Filed by Bowne Pure Compliance
Table of Contents

 
 
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
 
FORM 10-Q
(Mark One)
     
þ   QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the quarterly period ended June 28, 2008
OR
     
o   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 000-23314
(TRACTOR SUPPLY COMPANY LOGO)
TRACTOR SUPPLY COMPANY
(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in Its Charter)
     
Delaware   13-3139732
     
(State or Other Jurisdiction of   (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
Incorporation or Organization)    
     
200 Powell Place, Brentwood, Tennessee   37027
     
(Address of Principal Executive Offices)   (Zip Code)
Registrant’s Telephone Number, Including Area Code: (615) 440-4000
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. YES þ     NO o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act (check one):
             
Large accelerated filer þ   Accelerated filer o   Non-accelerated filer o   Smaller reporting company o
        (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)    
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act.) YES o     NO þ
Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer’s classes of common stock as of the latest practicable date.
     
Class
  Outstanding at July 26, 2008
     
Common Stock, $.008 par value   36,430,077
 
 

 

 


 

TRACTOR SUPPLY COMPANY
INDEX
         
    Page No.  
 
       
    3  
 
       
    3  
 
       
    3  
 
       
    4  
 
       
    5  
 
       
    6  
 
       
    10  
 
       
    15  
 
       
    16  
 
       
    17  
 
       
    17  
 
       
    17  
 
       
    17  
 
       
    17  
 
       
    18  
 
       
    18  
 
       
    18  
 
       
    18  
 
       
 Exhibit 31.1
 Exhibit 31.2
 Exhibit 32.1

 

Page 2


Table of Contents

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Item 1. Financial Statements
TRACTOR SUPPLY COMPANY
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(in thousands, except share amounts)
                         
    June 28,     December 29,     June 30,  
    2008     2007     2007  
    (Unaudited)             (Unaudited)  
ASSETS
                       
Current assets:
                       
Cash and cash equivalents
  $ 62,957     $ 13,700     $ 30,912  
Inventories
    683,317       635,988       692,388  
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
    38,959       41,959       40,173  
Deferred income taxes
          277       6,999  
 
                 
Total current assets
    785,233       691,924       770,472  
 
Property and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation
    357,151       332,928       321,463  
Goodwill
    10,258       10,258       10,258  
Deferred income taxes
    17,665       16,692       15,059  
Other assets
    6,012       6,169       6,069  
 
                 
 
                       
Total assets
  $ 1,176,319     $ 1,057,971     $ 1,123,321  
 
                 
 
                       
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
                       
Current liabilities:
                       
Accounts payable
  $ 394,014     $ 258,346     $ 348,025  
Other accrued expenses
    101,310       115,601       110,237  
Current portion of capital lease obligations
    629       847       896  
Income taxes currently payable
    25,520       5,062       17,574  
Deferred income taxes
    2,600              
 
                 
Total current liabilities
    524,073       379,856       476,732  
 
Revolving credit loan
          55,000        
Capital lease obligations, less current maturities
    2,093       2,351       2,410  
Straight line rent liability
    34,619       30,886       27,773  
Other long-term liabilities
    23,844       24,541       22,063  
 
                 
Total liabilities
    584,629       492,634       528,978  
 
                 
 
Stockholders’ equity:
                       
Preferred stock, 40,000 shares authorized, $1.00 par value; no shares issued
                 
Common stock, 100,000,000 shares authorized; $.008 par value; 40,798,404 shares issued and 36,766,824 shares outstanding at June 28, 2008, 40,700,209 shares issued and 37,484,022 shares outstanding at December 29, 2007 and 40,506,299 shares issued and 39,286,707 shares outstanding at June 30, 2007
    326       326       324  
Additional paid-in capital
    159,613       151,317       141,481  
Treasury stock – at cost, 4,031,580 shares at June 28, 2008, 3,216,187 shares at December 29, 2007 and 1,219,592 shares at June 30, 2007
    (177,858 )     (150,049 )     (63,720 )
Retained earnings
    609,609       563,743       516,258  
 
                 
Total stockholders’ equity
    591,690       565,337       594,343  
 
                 
 
                       
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity
  $ 1,176,319     $ 1,057,971     $ 1,123,321  
 
                 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of this statement.

 

Page 3


Table of Contents

TRACTOR SUPPLY COMPANY
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
(in thousands, except per share amounts)
                                 
    For the fiscal     For the fiscal  
    three months ended     six months ended  
    June 28,     June 30,     June 28,     June 30,  
    2008     2007     2008     2007  
    (Unaudited)     (Unaudited)  
 
                               
Net sales
  $ 898,327     $ 790,929     $ 1,474,535     $ 1,350,761  
 
                               
Cost of merchandise sold
    618,850       540,505       1,018,154       932,157  
 
                       
 
                               
Gross margin
    279,477       250,424       456,381       418,604  
 
                               
Selling, general and administrative expenses
    187,343       166,959       350,528       314,146  
Depreciation and amortization
    15,008       12,357       29,380       24,370  
 
                       
 
                               
Operating income
    77,126       71,108       76,473       80,088  
 
                               
Interest expense, net
    573       604       1,796       1,529  
 
                       
 
                               
Income before income taxes
    76,553       70,504       74,677       78,559  
 
                               
Income tax expense
    29,535       26,747       28,811       29,803  
 
                       
 
                               
Net income
  $ 47,018     $ 43,757     $ 45,866     $ 48,756  
 
                       
 
                               
Net income per share — basic
  $ 1.26     $ 1.10     $ 1.23     $ 1.22  
 
                       
 
                               
Net income per share — diluted
  $ 1.24     $ 1.08     $ 1.21     $ 1.19  
 
                       
The accompanying notes are an integral part of this statement.

 

Page 4


Table of Contents

TRACTOR SUPPLY COMPANY
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(in thousands)
                 
    For the fiscal  
    six months ended  
    June 28,     June 30,  
    2008     2007  
    (Unaudited)  
Cash flows from operating activities:
               
Net income
  $ 45,866     $ 48,756  
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
               
Depreciation and amortization
    29,380       24,370  
Gain on sale of property and equipment
    (89 )     (281 )
Stock compensation expense
    6,151       5,479  
Deferred income taxes
    1,904       81  
Change in assets and liabilities:
               
Inventories
    (47,329 )     (97,537 )
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
    2,994       (3,154 )
Accounts payable
    135,668       118,854  
Other accrued expenses
    (14,291 )     (1,025 )
Income taxes currently payable
    20,458       6,024  
Other
    3,076       4,683  
 
           
 
               
Net cash provided by operating activities
    183,788       106,250  
 
           
 
               
Cash flows from investing activities:
               
Capital expenditures
    (53,467 )     (44,702 )
Proceeds from sale of property and equipment
    234       963  
 
           
 
               
Net cash used in investing activities
    (53,233 )     (43,739 )
 
           
 
               
Cash flows from financing activities:
               
Borrowings under revolving credit agreement
    329,868       356,193  
Repayments under revolving credit agreement
    (384,868 )     (356,193 )
Tax benefit on stock option exercises
    211       2,433  
Principal payments under capital lease obligations
    (476 )     (567 )
Repurchase of common stock
    (27,809 )     (63,720 )
Net proceeds from issuance of common stock
    1,776       3,862  
 
           
 
               
Net cash used in financing activities
    (81,298 )     (57,992 )
 
           
 
               
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents
    49,257       4,519  
 
               
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
    13,700       26,393  
 
           
 
               
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
  $ 62,957     $ 30,912  
 
           
 
               
Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information:
               
 
               
Cash paid during the period for:
               
Interest
  $ 2,555     $ 1,239  
Income taxes
    6,177       21,230  
The accompanying notes are an integral part of this statement.

 

Page 5


Table of Contents

TRACTOR SUPPLY COMPANY
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Note 1 – Basis of Presentation:
The accompanying unaudited interim consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States and the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission. Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and footnotes required by accounting principles generally accepted in the United States for complete financial statements. In the opinion of management, all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring accruals) considered necessary for a fair presentation have been included. These statements should be read in conjunction with our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 29, 2007. The results of operations for the fiscal three-month and six-month periods are not necessarily indicative of results for the full fiscal year.
Our business is highly seasonal. Historically, our sales and profits have been the highest in the second and fourth fiscal quarters of each year due to the sale of seasonal products. Unseasonable weather, excessive precipitation, drought, and early or late frosts may also affect our sales. We believe, however, that the impact of adverse weather conditions is somewhat mitigated by the geographic dispersion of our stores.
We experience our highest inventory and accounts payable balances during our first fiscal quarter each year for purchases of seasonal products in anticipation of the spring selling season and again during our third fiscal quarter in anticipation of the winter selling season.
Note 2 – Reclassifications:
Certain amounts in previously issued financial statements have been reclassified to conform to the fiscal 2008 presentation. Cash balances in our bank concentration account at June 30, 2007 have been reclassified and netted against the related book overdraft included in accounts payable in the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
Note 3 – Inventories:
Inventories are stated using the lower of last-in, first-out (LIFO) cost or market. Inventories are not in excess of market value. Quarterly inventory determinations under LIFO are based on assumptions as to projected inventory levels at the end of the fiscal year, sales for the year and the expected rate of inflation/deflation for the year. If the first-in, first-out (FIFO) method of accounting for inventory had been used, inventories would have been approximately $30.1 million, $25.5 million and $20.9 million higher than reported at June 28, 2008, December 29, 2007 and June 30, 2007, respectively.
Note 4 – Property and Equipment:
Property and equipment is comprised as follows:
                         
    June 28,     December 29,     June 30,  
    2008     2007     2007  
 
                       
Land
  $ 25,410     $ 23,151     $ 21,707  
Buildings and improvements
    297,679       279,313       255,888  
Furniture, fixtures and equipment
    187,895       175,941       163,484  
Computer software and hardware
    67,621       61,732       44,957  
Construction in progress
    23,461       10,006       30,164  
 
                 
 
    602,066       550,143       516,200  
Accumulated depreciation and amortization
    (244,915 )     (217,215 )     (194,737 )
 
                 
 
  $ 357,151     $ 332,928     $ 321,463  
 
                 

 

Page 6


Table of Contents

Note 5 – Share-Based Payments:
Pursuant to Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 123(R), “Share-Based Payments” (“SFAS 123(R)”), we recognize compensation expense for share-based payments based on the fair value of the awards. Share-based payments include stock option grants and certain transactions under our other stock plans. SFAS 123(R) requires share-based compensation expense to be based on the following: a) grant date fair value estimated in accordance with the original provisions of SFAS 123 for unvested options granted prior to the adoption of SFAS 123(R); b) grant date fair value estimated in accordance with the provisions of SFAS 123(R) for all share-based payments granted subsequent to adoption; and c) the discount on shares sold to employees subsequent to adoption, which represents the difference between the grant date fair value and the employee purchase price. Share-based compensation expense lowered pre-tax income by $3.0 million and $2.8 million for the second quarter of fiscal 2008 and 2007, respectively, and $6.2 million and $5.5 million for the first six months of fiscal 2008 and 2007, respectively. The benefits of tax deductions in excess of recognized compensation expense are reported as a financing cash flow.
Under SFAS 123(R), forfeitures are estimated at the time of valuation and reduce expense ratably over the vesting period. This estimate is adjusted periodically based on the extent to which actual forfeitures differ, or are expected to differ, from the previous estimate.
Stock Incentive Plan
Under our 2006 Stock Incentive Plan, options may be granted to officers, non-employee directors and other employees. The per share exercise price of options granted shall not be less than the fair market value of the stock on the date of grant and such options will expire no later than ten years from the date of grant. Also, the aggregate fair market value of the stock with respect to which incentive stock options are exercisable on a tax deferred basis for the first time by an individual in any calendar year may not exceed $100,000. Vesting of options commences at various anniversary dates following the dates of grant.
The fair value of each option grant is separately estimated for each vesting date. The fair value of each option is recognized as compensation expense ratably over the vesting period. We have estimated the fair value of all stock option awards as of the date of the grant by applying a modified Black-Scholes pricing valuation model. The application of this valuation model involves assumptions that are judgmental and highly sensitive in the determination of compensation expense, including expected stock price volatility.
The following summarizes information concerning stock option grants during fiscal 2008 and 2007:
                                 
    Three months ended     Six months ended  
    June 28, 2008     June 30, 2007     June 28, 2008     June 30, 2007  
Stock options granted
    28,000       22,600       584,874       437,450  
Weighted average exercise price
  $ 36.41     $ 51.56     $ 38.32     $ 46.44  
Weighted average fair value
  $ 13.55     $ 22.19     $ 14.51     $ 19.56  
 
The weighted average key assumptions used in determining the fair value of options granted in the three and six months ended June 28, 2008 and June 30, 2007 are as follows:
 
    Three months ended     Six months ended  
    June 28, 2008     June 30, 2007     June 28, 2008     June 30, 2007  
Expected price volatility
    32.5 %     35.2 %     34.0 %     36.1 %
Risk-free interest rate
    2.6 %     4.0 %     2.6 %     4.1 %
Weighted average expected lives in years
    4.7       5.0       5.0       4.8  
Forfeiture rate
    2.3 %     1.8 %     5.8 %     5.2 %
Dividend yield
    0.0 %     0.0 %     0.0 %     0.0 %
As of June 28, 2008, total unrecognized compensation expense related to non-vested stock options and restricted stock units was $18,301,478 with a weighted average expense recognition period of 1.52 years.

 

Page 7


Table of Contents

Restricted Stock Units
During the first six months of 2008 and 2007, we issued 77,796 and 62,997 restricted stock units which vest over an approximate three-year term and had a grant date weighted average fair value of $38.27 and $46.46, respectively.
Employee Stock Purchase Plan
We have an Employee Stock Purchase Plan (the “ESPP”) whereby eligible employees have the opportunity to purchase, through payroll deductions, shares of our common stock at a 15% discount. Pursuant to the terms of the ESPP, we issued 28,815 and 24,654 shares of our common stock during the first six months of fiscal 2008 and 2007, respectively. Total stock compensation expense related to the ESPP was approximately $256,000 and $233,000 during the first six months of 2008 and 2007, respectively. At June 28, 2008, there were 3,270,588 shares of common stock reserved for future issuance under the ESPP.
There were no modifications to our share-based compensation plans during the six months ended June 28, 2008.
Note 6 – Net Income Per Share:
We present both basic and diluted earnings per share (“EPS”) on the face of the consolidated statements of income. As provided by SFAS 128 “Earnings per Share”, basic EPS is calculated as income available to common stockholders divided by the weighted average number of shares outstanding during the period. Diluted EPS is calculated using the weighted average outstanding common shares and the treasury stock method for options and restricted stock.
Net income per share is calculated as follows (in thousands, except per share amounts):
                                                 
    Three months ended     Three months ended  
    June 28, 2008     June 30, 2007  
                    Per Share                     Per Share  
    Income     Shares     Amount     Income     Shares     Amount  
Basic net income per share:
                                               
Net income
  $ 47,018       37,193     $ 1.26     $ 43,757       39,617     $ 1.10  
 
                                               
Dilutive stock options and restricted stock outstanding
          613       (0.02 )           962       (0.02 )
 
                                   
 
                                               
Diluted net income per share:
                                               
Net income
  $ 47,018       37,806     $ 1.24     $ 43,757       40,579     $ 1.08  
 
                                   
                                                 
    Six months ended     Six months ended  
    June 28, 2008     June 30, 2007  
                    Per Share                     Per Share  
    Income     Shares     Amount     Income     Shares     Amount  
Basic net income per share:
                                               
Net income
  $ 45,866       37,354     $ 1.23     $ 48,756       39,922     $ 1.22  
 
                                               
Dilutive stock options and restricted stock outstanding
          624       (0.02 )           979       (0.03 )
 
                                   
 
                                               
Diluted net income per share:
                                               
Net income
  $ 45,866       37,978     $ 1.21     $ 48,756       40,901     $ 1.19  
 
                                   

 

Page 8


Table of Contents

Note 7 – Credit Agreement:
We are party to a Senior Credit Facility with Bank of America, N.A., as agent for a lender group, which provides for borrowings up to $350 million (with sublimits of $75 million and $20 million for letters of credit and swingline loans, respectively). In February 2008, we exercised the Increase Option on this facility, increasing the overall capacity from $250 million to $350 million. Simultaneously, the Credit Facility was modified to: (1) add an additional Increase Option for $150 million (subject to additional lender group commitments); (2) modify the definition of swingline committed amount from $10 million to $20 million; and (3) revise the definition of the fixed charge coverage ratio covenant to remove certain defined charges. All pricing terms and the term of the facility remained the same.
The Senior Credit Facility is unsecured and matures in February 2012, with proceeds expected to be used for working capital, capital expenditures and share repurchases. Borrowings will bear interest at either the bank’s base rate or LIBOR plus an additional amount ranging from 0.35% to 0.90% per annum, adjusted quarterly based on our performance (0.50% at June 28, 2008). We are also required to pay a commitment fee ranging from 0.06% to 0.18% per annum for unused capacity (0.10% at June 28, 2008). The agreement requires quarterly compliance with respect to fixed charge coverage and leverage ratios.
Note 8 – Treasury Stock:
We have a Board-approved share repurchase program which provides for repurchase of up to $200 million of common stock, exclusive of any fees, commissions, or other expenses related to such repurchases, through February 2010. The repurchases may be made from time to time on the open market or in privately negotiated transactions. The timing and amount of any shares repurchased under the program will depend on a variety of factors, including price, corporate and regulatory requirements, capital availability, and other market conditions. Repurchased shares will be held in treasury. The program may be limited or terminated at any time without prior notice.
We repurchased 738,368 and 806,100 shares under the share repurchase program during the second quarter of 2008 and 2007, respectively. The total cost of the share repurchases was $25.0 million and $42.4 million during the second quarter of 2008 and 2007, respectively. We repurchased 815,393 and 1,219,592 shares under the share repurchase program during the first six months of 2008 and 2007, respectively. The total cost of the share repurchases was $27.8 million and $63.7 million during the first six months of 2008 and 2007, respectively. As of June 28, 2008, we had remaining authorization under the share repurchase program of $22.3 million.
Note 9 – New Accounting Pronouncements:
In September 2006, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (“SFAS”) No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements”, (“SFAS 157”). SFAS 157 defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States, and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. In February 2008, the FASB issued FASB Staff Position No. FAS 157-2, “Effective Date of FASB Statement No. 157” (“FSP 157-2”), which amended SFAS 157 and delayed its effective date for all nonfinancial assets and nonfinancial liabilities, except those that are recognized or disclosed at fair value in the financial statements on a recurring basis (that is, at least annually). FSP 157-2 defers the effective date of SFAS 157 to fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2008, and interim periods within those fiscal years for items within the scope of FSP 157-2. We adopted the remaining provisions of SFAS 157 effective December 30, 2007 (fiscal 2008). The adoption of SFAS 157 did not impact our financial condition, results of operations, or cash flow. We are currently evaluating the impact that the adoption of FSP 157-2 will have on our consolidated financial statements.
In February 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 159, “The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities” (“SFAS 159”). SFAS 159 allows entities the option to measure eligible financial instruments at fair value as of specified dates. Such election, which may be applied on an instrument by instrument basis, is typically irrevocable once elected. We adopted SFAS 159 effective December 30, 2007 (fiscal 2008). The adoption of SFAS 159 did not impact our financial condition, results of operations, or cash flow.

 

Page 9


Table of Contents

In April 2008, the FASB issued FASB Staff Position No. FAS 142-3, “Determination of the Useful Life of Intangible Assets”, which amends the factors that must be considered in developing renewal or extension assumptions used to determine the useful life over which to amortize the cost of a recognized intangible asset under SFAS 142, “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets.” The FSP requires an entity to consider its own assumptions about renewal or extension of the term of the arrangement, consistent with its expected use of the asset, and is an attempt to improve consistency between the useful life of a recognized intangible asset under SFAS 142 and the period of expected cash flows used to measure the fair value of the asset under SFAS 141, “Business Combinations.” The FSP is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008, and the guidance for determining the useful life of a recognized intangible asset must be applied prospectively to intangible assets acquired after the effective date. The FSP is not expected to have a significant impact on our financial condition, results of operations or cash flow.
In May 2008, the FASB issued SFAS No. 162 (“SFAS 162”), “The Hierarchy of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles.” The statement is intended to improve financial reporting by identifying a consistent hierarchy for selecting accounting principles to be used in preparing financial statements that are prepared in conformance with generally accepted accounting principles. The statement is effective 60 days following the SEC’s pending approval of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB) amendments to AU Section 411, “The Meaning of Present Fairly in Conformity with GAAP,” and is not expected to have any impact on the Company’s financial condition, results of operations or cash flow.
Note 10 – Commitments and Contingencies:
Construction commitments
We had commitments for new store construction projects and a distribution center expansion project totaling approximately $8.7 million at June 28, 2008.
Litigation
We are involved in various litigation matters arising in the ordinary course of business. After consultation with legal counsel, our management expects these matters will be resolved without material adverse effect on our consolidated financial position or results of operations. Any estimated loss related to such matters has been adequately provided in accrued liabilities to the extent probable and reasonably estimable. It is possible, however, that future results of operations for any particular quarterly or annual period could be materially affected by changes in circumstances relating to these proceedings.
Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
General
The following discussion and analysis should be read in conjunction with our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 29, 2007. The following discussion and analysis also contains certain historical and forward-looking information. The forward-looking statements included herein are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 (the “Act”). All statements, other than statements of historical facts, which address activities, events or developments that we expect or anticipate will or may occur in the future, including such things as estimated results of operations in future periods, future capital expenditures (including their amount and nature), business strategy, expansion and growth of our business operations and other such matters are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements may be affected by certain risks and uncertainties, any one, or a combination of which could materially affect the results of our operations. To take advantage of the safe harbor provided by the Act, we are identifying certain factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in any forward-looking statements, whether oral or written.
Our business is highly seasonal. Historically, our sales and profits have been the highest in the second and fourth fiscal quarters of each year due to the sale of seasonal products. Unseasonable weather, excessive precipitation, natural disasters, drought, and early or late frosts may also affect our sales. We believe, however, that the impact of severe weather conditions is somewhat mitigated by the geographic dispersion of our stores.
We experience our highest inventory and accounts payable balances during our first fiscal quarter each year for purchases of seasonal products in anticipation of the spring selling season and again during our third fiscal quarter in anticipation of the winter selling season.

 

Page 10


Table of Contents

As with any business, many aspects of our operations are subject to influences outside our control. These factors include general economic cycles affecting consumer spending, weather factors, operating factors affecting customer satisfaction, consumer debt levels, inflation, pricing and other competitive factors, the ability to attract, train and retain qualified employees, the ability to manage and fund growth and identify suitable locations and negotiate favorable lease agreements on new and relocated stores, the impact of new stores on our business, the timing and acceptance of new products in the stores, the mix of goods sold, the continued availability of favorable credit sources, capital market conditions in general, the ability to increase sales at existing stores, the ability to retain vendors, the risk of product liability and other claims, reliance on foreign suppliers, the ability to maintain and improve our management information systems and internal controls over financial reporting, potential legal proceedings, tax rate changes, and the seasonality of our business. We discuss in greater detail risk factors relating to our business in Item 1A of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 29, 2007. Forward-looking statements are based on our knowledge of our business and the environment in which we operate, but because of the factors listed above or other factors, actual results could differ materially from those reflected by any forward-looking statements. Consequently, all of the forward-looking statements made are qualified by these cautionary statements and there can be no assurance that the actual results or developments anticipated will be realized or, even if substantially realized, that they will have the expected consequences to or effects on our business and operations. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date hereof. We undertake no obligation to release publicly any revisions to these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.
Results of Operations
Fiscal Three Months (Second Quarter) and Six Months Ended June 28, 2008 and June 30, 2007
Net sales increased 13.6% to $898.3 million for the second quarter of 2008 from $790.9 million for the second quarter of 2007. Net sales increased 9.2% to $1.47 billion for the first six months of fiscal 2008 from $1.35 billion for the first six months of fiscal 2007. The net sales increase for the second quarter resulted primarily from the addition of new stores and a same-store sales improvement of 3.4%. The net sales increase for the first six months of fiscal 2008 was primarily the result of new store openings, partially offset by a 0.7% decrease in same-store sales. Our second quarter same-store sales improvements were driven by our core consumable categories, including animal health and pet supplies, offset in part by lower than expected performance in the seasonal merchandise category.
We opened 23 new stores during the second quarter of 2008 compared to 20 new store openings during the prior year’s second quarter. During the first six months of 2008, we opened 50 new stores with no relocations, compared to 42 new store openings and seven relocations during the first six months of 2007. We closed one store in the second quarter of 2007. We operated 814 stores at June 28, 2008, compared to 717 stores at June 30, 2007.
The following chart indicates the average percentage of sales represented by each of our major product categories during the second quarter and first six months of fiscal 2008 and 2007:
                                 
    Three months ended     Six months ended  
    June 28,     June 30,     June 28,     June 30,  
    2008     2007     2008     2007  
Product Category:
                               
Livestock and Pet
    34 %     31 %     37 %     33 %
Seasonal Products
    29       31       25       27  
Hardware and Tools
    13       13       14       15  
Clothing and Footwear
    6       6       7       7  
Truck, Trailer and Towing
    9       9       9       9  
Agricultural
    9       10       8       9  
 
                       
Total
    100 %     100 %     100 %     100 %
 
                       

 

Page 11


Table of Contents

Gross margin for the second quarter and the first six months of fiscal 2008 was $279.5 million and $456.4 million, respectively. This represents an increase of 11.6% and 9.0%, respectively, over the comparable periods of the prior year. Gross margin, as a percent of sales, was 31.1% for the second quarter of fiscal 2008 compared to 31.7% for the comparable period in fiscal 2007. The decline in gross margin rate for the quarter resulted from higher transportation costs and an increased LIFO charge, offset in part by increased product margin (principally from better buying and retail price increases). The increased transportation costs resulted from increased fuel costs and the mix of goods, offset in part by a reduction in import purchases. The LIFO charge is attributed to increases in costs for certain commodities, petroleum-based products and steel. For the first six months of fiscal 2008, the gross margin rate of 31.0% was consistent with the comparable period in the prior year.
Selling, general and administrative (“SG&A”) expenses decreased 30 basis points to 20.8% of sales in the second quarter of fiscal 2008 from 21.1% of sales in the second quarter of fiscal 2007. This second quarter improvement was primarily attributable to a focus on cost control and overall expense management, as well as a shift in marketing expenses (due to the timing of certain direct-mail initiatives) into the third quarter of fiscal 2008. SG&A expenses for the first six months of fiscal 2008 increased 50 basis points to 23.8% of sales from 23.3% in the first six months of fiscal 2007, primarily due to less sales leverage in the first quarter of fiscal 2008.
Depreciation and amortization expense increased 10 basis points to 1.7% of sales in the second quarter of fiscal 2008 from 1.6% in the second quarter of fiscal 2007. As a percent of sales, depreciation and amortization expense increased 20 basis points to 2.0% in the first six months of fiscal 2008 from 1.8% in the first six months of fiscal 2007. The increases were related directly to new store growth and capital costs for infrastructure and technology.
Interest expense for the second quarter of 2008 remained consistent with the prior year at $0.6 million. For the first six months of fiscal 2008, interest expense increased slightly to $1.8 million compared to $1.5 million for the comparable period in fiscal 2007 due to a higher average outstanding balance on our credit facility, partially offset by a lower weighted-average interest rate. Our effective income tax rate increased to 38.6% in the second quarter and first six months of fiscal 2008 compared with 37.9% for the second quarter and first six months of fiscal 2007 largely due to recent increases in certain state tax rates.
As a result of the foregoing factors, net income for the second quarter of fiscal 2008 increased 7.4% to $47.0 million compared to $43.8 million in the second quarter of fiscal 2007. Net income for the first six months of fiscal 2008 decreased 5.9% to $45.9 million from $48.8 million in the first six months of the prior year. Net income, as a percent of sales, decreased 30 basis points to 5.2% for the second quarter of fiscal 2008 compared to 5.5% in the second quarter of fiscal 2007. For the first six months of fiscal 2008, net income as a percent of sales decreased 50 basis points to 3.1%, compared to 3.6% for the first six months of fiscal 2007. Net income per diluted share for the second quarter of fiscal 2008 increased to $1.24 from $1.08 and, for the first six months of fiscal 2008, increased to $1.21 from $1.19. Outstanding shares were reduced as a result of repurchases under the Share Repurchase Program.

 

Page 12


Table of Contents

Liquidity and Capital Resources
In addition to normal operating expenses, our primary ongoing cash requirements are for store expansion and remodeling programs, including inventory purchases and capital expenditures. Our primary ongoing sources of liquidity are funds provided from operations, commitments available under our revolving credit agreement and normal trade credit.
At June 28, 2008, we had working capital of $261.2 million, a $50.9 million decrease from December 29, 2007. This decrease was primarily attributable to changes in the following components of current assets and current liabilities (in millions):
                                         
    June 28,     Dec. 29,             June 30,        
    2008     2007     Variance     2007     Variance  
Current assets:
                                       
Cash and cash equivalents
  $ 63.0     $ 13.7     $ 49.3     $ 30.9     $ 32.1  
Inventories
    683.3       636.0       47.3       692.4       (9.1 )
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
    38.9       41.9       (3.0 )     40.2       (1.3 )
Deferred income taxes
          0.3       (0.3 )     7.0       (7.0 )
 
                             
 
    785.2       691.9       93.3       770.5       14.7  
 
                             
Current liabilities:
                                       
Accounts payable
    394.0       258.3       135.7       348.0       46.0  
Other accrued expenses
    101.3       115.6       (14.3 )     110.2       (8.9 )
Current portion of capital lease obligation
    0.6       0.8       (0.2 )     0.9       (0.3 )
Income tax currently payable
    25.5       5.1       20.4       17.6       7.9  
Deferred tax liabilities
    2.6             2.6             2.6  
 
                             
 
    524.0       379.8       144.2       476.7       47.3  
 
                             
Working capital
  $ 261.2     $ 312.1     $ (50.9 )   $ 293.8     $ (32.6 )
 
                             
The increase in inventories since year-end resulted primarily from normal seasonal purchases as well as the purchase of additional inventory for new stores. These increases were offset by a decrease in average inventory per store due to planned initiatives to reduce inventory levels coupled with more aggressive clearance. The increase in accounts payable resulted from the increase in inventories as well as improved vendor financing. Trade credit arises from our vendors granting extended payment terms for inventory purchases. Payment terms generally vary from 30 days to 180 days depending on the inventory product. Income taxes payable have increased since year-end due to the timing of estimated tax payments.
The increase in cash and accounts payable from the prior year quarter is due primarily to improved vendor dating. The decrease in inventory is due to planned initiatives to reduce inventory levels and more aggressive clearance activity.
Operations provided net cash of $183.8 million and $106.3 million in the first six months of fiscal 2008 and fiscal 2007, respectively. The $77.5 million increase in net cash provided in 2008 over 2007 is primarily due to changes in the following operating activities (in millions):
                         
    Six months ended  
    June 28,     June 30,        
    2008     2007     Variance  
Net income
  $ 45.9     $ 48.8     $ (2.9 )
Depreciation and amortization
    29.4       24.4       5.0  
Inventories and accounts payable
    88.3       21.3       67.0  
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
    3.0       (3.1 )     6.1  
Other accrued expenses
    (14.3 )     (1.0 )     (13.3 )
Income taxes currently payable
    20.5       6.0       14.5  
Other, net
    11.0       9.9       1.1  
 
                 
Net cash provided by operations
  $ 183.8     $ 106.3     $ 77.5  
 
                 

 

Page 13


Table of Contents

The improvement in net cash provided by operations in the first six months of fiscal 2008 compared with the first six months of fiscal 2007 was primarily due to reductions in average inventory levels and improved vendor financing. The change in cash used for income taxes relates to the timing of payments of income taxes.
Investing activities used $53.2 million and $43.7 million in the first six months of fiscal 2008 and fiscal 2007, respectively. The majority of this cash requirement relates to our capital expenditures.
Capital expenditures for the first six months of fiscal 2008 and fiscal 2007 were as follows (in millions):
                 
    Six months ended  
    June 28,     June 30,  
    2008     2007  
New/relocated stores and stores not yet opened
  $ 22.5     $ 20.4  
Distribution center capacity and improvements
    9.0       1.4  
Existing store properties acquired from lessor
    8.5       6.9  
Information technology
    7.8       7.0  
Existing stores
    5.6       9.0  
Other
    0.1        
 
           
 
  $ 53.5     $ 44.7  
 
           
The above table reflects 50 new stores in the first six months of fiscal 2008, compared to 49 new/relocated stores during the first six months of fiscal 2007.
Financing activities used $81.3 million and $58.0 million in the first six months of fiscal 2008 and fiscal 2007, respectively. This increase in net cash used is largely due to a higher level of repayments under the Senior Credit Facility.
We are party to a Senior Credit Facility with Bank of America, N.A., as agent for a lender group, which provides for borrowings up to $350 million (with sublimits of $75 million and $20 million for letters of credit and swingline loans, respectively). In February 2008, we exercised the Increase Option on this facility, increasing the overall capacity from $250 million to $350 million. Each of the nine lenders within our credit facility bank group participated in the increase. Simultaneously, the Credit Facility was modified to: (1) add an additional Increase Option for $150 million (subject to additional lender group commitments); (2) modify the definition of swingline committed amount from $10 million to $20 million; and (3) revise the definition of the fixed charge coverage ratio covenant to remove certain defined charges. All pricing terms and the term of the facility remained the same.
The Senior Credit Facility is unsecured and matures in February 2012, with proceeds expected to be used for working capital, capital expenditures and share repurchases. Borrowings will bear interest at either the bank’s base rate or LIBOR plus an additional amount ranging from 0.35% to 0.90% per annum, adjusted quarterly based on our performance (0.50% at June 28, 2008). We are also required to pay a commitment fee ranging from 0.06% to 0.18% per annum for unused capacity (0.10% at June 28, 2008). The agreement requires quarterly compliance with respect to fixed charge coverage and leverage ratios.
We believe that our cash flow from operations, borrowings available under our Senior Credit Facility, and normal trade credit will be sufficient to fund our operations and capital expenditure needs, including store openings and renovations, over the next several years.
Share Repurchase Program
We have a Board-approved share repurchase program which provides for repurchase of up to $200 million of common stock, exclusive of any fees, commissions, or other expenses related to such repurchases, through February 2010. The repurchases may be made from time to time on the open market or in privately negotiated transactions. The timing and amount of any shares repurchased under the program will depend on a variety of factors, including price, corporate and regulatory requirements, capital availability, and other market conditions. Repurchased shares will be held in treasury. The program may be limited or terminated at any time without prior notice.

 

Page 14


Table of Contents

We repurchased 738,368 and 806,100 shares under the share repurchase program during the second quarter of 2008 and 2007, respectively. The total cost of the share repurchases was $25.0 million and $42.4 million during the second quarter of 2008 and 2007, respectively. We repurchased 815,393 and 1,219,592 shares under the share repurchase program during the first six months of 2008 and 2007, respectively. The total cost of the share repurchases was $27.8 million and $63.7 million during the first six months of 2008 and 2007, respectively. As of June 28, 2008, we had remaining authorization under the share repurchase program of $22.3 million.
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
Our off-balance sheet arrangements are limited to operating leases and outstanding letters of credit. Leasing buildings and equipment for retail stores and offices rather than acquiring these significant assets allows us to utilize financial capital to operate the business rather than maintain assets. Letters of credit allow us to purchase inventory in a timely manner.
We had outstanding letters of credit of $29.4 million at June 28, 2008.
Significant Contractual Obligations and Commercial Commitments
In addition to commitments related to construction for new stores of $4.4 million, we have a remaining contractual commitment of $4.3 million for the expansion of our Waco, TX distribution center. There has been no other material change in our contractual obligations and commercial commitments other than in the ordinary course of business since the end of fiscal 2007.
Significant Accounting Policies and Estimates
Our discussion and analysis of our financial position and results of operations are based upon our consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States. The preparation of these financial statements requires us to make informed estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses and related disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. Significant accounting policies, including areas of critical management judgments and estimates, have primary impact on the following financial statement areas:
   
Revenue recognition and sales returns
 
   
Inventory valuation
 
   
Stock-based compensation
 
   
Self-insurance reserves
 
   
Sales tax audit reserve
 
   
Tax contingencies
 
   
Goodwill
 
   
Long-lived assets
See the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 29, 2007 for a discussion of our critical accounting policies. Our financial position and/or results of operations may be materially different when reported under different conditions or when using different assumptions in the application of such policies. In the event estimates or assumptions prove to be different from actual amounts, adjustments are made in subsequent periods to reflect more current information.
Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
We have no separate investments subject to market risk, however we remain exposed to changes in interest rates primarily from our Senior Credit Facility (the “Credit Agreement”). The Credit Agreement bears interest at either the bank’s base rate (5.00% and 8.25% at June 28, 2008 and June 30, 2007, respectively) or LIBOR (2.48% and 5.32% at June 28, 2008 and June 30, 2007, respectively) plus an additional amount ranging from 0.35% to 0.90% per annum, adjusted quarterly, based on our performance (0.50% at June 28, 2008 and June 30, 2007). We are also required to pay, quarterly in arrears, a commitment fee ranging from 0.06% to 0.18% based on the daily average unused portion of the Credit Agreement (0.10% at June 28, 2008 and June 30, 2007). See Note 7 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included herein for further discussion regarding the Credit Agreement.

 

Page 15


Table of Contents

Although we cannot determine the full effect of inflation on our operations, we believe our sales and results of operations are affected by inflation. We are subject to market risk with respect to the pricing of certain products and services, which include, among other items, steel, grain, petroleum, corn, soybean and other commodities as well as diesel fuel and transportation services and utility costs. If the cost of these products and services continues to increase, consumer demand may fall and/or we may not be able to pass all such increases on to our customers and, as a result, sales and/or gross margins could decline. Our strategy is to reduce or mitigate the effects of inflation principally by taking advantage of vendor incentive programs, economies of scale from increased volume of purchases, increasing retail prices and selectively buying from the most competitive vendors without sacrificing quality. Due to the competitive environment, such conditions have and may continue to adversely impact our gross margin.
Item 4. Controls and Procedures
Disclosure Controls and Procedures
We carried out an evaluation required by the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “1934 Act”), under the supervision and with the participation of our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the 1934 Act) as of June 28, 2008. Based on this evaluation, our principal executive officer and principal financial officer concluded that, as of June 28, 2008, our disclosure controls and procedures were effective to ensure that information required to be disclosed by us in the reports that we file or submit under the 1934 Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms.
Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting
There have been no changes in our internal control over financial reporting during the second fiscal quarter of 2008 that have materially affected or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

Page 16


Table of Contents

PART II. OTHER INFORMATION
Item 1. Legal Proceedings
We are involved in various litigation matters arising in the ordinary course of business. After consultation with legal counsel, management expects these matters will be resolved without material adverse effect on our consolidated financial position or results of operations. Any estimated loss related to such matters has been adequately provided in accrued liabilities to the extent probable and reasonably estimable. It is possible, however, that future results of operations for any particular quarterly or annual period could be materially affected by changes in circumstances relating to these proceedings.
Item 1A. Risk Factors
There have been no material changes to our risk factors as previously disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 29, 2007.
Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds
Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
We have a share repurchase program which provides for repurchase of up to $200 million of our outstanding common stock through February 2010. Stock repurchase activity during the second quarter of fiscal 2008 was as follows:
                                 
                    Total Number        
                    of Shares     Maximum Dollar  
                    Purchased as     Value of Shares  
    Total             Part of Publicly     That May Yet Be  
    Number of     Average     Announced     Purchased Under  
    Shares     Price Paid     Plans or     the Plans or  
Period   Purchased     Per Share     Programs     Programs  
March 30, 2008 – April 26, 2008
    138,381     $ 36.96       138,381     $ 42,089,262  
April 27, 2008 – May 24, 2008
    248,297     $ 34.09       248,297     $ 33,631,385  
May 25, 2008 – June 28, 2008
    351,690     $ 32.35       351,690     $ 22,263,381  
 
                           
As of June 28, 2008
    738,368               738,368     $ 22,263,381  
 
                           
We expect to implement the balance of the repurchase program through purchases made from time to time either in the open market or through private transactions, in accordance with regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Item 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities
None

 

Page 17


Table of Contents

Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders
(a)  
Our Annual Meeting of Stockholders was held on May 1, 2008 at our corporate headquarters in Brentwood, Tennessee.
(b)  
The stockholders elected, for a one-year term, the directors set forth below.
(c)  
The stockholders voted on the following matters at the Annual Meeting:
  1.  
The election of nine directors for a one-year term ending at the 2009 Annual Meeting of Stockholders:
                 
Nominees For Directors   For     Withheld  
James F. Wright
    35,206,210       362,824  
Johnston C. Adams
    35,516,543       52,491  
William Bass
    35,516,233       52,801  
Jack Bingleman
    35,517,250       51,784  
S.P. Braud
    35,511,281       57,753  
Richard W. Frost
    35,516,951       52,083  
Cynthia T. Jamison
    35,514,933       54,101  
Gerard E. Jones
    35,510,172       58,862  
George MacKenzie
    35,514,515       54,519  
Edna K. Morris
    35,513,980       55,054  
  2.  
Ratification of the appointment of Ernst & Young LLP as independent auditors for the fiscal year ending December 27, 2008.
                 
For   Against     Abstain  
35,528,388
    24,603       16,043  
Item 5. Other Information
None
Item 6. Exhibits
         
Exhibits
 
  31.1    
Certification of Chief Executive Officer under Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
       
 
  31.2    
Certification of Chief Financial Officer under Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
       
 
  32.1    
Certification of Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer under Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
SIGNATURE
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
         
  TRACTOR SUPPLY COMPANY
 
 
Date: August 1, 2008  By:   /s/ Anthony F. Crudele    
    Anthony F. Crudele   
    Executive Vice President - Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer
(Duly Authorized Officer and Principal Financial Officer) 
 
 

 

Page 18