☐TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d)
OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from_____ to _____
Commission file number 0-362
FRANKLIN ELECTRIC CO., INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
Indiana
35-0827455
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)
(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
9255 Coverdale Road
Fort Wayne,
Indiana
46809
(Address of principal executive offices)
(Zip Code)
(260) 824-2900
(Registrant's telephone number, including area code)
Not Applicable
(Former name, former address and former fiscal year, if changed since last report)
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Common Stock, $0.10 par value
FELE
NASDAQ
Global Select Market
(Title of each class)
(Trading symbol)
(Name of each exchange on which registered)
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.
Yes
☒
No
☐
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (Section 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).
Yes
☒
No
☐
1
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” “smaller reporting company," and "emerging growth company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large Accelerated Filer
☒
Accelerated Filer
☐
Non-Accelerated Filer
☐
Smaller Reporting Company
☐
Emerging Growth Company
☐
If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ☐
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act).
Yes
☐
No
☒
Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer's classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
1. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2020, which has been derived from audited financial statements, and the unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements as of September 30, 2021, and for the third quarters and nine months ended September 30, 2021 and September 30, 2020 have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles for interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X. Certain information and note disclosures normally included in annual financial statements prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles have been condensed or omitted pursuant to those rules and regulations. In the opinion of management, all accounting entries and adjustments (including normal, recurring adjustments) considered necessary for a fair presentation of the financial position and the results of operations for the interim periods have been made. Operating results for the third quarter and nine months ended September 30, 2021 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2021. For further information, including a description of the critical accounting policies of Franklin Electric Co., Inc. (the "Company"), refer to the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2020.
2. ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS
Adoption of New Accounting Standards
In August 2021, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") 2021-06, Presentation of Financial Statements (Topic 205), Financial Services—Depository and Lending (Topic 942), and Financial Services— Investment Companies (Topic 946): Amendments to SEC Paragraphs Pursuant to SEC Final Rule Releases No. 33-10786, Amendments to Financial Disclosures about Acquired and Disposed Businesses, and No. 33-10835, Update of Statistical Disclosures for Bank and Savings and Loan Registrants. This update amends certain SEC disclosure guidance that is included in the accounting standards codification to reflect the SEC’s recent issuance of rules intended to modernize and streamline disclosure requirements, including updates to business acquisition and disposition significance tests used, the significance thresholds for proforma statement disclosures, the number of preceding years of financial statements required for disclosure as well as other provisions in the SEC releases. The Company adopted the SEC’s guidance on January 1, 2021, the effective date of the release, relating to the amendments to financial disclosures about acquired and disposed businesses, and it did not have a material impact on the Company's consolidated financial position, results of operations, or cash flows.
In March 2020, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") 2020-04, Facilitation of the Effects of Reference Rate Reform on Financial Reporting, which provides optional expedients and exceptions for applying U.S. generally accepted accounting principles to contracts, hedging relationships, and other transactions affected by the discontinuation of the London Interbank Offered Rate ("LIBOR") and other reference rates which are expected to be discontinued due to reference rate reform. ASU 2020-04 is effective on a prospective basis between March 12, 2020 and December 31, 2022. The Company adopted the standard effective January 1, 2021, and it did not have a material impact on the Company's consolidated financial position, results of operations, or cash flows.
In December 2019, the FASB issued ASU 2019-12, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Simplifying the Accounting for Income Taxes, which is expected to reduce cost and complexity related to accounting for income taxes. ASU 2019-12 eliminates the need for the Company to analyze whether certain exceptions apply and improves financial statement preparers' application of income tax-related guidance. ASU 2019-12 is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2020 with early adoption permitted. Amendments related to franchise taxes that are partially based on income should be applied on either a retrospective or modified retrospective basis. All other amendments should be applied on a prospective basis. The Company adopted the standard effective January 1, 2021, and it did not have a material impact on the Company's consolidated financial position, results of operations, or cash flows.
Accounting Standards Issued But Not Yet Adopted
In August 2020, the FASB issued ASU 2020-06, Debt – Debt with Conversion and Other Options (Subtopic 470-20) and Derivatives and Hedging – Contracts in Entity’s Own Equity (Subtopic 815-40): Accounting for Convertible Instruments and Contracts in an Entity’s Own Equity. ASU 2020-06 reduces the number of accounting models for various convertible instruments and reduces form-over-substance-based accounting conclusions for the derivatives scope exception for contracts in an entity’s own equity. The FASB also updated Earnings Per Share (“EPS”) guidance under Topic 260 by requiring an entity to consider the potential effect of share settlement in the diluted EPS calculation for instruments that may be settled in cash or shares as well as other amendments. ASU 2020-06 is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2021 with early adoption permitted but no earlier than fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2020. The guidance should be adopted at the beginning of a fiscal year. ASU 2020-06 should be applied on either a retrospective or modified retrospective basis. The Company is planning to adopt on January 1, 2022, but does not expect the ASU to have a material impact on the Company's consolidated financial position, results of operations, or cash flows.
11
3. ACQUISITIONS
During the third quarter ended September 30, 2021, the Company acquired 100 percent of the ownership interests of Minetuff Dewatering Pumps Australia Pty Ltd for a cash purchase price of $13.7 million after purchase price adjustments based on the level of working capital acquired. Minetuff manufactures and sells submersible pumps, spare parts, and accessories to the mining industry and will expand the Company’s existing product offerings and channel access in the Water Systems segment. The fair value of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed for the acquisition is preliminary as of September 30, 2021, and is classified as Level 3 within the valuation hierarchy.
During the second quarter ended June 30, 2021, the Company acquired, in separate transactions, 100 percent of the ownership interests of Puronics, Inc. and its wholly owned subsidiaries, headquartered in Livermore, California, and 100 percent of the ownership interests of New Aqua, LLC and its wholly owned subsidiaries, headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana. Both Puronics and New Aqua are water treatment equipment providers and will be included as a part of the Water Systems segment of the Company. In a separate transaction during the second quarter ended June 30, 2021, the Company acquired all of the assets of Power Integrity Services, LLC, a North Carolina-based company, which will be included in the Fueling Systems segment of the Company.
In another separate transaction during the second quarter ended June 30, 2021, the Company acquired all of the assets of Atlantic Turbine Pump, LLC, a Georgia-based company, which will be included in the Distribution segment of the Company. As of September 30, 2021, the Company has recorded estimated fair values that exceed the acquisition price by $0.5 million, representing a bargain purchase gain due to favorable market conditions within accrued expenses and other current liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets for the Atlantic Turbine Pump acquisition. Once the determination of fair values is complete in 2022, the Company will recognize the bargain purchase gain in the consolidated statements of income.
The combined purchase price for all acquisitions in the second quarter was $185.1 million after purchase price adjustments based on the level of working capital acquired, which were all cash transactions. All acquisitions in the second quarter expand the Company's geographical presence and product channels. The fair value of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed for all acquisitions are preliminary as of September 30, 2021 and is classified as Level 3 within the valuation hierarchy.
The identifiable intangible assets recognized in the separate transactions in 2021, were $121.4 million, and consist primarily of customer relationships and trade names, which will be amortized using the straight-line method over 12 - 20 years.
The goodwill of $55.5 million resulting from the acquisitions in 2021 consists primarily of expanded geographical presence and product channel expansion. Goodwill deductible for tax purposes is $52.1 million from the acquisitions in 2021. Goodwill was recorded in the Water Systems and Fueling Systems segments (see Note 6 - Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets).
For all acquisitions in 2021, consolidated annual revenue for the full year 2020 was $102.4 million, which would be incremental to the Company's revenue had the acquisitions occurred on the first day of 2020. Since acquisition in 2021, consolidated revenue was $42.9 million. The Company has not presented separate results of operations since closing or combined pro forma financial information of the Company and the acquired interest since the beginning of 2020, as the results of operations for all acquisitions is immaterial.
During the fourth quarter ended December 31, 2020, the Company acquired 100 percent of the ownership interests of Gicon Pumps & Equipment, Inc., a professional groundwater distributor operating seven locations in the state of Texas for a purchase price of $28.1 million after purchase price adjustments based on the level of working capital acquired. Gicon will be included as part of the Distribution segment of the Company. As of September 30, 2021, the Company has recorded estimated fair values that exceed the acquisition price by $5.6 million, representing a bargain purchase gain due to favorable market conditions within accrued expenses and other current liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets. Once the determination of fair values is complete in 2021, the Company will recognize the bargain purchase gain in the consolidated statements of income. In a separate transaction during the fourth quarter ended December 31, 2020, the Company acquired 100 percent of the ownership interests in Waterite Inc. and its affiliate Waterite America Inc., headquartered in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, for a purchase price of $21.9 million after purchase price adjustments based on the level of working capital acquired. Waterite will be included as a part of the Water Systems segment of the Company. The fair value of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed for both acquisitions are preliminary as of September 30, 2021 and is classified as Level 3 within the valuation hierarchy. In addition, the Company has not presented separate results of operations since closing or combined pro forma financial information of the Company and the acquired interest since the beginning of 2020, as the results of operations for both acquisitions is immaterial.
Transaction costs were expensed as incurred under the guidance of FASB Accounting Standards Codification Topic 805, Business Combinations. There were $0.0 million and $0.8 million of transaction costs included in the "Selling, general, and
12
administrative expenses" line of the Company's condensed consolidated statements of income for the third quarter and nine months ended September 30, 2021, respectively. Transaction costs were immaterial in the third quarter and nine months ended September 30, 2020.
4. FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS
FASB ASC Topic 820, Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures, provides guidance for defining, measuring, and disclosing fair value within an established framework and hierarchy. Fair value is defined 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. The standard established a fair value hierarchy which requires an entity to maximize the use of observable inputs and to minimize the use of unobservable inputs when measuring fair value. The three levels of inputs that may be used to measure fair value within the hierarchy are as follows:
Level 1 – Quoted prices for identical assets and liabilities in active markets;
Level 2 – Quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar assets and liabilities in markets that are not active, and model-derived valuations in which all significant inputs and significant value drivers are observable in active markets; and
Level 3 – Valuations derived from valuation techniques in which one or more significant inputs or significant value drivers are unobservable.
As of September 30, 2021 and December 31, 2020, the assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis were as set forth in the table below:
(In millions)
September 30, 2021
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1)
Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2)
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)
Cash equivalents
$
6.2
$
6.2
$
—
$
—
December 31, 2020
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1)
Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2)
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)
Cash equivalents
$
20.2
$
20.2
$
—
$
—
The Company's Level 1 assets consist of cash equivalents which are generally comprised of foreign bank guaranteed certificates of deposit.
The Company has no assets measured on a recurring basis classified as Level 2 or Level 3.
Total debt, including current maturities, have carrying amounts of $196.8 million and $94.6 million and estimated fair values of $206.7 million and $107.3 million as of September 30, 2021 and December 31, 2020, respectively. In the absence of quoted prices in active markets, considerable judgment is required in developing estimates of fair value. Estimates are not necessarily indicative of the amounts the Company could realize in a current market transaction. In determining the fair value of its debt, the Company uses estimates based on rates currently available to the Company for debt with similar terms and remaining maturities. Accordingly, the fair value of debt is classified as Level 2 within the valuation hierarchy.
5. FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
The Company’s non-employee directors' deferred compensation stock program is subject to variable plan accounting and, accordingly, is adjusted for changes in the Company’s stock price at the end of each reporting period. The Company has entered into share swap transaction agreements (the "swap") to mitigate the Company’s exposure to the fluctuations in the Company's stock price. The swap has not been designated as a hedge for accounting purposes and is cancellable with 30 days' written notice by either party. As of September 30, 2021, the swap had a notional value based on 210,000 shares. For the third quarter and nine months ended September 30, 2021, the swap resulted in a loss of $0.2 million and a gain of $3.1 million, respectively. For the third quarter and nine months ended September 30, 2020 the swap resulted in gains of $1.8 million and $0.3 million respectively. Gains and losses resulting from the swap were largely offset by gains and losses on the fair value of the deferred compensation stock liability. All gains or losses and expenses related to the swap are recorded in the Company's condensed consolidated statements of income within the “Selling, general, and administrative expenses” line.
13
6. GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS
The carrying amounts of the Company’s intangible assets are as follows:
(In millions)
September 30, 2021
December 31, 2020
Gross Carrying Amount
Accumulated Amortization
Gross Carrying Amount
Accumulated Amortization
Amortizing intangibles:
Customer relationships
250.7
(86.1)
165.1
(78.5)
Patents
$
7.4
$
(7.3)
$
7.5
$
(7.3)
Technology
7.5
(7.3)
7.5
(7.2)
Trade names
37.1
(1.0)
$
3.4
(0.2)
Other
3.1
(2.9)
2.9
(2.8)
Total
$
305.8
$
(104.6)
$
186.4
$
(96.0)
Unamortizing intangibles:
Trade names
42.9
—
43.4
—
Total intangibles
$
348.7
$
(104.6)
$
229.8
$
(96.0)
Amortization expense related to intangible assets for the third quarters ended September 30, 2021 and September 30, 2020 was $4.3 million and $2.4 million, respectively, and for the nine months ended September 30, 2021 and September 30, 2020, $10.2 million and $7.0 million, respectively.
Amortization expense for each of the five succeeding years is projected as follows:
(In millions)
2021
2022
2023
2024
2025
$
12.9
$
14.8
$
14.6
$
14.4
$
13.6
The change in the carrying amount of goodwill by reportable segment for the nine months ended September 30, 2021, is as follows:
(In millions)
Water Systems
Fueling Systems
Distribution
Consolidated
Balance as of December 31, 2020
$
161.5
$
67.7
$
37.5
$
266.7
Acquisitions
52.9
2.6
—
55.5
Adjustments to prior year acquisitions
0.1
—
—
0.1
Foreign currency translation
(2.0)
—
—
(2.0)
Balance as of September 30, 2021
$
212.5
$
70.3
$
37.5
$
320.3
7. EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS
Defined Benefit Plans - As of September 30, 2021, the Company maintained two domestic pension plans and three German pension plans. The Company used a December 31, 2020 measurement date for these plans. One of the Company's domestic pension plans covers one active management employee, while the other domestic plan covers all eligible employees (plan was frozen as of December 31, 2011). The two domestic and three German plans collectively comprise the 'Pension Benefits' disclosure caption.
Other Benefits - The Company's other post-retirement benefit plan provides health and life insurance to domestic employees hired prior to 1992.
The following table sets forth the aggregated net periodic benefit cost for all pension plans for the third quarters and nine months ended September 30, 2021 and September 30, 2020:
14
(In millions)
Pension Benefits
Third Quarter Ended
Nine Months Ended
September 30, 2021
September 30, 2020
September 30, 2021
September 30, 2020
Service cost
$
0.2
$
0.2
$
0.6
$
0.5
Interest cost
0.7
1.1
2.1
3.3
Expected return on assets
(1.3)
(1.7)
(4.1)
(5.1)
Amortization of:
Prior service cost
1.2
—
3.3
—
Actuarial loss
—
1.0
—
2.8
Settlement cost
—
—
—
—
Net periodic benefit cost
$
0.8
$
0.6
$
1.9
$
1.5
In the nine months ended September 30, 2021, the Company made contributions of $0.1 million to the funded plans. The amount of contributions to be made to the plans during the calendar year 2021 was finalized by September 15, 2021, based upon the funding level requirements identified and year-end valuation performed at December 31, 2020.
The following table sets forth the aggregated net periodic benefit cost for the other post-retirement benefit plan for the third quarters and nine months ended September 30, 2021 and September 30, 2020:
(In millions)
Other Benefits
Third Quarter Ended
Nine Months Ended
September 30, 2021
September 30, 2020
September 30, 2021
September 30, 2020
Service cost
$
—
$
—
$
—
$
—
Interest cost
—
0.1
0.1
0.2
Expected return on assets
—
—
—
—
Amortization of:
Prior service cost
—
—
0.1
—
Actuarial loss
—
—
—
—
Settlement cost
—
—
—
—
Net periodic benefit cost
$
—
$
0.1
$
0.2
$
0.2
8. ACCRUED EXPENSES AND OTHER CURRENT LIABILITIES
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities consist of:
(In millions)
September 30, 2021
December 31, 2020
Salaries, wages, and commissions
54.5
36.4
Product warranty costs
10.3
9.7
Insurance
2.6
2.4
Employee benefits
10.0
9.8
Other
37.3
30.7
114.7
89.0
9. INCOME TAXES
The Company’s effective tax rate from continuing operations for the nine month period ended September 30, 2021 was 17.4 percent as compared to 18.9 percent for the nine month period ended September 30, 2020. The effective tax rate is lower than the U.S. statutory rate of 21 percent primarily due to foreign earnings taxed at rates below the U.S. statutory rate, the recognition of the U.S. foreign-derived intangible income (FDII) provisions, and certain discrete events including excess tax benefits from share-based compensation partially offset by state taxes. For the third quarter of 2021, the effective tax rate was 18.3 percent as compared to 17.3 percent for the third quarter of 2020.
15
The decrease in the effective tax rate for the nine month period ended September 30, 2021, as compared to the nine month period ended September 30, 2020, was primarily a result of net favorable discrete events of $4.0 million in 2021, including increased excess tax benefits from share-based compensation, compared to net favorable discrete events of $0.7 million in 2020.
10. DEBT
Debt consisted of the following:
(In millions)
September 30, 2021
December 31, 2020
New York Life Agreement
75.0
75.0
Credit Agreement
105.0
—
Tax increment financing debt
16.5
17.6
Financing Leases
—
0.1
Foreign subsidiary debt
0.6
1.8
Other
—
0.2
Less: unamortized debt issuance costs
(0.3)
(0.1)
$
196.8
$
94.6
Less: current maturities
(106.3)
(2.6)
Long-term debt
$
90.5
92.0
Debt outstanding, excluding unamortized debt issuance costs, at September 30, 2021 matures as follows:
(In millions)
Total
Year 1
Year 2
Year 3
Year 4
Year 5
More Than 5 Years
Debt
$
197.1
$
106.3
$
1.3
$
1.4
$
1.4
$
76.5
$
10.2
Prudential Agreement
The Company maintains the Fourth Amended and Restated Note Purchase and Private Shelf Agreement (the "Prudential Agreement") with PGIM, Inc. and its affiliates, which was renewed on July 30, 2021 and expires on July 30, 2024. The Prudential Agreement has an initial borrowing capacity of $150.0 million. As of September 30, 2021, the Company had no notes issued and $150.0 million borrowing capacity available under the Prudential Agreement.
Project Bonds
The Company, Allen County, Indiana and certain institutional investors maintain a Bond Purchase and Loan Agreement. Under the agreement, Allen County, Indiana issued a series of Project Bonds entitled “Taxable Economic Development Bonds, Series 2012 (Franklin Electric Co., Inc. Project)." The aggregate principal amount of the Project Bonds that were issued, authenticated, and are now outstanding thereunder was limited to $25.0 million. These Project Bonds ("Tax increment financing debt") bear interest at 3.6 percent per annum. Interest and principal balance of the Project Bonds are due and payable by the Company directly to the institutional investors in aggregate semi-annual installments commencing on July 10, 2013, and concluding on January 10, 2033.
New York Life Agreement
The Company maintains an uncommitted and unsecured private shelf agreement with NYL Investors LLC and its affiliates (the "New York Life Agreement"), which was renewed on July 30, 2021 and expires on July 30, 2024. The New York Life Agreement has a maximum aggregate borrowing capacity of $200.0 million. On September 26, 2018, the Company issued and sold $75.0 million of fixed rate senior notes due September 26, 2025. These senior notes bear an interest rate of 4.04 percent with interest-only payments due semi-annually. The proceeds from the issuance of the notes were used to pay off existing variable interest rate indebtedness. As of September 30, 2021, there was $125.0 million remaining borrowing capacity under the New York Life Agreement.
Credit Agreement
The Company maintains the Fourth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement (the "Credit Agreement”). The Credit Agreement was renewed on May 13, 2021, has a maturity date of May 13, 2026, and commitment amount of $250.0 million. The Credit Agreement provides that the Borrowers may request an increase in the aggregate commitments by up to $125.0 million subject to agreement of the lenders (not to exceed a total commitment of $375.0 million). Under the Credit Agreement, the Borrowers are required to pay certain fees, including a facility fee of 0.100% to 0.275% (depending on the Company's leverage ratio) of the aggregate commitment, which fee is payable quarterly in arrears. Loans may be made either at (i) a Eurocurrency rate based
16
on LIBOR plus an applicable margin of 0.85% to 1.88% (depending on the Company's leverage ratio) or (ii) an alternative base rate as defined in the Credit Agreement.
As of September 30, 2021, the Company had $105.0 million outstanding borrowings, $4.1 million in letters of credit outstanding, and $140.9 million of available capacity under the Credit Agreement.
Covenants
The Company’s credit agreements contain customary financial covenants. The Company’s most significant agreements and restrictive covenants are in the New York Life Agreement, the Project Bonds, the Prudential Agreement, and the Credit Agreement; each containing both affirmative and negative covenants. The affirmative covenants relate to financial statements, notices of material events, conduct of business, inspection of property, maintenance of insurance, compliance with laws and most favored lender obligations. The negative covenants include limitations on loans, advances and investments, and the granting of liens by the Company or its subsidiaries, as well as prohibitions on certain consolidations, mergers, sales and transfers of assets. The covenants also include financial requirements including a maximum leverage ratio of 3.50 to 1.00 and a minimum interest coverage ratio of 3.00 to 1.00. Cross default is applicable with the Prudential Agreement, the Project Bonds, the New York Life Agreement, and the Credit Agreement but only if the Company is defaulting on an obligation exceeding $10.0 million. The Company was in compliance with all financial covenants as of September 30, 2021.
11. EARNINGS PER SHARE
The Company calculates basic and diluted earnings per common share using the two-class method. Under the two-class method, net earnings are allocated to each class of common stock and participating security as if all of the net earnings for the period had been distributed. The Company's participating securities consist of share-based payment awards that contain a non-forfeitable right to receive dividends and therefore are considered to participate in undistributed earnings with common shareholders.
Basic earnings per common share excludes dilution and is calculated by dividing net earnings allocable to common shares by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding for the period. Diluted earnings per common share is calculated by dividing net earnings allocated to common shares by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding for the period, as adjusted for the potential dilutive effect of non-participating share-based awards.
The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted earnings per share:
Third Quarter Ended
Nine Months Ended
(In millions, except per share amounts)
September 30, 2021
September 30, 2020
September 30, 2021
September 30, 2020
Numerator:
Net income attributable to Franklin Electric Co., Inc.
$
46.2
$
38.4
$
113.2
$
73.7
Less: Earnings allocated to participating securities
0.3
0.3
0.7
0.5
Net income available to common shareholders
$
45.9
$
38.1
$
112.5
$
73.2
Denominator:
Basic weighted average common shares outstanding
46.5
46.2
46.4
46.2
Effect of dilutive securities:
Non-participating employee stock options and performance awards
0.5
0.4
0.6
0.4
Diluted weighted average common shares outstanding
47.0
46.6
47.0
46.6
Basic earnings per share
$
0.99
$
0.82
$
2.43
$
1.58
Diluted earnings per share
$
0.98
$
0.82
$
2.40
$
1.57
There were 0.0 million and 0.3 million stock options outstanding for the third quarters ended September 30, 2021 and September 30, 2020, and 0.1 million and 0.4 million stock options outstanding for the nine months ended September 30, 2021 and September 30, 2020 respectively, that were excluded from the computation of diluted earnings per share, as their inclusion would be anti-dilutive.
17
12. EQUITY ROLL FORWARD
The schedules below set forth equity changes in the third quarters ended September 30, 2021 and September 30, 2020:
(In thousands)
Common Stock
Additional Paid in Capital
Retained Earnings
Minimum Pension Liability
Cumulative Translation Adjustment
Noncontrolling Interest
Total Equity
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest
Balance as of June 30, 2021
$
4,645
$
298,944
$
804,047
$
(50,897)
$
(155,440)
$
2,541
$
903,840
$
(209)
Net income
46,172
218
46,390
64
Dividends on common stock ($0.175/share)
(8,179)
(8,179)
Common stock issued
7
2,394
2,401
Common stock repurchased
(12)
(9,895)
(9,907)
Share-based compensation
1
2,347
2,348
Noncontrolling dividend
—
—
Currency translation adjustment
(12,034)
(50)
(12,084)
(1)
Pension liability, net of tax
915
915
Balance as of September 30, 2021
$
4,641
$
303,685
$
832,145
$
(49,982)
$
(167,474)
$
2,709
$
925,724
$
(146)
(In thousands)
Common Stock
Additional Paid in Capital
Retained Earnings
Minimum Pension Liability
Cumulative Translation Adjustment
Noncontrolling Interest
Total Equity
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest
Balance as of June 30, 2020
$
4,618
$
278,175
$
715,621
$
(48,657)
$
(175,893)
$
1,647
$
775,511
$
(262)
Net Income
38,372
178
38,550
25
Dividends on common stock ($0.155/share)
(7,195)
(7,195)
Common stock issued
6
1,488
1,494
Common stock repurchased
(3)
(1,364)
(1,367)
Share-based compensation
(1)
1,298
1,297
Noncontrolling dividend
—
—
Currency translation adjustment
3,330
48
3,378
(14)
Pension liability, net of taxes
774
774
Balance as of September 30, 2020
$
4,620
$
280,961
$
745,434
$
(47,883)
$
(172,563)
$
1,873
$
812,442
$
(251)
18
The schedule below set forth equity changes in the nine months ended September 30, 2021 and September 30, 2020:
(In thousands)
Common Stock
Additional Paid in Capital
Retained Earnings
Minimum Pension Liability
Cumulative Translation Adjustment
Noncontrolling Interest
Total Equity
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest
Balance as of December 31, 2020
$
4,622
$
283,420
$
764,562
$
(52,666)
$
(152,105)
$
2,116
$
849,949
$
(245)
Net Income
113,193
695
113,888
92
Dividends on common stock ($0.525/share)
(24,499)
(24,499)
Common stock issued
33
11,357
11,390
Common stock repurchased
(27)
(21,111)
(21,138)
Share-based compensation
13
8,908
8,921
Noncontrolling dividend
—
—
Currency translation adjustment
(15,369)
(102)
(15,471)
7
Pension liability, net of taxes
2,684
2,684
Balance as of September 30, 2021
$
4,641
$
303,685
$
832,145
$
(49,982)
$
(167,474)
$
2,709
$
925,724
$
(146)
(In thousands)
Common Stock
Additional Paid in Capital
Retained Earnings
Minimum Pension Liability
Cumulative Translation Adjustment
Noncontrolling Interest
Total Equity
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest
Balance as of December 31, 2019
$
4,639
$
269,656
$
712,460
$
(50,089)
$
(140,121)
$
2,124
$
798,669
$
(236)
Net Income
73,666
534
74,200
(31)
Dividends on common stock ($0.465/share)
(21,641)
(21,641)
Common stock issued
10
3,004
3,014
Common stock repurchased
(40)
(19,051)
(19,091)
Share-based compensation
11
8,301
8,312
Noncontrolling dividend
(830)
(830)
Currency translation adjustment
(32,442)
45
(32,397)
16
Pension liability, net of taxes
2,206
2,206
Balance as of September 30, 2020
$
4,620
$
280,961
$
745,434
$
(47,883)
$
(172,563)
$
1,873
$
812,442
$
(251)
19
13. ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME/(LOSS)
Changes in accumulated other comprehensive income/(loss) by component for the nine months ended September 30, 2021 and September 30, 2020, are summarized below:
(In millions)
For the nine months ended September 30, 2021:
Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments
Pension and Post-Retirement Plan Benefit Adjustments (2)
Total
Balance as of December 31, 2020
$
(152.2)
$
(52.6)
$
(204.8)
Other comprehensive income/(loss) before reclassifications
(15.3)
—
(15.3)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income/(loss) (1)
—
2.7
2.7
Net other comprehensive income/(loss)
(15.3)
2.7
(12.6)
Balance as of September 30, 2021
$
(167.5)
$
(49.9)
$
(217.4)
For the nine months ended September 30, 2020:
Balance as of December 31, 2019
$
(140.2)
$
(50.0)
$
(190.2)
Other comprehensive income/(loss) before reclassifications
(32.4)
—
(32.4)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income/(loss) (1)
—
2.2
2.2
Net other comprehensive income/(loss)
(32.4)
2.2
(30.2)
Balance as of September 30, 2020
$
(172.6)
$
(47.8)
$
(220.4)
(1) This accumulated other comprehensive income/(loss) component is included in the computation of net periodic pension cost (refer to Note 7 for additional details) and is included in the "Other income/(expense), net" line of the Company's condensed consolidated statements of income.
(2) Net of tax expense of $0.7 million and $0.6 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2021 and September 30, 2020, respectively.
Amounts related to noncontrolling interests were not material.
14. SEGMENT AND GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION
The accounting policies of the operating segments are the same as those described in Note 1 of the Company's Form 10-K. Revenue is recognized based on the invoice price at the point in time when the customer obtains control of the product, which is typically upon shipment to the customer. The Water and Fueling segments include manufacturing operations and supply certain components and finished goods, both between segments and to the Distribution segment. The Company reports these product transfers between Water and Fueling as inventory transfers as a significant number of the Company's manufacturing facilities are shared across segments for scale and efficiency purposes. The Company reports intersegment transfers from Water to Distribution as intersegment revenue at market prices to properly reflect the commercial arrangement of vendor to customer that exists between the Water and Distribution segments.
Segment operating income is a key financial performance measure. Operating income by segment is based on net sales less identifiable operating expenses and allocations and includes profits recorded on sales to other segments of the Company.
20
Financial information by reportable business segment is included in the following summary:
Third Quarter Ended
Nine Months Ended
(In millions)
September 30, 2021
September 30, 2020
September 30, 2021
September 30, 2020
Net sales
Water Systems
External sales
United States & Canada
$
134.8
$
93.4
$
333.1
$
245.1
Latin America
36.5
30.1
102.9
82.5
Europe, Middle East & Africa
46.9
41.8
142.7
115.5
Asia Pacific
19.6
19.5
59.9
53.0
Intersegment sales
United States & Canada
22.9
18.1
66.9
49.3
Total sales
260.7
202.9
705.5
545.4
Distribution
External sales
United States & Canada
140.2
98.0
380.7
250.5
Intersegment sales
—
—
—
—
Total sales
140.2
98.0
380.7
250.5
Fueling Systems
External sales
United States & Canada
58.9
46.4
146.6
119.0
All other
22.1
22.0
63.4
60.6
Intersegment sales
—
—
—
—
Total sales
81.0
68.4
210.0
179.6
Intersegment Eliminations/Other
(22.9)
(18.1)
(66.9)
(49.3)
Consolidated
$
459.0
$
351.2
$
1,229.3
$
926.2
Third Quarter Ended
Nine Months Ended
September 30, 2021
September 30, 2020
September 30, 2021
September 30, 2020
Operating income/(loss)
Water Systems
$
36.8
$
36.6
$
102.7
$
84.1
Distribution
12.3
6.4
30.3
10.9
Fueling Systems
23.9
18.9
57.3
44.5
Intersegment Eliminations/Other
(16.4)
(13.5)
(48.3)
(43.4)
Consolidated
$
56.6
$
48.4
$
142.0
$
96.1
September 30, 2021
December 31, 2020
Total assets
Water Systems
$
909.7
$
645.9
Distribution
293.6
249.0
Fueling Systems
282.5
268.9
Other
60.2
108.5
Consolidated
$
1,546.0
$
1,272.3
21
Other Assets are generally Corporate assets that are not allocated to the segments and are comprised primarily of cash and property, plant and equipment.
15. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
In 2011, the Company became aware of a review of alleged issues with certain underground piping connections installed in filling stations in France owned by the French Subsidiary of Exxon Mobile, Esso S.A.F. A French court ordered that a designated, subject-matter expert review 103 filling stations to determine what, if any, damages are present and the cause of those damages. The Company has participated in this investigation since 2011, along with several other third parties including equipment installers, engineering design firms who designed and provided specifications for the stations, and contract manufacturers of some of the installed equipment. The subject-matter expert has issued its preliminary report, which indicates that total damages incurred by Esso amounted to approximately 12 million euro. It is the Company’s position that its products were not the cause of any alleged damage. The Company has retained experts to demonstrate that its products did not cause the damage, and in January 2021, submitted its response to the expert’s preliminary report for each station. The expert's response to the Company's report is due to the Court in June 2022. The Company cannot predict the ultimate outcome of this matter. Any exposure related to this matter is neither probable nor estimable at this time. If payments result from a resolution of this matter, depending on the amount, they could have a material effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations, or cash flows.
The Company is defending other various claims and legal actions which have arisen in the ordinary course of business. In the opinion of management, based on current knowledge of the facts and after discussion with counsel, these claims and legal actions can be defended or resolved without a material effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations, and net cash flows.
At September 30, 2021, the Company had $14.1 million of commitments primarily for capital expenditures and purchase of raw materials to be used in production.
The Company provides warranties on most of its products. The warranty terms vary but are generally two years to five years from date of manufacture or one year to five years from date of installation. Provisions for estimated expenses related to product warranty are made at the time products are sold or when specific warranty issues are identified. These estimates are established using historical information about the nature, frequency, and average cost of warranty claims. The Company actively studies trends of warranty claims and takes actions to improve product quality and minimize warranty claims. The Company believes that the warranty reserve is appropriate; however, actual claims incurred could differ from the original estimates, requiring adjustments to the reserve.
The changes in the carrying amount of the warranty accrual, as recorded in the "Accrued expenses and other current liabilities" line of the Company's condensed consolidated balance sheet for the nine months ended September 30, 2021, are as follows:
(In millions)
Balance as of December 31, 2020
$
9.7
Accruals related to product warranties
7.0
Additions related to acquisitions
0.1
Reductions for payments made
(6.5)
Balance as of September 30, 2021
$
10.3
The Company maintains certain warehouses, distribution centers, office space, and equipment operating leases. The Company also has lease agreements that are classified as financing. These financing leases are immaterial to the Company.
The Company utilizes interest rates from lease agreements unless the lease agreement does not provide a readily determinable rate. In these instances, the Company utilizes its incremental borrowing rate based on the information available as of the adoption of ASU 2016-02 or at the inception of any new leases entered into thereafter when determining the present value of future lease payments.
Some of the Company’s leases include renewal options. The Company excludes these renewal options in the expected lease term unless the Company is reasonably certain that the option will be exercised.
22
The components of the Company’s operating lease portfolio as of the third quarter and nine months ended September 30, 2021 are as follows:
Lease Cost (in millions):
Third Quarter Ended
Nine Months Ended
Operating lease cost
$
3.5
$
9.2
Short-term lease cost
0.1
0.5
Other Information:
Weighted-average remaining lease term
4.1 years
Weighted-average discount rate
4.1
%
The minimum rental payments for non-cancellable operating leases as of September 30, 2021, are as follows:
(In millions)
2021
2022
2023
2024
2025
Thereafter
Future Minimum Rental Payments
$
3.9
$
12.1
$
8.5
$
5.1
$
3.3
$
7.1
16. SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION
The Franklin Electric Co., Inc. 2017 Stock Plan (the "2017 Stock Plan") is a stock-based compensation plan that provides for discretionary grants of stock options, stock awards, stock unit awards, and stock appreciation rights ("SARs") to key employees and non-employee directors. The number of shares that may be issued under the Plan is 1,400,000. Stock options and SARs reduce the number of available shares by one share for each share subject to the option or SAR, and stock awards and stock unit awards settled in shares reduce the number of available shares by 1.5 shares for every one share delivered.
The Company also maintains the Franklin Electric Co., Inc. 2012 Stock Plan (the "2012 Stock Plan"), which is a stock-based compensation plan that provides for discretionary grants of stock options, stock awards, and stock unit awards to key employees and non-employee directors.
The 2012 Stock Plan authorized 2,400,000 shares for issuance as follows:
2012 Stock Plan
Authorized Shares
Stock Options
1,680,000
Stock/Stock Unit Awards
720,000
The Company also maintains the Amended and Restated Franklin Electric Co., Inc. Stock Plan (the "2009 Stock Plan") which, as amended in 2009, provided for discretionary grants of stock options and stock awards. The 2009 Stock Plan authorized 4,400,000 shares for issuance as follows:
2009 Stock Plan
Authorized Shares
Stock Options
3,200,000
Stock Awards
1,200,000
All options in the 2009 Stock Plan have been awarded and no additional awards are granted out of the plan. However, there are still unvested awards and unexercised options under this plan.
The Company currently issues new shares from its common stock balance to satisfy option exercises and the settlement of stock awards and stock unit awards made under the outstanding stock plans.
Stock Options:
The fair value of each option award is estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option valuation model with a single approach and amortized using a straight-line attribution method over the option’s vesting period.
23
The assumptions used for the Black-Scholes model to determine the fair value of options granted during the nine months ended September 30, 2021 and September 30, 2020 are as follows:
September 30, 2021
September 30, 2020
Risk-free interest rate
0.66
%
1.39
%
Dividend yield
0.96
%
1.04
%
Volatility factor
34.98
%
29.45
%
Expected term
5.5 years
5.5 years
A summary of the Company’s outstanding stock option activity and related information for the nine months ended September 30, 2021 is as follows:
(Shares in thousands)
September 30, 2021
Stock Options
Shares
Weighted-Average Exercise Price
Outstanding at beginning of period
1,331
$
41.90
Granted
152
73.14
Exercised
(333)
34.18
Forfeited
—
—
Outstanding at end of period
1,150
$
48.25
Expected to vest after applying forfeiture rate
1,147
$
48.22
Vested and exercisable at end of period
764
$
41.45
A summary of the weighted-average remaining contractual term and aggregate intrinsic value as of September 30, 2021 is as follows:
Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Term
Aggregate Intrinsic Value (000's)
Outstanding at end of period
6.22 years
$
24,688
Expected to vest after applying forfeiture rate
6.21 years
$
24,676
Vested and exercisable at end of period
5.13 years
$
21,223
The total intrinsic value of options exercised during the nine months ended September 30, 2021 and September 30, 2020 was $15.1 million and $2.4 million, respectively.
As of September 30, 2021, there was $1.2 million of total unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested stock options granted under the stock plans. That cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 1.49 years.
Stock/Stock Unit Awards:
A summary of the Company’s restricted stock/stock unit award activity and related information for the nine months ended September 30, 2021 is as follows:
(Shares in thousands)
September 30, 2021
Restricted Stock/Stock Unit Awards
Shares
Weighted-Average Grant- Date Fair Value
Non-vested at beginning of period
403
$
49.34
Awarded
104
74.23
Vested
(124)
43.52
Forfeited
(11)
50.06
Non-vested at end of period
372
$
58.21
As of September 30, 2021, there was $9.7 million of total unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested restricted stock/stock unit awards granted under the stock plans. That cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 1.13 years.
24
ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Third Quarter 2021 vs. Third Quarter 2020
OVERVIEW
Sales in the third quarter of 2021 increased from the third quarter last year. The sales increase was led by increases from volume, price, and acquisitions. The Company's consolidated gross profit was $163.1 million for the third quarter of 2021, an increase of $38.8 million or about 31 percent from the prior year’s third quarter. Earnings per share in the third quarter of 2021 were up to the same period last year by about 20 percent.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Net Sales
Net sales in the third quarter of 2021 were $459.0 million, an increase of $107.8 million or about 31 percent compared to 2020 third quarter sales of $351.2 million. Acquisition related sales were $47.4 million. Sales revenue increased by $1.1 million or less than 1 percent in the third quarter of 2021 due to foreign currency translation.
Net Sales
(In millions)
Q3 2021
Q3 2020
2021 v 2020
Water Systems
$
260.7
$
202.9
$
57.8
Fueling Systems
81.0
68.4
$
12.6
Distribution
140.2
98.0
$
42.2
Eliminations/Other
(22.9)
(18.1)
$
(4.8)
Consolidated
$
459.0
$
351.2
$
107.8
Net Sales-Water Systems
Water Systems sales were $260.7 million in the third quarter 2021, an increase of $57.8 million versus the third quarter 2020 sales of $202.9 million. In the third quarter of 2021, sales from businesses acquired since the third quarter of 2020 were $34.2 million. Water Systems sales increased by $0.7 million or less than 1 percent in the quarter due to foreign currency translation. Water Systems sales, excluding acquisitions and the impact of foreign currency translation, were up about 11 percent compared to the third quarter 2020.
Water Systems sales in the U.S. and Canada were up overall by 41 percent compared to the third quarter 2020. In the third quarter of 2021, sales from businesses acquired since the third quarter of 2020 were $33.7 million. In the U.S. and Canada, Water Systems organic sales increased by 10 percent. Sales of groundwater pumping equipment increased by about 12 percent, and sales of dewatering equipment were up about 60 percent, both due to strong end market demand. Sales of surface pumping equipment increased by about 3 percent versus the third quarter 2020, as supply constraints with certain utility pumps and lower overall sales of sump pumps limited their growth rate.
Water Systems sales in markets outside the U.S. and Canada increased by 13 percent overall. Foreign currency translation had no effect on sales. In the third quarter of 2021, sales from businesses acquired since the third quarter of 2020 were $0.5 million. Outside the U.S. and Canada, Water Systems organic sales increased by 12 percent, driven by higher sales in Latin America, Europe, the Middle East and Africa, partially offset by lower sales in the Asia Pacific markets.
Net Sales-Fueling Systems
Fueling Systems sales were $81.0 million in the third quarter 2021, an increase of $12.6 million versus the third quarter 2020 sales of $68.4 million. In the third quarter of 2021, sales increased by $0.4 million or about 1 percent due to foreign currency translation. Fueling Systems organic sales increased about 18 percent compared to the third quarter of 2020.
Fueling Systems sales in the U.S. and Canada increased by about 27 percent compared to the third quarter 2020. The increase was due to higher demand for Fuel Management and Pumping Systems, and Piping. Outside the U.S. and Canada, Fueling Systems revenues decreased by about 1 percent, as sales increases of 11 percent in the rest of the world outside of China were offset by lower sales in China. China sales were about $4 million in the third quarter of 2021 compared to the third quarter of 2020 Fueling Systems China sales of about $6 million.
25
Net Sales - Distribution
Distribution sales were $140.2 million in the third quarter 2021, versus third quarter 2020 sales of $98.0 million. In the third quarter of 2021, sales from businesses acquired since the third quarter of 2020 were $13.2 million. The Distribution segment organic sales increased about 30 percent compared to the third quarter of 2020. Revenue growth was driven by broad-based demand in all regions and product categories.
Cost of Sales
Cost of sales as a percent of net sales for the third quarter of 2021 and 2020 was 64.5 percent and 64.6 percent, respectively. Correspondingly, the gross profit margin as a percent of net sales was 35.5 percent in the third quarter of 2021 compared to 35.4 percent in the third quarter of 2020. The gross profit margin was flat as material inflation costs were offset by price increases. The Company's consolidated gross profit was $163.1 million for the third quarter of 2021, an increase of $38.8 million from the gross profit of $124.3 million in the third quarter of 2020. The gross profit increase was primarily due to higher sales.
Selling, General, and Administrative ("SG&A")
Selling, general, and administrative (SG&A) expenses were $106.4 million in the third quarter of 2021 compared to $75.5 million in the third quarter of the prior year. SG&A expenses from acquired businesses were about $12 million. Excluding acquisitions, SG&A expenses were higher by $19.0 million, about $11 million of which is variable compensation expense and commissions on higher sales.
Restructuring Expenses
Restructuring expenses for the third quarter of 2021 were $0.1 million, primarily in the Water segment and related to miscellaneous manufacturing realignment activities. Restructuring expenses for the third quarter of 2020 were $0.4 million, primarily in the Water segment and related to miscellaneous manufacturing realignment activities.
Operating Income
Operating income was $56.6 million in the third quarter of 2021, up $8.2 million or 17 percent from $48.4 million in the third quarter of 2020.
Operating income (loss)
(In millions)
Q3 2021
Q3 2020
2021 v 2020
Water Systems
36.8
$
36.6
$
0.2
Fueling Systems
23.9
18.9
5.0
Distribution
12.3
6.4
5.9
Eliminations/Other
(16.4)
(13.5)
(2.9)
Consolidated
$
56.6
$
48.4
$
8.2
Operating Income-Water Systems
Water Systems operating income was $36.8 million in the third quarter 2021, up $0.2 million compared to $36.6 million in the third quarter 2020. The third quarter of 2021 operating income margin was 14.1 percent versus 18.0 percent of net sales in the third quarter of 2020. The decline in operating margin was due to higher SG&A expenses; primarily higher variable compensation and other operating expenses relating to increased commercial activity. Additionally, significant cost inflation in materials, components, freight, and tariffs, all of which the Company strived to fully offset with pricing, and a higher mix of Water Treatment sales at a lower margin also contributed to the lower operating margin.
Operating Income-Fueling Systems
Fueling Systems operating income was $23.9 million in the third quarter of 2021, up $5.0 million or about 26 percent compared to $18.9 million in the third quarter of 2020. The increase in operating income was primarily due to higher sales revenues. The third quarter of 2021 operating income margin was 29.5 percent versus 27.6 percent of net sales in the third
quarter of 2020. Operating income margin in the third quarter increased in Fueling Systems primarily due leverage on higher sales volumes, favorable product, and geographic sales mix shifts.
Operating Income-Distribution
Distribution operating income was $12.3 million in the third quarter of 2021 and the third quarter operating income margin was 8.8 percent. Distribution operating income was $6.4 million in the third quarter of 2020 and the third quarter operating income margin was 6.5 percent. Distribution’s operating income was higher in the third quarter due to higher sales volumes. The increase in operating income margin was primarily due to revenue growth and operating leverage.
26
Operating Income-Eliminations/Other
Operating income-Eliminations/Other is composed primarily of inter-segment sales and profit eliminations and unallocated general and administrative expenses. The inter-segment profit elimination impact in the third quarter of 2021 compared to the third quarter of 2020 negative impact of $0.3 million on operating income. The inter-segment elimination of operating income effectively defers the operating income on sales from Water Systems to Distribution in the consolidated financial results until the transferred product is sold from the Distribution segment to its customer. Unallocated general and administrative expenses were higher by $2.6 million or about 19 percent, primarily higher due to higher variable compensation expense.
Interest Expense
Interest expense for the third quarter of 2021 and 2020 was $1.4 million and $1.1 million, respectively.
Other Income or Expense
Other income or expense was a gain of $2.1 million and a loss of $0.5 million in the third quarter of 2021 and 2020, respectively. Included in other income or expense in the third quarter of 2021 was a gain of $2.5 million related to a settlement of an indirect tax dispute.
Foreign Exchange
Foreign currency-based transactions produced a loss for the third quarter of 2021 of $0.4 million. Foreign currency-based transactions produced a loss for the third quarter of 2020 of $0.1 million.
Income Taxes
The provision for income taxes in the third quarter of 2021 and 2020 was $10.4 million and $8.1 million, respectively. The effective tax rate for the third quarter of 2021 was about 18 percent and, before the impact of discrete events, was about 20 percent. The effective tax rate for the third quarter of 2020 was about 17 percent and, before the impact of discrete events, was about 20 percent. The tax rate as a percentage of pre-tax earnings for the full year 2021 is projected to be about 20 percent, compared to the full year 2020 tax rate of about 21 percent, both before discrete adjustments.
Net Income
Net income for the third quarter of 2021 was $46.5 million compared to the prior year third quarter net income of $38.6 million. Net income attributable to Franklin Electric Co., Inc. for the third quarter of 2021 was $46.2 million, or $0.98 per diluted share, compared to the prior year third quarter net income attributable to Franklin Electric Co., Inc. of $38.4 million or $0.82 per diluted share.
First Nine Months of 2021 vs. First Nine Months of 2020
OVERVIEW
Sales in the first nine months of 2021 were up from the same period last year. The sales increase was primarily from higher volumes, price, and acquisitions. The impact of foreign currency translation increased sales by less than 1 percent. The Company's consolidated gross profit was $430.9 million for the first nine months of 2021, an increase of $109.2 million or about 34 percent from the first nine months of 2020. Earnings in the first nine months of 2021 were up from the same period last year.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Net Sales
Net sales in the first nine months of 2021 were $1,229.3 million, an increase of $303.1 million or about 33 percent compared to 2020 first nine months sales of $926.2 million. The incremental impact of sales from acquired businesses was $109.8 million. Sales revenue increased by $4.3 million or less than 1 percent in the first nine months of 2021 due to foreign currency translation.
27
Net Sales
(In millions)
YTD September 30, 2021
YTD September 30, 2020
2021 v 2020
Water Systems
$
705.5
$
545.4
$
160.1
Fueling Systems
210.0
179.6
$
30.4
Distribution
380.7
250.5
$
130.2
Eliminations/Other
(66.9)
(49.3)
$
(17.6)
Consolidated
$
1,229.3
$
926.2
$
303.1
Net Sales-Water Systems
Water Systems sales were $705.5 million in the first nine months 2021, an increase of $160.1 million or about 29 percent versus the first nine months of 2020. The incremental impact of sales from acquired businesses was $65.2 million. Foreign currency translation changes increased sales $1.8 million, or less than 1 percent, compared to sales in the first nine months of 2020. The Water Systems sales change in the first nine months of 2021, excluding acquisitions and foreign currency translation, was an increase of $93.2 million or about 17 percent.
Water Systems sales in the U.S. and Canada increased by about 36 percent compared to the first nine months of 2020. The incremental impact of sales from acquired businesses was $64.7 million. Sales revenue increased by $3.4 million in the first nine months of 2021 due to foreign currency translation. In the first nine months of 2021, sales of groundwater pumping equipment increased by about 17 percent, sales of dewatering equipment were up about 42 percent, and sales of surface pumping equipment increased by about 8 percent versus the third quarter 2020, all due to strong end market demand
Water Systems sales in markets outside the U.S. and Canada increased by about 22 percent compared to the first nine months of 2020. The incremental impact of sales from acquired businesses was $0.5 million. Sales revenue decreased by $1.6 million in the first nine months of 2021 due to foreign currency translation. The change in the first nine months of 2021, excluding acquisitions and foreign currency translation, was an increase of about 22 percent. Sales grew organically in all major markets; Latin America, EMENA, and Asia Pacific.
Net Sales-Fueling Systems
Fueling Systems sales were $210.0 million in the first nine months of 2021, an increase of $30.4 million or about 17 percent from the first nine months of 2020. Foreign currency translation changes increased sales $2.5 million or about 1 percent compared to sales in the first nine months of 2020. The Fueling Systems sales change in the first nine months of 2021, excluding foreign currency translation, was an increase of $27.9 million or about 16 percent.
Fueling Systems sales in the U.S. and Canada increased by about 23 percent during the first nine months of 2021, the increase was due to higher demand for Fuel Management and Pumping Systems, and Piping. Outside the U.S. and Canada, Fueling Systems revenues increased by about 4 percent overall, as sales increases of 14 percent in the rest of the world outside of China were offset by lower sales in China. China sales were about $9 million in the first nine months of 2021 compared to the first nine months of 2020 Fueling Systems China sales of about $14 million.
Net Sales - Distribution
Distribution sales were $380.7 million in the first nine months of 2021, versus the first nine months of 2020 sales of $250.5 million. The incremental impact of sales from acquired businesses was $44.6 million. Distribution segment organic sales increased about 34 percent compared to the first nine months of 2020. Revenue growth was driven by broad-based demand in all regions and product categories.
Cost of Sales
Cost of sales as a percent of net sales for the first nine months of 2021 and 2020 was 64.9 percent and 65.3 percent, respectively. Correspondingly, the gross profit margin was 35.1 percent and 34.7 percent, respectively. The increase in gross profit margin was primarily driven by price realization, product sales mix and cost management. The Company's consolidated gross profit was $430.9 million for the first nine months of 2021, up $109.2 million from the gross profit of $321.7 million in the first nine months of 2020. The gross profit increase was primarily due to higher sales.
Selling, General, and Administrative ("SG&A")
Selling, general, and administrative expenses were $288.5 million in the first nine months of 2021 and increased by $65.1 million compared to $223.4 million in the first nine months of last year. SG&A expenses from acquired businesses were $26.8
28
million. Excluding acquisitions, SG&A expenses were higher by $38.3 million, about $23 million of which is variable compensation expense and commissions on higher sales. The remaining SG&A increases were primarily related to other operating expenses relating to increased commercial activity.
Restructuring Expenses
Restructuring expenses for the first nine months of 2021 were $0.4 million. Restructuring expenses were $0.3 million in the Water segment and $0.1 million in Distribution segments. Restructuring expenses were primarily from continued miscellaneous manufacturing realignment activities and branch closings and consolidations in the Distribution segment. Restructuring expenses for the first nine months of 2020 were $2.2 million. Restructuring expenses were $2.0 million in the Water segment and $0.1 million in both the Fueling and Distribution segments. Restructuring expenses were primarily from continued miscellaneous manufacturing realignment activities and branch closings and consolidations in the Distribution segment.
Operating Income
Operating income was $142.0 million in the first nine months of 2021, up $45.9 million or 48 percent from $96.1 million in the first nine months of 2020.
Operating income (loss)
(In millions)
YTD September 30, 2021
YTD September 30, 2020
2021 v 2020
Water Systems
102.7
84.1
$
18.6
Fueling Systems
57.3
44.5
12.8
Distribution
30.3
10.9
19.4
Eliminations/Other
(48.3)
(43.4)
(4.9)
Consolidated
$
142.0
$
96.1
$
45.9
Operating Income-Water Systems
Water Systems operating income was $102.7 million in the first nine months of 2021 compared to $84.1 million in the first nine months of 2020, an increase of 22 percent. Operating income increased in Water Systems primarily due to higher sales volumes. The first nine months operating income margin was 14.6 percent compared to the first nine months of 2020 operating income margin of 15.4 percent. Operating income margin decreased in Water Systems primarily due to significant cost inflation in materials, components, freight, and tariffs; all of which the Company strived to fully offset with pricing; and a higher mix of Water Treatment sales at a lower margin also contributed to the lower operating margin.
Operating Income-Fueling Systems
Fueling Systems operating income was $57.3 million in the first nine months of 2021 compared to $44.5 million in the first nine months of 2020. Operating income increased in Fueling Systems primarily due to higher sales volumes. The first nine months operating income margin was 27.3 percent compared to 24.8 percent of net sales in the first nine months of 2020. Operating income margin increased in Fueling Systems primarily due to operating leverage on higher sales, favorable product and geographic sales mix shifts.
Operating Income-Distribution
Distribution operating income was $30.3 million in the first nine months of 2021 and operating income margin was 8.0 percent. Distribution operating income was $10.9 million in the first nine months of 2020 and operating income margin was 4.4 percent. Distribution’s operating income in the first nine months was higher in due to higher sales volumes. The increase in operating income margin was primarily due to revenue growth and operating leverage.
Operating Income-Eliminations/Other
Operating income-Eliminations/Other is composed primarily of inter-segment sales and profit eliminations and unallocated general and administrative expenses. The inter-segment profit elimination impact in the first nine months of 2021 increased operating income about $0.1 million versus the impact in the first nine months of 2020. The inter-segment elimination of operating income effectively defers the operating income on sales from Water Systems to Distribution in the consolidated financial results until the transferred product is sold from the Distribution segment to its third-party customer. Unallocated general and administrative expenses were higher by $5.0 million or about 12 percent to last year in the first nine months, primarily due to higher variable compensation expense.
29
Interest Expense
Interest expense for the first nine months of 2021 and 2020 was $3.8 million and $3.5 million, respectively, primarily as a result of higher debt levels.
Other Income or Expense
Other income or expense was a gain of $1.5 million and a loss of 1.1 million, respectively in the first nine months of 2021 and 2020. Included in other income or expense in 2021 was a gain of $2.5 million related to a settlement of an indirect tax dispute.
Foreign Exchange
Foreign currency–based transactions produced a loss for the first nine months of 2021 of $1.7 million, primarily from the Argentinian peso. Foreign currency–based transactions produced a loss for the first nine months of 2020 of $0.1 million.
Income Taxes
The provision for income taxes in the first nine months of 2021 and 2020 was $24.0 million and $17.3 million, respectively. The effective tax rate for the first nine months of 2021 was about 17 percent and, before the impact of discrete events, was about 20 percent. The effective tax rate in the first nine months of 2020 was about 19 percent and, before the impact of discrete events, was about 20 percent. The decrease in the effective tax rate was primarily a result of increased net favorable discrete events recorded in the first nine months of 2021 compared to the first nine months of 2020. The tax rate as a percentage of pre-tax earnings for the full year of 2021 is projected to be about 20 percent, compared to the full year 2020 tax rate of about 21 percent, both before discrete adjustments.
Net Income
Net income for the first nine months of 2021 was $114.0 million compared to 2020 first nine months net income of $74.2 million. Net income attributable to Franklin Electric Co., Inc. for the first nine months of 2021 was $113.2 million, or $2.40 per diluted share, compared to 2020 first nine months net income attributable to Franklin Electric Co., Inc. of $73.7 million or $1.57 per diluted share.
CAPITAL RESOURCES AND LIQUIDITY
Sources of Liquidity
The Company's primary sources of liquidity are cash on hand, cash flows from operations, revolving credit agreements, and long-term debt funds available. The Company believes its capital resources and liquidity position at September 30, 2021 is adequate to meet projected needs for the foreseeable future. The Company expects that ongoing requirements for operations, capital expenditures, pension obligations, dividends, share repurchases, and debt service will be adequately funded from cash on hand, operations, and existing credit agreements.
As of September 30, 2021 the Company had a $250.0 million revolving credit facility. The facility is scheduled to mature on May 13, 2026. As of September 30, 2021, the Company had $140.9 million borrowing capacity under the Credit Agreement as $4.1 million in letters of commercial and standby letters of credit were outstanding and undrawn and $105 million in revolver borrowings were drawn and outstanding, which were primarily used for funding recent acquisitions.
In addition, the Company maintains an uncommitted and unsecured private shelf agreement with NYL Investors LLC, an affiliate of New York Life, and each of the undersigned holders of Notes (the "New York Life Agreement") with a remaining borrowing capacity of $125.0 million as of September 30, 2021. The Company also has other long-term debt borrowings outstanding as of September 30, 2021. See Note 10 - Debt for additional specifics regarding these obligations and future maturities.
At September 30, 2021, the Company had $61.1 million of cash and cash equivalents held in foreign jurisdictions, which is intended to be used to fund foreign operations. There is currently no need or intent to repatriate these funds in order to meet domestic funding obligations or scheduled cash distributions.
Cash Flows
The following table summarizes significant sources and uses of cash and cash equivalents for the first nine months of 2021 and 2020.
30
(in millions)
2021
2020
Net cash flows from operating activities
$
93.9
$
133.7
Net cash flows from investing activities
(213.4)
(21.4)
Net cash flows from financing activities
68.2
(58.5)
Impact of exchange rates on cash and cash equivalents
(3.5)
(3.8)
Change in cash and cash equivalents
$
(54.8)
$
50.0
Cash Flows from Operating Activities
2021 vs. 2020
Net cash provided by operating activities was $93.9 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2021 compared to $133.7 million provided by operating activities for the nine months ended September 30, 2020. The decrease in cash provided by operating activities was primarily due to increased working capital requirements in support of higher revenues.
Cash Flows from Investing Activities
2021 vs. 2020
Net cash used in investing activities was $213.4 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2021 compared to $21.4 million used in investing activities for the nine months ended September 30, 2020. The increase in cash used in investing activities was attributable to increased acquisition activity in 2021.
Cash Flows from Financing Activities
2021 vs. 2020
Net cash provided by financing activities was $68.2 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2021 compared to $58.5 million used in financing activities for the nine months ended September 30, 2020. The increase in cash provided by financing activities was attributable to increased debt proceeds and issuance of common stock, primarily through stock option exercises, offset by increased dividend payments and common stock repurchases.
FACTORS THAT MAY AFFECT FUTURE RESULTS
This quarterly report on Form 10-Q contains certain forward-looking information, such as statements about the Company’s financial goals, acquisition strategies, financial expectations including anticipated revenue or expense levels, business prospects, market positioning, product development, manufacturing re-alignment, capital expenditures, tax benefits and expenses, and the effect of contingencies or changes in accounting policies. Forward-looking statements are typically identified by words or phrases such as “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “estimate,” “may increase,” “may fluctuate,” “plan,” “goal,” “target,” “strategy,” and similar expressions or future or conditional verbs such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “would,” and “could.” While the Company believes that the assumptions underlying such forward-looking statements are reasonable based on present conditions, forward-looking statements made by the Company involve risks and uncertainties and are not guarantees of future performance. Actual results may differ materially from those forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, including regional or general economic and currency conditions, various conditions specific to the Company’s business and industry, new housing starts, weather conditions, epidemics and pandemics, market demand, competitive factors, changes in distribution channels, supply constraints, effect of price increases, raw material costs and availability, technology factors, integration of acquisitions, litigation, government and regulatory actions, the Company’s accounting policies, and other risks, all as described in the Company's Securities and Exchange Commission filings, included in Part I, Item 1A of the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020, and in Exhibit 99.1 thereto. Any forward-looking statements included in this Form 10-Q are based upon information presently available. The Company does not assume any obligation to update any forward-looking information, except as required by law.
31
ITEM 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
There have been no significant changes in the Company's exposure to market risk during the third quarter ended September 30, 2021. For additional information, refer to Part II, Item 7A of the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020.
ITEM 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
As of the end of the period covered by this report (the "Evaluation Date"), the Company carried out an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of the Company's management, including the Company's Chief Executive Officer and the Company's Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of the Company's disclosure controls and procedures pursuant to Exchange Act Rules 13a-15. Based upon that evaluation, the Company's Chief Executive Officer and the Company's Chief Financial Officer concluded that, as of the Evaluation Date, the Company's disclosure controls and procedures were effective.
There have been no changes in the Company's internal control over financial reporting identified in connection with the evaluation required by Rules 13a-15 under the Exchange Act during the last fiscal quarter that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect the Company's internal control over financial reporting.
32
PART II - OTHER INFORMATION
ITEM 1. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
The Company is defending various claims and legal actions which have arisen in the ordinary course of business. For a description of the Company's material legal proceedings, refer to Note 15 - Commitments and Contingencies, in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in Part I, Item 1, "Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)," of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, which is incorporated into this Item 1 by reference. In the opinion of management, based on current knowledge of the facts and after discussion with counsel, other claims and legal actions can be defended or resolved without a material effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations, and net cash flows.
ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS
There have been no material changes to the Company's risk factors as set forth in the annual report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020. Additional risks and uncertainties, not presently known to the Company or currently deemed immaterial, could negatively impact the Company’s results of operations or financial condition in the future.
ITEM 2. UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS
(c) Issuer Repurchases of Equity Securities
In April 2007, the Company's Board of Directors approved a plan to increase the number of shares remaining for repurchase from 628,692 to 2,300,000 shares. There is no expiration date for this plan. On August 3, 2015, the Company's Board of Directors approved a plan to increase the number of shares remaining for repurchase by an additional 3,000,000 shares. The authorization was in addition to the 535,107 shares that remained available for repurchase as of July 31, 2015. The Company repurchased 98,169 shares for approximately $7.9 million under the plan during the third quarter of 2021. The maximum number of shares that may still be purchased under this plan as of September 30, 2021 is 742,273.
Period
Total Number of Shares Repurchased
Average Price Paid per Share
Total Number of Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Plan
Maximum Number of Shares that may yet to be Repurchased
The following financial information from Franklin Electric Co., Inc.'s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2021, formatted in Inline eXtensible Business Reporting Language (Inline XBRL): (i) Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income for the third quarter and nine months ended September 30, 2021 and 2020 (ii) Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income/(Loss) for the third quarter and nine months ended September 30, 2021 and 2020, (iii) Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as of September 30, 2021, and December 31, 2020, (iv) Condensed Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows for the nine months ended September 30, 2021 and 2020, and (v) Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (filed herewith)
104
Cover Page Interactive Data File (formatted as Inline XBRL and contained in Exhibit 101)
* Management Contract, Compensatory Plan or Arrangement
34
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
FRANKLIN ELECTRIC CO., INC.
Registrant
Date: November 2, 2021
By
/s/ Gregg C. Sengstack
Gregg C. Sengstack, Chairperson and Chief Executive Officer
(Principal Executive Officer)
Date: November 2, 2021
By
/s/ Jeffery L. Taylor
Jeffery L. Taylor, Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
