================================================================================ UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION Washington, D.C. 20549 ----------------- FORM 10-K (MARK ONE) [X] ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2001 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 1-4462 ----------------- STEPAN COMPANY (Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter) Delaware 36-1823834 (State or other (I.R.S. jurisdiction Employer Identification of incorporation or Number) organization) Edens and Winnetka Road, 60093 Northfield, Illinois (Zip Code) (Address of principal executive offices) Registrant's telephone number including area code: 847-446-7500 Securities registered pursuant to Section 12 (b) of the Act: Name of Each Exchange on Title of Each Class Which Registered ------------------- ------------------------ Common Stock, $1 par value New York Stock Exchange Chicago Stock Exchange 5 1/2% Convertible Preferred Stock, no par New York Stock Exchange value Chicago Stock Exchange Securities registered pursuant to Section 12 (g) of the Act: None (Title of Class) Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant's knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K. [_]. Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months, and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes _X_ No ____. Aggregate market value at February 28, 2002, of voting stock held by nonaffiliates of the registrant: $148,005,000* Number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer's classes of common stock as of February 28, 2002: Outstanding at February Class 28, 2002 ----- ----------------------- Common Stock, $1 par value 9,263,125 Documents Incorporated by Reference Part of Form 10-K Document Incorporated ----------------- --------------------- Part I, Item 1 2001 Annual Report to Stockholders Part II, Items 5-8 2001 Annual Report to Stockholders Part III, Items 10-12 Proxy Statement dated March 28, 2002 *Based on reported ownership by all directors, officers and beneficial owners of more than 5% of registrant's voting stock. However, this determination does not constitute an admission of affiliate status for any of these holders. ================================================================================
PART I Item 1. Business Stepan Company and its subsidiaries (the "company") produce specialty and intermediate chemicals which are sold to other manufacturers and then made into a variety of end products. The company has three reportable segments: surfactants, polymers and specialty products. Surfactants refer to chemical agents which affect the interaction between two surfaces; they can provide actions such as detergency (i.e., the ability of water to remove soil from another surface), wetting and foaming, dispersing, emulsification (aiding two dissimilar liquids to mix), demulsification and viscosity modifications. Surfactants are the basic cleaning agent in detergents for washing clothes, dishes, carpets, fine fabrics, floors and walls. Surfactants are also used for the same purpose in shampoos and conditioners, toothpastes, cosmetics and other personal care products. Commercial and industrial applications include emulsifiers for agricultural products, emulsion polymers such as floor polishes and latex foams and coatings, wetting and foaming agents for wallboard manufacturing and surfactants for enhanced oil recovery. Polymers, which included phthalic anhydride, polyols and polyurethane foam systems, are used in plastics, building materials and refrigeration industries. Polymers are also used in coating, adhesive, sealant and elastomer applications. Specialty products sells chemicals used in food, flavoring and pharmaceutical applications. MARKETING AND COMPETITION Principal markets for surfactants are manufacturers of detergents, shampoos, lotions, toothpastes and cosmetics. In addition, surfactants are sold to the producers of emulsifiers and lubricating products. The company also is a principal provider of polymers used in construction, refrigeration, automotive, boating and other consumer product industries. Specialty products are used primarily by food and pharmaceutical manufacturers. The company does not sell directly to the retail market, but sells to a wide range of manufacturers in many industries and has many competitors. The principal methods of competition are product performance, price and adaptability to the specific needs of individual customers. These factors allow the company to compete on a basis other than price alone, reducing the severity of competition as experienced in the sales of commodity chemicals having identical performance characteristics. The company is a leading merchant producer of surfactants in the United States. In the case of surfactants, much of the company's competition comes from several large national and regional producers and the internal divisions of larger companies. In the manufacture of polymers, the company competes with the chemical divisions of several large companies, as well as with other small specialty chemical manufacturers. In recent years, the company has also faced periodic competition from foreign imports of phthalic anhydride. In specialty products, the company competes with several large firms plus numerous small companies. MAJOR CUSTOMER AND BACKLOG The company does not have any one single customer whose business represents more than 10 percent of the company's consolidated revenue. Most of the company's business is essentially on the "spot delivery basis" and does not involve a significant backlog. The company does have contract arrangements with certain customers, but purchases are generally contingent on purchaser requirements. ENERGY SOURCES Substantially all of the company's manufacturing plants operate on electricity and interruptable gas purchased from local utilities. During peak heating demand periods, gas service to all plants may be temporarily interrupted for varying periods ranging from a few days to several months. The plants operate on fuel oil during these periods of interruption. The company has not experienced any plant shutdowns or adverse effects upon its business in recent years that were caused by a lack of available energy sources. 1
RAW MATERIALS The most important raw materials used by the company are of a petroleum or vegetable nature. For 2002, the company has commitments from suppliers to cover its forecasted requirements and is not substantially dependent upon any one supplier. RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT The company maintains an active research and development program to assist in the discovery and commercialization of new knowledge with the intent that such effort will be useful in developing a new product or in bringing about a significant improvement to an existing product or process. Total expenses for research and development during 2001, 2000 and 1999 were $13.7 million, $13.4 million, and $13.1 million, respectively. The balance of expenses reflected on the Consolidated Statements of Income relates to technical services, which include routine product testing, quality control and sales support service. ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE Compliance with applicable federal, state and local regulations regarding the discharge of materials into the environment, or otherwise relating to the protection of the environment, resulted in capital expenditures by the company of approximately $1.1 million during 2001. Such capital expenditures in 2002 should approximate $1.5 to $2.0 million. These expenditures represented approximately three percent of the company's capital expenditures in 2001 and are expected to be approximately five percent in 2002. These expenditures, when incurred, are depreciated and charged on a straight-line basis to pre-tax earnings over their estimated useful lives, which is typically 10 years. Compliance with such regulations is not expected to have a material adverse effect on the company's earnings and competitive position in the foreseeable future. EMPLOYMENT At December 31, 2001 and 2000, the company employed worldwide 1,491 and 1,387 persons, respectively. FOREIGN OPERATIONS See Note 13, Segment Reporting, in the company's 2001 Annual Report to Stockholders which is incorporated by reference herein. SEGMENTS See Note 13, Segment Reporting, in the company's 2001 Annual Report to Stockholders which is incorporated by reference herein. Item 2. Properties The company's corporate headquarters and central research laboratories are located in Northfield, Illinois. The Northfield facilities contain approximately 70,000 square feet on an eight acre site. In addition, the company leases 49,000 square feet of office space in a nearby office complex. Stepan Canada maintains a leased sales office in Mississagua, Canada. Stepan Mexico maintains a leased sales office in Mexico City, Mexico. Surfactants are produced at four plants in the United States and six wholly owned subsidiaries: one in France, United Kingdom, Canada, Mexico, Colombia and Germany. The principal plant is located on a 626 acre site at Millsdale (Joliet), Illinois. A second plant is located on a 39 acre tract in Fieldsboro, New Jersey. West Coast operations are conducted on an eight acre site in Anaheim, California. A fourth plant is located on a 175 acre site in Winder, Georgia. The plant, laboratory and office of Stepan Europe are located on a 20 acre site near 2
Grenoble, France. Stepan Canada, Inc. is located on a 70 acre leased, with an option to purchase, site in Longford Mills, Ontario, Canada. Stepan Mexico is located on a 13 acre site in Matamoros, Mexico. Stepan Germany is located on a five acre site in Cologne, Germany. Stepan UK Limited is located on a five acre site in Stalybridge (Manchester), United Kingdom. Stepan Colombia is located on a five acre site in Manizales, Colombia. The phthalic anhydride, polyurethane systems and polyurethane polyols plants are also located at Millsdale. Specialty products are mainly produced at a plant located on a 19 acre site in Maywood, New Jersey. The company owns all of the foregoing facilities except the leased office space and Canadian plant site mentioned above. The company believes these properties are adequate for its operations. Item 3. Legal Proceedings As reported previously, the company's site in Maywood, New Jersey and property formerly owned by the company adjacent to its current site, were listed on the National Priorities List in September 1993 pursuant to the provisions of the Comprehensive Environmental Response Compensation and Liabilities Act (CERCLA) because of certain alleged chemical contamination. Pursuant to an Administrative Order on Consent entered into between the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) and the company for property formerly owned by the company, and the issuance of an order by USEPA to the company for property currently owned by the company, the company completed a Remedial Investigation Feasibility Study (RI/FS) in 1994. In addition, the company submitted an FS Addendum to USEPA in October 2000 and its response to USEPA's comments in September 2001. Discussions between USEPA and the company are continuing and the company has submitted additional information regarding the remediation. The company is awaiting the issuance of a Record of Decision (ROD) from USEPA relating to the currently owned and formerly owned company property and the proposed remediation. The final ROD will be issued sometime after the public comment period. In 1985, the company entered into a Cooperative Agreement with the United States of America represented by the Department of Energy (Agreement). Pursuant to this Agreement, the Department of Energy (DOE) took title to radiological contaminated materials and was to remediate, at its expense, all radiological waste on the company's property in Maywood, New Jersey. The Maywood property (and portions of the surrounding area) was remediated by the DOE under the Formerly Utilized Sites Remedial Action Program, a federal program under which the U.S. Government undertook to remediate properties which were used to process radiological material for the U.S. Government. In 1997, responsibility for this clean-up was transferred to the United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE). On January 29, 1999, the company received a copy of a USACE Report to Congress dated January 1998 in which the USACE expressed their intention to evaluate, with the USEPA, whether the company and/or other parties might be responsible for cost recovery or contribution claims related to the Maywood site. Subsequent to the issuance of that report, the USACE advised the company that it had requested legal advice from the Department of Justice as to the impact of the Agreement. By letter dated July 28, 2000, the Department of Justice advised the company that the USACE and USEPA had referred to the Justice Department claims against the company for response costs incurred or to be incurred by the USACE, USEPA and the DOE in connection with the Maywood site and the Justice Department stated that the United States is entitled to recovery of its response costs from the company under CERCLA. The letter referred to both radiological and non-radiological hazardous waste at the Maywood site and stated that the United States has incurred unreimbursed response costs to date of $138 million. Costs associated with radiological waste at the Maywood site, which the company believes represent all but a small portion of the amount referred to in the Justice Department letter, could be expected to aggregate substantially in excess of that amount. In the letter, the Justice Department invited the company to discuss settlement of the matter in order to avoid the need for litigation. The company believes that its liability, if any, for such costs has been resolved by the aforesaid Agreement. Despite the fact that the company continues to believe that it has no liability to the United States for such costs, discussions with the Justice Department are currently ongoing to attempt to resolve this matter. The company believes it has adequate reserves for claims associated with the Maywood site. However, depending on the results of the ongoing discussions regarding the Maywood site, the final cost of the remediation could differ from the current estimates. 3
As reported previously, the company has been named as a potentially responsible party (PRP) in the case USEPA v. Jerome Lightman (92 CV 4710 D. N. J.) which involves the Ewan and D'Imperio Superfund Sites located in New Jersey. Trial on the issue of the company's liability at these sites was completed in March 2000. The company is awaiting a decision from the court. If the company is found liable at either site, a second trial as to the company's allocated share of clean-up costs at these sites will likely be held in 2002 or 2003. The company believes it has adequate defenses to the issue of liability. In the event of an unfavorable outcome related to the issue of liability, the company believes it has adequate reserves. On a related matter, the company has filed an appeal to the United States Third Circuit Court of Appeals objecting to the lodging of a partial consent decree in favor of the United States Government in this action. Under the partial consent decree, the government recovered past costs at the site from all PRPs including the company. The company paid its assessed share but by objecting to the partial consent decree, the company is seeking to recover back the sums it paid. Regarding the D'Imperio Superfund Site, USEPA has indicated it will seek penalty claims against the company based on the company's alleged noncompliance with the modified Unilateral Administrative Order. The company is currently negotiating with USEPA to settle its proposed penalty against the company but does not believe that a settlement, if any, will have a material impact on the financial condition of the company. In addition, the company also received notice from the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) dated March 21, 2001, that NJDEP has indicated it will pursue cost recovery against the alleged responsible parties, including the company. The NJDEP's claims include costs related to remediation of the D'Imperio Superfund Site in the amount of $434,405.53 and alleged natural resource damages in the amount of $529,584.00 (as of November 3, 2000). The NJDEP has proposed settling such claims, with the company being responsible for a portion of these costs. Although the company has negotiated a share of its costs and damages up to a maximum amount, any payments made by the company are subject to reallocation after the allocation phase of the above-identified trial, if any. The company does not believe that a settlement, if any, will have a material impact on the financial condition of the company. As reported previously, the company received a Section 104(e) Request for Information from USEPA dated March 21, 2000, regarding the Lightman Drum Company Site located in Winslow Township, New Jersey. The company responded to this request on May 18, 2000. In addition, the company received a Notice of Potential Liability and Request to Perform RI/FS dated June 30, 2000, from USEPA. The company has decided that it will participate in the performance of the RI/FS. However, based on the current information known regarding this site, the company is unable to predict what its liability, if any, will be for this site. Item 4. Results of Votes of Security Holders No matters were submitted to stockholders during the fourth quarter of the fiscal year ended December 31, 2001. Executive Officers of the Registrant Executive Officers are elected annually by the Board of Directors at the first meeting following the Annual Meeting of Stockholders to serve until the next annual meeting of the Board and until their respective successors are duly elected and qualified. Effective February 15, 1999, F. Quinn Stepan, Jr., was elected President and Chief Operating Officer. He was previously Vice President and General Manager--Surfactants as of January 1, 1997, Vice President--Global Laundry and Cleaning Products as of May 1996 and Director--Business Management as of May 1992. Mr. F. Quinn Stepan, Sr., has served the company as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer since 1984. He served as President and Chief Operating Officer from 1973 until February 15, 1999. Effective February 16, 1999, John V. Venegoni was elected Vice President and General Manager--Surfactants. From May 1992 until May 1996, he served as a Senior Business Manager--Consumer Products. From May 1996 until February 16, 1999, he served as Director--Global Personal Care. 4
Effective January 1, 2001, Robert J. Wood was elected Vice President and General Manager--Polymers. From April 1988 until March 1996, he served as a Business Manager--Polyols. From March 1996 until January 1, 2001, he served as Director--Polyols. Mickey Mirghanbari retired on June 30, 2001. Before the retirement, he served as Vice President-- Manufacturing and Engineering. Earl H. Wagener retired on August 31, 2001. Before the retirement, he served as Vice President--Research and Development. Effective March 7, 2001, F. Samuel Eberts III was elected Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary. From 1992 until 1996, he served as an Assistant General Counsel for Baxter International Inc. From 1996 until 1998, he served as an Associate General Counsel for Allegiance Healthcare Corporation. From 1998 until 2001, he served as an Assistant General Counsel for Cardinal Health Inc. Effective July 1, 2001, Anthony J. Zoglio was elected Vice President--Manufacturing and Engineering. From 1991 until June 1, 1999, he served as Millsdale Plant Manager. From June 1, 1999 to July 1, 2001, he served as Vice President, Plant Operations. Effective February 11, 2002, James E. Hurlbutt was elected Vice President and Corporate Controller. From August 7, 1996 until February 11, 2002, he served as Controller--International and Tax Accounting. All other executive officers have remained in their current capacity for over five years. The Executive Officers of the company, their ages as of February 28, 2002, and certain other information are as follows: Year First Elected Name Age Title Officer ---- --- ----- ---------- F. Quinn Stepan..... 64 Chairman and Chief Executive Officer 1967 James A. Hartlage... 64 Senior Vice President--Technology and Operations 1980 Walter J. Klein..... 55 Vice President--Finance 1985 F. Quinn Stepan, Jr. 41 President and Chief Operating Officer 1997 John V. Venegoni.... 43 Vice President and General Manager--Surfactants 1999 F. Samuel Eberts III 41 Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary 2001 Robert J. Wood...... 44 Vice President and General Manager--Polymers 2001 Anthony J. Zoglio... 56 Vice President--Manufacturing and Engineering 2001 James E. Hurlbutt... 48 Vice President and Corporate Controller 2002 PART II Item 5. Market for Registrant's Common Stock and Related Security Holder Matters (a) The company's common stock is listed and traded on both the New York Stock Exchange and the Chicago Stock Exchange. See Quarterly Stock Data in the company's 2001 Annual Report to Stockholders for market price information which is incorporated by reference herein. The company's 5 1/2 percent convertible preferred stock is listed and traded on the New York Stock Exchange and the Chicago Stock Exchange. See Note 7 in the company's 2001 Annual Report to Stockholders for the description of the preferred stockholders' rights which is incorporated by reference herein. From time to time the company purchases shares of its common stock in the open market and in block transactions from dealers for the purpose of funding option grants under its stock option plans and deferred compensation plans for directors and officers. 5
(b) On February 28, 2002, there were 1,231 holders of common stock of the company. (c) See Quarterly Stock Data in the company's 2001 Annual Report to Stockholders for dividend information which is incorporated by reference herein. Also see Note 4 in the company's 2001 Annual Report to Stockholders which sets forth the restrictive covenants covering dividends. Item 6. Selected Financial Data See the Five Year Summary in the company's 2001 Annual Report to Stockholders for selected financial information which is incorporated by reference herein. Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations and Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk See Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations and Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk in the company's 2001 Annual Report to Stockholders which is incorporated by reference herein. Some information contained in the Management's Discussion and Analysis is forward looking and involves risks and uncertainties. The results achieved this year are not necessarily an indication of future prospects for the company. Actual results in future years may differ materially. Potential risks and uncertainties include, among others, fluctuations in the volume and timing of product orders, changes in demand for the company's products, changes in technology, continued competitive pressures in the marketplace, availability of raw materials, foreign currency fluctuations and general economic conditions. Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data See the Consolidated Financial Statements, Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements and Auditors' Report in the company's 2001 Annual Report to Stockholders. See the Quarterly Financial Data in the company's 2001 Annual Report to Stockholders for selected quarterly financial data, which is incorporated by reference herein. Item 9. Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure See Accounting and Auditing Matters section of the Proxy Statement dated March 28, 2002, which is incorporated by reference herein. PART III Item 10. Directors and Executive Officers of the Registrant (a) Directors See company's Proxy Statement dated March 28, 2002, for Directors of the Registrant, which is incorporated by reference herein. (b) Executive Officers See Executive Officers of the Registrant in Part 1 above. Item 11. Executive Compensation See company's Proxy Statement dated March 28, 2002, which is incorporated by reference herein. 6
Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management See company's Proxy Statement dated March 28, 2002, which is incorporated by reference herein. Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions None PART IV Item 14. Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules and Reports on Form 8-K (a) & (d) Financial Statements and Schedules See the Index to the Consolidated Financial Statements and Supplemental Schedule filed herewith. (b) Reports on Form 8-K None (c) Exhibits See Exhibit Index filed herewith. 7
SIGNATURES Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized. STEPAN COMPANY /S/ WALTER J. KLEIN By: _______________________________ Vice President, Finance March 15, 2002 Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the Registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated. /S/ F. QUINN STEPAN Chairman, Chief Executive March 15, 2002 - ----------------------------- Officer and Director F. Quinn Stepan /S/ F. QUINN STEPAN, JR. President, Chief Operating March 15, 2002 - ----------------------------- Officer and Director F. Quinn Stepan, Jr. /S/ WALTER J. KLEIN Vice President--Finance, March 15, 2002 - ----------------------------- Principal Financial and Walter J. Klein Accounting Officer /S/ JAMES A. HARTLAGE Senior Vice President-- March 15, 2002 - ----------------------------- Technology and Operations James A. Hartlage and Director /S/ THOMAS F. GROJEAN Director March 15, 2002 - ----------------------------- Thomas F. Grojean /S/ PAUL H. STEPAN Director March 15, 2002 - ----------------------------- Paul H. Stepan /S/ ROBERT D. CADIEUX Director March 15, 2002 - ----------------------------- Robert D. Cadieux /S/ ROBERT G. POTTER Director March 15, 2002 - ----------------------------- Robert G. Potter Walter J. Klein, pursuant to powers of attorney executed by each of the directors and officers listed above, does hereby execute this report on behalf of each of such directors and officers in the capacity in which the name of each appears above. WALTER J. KLEIN March 15, 2002 8
INDEX TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTAL SCHEDULE A copy of Stepan Company's Annual Report to Stockholders for the year ended December 31, 2001, has been filed as an exhibit to this Annual Report on Form 10-K. These consolidated financial statements and the Auditors' Report thereon are incorporated herein by reference. Supplemental Schedule II--Allowance for Doubtful Accounts--to Consolidated Financial Statements, which is required to comply with regulation S-X, and the Auditors' report on such Supplemental Schedule of this Form 10-K. Certain supplemental schedules are not submitted because they are not applicable or not required, or because the required information is included in the financial statements or notes thereto. 9
SUPPLEMENTAL SCHEDULE TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2001 AS REQUIRED TO COMPLY WITH REGULATION S-X Schedule II--Allowance for Doubtful Accounts: Below is an analysis of the allowance for doubtful accounts for the three years ended December 31: 2001 2000 1999 ------ ------ ------ (In Thousands) Balance, Beginning of Year................. $3,154 $2,389 $2,263 Provision/(Benefit) charged to income... (156) 1,281 222 Accounts written off, net of recoveries. (726) (516) (96) ------ ------ ------ Balance, End of Year....................... $2,272 $3,154 $2,389 ====== ====== ====== 10
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS ON SUPPLEMENTAL SCHEDULE To Stepan Company: We have audited in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States, the financial statements included in Stepan Company's Annual Report to Stockholders incorporated by reference in this Form 10-K, and have issued our report thereon dated February 11, 2002. Our audit was made for the purpose of forming an opinion on those statements taken as a whole. The supplemental schedule listed in the index of financial statements is the responsibility of the company's management and is presented for purposes of complying with the Securities and Exchange Commission's rules and is not part of the basic financial statements. This schedule has been subjected to the auditing procedures applied in the audit of the basic financial statements and, in our opinion, fairly states in all material respects the financial data required to be set forth therein in relation to the basic financial statements taken as a whole. ARTHUR ANDERSEN LLP Chicago, Illinois February 11, 2002 11
EXHIBIT INDEX Exhibit No. Description - -------- ----------- (3)a Copy of the Certificate of Incorporation, and the Certificates of Amendment of Certificate of Incorporation, dated May 6, 1968, April 20, 1972, April 16, 1973, December 2, 1983. Filed with the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1983, and incorporated herein by reference. (3)a(1) Copy of Certificate of Amendment of Certificate of Incorporation, dated May 24, 1999. (Note 13) (3)b Copy of the Bylaws of the company as amended through February 15, 1999. (Note 14) (3)c Copy of Certificate of Amendment, dated April 28, 1993, to Article IV of Certificate of Incorporation. (Note 7) (3)d Copy of Certificate of Amendment, dated May 5, 1987, to Article X of Certificate of Incorporation. (Note 1) (4)h Copy of Loan Agreement, dated June 15, 1995, with Aid Association for Lutherans, the Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company and The Mutual Life Insurance Company of New York. (Note 10) (4)i Copy of Revolving Credit and Term Loan Agreement, dated February 20, 1990, with The First National Bank of Chicago and the amendment, dated March 21, 1990. (Note 3) (4)m Copy of Second Amendment, dated September 20, 1991, amending Revolving Credit and Term Loan Agreement, dated February 20, 1990 (see (4)i above). (Note 4) (4)m(1) Copy of Third Amendment, dated December 29, 1992, amending Revolving Credit and Term Loan Agreement, dated February 20, 1990 (see (4)i and (4)m above). (Note 8) (4)m(2) Copy of Fourth Amendment, dated May 31, 1994, amending Revolving Credit and Term Loan Agreement, dated February 20, 1990 (see (4)i, (4)m and (4)m(1) above). (Note 9) (4)n(1) Copy of Certificate of Designation, Preferences and Rights of the 5 1/2% Convertible Preferred Stock, without Par Value and the Amended Certificate, dated August 12, 1992 and April 28, 1993. (Note 7) (4)n(2) Copy of Issuer Tender Offer Statement on Schedule 13E-4, dated August 13, 1992. (Note 6) (4)n(3) Copy of Amendment No. 1 to Schedule 13E-4 (see also (4)n(2) above), dated September 23, 1992. (Note 6) (4)n(4) Copy of the company's Form 8-A, dated August 13, 1992. (Note 6) (4)o Copy of Revolving Credit and Term Loan Agreement, dated January 9, 1998, with The First National Bank of Chicago. (Note 11) (4)o(1) Copy of Certificate of Amendment, dated March 12, 1999, amending Revolving Credit and Term Loan Agreement, dated January 9, 1998. (Note 12) (4)p Copy of Term Loan Agreement, dated October 1, 1998, with The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company and Connecticut General Life Insurance Company. (Note 14) In accordance with 601(b)(4) (iii) of Regulation S-K, certain debt instruments are omitted, where the amount of securities authorized under such instruments does not exceed 10% of the total consolidated assets of the Registrant. Copies of such instruments will be furnished to the Commission upon request. (10)a Description of the 1965 Directors Deferred Compensation Plan. (Note 2)
Exhibit No. Description - ------- ----------- (10)b Copy of the 1969 Management Incentive Compensation Plan as amended and restated as of January 1, 1992. (Note 5) (10)d Copy of the 1982 Stock Option Plan. (Note 2) (10)e Copy of Leveraged Employee Stock Ownership Plan. (Note 3) (10)f Copy of the company's 1992 Stock Option Plan. (Note 5) (10)g Copy of the company's 2000 Stock Option Plan. (Note 15) (13) Copy of the company's 2001 Annual Report to Stockholders. (18) Letter re change in accounting principle for the year ended December 31, 1992. (Note 8) (21) Subsidiaries of Registrant at December 31, 2001. (23) Consent of Independent Public Accountants. (24) Power of Attorney. Notes To Exhibit Index Note No. - ---- 1.. Filed with the company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1987, and incorporated herein by reference. 2.. Filed with the company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1988, and incorporated herein by reference. 3.. Filed with the company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1989, and incorporated herein by reference. 4.. Filed with the company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 1991, and incorporated herein by reference. 5.. Filed with the company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 1992, and incorporated herein by reference. 6.. Filed with the company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 1992, and incorporated herein by reference. 7.. Filed with the company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on April 28, 1993, and incorporated herein by reference. 8.. Filed with the company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1992, and incorporated herein by reference. 9.. Filed with the company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1994, and incorporated herein by reference. 10.. Filed with the company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 1995, and incorporated herein by reference. 11.. Filed with the company's Annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1997, and incorporated herein by reference. 12.. Filed with the company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 1999, and incorporated herein by reference.
Note No. - ---- 13.. Filed with the company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 1999, and incorporated herein by reference. 14.. Filed with the company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended December 31, 1998, and incorporated herein by reference. 15.. Filed with the company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended December 31, 1999, and incorporated herein by reference.
Exhibit 13 MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS Results of Operations 2001 Compared with 2000 Net sales for 2001 increased two percent from $698.9 million in 2000 to $711.5 million in 2001. Net sales by segment were as follows: Percent (Dollars in thousands) 2001 2000 Change - ------------------------------------------------------------------ Surfactants $558,927 $537,006 +4 Polymers 127,722 140,786 -9 Specialty Products 24,868 21,145 +18 -------- -------- Total $711,517 $698,937 +2 ======== ======== Surfactants are a principal ingredient in consumer and industrial cleaning products such as detergents, shampoos, lotions, toothpastes and cosmetics. Other applications include lubricating ingredients and emulsifiers for agricultural products, and plastics and composites. Surfactants net sales, representing 79 percent of the company's revenue, increased $21.9 million, or four percent, due to a four percent rise in sales volume. Foreign operations accounted for the overall improvement, reporting a $32.5 million, or 27 percent, rise in net sales due to a 28 percent increase in sales volume. Approximately $14.7 million of the foreign improvement was attributable to the fourth quarter acquisition of Stepan UK Limited (formerly Manro Performance Chemicals) located in Stalybridge, UK. In addition, all other foreign subsidiaries reported increased net sales, primarily due to higher sales volumes. European operations, excluding the United Kingdom, posted a net increase of $8.6 million. Net sales for South American operations grew $4.5 million, while net sales for Mexico and Canada increased $2.6 million and $2.1 million, respectively. Domestic operations, which accounted for 73 percent of total surfactant revenues, reported a $10.6 million, or three percent, decline in net sales from $417.2 million in 2000 to $406.6 million in 2001. The decrease was due to a one percent drop in sales volume and a one percent decline in average selling prices. Lower demand for laundry and cleaning products and increased market competition led to the decline. The economic slowdown adversely impacted sales volume of higher margin industrial surfactants. The polymers product group includes phthalic anhydride (PA), polyurethane systems and polyurethane polyols. PA is used in polyester alkyd resins and plasticizers for applications in construction materials and components of automotive, boating and other consumer products. Polyurethane systems provide thermal insulation and are sold to the construction, industrial and appliance markets. Polyurethane polyols are used in 1
the manufacture of laminate board for the construction industry. Polyurethane polyols are also sold to the appliance, coatings, adhesives, sealants and elastomers markets. Polymer net sales, accounting for 18 percent of the company's revenue, decreased $13.1 million, or nine percent, from $140.8 million in 2000 to $127.7 million in 2001. The decline was due to a 13 percent drop in sales volume, driven primarily by a slowdown in the U.S. economy. PA's net sales decreased 21 percent to $32.8 million for 2001 from $41.4 million in 2000. A 24 percent decline in sales volume accounted for the decrease. Polyurethane systems net sales fell 15 percent to $19.4 million for 2001 from $22.7 million in 2000. A drop in sales volume accounted for the decline and more than offset an increase in average selling prices. Globally, polyurethane polyols net sales decreased $1.1 million, or one percent, between years from $76.7 million in 2000 to $75.5 million in 2001. Domestic net sales fell less than one percent due to a five percent decrease in sales volume, partially offset by an increase in average selling prices. European operations reported a decline in revenue due to an 11 percent drop in average selling prices, which offset a two percent gain in sales volume. Continued market pressures led to the average selling price drop. Specialty products include flavors, emulsifiers and solubilizers used in the food and pharmaceutical industries. Net sales for the year were $24.9 million, a rise of $3.7 million, or 18 percent, over 2000. Higher average selling prices coupled with a slightly higher sales volume led to the growth in revenue. Gross profit decreased to $107.2 million in 2001 from $112.0 million in 2000. Surfactants gross profit was down $4.8 million, or six percent, from $79.3 million in 2000 to $74.5 million in 2001. Domestic operations reported an $8.9 million decline in gross profit due primarily to a drop in average margins. Lower sales volume also contributed. The decrease in average margins was mainly due to weaker sales mix and higher energy costs. Higher margin industrial surfactants sales volume declined as the economy slowed down through the end of 2001. Gross profit for foreign surfactants increased $4.1 million, or 29 percent, from year-to-year. A 28 percent improvement in sales volume caused the increase in gross profit. The newly acquired United Kingdom subsidiary contributed $1.9 million of the foreign increase. European operations, excluding United Kingdom, and South American operations contributed $1.0 million and $0.7 million, respectively, of the gross profit gain. Polymers gross profit declined $4.1 million, or 15 percent, from $27.9 million in 2000 to $23.8 million in 2001. Gross profit for PA declined 51 percent to $3.2 million in 2001 from $6.4 million in 2000. Lower sales volume and lower average margins accounted for the drop. Higher unit overhead costs resulting from decreased production volume coupled with some price reductions resulting from competitive situations led to the declined average margins. Global polyurethane polyols gross profit fell $0.3 million, or two percent, between years. Domestic operations reported an increase of $0.2 million, or one percent, in gross profit due to improved average margins that more than offset lower sales volume. Foreign operations gross profit fell $0.6 million on reduced average margins that more than offset higher sales volume. Polyurethane systems gross profit declined eight percent on lower sales volume. Improved average margins due to an average selling price increase and favorable sales mix partially offset the impact of lower sales volume. Specialty products reported an increase of $4.1 million in gross profit from year-to-year. The improvement was due to higher sales volume of higher margin products. 2
Operating income was $31.2 million, a $0.8 million, or three percent, decrease in comparison with 2000. Operating expenses, consisting of marketing, administrative and research and development expenses, decreased five percent between years. Administrative expenses declined $3.9 million, or 12 percent, from those reported in the prior year. A $7.5 million decline in legal and environmental expense, partially offset by $4.7 million of 2001 expense for the implementation of an enterprise resource planning system, accounted for most of the decrease between years. The drop in legal and environmental expense was primarily due to $6.1 million of prior year expense related to the company's Maywood, New Jersey, site that was non-recurring in 2001. In addition, current year expense was reduced by insurance recoveries received of $2.0 million, somewhat offset by a $0.5 million year-to-year increase in general legal expenses. Marketing expenses declined one percent between years and research and development expenses remained almost unchanged. Interest expenses declined 14 percent from year-to-year due to lower overall borrowing rates coupled with lower average debt levels. Philippine joint venture equity income rose $1.2 million between years. The improvement was largely due to reduced foreign exchange losses resulting from a devaluation of the Philippine peso in 2000. Pretax income increased $1.5 million, or six percent, to $25.9 million in 2001 from $24.4 million in 2000. The effective tax rate was 37.7 percent in 2001 compared to 38.5 percent in 2000. The lower effective tax rate was primarily attributable to Philippine tax benefits realized during 2001 (see Note 6 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for a reconciliation of the statutory rate to the effective tax rate). Net income for the year was $16.2 million, or $1.59 per share diluted, compared with $15.0 million, or $1.47 per share diluted, a year ago. The acquisition of Stepan UK Limited added $0.4 million to net income, or $0.03 per share diluted. 2000 Compared with 1999 Net sales for 2000 increased one percent from $694.7 million in 1999 to $698.9 million in 2000 (prior year data has been reclassified to conform to 2000 presentation). The increase was due to a three percent rise in sales volume. Net sales by segment were as follows: Percent (Dollars in thousands) 2000 1999 Change ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Surfactants $537,006 $547,359 -2 Polymers 140,786 126,774 +11 Specialty Products 21,145 20,526 +3 -------- -------- Total $698,937 $694,659 +1 ======== ======== Surfactants net sales, representing 77 percent of the company's revenue, decreased $10.4 million, or two percent, from $547.4 million in 1999 to $537.0 million in 3
2000. Foreign operations' net sales decreased $13.2 million, or 10 percent, from $133.0 million in 1999 to $119.8 million in 2000, which accounted for the overall net sales decline. The decrease was mainly due to a decline in revenue reported by the company's Mexican and European subsidiaries. Mexican operations reported lower revenue due to decreased sales volume. Despite a volume gain between years, European operations' net sales decreased. Weaker selling prices and lower exchange rates contributed to the overall decline. Domestic sales increased $2.8 million, or one percent, from $414.4 million in 1999 to $417.2 million in 2000. A six percent rise in sales volume offset a five percent drop in average selling prices. Average selling prices declined largely due to sales mix, increased market competition and the non-recurring favorable impact in 1999 of the settlement of a contract cancellation. Sales volume grew six percent due to higher demand for the company's laundry and cleaning products and rising export sales to Asia. Polymer net sales, accounting for 20 percent of the company's revenue, increased 11 percent, from $126.8 million in 1999 to $140.8 million in 2000. The increase was due to a five percent rise in sales volume coupled with increased average selling prices. Globally, polyurethane polyols' net sales rose $6.7 million, or ten percent, from $70.0 million in 1999 to $76.7 million in 2000. The increase was entirely due to a nine percent rise in sales volume. Both domestic and foreign operations sales increased between years. PA's net sales increased 14 percent from $36.3 million in 1999 to $41.4 million in 2000. The improvement was entirely due to a 14 percent rise in average selling prices. The higher prices were due to increased raw material costs, which were passed on to customers. Sales volume was flat between years. Polyurethane systems reported a $2.2 million, or 11 percent, increase in net sales. A nine percent rise in sales volume coupled with a two percent increase in average selling prices caused an overall improvement. Specialty products net sales for the year 2000 were $21.1 million, a rise of $0.6 million, or three percent over 1999. Higher average selling prices led to the growth. Gross profit decreased to $112.0 million in 2000 from $120.9 million in 1999. Surfactants gross profit was down $8.3 million, or nine percent, from $87.6 million in 1999 to $79.3 million in 2000. Domestic operations reported a $6.6 million, or nine percent, decrease due to lower average margins. Termination of the previously mentioned supply contract coupled with lower pricing in the higher volume product lines led to the margin decline. Gross profit for foreign operations decreased $1.7 million, or 11 percent, between years. Decreased sales volume for Mexican operations coupled with lower margins reported by the company's French subsidiary led to the overall decline. Weaker exchange rates in Europe and strong competition contributed to the decrease. Polymers' gross profit increased slightly between years to $27.9 million in 2000 from $27.8 million in 1999. Lower margins offset the impact of increased sales volume. Globally, polyurethane polyols gross profit was down $2.6 million, or 12 percent, between years. Decreased domestic and European margins, due to higher raw material costs, caused the drop in gross profit. PA's gross profit was up $1.9 million, or 42 percent, between years, despite a $0.9 million write-off of damaged catalyst. Improved margins accounted for the increase. A rise in margins and sales volume also led to a $0.7 million, or 17 percent, increase in polyurethane systems gross profit. Specialty products gross profit decreased by $0.7 million, or 13 percent, between years mainly due to lower sales of higher margin products. 4
Operating income was $32.0 million in 2000, a $9.8 million, or 23 percent, decrease from 1999. Operating expenses, consisting of marketing, administrative and research and development expenses, increased one percent between years. Marketing expenses rose $1.4 million, or six percent, primarily due to increased bad debt provision. Administrative expenses decreased just $0.6 million, or two percent, despite unusually high 1999 expenses that resulted from a $10.2 million legal settlement charge. 2000 administrative expenses included $6.1 million of legal and environmental-related charges, most of which related to potential future remediation costs at the company's Maywood, New Jersey, plant (see Environmental and Legal Matters section of this discussion for additional information). General legal expense was also up $1.4 million between years. Philippine joint venture equity income fell $0.7 million, or 51 percent, between years. An $0.8 million unfavorable swing in foreign currency exchange losses, due to a weaker Philippine peso, caused the decline. The impact from foreign exchange fluctuations excluding the joint venture was immaterial to the results of the company's operations. Pretax income declined $10.4 million, or 30 percent, to $24.4 million in 2000 from $34.8 million in 1999. The effective tax rate was 38.5 percent in 2000 compared to 36.5 percent in 1999. The higher effective tax rate was primarily attributable to the inability to tax benefit losses in Germany and Mexico. A lower tax benefit realized on Philippine income during 2000 also contributed to the higher effective tax rate (see Note 6 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for a reconciliation of the statutory rate to the effective tax rate). Net income for the year 2000 was $15.0 million, or $1.47 per share diluted, compared with $22.1 million, or $2.08 per share diluted, for 1999. Fourth Quarter 2001 Compared with 2000 For the quarter ended December 31, 2001, the company reported net income of $1.9 million, or a $0.18 per share diluted, compared to a net loss of $2.1 million, or a $0.25 loss per share diluted, in the fourth quarter of 2000. The newly acquired United Kingdom subsidiary contributed $0.4 million of 2001 fourth quarter net income, or $0.04 per share diluted. Net sales for the quarter grew five percent to $178.1 million from $169.4 million a year ago. Net sales for surfactants increased $12.6 million (10 percent), due to the acquisition of the United Kingdom subsidiary and to increased foreign sales volume. Domestic revenues and volumes declined between quarters. Polymer sales fell $3.9 million (12 percent) on a seven percent decline in sales volumes. Gross profit of $25.1 million was just shy of the $25.2 million reported in the fourth quarter of 2000. Surfactants gross profit increased $1.2 million, or seven percent, due to a $3.6 million increase recorded by foreign operations. The acquisition of the United Kingdom subsidiary contributed $1.9 million of the increased gross profit. Gross profit for polymers declined $1.9 million, or 25 percent, between quarters due to reduced sales volume coupled with lower margins. All polymer businesses reported decreased quarterly earnings. Gross profit for specialty products was up $0.6 million between quarters. Higher sales volume of higher margin products led to the growth. Operating expenses declined $5.2 million, or 19 percent, in comparison with the fourth quarter of 2000. Administrative expenses 5
dropped $4.5 million, or 32 percent, between quarters. Legal and environmental expense decreased $6.4 million from quarter to quarter due to $6.1 million of prior year Maywood-related charges that did not recur in the fourth quarter of 2001. Most of these changes were related to potential future remediation costs at the company's Maywood, New Jersey plant. Non-recurring fourth quarter 2000 acquisition investigation expenses of $0.6 million also contributed to the decline. The decline was partially offset by $2.7 million in expense incurred in 2001 related to the implementation of an enterprise resource planning system and $0.8 million in expenses incurred by the new United Kingdom subsidiary. Marketing expenses decreased $0.7 million, or 10 percent, between quarters due mostly to a $1.2 million decrease in domestic bad debt expense resulting from improved collectibility estimates for certain accounts receivable. The decline was somewhat offset by $0.3 million in marketing expense reported by the United Kingdom. Research and development expenses were flat between quarters. Philippine joint venture equity income increased $0.5 million between quarters. Foreign currency exchange losses in 2000 resulting from a weaker Philippine peso, accounted for most of the improvement. Interest expenses declined 20 percent between quarters. The decrease was due to lower overall borrowing rates, partially offset by an increased level of debt. Liquidity and Financial Condition Net cash from operations for 2001 totaled $53.6 million compared to $53.5 million for the prior year. Working capital required the use of $0.6 million for the current year, compared to a cash source of $1.4 million during 2000. From year to year accounts receivable decreased by $6.1 million, while accounts payable and other accrued liabilities decreased by an equivalent and offsetting amount. Inventories decreased by $0.4 million during 2001 while other working capital items, mainly prepaid expenses, absorbed $1.0 million. Capital expenditures, excluding acquisitions, totaled $34.0 million for the current year compared to $28.4 million during 2000. Current year capital spending included $6.6 million for an enterprise resource planning (ERP) system, which is expected to be completed in 2002. It is anticipated that total 2002 capital spending will rise modestly over 2001 levels, due mostly to higher non-ERP spending. During September 2001 the company completed the acquisition of Manro Performance Chemicals Limited, located in Stalybridge, UK. This acquisition was made for cash totaling $24.6 million and was funded through the company's committed lines of credit. Consolidated debt increased by $14.3 million during 2001 to $120.3 million mainly in order to fund the Manro Performance Chemicals Limited acquisition. As of December 31, 2001, the ratio of long-term debt to long-term debt plus shareholders' equity was 40.7 percent compared to 38.5 percent one year earlier. The company maintains contractual relationships with its domestic banks that provide for revolving credit of up to $60 million, which may be drawn upon, through January 8, 2003, as needed for general corporate purposes. The company plans to renegotiate and extend this revolving credit agreement during the first quarter of 2002. The company also meets short-term liquidity requirements through uncommitted 6
domestic bank lines of credit. The company's foreign subsidiaries maintain committed and uncommitted bank lines of credit in their respective countries to meet working capital requirements as well as to fund capital expenditure programs and acquisitions. The company anticipates that cash from operations and from committed credit facilities will be sufficient to fund anticipated capital expenditures, dividends and other planned financial commitments for the foreseeable future. Any substantial acquisitions would require additional funding. The 50 percent owned Philippine joint venture, which is accounted for under the equity method, has $5.1 million of debt, which is not consolidated with or guaranteed by Stepan Company. Market Risk Analysis FOREIGN CURRENCY EXCHANGE RISK Because the company operates in the global marketplace, its cash flows and operating results are exposed to foreign currency fluctuations. The company manufactures and sells products in many foreign locations and, therefore, believes its currency exchange risk is well diversified. Except as noted below, substantially all the company's foreign subsidiaries' financial instruments are denominated in their respective functional currencies. As such, exposure to exchange rate risk on foreign currency financial instruments is insignificant. In addition, the foreign subsidiaries periodically use short- term forward exchange contracts to limit the exposure of certain foreign currency transactions and balances to fluctuating exchange rates. At December 31, 2001, the balance of such contracts was not significant. The company's 50 percent owned Philippine joint venture has U.S. dollar-denominated debt with the potential for future translation gains or losses. A 10 percent change in this exchange rate would not have a material effect on the company's operating results or cash flow. INTEREST RATES The company's debt was composed of fixed-rate and variable-rate borrowings totaling $83.3 million and $37.0 million, respectively, as of December 31, 2001. For 2002, it is projected that interest on variable-rate borrowings will comprise about 27 percent of the company's total interest expense. A 10 percent increase or decrease to short-term interest rates would be immaterial to the company's operating results or cash flow. The fair value of the company's fixed-rate debt, including current maturities, was estimated to be $87.1 million as of December 31, 2001, which was approximately $3.8 million above the carrying value. Market risk was estimated as the potential increase to the fair value that would result from a hypothetical 10 percent decrease in the company's weighted average long-term borrowing rates at December 31, 2001, or $2.0 million. Such a rate decrease would be immaterial to future operating results or cash flow. 7
COMMODITY PRICE RISK Certain raw materials used in the manufacture of the company's products are subject to price volatility caused by weather, petroleum prices and other unpredictable factors. In many cases, the company has the ability to pass on raw material price increases to customers. Therefore, commodity financial instruments are generally not used for raw material purchases. Periodically, firm purchase commitments are entered into which fix the price of a specific commodity that will be delivered at a future time. Such commitments usually cover only a portion of the company's anticipated requirements. Commodity future and forward contracts are used to a limited extent, most often to aid in managing the company's utility costs. As of December 31, 2001, unrealized gains and losses related to such contracts were not material. A hypothetical 10 percent fluctuation in the price of commodities covered by firm commitments and forward contracts would have an immaterial effect on the company's financial position, results of operations and cash flow. Outlook The prospect for earnings improvement in 2002 is dependent upon an economic recovery. Both polymers and surfactants, particularly those used in higher margin industrial applications, will need a lift from the economy. The enterprise resource planning system implementation is scheduled for completion in 2002 with additional charges projected to approximate $0.20 to $0.25 per share (diluted). European earnings are expected to benefit from the Manro (United Kingdom) acquisition by a projected $0.20 to $0.25 per share (diluted). In addition, the future impact of customer consolidations will be closely monitored, as the potential exists for such customers to bring surfactant production in house - a situation which could lead to a loss of customers and sales volumes. Environmental and Legal Matters The company is subject to extensive federal, state and local environmental laws and regulations. Although the company's environmental policies and practices are designed to ensure compliance with these laws and regulations, future developments and increasingly stringent environmental regulation could require the company to make additional unforeseen environmental expenditures. The company will continue to invest in the equipment and facilities necessary to comply with existing and future regulations. During 2001, the company's expenditures for capital projects related to the environment were $1.1 million. These projects are capitalized and depreciated over their estimated useful lives, which is typically 10 years. Recurring costs associated with the operation and maintenance of facilities for waste treatment and disposal and managing environmental compliance in ongoing operations at our manufacturing locations were approximately $7.9 million for 2001 and 2000. While difficult to project, it is not anticipated that these recurring expenses will increase significantly in the future. The company has been named by the government as a potentially responsible party at 16 waste disposal sites where cleanup costs have been or may be incurred under the federal Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act 8
and similar state statutes. In addition, damages are being claimed against the company in general liability actions for alleged personal injury or property damage in the case of some disposal and plant sites. The company believes that it has made adequate provisions for the costs it may incur with respect to the sites. It is the company's accounting policy to record liabilities when environmental assessments and/or remedial efforts are probable and the cost or range of possible costs can be reasonably estimated. When no amount within the range is a better estimate than any other amount, at least the minimum is accrued. Some of the factors on which the company basis its estimates include information provided by feasibility studies, potentially responsible party negotiations and the development of remedial action plans. Because reported liabilities are recorded based on estimates, actual amounts could differ from those estimates. After partial remediation payments at certain sites, the company has estimated a range of possible environmental and legal losses from $7.4 million to $35.0 million at December 31, 2001, compared to $7.5 million to $35.0 million at December 31, 2000. At December 31, 2001, the company's reserve was $17.0 million for legal and environmental matters compared to $16.6 million at December 31, 2000. During 2001, non-capital expenditures related to legal and environmental matters approximated $2.6 million compared to $2.5 million, net of insurance recoveries, expended in 2000. While it is difficult to forecast the timing of the expenditures, the company believes that $3.0 million of the $17.0 million reserve is likely to be paid out in 2002. The timing of future payments is uncertain. For certain sites, estimates cannot be made of the total costs of compliance or the company's share of such costs; accordingly, the company is unable to predict the effect thereof on future results of operations. In the event of one or more adverse determinations in any annual or interim period, the impact on results of operations for those periods could be material. However, based upon the company's present belief as to its relative involvement at these sites, other viable entities' responsibilities for cleanup and the extended period over which any costs would be incurred, the company believes that these matters will not have a material effect on the company's financial position. Certain of these matters are discussed in Item 3, Legal Proceedings, in the 2001 Form 10-K Annual Report and in other filings of the company with the Securities and Exchange Commission, which are available upon request from the company. See also Footnote 12, Contingencies, in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for a summary of the environmental proceedings related to the company's Maywood, New Jersey, and Ewan and D'Imperio environmental sites. New Accounting Standards In June 2001, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) No. 141, "Business Combinations" and SFAS No. 142, "Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets," effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2001, for acquisitions entered into prior to June 30, 2001, and effective immediately for acquisitions entered into after June 30, 2001. SFAS No. 141 requires the use of the purchase method of accounting for all transactions initiated after June 30, 2001. SFAS No. 142 addresses financial accounting and reporting for goodwill and other intangible assets subsequent to their acquisition. The new standard establishes that goodwill is no longer to be amortized. Instead, goodwill will be tested for 9
impairment by applying a fair-value-based test each year, and more frequently, if circumstances indicate a possible impairment. If the carrying amount exceeds the implied fair value of that goodwill, an impairment loss shall be recognized. Equity-method goodwill is not, however, subject to the new impairment rules; the impairment guidance in existing rules for equity-method investments continues to apply. The standard also establishes new accounting guidelines for intangible assets that are determined to have an indefinite useful life. These assets are no longer subject to amortization, but shall be tested for impairment annually or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that the asset might be impaired. If the carrying amount of an intangible asset exceeds the fair value, an impairment loss shall be recognized in an amount equal to that excess. Any impairment as a result of initial adoption of SFAS No. 142 will be recorded as a cumulative effect of changes in accounting principles. The company has applied the provisions of SFAS No. 141 and SFAS No. 142 to the September 13, 2001, acquisition of Manro Performance Chemicals in Stalybridge, UK (see Footnote 2, Acquisitions, in Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements). The provisions of SFAS No. 141 and SFAS No. 142 will be applied to acquisitions made prior to June 30, 2001, starting on January 1, 2002. The company estimates that approximately $0.4 million of goodwill amortization will stop being recorded. Presently, it is unknown whether any goodwill or intangible asset impairments will be recognized or whether the amortization of any identifiable intangible assets will be reduced. The company is currently assessing such matters. In April 2001, the Emerging Issues Task Force (EITF) issued EITF Issue No. 00-25, "Vendor Income Statement Characterization of Consideration Paid to a Reseller of the Vendor's Products". EITF Issue No. 00-25 provides guidance regarding the reporting of consideration given by a vendor to a reseller of the vendor's products. This Issue requires certain considerations from vendor to a reseller of the vendor's products be considered: (a) as a reduction of the selling prices of the vendor's products and, therefore, be recorded as a reduction of revenue when recognized in the vendor's income statement, or (b) as a cost incurred by the vendor for assets or services received from the reseller and, therefore, be recorded as a cost or an expense when recognized in the vendor's income statement. EITF Issue No. 00-25 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2001. The company's accounting policies are currently consistent with the guidance provided in this EITF. Therefore, adoption of this standard is not expected to have an impact on the company's statements of income or financial position. 10
Report of Management on Financial Statements The financial statements of Stepan Company and subsidiaries were prepared by and are the responsibility of management. The statements have been prepared in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles appropriate in the circumstances and include some amounts that are based on management's best estimates and judgments. The Board of Directors, through its Audit Committee, assumes an oversight role with respect to the preparation of the financial statements. In meeting its responsibility for the reliability of the financial statements, the company depends on its system of internal accounting control. The system is designed to provide reasonable assurance that assets are safeguarded and that transactions are executed as authorized and are properly recorded. The system is augmented by written policies and procedures and an internal audit department. The Audit Committee of the Board of Directors, composed solely of directors who are not officers or employees of the company, meets regularly with management, with the company's internal auditors and with its independent certified public accountants to discuss its evaluation of internal accounting controls and the quality of financial reporting. The independent auditors and the internal auditors have free access to the Audit Committee, without management's presence. F. Quinn Stepan Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer F. Quinn Stepan, Jr. President and Chief Operating Officer Walter J. Klein Vice President - Finance February 11, 2002 11
Report of Independent Public Accountants To the Stockholders of Stepan Company: We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Stepan Company (a Delaware corporation) and Subsidiaries as of December 31, 2001 and 2000, and the related consolidated statements of income, cash flows and stockholders' equity, for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2001. These consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of the company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements based on our audits. We conducted our audits in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the consolidated financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall consolidated financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion. In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Stepan Company and Subsidiaries as of December 31, 2001 and 2000, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2001, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States. Chicago, Illinois February 11, 2002 12
Consolidated Balance Sheets December 31, 2001 and 2000 (Dollars in thousands) 2001 2000 - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Assets Current Assets: Cash and cash equivalents $ 4,224 $ 3,536 Receivables, less allowances of $2,272 in 2001 and $3,154 in 2000 103,190 98,488 Inventories (Note 3) 61,863 60,132 Deferred income taxes (Note 6) 10,684 10,866 Other current assets 5,233 4,191 ------------- ------------- Total current assets 185,194 177,213 ============= ============= Property, Plant and Equipment: Land 6,156 5,786 Buildings and improvements 75,720 69,654 Machinery and equipment 565,150 530,564 Construction in progress 20,091 13,292 ------------- ------------- 667,117 619,296 Less: Accumulated depreciation 454,684 420,149 ------------- ------------- Property, plant and equipment, net 212,433 199,147 ------------- ------------- Other Assets 37,861 38,689 ------------- ------------- Total assets $ 435,488 $ 415,049 ============= ============= Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity Current Liabilities: Current maturities of long-term debt (Note 4) $ 10,745 $ 9,586 Accounts payable 62,410 57,255 Accrued liabilities (Note 10) 36,575 39,121 ------------- ------------- Total current liabilities 109,730 105,962 ------------- ------------- Deferred Income Taxes (Note 6) 35,040 39,170 ------------- ------------- Long-term Debt, less current maturities (Note 4) 109,588 96,466 ------------- ------------- Other Non-current Liabilities (Note 11) 21,401 19,275 ------------- ------------- Stockholders' Equity (Note 7): 5 1/2 percent convertible preferred stock, cumulative, voting, without par value; authorized 2,000,000 shares; issued 583,252 shares in 2001 and 583,469 shares in 2000 14,581 14,587 Common stock, $1 par value; authorized 30,000,000 shares; issued 9,604,003 shares in 2001 and 9,411,106 shares in 2000 9,604 9,411 Additional paid-in capital 16,893 13,343 Accumulated other comprehensive loss (Note 1) (14,800) (12,402) Retained earnings 142,110 133,308 ------------- ------------- 168,388 158,247 Less: Treasury stock, at cost 8,659 4,071 ------------- ------------- Stockholders' equity 159,729 154,176 ------------- ------------- Total liabilities and stockholders' equity $ 435,488 $ 415,049 ============= ============= The accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements are an integral part of these statements. 13
Consolidated Statements of Income For the years ended December 31, 2001, 2000 and 1999 (In thousands, except per share amounts) 2001 2000 1999 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Net Sales (Note 1) $ 711,517 $ 698,937 $ 694,659 ------------- ------------- ------------- Cost of Sales 604,288 586,911 573,714 ------------- ------------- ------------- Gross Profit 107,229 112,026 120,945 ------------- ------------- ------------- Operating Expenses: Marketing 24,884 25,166 23,799 Administrative 28,251 32,152 32,775 Research, development and technical services (Note 1) 22,869 22,680 22,593 ------------- ------------- ------------- 76,004 79,998 79,167 ------------- ------------- ------------- Operating Income 31,225 32,028 41,778 Other Income (Expenses): Interest, net (Note 4) (7,168) (8,328) (8,376) Income from equity joint venture (Note 1) 1,869 703 1,427 ------------- ------------- ------------- (5,299) (7,625) (6,949) ------------- ------------- ------------- Income Before Provision for Income Taxes 25,926 24,403 34,829 Provision for Income Taxes (Note 6) 9,774 9,395 12,700 ------------- ------------- ------------- Net Income $ 16,152 $ 15,008 $ 22,129 ============= ============= ============= Net Income Per Common Share (Note 14): Basic $ 1.66 $ 1.52 $ 2.22 ============= ============= ============= Diluted $ 1.59 $ 1.47 $ 2.08 ============= ============= ============= Shares Used to Compute Net Income Per Common Share (Note 14): Basic 9,249 9,355 9,592 ============= ============= ============= Diluted 10,133 10,236 10,632 ============= ============= ============= The accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements are an integral part of these statements. 14
Combined Sales (Dollars in thousands) Specialty Consolidated Surfactants Polymers Products Total 1997 475,585 110,753 19,236 605,574 1998 493,930 122,148 19,678 635,756 1999 547,359 126,774 20,526 694,659 2000 537,006 140,786 21,145 698,937 2001 558,927 127,722 24,868 711,517 2001 Sales Dollar Distribution (Dollars in thousands) Material $428,506 60.2% Other Expenses 113,864 16.0% Payroll and Fringes 103,249 14.5% Depreciation and Amortization 39,972 5.6% Income Taxes 9,774 1.4% Net Income 16,152 2.3% 15
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows For the years ended December 31, 2001, 2000 and 1999 (Dollars in thousands) 2001 2000 1999 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Net Cash Flows from Operating Activities Net income $ 16,152 $ 15,008 $ 22,129 Depreciation and amortization 39,972 39,277 39,452 Deferred revenue recognition (470) (1,761) (5,165) Deferred income taxes (2,383) (3,905) 3,745 Environmental and legal liabilities 331 5,069 (4,999) Other non-cash items 610 (1,565) (98) Changes in Working Capital: Receivables, net 6,062 (1,399) (15,199) Inventories 419 (8,283) 647 Accounts payable and accrued liabilities (6,075) 10,890 10,676 Other (1,042) 201 (575) ----------------------------------------- Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities 53,576 53,532 50,613 ----------------------------------------- Cash Flows from Investing Activities Expenditures for property, plant and equipment (34,014) (28,442) (32,697) Investment in acquisitions (24,640) -- (450) Other non-current assets 1,560 (1,122) (594) ----------------------------------------- Net Cash Used for Investing Activities (57,094) (29,564) (33,741) ----------------------------------------- Cash Flows from Financing and Other Related Activities Revolving debt and notes payable to banks, net 22,200 (1,500) 11,400 Other debt borrowings 1,188 -- -- Other debt repayments (9,107) (7,531) (10,832) Purchases of treasury stock, net (4,588) (8,732) (8,255) Dividends paid (7,350) (7,004) (6,727) Stock option exercises 3,151 1,397 1,088 Other non-cash items (1,288) (1,031) (560) ----------------------------------------- Net Cash Provided by (Used for) Financing and Other Related Activities 4,206 (24,401) (13,886) ----------------------------------------- Net Increase (Decrease) in Cash and Cash Equivalents 688 (433) 2,986 Cash and Cash Equivalents at Beginning of Year 3,536 3,969 983 ----------------------------------------- Cash and Cash Equivalents at End of Year $ 4,224 $ 3,536 $ 3,969 ======================================== Supplemental Cash Flow Information Cash payments of income taxes, net of refunds $ 11,652 $ 13,262 $ 10,564 Cash payments of interest $ 7,862 $ 8,775 $ 8,780 The accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements are an integral part of these statements. 16
Capital Expenditures (Dollars in thousands) 1996 44,923 1997 35,589 1998 44,056 1999 32,697 2000 28,442 2001 34,014 Compound Annual Growth Five Years -5% Equity Per Share (Dollars) 1996 12.24 1997 13.01 1998 14.18 1999 15.20 2000 15.57 2001 16.14 Compound Annual Growth Five Years +6% 17
Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity For the years ended December 31, 2001, 2000 and 1999 Accumulated Other Convertible Additional Comprehensive Preferred Common Paid-in Treasury Income Retained Comprehensive (Dollars in thousands) Stock Stock Capital Stock (Loss) Earnings Income - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Balance, January 1, 1999 $ 19,611 $ 9,998 $ 10,962 $ (11,015) $ (9,050) $ 127,478 -- Sale of 85,250 shares under stock option plan -- 85 1,003 -- -- -- -- Purchase of 317,048 shares of common and 38,646 shares of preferred treasury stock, net of sales -- -- 4 (8,255) -- -- -- Retirement of 400,000 shares of common treasury stock -- (400) (516) 9,572 -- (8,656) -- Conversion of preferred stock to common stock (36) 2 34 -- -- -- -- Net income -- -- -- -- -- 22,129 $ 22,129 Other comprehensive income: Foreign currency translation adjustments -- -- -- -- (1,581) -- (1,581) --------- Comprehensive income -- -- -- -- -- -- $ 20,548 ========= Cash dividends paid: -- -- -- -- -- -- -- Preferred stock ($1.375 per share) -- -- -- -- -- (858) -- Common stock (61.25(cent)per share) -- -- -- -- -- (5,869) -- Non-qualified stock option tax benefit -- -- 422 -- -- -- -- - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Balance, December 31, 1999 19,575 9,685 11,909 (9,698) (10,631) 134,224 -- Sale of 113,950 shares under stock option plan -- 114 1,283 -- -- -- -- Purchase of 386,709 shares of common and 16,015 shares of preferred treasury stock, net of sales -- -- (260) (8,732) -- -- -- Retirement of shares of treasury stock: 400,000 shares of common stock -- (400) (565) 8,975 -- (8,010) -- 188,535 shares of preferred stock (4,713) -- 239 5,384 -- (910) -- Conversion of preferred stock to common stock (275) 12 262 -- -- -- -- Net income -- -- -- -- -- 15,008 $ 15,008 Other comprehensive income: Foreign currency translation adjustments -- -- -- -- (1,771) -- (1,771) --------- Comprehensive income -- -- -- -- -- -- $ 13,237 ========= Cash dividends paid: -- -- -- -- -- -- -- Preferred stock ($1.375 per share) -- -- -- -- -- (815) -- Common stock (66.25(cent)per share) -- -- -- -- -- (6,189) -- Non-qualified stock option tax benefit -- -- 475 -- -- -- -- - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Balance, December 31, 2000 14,587 9,411 13,343 (4,071) (12,402) 133,308 -- Sale of 192,650 shares under stock option plan -- 193 2,958 -- -- -- -- Purchase of 189,214 shares of common stock, net of sales -- -- (18) (4,588) -- -- -- Conversion of preferred stock to common stock (6) -- 6 -- -- -- -- Net income -- -- -- -- -- 16,152 $ 16,152 Other comprehensive income: Foreign currency translation adjustments -- -- -- -- (1,414) -- (1,414) Minimum pension liability adjustment (net of tax of $595) -- -- -- -- (984) -- (984) --------- Comprehensive income -- -- -- -- -- -- $ 13,754 ========= Cash dividends paid: -- -- -- -- -- -- -- Preferred stock ($1.375 per share) -- -- -- -- -- (802) -- Common stock (70.75(cent)per share) -- -- -- -- -- (6,548) -- Non-qualified stock option tax benefit -- -- 604 -- -- -- -- - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Balance, December 31, 2001 $ 14,581 $ 9,604 $ 16,893 $ (8,659) $ (14,800) $ 142,110 -- =================================================================================================================================== The accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements are an integral part of these statements. 18
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements For the years ended December 31, 2001, 2000 and 1999 1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Nature of Operations The company's operations consist predominantly of the production and sale of specialty and intermediate chemicals, which are sold to other manufacturers for use in a variety of end products. Principal markets for all products are manufacturers of cleaning and washing compounds (including detergents, shampoos, toothpastes and household cleaners), paints, cosmetics, food and beverages, agricultural products, plastics, furniture, automotive equipment, insulation and refrigeration. Principles of Consolidation The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Stepan Company and its wholly owned foreign subsidiaries. All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. The investment in the 50 percent owned joint venture in the Philippines is accounted for on the equity method and is included in the "Other Assets" caption on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. The company's share of the net earnings of the investment is included in consolidated net income. Cash and Cash Equivalents The company considers all highly liquid investments with original maturities of six months or less from the date of purchase to be cash equivalents. Concentration of Credit Risks The company grants credit to its customers who are widely distributed across the Americas, Europe, Asia and the Pacific. The company does not have any one single customer whose business represents more than 10 percent of the company's consolidated revenue. There is no material concentration of credit risk. Inventories Inventories are valued at cost, which is not in excess of market value, and include material, labor and plant overhead costs. The last-in, first-out (LIFO) method is used to determine the cost of most company inventories. The first-in, first-out (FIFO) method is used for all other inventories. Inventories priced at LIFO as of December 31, 2001 and 2000, amounted to 83 and 86 percent of total inventories, respectively. 19
Property, Plant and Equipment Depreciation of physical properties is provided on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of various assets. Lives used for calculating depreciation are 30 years for buildings, 15 years for building improvements and from three to 15 years for machinery and equipment. Major renewals and betterments are capitalized in the property accounts, while maintenance and repairs ($19,366,000, $18,472,000, and $17,815,000 in 2001, 2000 and 1999, respectively), which do not renew or extend the life of the respective assets, are charged to operations currently. The cost of property retired or sold and the related accumulated depreciation are removed from the accounts and any resulting gain or loss is reflected in income. Included in property, plant and equipment are costs related to the acquisition and development of internal-use software. Capitalized costs include external direct costs of materials and services consumed in obtaining and developing the software. For development projects where major internal resources are committed, payroll and payroll-related costs incurred during the application development phase of the project are also capitalized. The capitalized costs are amortized over the useful life of the software, which is generally three to ten years. Costs incurred in the preliminary project phase are expensed. At December 31, 2001, the consolidated "Construction in progress" amount included $6,012,000 of capitalized costs related to the company's enterprise resource planning system implementation project. Interest charges on borrowings applicable to major construction projects are capitalized and subsequently amortized over the lives of the related assets. Revenue Recognition Revenue is recognized upon shipment of goods to customers. The company records shipping and handling billed to a customer in a sales transaction as revenue. Costs incurred for shipping and handling are recorded in cost of sales. Also, the company recognizes, when incurred, certain volume rebate offers delivered subsequent to the related transactions in which they are earned and reports them as a reduction of revenue in the statement of income. Environmental Expenditures Environmental expenditures that relate to current operations are expensed or capitalized as appropriate. Expenditures that relate to an existing condition caused by past operations, and which do not contribute to current or future revenue generation, are expensed. Liabilities are recorded when environmental assessments and/or remedial efforts are probable and the cost or range of possible costs can be reasonably estimated. When no amount within the range is a better estimate than any other amount, at least the minimum is accrued. Some of the factors on which the company bases its estimates include information provided by feasibility studies, potentially responsible party negotiations and the development of remedial action plans. Because reported liabilities are recorded based on estimates, actual amounts could differ from those estimates. Legal costs related to environmental matters are expensed as incurred. Expenditures that mitigate or prevent environmental contamination and that 20
benefit future operations are capitalized. Capitalized expenditures are depreciated generally utilizing a 10 year life. See Note 12 for contingency information. Intangible Assets Included in other assets are intangible assets consisting of patents, agreements not to compete, trademarks, customer lists and goodwill, all of which were acquired as part of business acquisitions. These assets are presented net of amortization provided on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives generally ranging from five to 15 years. In June 2001, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued SFAS No. 141, "Business Combinations," and SFAS No. 142, "Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets," effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2001, for acquisitions entered into prior to June 30, 2001, and effective immediately for acquisitions entered into after June 30, 2001. SFAS No. 141 requires the use of the purchase method of accounting for all transactions initiated after June 30, 2001. SFAS No. 142 requires that the goodwill acquired as a result of a business combination completed after June 30, 2001, should not be amortized. The company has applied the provisions of SFAS No. 141 and SFAS No. 142 to the September 2001 acquisition of Manro Performance Chemicals Limited (see Footnote 2 for acquisition information). Research and Development Costs The company's research and development costs are expensed as incurred. These expenses are aimed at discovery and commercialization of new knowledge with the intent that such effort will be useful in developing a new product or in bringing about a significant improvement to an existing product or process. Total expenses were $13,729,000, $13,383,000 and $13,113,000 in 2001, 2000 and 1999, respectively. The balance of expenses reflected on the Consolidated Statements of Income relates to technical services, which include routine product testing, quality control and sales support service. Income Taxes The provision for income taxes includes federal, foreign, state and local income taxes currently payable and those deferred because of temporary differences between the financial statement and tax bases of assets and liabilities. Deferred tax assets or liabilities are computed based on the difference between the financial statement and income tax bases of assets and liabilities using the enacted marginal tax rate. Deferred income tax expenses or credits are based on the changes in the asset or liability from period to period. Translation of Foreign Currencies Assets and liabilities of consolidated foreign subsidiaries are translated into U.S. dollars at exchange rates in effect at year end. The resulting translation adjustments are included in stockholders' equity. Revenues and expenses are translated at average 21
exchange rates prevailing during the year. Gains or losses on foreign currency transactions and the related tax effects are reflected in net income. Long-Lived Assets Operating assets and associated goodwill are written down to fair value whenever an impairment review indicates that the carrying value cannot be recovered on an undiscounted cash flow basis. No impairment loss has needed to be recognized for applicable assets of continuing operations. Stock-Based Compensation Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 123, "Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation," encourages, but does not require companies to record compensation cost for stock-based employee compensation plans at fair value. The company has chosen to continue to account for stock-based compensation using the intrinsic value method prescribed in Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 25, "Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees," and related interpretations. Accordingly, compensation cost for stock options is measured as the excess, if any, of the quoted market price of the company's stock at the date of the grant over the amount an employee must pay to acquire the stock. See Note 8 for stock option plan information. Per Share Data Basic earnings per share amounts are computed based on the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding. Net income used in computing basic earnings per share has been reduced by dividends paid to preferred stockholders. Diluted earnings per share amounts are based on the increased number of common shares that would be outstanding assuming the exercise of certain outstanding stock options (under the treasury stock method) and the conversion of the convertible preferred stock, when such conversion would have the effect of reducing earnings per share. See Note 14 for the computation of earnings per share. Comprehensive Income Comprehensive income includes net income and all other nonowner changes in equity that are not reported in net income. For the twelve months ended December 31, 2001, the company's comprehensive income included net income, foreign currency translation gains and losses and a minimum pension liability adjustment. For the twelve months ended December 31, 2000 and 1999, the company's comprehensive income included net income and foreign currency translation gains and losses. Comprehensive income is disclosed in the Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity. At December 31, 2001, the total accumulated other comprehensive loss of $14,800,000 was comprised of $13,816,000 of foreign currency translation adjustments and $984,000 of minimum pension liability adjustments (net of tax of $595,000). At December 31, 2000, the accumulated other comprehensive loss included foreign currency translation adjustment of $12,402,000. 22
Segment Reporting The company reports financial and descriptive information about its reportable operating segments. Operating segments are components of the company that have separate financial information that is regularly evaluated by the chief operating decision maker to assess segment performance and allocate resources. The company discloses segment revenue, operating income, assets, capital expenditures and depreciation and amortization expenses. Enterprise-wide financial information about the revenues derived from the company's products, the geographic locations in which the company earns revenues and holds assets is also disclosed. See Note 13 for segment reporting information. Derivative Instruments In June 1998, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) No. 133, "Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities" effective for fiscal years beginning after June 15, 1999. In June 1999, the FASB issued SFAS No. 137, which deferred the effective date to fiscal years beginning after June 15, 2000. The new standard establishes accounting and reporting requirements for derivative instruments, including certain derivative instruments embedded in other contracts, and for hedging activities. Such instruments are to be recognized on the balance sheet as either an asset or a liability measured at fair value. Changes in fair value must be recognized currently in earnings or in other comprehensive income if specific hedge criteria are met. Special accounting for qualifying hedges allows a derivative instrument's gains and losses to offset related results on the hedged item in the statement of income, to the extent effective. If a transaction is designated to receive hedge accounting, the company must establish at the inception of the hedge the method it will use for assessing the effectiveness of the hedge and the measurement approach for determining the ineffective aspect of the hedge. The company has limited transactions that fall under the accounting rules of SFAS No. 133. Company policy prohibits the use of financial instruments for trading or speculative purposes. Periodically, the company enters into forward contracts to minimize exposure related to changing natural gas prices for a portion of the natural gas requirements used in its production facilities. In addition, the company's foreign subsidiaries make limited use of short-term forward exchange contracts to minimize the exposure of certain foreign currency transactions and balances to fluctuating exchange rates. As of December 31, 2001, the effects of the forward commodity and exchange contracts were not material to the company's consolidated financial statements. Use of Estimates The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. 23
Reclassifications Certain amounts in the 2000 and 1999 financial statements have been reclassified to conform to the 2001 presentation. 2. Acquisitions On September 13, 2001, the company acquired the stock of Manro Performance Chemicals Limited based in Stalybridge, UK, and changed its name to Stepan UK Limited. Manro Performance Chemicals Limited manufactures surfactants for a wide range of customers, and specializes in anionic surfactants, hydrotropes and acid catalysts. This acquisition gives the company greater critical mass in Europe. It brings an important market share for anionic surfactants in the United Kingdom and market share at some of the company's strategic multinational customers. The acquisition was accounted for as a purchase in accordance with SFAS No. 141. The acquisition cost was $24.6 million, which was $1.2 million in excess of the fair value of Manro Performance Chemicals Limited net assets. The $1.2 million excess acquisition cost over net assets was recorded as goodwill, which in accordance with SFAS No. 142, will not be amortized. The purchase price allocation is preliminary and subject to change, mainly due to finalization of fixed assets and pension valuations. The purchase price allocation will be finalized in the first half of 2002. This acquisition was funded through the company's committed lines of credit. The following table summarizes the estimated fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the date of the acquisition. At September 13, 2001 -------------------------------------------------------------------- (In thousands) Current assets $ 13,937 Property, plant and equipment 17,950 Goodwill 1,211 ------------ Total assets acquired $ 33,098 ============ Current liabilities $ 8,458 Total liabilities assumed 8,458 ------------ Net assets acquired $ 24,640 ============ Presented below are the pro forma financial results prepared under the assumption that the acquisition of Manro Performance Chemicals Limited had been completed at the beginning of the year 2000. These pro forma financial results include the assumption that the acquisition price of $24.6 million was funded through the company's committed lines of credit. Applied weighted average interest rates were 4.63 percent in 2001 and 6.97 percent in 2000. 24
PRO FORMA FINANCIAL RESULTS (In thousands, except per share amounts) Twelve Months Ended December 31 ----------------------------------------- 2001 2000 ---- ---- Net Sales $ 743,369 $ 741,097 Income Before Income Taxes $ 27,401 $ 23,082 Net Income $ 17,074 $ 14,195 Net Income Per Common Share: Basic $ 1.76 $ 1.43 ============== ============== Diluted $ 1.68 $ 1.39 ============== ============== Shares used to compute Earnings Per Common Share: Basic 9,249 9,355 =============== ================ Diluted 10,133 10,236 =============== ================ These pro forma statements represent the company's preliminary determination of adjustments associated with the purchase of Manro Performance Chemicals Limited and are based upon available information and certain assumptions that the company believes to be reasonable. Consequently, the actual results may differ from the Pro Forma results. 3. Inventories The composition of inventories was as follows: December 31 (Dollars in thousands) 2001 2000 -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Finished products $ 36,319 $ 40,515 Raw materials 25,544 19,617 ----------- ----------- Total inventories $ 61,863 $ 60,132 ============ ============ If the first-in, first-out (FIFO) inventory valuation method had been used, inventories would have been approximately $7,500,000 and $8,900,000 higher than reported at December 31, 2001 and 2000, respectively. 25
4. Debt Debt was composed of the following: December 31 (Dollars in thousands) Maturity Dates 2001 2000 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Unsecured promissory notes 6.59% 2003-2013 $ 30,000 $ 30,000 7.77% 2002-2010 24,545 27,272 7.22% 2002-2007 18,000 21,000 7.69% 2002-2005 8,000 10,000 9.70% 2002-2003 1,667 2,667 Unsecured bank debt 2003 35,200 13,000 Debt of foreign subsidiaries payable in foreign currency 2002-2006 2,921 2,113 --------------- ------------ Total debt 120,333 106,052 Less current maturities 10,745 9,586 --------------- ------------ Long-term debt $ 109,588 $ 96,466 =============== ============ Unsecured bank debt at December 31, 2001, consisted of borrowings under a committed $60,000,000 revolving credit agreement with interest at varying rates averaging 3.88 percent during the year. The agreement requires a commitment fee to be paid on the unused portion of the commitment, which averaged 0.13 percent during the year. Periodically, the company also had other borrowings under notes payable to banks under which there were no outstanding balances at December 31, 2001 and 2000. The various loan agreements contain provisions, which, among others, require maintenance of certain financial ratios and place limitations on additional debt, investments and payment of dividends. Unrestricted retained earnings were $49,138,000 and $46,126,000 at December 31, 2001 and 2000, respectively. The company is in compliance with all debt covenants. Debt at December 31, 2001, matures as follows: $10,745,000 in 2002; $46,579,000 in 2003; $10,709,000 in 2004; $10,709,000 in 2005; $8,582,000 in 2006 and $33,009,000 after 2006. The fair value of the company's fixed-rate debt, including current maturities, was estimated to be $87.1 million compared to a carrying value of $83.3 million as of December 31, 2001. Net interest expense for the years ended December 31 was composed of the following: (Dollars in thousands) 2001 2000 1999 - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Interest expense $ 7,858 $ 8,724 $ 8,661 Interest income (229) (124) (211) ------------ ------------ ------------ 7,629 8,600 8,450 Capitalized interest (461) (272) (74) ------------ ------------ ------------ Interest, net $ 7,168 $ 8,328 $ 8,376 ============ ============ ============ 26
5. Leased Properties The company leases certain property and equipment (primarily transportation equipment, buildings and computer equipment) under operating leases. Total rental expense was $4,174,000, $4,242,000 and $3,661,000 in 2001, 2000 and 1999, respectively. Minimum future rental payments under operating leases with terms in excess of one year as of December 31, 2001, are: (Dollars in thousands) Year Amount ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2002 $ 2,591 2003 2,168 2004 1,742 2005 1,546 2006 1,259 Subsequent to 2006 6,947 ---------- Total minimum future rental payments $ 16,253 ========== 6. Income Taxes The provision for taxes on income and the related income before taxes were as follows: (Dollars in thousands) 2001 2000 1999 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Taxes on Income Federal Current $ 9,173 $ 10,479 $ 6,618 Deferred (2,693) (4,019) 2,280 State Current 1,498 1,890 1,301 Deferred (441) (650) 506 Foreign Current 1,681 2,104 1,983 Deferred 556 (409) 12 ------------ ------------- ------------ Total $ 9,774 $ 9,395 $ 12,700 ============ ============ ============ Income before Taxes Domestic $ 21,405 $ 20,850 $ 29,163 Foreign 4,521 3,553 5,666 ------------ ------------ ------------ Total $ 25,926 $ 24,403 $ 34,829 ============ ============ ============ 27
No federal income taxes have been provided on $34,534,000 of undistributed earnings of the company's foreign subsidiaries. In general, the company reinvests earnings of foreign subsidiaries in their operations indefinitely. However, the company will repatriate earnings from a subsidiary where excess cash has accumulated and it is advantageous for tax or foreign exchange reasons. Because of the probable availability of foreign tax credits, it is not practicable to estimate the amount, if any, of the deferred tax liability on earnings reinvested indefinitely. The variations between the effective and statutory federal income tax rates are summarized as follows: 2001 2000 1999 (Dollars in thousands) Amount % Amount % Amount % - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Income tax provision at statutory tax rate $ 9,074 35.0 $ 8,541 35.0 $ 12,190 35.0 State taxes on income less applicable federal tax benefit 687 2.6 806 3.3 1,175 3.4 Foreign income taxed at different rates 655 2.5 452 1.9 (42) -0.1 Effect of equity in foreign joint venture (654) -2.5 (198) -0.8 (499) -1.4 Other items 12 0.1 (206) -0.9 (124) -0.4 ---------- ---- ---------- ----- ---------- ----- Total income tax provision $ 9,774 37.7 $ 9,395 38.5 $ 12,700 36.5 ========== ==== ========== ===== ========== ===== The net deferred tax liability at December 31 was comprised of the following: (Dollars in thousands) 2001 2000 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Current deferred income taxes Assets $ 11,351 $ 11,530 Liabilities (667) (664) -------------- ------------- Total net current deferred tax assets 10,684 10,866 Non-current deferred income taxes Assets 12,324 9,326 Liabilities (47,364) (48,496) -------------- ------------- Total net non-current deferred tax liabilities (35,040) (39,170) -------------- ------------- Net deferred tax liability $ (24,356) $ (28,304) ============== ============= At December 31, the tax effect of significant temporary differences representing deferred tax assets and liabilities was as follows: (Dollars in thousands) 2001 2000 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Tax over book depreciation $ (41,003) $ (44,667) Safe Harbor leases (2,038) (2,338) SFAS No. 87 pension accounting (2,513) (3,146) State income tax accrual 2,180 2,295 Deferred revenue 1,419 1,613 Book reserves deductible in other periods 16,156 16,758 Other, net 1,443 1,181 ------------- ------------- Net deferred tax liability $ (24,356) $ (28,304) ============= ============= 28
7. Stockholders' Equity The company's preferred stock is convertible at the option of the holder at any time (unless previously redeemed) into shares of common stock at a conversion of 1.14175 shares of common stock for each share of preferred stock. Dividends on preferred stock accrue at a rate of $1.375 per share per annum, which are cumulative from the date of original issue. The company may not declare and pay any dividend or make any distribution of assets (other than dividends or other distribution payable in shares of common stock) or redeem, purchase or otherwise acquire, shares of common stock, unless all accumulated and unpaid preferred dividends have been paid or are contemporaneously declared and paid. The preferred stock is subject to optional redemption by the company, in whole or in part, at any time on or after September 1, 1997. As of September 1, 2001, the redemption price is $25.14 per share and will be reduced to the minimum redemption price of $25 per share on September 1, 2002, plus accrued and unpaid dividends thereon to the date fixed for redemption. Preferred stock is entitled to 1.14175 votes per share on all matters submitted to stockholders for action and votes together with the common stock as a single class, except as otherwise provided by law or the Certificate of Incorporation of the company. There is no mandatory redemption or sinking fund obligation with respect to the preferred stock. On November 3, 2000, 400,000 shares of common stock and 188,535 shares of preferred stock held in treasury were retired in accordance with the Board of Directors' authorization. At December 31, 2000, treasury stock consisted of no shares of preferred stock and 183,573 shares of common stock. No retirement of treasury stock took place during 2001. At December 31, 2001, treasury stock consisted of no shares of preferred stock and 372,787 shares of common stock. 8. Stock Option Plans The company has three fixed stock option plans: the 1982 Plan, the 1992 Plan and the 2000 Plan. No further grants may be made under the 1982 Plan and no options granted under the 1982 Plan remain outstanding at December 31, 2001. The 1992 Plan extends participation to directors who are not employees of the company. It authorizes the award of up to 1,600,000 shares of the company's common stock for stock options ("options") and stock appreciation rights ("SAR"). SARs entitle the employee to receive an amount equal to the difference between the fair market value of a share of stock at the time the SAR is exercised and the exercise price specified at the time the SAR is granted. No further grants may be made under the 1992 Plan after December 31, 2001. The 2000 Plan, which also extends participation to non-employee directors, authorizes the award of 1,000,000 shares of the company's common stock for options, SAR and stock awards. A stock award is a grant of shares of stock to an employee, the earnings vesting or distribution of which is subject to certain conditions established by the Compensation and Development Committee of the Board of Directors. Options are granted at the market price on the date of grant. An option may not be exercised within two years from the date of grant and no option will be exercisable after 10 years from the date granted. The company accounts for these plans under APB Opinion No. 25, under which no compensation cost has been recognized. Had compensation cost for options granted under these stock option plans been determined based on the fair value at the 29
grant date for awards in 2001, 2000 and 1999 consistent with the provisions of SFAS No. 123, the company's net income and earnings per share would have been reduced to the following pro forma amounts: (Dollars in thousands, except per share data) 2001 2000 1999 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Net Income - as reported $ 16,152 $ 15,008 $ 22,129 Net Income - pro forma 15,227 14,008 21,272 Basic Earnings per share - as reported 1.66 1.52 2.22 Basic Earnings per share - pro forma 1.56 1.41 2.13 Diluted Earnings per share - as reported 1.59 1.47 2.08 Diluted Earnings per share - pro forma 1.51 1.37 2.01 The fair value of each option grant is estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model with the following weighted-average assumptions used for grants in 2001, 2000 and 1999: expected dividend yield of 2.75 percent in 2001, and 2.50 percent in 2000 and 1999. Expected volatility of 24.2 percent in 2001, 24.7 percent in 2000 and 26.7 percent in 1999; expected lives of 7.5 years; and risk-free interest rate of 5.14 percent in 2001, 6.72 percent in 2000 and 5.21 percent in 1999. A summary of the status of the company's stock option plans at December 31, 2001, 2000 and 1999, and changes during the years then ended is presented as follows: Weighted- Weighted- Weighted- Average Average Average 2001 Exercise 2000 Exercise 1999 Exercise Shares Price Shares Price Shares Price - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Options outstanding, 1,502,899 $20.49 1,222,363 $19.38 1,247,591 $18.76 beginning of year Options exercised (192,650) 16.35 (113,950) 12.26 (85,250) 12.76 Options canceled (78,171) 24.48 (24,238) 25.43 (4,036) 30.97 Options granted 26,630 23.30 418,724 21.77 64,058 23.42 ---------- ---------- ----------- Options outstanding, end of year 1,258,708 20.93 1,502,899 20.49 1,222,363 19.38 ---------- ---------- ----------- Option price range $ 14.000- $ 12.563- $ 9.438- at end of year 30.969 30.969 30.969 Option price range $ 12.563- $ 9.438- $ 9.438- for exercised shares 19.750 19.750 19.750 Options available for grant at end of year 912,616 861,075 255,561 Weighted-average fair value of options, granted during the year $ 6.22 $ 6.94 $ 6.98 30
A summary of stock options outstanding at December 31, 2001, is as follows: Options Outstanding Options Exercisable - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Weighted- Average Weighted Weighted Number Remaining -Average Number -Average Range of Outstanding at Contractual Exercise Exercisable at Exercise Exercise Price 12/31/01 Life Price 12/31/01 Price - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- $14.000 270,000 5.23 $ 14.00 270,000 $ 14.00 $18.219 - $30.969 988,708 9.17 22.83 876,858 20.52 --------- ----------- 1,258,708 8.32 $ 20.93 1,146,858 $ 18.99 ========= =========== 9. Pension Plans The company has non-contributory defined benefit plans covering substantially all employees. The benefits under these plans are based primarily on years of service and compensation levels. The company funds the pension plan up to the maximum amount deductible for income tax purposes. The plans' assets consist principally of marketable equity securities and government and corporate debt securities. The plans' assets at December 31, 2001 and 2000, included $10,239,000 and $10,023,000, respectively, of the company's common stock. Net 2001, 2000 and 1999 periodic pension cost for the plans consisted of the following: (Dollars in thousands) 2001 2000 1999 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Service cost $ 2,196 $ 2,047 $ 2,344 Interest cost on projected benefit obligation 4,207 3,970 3,629 Expected return on plan assets (6,233) (5,812) (5,156) Amortization of unrecognized net transition assets -- (567) (567) Amortization of unrecognized prior service cost 347 312 287 Amortization of unrecognized net loss/(gain) (448) (517) 14 ------- ------- ------- Net pension expense/(income) $ 69 $ (567) $ 551 ======= ======= ======= Changes in benefit obligations for the years ending December 31, 2001 and 2000, were as follows: (Dollars in thousands) 2001 2000 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Benefit obligation at beginning of year $ 56,654 $ 50,727 Service cost 2,196 2,047 Interest cost 4,207 3,970 Plan amendments 292 844 Actuarial loss 2,553 1,173 Benefits paid (2,136) (2,107) -------- -------- Benefit obligation at end of year $ 63,766 $ 56,654 ======== ======== 31
Changes in the fair value of plan assets during years 2001 and 2000 were as follows: (Dollars in thousands) 2001 2000 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year $ 73,664 $ 76,249 Actual return on plan assets (8,319) (792) Employer contributions 110 314 Benefits paid (2,136) (2,107) -------- -------- Fair value of plan assets at end of the year $ 63,319 $ 73,664 ======== ======== The reconciliation of the funded status of the plans at December 31 was as follows: (Dollars in thousands) 2001 2000 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Plan assets (less than) / in excess of $ (447) $ 17,010 projected benefit obligations Unrecognized prior service cost 2,244 2,300 Unrecognized net (loss) / gain 5,608 (11,947) -------- -------- Net amount recognized $ 7,405 $ 7,363 ======== ======== The foregoing accumulated benefit obligation and fair value of plan assets amounts include both overfunded and underfunded plans. At December 31, 2001, the projected benefit obligation, the accumulated benefit obligation and fair value of plan assets for the underfunded plans were $12,375,000, $12,375,000 and $9,940,000, respectively. The amounts recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheets at December 31 consisted of the following: (Dollars in thousands) 2001 2000 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Prepaid benefit cost $ 6,762 $ 7,363 Accrued benefit liability (2,435) -- Intangible asset 1,499 -- Accumulated other comprehensive loss 1,579 -- ------- ------- Net amount recognized $ 7,405 $ 7,363 ======= ======= The prepaid benefit cost, accrued benefit liability and intangible asset amounts are included in the "Other Assets" caption of the Consolidated Balance Sheets. The accumulated other comprehensive loss amount is included in the "Shareholders' Equity" section of the Consolidated Balance Sheets. 32
The weighted-average assumptions as of December 31, 2001, 2000 and 1999, were as follows: 2001 2000 1999 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Discount rate 7.25% 7.50% 7.75% Expected return on plan assets 8.50% 8.50% 8.50% Rate of compensation increase 4.00%-6.00% 4.00%-6.00% 4.25%-6.25% The plans' net transitional assets are being amortized over a period of 15 years. The prior service costs are being amortized over an average of 12 years. 10. Accrued Liabilities Accrued liabilities consisted of: December 31 -------------------------- (Dollars in thousands) 2001 2000 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Accrued payroll and benefits $14,855 $13,929 Accrued customer discounts 8,669 9,800 Other accrued liabilities 13,051 15,392 ------- ------- Total accrued liabilities $36,575 $39,121 ======= ======= 11. Other Non-Current Liabilities Other non-current liabilities were comprised of the following: December 31 -------------------------- (Dollars in thousands) 2001 2000 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Deferred revenue $ 2,568 $ 3,264 Environmental and legal matters (Note 12) 13,964 13,632 Other non-current liabilities 4,869 2,379 ------- ------- Total other non-current liabilities $21,401 $19,275 ======= ======= During and prior to 1998, the company received prepayments on certain multi-year commitments for future shipments of products. As the commitments are fulfilled, a proportionate share of the deferred revenue is recognized into income. In 2000, the term of a current contract was extended, and the recognition rate of deferred revenue into income was revised to correspond to the extended term. Related deferred revenue at December 31, 2001 and 2000, were $3,297,000 and $3,767,200, respectively, of which the amount recognizable within one year is included in the "Accrued Liabilities" caption in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. 12. Contingencies There are a variety of legal proceedings pending or threatened against the company. Some of these proceedings may result in fines, penalties, judgments or costs being assessed against the company at some future time. The company's operations are subject to extensive local, state and federal regulations, including the federal 33
Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act of 1980 (CERCLA) and the Superfund amendments of 1986 ("Superfund"). The company, and others have been named as potentially responsible parties at affected geographic sites. As discussed in Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, the company believes that it has made adequate provisions for the costs it may incur with respect to these sites. After partial remediation payments at certain sites, the company has estimated a range of possible environmental and legal losses from $7.4 million to $35.0 million at December 31, 2001, compared to $7.5 million to $35.0 million at December 31, 2000. At December 31, 2001, the company's reserve was $17.0 million for legal and environmental matters compared to $16.6 million at December 31, 2000. The company made payments of $2.6 million in 2001 and $2.5 million in 2000 related to legal costs, settlements and costs related to remedial design studies at various sites. For certain sites, estimates cannot be made of the total costs of compliance, or the company's share of such costs; accordingly, the company is unable to predict the effect thereof on future results of operations. In the event of one or more adverse determinations in any annual or interim period, the impact on results of operations for those periods could be material. However, based upon the company's present belief as to its relative involvement at these sites, other viable entities' responsibilities for cleanup, and the extended period over which any costs would be incurred, the company believes that these matters will not have a material effect on the company's financial position. Certain of these matters are discussed in Item 3, Legal Proceedings, in the 2001 Form 10-K Annual Report and in other filings of the company with the Securities and Exchange Commission, which filings are available upon request from the company. Following are summaries of the environmental proceedings related to the company's Maywood, New Jersey, and Ewan and D'Imperio environmental sites: Maywood, New Jersey, Site As reported previously, the company's site in Maywood, New Jersey and property formerly owned by the company adjacent to its current site, were listed on the National Priorities List in September 1993 pursuant to the provisions of the CERCLA because of certain alleged chemical contamination. Pursuant to an Administrative Order on Consent entered into between the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) and the company for property formerly owned by the company, and the issuance of an order by USEPA to the company for property currently owned by the company, the company completed a Remedial Investigation Feasibility Study (RI/FS) in 1994. In addition, the company submitted an FS Addendum to USEPA in October 2000 and its response to USEPA's comments in September 2001. Discussions between USEPA and the company are continuing and the company has submitted additional information regarding the remediation. The company is awaiting the issuance of a Record of Decision (ROD) from USEPA relating to the currently owned and formerly owned company property and the proposed remediation. The final ROD will be issued sometime after the public comment period. In 1985, the company entered into a Cooperative Agreement with the United States of America represented by the Department of Energy (Agreement). Pursuant to this Agreement, the Department of Energy (DOE) took title to radiological contaminated materials and was to remediate, at its expense, all radiological waste on the company's 34
property in Maywood, New Jersey. The Maywood property (and portions of the surrounding area) were remediated by the DOE under the Formerly Utilized Sites Remedial Action Program, a federal program under which the U.S. Government undertook to remediate properties which were used to process radiological material for the U.S. Government. In 1997, responsibility for this clean-up was transferred to the United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE). On January 29, 1999, the company received a copy of a USACE Report to Congress dated January 1998 in which the USACE expressed their intention to evaluate, with the USEPA, whether the company and/or other parties might be responsible for cost recovery or contribution claims related to the Maywood site. Subsequent to the issuance of that report, the USACE advised the company that it had requested legal advice from the Department of Justice as to the impact of the Agreement. By letter dated July 28, 2000, the Department of Justice advised the company that the USACE and USEPA had referred to the Justice Department claims against the company for response costs incurred or to be incurred by the USACE, USEPA and the DOE in connection with the Maywood site and the Justice Department stated that the United States is entitled to recovery of its response costs from the company under CERCLA. The letter referred to both radiological and non-radiological hazardous waste at the Maywood site and stated that the United States has incurred unreimbursed response costs to date of $138 million. Costs associated with radiological waste at the Maywood site, which the company believes represent all but a small portion of the amount referred to in the Justice Department letter, could be expected to aggregate substantially in excess of that amount. In the letter, the Justice Department invited the company to discuss settlement of the matter in order to avoid the need for litigation. The company believes that its liability, if any, for such costs has been resolved by the aforesaid Agreement. Despite the fact that the company continues to believe that it has no liability to the United States for such costs, discussions with the Justice Department are currently ongoing to attempt to resolve this matter. The company believes it has adequate reserves for claims associated with the Maywood site. However, depending on the results of the ongoing discussions regarding the Maywood site, the final cost of the remediation could differ from the current estimates. Ewan and D'Imperio Sites As reported previously, the company has been named as a potentially responsible party (PRP) in the case USEPA v. Jerome Lightman (92 CV 4710 D. N. J.), which involves the Ewan and D'Imperio Superfund Sites located in New Jersey. Trial on the issue of the company's liability at these sites was completed in March 2000. The company is awaiting a decision from the court. If the company is found liable at either site, a second trial as to the company's allocated share of clean-up costs at these sites will likely be held in 2002 or 2003. The company believes it has adequate defenses to the issue of liability. In the event of an unfavorable outcome related to the issue of liability, the company believes it has adequate reserves; however, the final cost related to Ewan and D'Imperio sites could differ from the current estimates. 35
13. Segment Reporting Stepan Company has three reportable segments: surfactants, polymers and specialty products. Each segment provides distinct products and requires separate management due to unique markets, technologies and production processes. Surfactants are used in a variety of consumer and industrial cleaning compounds as well as in agricultural products, lubricating ingredients and other specialized applications. Polymers derive its revenues from the sale of phthalic anhydride, polyurethane polyols and polyurethane systems used in plastics, building materials and refrigeration systems. Specialty products sell chemicals used in food, flavoring and pharmaceutical applications. The company evaluates the performance of its segments and allocates resources based on operating income before interest income/expense, other income/expense items and income tax provisions. The accounting policies of the reportable segments are the same as those described in the summary of significant accounting policies. There is no intersegment revenue and all intercompany transactions are eliminated from segments' revenue. Segment data for the three years ended December 31, 2001, 2000 and 1999, was as follows: Specialty Segment (Dollars in thousands) Surfactants Polymers Products Totals ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 2001 Net sales $558,927 $127,722 $24,868 $711,517 Operating income 35,168 17,264 7,807 60,239 Assets 337,880 43,427 17,724 399,031 Capital expenditures 22,408 2,529 1,689 26,626 Depreciation and amortization expenses 30,472 5,656 1,290 37,418 2000 Net sales $537,006 $140,786 $21,145 $698,937 Operating income 41,718 21,001 3,130 65,849 Assets 310,820 53,314 18,121 382,255 Capital expenditures 23,333 3,427 986 27,746 Depreciation and amortization expenses 30,276 5,981 1,334 37,591 1999 Net sales $547,359 $126,774 $20,526 $694,659 Operating income 51,123 21,453 4,454 77,030 Assets 315,580 52,434 18,760 386,774 Capital expenditures 24,423 4,846 807 30,076 Depreciation and amortization expenses 31,091 5,856 1,128 38,075 36
Below are reconciliations of segment data to the accompanying consolidated financial statements: (Dollars in thousands) 2001 2000 1999 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Operating income - segment totals $ 60,239 $ 65,849 $ 77,030 Unallocated corporate expenses/(a)/ (29,014) (33,821) (35,252) Interest expense (7,168) (8,328) (8,376) Income from equity in joint venture 1,869 703 1,427 ------------ ----------- --------- Consolidated income before income taxes $ 25,926 $ 24,403 $ 34,829 ============ =========== ========= Assets - segment totals $ 399,031 $ 382,255 $ 386,774 Unallocated corporate assets/(b)/ 36,457 32,794 27,802 ------------ ----------- --------- Consolidated assets $ 435,488 $ 415,049 $ 414,576 ============ =========== ========= Capital expenditures - segment totals $ 26,626 $ 27,746 $ 30,076 Unallocated corporate expenditures 7,388 696 2,621 ------------ ----------- --------- Consolidated capital expenditures $ 34,014 $ 28,442 $ 32,697 ============ =========== ========= Depreciation and amortization expenses - segment totals $ 37,418 $ 37,591 $ 38,075 Unallocated corporate depreciation expenses 2,554 1,686 1,377 ------------ ----------- --------- Consolidated depreciation and amortization expenses $ 39,972 $ 39,277 $ 39,452 ============ =========== ========= (a) Includes corporate administrative and corporate manufacturing expenses which are not included in segment operating income and not used to evaluate segment performance. (b) Includes items such as deferred tax asset, prepaid pension asset, joint venture investment, corporate fixed assets and LIFO inventory reserve which are not allocated to segments. Company-wide geographic data for the years ended December 31, 2001, 2000 and 1999, is as follows (net sales attributed to countries based on selling location): (Dollars in thousands) 2001 2000 1999 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Net sales United States $550,208 $569,357 $553,966 All foreign countries 161,309 129,580 140,693 -------- -------- -------- Total $711,517 $698,937 $694,659 ======== ======== ======== Long-lived assets United States $172,090 $180,369 $193,436 All foreign countries 40,343 18,778 16,045 -------- -------- -------- Total $212,433 $199,147 $209,481 ======== ======== ======== 37
14. Earnings Per Share Below is the computation of basic and diluted earnings per share for the years ended December 31, 2001, 2000 and 1999: (In thousands, except per share amounts) 2001 2000 1999 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Computation of Basic Earnings per Share Net income $ 16,152 $ 15,008 $ 22,129 Deduct dividends on preferred stock 802 815 858 ----------- ---------- ---------- Income applicable to common stock $ 15,350 $ 14,193 $ 21,271 Weighted-average number of shares outstanding 9,249 9,355 9,592 ----------- ---------- ---------- Basic earnings per share $ 1.66 $ 1.52 $ 2.22 =========== ========== ========== Computation of Diluted Earnings per Share Net income $ 16,152 $ 15,008 $ 22,129 Weighted-average number of shares outstanding 9,249 9,355 9,592 Add net shares from assumed exercise of options (under treasury stock method) 218 203 324 Add weighted-average shares from assumed conversion of convertible preferred stock 666 678 716 ----------- ---------- ---------- Shares applicable to diluted earnings 10,133 10,236 10,632 ----------- ---------- ---------- Diluted earnings per share $ 1.59 $ 1.47 $ 2.08 =========== ========== ========== 38
Five Year Summary (In thousands, except per share and employee data) For the Year 2001 2000 1999 1998 1997 - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Net Sales $711,517 $698,937 $694,659 $635,756 $605,574 Operating Income 31,225 32,028 41,778 45,423 44,370 Percent of net sales 4.4% 4.6% 6.0% 7.1% 7.3% Pre-tax Income 25,926 24,403 34,829 38,766 34,874 Percent of net sales 3.6% 3.5% 5.0% 6.1% 5.8% Provision for Income Taxes 9,774 9,395 12,700 15,312 14,464 Net Income 16,152 15,008 22,129 23,454 20,410 Per share (Diluted)/(a)/ 1.59 1.47 2.08 2.12 1.86 Percent of net sales 2.3% 2.1% 3.2% 3.7% 3.4% Percent to stockholders' equity/(b)/ 10.5% 9.7% 15.0% 17.0% 15.5% Cash Dividends Paid 7,350 7,004 6,727 6,432 6,069 Per common share 0.7075 0.6625 0.6125 0.5625 0.5125 Depreciation and Amortization 39,972 39,277 39,452 37,347 35,281 Capital Expenditures 34,014 28,442 32,697 44,056 35,589 Weighted-average Common Shares Outstanding 9,249 9,355 9,592 9,843 9,831 As of Year End - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Working Capital $ 75,464 $ 71,251 $ 68,615 $ 61,814 $ 63,789 Current Ratio 1.7 1.7 1.7 1.7 1.8 Property, Plant and Equipment, net 212,433 199,147 209,481 215,096 206,601 Total Assets 435,488 415,049 414,576 404,361 374,936 Long-term Debt, less current maturities 109,588 96,466 107,420 107,708 94,898 Stockholders' Equity 159,729 154,176 155,064 147,984 137,598 Per share/(c)/ 16.14 15.57 15.20 14.18 13.01 Number of Employees 1,491 1,387 1,365 1,372 1,292 /(a)/ Based on weighted-average number of common shares outstanding during the year. /(b)/ Based on equity at beginning of year. /(c)/ Based on common shares and the assumed conversion of the convertible preferred shares outstanding at year end. 39
Quarterly Stock Data (Unaudited) Dividends Paid Stock Price Range Per Common Share --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2001 2000 2001 2000 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Quarter High Low High Low - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- First $24.75 $22.35 $23.19 $19.88 17.50(c) 16.25(c) Second $26.20 $23.10 $23.25 $20.94 17.50(c) 16.25(c) Third $26.38 $17.98 $25.00 $19.63 17.50(c) 16.25(c) Fourth $24.40 $17.80 $24.00 $18.50 18.25(c) 17.50(c) -------------------------------- Year $26.38 $17.80 $25.00 $18.50 70.75(c) 66.25(c) ============================================================================================================================ Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) (Dollars in thousands, except per share data) 2001 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- Quarter First Second Third Fourth Year --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Net Sales $ 176,857 $ 182,767 $ 173,829 $ 178,064 $ 711,517 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Gross Profit 25,901 29,701 26,483 25,144 107,229 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Interest, net (1,956) (1,805) (1,819) (1,588) (7,168) --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Pre-tax Income 6,000 10,040 7,335 2,551 25,926 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Net Income 3,628 6,173 4,481 1,870 16,152 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Net Income per Share (Diluted) 0.36 0.61 0.44 0.18 1.59 =========================================================================================================================== 2000 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- Quarter First Second Third Fourth Year --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Net Sales $ 174,988 $ 177,897 $ 176,608 $ 169,444 $ 698,937 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Gross Profit 27,083 30,680 29,025 25,238 112,026 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Interest, net (2,051) (2,186) (2,099) (1,992) (8,328) --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Pre-tax Income / (Loss) 7,003 10,859 9,989 (3,448) 24,403 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Net Income / (Loss) 4,271 6,625 6,233 (2,121) 15,008 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Net Income/(Loss) per Share (Diluted) 0.41 0.64 0.61 (0.25) 1.47 =========================================================================================================================== 40
Exhibit (21) STEPAN COMPANY SUBSIDIARIES OF REGISTRANT Subsidiary Organized under the Laws of: ---------- ---------------------------- Stepan Europe S.A. France Stepan Canada, Inc. Canada Stepan Mexico, S.A. de C.V. Mexico Stepan Deutschland GmbH Germany Stepan Colombiana de Quimicos Colombia Stepan Quimica Ltda. Brazil Stepan UK Limited United Kingdom
Exhibit (23) CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS As independent public accountants, we hereby consent to the incorporation of our reports included or incorporated by reference in this Form 10-K into the company's previously filed Registration Statements on Form S-8, File Nos. 2-64668, 2-40183, 2-80336 and 33-57189, and 333-39938. ARTHUR ANDERSEN LLP Chicago, Illinois March 20, 2002
Exhibit (24) POWER OF ATTORNEY ----------------- The undersigned hereby appoints F. Quinn Stepan, Walter J. Klein and F. Samuel Eberts III and each of them individually, the true and lawful attorney or attorneys of the undersigned, with substitution and resubstitution, to execute in his name, place and stead in his capacity as an officer or director or both of Stepan Company, a Delaware corporation, the Annual Report of Form 10-K under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and any amendments or supplements thereto, and all instruments necessary or incidental in connection therewith, and to file or cause to be filed such Annual Report and related documents with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Each of said attorneys shall have full power and authority to do and perform, in the name and on behalf of the undersigned, every act whatsoever necessary or desirable to be done in the premises, as fully as all intents and purposes of the undersigned could do in person. The undersigned hereby ratifies and approves the actions of said attorneys and each of them. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned has executed this Power of Attorney on this 11th day of March 2002. /s/ F. Quinn Stepan ------------------------------------ F. Quinn Stepan /s/ F. Quinn Stepan, Jr. ------------------------------------ F. Quinn Stepan, Jr. /s/ Walter J. Klein ------------------------------------ Walter J. Klein /s/ James A. Hartlage ------------------------------------ James A. Hartlage /s/ Thomas F. Grojean ------------------------------------ Thomas F. Grojean /s/ Paul H. Stepan ------------------------------------ Paul H. Stepan /s/ Robert D. Cadieux ------------------------------------ Robert D. Cadieux /s/ Robert G. Potter ------------------------------------ Robert G. Potter