UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-Q

 

(Mark One)

 

For the quarterly period ended March 28, 2009

or

 

For the transition period from ____________ to ____________

 

 HENRY SCHEIN, INC.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

 

135 Duryea Road

Melville, New York

(Address of principal executive offices)

11747

(Zip Code)

 

(631) 843-5500

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.

 

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).

 

 

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 the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).

 

 

As of April 29, 2009, there were 90,173,818 shares of the registrant’s common stock outstanding.

 

 

HENRY SCHEIN, INC.

INDEX

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Note 1. Basis of Presentation

 

Our consolidated financial statements include our accounts, as well as those of our wholly owned and majority-owned subsidiaries. Certain prior period amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current period presentation.

 

Our accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“U.S. GAAP”) for interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X. Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and footnote disclosures required by U.S. GAAP for complete financial statements.

 

The consolidated financial statements reflect all adjustments considered necessary for a fair presentation of the consolidated results of operations and financial position for the interim periods presented. All such adjustments are of a normal recurring nature. These unaudited interim consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements and notes to the consolidated financial statements contained in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 27, 2008.

 

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, and 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 those estimates. The results of operations for the three months ended March 28, 2009 are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for any other interim period or for the year ending December 26, 2009.

 

Effective December 28, 2008, we adopted the provisions of Statement No. 160, “Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements” (“FAS 160”). FAS 160 requires that a noncontrolling interest in a subsidiary be reported as equity in the consolidated financial statements. Consolidated net income includes the net income for both the parent and the noncontrolling interest with disclosure of both amounts on the consolidated statement of income. The calculation of earnings per share will continue to be based on income amounts attributable to the parent. As of December 27, 2008, we included noncontrolling interests totaling approximately $67.8 million in stockholders’ equity within our consolidated balance sheets.

 

Note 2. Segment Data

 

We conduct our business through two reportable segments: healthcare distribution and technology. These segments offer different products and services to the same customer base. The healthcare distribution reportable segment aggregates our dental, medical (including animal health) and international operating segments. This segment consists of consumable products, small equipment, laboratory products, large dental and medical equipment, equipment repair services, branded and generic pharmaceuticals, vaccines, surgical products, diagnostic tests, infection-control products and vitamins.

 

Our dental group serves office-based dental practitioners, schools and other institutions in the combined United States and Canadian dental market. Our medical group serves office-based medical practitioners, surgical centers, other alternate-care settings, animal health clinics and other institutions throughout the United States. Our international group serves 21 countries outside of North America.

 

Our technology group provides software, technology and other value-added services to healthcare practitioners, primarily in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia and New Zealand. Our value-added practice solutions include practice management software systems for dental and medical

 

Note 2. Segment Data (Continued)

 

practitioners and animal health clinics. Our technology group offerings also include financial services, e-services and continuing education services for practitioners.

 

The following tables present information about our reportable segments:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Note 3. Stock-Based Compensation

 

Our accompanying unaudited consolidated statements of income reflect share-based pretax compensation expense, recorded in accordance with the provisions of FAS No. 123(R), “Share-Based Payment,” of $6.1 million ($4.0 million after-tax) and $9.3 million ($6.1 million after-tax) for the three months ended March 28, 2009 and March 29, 2008.

 

Stock-based compensation represents the cost related to stock-based awards granted to employees and non-employee directors. We measure stock-based compensation at the grant date, based on the estimated fair value of the award, and recognize the cost (net of estimated forfeitures) as compensation expense on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period. Our stock-based compensation expense is reflected in selling, general and administrative expenses in our consolidated statements of income.

 

Prior to 2009, stock-based awards were provided to certain employees and non-employee directors under the terms of our 1994 Stock Incentive Plan, as amended, and our 1996 Non-Employee Director Stock Incentive Plan, as amended (together, the “Plans”). The Plans are administered by the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors. Awards under the Plans principally include a combination of at-the-money stock options and restricted stock (including restricted stock units).

 

Beginning in March 2009, equity-based awards were granted solely in the form of restricted stock and restricted stock units, with the exception of stock options for certain pre-existing contractual obligations.

 

Grants of restricted stock are common stock awards granted to recipients with specified vesting provisions.  We issue restricted stock that vests solely based on the recipient’s continued service over time (four-year cliff vesting) and restricted stock that vests based on our achieving specified performance measurements and the recipient’s continued service over time (three-year cliff vesting).

 

With respect to time-based restricted stock, we estimate the fair value on the date of grant based on our closing stock price. With respect to performance-based restricted stock, the number of shares that ultimately vest and are received by the recipient is based upon our earnings per share performance as measured against specified targets over a three-year period as determined by the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors. Though there is no guarantee that performance targets will be achieved, we estimate the fair value of performance-based restricted stock, based on our closing stock price at time of grant.

 

The Plans provide for adjustments to the performance-based restricted stock targets for significant events such as acquisitions, divestitures, new business ventures and share repurchases. Over the performance period, the number of shares of common stock that will ultimately vest and be issued is adjusted upward or downward based upon our estimation of achieving such performance targets. The ultimate number of shares delivered to recipients and the related compensation cost recognized as an expense will be based on our actual performance metrics as defined under the Plans.

 

Restricted stock units, or RSUs, are unit awards that we grant to certain employees that entitle the recipient to shares of common stock upon vesting after four years for time-based awards or three years for performance-based awards. The fair value of RSUs is determined on the date of grant, based on our closing stock price.

 

Total unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested awards as of March 28, 2009 was $62.2 million, which is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of approximately 2.6 years.

Note 3. Stock-Based Compensation (Continued)

 

The following weighted-average assumptions were used in determining the fair values of stock options using the Black-Scholes valuation model:

 

 

The following table summarizes stock option activity under the Plans during the three months ended March 28, 2009:

 

The following table summarizes the status of our non-vested restricted stock/units for the three months ended March 28, 2009:

 

 

 

Note 4. Business Acquisitions and Other Transactions

 

Acquisitions

 

We completed certain acquisitions during the three months ended March 28, 2009. The operating results of our acquisitions are reflected in our financial statements from their respective acquisition dates. Such acquisitions were immaterial to our financial statements individually and in the aggregate.

 

Loan and Investment Agreement

 

On December 12, 2008, we converted $10.4 million of loan receivables and related accrued interest into an equity interest of 15.33% in D4D Technologies, LLC (“D4D”). Due to the conversion, we now account for our equity interest in D4D under the equity method of accounting prospectively from the date of conversion.

 

In addition, if certain milestones occur, we are required to fund additional amounts (as equity contributions) to D4D as follows:

 

 

It is not determinable at this time whether milestone I has been met. We have not made milestone payments I or II as we are in the process of determining how much D4D may be due, if anything. Milestone payments II and III are also tied to timely satisfaction of milestone payment I.

 

Note 5. Earnings Per Share

 

Basic earnings per share is computed by dividing net income attributable to Henry Schein, Inc. by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding for the period. Our diluted earnings per share is computed similarly to basic earnings per share, except that it reflects the effect of common shares issuable upon vesting of restricted stock and upon exercise of stock options using the treasury stock method in periods in which they have a dilutive effect.

 

For the three months ended March 28, 2009, our convertible debt was not convertible at a premium and thus the impact of an assumed conversion was not applicable.

 

For the three months ended March 29, 2008, diluted earnings per share includes the effect of common shares issuable upon conversion of our convertible debt. During the period, the debt was convertible at a premium as a result of the conditions of the debt. As a result, the amount in excess of the principal is presumed to be settled in common shares and is reflected in our calculation of diluted earnings per share.

 

A reconciliation of shares used in calculating earnings per basic and diluted share follows:

 

 

 

Note 5. Earnings Per Share (Continued)

 

Weighted-average options to purchase 4,063,935 shares of common stock at exercise prices ranging from $37.45 to $62.05 per share and 333,927 shares of common stock at exercise prices ranging from $59.89 to $62.05 per share that were outstanding during the three months ended March 28, 2009 and March 29, 2008, respectively, were excluded from the computation of diluted earnings per share. In each of these periods, such options’ exercise prices exceeded the average market price of our common stock, thereby causing the effect of such options to be anti-dilutive.

 

Note 6. Comprehensive Income

 

Comprehensive income includes certain gains and losses that, under accounting principles generally accepted in the United States, are excluded from net income as such amounts are recorded directly as an adjustment to stockholders’ equity. Our comprehensive income is primarily comprised of net income and foreign currency translation adjustments, and unrealized gains (losses) on hedging activity, investments and pension adjustments. Comprehensive income totaled $14.0 million and $88.6 million for the three months ended March 28, 2009 and March 29, 2008. Comprehensive income attributable to Henry Schein, Inc. totaled $12.3 million and $83.0 million for the three months ended March 28, 2009 and March 29, 2008. Comprehensive income for noncontrolling interests totaled $1.7 million and $5.6 million for the three months ended March 28, 2009 and March 29, 2008.

 

 

Effective December 30, 2007, we adopted SFAS No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements” (“FAS 157”), as it relates to financial assets and financial liabilities. FAS 157 establishes a framework for measuring fair value in generally accepted accounting principles and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. FAS 157 applies under other previously issued accounting pronouncements that require or permit fair value measurements but does not require any new fair value measurements. The adoption of FAS 157 did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.

 

FAS 157 defines fair value as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. FAS 157 establishes a fair value hierarchy that distinguishes between (1) market participant assumptions developed based on market data obtained from independent sources (observable inputs) and (2) an entity’s own assumptions about market participant assumptions developed based on the best information available in the circumstances (unobservable inputs).

 

The fair value hierarchy consists of three broad levels, which gives the highest priority to unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (Level 1) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (Level 3). The three levels of the fair value hierarchy under FAS 157 are described as follows:

 

 

 

 

Note 7. Fair Value Measurements (Continued)

 

 

The following section describes the valuation methodologies that we used to measure different financial instruments at fair value, including an indication of the level in the fair value hierarchy in which each instrument is classified.

 

Auction-rate securities

 

As of March 28, 2009, we have approximately $25.9 million invested in auction-rate securities (“ARS”). ARS are publicly issued securities that represent long-term investments, typically 10-30 years, in which interest rates had reset periodically (typically every 7, 28 or 35 days) through a “dutch auction” process. Approximately $20.6 million of our ARS are backed by student loans that are backed by the federal government and the remaining $5.3 million are invested in closed-end municipal bond funds. Our ARS portfolio is comprised of investments that are rated AAA by major independent rating agencies. Since the middle of February 2008, ARS auctions have failed to settle due to an excess number of sellers compared to buyers. The failure of these auctions has resulted in our inability to liquidate our ARS in the near term. We are currently not aware of any defaults or financial conditions that would negatively affect the issuers’ ability to continue to pay interest and principal on our ARS. We continue to earn and receive interest at contractually agreed upon rates.

 

During the first quarter of 2009, we have received approximately $2.0 million and $0.7 million of redemptions, at par, for our closed-end municipal bond funds and our student loan portfolios, respectively.

 

As of March 28, 2009, we have classified our closed-end municipal bond funds, as well as our student loan portfolios, as Level 3 within the fair value hierarchy due to the lack of observable inputs and the absence of significant refinancing activity.

 

Based upon the information currently available and the use of a discounted cash flow model in accordance with applicable authoritative guidance, we have recorded a temporary impairment of $0.4 million as of March 28, 2009, related to our closed-end municipal bond funds and our student loan portfolios. This adjustment has been recorded as part of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) within the equity section of our consolidated balance sheet.

 

The closed-end municipal bond fund and student loan portfolios have an aggregate carrying value at March 28, 2009 of approximately $25.9 million, net of the temporary impairment, and are included as part of Investments and other within our consolidated balance sheet.

 

Money market fund

 

As of March 28, 2009, we had an investment of approximately $3.6 million ($2.9 million net of reserves) invested in the Reserve Primary Fund. This money market fund included in its holdings commercial paper of Lehman Brothers. As a result of the Chapter 11 bankruptcy of Lehman Brothers Holdings, Inc., the net asset value of the fund decreased below $1.00. Currently, this fund is in the process of being liquidated. As of March 28, 2009, the value of our holdings in this fund has been classified within Prepaid expenses and other in our consolidated balance sheets and as Level 3 within the fair value hierarchy, due to the lack of observable inputs and the absence of trading activity.

 

Note 7. Fair Value Measurements (Continued)

 

Derivative contracts

 

Derivative contracts are valued using quoted market prices and significant other observable and unobservable inputs. We use derivative instruments to minimize our exposure to fluctuations in interest rates and foreign currency exchange rates. Our derivative instruments include interest rate swap agreements related to our long-term fixed rate debt and foreign currency forward and swap agreements related to intercompany loans and certain forecasted inventory purchase commitments with suppliers.

 

The fair values for the majority of our foreign currency derivative contracts are obtained by comparing our contract rate to a published forward price of the underlying currency, which is based on market rates for comparable transactions and are classified within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

 

The following table presents our assets and liabilities that are measured and recognized at fair value on a recurring basis classified under the appropriate level of the fair value hierarchy as of March 28, 2009:

 

 

 

Note 7. Fair Value Measurements (Continued)

 

As of March 28, 2009, we have estimated the value of our closed-end municipal bond fund ARS portfolio and our student loan backed ARS portfolio based upon a discounted cash flow model. The assumptions used in our valuation model include estimates for interest rates, timing and amount of cash flows and expected holding periods for the ARS portfolio. We estimated the value of our holdings within the Reserve Primary Fund based upon the net asset value of the fund as of September 16, 2008, subsequent to the declaration of bankruptcy by Lehman Brothers Holdings, Inc. As a result of these analyses, for the quarter ended March 28, 2009, we recorded a temporary impairment loss of $0.4 million related to our ARS portfolio. The reserve recorded in 2008 of $0.8 million related to our holdings within the Reserve Primary Fund remained unchanged as of March 28, 2009. The following table presents a reconciliation of our assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis using unobservable inputs (Level 3):

 

 

 

 

Note 8. Convertible Debt

 

Effective December 28, 2008, we adopted the provisions of FASB Staff Position (“FSP”) APB 14-1, “Accounting for Convertible Debt Instruments That May Be Settled in Cash upon Conversion (Including Partial Cash Settlement).” The FSP requires that we allocate the liability and equity components of the convertible debt and reflect our non-convertible debt borrowing rate for the interest component of the convertible debt.

 

In 2004, we completed an issuance of $240.0 million of convertible debt. These notes are senior unsecured obligations bearing a fixed annual interest rate of 3.0% and are due to mature on August 15, 2034. The notes are convertible into our common stock at a conversion ratio of 21.58 shares per one thousand dollars of principal amount of notes, which is equivalent to a conversion price of $46.34 per share. For the three months ended March 28, 2009, our convertible debt was not convertible at a premium and thus the impact of an assumed conversion was not applicable.

 

Upon the retrospective implementation of this FSP, we recorded a debt discount of $32.6 million, as of August 9, 2004, representing the difference between the fair value of our $240.0 million 3% convertible debt at the time of issuance and the face amount of the convertible debt. We also recorded a related deferred tax liability of $12.1 million representing the tax impact of recording the debt discount. This debt discount is being amortized over a period of six years from the date our convertible debt was issued until August 9, 2010. An offsetting amount was recorded in Additional-paid-capital to reflect the impact of the debt discount, net of the related deferred tax liability.

 

Note 8. Convertible Debt (Continued)

 

The principal amounts of the outstanding notes, the unamortized discount and the net carrying value at March 28, 2009 was $240.0 million, $8.5 million and $231.5 million and at December 27, 2008 was $240.0 million, $10.0 million and $230.0 million.

 

As of December 28, 2008, retained earnings includes a cumulative adjustment to interest expense of $22.6 million ($14.7 million, net of taxes) representing the non-cash difference between the stated interest rate (3%) on our convertible debt and our non-convertible debt borrowing rate (5.74%) at the time of issuance of our convertible debt.

 

For the three months ended March 28, 2009 and March 29, 2008, we recorded additional non-cash interest expense of $1.5 million ($1.0 million, net of taxes) and $1.4 million ($0.9 million, net of taxes) representing the difference between the stated interest rate on our convertible debt and our non-convertible debt borrowing rate at the time of issuance of our convertible debt.

 

For each of the three month periods ended March 28, 2009 and March 29, 2008, contractual interest expense relating to our convertible debt was $1.8 million ($1.2 million, net of taxes).

 

Note 9. Income Taxes

 

The total amount of unrecognized tax benefits as of March 28, 2009 was approximately $13.3 million, all of which would affect the effective tax rate if recognized.  It is expected that the amount of unrecognized tax benefits will change in the next 12 months; however, we do not expect the change to have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.

 

The total amounts of accrued interest and penalties were approximately $2.5 million and $0, respectively, as of March 28, 2009.  It is expected that the amount of interest will change in the next twelve months. However, we do not expect the change to have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.

 

The tax years subject to examination by major tax jurisdictions include the years 2004 and forward by the U.S. Internal Revenue Service, the years 1996 and forward for certain states and the years 1997 and forward for certain foreign jurisdictions.

 

Note 10. Supplemental Cash Flow Information

 

Cash paid for interest and income taxes was:

 

        

During the three months ended March 28, 2009, we had a $5.8 million non-cash net unrealized loss related to hedging activities. During the three months ended March 29, 2008, we had a $1.9 million non-cash net unrealized gain related to hedging activities.

 

Note 11 – Plan of Restructuring

 

On November 5, 2008, we announced certain actions to reduce operating costs, which have resulted in the elimination of approximately 400 positions from our operations and the closing of several smaller facilities. For the three months ended March 28, 2009 and December 27, 2008, we recorded restructuring costs of approximately $4.0 million (approximately $2.8 million after taxes) and approximately $23.2 million (approximately $16.0 million after taxes), respectively, related to these actions. The costs associated with the restructuring are included in a separate line item, “Restructuring costs” within our consolidated statements of income.

 

The following table shows the amounts expensed and paid for restructuring costs that were incurred during the three months ended March 28, 2009 and the remaining accrued balance of restructuring costs as of March 28, 2009, which is included in Accrued expenses: Other and Other liabilities within our consolidated balance sheet:

 

 

 

We expect that the majority of these costs will be paid in 2009.

 

The following table shows, by reportable segment, the restructuring costs incurred during the three months ended March 28, 2009 and the remaining accrued balance of restructuring costs as of March 28, 2009:

 

 

 

Note 12 – Derivatives and Hedging Activities

 

Effective December 28, 2008, we adopted the provisions of FAS 161, “Disclosures about Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities, an amendment of FASB Statement No. 133” (“FAS 161”). FAS 161 requires enhanced disclosures of our derivatives and hedging activities. FAS 161 does not change the accounting for derivatives and hedging activities, but rather provides more detailed disclosures concerning our objectives for our use of derivatives, the locations within our consolidated financial statements of both the derivative positions existing at period end and the effect of using derivatives during the period and the impact that the use of derivatives and hedging activities had on our consolidated financial statements.

 

Note 12 – Derivatives and Hedging Activities (Continued)

 

We are exposed to market risks, which include changes in interest rates, as well as changes in foreign currency exchange rates as measured against the U.S. dollar and each other, and changes to the credit markets. We attempt to minimize these risks by using interest rate swap agreements, foreign currency forward and swap contracts and by maintaining counter-party credit limits. These hedging activities provide only limited protection against interest rate, currency exchange and credit risks. Factors that could influence the effectiveness of our hedging programs include interest rate volatility, currency markets and availability of hedging instruments and liquidity of the credit markets. All interest rate swap and foreign currency forward and swap contracts that we enter into are components of hedging programs and are entered into for the sole purpose of hedging an existing or anticipated interest rate and currency exposure. We do not enter into such contracts for speculative purposes and we manage our credit risks by diversifying our investments, maintaining a strong balance sheet and having multiple sources of capital.

 

The value of certain foreign currencies as compared to the U.S. dollar may affect our financial results. Fluctuations in foreign exchange rates may positively or negatively affect our revenues, gross margins, operating expenses, and retained earnings, all of which are expressed in U.S. dollars. Where we deem it prudent, we engage in hedging programs using primarily foreign currency forward and swap contracts aimed at limiting the impact of foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations on earnings. We purchase short-term (i.e., 12 months or less) foreign currency forward and swap contracts to protect against currency exchange risks associated with intercompany loans due from our international subsidiaries and the payment of merchandise purchases to our foreign suppliers. We do not hedge the translation of foreign currency profits into U.S. dollars, as we regard this as an accounting exposure, not an economic exposure.

 

The following table presents the fair value of our derivative instruments:

 

 

The following tables present the effect of our derivative instruments on our consolidated financial statements:

 

 

 

Note 12 – Derivatives and Hedging Activities (Continued)

 

 

 

 

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

 

In accordance with the “Safe Harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, we provide the following cautionary remarks regarding important factors that, among others, could cause future results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements, expectations and assumptions expressed or implied herein. All forward-looking statements made by us are subject to risks and uncertainties and are not guarantees of future performance. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause our actual results, performance and achievements or industry results to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These statements are identified by the use of such terms as “may,” “could,” “expect,” “intend,” “believe,” “plan,” “estimate,” “forecast,” “project,” “anticipate” or other comparable terms.

Risk factors and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from current and historical results include, but are not limited to: decreased customer demand and changes in vendor credit terms; disruptions in financial markets; general economic conditions; competitive factors; changes in the healthcare industry; changes in regulatory requirements that affect us; risks associated with our international operations; fluctuations in quarterly earnings; our dependence on third parties for the manufacture and supply of our products; transitional challenges associated with acquisitions, including the failure to achieve anticipated synergies; financial risks associated with acquisitions; regulatory and litigation risks; the dependence on our continued product development, technical support and successful marketing in the technology segment; our dependence upon sales personnel and key customers; our dependence on our senior management; possible increases in the cost of shipping our products or other service issues with our third-party shippers; risks from rapid technological change; risks from potential increases in variable interest rates; possible volatility of the market price of our common stock; certain provisions in our governing documents that may discourage third-party acquisitions of us; and changes in tax legislation that affect us. The order in which these factors appear should not be construed to indicate their relative importance or priority.

We caution that these factors may not be exhaustive and that many of these factors are beyond our ability to control or predict. Accordingly, any forward-looking statements contained herein should not be relied upon as a prediction of actual results. We undertake no duty and have no obligation to update forward-looking statements.

Executive-Level Overview

 

We believe we are the largest distributor of healthcare products and services primarily to office-based healthcare practitioners. We serve more than 575,000 customers worldwide, including dental practitioners and laboratories, physician practices and animal health clinics, as well as government and other institutions. We believe that we have a strong brand identity due to our more than 76 years of experience distributing healthcare products.

 

We are headquartered in Melville, New York, employ more than 12,500 people (of which approximately 5,000 are based outside the United States) and have operations in the United States, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, China, the Czech Republic, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Portugal, Slovakia, Spain, Switzerland and the United Kingdom. We also have affiliates in Iceland, Israel, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

 

 

 

We have established strategically located distribution centers to enable us to better serve our customers and increase our operating efficiency. This infrastructure, together with broad product and service offerings at competitive prices, and a strong commitment to customer service, enables us to be a single source of supply for our customers’ needs. Our infrastructure also allows us to provide convenient ordering and rapid, accurate and complete order fulfillment.

 

We conduct our business through two reportable segments: healthcare distribution and technology. These segments offer different products and services to the same customer base. The healthcare distribution reportable segment aggregates our dental, medical (including animal health) and international operating segments. This segment consists of consumable products, small equipment, laboratory products, large dental and medical equipment, equipment repair services, branded and generic pharmaceuticals, vaccines, surgical products, diagnostic tests, infection-control products and vitamins.

 

Our dental group serves office-based dental practitioners, schools and other institutions in the combined United States and Canadian dental market. Our medical group serves office-based medical practitioners, surgical centers, other alternate-care settings, animal health clinics and other institutions throughout the United States. Our international group serves 21 countries outside of North America and is what we believe to be a leading European healthcare supplier serving office-based practitioners.

 

Our technology group provides software, technology and other value-added services to healthcare practitioners, primarily in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia and New Zealand. Our value-added practice solutions include practice management software systems for dental and medical practitioners and animal health clinics. Our technology group offerings also include financial services, e-services and continuing education services for practitioners.

 

Industry Overview

 

In recent years, the healthcare industry has increasingly focused on cost containment. This trend has benefited distributors capable of providing a broad array of products and services at low prices. It also has accelerated the growth of HMOs, group practices, other managed care accounts and collective buying groups, which, in addition to their emphasis on obtaining products at competitive prices, tend to favor distributors capable of providing specialized management information support. We believe that the trend towards cost containment has the potential to favorably affect demand for technology solutions, including software, which can enhance the efficiency and facilitation of practice management.

 

Our operating results in recent years have been significantly affected by strategies and transactions that we undertook to expand our business, domestically and internationally, in part to address significant changes in the healthcare industry, including consolidation of healthcare distribution companies, potential healthcare reform, trends toward managed care, cuts in Medicare and collective purchasing arrangements.

 

Our current and future results have been and could be impacted by the current economic environment and uncertainty, particularly impacting overall demand for our products and services.

 

Industry Consolidation

 

The healthcare products distribution industry, as it relates to office-based healthcare practitioners, is highly fragmented and diverse. This industry, which encompasses the dental, medical and animal health markets, was estimated to produce revenues of approximately $27.5 billion in 2008 in the combined North American and European markets. The industry ranges from sole practitioners working out of relatively small offices to group practices or service organizations ranging in size from a few practitioners to a large number of practitioners who have combined or otherwise associated their practices.

 

Due in part to the inability of office-based healthcare practitioners to store and manage large quantities of supplies in their offices, the distribution of healthcare supplies and small equipment to office-based healthcare practitioners has been characterized by frequent, small-quantity orders, and a need

 

 

for rapid, reliable and substantially complete order fulfillment. The purchasing decisions within an office-based healthcare practice are typically made by the practitioner or an administrative assistant. Supplies and small equipment are generally purchased from more than one distributor, with one generally serving as the primary supplier.

 

We believe that consolidation within the industry will continue to result in a number of distributors, particularly those with limited financial and marketing resources, seeking to combine with larger companies that can provide growth opportunities. This consolidation also may continue to result in distributors seeking to acquire companies that can enhance their current product and service offerings or provide opportunities to serve a broader customer base.

 

Our trend with regard to acquisitions has been to expand our role as a provider of products and services to the healthcare industry. This trend has resulted in expansion into service areas that complement our existing operations and provide opportunities for us to develop synergies with, and thus strengthen, the acquired businesses.

 

As industry consolidation continues, we believe that we are positioned to capitalize on this trend, as we believe we have the ability to support increased sales through our existing infrastructure.

 

As the healthcare industry continues to change, we continually evaluate possible candidates for merger or acquisition and intend to continue to seek opportunities to expand our role as a provider of products and services to the healthcare industry. There can be no assurance that we will be able to successfully pursue any such opportunity or consummate any such transaction, if pursued. If additional transactions are entered into or consummated, we would incur merger and/or acquisition-related costs, and there can be no assurance that the integration efforts associated with any such transaction would be successful.

 

Aging Population and Other Market Influences

 

The healthcare products distribution industry continues to experience growth due to the aging population, increased healthcare awareness, the proliferation of medical technology and testing, new pharmacology treatments and expanded third-party insurance coverage, partially offset by the affects of increased unemployment on insurance coverage. In addition, the physician market continues to benefit from the shift of procedures and diagnostic testing from acute care settings to alternate-care sites, particularly physicians’ offices.

 

The January 2000 U.S. Bureau of the Census estimated that the elderly population in the United States will more than double by the year 2040. In 2000, four million Americans were aged 85 or older, the segment of the population most in need of long-term care and elder-care services. By the year 2040, that number is projected to more than triple to more than 14 million. The population aged 65 to 84 years is projected to more than double in the same time period.

 

As a result of these market dynamics, annual expenditures for healthcare services continue to increase in the United States. Given current operating, economic and industry conditions, we believe that demand for our products and services will grow at slower rates. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, or CMS, published “National Health Expenditure Projections 2007 – 2017” indicating that total national healthcare spending reached $2.1 trillion in 2006, or 16.0% of the nation’s gross domestic product, the benchmark measure for annual production of goods and services in the United States. Healthcare spending is projected to reach $4.3 trillion in 2017, approximately 19.5% of the nation’s gross domestic product.

 

 

Government Influences

 

The healthcare industry is subject to extensive government regulation, licensure and operating compliance procedures. National healthcare reform has been the subject of a number of legislative initiatives by Congress. Additionally, government and private insurance programs fund a large portion of the total cost of medical care. The Balanced Budget Act passed by Congress in 1997 significantly reduced reimbursement rates for nursing homes and home healthcare providers, affecting spending levels and the overall financial viability of these institutions.

 

The Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement, and Modernization Act of 2003 is the largest expansion of the Medicare program since its inception, and provides participants with voluntary outpatient prescription drug benefits. This Act also includes provisions relating to medication management programs, generic substitution and provider reimbursement.

 

There have been increasing efforts by various levels of government, including state departments of health, state boards of pharmacy and comparable agencies, to regulate the pharmaceutical distribution system in order to prevent the introduction of counterfeit, adulterated or mislabeled pharmaceuticals into the distribution system.  An increasing number of states, including Florida, have already adopted laws and regulations, including drug pedigree tracking requirements, that are intended to protect the integrity of the pharmaceutical distribution system. Regulations adopted under the federal Prescription Drug Marketing Act, effective December, 2006, require the identification and documentation of transactions involving the receipt and distribution of prescription drugs, that is, drug pedigree information. Other states and government agencies are currently considering similar laws and regulations. We continue to work with our suppliers to help minimize the risks associated with counterfeit products in the supply chain and potential litigation.

 

 

Traditional healthcare supply and distribution relationships are being challenged by electronic online commerce solutions. Our distribution business is characterized by rapid technological developments and intense competition. The advancement of online commerce will require us to cost-effectively adapt to changing technologies, to enhance existing services and to develop and introduce a variety of new services to address the changing demands of consumers and our customers on a timely basis, particularly in response to competitive offerings.

 

Through our proprietary, technologically-based suite of products, we offer customers a variety of competitive alternatives. We believe that our tradition of reliable service, our name recognition and large customer base built on solid customer relationships position us well to participate in this growing aspect of the distribution business. We continue to explore ways and means to improve and expand our Internet presence and capabilities.

 

 

Results of Operations            

 

The following table summarizes the significant components of our operating results from continuing operations and cash flows for the three months ended March 28, 2009 and March 29, 2008 (in thousands):

 

 

 

(1)   Adjusted to reflect the effects of discontinued operations and the adoption of FASB Staff Position APB 14-1, “Accounting for Convertible Debt Instruments That May Be Settled in Cash upon Conversion (Including Partial Cash Settlement).”

 

Plan of Restructuring

 

On November 5, 2008, we announced certain actions to reduce operating costs, which included the elimination of approximately 400 positions from our operations and the closing of several smaller facilities. For the three months ended March 28, 2009 and December 27, 2008, we recorded restructuring costs of $4.0 million ($2.8 million after taxes) and approximately $23.2 million ($16.0 million after taxes), respectively, related to these actions. The costs associated with the restructuring are included in a separate line item, “Restructuring costs”, within our consolidated statements of income. We expect that the majority of these costs will be paid in 2009.

 

Annual pretax cost savings from this initiative are expected to be between $24.0 million and $27.0 million.

 

 

Three Months Ended March 28, 2009 Compared to Three Months Ended March 29, 2008

 

Net Sales

 

Net sales from continuing operations for the three months ended March 28, 2009 and March 29, 2008 were as follows (in thousands):

 

 

 

(2)   Consists of consumable products, small equipment, laboratory products, large dental and medical equipment, equipment repair services, branded and generic pharmaceuticals, vaccines, surgical products, diagnostic tests, infection-control products and vitamins.

 

 

 

 

(6)   Consists of practice management software and other value-added products and services, which are distributed primarily to healthcare providers in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia and New Zealand.

 

The $33.2 million, or 2.2%, decrease in net sales for the three months ended March 28, 2009 includes an increase of 5.5% local currency growth (0.5% internally generated and 5.0% from acquisitions) and a decrease of 7.7% related to foreign currency exchange.

 

The $14.6 million, or 2.4%, decrease in dental net sales for the three months ended March 28, 2009 includes a decrease of 0.4% local currency growth (3.0% decline in internally generated growth offset by 2.6% growth from acquisitions) and a decrease of 2.0% related to foreign currency exchange. The 0.4% decline in local currency growth was due to a decline in dental equipment sales and service revenues of 5.1% (all internally generated) offset by dental consumable merchandise sales growth of 1.0% (2.4% decline in internally generated growth offset by 3.4% growth from acquisitions).

 

The $4.1 million, or 1.2%, decrease in medical net sales for the three months ended March 28, 2009 includes a decline in internal growth of 2.4% and acquisition growth of 1.2%. This decrease was partially due to the impact of higher sales of private-label products, as well as increased sales of generic pharmaceuticals.

 

The $16.0 million, or 3.0%, decrease in international net sales for the three months ended March 28, 2009 includes sales growth of 16.2% in local currencies (5.8% internally generated and 10.4% from acquisitions) and a decrease of 19.2% related to foreign currency exchange.

 

The $1.5 million, or 3.9%, increase in technology net sales for the three months ended March 28, 2009 includes an increase in internal sales growth of 8.8% and a decrease of 4.9% related to foreign currency exchange.

 

 

Gross Profit

 

Gross profit and gross margin percentages from continuing operations by segment and in total for the three months ended March 28, 2009 and March 29, 2008 were as follows (in thousands):

 

 

 

For the three months ended March 28, 2009, gross profit decreased $9.6 million, or 2.1%, from the comparable prior year period. As a result of different practices of categorizing costs associated with distribution networks throughout our industry, our gross margins may not necessarily be comparable to other distribution companies. Additionally, we realize substantially higher gross margin percentages in our technology segment than in our healthcare distribution segment. These higher gross margins result from being both the developer and seller of software products, as well as certain financial services. The software industry typically realizes higher gross margins to recover investments in research and development.

 

Healthcare distribution gross profit decreased $10.3 million, or 2.5%, for the three months ended March 28, 2009 from the comparable prior year period. Healthcare distribution gross profit margin decreased to 28.4% for the three months ended March 28, 2009 from 28.5% for the comparable prior year period primarily due to changes in the product sales mix.

 

Technology gross profit increased $0.7 million, or 2.6%, for the three months ended March 28, 2009 from the comparable prior year period. Technology gross profit margin decreased to 72.3% for the three months ended March 28, 2009 from 73.3% for the comparable prior year period primarily due to changes in the product sales mix.

 

Selling, General and Administrative

 

Selling, general and administrative expenses from continuing operations by segment and in total for the three months ended March 28, 2009 and March 29, 2008 were as follows (in thousands):

 

 

Selling, general and administrative expenses decreased $19.3 million, or 5.3%, to $346.1 million for the three months ended March 28, 2009 from the comparable prior year period. This decrease consists of $12.5 million in expense reductions and a $6.8 million net reduction from the effects of favorable foreign exchange offset by the additional selling, general and administrative costs from operations acquired. As a

 

 

percentage of net sales, selling, general and administrative expenses decreased to 23.3% from 24.0% for the comparable prior year period.

 

As a component of selling, general and administrative expenses, selling expenses decreased $19.1 million, or 7.7%, to $228.9 million for the three months ended March 28, 2009 from the comparable prior year period. As a percentage of net sales, selling expenses decreased to 15.4% from 16.3% for the comparable prior year period.

 

As a component of selling, general and administrative expenses, general and administrative expenses decreased $0.2 million, or 0.1%, to $117.2 million for the three months ended March 28, 2009 from the comparable prior year period. As a percentage of net sales, general and administrative expenses increased to 7.9% from 7.7% for the comparable prior year period.

 

Other Expense, Net

 

Other expense, net, from continuing operations for the three months ended March 28, 2009 and March 29, 2008 were as follows (in thousands):

 

 

 

Other expense, net decreased $0.5 million for the three months ended March 28, 2009 from the comparable prior year period. This decrease was primarily due to decreased interest expense due to lower interest rates on our floating rate debt, partially offset by a decrease in interest income resulting from lower interest rates on our invested funds.

 

Income Taxes

 

For the three months ended March 28, 2009, our effective tax rate from continuing operations was 33.3% compared to 34.0% for the prior year period.  The difference between our effective tax rates and the federal statutory tax rates for both periods primarily relates to state and foreign income taxes.

 

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

Our principal capital requirements include the funding of working capital needs, funding of acquisitions, purchases of securities and fixed assets, repayments of debt principal and repurchases of common stock. Working capital requirements generally result from increased sales, special inventory forward buy-in opportunities and payment terms for receivables and payables. Historically, sales have tended to be stronger during the third and fourth quarters and special inventory forward buy-in opportunities have been most prevalent just before the end of the year, causing our working capital requirements to have been higher from the end of the third quarter to the end of the first quarter of the following year. We expect our historical seasonality of sales to continue in the foreseeable future.

 

We finance our business primarily through cash generated from our operations, revolving credit facilities and debt placements. Our ability to generate sufficient cash flows from operations is dependent on the continued demand of our customers for our products and services, and access to products and services from our suppliers. Given current operating, economic and industry conditions, we believe that demand for our products and services may decline slightly.

 

Net cash flow used in operating activities was $27.1 million for the three months ended March 28, 2009, compared to net cash provided by operating activities of $13.4 million for the comparable prior year period. This net change of $40.5 million was primarily due to changes in net working capital. The timing of vendor payments occurring early in the quarter unfavorably affected cash flow by approximately $40.0 million to $50.0 million.

 

Net cash used in investing activities was $27.9 million for the three months ended March 28, 2009, compared to $60.1 million for the comparable prior year period. The net change of $32.2 million was primarily due to the absence of purchases of available-for-sale securities, partially offset by an increase in payments for business acquisitions.

 

We expect to invest approximately $27.0 million to $37.0 million during the remainder of the fiscal year in capital projects to modernize and expand our facilities and computer systems and to integrate certain operations into our existing structure.

 

Net cash used in financing activities was $6.4 million for the three months ended March 28, 2009, compared to net cash provided by financing activities of $5.3 million for the comparable prior year period. The net change of $11.7 million was primarily due to a reduction in proceeds from the exercise of stock options and reduced tax benefits related to stock-based compensation.

 

The following table summarizes selected measures of liquidity and capital resources (in thousands):

 

 

(1)   Adjusted to reflect the adoption of FASB Staff Position APB 14-1, “Accounting for Convertible Debt Instruments That May Be Settled in Cash upon Conversion (Including Partial Cash Settlement).”

 

 

Our cash and cash equivalents consist of bank balances and investments in money market funds representing overnight investments with a high degree of liquidity.

 

As of March 28, 2009, we have approximately $25.9 million invested in auction-rate securities (“ARS”). ARS are publicly issued securities that represent long-term investments, typically 10-30 years, in which interest rates had reset periodically (typically every 7, 28 or 35 days) through a “dutch auction” process. Approximately $20.6 million of our ARS are backed by student loans that are backed by the federal government and the remaining $5.3 million are invested in closed-end municipal bond funds. Our ARS portfolio is comprised of investments that are rated AAA by major independent rating agencies. Since the middle of February 2008, these auctions have failed to settle due to an excess number of sellers compared to buyers. The failure of these auctions has resulted in our inability to liquidate our ARS in the near term. We are currently not aware of any defaults or financial conditions that would negatively affect the issuers’ ability to continue to pay interest and principal on our ARS. We continue to earn and receive interest at contractually agreed upon rates. We believe that the current lack of liquidity related to our ARS investments will have no impact on our ability to fund our ongoing operations and growth opportunities. As of March 28, 2009, we have classified ARS holdings as long-term, available-for-sale and they are included in the Investment and other line within our consolidated balance sheet.

 

Our business requires a substantial investment in working capital, which is susceptible to fluctuations during the year as a result of inventory purchase patterns and seasonal demands. Inventory purchase activity is a function of sales activity, special inventory forward buy-in opportunities and our desired level of inventory. We anticipate future increases in our working capital requirements.

 

Our accounts receivable days sales outstanding from continuing operations increased to 43.1 days as of March 28, 2009 from 42.0 days as of March 29, 2008. Our inventory turns from continuing operations decreased to 5.7 as of March 28, 2009 from 6.3 as of March 29, 2008. Our working capital accounts may be impacted by current and future economic conditions.

 

In 2004, we completed an issuance of $240.0 million of convertible debt. These notes are senior unsecured obligations bearing a fixed annual interest rate of 3.0% and are due to mature on August 15, 2034. Interest on the notes is payable on February 15 and August 15 of each year. The notes are convertible into our common stock at a conversion ratio of 21.58 shares per one thousand dollars of principal amount of notes, which is equivalent to a conversion price of $46.34 per share, under the following circumstances:

 

               

 

Upon conversion, we are required to satisfy our conversion obligation with respect to the principal amount of the notes to be converted, in cash, with any remaining amount to be satisfied in shares of our common stock. We currently have sufficient availability of funds through our $400.0 million revolving credit facility (discussed below) along with cash on hand to fully satisfy our debt obligations, including the cash portion of our convertible debt. We also will pay contingent interest during any six-month-interest period beginning August 20, 2010, if the average trading price of the notes is above specified levels. We may redeem some or all of the notes on or after August 20, 2010. The note holders may

 

 

require us to purchase all or a portion of the notes on August 15, 2010, 2014, 2019, 2024 and 2029 or, subject to specified exceptions, upon a change of control event.

 

Our $170.0 million of senior notes include $130.0 million of notes, which bear interest at a fixed rate of 6.9% per annum and mature on June 30, 2009, and $40.0 million of notes which bear interest at a fixed rate of 6.7% per annum and mature at a rate of $20.0 million per annum on September 25, 2009 and September 27, 2010, respectively. Interest on both notes is payable semi-annually.

 

In 2003, we entered into swap agreements relating to our $230.0 million senior notes to exchange their fixed interest rates for variable interest rates. The value of debt exchanged to a variable rate of interest reduces according to the repayment schedule of the senior notes. As of March 28, 2009, there is $170.0 million of principal remaining with a weighted-average interest rate of 5.32%. This weighted-average variable interest rate is comprised of LIBOR plus a spread and resets on the interest due dates for such senior notes.

 

On September 5, 2008, we entered into a new $400.0 million revolving credit facility with a $100.0 million expansion feature. The $400.0 million credit line expires in September 2013. This credit line replaced our then existing $300.0 million revolving credit line, which would have expired in May 2010. As of March 28, 2009, there were no borrowings outstanding under this revolving credit facility and there were $13.0 million of letters of credit provided to third parties.

 

Under our common stock repurchase programs approved by our Board of Directors, we have $57.7 million available for future common stock share repurchases. During the quarter ended March 28, 2009, we did not repurchase any of our common stock.

 

Some minority shareholders in certain of our subsidiaries have the right, at certain times, to require us to acquire their ownership interest in those entities at fair value based on third-party valuations or at a price pursuant to a formula as defined in the agreements, which approximates fair value. Additionally, some prior owners of such acquired subsidiaries are eligible to receive additional purchase price cash consideration if certain profitability targets are met. We accrue liabilities that may arise from these transactions when we believe that the outcome of the contingency is determinable beyond a reasonable doubt. For 2009 and future acquisitions, we will accrue liabilities for additional purchase price adjustments at the time of the acquisition. Any adjustments to these accrual amounts will be recorded in our consolidated statement of income.

 

We finance our business to provide adequate funding for at least 12 months. Funding requirements are based on forecasted profitability and working capital needs, which, on occasion, may change. Consequently, we may change our funding structure to reflect any new requirements.

 

We believe that our cash and cash equivalents, our ability to access private debt markets and public equity markets, and our available funds under existing credit facilities, provide us with sufficient liquidity to meet our currently foreseeable short-term and long-term capital needs. We have no off balance sheet arrangements.

 

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

 

There have been no material changes in our critical accounting policies and estimates from those disclosed in Item 7 of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 27, 2008.

 

 

 

Recently Issued Accounting Standards

 

Accounting Pronouncements Adopted

 

In December 2007, the FASB issued Statement No. 141 (revised 2007), “Business Combinations” (“FAS 141(R)”) and Statement No. 160, “Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements” (“FAS 160”). FAS No. 141(R) requires an acquirer to measure the identifiable assets acquired, the liabilities assumed and any noncontrolling interest in the acquiree at their fair values on the acquisition date, with goodwill being the excess value over the net identifiable assets acquired. This standard also requires the fair value measurement of certain other assets and liabilities related to the acquisition such as contingencies. FAS 141(R) applies prospectively to business combinations and is effective for fiscal years beginning on or after December 15, 2008.

 

FAS 160 requires that a noncontrolling interest in a subsidiary be reported as equity in the consolidated financial statements. Consolidated net income includes the net income for both the parent and the noncontrolling interest with disclosure of both amounts on the consolidated statement of income. The calculation of earnings per share will continue to be based on income amounts attributable to the parent. The presentation provisions of FAS 160 are to be applied retrospectively, and FAS 160 is effective for fiscal years beginning on or after December 15, 2008. The adoption of FAS 141(R) and FAS 160 did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.

 

In January 2008, FASB issued EITF 03-6-1, “Determining Whether Instruments Granted in Share-Based Payment Transactions Are Participating Securities” (“EITF 03-6-1”). EITF 03-6-1 requires that unvested share-based payment awards that contain nonforfeitable rights to dividends or dividend equivalents (whether paid or unpaid) are participating securities and should be included in the two-class method of computing earnings per share. EITF 03-6-1 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008. The adoption of EITF 03-6-1 did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.

 

In February 2008, the FASB issued FSP 157-2, “Partial Deferral of the Effective Date of Statement 157” (“FSP 157-2”).  FSP 157-2 delays the effective date of SFAS 157 for all nonfinancial assets and nonfinancial liabilities, except those that are recognized or disclosed at fair value in the financial statements on a recurring basis (at least annually) to fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2008.  In October 2008, the FASB issued FASB Staff Position No. FAS 157-3, “Determining the Fair Value of a Financial Asset When the Market for That Asset Is Not Active.” This FASB Staff Position (“FSP”) applies to financial assets within the scope of accounting pronouncements that require or permit fair value measurements in accordance with SFAS 157. This FSP clarifies the application of SFAS 157 in determining the fair values of assets or liabilities in a market that is not active. This FSP is effective upon issuance, including prior periods for which financial statements have not been issued. The adoption of these FASB Staff Positions did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.

 

In March 2008, the FASB issued FAS 161, “Disclosures about Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities, an amendment of FASB Statement No. 133” (“FAS 161”). FAS 161 requires disclosures of the fair values of derivative instruments and their gains and losses in a tabular format. FAS 161 requires qualitative disclosures about objectives and strategies for using derivatives, quantitative disclosures about fair value amounts of gains and losses on derivative instruments and disclosures about credit-risk-related contingent features in derivative agreements. FAS 161 is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years and interim periods beginning after November 15, 2008. The adoption of FAS 161 did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.

 

In May 2008, the FASB issued FSP APB 14-1, “Accounting for Convertible Debt Instruments That May Be Settled in Cash upon Conversion (Including Partial Cash Settlement).” This FSP requires us to allocate the liability and equity components of the convertible debt and reflect our non-convertible debt borrowing rate for the interest component of the convertible debt. This FSP is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008, and will be applied retrospectively

 

 

to all periods presented. Upon the retrospective implementation of this FSP, we recorded a debt discount of approximately $32.6 million as of August 9, 2004, which is being amortized over a period of six years from the date our convertible debt was issued.

 

In June 2008, the FASB ratified EITF Issue No. 07-5, “Determining Whether an Instrument (or an Embedded Feature) Is Indexed to an Entity’s Own Stock” (“EITF 07-5”). EITF 07-5 provides that an entity should use a two step approach to evaluate whether an equity-linked financial instrument (or embedded feature) is indexed to its own stock, including evaluating the instrument’s contingent exercise and the instruments settlement provisions. EITF 07-5 clarifies the impact of foreign currency denominated strike prices and market-based employee stock option valuation instruments on the evaluation. EITF 07-5 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008. The implementation of EITF 07-5 did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.

 

In April 2009, the FASB issued FSP No. 141(R)-1, “Accounting for Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed in a Business Combination That Arise from Contingencies” (“FSP 141(R)-1”). FSP 141(R)-1 amends the initial recognition and measurement, subsequent measurement and accounting, and disclosure of assets and liabilities arising from contingencies in a business combination. FSP 141(R)-1 is effective for assets or liabilities arising from contingencies in business combinations for which the acquisition date is on or after the beginning of the first annual reporting period beginning on or after December 15, 2008. The adoption of FAS 141(R)-1 did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.

 

New Accounting Pronouncements Not Yet Adopted

 

In April 2009, the FASB issued FSP No. FAS 107-1 and APB 28-1, “Interim Disclosures about Fair Value of Financial Instruments” (“FSP 107-1 and APB 28-1”). FSP 107-1 and APB 28-1 require that disclosures about the fair value of a company’s financial instruments be made whenever summarized financial information for interim reporting periods is made. The provisions of FSP 107-1 are effective for interim reporting periods ending after June 15, 2009, with early adoption permitted for periods ending after March 15, 2009. Early adoption of FSP 107-1 and APB 28-1 may be made only if FSP FAS 157-4, “Determining Fair Value When the Volume and Level of Activity for the Asset or Liability Have Significantly Decreased and Identifying Transactions That Are Not Orderly” and FSP FAS 115-2 and FAS 124-2 “Recognition and Presentation of Other-Than-Temporary Impairments” are also adopted early. We are currently evaluating the impact that FSP 107-1 and APB 28-1 will have on our consolidated financial statements. See below for discussions of FSP 157-4 and FAS 124-2.

 

In April 2009, the FASB issued FSP No. FAS 157-4, “Determining Fair Value When the Volume and Level of Activity for the Asset or Liability Have Significantly Decreased and Identifying Transactions That Are Not Orderly” (“FSP 157-4”). FSP 157-4 does not change the definition of fair value as detailed in FAS 157, but provides additional guidance for estimating fair value in accordance with FAS 157 when the volume and level of activity for the asset or liability have significantly decreased. The provisions of FSP 157-4 are effective for interim and annual reporting periods ending after June 15, 2009, with early adoption permitted for periods ending after March 15, 2009. If early adoption is elected for either FAS 115-2 or FAS 107-1 and APB 28-1, FSP 157-4 must also be adopted early. We are currently evaluating the impact that FSP 157-4 will have on our consolidated financial statements.

 

In April 2009, the FASB issued FSP No. FAS 115-2 and FAS 124-2, “Recognition and Presentation of Other-Than-Temporary Impairments” (“FSP 115-2 and FAS 124-2”). FSP 115-2 and FAS 124-2 amends the other-than-temporary impairment guidance in U.S. GAAP for debt securities and provides additional disclosure requirements for other-than-temporary impairments for debt and equity securities. FSP 115-2 and FAS 124-2 addresses the determination as to when an investment is considered impaired, whether that impairment is other than temporary, and the measurement of an impairment loss. The provisions of FSP 115-2 and FAS 124-2 are effective for interim and annual reporting periods ending after June 15, 2009, with early adoption permitted for periods ending after March 15, 2009. If early adoption is elected for either FAS 157-4 or FAS 107-1 and APB 28-1, FSP 115-2 and FAS 124-2 must also be adopted early. We are currently evaluating the impact that FSP 115-2 and FAS 124-2 will have on our consolidated financial statements.

 

 

ITEM 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

 

There have been no material changes in our exposure to market risk from that disclosed in Item 7A of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 27, 2008.

 

ITEM 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

Under the supervision and with the participation of management, including our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, we evaluated the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of the period covered by this quarterly report as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) promulgated under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”).  Based on this evaluation, our management, including our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of March 28, 2009 to ensure that all material information required to be disclosed by us in reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to them as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure and that all such information is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms.

 

Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

 

The combination of continued acquisition activity, ongoing acquisition integrations and systems implementations undertaken during the quarter and carried over from prior quarters, when considered in the aggregate, represents a material change in our internal control over financial reporting.

 

During the quarter ended March 28, 2009, we completed two acquisitions with aggregate annual revenues of $10.0 million. In addition, we outsourced the maintenance of the Company’s accounting records for its Long Term Incentive Program consisting of stock options, restricted stock and restricted stock unit grants, which represented share-based compensation expense of $25.4 million for the year ended December 27, 2008.

 

Post acquisition related activities continued for Dental, Medical and Animal Health businesses acquired since September 2008 within the United States and internationally with approximate aggregate annual revenues of $289.0 million. These acquisitions continue to utilize separate information and financial accounting systems, and have been included in our consolidated financial statements.

 

All acquisitions, acquisition integrations and systems implementations involve necessary and appropriate change-management controls that are considered in our annual assessment of the design and operating effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting.

 

 Limitations of the Effectiveness of Internal Control

 

A control system, no matter how well conceived and operated, can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurance that the objectives of the internal control system are met.  Because of the inherent limitations of any internal control system, no evaluation of controls can provide absolute assurance that all control issues, if any, within a company have been detected.

 

 

 

PART II. OTHER INFORMATION

 

ITEM 1. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

 

Our business involves a risk of product liability and other claims in the ordinary course of business, and from time to time we are named as a defendant in cases as a result of our distribution of pharmaceutical, medical devices and other healthcare products. As a business practice, we generally obtain product liability indemnification from our suppliers.

 

We have various insurance policies, including product liability insurance, covering risks in amounts that we consider adequate. In many cases in which we have been sued in connection with products manufactured by others, the manufacturer provides us with indemnification. There can be no assurance that the insurance coverage we maintain is sufficient or will be available in adequate amounts or at a reasonable cost, or that indemnification agreements will provide us with adequate protection. In our opinion, all pending matters are covered by insurance or will not have a material adverse effect on our financial condition or results of operations.

 

As of March 28, 2009, we had accrued our best estimate of potential losses relating to product liability and other claims that were probable to result in a liability and for which we were able to reasonably estimate a loss. This accrued amount, as well as related expenses, was not material to our financial position, results of operations or cash flows. Our method for determining estimated losses considers currently available facts, presently enacted laws and regulations and other external factors, including probable recoveries from third parties.

 

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

 

Purchases of equity securities by the issuer

 

Our current share repurchase program, announced on June 21, 2004, originally allowed us to repurchase up to $100.0 million of shares of our common stock, which represented approximately 3.5% of the shares outstanding at the commencement of the program. On both October 31, 2005 and March 28, 2007, our Board of Directors authorized an additional $100.0 million, for a total of $300.0 million, of shares of our common stock to be repurchased under this program. As of March 28, 2009, we had repurchased $242.3 million of common stock (5,633,952 shares) under this initiative, with $57.7 million available for future common stock share repurchases.

 

During the fiscal quarter ended March 28, 2009, we did not repurchase any of our common stock. The maximum number of shares that may yet be purchased under this program, as shown below, is determined at the end of each month based on the closing price of our common stock at that time.

 

 

 

 

ITEM 6. EXHIBITS

 

Exhibits.

 

 

 

 

 

SIGNATURE

 

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.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dated: May 4, 2009