form10-k.htm
UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-K
____________________
x ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d)
OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the fiscal year ended December 29, 2007

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 0-362

FRANKLIN ELECTRIC CO., INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Indiana
 
35-0827455
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)
 
(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
400 East Spring Street
   
Bluffton, Indiana
 
46714-3798
(Address of principal executive offices)
 
(Zip Code)

(260) 824-2900
(Registrant's telephone number, including area code)

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Common Stock, $.10 par value
 
The NASDAQ Stock Market
Preference Stock Purchase Rights
 
The NASDAQ Stock Market
(Title of each class)
 
(Name of each exchange on which registered)
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:
None
(Title of each class)
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.
YES x
NO o

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act.
YES o
NO x

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.
YES x
NO o

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. o

 
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Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, or a non-accelerated filer. See definition of “accelerated filer and large accelerated filer” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):
Large Accelerated Filer x
Accelerated Filer o
Non-Accelerated Filer o

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act).
YES o
NO x

The aggregate market value of the registrant's common stock held by non-affiliates of the registrant at June 30, 2007 (the last business day of the registrant's most recently completed second quarter) was $1,064,600,848. The stock price used in this computation was the last sales price on that date, as reported by The Nasdaq Stock Market. For purposes of this calculation, the registrant has included restricted shares held by executive officers and directors of the registrant, excepted from this calculation are the shares owned by the executive officers through the registrant's ESOP or 401K Plan. Determination of stock ownership by non-affiliates was made solely for the purpose of responding to this requirement and the registrant is not bound by this determination for any other purpose.


Number of shares of common stock outstanding at December 29, 2007:
23,091,325 shares



DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

A portion of the Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held on May 2, 2008 (Part III).



 
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Part I
 
Page
     
Item 1.
Business
4-6
Item 1A.
Risk Factors
6-9
Item 1B.
Unresolved Staff Comments
9
Item 2.
Properties
9
Item 3.
Legal Proceedings
10
Item 4.
Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders
10
 
Supplemental Item - Executive Officers of the Registrant
10
     
Part II
   
     
Item 5.
Market for Registrant's Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters, and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
 
11
Item 6.
Selected Financial Data
12-13
Item 7.
Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
 
14-26
Item 7A.
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
27
Item 8.
Financial Statements and Supplementary Data
28-60
Item 9.
Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure
 
61
Item 9A.
Controls and Procedures
61
Item 9B.
Other Information
64
     
Part III
   
     
Item 10.
Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance
64
Item 11.
Executive Compensation
64
Item 12.
Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters
65
Item 13.
Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence
65
Item 14.
Principal Accounting Fees and Services 
65
     
Part IV
   
     
Item 15.
Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules
65-67
Signatures
 
69
Exhibit Index
 
70-71
 

 
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PART I

ITEM 1. BUSINESS 

Franklin Electric Co., Inc. is an Indiana corporation founded in 1944 and incorporated in 1946 that, together with its subsidiaries, designs, manufactures and distributes groundwater and fuel pumping systems, composed primarily of submersible pumps and motors, electronic controls and related parts and equipment. The Company’s business consists of two reporting segments based on the principal end market served: the Water Systems segment and the Fueling Systems segment. The Company includes unallocated corporate expenses in an “Other” segment that together with Water and Fueling represent the Company.  Except where the context otherwise requires, “Franklin Electric” or the “Company”, shall refer to Franklin Electric Co., Inc. and its consolidated subsidiaries.

Description of Business

Franklin Electric is a global leader in the production and marketing of groundwater and fuel pumping systems and is a technical leader in submersible pumps and motors, drives, electronic controls, and monitoring devices. The Company is the world’s largest manufacturer of Water and Fueling Systems submersible motors, a leading manufacturer of Water and Fueling Systems pumps, underground Fueling Systems hardware and flexible piping systems. The Water Systems segment designs, manufactures and sells motors, pumps, electronic controls and related parts and equipment primarily for use in submersible water and other fluid system applications. The Fueling Systems segment designs, manufactures and sells pumps, electronic controls and related parts and equipment primarily for use in submersible fueling system applications. The Fueling Systems segment integrates and sells motors and electronic controls produced by the Water Systems segment.

During 2007, the Company acquired two pump manufacturers.  In the second quarter of 2007, the Company completed the acquisition of the stock of Pump Brands (Pty) Limited, Johannesburg, South Africa (“Pump Brands”). Pump Brands, through its wholly owned subsidiary Denorco (Pty) Limited, offers a broad range of pumping system products for the agricultural irrigation, residential, light commercial, industrial, and municipal markets. Locally-manufactured pumps are complemented by alliances with international partners. The company’s brands, Jacuzzi, Normaflo, Mono, Orbit, Rotorflo, Super D and Tsunami, are sold throughout Africa.  In the third quarter of 2007, the Company acquired the assets of the pump division of Monarch Industries Limited, Winnipeg, Canada (“Monarch”).  The Monarch acquisition expands both the existing pump product lines and the distribution coverage in the North American market.  Pro forma annual sales for each of the above acquisitions represented less than 10 percent of Franklin Electric’s consolidated sales for 2007.

Franklin Electric’s motors and pumps are used principally in submersible applications for pumping fresh water, wastewater, fuel, and other liquids in a variety of applications, including residential, industrial, agricultural, fueling, off-shore drilling, and mining. Franklin Electric also manufactures electronic drives and controls for the motors which control functionality and provide protection from various hazards, such as electric surges, over-heating, or dry wells and tanks. Along with the fueling motor and pump applications, the Company supplies a variety of products to the petroleum equipment industry included with the submersible pumping systems, such as flexible piping, vapor recovery systems and components, electronic tank monitoring equipment, and fittings.

The Company’s products are sold in North America, Europe, the Middle East, South Africa, Australia, Mexico, Brazil, Japan, China, and other world markets. The Company’s products are sold by its employee sales force and independent manufacturing representatives.

The Company changed its marketing strategy during 2004 and began selling certain Water Systems products directly to specialty Water Systems distributors, as well as original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) of pumps.  Beginning in 2007, the Company also significantly curtailed Water Systems product sales to integrated pump manufacturers.  This change in marketing strategy has resulted in a broader customer base. The market for the Company’s products is highly competitive and includes large and small accounts. The Company’s Water Systems and Fueling Systems

 
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products and related equipment are sold to OEMs and specialty Water Systems distributors, as well as industrial equipment distributors, and major oil and utility companies.

In 2007, no single customer accounted for more than 10 percent of the Company’s consolidated sales.  ITT Industries, Inc. and its various subsidiaries and affiliates, accounted for 11 percent and 16 percent of the Company’s consolidated sales in 2006 and 2005, respectively. Pentair Corporation and its various subsidiaries and affiliates, accounted for 12 percent and 14 percent of the Company’s consolidated sales in 2006 and 2005, respectively.

The Company offers normal and customary trade terms to its customers, no significant part of which is of an extended nature. Special inventory requirements are not necessary, and customer merchandise return rights do not extend beyond normal warranty provisions.

The principal raw materials used in the manufacture of the Company’s products are coil and bar steel, stainless steel, copper wire, and aluminum ingot. Major components are capacitors, motor protectors, forgings, gray iron castings and bearings. Most of these raw materials are available from multiple sources in the United States and world markets. In the opinion of management, no single source of supply is critical to the Company's business. Availability of fuel and energy is adequate to satisfy current and projected overall operations unless interrupted by government direction or allocation.

The Company employed approximately 3,200 persons at the end of 2007.

Segment and Geographic Information

The segment and geographic information set forth below under Note 17, “Segments and Geographic Information,” to the consolidated financial statements is incorporated herein by reference.

Research and Development

The Company incurred expenses of approximately $7.3 million in 2007, $8.1 million in 2006, and $5.6 million in 2005 on activities related to the development of new products, improvement of existing products and manufacturing methods, and other applied research and development.

In 2007, Water Systems continued developing new pump products (including jet, centrifugal and turbine pumps), extending current product offerings, and improving the functional performance of all products.  Water Systems introduced new hydraulic technology (patent pending) which improved performance of residential jet pumps and was awarded a patent on previously introduced residential submersible pumps.  Water Systems began production and sale of a new line of deep well submersible turbine pumps for irrigation and municipal water supply applications.   Water Systems introduced new variable frequency motor drives featuring enhanced, remote communications capability designed to survive in harsh environments.  A line of accessory control devices was introduced to add further functionality to the existing and new motor drives.  Water Systems also completed the redesign and began production of a more robust, higher horsepower, higher thrust-rated 4 inch submersible motor line. Fueling Systems achieved California Air Resource Board approval of INCON TS-5 Series In Station Diagnostics products.  Fueling Systems developed the 700 Series ORVR compatible Stage II vapor recovery nozzle and gained approval for that product family with the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.  It also developed the Horizontal Clean Air Separator to enhance the aesthetics of a station installed with Healy Stage II vapor recovery system and achieved California Air Resource Board approval.   Fueling Systems further developed a new line of fiberglass Under Dispenser Containment sumps. Research continued on new materials and processes designed to achieve higher quality and more cost-effective construction of the Company’s high volume products.

The Company owns a number of patents, trademarks and licenses. In aggregate, these patents are of material importance in the operation of the business; however, the Company believes that its operations are not dependent on any single patent or group of patents.

 
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Backlog

The dollar amount of backlog at the end of 2007 and 2006 was as follows:

(In millions)
 
   
2007
   
2006
 
$ 25.8     $ 24.1  

The backlog is composed of written orders at prices adjustable on a price-at-the-time-of-shipment basis for products, primarily standard catalog items. All backlog orders are expected to be filled in fiscal 2008. The Company's sales in the first quarter are generally less than its sales in other quarters due to generally lower construction activity during that period in the northern hemisphere. Beyond that, there is no seasonal pattern to the backlog and the backlog has not proven to be a significant indicator of future sales.

Environmental Matters

The Company believes that it is in compliance with all applicable federal, state and local laws concerning the discharge of material into the environment, or otherwise relating to the protection of the environment. The Company has not experienced any material costs in connection with environmental compliance, and does not believe that such compliance will have any material adverse effect upon the financial position, capital expenditures, earnings, or competitive position of the Company.

Available Information

The Company’s website address is http://www.fele.com. The Company makes available free of charge on or through its website: its annual report on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K, and all amendments to those reports, as soon as reasonably practicable after such material is electronically filed with or furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission. Additionally, the Company’s website also includes the Company’s corporate governance guidelines, its Board committee charters, and the Company’s code of ethics. Information contained on the Company’s website is not part of this annual report on Form 10-K.

ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS

The following describes the principal risks affecting the Company and its business.  Additional risks and uncertainties, not presently known to the Company or currently deemed material, could negatively impact the Company’s results of operations or financial condition in the future.

The Company must successfully implement its new marketing and operating strategies.

From 2004 through 2006, the Company implemented significant new marketing and operating strategies as follows:
-  
In 2004, the Company began selling its Water Systems products directly to wholesale specialty Water Systems distributors, as well as original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) of pumps.  Previously, the Company sold its Water Systems products primarily to pump OEMs (i.e., the Company was primarily a supplier of submersible motors and controls to the OEMs) who then re-sold the Water Systems products, usually combined with pumps and related products, to the wholesale specialty Water Systems distributors. As a result of this change, the Company became a competitor, as well as a supplier to many of the pump OEMs.
-  
Also in 2004, the Company purchased a pump manufacturer.  The acquisition of certain assets of JBD, Inc. (formerly the Jacuzzi brand pump manufacturer) was completed in the third quarter of 2004.
-  
In 2006, the Company acquired Little Giant Pump Company, a manufacturer of sump, sewage, effluent, condensate and industrial submersible pumps, further expanding its pump product offerings and further increasing its competition with pump OEMs.

 
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-  
Also in 2006, the Company announced a new general sales policy, effective January 1, 2007.  The new general sales policy, effective for the Water Systems Industry in North America was to sell all of its products, including 2HP and smaller submersible electric motors and associated products, only on a direct basis to wholesale Water Systems distributors. Exceptions will be made only where the Company determines, on a case-by-case basis, that sales to a particular pump OEM will add significant customer value to the distribution of its products.
-  
As of the end of fiscal year 2004, approximately 42 percent of the Company’s consolidated sales were attributable to two customers, both of which were pump OEMs.  With the Company’s changes in marketing and operating strategies, the Company reduced its dependency on the pump OEMs, which lowered the potential sales loss if one of these customers reduced its purchases from the Company.  At the end of fiscal year 2006, these two pump OEM customers accounted for approximately 23 percent of the Company’s consolidated sales.  For the fiscal year 2007, no individual customer accounted for more than 10 percent of the Company’s annual revenues.
The Company believes that these strategic changes will result in increased sales and earnings; however, actual results may vary.

The Company’s acquisition strategy entails expense, integration risks, and other risks.

One of the Company’s continued strategies is to increase revenues and expand market share through acquisitions that will provide complementary Water and Fueling Systems products.  The Company will spend significant time and effort expanding existing businesses through identifying, pursuing, completing, and integrating acquisitions. Competition for acquisition candidates may limit the number of opportunities and may result in higher acquisition prices.  There is uncertainty related to successfully acquiring and profitably managing additional companies and integrating additional companies without substantial costs, delays or other problems.  There can also be no assurances that acquired companies will achieve revenues, profitability or cash flows that justify the investment in them.  The Company believes that these strategic acquisitions will result in increased sales and earnings; however, actual results may vary.


The Company faces increased competition due to industry consolidation and new entrants into the Company’s existing markets.

The Company is a global leader in the production and marketing of groundwater and fuel pumping systems.  The industry in which the Company operates has experienced significant consolidation in recent years, primarily in the pump OEM companies but increasingly at the distributor level, as well as the addition of submersible motor manufacturing by pump OEMs.  Some of the Company’s competitors have substantially greater financial resources than the Company.  The Company believes that consistency of product quality, timeliness of delivery, service, continued product innovation, as well as price, are the principal factors considered by customers in selecting suppliers.  The Company further believes that successful implementation of the strategic initiatives, previously mentioned, will enhance its competitive position; however, actual results may vary.

Competitive pressures may lead to declines in sales or in the prices of submersible electric motor products.

Pump OEMs have acquired the ability to produce submersible electric motors and purchased significant quantities of the Company’s submersible electric motors during 2006.  Their ability to produce these motors and the excess inventory supply of motors as of the beginning of 2007 contributed to a decline in motor unit sales in 2007.  The Company cannot provide assurance that these or other competitive pressures will not continue to have an adverse affect on profitability or performance, which could, in turn, have materially adverse effects on the results of operations and financial condition.


 
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A decline in housing starts could lead to reduced demand for the Company’s products, thereby reducing revenues and earnings.

Demand for certain Company products is affected by housing starts.  Many economic and other factors outside the Company’s control, including housing starts, could impact operating results.  A decline in housing starts or general slowdown in the United States or other economies in the international markets the Company serves could reduce demand and adversely impact gross margins and operating results.

Increases in the prices of raw materials, components, finished goods and other commodities could adversely affect operations.

The Company purchases most of the raw materials for its products on the open market and relies on third parties for the sourcing of certain finished goods.  Accordingly the cost of its products may be affected by changes in the market price of raw materials, sourced components, or finished goods.  Natural gas and electricity prices have historically been volatile.  The Company does not generally engage in commodity hedging for raw materials.  Significant increases in the prices of commodities, sourced components, finished goods, or other commodities could cause product prices to increase, which may reduce demand for products or make the Company more susceptible to competition.  Furthermore, in the event the Company is unable to pass along increases in operating costs to its customers, margins and profitability may be adversely affected.

The Company is exposed to political, economic and other risks that arise from operating a multinational business.

The Company has significant operations outside the United States, including Europe, South Africa, Brazil, Mexico and China.  Further, the Company obtains raw materials and finished goods from foreign suppliers.  Accordingly, the Company’s business is subject to political, economic, and other risks that are inherent in operating a multinational business.  These risks include, but are not limited to, the following:

·  
Difficulty in enforcing agreements and collecting receivables through foreign legal systems
·  
Trade protection measures and import or export licensing requirements
·  
Imposition of tariffs, exchange controls or other restrictions
·  
Difficulty in staffing and managing widespread operations and the application of foreign labor regulations
·  
Compliance with foreign laws and regulations
·  
Changes in general economic and political conditions in countries where the Company operates

Business success depends in part on the ability to anticipate and effectively manage these risks.  The Company cannot assure that these and other factors will not have a material adverse impact on its international operations or on the business as a whole.

Delays in introducing new products or the inability to achieve or maintain market acceptance with existing or new products may cause the Company’s revenues to decrease.

The industries to which the Company belongs are characterized by intense competition, changes in end-user requirements, and evolving product offerings and introductions.  The Company believes future success will depend, in part, on the ability to anticipate and adapt to these factors and offer on a timely basis, products that meet customer demands.  Failure to develop new and innovative products or to enhance existing products could result in the loss of existing customers to competitors or the inability to attract new business, either of which may adversely affect the Company’s revenues.  The Company believes that the successful introduction of new products will enhance its competitive position; however, actual results may vary.

The growth of municipal water systems and increased government restrictions on groundwater pumping could reduce demand for private water wells and the Company’s products, thereby reducing revenues and earnings.
 
 
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Demand for certain Company products is affected by rural communities shifting from private and individual water well systems to city or municipal water systems. Many economic and other factors outside the Company’s control, including Federal and State regulations on water quality, tax credits and incentives, could impact the demand for private and individual water wells. A decline in private and individual water well systems in the United States or other economies in the international markets the Company serves could reduce demand for the Company’s products and adversely impact sales, gross margins and operating results.

Demand for fueling systems products is impacted by environmental legislation which may cause significant increases in product demand and may be followed by significantly reduced demand after meeting compliance requirements.

Environmental legislation related to air quality and fueling containment may create demand for certain fueling systems products which must be supplied in a relatively short time frame to meet the governmental mandate.  During this period of increased demand the Company’s revenues and profitability could increase significantly.  The Company is at risk of not having capacity to meet demand or cost overruns due to inefficiencies during ramp up to the higher production levels.  After the Company’s customers have met the compliance requirements, the Company’s revenues and profitability may decrease significantly as the demand for certain products declines substantially.  The Company is at risk of not reducing production costs in relation to the decreased demand as well as reduced revenues adversely impacting gross margins and operating results.

The Company has significant investments in foreign entities and has significant sales and purchases in foreign denominated currencies creating exposure to foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations.

The Company has significant investments outside the United States, including Europe, South Africa, Brazil, Mexico and China.  Further, the Company has sales and purchases raw materials and finished goods in foreign denominated currencies.  Accordingly, the Company has exposure to fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates relative to the US dollar.  Foreign currency exchange rate risk is reduced through several means: maintenance of local production facilities in the markets served, invoicing of customers in the same currency as the source of the products, prompt settlement of inter-company balances utilizing a global netting system and limited use of foreign currency denominated debt. The Company cannot assure that foreign currency rate fluctuations will not have a material adverse impact on its international operations or on the business as a whole.

Additional Risks to the Company

The Company is subject to various risks in the normal course of business. Exhibit 99.1 sets forth a list of risks, including those identified above, that may adversely affect the Company and is incorporated herein by reference.


ITEM 1B. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS

None.

ITEM 2. PROPERTIES 

The Company maintains its principal executive offices in Bluffton, Indiana. Manufacturing plants or primary distribution centers are located in the following countries: Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, The Czech Republic, Germany, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Republic of Botswana, South Africa, and the United States. Within the United States, manufacturing facilities are located in Grant County, Indiana; Little Rock, Arkansas; Siloam Springs, Arkansas; Wilburton, Oklahoma; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; Madison, Wisconsin; and Saco, Maine. The Company also maintains warehouse facilities in Bluffton, Indiana; Orange, California; Sanford, Florida; and Bolton, Ontario, Canada.

In the Company’s opinion, its facilities are suitable for their intended use, adequate for the Company’s business needs, and in good condition.


 
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ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS 

The information set forth below under Note 18, “Contingencies and Commitments,” to the consolidated financial statements is incorporate herein by reference.

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

None.

EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT

The names, ages, and all positions and offices held by the executive officers of the Company as of December 29, 2007 are:


 
Name
 
Age
 
Positions and Offices
 
In This Office Since
       
R. Scott Trumbull
59
Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer
2003
Peter C. Maske
57
Senior Vice President and President of Europa
1999
Gregg C. Sengstack
49
Senior Vice President and President International & Fueling Group
2005
Robert J. Stone
43
Senior Vice President and President Western Hemisphere Water Systems
2007
Thomas J. Strupp
54
Vice President, Chief Financial Officer, Secretary, and
2005
   
President Water Transfer Systems
 
Daniel J. Crose
59
Vice President and Director of North American Operations
2003
Gary D. Ward
52
Vice President and Director of Human Resources
2004
Delancey W. Davis
42
Vice President and Director of Sales Western Hemisphere Water Systems
2007

All executive officers are elected annually by the Board of Directors at the Board meeting held in conjunction with the annual meeting of shareowners. All executive officers hold office until their successors are duly elected or until their death, resignation, or removal by the Board. All executive officers have been in executive or management positions of Franklin Electric for the last five years with the exception of R. Scott Trumbull, Thomas J. Strupp, and Delancey W. Davis.

R. Scott Trumbull has been a Director of Franklin for the last seven years and was Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Owens-Illinois, Inc. prior to joining Franklin Electric as Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer in 2003.

Thomas J. Strupp was Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Pentair Water Group, Inc. prior to joining Franklin Electric in 2005. Previously, he held other executive positions in finance and general management with Sta-Rite Industries, Inc.

Delancey W. Davis was Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Flexcon Industries prior to joining Franklin Electric in 2005.  Previously, he was a practicing attorney with the Washington D.C. office of Holland & Knight, LLP and for over five years represented the water systems industry as a lobbyist for the Water Systems Council.



 
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PART II

ITEM 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS, AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES 

The number of shareowners of record as of January 15, 2008 was 1,036. The Company's stock is traded on Nasdaq National Market: Symbol FELE.

Dividends paid and the price range per common share as quoted by the Nasdaq National Market for 2007 and 2006 were as follows:

DIVIDENDS PER SHARE
   
PRICE PER SHARE
 
   
2007
   
2006
   
2007
   
2006
 
               
Low
   
High
   
Low
   
High
 
1st Quarter
  $ .11     $ .10     $ 44.68     $ 52.08     $ 38.70     $ 55.72  
2nd Quarter
  $ .12     $ .11     $ 41.87     $ 49.90     $ 46.37     $ 62.95  
3rd Quarter
  $ .12     $ .11     $ 40.00     $ 52.55     $ 45.70     $ 54.19  
4th Quarter
  $ .12     $ .11     $ 36.07     $ 47.60     $ 49.50     $ 57.35  

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities:

The Company did not purchase, under the Company’s stock repurchase program, any shares of its common stock during the three months ended December 29, 2007.


 
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ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA 

The following selected financial data should be read in conjunction with the Company’s consolidated financial statements. The information set forth below is not necessarily indicative of future operations.

FIVE YEAR FINANCIAL SUMMARY (a)

   
2007
   
2006
   
2005
   
2004
   
2003
 
   
(b)
   
(c)
   
(d)
   
(e)
       
Operations:
                             
   Net sales
  $ 602,025     $ 557,948     $ 403,413     $ 370,070     $ 325,529  
   Gross profit
    172,820       191,557       142,821       126,191       106,670  
   Interest expense
    8,147       3,373       766       488       1,107  
   Income tax expense
    15,434       30,671       24,953       21,126       16,950  
   Income from continuing operations
    28,683       56,762       45,796       38,368       34,649  
   Depreciation and amortization
    20,359       17,989       14,971       15,143       13,748  
   Capital expenditures
    28,281       23,190       17,845       21,110       15,261  
Balance sheet:
                                       
   Working capital (f)
  $ 218,830     $ 123,833     $ 138,998     $ 111,697     $ 82,640  
   Property, plant and equipment, net
    134,931       115,976       95,732       95,924       83,916  
   Total assets
    662,237       526,925       379,762       333,473       281,971  
   Long-term debt
    151,287       51,043       12,324       13,752       14,960  
   Shareowners’ equity
    378,544       345,831       267,562       234,333       192,938  
Other data:
                                       
   Income from continuing operations, to sales
    4.8 %     10.2 %     11.4 %     10.4 %     10.6 %
   Income from continuing operations, to average total assets
    4.8 %     12.5 %     12.8 %     12.5 %     12.8 %
   Current ratio (g)
    3.4       2.3       3.2       3.1       2.8  
   Number of common shares outstanding
    23,091       23,009       22,485       22,041       21,828  
Per share:
                                       
   Market price range
                                       
   High
  $ 52.55     $ 62.95     $ 45.29     $ 43.48     $ 32.80  
   Low
    36.07       38.70       34.54       29.01       23.00  
   Income, from continuing operations, per weighted-average common share
    1.24       2.49       2.06       1.75       1.60  
   Income, from continuing operations, per weighted-average common share, assuming dilution
    1.22       2.43       1.97       1.67       1.53  
   Book value (h)
    16.12       14.84       11.54       10.17       8.53  
   Dividends per common share
    0.47       0.43       0.38       0.31       0.27  


 
- 12 -

 

____________________________________________________________________________________
(a) The five year financial presentation excludes the sales and earnings of the Engineered Motor Products Division (EMPD) which was sold during the fourth quarter of 2006, for 2003 to 2006.
(b) Includes the results of operations of the Company’s wholly-owned subsidiaries, Pump Brands and the pump division of Monarch Industries, since their acquisition in the second and third quarters of 2007, respectively.
(c) Includes the results of operations of the Company’s wholly-owned subsidiaries, Little Giant Pump Company and Healy Systems, Inc., since their acquisition in the second and third quarters of 2006, respectively.
(d) Includes the results of operations of the Company’s wholly-owned subsidiary, Phil-Tite Enterprises, and the effect of an equity investment in Pioneer Pump, Inc., both acquired in the third quarter of 2005.
(e) Includes the results of operations of the Company’s wholly-owned subsidiary, Franklin Pump Systems, since the acquisition of certain assets of JBD, Inc. in the third quarter of 2004.
(f) Working capital = Current assets minus Current liabilities
(g) Current ratio = Current assets divided by Current liabilities
(h) Book value = Shareowners equity divided by weighted average common shares, assuming full dilution


 
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ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS 

2007 // 2006

OVERVIEW

Sales for 2007 were up from 2006. The increase in sales was primarily related to sales from acquisitions.  Sales growth was further benefited by significant organic growth in Water Systems pump unit shipments and international sales of Water Systems products, as well as organic growth in Fueling Systems product shipments, primarily vapor recovery systems. Earnings declined in 2007 primarily due to the decreased sales of submersible motor units in the United States and Canada.  The Company’s margins were also impacted by higher commodity costs, increased fixed costs incurred in connection with manufacturing, engineering, selling, general and administrative spending resulting from the Company’s strategy of selling to a more diversified customer base by marketing its Water Systems products direct to distributors as well as price discounting in the submersible motor and pump industry within the United States and Canada.  The Company also incurred significant restructuring costs related to the current phase of its Global Manufacturing Realignment program which also decreased operating income.

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Net Sales

(In millions)
 
2007
   
2006
      2007 v 2006  
   
Net sales to external customers
 
Water Systems
  $ 466.8     $ 465.6     $ 1.2  
Fueling Systems
  $ 135.2     $ 92.3     $ 42.9  
Other
    -       -       -  
Consolidated
  $ 602.0     $ 557.9     $ 44.1  

Net sales for fiscal year 2007 were $602.0 million, an increase of $44.1 million or 8 percent compared to 2006 sales of $557.9 million. Excluding acquisition related sales and changes in foreign exchange rates, net sales decreased about 8 percent. Incremental sales related to acquisitions for fiscal year 2007 were about $79 million or 14 percent of prior year sales. Acquisition sales growth was attributable to the full year impact on 2007 of the Little Giant Pump Company and Healy Systems acquisitions from 2006, as well as the 2007 acquisitions of Pump Brands and the pump division of Monarch. The Company also realized organic growth in Fueling Systems sales and in all submersible Water Systems sales in regions outside the United States and Canada.
 
Net Sales-Water Systems
Water Systems sales worldwide were $466.8 million, up $1.2 million for fiscal year 2007 compared to 2006. Excluding acquisition related sales and changes in foreign exchange rates, net sales decreased about 15 percent. The decrease was primarily attributable to a significant decline in unit sales of 4 inch submersible motors in the United States and Canada.  Partially offsetting the decline was a significant increase in pump product unit sales in the United States and Canada, as well as increases across all submersible product sales outside of the region.

Net Sales-Fueling Systems
Fueling Systems sales worldwide were $135.2 million an increase of approximately 47 percent in 2007 from fiscal year 2006.  Fueling Systems sales growth benefited from both organic sales growth, primarily related to vapor recovery systems and electronic fuel management systems, as well as acquisition related sales. Excluding acquisition related sales and changes in foreign exchange rates, net sales increased about 29 percent.


 
- 14 -

 


Cost of Sales
Cost of sales as a percent of net sales for 2007 and 2006 was 71.3 percent and 65.7 percent, respectively. Cost of sales as a percent of net sales increased in 2007 from 2006 primarily as a result of product mix changes as Fueling Systems products and complete Water Systems pumps (including Little Giant product lines) represented a higher percentage of overall sales and these product lines carry a higher cost of sales than submersible motor products. Fixed costs increased as a percentage of sales for Water Systems sales in the United States as shipments declined faster than related costs.  Other less significant increases in cost of sales during 2007 were freight, warranty and obsolescence expenses.

Restructuring expenses
During 2007, the Company continued to execute its Global Manufacturing Realignment program. The current phase includes the recent expansion of small submersible motor manufacturing in Linares, Mexico; the construction and start-up of a new pump manufacturing plant in Linares; the consolidation of Fueling Systems operations into the recently enlarged Madison, Wisconsin plant; and the streamlining of motor manufacturing operations in Siloam Springs, Arkansas and Wittlich, Germany. The Company has also announced the phased relocation of the Little Rock, Arkansas Water Systems pump manufacturing to the new pump plant in Linares, Mexico. Restructuring expenses for 2007 were approximately $3.9 million (pre-tax) and reduced diluted earnings per share by approximately $0.11 per share for year ending December 2007. Full year 2007 restructuring expenses include severance and other employee expenses as well as manufacturing equipment relocation costs.

 Selling, General and Administrative (“SG&A”)
SG&A expense as a percent of net sales for 2007 and 2006 was 19.9 percent and 18.4 percent, respectively. The increase in SG&A was about $17.3 million in 2007 over 2006 primarily due to acquisitions.  The increase due to acquisitions was $13.2 million. Other increases in SG&A costs were incurred in connection with selling, general and administrative spending resulting from the Company’s strategy of selling to a more diversified customer base by marketing its Water Systems products directly to distributors and increased variable commissions on stronger Fueling Systems sales.

Operating Income
(In millions)
 
2007
   
2006
      2007 v 2006  
   
Operating income (loss)
 
Water Systems
  $ 56.7     $ 104.4     $ (47.7 )
Fueling Systems
  $ 24.6     $ 15.0     $ 9.6  
Other
  $ (32.1 )   $ (30.3 )   $ (1.8 )
Consolidated
  $ 49.2     $ 89.1     $ (39.9 )

Operating Income-Water Systems
Water Systems operating income decreased primarily as a result of lower unit sales of 4” submersible motors to major OEMs in the US and Canada.  In addition, other factors affecting the decrease in operating income for the Water Systems segments were product mix changes, about $5.5 million primarily from declining motor shipments as a percentage of Water Systems sales, higher freight costs of $4.5 million, slow moving and obsolescence expense of $1.4 million related to change over and implementing new product designs and warranty costs of $0.8 million.   Partially offsetting the decline in operating income were earnings from acquisitions and increased Water Systems product sales and related earnings from regions outside of the US and Canada.

Operating Income-Fueling Systems
Fueling Systems operating income improved primarily as a result of sales volume increases.  Fueling Systems margins improved by 90 basis points due to the product mix benefit of the sales growth and as sales increases grew at a greater rate than fixed manufacturing costs.

Operating Income-Other
Other operating income is composed primarily of unallocated general and administrative expenses.  General and administrative expense increases were primarily due to increased expenses associated with acquisitions.

 
- 15 -

 


Interest expense
Interest expense for 2007 and 2006 was $8.1 million and $3.4 million, respectively. Interest expense increased in 2007 due to the debt incurred for acquisitions and increased working capital requirements.

Other income or expense
Included in other income for 2007 and 2006 was interest income of $2.2 million and $1.9 million, respectively, primarily derived from the investment of cash balances in short-term U.S. treasury and agency securities.  Also, included in other income for 2007 and 2006 was income from equity investments of $0.9 million and $0.7 million, respectively.

Foreign exchange
Foreign currency-based transactions produced a gain for 2007 of about $0.1 million primarily due to rate changes of the euro, the Canadian dollar and the South African Rand relative to the U.S. dollar.  Foreign currency-based transactions produced a loss for 2006 of $0.1 million primarily due to euro rate changes relative to other currencies in Europe and the U.S. dollar.

Income taxes
The provision for income taxes from continuing operations in 2007 and 2006 was $15.4 million and $30.7 million, respectively. The effective tax rates were 35.0 and 35.1 percent for 2007 and 2006, respectively. The effective tax rate differs from the United States statutory rate of 35 percent, generally due to foreign income exclusion and R&D credits and due to the effects of state and foreign income taxes, net of federal tax benefits.

Income from continuing operations
Income from continuing operations for 2007 was $28.7 million, or $1.22 per diluted share, compared to 2006 income from continuing operations of $56.8 million or $2.43 per diluted share.

CAPITAL RESOURCES AND LIQUIDITY
Net cash flows provided by operating activities were $4.2 million and $55.4 million in 2007 and 2006, respectively. The primary source of cash from operations was earnings. The operating cash flows used in 2007 were primarily related to increases in inventory and receivables. The increase in inventory, about $29.1 million, was primarily in finished goods due to weaker than normal Water Systems product demand in the United States and Canada.  Production levels were adjusted down during the second half of 2007 in response to the lower demand.   The increase in receivables, about $6.0 million, was due to timing of customer payments, and a more diversified customer base and change in sales terms. The operating cash flow generated for the same period in 2006 was primarily related to net income of $57.0 million. In 2006, accounts receivable, a use of cash, increased approximately $5.4 million primarily due to sales growth, while inventories, also a use of cash, increased about $11.0 million, primarily in finished goods.

Net cash flows used in investing activities were $63.2 million and $131.6 million in 2007 and 2006, respectively. In 2007, the Company paid an aggregate of $37.0 million for acquisitions, net of cash acquired. The acquisitions consisted of Pump Brands and the pump division of Monarch. In 2006, the Company paid an aggregate of $159.2 million for acquisitions, net of cash acquired. The acquisitions consisted of Little Giant Pump Company for $123.9 million and Healy Systems for $35.3 million. Uses of cash in 2007 and 2006 were also for the purchase of property, plant and equipment, $28.3 million and $23.2 million, respectively. Cash proceeds from net investments in securities during 2006 was $36.0 million.

Cash flows from financing activities were $87.0 million and $54.8 million in 2007 and 2006, respectively, primarily from long-term debt. The Company paid $10.8 million and $9.8 million in dividends on the Company’s common stock in 2007 and 2006, respectively. In 2007, another principal use of cash was purchases of Company common stock under the Company’s repurchase program. During 2007, the Company repurchased 187,600 shares of its common stock for $8.1 million.

 
- 16 -

 

Cash at the end of 2007 was $65.3 million compared to $34.0 million at the end of 2006. Working capital increased $95.0 million in 2007 and the current ratio of the Company was 3.4 for 2007 compared to a current ratio of 2.3 at the end of 2006. The Company’s working capital and current ratio increased in 2007 as the Company’s increased borrowings were temporarily invested in cash and used to fund increased inventory on hand during the year.

On December 14, 2006, the Company entered into an amended and restated unsecured, 60-month, $120.0 million revolving credit agreement (the “Agreement”). The Company had no outstanding borrowings under the Agreement at December 29, 2007 and $50.0 million at December 30, 2006.

The Company amended and restated an uncommitted shelf agreement with Prudential Capital in the amount of $175.0 million in the second quarter of 2007.  Under the shelf agreement the Company issued notes for $110.0 million on April 30, 2007 and $40.0 million on September 7, 2007 at a fixed rate of 5.79 percent with a 10-year average life, which includes financial covenants similar to the Company’s other borrowing agreements.  Proceeds of the facility were used to pay down short term variable rate borrowings and will be used to fund future acquisitions and Company stock purchases.

The Company also has certain overdraft facilities at its foreign subsidiaries, of which none were outstanding at December 29, 2007 and December 30, 2006.

The Company is subject to certain financial covenants with respect to borrowings, interest coverage, working capital, loans or advances, and investments. The Company was in compliance with all debt covenants at all times during 2007 and 2006.  On February 26, 2008 the company entered into amendments to the Amended and Restated  Credit Agreement and the Second Amended and Restated Note Purchase and Private Shelf Agreement changing the financial covenant of consolidated debt divided by consolidated earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (the “Leverage Ratio”) limit under both agreements from a maximum of three times to a maximum of three and one-half times effective with the company’s first fiscal quarter of 2008 through the company’s first fiscal quarter of 2009.  Starting with the company’s second fiscal quarter of 2009 and for each quarter thereafter the Leverage Ratio will be a maximum of three times.

At December 29, 2007, the Company had approximately $1.6 million of commitments primarily for the purchase of machinery and equipment, and building expansions. Management believes that internally generated funds and existing credit arrangements provide sufficient liquidity to meet these current commitments and existing debt, and finance business growth.


2006 // 2005

OVERVIEW

Sales and earnings from continuing operations for 2006 were up from 2005. The increase in sales was primarily related to sales from acquisitions. Sales growth benefited from selling price realization gains and organic growth in Water Systems motor and pump unit shipments as well as organic growth in Fueling Systems product shipments, primarily flexible pipe. Earnings improved in 2006 primarily due to the increased sales as well as reduced manufacturing costs from the Company’s growing production base in Mexico, The Czech Republic, and China. These improvements were partially offset by higher commodity costs and increased fixed costs incurred in connection with selling, general and administrative spending resulting from the Company’s strategy of selling to a more diversified customer base by marketing its Water Systems products directly to distributors. Included in the results for 2006 are stock-based compensation expenses recorded under the new accounting guidelines of  Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) No. 123(R). The accounting pronouncement was adopted as of January 1, 2006.

 
- 17 -

 

During the fourth quarter of 2006, the Company divested its Engineered Motor Products Division (EMPD). For financial statement purposes, EMPD was classified as a discontinued operation for all periods presented. As a discontinued operation, EMPD’s sales and operational impact were excluded from the Company’s continuing operations results and reported in the income statement section as “discontinued operations”. EMPD’s sales for 2006 through the date of divestiture and for full years 2005 and 2004 represented less than 10 percent of the Company’s total sales. EMPD’s net earnings for 2006 through the date of divestiture and for full year 2005 were about $0.01 per share in both years. EMPD had a net loss for full year 2004 of about $0.02 per share. Unless otherwise indicated, the following discussion relates to continuing operations only.



RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Net Sales
(In millions)
 
2006
   
2005
      2006 v 2005  
   
Net sales to external customers
 
Water Systems
  $ 465.6     $ 340.2     $ 125.4  
Fueling Systems
  $ 92.3     $ 63.2     $ 29.1  
Other
                       
Consolidated
  $ 557.9     $ 403.4     $ 154.5  


Net sales for fiscal year 2006 were a record $557.9 million, an increase of $154.5 million or 38 percent compared to 2005 sales of $403.4 million. Incremental sales related to acquisitions for fiscal year 2006 were about $86 million or 21 percent of prior year sales. The majority of the sales growth from acquisitions resulted from the Little Giant Pump Company. Sales growth benefited from price realization gains and organic growth in Water Systems motor and pumps. Sales increased by gains in price realization of approximately $20.6 million or 5 percent in 2006 resulting from increases in product selling prices, changes in customer sales discount programs and greater direct sales to distribution customers.

Net Sales-Water Systems
Water Systems product sales worldwide were $465.6 million, up about 37 percent for fiscal year 2006 compared to 2005. Sales revenue increased in all of Water Systems major product categories during the year (including submersible motors, pumps, and drives and controls).

Net Sales-Fueling Systems
Fueling Systems worldwide sales were $92.3 million an increase of approximately 46 percent in 2006 from fiscal year 2005.

Cost of Sales
Cost of sales as a percent of net sales for 2006 and 2005 was 65.7 percent and 64.6 percent, respectively. Cost of sales as a percent of net sales increased in 2006 from 2005 primarily as a result of product mix changes as Fueling Systems products and complete Water Systems pumps (including Little Giant product lines) represented a higher percentage of overall sales and these product lines carry a higher cost of sales than submersible motor products.

Selling, General and Administrative (“SG&A”)
SG&A expense as a percent of net sales for 2006 and 2005 was 18.4 percent and 17.6 percent, respectively. Incremental increases in SG&A expense were about $31.7 million in 2006 over 2005 primarily due to acquisitions $15.5 million, stock-based compensation expense $2.7 million, and increased fixed costs incurred in connection with selling, general and administrative spending resulting from the Company’s strategy of selling to a more diversified customer base by marketing its Water Systems products directly to distributors.


 
- 18 -

 

Operating Income
(In millions)
 
2006
   
2005
      2006 v 2005  
   
Operating income (loss)
 
Water systems
  $ 104.4     $ 87.0     $ 17.4  
Fueling systems
  $ 15.0     $ 7.3     $ 7.7  
Other
  $ (30.3 )   $ (24.2 )   $ (6.1 )
Consolidated
  $ 89.1     $ 70.1     $ 19.0  

Operating income for 2006 was $89.1 million, an increase of about 27 percent from 2005.  Operating income improved primarily due to sales volume increases.  These improvements were partially offset by higher commodity costs and increased fixed costs incurred in connection with selling, general and administrative spending resulting from the Company’s strategy of selling to a more diversified customer base by marketing its Water Systems products directly to distributors. Included in the results for 2006 are stock-based compensation expenses recorded under the new accounting guidelines of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) No. 123(R). The accounting pronouncement was adopted as of January 1, 2006.

Operating Income-Water Systems
Water Systems operating income improved primarily as a result of sales volume increases.


Operating Income-Fueling Systems
Fueling Systems operating income improved primarily as a result of sales volume increases.

Operating Income-Other
Other operating income is composed primarily of unallocated general and administrative expenses.  General and administrative expense increases were primarily due to stock-based compensation expense $2.7 million as well as increased expenses associated with acquisitions and support for a more diversified customer base.

Interest expense
Interest expense for 2006 and 2005 was $3.4 million and $0.8 million, respectively. Interest expense increased in 2006 due to the debt incurred for the acquisitions of the Little Giant Pump Company and Healy Systems.

Other income or expense
Included in other income for 2006 and 2005 was interest income of $1.9 million and $1.4 million, respectively, primarily derived from the investment of cash balances in short-term U.S. treasury and agency securities.  Also, included in other income for 2006 and 2005 was income from equity investments of $0.7 million and $0.1 million, respectively.

Foreign exchange
Foreign currency-based transactions produced a loss for 2006 of about $0.1 million primarily due to euro rate changes relative to other currencies in Europe and the U.S. dollar.  Foreign currency-based transactions produced a gain for 2005 of $0.2 million primarily due to fluctuations between the U.S. dollar and the Chinese Yuan and Mexican Peso.

Income taxes
The provision for income taxes from continuing operations in 2006 and 2005 was $30.7 million and $25.0 million, respectively. The effective tax rates were 35.1 and 35.3 percent for 2006 and 2005, respectively. The effective tax rate differs from the United States statutory rate of 35 percent, generally due to foreign income exclusion and R&D credits and due to the effects of state and foreign income taxes, net of federal tax benefits.

Income from continuing operations
Income from continuing operations for 2006 was $56.8 million, or $2.43 per diluted share, compared to 2005 income from continuing operations of $45.8 million or $1.97 per diluted share.

 
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CAPITAL RESOURCES AND LIQUIDITY

Cash flows from operations provide the principal source of current liquidity. Net cash flows provided by operating activities were $55.4 million and $74.2 million in 2006 and 2005, respectively. The primary source of cash from operations was earnings. Significant uses of operating cash flow in 2006 and 2005 were increases in inventory, $11.0 million and $10.6 million, respectively. Inventories increased significantly in 2006 and 2005 as the Company increased finished goods availability for pump products and distribution customers as a part of its new distribution channel strategy. Accounts receivable and accounts payable and other accrued expenses were significant sources of operating cash flow in 2005. Accounts receivable increases were primarily attributable to the timing of payments received from customers and increased sales during 2005. Accounts payable increases were primarily attributable to the timing of payments made to vendors and increased inventories during 2005.

Net cash flows used in investing activities were $131.6 million and $63.5 million in 2006 and 2005, respectively. In 2006, the Company paid an aggregate of $159.2 million for acquisitions in 2006, net of cash acquired. The acquisitions consisted of Little Giant Pump Company for $123.9 million and Healy Systems for $35.3 million. In 2005, the Company paid $36.0 million for short-term investment securities, net of short-term investment securities sold. The Company paid an aggregate of $8.5 million for acquisitions in 2005, net of cash acquired. The acquisitions consisted of $5.6 million for Phil-Tite and $2.9 million for an equity investment in Pioneer.

Cash flows from financing activities in 2006 were $54.8 million primarily from long-term debt. Net cash flows used in financing activities were $9.0 million in 2005. The Company paid $9.8 million and $8.5 million in dividends on the Company’s common stock in 2006 and 2005, respectively. In 2005, another principal use of cash was purchases of Company common stock under the Company’s repurchase program. During 2005, the Company repurchased 366,308 shares of its common stock for $13.8 million.

Cash at the end of 2006 was $34.0 million compared to $52.1 million in cash and equivalents at the end of 2005. Working capital decreased $15.2 million in 2006 and the current ratio of the Company was 2.3 for 2006 compared to a current ratio of 3.2 at the end of 2005. The Company’s working capital and current ratio decreased in 2006 as the Company invested its excess cash in acquisitions during the year.

Principal payments of $1.0 million per year on the Company’s $20.0 million of unsecured long-term debt began in 1998 and will continue until 2008 when a balloon payment of $10.0 million will fully retire the debt. In September 2004, the Company entered into an unsecured, 60-month $80.0 million, amended and restated to $120.0 million during December 2006, revolving credit agreement (the “Agreement”). The Agreement includes a facility fee of one-tenth of one percent on the committed amount. The Company had outstanding borrowings under the Agreement of $50 million at December 30, 2006. The Company had no outstanding borrowings under the Agreement at December 31, 2005. The Company is subject to certain financial covenants with respect to borrowings, interest coverage, working capital, loans or advances, and investments. The Company was in compliance with all debt covenants at all times in 2006 and 2005.

At December 30, 2006, the Company had $5.9 million of commitments primarily for the purchase of machinery and equipment, and building expansions. Management believes that internally generated funds and existing credit arrangements provide sufficient liquidity to meet these current commitments and existing debt, and finance business growth.
 
2007

AGGREGATE CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS
Most of the Company’s contractual obligations to third parties are debt obligations. In addition, the Company has certain contractual obligations for future lease payments, contingency payments, as well as, purchase obligations. The payment schedule for these contractual obligations is as follows:

 
- 20 -

 
 

 (In millions)
       
Less than
               
More than
 
   
Total
   
1 Year
   
1-3 Years
   
3-5 Years
   
5 Years
 
Debt
  $ 160.8     $ 10.0     $ 0.0     $ 0.0     $ 150.8  
Debt interest
    101.9       9.8       17.4       17.4       57.3  
Capital leases
    0.9       0.4       0.5       0.0       0.0  
Operating leases
    22.9       7.2       7.1       2.4       6.2  
Contingency from Healy acquisition
    1.9       1.9       -       -       -  
Purchase obligations
    1.6       1.6       -       -       -  
    $ 290.0     $ 30.9     $ 25.0     $ 19.8     $ 214.3  

Debt interest includes interest on the balance outstanding under the Company’s fixed-to-variable interest rate swap. Per the swap contract, the Company receives interest at a fixed rate of 6.3 percent and pays interest at a variable rate based on the three month London Interbank Offered Rates (LIBOR) rate plus a spread. The average variable rate paid in 2007 was 7.9 percent. Debt interest also includes interest under the Company’s current credit agreement. The average interest rate for 2007 was 5.6 percent based on the LIBOR plus an interest spread. The remaining interest calculated was based on the fixed rate of 6.31 percent for the Company’s short-term insurance company debt and 5.79 for the Company’s long-term insurance company debt.

The Healy Systems stock purchase agreement provided for additional contingent payments of 5 percent of certain Healy Systems product sales over the next five years from the year of acquisition.

The Company has pension and other post-retirement benefit obligations not included in the table above which will result in future payments. The Company also has unrecognized tax benefits related to FASB Interpretation 48 obligations, none of which are included in the table above.  The unrecognized tax benefits of approximately $2.0 million have been recorded as liabilities in accordance with FASB Interpretation 48, and we are uncertain as to if or when such amounts may be settled.  Related to the unrecognized tax benefits, the Company has also recorded a liability for potential penalties and interest of $0.2 million.

 
- 21 -

 

ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS

 
In September 2006, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (“SFAS”) No. 157, Fair Value Measurements. SFAS No. 157 establishes a framework for measuring fair value and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. SFAS 157 clarifies the definition of exchange price as the price between market participants in an orderly transaction to sell an asset or transfer a liability in the market in which the reporting entity would transact for the asset or liability, that is, the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability. The changes to current practice resulting from the application of this statement relate to the definition of fair value, the methods used to measure fair value, and the expanded disclosures about fair value measurements. SFAS No. 157 is effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007 and interim periods within those fiscal years for financial assets and liabilities such as derivatives measured at fair value under SFAS No. 133, Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities, an irrevocable election  to measure hybrid financial instruments at fair value under SFAS No. 155 Accounting for Certain Hybrid Financial Instruments, servicing assets and liabilities measured at fair value under SFAS No. 156, Accounting for Servicing of Financial Assets, etc.  SFAS No. 157 has been deferred until fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2008 for nonfinancial assets and liabilities such as asset retirement obligations measured at fair value at initial recognition under SFAS No. 143, Accounting for Asset Retirement Obligations, long-lived asset groups measured at fair value under SFAS No. 144, Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets, liabilities for exit or disposal activities measured at fair value under SFAS No. 146, Accounting for Costs Associated With Exit or Disposal Activities, etc.  The Company is in the process of determining the impact of adopting this new accounting principle on its consolidated financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

In February 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 159, “The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities.” SFAS No. 159 permits entities to choose to measure many financial instruments and certain other items at fair value that are not currently required to be measured at fair value. SFAS No. 159 is effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007, with early adoption permitted provided the entity also elects to apply the provisions of SFAS No. 157. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of adopting SFAS No. 159 on its financial statements.

In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 141(R), Business Combinations—a replacement of FASB No. 141. SFAS No. 141(R) requires (a) a company to recognize the assets acquired, the liabilities assumed, and any non-controlling interest in the acquiree at fair value as of the acquisition date; and (b) an acquirer in pre-acquisition periods to expense all acquisition-related costs.  SFAS No. 141(R) also requires that any adjustments to an acquired entity’s deferred tax asset, valuation allowance, cash contingency, or deferred tax liability balance that occur after the measurement period be recorded as a component of income tax expense.  This accounting treatment is required for business combinations consummated before the effective date of SFAS No. 141(R) (non-prospective), otherwise SFAS No. 141(R) must be applied prospectively. The presentation and disclosure requirements must be applied retrospectively to provide comparability in the financial statements.  Early adoption is prohibited.   SFAS No. 141(R) is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning on or after December 15, 2008. The Company is in the process of determining the impact of adopting this new accounting principle on its consolidated financial position, results of operations and cash flows

In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 160, Non-controlling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements—an amendment of Accounting Research Bulletin (“ARB”) No. 51. SFAS No. 160 (a) amends ARB 51 to establish accounting and reporting standards for the non-controlling interest in a subsidiary and the deconsolidation of a subsidiary; (b) changes the way the consolidated income statement is presented; (c) establishes a single method of accounting for changes in a parent’s ownership interest in a subsidiary that do not result in deconsolidation; (d) requires that a parent recognize a gain or loss in net income when a subsidiary is deconsolidated; and (e) requires expanded disclosures in the consolidated financial statements that clearly identify and distinguish between the interests of the parent’s owners and the interests of the non-controlling owners of a subsidiary. SFAS No. 160 must be applied prospectively to the presentation and disclosure requirements must be applied retrospectively to provide comparability in the financial statements.  Early adoption is prohibited.   SFAS No. 160 is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning on or after December 15, 2008. The Company is in the process of determining the impact of adopting this new accounting principle on its consolidated financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

 
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CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES

Management’s discussion and analysis of its financial condition and results of operations are based upon the Company’s consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. The preparation of these financial statements requires management to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses, and the related disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. On an on-going basis, management evaluates its estimates, including those related to revenue recognition, allowance for doubtful accounts, accounts receivable, inventories, recoverability of long-lived assets, business combinations, intangible assets, income taxes, warranty obligations, stock-based compensation, pension and other employee benefit plan obligations, and contingencies. Management bases its estimates on historical experience and on other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying value of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions.

The Company’s critical accounting policies are identified below:

Revenue Recognition:
Products are shipped utilizing common carriers direct to customers or, for consignment products, to customer-specified warehouse locations. Sales are recognized when the Company’s products are shipped direct or, in the case of consignment products, transferred from the customer-specified warehouse location to the customer, at which time transfer of ownership and risk of loss pass to the customer. The Company records net sales revenues after discounts at the time of sale based on specific discount programs in effect, historical data, and experience.

Warranty Obligations:
Warranty terms are generally two years from date of manufacture or one year from date of installation.  The Company also offers an extended warranty program to certain Water Systems customers, which provides warranty coverage for up to five years from the date of manufacture. Warranty liability is recorded when revenue is recognized and is based on actual historical return rates from the most recent warranty periods. Warranty expense has historically approximated 1.3 percent of net sales.  While the Company’s warranty costs have historically been within its calculated estimates, it is possible that future warranty costs could exceed those estimates.

Stock-Based Compensation:
Effective January 1, 2006, the Company adopted the fair value recognition provisions of SFAS No. 123(R), using the modified prospective transition method. Under that transition method, compensation expense recognized includes: (a) compensation expense for all stock-based payments granted prior to, but not yet vested as of, January 1, 2006, based on the grant date fair value estimated in accordance with the original provisions of SFAS No. 123; and (b) compensation expense for all stock-based payments granted on or after January 1, 2006, based on the grant date fair value estimated in accordance with the provisions of SFAS No. 123(R).

The fair value of each option award is estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option valuation model with a single approach and amortized using a straight-line attribution method over the option’s vesting period. Options granted to retirement eligible employees are immediately expensed. The Company uses historical data to estimate the expected volatility of its stock; the weighted average expected life, the period of time options granted are expected to be outstanding; and its dividend yield. The risk-free rates for periods within the contractual life of the option are based on the U.S. Treasury yield curve in effect at the time of the grant.

 
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The assumptions used for the Black-Scholes model to determine the fair value of options granted during 2007 is as follows:

Risk-free interest rate
4.74 – 4.78%
Dividend yield
.65-.67%
Weighted-average dividend yield
.653%
Volatility factor
.3529-.3701
Weighted-average volatility
.3554
Expected term
5.3-6.2 years
Forfeiture rate
4.18%

Accounts Receivable and Allowance for Uncollectible Accounts:
Accounts receivable is comprised of balances due from customers net of estimated allowances for uncollectible accounts. In determining allowances, historical trends are evaluated and economic conditions and specific customer issues are reviewed to arrive at appropriate allowances. Allowance levels change as customer-specific circumstances and the other analysis areas noted above change. Differences may result in the amount for allowances if actual experience differs significantly from management estimates; such differences have not historically been material.

Inventory Valuation:
The Company uses certain estimates and judgments to value inventory. Inventory is recorded at the lower of cost or market. The Company reviews its inventories for excess or obsolete products or components. Based on an analysis of historical usage and management’s evaluation of estimated future demand, market conditions and alternative uses for possible excess or obsolete parts, carrying values are adjusted.  For all inventory, our carrying value is reduced regularly to reflect the age and current anticipated demand for our products. If actual demand differs from our estimates, additional reductions to our inventory carrying value would be necessary in the period such determination is made.  The Company’s reserve for excess or obsolete products or components as of year end 2007 was $11.4 million.  Excess and obsolete inventory is periodically disposed through sale to third parties, scrapping or other means, and the reserves are appropriately reduced.  Differences may result in the amount for carrying value and reserves if actual experience differs significantly from management estimates; such differences have not historically been material.

Long-lived Assets:
The Company reviews long-lived assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the related carrying amounts may not be recoverable. Determining whether an impairment has occurred typically requires various estimates and assumptions, including determining which cash flows are directly related to the potentially impaired asset, the useful life over which cash flows will occur, their amount and the asset's residual value, if any. In turn, measurement of an impairment loss requires a determination of fair value, which is based on the best information available given the Company’s historical experience and internal business plans.

Business Combinations:
The Company follows the guidance under SFAS No. 141, “Business Combinations.” The acquisition purchase price is allocated to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed based upon their respective fair values and subject to change during the twelve month period subsequent to the acquisition date. The Company utilizes management estimates and independent third-party valuation firms to assist in determining the fair values of assets acquired and liabilities assumed. Such estimates and valuations require the Company to make significant assumptions, including projections of future events and operating performance.

Goodwill:
The Company follows the guidance under SFAS No. 142, “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets, to record goodwill.  Goodwill is not amortized; however it is tested for impairment annually or more frequently whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the asset may be impaired. In assessing the recoverability of goodwill (i.e., impairment testing), the Company must make assumptions regarding estimated future cash flows and other factors to determine the fair value of the respective assets. Such cash flows consider factors such as expected future operating income and historical trends, as well as the effects of demand and competition. If the Company’s assumptions and estimates change whereby fair value of the reporting units is below their associated carrying values,

 
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the Company may be required to record an impairment.  To the extent impairment has occurred, the loss is measured as the excess of the carrying amount of the reporting unit including goodwill over the fair value. Goodwill included on the balance sheet as of year end 2007 was $140.0 million.  During the fourth quarter of 2007, the Company completed its annual impairment test of goodwill and determined there was no impairment.  A 10 percent decrease in the fair value estimates used in the fourth quarter 2007 impairment test would not have changed this determination.  Such estimates require the use of judgment and numerous subjective assumptions, which, if actual experience varies, could result in material differences in the requirements for impairment charges.

Income Taxes:
Under the requirements of SFAS No. 109, “Accounting for Income Taxes”, the Company records deferred tax assets and liabilities for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The Company operates in multiple tax jurisdictions with different tax rates, and determines the allocation of income to each of these jurisdictions based upon various estimates and assumptions. In the normal course of business the Company will undergo tax audits by various tax jurisdictions. Such audits often require an extended period of time to complete and may result in income tax adjustments if changes to the allocation are required between jurisdictions with different tax rates. Although the Company has recorded all probable income tax contingencies in accordance with SFAS No. 5, “Accounting for Contingencies” and SFAS No. 109, “Accounting for Income Taxes,” these accruals represent estimates that are subject to the inherent uncertainties associated with the tax audit process, and therefore include contingencies.  Management judgment is required in determining the Company’s provision for income taxes, deferred tax assets and liabilities, which, if actual experience varies, could result in material adjustments to deferred tax assets and liabilities. The Company’s operations involves dealing with uncertainties and judgments in the application of complex tax regulations in multiple jurisdictions. The final taxes paid are dependent upon many factors, including negotiations with taxing authorities in various jurisdictions and resolution of disputes arising from federal, state, and international tax audits.

Uncertainty in Income Taxes:
The Company recognizes potential liabilities and records tax liabilities for anticipated tax audit issues in the U.S. and other tax jurisdictions based on its estimate of whether, and the extent to which, additional taxes will be due.  As of January 1, 2007, the Company adopted FASB Interpretation No. 48, “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes,” (“FIN 48”), an interpretation of FASB Statement No. 109, “Accounting for Income Taxes,” guidance to record tax liabilities.  FIN 48 clarifies the accounting and reporting for uncertainties in the application of the income tax laws to the Company’s operations. The interpretation prescribes a comprehensive model for the financial statement recognition, measurement, presentation and disclosure of uncertain tax positions taken or expected to be taken in income tax returns.

Pension and Employee Benefit Obligations:
With the assistance of the Company’s actuaries, the discount rate used to determine pension and post-retirement plan liabilities is selected using a yield-curve approach. The yield-curve approach discounts each expected cash flow of the liability stream at an interest rate based on high quality corporate bonds. The present value of the discounted cash flows is summed and an equivalent weighted-average discount rate is calculated. A change in the discount rate selected by the Company of 25 basis points would result in a change of about $0.1 million of employee benefit expense. The Company consults with actuaries, asset allocation consultants and investment advisors to determine the expected long-term rate of return on plan assets based on historical and projected rates of return on the types of assets in which the plans have invested. A change in the long-term rate of return selected by the Company of 25 basis points would result in a change of about $0.3 million of employee benefit expense.

Contingencies:
The Company is subject to the possibility of various loss contingencies arising in the ordinary course of business resulting from litigation, claims and other commitments, and from a variety of environmental and pollution control laws and regulations. The Company considers the likelihood of loss or the incurrence of a liability, as well as the ability to reasonably estimate the amount of loss, in determining loss contingencies. The Company accrues an estimated loss contingency when it is probable that a liability has been incurred and the amount of loss can be reasonably estimated. The amount of the reserves is determined, if any, with the assistance of outside legal counsel

 
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or other governmental regulatory agencies. The Company regularly evaluates current information available to determine whether the accruals should be adjusted.

FACTORS THAT MAY AFFECT FUTURE RESULTS
Any forward-looking statements contained herein involve risks and uncertainties, including, but not limited to, general economic and currency conditions, various conditions specific to the Company’s business and industry, new housing starts, weather conditions, market demand, competitive factors, changes in distribution channels, supply constraints, technology factors, litigation, government and regulatory actions, the Company’s accounting policies, future trends, and other risks, all as described in Item 1A and Exhibit 99.1 of this Form 10-K. These risks and uncertainties may cause actual results to differ materially from those indicated by the forward-looking statements. Any forward-looking statements included in this Form 10-K are based upon information presently available. The Company does not assume any obligation to update any forward-looking information.


 
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ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
The Company is subject to market risk associated with changes in foreign currency exchange rates and interest rates. Foreign currency exchange rate risk is mitigated through several means: maintenance of local production facilities in the markets served, invoicing of customers in the same currency as the source of the products, prompt settlement of inter-company balances utilizing a global netting system and limited use of foreign currency denominated debt.

The results of operations are exposed to changes in interest rates primarily with respect to borrowings under the Company’s revolving credit agreement (credit facility), where interest rates are tied to the prime rate or LIBOR. The average interest rate associated with borrowings against the credit facility paid by the Company in 2007 and 2006 was 5.6 percent and 5.5 percent, respectively.  As of December 29, 2007, the Company had no outstanding borrowings under the Agreement and $50.0 million outstanding under the credit facility at December 30, 2006. The Company does not, as a matter of policy, enter into derivative contracts for speculative purposes. The interest rate swap agreement entered into by the Company on September 24, 2003, had a notional amount of $10.0 million under which the Company receives a fixed rate of interest of 6.3 percent and pays interest at a variable rate based on a three month LIBOR rate plus a spread. The average rate associated with the swap agreement paid by the Company in 2007 was 7.9 percent. The fixed-to-variable interest rate swap is accounted for as a fair value hedge, per SFAS No. 133, “Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities”, with effectiveness assessed based on changes in the fair value of the underlying debt using incremental borrowing rates currently available on loans with similar terms and maturities. The effective gain or loss on the interest rate swap and that of the underlying debt are equal and offsetting resulting in no net effect to earnings. Based on the Company’s variable rate debt at December 29, 2007, a hypothetical 1.0 percent increase in interest rates would result in an annual increase in interest expense of approximately $0.1 million.
 
 
 
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ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
 
FRANKLIN ELECTRIC CO., INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
 
                   
(In thousands, except per share amounts)
                 
   
2007
   
2006
   
2005
 
                   
Net sales
  $ 602,025     $ 557,948     $ 403,413  
                         
Cost of sales
    429,205       366,391       260,592  
                         
Gross profit
    172,820       191,557       142,821  
                         
Selling, general and administrative expenses
    119,748       102,478       70,799  
                         
Restructuring expenses
    3,898       -       1,920  
                         
Operating income
    49,174       89,079       70,102  
                         
Interest expense
    (8,147 )     (3,373 )     (766 )
Other income
    3,010       1,791       1,200  
Foreign exchange income (loss)
    80       (64 )     213  
                         
Income before income taxes
    44,117       87,433       70,749  
                         
Income taxes
    15,434       30,671       24,953  
                         
Income from continuing operations
    28,683       56,762       45,796  
                         
Discontinued operations
    -       381       344  
Income taxes
    -       145       131  
Income from discontinued operations
    -       236       213  
                         
Net income
  $ 28,683     $ 56,998     $ 46,009  
                         
Income per share:
                       
   Basic continuing operations
  $ 1.24     $ 2.49     $ 2.06  
   Basic discontinued operations
    -       0.01       0.01  
    $ 1.24     $ 2.50     $ 2.07  
                         
   Diluted continuing operations
  $ 1.22     $ 2.43     $ 1.97  
   Diluted discontinued operations
    -       0.01       0.01  
    $ 1.22     $ 2.44     $ 1.98  
                         
Dividends per common share
  $ .47     $ .43     $ .38  

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.


 
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CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
 
FRANKLIN ELECTRIC CO., INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
 
   
             
(In thousands)
           
   
2007
   
2006
 
             
ASSETS
           
Current assets:
           
   Cash
  $ 65,252     $ 33,956  
   Receivables, less allowances of
               
      $2,594 and $2,786, respectively
    64,972       52,679  
   Inventories:
               
      Raw material
    57,958       39,195  
      Work-in-process
    17,128       14,414  
      Finished goods
    99,974       76,661  
      LIFO reserve
    (18,914 )     (18,707 )
      156,146       111,563  
                 
    Deferred income taxes
    17,127       14,914  
    Other current assets
    5,982       4,678  
      Total current assets
    309,479       217,790  
                 
Property, plant and equipment, at cost
               
   Land and buildings
    64,350       56,352  
   Machinery and equipment
    161,280       141,110  
   Furniture & Fixtures
    12,595       13,275  
   Other
    16,909       14,734  
      255,134       225,471  
      Less allowance for depreciation
    (120,203 )     (109,495 )
      134,931       115,976  
                 
                 
Intangible assets
    66,925       45,257  
Goodwill
    140,034       133,527  
Other assets (including
               
      deferred income taxes of $0
               
      and $1,269, respectively)
    10,868       14,375  
Total assets
  $ 662,237     $ 526,925  
                 

 
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LIABILITIES AND SHAREOWNERS' EQUITY
           
Current liabilities:
           
   Accounts payable
  $ 27,986     $ 30,832  
   Accrued expenses
    46,085       40,166  
   Income taxes
    6,180       11,649  
   Current maturities of long-term
               
      debt and short-term borrowings
    10,398       11,310  
      Total current liabilities
    90,649       93,957  
Long-term debt
    151,287       51,043  
Deferred income taxes
    11,686       4,597  
Employee benefit plan obligations
    24,713       25,969  
Other long-term liabilities
    5,358       5,528  
                 
Shareowners' equity:
               
   Common stock (65,000 shares authorized, $.10 par value)
               
     outstanding (23,091 and 23,009, respectively)
    2,309       2,301  
   Additional capital
    105,428       94,356  
   Retained earnings
    246,324       236,780  
   Loan to ESOP Trust
    -       (200 )
   Accumulated other comprehensive gain
    24,483       12,594  
      Total shareowners' equity
    378,544       345,831  
Total liabilities and shareowners' equity
  $ 662,237     $ 526,925  
                 
See Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
 
 
 
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CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
 
FRANKLIN ELECTRIC CO., INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
 
                   
(In thousands)
                 
   
2007
   
2006
   
2005
 
                   
                   
Cash flows from operating activities:
                 
   Net income
  $ 28,683     $ 56,998     $ 46,009  
   Adjustments to reconcile net income to net
                       
      cash flows from operating activities:
                       
      Depreciation and amortization
    20,359       17,989       14,971  
      Stock based compensation
    3,762       3,206       147  
      Deferred income taxes
    913       (9,933 )     284  
      (Gain)/loss on disposals of plant and equipment
    800       (4,637 )     174  
      Changes in assets and liabilities:
                       
        Receivables
    (6,018 )     (5,380 )     7,354  
        Inventories
    (29,092 )     (10,978 )     (10,642 )
        Accounts payable and other accrued expenses
    (4,473 )     (4,540 )     5,930  
        Accrued income taxes
    (3,698 )     15,012       8,076  
        Excess tax from share-based payment arrangements
    (2,182 )     (5,743 )     -  
        Employee benefit plans
    726       4,956       2,420  
        Other, net
    (5,541 )     (1,561 )     (559 )
Net cash flows from operating activities
    4,239       55,389       74,164  
Cash flows from investing activities:
                       
  Additions to plant and equipment
    (28,281 )     (23,190 )     (17,845 )
  Proceeds from sale of plant and equipment
    347       343       1,073  
  Additions to other assets
    (3 )     -       (2,184 )
  Purchases of securities
    (420,575 )     (63,500 )     (236,773 )
  Proceeds from sale of securities
    420,575       99,488       200,785  
  Cash paid for acquisitions
    (37,015 )     (159,205 )     (8,509 )
  Proceeds from sale of business
    1,725       14,470       -  
Net cash flows from investing activities
    (63,227 )     (131,594 )     (63,453 )
Cash flows from financing activities:
                       
  Proceeds from long-term debt
    200,000       130,000       -  
  Repayment of long-term debt
    (101,428 )     (81,296 )     (1,280 )
  Proceeds from issuance of common stock
    5,038       10,120       14,298  
  Excess tax from share-based payment arrangements
    2,182       5,743       -  
  Purchases of common stock
    (8,118 )     (198 )     (13,775 )
  Reduction of loan to ESOP Trust
    200       232       233  
  Dividends paid
    (10,834 )     (9,833 )     (8,447 )
Net cash flows from financing activities
    87,040       54,768       (8,971 )
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash
    3,244       3,257       (208 )
Net change in cash and equivalents
    31,296       (18,180 )     1,532  
Cash and equivalents at beginning of period
    33,956       52,136       50,604  
Cash and equivalents at end of period
  $ 65,252     $ 33,956     $ 52,136  
                         

 
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(In millions)
                 
Cash paid for income taxes
  $ 19.1     $ 24.4     $ 19.3  
Cash paid for interest
  $ 7.1     $ 3.1     $ 0.7  
                         
Non -cash items:
                       
Payable to seller of Healy Systems, Inc.
  $ 1.9     $ 3.0     $ -  
Additions to property, plant, and equipment, not yet paid
  $ 0.5     $ 0.5     $ 0.5  
Receivable from sale of EMPD
  $ 0.4     $ 2.2     $ -  
Stock issued in connection with stock option exercises,
  $ 0.1     $ 0.0     $ (0.6 )
   forfeitures, or stock retirements
                       

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.



 
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CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREOWNERS’ EQUITY AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

FRANKLIN ELECTRIC CO., INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES

                                           
   
Common Shares Outstanding
   
Common Stock
   
Additional Capital
   
Retained Earnings
   
Loan to ESOP Trust
   
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
   
Comprehensive Income
 
                                           
Balance year end 2004
    22,041     $ 2,204     $ 52,743     $ 166,557     $ (665 )   $ 13,494        
                                                       
Net income
                            46,009                     $ 46,009  
Currency translation adjustment
                                            (9,405 )     (9,405 )
Minimum pension liability adjustment, net of tax $2,295
                                            (3,442 )     (3,442 )
Comprehensive income
                                                  $ 33,162  
Dividends on common stock
                            (8,447 )                        
Common stock issued
    795       81       14,855                                  
Stock-based compensation
    15       1       147                                  
Common stock repurchased or received for stock options exercised
    (366 )     (37 )             (13,738 )                        
Tax benefit of stock options exercised
                    6,972                                  
Loan payment from ESOP 
                                    233                  
Balance year end 2005
    22,485     $ 2,249     $ 74,717     $ 190,381     $ (432 )   $ 647          
                                                         
Net income
                            56,998                     $ 56,998  
Currency translation adjustment
                                            8,306       8,306  
Minimum pension liability adjustment, net of tax $(3,278)
                                            4,917       4,917  
Comprehensive income
                                                  $ 70,221  
SFAS 158 transition amount, net of tax $851
                                            (1,276 )        
Dividends on common stock
                            (9,833 )                        
Common stock issued
    513       50       10,690                                  
Stock-based compensation
    26       3       3,206                                  
Common stock repurchased or received for stock options exercised
    (15 )     (1 )             (766 )                        
Tax benefit of stock options exercised
                    5,743                                  
Loan payment from ESOP 
                                    232                  
Balance year end 2006
    23,009     $ 2,301     $ 94,356     $ 236,780     $ (200 )   $ 12,594          

 
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Net income
                      28,683                 $ 28,683  
Currency translation adjustment
                                    12,630       12,630  
Minimum pension liability adjustment, net of tax $26
                                    (741 )     (741 )
Comprehensive income
                                          $ 40,572  
Dividends on common stock
                      (10,834 )                      
Common stock issued
    245       24       5,128                                
Stock-based compensation
    32       3       3,762                                
Common stock repurchased or received for stock options exercised
    (195 )     (19 )             (8,305 )                      
Tax benefit of stock options exercised
                    2,182                                
Loan payment from ESOP 
                                    200                  
Balance year end 2007
    23,091     $ 2,309     $ 105,428     $ 246,324     $ -     $ 24,483          
                                                         

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.



 
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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FRANKLIN ELECTRIC CO., INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES

1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Company--“Franklin Electric” or the “Company” shall refer to Franklin Electric Co., Inc. and its consolidated subsidiaries.

Fiscal Year--The Company's fiscal year ends on the Saturday nearest December 31. The financial statements and accompanying notes are as of and for the years ended December 29, 2007 (52 weeks), December 30, 2006 (52 weeks), and December 31, 2005 (52 weeks) and referred to as 2007, 2006, and 2005, respectively.

Principles of Consolidation--The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Franklin Electric Co., Inc. and its subsidiaries. All inter-company balances and transactions are eliminated.

Revenue Recognition--Products are shipped utilizing common carriers direct to customers or, for consignment products, to customer specified warehouse locations. Sales are recognized when the Company’s products are shipped direct or, in the case of consignment products, transferred from the customer specified warehouse location to the customer, at which time transfer of ownership and risk of loss pass to the customer. The Company records net sales revenues after discounts at the time of sale based on specific discount programs in effect, historical data, and experience.

Research and Development Expense--The Company’s research and development activities are charged to expense in the period incurred. The Company incurred expenses of approximately $7.3 million in 2007, $8.1 million in 2006, and $5.6 million in 2005 on research and development.

Cash Equivalents--Cash equivalents consist of highly liquid investments which are readily convertible to cash, present insignificant risk of changes in value due to interest rate fluctuations, and have original or purchased maturities of three months or less.  The Company held cash equivalents as of December 31, 2005, while none at December 30, 2006 and December 29, 2007.

Fair Value of Financial Instruments--The carrying amounts for cash and equivalents and short-term debt approximate fair value. The carrying amount of long-term debt is $150 million and $50 million and the estimated fair value is $146 million and $50 million at December 29, 2007 and December 30, 2006 respectively.   In the absence of quoted prices in active markets, considerable judgment is required in developing estimates of fair value. Estimates are not necessarily indicative of the amounts the Company could realize in a current market transaction. In determining the fair value of its long term debt the Company uses estimates based on rates currently available to the Company for debt with similar terms and remaining maturities. The Company’s off-balance sheet instruments consist of operating leases and an interest rate swap, which are not significant.

Accounts Receivable and Allowance for Uncollectible Accounts--Accounts receivable are stated at estimated net realizable value. Accounts receivable are comprised of balances due from customers, net of earned discounts and estimated allowances for uncollectible accounts. Earned discounts are based on specific customer agreement terms. In determining allowances, historical trends are evaluated and economic conditions and specific customer issues are reviewed to arrive at appropriate allowances. Allowance levels change as customer-specific circumstances and the other analysis areas noted above change. Differences may result in the amount for allowances if actual experience differs significantly from management estimates; such differences have not historically been material.

Inventories--Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market. The majority of the cost of domestic and foreign inventories is determined using the first-in, first-out (FIFO) method; a portion of inventory costs are determined using the last-in, first-out (LIFO) method. Inventories stated on the LIFO method were approximately 22.2 percent and 15.7 percent of total inventories in 2007 and 2006, respectively. The Company reviews its inventories for excess or obsolete products or components. Based on an analysis of historical usage and management’s

 
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evaluation of estimated future demand, market conditions and alternative uses for possible excess or obsolete parts, reserves are recorded.

Property, Plant and Equipment--Property, plant and equipment are stated at cost. Depreciation of plant and equipment is calculated on a straight line basis over the estimated useful lives of 5 to 20 years for land improvements and buildings, 5 to 10 years for machinery and equipment, and 5 years for furniture and fixtures. Maintenance, repairs, and renewals of a minor nature are expensed as incurred. Betterments and major renewals which extend the useful lives of buildings, improvements, and equipment are capitalized. Accelerated methods are used for income tax purposes. The Company reviews its property, plant and equipment for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of such assets may not be recoverable. The Company’s depreciation expense was $16.5, $15.8, and $13.5 million in 2007, 2006, and 2005, respectively.

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets--The Company performs goodwill impairment testing for its reporting units, annually in the fourth quarter or more frequently whenever events or a change in circumstances indicate that the asset may be impaired. Goodwill is then adjusted in the event of impairment. Amortization is recorded for other intangible assets with definite lives.
 
Derivatives and Hedging--On September 24, 2003 the Company entered into a fixed-to-variable interest rate swap to achieve a desired proportion of variable vs. fixed rate debt. The fixed-to-variable interest rate swap is accounted for as a fair value hedge, per Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (“SFAS”) No. 133, “Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities”, with effectiveness assessed based on changes in the fair value of the underlying debt using incremental borrowing rates currently available on loans with similar terms and maturities. The effective gain or loss on the interest rate swap and that of the underlying debt are equal and offsetting resulting in no net effect to earnings.

Warranty Obligations--Warranty terms are generally two years from date of manufacture or one year from date of installation. The general warranty liability is recorded when revenue is recognized and is based on actual historical return rates from the most recent warranty periods.   In 2007, the Company began offering an extended warranty program to certain Water Systems customers, which will provide warranty coverage up to five years from the date of manufacture. Provisions for estimated expenses related to product warranty are made at the time products are sold or when specific warranty issues are identified. These estimates are established using historical information about the nature, frequency, and average cost of warranty claims, and expected customer returns. The Company actively studies trends of warranty claims and takes action to improve product quality and minimize warranty claims. The Company believes that the warranty reserve is appropriate; however, actual claims incurred could differ from the original estimates, requiring adjustments to the reserve.

Income Taxes --Income taxes are accounted for in accordance with SFAS No. 109, “Accounting for Income Taxes”. Under this method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined based on the difference between the financial statement and tax basis of assets and liabilities and net operating loss and credit carryforwards using enacted tax rates in effect for the year in which the differences are expected to reverse. Valuation allowances are established when necessary to reduce deferred tax assets to the amounts expected to be realized. The Company adopted FASB Interpretation No. 48 (“FIN 48”) in the first quarter of 2007.  This interpretation clarifies the accounting for uncertainty in income taxes recognized in accordance with SFAS No. 109 by establishing a recognition threshold and measurement attribute for recognition and measurement of a tax position taken or expected to be taken in a tax return.

Stock-Based Compensation-- Effective January 1, 2006, the Company adopted the fair value recognition provisions of SFAS No. 123(R), “Share-Based Payment,” using the modified-prospective-transition method. Under that transition method, compensation cost recognized starting January 1, 2006 includes: (a) compensation cost for all share-based payments granted prior to, but not yet vested as of January 1, 2006, based on the grant date fair value estimated in accordance with the original provisions of SFAS No. 123, and (b) compensation cost for all share-based payments granted subsequent to January 1, 2006, based on the grant-date fair value estimated in accordance with the provisions of SFAS No. 123(R). Results for prior periods have not been restated.

 
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For pro forma information regarding net income and earnings per share, the fair value for the options awarded prior to 2006, for all fixed stock option plans, was estimated as of the date of the grant using a Black-Scholes option valuation model. The Black-Scholes option valuation model used by the Company was developed for use in estimating the fair value of fully tradable options which have no vesting restrictions and are fully transferable. In addition, option valuation models require the input of highly subjective assumptions including the expected stock price volatility.

Earnings Per Common Share--Basic and diluted earnings per share are computed and disclosed under SFAS No. 128, “Earnings Per Share”. Earnings per share are based on the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding. Diluted earnings per share is computed based upon earnings applicable to common shares divided by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding during the period adjusted for the effect of other dilutive securities.

Translation of Foreign Currencies--All assets and liabilities of foreign subsidiaries whose functional currency is other than the U.S. dollar are translated at year end exchange rates. All revenue and expense accounts are translated at average rates in effect during the respective period. Adjustments for translating foreign currency assets and liabilities in U.S. dollars are included as a component of other comprehensive income.  Transaction gains and losses that arise from exchange rate fluctuations are included in the results of operations in “Other income”, as incurred.

Significant Estimates and Assumptions--The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States requires management to make significant 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 expenses during the reporting periods. Significant estimates and assumptions by management affect accrued expenses, stock-based compensation, pension, goodwill impairment, long-lived assets and inventory valuation.
 
Although the Company regularly assesses these estimates, actual results could differ materially from these estimates. The Company bases its estimates on historical experience and various other assumptions that it believes to be reasonable under the circumstances.

2. ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS

In September 2006, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (“SFAS”) No. 157, Fair Value Measurements. SFAS No. 157 establishes a framework for measuring fair value and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. SFAS 157 clarifies the definition of exchange price as the price between market participants in an orderly transaction to sell an asset or transfer a liability in the market in which the reporting entity would transact for the asset or liability, that is, the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability. The changes to current practice resulting from the application of this statement relate to the definition of fair value, the methods used to measure fair value, and the expanded disclosures about fair value measurements. SFAS No. 157 is effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007 and interim periods within those fiscal years for financial assets and liabilities such as derivatives measured at fair value under SFAS No. 133, Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities, an irrevocable election  to measure hybrid financial instruments at fair value under SFAS No. 155 Accounting for Certain Hybrid Financial Instruments, servicing assets and liabilities measured at fair value under SFAS No. 156, Accounting for Servicing of Financial Assets, etc.  SFAS No. 157 has been deferred until fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2008 for nonfinancial assets and liabilities such as asset retirement obligations measured at fair value at initial recognition under SFAS No. 143, Accounting for Asset Retirement Obligations, long-lived asset groups measured at fair value under SFAS No. 144, Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets, liabilities for exit or disposal activities measured at fair value under SFAS No. 146, Accounting for Costs Associated With Exit or Disposal Activities, etc.  The Company is in the process of determining the impact of adopting this new accounting principle on its consolidated financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

In February 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 159, The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities.  SFAS No. 159 permits entities to choose to measure many financial instruments and certain other items

 
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at fair value that are not currently required to be measured at fair value. SFAS No. 159 is effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007, with early adoption permitted provided the entity also elects to apply the provisions of SFAS No. 157. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of adopting SFAS No. 159 on its financial statements.

In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 141(R), Business Combinations—a replacement of FASB No. 141. SFAS No. 141(R) requires (a) a company to recognize the assets acquired, the liabilities assumed, and any non-controlling interest in the acquiree at fair value as of the acquisition date; and (b) an acquirer in pre-acquisition periods to expense all acquisition-related costs.  SFAS No. 141(R) also requires that any adjustments to an acquired entity’s deferred tax asset, valuation allowance, cash consideration, or deferred tax liability balance that occur after the measurement period be recorded as a component of income tax expense.  This accounting treatment is required for business combinations consummated before the effective date of SFAS No. 141(R) (non-prospective), otherwise SFAS No. 141(R) must be applied prospectively. The presentation and disclosure requirements must be applied retrospectively to provide comparability in the financial statements.  Early adoption is prohibited.   SFAS No. 141(R) is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning on or after December 15, 2008. The Company is in the process of determining the impact of adopting this new accounting principle on its consolidated financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 160, Non-controlling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements—an amendment of Accounting Research Bulletin (“ARB”) No. 51. SFAS No. 160 (a) amends ARB No. 51 to establish accounting and reporting standards for the non-controlling interest in a subsidiary and the deconsolidation of a subsidiary; (b) changes the way the consolidated income statement is presented; (c) establishes a single method of accounting for changes in a parent’s ownership interest in a subsidiary that do not result in deconsolidation; (d) requires that a parent recognize a gain or loss in net income when a subsidiary is deconsolidated; and (e) requires expanded disclosures in the consolidated financial statements that clearly identify and distinguish between the interests of the parent’s owners and the interests of the noncontrolling owners of a subsidiary. SFAS No. 160 must be applied prospectively but to apply the presentation and disclosure requirements must be applied retrospectively to provide comparability in the financial statements.  Early adoption is prohibited.   SFAS No. 160 is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning on or after December 15, 2008. The Company is in the process of determining the impact of adopting this new accounting principle on its consolidated financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

3. ACQUISITIONS

During 2007, the Company acquired two pump manufacturers.  In the second quarter of 2007, the Company completed the acquisition of Pump Brands (Pty) Limited, Johannesburg, South Africa (“Pump Brands”) in a stock transaction. Pump Brands, through its wholly owned subsidiary Denorco (Pty) Limited, offers a broad range of pumping system products for the agricultural irrigation, residential, light commercial, industrial, and municipal markets. Locally-manufactured pumps are complemented by alliances with international partners. The company’s brands, Jacuzzi, Normaflo, Mono, Orbit, Rotorflo, Super D and Tsunami, are sold throughout Africa.  In the third quarter of 2007, the Company acquired the pump division of Monarch Industries Limited, Winnipeg, Canada (“Monarch”) in an asset transaction.  The Monarch acquisition expands both the existing pump product lines and the distribution coverage in the North American market.  Pro forma annual sales for the above acquisitions was not materially different than Franklin Electric’s consolidated sales for 2007.

The aggregate cash purchase price for the two acquisitions was $37.0 million, including direct transaction costs and a post-closing working capital adjustment.  The transaction costs and the post-closing working capital adjustment are included in the total purchase accounting calculations under the guidance of SFAS No. 141 “Business Combinations”. The aggregate purchase price has been allocated to net assets acquired based on preliminary estimated fair market values. The Company will engage a third-party expert to complete an independent fair market valuation in 2008. The excess purchase price over preliminary estimated fair values of the net assets acquired, $12.2 million, has been recorded as goodwill all of which is deductible for tax purposes. The results of operations for the acquisitions were included in the Company’s consolidated statement of income, from their respective acquisition dates through the year ended December 29, 2007.

 
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During 2006, the Company completed its acquisition of all of the outstanding shares of capital stock of Little Giant Pump Company (“Little Giant”) from Tecumseh Products Company for a cash purchase price of $120.8 million, excluding direct transaction costs and subject to a final post-closing working capital adjustment. Transaction costs, approximately $2.4 million, and the final post-closing working capital adjustment, approximately $0.7 million, was included in the purchase accounting calculations under the guidance of SFAS No. 141 “Business Combinations”. Accordingly, a portion of the aggregate purchase price was allocated to net assets acquired based on a fair market valuation. The excess purchase price over fair value of the net assets acquired, $47.3 million was recorded as goodwill.  The $47.3 million recorded as goodwill, is deductible for tax purposes.

The purchase price assigned to each major asset and liability of Little Giant Pump Company was as follows:

(In millions)
       
Assets:
     
Current assets
  $ 45.6  
Property, plant and equipment
    13.4  
Intangible assets
    31.2  
Goodwill
    47.3  
Other assets
    0.2  
Total assets
    137.7  
Less liabilities
    (13.8 )
Total purchase price
  $ 123.9  

Little Giant’s results of operations were included in the Company’s consolidated statement of income, from the acquisition date through the year ended December 29, 2007.

During 2006, the Company acquired Healy Systems, Inc. (“Healy Systems”) in a stock purchase transaction for a cash purchase price of $35.1 million, excluding direct transaction costs and a post-closing working capital adjustment. The purchase agreement provides for additional payments of 5 percent of certain Healy Systems product sales for the first five years following the year of acquisition. As of December 29, 2007, the total transaction costs, $0.4 million, and the post closing working capital adjustment, $2.7 million were included in the total purchase accounting calculations under the guidance of SFAS No. 141 “Business Combinations”. The Company continued, from the original 2006 acquisition date, to account for additional purchase price adjustments into 2007.  The purchase price was allocated to net assets based on a fair market valuation. The excess of purchase price over estimated fair value of the net assets acquired, $18.6 million, was recorded as goodwill.  No portion of the $18.6 million, recorded as goodwill, will be deductible for tax purposes.  The initial excess purchase price over fair value of the net assets acquired, $26.4 million originally recorded as goodwill, was adjusted to $18.6 million for the fair market values assigned to fixed assets, customer relationships, technology, other intangible assets, and a deferred tax adjustment.

The purchase price assigned to each major asset and liability of Healy Systems, Inc. was as follows:

(In millions)
       
Assets:
     
Current assets
  $ 9.0  
Property, plant and equipment
    2.3  
Intangible assets
    19.6  
Goodwill
    18.6  
Total assets
    49.5  

 
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Less liabilities:
     
Current liabilities
    (4.1 )
Deferred income taxes
    (7.2 )
Total purchase price
  $ 38.2  

Healy Systems results of operations were included in the Company’s consolidated statement of income, from the acquisition date through the year ended December 29, 2007.

Pro forma Results of Operations

The following unaudited pro forma statements give effect to the acquisition of Little Giant Pump Company and Healy Systems, by the Company. The unaudited pro forma combined condensed statements of income for 2006 and 2005 give effect to the acquisition of Little Giant Pump Company and Healy Systems as if the acquisitions had occurred at the beginning of the periods reported. These unaudited pro forma combined condensed financial statements are prepared for informational purposes only and are not necessarily indicative of actual results or financial position that would have been achieved had the acquisitions of Little Giant and Healy Systems been consummated on the dates indicated and are not necessarily indicative of future operating results or financial position of the consolidated companies. The unaudited pro forma combined condensed financial statements do not give effect to any cost savings or incremental costs that may result from the integration of Little Giant Pump Company and Healy Systems with the Company.

FRANKLIN ELECTRIC CO., INC.
PRO FORMA CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

(In millions, except per share amounts)

   
2006
   
2005
 
             
Net sales
  $ 615.7     $ 529.6  
                 
Net income
  $ 59.3     $ 52.8  
                 
Per share data:
               
                 
Basic earnings per share
  $ 2.60     $ 2.38  
                 
Diluted earnings per share
  $ 2.55     $ 2.28  

4. DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS

During December 2006, the Company sold its Engineered Motor Products Division, (“EMPD”) for an approximate $16.6 million selling price. Representing less than 10 percent of the Company’s consolidated sales, the Company no longer considered EMPD to be a part of its core operations. Thus future growth potential would be limited. This transaction was recognized in accordance to the guidance within SFAS No. 144 “Accounting for the Impairment and/or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets.”

 
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The selling price included an initial sales price of $16.0 million and a final working capital adjustment of $0.6 million. Net book value of the disposed assets was $11.9 million, including $14.5 million in total assets offset by $2.5 million in assumed liabilities. The Company realized a net book gain of $4.7 million in 2006. Divestiture expenses, incurred by the Company, of $0.8 million and $4.6 million for a one-time pension cost adjustment were recognized, offsetting the $4.7 million gain, resulting in a net pre-tax loss of $0.8 million for 2006. The net pre-tax loss is included in the statement of income for 2006, as part of discontinued operations.

Net sales from discontinued operations, were $36.8 million and $36.1 million, for 2006 and 2005, respectively. The income before tax, related to discontinued operations, was $0.4 million and $0.3 million, for 2006 and 2005, respectively.

5.  
INVESTMENTS - SECURITIES

As of December 29, 2007 and December 30, 2006, the Company held no current investments in equity securities.  During 2007 and 2006, the Company held investments consisting of auction rate municipal bonds classified as
available-for-sale securities. Investments in these securities were recorded at cost, which approximates fair market value due to the variable interest rates, which typically reset every 7 to 35 days. All income generated from these current investments was recorded as “Other income” in the statements of income. Cash paid for these securities and proceeds from the sale of these securities were included in the “Cash flows from investing activities” section of the cash flows statements.

6.  
EQUITY INVESTMENTS

The Company holds a 35 percent equity interest in Pioneer Pump, Inc., which is accounted for using the equity method and included in “Other assets” on the face of the balance sheet. The carrying amount of the investment is adjusted for the Company’s proportionate share of earnings, losses, and dividends. The carrying value of the investment was $6.9 million as of December 29, 2007, and $6.1 million at year end December 30, 2006. The Company’s proportionate share of Pioneer Pump, Inc. earnings, included in “Other income” in the Company’s statements of income, was $0.8 million and $0.7 million, for 2007 and 2006, respectively.

7.  
GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS

The Company uses the purchase method of accounting for business combinations, in accordance with SFAS Nos. 141 and 142, “Business Combinations” and “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets”, respectively. During the fourth quarter of each year, the Company performs its annual impairment testing required by SFAS No. 142, unless events or circumstances indicate earlier impairment testing is required. No impairment loss was recognized for 2007, 2006, or 2005.

The carrying amounts of the Company’s intangible assets are as follows:

(In millions)
 
2007
   
2006
 
   
Gross Carrying Amount
   
Accumulated Amortization
   
Gross Carrying Amount
   
Accumulated Amortization
 
Amortized intangibles:
                       
Patents
  $ 6.3     $ (3.3 )   $ 6.3     $ (2.8 )
Supply agreements
    7.2       (5.0 )     7.2       (4.3 )
Technology
    6.1       (0.8 )     3.8       (0.3 )
Customer relationships
    48.3       (2.8 )     26.8       (0.8 )
Other
    2.1       (2.0 )     1.7       (1.6 )
Total amortized intangibles
    70.0       (13.9 )     45.8       (9.8 )

 
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Unamortized intangibles:
                       
Trade names
    10.9       -       9.3       -  
Total intangibles
  $ 80.9     $ (13.9 )   $ 55.1     $ (9.8 )

The weighted average of the years over which each intangible class is amortized is as follows:

Class
Years
   
Patents
17
Supply Agreements
6
Technology
15
Customer Relationships
17 - 20
Other
8

Amortization expense related to intangible assets for the years ended December 29, 2007, December 30, 2006, and December 31, 2005 was $3.8, $2.2, and $1.4 million, respectively. Amortization expense for each of the five succeeding years is projected as $3.9 million, $3.8 million, $3.7 million, $3.6 million and $3.4 million for fiscal 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, and 2012, respectively.

The change in the carrying amount of goodwill by reporting segment for 2007 and 2006 was as follows:

   
2007
 
(In millions)
 
Water
   
Fueling
   
Total
 
                   
Balance as of December 30, 2006
  $ 78.7     $ 54.8     $ 133.5  
Acquired
    12.2       0.0       12.2  
Purchase Accounting Adjustments
    0.0       (7.7 )     (7.7 )
Foreign currency translation
    2.0       0.0       2.0  
Balance as of December 29, 2007
  $ 92.9     $ 47.1     $ 140.0  

   
2006
 
(In millions)
 
Water
   
Fueling
   
Total
 
                   
Balance as of December 31, 2005
  $ 29.7     $ 28.3     $ 58.0  
Acquired
    47.2       26.4       73.6  
Purchase Accounting Adjustments
    0.0       0.1       0.1  
Foreign currency translation
    1.8       0.0       1.8  
Balance as of December 30, 2006
  $ 78.7     $ 54.8     $ 133.5  

The 2007 acquired goodwill in the Water Systems segment was related to the Company’s acquisitions of Pump Brands (Pty) Limited, and the pump division of Monarch Industries Limited.   The 2006 acquired goodwill in the Water Systems segment was related to the Company’s acquisition of Little Giant Pump Company.  The 2006 acquired goodwill in the Fueling Systems segment was related to the Company’s acquisition of Healy Systems, Inc.

8.  
EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS

Defined Benefit Plans - As of December 29, 2007, the Company maintains three domestic pension plans and one German pension plan. The Company uses a December 31 measurement date for these plans.

 
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The following table sets forth aggregated information related to the Company’s pension benefits and other postretirement benefits, including changes in the benefit obligations, changes in plan assets, funded status, amounts recognized in the Balance Sheet, amounts recognized in Other Accumulated Comprehensive Income, and actuarial assumptions:


(In millions)
     
   
Pension Benefits
   
Other Benefits
 
   
2007
   
2006
   
2007
   
2006
 
Accumulated Benefit Obligation, end of year
  $ 139.1     $ 150.0     $ 12.1     $ 13.0  
                                 
Change in Benefit Obligation:
                               
Projected Benefit Obligation, beginning of year
  $ 152.7     $ 149.0     $ 13.0     $ 14.3  
Service cost
    4.1       4.7       0.2       0.3  
Interest cost
    8.5       8.1       0.7       0.8  
Plan amendments
    0.1       -       -       -  
Actuarial loss
    (6.8 )     (2.7 )     (0.6 )     (0.1 )
Settlements paid
    (0.5 )     (.2 )     -       -  
Benefits paid
    (15.5 )     (9.2 )     (1.2 )     (1.3 )
Liability (Gain)/Loss Due to Curtailment*
    -       0.5       -       (1.2 )
Special Termination Benefits*
    -       1.4       -       0.2  
Foreign current Exchange
    1.2       1.2       -       -  
Projected Benefit Obligation, end of year
  $ 143.8     $ 152.8     $ 12.1     $ 13.0  
                                 
Change in plan assets:
                               
Fair value of assets, beginning of year
  $ 144.3     $ 131.7     $ -     $ -  
Actual return on plan assets
    1.2       19.9       -       -  
Company contributions
    1.3       1.7       1.2       1.3  
Settlements paid
    (0.3 )     (0.2 )     -       -  
Benefits paid
    (15.5 )     (9.2 )     (1.2 )     (1.3 )
Exchange
    0.5       0.4       -       -  
Plan Assets, End of the Year
    131.5       144.3       -       -  
Funded Status of the Plan
    (12.3 )     (8.5 )     (12.1 )     (13.0 )
Contributions Between Measurement Date and FYE
    -       -       -       -  
Net Liability, end of year
  $ (12.3 )   $ (8.5 )   $ (12.1 )   $ (13.0 )
                                 
Amounts Recognized in Balance Sheet:
                               
Noncurrent Assets
  $ 3.3     $ 6.0       -       -  
Current Liabilities
    (1.9 )     (0.3 )     (1.1 )     (1.2 )
Noncurrent Liabilities
    (13.7 )     (14.2 )     (11.0 )     (11.8 )
Net Pension Liability, end of year
  $ (12.3 )   $ (8.5 )   $ (12.1 )   $ (13.0 )
                                 
Amount Recognized in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income:
                               
Net Transition Obligation
    -       -       0.9       1.1  
Prior Service Cost
    0.9       1.5       0.6       0.6  
Net Actuarial (Gain)/Loss
    0.6       (1.5 )     -       0.4  
Total Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income
  $ 1.5     $  -     $ 1.5     $ 2.1  
*   These items are related to the 2006 divestiture of the Engineered Motor Products Division.


 
- 43 -

 

The following table sets forth Other Changes in Plan Assets and Benefit Obligation Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income for 2007:

(In millions)
 
Pension
Benefits
   
Other Benefits
 
   
2007
   
2007
 
Net Actuarial (Gain)/Loss
  $ 2.6     $ (0.6 )
Prior Service Cost
    0.1       -  
Amortization of:
               
    Net Actuarial Loss
    0.2       -  
    Prior Service Credit
    (1.2 )     (0.1 )
    Transition Asset
    -       (0.3 )
Deferred Tax Asset
    (0.4 )     0.4  
Total Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income
  $ 1.3     $ (0.6 )
                 
Total Recognized in Net Periodic Benefit Cost and Other Comprehensive Income
  $ 4.1     $ 0.7  

Actuarial assumptions used to determine benefit obligations:

 
Pension Benefits
Other Benefits
 
2007
2006
2007
2006
Discount rate
6.40%
5.85%
6.40%
5.85%
Rate of increase in future  compensation
3-8.00%
3-8.00%
3-8.00%
3-8.00%
 
(Graded)
(Graded)
(Graded)
(Graded)

Actuarial assumptions used to determine periodic benefit cost:
 
 
Pension Benefits
Other Benefits
 
2007
2006
2007
2006
Discount rate
5.85%
5.65%
5.85%
5.65%
Rate of increase in future compensation
3-8.00%
3-8.00%
3-8.00%
3-8.00%
 
(Graded)
(Graded)
(Graded)
(Graded)
Expected long-term rate of return on plan assets
8.50%
8.50%
-
-

The accumulated benefit obligation for the Company’s qualified defined benefit pension plans was $124.2 million and $135.1 million at December 31, 2007 and December 31, 2006.

The following table sets forth the aggregated net periodic benefit cost for 2007, 2006, and 2005:

(In millions)
 
   
Pension Benefits
   
Other Benefits
 
   
2007
   
2006
   
2005
   
2007
   
2006
   
2005
 
                                     
Service cost
  $ 4.1     $ 4.7     $ 3.9     $ 0.2     $ 0.3     $ 0.4  
Interest cost
    8.5       8.1       7.7       0.7       0.8       0.8  
Expected return on assets
    (10.7 )     (10.5 )     (10.3 )     -       -       -  
Amortization of transition obligation
    -       -       -       0.3       0.5       0.5  
Prior service cost
    1.2       1.4       1.7       0.1       0.2       0.2  
Loss
    0.3       0.3       0.2       -       0.1       0.1  
Net periodic benefit cost
  $ 3.4     $ 4.0     $ 3.2     $ 1.3     $ 1.9     $ 2.0  
Curtailment expense*
    (0.8 )     1.1       -       -       1.9       -  

 
- 44 -

 


Special termination benefits*
    -       1.4       -       -       0.2       -  
Settlement cost
    0.2       0.3       0.3       -       -       -  
Total net periodic benefit cost
  $ 2.8     $ 6.8     $ 3.5     $ 1.3     $ 4.0     $ 2.0  
*In 2006, these items relate to the divestiture of the Engineered Motor Products Division.  In 2007, there was additional divestiture curtailment and other expense.

The estimated net actuarial (gain)/loss, prior service cost/(credit), and transition (asset)/obligation that will be amortized from accumulated other comprehensive income into net periodic benefit cost during the 2008 fiscal year are $0.0, $0.6 and $0.0, respectively, for the pension plans and $0.0, $0.1 and $0.3 respectively, for all other benefits.

The Company consults with actuaries, asset allocation consultants and investment advisors to determine the expected long- term rate of return on plan assets.  Plan assets are invested in a diversified portfolio of equity and fixed-income securities in order to maximize the long-term return for a prudent level of risk.  Furthermore, equity investments are diversified across domestic and international growth, value, small and large capitalizations. Investment risk is measured and monitored on an ongoing basis through investment portfolio reviews, annual liability measurements, and periodic asset/liability studies.  Risk tolerance is established through careful consideration of plan liabilities, plan funded status, plan liquidity needs and corporate financial condition.  Based on these analyses, the Company has assumed the expected long-term rate of return on plan assets will be 8.5 percent.  A 25 basis point change to the long-term rate of return assumption would result in approximately a $0.3 million change in pension expense.  The qualified plans asset allocations at December 31, 2007, and 2006, by asset category are as follows:

   
Plan Assets at December 31
 
       
   
2007
   
2006
 
             
Equity Securities
    70 %     74 %
Fixed Income Securities
    30 %     26 %
Total
    100 %     100 %

Equity securities include Company stock of $12.2 million (10 percent of total plan assets) and $18.9 million (13 percent of total plan assets) at December 31, 2007 and 2006, respectively.

The Company’s German pension plan is partially funded with insurance contracts up to maximums established by German tax legislation.  Benefits above the statutory maximums are recorded in the Company’s balance sheet.

One of the Company’s four pension plans covers certain management employees. The Company does not fund this plan, and its assets were zero in 2007 and 2006. The plan’s projected benefit obligation and accumulated benefit obligation were $6.2 million and $5.9 million, respectively, at December 31, 2007, and $5.6 million and $4.4 million, respectively, at December 31, 2006.

The Company estimates total contributions to the plans of $3.5 million in 2008.

The following benefit payments, which reflect expected future service, as appropriate, are expected to be paid:

(In millions)
 
Pension
   
Other
 
   
Benefits
   
Benefits
 
2008
    11.0       1.2  
2009
    9.7       1.2  
2010
    10.1       1.2  
2011
    10.2       1.1  
2012
    10.6       1.1  
Years 2013 through 2017
    63.8       4.8  

 
- 45 -

 


The Company’s other postretirement benefit plans provide health and life insurance benefits to domestic employees hired prior to 1992. The Company effectively capped its cost for those benefits through plan amendments made in 1992, freezing Company contributions for insurance benefits at 1991 levels for current and future beneficiaries with actuarially reduced benefits for employees who retire before age 65.

Defined Contribution Plans - The Company maintains a 401(k) Plan and an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP).
The Company's cash contributions are made to the Company stock fund of the 401(k) and ESOP Trusts and allocated to participants' accounts.
The following table sets forth Company contributions to the ESOP and 401(k) Plans.

(In millions)
 
   
2007
   
2006
   
2005
 
Company contributions to the plan
  $ 1.8     $ 1.1     $ 0.6  

9.  
ACCRUED LIABILITIES

Accrued liabilities consist of:

(In millions)
           
   
2007
   
2006
 
             
Salaries, wages, and commissions
  $ 15.9     $ 14.6  
Product warranty costs
    9.7       10.0  
Insurance
    5.8       6.3  
Employee benefits
    5.8       4.0  
Other
    8.9       5.3  
    $ 46.1     $ 40.2  

10.  
INCOME TAXES

 
Income before income taxes consisted of:

(In millions)
                 
   
2007
   
2006
   
2005
 
                   
Domestic
  $ 18.8     $ 70.9     $ 54.9  
Foreign
    25.3       16.5       15.9  
Continuing operations
    44.1       87.4       70.8  
Discontinued operations
    0.0       0.4       0.3  
                         
    $ 44.1     $ 87.8     $ 71.1  


 
- 46 -

 

The income tax provision consisted of:

(In millions)
                 
   
2007
   
2006
   
2005
 
                   
Current payable:
                 
Federal
  $ 4.7     $ 28.6     $ 15.8  
Foreign
    9.0       7.0       6.6  
State
    0.7       5.0       2.3  
Deferred:
                       
Federal
    0.7       (7.1 )     0.6  
Foreign
    (0.2 )     (0.7 )     (0.8 )
State
    0.5       (2.1 )     0.5  
Continuing operations
    15.4       30.7       25.0  
Discontinued operations
    0.0       0.1       0.1  
    $ 15.4     $ 30.8     $ 25.1  


Significant components of the Company's deferred tax assets and liabilities were as follows:

(In millions)
           
   
2007
   
2006
 
Deferred tax assets:
           
Accrued expenses and reserves
  $ 10.4     $ 9.9  
Compensation and employee benefits
    13.7       12.8  
Other items
    5.6       4.8  
Total deferred tax assets
    29.7       27.5  
                 
Deferred tax liabilities:
               
Accelerated depreciation on fixed assets
    8.4       8.6  
Amortization of intangibles
    14.7       5.9  
Other items
    1.2       1.4  
Total deferred tax liabilities
    24.3       15.9  
                 
Net deferred tax assets
  $ 5.4     $ 11.6  

The portions of current and non-current deferred tax assets and liabilities were as follows:


(In millions)
       
   
2007
   
2006
 
                         
   
Deferred Tax Assets
   
Deferred Tax Liabilities
   
Deferred Tax Assets
   
Deferred Tax Liabilities
 
Current
  $ 17.5     $ 0.4     $ 15.3     $ 0.4  
Non-current
    12.2       23.9       12.2       15.5  
    $ 29.7     $ 24.3     $ 27.5     $ 15.9  


 
- 47 -

 


   
2007
   
2006
   
2005
 
                   
U.S. Federal statutory rate
    35.0 %     35.0 %     35.0 %
State income taxes, net of federal benefit
    2.2       2.1       2.5  
Extraterritorial income exclusion
    0.0       (0.6 )     (1.0 )
R&D tax credits
    (1.2 )     (0.7 )     (0.5 )
Other items
    (1.0 )     (0.7 )     (0.7 )
Effective tax rate
    35.0 %     35.1 %     35.3 %

11.  
ACCOUNTING FOR UNCERTAINTY IN INCOME TAXES

The Company adopted the provisions of  FIN 48 in the first quarter of 2007.  The implementation of FIN 48 did not have a significant impact on the Company’s financial position or results of operations.

A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits for 2007 (excluding interest and penalties) is as follows:
 
 
(In millions)
 
2007
 
       
Beginning balance
  $ 1.9  
Additions based on tax positions related to the current year
    0.1  
Additions for tax positions of prior years
    0.1  
Reductions for tax positions of prior years
    (0.1 )
Settlements
    --  
Ending balance
  $ 2.0  

If recognized, the effective tax rate would be affected by the net unrecognized tax benefits of $1.4 million.  These amounts are primarily associated with domestic state tax issues, such as nexus and allocation of income among various state tax jurisdictions.

The Company recognizes interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits in income tax expense.  The Company has accrued approximately $0.2 million for interest and penalties as of December 29, 2007.  Interest and penalties recorded during 2007 were not considered significant.

The Company is subject to periodic audits by domestic and foreign tax authorities.  Currently, the Company is undergoing routine periodic audits in both domestic and foreign tax jurisdictions.  It is reasonably possible that the amounts of unrecognized tax benefits could change in the next twelve months as a result of the audits.  Based on the current audits in process, the payment of taxes as a result of audit settlements could be from $0.1 to $0.2 million.

For the majority of tax jurisdictions, the Company is no longer subject to U.S. federal, state and local, or non-U.S. income tax examinations by tax authorities for years before 2004.

12.  
DEBT

On December 14, 2006, the Company entered into an amended and restated unsecured, 60-month $120.0 million revolving credit agreement (the “Agreement”). The Agreement provides for various borrowing rate options including interest rates based on the London Interbank Offered Rates (LIBOR) plus interest spreads keyed to the Company’s ratio of debt to earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (“EBITDA”). The Agreement contains certain financial covenants with respect to borrowings, interest coverage, loans or advances and investments, and the Company was in compliance with the covenants as of December 29, 2007 and December 30, 2006. The Company had no outstanding borrowings under the Agreement at December 29, 2007, and $50.0 million at December 30, 2006.

 
- 48 -

 


On April 9, 2007, the Company entered into the Amended and Restated Note Purchase and Private Shelf Agreement (the "Prudential Agreement") in the amount of $175.0 million. Under the Prudential Agreement, the Company issued notes in an aggregate principal amount of $110.0 million on April 30, 2007 (the “B-1 Notes”) and $40.0 million on September 7, 2007 (the “B-2 Notes). The B-1 and B-2 Notes bear a coupon of 5.79 percent and have an average life of ten years with a final maturity in 2019. Principal installments of $30.0 million are payable commencing on April 30, 2015 and continuing to and including April 30, 2019, with any unpaid balance due at maturity. The Prudential Agreement contains certain financial covenants with respect to borrowings, interest coverage, loans or advances and investments, and the Company was in compliance with the covenants as of December 29, 2007 and December 30, 2006.

The Company also has certain overdraft facilities at its foreign subsidiaries, of which none were outstanding at December 29, 2007 or December 30, 2006.
 
Long-term debt consisted of:
           
             
(In millions)
 
2007
   
2006
 
             
Prudential Agreement-- 5.79 percent.
  $ 150.0     $ 0.0  
                 
Prudential Agreement-- 6.31 percent, principal of $10.0 million due in November 2008 ($3.1 denominated in JPY at 12/29/07)
    10.0       11.3  
                 
Capital Leases
    0.9       1.1  
                 
Other
    0.8          
                 
Agreement-- the average interest rate for 2007 was5.6 percent based on the London Interbank Offered Rates (LIBOR) plus an interest spread.
    0.0       50.0  
      161.7       62.4  
                 
Less Current Maturities
    (10.4 )     (11.3 )
                 
Long-term debt:
  $ 151.3     $ 51.1  
 

The following debt payments are expected to be paid:
 
(In millions)
                                         
   
Total
   
2008
   
2009
   
2010
   
2011
   
2012
   
>5 Years
 
Debt
  $ 160.8     $ 10.0     $ 0.0     $ 0.0     $ 0.0     $ 0.0     $ 150.8  
Capital Leases
  $ 0.9     $ 0.4     $ 0.5     $ 0.0     $ 0.0     $ 0.0     $ 0.0  
    $ 161.7     $ 10.4     $ 0.5     $ 0.0     $ 0.0     $ 0.0     $ 150.8  


 
- 49 -

 


13.  
INTEREST RATE RISK

On September 24, 2003 the Company entered into a fixed-to-variable interest rate swap to achieve a desired proportion of variable vs. fixed rate debt.  The fixed-to-variable interest rate swap is accounted for as a fair value hedge, per SFAS No. 133, “Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities”, with effectiveness assessed based on changes in the fair value of the underlying debt using incremental borrowing rates currently available on loans with similar terms and maturities.  The effective gain or loss on the interest rate swap and that of the underlying debt are equal and offsetting resulting in no net effect to earnings.  The fair value of this hedge instrument was zero at December 30, 2007 and ($0.3) million at December 30, 2006.

The swap contract has a notional amount of $10 million and matures on November 10, 2008.  Per the terms of the swap contract the Company receives interest at a fixed rate of 6.3 percent and pays interest at a variable rate based on the three month LIBOR rate plus a spread.  The average variable rate paid by the Company in 2007 was 7.9 percent.  The differential in interest rates on the swap is recognized as an adjustment of interest expense over the term of the agreement.

14.  
SHAREOWNERS' EQUITY

The Company had 23,091,325 shares of common stock (65,000,000 shares authorized, $.10 par value) outstanding at the end of 2007.

During 2007, 2006, and 2005, pursuant to a stock repurchase program authorized by the Company’s Board of Directors, the Company repurchased a total of 187,600 shares for $8.1 million, 5,000 shares for $0.2 million, and 366,308 shares for $13.8 million, respectively. All repurchased shares were retired.

During 2007, under terms of a Company stock option plan, participants delivered 3,843 shares for $0.2 million of Company common stock as consideration for stock issued upon the exercise of stock options. Also in 2007, the Company retired 2,901 shares that had been previously granted as stock awards to executive officers, but were forfeited upon their retirement.  As well, the Company retired 288 shares that were received by the two retiring executive officers as payment for taxes owed upon the release of their restricted awards.  During 2006, participants delivered 9,619 shares for $0.6 million.  There were no such transactions in 2005. All of the shares received were from officers of the Company.

In 2007, 2006, and 2005, the Company recorded $2.2 million, $5.7 million, and $7.0 million, respectively, as a reduction in tax liability and an increase to shareowners’ equity as a result of stock option exercises.

Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), consisting of the currency translation adjustment and the pension liability adjustment, was $27.1 million and $(3.0) million, respectively, at December 29, 2007 and $14.5 million and $(2.1) million, respectively, at December 30, 2006.

 
- 50 -

 


15.  
EARNINGS PER SHARE

The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted earnings per share:

(In millions, except per share amounts)
                 
   
2007
   
2006
   
2005
 
Numerator:
                 
Income from continuing operations
  $ 28.7     $ 56.8     $ 45.8  
Income from discontinued operations
    0.0       0.2       0.2  
Net income
  $ 28.7     $ 57.0     $ 46.0  
                         
Denominator:
                       
Basic
                       
Weighted-average common shares
    23.1       22.8       22.2  
                         
Diluted
                       
Effect of dilutive securities:
                       
                         
Employee and director incentive stock options and awards
    0.4       0.5       1.0  
                         
Adjusted weighted-average common shares
    23.5       23.3       23.2  
                         
Basic earnings per share
                       
Basic from continuing operations
  $ 1.24     $ 2.49     $ 2.06  
Basic from discontinuing operations
    0.00       0.01       0.01  
Total basic earnings per share
  $ 1.24     $ 2.50     $ 2.07  
                         
Diluted earnings per share
                       
Diluted from continuing operations
  $ 1.22     $ 2.43     $ 1.97  
Diluted from discontinuing operations
    0.00       0.01       0.01  
Total diluted earnings per share
  $ 1.22     $ 2.44     $ 1.98  
                         
Anti-dilutive stock options excluded
    0.3       0.3       0.2  
Anti-dilutive stock options price range - low
  $ 40.93     $ 36.97     $ 36.97  
Anti-dilutive stock options price range - high
  $ 48.87     $ 45.90     $ 44.51  

16.  
STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION

Effective January 1, 2006, the Company adopted the fair value recognition provisions of SFAS No. 123(R), “Share-Based Payment,” using the modified-prospective-transition method. Under that transition method, compensation cost recognized in 2006 includes: (a) compensation cost for all share-based payments granted prior to, but not yet vested as of January 1, 2006, based on the grant date fair value estimated in accordance with the original provisions of SFAS No. 123, and (b) compensation cost for all share-based payments granted subsequent to January 1, 2006, based on the grant-date fair value estimated in accordance with the provisions of SFAS No. 123(R). The total stock-

 
- 51 -

 

based compensation recognized in 2007 and 2006 was $3.8 million and $3.2 million, respectively. Results for prior periods have not been restated.

Prior to the adoption of SFAS No. 123(R), the Company presented all tax benefits of deductions resulting from the exercise of stock options as operating cash flows in the Statement of Cash Flows. SFAS No. 123(R) requires the cash flows resulting from the tax benefits resulting from tax deductions in excess of the compensation cost recognized for those options (excess tax benefits) to be classified as financing cash flows. The excess tax benefit classified as a financing cash inflow in 2007 and 2006, $2.2 million and $5.7 million, respectively, would have been classified as operating cash inflow if the Company had not adopted SFAS No. 123(R), and is included in “Income taxes” in the Company’s statement of financial position.

The following table illustrates the effect on net income and earnings per share if the Company had applied the fair value recognition provisions of SFAS No. 123 to options granted under the Company’s stock option plans in all periods presented. For purposes of this pro forma disclosure, the value of the options is estimated using a Black-Scholes option-pricing formula and amortized to expense over the options’ vesting periods.

(In millions, except per share amounts)
 
   
2005
 
Reported net income
  $ 46.0  
Add: Total fair value computed stock-based compensation, net of tax*
    0.1  
Deduct: Total fair value computed stock-based compensation, net of tax*
    (1.6 )
Pro forma net income
  $ 44.5  
Earnings per share:
       
Basic — as reported
  $ 2.07  
Basic — pro forma
  $ 2.00  
Diluted — as reported
  $ 1.98  
Diluted — pro forma
  $ 1.92  
         
Assumptions used for the Black-Scholes Model
       
Risk-free interest rate
    3.75 %
Dividend yield
    .77 %
Volatility factor
    .194  
Weighted average expected term
 
5.3 years
 
*Includes expense related to restricted stock reported in net income.
 

The Company has authorized the grant of options to purchase common stock and award shares of common stock of the Company to employees and non-employee directors of the Company and its subsidiaries under two stock plans. The plans and the original number of authorized shares available for grants are as follows:

 
Authorized Shares
Franklin Electric Co., Inc. Stock Option Plan
3,600,000
Franklin Electric Co., Inc. Stock Plan - options
1,150,000
Franklin Electric Co., Inc. Stock Plan - stock awards
150,000

During 2005, all remaining authorized shares available for grant under the Franklin Electric Co., Inc. Stock Option Plan were awarded. On April 29, 2005, the Franklin Electric Co., Inc. Stock Plan (the “Stock Plan”) was approved by the Company’s shareholders. Under the Stock Plan, employees and non-employee directors may be granted stock options or stock awards. The Company currently issues new shares from its common stock outstanding balance to satisfy share option exercises and stock awards.

 
- 52 -

 


Stock Options:
Under each of the above plans, the exercise price of each option equals the market price of the Company’s common stock on the date of grant and the options expire ten years after the date of the grant. Generally, options granted to nonemployee directors vest 33 percent a year and become fully vested and exercisable after three years. Options granted to employees vest at 20 or 25 percent a year and become fully vested and exercisable after five years or four years, respectively. Subject to the terms of the plans, in general, the aggregate option price and any applicable tax withholdings may be satisfied in cash or its equivalent, or by the plan participant’s delivery of shares of the Company’s common stock owned more than six months, having a fair market value at the time of exercise equal to the aggregate option price and/or the applicable tax withholdings.

The fair value of each option award, both before and after the adoption of SFAS No. 123(R), is estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option valuation model with a single approach and amortized using a straight-line attribution method over the option’s vesting period. Options granted to retirement eligible employees were immediately expensed. In 2005, this amount was disclosed in the pro-forma exhibit while in 2006 and 2007 it is recognized as an expense. The Company uses historical data to estimate the expected volatility of its stock; the weighted average expected life, the period of time options granted are expected to be outstanding; and its dividend yield. The risk-free rates for periods within the contractual life of the option are based on the U.S. Treasury yield curve in effect at the time of the grant.

The assumptions used for the Black-Scholes model to determine the fair value of options granted during 2007 and 2006 is as follows:

 
2007
2006
Risk-free interest rate
4.74-4.78%
4.54%
Dividend yield
.65-.67%
.70-.74%
Weighted-average dividend yield
.653%
.707%
Volatility factor
.3529-.3701
.3553-.3768
Weighted-average volatility
.3554
.359
Expected term
5.3-6.2 years
4-5 years
Forfeiture rate
4.18%
5.44%

A summary of the Company’s stock option plans activity and related information is as follows:

(Shares in thousands)
 
 
 
Stock Options:
 
Shares
   
Weighted-Average Exercise Price
   
Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Term
   
Aggregate
IntrinsicValue (000’s)
 
Outstanding at beginning of 2005
    2,401     $ 20.61              
Granted
    183       40.93              
Exercised
    (777 )     18.39              
Forfeited
    (14 )     27.52              
                             
Outstanding at beginning of 2006
    1,793     $ 23.60              
Granted
    125       45.90              
Exercised
    (509 )     20.69              
Forfeited
    (11 )     25.22              
                             
Outstanding at beginning of 2007
    1,398     $ 26.65              
Granted
    131       48.87              
Exercised
    (245 )     21.05              
Forfeited
    (32 )     29.38              
Outstanding at end of period
    1,252     $ 29.99       5.49     $ 13,609  
                                 
Expected to vest after applying forfeiture rate
    1,216     $ 29.69       5.43     $ 13,475  
Vested and exercisable at end of period
    836     $ 25.01       4.52     $ 12,014  

 
 
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2007
   
2006
   
2005
 
Weighted average grant-date fair value of options
  $ 19.75     $ 16.43     $ 9.60  
                         
(In millions)
                       
Intrinsic value of options exercised
  $ 6.3     $ 2.7     $ 4.3  
Cash received from the exercise of options
    5.0       10.1       14.3  
Fair value of shares vested
    2.7       2.7       3.1  
Tax benefit
    2.2       5.7       7.0  

There were no options granted during the fourth quarter of  2007 and 2006. The total intrinsic value of options exercised during the fourth quarter of 2007 and 2006 was $1.8 million and $0.2 million, respectively. There were no share-based liabilities paid during the 2007 and 2006 fiscal years.

The Company is authorized to repurchase up to 2.1 million shares under an authorization approved by its Board of Directors.  Share repurchases will be considered on an opportunistic basis and could therefore range between zero and 2.1 million shares in 2008.   As a result of the company’s policy of issuing shares upon share option exercises the company attempts to repurchase at a minimum the number of shares issued in a given year.

A summary of the Company’s nonvested shares activity and related information, for fiscal year ended December 29, 2007 and December 30, 2006 follows:

2007

(Shares in thousands) 
           
 
Nonvested Shares
 
Shares
   
Weighted-Average Exercise Price
 
             
Nonvested at beginning of period
    556     $ 33.95  
Granted
    131       48.87  
Vested
    (245 )     31.89  
Forfeited
    (26 )     31.66  
Nonvested at end of period
    416     $ 39.99  


 
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2006

(shares in thousands) 
         
 
Nonvested Shares
 
Shares
   
Weighted-Average Grant-
Date Fair Value
           
Nonvested at beginning of period
    736     $ 7.03  
Granted
    125       16.43  
Vested
    (294 )     6.50  
Forfeited
    (11 )     5.84  
Nonvested at end of period
    556     $ 9.47  

As of December 29, 2007 there was $3.1 million of total unrecognized compensation cost related to nonvested share-based compensation arrangements granted under the Plans. That cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 1.6 years.

Stock Awards:
Under the Stock Plan, nonemployee directors and employees may be granted stock awards or grants of restricted shares of the Company’s common stock, vesting subject to the employees’ performance of certain goals. The Stock Plan is an amendment and restatement of the Franklin Electric Co., Inc. Key Employee Performance Incentive Stock Plan (the “Incentive Plan”), established in 2000. Prior to April 29, 2005, 16,300 shares had been awarded under the Incentive Plan and an additional 150,000 shares were authorized for stock awards under the Stock Plan.

The stock awards are granted at the market value on the date of grant and the stock awards cliff vest over either 4 or 5 years and the attainment of certain performance goals. Dividends are paid to the recipient prior to vesting. Stock awards granted to retirement eligible employees were immediately expensed in 2006 and 2007.

A summary of the Company’s restricted stock award activity and related information, for the fiscal year ended December 29, 2007 and December 30, 2006 follows:

2007

(Shares in thousands) 
           
 
Nonvested Shares
 
Shares
   
Weighted-Average Grant-
Date Fair Value
 
             
Nonvested at beginning of period
    40     $ 43.39  
Awarded
    32       47.40  
Vested
    (8 )     43.77  
Forfeited
    (3 )     47.44  
Nonvested at end of period
    61     $ 45.24  


 
- 55 -

 


2006

(shares in thousands) 
           
 
Nonvested Shares
 
Shares
   
Weighted-Average Grant-
Date Fair Value
 
             
Nonvested at beginning of period
    21     $ 40.82  
Awarded
    26       49.25  
Vested
    (6 )     58.33  
Forfeited
    (1 )     40.72  
Nonvested at end of period
    40     $ 43.39  

As of December 29, 2007 there was $1.5 million of total unrecognized compensation cost related to nonvested share-based compensation arrangements granted under the Plan. That cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 2.4 years.

17.  
SEGMENT AND GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION

Segments

Based on the management approach established by SFAS No. 131, “Disclosure About Segments of an Enterprise and Related Information”, the Company’s business consists of the following operating segments, based on the principal end market served; Water Systems and Fueling Systems.   The Company aggregated the segment information in prior year reports.  The annual report for 2007 includes disaggregated information by segment due to growth from acquisitions and other operational changes which have diversified the operating segments during 2007.  The Company includes unallocated corporate expenses and inter-company eliminations in an “Other” segment that together with Water and Fueling represent the Company.

The Water Systems segment designs, manufactures and sells motors, pumps, electronic controls and related parts and equipment primarily for use in submersible water and other fluid system applications. The Fueling Systems segment designs, manufactures and sells pumps, electronic controls and related parts and equipment primarily for use in submersible fueling system applications. The Fueling Systems segment integrates and sells motors and electronic controls produced by the Water Systems segment.

The accounting policies of our operating segments are the same as those described in the summary of significant accounting policies. Performance is evaluated based on the sales and operating income of the segments and a variety of ratios to measure performance. These results are not necessarily indicative of the results of operations that would have occurred had each segment been an independent, stand-alone entity during the periods presented.

 
- 56 -

 


Financial information by reportable business segment is included in the following summary:
(In millions)

   
2007
   
2006
   
2005
   
2007
   
2006
   
2005
 
   
Net sales to external customers
   
Operating income (loss)
 
Water Systems
  $ 466.8     $ 465.6     $ 340.2     $ 56.7     $ 104.4     $ 87.0  
Fueling Systems
  $ 135.2     $ 92.3     $ 63.2     $ 24.6     $ 15.0     $ 7.3  
Other
  $ 0.0     $ 0.0     $ 0.0     $ (32.1 )   $ (30.3 )   $ (24.2 )
Consolidated
  $ 602.0     $ 557.9     $ 403.4     $ 49.2     $ 89.1     $ 70.1  
                                                 
   
Total assets
           
Depreciation
 
Water Systems
  $ 398.6     $ 309.2             $ 14.6     $ 12.8     $ 11.2  
Fueling Systems
  $ 203.1     $ 182.6             $ 0.8     $ 0.7     $ 0.4  
Other
  $ 60.5     $ 35.1             $ 1.1     $ 1.1     $ 0.7  
Consolidated
  $ 662.2     $ 526.9             $ 16.5     $ 14.6     $ 12.3  
                                                 
   
Amortization
   
Capital Expenditures
 
Water Systems
  $ 1.8     $ 1.2     $ 0.7     $ 23.6     $ 20.1     $ 15.1  
Fueling Systems
  $ 2.0     $ 1.0     $ 0.7     $ 3.9     $ 0.9     $ 1.0  
Other
  $ 0.0     $ 0.0     $ 0.0     $ 1.3     $ 2.2     $ 1.7  
Consolidated
  $ 3.8     $ 2.2     $ 1.4     $ 28.8     $ 23.2     $ 17.8  

Cash is the major asset group in “Other” of total assets.

Total Company Geographic Information

 (In millions)
 
Net Sales
   
Long-lived assets
 
             
   
2007
   
2006
   
2005
   
2007
   
2006
   
2005
 
United States
  $ 337.1     $ 364.7     $ 240.9     $ 249.5     $ 241.8     $ 116.5  
Foreign
    264.9       193.2       162.5       103.3       66.1       60.2  
Total
  $ 602.0     $ 557.9     $ 403.4     $ 352.8     $ 307.9     $ 176.7  

In 2007, no single customer accounted for more than 10 percent of the Company’s consolidated sales.  ITT Industries, Inc., and its various subsidiaries and affiliates, accounted for 11 percent and 16 percent of the Company’s consolidated sales in 2006 and 2005, respectively. Pentair Corporation and its various subsidiaries and affiliates, accounted for 12 percent and 14 percent of the Company’s consolidated sales in 2006 and 2005, respectively.  ITT Industries and Pentair Corporation are customers in the Water Systems segment.

 
- 57 -

 


18.  
CONTINGENCIES AND COMMITMENTS

The Company is defending various claims and legal actions, including environmental matters, which have arisen in the ordinary course of business. In the opinion of management, based on current knowledge of the facts and after discussion with counsel, these claims and legal actions can be successfully defended or resolved without a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations, and net cash flows.

Total rent expense charged to operations for operating leases including contingent rentals was $7.9 million, $5.8 million, and $4.3 million for 2007, 2006 and 2005, respectively.

The future minimum rental payments for non-cancelable operating leases as of December 29, 2007, are as follows: 2008, $7.2 million; 2009, $4.4 million; 2010, $2.7 million; 2011, $1.5 million; and 2012, $1.0 million. Rental commitments subsequent to 2012 are not significant by year, but aggregated are $6.2 million in total.

At December 29, 2007, the Company had $1.6 million of commitments primarily for the purchase of machinery and equipment, and building expansions.

Below is a table that shows the activity in the warranty accrual accounts:
 
(In millions)
 
   
2007
   
2006
 
             
Beginning balance
  $ 10.0     $ 7.0  
                 
Accruals related to product warranties
    6.3       7.9  
                 
Additions related to acquisitions
    0.7       2.8  
                 
Reductions for payments made
    (7.3 )     (7.7 )
                 
Ending balance
  $ 9.7     $ 10.0  

19.  
RESTRUCTURING

During 2007, the Company continued to execute Phase 2 of its Global Manufacturing Realignment Program (the “Realignment Program”). Phase 2 of the Realignment Program includes the expansion of recently established facilities in lower-cost regions and the further shifting of production out of higher cost manufacturing facilities. Phase 2 also includes the process of consolidating certain Fueling Systems product manufacturing into its Madison, Wisconsin facility.

Restructuring expenses, primarily manufacturing equipment relocation and production re-alignment, for 2007 were approximately $3.9 million (pre-tax).  As of December 29, 2007, there was no restructuring reserve in the Company’s consolidated balance sheet.

 
- 58 -

 


20.  
SELECTED QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA (UNAUDITED)

Unaudited quarterly financial information for 2007 and 2006, from continuing operations, is as follows:

(In millions, except per share amounts)
 
                               
   
Net Sales
   
Gross Profit
   
Income -
Cont. Ops.
   
Basic Earnings Per Share (a)
   
Diluted Earnings Per Share
 
2007
                             
                               
1st Quarter
  $ 130.5     $ 38.9     $ 4.9     $ 0.21     $ 0.21  
2nd Quarter
    152.5       43.3       6.6       0.29       0.28  
3rd Quarter
    165.3       48.0       11.7       0.51       0.50  
4th Quarter
    153.7       42.6       5.5       0.24       0.23  
    $ 602.0     $ 172.8     $ 28.7     $ 1.24     $ 1.22  
2006
                                       
                                         
1st Quarter
  $ 101.7     $ 35.4     $ 9.7     $ 0.43     $ 0.42  
2nd Quarter
    152.2       52.6       16.5       0.72       0.70  
3rd Quarter
    156.1       53.6       16.3       0.71       0.70  
4th Quarter
    147.9       50.0       14.3       0.62       0.61  
    $ 557.9     $ 191.6     $ 56.8     $ 2.48     $ 2.43  
                                         
(a) Earnings per common share amounts are computed independently for each of the quarters presented. Therefore, the sum of the quarterly earnings per share may not equal the annual earnings per share.
 

21.  
SUBSEQUENT EVENTS

In an agreement dated January 9, 2008, between Franklin Electric and Industrias Schneider SA, the Company acquired all of the outstanding shares of the entity for approximately $41.5 million, subject to certain terms and conditions.  Schneider is a leading Brazilian producer of pumps for the residential, agricultural, and light commercial markets.

On February 26, 2008 the company entered into amendments to the Amended and Restated  Credit Agreement and the Second Amended and Restated Note Purchase and Private Shelf Agreement changing the financial covenant of consolidated debt divided by consolidated earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (the “Leverage Ratio”) limit under both agreements from a maximum of three times to a maximum of three and one-half times effective with the company’s first fiscal quarter of 2008 through the company’s first fiscal quarter of 2009.  Starting with the company’s second fiscal quarter of 2009 and for each quarter thereafter the Leverage Ratio will be a maximum of three times.




- 59 -



 
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
 
 
To the Shareowners and Directors, Franklin Electric Co., Inc.:
 
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Franklin Electric Co., Inc. and subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of December 29, 2007 and December 30, 2006, and the related consolidated statements of income, shareowners' equity and comprehensive income, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 29, 2007.  These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management.  Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits.
 
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States).  Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement.  An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements.  An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation.  We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
 
In our opinion, such consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Franklin Electric Co., Inc. and subsidiaries as of December 29, 2007 and December 30, 2006, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 29, 2007, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

As discussed in Notes 1 and 11, on January 1, 2007, the Company adopted the provisions of FASB Interpretation No. 48, Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes.

As discussed in Notes 1 and 8, on January 1, 2006, the Company adopted the provisions of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 123(R), Share-Based Payment, and on December 30, 2006, the Company adopted the provisions of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 158, Employers’ Accounting for Defined Benefit Pension and Other Postretirement Plans.
 
We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the Company's internal control over financial reporting as of December 29, 2007, based on the criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission and our report dated February 27, 2008 expressed an unqualified opinion on the effectiveness of the Company's internal control over financial reporting.

/s/ DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP


Chicago, Illinois
February 27, 2008


 
- 60 -

 


ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE

None.

ITEM 9A. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES 
As of the end of the period covered by this report (the “Evaluation Date”), the Company carried out an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of the Company’s management, including the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and the Company’s Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures pursuant to Exchange Act Rule 13a-15. Based upon that evaluation, the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and the Company’s Chief Financial Officer concluded that, as of the Evaluation Date, the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective in bringing to their attention on a timely basis material information relating to the Company to be included in the Company’s periodic filings under the Exchange Act.

There have been no changes in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting identified in connection with the evaluation required by Rules 13a-15 and 15d-15 under the Exchange Act during the last fiscal quarter that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

MANAGEMENT’S REPORT ON INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING

System of Internal Control over Financial Reporting:
Management is responsible for establishing and maintaining an adequate system of internal control over financial reporting of the Company. This system is designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

The Company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (i) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the Company; (ii) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the Company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the Company; (iii) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the Company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting can provide only reasonable assurance with respect to financial statement preparation and may not prevent or detect misstatements. Further, because of changes in conditions, effectiveness of internal controls over financial reporting may vary over time.

Management conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of the system of internal control over financial reporting based on the framework in Internal Control-Integrated Framework (the “Framework”) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). Management did not include in the scope of this evaluation Pump Brands (Pty) Limited or the pump division of Monarch Industries Limited both acquired during 2007 and whose financial statements collectively constitute 11 percent and 8 percent of net and total assets, respectively, 5 percent of revenues, and 5 percent of net income of the consolidated financial statement amounts as of and for the year ended December 29, 2007.Based on its evaluation, management concluded that the Company’s system of internal control over financial reporting was effective as of December 29, 2007.

Our independent registered accounting firm has issued an audit report on management’s assessment of internal control over financial reporting. This report appears on pages 62-63.

 
- 61 -

 

 
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
 
 
To the Shareowners and Directors
 
 
Franklin Electric Co., Inc.
 
 
Bluffton, Indiana
 
 
We have audited the internal control over financial reporting of Franklin Electric Co., Inc. and subsidiaries (the "Company") as of December 29, 2007, based on based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.  As described in Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting, management excluded from its assessment the internal control over financial reporting at Pump Brands (Pty) Limited, which was acquired on June 25, 2007 and the pump division of Monarch Industries Limited, which was acquired on September 5, 2007, and whose financial statements collectively constitute 11 percent and 8 percent of net and total assets, respectively, 5 percent of revenues, and 5 percent  of net income of the Company’s consolidated financial statements amounts as of and for the year ended December 29, 2007. Accordingly, our audit did not include the internal control over financial reporting at Pump Brands (Pty) Limited and the pump division of Monarch Industries Limited.  The Company's management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting.  Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company's internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.
 
 
We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States).  Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects.  Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances.  We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.
 
 
A company's internal control over financial reporting is a process designed by, or under the supervision of, the company's principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, and effected by the company's board of directors, management, and other personnel to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.  A company's internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company's assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.
 
 
Because of the inherent limitations of internal control over financial reporting, including the possibility of collusion or improper management override of controls, material misstatements due to error or fraud may not be prevented or detected on a timely basis.  Also, projections of any evaluation of the effectiveness of the internal control over financial reporting to future periods are subject to the risk that the controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
 
 
In our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 29, 2007, based on the criteria established in Internal Control — Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.
 

 
- 62 -

 

We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated financial statements as of and for the year ended December 29, 2007 of the Company and our report dated February 27, 2008 expressed an unqualified opinion on those financial statements and includes two explanatory paragraphs regarding the adoption of the provisions of FASB Interpretation No. 48, Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes, on January 1, 2007, the adoption of  Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 123(R), Share-Based Payment, on January 1, 2006, and the adoption of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 158, Employers’ Accounting for Defined Benefit Pension and Other Postretirement Plans, on December 30, 2006.


/s/ DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP
 

 
 
Chicago, Illinois
February 27, 2008
 

 
- 63 -

 

ITEM 9B. OTHER INFORMATION

None.

PART III

ITEM 10. DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE 

The information concerning directors and director nominees required by this Item 10 is set forth in the Company's Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held on May 2, 2008, under the headings of "ELECTION OF DIRECTORS" and "INFORMATION CONCERNING NOMINEES AND CONTINUING DIRECTORS," and is incorporated herein by reference.

The information concerning executive officers required by this Item 10 is contained in Part I of this Form 10-K under the heading of "EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT," and is incorporated herein by reference.

The information concerning Regulation S-K, Item 405 disclosures of delinquent Form 3, 4 or 5 filers required by this Item 10 is set forth in the Company’s Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held on May 2, 2008, under the heading of “SECTION 16(a) BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP REPORTING COMPLIANCE,” and is incorporated herein by reference.

The information concerning the procedures for shareholders to recommend nominees to the Company’s board of directors required by this Item 10 is set forth in the Company’s Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held on May 2, 2008 under the heading “INFORMATION ABOUT THE BOARD AND ITS COMMITTEES,” and is incorporated herein by reference.

The Company’s board of directors has determined that Jerome D. Brady, Thomas L. Young, and David M. Wathen, the Audit Committee members, are “audit committee financial experts” as defined by Item 401(h) of Regulation’s S-K of the Exchange Act, and are “independent” within the meaning of Item 7 (d)(3)(iv) of Schedule 14A of the Exchange Act.

In compliance with Regulation S-K, Item 406, the Company has adopted a code of business conduct and ethics for its directors, principal financial officer, controller, principal executive officer, and other employees. The Company has posted its code of ethics on the Company website at http://www.fele.com. The Company will disclose any amendments to the Code and any waivers from the Code for directors and executive officers by posting such information on its website.

ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION 
 
The information required by Item 11 is set forth in the Company's Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held on May 2, 2008, under the headings of "INFORMATION ABOUT THE BOARD AND ITS COMMITTEES," "MANAGEMENT ORGANIZATION AND COMPENSATION COMMITTEE REPORT," “COMPENSATION, DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS,” "SUMMARY COMPENSATION TABLE," "GRANT OF PLAN BASED AWARDS TABLE," “OUTSTANDING EQUITY AWARDS AT FISCAL YEAR-END,” "OPTION EXCERCISES AND STOCK VESTED TABLE,” "PENSION BENEFITS TABLE," “POTENTIAL PAYMENTS UPON TERMINATION OR CHANGE IN CONTROL OF THE COMPANY,” and “DIRECTOR COMPENSATION,” and is incorporated herein by reference.

 
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ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS 

The information required by Item 12 is set forth in the Company's Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held on May 2, 2008, under the headings of "SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS,” “SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF MANAGEMENT" and “SECURITIES AUTHORIZED FOR ISSUANCE UNDER EQUITY COMPENSATION PLANS,” and is incorporated herein by reference.

ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE 

The information required by Item 13 is set forth in the Company's Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held on May 2, 2008, under the headings of  “INFORMATION ABOUT THE BOARD AND ITS COMMITTEES,” and is incorporated herein by reference.

ITEM 14. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING FEES AND SERVICES

The information required by Item 14 is set forth in the Company’s Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held on May 2, 2008, under the heading “PROPOSAL 2: RATIFICATION OF THE APPOINTMENT OF DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP AS THE COMPANY’S INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM,” and is incorporated herein by reference.

PART IV

ITEM 15. EXHIBITS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES

   
 
 
   
(a) 1. Financial Statements - Franklin Electric Co., Inc.
Form 10-K Annual Report(page)
   
Reports of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
60, 62-63, 68
Consolidated Statements of Income for the three years ended December 29, 2007
28
Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 29, 2007 and December 30, 2006
29-30
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the three years ended December 29, 2007
31-32
Consolidated Statements of Shareowners' Equity for the three years ended December 29, 2007
33-34
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements(including quarterly financial data)
35-59
   
2. Financial Statement Schedules - Franklin Electric Co., Inc. 
 
   
II. Valuation and Qualifying Accounts
67
   

Schedules other than those listed above are omitted for the reason that they are not required or are not applicable, or the required information is disclosed elsewhere in the financial statements and related notes.

 
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3. Exhibits 

See the Exhibit Index located on pages 70-71. Management Contract, Compensatory Plan, or Arrangement is denoted by an asterisk (*).


 
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SCHEDULE II - VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS
For the years 2007, 2006, and 2005
(In millions)
 

 
 
Description
 
Balance at beginning of period
   
Additions charged to costs and expenses
   
 
Deductions
   
 
Other
   
Balance at end of period
 
   
Allowance for doubtful accounts:
 
   
2007
  $ 2.8     $ 0.0     $ 0.7 (A)   $ 0.5 (B)   $ 2.6  
                                         
2006
  $ 2.2     $ 0.3     $ 0.5 (A)   $ 0.8 (B)   $ 2.8  
                                         
2005
  $ 2.3     $ 0.1     $ 0.2 (A)   $ 0.0 (B)   $ 2.2  


 
NOTES:

(A)  
Uncollectible accounts written off, net of recoveries.
(B)  
Allowance for doubtful accounts related to accounts receivable of acquired companies at date of acquisition.


 
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REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
 
 
To the Shareowners and Directors, Franklin Electric Co., Inc.:
 
 
We have audited the consolidated financial statements of Franklin Electric Co., Inc. and subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of December 29, 2007 and December 30, 2006, and for each of the three years in the period ended December 29, 2007, and the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 29, 2007, and have issued our reports thereon dated February 27, 2008; such consolidated financial statements and reports are included elsewhere in this Form 10-K. Our audits also included the consolidated financial statement schedule of the Company listed in Item 15. The consolidated financial statement schedule is the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion based on our audits. In our opinion, such consolidated financial statement schedule, when considered in relation to the basic consolidated financial statements taken as a whole, presents fairly, in all material respects, the information set forth therein.
 
 
 
 
 
/s/ DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP
 
 

 
 
Chicago, Illinois
February 27, 2008
 

 
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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.

 
Franklin Electric Co., Inc.
   
 
/s/ R. SCOTT TRUMBULL 
 
R. Scott Trumbull
 
Chairman of the Board and Chief
Date: February 27, 2008
Executive Officer

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 indicated on February 27, 2008.

/s/ R. SCOTT TRUMBULL
Chairman of the Board and Chief
R. Scott Trumbull
Executive Officer (Principal
 
Executive Officer)
   
/s/ THOMAS J. STRUPP
Vice President, Chief
Thomas J. Strupp
Financial Officer and Secretary
 
(Principal Financial and Accounting
 
Officer)
   
   
/s/ JEROME D. BRADY
 
Jerome D. Brady
Director
   
   
/s/ DAVID A. ROBERTS 
 
David A. Roberts
Director
   
   
/s/ DAVID M. WATHEN
 
David M. Wathen
Director
   
   
/s/ HOWARD B. WITT
 
Howard B. Witt
Director
   
   
/s/ THOMAS L. YOUNG
 
Thomas L. Young
Director
   
   
   
/s/ DAVID T. BROWN
 
David T. Brown
Director
 

 
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FRANKLIN ELECTRIC CO., INC.
EXHIBIT INDEX TO THE ANNUAL REPORT ON FORM 10-K
FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 29, 2007

Exhibit
Number
 
Description
3.1
Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation of Franklin Electric Co., Inc. (incorporated by reference to the Company's Form 8-K filed on May 3, 2007)
3.2
By-Laws of Franklin Electric Co., Inc. as amended December 14, 2007 (incorporated by reference to the Company’s Form 8-K filed on December 20, 2007)
4.1
Rights Agreement, dated as of October 15, 1999, by and between Franklin Electric Co., Inc. and Illinois Stock Transfer Company, as Rights Agent (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to the Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form 8-A dated October 19, 1999, File No. 000-00362).
4.2
 
First Amendment to Rights Agreement, dated as of December 1, 2006, between Franklin Electric Co., Inc. and LaSalle Bank National Association (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 of the Company's Form 8-A/A filed on December 8, 2006)
4.3
Second Amendment to Rights Agreement, dated as of July 11, 2007, between Franklin Electric Co., Inc. and LaSalle Bank National Association (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 of the Company’s Form 8-K filed on July 16, 2007)
4.4
Shareholder’s Agreement, dated as of July 11, 2007, between Franklin Electric Co., Inc., and Select Equity Group, Inc. and Select Offshore Advisors, LLC (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 of the Company’s for 8-K filed on July 16, 2007)
10.1
Franklin Electric Co., Inc. Stock Option Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 of the Company’s Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 3, 2004)*
10.2
Franklin Electric Co., Inc. Stock Plan (incorporated by reference to the Company’s 2005 Proxy Statement for   the Annual Meeting held on April 29, 2005, and included as Exhibit A to the Proxy Statement)*
10.3
Franklin Electric Co., Inc. Non-employee Directors’ Deferred Compensation Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Company’s Form 10-Q for the first quarter ended on April 1, 2006)*
10.4
Amended and Restated Franklin Electric Co., Inc. Pension Restoration Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.9 of the Company’s Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 29, 2001)*
10.5
Employment Agreement dated December 3, 2002 between the Company and Scott Trumbull (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.10 of the Company’s Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 28, 2002)*
10.6
Amendment to Amended Employment Agreement dated July 25, 2005 between the Company and Gregg C. Sengstack (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Company’s Form 8-K dated July 23, 2005)*
10.7
Amended Employment Agreement dated December 20, 2002 between the Company and Gregg C. Sengstack (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.12 of the Company’s Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 28, 2002)*
10.8
Employment Agreement dated July 25, 2005 between the Company and Thomas J. Strupp (incorporated by  reference to Exhibit 10.2 of the Company’s Form 8-K dated July 23, 2005)*
10.9
$120,000,000 Amended and Restated Credit Agreement dated December 14, 2006, between the Company and JPMorgan Chase, as Administrative Agent (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.04 of the Company’s Form 8-K filed on December 21, 2006)
10.10
Amendment No. 1 to the $120,000,000 Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated February 26, 2008, between the Company and JPMorgan Chase, as Administrative Agent (filed herewith)
10.11
Second Amended and Restated Note Purchase and Private Shelf Agreement dated September 9, 2004 between the Company and the Prudential Insurance Company of America and others (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.12 of the Company’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended October 2, 2004)
10.12
Amendment and PruShelf Renewal and Extension, dated April 9, 2007, between the Company and Prudential Insurance Company of America and others (incorporated by reference to the Company’s Form 8-K filed on May 3, 2007)

 
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10.13
Amendment No. 2 to the Second Amended and Restated Note Purchase and Private Shelf Agreement, dated February 26, 2008, between the Company and the Prudential Insurance Company of America and others (filed herewith)
10.14
Consulting Agreement dated January 31, 2003 between the Company and William H. Lawson (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.15 of the Company’s Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 28, 2002)*
10.15
Consulting Agreement dated August 1, 2005 between the Company and Jess B. Ford (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Company’s Form 8-K dated August 1, 2005)*
10.16
Managing Director Service Contract dated August 1, 2003 between Franklin Electric Europa GmbH and Mr. Peter-Christian Maske (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.14 of the Company’s Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 1, 2005)*
10.17
Confidentiality and Non-Compete Agreement dated February 11, 2005 between the Company and R. Scott Trumbull, Gregg C. Sengstack, Daniel J. Crose, Donald R. Hobbs, Thomas A. Miller, Kirk M. Nevins, Robert J. Stone, and Gary Ward and dated July 25, 2005 between the Company and Thomas J. Strupp (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.15 of the Company’s Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 1, 2005) and dated May 6, 2005 between the Company and DeLancey W. Davis*
10.18
Executive Officer Annual Incentive Cash Bonus Program (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.17 of the Company’s Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 1, 2005)*
10.19
Agreement for Employee Stock Award dated March 3, 2005 between the Company and Robert Stone (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Company’s Form 8-K dated March 3, 2005)*
10.20
Form of Non-Qualified Stock Option Agreement for Non-Director Employees (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Company’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended April 2, 2005)*
10.21
Form of Non-Qualified Stock Option Agreement for Director Employees (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 of the Company’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended April 2, 2005)*
10.22
Form of Restricted Stock Agreement for Non-Director Employees (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.20 of the Company’s Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2005)*
10.23
Form of Restricted Stock Agreement for Director Employees (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.21 of the Company’s Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2005)*
10.24
Form of Restricted Stock Agreement for Non-Employee Directors (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.23 of the Company’s Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 30, 2006)*
21
Subsidiaries of the Registrant
23
Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
31.1
Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes–Oxley Act of 2002
31.2
Certification of Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes–Oxley Act of 2002
32.1
Chief Executive Officer Certification Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350 As Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
32.2
Chief Financial Officer Certification Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350 As Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
99.1
Forward-Looking Statements
   
* Management Contract, Compensatory Plan, or Arrangement


 
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