(.2)

(.2)

150.0 

     Other (1)

10.2

10.2

-

 

 

3.5 

6.3 

.4 

 

474.5

432.3

-

 

 

(.1)

(.1)

(.2)

3.3 

429.0 

.4 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

12 ¾% senior subordinated
       notes due 2012

91.6

92.6

-

12.8%

 

(1.2)

(1.4)

(1.6)

(1.9)

98.7 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other long-term debt

20.8

58.1

21.6

9.2%

(2)

20.3 

13.5 

12.4 

11.5 

.4 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Notes payable to banks (3)

179.1

387.2

284.5

6.7%

(2)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

     Total debt

$ 911.0

$  970.2

556.1

 

 

$19.0 

$12.0 

$10.6 

$12.9 

$527.7 

$   .8 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Short term

$ 179.1

$  387.2

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Long term:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

     Long term debt current

$     5.2

$    19.0

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

     Long term debt

  726.7

564.0

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

$ 731.9

$  583.0

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Letters of credit

$   17.8

$    22.2

28.6

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

     Total credit available

 

 

$584.7

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(1)  Balance consists of legacy DIMON and Standard Senior Notes with balances and maturities as follows:
      $ 3.5    9 5/8% Senior Notes due 2011
         0.4    7 3/4% Senior Notes due 2013
         6.3    8% Senior Notes due 2012
     $10.2

 

(2)  Weighted average rate for the twelve months ended March 31, 2008

 

(3)  Primarily foreign seasonal lines of credit

 

(4)  Debt repayment classification is based on fiscal years ended March 31


The following summarizes the material terms of each significant component of our debt financing.


On March 30, 2007, we entered into an Amended and Restated Credit Agreement (the “Credit Agreement”), with a syndicate of banks that amends and restates our prior credit agreement and provides for a senior secured credit facility (the “Credit Facility”) that consists of:


·

a three and one-half year $240.0 million revolver (the “Revolver”) which initially accrues interest at a rate of LIBOR plus 2.75%; and

·

a four-year $145.0 million term loan B (the “Term Loan B”) which accrues interest at a rate of LIBOR plus 2.25%.


         The interest rate for the Revolver may increase or decrease according to a consolidated interest coverage ratio pricing matrix as defined in the Credit Agreement.  Effective May 25, 2007, we increased the Revolver by $10.0 million to $250.0 million by adding additional Lenders thereto.  As of September 30, 2007, the entire $145.0 million term loan B had been repaid.


Borrowers and Guarantors.  One of our primary foreign holding companies, Intabex Netherlands B.V. (“Intabex”), is co-borrower under the Revolver, and our portion of the borrowings under the Revolver is limited to $150.0 million outstanding at any one time.  One of our primary foreign trading companies, Alliance One International AG (“AOIAG”), is a guarantor of Intabex’s obligations under the Credit Agreement. Such obligations are also currently guaranteed by us and must be guaranteed by any of our material direct or indirect domestic subsidiaries.


Collateral.  Our borrowings under the Credit Facility are secured by a first priority pledge of:


·

100% of the capital stock of any material domestic subsidiaries;

·

65% of the capital stock of any material first tier foreign subsidiaries;

·

U.S. accounts receivable and U.S. inventory owned by us or our material domestic subsidiaries (other than inventory the title of which has passed to a customer and inventory financed through customer advances); and

·

Intercompany notes evidencing loans or advances we make to subsidiaries that are not guarantors.


          In addition, Intabex’s borrowings under the Credit Facility are secured by a pledge of 100% of the capital stock of Intabex, AOIAG, and certain of our and Intabex’s material foreign subsidiaries.


Financial Covenants.  The Credit Facility includes certain financial covenants and required financial ratios, including:


·

a minimum consolidated interest coverage ratio of not less than 1.70 to 1.00;

·

a maximum consolidated leverage ratio of not more than 5.75 to 1.00;

·

a maximum consolidated total senior debt to borrowing base ratio of not more than 0.85 to 1.00; and

·

a maximum amount of annual capital expenditures of $40.0 million during any fiscal year of ours.


          Certain of these financial covenants and required financial ratios adjust over time in accordance with schedules in the Credit Agreement.

          The Credit Agreement also contains certain customary affirmative and negative covenants, including, without limitation, restrictions on additional indebtedness, guarantees, liens and asset sales.

          Due to the delay in preparing our financial results for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2008, we were in technical default under our Credit Facility for failing to provide our lenders with the financial statements and certificates required pursuant to the Credit Facility.  We have cured this default during the provided cure period.  If we were in default and were unable to obtain the necessary amendments or waivers under our Credit Facility, the lenders under that facility have the right to accelerate the loans thereby demanding repayment in full and extinguishment of their commitment to lend.  Certain defaults under the Credit Facility would result in a cross default under the indentures governing our senior notes and senior subordinated notes and could impair access to our seasonal operating lines of credit in local jurisdictions.  A default under our Credit Facility would have a material adverse effect on our liquidity and financial condition.








Senior Notes


On May 13, 2005, we issued $315.0 million of 11% senior notes due 2012 (the “11% Notes”) and on March 7, 2007, we issued $150.0 million of 8 ½% senior notes due 2012 (the “8 ½% Notes”) at a 0.5% original issue discount to reflect an 8.6% yield to maturity.  During the twelve months ended March 31, 2008, we purchased $42.3 million of our 11% Notes on the open market. All purchased securities were canceled leaving $272.7 million of the 11% Senior Notes outstanding at March 31, 2008. Associated cash premiums paid were $2.0 million and non-cash deferred financing costs of $0.7 million were accelerated. From time to time in the future we may purchase more of our debt securities in the open market or through a tender process.  The indentures governing each of the 11% Notes and the 8 ½% Notes contain certain covenants that, among other things, limit our ability to incur additional indebtedness; issue preferred stock; merge, consolidate or dispose of substantially all of our assets; grant liens on our assets; pay dividends, redeem stock or make other distributions or restricted payments; repurchase or redeem capital stock or prepay subordinated debt; make certain investments; agree to restrictions on the payment of dividends to us by our subsidiaries; sell or otherwise dispose of assets, including equity interests of our subsidiaries; enter into transactions with our affiliates; and enter into certain sale and leaseback transactions.  We continuously monitor our compliance with these covenants and are not in default as of, or for the three months or twelve months ended March 31, 2008.


Senior Subordinated Notes


On May 13, 2005, we issued $100.0 million of 12 3/4% senior subordinated notes due 2012 at a 10% original issue discount to reflect a 15% yield to maturity.  The indenture governing the senior subordinated notes contains covenants substantially identical to those contained in the indentures governing the 11% Notes and the 8 ½% Notes.


Foreign Seasonal Lines of Credit


We have typically financed our non-U.S. operations with uncommitted unsecured short term seasonal lines of credit at the local level.  These operating lines are seasonal in nature, normally extending for a term of 180 to 270 days corresponding to the tobacco crop cycle in that location.  These facilities are typically uncommitted in that the lenders have the right to cease making loans and demand repayment of loans at any time.  These loans are typically renewed at the outset of each tobacco season.  As of March 31, 2008, we had approximately $387.2 million drawn and outstanding on foreign seasonal lines totaling $722.4 million. Additionally against these lines there was $28.6 million available in unused letter of credit capacity with $22.2 million issued but unfunded.


Aggregate Contractual Obligations and Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements


We have summarized in the table below our contractual cash obligations and other commercial commitments as of March 31, 2008.

 

 

Payments / Expirations by Period

(in millions)

 

Total

2009

Years
2010-2011

Years
2012-2013

After
2013

Long-Term Debt Obligations*

 

$   844.8  

$  79.9     

$  148.4    

$ 615.6   

$   0.9     

Capital Lease Obligations*

 

0.4  

0.2     

0.2    

-   

-     

Operating Lease Obligations

 

31.2  

8.6     

10.4    

4.6   

7.6     

Tobacco Purchase Obligations

 

725.5  

656.7     

68.8    

-   

-     

Total Contractual Obligations and Other
     Commercial Commitments

 

$1,601.9  

$745.4     

$  227.8    

$ 620.2   

$   8.5     

 

 

 *

Long-Term Debt Obligations and Capital Lease Obligations include projected interest for both fixed and variable rate debt.  We assume that there will be no drawings on the senior secured revolving credit facility in these calculations.  The variable rate used in the projections is the rate that was being charged on our variable rate debt as of March 31, 2008.  These calculations also assume that there is no refinancing of debt during any period.  These calculations are on Long-Term Debt Obligations and Capital Lease Obligations only.  








          On September 27, 2006, we entered into a revolving trade accounts receivable securitization agreement to sell receivables to a limited liability company (“LLC”) which was amended in March 2008.  Under the agreement, we have assumed co-insurance equal to 10% of the value of receivables sold.   Based on the closing balance of receivables sold to the LLC, this amount is equal to $7.1 million as of March 31, 2008.  See Note Q “Sale of Receivables” to the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” for further information.

          We do not have any other off-balance sheet arrangements that are reasonably likely to have a current or future effect on our financial condition, results of operations, liquidity, capital expenditures or capital resources, as defined under the rules of SEC Release No. FR-67.


Lease Obligations

We have both capital and operating leases.  In accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States, operating leases are not reflected in the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheet.  The operating leases are for land, buildings, automobiles and other equipment; the capital leases are primarily for production machinery and equipment.  The capitalized lease obligations are payable through 2013.  Operating assets that are of long-term and continuing benefit are generally purchased.


Tobacco Purchase Obligations

Tobacco purchase obligations result from contracts with growers, primarily in the United States, Brazil and Turkey, to buy either specified quantities of tobacco or the grower’s total tobacco production.  Amounts shown as tobacco purchase obligations are estimates based on projected purchase prices of the future crop tobacco.  Payment of these obligations is net of our advances to these growers. Our tobacco purchase obligations do not exceed our projected requirements over the related terms and are in the normal course of business.  


Planned Capital Expenditures

We have projected a total of $25.0 million in capital investments for our 2009 fiscal year.  We forecast our capital expenditure needs for routine replacement of equipment as well as investment in assets that will add value to the customer or increase efficiency.  Included in capital expenditures for 2009 are the remaining costs for the initial development and implementation of SAP, a global financial accounting and reporting system.  This system will replace more than 50 systems we are currently using around the world.  Implementation will be phased in during fiscal 2009 and fiscal 2010.


Tax and Repatriation Matters


We are subject to income tax laws in each of the countries in which we do business through wholly owned subsidiaries and through affiliates.  We make a comprehensive review of the income tax requirements of each of our operations, file appropriate returns and make appropriate income tax planning analyses directed toward the minimization of our income tax obligations in these countries.  Appropriate income tax provisions are determined on an individual subsidiary level and at the corporate level on both an interim and annual basis.  These processes are followed using an appropriate combination of internal staff at both the subsidiary and corporate levels as well as independent outside advisors in review of the various tax laws and in compliance reporting for the various operations.


          We consider unremitted earnings of certain subsidiaries operating outside the United States to be invested indefinitely.  No U.S. income taxes or foreign withholding taxes are provided on such permanently reinvested earnings, in accordance with APB No. 23,”Accounting for Income Taxes, Special Area.”  We regularly review the status of the accumulated earnings of each of our foreign subsidiaries and reassess this determination as part of our overall financing plans.  Following this assessment, we provide deferred income taxes, net of any foreign tax credits, on any earnings that are determined to no longer be indefinitely invested.  See Note L “Income Taxes” to the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” for further information.


Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates


The preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States (GAAP) requires the use of estimates and assumptions that have an impact on the assets, liabilities, revenue and expense amounts reported.  These estimates can also affect supplemental disclosures including information about contingencies, risk and financial condition.







          Critical accounting policies are defined as those that are reflective of significant judgments and uncertainties and potentially yield materially different results under different assumptions or conditions.  Given current facts and circumstances, we believe that our estimates and assumptions are reasonable, adhere to GAAP and are consistently applied.  Our selection and disclosure of our critical accounting policies and estimates has been reviewed with our Audit Committee.  Following is a review of the more significant assumptions and estimates and the accounting policies and methods used in the preparation of our consolidated financial statements.  For all of these estimates, we caution that future events rarely develop exactly as forecast, and the best estimates routinely require adjustment. Also see Note A “Significant Accounting Policies” to the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” which discusses the significant accounting policies that we have selected from acceptable alternatives.


Inventories

Inventories are valued at the lower of cost or market. Inventories are reviewed and written down for changes in market value based on assumptions related to future demand and worldwide and local market conditions.  If actual demand is lower or market conditions vary unfavorably from those projected by management, additional write-downs to lower of cost or market value may be required.  Inventory write-downs for the years ended March 31, 2008 and 2007 were $1.9 million and $14.6 million, respectively.  See Note A “Significant Accounting Policies - Inventories” to the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” for further information.


Income Taxes

Our annual tax rate is based on our income, statutory tax rates and tax planning opportunities available to us in the various jurisdictions in which we operate. Tax laws are complex and subject to different interpretations by the taxpayer and respective governmental taxing authorities. Significant judgment is required in determining our tax expense and in evaluating our tax positions including evaluating uncertainties under Financial Accounting Standards Board Interpretation 48, Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes (“FIN 48”). We review our tax positions quarterly and adjust the balances as new information becomes available.


          Deferred income tax assets represent amounts available to reduce income taxes payable on taxable income in future years. Such assets arise because of temporary differences between the financial reporting and tax bases of assets and liabilities, as well as from net operating loss and tax credit carryforwards. We evaluate the recoverability of these future tax deductions by assessing the adequacy of future expected taxable income from all sources, including reversal of taxable temporary differences, forecasted operating earnings and available tax planning strategies. These sources of income inherently rely heavily on estimates.  To provide insight, we use our historical experience and our short and long-range business forecasts.  We believe it is more likely than not that a portion of the deferred income tax assets may expire unused and have established a valuation allowance against them. Although realization is not assured for the remaining deferred income tax assets, we believe it is more likely than not the deferred tax assets will be fully recoverable within the applicable statutory expiration periods. However, deferred tax assets could be reduced in the near term if our estimates of taxable income are significantly reduced or available tax planning strategies are no longer viable.  See Note L “Income Taxes” and Note P “Contingencies and Other Information” to the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” for further information.


Advances on Purchases of Tobacco and Guarantees of Brazilian Rural Credit Financing to Farmers

We provide agronomy services and seasonal crop advances of, or for, seed, fertilizer, and other supplies. These advances are short term in nature, are repaid upon delivery of tobacco to us, and are reported in advances on purchases of tobacco in the consolidated balance sheet. Primarily in Brazil and certain African countries, we have made long-term advances to tobacco farmers to finance curing barns and other farm infrastructure. In addition, due to low crop yields and other factors, in some years individual farmers may not deliver sufficient volumes of tobacco to fully repay their seasonal advances, and we may extend repayment of those advances into future crop years.  In Brazil, we also assist the farmer in obtaining government subsidized rural credit financing which is guaranteed by the Company.  The guarantees on the rural credit financing are within the scope of Financial Accounting Standards Board Interpretation 45, Guarantor’s Accounting and Disclosure Requirements for Guarantees (“FIN 45”), which requires the Company to make estimates in determining the fair value of the guarantees.  Each reporting period, we must make assumptions as to the balances of farmer advances that may prove uncollectible.  Based on these assumptions, we make estimates resulting in a valuation allowance for farmers’ advances and accruals for obligations under rural credit financing guarantees.  See Note B “Advances on Purchases of Tobacco” and Note P “Contingencies and Other Information” to the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” for further information.


Asset Impairment

We review long-lived assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the related carrying amounts may not be recoverable. Determining whether an impairment has occurred typically requires various estimates and assumptions, including determining which undiscounted cash flows are directly related to the potentially impaired asset, the useful life over which cash flows will occur, their amount, and the asset’s residual value, if any. In turn, measurement of an impairment loss requires a determination of fair value, which is based on the best information available. We derive the required undiscounted cash flow estimates from our historical experience and our internal business plans. To determine fair value, we use our internal cash flow estimates discounted at an appropriate interest rate, quoted market prices when available and independent appraisals, as appropriate. Accordingly, the fair value of an asset could be different using different estimates and assumptions in these valuation techniques which would increase or decrease the impairment charge.


          We recognized impairment losses on long-lived assets of $10.6 million, $19.9 million and $63.2 million during the fiscal years ending 2008, 2007 and 2006, respectively.  See Note D “Restructuring and Asset Impairment Charges” to the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” for further information.


Discontinued Operations

When we determine that all of the criteria under SFAS No. 144 have been met to classify a component of a business as discontinued operations, its financial position is reported as assets and liabilities of discontinued operations and its results as discontinued operations.  We have made such decisions concerning tobacco operations in Italy and Mozambique, a U.S. non-tobacco processing facility and our wool operations.  These operations are reported as discontinued operations in our financial statements and have resulted in income (losses) of $7.9 million, $(18.7) million and $(24.1) million, in the fiscal years ended 2008, 2007 and 2006, respectively.  See Note C “Discontinued Operations” to the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” for further information.


Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets

We test goodwill for impairment annually on the first day of the last quarter of our fiscal year and whenever events or circumstances make it more likely than not that an impairment may have occurred. Determining whether an impairment has occurred requires valuation of the respective reporting unit, which we estimate using a discounted cash flow method. In applying this methodology, we rely on a number of factors, including actual operating results, future business plans, economic projections, market data and selection of an appropriate discount rate.


          If this analysis indicates goodwill is impaired, then measuring the impairment requires a fair value estimate of each identified tangible and intangible asset. In this case, we supplement the cash flow approach discussed above with independent appraisals, as appropriate.  Based on this analysis we recorded a total goodwill impairment charge of $256.9 million during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2006 related to the operating segments of North America and South America.


          We have no intangible assets with indefinite useful lives. We test other identified intangible assets with defined useful lives and subject to amortization by comparing the carrying amount to the sum of undiscounted cash flows expected to be generated by the asset. If the carrying amount of an intangible asset exceeds its fair value based on estimated future undiscounted cash flows, an impairment loss would be indicated.  The amount of the impairment loss to be recorded would be based on the excess of the carrying amount of the intangible asset over its discounted future cash flows.  We use judgment in assessing whether the carrying amount of our intangible assets is not expected to be recoverable over their estimated remaining useful lives.  The factors considered are similar to those outlined in the goodwill impairment discussion above.  See Note E “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets” to the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” for further information.


Pensions and Postretirement Health Care and Life Insurance Benefits

The valuation of our pension and other postretirement health care and life insurance plans requires the use of assumptions and estimates that are used to develop actuarial valuations of expenses, assets and liabilities.  These assumptions include discount rates, investment returns, projected salary increases and benefits and mortality rates.  In September 2005, the postretirement healthcare plan was capped resulting in a significant decrease in benefit cost.  The significant assumptions used in the calculation of pension and postretirement obligations are:








               

Discount rate:  The discount rate is based on investment yields available at the measurement date on high-quality fixed income obligations, such as those included in the Moody’s Aa bond index.

 

 

 

 

               

Salary increase assumption:  The salary increase assumption reflects our expectations with respect to long-term salary increases of our workforce.  Historical pay increases, expectations for the future, and anticipated inflation and promotion rates are considered in developing this assumption.

 

 

 

 

               

Cash Balance Crediting Rate:  Interest is credited on cash balance accounts based on the yield on one-year Treasury Constant Maturities plus 1%.  The assumed crediting rate thus considers the discount rate, current treasury rates, current inflation rates, and expectations for the future.

 

 

 

 

               

Mortality Rates:  Mortality rates are based on gender-distinct group annuity mortality (GAM) tables.

 

 

 

 

               

Expected return on plan assets:  The expected return reflects asset allocations, investment strategy and our historical actual returns.

 

 

 

 

               

Termination and Retirement Rates:  Termination and retirement rates are based on standard tables reflecting past experience and anticipated future experience under the plan.  No early retirement rates are used since benefits provided are actuarially equivalent and there are not early retirement subsidies in the plan.

 

 

 

 

               

Health Care Cost Trends:  Trends for future increases in medical costs are based on past experience as well as forecasts of long-term medical cost trends.

 


          Management periodically reviews actual demographic experience as it compares to the actuarial assumptions. Changes in assumptions are made if there are significant deviations or if future expectations change significantly.  Based upon anticipated changes in assumptions, pension and postretirement expense is expected to increase by $1.3 million in the fiscal year ended March 31, 2009 as compared to March 31, 2008.  We continually evaluate ways to better manage benefits and control costs.  The cash contribution to our employee benefit plans in 2008 was $7.8 million and is expected to be $11.4 million in 2009.


          The effect of actual results differing from our assumptions are accumulated and amortized over future periods and, therefore, generally affect our recognized expense in such future periods.  Changes in other assumptions and future investment returns could potentially have a material impact on our pension and postretirement expenses and related funding requirements.








          The effect of a change in certain assumptions is shown below:


 

 

Estimated Change
in Projected
Benefit Obligation
Increase (Decrease)
(in 000’s)

 

Estimated Change in
Annual Expense
Increase (Decrease)
(in 000’s)

Change in Assumption (Pension and Postretirement Plans)

 

 

 

 

     1% increase in discount rate

 

$  (15,727)       

 

$     (960)         

     1% decrease in discount rate

 

$   18,434         

 

$      106           

 

 

 

 

 

     1% increase in salary increase assumption

 

$     1,346         

 

$      319           

     1% decrease in salary increase assumption

 

$   (1,276)        

 

$    (939)          

 

 

 

 

 

     1% increase in cash balance crediting rate

 

$     1,377         

 

$      252           

     1% decrease in cash balance crediting rate

 

$   (1,207)        

 

$    (153)          

 

 

 

 

 

     1% increase in rate of return on assets

 

 

 

$    (877)          

     1% decrease in rate of return on assets

 

 

 

$     877            







Changes in assumptions for other post retirement benefits are no longer applicable as the benefit is capped and no longer subject to inflation.  See Note M “Employee Benefits” to the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” for further information.








Other Estimates and Assumptions

Other management estimates and assumptions are routinely required in preparing our financial statements, including the determination of valuation allowances on accounts receivable, value-added tax credits in Brazil and the current year write-down of our Zimbabwe investment to zero. Changes in market and economic conditions, local tax laws, and other related factors are considered each reporting period, and adjustments to the accounts are made based on our best judgment.


New Accounting Standards


On September 15, 2006, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued SFAS No. 157, Fair Value Measurements, which defines fair value, establishes a new framework for measuring that value and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. SFAS No. 157 defines fair value as the exchange price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability (an exit price) in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. SFAS No. 157 established market or observable inputs as the preferred source of values, followed by assumptions based on hypothetical transactions in the absence of market inputs. SFAS No. 157 will require, among other things, expanded disclosure about fair value measurements that have a significant portion of the value determined using unobservable inputs (level 3 measurements). It also will apply to fair value measurements of non-financial assets acquired and liabilities assumed in business combinations. SFAS No. 157 is effective for the Company as of April 1, 2008.  The Company is evaluating the impact of SFAS No. 157 on its financial condition and results of operations.


          On February 15, 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 159, The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities. SFAS No. 159 permits companies to elect to report individual financial instruments and certain other items at fair value with changes in value reported in operations. Once made, this election is irrevocable for those items.  SFAS No. 159 is effective for the Company as of April 1, 2008. The Company is evaluating the impact of SFAS No. 159 on its financial condition and results of operations.


          On December 4, 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 141R, Business Combinations. This standard will significantly change the accounting for business acquisitions both during the period of the acquisition and in subsequent periods. Among the more significant changes  in the accounting for acquisitions are the following: (a) transaction costs will generally be expensed, (b) in-process research and development will be accounted for as an asset, with the cost recognized as the research and development is realized or abandoned, (c) contingencies, including contingent consideration, will generally be  recorded  at fair value with subsequent adjustments recognized in operations, and (d) decreases in valuation allowances on acquired deferred tax assets will be recognized in operations. SFAS No. 141R is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008.  The Company is evaluating the impact of SFAS No. 141R on its financial condition and results of operations.


          On December 4, 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 160, Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements. This standard will significantly change the accounting and reporting related to noncontrolling interests in a consolidated subsidiary. It will require noncontrolling interests (or minority interests) to be reported as a component of shareholders’ equity, which is change from its current classification between liabilities and shareholders’ equity. It also requires earnings attributable to minority interests to be included in net earnings, although such earnings will continue to be deducted to measure earnings per share.  SFAS No. 160 is effective for the Company as of April 1, 2009. The Company is evaluating the impact of SFAS No. 160 on its financial condition and results of operations.


          In March 2008, the FASB issued SFAS No. 161, Disclosures about Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities, An Amendment of FASB Statement No. 133 (“SFAS No. 161”). SFAS No. 161 requires enhanced qualitative disclosures about objectives and strategies for using derivatives, quantitative disclosures about fair value amounts and gains and losses on derivative instruments, and disclosures about credit-risk-related contingent features in derivative agreements. SFAS No. 161 is effective for interim periods and fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2008. SFAS No. 161 is effective for the Company as of January 1, 2009. The Company is evaluating the impact of SFAS No. 161 on its financial condition and results of operations.










ITEM 7A.    QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT

                     MARKET RISK


Derivatives Policies:  We manage interest rate exposure using swaps and foreign exchange exposure using forward and option contracts. These derivative instruments are contemplated to manage and reduce specific risks inherent in interest rate and currency fluctuations.  We do not utilize derivatives for speculative purposes, and we do not enter into market risk sensitive instruments for trading purposes.

          In accordance with SFAS No. 133, “Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities,” we recognize all derivative financial instruments, such as interest rate swap contracts and foreign exchange contracts, in the consolidated financial statements at fair value.  Changes in the fair value of derivative financial instruments are either recognized periodically in income or in shareholders’ equity as a component of other comprehensive income depending on whether the derivative financial instrument qualifies for hedge accounting, and if so, whether it qualifies as a fair value hedge or a cash flow hedge.  Changes in fair values of derivatives accounted for as fair value hedges are recorded in income.  Changes in fair values of derivatives accounted for as cash flow hedges, to the extent they are effective as hedges, are recorded in other comprehensive income net of deferred taxes.  Changes in fair values of derivatives not qualifying as hedges are reported in income. See also Note F “Derivative and Other Financial Instruments” to the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.”

 

Foreign exchange rates:  Our business is generally conducted in U.S. dollars, as is the business of the leaf tobacco industry as a whole.  However, local country operating costs, including the purchasing and processing costs for tobaccos, are subject to the effects of exchange fluctuations of the local currency against the U.S. dollar.  The recent weakening of the U.S. dollar relative to foreign currencies in which we incur purchasing and processing costs, particularly the Brazilian real, can significantly affect our operating results.  We minimize such currency risks by entering into derivative instruments to offset specific operating costs and by matching the timing of our working capital borrowing needs against the tobacco purchasing and processing funds requirements in the currency of the country where the tobacco is grown.  In our statement of income, we have recognized an exchange gain of $4.1 million for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2008, a loss of $0.2 million for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2007 and a gain of $2.3 million for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2006.  In addition, foreign currency fluctuations in the Euro and (U.K.) Sterling can significantly impact the currency translation adjustment component of accumulated other comprehensive income.  We recognized gains of $6.5 million in 2008 and $9.5 million in 2007 as a result of fluctuations in these currencies.

          Our consolidated selling, general and administrative (SG&A) expenses denominated in foreign currencies are subject to translation risks from currency exchange fluctuations.  These foreign denominated expenses accounted for approximately 33% or $52.1 million of our total SG&A expenses for the twelve months ended March 31, 2008.  A 10% change in the value of the U.S. dollar relative to those currencies would have caused the reported value of those expenses to increase or decrease by approximately $5.2 million.

 

Interest rates:  We manage our exposure to interest rate risk through the proportion of fixed rate and variable rate debt in our total debt portfolio.  A 10% change in interest rates would increase or decrease our reported interest cost by approximately $8.9 million.  Substantially all of our long-term borrowings are denominated in U.S. dollars.









ITEM 8.    FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA

 

  STATEMENTS OF CONSOLIDATED OPERATIONS AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
  
Alliance One International, Inc. and Subsidiaries

 

 

 

Years Ended March 31,

(in thousands, except per share data)

2008

2007

2006

Sales and other operating revenues

$ 2,011,503   

$ 1,979,078   

$ 2,112,685    

Cost of goods and services sold

1,761,111   

1,683,339   

1,888,000    

Gross profit

250,392   

295,739   

224,685    

Selling, administrative and general expenses

157,405   

158,342   

164,087    

Other income, net

20,188   

6,076   

2,501    

Goodwill impairment

-   

-   

256,916    

Restructuring and asset impairment charges

19,580   

29,773   

85,411    

 

Operating income (loss)

93,595   

113,700   

(279,228)   

Debt retirement expense

5,909   

3,860   

66,474    

Interest expense

101,885   

105,635   

108,585    

Interest income

16,245   

8,591   

7,107    

Derivative financial instruments income

-   

290   

5,092    

Income (loss) before income taxes and other items

2,046   

13,086   

(442,088)   

Income tax expense (benefit)

(5,499)  

16,062   

(17,531)   

Equity in net income of investee companies

1,829   

1,014   

999    

Minority interests expense (income)

368   

653   

(216)   

 

 

 

 

Income (loss) from continuing operations

9,006   

(2,615)  

(423,342)   

Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax

7,855   

(18,730)  

(24,104)   

Cumulative effect of accounting changes, net of income taxes

-   

(252)  

-    

 

 

 

 

NET INCOME (LOSS)

$    16,861   

$    (21,597)  

$   (447,446)   

Other comprehensive income (loss):

 

 

 

 

Net income (loss)

$    16,861   

$    (21,597)  

$   (447,446)   

 

Currency translation adjustment

6,496   

9,521   

(7,506)   

 

Pension adjustment, net of tax $3,450 in 2008,

 

 

 

 

     $241 in 2007 and $554 in 2006

(6,949)  

639   

843    

Total comprehensive income (loss)

$    16,408   

$    (11,437)  

$   (454,109)   

 

 

 

 

Basic Earnings (Loss) Per Share

 

 

 

     Income (loss) from continuing operations

$0.10   

$(0.03)  

$(5.21)   

     Income (loss) from discontinued operations

0.09   

(0.22)  

(0.30)   

     Cumulative effect of accounting changes, net of income taxes

-   

-   

-    

     Net income (loss)

$0.19   

$(0.25)  

$(5.51)   

 

 

 

 

Diluted Earnings (Loss) Per Share

 

 

 

     Income (loss) from continuing operations

$0.10   

$(0.03)  

$(5.21)   

     Income (loss) from discontinued operations

0.09   

(0.22)  

(0.30)   

     Cumulative effect of accounting changes, net of income taxes

-   

-   

-    

     Net income (loss)

$0.19   

$(0.25)  

$(5.51)   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  See notes to consolidated financial statements.


 








ITEM 8.    FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (Continued)

 

 

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET
Alliance One International, Inc. and Subsidiaries

 

 

March 31,

 

March 31,

 

(in thousands)

2008    

 

2007    

 

ASSETS

 

 

 

 

Current assets

 

 

 

 

   Cash and cash equivalents

$   112,214 

 

$     80,258 

 

   Trade and other receivables, net

180,997 

 

217,761 

 

   Inventories:

 

 

 

 

      Tobacco

649,555 

 

619,468 

 

      Other

39,267 

 

31,623 

 

   Advances on purchases of tobacco, net

112,989 

 

79,249 

 

   Current deferred and recoverable income taxes

33,677 

 

33,254 

 

   Prepaid expenses

50,668 

 

48,600 

 

   Assets held for sale

4,885 

 

2,793 

 

   Other current assets

7,382 

 

5,793 

 

   Assets of discontinued operations

236 

 

12,835 

 

   Total current assets

1,191,870 

 

1,131,634 

 

Other assets

 

 

 

 

   Investments in unconsolidated affiliates

21,582 

 

21,302 

 

   Goodwill and other intangible assets

37,999 

 

35,109 

 

   Deferred income taxes

96,110 

 

69,002 

 

   Other deferred charges

11,417 

 

18,136 

 

   Other noncurrent assets

135,610 

 

116,621 

 

 

302,718 

 

260,170 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Property, plant and equipment, net

218,277 

 

262,068 

 

 

$1,712,865 

 

$1,653,872 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

 

 

 

 

Current liabilities

 

 

 

 

   Notes payable to banks

$   387,157 

 

$   179,097 

 

   Accounts payable

158,471 

 

188,003 

 

   Advances from customers

91,919 

 

125,403 

 

   Accrued expenses

88,503 

 

65,077 

 

   Income taxes

6,522 

 

26,461 

 

   Long-term debt current

19,004 

 

5,231 

 

   Liabilities of discontinued operations

81 

 

10,379 

 

         Total current liabilities

751,657 

 

599,651 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Long-term debt

563,973 

 

726,625 

 

Deferred income taxes

10,527 

 

10,895 

 

Liability for unrecognized tax benefits

53,370 

 

 

Pension, postretirement and other long-term liabilities

118,248 

 

87,730 

 

 

746,118 

 

825,250 

 

 

 

 

Minority interest in subsidiaries

3,623 

 

3,425 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Commitments and contingencies

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Stockholders’ equity

 

 

 

 

   Common stock—no par value:

 

 

 

 

      250,000 authorized shares, 96,750 issued and 88,897 outstanding
         (88,614 at March 31, 2007)

462,798 

 

459,563 

 

   Retained deficit

(258,395)

 

(241,534)

 

   Accumulated other comprehensive income

7,064 

 

7,517 

 

 

211,467 

 

225,546 

 

 

$1,712,865 

 

$1,653,872 

 

 

 

 

 

 

See notes to consolidated financial statements.











ITEM 8.    FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (Continued)

 

 

STATEMENT OF CONSOLIDATED STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Alliance One International, Inc. and Subsidiaries

 

 

 

Accumulated
Other Comprehensive Income

 

(in thousands,
except per share amounts)

Common
Stock  

Unearned
Compensation

Retained
Deficit

Currency
Translation
Adjustment

Pensions,
Net of Tax

Total
Stockholders’
Equity

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Balance, March 31, 2005

$186,784 

$     (1,611)

$ 236,606 

$ (3,357)  

$(4,110)  

$ 414,312    

Net loss for the year

(447,446)

-   

-    

(447,446)   

Cash dividends -$.105 per share

(9,097)

-   

-    

(9,097)   

Stock issued in connection with

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

the merger

261,905 

(2,463)

-   

-    

259,442    

Issue of 418,500 shares of

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

restricted stock

2,039 

(2,039)

-   

-    

-    

Earned compensation

(231)

2,896 

-   

-    

2,665    

Exercise of employee stock

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

options

913 

-   

-    

913    

Restricted stock surrendered

(83)

83 

-   

-    

-    

Deferred stock compensation

61 

-   

-    

61    

Conversion of foreign currency

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

financial statements

(7,506)  

-    

(7,506)   

Adjustment in the minimum

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

pension liability

-   

843   

843    

 

Balance, March 31, 2006

$451,388 

$     (3,134)

$(219,937)

$(10,863)  

$(3,267)  

$ 214,187    

Net loss for the year

(21,597)

-   

-   

(21,597)   

Adoption of FAS 123R

(3,134)

3,134 

-   

-   

-    

Restricted stock surrendered

(452)

-   

-   

(452)   

Earned compensation

2,965 

-   

-   

2,965    

Exercise of employee stock

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

options

7,266 

-   

-   

7,266    

Stock-based compensation

1,530 

-   

-   

1,530    

Conversion of foreign currency

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

financial statements

9,521   

-   

9,521    

Adjustment in the minimum

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

pension liability

-   

639   

639    

Adoption of FAS 158

-   

11,487   

11,487    

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Balance, March 31, 2007

$459,563 

$              - 

$(241,534)

$    (1,342)  

$  8,859   

$ 225,546    

Net income for the year

16,861 

-   

-   

16,861    

Restricted stock surrendered

(1,479)

-   

-   

(1,479)   

Exercise of employee stock

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

options

1,625 

-   

-   

1,625    

Stock-based compensation

3,089 

-   

-   

3,089    

Conversion of foreign currency

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

financial statements

6,496   

-   

6,496    

Adjustment in pensions

-   

(6,949)  

(6,949)   

Adoption of FIN 48

(33,722)

-   

-   

(33,722)   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Balance, March 31, 2008

$462,798 

$                  - 

$(258,395)

$   5,154   

$ 1,910   

$ 211,467    

 

 

See notes to consolidated financial statements.


 










ITEM 8.    FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (Continued)

 

 

STATEMENT OF CONSOLIDATED CASH FLOWS

Alliance One International, Inc. and Subsidiaries

 

 

 

Years Ended March 31,

 

(in thousands)

2008

2007

2006

 

Operating activities

 

 

 

 

   Net Income (Loss)

$ 16,861    

$ (21,597)   

$ (447,446)    

 

   Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided

 

 

 

 

         by operating activities of continuing operations:

 

 

 

 

      Net (income) loss from discontinued operations

(7,855)   

18,730    

24,104     

 

      Depreciation and amortization

34,558    

36,293    

43,511     

 

      Debt amortization and debt retirement expense

9,499    

10,248    

5,457     

 

      Restructuring and asset impairment charges

12,673    

22,098    

69,243     

 

      Goodwill impairment

-    

-    

256,916     

 

      Deferred items

4,528    

(16,529)   

(67,039)    

 

      (Gain) loss on foreign currency transactions

(4,073)   

168    

(2,313)    

 

      Gain on disposition of fixed assets

(21,987)   

(4,885)   

(888)    

 

      Bad debt expense

1,356    

(136)   

127     

 

      Decrease in trade and other receivables

40,784    

105,584    

1,437     

 

      Minority interests expense (income)

368    

653    

(216)    

 

      Decrease (increase) in inventories and advances

 

 

 

 

         on purchases of tobacco

(45,093)   

205,611    

59,934     

 

      Decrease (increase) in current deferred

 

 

 

 

         and recoverable taxes

(10,795)   

(5,709)   

5,644     

 

      Increase (decrease) in accounts payable and accrued expenses

38,078    

(85,420)   

(12,568)    

 

      Increase (decrease) in advances from customers

(34,156)   

(103,504)   

149,209     

 

      Increase (decrease) in income taxes

(1,811)   

7,330    

4,983     

 

      Stock based compensation

2,092    

4,436    

-      

 

      Excess tax benefits from share-based payment arrangements

(668)   

-    

-      

 

      Increase in other current assets

(1,295)   

(2,818)   

(19,513)    

 

      Other

6,353    

1,571    

1,919     

 

         Net cash provided by operating activities

 

 

 

 

            of continuing operations

39,417    

172,124    

72,501     

 

         Net cash provided (used) by operating activities

 

 

 

 

            of discontinued operations

(1,588)   

15,349    

19,932     

 

         Net cash provided by operating activities

37,829    

187,473    

92,433     

 

 

 

 

 

Investing activities

 

 

 

 

   Purchase of property and equipment

(17,899)   

(15,224)   

(19,773)    

 

   Proceeds from sale of property and equipment

50,592    

25,537    

17,963     

 

   Cash received (distributed) in disposition of business

15,033    

(5,204)   

-     

 

   Cash received in acquisition of business

-    

-    

42,019     

 

   Return of capital on investments in unconsolidated affiliates

9,520    

10,049    

-     

 

   Increase in restricted cash

(450)   

-    

-     

 

   Surrender of life insurance policies

-    

22,421    

2,558     

 

   Redemption of Brazilian escrow deposits

-    

8,760    

705     

 

   Refinancing of Brazilian farmers

(7,132)   

-    

-     

 

   Payments for other assets

(3,935)   

(3,023)   

(143)    

 

      Net cash provided by investing activities

 

 

 

 

            of continuing operations

45,729    

43,316    

43,329     

 

      Net cash provided by investing activities

 

 

 

 

            of discontinued operations

11,632    

995    

-     

 

      Net cash provided by investing activities

57,361    

44,311    

43,329     











ITEM 8.    FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (Continued)

 

 

STATEMENT OF CONSOLIDATED CASH FLOWS (Continued)

Alliance One International, Inc. and Subsidiaries

 

 

 

Years Ended March 31,

 

(in thousands)

2008

2007

2006

 

Financing activities

 

 

 

 

   Net change in short-term demand notes

$ 124,696    

$(138,124)   

$ (349,289)   

 

   Proceeds from short-term borrowings

65,263    

-    

-    

 

   Repayment of short-term borrowings

(71,611)   

-    

-    

 

   Proceeds from long-term borrowings

13,546    

563,368    

1,220,231    

 

   Repayment of long-term borrowings

(199,825)   

(603,779)   

(961,172)   

 

   Debt issuance/retirement costs

(2,784)   

(7,786)   

(25,299)   

 

   Proceeds from sale of stock

1,632    

7,259    

905    

 

   Excess tax benefits from share-based payment arrangements

668    

-    

-    

 

   Cash dividends

-    

-    

(9,096)   

 

      Net cash used by financing activities

(68,415)    

(179,062)   

(123,720)   

 

 

 

 

 

 

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash

5,181    

1,551    

(8,705)   

 

Cash from deconsolidated Zimbabwe subsidiaries

-    

-    

(6,480)   

 

 

 

 

 

 

Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

31,956    

54,273    

(3,143)   

 

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year

80,258    

25,985    

29,128    

 

         Cash and cash equivalents at end of year

$ 112,214    

$   80,258    

$    25,985    

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other information:

 

 

 

 

   Cash paid during the year:

 

 

 

 

      Interest

$   94,888    

$ 121,068    

$    93,689    

 

      Income taxes

9,969    

13,483    

10,167    

 

 

 

See notes to consolidated financial statements.












NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Alliance One International, Inc. and Subsidiaries
(in thousands)


Note A – Significant Accounting Policies


Description of Business

The Company is principally engaged in purchasing, processing, storing, and selling leaf tobacco.  The Company purchases tobacco primarily in the United States, Africa, Europe, South America and Asia for sale to customers primarily in the United States, Europe and Asia.


Basis of Presentation

The Company was renamed Alliance One International, Inc. (Alliance One) concurrent with the merger of Standard Commercial Corporation (Standard) on May 13, 2005 with and into DIMON Incorporated.  Because the merger was completed after the close of the fiscal year ended March 31, 2005, the information contained in these consolidated financial statements for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2006 includes the operations of Standard since May 13, 2005 and a full twelve months of results of DIMON Incorporated.

          The accounts of the Company and its consolidated subsidiaries are included in the consolidated financial statements after elimination of intercompany accounts and transactions.  The Company uses the equity method of accounting for its investments in affiliates that are owned 50% or less.  The Company evaluates its equity investments for consolidation pursuant to Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) Interpretation No. (FIN) 46R, Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities, an Interpretation of Accounting Research Bulletin No. 51 (FIN 46R) and Accounting Research Bulletin No. 51, Consolidated Financial Statements (ARB 51). FIN 46R focuses on controlling financial interests that may be achieved through arrangements that do not involve voting interests. A variable interest entity (VIE) is a legal structure that does not have equity investors with voting rights or has equity investors that do not provide sufficient financial resources for the entity to support its activities. FIN 46R requires that a VIE be consolidated by a company if that company is the primary beneficiary of the VIE. The primary beneficiary of a VIE is an entity that is subject to a majority of the risk of loss from the VIE's activities or entitled to receive a majority of the VIE's residual returns or both.

          As of March 31, 2006, the Company deconsolidated its operations in Zimbabwe under accounting requirements that apply under certain conditions to foreign subsidiaries that are subject to foreign exchange controls and other government restrictions. After the deconsolidation, a non-cash impairment charge was recorded to reduce the net investment in Zimbabwe operations to estimated fair value. The Company accounts for the investment on the cost method and reports it in Investments in Unconsolidated Affiliates in the consolidated balance sheets. As economic and political conditions continued to decline in fiscal 2007, lending rates and investment rates deteriorated and the investment in the Zimbabwe operations was written down to zero during fiscal 2007.  See Note D “Restructuring and Asset Impairment Charges” to the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” for further information.


Investments in Unconsolidated Affiliates

The Company’s equity method investments and its cost method investments, including its Zimbabwe operations, are non-marketable securities. The Company reviews such investments for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an investment may not be recovered. For example, the Company would test such an investment for impairment if the investee were to lose a significant customer, suffer a large reduction in sales margins, experience a major change in its business environment, or undergo any other significant change in its normal business. In assessing the recoverability of equity or cost method investments, the Company uses discounted cash flow models. If the fair value of an equity investee is determined to be lower than its carrying value, an impairment loss is recognized. The preparation of discounted future operating cash flow analysis requires significant management judgment with respect to future operating earnings growth rates and the selection of an appropriate discount rate. The use of different assumptions could increase or decrease estimated future operating cash flows, and the discounted value of those cash flows, and therefore could increase or decrease any impairment charge.








Use of Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States requires management to make estimates and assumptions.  These estimates and assumptions affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities.  They also affect the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period.  Actual results could differ from these estimates, and changes in these estimates are recorded when known.  Estimates are used in accounting for, among other things, pension and postretirement health care benefits, inventory market values, allowances for doubtful accounts and advances, bank loan guarantees to growers, useful lives for depreciation and amortization, stock options, future cash flows associated with impairment testing for goodwill and long-lived assets and for determining the primary beneficiary of variable interest entities, deferred tax assets and uncertain income tax positions, value-added tax credits in Brazil, the determination of the fair value of the investment in Zimbabwe operations, purchase accounting fair value determinations and contingencies. Changes in market and economic conditions, local tax laws, and other related factors are considered each reporting period, and adjustments to the accounts are made based on the Company’s best judgment.


Revenue Recognition

The Company recognizes revenue when persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, the price to the customer is fixed or determinable, collectibility is reasonably assured and title and risk of ownership is passed to the customer, which is upon shipment or delivery.  

          The Company also processes tobacco owned by its customers and revenue is recognized when the processing is completed.  In addition, advances from customers are recognized as revenue upon shipment or delivery.


Shipping and Handling

Shipping and handling costs are included in cost of goods and services sold in the statement of operations.


Other Income

Other Income consists primarily of gains on sales of property, plant and equipment and assets held for sale.  This caption also includes expenses related to the Company’s sale of receivables.  See Note Q “Sale of Receivables” to the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” for further information.  The following table summarizes the significant components of Other Income.


 

Years Ending March 31,

 

2008

2007

2006

 

 

 

 

Malawi factory sale

$  9,500 

$         - 

$        - 

Greece factory and other property sales

6,990 

Brazil factory sale

2,815 

Other sales of assets

4,182 

5,035 

870 

Recovery of pre-1991 Gulf War Iraqi receivables

2,748 

1,631 

Losses on sale of receivables

(3,299)

(1,707)

 

$20,188 

$ 6,076 

$2,501 








Cash and Cash Equivalents

Cash equivalents are defined as temporary investments of cash with original maturities of less than 90 days.  At March 31, 2008, $450 of cash held on deposit as a compensating balance for short-term borrowings was included in other current assets.  There were no compensating balances as of March 31, 2007.


Trade and Other Receivables

Trade and other receivables consist of $171,063 of trade receivables and $9,934 of other receivables at March 31, 2008. The balances at March 31, 2007 were $202,786 and $14,975 for trade receivables and other receivables, respectively.

          Trade receivables are amounts owed to the Company from its customers. Trade receivables are recorded at invoiced amounts and primarily have net 30 day terms. The Company extends credit to its customers based on an evaluation of a company’s financial condition and collateral is generally not required.

          The Company maintains an allowance for doubtful accounts for estimated uncollectible accounts receivable. The allowance is based on the Company’s assessment of known delinquent accounts, other currently available evidence of collectibility and the aging of accounts receivable. The Company’s allowance for doubtful accounts was $10,033 and $3,392 at March 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively.  The provision for doubtful accounts was $2,124, $1,325 and $415 for the years ending March 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006, respectively and is reported in selling, administrative and general expenses in the consolidated statement of operations.

          Other receivables consist primarily of value added tax (VAT) receivables of $8,137 and $10,127 at March 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively.


Sale of Accounts Receivable

The Company is engaged in a revolving trade accounts receivable securitization agreement to sell receivables to a third party limited liability company.  In accordance with SFAS No. 140, “Accounting for Transfers and Servicing of Financial Assets and Extinguishments of Liabilities,” the Company records the transaction as a sale of receivables, removes such receivables from its financial statements and records a receivable for the retained interest in such receivables.  The losses on the sale of receivables are recognized in Other Income.  As of March 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively, accounts receivable sold and outstanding were $70,862 and $31,282.  See Note Q “Sale of Receivables” to the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” for further information.


Inventories

Inventories are valued at the lower of cost or market.  Inventories are reviewed and adjusted for changes in market value based on assumptions related to future demand and worldwide and local market conditions.  If actual demand is lower or market conditions vary unfavorably from those projected by management, adjustments to lower of cost or market value may be required.  Inventory write-downs for the years ended March 31, 2008 and March 31, 2007 were $1,900 and $14,600, respectively

          Costs of tobacco inventories are generally determined by the average cost method while costs of other inventories are generally determined by the first in, first out method.  Costs included in tobacco inventory include both the cost of raw material as well as direct and indirect costs that are related to the processing of the product.  Tobacco inventory is substantially finished goods.  Costs included in other inventories are costs of spare parts, packing materials, non-tobacco agricultural products and agricultural supplies including seed, fertilizer, herbicides and pesticides.  Interest and other carrying charges on the inventories are expensed in the period in which they are incurred.


Goodwill and Other Intangibles

Goodwill represents the excess of purchase price over fair value of net assets acquired, and is allocated to the appropriate reporting unit when acquired. Goodwill is not amortized; rather it is evaluated for impairment annually or whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the value of the asset may be impaired.  Goodwill is evaluated for impairment by determining the fair value of the related reporting unit. Fair value is measured based on a discounted cash flow method or relative market-based approach. When the carrying amount of goodwill exceeds its fair value, an impairment charge is recorded.

          The Company has no intangible assets with indefinite useful lives. It does have other intangible assets, production and supply contracts and a customer relationship intangible, recorded in connection with the merger, as well as internally developed software that is capitalized into intangibles.  These intangible assets are stated at fair value as determined by a valuation technique commensurate with the intended use of the related asset.  Supply contracts are amortized primarily on a straight-line basis over the term of the contract ranging from three to five years.  Production contracts and the customer relationship intangible are both amortized on a straight-line basis ranging from five to ten years and twenty years, respectively.  The amortization period is the term of the contract or, if no term is specified in the contract, management’s best estimate of the useful life based on past experience.  Internally developed software will be amortized on a straight-line basis over five years once the software testing is complete.  Events and changes in circumstance may either result in a revision in the estimated useful life or impairment of an intangible resulting in revaluation of the asset value to its fair value.  See Note E “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets” to the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” for further information.


Other Noncurrent Assets

Other noncurrent assets consist primarily of long-term VAT receivables and long-term advances to suppliers.  The balance of VAT receivables was $48,641 and $42,972 at March 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively.  The balance of long term advances to suppliers was $59,640 and $44,297 at March 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively.


Property, Plant and Equipment

Property, plant and equipment at March 31, 2008 and 2007, are summarized as follows:


 

2008         

 

2007             

 

   Land

$  21,678       

 

$  25,802           

 

   Buildings

161,855       

 

182,389           

 

   Machinery and equipment

177,223       

 

197,565           

 

      Total

360,756       

 

405,756           

 

   Less accumulated depreciation

142,479       

 

143,688           

 

          Total property, plant and equipment, net

$218,277       

 

$262,068           

 


          Property, plant and equipment is stated at cost less accumulated depreciation.  Provisions for depreciation are computed on a straight-line basis at annual rates calculated to amortize the cost of depreciable properties over their estimated useful lives.  Buildings, machinery and equipment and technological equipment are depreciated over ranges of 20 to 30 years, 5 to 10 years and 3 to 5 years, respectively.  Depreciation expense recorded in cost of goods and services sold for the years ended March 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006 was $28,009, $27,503, and $32,857, respectively.  Depreciation expense recorded in selling, administrative and general expense for the years ended March 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006 was $4,232, $5,896 and $7,041, respectively.  For fiscal 2008, total property and equipment purchases, including internally developed software intangibles, were $23,903 of which $3,643 was unpaid at March 31, 2008 and included in accounts payable.

          Estimated useful lives are periodically reviewed and changes are made to the estimated useful lives when necessary. Long-lived assets are reviewed for indicators of impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable.  The evaluation is performed at the lowest level of identifiable cash flows.  An impairment loss would be recognized when estimated undiscounted future cash flows from the use of the asset and its eventual disposition are less than its carrying amount. Measurement of an impairment loss would be based on the excess of the carrying amount of the asset over its fair value. Fair value is the amount at which the asset could be bought or sold in a current transaction between willing parties and may be estimated using a number of techniques, including quoted market prices or valuations, present value techniques based on estimates of cash flows, or multiples of earnings or revenue performance measures.  See Note D “Restructuring and Asset Impairment Charges” to the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” for further information.

          Under SFAS No. 144, a component of a business that is either disposed of or held for sale is reported as discontinued operations if the operations and cash flows have been reclassified from ongoing operations and there will be no significant involvement in such operations in the future.  The Company has made such decisions concerning tobacco operations in Italy and Mozambique, a U.S. non-tobacco processing facility and its wool operations.  These operations are reported as discontinued operations in the financial statements and have resulted in income of $7,855 in 2008 and losses of $18,730 and $24,104 in the years 2007 and 2006, respectively.  See Note C “Discontinued Operations” to the "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements" for further information.


Assets Held For Sale

The Company classifies assets as “Assets Held For Sale” when the company has committed to a plan to sell the assets, including the initiation of a plan to locate a buyer, the assets are available for immediate sale, and it is probable that the assets will be sold within one year based on its current condition and sales price.  Upon classifying the assets as held for sale, the assets are recorded at the lower of historical cost or fair value less selling costs and depreciation is discontinued.  Assets classified as held for sale were $4,885 and $2,793 at March 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively.


Derivative Financial Instruments

The Company uses forward or option currency contracts to protect against volatility associated with certain non-U.S. dollar denominated forecasted transactions.  The Company does not currently deem underlying criteria to be perfectly matched and therefore does not believe the currency contracts qualify for hedge accounting as defined by SFAS No. 133.  As a result, the Company has recorded income of $834, $12,914 and $1,606 in its cost of goods and services sold for the years ended March 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006, respectively.  The Company has also recorded expense of $94 in its selling, administrative and general expenses for the year ended March 31, 2008.  In fiscal years 2007 and 2006 the Company also utilized interest rate swaps to convert a portion of its debt from floating rate to fixed rate to reduce interest rate volatility.  These instruments did not qualify for hedge accounting under SFAS No. 133 and resulted in non-cash income of $290 and $5,092 for March 31, 2007 and 2006, respectively.  See Note F “Derivative and Other Financial Instruments” to the "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements" for further information.


Income Taxes

The Company uses the asset and liability method to account for income taxes. The objective of the asset and liability method is to establish deferred tax assets and liabilities for the temporary differences between the financial reporting basis and the income tax basis of the Company’s assets and liabilities at enacted tax rates expected to be in effect when such amounts are realized or settled.

          The Company’s annual tax rate is based on its income, statutory tax rates and tax planning opportunities available to it in the various jurisdictions in which it operates. Tax laws are complex and subject to different interpretations by the taxpayer and respective governmental taxing authorities. Significant judgment is required in determining tax expense and in evaluating tax positions, including evaluating uncertainties under Financial Accounting Standards Board Interpretation 48, Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes (“FIN 48”). The Company reviews its tax positions quarterly and adjusts the balances as new information becomes available.

          Deferred income tax assets represent amounts available to reduce income taxes payable on taxable income in future years. Such assets arise because of temporary differences between the financial reporting and tax bases of assets and liabilities, as well as from net operating loss and tax credit carryforwards. The Company evaluates the recoverability of these future tax deductions by assessing the adequacy of future expected taxable income from all sources, including reversal of taxable temporary differences, forecasted operating earnings and available tax planning strategies. These sources of income inherently rely heavily on estimates. The Company uses historical experience and short and long-range business forecasts to provide insight.  The Company believes it is more likely than not that a portion of the deferred income tax assets may expire unused and has established a valuation allowance against them. Although realization is not assured for the remaining deferred income tax assets, the Company believes it is more likely than not the deferred tax assets will be fully recoverable within the applicable statutory expiration periods. However, deferred tax assets could be reduced in the near term if estimates of taxable income are significantly reduced or available tax planning strategies are no longer viable.  See Note L “Income Taxes” and Note P “Contingencies and Other Information” to the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” for further information.


Stock-Based Compensation

On April 1, 2006, the Company adopted SFAS No. 123(R), Share-Based Payment.  This statement requires the Company to expense the fair value of grants of various stock-based compensation programs at fair value over the vesting period of the awards.  The Company elected to adopt this statement using the “Modified Prospective Application” (MPA) transition method which does not result in the restatement of previously issued financial statements.  Application of the MPA transition method requires compensation costs to be recognized beginning on the effective date for the estimated fair value at date of grant in accordance with the original provision of SFAS No. 123, Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation, for all stock-based compensation awards granted prior to, but not yet vested as of April 1, 2006.  Awards granted after April 1, 2006 have been recognized as compensation expense based on the grant-date fair value estimated in accordance with the provisions of SFAS No. 123(R).  The MPA transition method also required that any unearned or deferred compensation recorded in “contra-equity” accounts be eliminated against the equity accounts that will be affected by the on-going recognition of stock based compensation.  Accordingly, on April 1, 2006, the Company reclassified $3,134 from Unearned Compensation – Restricted Stock to Common Stock.  The fair value of stock options is estimated at the date of grant using the Black-Scholes-Merton option valuation model which was developed for use in estimating the fair value of exchange traded options that have no vesting restrictions and are fully transferable. Option valuation methods require the input of highly subjective assumptions, including the expected stock price volatility.  See Note K “Stock-Based Compensation” to the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” for further information.  


New Accounting Standards

On September 15, 2006, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued SFAS No. 157, Fair Value Measurements, which defines fair value, establishes a new framework for measuring that value and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. SFAS No. 157 defines fair value as the exchange price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability (an exit price) in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. SFAS No. 157 established market or observable inputs as the preferred source of values, followed by assumptions based on hypothetical transactions in the absence of market inputs. SFAS No. 157 will require, among other things, expanded disclosure about fair value measurements that have a significant portion of the value determined using unobservable inputs (level 3 measurements). It also will apply to fair value measurements of non-financial assets acquired and liabilities assumed in business combinations. SFAS No. 157 is effective for the Company as of April 1, 2008.  The Company is evaluating the impact of SFAS No. 157 on its financial condition and results of operations.

          On February 15, 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 159, The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities. SFAS No. 159 permits companies to elect to report individual financial instruments and certain other items at fair value with changes in value reported in operations. Once made, this election is irrevocable for those items.  SFAS No. 159 is effective for the Company as of April 1, 2008. The Company is evaluating the impact of SFAS No. 159 on its financial condition and results of operations.








          On December 4, 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 141R, Business Combinations. This standard will significantly change the accounting for business acquisitions both during the period of the acquisition and in subsequent periods. Among the more significant changes  in the accounting for acquisitions are the following: (a) transaction costs will generally be expensed, (b) in-process research and development will be accounted for as an asset, with the cost recognized as the research and development is realized or abandoned, (c) contingencies, including contingent consideration, will generally be  recorded  at fair value with subsequent adjustments recognized in operations, and (d) decreases in valuation allowances on acquired deferred tax assets will be recognized in operations. SFAS No. 141R is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008.  The Company is evaluating the impact of SFAS No. 141R on its financial condition and results of operations.

          On December 4, 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 160, Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements. This standard will significantly change the accounting and reporting related to noncontrolling interests in a consolidated subsidiary. It will require noncontrolling interests (or minority interests) to be reported as a component of shareholders’ equity, which is change from its current classification between liabilities and shareholders’ equity. It also requires earnings attributable to minority interests to be included in net earnings, although such earnings will continue to be deducted to measure earnings per share.  SFAS No. 160 is effective for the Company as of April 1, 2009. The Company is evaluating the impact of SFAS No. 160 on its financial condition and results of operations.

          In March 2008, the FASB issued SFAS No. 161, Disclosures about Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities, An Amendment of FASB Statement No. 133 (“SFAS No. 161”). SFAS No. 161 requires enhanced qualitative disclosures about objectives and strategies for using derivatives, quantitative disclosures about fair value amounts and gains and losses on derivative instruments, and disclosures about credit-risk-related contingent features in derivative agreements. SFAS No. 161 is effective for interim periods and fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2008. SFAS No. 161 is effective for the Company as of January 1, 2009. The Company is evaluating the impact of SFAS No. 161 on its financial condition and results of operations.


Computation of Earnings Per Common Share

 

Years Ended March 31,

(in thousands, except per share data)

2008

2007

2006

BASIC EARNINGS

 

 

 

   Income (loss) from continuing operations

$  9,006    

$  (2,615)  

$(423,342)   

   Income (loss) from discontinued operations

7,855    

(18,730)  

(24,104)   

   Cumulative effect of accounting changes

-    

(252)  

-    

   Net income (loss)

$  16,861    

$(21,597)  

$(447,446)   

 

 

 

 

SHARES

 

 

 

   Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding

88,100    

86,470   

81,220    

 

 

 

 

BASIC EARNINGS (LOSS) PER SHARE

 

 

 

   Income (loss) from continuing operations

$        .10    

$    (.03)  

$      (5.21)   

   Income (loss) from discontinued operations

.09    

(.22)  

(.30)   

   Cumulative effect of accounting changes

-    

-   

 -     

   Net income (loss)

$        .19    

$    (.25)  

$      (5.51)   

 

 

 

 

DILUTED EARNINGS

 

 

 

   Income (loss) from continuing operations

$  9,006    

$  (2,615)  

$(423,342)   

   Add after tax interest expense applicable to 6¼%

 

 

 

        Convertible Debentures issued April 1, 1997

-    

-   

-*   

 

 

 

 

   Income (loss) from continuing operations

9,006    

(2,615)  

(423,342)   

   Income (loss) from discontinued operations

7,855    

(18,730)  

(24,104)   

   Cumulative effect of accounting changes

-    

(252)  

-     

   Net income (loss) as adjusted

$  16,861    

$(21,597)  

$(447,446)* 

 

 

SHARES

 

   Weighted average number of common shares outstanding

88,100    

86,470   

81,220    

   Restricted shares issued and shares

 

 

 

      applicable to stock options, net of shares assumed to

 

 

 

      be purchased from proceeds at average market price

1,362    

-* 

-*  

   Assuming conversion of 6 ¼% Convertible

 

 

 

      Debentures at the beginning of the period

-    

-   

-*  

   Average Number of Shares Outstanding

89,462    

86,470* 

81,220*  

 

 

DILUTED EARNINGS (LOSS) PER SHARE

 

 

 

   Income (loss) from continuing operations

$.10    

$(.03)  

$(5.21)   

   Income (loss) from discontinued operations

.09    

(.22)  

(.30)   

   Cumulative effect of accounting changes

-     

-   

-     

   Net income (loss) as adjusted

$.19    

$(.25)*

$(5.51)* 

 

  *

Assumed conversion of Convertible Debentures into 2,549 shares at the beginning of the period and the reduction of after-tax interest expense by $811 for the year ended March 31, 2006 has an antidilutive effect on earnings (loss) per share. In connection with the closing of the merger with Standard many of the Company’s financing arrangements were refinanced, including in July of 2005, the Company’s $73,328 of convertible subordinated debentures due 2007.  For the years ended March 31, 2007 and March 31, 2006 all outstanding restricted stock and stock options of 854 and 2,473, and 1,068 and 3,763, respectively, are excluded because their inclusion would have an antidilutive effect on the loss per share.

 

 

 

 











Concentration of Credit Risk

The Company may potentially be subject to a concentration of credit risks due to cash and trade receivables relating to customers in the tobacco industry.  Cash is deposited with high-credit-quality financial institutions.  


Preferred Stock

The Board of Directors is authorized to issue shares of Preferred Stock in series with variations as to the number of shares in any series.  The Board of Directors also is authorized to establish the rights and privileges of such shares issued, including dividend and voting rights.  At March 31, 2008, 10,000 shares of preferred stock were authorized and no shares had been issued.


Note B – Advances on Purchases of Tobacco


The Company provides seasonal crop advances of, or for, seed, fertilizer, and other supplies. These advances are short term in nature, are repaid upon delivery of tobacco to the Company, and are reported in advances on purchases of tobacco in the consolidated balance sheet. Primarily in Brazil and certain African countries, the Company has made long-term advances to tobacco farmers to finance curing barns and other farm infrastructure. In addition, due to low crop yields and other factors, in some years individual farmers may not deliver sufficient volumes of tobacco to fully repay their seasonal advances, and the Company may extend repayment of those advances into future crop years. Current advances of $112,989 in 2008 and $79,249 in 2007 are presented as advances on purchases of tobacco, net in the consolidated balance sheet.  The long-term portion of advances of $59,640 in 2008 and $44,297 in 2007 are included in other noncurrent assets in the consolidated balance sheet. Both the current and the long-term portion of advances on purchases of tobacco are reported net of allowances.  Allowances are recorded when the Company determines that amounts outstanding are not likely to be collected. Total allowances were $94,536 at March 31, 2008, and $35,172 at March 31, 2007, and were estimated based on the Company’s historical loss information and crop projections. The allowances were increased by provisions for estimated uncollectible amounts of approximately $79,090 in fiscal year 2008, $40,854 in fiscal year 2007 and $18,162 in fiscal year 2006.  Estimated bad debt expense on current year advances are capitalized into inventory.  Write-downs charged against the allowance were $15,522, $36,010 and $2,816 for fiscal years 2008, 2007 and 2006, respectively.

          In Brazil, farmers obtain government subsidized rural credit financing which is guaranteed by the Company.  The farmers borrow these funds from local banks.  Repayment of both Company advances and rural credit financing by the farmer is concurrent with delivery of tobacco to the Company.  Terms of rural credit financing are such that repayment is due only after tobacco deliveries are complete.  At fiscal year end, the Company will generally have accumulated balances from farmers for repayment to the local banks for the rural credit financing.  As of March 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively, the Company had balances of $76,672 and $95,064 that were due to local banks on behalf of farmers.  These amounts are included in accounts payable in the consolidated balance sheet.  As of March 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively, the Company was guarantor for Brazilian farmer loans of $164,542 and $286,527 with outstanding amounts of $159,602 and $258,687.  The fair value of guarantees for rural credit financing was $19,000 and $14,796 as of March 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively, and is recorded as a liability.








Note C – Discontinued Operations


The Company continually evaluates its component operations to assure they are consistent with its business plan.  Results of operations and the assets and liabilities of our business reported as discontinued operations were as follows:


Summary of Results of Operations


Discontinued Operations, Other Regions Segment       

Year Ended March 31, 2008

Italy    

Mozambique

Wool     

Non-Tobacco

Total     

Sales and other revenues

$   5,710 

$   1,324 

$         - 

$           - 

$    7,034 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income from discontinued operations, net of tax:

 

 

 

 

 

Income from discontinued operations, before tax

$      270 

$      277 

$ 7,233 

$           - 

$    7,780 

Income tax expense (benefit)

(58)

(17)

(75)

 Income from discontinued operations, net of tax

$      328 

$      294 

$ 7,233 

$           - 

$    7,855 

 

 

Year Ended March 31, 2007

 

Sales and other revenues

$ 14,552 

$ 10,483 

$         - 

$          5 

$ 25,040 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax:

 

 

 

 

 

Income (loss) from discontinued operations, before tax

$(17,649)

$   2,337 

$   (711)

$        42 

$(15,981)

  Income tax expense (benefit)

(401)

(470)

987 

2,633 

2,749 

 Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax

$(17,248)

$   2,807 

$(1,698)

$ (2,591)

$(18,730)

 

 

Year Ended March 31, 2006

 

Sales and other revenues

$ 22,825 

$ 31,516 

$         - 

$      413 

$  54,754 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income from discontinued operations, net of tax:

 

 

 

 

 

Loss from discontinued operations, before tax

$(15,239)

$  (5,769)

$(1,164)

$  (2,933)

$(25,105)

Income tax expense (benefit)

(177)

216 

(1,040)

(1,001)

 Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax

$(15,062)

$  (5,985)

$(1,164)

$  (1,893)

$(24,104)









Summary of Assets and Liabilities


Discontinued Operations, Other Regions Segment *   

March 31, 2008

Italy  

Mozambique

Wool    

Total     

Assets of discontinued operations:

 

 

 

 

   Trade receivables, net of allowances

$             - 

$           61 

$            - 

$           61 

   Inventory

175 

175 

   Total assets of discontinued operations

$             - 

$         236 

$            - 

$         236 

 

 

 

 

 

Liabilities of discontinued operations:

 

 

 

 

   Accounts payable

$             - 

$           31 

$            - 

$           31 

   Accrued expenses

50 

50 

   Total liabilities of discontinued operations

$             - 

$           81 

$            - 

$           81 

 

 

 

 

 

March 31, 2007

 

 

 

 

Assets of discontinued operations:

 

 

 

 

  Trade receivables , net of allowances

$        917 

$         820 

$            - 

$      1,737 

   Inventory and advances

5,294 

1,853 

7,147 

   Net property, plant and equipment and other assets

39 

13 

3,899 

3,951 

   Total assets of discontinued operations

$     6,250 

$      2,686 

$    3,899 

$    12,835 

 

 

 

 

 

Liabilities of discontinued operations:

 

 

 

 

   Accounts payable

$     7,316 

$         532 

$            - 

$      7,848 

   Advances from customers and accrued expenses

542 

1,989 

2,531 

   Total liabilities of discontinued operations

$     7,858 

$      2,521 

$            - 

$    10,379 

 

 

 

 

 

*  The Non-Tobacco Operations had no assets or liabilities of discontinued operations for periods presented.


Discontinued Italy Operations, Other Regions Segment

On September 30, 2004, concurrent with the sale of the Italian processing facility, the Company made a decision to discontinue all of its Italian operations as part of its ongoing plans to realign its operations to more closely reflect worldwide changes in the sourcing of tobacco.  As a result of the merger on May 13, 2005, the remaining net assets of the discontinued Italian operations of Standard were acquired.  Due to the merger, the collection of the accounts receivable and the liquidation of the inventory took longer than originally anticipated.  As a result, the Company updated their evaluation of the collectibility of the accounts receivable and recorded an additional allowance of $3,650 in fiscal 2007.  In addition, in order to take advantage of an opportunity to accelerate the disposition of the remaining Italian inventory, the Company recorded a charge to inventory totaling $5,600 in fiscal 2007 to adjust the cost of inventory to the sales price negotiated as part of the bulk sale transaction.  In fiscal 2006, Italian operations of both former DIMON and Standard were being investigated by the Directorate General for Competition (DGCOMP) of the European Commission (EC) into tobacco buying and selling practices within the leaf tobacco industry in Italy.  As a result of this investigation, fines of $12,000 were levied against the former DIMON entity and $16,800 were levied against the former Standard entity.  Fines levied against the former DIMON entity are included in the summary above, while fines levied against the former Standard entity have been recorded as a purchase price adjustment as the investigation was initiated prior to the combination of the two companies.  The Company has completed the liquidation of the Italian operations.  








Discontinued Mozambique Operations, Other Regions Segment

On March 16, 2006, the Board of Directors of the Company made a decision to discontinue operations in Mozambique after the procurement of the 2006 crop due to its determination that it was not in the Company’s economic interest to remain in Mozambique after losing a concession for the 2007 crop year. In connection with this decision, the Company evaluated the criteria of SFAS No. 144 and concluded that the Mozambique operations qualified to be presented as assets held for sale and accordingly, the assets were written down to their fair value less any selling costs.  As of March 31, 2008, the Company has sold all assets except for inventory and accounts receivable.  The Company anticipates completing the disposition of inventory and collecting related accounts receivable in fiscal 2009.


Discontinued Wool Operations, Other Regions Segment

As a result of the merger, the Company acquired the remaining net assets of Standard’s discontinued wool operations.  The Company received the necessary governmental approvals and completed the sale of the remaining properties in March 2008.  Gains on the sale of these properties reported in fiscal 2008 were $7,233.


Discontinued Non-Tobacco Operations, Other Regions Segment

Discontinued non-tobacco operations reflect transactions related to the 2006 sale of the non-tobacco entity acquired in January 2004. Due to production expectations and the development of emerging markets not meeting management’s expectations, the Company reevaluated the criteria of SFAS No. 144 and concluded that the Company met all the criteria.  The Company completed the sale of assets of the non-tobacco entity on April 13, 2006.


Note D – Restructuring and Asset Impairment Charges


The Company continued to execute the merger integration plan which began in fiscal 2006.  In addition, the Company has recorded other restructuring and impairment charges as they occurred in the normal course of business in accordance with SFAS No. 144 and SFAS No. 146.

          The following table summarizes the restructuring and integration actions as of March 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006:


 

Years Ended March 31,

Restructuring and Asset Impairment Charges

2008

2007

2006

Employee separation and other cash charges:

 

 

 

   Beginning balance

$     2,747     

$   13,644     

$      865     

   Period Charges:

 

 

 

      Employee separation charges

8,510     

8,163     

14,828     

      Spanish operations sale

13     

495     

2,000     

      Other cash charges

440     

1,177     

5,367     

   Total employee separation and other cash charges

8,963     

9,835     

22,195     

   Payments through March 31

 (9,350)    

 (20,732)    

 (17,033)    

   Ending balance March 31, 2006 of purchase

 

 

 

         accounting adjustments

-     

-     

7,617*   

   Ending balance March 31

$     2,360     

$     2,747     

$ 13,644     

 

 

 

 

Asset impairments and other non-cash charges:

 

 

 

   SFAS No. 144 asset impairment – tobacco operations:

 

 

 

      CdF operations assets impairment

$     6,127     

$             -     

$ 12,520** 

      Spanish operations assets impairment

-     

-     

1,241     

      Greece machinery and equipment impairment

915     

3,689     

-     

      Thailand assets impairment

-     

1,143     

-     

      Turkey impairment

2,733     

-     

-     

   Other non-cash charges

842     

1,860     

1,556     

   Deconsolidated Zimbabwe cost investments

-     

13,246     

47,899     

   Total asset impairments and other non-cash charges

$   10,617     

$   19,938     

$ 63,216     

 

 

 

 

Total restructuring and asset impairment charges

$   19,580     

$   29,773     

$ 85,411     

 

 

 

 

*

Represents March 31, 2006 ending balances for former Standard employees of $7,617.

**

Includes pretax charges of $7,409 and $5,111 for fixed asset and intangible asset impairments, respectively.


         The following table summarizes cash payments for employee separation and other cash charges for the years ended March 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006.


 

Year Ending March 31,

Total

Cash Payments by Year

2008

2007

2006

Payments

Employee separation and other cash charges

$ 8,963 

$ 9,835 

$ 22,195   

 

Adjustments to employee separation and other cash charges

8,482* 

 

Cash paid 2006

(17,033)  

$(17,033)

Cash paid 2007

(7,675)

(13,057)  

$(20,732)

Cash paid 2008

(6,729)

(2,139)

(482)  

$  (9,350)

Balances at March 31, 2008 to be paid 2009

$ 2,234 

$      21 

$     105    

 

 

 

*

Beginning balance of $865 and purchase accounting adjustments for former Standard employees of $7,617.


         The following table summarizes the employee separation and other cash charges recorded in the Company’s South America and Other Regions segments as of March 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006.


 

Years Ended March 31,

Employee Separation and Other Cash Charges

2008

2007

2006

 

 

 

 

Beginning balance:

$ 2,747 

$ 13,644 

$      865 

   South America

30 

83 

   Other regions

2,717 

13,561 

865 

Period charges:

$ 8,963 

$   9,835 

$ 22,195 

   South America

1,995 

1,097 

1,645 

   Other regions

6,968 

8,738 

20,550 

Payments through March 31:

$(9,350)

$(20,732)

$(17,033)

   South America

(1,890)

(1,150)

(1,592)

   Other regions

(7,460)

(19,582)

(15,441)

Ending balance March 31:

$ 2,360 

$   2,747 

$ 13,644 

   South America

134 

30 

83 

   Other regions

2,226 

2,717 

13,561 


         All asset impairment charges were related to the Other Regions segment during the years ended March 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006 with the exception of $492 and $615 for South America during the years ended March 31, 2008 and March 31, 2006, respectively.


Zimbabwe – Investment Impairment   

As of March 31, 2006, the Company deconsolidated its operations in Zimbabwe in accordance with Accounting Research Bulletin 51, Consolidated Financial Statements (“ARB 51”).  ARB 51 provides that when a parent does not have control over a subsidiary due to severe foreign exchange restrictions or governmentally imposed uncertainties, the subsidiary should not be consolidated.  A non-cash impairment charge of $47,899 was recorded to reduce the net investment in Zimbabwe operations to estimated fair value at March 31, 2006.

         Governmental authorization is required before any dividends can be paid from a Zimbabwe operation.  The Company’s Zimbabwe operations had attempted to pay dividends prior to fiscal 2007 but were unsuccessful because it did not satisfy certain criteria set by the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe and the government refused to grant the necessary authorizations.  During the three months ended September 30, 2006, the Company received a $10,000 dividend payment from one of its Zimbabwe subsidiaries that had been negotiated with the Zimbabwe authorities.  The $10,000 was permitted as a result of a negotiated prepayment of $20,000 of export funds due into Zimbabwe at a later date.  The dividend was recorded as a reduction in the investment in the Zimbabwe subsidiary.

          Economic and political conditions in Zimbabwe continued to decline in the first six months ended September 30, 2006 as inflation, lending rates and investment rates deteriorated.  General farming operations were negatively impacted by the lack of foreign exchange to buy crop inputs and fuel.  The crop size in Zimbabwe also continued to decline.  Due to the continually declining conditions, the Company reevaluated the Zimbabwe operational structure during the quarter ended September 30, 2006 and made several significant operational changes.  These changes include closing the Zimbabwe processing factory and outsourcing the 2006 crop tobacco processing as well as significantly reducing permanent personnel.

          Based on events discussed above, the Company evaluated the fair value of the Zimbabwe operations and determined that the net investment in the Zimbabwe operations exceeded the estimated fair value.  The Company recorded an additional non-cash impairment charge of $13,246 during the quarter ended September 30, 2006 to write down the net investment in the Zimbabwe operations to zero.

          The economic and political conditions in Zimbabwe continued to decline during the year ended March 31, 2008, which was evidenced by continued devaluation of Zimbabwe currency and certain large, multi-national companies withdrawing and terminating operations in Zimbabwe.

          During the three months ended September 30, 2007, the Company received a $7,000 dividend payment from one of its Zimbabwe subsidiaries after negotiations with the Zimbabwe authorities similar to those of the prior year. The $7,000 was permitted as a result of a negotiated prepayment of $14,000 of export funds that were originally due into Zimbabwe at a later date.  During the three months ended December 31, 2007, the Company received an additional $363 dividend payment from one of its Zimbabwe subsidiaries.

          Due to the economic and political risk associated with the operations in Zimbabwe, the dividends were recorded as a return against current Zimbabwe advances.  The Company continues to provide advances to Zimbabwe for the purchase of tobacco.  As of March 31, 2008, the Company has $518 of net tobacco purchase advances outstanding to its Zimbabwe subsidiary.


Sale of Compañía General de Tabacos de Filipinas, S.A.  – Dark Air-Cured Operations

As a consequence of the ongoing transition in overcapacity within certain markets of the industry, the Company decided to dispose of its dark air-cured operations. On January 23, 2006, the Company entered into a non-binding letter of intent to sell its ownership interest in Compañía General de Tabacos de Filipinas, S.A. ("CdF") the owner of the Company’s dark air-cured tobacco business.  

          In June 2005, the Company reviewed its assets for impairment and a pre-tax impairment charge of $4,548 was recorded based on a discounted cash flow model which primarily related to intangibles of the dark air-cured tobacco operation in Indonesia.  In connection with the letter of intent, additional asset impairment charges of $7,972 were recorded during fiscal 2006. During fiscal 2007, the Company recorded employee severance costs of $1,033 associated with the sale of CdF.

          During October 2007, the Company completed the sale of CdF which resulted in an asset impairment charge of $6,918. This impairment charge includes additional employee severance charges, currency translation adjustments and valuation adjustments against consideration received.


Thailand – Asset Impairment

In fiscal 2006, concurrent with the closure of the former DIMON Thailand processing facilities, assets of $5,736 were reclassified in the Company’s balance sheet to assets held for sale. These assets were primarily land and production facilities that have become redundant as a result of the merger.

          As a result, the Company conducted a review of the fair value of the Thailand assets held for sale and recorded an asset impairment charge of $1,143 during fiscal 2007 related to land and buildings based on contractual sales prices.


Greece – Asset Impairment

As a result of the closure of the Greece facilities, the Company evaluated the long-lived assets for impairment.  During fiscal 2007, the Company recorded an asset impairment charge of $3,689 related to machinery and equipment based on a discounted cash flow model.

          In the nine months ended December 31, 2007 additional asset impairment charges of $1,035 were incurred related to machinery and equipment.  


Turkey – Asset Impairment

As a result of significant reductions in future Turkish flue cured and burley tobacco volumes from customer information received, the Company tested certain related long-lived assets for impairment and recorded impairment charges of $2,625 in the quarter ended December 31, 2007 which is net of an agreed upon exit fee of $1,700 to be paid by the customer.  Additional impairment charges of $108 were incurred in the quarter ended March 31, 2008.


Sale of Spanish Tobacco Operations

On February 1, 2006, the Company entered into an agreement to sell 100% of the stock of Agroexpansion, S.A., its former DIMON operation, and World Wide Tobacco España, S.A. (WWTE), its former Standard operation. In connection with the decision to close the operations, the Company reviewed its fixed assets for impairment.  In the third and fourth quarters of fiscal 2006, the Company recorded asset impairment and restructuring costs of $10,576.  Of this amount, the Company recognized $3,241 in earnings and an adjustment related to the former Standard operations of $7,335 as an adjustment to the purchase price of the merger at March 31, 2006 in connection with the pending sale. The Company completed the sale of Agroexpansion and WWTE on August 1, 2006.  Additional restructuring charges of $495 and $13 were recorded during the fiscal years ended March 31, 2007 and 2008, respectively, to finalize the sale transaction and related severance charges.


Assets Held for Sale

As of March 31, 2008, the Company reported assets held for sale of $4,885, related primarily to production and administrative facilities in Greece and Turkey, that are being actively marketed by the Company.


Note E – Goodwill and Other Intangibles


In accordance with SFAS No. 142, “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets”, the Company tests the carrying amount of goodwill annually as of the first day of the last quarter of the fiscal year and whenever events or circumstances indicate that impairment may have occurred.  Based upon this evaluation in fiscal 2006, the Company recorded a goodwill impairment charge of $256,916.  The Company evaluated its goodwill for impairment during fiscal 2008 and 2007 and determined that no impairment was required.

          The carrying value of other intangible assets as of March 31, 2008 represents customer relationship, production and supply contracts and internally developed software.  These intangible assets were determined by management to meet the criterion for recognition apart from goodwill and have finite lives.  The Company uses judgment in assessing whether the carrying amount of its intangible assets is not expected to be recoverable over their estimated remaining useful lives.  Based on test results of all pertinent factors, an adjustment of $5,111 related to a supply contract was recorded in fiscal 2006.  Amortization expense associated with these intangible assets was $2,048, $2,833 and $3,543 for the years ended March 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006, respectively.

          The Company is in the process of implementing a new ERP system and is capitalizing certain costs into intangible assets within the consolidated balance sheet in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.  As of March 31, 2008, the Company had incurred $6,330 of capitalizable costs associated with the ERP implementation.  The Company anticipates that the ERP system will be placed into service during fiscal 2009 and will begin amortizing the final accumulated costs of the project over a five year useful life.


          Goodwill and Intangible Asset Rollforward:


 

 

 

Unamortizable
Goodwill

 

Amortizable Intangibles

 

 

 

 

Other
Regions
Segment

 

Customer
Relationship
Intangible

 

Production
and Supply
Contract
Intangibles

 

Internally
Developed
Software
Intangible

 

Total

 

Weighted average remaining

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

    useful life in years as of     March 31, 2008

 

 

17 

 

 

 

 

 

March 31, 2006 balance:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

      Gross carrying amount

 

$   4,186 

 

$33,700 

 

$10,815 

 

$         - 

 

$ 48,701 

 

      Accumulated amortization

 

 

(1,474)

 

(9,285)

 

 

(10,759)

 

      Net balance

 

4,186 

 

32,226 

 

1,530 

 

 

37,942 

 

Amortization expense

 

 

(1,685)

 

(1,148)

 

 

(2,833)

 

March 31, 2007 balance

 

4,186 

 

30,541 

 

382 

 

 

35,109 

 

Additions

 

 

 

 

6,330 

 

6,330 

 

Amortization expense and
purchase accounting tax
    adjustments

 

(1,392)

 

(1,685)

 

(363)

 

 

(3,440)

 

March 31, 2008 balance

 

$   2,794 

 

$28,856 

 

$       19 

 

$  6,330 

 

$ 37,999 








          Estimated Intangible Asset Amortization Expense:


 

 

 

Customer
Relationship
Intangible

 

Production and
Supply Contract
Intangibles

 

Internally    
Developed    
Software   
Intangible *

 

Total

 

 

For year ended 2009

 

$      1,685      

 

$     19   

 

$        791  

 

$      2,495  

 

 

For year ended 2010

 

1,685      

 

-   

 

1,266  

 

2,951  

 

 

For year ended 2011

 

1,685      

 

-   

 

1,266  

 

2,951  

 

 

For year ended 2012

 

1,685      

 

-   

 

1,266  

 

2,951  

 

 

For year ended 2013

 

1,685      

 

-   

 

1,266  

 

2,951  

 

 

Later years

 

20,431      

 

-   

 

475  

 

20,906  

 

 

 

 

$    28,856      

 

$     19   

 

$     6,330  

 

$    35,205  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

*  Estimated amortization expense for the internally developed software is based on costs accumulated as of
    March 31, 2008.  These estimates will change as new costs are incurred until testing is complete.

 


Note F – Derivative and Other Financial Instruments

 

Fair Value of Derivative Financial Instruments

In accordance with SFAS No. 133, “Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities,” the Company recognizes all derivative financial instruments, such as interest rate swap contracts and foreign exchange contracts, in the consolidated financial statements at fair value regardless of the purpose or intent for holding the instrument.  Changes in the fair value of derivative financial instruments are either recognized periodically in income or in shareholders’ equity as a component of other comprehensive income depending on whether the derivative financial instrument qualifies for hedge accounting, and if so, whether it qualifies as a fair value hedge or a cash flow hedge.  Changes in fair values of derivatives accounted for as fair value hedges are recorded in income along with the portions of the changes in the fair values of the hedged items that relate to the hedged risk(s).  Changes in fair values of derivatives accounted for as cash flow hedges, to the extent they are effective as hedges, are recorded in other comprehensive income net of deferred taxes.  Changes in fair values of derivatives not qualifying as hedges are reported in income. During the years ended March 31, 2008 and 2007, there were no qualified cash flow or fair value hedges.


Floating to Fixed Rate Interest Swaps

Prior to the implementation of SFAS No. 133, “Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities,” the Company entered into multiple interest rate swaps to convert a portion of its worldwide debt portfolio from floating to fixed interest rates to reduce its exposure to interest rate volatility.  As of June 30, 2006, all instruments of this type had been terminated.  SFAS No. 133 eliminated hedge accounting treatment for these instruments because they do not meet certain criteria.  Accordingly, the Company is required to reflect the full amount of all changes in their fair value, without offset, in its current earnings.  These fair value adjustments can cause substantial volatility in the Company’s reported earnings.  For the years ended March 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006, the Company recognized non-cash income before income taxes of $0, $290 and $5,092, respectively, from the change in fair value of these derivative financial instruments.  


Forward Currency Contracts

The Company periodically enters into forward or option currency contracts to protect against volatility associated with certain non-U.S. dollar denominated forecasted transactions.  In accordance with SFAS No. 133, when these derivatives qualify for hedge accounting treatment, they are accounted for as cash flow hedges and are recorded in other comprehensive income, net of deferred taxes.








          The Company has entered into forward currency contracts to hedge cash outflows in foreign currencies around the world for green tobacco purchases and processing costs as well as selling, administrative and general costs. These contracts do not meet the requirements for hedge accounting treatment under SFAS No. 133, and as such, are reported in income. For the years ended March 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006, income of $834, $12,914 and $1,606, respectively, has been recorded in cost of goods and services sold. For the year ended March 31, 2008, expense of $94 has been recorded in selling, administrative and general costs.


Credit Risk

Financial instruments, including derivatives, expose the Company to credit loss in the event of non-performance by counterparties.  The Company manages its exposure to counterparty credit risk through specific minimum credit standards, diversification of counterparties, and procedures to monitor concentrations of credit risk.  If counterparty fails to meet the terms of an arrangement, the Company’s exposure is limited to the net amount that would have been received, if any, over the arrangement’s remaining life.  The Company does not anticipate non-performance by the counterparties and no material loss would be expected from non-performance by any one of such counterparties.


Note G – Short-Term Borrowing Arrangements


Excluding all long term credit agreements, the Company has lines of credit arrangements with a number of banks under which the Company may borrow up to a total of $722,406 at March 31, 2008 ($485,248 at March 31, 2007).  The weighted average variable interest rate for the twelve months ending March 31, 2008 was 6.7%.  At March 31, 2008 and 2007, amounts outstanding under the lines were $387,157 and $179,097, respectively.  Unused lines of credit at March 31, 2008 amounted to $284,484 ($275,544 at March 31, 2007), net of $50,765 of letters of credit lines.  Certain non-U.S. borrowings of approximately $63,214 have inventories of approximately $40,827 as collateral.  As noted below, there is limited recourse against certain receivables of the Company if the Company fails to fulfill its contractual obligations.  There were no compensating balance agreements at March 31, 2008.

          The Company has entered into a $70,000 limited recourse receivable purchase program with one of its lenders.  Under the program, the lender takes the receivable payment risk of the customer subject to usual and customary covenants, while the Company fulfills contractual obligations.  Funding of the purchased receivable is 80% of the face value, and the Company retains an interest in the remaining 20%, which is paid at collection.  As of March 31, 2008, $3,745 ($2,265 at March 31, 2007) was funded under the program and recorded in short-term borrowings.

 

Note H – Long-Term Debt


Senior Secured Credit Facility


On March 30, 2007, the Company entered into an Amended and Restated Credit Agreement (the “Credit Agreement”), with a syndicate of banks that amends and restates the Company’s prior credit agreement and provides for a senior secured credit facility (the “Credit Facility”) that consists of:


·

a three and one-half year $240,000 revolver (the “Revolver”) which initially accrues interest at a rate of LIBOR plus 2.75%; and

·

a four-year $145,000 term loan B (the “Term Loan B”) which accrues interest at a rate of LIBOR plus 2.25%.


         The interest rate for the Revolver may increase or decrease according to a consolidated interest coverage ratio pricing matrix as defined in the Credit Agreement.  Effective May 25, 2007, the Company increased the Revolver by $10,000 to $250,000 by adding additional Lenders thereto.  As of September 30, 2007, the entire $145,000 term loan B had been repaid.


Borrowers and Guarantors.  One of the Company’s primary foreign holding companies, Intabex Netherlands B.V. (“Intabex”), is co-borrower under the Revolver, and the Company’s portion of the borrowings under the Revolver is limited to $150,000 outstanding at any one time.  One of the Company’s primary foreign trading companies, Alliance One International AG (“AOIAG”), is a guarantor of Intabex’s obligations under the Credit Agreement. Such obligations are also currently guaranteed by the Company and must be guaranteed by any of its material direct or indirect domestic subsidiaries.








Collateral.  The Company’s borrowings under the Credit Facility are secured by a first priority pledge of:


·

100% of the capital stock of any material domestic subsidiaries;

·

65% of the capital stock of any material first tier foreign subsidiaries;

·

U.S. accounts receivable and U.S. inventory owned by the Company or its material domestic subsidiaries (other than inventory the title of which has passed to a customer and inventory financed through customer advances); and

·

Intercompany notes evidencing loans or advances the Company makes to subsidiaries that are not guarantors.


          In addition, Intabex’s borrowings under the Credit Facility are secured by a pledge of 100% of the capital stock of Intabex, AOIAG, and certain of the Company’s and Intabex’s material foreign subsidiaries.


Financial Covenants.  The Credit Facility includes certain financial covenants and required financial ratios, including:


·

a minimum consolidated interest coverage ratio of not less than 1.70 to 1.00;

·

a maximum consolidated leverage ratio of not more than 5.75 to 1.00;

·

a maximum consolidated total senior debt to borrowing base ratio of not more than 0.85 to 1.00; and

·

a maximum amount of annual capital expenditures of $40,000 during any fiscal year of the Company.


          Certain of these financial covenants and required financial ratios adjust over time in accordance with schedules in the Credit Agreement.

          The Credit Agreement also contains certain customary affirmative and negative covenants, including, without limitation, restrictions on additional indebtedness, guarantees, liens and asset sales.

          Due to the delay in preparing the financial results of the Company for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2008, the Company was in technical default under its Credit Facility for failing to provide its lenders with the financial statements and certificates required pursuant to the Credit Facility.  The Company cured this default during the provided cure period.  If the Company was in default and was unable to obtain the necessary amendments or waivers under its Credit Facility, the lenders under that facility have the right to accelerate the loans thereby demanding repayment in full and extinguishment of their commitment to lend.  Certain defaults under the Credit Facility would result in a cross default under the indentures governing the Company’s senior notes and senior subordinated notes and could impair access to its seasonal operating lines of credit in local jurisdictions.  A default under the Company’s Credit Facility would have a material adverse effect on its liquidity and financial condition.


Senior Notes


On May 13, 2005, the Company issued $315,000 of 11% senior notes due 2012 (the “11% Notes”) and on March 7, 2007, the Company issued $150,000 of 8 ½% senior notes due 2012 (the “8 ½% Notes”) at a 0.5% original issue discount to reflect an 8.6% yield to maturity.  During the twelve months ended March 31, 2008, the Company purchased $42,285 of its 11% Notes on the open market. All purchased securities were canceled leaving $272,715 of the 11% Notes outstanding at March 31, 2008.  Associated cash premiums paid were $1,990 and non-cash deferred financing costs of $732 were accelerated. From time to time in the future the Company may purchase more of its debt securities in the open market or through a tender process.  The indentures governing each of the 11% Notes and the 8 ½% Notes contain certain covenants that, among other things, limit the Company’s ability to incur additional indebtedness; issue preferred stock; merge, consolidate or dispose of substantially all of its assets; grant liens on its assets; pay dividends, redeem stock or make other distributions or restricted payments; repurchase or redeem capital stock or prepay subordinated debt; make certain investments; agree to restrictions on the payment of dividends to the Company by its subsidiaries; sell or otherwise dispose of assets, including equity interests of its subsidiaries; enter into transactions with its affiliates; and enter into certain sale and leaseback transactions.  The Company continuously monitors its compliance with these covenants and is not in default as of, or for the three months or twelve months ended March 31, 2008.


Senior Subordinated Notes


On May 13, 2005, the Company issued $100,000 of 12 3/4% senior subordinated notes due 2012 at a 10% original issue discount to reflect a 15% yield to maturity.  The indenture governing the senior subordinated notes contains covenants substantially identical to those contained in the indentures governing the 11% Notes and the 8 ½% Notes.

          The carrying value and estimated fair value of the Company’s long-term debt are $582,977 and $582,367 respectively, as of March 31, 2008 and $731,856 and $782,048, respectively, as of March 31, 2007.








Foreign Seasonal Lines of Credit


The Company has typically financed its non-U.S. operations with uncommitted unsecured short term seasonal lines of credit at the local level.  These operating lines are seasonal in nature, normally extending for a term of 180 to 270 days corresponding to the tobacco crop cycle in that location.  These facilities are typically uncommitted in that the lenders have the right to cease making loans and demand repayment of loans at any time.  These loans are typically renewed at the outset of each tobacco season.  As of March 31, 2008, the Company had approximately $387,157 drawn and outstanding on foreign seasonal lines totaling $722,406. Additionally, against these lines there was $28,614 available in unused letter of credit capacity with $22,151 issued but unfunded.  

          The following table summarizes our debt financing as of March 31, 2008:


 

 

March 31, 2008

 

 

 

Outstanding         

Lines and

 

 

 

 

March 31,          

Letters

Interest

 

Repayment Schedule by Fiscal Year (4)

 

2007    

2008  

Available

Rate

 

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

Later

Senior secured credit facility:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

     Revolver

$           - 

$           - 

$250,000 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

     Term loan B

145,000 

 

 

$         -  

$       -  

$         -  

$         -  

$        - 

$         - 

 

145,000 

250,000 

 

 

-  

-  

-  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Senior notes:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

     11% senior notes due 2012

315,000 

272,715 

11.0% 

 

-  

-  

-  

-  

272,715 

     8 ½% notes due 2012

149,270 

149,390 

8.5% 

 

(129) 

(142) 

(155) 

(169) 

149,985 

     Other (1)

10,157 

10,157 

 

 

-  

-  

-  

3,437  

6,285 

435 

 

474,427 

432,262 

 

 

(129) 

(142) 

(155) 

3,268  

428,985 

435 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

12 ¾% senior subordinated
   note due 2012

91,608 

92,647 

12.8% 

 

(1,207) 

(1,400) 

(1,625) 

(1,885) 

98,764 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other long-term debt

20,821 

58,068 

21,557 

9.2% 

(2)

20,340  

13,538  

12,418  

11,381  

42 

349 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Notes payable to banks (3)

179,097 

387,157 

284,484 

6.7% 

(2)

-  

-  

-  

-  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

     Total debt

$910,953 

$970,134 

556,041 

 

 

$19,004  

$11,996  

$10,638  

$12,764  

$527,791 

$    784 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Short term

$179,097 

$387,157 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Long term:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

     Long term debt current

$    5,231 

$   19,004 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

     Long term debt

726,625 

563,973 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

$731,856 

$582,977 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Letters of credit

$  17,842 

$  22,151 

28,614 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

     Total credit available

 

 

$584,655 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(1)  Balance consists of legacy DIMON and Standard Senior Notes with balances and maturities as follows:
      $ 3,437    9 5/8% Senior Notes due 2011
            435    7 3/4% Senior Notes due 2013
         6,285    8% Senior Notes due 2012
     $10,157

 

(2)  Weighted average rate for the year ended March 31, 2008

 

(3)  Primarily foreign seasonal lines of credit

 

(4)  Debt repayment classification is based on fiscal years ended March 31











Note I – Long-Term Leases


The Company has both capital and operating leases.  The operating leases are for land, buildings, automobiles and other equipment.  Rent expense for all operating leases was $13,854, $12,723 and $12,277 for the years ended March 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006, respectively.  Capital leases are primarily for production machinery and equipment.  The capitalized lease obligations are payable through 2013.  Interest rates are imputed at 8.40% to 11.68%.  Amortization is included in depreciation expense.  Minimum future obligations and capitalized amounts are as follows:


 

Capital
Leases

Operating
Leases  

2009

$166 

$  8,625

2010

113 

7,032

2011

44 

3,381

2012

10 

2,334

2013

2,269

Remaining

7,564

 

334 

$31,205

Less interest and deposits

22 

 

Present value of net minimum lease payments

312 

 

Less current portion of obligations under capital leases

39 

 

Long-term obligations under capital leases

$273 

 

Capitalized amounts:

 

 

   Machinery and equipment, primarily vehicles

$650 

 

   Accumulated amortization

 (413)

 

 

$237 

 


Note J – Equity in Net Assets of Investee Companies


The Company has equity basis investments in companies located in Asia which purchase and process tobacco.  The Asia investees and ownership percentages are as follows; Transcontinental Leaf Tobacco India Private Ltd. (India) 49%, Siam Tobacco Export Company (Thailand) 49%, Adams International Ltd. (Thailand) 49%.  The information presented in the tables below includes only the results of those companies after May 13, 2005.  In addition to the Asia investees, all periods presented include the Company’s 50% owned South America investee, Epinosa (Colombia), until its sale in October 2007.  Summarized financial information for these investees for fiscal years ended March 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006 follows:


 

Years Ended March 31,

Operations Statement Information

2008

2007

2006

Sales

$  109,636     

$   92,271     

$66,190     

Gross Profit

13,095     

10,501     

9,038     

Net Income

3,852     

1,821     

2,042     


 

March 31,

 

Balance Sheet Information

2008

2007

 

Current assets

$63,076     

$52,912     

 

Property, plant and equipment and other assets

29,564     

29,990     

 

Current liabilities

46,177     

36,213     

 

Long-term obligations and other liabilities

7,105     

9,079     

 

Interests of other shareholders

20,073     

19,168     

 

Company’s interest

19,285     

18,461     

 










 

Note K – Stock – Based Compensation


On April 1, 2006, the Company adopted SFAS No. 123(R), “Share-Based Payment.”  This statement required the Company to expense the fair value of grants of various stock-based compensation programs over the vesting period of the awards.  The Company elected to adopt the statement using the “Modified Prospective Application” (MPA) transition method which did not result in the restatement of previously issued financial statements.  Application of the MPA transition method required compensation costs to be recognized beginning on the effective date for the estimated fair value at date of grant in accordance with the original provision of SFAS No. 123, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation,” for all stock-based compensation awards granted prior to, but not yet vested as of April 1, 2006.  Awards granted after April 1, 2006 are recognized as compensation expense based on the grant-date fair value estimated in accordance with the provisions of SFAS No. 123(R).  The MPA transition method also required that any unearned or deferred compensation recorded in “contra-equity” accounts be eliminated against the equity accounts that will be affected by the on-going recognition of stock based compensation.  Accordingly, the Company reclassified $3,134 from Unearned Compensation – Restricted Stock to Common Stock in the quarter ended June 30, 2006.

          For the years ended March 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively, compensation expense for stock-based compensation plans was $2,092 and $4,435.  The corresponding income tax benefit recognized for stock-based compensation plans was $582 and $890.

          The Company’s shareholders approved the 2007 Incentive Plan (the “2007 Plan”) at its Annual Meeting of Shareholders on August 16, 2007.  As with the Company’s prior equity compensation plans, the 2007 Plan is an omnibus plan that provides the flexibility to grant a variety of equity awards including stock options, stock appreciation rights, stock awards, stock units, performance awards and incentive awards to officers, directors and employees of the Company.  A maximum of 5,000 shares are reserved for issuance pursuant to awards under the 2007 Plan.  All prior equity compensation plans have been superseded, and no new equity awards can be granted from them.  As of March 31, 2008, 1,428 equity awards have been granted and 107 equity awards have been cancelled under the 2007 Plan, leaving 3,679 shares available for future awards under the 2007 Plan.  Total equity awards outstanding are 3,845 inclusive of the 1,321 awards granted and outstanding under the 2007 plan and 2,524 awards granted under prior plans.  Shares issued under both the 2007 plan and earlier plans are new shares which have been authorized and designated for award under the plans.  Individual types of awards are discussed in greater detail below.


Stock Option Awards

Stock options allow for the purchase of common stock at a price determined at the time the option is granted.  This price has historically been the stock price on the date of grant.  Stock options generally vest at the end of three years or ratably over four years and generally expire after ten years.  The fair value of these options is determined at grant date using the Black-Scholes valuation model and includes estimates of forfeiture based on historical experience.  The fair value is then recognized as compensation expense ratably over the vesting term of the options.  There were 1,166, 477 and 533 stock options granted during fiscal years 2008, 2007 and 2006, respectively.

          Assumptions used to determine the fair value of options issued in 2008, 2007 and 2006 include the following:


 

2008

2007

2006

Grant Price

$7.48

$3.94

$3.96

Exercise Price

$7.48

$3.94

$3.96

Expected Life in Years

7.00

6.25

7.00

Annualized Volatility

47%

47%

38%

Annual Dividend Rate

0%

0%

3.03%

Risk Free Rate

4.39%

4.83%

4.08%

Fair Value

$4,756

$987

$693


          A summary of option activity for stock options follows:


Options

Shares

Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price

Weighted Average
Remaining
Contractual
Term (Years)

Aggregate
Intrinsic
Value

Outstanding at March 31, 2005

4,145    

9.19       

5.59            

(12,691)    

    Acquired at merger

740    

6.36       

6.58            

219     

    Granted

533    

3.96       

10.00            

-     

    Exercised

(200)   

3.13       

3.99            

(518)    

    Forfeited

(360)   

8.54       

6.62            

(1,211)    

    Expired

(575)   

13.89       

-            

(3,560)    

Outstanding at March 31, 2006

4,283    

7.55       

5.49            

(11,137)    

    Granted

477    

3.94       

10.00            

-     

    Exercised

(1,251)   

5.42       

4.88            

(3,081)    

    Forfeited

(345)   

7.68       

5.46            

(1,188)    

    Expired

(364)   

14.77       

-            

(3,560)    

Outstanding at March 31, 2007

2,800    

6.94       

6.00            

6,417     

    Granted

1,166    

7.48       

10.00            

-     

    Exercised

(266)   

5.91       

5.64            

(915)    

    Forfeited

(354)   

7.05       

6.42            

(748)    

    Expired

(191)   

22.35       

-            

-     

Outstanding at March 31, 2008

3,155    

6.28       

6.86            

1,864     

Vested and expected to vest at March 31, 2008

3,085    

6.27       

6.81            

1,828     

Exercisable at March 31, 2008

1,668    

6.08       

4.96            

1,011     


          The intrinsic values in the table above represent the total pre-tax intrinsic value which is the difference between the Company’s closing stock price and the exercise price multiplied by the number of options.  The closing price will be subject to the share price on the last trading day of the respective period ending dates, thus the amounts are not additive.  The expense related to stock option awards for 2008 and 2007 was $1,026 and $851, respectively.  Cash received from the exercise of options was $1,625, $7,259 and $629 for the fiscal years 2008, 2007 and 2006, respectively.


          The table below shows the movement in unvested shares from March 31, 2007 to March 31, 2008.


 

 

 

Shares

 

Weighted
Average Grant
Date Fair
Value

 

Aggregate Grant
Date Fair Value

 

 

 

 

Unvested March 31, 2007

 

1,175    

 

1.79          

 

$ 2,103       

 

 

 

 

Granted

 

1,166    

 

4.08          

 

4,756       

 

 

 

 

Forfeited

 

(222)   

 

2.77          

 

(613)      

 

 

 

 

Vested

 

(632)   

 

1.77          

 

(1,116)      

 

 

 

 

Unvested March 31, 2008

 

1,487    

 

3.45          

 

$ 5,130       

 

 

 


          As of March 31, 2008, there is $4,123 of unearned compensation, net of expected forfeitures, related to stock option awards which will vest over a weighted average remaining life of 3.0 years.








Stock Options with Stock Appreciation Rights

Stock appreciation rights (SARs) have historically been granted in tandem with certain option grants under which the employee may choose to receive in cash the excess of the market price of the share on the exercise date over the market price on the grant date (the intrinsic value of the share) rather than purchase the shares.  The choice to receive cash is limited to five years after grant.  After the fifth year and up to the tenth year after grant, the employee will continue to be able to purchase shares under the award but no longer has the choice of receiving the intrinsic value of the shares.  Compensation expense for Stock Options with Stock Appreciation Rights is treated as a liability due to the express ability of the employee to make the choice of whether to receive cash or purchase shares.  Prior to the adoption of SFAS No. 123(R), the intrinsic value of SARs outstanding was multiplied by the cumulative vesting in each SAR award to determine the liability at each balance sheet date.  Amounts charged to compensation expense resulted from the change in the vested intrinsic value between balance sheet dates.  Following adoption of SFAS No. 123(R), the fair value of SARs are determined at each balance sheet date using a Black-Scholes valuation model multiplied by the cumulative vesting of each SAR award.  After consideration for estimated forfeitures, this change in accounting resulted in a cumulative effect of accounting change adjustment of $252 on April 1, 2006.  SARs awards have historically been given to non-U.S. recipients and the Company did not realize a tax benefit.  


Options with Attached SARs

Shares

Weighted Average
Exercise Price

SAR Term

Aggregate
Intrinsic Value

Aggregate Fair
Value

Outstanding at March 31, 2005

670     

6.49          

2.94     

(241)        

391         

Exercised

(11)    

2.81          

0.18     

(40)        

(38)        

Forfeited

(110)    

6.76          

2.68     

188         

(93)        

Expired

(29)    

2.81          

-     

(62)        

-         

Outstanding at March 31, 2006

520     

6.72          

2.12     

(965)        

435         

Exercised

(12)    

6.47          

0.94     

20         

(29)        

Forfeited

(92)    

6.68          

1.91     

(194)        

(61)        

Expired

(88)    

7.44          

-     

(307)        

-          

Outstanding at March 31, 2007

328     

6.54          

1.84     

881         

1,208         

Exercised

(38)    

6.58          

0.76     

(115)        

(130)        

Forfeited

(76)    

6.53          

1.14     

(266)        

(314)        

Expired

(48)    

6.25          

-     

(73)        

-          

Outstanding at March 31, 2008

166     

6.62          

1.20     

(96)        

225         

Exercisable at March 31, 2008

166     

6.62          

1.20     

(96)        

225         

Vested and Expected to Vest

166     

6.62          

1.20     

(96)        

225         


          All stock options with attached SARs became vested as of October 2007.  However, since actual compensation expense will be determined by the change in fair value of the SARs from period to period, actual compensation expense related to these awards may be different from this amount.  The Company recognized income of $646 for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2008 and expense of $619 and $112 for the fiscal years ended March 31, 2007 and 2006, respectively, related to stock options with attached SARs.

          The table below shows the movement in unvested SARs from March 31, 2007 to March 31, 2008.


 

 

 

Shares

 

Weighted
Average Grant
Date Fair
Value

 

Aggregate Grant
Date Fair Value

 

 

 

 

Unvested March 31, 2007

 

132     

 

1.81          

 

$ 239        

 

 

 

 

Forfeited

 

(23)    

 

1.81          

 

(42)       

 

 

 

 

Vested

 

(109)    

 

1.81          

 

(197)       

 

 

 

 

Unvested March 31, 2008

 

-     

 

-          

 

$      -        

 

 

 


          Assumptions used to determine the fair value of SARs as of March 31 included the following:


 

 

2008

2007

2006

 

Stock Price

$6.04

$9.23

$4.86

 

Exercise Price

$6.62

$6.54

$6.72

 

Expected Life in Years

1.2

1.6

2.14

 

Annualized Volatility

63%

42%

44%

 

Annual Dividend Rate

0%

0%

0%

 

Discount Rate

1.54%

4.77%

5.00%


          Because the exercise price of these SARs is above the current stock price, the expected life has been determined to be the maximum time period the SARs may be exercised.  The discount rate used is the risk free treasury bill rate consistent with the expected life.  Volatility is based on historical volatility of the Company’s stock price.


Restricted Stock


Restricted stock is common stock that is both nontransferable and forfeitable unless and until certain conditions are satisfied.  The fair value of restricted shares is determined on grant date and is amortized over the vesting period which is generally three years.


 

Restricted Stock

Shares

Weighted Average
Grant Date
Fair Value

 

 

Restricted at March 31, 2005

438        

6.50                 

 

 

Acquired at merger

725        

6.36                 

 

 

Granted

419        

4.87                 

 

 

Vested

(480)       

5.91                 

 

 

Forfeited

(34)       

5.62                 

 

 

Restricted at March 31, 2006

1,068        

5.56                 

 

 

Granted

366        

3.94                 

 

 

Vested

(400)       

6.07                 

 

 

Forfeited

(180)       

4.53                 

 

 

Restricted at March 31, 2007

854        

4.84                 

 

 

Granted

262        

7.48                 

 

 

Vested

(343)       

5.48                 

 

 

Forfeited

(83)       

5.30                 

 

 

Restricted at March 31, 2008

690        

5.58                 

 


          As of March 31, 2008, there was $1,367 of remaining unamortized deferred compensation associated with restricted stock awards that will be expensed over the remaining service period through July 2011.  Expense recognized due to the vesting of restricted stock awards was $1,712, $2,965 and $2,665 for the years ended March 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006, respectively.


Fair Value Disclosures – Prior to Adoption of SFAS No. 123(R)


The following table illustrates the effect on net income and earnings per share if the Company had applied the fair value recognition provisions of SFAS No. 123, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation,” to stock-based employee compensation for the year ended March 31, 2006.


 (in thousands, except per share data)

Years Ended
March 31, 2006

 

 

 Net loss, as reported

$(447,446)      

 Add:  Stock-based employee compensation expense (income) included in reported

 

           net loss, net of related tax effects of $39

(73)      

 Deduct:  Total stock-based employee compensation expense determined under fair value

 

           based method for all awards, net of related tax effects of $352

(654)      

 Pro forma net loss

$(448,173)      

 Loss per share:

 

           Basic – as reported

$      (5.51)      

           Basic – pro forma

$      (5.52)      

           Diluted – as reported

$      (5.51)      

           Diluted – pro forma

$      (5.52)      


Note L – Income Taxes


FIN 48 Adoption

The Company adopted the provisions of FIN 48 on April 1, 2007. As a result of the implementation of FIN 48, the Company recorded a cumulative effect adjustment of $33,722 increasing its liability for unrecognized tax benefits, interest and penalties and reducing the balance of retained earnings. As of April 1, 2007, the Company’s unrecognized tax benefits totaled $24,064, all of which would impact the Company’s effective tax rate if recognized.  As of March 31, 2008, the Company’s unrecognized tax benefits totaled $18,557, all of which would impact the Company’s effective tax rate if recognized.  A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits is as follows:


Balance at April 1, 2007

$24,064        

Increase for current year tax positions

365        

Reductions for prior year tax positions

(6,032)       

Impact of changes in exchange rates

2,266        

Reduction for settlements

(2,106)       

Balance at March 31, 2008

$18,557        


         The Company recognizes interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits in income tax expense.  As of April 1, 2007, accrued interest and penalties totaled $19,187 and $10,885, respectively.  During the year ended March 31, 2008, the Company accrued an additional $8,124 of interest, penalties and exchange losses related to unrecognized tax benefits.  As of March 31, 2008, accrued interest and penalties totaled $22,020 and $12,795, respectively.

         The Company expects to continue accruing interest expenses related to the unrecognized tax benefits described above.  Additionally, the Company may be subject to fluctuations in the unrecognized tax liability due to currency exchange rate movements.

         Other than the expiration of an applicable statute of limitations pertaining to an international unrecognized tax benefit for the amount of $2,261, the Company does not foresee any reasonably possible changes in the unrecognized tax benefits in the next twelve months but must acknowledge circumstances can change due to unexpected developments in the law.

         The Company is subject to taxation in the United States, various states within the United States, and foreign jurisdictions. There are tax filings in major jurisdictions that are open to investigation by tax authorities; in the United States from 2005, in Turkey from 2003, in Brazil from 2002, in Malawi from 2002, in Argentina from 2002, in Tanzania from 2002, and in Switzerland from 2006.


Florimex

On October 31, 2002, the Company received an assessment from the tax authorities in Germany regarding the taxable gain from the sale of its former flower operations, Florimex, in September 1998.  The report concluded that the value of the real estate located in Germany was greater than the value assigned to such real estate in the sale of Florimex.  On January 2, 2007, the Company received notice that the local Fiscal Tax Court of Baden-Wurttemberg decided in favor of the German tax authorities and also denied the Company’s request for appeal.  The Company appealed this decision.

         On October 2, 2007, the Company received notice that it was successful in its appeal with the highest German Fiscal Tax Court against the decision of the local Fiscal Tax Court of Baden-Wurttemberg. Therefore, the case was remanded back to the local Fiscal Tax Court.  Per the highest German Fiscal Tax Court’s decision, the local Fiscal Tax Court failed to fulfill its duty to clarify and review all relevant facts pertaining to this case and as such, had to determine and attempt to prove, after further analysis, that the value assigned to the real estate in question in the sale of Florimex was in fact an abuse of law.

         During the three months ended December 31, 2007, the Company reached a favorable settlement with the German taxing authorities concerning the Florimex case. Therefore, the Company reduced its liability for unrecognized tax benefits by $8,388, which includes $2,337 of interest. As a result, an income tax benefit of $8,388 was recognized as a credit to income tax expense during the third quarter. There remained additional audit adjustments relative to Germany that were reflected in the liability for unrecognized tax benefits of which we estimate a final assessment of $2,944 (made in three installments), including $795 of interest expense, within the next twelve months.

          As of March 31, 2008, the Company received an official final assessment notice for a total of $2,921.  Therefore, the Company made one of three installment settlement payments for $1,418, which included $117 of interest.  There remain two settlement payments for a total of $1,503, which includes $742 of interest, within the next twelve months. Once the two settlement payments mentioned above are completed, the Florimex case is officially closed.

         The components of income (loss) before income taxes, equity in net income of investee companies, minority interests and discontinued operations consisted of the following:


 

Years Ended March 31,

 

2008

2007

2006

U.S.

$    12,074  

$         (952)  

$  (265,207) 

Non-U.S.

(10,028)

14,038   

(176,881) 

Total

$      2,046  

$      13,086   

$  (442,088) 


          The details of the amount shown for income taxes in the Statements of Consolidated Operations and Comprehensive Income follow:


 

Years Ended March 31,

 

2008

2007

2006     

Current

 

 

 

Federal

$            -   

$            -   

$              -   

State

690   

507   

-   

Non-U.S.

10,329   

18,426   

31,505   

 

$  11,019   

$  18,933   

$    31,505   

Deferred

 

 

 

Federal

$  17,384   

$  (9,105)  

$  (28,610)  

State

1,068   

(1,068)  

-   

Non-U.S.

(34,970)  

7,302   

(20,426)  

 

$ (16,518)  

$   (2,871)  

$  (49,036)  

Total

$   (5,499)  

$   16,062   

$  (17,531)  


          The reasons for the difference between income tax expense based on income (loss) before income taxes, equity in net income (loss) of investee companies and minority interests and the amount computed by applying the U.S. statutory federal income tax rate to such income are as follows:


 

Years Ended March 31,

 

2008      

2007      

2006      

Tax expense (benefit) at U.S. statutory rate

$    716    

$ 4,580    

$ (154,731)  

Effect of non-U.S. income taxes

(2,682)  

6,558    

(1,560)  

U.S. taxes on non-U.S. income, net of tax credits

-    

-    

51,153   

Goodwill and other asset impairment

-    

6,544    

102,313   

Amortization

(8,505)  

(7,029)   

(3,556)  

Foreign tax credits carryforward

-    

-    

(64,390)  

Change in valuation allowance

11,887   

(10,536)   

47,860   

Increase in reserves for tax contingencies

(338)  

7,664    

-   

Changes in tax rates

-   

(1,455)   

-   

Exchange effects and currency translation

(6,668)  

3,269    

(2,217)  

Permanent items

91   

6,467    

7,597   

Actual tax expense (benefit)

$(5,499)  

$16,062    

$   (17,531)  


          The deferred tax liabilities (assets) are comprised of the following:


 

March 31,

March 31,

 

2008   

2007   

Deferred tax liabilities:

 

 

     Intangible assets

$   11,608 

$   12,040 

     Unremitted earnings of non-U.S. subsidiaries

460 

460 

     Fixed assets

11,738 

13,162 

Total deferred tax liabilities

$   23,806 

$   25,662 

 

 

 

Deferred tax assets:

 

 

     Reserves and accruals

$  (49,463)

$  (29,796)

     Restructuring accruals

(741)

     Tax credits

(61,897)

(64,614)

     Tax loss carryforwards

(50,687)

(51,211)

     Derivative transactions

(93)

(475)

     Postretirement and other benefits

(26,274)

(21,692)

     Other

(16,615)

(13,827)

Gross deferred tax assets

(205,029)

(182,356)

Valuation allowance

77,426 

77,937 

Total deferred tax assets

$(127,603)

$(104,419)

Net deferred tax asset

$(103,797)

$  (78,757)










 

          The following table presents the breakdown between current and non-current (assets) liabilities:


 

March 31,
2008  

March 31,
2007  

Current asset

$  (20,836) 

$ (25,143) 

Current liability

2,622  

4,493  

Non current asset

(96,110) 

(69,002) 

Non current liability

10,527  

10,895  

Net deferred tax asset

$(103,797) 

$ (78,757) 


          The current portion of the deferred tax asset is included in “current deferred and recoverable income taxes” and the current portion of deferred tax liability is included in “income taxes.”

          During the year ended March 31, 2008, the net deferred tax asset balance increased by $8,522 for certain adjustments not included in the deferred tax expense (benefit), primarily for deferred tax assets recorded as part of the FIN 48 adoption and for deferred tax assets related to pension accruals recorded in Equity as part of Other Comprehensive Income.

          For the year ended March 31, 2008, the valuation allowance increased by $11,887 based on management’s judgment as to realization of certain deferred tax assets, primarily foreign tax credit carryovers in the U.S. and state and non-U.S. tax loss carryovers.  In addition, the valuation allowance decreased by $12,398 for certain adjustments not included in the deferred tax expense (benefit), primarily for elimination of the valuation allowances of the CdF Group entities sold during the year and elimination of fully reserved deferred tax assets, net of increases for currency translation adjustment recorded in Equity on certain non-U.S. dollar functional currency entities.

          At March 31, 2008, the Company has non-U.S. tax loss carryovers of $137,702 and U.S. state tax loss carryovers of $269,783, respectively.  Of the non-U.S. tax loss carryovers, $9,688 will expire in 2009, $14,615 in 2010, $11,822 in 2011, $7,622 in 2012 and $20,879 in 2013.  Non-U.S. tax loss carryovers of $1,403 will expire in later years and $71,673 can be carried forward indefinitely.  Of the U.S. state tax loss carryovers, $6,837 will expire in 2010, $8,594 in 2011, $9,146 in 2012, $8,594 in 2013 and $236,612 will expire in later years.  At March 31, 2008, the Company has foreign tax credit carryovers in the U.S. of $57,969 that expire in 2016.

          Realization of deferred tax assets is dependent on generating sufficient taxable income prior to expiration of the loss carryovers.  Although realization is not assured, management believes it is more likely than not that all of the deferred tax assets, net of applicable valuation allowances, will be realized.  The amount of the deferred tax assets considered realizable could be reduced or increased if estimates of future taxable income change during the carryover period.

          The Company has provided deferred income taxes of $460 at March 31, 2008 and March 31, 2007 for estimated U.S. income taxes, net of foreign tax credits, for undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries that it no longer considers permanently reinvested overseas.  No provision has been made for U.S. or foreign taxes that may result from future remittances of approximately $126,225 at March 31, 2008 and $116,067 at March 31, 2007 of undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries because management expects that such earnings will be reinvested overseas indefinitely.  Determination of the amount of any unrecognized deferred income tax liability on these unremitted earnings is not practicable.


Note M – Employee Benefits


Retirement Benefits

The Company has multiple benefit plans at several locations.   The Company has a defined benefit plan that provides retirement benefits for substantially all U.S. salaried personnel based on years of service rendered, age and compensation.  The Company also maintains various other Excess Benefit and Supplemental Plans that provide additional benefits to (1) certain individuals whose compensation and the resulting benefits that would have actually been paid are limited by regulations imposed by the Internal Revenue Code and (2) certain individuals in key positions.  The Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan and the Pension Equity Plan were amended and restated on March 30, 2007.  Under the amended and restated plans, the participant’s final average compensation is frozen as of March 31, 2007 while the value of offsetting benefits is not and will not be determined until the employee’s termination of employment.  In addition, a Supplemental Retirement Account Plan (SRAP), a defined contribution program, was implemented.

          There was a curtailment benefit recognized for several of these additional executive retirement plans due to changes in personnel at March 31, 2008 and March 31, 2007.

          Additional non-U.S. plans sponsored by certain subsidiaries cover substantially all of the full-time employees located in Germany, Greece, Turkey, Malawi and United Kingdom.

          The Company’s policy is to contribute amounts to the plans sufficient to meet or exceed funding requirements of local governmental rules and regulations.


Adoption of SFAS No. 158

During fiscal 2007, the Company adopted SFAS No. 158, Employers' Accounting for Defined Benefit Pension and Other Postretirement Plans ("SFAS No. 158"), which amends SFAS No. 87 and SFAS No. 106 to require recognition of the over funded or under funded status of pension and other postretirement benefit plans on the balance sheet. Under SFAS No. 158, gains and losses, prior service costs and credits, and any remaining transition amounts under SFAS No. 87 and SFAS No. 106 that have not yet been recognized through net periodic benefit cost will be recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax effects, until they are amortized as a component of net periodic cost.

          Upon adoption, the Company recorded an adjustment to accumulated other comprehensive income representing the recognition of previously unrecorded pension and postretirement healthcare liabilities related to net unrecognized actuarial losses, unrecognized prior service costs and unrecognized prior service credits.  These amounts will be subsequently recognized as a component of net periodic pension cost pursuant to the Company’s historical accounting policy for recognizing such amounts.

          The incremental effects of adopting the provisions of SFAS No. 158 on the Company’s statement of financial position at March 31, 2007 are presented in the following table.  The adoption of SFAS No. 158 had no effect on the Company’s consolidated statement of operations for the year ended March 31, 2007.


 

 

At March 31, 2007

 

 

 

Prior to

 

Effect of

 

 

 

 

 

Adopting

 

Adopting

 

 

 

 

 

SFAS No. 158

 

SFAS No. 158

 

As Reported

 

Assets

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   Non-current benefit asset

 

$          - 

 

$   6,864 

 

$  6,864 

 

   Intangible asset

 

244 

 

(244)

 

 

   Deferred tax asset

 

1,813 

 

(3,340)

 

(1,527)

 

Liabilities

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   Current benefit liability

 

 

5,922 

 

5,922 

 

   Non-current benefit liability

 

69,753 

 

(14,129)

 

55,624 

 

Shareholders equity

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)

 

(2,628)

 

11,487 

 

8,859 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 











          Amounts included in accumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax, at March 31, 2007, which had not yet been recognized in net periodic benefit cost were as follows:


 

 

U.S. and
Non-U.S.
Pension Plans

 

Postretirement
Healthcare
Benefits

 

Total   

 

Net actuarial loss (gain)

 

$ 4,462      

 

$ (7,225)       

 

$  (2,763)

 

Prior service cost

 

599      

 

12,550        

 

13,149 

 

Deferred taxes

 

337      

 

(1,864)       

 

(1,527)

 

Amounts to be amortized

 

5,398      

 

3,461        

 

8,859 

 

Reverse additional minimum pension liability, net of tax

 

2,628      

 

-        

 

2,628 

 

Initial adoption of SFAS No. 158

 

$ 8,026      

 

$  3,461        

 

$ 11,487 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


          A reconciliation of benefit obligations, plan assets and funded status of the plans at March 31, 2008 and 2007, the measurement dates, is as follows:


 

U.S. Plans

 

Non-U.S. Plans

 

March 31,

 

March 31,

 

2008    

2007    

 

2008   

2007   

Change in Benefit Obligation

 

 

 

 

 

 

Benefit obligation, beginning

$ 80,933  

$ 80,713  

 

$ 53,981  

$56,446  

 

Service cost

2,101  

2,576  

 

364  

331  

 

Interest cost

4,699  

4,758  

 

3,210  

3,088  

 

Actuarial (gain) loss

(216) 

1,764  

 

2,638  

(1,903) 

 

Plan amendments/settlements/curtailments/special
   termination benefits

1,082  

(1,433) 

 

1,441  

2,678  

 

Effects of currency translation

-  

-  

 

1,562  

2,749  

 

Net transfers in

1,439  

-  

 

7,429  

-  

 

Benefits paid

(7,473) 

(7,445) 

 

(5,197) 

(9,408) 

 

Benefit obligation, ending

$ 82,565  

$ 80,933  

 

$ 65,428  

$53,981  

 

 

 

 

 

 

Change in Plan Assets

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fair value of plan assets, beginning

$ 45,854  

$ 46,258  

 

$ 44,325  

$41,858  

 

Actual return on plan assets

211  

3,524  

 

(1,086) 

3,234  

 

Employer contribution

4,285  

3,517  

 

3,509  

6,321  

 

Effect of currency translation

-  

-  

 

349  

2,320  

 

Benefits paid

(7,473) 

(7,445) 

 

(5,197) 

(9,408) 

 

Fair value of plan assets, ending

$ 42,877  

$  45,854  

 

$ 41,900  

$44,325  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net amount recognized

$(39,688) 

$(35,079) 

 

$(23,528) 

$(9,656) 












 

U.S. Plans

 

Non-U.S. Plans

 

March 31,

 

March 31,

 

2008    

2007    

 

2008    

2007   

Amounts Recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheet

 

 

 

 

 

   Consist of:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Non-current benefit asset

$          -   

$          -   

 

$    4,158  

$   6,864  

 

Accrued current benefit liability

(2,650) 

(2,138) 

 

(3,625) 

(2,843) 

 

Accrued non-current benefit

(37,038) 

(32,941) 

 

(24,061) 

(13,677) 

           Net amount recognized

$(39,688) 

$(35,079) 

 

$ (23,528) 

$ (9,656) 


          The pension obligations for all defined benefit pension plans:


 

U.S. Plans

 

Non-U.S. Plans

 

March 31,

 

March 31,

 

2008    

2007    

 

2008    

2007   

Information for Pension Plans with Accumulated Benefit

 

 

 

 

 

 

Obligation in Excess of Plan Assets:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Projected benefit obligation

$82,565 

$80,933 

 

$49,013 

$35,740 

           Accumulated benefit obligation

81,115 

79,970 

 

45,475 

32,977 

 

Fair value of plan assets

42,877 

45,854 

 

21,327 

21,343 


          Net periodic pension costs included the following components:


 

U.S. Plans

 

Non-U.S. Plans

 

 

March 31,

 

March 31,

 

 

2008   

2007   

2006

 

2008   

2007   

2006

 

Service cost

$2,101 

$2,576 

$ 2,696  

 

$  364  

$   331 

$ 2,252 

 

Interest cost

4,699  

4,758 

4,503  

 

3,210 

3,089 

2,767 

 

Expected return on plan assets

(3,659)

(3,589)

(3,703) 

 

(3,189)

(3,290)

(2,360)

 

Amortization of actuarial loss

416 

526 

-  

 

68 

 

Amortization of prior service cost

(272)

1,933 

1,729  

 

29 

46 

43 

 

Recognized net actual loss

713  

 

106 

 

Special termination benefits

13 

286 

188  

 

1,441 

495 

660 

 

One-time effects of curtailment

(41)

260 

(155) 

 

132 

602 

 

One-time effects of settlement

(35) 

 

(195)

473 

 

Net periodic pension cost

$3,257 

$6,750 

$ 5,936  

 

$1,923 

$   608 

$ 4,543 

 


          The amounts showing in other comprehensive income at March 31, 2008, March 31, 2007 and movements for the year were as follows:


 

 

U.S. and Non-U.S.
Pension

 

U.S. and Non-U.S.
Post-retirement

 

Total

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Prior service cost

 

$    599             

 

$12,550             

 

$ 13,149             

Net (gain) loss

 

4,462             

 

(7,225)            

 

(2,763)            

Deferred taxes

 

337             

 

(1,864)            

 

(1,527)            

   Balance at March 31, 2007

 

$ 5,398             

 

$  3,461             

 

$   8,859             

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Prior service credit

 

$(1,236)            

 

$(1,622)            

 

$ (2,858)            

Net (gain) loss

 

(8,773)            

 

1,160             

 

(7,613)            

Deferred taxes

 

3,363             

 

162             

 

3,525             

   Total change for 2008

 

$(6,646)            

 

$   (300)            

 

$ (6,946)            

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Prior service (credit) cost

 

$   (637)            

 

$10,928             

 

$ 10,291             

Net gain

 

(4,311)            

 

(6,065)            

 

(10,376)            

Deferred taxes

 

3,700             

 

(1,702)            

 

1,998             

   Balance at March 31, 2008

 

$(1,248)            

 

$  3,161             

 

$   1,913             








          The following weighted average assumptions were used to determine the expense for the pension, postretirement, other postemployment, and employee savings plans as follows:



U.S. Plans

 

Non-U.S. Plans

 

March 31,

 

March 31,

 

2008

2007

2006

 

2008

2007

2006

Discount rate

5.90%

5.90%

6.00%

 

5.93%

4.50% to 6.00%

4.50% to 6.00%

Rate of increase in future compensation

3.75%

3.75%

3.00%

 

3.80%

3.00% to 4.00%

2.00% to 3.00%

Expected long-term rate of return on
   plan assets

8.25%

8.25%

8.25%

 

7.25%

7.25%

7.00%


          A March 31 measurement date is used for the pension, postretirement, other postemployment and employee savings plans. The expected long-term rate of return on assets was determined based upon historical investment performance, current asset allocation, and estimates of future investment performance by asset class.  

          The following assumptions were used to determine the benefit obligations disclosed for the pension, postretirement, other postemployment and employee savings plans at March 31, 2008 and 2007:



U.S. Plans

 

Non-U.S. Plans

 

March 31,

 

March 31,

 

2008

2007

 

2008

2007

Discount rate

6.30%

6.00%

 

6.67%

4.50% to 6.00%

Rate of increase in future compensation

5.00%

3.00%

 

5.16%

4.00% to 3.00%


          For 2008 and 2007, the annual rate of increase in the per capita cost of covered health care benefits is not applicable as the Company’s annual cost commitment to the benefits is capped and not adjusted for future medical inflation.  

          Net gain (loss) and prior service credits (costs) for the combined U.S. and non-U.S. pension plans expected to be amortized from accumulated comprehensive income into net periodic benefit cost during fiscal 2009 is $705 and $(84), respectively.  


Plan Assets

The Company’s asset allocations at March 31, 2008 and 2007 by asset category are as follows:


 

U.S. Plans

 

Non-U.S. Plans

 

March 31,

 

March 31,

 

2008      

2007      

 

2008     

2007      

Asset Category:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Equity securities

61%

73%

 

74%

70%

 

Fixed income

27%

18%

 

26%

19%

 

Real estate

12%

9%

 

-

-

 

Other short term investments

-

-

 

-

11%

 

Total

100%

100%

 

100%

100%


          The Company’s investment objectives are to generate consistent total investment return to pay anticipated plan benefits, while minimizing long-term costs.  Financial objectives underlying this policy include maintaining plan contributions at a reasonable level relative to benefits provided and assuring that unfunded obligations do not grow to a level to adversely affect the Company’s financial health.  The Company’s target asset allocation strategy is a 68%/22%/10% allocation between equity, fixed income securities and real estate for the domestic plans and 73% to 83%, 21% to 22% and 1% equity, fixed income securities and real estate for the foreign plans.  The asset allocation at March 31, 2007 reflects the investment allocation after all funds were transferred and invested by the new investment managers.  Manager performance is measured against investment objectives and objective benchmarks, including:  Salomon 90 Day Treasury Bill, Lehman Brothers Intermediate Govt. Credit, Lehman Aggregate Index, Russell 1000 Value, Russell 1000 Growth, Russell 2500 Value, Russell 2000 Growth, and MSCI EAFE.  The Portfolio Objective is to exceed the actuarial return on assets assumption.  Management regularly reviews portfolio allocations and periodically rebalances the portfolio to the targeted allocations when considered appropriate.  Equity securities do not include the Company’s common stock.


Cash Flows


Contributions

The Company expects to contribute $4,650 to its domestic benefits plans and $6,788 to its foreign benefit plans in 2009.


Estimated Future Benefit Payments

The following benefit payments, which reflect expected future service, as appropriate, are expected to be paid:


 

Pension Benefits

 

Other Benefits

 

U.S. Plans

 

Non-U.S. Plans

 

U.S. Plans

 

Non-U.S. Plans

 

March 31,

 

March 31,

 

March 31,

 

March 31,

 

2008

 

2008

 

2008

 

2008

2009

$ 5,619          

 

$ 6,788         

 

$   822           

 

$   154           

2010

5,882          

 

5,662        

 

796           

 

163           

2011

6,051          

 

5,497        

 

775           

 

173           

2012

6,888          

 

5,583        

 

748           

 

183           

2013

5,682          

 

5,837        

 

733           

 

194           

Years 2014-2017

34,998          

 

30,262        

 

3,383           

 

1,121           


          The Company sponsors 401-k savings plans for most of its salaried employees located in the United States.  The Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan and the Pension Equity Plan were replaced by a Supplemental Retirement Account Plan (SRAP) during 2008.  The Company also maintains defined contribution plans at various foreign locations.  The Company’s contributions to the plans were $3,976 in 2008, $3,322 in 2007 and $2,306 in 2006.

          The DIMON Compensation Deferral Plan was approved by the Board on June 23, 2003.  The plan is available to certain employees and non-employee members of the Board.  Eligible participants may elect to defer specified portions of cash or equity based compensation received and have the deferred amount treated as if invested in specified investment vehicles.  The Compensation Deferral Plan is unfunded with a payable of $146 at March 31, 2008.  Withdrawals from the Plan are not permitted until the termination of a participant’s service.  The plan was frozen in 2006.  See also Note K “Stock-Based Compensation” to the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” for further information regarding equity based compensation.


Postretirement Health and Life Insurance Benefits

The Company provides certain health and life insurance benefits to retired U.S. employees (and their eligible dependents) who meet specified age and service requirements.  In 2005 the plan was amended to exclude new employees from the plan after September 2005 and to cap the Company’s annual cost commitment to postretirement benefits for retirees.  This plan amendment resulted in a reduction of $14,118 to the benefit obligation.  The Company retains the right, subject to existing agreements, to modify or eliminate these postretirement health and life insurance benefits in the future.

          The Company provides certain health and life insurance benefits to retired Brazilian directors and certain retirees located in Europe including their eligible dependents who meet specified requirements.  

          The following assumptions were used to determine non-U.S. Plan postretirement benefit obligations at March 31:


 

2008

Discount rate

9.95%            

Health care cost trend rate assumed for next year

7.0               

 

Ultimate trend rate

7.0               


          A one-percentage-point change in assumed health care cost trend rates would not have a significant effect on the amounts reported for health care plans.

          Additional retiree medical benefits are provided to certain U.S. individuals in accordance with their employment contracts.  For 2008 the additional cost related to these contracts was $36.

          Prior service credits of $1,622 and unrecognized net actuarial losses of $375 are expected to be amortized from accumulated comprehensive income into postretirement healthcare benefits net periodic benefit cost for the combined U.S. and non-U.S. postretirement benefits during fiscal 2009.







          A reconciliation of benefit obligations, plan assets and funded status of the plans was as follows:


 

U.S. Plans

 

Non-U.S. Plans

 

March 31,     

 

March 31,     

 

March 31,        

 

2008          

 

2007          

 

2008             

Change in Benefit Obligation

 

 

 

 

 

 

Benefit obligation, beginning

$ 9,951         

 

$  9,145       

 

$          -          

 

Service cost

73         

 

88       

 

56          

 

Interest cost

564         

 

529       

 

231          

 

Effect of currency translation

-         

 

-       

 

(429)        

 

Actuarial loss

(739)         

 

1,083       

 

36          

 

Net transfer in

-         

 

-       

 

3,061          

 

Benefits paid

(734)         

 

(894)      

 

(137)         

 

Benefit obligation, ending

$ 9,115         

 

$  9,951       

 

$   2,818          

 

 

 

 

 

 

Change in Plan Assets

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fair value of plan assets, beginning

$        -          

 

$       24       

 

$          -          

 

Employer contribution

734         

 

870       

 

137          

 

Benefits paid

(734)        

 

(894)      

 

(137)         

 

Fair value of plan assets, ending

$        -          

 

$         -        

 

$          -          

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net amount recognized

$(9,115)        

 

$ (9,951)      

 

$ (2,818)         

 

 

 

 

 

 

Amounts Recognized in the Consolidated
   Balance Sheet Consist of:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Accrued benefit liability

$   (822)        

 

$   (941)       

 

$    (146)         

 

Accrued non-current benefit liability

(8,293)        

 

(9,010)       

 

(2,672)         

 

Net amount recognized

$(9,115)        

 

$(9,951)       

 

$ (2,818)         











Plan Assets


There are no plan assets for 2008.  Plan assets were invested in fixed income securities for 2007.

          Net periodic benefit costs included the following components:


 

U.S. Plans

 

Non-U.S. Plans

 

March 31,

 

March 31,   

 

2008    

2007    

2006    

 

2008       

Service cost

$    73     

$       88     

$   234    

 

$  56          

Interest cost

564     

529     

885    

 

231          

Expected return on plan assets

-     

(1)    

(7)   

 

-          

Amortization of prior service cost

-     

-      

(927)   

 

-          

Special termination benefits

-     

-      

335    

 

-          

One-time effect of settlement

-     

-      

(272)   

 

-          

Prior service credit

(1,622)    

(1,622)    

-     

 

-          

Actuarial loss

421     

347     

-     

 

-          

Net periodic benefit cost (income)

$   (564)    

$   (659)    

$   248    

 

$287          


          The Company continues to evaluate ways to better manage these benefits and control their costs.  Any changes in the plan or revisions to assumptions that affect the amount of expected future benefits may have a significant effect on the amount of the reported obligation and annual expense.  The Company expects to contribute $968 to its combined U.S. and non-U.S. postretirement benefit plans in 2009.

          Employees in operations located in certain other foreign operations are covered by various postretirement benefit arrangements.   For these foreign plans, the cost of benefits charged to income was not material in 2008, 2007 and 2006.


Note N – Segment Information


The Company purchases, processes, sells, and stores leaf tobacco.  Tobacco is purchased in more than 45 countries and shipped to more than 90 countries.  The sales, logistics and billing functions of the Company are primarily concentrated in service centers outside of the producing areas to facilitate access to our major customers.  Within certain quality and grade constraints, tobacco is fungible and, subject to these constraints, customers may choose to fulfill their needs from any of the areas where the Company purchases tobacco.

          Based upon management’s evaluation of performance using information included in management reports, the Company believes it has five operating segments.  The five operating segments are the geographic segments:  Africa, Asia, Europe, North America and South America.  In reviewing these operations, the Company concluded that the economic characteristics of South America were dissimilar from the other operating segments.  Based on this fact, the Company is disclosing South America separately and has aggregated the remaining four operating segments, Africa, Asia, Europe and North America into one reportable segment “Other Regions”.  The Company concluded that these operating segments have similar economic characteristics and are similar in each of the following areas:


a.

the nature of the products and services;

b.

the nature of the production processes;

c.

the type or class of customer for their products and services;

d.

the methods used to distribute their products or provide their services; and

e.

the nature of the regulatory environment.


          Selling, logistics, billing, and administrative overhead, including depreciation, which originates primarily from the Company’s corporate and sales offices, are allocated to the segments based upon segment operating income.  The Company reviews performance data from purchase through sale based on the source of the product and all intercompany transactions are allocated to the region that either purchases or processes the tobacco.  







          During the three months ended June 30, 2006, the Company entered into an agreement with local government in Brazil, which provides for realization of accumulated intrastate trade taxes related to the 2005 crop on a monthly basis as stipulated therein. As a result, intrastate trade taxes related to the 2005 crop of $19,225, previously recorded as expense in fiscal 2006, were reversed in fiscal 2007.


 

 

Years Ended March 31,

 

Analysis of Segment Operations

2008

2007

2006

Sales and other Operating Revenues:

 

 

 

 

South America

$   845,370      

$   723,739      

$     759,369      

 

Other Regions

1,166,133      

1,255,339      

1,353,316      

 

Total Revenue

$2,011,503      

$1,979,078      

$  2,112,685      

 

 

 

 

 

Operating Income (Loss):

 

 

 

 

South America

$     42,192      

$     73,014      

$   (166,561)     

 

Other Regions

51,403      

40,686      

(112,667)     

Total Operating Income (Loss)

93,595      

113,700      

(279,228)     

 

Debt Retirement Expense

5,909      

3,860      

66,474      

 

Interest Expense

101,885      

105,635      

108,585      

 

Interest Income

16,245      

8,591      

7,107      

 

Derivative Financial Instruments Income

-      

290      

5,092      

Income (Loss) Before Income Taxes and Other Items

$       2,046      

$     13,086      

$   (442,088)     


 

 

Years Ended March 31,

 

Analysis of Segment Assets

2008

2007

2006

Segment Assets:

 

 

 

 

South America

$   844,053      

$   757,861      

$    652,004      

 

Other Regions

868,812      

896,011      

1,252,120      

 

Total Assets

$1,712,865      

$1,653,872      

$ 1,904,124      

 

 

 

 

 

Goodwill:

 

 

 

 

Other Regions

$       2,794      

$       4,186      

$        4,186      

 

 

 

 

 

Equity in Net Assets of Investee Companies:

 

 

 

 

South America

$               -      

$          693      

$           978      

 

Other Regions

19,285      

17,768      

16,579      

 

Total Investees

$     19,285      

$     18,461      

$      17,557      

 

 

 

 

 

Depreciation and Amortization:

 

 

 

 

South America

$       9,546      

$     11,265      

$      12,676      

 

Other Regions

25,012      

25,028      

30,835      

 

Total Depreciation and Amortization

$     34,558      

$     36,293      

$      43,511      

 

 

 

 

 

Capital Expenditures:

 

 

 

 

South America

$       3,293      

$       2,733      

$        5,215      

 

Other Regions

20,610      

12,491      

14,558      

 

Total Capital Expenditures

$     23,903      

$     15,224      

$      19,773      











          Geographic information as to sales and other operating revenues is based on the destination of the product shipped.  The Belgium destination represents a customer owned storage and distribution center from which the tobacco will be shipped on to manufacturing facilities.


 

Years Ended March 31,

      Sales by Destination

2008

2007     

2006     

Sales and Other Operating Revenues:

 

 

 

 

Belgium

$     395,730       

$     357,368 

$     295,055 

 

United States

349,200       

340,772 

397,037 

 

Germany

143,996       

169,405 

181,114 

 

Russia

118,663       

116,115 

121,576 

 

Netherlands

104,967       

150,560 

99,842 

 

Other

898,947       

844,858 

1,018,061 

 

 

$  2,011,503       

$  1,979,078 

$  2,112,685 

 

Sales and Other Operating Revenues to Major Customers:

 

Of the 2008, 2007 and 2006 sales and other operating revenues, approximately 55%, 53% and 52%, respectively, were to various tobacco companies which are now owned by or under the common control of two companies.  (The following table summarizes the net sales to each customer for the periods indicated: )

 

 

Customer A

$     659,382       

$     679,086 

$     719,051 

Customer B

450,871       

368,087 

376,274 

 

$  1,110,253       

$  1,047,173 

$  1,095,325 

 

 

 

 

Property, Plant and Equipment:

 

 

 

 

United States

$       44,284       

$       43,994 

$       48,532 

 

Brazil

52,002       

72,403 

77,352 

 

Turkey

33,784       

41,979 

47,467 

 

Malawi

35,164       

38,567 

43,298 

 

Tanzania

14,839       

16,407 

18,183 

 

Europe

16,125       

21,824 

23,738 

 

Argentina

11,275       

12,794 

13,983 

 

Asia

8,244       

8,780 

9,139 

 

Other

2,560       

5,320 

5,443 

 

Property, Plant and Equipment

$     218,277       

$     262,068 

$     287,135 


Note O – Foreign Currency Translation


The financial statements of foreign entities included in the consolidated financial statements have been translated to U.S. dollars in accordance with SFAS No. 52, “Foreign Currency Translation.”

          The financial statements of foreign subsidiaries, for which the local currency is the functional currency, are translated into U.S. dollars using exchange rates in effect at period end for assets and liabilities and average exchange rates during each reporting period for results of operations.  Adjustments resulting from translation of financial statements are reflected as a separate component of other comprehensive income.

          The financial statements of foreign subsidiaries, for which the U.S. dollar is the functional currency and which have certain transactions denominated in a local currency, are remeasured into U.S. dollars.  The remeasurement of local currencies into U.S. dollars creates remeasurement adjustments that are included in net income. Exchange gains (losses) in 2008, 2007 and 2006 were $4,073, $(168) and $2,313, respectively, and are included in the respective statements of income.







 

Note P – Contingencies and Other Information


Non-Income Tax


In September 2006, the Company’s Serbian operations were assessed for VAT and government pension liability for payments to farmers.  The Company has appealed the assessment from the tax authorities based upon favorable discussions with the Ministry of Finance and is awaiting the final decision from the Supreme Court.  As of March 31, 2008, the balance of the reserve is $275 and payments of $296 have been made.

           The government in the Brazilian State of Parana (“Parana”) issued a tax assessment on October 26, 2007 with respect to local intrastate trade tax credits that result primarily from tobacco transferred between states within Brazil.  The assessment for intrastate trade tax credits taken is $7,545 and the total assessment including penalties and interest through March 31, 2008 is $13,173.  The Company believes it has properly complied with Brazilian law and will contest any assessment through the judicial process.  Should the Company lose in the judicial process, the loss of the intrastate trade tax credits would have a material impact on the financial statements of the Company.

           The assessment of $7,545 represents intrastate trade tax credit amounts which were offset against intrastate trade tax receivables. At March 31, 2008 the Company also has intrastate trade tax receivables from Parana of $11,086.  During fiscal 2008, the Company recorded an impairment charge of $7,143.  The impairment charge is based upon the estimated fair value of the asset taking into consideration the time it will take to appeal, market interest rates and uncertainty as to the outcome.  As the impairment charge pertains to costs of procurement of raw materials, $6,204 has been charged to cost of goods and services sold and $835 has been capitalized into inventory and will be charged to cost of goods and services sold as the inventory is sold.

           The Company estimates a total 2008 crop impact of $7,500 from intrastate trade tax credits generated from purchases in the State of Parana and transferred to the State of Rio Grande do Sul and will capitalize this value in the 2008 crop cost.  The intrastate trade tax receivable as of March 31, 2008 of $1,460 has bee