form10-q.htm
 

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

 
FORM 10-Q

x
QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 FOR THE QUARTERLY PERIOD ENDED
MARCH 29, 2008 OR
   
¨
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:
 
001-31829
 

CARTER’S, INC.
(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)

Delaware
13-3912933
(state or other jurisdiction of
(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
incorporation or organization)
 

The Proscenium
1170 Peachtree Street NE, Suite 900
Atlanta, Georgia  30309
(Address of principal executive offices, including zip code)

(404) 745-2700
(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.   Yes [X]     No [  ]

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

Large Accelerated Filer  (X)  Accelerated Filer  (  )  Non-Accelerated Filer  (  )  Smaller Reporting  Company (  )

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

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer’s classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date.

Common Stock
 
Outstanding Shares at April 25, 2008
Common stock, par value $0.01 per share
 
56,591,085
 

 

 

CARTER’S, INC.
INDEX

     
Page
 
       
   
   
1
   
2
   
3
   
4
   
5
 
16
 
26
 
27
       
 
       
 
28
 
28
 
32
 
32
 
32
 
32
 
33
34







 

 

PART I – FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

CARTER’S, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(dollars in thousands, except for share data)
(unaudited)
   
March 29,
2008
   
December 29,
2007
 
             
ASSETS
           
Current assets:
           
Cash and cash equivalents                                                                                                  
  $ 65,546     $ 49,012  
Accounts receivable, net                                                                                                  
    128,501       119,707  
Finished goods inventories, net                                                                                                  
    174,232       225,494  
Prepaid expenses and other current assets                                                                                                  
    10,285       9,093  
Assets held for sale                                                                                                  
    6,109       6,109  
Deferred income taxes                                                                                                  
    25,293       24,234  
                 
Total current assets                                                                                                
    409,966       433,649  
Property, plant, and equipment, net                                                                                                    
    71,557       75,053  
Tradenames                                                                                                    
    306,733       308,233  
Cost in excess of fair value of net assets acquired                                                                                                    
    136,570       136,570  
Deferred debt issuance costs, net
    4,463       4,743  
Licensing agreements, net                                                                                                    
    8,001       8,915  
Leasehold interests, net                                                                                                    
    568       684  
Other assets                                                                                                    
    7,193       6,821  
                 
       Total assets                                                                                                
  $ 945,051     $ 974,668  
                 
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
               
Current liabilities:
               
Current maturities of long-term debt                                                                                                  
  $ 4,379     $ 3,503  
Accounts payable                                                                                                  
    30,097       56,589  
Other current liabilities                                                                                                  
    45,425       46,666  
                 
Total current liabilities                                                                                                
    79,901       106,758  
Long-term debt                                                                                                    
    337,150       338,026  
Deferred income taxes                                                                                                    
    114,177       113,706  
Other long-term liabilities                                                                                                    
    30,998       34,049  
                 
Total liabilities                                                                                                
    562,226       592,539  
                 
Commitments and contingencies
               
Stockholders’ equity:
               
Preferred stock; par value $.01 per share; 100,000 shares authorized; none issued or outstanding at March 29, 2008 and December 29, 2007
    --       --  
Common stock, voting; par value $.01 per share; 150,000,000 shares authorized; 57,008,933 and 57,663,315 shares issued and outstanding at March 29, 2008 and December 29, 2007, respectively
    570       576  
Additional paid-in capital                                                                                                  
    223,778       232,356  
Accumulated other comprehensive income                                                                                                  
    392       2,671  
Retained earnings                                                                                                  
    158,085       146,526  
                 
Total stockholders’ equity                                                                                                
    382,825       382,129  
                 
        Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity                                                                                                    
  $ 945,051     $ 974,668  
 
See accompanying notes to the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements

 
1

 


CARTER’S, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)
 (unaudited)

   
For the
three-month periods ended
 
   
March 29,
2008
   
March 31,
2007
 
             
Net sales                                                                         
  $ 329,972     $ 320,128  
Cost of goods sold                                                                         
    225,057       213,748  
                 
Gross profit                                                                         
    104,915       106,380  
Selling, general, and administrative expenses
    92,276       88,246  
Closure costs                                                                         
    --       4,507  
Royalty income                                                                         
    (7,914 )     (7,545 )
                 
Operating income                                                                         
    20,553       21,172  
Interest expense, net                                                                         
    4,520       5,728  
                 
Income before income taxes
    16,033       15,444  
Provision for income taxes                                                                         
    4,474       5,833  
                 
Net income
  $ 11,559     $ 9,611  
                 
Basic net income per common share
  $ 0.20     $ 0.16  
Diluted net income per common share
  $ 0.19     $ 0.16  
Basic weighted-average number of shares outstanding
    57,215,027       58,447,494  
Diluted weighted-average number of shares outstanding
    59,306,222       61,210,621  

See accompanying notes to the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements



 
2

 

CARTER’S, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(dollars in thousands)
(unaudited)
   
For the
three-month periods ended
 
   
March 29,
2008
   
March 31,
2007
 
Cash flows from operating activities:
           
Net income                                                                                        
  $ 11,559     $ 9,611  
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by
operating activities:
               
Depreciation and amortization                                                                                       
    7,007       8,661  
Amortization of debt issuance costs                                                                                       
    280       292  
Non-cash stock-based compensation expense                                                                                       
    1,586       1,617  
Income tax benefit from exercised stock options                                                                                       
    (40 )     (360 )
Loss on sale of property, plant, and equipment                                                                                       
    --       194  
Deferred income taxes                                                                                       
    669       (1,401 )
Non-cash closure costs                                                                                       
    --       2,414  
Effect of changes in operating assets and liabilities:
               
     Accounts receivable                                                                                    
    (8,794 )     (6,249 )
     Inventories                                                                                    
    51,262       34,014  
     Prepaid expenses and other assets                                                                                    
    (1,564 )     (4,917 )
     Accounts payable and other liabilities                                                                                    
    (33,031 )     (37,199 )
                 
     Net cash provided by operating activities                                                                                
    28,934       6,677  
                 
Cash flows from investing activities:
               
Capital expenditures                                                                                        
    (2,485 )     (3,118 )
                 
     Net cash used in investing activities                                                                                
    (2,485 )     (3,118 )
                 
Cash flows from financing activities:
               
Payments on term loan                                                                                        
    --       (876 )
Share repurchase (Note 7)                                                                                        
    (10,020 )     (30,000 )
Income tax benefit from exercised stock options                                                                                        
    40       360  
Proceeds from exercise of stock options                                                                                        
    65       162  
                 
     Net cash used in financing activities                                                                                
    (9,915 )     (30,354 )
                 
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents                                                                                         
    16,534       (26,795 )
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period                                                                                         
    49,012       68,545  
                 
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period                                                                                         
  $ 65,546     $ 41,750  

See accompanying notes to the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements

 
3

 

CARTER’S, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
(dollars in thousands, except for share data)
(unaudited)
   
Common
stock
   
Additional
paid-in
capital
   
Accumulated
other comprehensive
income
(loss)
   
Retained
earnings
   
Total
stockholders’
equity
 
                               
Balance at December 29, 2007
  $ 576     $ 232,356     $ 2,671     $ 146,526     $ 382,129  
Income tax benefit from exercised stock options
    --       40       --       --       40  
Exercise of stock options (11,070 shares)
    --       65       --       --       65  
Stock-based compensation expense
    --       1,331       --       --       1,331  
Share repurchase (674,358 shares) (Note 7)
    (6 )     (10,014 )     --       --       (10,020 )
Comprehensive income (loss):
                                       
Net income                                                    
    --       --       --       11,559       11,559  
Unrealized loss on interest rate swap, net of tax benefit of $847
    --       --       (1,478 )     --       (1,478 )
Unrealized loss on interest rate collar, net of tax benefit of $459
    --       --       (801 )     --       (801 )
Total comprehensive income (loss)
    --       --       (2,279 )     11,559       9,280  
Balance at March 29, 2008                                                    
  $ 570     $ 223,778     $ 392     $ 158,085     $ 382,825  

See accompanying notes to the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.

 
4

 

CARTER’S, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(unaudited)

NOTE 1 – THE COMPANY:

Carter’s, Inc. and its wholly owned subsidiaries (collectively, the “Company,” “we,” “us,” “its,” and “our”) design, source, and market branded childrenswear under the Carter’s, Child of Mine, Just One Year, OshKosh, and related brands.  Our products are sourced through contractual arrangements with manufacturers worldwide for wholesale distribution to major domestic retailers, including the mass channel, and to our Carter’s and OshKosh retail stores that market our brand name merchandise and other licensed products manufactured by other companies.

NOTE 2 – BASIS OF PREPARATION:

The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements comprise the consolidated financial statements of Carter’s, Inc. and its subsidiaries.  All intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated in consolidation.

In our opinion, the Company’s accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements contain all adjustments necessary for a fair statement of our financial position as of March 29, 2008, the results of our operations for the three-month periods ended March 29, 2008 and March 31, 2007, cash flows for the three-month periods ended March 29, 2008 and March 31, 2007 and changes in stockholders’ equity for the three-month period ended March 29, 2008.  Operating results for the three-month period ended March 29, 2008 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the fiscal year ending January 3, 2009.  Our accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheet as of December 29, 2007 is from our audited consolidated financial statements included in our most recently filed Annual Report on Form 10-K, but does not include all disclosures required by accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”).

Certain information and footnote disclosure normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with GAAP have been condensed or omitted pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the instructions to Form 10-Q.  The accounting policies we follow are set forth in our most recently filed Annual Report on Form 10-K in the notes to our audited consolidated financial statements for the fiscal year ended December 29, 2007.

Our fiscal year ends on the Saturday, in December or January, nearest the last day of December.  The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements for the first quarter of fiscal 2008 reflect our financial position as of March 29, 2008.  The first quarter of fiscal 2007 ended on March 31, 2007.

Certain prior year amounts have been reclassified for comparative purposes.

NOTE 3 – COST IN EXCESS OF FAIR VALUE OF NET ASSETS ACQUIRED AND OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS:

Cost in excess of fair value of net assets acquired represents the excess of the cost of the acquisition of Carter’s, Inc. by Berkshire Partners LLC which was consummated on August 15, 2001 (the “2001 acquisition”) over the fair value of the net assets acquired.  Our cost in excess of fair value of net assets acquired is not deductible for tax purposes.



 
5

 

CARTER’S, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  (Continued)
(unaudited)


NOTE 3 – COST IN EXCESS OF FAIR VALUE OF NET ASSETS ACQUIRED AND OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS:  (Continued)
 
  In connection with the acquisition of OshKosh B’Gosh, Inc. on July 14, 2005, (the “Acquisition”) the Company recorded cost in excess of fair value of net assets acquired, tradename, licensing, and leasehold interest assets in accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards ("SFAS") No. 141, "Business Combinations" ("SFAS 141").  During the second quarter of fiscal 2007, as a result of negative trends in sales and profitability of the Company’s OshKosh B’Gosh wholesale and retail segments and re-forecasted projections for such segments for the balance of fiscal 2007, the Company conducted an interim impairment assessment on the value of the intangible assets that the Company recorded in connection with the Acquisition.  This assessment was performed in accordance with SFAS No. 142, "Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets."  Based on this assessment, impairment charges of approximately $36.0 million and $106.9 million were recorded to reflect the impairment of the cost in excess of fair value of net assets acquired for the OshKosh wholesale and retail segments, respectively.  In addition, an impairment charge of $12.0 million was recorded to reflect the impairment of the value ascribed to the OshKosh tradename asset.  For cost in excess of fair value of net assets acquired, the fair value was determined using the expected present value of future cash flows.  For the OshKosh tradename, the fair value was determined using a discounted cash flow analysis which examined the hypothetical cost savings that accrue as a result of our ownership of the tradename.

During the three-month period ended March 29, 2008, approximately $0.9 million of contingencies recorded in connection with the Acquisition were reversed due to settlement with taxing authorities.  This reversal resulted in a corresponding reduction to the OshKosh tradename asset of $1.5 million and a reduction in the related deferred tax liability of $0.6 million in accordance with Emerging Issues Task Force (“EITF”) No. 93-7, “Uncertainties Related to Income Taxes in a Purchase Business Combination” (“EITF 93-7”).

The Company’s intangible assets were as follows:
     
March 29, 2008
   
December 29, 2007
 
(dollars in thousands)
Weighted-average useful life
 
Gross amount
   
Accumulated amortization
   
Net amount
   
Gross amount
   
Accumulated amortization
   
Net amount
 
                                       
Carter’s cost in excess of fair value of net assets acquired
Indefinite
  $ 136,570     $ --     $ 136,570     $ 136,570     $ --     $ 136,570  
Carter’s tradename
Indefinite
  $ 220,233     $ --     $ 220,233     $ 220,233     $ --     $ 220,233  
OshKosh tradename
Indefinite
  $ 86,500     $ --     $ 86,500     $ 88,000     $ --     $ 88,000  
OshKosh licensing agreements
4.7 years
  $ 19,100     $ 11,099     $ 8,001     $ 19,100     $ 10,185     $ 8,915  
Leasehold interests
4.1 years
  $ 1,833     $ 1,265     $ 568     $ 1,833     $ 1,149     $ 684  

Amortization expense for intangible assets was approximately $1.0 million and $1.2 million for the three-month periods ended March 29, 2008 and March 31, 2007, respectively.  Annual amortization expense for the OshKosh licensing agreements and leasehold interests is expected to be as follows:

(dollars in thousands)
     
Fiscal Year
 
Estimated
amortization
expense
 
       
2008 (period from March 30 through January 3, 2009)
  $ 3,075  
2009                                                                          
    3,717  
2010                                                                          
    1,777  
         
              Total                                                                          
  $ 8,569  


 
6

 

CARTER’S, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  (Continued)
(unaudited)

NOTE 4 - INCOME TAXES:

The Company and its subsidiaries file income tax returns in the United States and in various states and local jurisdictions. The Internal Revenue Service has recently completed an income tax examination for fiscal 2004 and 2005, and has recently notified the Company that fiscal 2006 will be examined.  In most cases, the Company is no longer subject to state and local tax authority examinations for years prior to fiscal 2004.

During the first quarter of fiscal 2008, we recognized approximately $1.6 million in tax benefits due to the completion of an Internal Revenue Service audit for fiscal 2004 and 2005.  In addition, we recognized approximately $0.9 million of pre-Acquisition uncertanties previously reserved for upon completion of these audits.  These pre-Acquisition uncertainties have been reflected as a reduction in the OshKosh tradename asset in accordance with EITF 93-7, “Uncertainties Related to Income Taxes in a Purchase Business Combination.”

As of March 29, 2008, the Company had gross unrecognized tax benefits of approximately $6.7 million.  The Company’s reserve for unrecognized tax benefits as of March 29, 2008 includes approximately $4.6 million of reserves which, if ultimately recognized, will impact the Company’s effective tax rate in the period settled.  The reserve for unrecognized tax benefits also includes $1.9 million of reserves which, if ultimately recognized, would be reflected as an adjustment to the Carter’s cost in excess of fair value of net assets acquired or the OshKosh tradename asset, and $0.2 million for tax positions for which the ultimate deductibility is highly certain, but for which there is uncertainty about the timing of such deductions.  Because of deferred tax accounting, changes in the timing of these deductions would not impact the annual effective tax rate, but would accelerate the payment of cash to the taxing authorities.

Included in the reserves for unrecognized tax benefits are approximately $0.3 million of reserves for which the statute of limitations is expected to expire in the third quarter of fiscal 2008.  Such exposures relate primarily to state and local income tax matters.  If these tax benefits are ultimately recognized, such recognition may impact our annual effective tax rate for fiscal 2008 and the tax rate in the quarter in which the benefits are recognized.  In addition, the reserves for unrecognized tax benefits include approximately $0.6 million of pre-Acquisition reserves for which the statute of limitations is expected to expire in the third quarter of fiscal 2008.  Recognition of these uncertainties would be reflected as an additional adjustment to the OshKosh tradename asset in accordance with EITF 93-7.

We recognize interest related to unrecognized tax benefits as a component of interest expense and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits as a component of income tax expense.  The Company had approximately $1.0 million of interest accrued as of March 29, 2008.


 
7

 

CARTER’S, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  (Continued)
(unaudited)

NOTE 5 – FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS:

Effective December 30, 2007 (the first day of our 2008 fiscal year), the Company adopted SFAS No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements” (“SFAS 157”), which defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value, and expands disclosures about fair value measurements.  The fair value hierarchy for disclosure of fair value measurements under SFAS 157 is as follows:

Level 1
-  Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities
   
Level 2
-  Quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets or inputs that are observable
   
Level 3
-  Inputs that are unobservable (for example cash flow modeling inputs based on assumptions)

The following table summarizes assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis at March 29, 2008, as required by SFAS 157:

(dollars in millions)
 
Level 1
   
Level 2
   
Level 3
 
                   
Assets
                 
Investments
  $ --     $ --     $ --  
                         
Liabilities
                       
Interest rate swap
  $ --     $ 2.7     $ --  
Interest rate collar
  $ --     $ 1.8     $ --  

Our senior credit facility requires us to hedge at least 25% of our variable rate debt under the term loan.  On September 22, 2005, we entered into an interest rate swap agreement to receive floating interest and pay fixed interest.  This interest rate swap agreement is designated as a cash flow hedge of the variable interest payments on a portion of our variable rate term loan debt.  The interest rate swap agreement matures on July 30, 2010.  As of March 29, 2008, approximately $146.7 million of our outstanding term loan debt was hedged under this agreement.

On May 25, 2006, we entered into an interest rate collar agreement (the “collar”) with a floor of 4.3% and a ceiling of 5.5%.  The collar covers $100 million of our variable rate term loan debt and is designated as a cash flow hedge of the variable interest payments on such debt.  The collar matures on January 31, 2009.

Both our interest rate swap agreement and collar are traded in the over the counter market.  Fair values are based on quoted market prices for similar liabilities or determined using inputs that use as their basis readily observable market data that are actively quoted and can be validated through external sources, including third-party pricing services, brokers, and market transactions.


 
8

 

CARTER’S, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(unaudited)

NOTE 6 – EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS:

Under a defined benefit plan frozen in 1991, we offer a comprehensive post-retirement medical plan to current and certain future retirees and their spouses until they become eligible for Medicare or a Medicare supplement plan.  We also offer life insurance to current and certain future retirees.  Employee contributions are required as a condition of participation for both medical benefits and life insurance and our liabilities are net of these expected employee contributions.  Additionally, we have an obligation under a defined benefit plan covering certain former officers and their spouses.  See Note 7 “Employee Benefit Plans” to our audited consolidated financial statements in our most recently filed Annual Report on Form 10-K for further information.

The components of post-retirement benefit expense charged to operations are as follows:
   
For the
three-month periods ended
 
(dollars in thousands)
 
March 29,
2008
   
March 31,
2007
 
             
Service cost – benefits attributed to service during the period
  $ 27     $ 26  
Interest cost on accumulated post-retirement benefit obligation
    131       130  
    Total net periodic post-retirement benefit cost
  $ 158     $ 156  


The components of pension expense charged to operations are as follows:
   
For the
three-month periods ended
 
(dollars in thousands)
 
March 29,
2008
   
March 31,
2007
 
             
Interest cost on accumulated pension benefit obligation
  $ 13     $ 15  

The Company acquired two defined-benefit pension plans in connection with the Acquisition.  The benefits for certain current and former employees of OshKosh under these pension plans were frozen as of December 31, 2005.

During the second quarter of fiscal 2007, the Company liquidated the OshKosh B’Gosh Collective Bargaining Pension Plan (the “Plan”), distributed each participant’s balance, and the remaining net assets of $2.2 million were contributed to the Company’s defined contribution plan to offset future employer contributions.  In connection with the liquidation of the Plan, the Company recorded a pre-tax gain of approximately $0.3 million related to the Plan settlement during the second quarter of fiscal 2007.

The Company’s net periodic pension benefit included in the statement of operations was comprised of:
   
For the
three-month periods ended
 
(dollars in thousands)
 
March 29,
2008
   
March 31,
2007
 
             
Interest cost on accumulated pension benefit obligation
  $ 562     $ 551  
Expected return on assets
    (943 )     (912 )
Amortization of actuarial gain
    (19 )     (35 )
    Total net periodic pension benefit
  $ (400 )   $ (396 )


 
9

 

CARTER’S, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(unaudited)

NOTE 7 – COMMON STOCK:

On February 16, 2007, the Company’s Board of Directors approved a stock repurchase program, pursuant to which the Company is authorized to purchase up to $100 million of its outstanding common shares.  Such repurchases may occur from time to time in the open market, in negotiated transactions, or otherwise.  This program has no time limit.  The timing and amount of any repurchases will be determined by the Company’s management, based on its evaluation of market conditions, share price, and other factors.

During the three-month period ended March 29, 2008, the Company repurchased and retired approximately $10.0 million, or 674,358 shares, of its common stock at an average price of $14.86 per share.  Accordingly, we have reduced common stock by the par value of such shares and have deducted the remaining excess repurchase price over par value from additional paid-in capital.

Since inception of the program and through the three-month period ended March 29, 2008, the Company repurchased and retired approximately $67.5 million, or 3,147,577 shares, of its common stock at an average price of $21.44 per share.  Accordingly, we have reduced common stock by the par value of such shares and have deducted the remaining excess repurchase price over par value from additional paid-in capital.

During the three-month period ended March 31, 2007, the Company repurchased and retired approximately $30.0 million, or 1,252,832 shares, of its common stock at an average price of $23.95 per share.  Accordingly, we have reduced common stock by the par value of such shares and have deducted the remaining excess repurchase price over par value from additional paid-in capital.

NOTE 8 – STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION:

We account for stock-based compensation expense in accordance with SFAS No. 123 (revised 2004), “Share-Based Payment.”  The fair value of time-based or performance-based stock option grants are estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option pricing method with the following weighted-average assumptions used for grants issued during the three-month period ended March 29, 2008:

   
For the
three-month
period ended
March 29, 2008
 
       
Volatility
    35.42 %
Risk-free interest rate
    3.24 %
Expected term (years)
    6.0  
Dividend yield
    --  

The fair value of restricted stock is determined based on the quoted closing price of our common stock on the date of grant.


 
10

 

CARTER’S, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(unaudited)

NOTE 8 – STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION:  (Continued)

The following table summarizes our stock option and restricted stock activity during the three-month period ended March 29, 2008:
 
   
Time-
based
stock options
   
Performance-based
stock
options
   
Retained
stock options
   
Restricted
stock
 
                         
Outstanding, December 29, 2007
    4,315,689       620,000       661,870       372,283  
                                 
Granted
    15,250       --       --       14,106  
Exercised
    (11,070 )     --       --       --  
Vested restricted stock
    --       --       --       (28,500 )
Forfeited
    (19,600 )     --       --       (5,200 )
Expired
    --       --       --       --  
                                 
Outstanding, March 29, 2008
    4,300,269       620,000       661,870       352,689  
                                 
Exercisable, March 29, 2008
    3,511,733       --       661,870       --  

During the three-month period ended March 29, 2008, we granted 15,250 time-based stock options with a Black-Scholes fair value of $8.25 and an exercise price of $20.60.  In connection with this grant, we recognized approximately $2,867 in stock-based compensation expense during the three-month period ended March 29, 2008.

During the three-month period ended March 29, 2008, we granted 7,625 shares of restricted stock to employees with a fair value on the date of grant of $20.60.  In connection with this grant, we recognized approximately $3,580 in stock-based compensation expense during the three-month period ended March 29, 2008.

During the three-month period ended March 29, 2008, we granted 6,481 shares of restricted stock to a director with a fair value of the date of grant of $15.43.  In connection with this grant, we recognized approximately $2,648 in stock-based compensation expense during the three-month period ended March 29, 2008.

Unrecognized stock-based compensation expense related to outstanding stock options and restricted stock awards is expected to be recorded as follows:
 
(dollars in thousands)
 
Time-
based
stock
options
   
Performance-based
stock
options
   
Restricted
stock
   
Total
 
                         
2008 (period from March 30 through January 3, 2009)
  $ 2,131     $ 251     $ 1,735     $ 4,117  
2009                                                                   
    1,788       70       1,936       3,794  
2010                                                                   
    1,090       --       1,287       2,377  
2011                                                                   
    630       --       753       1,383  
2012                                                                   
    4       --       5       9  
       Total                                                                   
  $ 5,643     $ 321     $ 5,716     $ 11,680  


 
11

 

CARTER’S, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(unaudited)

NOTE 9 – SEGMENT INFORMATION:

We report segment information in accordance with the provisions of SFAS No. 131, “Disclosure about Segments of an Enterprise and Related Information,” which requires segment information to be disclosed based upon a “management approach.”  The management approach refers to the internal reporting that is used by management for making operating decisions and assessing the performance of our reportable segments.

The table below presents certain segment information for the periods indicated:

(dollars in thousands)
 
For the
three-month period ended
March 29,
 2008
   
% of
Total
   
For the
three-month period ended
March 31,
2007
   
% of
Total
 
                         
Net sales:
                       
Wholesale-Carter’s
  $ 117,832       35.7 %   $ 112,653       35.2 %
Wholesale-OshKosh
    18,449       5.6 %     24,993       7.8 %
Retail-Carter’s
    86,402       26.2 %     74,826       23.4 %
Retail-OshKosh
    44,365       13.4 %     45,848       14.3 %
Mass Channel-Carter’s
    62,924       19.1 %     61,808       19.3 %
          Total net sales
  $ 329,972       100.0 %   $ 320,128       100.0 %
                                 
Operating income (loss):
         
% of
segment
net sales
           
% of
segment
net sales
 
Wholesale-Carter’s
  $ 21,559       18.3 %   $ 21,386       19.0 %
Wholesale-OshKosh
    (2,524 )     (13.7 %)     (687 )     (2.7 %)
Retail-Carter’s
    11,442       13.2 %     7,909       10.6 %
Retail-OshKosh
    (6,733 )     (15.2 %)     (1,293 )     (2.8 %)
Mass Channel-Carter’s
    6,742       10.7 %     8,351       13.5 %
Mass Channel-OshKosh (a)
    531       --       527       --  
     Segment operating income
    31,017       9.4 %     36,193       11.3 %
Other reconciling items
    (10,464 )     (3.2 %)     (15,021 )  (b)   (4.7 %)
          Total operating income
  $ 20,553       6.2 %   $ 21,172       6.6 %

 
                    (a)
OshKosh mass channel consists of a licensing agreement with Target.  Operating income consists of
royalty income, net of related expenses.

 
                    (b)
Includes $6.0 million in closure costs related to the closure of our OshKosh distribution center including
$1.5 million in accelerated depreciation.
 
 
12

CARTER’S, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(unaudited)

NOTE 10 – FACILITY CLOSURE AND RESTRUCTURING COSTS:

OshKosh Distribution Facility

The Company continually evaluates opportunities to reduce its supply chain complexity and lower costs.  In the first quarter of fiscal 2007, the Company determined that OshKosh brand products can be effectively distributed through its other distribution facilities and third-party logistics providers.  On February 15, 2007, the Company’s Board of Directors approved management’s plan to close the Company’s White House, Tennessee distribution facility, which was utilized to distribute the Company’s OshKosh brand products.

In accordance with SFAS No. 144, “Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets,” under a held and used model, it was determined that the distribution facility assets were impaired as of the end of January 2007, as it became “more likely than not” that the expected life of the OshKosh distribution facility would be significantly shortened.  Accordingly, we wrote down the assets to their estimated recoverable fair value as of the end of January 2007.  The adjusted asset values were subject to accelerated depreciation over their remaining estimated useful life.  Distribution operations at the OshKosh facility ceased as of April 5, 2007 at which point the land, building, and equipment assets of $6.1 million were reclassified as held for sale on the accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated balance sheet.

During the first quarter of fiscal 2007, we recorded closure costs of $6.0 million, consisting of asset impairment charges of $2.4 million related to a write-down of the related land, building, and equipment, $2.0 million of severance charges, $1.5 million of accelerated depreciation (included in selling, general, and administrative expenses), and $0.1 million of other closure costs.

Acquisition Restructuring

In connection with the Acquisition, management developed a plan to restructure and integrate the operations of OshKosh.  In accordance with EITF No. 95-3, “Recognition of Liabilities in Connection with a Purchase Business Combination,” liabilities were established for OshKosh severance, lease termination costs associated with the closure of 30 OshKosh retail stores, contract termination costs, and other exit and facility closure costs.

The following table summarizes restructuring reserves related to the Acquisition which are included in other current liabilities on the accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated balance sheet:

(dollars in thousands)
 
Severance
and other
exit
costs
   
Lease
termination
costs
   
Total
 
                   
Balance at December 29, 2007
  $ 489     $ 674     $ 1,163  
Payments                                         
    (458 )     --       (458 )
Adjustments                                         
    --       --       --  
Balance at March 29, 2008
  $ 31     $ 674     $ 705  


 
13

 

CARTER’S, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(unaudited)

NOTE 11 – EARNINGS PER SHARE:

In accordance with SFAS No. 128, “Earnings Per Share,” basic earnings per share is based on the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding during the year, whereas diluted earnings per share also gives effect to all potentially dilutive shares of common stock, including time-based and retained stock options and unvested restricted stock, that were outstanding during the period.  All such stock options are reflected in the denominator using the treasury stock method.  This method assumes that shares are issued for stock options that are “in the money,” but that we use the proceeds of such stock option exercises (generally, cash to be paid plus future compensation expense to be recognized and the amount of tax benefits, if any, that will be credited to additional paid-in capital assuming exercise of the stock options) to repurchase shares at the average market value of our shares for the respective periods.  Unvested shares of restricted stock are reflected in the denominator using the treasury stock method with proceeds of the amount, if any, the employees must pay upon vesting, the amount of compensation cost attributed to future services and not yet recognized in earnings, and the amount of tax benefits, if any, that would be credited to additional paid-in capital (i.e., the amount of the tax deduction in excess of recognized compensation cost) assuming vesting of the shares at the current market price.

For the three-month period ended March 29, 2008, anti-dilutive shares of 999,885 and performance-based stock options of 620,000, were excluded from the computations of diluted earnings per share and for the three-month period ended March 31, 2007, anti-dilutive shares of 529,500 and performance-based stock options of 620,000 were excluded from the computations of diluted earnings per share.

The following is a reconciliation of basic common shares outstanding to diluted common and common equivalent shares outstanding:

   
For the
three-month periods ended
 
   
March 29,
2008
   
March 31,
2007
 
             
Net income                                                                          
  $ 11,559,000     $ 9,611,000  
Weighted-average number of common and common equivalent shares outstanding:
               
Basic number of common shares outstanding
    57,215,027       58,447,494  
Dilutive effect of unvested restricted stock
    67,209       49,760  
Dilutive effect of stock options
    2,023,986       2,713,367  
Diluted number of common and common equivalent shares outstanding
    59,306,222       61,210,621  
                 
Basic net income per common share
  $ 0.20     $ 0.16  
Diluted net income per common share
  $ 0.19     $ 0.16  


 
14

 

CARTER’S, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(unaudited)

NOTE 12 – RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS:

In February 2008, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued FSP No. FAS 157-2, which delays the effective date of SFAS 157, "Fair Value Measurements," for nonfinancial assets and nonfinancial liabilities, except for items that are recognized or disclosed at fair value in the financial statements on a recurring basis (at least annually).  Nonfinancial assets and nonfinancial liabilities would include all assets and liabilities other than those meeting the definition of a financial asset or financial liability as defined in paragraph 6 of SFAS No. 159, "The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities."  This FASB Staff Position defers the effective date of Statement 157 to fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2008, and interim periods within those fiscal years for items within the scope of FSP No. FAS 157-2.  We have evaluated the impact that FSP No. FAS 157-2 will have on our consolidated financial statements and have determined that it will not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.

In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 141 (revised 2007), “Business Combinations” (“SFAS 141(R)”), which replaces SFAS 141, “Business Combinations.”  SFAS 141(R) retains the underlying concepts of SFAS 141 in that all business combinations are still required to be accounted for at fair value under the acquisition method of accounting but SFAS 141(R) changed the method of applying the acquisition method in a number of significant aspects.  Acquisition costs will generally be expensed as incurred; noncontrolling interests will be valued at fair value at the acquisition date; in-process research and development will be recorded at fair value as an indefinite-lived intangible asset at the acquisition date; restructuring costs associated with a business combination will generally be expensed subsequent to the acquisition date; and changes in deferred tax asset valuation allowances and income tax uncertainties after the acquisition date generally will affect income tax expense.  SFAS 141(R) is effective on a prospective basis for all business combinations for which the acquisition date is on or after the beginning of the first annual period subsequent to December 15, 2008.  SFAS 141(R) amends SFAS No. 109, “Accounting for Income Taxes,” such that adjustments made to valuation allowances on deferred taxes and acquired tax contingencies associated with acquisitions that closed prior to the effective date of SFAS 141(R) would also apply the provisions of SFAS 141(R).  Early adoption is not permitted.  We are currently evaluating the effects, if any, that SFAS 141(R) may have on our consolidated financial statements.

In March 2008, the FASB issued SFAS No. 161, “Disclosures about Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities – an Amendment of FASB Statement No. 133,” which requires enhanced disclosures on the effect of derivatives on a Company’s financial statements.  These disclosures will be required for the Company beginning with the first quarter fiscal 2009 consolidated financial statements.


 
15

 

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

The following is a discussion of our results of operations and current financial position.  You should read this discussion in conjunction with our unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements and the accompanying notes included elsewhere in this quarterly report.

Our fiscal year ends on the Saturday, in December or January, nearest the last day of December.  The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements for the first quarter of fiscal 2008 reflect our financial position as of March 29, 2008.  The first quarter of fiscal 2007 ended on March 31, 2007.

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

The following table sets forth, for the periods indicated (i) selected statement of operations data expressed as a percentage of net sales and (ii) the number of retail stores open at the end of each period:

   
Three-month periods ended
 
   
March 29,
2008
   
March 31,
2007
 
             
Wholesale sales:
           
Carter’s                                                        
    35.7 %     35.2 %
OshKosh                                                        
    5.6       7.8  
    Total wholesale sales
    41.3       43.0  
                 
Retail store sales:
               
Carter’s                                                        
    26.2       23.4  
OshKosh                                                        
    13.4       14.3  
    Total retail store sales                                                        
    39.6       37.7  
                 
Mass channel sales                                                        
    19.1       19.3  
                 
Consolidated net sales                                                        
    100.0       100.0  
Cost of goods sold                                                        
    68.2       66.8  
                 
Gross profit                                                        
    31.8       33.2  
Selling, general, and administrative expenses
    28.0       27.6  
Closure costs                                                        
    --       1.4  
Royalty income                                                        
    (2.4 )     (2.4 )
                 
Operating income                                                        
    6.2       6.6  
Interest expense, net                                                        
    1.3       1.8  
                 
Income before income taxes                                                        
    4.9       4.8  
Provision for income taxes                                                        
    1.4       1.8  
                 
Net income                                                        
    3.5 %     3.0 %
                 
Number of retail stores at end of period:
               
Carter’s                                                        
    229       220  
OshKosh                                                        
    163       157  
Total                                                        
    392       377  


 
16

 

ITEM 2.  MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS:  (Continued)

Three-month period ended March 29, 2008 compared to the three-month period ended March 31, 2007

CONSOLIDATED NET SALES

In the first quarter of fiscal 2008, consolidated net sales increased $9.8 million, or 3.1%, to $330.0 million and reflect growth in all of our Carter’s brand distribution channels, partially offset by a decrease in our OshKosh brand distribution channels.

   
For the three-month periods ended
 
(dollars in thousands)
 
March 29,
2008
   
% of
Total
   
March 31,
2007
   
% of
Total
 
Net sales:
                       
   Wholesale-Carter’s                                          
  $ 117,832       35.7 %   $ 112,653       35.2 %
   Wholesale-OshKosh                                          
    18,449       5.6 %     24,993       7.8 %
   Retail-Carter’s                                          
    86,402       26.2 %     74,826       23.4 %
   Retail-OshKosh                                          
    44,365       13.4 %     45,848       14.3 %
   Mass Channel-Carter’s
    62,924       19.1 %     61,808       19.3 %
         Total net sales                                          
  $ 329,972       100.0 %   $ 320,128       100.0 %

CARTER’S WHOLESALE SALES

Carter’s brand wholesale sales increased $5.2 million, or 4.6%, in the first quarter of fiscal 2008 to $117.8 million.  The increase in Carter’s brand wholesale sales was driven by an 11% increase in units shipped, partially offset by a 6% decline in average price per unit, as compared to the first quarter of fiscal 2007.

The increase in units shipped during the first quarter of fiscal 2008 was driven by increased shipments of our baby and playwear products, due primarily to the timing of demand.  The number of sleepwear units shipped was flat compared to the first quarter of fiscal 2007.  The average price per unit decline was due to more competitive pricing in our baby and playwear product categories, partially offset by an increase in average price per unit in our sleepwear product category due to the mix of products sold.  Carter’s wholesale sales for the first half of fiscal 2008 are expected to be relatively flat compared to the first half of fiscal 2007.

OSHKOSH WHOLESALE SALES

OshKosh brand wholesale sales decreased $6.5 million, or 26.2%, in the first quarter of fiscal 2008 to $18.4 million.  The decrease in OshKosh brand wholesale sales reflects a 24% decrease in average price per unit and a 3% decrease in units shipped as compared to the first quarter of fiscal 2007.  The lower average price per unit reflects a change in strategy to reposition the OshKosh brand to appeal to a broader audience of mainstream consumers.  We believe we have strengthened the OshKosh brand to be more competitive in the marketplace and enhance the profitability of our customers.  The benefits from this change in strategy are not expected to meaningfully improve our OshKosh brand sales and related profitability until later this year when the cumulative effect of changes in talent, product benefits, pricing, branding, and sourcing strategies are reflected in our Spring 2009 product line.  Our Spring 2009 product line begins shipping in the latter part of the fourth quarter of fiscal 2008.

 
17

 

ITEM 2.  MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS: (Continued)

MASS CHANNEL SALES

Mass channel sales increased $1.1 million, or 1.8%, in the first quarter of fiscal 2008 to $62.9 million.  The increase was driven by a $4.8 million, or 21.1%, increase in sales of our Just One Year brand to Target, offset by a $3.7 million, or 9.4% decrease in sales of our Child of Mine brand to Wal-Mart.  The increase in Just One Year sales was driven primarily from increased productivity and new door growth.  The decrease in Child of Mine sales was due to disappointing performance of certain Spring 2008 products.  We are strengthening the underperforming Child of Mine product categories for Fall 2008 which is planned up 5% as compared to Fall 2007.  Fall 2008 begins shipping in June 2008.

CARTER’S RETAIL STORES

Carter’s retail store sales increased $11.6 million, or 15.5%, in the first quarter of fiscal 2008 to $86.4 million.  The increase was driven by a comparable store sales increase of 12.3%, or $9.2 million, and incremental sales of $2.7 million generated by new store openings, partially offset by the impact of store closures of $0.3 million.

On a comparable store basis, units per transaction increased 7.5%, and average prices increased 0.6%.  The increase in units per transaction was driven by strong product performance in all categories, particularly in baby and playwear.  In order to better support demand, inventory per door increased 24% over the first quarter of fiscal 2007.  By comparison, inventory per door at the end of the first quarter of fiscal 2007 was down 20% compared to the first quarter of fiscal 2006.  Over the two year period, first quarter 2008 inventory per door was down 1%.

The Company’s comparable store sales calculations include sales for all stores that were open during the comparable fiscal period, including remodeled stores and certain relocated stores.  If a store relocates within the same center with no business interruption or material change in square footage, the sales for such store will continue to be included in the comparable store calculation.  If a store relocates to another center, or there is a material change in square footage, such store is treated as a new store.  Stores that are closed during the period are included in the comparable store sales calculation up to the date of closing.

There were a total of 229 Carter’s retail stores as of March 29, 2008.  During the first quarter of fiscal 2008, we opened one store.  In total, we plan to open 25 and close five Carter’s retail stores during fiscal 2008.

OSHKOSH RETAIL STORES

OshKosh retail store sales decreased $1.5 million, or 3.2%, in the first quarter of fiscal 2008 to $44.4 million.  The decrease reflects a comparable store sales decrease of 6.6%, or $3.0 million, and the impact of store closings of $0.4 million, partially offset by incremental sales of $1.9 million generated by new store openings.  On a comparable store basis, average prices decreased 18.9%, and units per transaction increased 16.3%.  The decrease in average prices and increase in units per transaction were driven by heavy promotional pricing on excess Fall and Holiday product.  Inventory per door was up 3% at the end of the first quarter of fiscal 2008 as compared to the first quarter of fiscal 2007.

There were a total of 163 OshKosh retail stores as of March 29, 2008.  In total, we plan to open two and close three OshKosh retail stores during fiscal 2008.


 
18

 

ITEM 2.  MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS: (Continued)

GROSS PROFIT

Our gross profit decreased $1.5 million, or 1.4%, to $104.9 million in the first quarter of fiscal 2008.  Gross profit as a percentage of net sales was 31.8% in the first quarter of fiscal 2008 as compared to 33.2% in the first quarter of fiscal 2007.

The decrease in gross profit as a percentage of net sales reflects:

(i)        Higher provisions for excess inventory of approximately $4.1 million, particularly related to our OshKosh retail and mass channel segments;

(ii)       A decline in OshKosh brand wholesale and retail margins due to price reductions and product performance; and

(iii)      Lower margins on certain Spring 2008 Child of Mine products due to disappointing over-the-counter performance.

The Company includes distribution costs in its selling, general, and administrative expenses.  Accordingly, the Company’s gross profit may not be comparable to other companies that include such distribution costs in their cost of goods sold.

SELLING, GENERAL, AND ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES

Selling, general, and administrative expenses in the first quarter of fiscal 2008 increased $4.0 million, or 4.5%, to $92.3 million.  As a percentage of net sales, selling, general, and administrative expenses in the first quarter of fiscal 2008 were 28.0% as compared to 27.6% in the first quarter of fiscal 2007.

The increase in selling, general, and administrative expenses as a percentage of net sales was due to increased expenses in our retail segments related to new stores and investments in our new retail management team.

Partially offsetting this increase was:

 
(i)
Accelerated depreciation charges of $1.5 million that the Company recorded in the first quarter of fiscal 2007 in connection with the closure of our OshKosh distribution center; and

 
(ii)
Favorable freight costs in the first quarter of fiscal 2008 compared to the first quarter of fiscal 2007 resulting from supply chain efficiencies.

CLOSURE COSTS

On February 15, 2007, the Company’s Board of Directors approved management’s plan to close the Company’s White House, Tennessee distribution facility, which was utilized to distribute the Company’s OshKosh brand products.  As a result of this closure, during the first quarter of fiscal 2007, we recorded costs of $6.0 million.  These consisted of $2.4 million of asset impairment charges related to a write-down of the related land, building, and equipment; $2.0 million of severance charges; $1.5 million of accelerated depreciation (included in selling, general, and administrative expenses); and $0.1 million of other closure costs.

ROYALTY INCOME

We license the use of our Carter’s, Just One Year, Child of Mine, OshKosh, and Genuine Kids from OshKosh brand names.  Royalty income from these brands was approximately $7.9 million (including $1.8 million of international royalty income from our OshKosh brands) in the first quarter of fiscal 2008, an increase of 4.9%, or $0.4 million, as compared to the first quarter of fiscal 2007.  This increase was driven primarily by Carter’s and OshKosh brand domestic licensee sales.

 
19

 

ITEM 2.  MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS: (Continued)

OPERATING INCOME

Operating income decreased $0.6 million, or 2.9%, to $20.6 million in the first quarter of fiscal 2008.  The decrease in operating income was due to the factors described above.

INTEREST EXPENSE, NET

Interest expense in the first quarter of fiscal 2008 decreased $1.2 million, or 21.1%, to $4.5 million.  The decrease is primarily attributable to lower effective interest rates.  Weighted-average borrowings in the first quarter of fiscal 2008 were $341.5 million at an effective interest rate of 5.8% as compared to weighted-average borrowings in the first quarter of fiscal 2007 of $344.7 million at an effective interest rate of 7.2%.  In the first quarter of fiscal 2007, we received approximately $0.4 million related to our interest rate swap agreement, which effectively reduced our interest expense under the term loan.  In the first quarter of fiscal 2008, we paid $0.2 million in interest expense related to our interest rate swap agreement.

INCOME TAXES

Our effective tax rate was 27.9% for the first quarter of fiscal 2008 and 37.8% for the first quarter of fiscal 2007.  This decrease in the effective tax rate was due to the reversal of $1.6 million of reserves for certain tax exposures following the completion of an Internal Revenue Service examination.

NET INCOME

Our net income for the first quarter of fiscal 2008 increased $1.9 million, or 20.3%, to $11.6 million as compared to $9.6 million in the first quarter of fiscal 2007 as a result of the factors described above.

FINANCIAL CONDITION, CAPITAL RESOURCES, AND LIQUIDITY

Our primary cash needs are working capital and capital expenditures.  Our primary source of liquidity will continue to be cash flow from operations and borrowings under our revolver, and we expect that these sources will fund our ongoing requirements for working capital and capital expenditures.  These sources of liquidity may be impacted by continued demand for our products and our ability to meet debt covenants under our senior credit facility.

Net accounts receivable at March 29, 2008 were $128.5 million compared to $116.9 million at March 31, 2007 and $119.7 million at December 29, 2007.  The increase as compared to March 31, 2007 reflects an increase in Carter’s brand wholesale and mass channel sales in the latter part of the first quarter of fiscal 2008.  Due to the seasonal nature of our operations, the net accounts receivable balance at March 29, 2008 is not comparable to the net accounts receivable balance at December 29, 2007.

Net inventories at March 29, 2008 were $174.2 million compared to $159.6 million at March 31, 2007 and $225.5 million at December 29, 2007.  The increase of $14.7 million, or 9.2%, as compared to March 31, 2007 is due primarily to higher levels of inventory in our Carter’s retail stores to better support demand and timing of wholesale shipments.  Due to the seasonal nature of our operations, net inventories at March 29, 2008 are not comparable to net inventories at December 29, 2007.

Net cash provided by operating activities for the first quarter of fiscal 2008 was $28.9 million compared to net cash provided by operating activities of $6.7 million in the first quarter of fiscal 2007.  The increase in operating cash flow reflects changes in inventory levels.


 
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ITEM 2.  MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS: (Continued)

We invested $2.5 million in capital expenditures during the first quarter of fiscal 2008 compared to $3.1 million during the first quarter of fiscal 2007.  We plan to invest approximately $45 million in capital expenditures during the remainder of fiscal 2008 primarily for retail store openings, a new point of sale system for our retail stores, and fixtures for our wholesale customers.

On February 16, 2007, the Company’s Board of Directors approved a stock repurchase program, pursuant to which the Company is authorized to purchase up to $100 million of its outstanding common shares.  Such repurchases may occur from time to time in the open market, in negotiated transactions, or otherwise.  This program has no time limit.  The timing and amount of any repurchases will be determined by management, based on its evaluation of market conditions, share price, and other factors.

During the first quarter of fiscal 2008, the Company repurchased and retired approximately $10.0 million, or 674,358 shares, of its common stock at an average price $14.86 per share.  Since inception of the program and through the three-month period ended March 29, 2008, the Company repurchased and retired approximately $67.5 million, or 3,147,577 shares, of its common stock at an average price of $21.44 per share.

At March 29, 2008, we had approximately $341.5 million in term loan borrowings and no borrowings outstanding under our revolver, exclusive of approximately $10.2 million of outstanding letters of credit.  Principal borrowings under our term loan are due and payable in quarterly installments of $0.9 million through June 30, 2012 with the remaining balance of $325.8 million due on July 14, 2012.

Our senior credit facility requires us to hedge at least 25% of our variable rate debt under the term loan.  On September 22, 2005, we entered into an interest rate swap agreement to receive floating interest and pay fixed interest.  This interest rate swap agreement is designated as a cash flow hedge of the variable interest payments on a portion of our variable rate term loan debt.  The fair market value of the interest rate swap agreement as of March 29, 2008 was a liability of $2.7 million and is included in other current liabilities in the accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated balance sheet.  The interest rate swap agreement matures on July 30, 2010.  As of March 29, 2008, approximately $146.7 million of our outstanding term loan debt was hedged under this agreement.

On May 25, 2006, we entered into an interest rate collar agreement (the “collar”) with a floor of 4.3% and a ceiling of 5.5%.  The fair market value of the collar as of March 29, 2008 was a liability of $1.8 million and is included in other current liabilities in the accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated balance sheet.  The collar covers $100 million of our variable rate term loan debt and is designated as a cash flow hedge of the variable interest payments on such debt.  The collar matures on January 31, 2009.

Our senior credit facility also sets forth mandatory and optional prepayment conditions, including an annual excess cash flow requirement, as defined, that may result in our use of cash to reduce our debt obligations.  No such prepayment was required for fiscal 2007 or 2006.

Our operating results are subject to risk from interest rate fluctuations on our Senior Credit Facility, which carries variable interest rates.  As of March 29, 2008, our outstanding debt aggregated approximately $341.5 million, of which $94.8 million bore interest at a variable rate.  An increase or decrease of 1% in the applicable rate would increase or decrease our annual interest cost by $0.9 million, exclusive of variable rate debt subject to our swap and collar agreements, and could have an adverse effect on our earnings and cash flow.

As a result of the plan to close the OshKosh distribution facility, we recorded costs in the first quarter of fiscal 2007 of $6.0 million, consisting of asset impairment charges of $2.4 million related to a write-down of the related land, building, and equipment; $2.0 million of severance charges; $1.5 million of accelerated depreciation (included in selling, general, and administrative expenses); and $0.1 million of other closure costs.  The estimated value of the OshKosh distribution facility assets as of March 29, 2008 was $6.1 million.  These assets are classified as assets held for sale.


 
21

 

ITEM 2.  MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS: (Continued)

In connection with the Acquisition, management developed an integration plan that includes severance, certain facility and store closings, and contract termination costs.  The following liabilities, included in other current liabilities in the accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated balance sheet, were established at the closing of the Acquisition and will be funded by cash flows from operations and borrowings under our revolver and are expected to be paid in fiscal 2008:

(dollars in thousands)
 
Severance
and other
exit
costs
   
Lease
termination
costs
   
Total
 
                   
Balance at December 29, 2007
  $ 489     $ 674     $ 1,163  
Payments                                         
    (458 )     --       (458 )
Adjustments                                         
    --       --       --  
Balance at March 29, 2008
  $ 31     $ 674     $ 705  

Based on our current level of operations, we believe that cash generated from operations and available cash, together with amounts available under our revolver, will be adequate to meet our working capital needs and capital expenditure requirements for the foreseeable future, although no assurance can be given in this regard.  We may, however, need to refinance all or a portion of the principal amount of amounts outstanding under our revolver on or before July 14, 2011 and amounts outstanding under our term loan on or before July 14, 2012.

EFFECTS OF INFLATION AND DEFLATION

We are affected by inflation and changing prices primarily through purchasing product from our global suppliers, increased operating costs and expenses, and fluctuations in interest rates.  The effects of inflation on our net sales and operations have not been material in recent years.  In recent years, there has been deflationary pressure on selling prices.  While we have been successful in offsetting such deflationary pressures through product improvements and lower costs with the expansion of our global sourcing network, if deflationary price trends outpace our ability to obtain further price reductions from our global suppliers, our profitability may be affected.

SEASONALITY

We experience seasonal fluctuations in our sales and profitability, with generally lower sales and gross profit in the first and second quarters of our fiscal year.  Over the past five fiscal years, excluding the impact of the Acquisition in fiscal 2005, approximately 57% of our consolidated net sales were generated in the second half of our fiscal year.  Accordingly, our results of operations for the first and second quarters of any year are not indicative of the results we expect for the full year.

As a result of this seasonality, our inventory levels and other working capital requirements generally begin to increase during the second quarter and into the third quarter of each year.  During these peak periods we have historically borrowed under our revolving credit facility.


 
22

 

ITEM 2.  MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS: (Continued)

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES

Our discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations are based upon our consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.  The preparation of these financial statements requires us to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues, expenses, and related disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities.  We base our estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions that we believe are reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources.  Actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions.

Our significant accounting policies are described in Note 2 to our audited consolidated financial statements contained in our most recently filed Annual Report on Form 10-K.  The following discussion addresses our critical accounting policies and estimates, which are those policies that require management’s most difficult and subjective judgments, often as a result of the need to make estimates about the effect of matters that are inherently uncertain.

Revenue recognition: We recognize wholesale and mass channel revenue after shipment of products to customers, when title passes, when all risks and rewards of ownership have transferred, the sales price is fixed or determinable, and collectibility is reasonably assured.  In certain cases, in which we retain the risk of loss during shipment, revenue recognition does not occur until the goods have reached the specified customer.  In the normal course of business, we grant certain accommodations and allowances to our wholesale and mass channel customers in order to assist these customers with inventory clearance and promotions.  Such amounts are reflected as a reduction of net sales and are recorded based upon historical trends and annual forecasts.  Retail store revenues are recognized at the point of sale.  We reduce revenue for customer returns and deductions.  We also maintain an allowance for doubtful accounts for estimated losses resulting from the inability of our customers to make payments and other actual and estimated deductions.  If the financial condition of our customers were to deteriorate, resulting in an impairment of their ability to make payments, an additional allowance could be required.  Past due balances over 90 days are reviewed individually for collectibility.  Our credit and collections department reviews all other balances regularly.  Account balances are charged off against the allowance when we feel it is probable the receivable will not be recovered.

We contract with a third-party service to provide us with the fair value of cooperative advertising arrangements entered into with certain of our major wholesale and mass channel customers.  Such fair value is determined based upon, among other factors, comparable market analysis for similar advertisements.  In accordance with Emerging Issues Task Force Issue No. 01-09, “Accounting for Consideration Given by a Vendor to a Customer/Reseller,” we have included the fair value of these arrangements of approximately $0.6 million in each of the first quarters of fiscal 2008 and 2007 as a component of selling, general, and administrative expenses in the accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated statements of operations rather than as a reduction of revenue.  Amounts determined to be in excess of the fair value of these arrangements are recorded as a reduction of net sales.

Inventory:  We provide reserves for slow-moving inventory equal to the difference between the cost of inventory and the estimated market value based upon assumptions about future demand and market conditions.  If actual market conditions are less favorable than those we project, additional write-downs may be required.


 
23

 

ITEM 2.  MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS: (Continued)

Cost in excess of fair value of net assets acquired and tradename:  As of March 29, 2008, we had approximately $443.3 million in Carter’s cost in excess of fair value of net assets acquired and Carter’s and OshKosh tradename assets.  The fair value of the Carter’s tradename was estimated at the 2001 acquisition to be approximately $220.2 million using a discounted cash flow analysis, which examined the hypothetical cost savings that accrue as a result of our ownership of the tradename.  The fair value of the OshKosh tradename was recently estimated to be approximately $88.0 million, also using a discounted cash flow analysis.  The cash flows, which incorporated both historical and projected financial performance, were discounted using a discount rate of 10% for Carter’s and 12% for OshKosh.  The tradenames were determined to have indefinite lives.  The carrying values of these assets are subject to annual impairment reviews as of the last day of each fiscal year.  Factors affecting such impairment reviews include the continued market acceptance of our offered products and the development of new products.  Impairment reviews may also be triggered by any significant events or changes in circumstances.

Accrued expenses:  Accrued expenses for workers’ compensation, incentive compensation, health insurance, and other outstanding obligations are assessed based on actual commitments, statistical trends, and estimates based on projections and current expectations, and these estimates are updated periodically as additional information becomes available.

Accounting for income taxes:  As part of the process of preparing the accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements, we are required to estimate our actual current tax exposure (state, federal, and foreign).  We assess our income tax positions and record tax benefits for all years subject to examination based upon management’s evaluation of the facts, circumstances, and information available at the reporting dates.  For those uncertain tax positions where it is “more likely than not” that a tax benefit will be sustained, we have recorded the largest amount of tax benefit with a greater than 50% likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement with a taxing authority that has full knowledge of all relevant information.  For those income tax positions where it is not “more likely than not” that a tax benefit will be sustained, no tax benefit has been recognized in the financial statements.  Where applicable, associated interest is also recognized.  We also assess permanent and temporary differences resulting from differing bases and treatment of items for tax and accounting purposes, such as the carrying value of intangibles, deductibility of expenses, depreciation of property, plant, and equipment, and valuation of inventories.  Temporary differences result in deferred tax assets and liabilities, which are included within our consolidated balance sheets.  We must then assess the likelihood that our deferred tax assets will be recovered from future taxable income.  Actual results could differ from this assessment if sufficient taxable income is not generated in future periods.  To the extent we determine the need to establish a valuation allowance or increase such allowance in a period, we must include an expense within the tax provision in the accompanying audited consolidated statement of operations.

Stock-based compensation arrangements:  The Company accounts for stock-based compensation in accordance with the fair value recognition provisions of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (“SFAS”) No. 123 (revised 2004), “Share-Based Payment” (“SFAS 123R”).  The Company adopted SFAS 123R using the modified prospective application method of transition.  The Company uses the Black-Scholes option pricing model, which requires the use of subjective assumptions.  These assumptions include the following:

Volatility – This is a measure of the amount by which a stock price has fluctuated or is expected to fluctuate.  The Company uses actual monthly historical changes in the market value of our stock since the Company’s initial public offering on October 29, 2003, supplemented by peer company data for periods prior to our initial public offering covering the expected life of stock options being valued.  An increase in the expected volatility will increase compensation expense.

Risk-free interest rate – This is the U.S. Treasury rate as of the grant date having a term equal to the expected term of the stock option.  An increase in the risk-free interest rate will increase compensation expense.


 
24

 

ITEM 2.  MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS: (Continued)

Expected term – This is the period of time over which the stock options granted are expected to remain outstanding and is based on historical experience and estimated future exercise behavior.  Separate groups of employees that have similar historical exercise behavior are considered separately for valuation purposes.  An increase in the expected term will increase compensation expense.

Dividend yield – The Company does not expect to pay dividends in the foreseeable future.  An increase in the dividend yield will decrease compensation expense.

Forfeitures – The Company estimates forfeitures of stock-based awards based on historical experience and expected future activity.

Changes in the subjective assumptions can materially affect the estimate of fair value of stock-based compensation and consequently, the related amount recognized in the accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated statements of operations.

The Company accounts for its performance-based awards in accordance with SFAS 123R and records stock-based compensation expense over the vesting term of the awards that are expected to vest based on whether it is probable that the performance criteria will be achieved.  The Company reassesses the probability of vesting at each reporting period for awards with performance criteria and adjusts stock-based compensation expense based on its probability assessment.

RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS

In February 2008, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued FSP No. FAS 157-2, which delays the effective date of SFAS 157, “Fair Value Measurements,” for nonfinancial assets and nonfinancial liabilities, except for items that are recognized or disclosed at fair value in the financial statements on a recurring basis (at least annually).  Nonfinancial assets and nonfinancial liabilities would include all assets and liabilities other than those meeting the definition of a financial asset or financial liability as defined in paragraph 6 of SFAS No. 159, "The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities." This FASB Staff Position defers the effective date of Statement 157 to fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2008, and interim periods within those fiscal years for items within the scope of FSP No. FAS 157-2.  We have evaluated the impact that FSP No. FAS 157-2 will have on our consolidated financial statements and have determined that it will not have a significant impact on our consolidated financial statements.

In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 141 (revised 2007), “Business Combinations” (“SFAS 141(R)”), which replaces SFAS No. 141, “Business Combinations” (“SFAS 141”).  SFAS 141(R) retains the underlying concepts of SFAS 141 in that all business combinations are still required to be accounted for at fair value under the acquisition method of accounting but SFAS 141(R) changed the method of applying the acquisition method in a number of significant aspects.  Acquisition costs will generally be expensed as incurred; noncontrolling interests will be valued at fair value at the acquisition date; in-process research and development will be recorded at fair value as an indefinite-lived intangible asset at the acquisition date; restructuring costs associated with a business combination will generally be expensed subsequent to the acquisition date; and changes in deferred tax asset valuation allowances and income tax uncertainties after the acquisition date generally will affect income tax expense.  SFAS 141(R) is effective on a prospective basis for all business combinations for which the acquisition date is on or after the beginning of the first annual period subsequent to December 15, 2008.  SFAS 141(R) amends SFAS No. 109, “Accounting for Income Taxes,” such that adjustments made to valuation allowances on deferred taxes and acquired tax contingencies associated with acquisitions that closed prior to the effective date of SFAS 141(R) would also apply the provisions of SFAS 141(R).  Early adoption is not permitted.  We are currently evaluating the effects, if any, that SFAS 141(R) may have on our consolidated financial statements.

In March 2008, the FASB issued SFAS No. 161, “Disclosures about Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities – an Amendment of FASB Statement No. 133,” which requires enhanced disclosures on the effect of derivatives on a Company’s financial statements.  These disclosures will be required for the Company beginning with the first quarter fiscal 2009 consolidated financial statements.


 
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ITEM 2.  MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS: (Continued)

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

Statements contained herein that relate to our future performance, including, without limitation, statements with respect to our anticipated results of operations or level of business for fiscal 2008 or any other future period, are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.  Such statements are based on current expectations only and are subject to certain risks, uncertainties, and assumptions.  Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those anticipated, estimated, or projected.  These risks are described herein under Item 1A of Part II.  We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.

ITEM 3.  QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

CURRENCY AND INTEREST RATE RISKS

In the operation of our business, we have market risk exposures including those related to foreign currency risk and interest rates.  These risks and our strategies to manage our exposure to them are discussed below.

We contract for production with third parties primarily in the Far East and South and Central America.  While these contracts are stated in United States dollars, there can be no assurance that the cost for the future production of our products will not be affected by exchange rate fluctuations between the United States dollar and the local currencies of these contractors.  Due to the number of currencies involved, we cannot quantify the potential impact of future currency fluctuations on net income in future years.  In order to manage this risk, we source products from approximately 130 vendors worldwide, providing us with flexibility in our production should significant fluctuations occur between the United States dollar and various local currencies.  To date, such exchange fluctuations have not had a material impact on our financial condition or results of operations.  We do not hedge foreign currency exchange rate risk.

Our operating results are subject to risk from interest rate fluctuations on our senior credit facility, which carries variable interest rates.  As of March 29, 2008, our outstanding debt aggregated $341.5 million, of which $94.8 million bore interest at a variable rate.  An increase or decrease of 1% in the applicable rate would increase or decrease our annual interest cost by $0.9 million, exclusive of variable rate debt subject to our interest rate swap and collar agreements, and could have an adverse effect on our net income and cash flow.

OTHER RISKS

We enter into various purchase order commitments with full-package suppliers.  We can cancel these arrangements, although in some instances, we may be subject to a termination charge reflecting a percentage of work performed prior to cancellation.  Historically, such cancellations and related termination charges have not had a material impact on our business.  However, as we rely nearly exclusively on our full-package global sourcing network, we expect to incur more of these termination charges, which could increase our cost of goods sold.


 
26

 

ITEM 4.  CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

 
(a)
Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

Our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer of Carter’s, Inc. have evaluated the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined under Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) promulgated under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended) as of the end of the period covered by this report.  Based upon that evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer of Carter’s, Inc. have concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective.

 
(b)
Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

There were no changes in the Company’s internal controls over financial reporting during the period covered by this report that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.


 
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PART II – OTHER INFORMATION

ITEM 1. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS:

N/A

ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS:

You should carefully consider each of the following risk factors as well as the other information contained in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission in evaluating our business.  The risks and uncertainties described below are not the only we face.  Additional risks and uncertainties not presently known to us or that we currently consider immaterial may also impact our business operations.  If any of the following risks actually occur, our operating results may be affected.

Risks Relating to Our Business

The loss of one or more of our major customers could result in a material loss of revenues.

In the first quarter of fiscal 2008, we derived approximately 44% of our consolidated net sales from our top eight customers, including mass channel customers.  Wal-Mart accounted for approximately 11% of our consolidated net sales.  We expect that this customer will continue to represent a significant portion of our sales in the future.  However, we do not enter into long-term sales contracts with our major customers, relying instead on long-standing relationships with these customers and on our position in the marketplace.  As a result, we face the risk that one or more of our major customers may significantly decrease its or their business with us or terminate its or their relationships with us.  Any such decrease or termination of our major customers' business could result in a material decrease in our sales and operating results.

The acceptance of our products in the marketplace is affected by consumers’ tastes and preferences, along with fashion trends.

We believe that continued success depends on our ability to provide a unique and compelling value proposition for our consumers in the Company’s distribution channels.  There can be no assurance that the demand for our products will not decline, or that we will be able to successfully evaluate and adapt our product to be aware of consumers’ tastes and preferences and fashion trends.  If consumers’ tastes and preferences are not aligned with our product offerings, promotional pricing may be required to move seasonal merchandise.  Increased use of promotional pricing would have a material adverse affect on our sales, gross margin, and results of operations.

The value of our brand, and our sales, could be diminished if we are associated with negative publicity.

Although our employees, agents, and third-party compliance auditors periodically visit and monitor the operations of our vendors, independent manufacturers, and licensees, we do not control these vendors, independent manufacturers, licensees, or their labor practices.  A violation of our vendor policies, licensee agreements, labor laws, or other laws by these vendors, independent manufacturers, or licensees could interrupt or otherwise disrupt our supply chain or damage our brand image.  As a result, negative publicity regarding our Company, brands, or products, including licensed products, could adversely affect our reputation and sales.


 
28

 

The security of the Company’s databases that contain personal information of our retail customers could be breached, which could subject us to adverse publicity, litigation, and expenses.  In addition, if we are unable to comply with security standards created by the credit card industry, our operations could be adversely affected.

Database privacy, network security, and identity theft are matters of growing public concern.  In an attempt to prevent unauthorized access to our network and databases containing confidential, third-party information, we have installed privacy protection systems, devices, and activity monitoring on our network.  Nevertheless, if unauthorized parties gain access to our networks or databases, they may be able to steal, publish, delete, or modify our private and sensitive third-party information.  In such circumstances, we could be held liable to our customers or other parties or be subject to regulatory or other actions for breaching privacy rules.  This could result in costly investigations and litigation, civil or criminal penalties, and adverse publicity that could adversely affect our financial condition, results of operations, and reputation.  Further, if we are unable to comply with the security standards, established by banks and the credit card industry, we may be subject to fines, restrictions, and expulsion from card acceptance programs, which could adversely affect our retail operations.

The Company’s royalty income is greatly impacted by the Company’s brand reputation.

The Company’s brand image, which is associated with providing a consumer product with outstanding quality and name recognition, makes it valuable as a royalty source.  The Company is able to license complementary products and obtain royalty income from use of its Carter’s, Child of Mine, Just One Year, OshKosh, Genuine Kids from OshKosh, and related trademarks.  The Company also generates foreign royalty income as our OshKosh B’Gosh label carries an international reputation for quality and American style.  While the Company takes significant steps to ensure the reputation of its brand is maintained through its license agreements, there can be no guarantee that the Company’s brand image will not be negatively impacted through its association with products outside of the Company’s core apparel products.

There are deflationary pressures on the selling price of apparel products.

In part due to the actions of discount retailers, and in part due to the worldwide supply of low cost garment sourcing, the average selling price of children’s apparel continues to decrease.  To the extent these deflationary pressures are offset by reductions in manufacturing costs, there could be an affect on the gross margin percentage.  However, the inability to leverage certain fixed costs of the Company’s design, sourcing, distribution, and support costs over its gross sales base could have an adverse impact on the Company’s operating results.

Our business is sensitive to overall levels of consumer spending, particularly in the apparel segment.

The Company believes that spending on children’s apparel is somewhat discretionary.  While certain apparel purchases are less discretionary due to size changes as children grow, the amount of clothing consumers desire to purchase, specifically brand name apparel products, is impacted by the overall level of consumer spending.  Overall economic conditions that affect discretionary consumer spending include employment levels, gasoline and utility costs, business conditions, tax rates, interest rates, and levels of consumer indebtedness.  Reductions in the level of discretionary spending or shifts in consumer spending to other products may have a material adverse affect on the Company’s sales and results of operations.

 
29

 

We source substantially all of our products through foreign production arrangements.  Our dependence on foreign supply sources could result in disruptions to our operations in the event of political instability, international events, or new foreign regulations and such disruptions may increase our cost of goods sold and decrease gross profit.

We source substantially all of our products through a network of vendors in the Far East, coordinated by our Far East agents.  The following could disrupt our foreign supply chain, increase our cost of goods sold, decrease our gross profit, or impact our ability to get products to our customers:

 
·
political instability or other international events resulting in the disruption of trade in foreign countries from which we source our products;

 
·
the imposition of new regulations relating to imports, duties, taxes, and other charges on imports including the China safeguards;

 
·
the occurrence of a natural disaster, unusual weather conditions, or an epidemic, the spread of which may impact our ability to obtain products on a timely basis;

 
·
changes in the United States customs procedures concerning the importation of apparel products;

 
·
unforeseen delays in customs clearance of any goods;

 
·
disruption in the global transportation network such as a port strike, world trade restrictions, or war.  The risk of labor-related disruption in the ports on the West Coast of the United States in 2008 is considered to be reasonably likely;

 
·
the application of foreign intellectual property laws; and

 
·
exchange rate fluctuations between the United States dollar and the local currencies of foreign contractors.

These and other events beyond our control could interrupt our supply chain and delay receipt of our products into the United States.

We operate in a highly-competitive market and the size and resources of some of our competitors may allow them to compete more effectively than we can, resulting in a loss of market share and, as a result, a decrease in revenues and gross profit.

The baby and young children's apparel market is highly competitive.  Both branded and private label manufacturers compete in the baby and young children's apparel market.  Our primary competitors in our wholesale and mass channel businesses include Disney, Gerber, and private label product offerings.  Our primary competitors in the retail store channel include Old Navy, The Gap, The Children’s Place, Gymboree, and Disney.  Because of the fragmented nature of the industry, we also compete with many other manufacturers and retailers.  Some of our competitors have greater financial resources and larger customer bases than we have and are less financially leveraged than we are.  As a result, these competitors may be able to:
 
 
·
adapt to changes in customer requirements more quickly;

 
·
take advantage of acquisition and other opportunities more readily;

 
·
devote greater resources to the marketing and sale of their products; and

 
·
adopt more aggressive pricing strategies than we can.

 
30

 

The Company’s retail success and future growth is dependent upon identifying locations and negotiating appropriate lease terms for retail stores.

The Company’s retail stores are located in leased retail locations across the country.  Successful operation of a retail store depends, in part, on the overall ability of the retail location to attract a consumer base sufficient to make store sales volume profitable.  If the Company is unable to identify new retail locations with consumer traffic sufficient to support a profitable sales level, retail growth may consequently be limited.  Further, if existing outlet and strip centers do not maintain a sufficient customer base that provides a reasonable sales volume, there could be a material adverse impact on the Company’s sales, gross margin, and results of operations.

Our leverage could adversely affect our financial condition.

On March 29, 2008, we had total debt of approximately $341.5 million.

Our indebtedness could have negative consequences.  For example, it could:

 
·
increase our vulnerability to interest rate risk;

 
·
limit our ability to obtain additional financing to fund future working capital, capital expenditures, and other general corporate requirements, or to carry out other aspects of our business plan;

 
·
require us to dedicate a substantial portion of our cash flow from operations to pay principal of, and interest on, our indebtedness, thereby reducing the availability of that cash flow to fund working capital, capital expenditures, or other general corporate purposes, or to carry out other aspects of our business plan;

 
·
limit our flexibility in planning for, or reacting to, changes in our business and the industry; and

 
·
place us at a competitive disadvantage compared to our competitors that have less debt.

In addition, our senior credit facility contains financial and other restrictive covenants that may limit our ability to engage in activities that may be in our long-term best interests such as selling assets, strategic acquisitions, paying dividends, and borrowing additional funds.  Our failure to comply with those covenants could result in an event of default which, if not cured or waived, could result in the acceleration of all of our debt which could leave us unable to meet some or all of our obligations.

Profitability could be negatively impacted if we do not adequately forecast the demand for our products and, as a result, create significant levels of excess inventory or insufficient levels of inventory.

If the Company does not adequately forecast demand for its products and purchases inventory to support an inaccurate forecast, the Company could experience increased costs due to the need to dispose of excess inventory or lower profitability due to insufficient levels of inventory.

We may not achieve sales growth plans, cost savings, and other assumptions that support the carrying value of our intangible assets.

In connection with the 2001 acquisition of the Company, we recorded cost in excess of fair value of net assets acquired of $136.6 million and a Carter’s brand tradename asset of $220.2 million.  Additionally, in connection with the acquisition of OshKosh, we recorded cost in excess of fair value of net assets acquired of $142.9 million and an OshKosh brand tradename asset of $102.0 million.  The carrying value of these assets is subject to annual impairment reviews as of the last day of each fiscal year or more frequently, if deemed necessary, due to any significant events or changes in circumstances.  During the second quarter of fiscal 2007, the Company performed an interim impairment review of the OshKosh intangible assets due to continued negative trends in sales and profitability of the Company’s OshKosh wholesale and retail segments.  As a result of this review, the Company wrote off our OshKosh cost in excess of fair value of net assets acquired asset of $142.9 million and wrote down the OshKosh tradename by $12.0 million.
    
  Estimated future cash flows used in these impairment reviews could be negatively impacted if we do not achieve our sales plans, planned cost savings, and other assumptions that support the carrying value of these intangible assets, which could result in potential impairment of the remaining asset value. 

 
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The Company’s success is dependent upon retaining key individuals within the organization to execute the Company’s strategic plan.

The Company’s ability to attract and retain qualified executive management, marketing, merchandising, design, sourcing, operations, and support function staffing is key to the Company’s success.  If the Company were unable to attract and retain qualified individuals in these areas, an adverse impact on the Company’s growth and results of operations may result.

ITEM 2. UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURTIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS:

The following table provides information about purchases by the Company during the three-month period ended March 29, 2008, of equity securities that are registered by the Company pursuant to Section 12 of the Exchange Act:
Period
 
Total number of shares
purchased
   
Average price paid per share
   
Total number of shares purchased as part of publicly announced plans or programs
(1)
   
Approximate dollar value of shares that may yet be purchased under the plans or programs
(1)
 
                         
December 30, 2007 through January 26, 2008
    --     $ --       --     $ 42,532,888  
                                 
January 27, 2008 through February 23, 2008
    --     $ --       --     $ 42,532,888  
                                 
February 24, 2008 through March 29, 2008
    674,358   (2)   $ 14.86       674,358     $ 32,512,669  
                                 
Total                                                   
    674,358     $ 14.86       674,358     $ 32,512,669  

                         (1)
On February 16, 2007, our Board of Directors approved a stock repurchase program, pursuant to which the Company is authorized to purchase up to $100 million of its outstanding common shares.  Such repurchases may occur from time to time in the open market, in negotiated transactions, or otherwise.  This program has no time limit.  The timing and amount of any repurchases will be determined by the Company’s management, based on its evaluation of market conditions, share price, and other factors.  This program was announced in the Company’s report on Form 8-K, which was filed on February 21, 2007.  The total remaining authorization under the repurchase program was $32,512,669 as of March 29, 2008.

                         (2)
Represents repurchased shares which were retired.

ITEM 3. DEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES:

N/A

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

N/A

ITEM 5. OTHER INFORMATION:

N/A

 
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ITEM 6. EXHIBITS:

(a) Exhibits:

Exhibit Number
 
Description of Exhibits
     
10.1
 
The William Carter Company Severance Plan
     
31.1
 
Rule 13a-15(e)/15d-15(e) and 13a-15(f)/15d-15(f) Certification
     
31.2
 
Rule 13a-15(e)/15d-15(e) and 13a-15(f)/15d-15(f) Certification
     
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Section 1350 Certification
     

 
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SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrants have duly caused this report to be signed on their behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.


CARTER’S, INC.


     
Date:  April 25, 2008
 
/s/ FREDERICK J. ROWAN, II
   
Frederick J. Rowan, II
   
Chairman of the Board of Directors and
   
Chief Executive Officer



     
Date:  April 25, 2008
 
/s/ MICHAEL D. CASEY
   
Michael D. Casey
   
Executive Vice President and
   
Chief Financial Officer


 

 
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