Form 10-K
Table of Contents

 

 

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington D.C. 20549

FORM 10-K

 

þ Annual report pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

for the fiscal year ended January 3, 2009

or

 

¨ Transition report pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

for the transition period from             to             .

Commission file number 0-27598

IRIDEX CORPORATION

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

Delaware   77-0210467
(State or other jurisdiction
of incorporation or organization)
  (I.R.S. Employer
Identification Number)

1212 Terra Bella Avenue, Mountain View CA 94043-1824

(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)

(650) 940-4700

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

 

Title of Each Class

 

Name of Each Exchange on which Registered

Common   NASDAQ Global Market

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:

Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share

Indicate by check mark if the Registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act of 1933.    Yes  ¨    No  þ

Indicate by check mark if the Registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the “Exchange Act”).    Yes  ¨    No  þ

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

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K (Section 229.405 of this chapter) is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of Registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K.  ¨

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

Large accelerated filer  ¨             Accelerated filer  ¨             Non-accelerated filer  ¨             Smaller reporting company  þ

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

The aggregate market value of the voting common equity held by non-affiliates of the Registrant was approximately $10,343,978, as of June 27, 2008, the last business day of the Registrant’s most recently completed second fiscal quarter, based on the closing price reported for such date on the NASDAQ Global Market. The registrant did not have any non-voting common equity outstanding. For purposes of this disclosure, shares of common stock held by each executive officer and director and by each holder of 5% or more of the outstanding shares of common stock have been excluded from this calculation, because such persons may be deemed to be affiliates. This determination of affiliate status is not necessarily a conclusive determination for other purposes.

As of March 26, 2009, Registrant had 8,824,301 shares of common stock outstanding.

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

Certain parts of the Proxy Statement for the Registrant’s 2009 Annual Meeting of Stockholders (the “Proxy Statement”) are incorporated by reference into Part III of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

 

 

 


Table of Contents

Table of Contents

 

         Page No.

Part I

    

Item 1.

 

Business

   3

Item 1A.

 

Risk Factors

   17

Item 1B.

 

Unresolved Staff Comments

   31

Item 2.

 

Properties

   31

Item 3.

 

Legal Proceedings

   31

Item 4.

 

Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders

   31

Part II

    

Item 5.

 

Market for Registrant’s Common Equity and Related Stockholder Matters, and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

   32

Item 6.

 

Selected Financial Data

   33

Item 7.

 

Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

   34

Item 7A.

 

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

   45

Item 8.

 

Financial Statements and Supplementary Data

   45

Item 9.

 

Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure

   79

Item 9A.

 

Controls and Procedures

   79

Item 9B.

 

Other Information

   80

Part III

    

Item 10.

 

Directors, Executive Officers of the Registrant

   81

Item 11.

 

Executive Compensation

   81

Item 12.

 

Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters

   81

Item 13.

 

Certain Relationships and Related Transactions

   81

Item 14.

 

Principal Accountant Fees and Services

   81

Part IV

    

Item 15.

 

Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules and Reports on Form 8-K

   82

Signatures

   86

 

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PART I

This Annual Report on Form 10-K contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, such as statements relating to levels of future sales and operating results; gross margins; managing cash flows; general economic conditions and levels of international sales, and our current and future liquidity and capital requirements; market acceptance of our products; expectations for and sources of future revenues; leveraging our core business and increasing recurring revenues; broadening our product lines through product innovation and new treatments; our marketing programs and trends in healthcare; our ability to take advantage of economies-of-scale in product development and manufacturing; efforts to decrease costs; estimates regarding the size of our markets; levels of future investment in research and development efforts; our ability to develop and introduce new products through strategic alliances, OEM relationships and acquisitions; the availability of components from third-party manufacturers; results of clinical studies and the status of our regulatory clearance; the impact of regulatory actions and determinations; and risks associated with bringing new products to market. In some cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology, such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “expects,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “believes,” “estimates,” “predicts,” “intends,” “potential,” “continue,” or the negative of such terms or other comparable terminology. These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause our actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. The reader is strongly urged to read the information contained under the captions “Item 1A. Risk Factors—Factors That May Affect Future Results” in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for a more detailed description of these significant risks and uncertainties. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which reflect management’s analysis only as of the date of this Form 10-K. We undertake no obligation to update such forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances occurring after the date of this report.

 

Item 1. Business

General

IRIDEX Corporation is a leading worldwide provider of therapeutic based laser systems and delivery devices used to treat eye diseases in ophthalmology and skin conditions in dermatology (also referred to as aesthetics). Our products are sold in the United States predominantly through a direct sales force and internationally through approximately 100 independent distributors into 107 countries. Total revenues in 2008, 2007 and 2006 were $48.5 million, $55.5 million and $35.9 million respectively, which generated a net loss for those corresponding years of $7.4 million, $22.3 million and $5.8 million. The net loss for 2008 and 2007 included impairment charges for the write down of Goodwill and Intangible assets of $5.4 million and $14.7 million, respectively.

Our ophthalmology products consist of laser systems, delivery devices and laser probes and are used in the treatment of serious eye diseases, including the three leading causes of irreversible blindness: diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration (AMD). In addition, our ophthalmology products are often used in vitrectomy procedures (proliferative diabetic retinopathy, macular holes, retinal tears and detachments) which are generally performed in the operating room and require a consumable single use intraocular laser probe (EndoProbe) to deliver the light to the back of the eye. Therefore our ophthalmology business includes (i) a recurring revenue component, which consists of the sales of the consumable, single use EndoProbe devices, combined with the repair, servicing and extended service contract protection for our laser systems and (ii) a capital component, which consists of the laser systems combined with durable delivery devices. Our laser systems consist of the OcuLight product family which includes the OcuLight TX, the OcuLight Symphony (Laser Delivery System), OcuLight SL, OcuLight SLx, OcuLight GL, and OcuLight GLx laser photocoagulation systems, and the IQ 810 and IQ 577 laser systems. Our ophthalmology products contributed $32.4 million, $32.3 million and $30.8 million to our total revenues in 2008, 2007 and 2006, respectively.

 

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In January 2007, the Company acquired Laserscope’s aesthetics business (the Laserscope acquisition) including its subsidiaries in France and the United Kingdom (UK) from American Medical Systems Holdings (AMS). The aesthetics products acquired through the Laserscope acquisition include the Gemini, Venus-i, Lyra-i and Aura-i Laser Systems, as well as the following delivery devices: the VersaStat 10 mm, VersaStat-i, and Dermastat handpieces along with an articulated arm for the Venus-i Laser System. These products focus on the treatment of pigmented and vascular lesions, skin rejuvenation, skin tightening, hair reduction, leg veins, and acne. Our previous dermatology lasers, called the DioLite XP and the VariLite Dual Wavelength Laser Systems, were folded in with the Laserscope aesthetics product offering to create an expanded aesthetics business. Our aesthetics products are primarily used in a dermatologist’s or plastic surgeon’s office and contributed $16.1 million, $23.2 million and $5.1 million to our total revenues in 2008, 2007 and 2006, respectively.

The IRIDEX ophthalmic and dermatology laser systems, exclusive of the Laserscope products, consist of small, portable laser consoles and delivery devices. While dermatologists almost always use our laser systems in their offices or clinics, ophthalmologists and plastic surgeons typically use our laser systems in hospital operating rooms (OR) and ambulatory surgical centers (ASC), as well as their offices and clinics. In the OR and ASC, ophthalmologists use our laser systems with either an indirect laser ophthalmoscope or a consumable, single use EndoProbe. Since our first shipment in 1990, more than 10,200 medical laser systems manufactured by IRIDEX, for both ophthalmology and dermatology, have been sold worldwide.

IRIDEX Corporation was incorporated in California in February 1989 as IRIS Medical Instruments, Inc. In November 1995, we changed our name to IRIDEX Corporation and reincorporated in Delaware. Our executive offices are located at 1212 Terra Bella Avenue, Mountain View, California 94043-1824, and our telephone number is (650) 940-4700. We can also be reached at our website at www.IRIDEX.com, however, the information on, or that can be accessed through, our website is not part of this report. As used in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, the terms “Company,” “IRIDEX,” “we,” “us” and “our” refer to IRIDEX Corporation, a Delaware corporation, and when the context so requires, our wholly owned subsidiaries, IRIS Medical Instruments, Inc. and Light Solutions Corporation, both California corporations, and IRIDEX UK, and IRIDEX France S.A.

The IRIDEX Strategy

We are one of the worldwide leaders in developing, manufacturing, marketing, selling and servicing innovative medical laser systems and associated instrumentation. We have a short-term focus to ensure we successfully navigate the current global recession by leveraging the progress we made in 2008, and we have three key elements to our long-term strategy, the goal of which is to provide value to our customers by contributing towards improved patient outcomes and therefore increase long-term shareholder value:

Short-term focus

 

  1. Continue to carefully manage cash, balancing our expenses with our expected revenues to ensure positive cash flow and to position the Company for long-term growth.

Long-term strategies

 

  1. Leverage existing sales channels to drive more recurring revenues by adding additional consumable devices for our current ophthalmology market.

 

  2. Introduce new complementary laser systems and durable delivery devices through internal development and/or acquisition, which either encourage replacement of the existing installed base, or expand the installed base by identifying new procedures or capabilities. We intend to continue our investment in research and development to improve the performance of our systems by developing innovative technologies which can address the customer needs.

 

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  3. Grow adjacent markets with existing sales channels and product offerings particularly in the ear, nose and throat market, where we have been successful in responding to existing demand and add new consumable products in these markets.

See Item 1A. Risk Factors—Factors That May Affect Future Results—“We Depend on Collaborative Relationships to Develop, Introduce and Market New Products, Product Enhancements and New Applications.”

Ophthalmic Products

We utilize a systems approach to product design. Each system includes a console, which generates the laser energy, and a number of interchangeable peripheral delivery devices for use in specific clinical applications. This approach allows our customers to purchase a basic console system and add additional delivery devices as their needs expand or as new applications develop. We believe that this systems approach is a distinguishing characteristic and also brings economies-of-scale to our product development and manufacturing efforts because individual applications do not require the design and manufacture of complete stand-alone products. Our primary equipment products range in price from $2,000 to $60,000, and consist of laser consoles and specialized durable delivery devices. Our line of consumable products has list prices of between $150 and $200 to end customers.

Consoles

Our laser consoles, which are identified below, incorporate the economic and technical benefits of solid state and semiconductor laser technology.

Infrared Photocoagulator Consoles. The OcuLight and IQ 810 photocoagulator consoles used by ophthalmologists are available in two infrared (810nm) output power ranges: the OcuLight SL at 2 Watts and the IQ 810 and OcuLight SLx at 3 Watts. The OcuLight consoles weigh 14 pounds and have dimensions of 4”H x 12”W x 12”D. The IQ 810 console weighs 11 pounds and has dimensions of 7”H x 12”W x 12”D. Neither requires external air nor water cooling. We believe that the smaller overall sizes, lower weights and low input power requirements to operate represent distinct advantages over competing products.

Visible (Green) Photocoagulator Consoles. Our OcuLight TX, OcuLight GL and OcuLight GLx solid state and semiconductor-based photocoagulator consoles used in ophthalmology deliver visible (532nm) laser light. The OcuLight TX was first shipped in late 2006 and offers an optional remote control and wireless power-adjust footswitch. The OcuLight TX/GL/GLx have dimensions of 6”H x 12”W x 12”D, draw a maximum of 300 Watts of wall power and requires no water cooling. In December 2002, we commenced shipment of the Millennium Endolase module, which is sold exclusively to Bausch & Lomb for use in their Millennium Microsurgical System. It integrates 532nm photocoagulator capability into Bausch & Lomb’s array of microsurgical capabilities for the vitrectomy procedure. The Millennium Endolase module is compatible with the IRIDEX consumable EndoProbe handpieces and Laser Indirect Ophthalmoscope.

Visible (Yellow) Photocoagulator Console. In 2009 we plan to introduce the industry’s first solid state 577nm (yellow) photocoagulator—the IQ 577. This product utilizes state of the art user interface technology and delivers a 577 wavelength which is at the peak of oxyhemoglobin absorption which allows ophthalmologists to obtain optimal results with lower power (more tissue sparing) compared with green wavelengths. The IQ 577 console weighs 18 pounds, has dimensions of 7.5”H x 12”W x 14”D, draws a maximum of 250 Watts of wall power and requires no water cooling.

Multi-wavelength Laser System Configurations. When used in conjunction with specific IRIDEX laser consoles, our Symphony slit lamp adapter can deliver multiple laser wavelengths from a single slit lamp installation. It combines the clinical versatility and convenience of multiple wavelength delivery into one delivery device for retinal and glaucoma procedures. Currently, our compatible consoles are the OcuLight GLx and the OcuLight Tx green laser consoles and the OcuLight SLx and the IQ 810 infrared laser consoles.

 

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Ophthalmic Delivery Devices

Our versatile family of consoles and delivery devices has been designed to accommodate the addition of new capabilities with a minimal incremental investment. Users of our consoles can add capabilities by simply purchasing new interchangeable delivery devices and utilizing them with their existing console. We have developed both consumable and durable delivery devices and expect to continue to develop additional delivery devices.

TruFocus Laser Indirect Ophthalmoscope (LIO). The indirect ophthalmoscope is designed to be worn on the physician’s head and to be used in procedures to treat peripheral retinal disorders, particularly in infants or adults requiring treatment in the supine position. This product can be used in both diagnosis and treatment procedures at the point-of-care.

Slit Lamp Adapter (SLA). These adapters allow the physician to utilize a standard slit lamp in both diagnosis and treatment procedures. Doctors can install a slit lamp adapter in a few minutes and convert standard diagnostic slit lamps into a therapeutic photocoagulator delivery system. Slit lamp adapters are used in treatment procedures for both retinal diseases and glaucoma. These devices are available in a wide variety of spot diameters. Our standard slit lamp adapters have a single fiber and deliver laser light from a single laser console. Our Symphony slit lamp adapter has multiple fibers and can deliver laser light from two compatible laser consoles.

Operating Microscope Adapter. These adapters allow the physician to utilize a standard operating microscope in both diagnosis and laser treatment procedures. These devices are similar to slit lamp adapters, except that they are oriented horizontally and therefore can be used to deliver retinal photocoagulation to a supine patient.

EndoProbe. Our EndoProbe fiber optic delivery devices are used for endophotocoagulation, a retinal treatment procedure performed in the hospital operating room or surgery center during a vitrectomy procedure. These sterile consumable disposable probes are available in tapered, angled, stepped, aspirating, illuminating, and adjustable styles.

G-Probe. The G-Probe is used in procedures to treat medically and surgically uncontrolled glaucoma, in many instances replacing cyclocryotherapy, or freezing of eye tissues. The G-Probe’s non-invasive procedure takes approximately ten minutes, is performed on an anesthetized eye in the doctor’s office, and results in less pain and fewer adverse side effects than cyclocryotherapy. The G-Probe is a sterile consumable product.

DioPexy Probe. The DioPexy Probe is a hand-held instrument which is used in procedures to treat retinal tears, and breaks non-invasively through the sclera, as an alternative method of attaching the retina. Our DioPexy Probe results in increased precision, less pain and less inflammation than traditional cryotherapy.

 

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Ophthalmology Treatments

The following chart lists the procedures for treating ophthalmic diseases that can be addressed by utilizing our ophthalmic laser systems. These procedures typically are performed in an OR or an ASC and are non-elective and covered by insurance.

 

     

Procedure

  

Console

  

Delivery Devices

Age-related Macular    Retinal    Infrared & Visible    Slit Lamp Adapter
Degeneration    Photocoagulation      
Diabetic Retinopathy         

Macular Edema

   Grid Retinal    Infrared & Visible    Slit Lamp Adapter &
   Photocoagulation       Operating Microscope
         Adapter,
   Focal Retinal    Visible    Slit Lamp Adapter
   Photocoagulation      

Proliferative

   Pan-Retinal    Infrared & Visible    Slit Lamp Adapter,
   Photocoagulation       Operating
   Vitrectomy       Microscope Adapter,
   Procedure       Laser
         Indirect
         Ophthalmoscope,
         EndoProbe*
Glaucoma         

Primary Open-Angle

   Trabeculoplasty    Infrared & Visible    Slit Lamp Adapter

Angle-closure

   Iridotomy    Infrared & Visible    Slit Lamp Adapter

Uncontrolled Glaucoma

   Transscleral Cyclophotocoagulation    Infrared    G-Probe*
Retinal Tears and Detachments   

Retinopexy Retinal Photocoagulation Vitrectomy

Procedure

   Infrared & Visible    Slit Lamp Adapter, Laser Indirect Ophthalmoscope, Operating Microscope Adapter, EndoProbe*
   Transscleral Retinal Photocoagulation    Infrared    DioPexy Probe
Retinopathy of Prematurity    Retinal Photocoagulation    Infrared    Laser Indirect Ophthalmoscope
Ocular Tumors    Retinal Photocoagulation    Infrared    Slit Lamp Adapter, Operating Microscope Adapter, Laser Indirect Ophthalmoscope
Macular Holes    Vitrectomy Procedure    Visible    EndoProbe*

 

* Consumable single use products

 

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Aesthetics Products

Although light-based products are used in a variety of aesthetics applications, our aesthetics business focuses primarily on pigmented and vascular lesions, skin rejuvenation, skin tightening, hair reduction, leg veins, and acne, treatments that make up three-quarters of all aesthetics laser procedures.

Consoles

Our aesthetics laser consoles, which are described below, incorporate high powered solid state and semi-conductor technology.

Combination Infrared/Visible wavelength laser consoles: This includes the Gemini and VariLite.

The Gemini combines the best features of the Lyra and Aura systems, resulting in one of the most comprehensive and versatile multi-use systems available. It is FDA-cleared for use in 21 different aesthetics applications. It is one of the few dual wavelength lasers on the market, offering 532 nm KTP and 1064 nm Nd:YAG laser wavelengths. The KTP is a fast, high power laser used for skin rejuvenation and treatment of acne, pigmented lesions and other shallow vascular lesions. The Nd:YAG allows for deeper penetration and is used for hair reduction, wrinkle reduction, and the treatment of leg veins and other lesions.

The VariLite is a unique product in the aesthetics business. It includes both 532 nm and 940 nm lasers, which are used for deeper and more recalcitrant vascular lesions that are not easily treated with 532 nm. The 940nm wavelength is also more effective on venous lakes than 532 nm lasers.

Visible (Green) Consoles. The DioLite XP and Aura-i deliver (532 nm) laser light. These lasers deliver from three watts to 20 watts of power that is used for 14 FDA cleared applications ranging from vascular and pigmented lesions to acne.

Infrared Consoles: This includes the Lyra-i and Venus-i Laser System.

The Lyra-i uses a 1064 nm wavelength. This wavelength penetrates deeply into the skin to reach the hair bulb, leg veins, and the papillary dermis. It is used to treat 11 FDA cleared applications.

The Venus-i Laser System is a portable, lightweight, high power Erbium:YAG laser system for skin resurfacing. It provides treatment for wrinkles and moderate sun damage, and can be used on both facial and non-facial skin. Its unique flat beam profile maintains consistent laser energy in the therapeutic range and avoids dangerous hot spots. It is roughly half the size and weight of most other Erbium systems currently available.

Aesthetics Delivery Devices

VersaStat-i and VersaStat 10 mm Handpieces. These handpieces are used on the Gemini, Aura-i and Lyra-i consoles. The VersaStat-i has an adjustable spot size that allows the physician to match the spot size to the treatment area. It is adjustable from 1 mm to 5 mm in 0.1 mm increments. The handpiece treats a wide range of conditions, including small telangictasias and large blue veins without the need to change handpieces. The VersaStat 10 mm Handpiece allows the physician the ability to treat larger areas, adding to speed and efficiency of treatments. Both handpieces offer contact cooling, which allows for increased patient comfort during treatments.

Dermastat Handpieces. These handpieces are used with the Gemini and Aura-i. They are used as tracing instruments for the treatment of small cutaneous surface lesions, typically vascular, such as telangiectasia.

 

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DioLite Handpieces. These handpieces are handheld instruments used in the treatment of vascular and pigmented skin lesions. These devices are available in 200, 500, 700, and 1,000 micron spot diameters.

VariLite Handpiece. The VariLite Handpiece is a handheld instrument used in the treatment of vascular, pigmented cutaneous skin lesions and small area hair reduction. Ergonomic handpieces can be used with both the 532 nm and 940 nm wavelengths and are available in 700, 1,000, 1,400, 2,000 and 2,800 micron spot diameter.

ScanLite Scanner. The ScanLite XP is a computer pattern generator with integrated controls designed to enhance the capabilities of the DioLite XP and VariLite systems. They allow rapid and uniform treatment of larger-area vascular and pigmented skin lesions.

Aesthetics Treatments

The following chart lists the procedures for treating skin diseases that can be addressed by utilizing our dermatology laser systems. These procedures are normally performed in a physician’s office and are elective and private pay.

 

Condition

  

Procedure

   Console   

Delivery Devices

Vascular Lesions

Pigmented Lesions

Cutaneous Lesions

Acne

Skin Rejuvenation

Hair Reduction

   Selective Photothermolysis    Visible   

DioLite Handpiece

Versastat-i

Versastat 10 mm

Dermastat

ScanLite

VariLite Handpiece

Leg Veins

Hair Reduction

   Selective Photothermolysis    Infrared   

Versastat-i

Versastat 10 mm

Wrinkle Reduction

Scars

Acne Scar Reduction

   Skin Resurfacing    Infrared    Articulated Arm

Research and Development

We have close working relationships with researchers, clinicians and practicing physicians around the world who provide new ideas, test the feasibility of these new ideas and assist us in validating new products and new applications before they are introduced.

Our research and development activities are performed by a current team of 16 engineers, scientists and regulatory professionals with experience in various aspects of medical products, laser systems, delivery devices and clinical techniques with a focus to introduce innovative products which satisfy the unmet and emerging needs of our customers. The core competencies of the team include: mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, optics, lasers, fiber optics, software, firmware and delivery devices. The research and development process integrates all the necessary disciplines of the Company from product inception through customer acceptance. This process facilitates reliable new product innovations and a consistent pipeline of innovative products for our customers.

Our research activities are managed internally by our research staff. We supplement our internal research staff by hiring consultants and/or partnering with physicians to gain specialized expertise and understanding. Research efforts are directed toward the development of new products and new applications for our existing products, as well as the identification of markets not currently addressed by our products.

We believe that it is important to make a substantial contribution to improving clinical outcomes. For instance we have made substantial investments in researching and improving the treatment of serious eye

 

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diseases such as age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma. The objectives of developing new treatments and applications are to expand the potential patient population, to more effectively treat diseases, to treat patients earlier in the treatment regimen and to reduce the side effects of treatment. We spent $4.0 million on research and development in 2008, $5.8 million in 2007 and $5.5 million in 2006.

We consider clinical projects to be a component of our research and development efforts and they may or may not result in additional commercial opportunities. See Item 1A. Risk Factors—Factors That May Affect Future Results—“While We Devote Significant Resources to Research and Development, Our Research and Development May Not Lead to New Products that Achieve Commercial Success.”

Customers and Customer Support

Our products are currently sold to ophthalmologists—particularly those specializing in retina, glaucoma and pediatrics—dermatologists and plastic surgeons. Other customers include research and teaching hospitals, government installations, surgical centers and hospitals. No single customer or distributor accounted for 10% or more of total sales in fiscal years 2008, 2007 or 2006. See Item 7, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.”

We are continuing our efforts to broaden our customer base through the development of new products and new applications of our existing products for use by ophthalmologists and dermatologists. We currently estimate that there are approximately 18,000 ophthalmologists in the United States and 55,000 internationally who are potential customers. Additionally, we estimate that there are approximately 5,000 and 18,000 hospitals in the United States and internationally, respectively, as well as approximately 5,000 ambulatory surgical centers in the United States which potentially represent multiple unit sales. We believe there are approximately 9,000 dermatologists and approximately 8,000 plastic surgeons in the United States who are potential customers. Because independent ophthalmologists and dermatologists frequently practice at their own offices, as well as through affiliations with hospitals or other medical centers, each independent ophthalmologist, dermatologist, plastic surgeon, office, hospital and medical center is a potential customer for our products.

We seek to provide superior customer support and service and believe that our customer service and technical support distinguish our product offerings from those of our competitors. We provide depot service at our Mountain View facility for our ophthalmology and small aesthetics products and we provide field service for the large aesthetics products we acquired in the Laserscope acquisition. Our customer support representatives assist customers with orders, warranty returns and other administrative functions. Our technical support engineers provide customers with answers to technical and product-related questions. We maintain an “around-the-clock” telephone service line to service our customers. If a problem with a depot serviceable product cannot be diagnosed and resolved by telephone, a service loaner is shipped overnight to domestic customers under warranty or service contract, and by the most rapid delivery means available to our international customers, and the problem unit is returned to us. The small size and rugged design of our products allows for economical shipment and quick response to customers almost anywhere in the world.

Sales and Marketing

We sell and market our products in the United States predominantly through our direct sales force. Our direct sales force is separated into two separate divisions, one for ophthalmology and one for aesthetics. In total we had a direct sales force of 16 employees who were engaged in sales efforts within the United States as of January 3, 2009. Our sales and marketing organization is based at our corporate headquarters in Mountain View, California with area sales managers located throughout the United States.

We sell and market our products internationally through approximately 100 independent distributors into over 107 countries. International sales represented 44.4%, 46.1% and 39.2% of our sales in 2008, 2007 and 2006, respectively. We believe that our international sales will continue to represent a significant portion of our

 

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revenues for the foreseeable future. As a result of the Laserscope acquisition we acquired two wholly owned subsidiaries, one located in the UK and the other in France. Our subsidiaries are responsible for selling, marketing and servicing our aesthetics products in their local geography. In June 2008, we transitioned the responsibility for the sales and service of our aesthetics products in the UK to an independent distributor. Our other international sales are made principally to customers in Europe, Asia, the Pacific Rim, the Middle East and Latin America. Our indirect international sales are administered through our corporate headquarters in Mountain View, California. Our distribution agreements with our international distributors are generally exclusive and typically can be terminated by either party without cause with 90 days notice. International sales may be adversely affected by the imposition of governmental controls, currency fluctuations, restrictions on export technology, political instability, trade restrictions, changes in tariffs and the economic condition in each country in which we sell our products. See Item 1A. Risk Factors—Factors That May Affect Future Results—“We Depend on International Sales for a Significant Portion of Our Operating Results.”

To support our sales process we conduct marketing programs which include: clinical education, direct mail, trade shows, public relations, market research, and advertising in trade and academic journals and newsletters. We annually participate in over 100 trade shows worldwide. These meetings allow us to present our products to existing and prospective buyers.

Through marketing, we collaborate with our customers to enhance our ability to identify new applications for our products, validate new procedures using our products and identify new product applications which help meet their unmet needs. Customers include key opinion leaders who are often the heads of the departments in which they work or professors at universities. We believe that these luminaries in the field of ophthalmology and dermatology are key to the successful introduction of new products and the subsequent acceptance of these new products by the general market. Acceptance of our products by these early adopters is key to our strategy in the validation and commercialization of our new products.

Operations

The manufacture of our infrared and visible light photocoagulators and the related delivery devices is a highly complex and precise process. Completed systems must pass quality control and reliability tests before shipment. Our manufacturing activities consist of specifying, sourcing, assembling and testing of components and certain subassemblies for assembly into our final product. As of January 3, 2009, we had a total of 51 employees engaged in manufacturing activities.

The medical devices manufactured by us are subject to extensive regulation by numerous governmental authorities, including federal, state, and foreign governmental agencies. The principal regulator in the United States is the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). In April 1998, we received certification for ISO 9001/EN 46001, which is an international quality system standard that documents compliance to the European Medical Device Directive. In February 2004, we were certified to ISO 13485:2003, which replaced ISO 9001/EN46001 as the international standard for quality systems as applied to medical devices. In August 2008, we received FDA 510(k) clearance on our Family of IRIDEX IQ Laser Systems. This clearance covers the IRIDEX IQ 532, IQ 577, IQ 630-670, and IQ 810 Laser Systems and their associated delivery devices to deliver laser energy in either CW-Pulse, MicroPulse or LongPulse mode. These Laser Systems are intended for a wide range of specific applications in the medical specialties of ophthalmology, ear, nose and throat (ENT)/otolaryngology and dermatology.

We rely on third parties to manufacture substantially all of the components used in our products, although we assemble critical subassemblies and the final product at our facility in Mountain View, California. Some of these suppliers and manufacturers are sole source. We have some long-term or volume purchase agreements with our suppliers but currently purchase most components on a purchase order basis. These components may not be available in the quantities required, on reasonable terms, or at all. Financial or other difficulties faced by our suppliers or significant changes in demand for these components or materials could limit their availability. Any

 

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failures by such third parties to adequately perform may delay the submission of products for regulatory approval, impair our ability to deliver products on a timely basis or otherwise impair our competitive position. See Item 1A. Risk Factors—Factors That May Affect Future Results—“We Depend on Sole Source or Limited Source Suppliers.”

International regulatory bodies often establish varying product standards, packaging requirements, labeling requirements, tariff regulations, duties and tax requirements. As a result of our sales in Europe, we are required to have all products “CE” marked, an international symbol affixed to all products demonstrating compliance to the European Medical Device Directive and all applicable standards. In July 1998, we received CE mark certification under Annex II guidelines, the most stringent path to CE certification. With Annex II CE mark certification, we have demonstrated our ability to both understand and comply with all applicable standards under the European Medical Device Directive. This allows us to CE mark any product upon our internal verification of compliance to all applicable European standards. Currently, all released products are CE marked. Continued certification is based on successful review of the process by our European Registrar during its annual audit. Any loss of certification would have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition. See Item 1A. Risk Factors—Factors That May Affect Future Results—“We Are Subject to Government Regulations Which May Cause Us to Delay or Withdraw the Introduction of New Products or New Applications for Our Products.”

Competition

Competition in the market for laser systems and delivery devices used for ophthalmic and aesthetics treatment procedures is intense and is expected to increase. This market is also characterized by rapid technological innovation and change. We compete by providing features and services that are valued by our customers such as: product performance, clinical outcomes, ease of use, durability, versatility, customer training services and rapid repair of equipment.

Our principal competitors in ophthalmology are Alcon Inc., Carl Zeiss Meditec AG, Nidek Co. Ltd, Synergetics, Ellex Medical Lasers, Ltd. and Lumenis Ltd. Most of these companies currently offer a competitive, semiconductor-based laser system for ophthalmology. Also within ophthalmology, pharmaceutical alternative treatments for AMD such as Lucentis/Avastin (Genentech), and to a lesser extent Visudyne (Novartis) and Macugen (OSI Pharmaceuticals) compete rigorously with traditional laser procedures.

In aesthetics our principal competitors are Cutera, Candela Corporation, Palomar Technologies, Inc., Sciton, Lumenis Ltd and Cynosure.

Some ophthalmic and aesthetic competitors have substantially greater financial, engineering, product development, manufacturing, marketing and technical resources than we do. Some companies also have greater name recognition than us and long-standing customer relationships. In addition, other medical companies, academic and research institutions, or others, may develop new technologies or therapies, including medical devices, surgical procedures or pharmacological treatments and obtain regulatory approval for products utilizing such techniques that are more effective in treating the conditions targeted by us, or are less expensive than our current or future products. Our technologies and products could be rendered obsolete by such developments. Any such developments could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. See Item 1A. Risk Factors—Factors That May Affect Future Results—“We Face Strong Competition in Our Markets and Expect the Level of Competition to Grow in the Foreseeable Future.”

Patents and Proprietary Rights

Our success and ability to compete is dependent in part upon our proprietary information. We rely on a combination of patents, trade secrets, copyright and trademark laws, nondisclosure and other contractual agreements and technical measures to protect our intellectual property rights. We file patent applications to

 

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protect technology, inventions and improvements that are significant to the development of our business. We have been issued sixteen United States patents and five foreign patents on the technologies related to our products and processes, which have expiration dates ranging from 2009 to 2023. We have approximately six pending patent applications in the United States and six foreign pending patent applications that have been filed. Our patent applications may not be approved.

Along with the acquisition of the AMS/Laserscope aesthetic products, we acquired a royalty-free license to eleven of the AMS/Laserscope patents. In addition, we acquired a license to a Palomar patent under which royalties are paid to Palomar based upon a percentage of sales of certain products acquired from AMS/Laserscope.

In addition to patents, we rely on trade secrets and proprietary know-how which we seek to protect, in part, through proprietary information agreements with employees, consultants and other parties. Our proprietary information agreements with our employees and consultants contain provisions requiring such individuals to assign to us, without additional consideration, any inventions conceived or reduced to practice by them while employed or retained by us, subject to customary exceptions—See Item 1A. Risk Factors—Factors That May Affect Future Results—“We Rely on Patents and Proprietary Rights to Protect our Intellectual Property and Business.”

Government Regulation

The medical devices to be marketed and manufactured by us are subject to extensive regulation by numerous governmental authorities, including federal, state, and foreign governmental agencies. Pursuant to the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, as amended, and the regulations promulgated thereunder (the “FDA Act”), the FDA serves as the principal federal agency within the United States with authority over medical devices and regulates the research, clinical testing, manufacture, labeling, distribution, sale, marketing and promotion of such devices. Noncompliance with applicable requirements can result in, among other things, warning letters, fines, injunctions, civil penalties, recall or seizures of products, total or partial suspension of production, failure of the government to grant premarket clearance or approval for devices, withdrawal of marketing approvals, and criminal prosecution. The FDA also has the authority to request repair, replacement or refund of the cost of any medical device manufactured or distributed by us.

In the United States, medical devices are classified into one of three classes (Class I, II or III). The class to which the device is assigned determines, among other things, the type of premarketing submission/application required for FDA clearance to market. If the device is classified as Class I or II, and if it is not exempt, a 510(k) premarket notification will be required for marketing Under FDA regulations, Class I devices are subject to general controls (for example, labeling, premarket notification and adherence to Quality System Regulations (“QSRs”) requirements). Class II devices receive marketing clearance through a 510(k) premarket notification. For Class III devices, a premarket approval (PMA) application will be required unless your device is a pre-amendments device (on the market prior to the passage of the medical device amendments in 1976, or substantially equivalent to such a device) and PMAs have not been called for. In that case, a 510(k) will be the route to market. A 510(k) clearance will be granted if the submitted information establishes that the proposed device is “substantially equivalent” to a legally marketed Class I or II medical device, or to a Class III medical device for which the FDA has not called for a PMA. The FDA may determine that a proposed device is not substantially equivalent to a legally marketed device, or that additional information or data are needed before a substantial equivalence determination can be made. A request for additional data may require that clinical studies of the device’s safety and efficacy be performed.

Commercial distribution of a device for which a 510(k) notification is required can begin only after the FDA issues an order finding the device to be “substantially equivalent” to a previously cleared device. The FDA has recently been requiring a more rigorous demonstration of substantial equivalence than in the past. Even in cases where the FDA grants a 510(k) clearance, it can take the FDA from three to six months from the date of submission to grant a 510(k) clearance, but it may take longer.

 

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A “not substantially equivalent” determination, or a request for additional information, could delay the market introduction of new products that fall into this category and could have a materially adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. For any of our products that are cleared through the 510(k) process, such as our IQ 810 system, modifications or enhancements that could significantly affect the safety or efficacy of the device or that constitute a major change to the intended use of the device will require new 510(k) submissions.

We have obtained 510(k) clearance for all of our marketed products. We have also modified aspects of our products since receiving regulatory clearance, but we believe that new 510(k) clearances are not required for these modifications. After a device receives 510(k) clearance or a PMA, any modification that could significantly affect its safety or effectiveness, or that would constitute a major change in its intended use, will require a new clearance or approval. The FDA requires each manufacturer to make this determination initially, but the FDA can review any such decision and can disagree with a manufacturer’s determination. If the FDA disagrees with our determination not to seek a new 510(k) clearance or PMA, the FDA may retroactively require us to seek 510(k) clearance or premarket approval. The FDA could also require us to cease marketing and distribution and/or recall the modified device until 510(k) clearance or PMA approval is obtained. Also, in these circumstances, we may be subject to significant regulating fines or penalties.

Any products manufactured or distributed by us pursuant to FDA clearances or approvals are subject to pervasive and continuing regulation by the FDA, including record keeping requirements and reporting of adverse experiences with the use of the device. Device manufacturers are required to register their establishments and list their devices with the FDA and certain state agencies, and are subject to periodic inspections by the FDA and certain state agencies. The FDA Act requires devices to be manufactured to comply with applicable QSR regulations which impose certain procedural and documentation requirements upon us with respect to design, development, manufacturing and quality assurance activities. We are subject to unannounced inspections by the FDA and the Food and Drug Branch of the California Department of Health Services, or CDHS, to determine our compliance with the QSR and other regulations, and these inspections may include the manufacturing facilities of our subcontractors.

Labeling and promotion activities are subject to scrutiny by the FDA and in certain instances, by the Federal Trade Commission. The FDA actively enforces regulations prohibiting marketing of products for unapproved uses. We and our products are also subject to a variety of state laws and regulations in those states or localities where our products are or will be marketed. Any applicable state or local regulations may hinder our ability to market our products in those states or localities. Manufacturers are also subject to numerous federal, state and local laws relating to such matters as safe working conditions, manufacturing practices, environmental protection, fire hazard control and disposal of hazardous or potentially hazardous substances. We may be required to incur significant costs to comply with such laws and regulations now or in the future. Such laws or regulations may have a material adverse effect upon our ability to do business.

Exports of our products are regulated by the FDA and are covered by the Export Amendment of 1996, which greatly expanded the export of approved and unapproved United States medical devices. However, some foreign countries require manufacturers to provide an FDA certificate for products for export (CPE) which requires the device manufacturer to certify to the FDA that the product has been granted premarket clearance in the United States and that the manufacturing facilities appeared to be in compliance with QSR at the time of the last QSR inspection. The FDA will refuse to issue a CPE if significant outstanding QSR violations exist.

We are also regulated under the Radiation Control for Health and Safety Act, which requires laser products to comply with performance standards, including design and operation requirements, and manufacturers to certify in product labeling and in reports to the FDA that their products comply with all such standards. The law also requires laser manufacturers to file new product and annual reports, maintain manufacturing, testing and sales records and report product defects. Various warning labels must be affixed and certain protective devices installed, depending on the class of the product.

 

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The introduction of our products in foreign markets will also subject us to foreign regulatory clearances which may impose substantial additional costs and burdens. International sales of medical devices are subject to the regulatory requirements of each country. The regulatory review process varies from country to country. Many countries also impose product standards, packaging requirements, labeling requirements and import restrictions on devices. In addition, each country has its own tariff regulations, duties and tax requirements. The approval by the FDA and foreign government authorities is unpredictable and uncertain. The necessary approvals or clearances may not be granted on a timely basis, if at all. Delays in receipt of, or a failure to receive, such approvals or clearances, or the loss of any previously received approvals or clearances, could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Changes in existing requirements or adoption of new requirements or policies by the FDA or other foreign and domestic regulatory authorities could adversely affect our ability to comply with regulatory requirements. Failure to comply with regulatory requirements could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. We may be required to incur significant costs to comply with laws and regulations in the future. These laws or regulations may have a material adverse effect upon our business, financial condition or results of operations.

Reimbursement

The cost of a significant portion of medical care in the United States is funded by government programs, health maintenance organizations and private insurance plans. Our ophthalmology products are typically purchased by doctors, clinics, hospitals and other users, which bill various third-party payers, such as government programs and private insurance plans, for the health care services provided to their patients. Government imposed limits on reimbursement of hospitals and other health care providers have significantly impacted the spending budgets of doctors, clinics and hospitals to acquire new equipment, including our products. Under certain government insurance programs, a health care provider is reimbursed for a fixed sum for services rendered in treating a patient, regardless of the actual charge for such treatment. The Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) reimburses hospitals on a prospectively-determined fixed amount for the costs associated with an in-patient hospitalization based on the patient’s discharge diagnosis. CMS reimburses physicians a prospectively-determined fixed amount based on the procedure performed, regardless of the actual costs incurred by the hospital or physician in furnishing the care and regardless of the specific devices used in that procedure. Reimbursement issues have affected sales of our ophthalmic products to a greater extent than sales of our aesthetics products because aesthetics procedures, in general, are not covered under most insurance programs and the cost of these procedures are paid for by the patient.

Private third-party reimbursement plans are also developing increasingly sophisticated methods of controlling health-care costs by imposing limitations on reimbursable procedures and the exploration of more cost-effective methods of delivering health care. In general, these government and private measures have caused health care providers, including our customers, to be more selective in the purchase of medical products. In addition, changes in government regulation or in private third-party payers’ policies may limit or eliminate reimbursement for procedures employing our products, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition. See Item 1A Risk Factors—Factors That May Affect Future Results—“Our Operating Results May be Adversely Affected by Changes in Third Party Coverage and Reimbursement Policies and any Uncertainty Regarding Healthcare Reform Measures.”

Doctors, clinics, hospitals and other users of our products may not obtain adequate reimbursement for use of our products from third-party payers. While we believe that the laser procedures using our products have generally been reimbursed, payers may deny coverage and reimbursement for our products if they determine that the device was not reasonable and necessary for the purpose used, was investigational or was not cost-effective.

 

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Backlog

We generally do not maintain a high level of backlog. As a result, we do not believe that our backlog at any particular time is indicative of future sales levels.

Employees

At January 3, 2009 we had a total of 149 full-time employees (143 in the U.S. and 6 in France), including 82 in operations and service, 35 in sales and marketing, 16 in research and development and 16 in finance and administration. We also employ, from time to time, a number of temporary and part-time employees as well as consultants on a contract basis. At January 3, 2009, we employed 15 such persons. Our future success will depend in part on our ability to attract, train, retain and motivate highly qualified employees, who are in great demand. We may not be successful in attracting and retaining such personnel. Our employees are not represented by a collective bargaining organization, and we have never experienced a work stoppage or strike. We consider our employee relations to be good.

Available Information

Our annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K and amendments to reports pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, are available, free of charge, on our website at www.IRIDEX.com, as soon as reasonably practicable after such reports are electronically filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, however, the information on, or that can be accessed through, our website is not part of this report. Additionally, these filings may be obtained by visiting the Public Reference Room of the SEC at 100 F Street, NE, Washington, DC 20549 or by calling the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330, by sending an electronic message to the SEC at publicinfo@sec.gov or by sending a fax to the SEC at 1-202-777-1027. In addition, the SEC maintains a website (www.sec.gov) that contains reports, proxy and information statements, and other information regarding issuers that file electronically.

 

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Item 1A. Risk Factors

Factors That May Affect Future Results

In addition to the other information contained in this Annual Report Form 10-K, we have identified the following risks and uncertainties that may have a material adverse effect on our business, common stock price, financial condition or results of operation. You should carefully consider the risks described below before making an investment decision.

We Are Exposed to Risks Associated With Worldwide Economic Slowdowns and Related Uncertainties.

We are subject to macro-economic fluctuations in the U.S. economy. Concerns about consumer and investor confidence, volatile corporate profits and reduced capital spending, international conflicts, terrorist and military activity, civil unrest and pandemic illness could cause a slowdown in customer orders or cause customer order cancellations. In addition, political and social turmoil related to international conflicts and terrorist acts may put further pressure on economic conditions in the United States and abroad.

Recent macro-economic issues involving the broader financial markets, including the housing and credit system and general liquidity issues in the securities markets, have negatively impacted the economy and may negatively affect our growth. In addition, weak economic conditions and declines in consumer spending and consumption may harm our operating results. Purchases of our products are often discretionary. If the economic climate deteriorates further, customers or potential customers could delay, reduce or forego their purchases of our products and services, which could impact our business in a number of ways, including lower prices for our products and services and reduced or delayed sales. There could be a number of follow-on effects from the current financial crisis on our business, including insolvency of key suppliers resulting in product delays; delays in customer payments of outstanding accounts receivable and/or customer insolvencies; counterparty failures negatively impacting our operations; and increased expense or inability to obtain future financing.

If the negative macro-economic conditions persist, or if the economy enters a prolonged period of decelerating growth, our results of operations may be harmed.

We Rely on Continued Market Acceptance of Our Existing Products and Any Decline in Sales of Our Existing Products Would Adversely Affect Our Business and Results of Operations.

We currently market visible and infrared medical laser systems and delivery devices to the ophthalmology and aesthetics markets. We believe that continued and increased sales, if any, of these medical laser systems is dependent upon a number of factors including the following:

 

   

acceptance of product performance, features, ease of use, scalability and durability;

 

   

recommendations and opinions by ophthalmologists, dermatologists, plastic surgeons, other clinicians, and their associated opinion leaders;

 

   

clinical study outcomes;

 

   

price of our products and prices of competing products and technologies particularly in light of the current macro-economic environment, in which the availability of credit is limited and purchasers may delay capital investments or place additional emphasis on price when making their purchase decision;

 

   

availability of competing products, technologies and alternative treatments; and

 

   

level of reimbursement for treatments administered with our products.

In addition, we derive a meaningful portion of our sales from recurring revenues including consumable EndoProbe devices and service. Our ability to increase recurring revenues from the sale of consumable EndoProbe devices will depend primarily upon the features of our current products and product innovation, ease

 

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of use and prices of our products, including the relationship to prices of competing delivery devices. The level of our service revenues will depend on the quality of service we provide and the responsiveness and the willingness of our customers to request our services rather than purchase competing products or services. Any significant decline in market acceptance of our products or our revenues derived from the sales of laser consoles, delivery devices or services may have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.

If There is Not Sufficient Demand for the Aesthetics Procedures Performed with Our Products, Practitioner Demand for Our Products Could be Inhibited, Resulting in Unfavorable Operating Results and Reduced Growth Potential.

The global aesthetics market has seen a sharp contraction in 2008 and we have seen reduced demand for our products because most procedures performed using our aesthetics products are elective procedures not reimbursable through government or private health insurance, with the costs borne by the patient. The decision to purchase our aesthetics products may therefore be influenced by a number of factors, including:

 

   

consumer confidence, which may be impacted by economic and political conditions;

 

   

the success of our sales and marketing efforts;

 

   

evolving customer needs;

 

   

the introduction of new products and technologies;

 

   

evolving surgical practices;

 

   

evolving industry standards;

 

   

the cost of procedures performed using our products; and

 

   

the cost, safety and effectiveness of alternative treatments, including treatments which are not based upon laser- or other light-based technologies and treatments which use pharmaceutical products.

If, as a result of these factors, there is not sufficient demand for the procedures performed with our aesthetics products, practitioner demand for our aesthetics products could be reduced, resulting in unfavorable operating results and lower growth potential.

We Have More Indebtedness and Fewer Liquid Resources After the Acquisition of the Aesthetics Business of AMS and Laserscope, Which Adversely Affects Our Cash Flows and Business.

In order to complete the Laserscope acquisition, we entered into financing arrangements and used the majority of our liquid resources. Prior to the acquisition, we had no debt outstanding but now we have $6 million outstanding against our current line of credit. The increased levels of debt and obligations do among other things:

 

   

make it more difficult for us to meet our payments and other obligations to other third parties;

 

   

increase our vulnerability to, and limit our flexibility in planning for, adverse economic and industry conditions;

 

   

increase our sensitivity to interest rate increases on our indebtedness with variable interest rates;

 

   

result in an event of default if we fail to comply with the financial and other restrictive covenants contained in our debt agreements, which event of default could result in all of our debt becoming immediately due and payable;

 

   

affect our credit rating;

 

   

limit our ability to obtain additional financing to fund future working capital, capital expenditures, additional acquisitions and other general corporate requirements;

 

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create competitive disadvantages compared to other companies with less indebtedness; and

 

   

limit our ability to apply proceeds from an offering or asset sale to purposes other than the repayment of debt.

We Believe There May be a Risk as to Whether Our Current Liquidity and Capital Resources Will be Sufficient to Meet Our Planned Operating Requirements for the Next 12 Months.

The Company’s credit facility with Wells Fargo Bank is an asset-based revolving line of credit. The amount of money the Company may borrow at any particular time is determined by the amount of eligible accounts receivables and inventory the Company has on hand at that particular time (the Borrowing Base). If at any time the amount outstanding under the credit line exceeds the Borrowing Base the Company will be required to pay the difference between the outstanding amount and the Borrowing Base immediately. With the current crisis in the global economy it is possible that customers will take longer to pay and or default on their payments. Under such circumstances the Borrowing Base may be reduced significantly, which will reduce the Company’s ability to borrow and will have a direct negative impact on the Company’s cash position.

Management is of the opinion that the Company’s current cash and cash equivalents together with its credit facility provides sufficient liquidity to operate for the next 12 months, that the covenants contained in the Company’s credit facility with Wells Fargo Bank are reasonable and management expects to be able to meet these covenants. However if the Company is not able to perform as projected in its operating plan and becomes out of compliance with its debt covenants, Wells Fargo Bank would be entitled to exercise its remedies under the credit facility which include declaring all outstanding obligations thereunder due. For example, in August 2008 the Company was not in compliance with the debt service covenant contained in the credit facility with Wells Fargo Bank; however, the Company has obtained a waiver from the bank and was in compliance with the covenants in September 2008 and at January 3, 2009.

We Depend on International Sales for a Significant Portion of Our Operating Results.

We derive, and expect to continue to derive, a large portion of our revenues from international sales. For the fiscal year ended January 3, 2009, our international sales were $21.6 million or 44.4% of total sales. We anticipate that international sales will continue to account for a significant portion of our revenues, particularly ophthalmology, in the foreseeable future. None of our international revenues and costs has been denominated in foreign currencies, other than sales made by our French subsidiary. As a result, an increase in the value of the U.S. dollar relative to foreign currencies makes our products more expensive and thus less competitive in foreign markets. The factors stated above could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations. Our international operations and sales are subject to a number of other risks and potential costs, including:

 

   

impact of recessions in global economies and availability of credit;

 

   

fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates;

 

   

performance of our international channel of distributors;

 

   

longer accounts receivable collection periods;

 

   

differing local product preferences and product requirements;

 

   

cultural differences;

 

   

changes in foreign medical reimbursement and coverage policies and programs;

 

   

political and economic instability;

 

   

difficulty in staffing and managing foreign operations;

 

   

foreign certification requirements, including continued ability to use the “CE” mark in Europe;

 

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reduced or limited protections of intellectual property rights in jurisdictions outside the United States;

 

   

potentially adverse tax consequences; and

 

   

multiple protectionist, adverse and changing foreign governmental laws and regulations.

Any one or more of these factors stated above could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations.

As we expand our existing international operations we may encounter new risks. For example, as we focus on building our international sales and distribution networks in new geographic regions, we must continue to develop relationships with qualified local distributors and trading companies. If we are not successful in developing these relationships, we may not be able to grow sales in these geographic regions. These or other similar risks could adversely affect our revenues and profitability.

We Face Strong Competition in Our Markets and Expect the Level of Competition to Grow in the Foreseeable Future.

Competition in the market for devices used for ophthalmic and aesthetics treatment procedures is intense and is expected to increase. Our competitive position depends on a number of factors including product performance, characteristics and functionality, ease of use, scalability, durability and cost. Our principal competitors in ophthalmology are Alcon Inc., Carl Zeiss Meditec AG, Nidek Co. Ltd, Synergetics, Ellex Medical Lasers, Ltd. and Lumenis Ltd. Most of these companies currently offer a competitive, semiconductor-based laser system for ophthalmology. Also within ophthalmology, pharmaceutical alternative treatments for AMD such as Lucentis/Avastin (Genentech), and to a lesser extent Visudyne (Novartis) and Macugen (OSI Pharmaceuticals) compete rigorously with traditional laser procedures.

In aesthetics our principal competitors are Cutera, Candela Corporation, Palomar Technologies, Inc., Sciton, Lumenis Ltd. and Cynosure. These competitors have more sales representatives supporting broader product lines. Some competitors have substantially greater financial, engineering, product development, manufacturing, marketing and technical resources than we do.

In both markets, some companies also have greater name recognition than we do and long-standing customer relationships. In addition to other companies that manufacture photocoagulators, we compete with pharmaceuticals, other technologies and other surgical techniques. Some medical companies, academic and research institutions, or others, may develop new technologies or therapies that are more effective in treating conditions targeted by us or are less expensive than our current or future products. Any such developments could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Our Future Success Depends on Our Ability to Develop and Successfully Introduce New Products and New Applications.

Our future success is dependent upon, among other factors, our ability to develop, obtain regulatory approval or clearance of, manufacture and market new products. Successful commercialization of new products and new applications will require that we effectively transfer production processes from research and development to manufacturing and effectively coordinate with our suppliers. In addition, we must successfully sell and achieve market acceptance of new products and applications and enhanced versions of existing products. The extent of, and rate at which, market acceptance and penetration are achieved by future products is a function of many variables, which include, among other things, price, safety, efficacy, reliability, marketing and sales efforts, the development of new applications for these products, the availability of third-party reimbursement of procedures using our new products, the existence of competing products and general economic conditions affecting purchasing patterns. Our ability to market and sell new products may also be subject to government regulation, including approval or clearance by the United States Food and Drug Administration, or FDA, and foreign government agencies. Any failure in our ability to successfully develop and introduce new products or

 

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enhanced versions of existing products and achieve market acceptance of new products and new applications could have a material adverse effect on our operating results and would cause our net revenues to decline.

While We Devote Significant Resources to Research and Development, Our Research and Development May Not Lead to New Products that Achieve Commercial Success.

The Company’s ability to generate incremental revenue growth will depend, in part, on the successful outcome of research and development activities, including clinical trials that lead to the development of new products and new applications using our products. Our research and development process is expensive, prolonged, and entails considerable uncertainty. Because of the complexities and uncertainties associated with ophthalmic and aesthetics research and development, products we are currently developing may not complete the development process or obtain the regulatory approvals required to market such products successfully. The products currently in our development pipeline may not be approved by regulatory entities and may not be commercially successful, and our current and planned products could be surpassed by more effective or advanced products of current or future competitors. Therefore, even if we are able to successfully develop enhancements or new generations of our products, these enhancements or new generations of products may not produce revenue in excess of the costs of development and they may be quickly rendered obsolete by changing customer preferences or the introduction by our competitors of products embodying new technologies or features.

The Clinical Trial Process Required to Obtain Regulatory Approvals is Costly and Uncertain, and Could Result in Delays in New Product Introductions or Even an Inability to Release a Product.

The clinical trials required to obtain regulatory approvals for our products are complex and expensive and their outcomes are uncertain. We incur substantial expense for, and devote significant time to, clinical trials but cannot be certain that the trials will ever result in the commercial sale of a product. We may suffer significant setbacks in clinical trials, even after earlier clinical trials showed promising results. Any of our products may produce undesirable side effects that could cause us or regulatory authorities to interrupt, delay or halt clinical trials of a product candidate. We, the FDA, or another regulatory authority may suspend or terminate clinical trials at any time if they or we believe the trial participants face unacceptable health risks.

If We Cannot Increase Our Sales Volumes, Reduce Our Costs or Introduce Higher Margin Products to Offset Anticipated Reductions in the Average Unit Price of Our Products, Our Operating Results May Suffer.

The average unit price of our products may decrease in the future in response to changes in product mix, competitive pricing pressures, new product introductions by our competitors or other factors. If we are unable to offset the anticipated decrease in our average selling prices by increasing our sales volumes or through new product introductions, our net revenues will decline. In addition, to maintain our gross margins we must continue to reduce the manufacturing cost of our products. If we cannot maintain our gross margins our business could be seriously harmed, particularly if the average selling price of our products decreases significantly without a corresponding increase in sales.

We Rely on Patents and Proprietary Rights to Protect our Intellectual Property and Business.

Our success and ability to compete is dependent in part upon our proprietary information. We rely on a combination of patents, trade secrets, copyright and trademark laws, nondisclosure and other contractual agreements and technical measures to protect our intellectual property rights. We file patent applications to protect technology, inventions and improvements that are significant to the development of our business. We have been issued sixteen United States patents and five foreign patents on the technologies related to our products and processes. We have approximately six pending patent applications in the United States and six foreign pending patent applications that have been filed. Our patent applications may not be approved. Along with the acquisition of the AMS/Laserscope aesthetic products, we acquired a royalty-free license to eleven of the AMS/Laserscope patents. In addition, we acquired a license to a Palomar patent under which royalties are

 

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paid to Palomar based upon a percentage of sales of certain products acquired from AMS/Laserscope. Any patents granted now or in the future may offer only limited protection against potential infringement and development by our competitors of competing products. Moreover, our competitors, many of which have substantial resources and have made substantial investments in competing technologies, may seek to apply for and obtain patents that will prevent, limit or interfere with our ability to make, use or sell our products either in the United States or in international markets.

Patents have a limited lifetime and once a patent expires competition may increase. For example our “Connector Patent” used to connect our delivery devices (consumable & durable) to our laser consoles will expire in 2009. Delivery devices which do not utilize our Connector Patent technology are not recognized by our laser consoles. We derive, and expect to continue to derive, a large portion of our recurring revenue and profits from sales of our consumable EndoProbe devices. Expiration of this patent may increase competition from our competitors for our consumable EndoProbe device business and there can be no guarantees that we will maintain our market share of this business.

In addition to patents, we rely on trade secrets and proprietary know-how which we seek to protect, in part, through proprietary information agreements with employees, consultants and other parties. Our proprietary information agreements with our employees and consultants contain industry standard provisions requiring such individuals to assign to us without additional consideration any inventions conceived or reduced to practice by them while employed or retained by us, subject to customary exceptions. Proprietary information agreements with employees, consultants and others may be breached, and we may not have adequate remedies for any breach. Also, our trade secrets may become known to or independently developed by competitors.

The laser and medical device industry is characterized by frequent litigation regarding patent and other intellectual property rights. Companies in the medical device industry have employed intellectual property litigation to gain a competitive advantage. Numerous patents are held by others, including academic institutions and our competitors. Until recently patent applications were maintained in secrecy in the United States until the patents issued. Patent applications filed in the United States after November 2000 generally will be published eighteen months after the filing date. However, since patent applications continue to be maintained in secrecy for at least some period of time, both within the United States and with regards to international patent applications, we cannot assure you that our technology does not infringe any patents or patent applications held by third parties. We have, from time to time, been notified of, or have otherwise been made aware of, claims that we may be infringing upon patents or other proprietary intellectual property owned by others. If it appears necessary or desirable, we may seek licenses under such patents or proprietary intellectual property. Although patent holders commonly offer such licenses, licenses under such patents or intellectual property may not be offered or the terms of any offered licenses may not be reasonable.

Any claims, with or without merit, and regardless of whether we are successful on the merits, would be time-consuming, result in costly litigation and diversion of technical and management personnel, cause shipment delays or require us to develop non-infringing technology or to enter into royalty or licensing agreements. For example, during fiscal year 2007, the Company settled patent litigations with Synergetics, Inc., which was time-consuming, costly and a diversion of technical and management personnel. An adverse determination in a judicial or administrative proceeding and failure to obtain necessary licenses or develop alternate technologies could prevent us from manufacturing and selling our products, which would have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.

We Rely on Our Direct Sales Force and Network of International Distributors to Sell Our Products and any Failure to Maintain Our Direct Sales Force and Distributor Relationships Could Harm Our Business.

Our ability to sell our products and generate revenues depends upon our direct sales force within the United States and relationships with independent distributors outside the United States. Currently our direct sales force consists of 16 employees and we maintain relationships with approximately 100 independent distributors

 

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internationally selling our products into 107 countries. We generally grant our distributors exclusive territories for the sale of our products in specified countries. The amount and timing of resources dedicated by our distributors to the sales of our products is not within our control. Our international sales are entirely dependent on the efforts of these third parties. If any distributor breaches terms of its distribution agreement or fails to generate sales of our products, we may be forced to replace the distributor and our ability to sell our products into that exclusive sales territory would be adversely affected.

We do not have any long-term employment contracts with the members of our direct sales force. We may be unable to replace our direct sales force personnel with individuals of equivalent technical expertise and qualifications, which may limit our revenues and our ability to maintain market share. The loss of the services of these key personnel would harm our business. Similarly, our distributor agreements are generally terminable at will by either party and distributors may terminate their relationships with us, which would affect our international sales and results of operations.

We have Remediated the Material Weakness in Our Internal Controls and Procedures but still have Significant Deficiencies which could Harm Our Operating Results or Cause Us to Fail to Meet Our Regulatory or Reporting Obligations

We evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of the period covered by this report. Based on this evaluation, management concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective at the reasonable assurance level and that the material weakness in our internal control over financial reporting related to our financial reporting process identified in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 29, 2007 has been remediated. See Item 9A of Part II of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

During the evaluation we did note several significant deficiencies, which related to our need to: establish additional controls over our accounting close process; improve our controls over demo and loaner inventory; and institute more stringent data backup and recovery procedures. A significant deficiency is a deficiency or a combination of deficiencies in internal control over financial reporting that is less severe than a material weakness yet important enough to merit attention by those responsible for oversight of the company’s financial reporting.

We are taking steps designed to remedy the significant deficiencies noted above. However, if despite our remediation efforts, we fail to remediate the significant deficiencies, we could be subject to regulatory scrutiny and a loss of public confidence in our disclosure controls and procedures. It is also possible that failure to remediate the significant deficiencies discussed above or other matters may result in the Company concluding in future periods that there is a material weakness in our disclosure controls and procedures.

Even if we are to successfully remediate such significant deficiencies, because of inherent limitations, our disclosure controls and procedures may not prevent or detect misstatements or material omissions. Projections or any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

If We Lose Key Personnel or Fail to Integrate Replacement Personnel Successfully, Our Ability to Manage Our Business Could Be Impaired.

Our future success depends upon the continued service of our key management, technical, sales, and other critical personnel. Our officers and other key personnel are employees-at-will, and we cannot assure you that we will be able to retain them. Key personnel have left our Company in the past and there likely will be additional departures of key personnel from time to time in the future. On October 16, 2007, Barry G. Caldwell resigned as the Company’s President and Chief Executive Officer and as a member of the Company’s Board of Directors, effective as of that date. Upon Mr. Caldwell’s resignation, Theodore A. Boutacoff, the Company’s current Chairman of the Board, returned to serve as President and Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Boutacoff was the Company’s President and Director from 1989 until 2005. On July 20, 2007, Meryl A. Rains resigned as the

 

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Company’s Chief Financial Officer. An interim Chief Financial Officer was hired for the interim period until James H. Mackaness was hired as full time Chief Financial Officer on January 2, 2008. Key personnel, including certain members of our aesthetics sales force who joined the Company in connection with the acquisition of the aesthetics business of Laserscope, have left the Company in the past and there likely will be additional departures of key personnel from time to time in the future. The loss of any key employee could result in significant disruptions to our operations, including adversely affecting the timeliness of product releases, the successful implementation and completion of Company initiatives, and the results of our operations. Competition for these individuals is intense, and we may not be able to attract, assimilate or retain highly qualified personnel. Competition for qualified personnel in our industry and the San Francisco Bay Area, as well as other geographic markets in which we recruit, is intense and characterized by increasing salaries, which may increase our operating expenses or hinder our ability to recruit qualified candidates. In addition, the integration of replacement personnel could be time consuming, may cause additional disruptions to our operations, and may be unsuccessful.

If We Fail to Accurately Forecast Demand For Our Product and Component Requirements For the Manufacture of Our Product, We Could Incur Additional Costs or Experience Manufacturing Delays and May Experience Lost Sales or Significant Inventory Carrying Costs.

We use quarterly and annual forecasts based primarily on our anticipated product orders to plan our manufacturing efforts and determine our requirements for components and materials. It is very important that we accurately predict both the demand for our product and the lead times required to obtain the necessary components and materials. Lead times for components vary significantly and depend on numerous factors, including the specific supplier, the size of the order, contract terms and current market demand for such components. If we overestimate the demand for our product, we may have excess inventory, which would increase our costs. If we underestimate demand for our product and consequently, our component and materials requirements, we may have inadequate inventory, which could interrupt our manufacturing, delay delivery of our product to our customers and result in the loss of customer sales. Any of these occurrences would negatively impact our business and operating results.

We Depend on Sole Source or Limited Source Suppliers.

We rely on third parties to manufacture substantially all of the components used in our products, including optics, laser diodes and crystals. We have some long term or volume purchase agreements with our suppliers and currently purchase components on a purchase order basis. Some of our suppliers and manufacturers are sole or limited sources. In addition, some of these suppliers are relatively small private companies that may discontinue their operations at any time. For example, Synergetics Inc. currently is the sole source supplier of the Company’s line of adjustable laser probes under a non-exclusive agreement. There are risks associated with the use of independent manufacturers, including the following:

 

   

unavailability of, shortages or limitations on the ability to obtain supplies of components in the quantities that we require;

 

   

delays in delivery or failure of suppliers to deliver critical components on the dates we require;

 

   

failure of suppliers to manufacture components to our specifications, and potentially reduced quality; and

 

   

inability to obtain components at acceptable prices.

Our business and operating results may suffer from the lack of alternative sources of supply for critical sole and limited source components. The process of qualifying suppliers is complex, requires extensive testing with our products, and may be lengthy, particularly as new products are introduced. New suppliers would have to be educated in our production processes. In addition, the use of alternate components may require design alterations to our products and additional product testing under FDA and relevant foreign regulatory agency guidelines, which may delay sales and increase product costs. Any failures by our vendors to adequately supply limited and

 

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sole source components may impair our ability to offer our existing products, delay the submission of new products for regulatory approval and market introduction, materially harm our business and financial condition and cause our stock price to decline. Establishing our own capabilities to manufacture these components would be expensive and could significantly decrease our profit margins. Our business, results of operations and financial condition would be adversely affected if we are unable to continue to obtain components in the quantity and quality desired and at the prices we have budgeted.

We Face Risks Associated with Our Collaborative and OEM Relationships.

Our collaborators may not pursue further development and commercialization of products resulting from collaborations with us or may not devote sufficient resources to the marketing and sale of such products. We cannot provide assurance that these types of relationships will continue over a longer period. Our reliance on others for clinical development, manufacturing and distribution of our products may result in unforeseen problems. Further, our collaborative partners may develop or pursue alternative technologies either on their own or in collaboration with others. If a collaborator elects to terminate its agreement with us, our ability to develop, introduce, market and sell the product may be significantly impaired and we may be forced to discontinue altogether the product resulting from the collaboration. We may not be able to negotiate alternative collaboration agreements on acceptable terms, if at all. The failure of any current or future collaboration efforts could have a material adverse effect on our ability to introduce new products or applications and therefore could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.

We Depend on Collaborative Relationships to Develop, Introduce and Market New Products, Product Enhancements and New Applications.

We depend on both clinical and commercial collaborative relationships. We entered into a Product Supply Agreement with AMS in connection with the acquisition of the aesthetics business of Laserscope, pursuant to which AMS manufactured several of our aesthetics products. With the exception of some service parts, we transitioned the manufacturing for the majority of these products to our facilities during the fourth quarter of 2007. We are party to a Manufacture and Supply Agreement with Synergetics, Inc. pursuant to which Synergetics manufactures the Company’s line of adjustable laser probes on a non-exclusive basis. We have entered into collaborative relationships with academic medical centers and physicians in connection with the research and innovation and clinical testing of our products. Commercially, we currently collaborate with Bausch & Lomb to design and manufacture a solid-state green wavelength (532nm) laser photocoagulator module for Bausch & Lomb, called the Millennium Endolase module. The Millennium Endolase module is designed to be a component of Bausch & Lomb’s ophthalmic surgical suite product offering and is not expected to be sold as a stand-alone product. Sales of the Millennium Endolase module are dependent upon the actual order rate from and shipment rate to Bausch & Lomb, which depends on the efforts of our partner and is beyond our control. We cannot assure you that our relationship with Bausch & Lomb will result in further sales of our Millennium Endolase module. The failure to obtain any additional future clinical or commercial collaborations and the resulting failure or success of such arrangements of any current or future clinical or commercial collaboration relationships could have a material adverse effect on our ability to introduce new products or applications and therefore could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.

If We Fail to Maintain Our Relationships With Health Care Providers, Customers May Not Buy Our Products and Our Revenue and Profitability May Decline.

We market our products to numerous health care providers, including physicians, hospitals, ambulatory surgical centers, government affiliated groups and group purchasing organizations. We have developed and strive to maintain close relationships with members of each of these groups who assist in product research and development and advise us on how to satisfy the full range of surgeon and patient needs. We rely on these groups to recommend our products to their patients and to other members of their organizations. The failure of our existing products and any new products we may introduce to retain the support of these various groups could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

 

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We Face Manufacturing Risks.

The manufacture of our infrared and visible laser consoles and the related delivery devices is a highly complex and precise process. We assemble critical subassemblies and substantially all of our final products at our facility in Mountain View, California. We may experience manufacturing difficulties, quality control issues or assembly constraints, particularly with regard to new products that we may introduce. If our sales increase substantially, including increases in the sales of our aesthetics products, we may need to increase our production capacity and may not be able to do so in a timely, effective, or cost efficient manner. We may not be able to manufacture sufficient quantities of our products, which may require that we qualify other manufacturers for our products. Furthermore, we may experience delays, disruptions, capacity constraints or quality control problems in our manufacturing operations and as a result, product shipments to our customers could be delayed, which would negatively impact our net revenues.

Our Operating Results May Fluctuate from Quarter to Quarter and Year to Year.

Our sales and operating results may vary significantly from quarter to quarter and from year to year in the future. Our operating results are affected by a number of factors, many of which are beyond our control. Factors contributing to these fluctuations include the following:

 

   

general economic uncertainties and political concerns;

 

   

the timing of the introduction and market acceptance of new products, product enhancements and new applications;

 

   

changes in demand for our existing line of ophthalmology and aesthetics products;

 

   

the cost and availability of components and subassemblies, including the willingness and ability of our sole or limited source suppliers to timely deliver components at the times and prices that we have planned;

 

   

our ability to maintain sales volumes at a level sufficient to cover fixed manufacturing and operating costs;

 

   

fluctuations in our product mix between ophthalmology and aesthetics products and foreign and domestic sales;

 

   

our ability to address our liquidity issues should the need occur;

 

   

the effect of regulatory approvals and changes in domestic and foreign regulatory requirements;

 

   

introduction of new products, product enhancements and new applications by our competitors, entry of new competitors into our markets, pricing pressures and other competitive factors;

 

   

our long and highly variable sales cycle;

 

   

changes in the prices at which we can sell our products;

 

   

changes in customers’ or potential customers’ budgets as a result of, among other things, reimbursement policies of government programs and private insurers for treatments that use our products; and

 

   

increased product innovation costs.

In addition to these factors, our quarterly results have been, and are expected to continue to be, affected by seasonal factors.

Our expense levels are based, in part, on expected future sales. If sales levels in a particular quarter do not meet expectations, we may be unable to adjust operating expenses quickly enough to compensate for the shortfall of sales, and our results of operations may be adversely affected. We encountered this adverse effect on our operating results in each of the last eight quarters ended starting with the quarter ended March 31, 2007 through the quarter ended January 3, 2009. In addition, we have historically made a significant portion of each quarter’s

 

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product shipments near the end of the quarter. If that pattern continues, any delays in shipment of products could have a material adverse effect on results of operations for such quarter. Due to these and other factors, we believe that quarter to quarter and year to year comparisons of our past operating results may not be meaningful. You should not rely on our results for any quarter or year as an indication of our future performance. Our operating results in future quarters and years may be below expectations, which would likely cause the price of our common stock to fall.

Our Stock Price Has Been and May Continue to be Volatile and an Investment in Our Common Stock Could Suffer a Decline in Value.

The trading price of our common stock has been subject to wide fluctuations in response to a variety of factors, some of which are beyond our control, including quarterly variations in our operating results, announcements by us or our competitors of new products or of significant clinical achievements, changes in market valuations of other similar companies in our industry and general market conditions. In addition, the trading price of our common stock has been significantly adversely affected by our recent operating performance and by liquidity issues. In the fiscal year ended January 3, 2009, the trading price of our common stock fluctuated from a high of $4.29 per share to a low of $0.82 per share. There can be no assurance our common stock trading price will not suffer additional declines. From time to time, we meet with investors and potential investors. In addition, we receive attention from securities analysts and present at some analyst meetings. Our common stock may experience an imbalance between supply and demand resulting from low trading volumes. These broad market fluctuations could have a significant impact on the market price of our common stock regardless of our performance.

Inability of Obtaining Credit or Material Increases in Interest Rates May Harm Our Sales.

Some of our products are sold to health care providers in general practice. Many of these health care providers purchase our products with funds they secure through various financing arrangements with third party financial institutions, including credit facilities and short-term loans. If availability of credit becomes more limited, or interest rates increase, these financing arrangements will be harder to obtain or more expensive to our customers, which may decrease demand for our products. Any reduction in the sales of our products would cause our business to suffer.

We Are Subject To Government Regulations Which May Cause Us to Delay or Withdraw the Introduction of New Products or New Applications for Our Products.

The medical devices that we market and manufacture are subject to extensive regulation by the FDA and by foreign and state governments. Under the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act and the related regulations, the FDA regulates the design, development, clinical testing, manufacture, labeling, sale, distribution and promotion of medical devices. Before a new device can be introduced into the market, the product must undergo rigorous testing and an extensive regulatory review process implemented by the FDA under federal law. Unless otherwise exempt, a device manufacturer must obtain market clearance through either the 510(k) premarket notification process or the lengthier premarket approval application (PMA) process. Depending upon the type, complexity and novelty of the device and the nature of the disease or disorder to be treated, the FDA process can take several years, require extensive clinical testing and result in significant expenditures. Even if regulatory approval is obtained, later discovery of previously unknown safety issues may result in restrictions on the product, including withdrawal of the product from the market. Other countries also have extensive regulations regarding clinical trials and testing prior to new product introductions. Our failure to obtain government approvals or any delays in receipt of such approvals would have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.

The FDA imposes additional regulations on manufacturers of approved medical devices. We are required to comply with the applicable Quality System regulations and our manufacturing facilities are subject to ongoing periodic inspections by the FDA and corresponding state agencies, including unannounced inspections, and must be licensed as part of the product approval process before being utilized for commercial manufacturing.

 

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Noncompliance with the applicable requirements can result in, among other things, fines, injunctions, civil penalties, recall or seizure of products, total or partial suspension of production, withdrawal of marketing approvals, and criminal prosecution. The FDA also has the authority to request repair, replacement or refund of the cost of any device we manufacture or distribute. Any of these actions by the FDA would materially and adversely affect our ability to continue operating our business and the results of our operations.

In addition, we are also subject to varying product standards, packaging requirements, labeling requirements, tariff regulations, duties and tax requirements. As a result of our sales in Europe, we are required to have all products “CE” marked, an international symbol affixed to all products demonstrating compliance with the European Medical Device Directive and all applicable standards. While currently all of our released products are CE marked, continued certification is based on the successful review of our quality system by our European Registrar during their annual audit. Any loss of certification would have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.

If We Fail to Comply With the FDA’s Quality System Regulation and Laser Performance Standards Our Manufacturing Operations Could Be Halted, and Our Business Would Suffer.

We are currently required to demonstrate and maintain compliance with the FDA’s Quality System Regulation, or QSR. The QSR is a complex regulatory scheme that covers the methods and documentation of the design, testing, control, manufacturing, labeling, quality assurance, packaging, storage and shipping of our products. Because our products involve the use of lasers, our products also are covered by a performance standard for lasers set forth in FDA regulations. The laser performance standard imposes specific record-keeping, reporting, product testing and product labeling requirements. These requirements include affixing warning labels to laser products, as well as incorporating certain safety features in the design of laser products. The FDA enforces the QSR and laser performance standards through periodic unannounced inspections. We have been, and anticipate in the future being, subject to such inspections. Our failure to take satisfactory corrective action in response to an adverse QSR inspection or our failure to comply with applicable laser performance standards could result in enforcement actions, including a public warning letter, a shutdown of our manufacturing operations, a recall of our products, civil or criminal penalties, or other sanctions, such as those described in the preceding risk factor above, which would cause our sales and business to suffer.

If We Modify One of Our FDA Approved Devices, We May Need to Seek Reapproval, Which, if Not Granted, Would Prevent Us from Selling Our Modified Products or Cause Us to Redesign Our Products.

Any modifications to an FDA-cleared device that would significantly affect its safety or effectiveness or that would constitute a major change in its intended use would require a new 510(k) clearance or possibly a premarket approval. We may not be able to obtain additional 510(k) clearance or premarket approvals for new products or for modifications to, or additional indications for, our existing products in a timely fashion, or at all. Delays in obtaining future clearance would adversely affect our ability to introduce new or enhanced products in a timely manner, which in turn would harm our revenues and future profitability. We have made modifications to our devices in the past and may make additional modifications in the future that we believe do not or will not require additional clearance or approvals. If the FDA disagrees, and requires new clearances or approvals for the modifications, we may be required to recall and to stop marketing the modified devices, which could harm our operating results and require us to redesign our products.

The Requirements of Complying with the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 Might Strain Our Resources, Which May Adversely Affect Our Business and Financial Condition.

We are subject to a number of requirements, including the reporting requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. We are now required to comply with certain requirements of Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act which require management to perform an assessment of internal control over financial reporting. These requirements might place a strain on our systems and resources. The Sarbanes-Oxley Act requires, among other things, that we maintain effective disclosure

 

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controls and procedures and internal control over financial reporting. In order to maintain and improve the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures and internal control over financial reporting, significant resources and management oversight will be required. As a result, our management’s attention might be diverted from other business concerns, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and operating results. In addition, we might need to hire additional accounting and financial staff with appropriate public company experience and technical accounting knowledge, and we might not be able to do so in a timely fashion.

Because We Do Not Require Training for Users of Our Products, and Sell Our Products to Non-physicians, There Exists an Increased Potential for Misuse of Our Products, Which Could Harm Our Reputation and Our Business.

Federal regulations restrict the sale of our products to or on the order of “licensed practitioners.” The definition of “licensed practitioners” varies from state to state. As a result, our products may be purchased or operated by physicians with varying levels of training, and in many states by non-physicians, including nurse practitioners and technicians. Outside the United States, many jurisdictions do not require specific qualifications or training for purchasers or operators of our products. We do not supervise the procedures performed with our products, nor do we require that direct medical supervision occur. We, and our distributors, generally offer but do not require purchasers or operators of our products to attend training sessions. In addition, we sometimes sell our systems to companies that rent our systems to third parties and that provide a technician to perform the procedure. The lack of training and the purchase and use of our products by non-physicians may result in product misuse and adverse treatment outcomes, which could harm our reputation and expose us to costly product liability litigation.

Some of Our Laser Systems Are Complex in Design and May Contain Defects That Are Not Detected Until Deployed By Our Customers, Which Could Increase Our Costs and Reduce Our Revenues.

Laser systems are inherently complex in design and require ongoing regular maintenance. The manufacture of our lasers, laser products and systems involves a highly complex and precise process. As a result of the technical complexity of our products, changes in our or our suppliers’ manufacturing processes or the inadvertent use of defective materials by us or our suppliers could result in a material adverse effect on our ability to achieve acceptable manufacturing yields and product reliability. To the extent that we do not achieve such yields or product reliability, our business, operating results, financial condition and customer relationships would be adversely affected. We provide warranties on certain of our product sales, and allowances for estimated warranty costs are recorded during the period of sale. The determination of such allowances requires us to make estimates of failure rates and expected costs to repair or replace the products under warranty. We currently establish warranty reserves based on historical warranty costs. If actual return rates and/or repair and replacement costs differ significantly from our estimates, adjustments to recognize additional cost of revenues may be required in future periods.

Our customers may discover defects in our products after the products have been fully deployed and operated under peak stress conditions. In addition, some of our products are combined with products from other vendors, which may contain defects. As a result, should problems occur, it may be difficult to identify the source of the problem. If we are unable to identify and fix defects or other problems, we could experience, among other things:

 

   

loss of customers;

 

   

increased costs of product returns and warranty expenses;

 

   

damage to our brand reputation;

 

   

failure to attract new customers or achieve market acceptance;

 

   

diversion of development and engineering resources; and

 

   

legal actions by our customers.

 

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The occurrence of any one or more of the foregoing factors could seriously harm our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Our Products Could Be Subject to Recalls Even After Receiving FDA Approval or Clearance. A Recall Would Harm Our Reputation and Adversely Affect Our Operating Results.

The FDA and similar governmental authorities in other countries in which we market and sell our products have the authority to require the recall of our products in the event of material deficiencies or defects in design or manufacture. A government mandated recall, or a voluntary recall by us, could occur as a result of component failures, manufacturing errors or design defects, including defects in labeling. A recall could divert management’s attention, cause us to incur significant expenses, harm our reputation with customers and negatively affect our future sales.

If We Fail to Manage Growth Effectively, Our Business Could Be Disrupted Which Could Harm Our Operating Results.

We have experienced and may in the future experience growth in our business, both organically and through the acquisition of businesses and products. We have made and expect to continue to make significant investments to enable our future growth through, among other things, new product innovation and clinical trials for new applications and products. We must also be prepared to expand our work force and to train, motivate and manage additional employees as the need for additional personnel arises. Our personnel, systems, procedures and controls may not be adequate to support our future operations. Any failure to effectively manage future growth could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.

If Product Liability Claims are Successfully Asserted Against Us, We may Incur Substantial Liabilities That May Adversely Affect Our Business or Results of Operations.

We may be subject to product liability claims from time to time. Our products are highly complex and some are used to treat extremely delicate eye tissue and skin conditions on and near a patient’s face. We believe we maintain adequate levels of product liability insurance but product liability insurance is expensive and we might not be able to obtain product liability insurance in the future on acceptable terms or in sufficient amounts to protect us, if at all. A successful claim brought against us in excess of our insurance coverage could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.

Our Operating Results May be Adversely Affected by Changes in Third Party Coverage and Reimbursement Policies and any Uncertainty Regarding Healthcare Reform Measures.

Our ophthalmology products are typically purchased by doctors, clinics, hospitals and other users, which bill various third-party payers, such as governmental programs and private insurance plans, for the health care services provided to their patients. Third-party payers are increasingly scrutinizing and challenging the coverage of new products and the level of reimbursement for covered products. Doctors, clinics, hospitals and other users of our products may not obtain adequate reimbursement for use of our products from third-party payers. While we believe that the laser procedures using our products have generally been reimbursed, payers may deny coverage and reimbursement for our products if they determine that the device was not reasonable and necessary for the purpose used, was investigational or was not cost-effective.

Changes in government legislation or regulation or in private third-party payers’ policies toward reimbursement for procedures employing our products may prohibit adequate reimbursement. There have been a number of legislative and regulatory proposals to change the healthcare system, reduce the costs of healthcare and change medical reimbursement policies. Doctors, clinics, hospitals and other users of our products may decline to purchase our products to the extent there is uncertainty regarding reimbursement of medical procedures using our products and any healthcare reform measures. Further proposed legislation, regulation and policy changes affecting third party reimbursement are likely. We are unable to predict what legislation or

 

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regulation, if any, relating to the health care industry or third-party coverage and reimbursement may be enacted in the future, or what effect such legislation or regulation may have on us. However, denial of coverage and reimbursement of our products would have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.

If Our Facilities Were To Experience Catastrophic Loss, Our Operations Would Be Seriously Harmed.

Our facilities could be subject to catastrophic loss such as fire, flood or earthquake. All of our research and development activities, manufacturing, our corporate headquarters and other critical business operations are located near major earthquake faults in Mountain View, California. Any such loss at any of our facilities could disrupt our operations, delay production, shipments and revenue and result in large expense to repair and replace our facilities.

Our Business is Subject to Environmental Regulations.

Our facilities and operations are subject to federal, state and local environmental and occupational health and safety requirements of the United States and foreign countries, including those relating to discharges of substances to the air, water and land the handling, storage and disposal of hazardous materials and wastes and the cleanup of properties affected by pollutants. Failure to maintain compliance with these regulations could have a material adverse effect on our business or financial condition.

In the future, federal, state or local governments in the United States or foreign countries could enact new or more stringent laws or issue new or more stringent regulations concerning environmental and worker health and safety matters that could affect our operations. Also, in the future, contamination may be found to exist at our current or former facilities or off-site locations where we have sent wastes. We could be held liable for such newly discovered contamination which could have a material adverse effect on our business or financial condition. In addition, changes in environmental and worker health and safety requirements could have a material adverse effect on our business or financial condition.

 

Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments

None.

 

Item 2. Properties

We lease 37,000 square feet of space in Mountain View, California. This facility is being substantially utilized for all of our manufacturing, research and development efforts and also serves as our corporate headquarters. This facility is utilized for both our ophthalmology medical device segment and our dermatology medical device segment. On December 22, 2008, the lease was amended and renewed for an additional six year period beginning March 1, 2009 until February 28, 2015. The Company also leases 2,100 square feet of space in Cwmbran, South Wales and 1,600 square feet in Lisses, France which come up for renewal in April 2010 and September 2009, respectively. These premises are utilized for sales, service and support.

Management believes that our Mountain View facility has capacity adequate for our current needs and that suitable additional space or an alternative space would be available as needed in the future on commercially reasonable terms.

 

Item 3. Legal Proceedings

None.

 

Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders

Not applicable.

 

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PART II

 

Item 5. Market for Registrant’s Common Equity and Related Stockholder Matters, and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

Market Information for Common Equity

Our common stock is currently and has been quoted on the NASDAQ Global Market under the symbol “IRIX” and has been since our initial public offering on February 15, 1996. The following table sets forth for the periods indicated the high and low sales prices for our common stock, as reported on the NASDAQ Global Market.

 

      High    Low

Fiscal 2008

     

Fourth Quarter

   $ 3.58    $ 0.82

Third Quarter

     4.29      1.85

Second Quarter

     2.68      1.49

First Quarter

     4.15      1.60

Fiscal 2007

     

Fourth Quarter

   $ 5.36    $ 2.20

Third Quarter

     5.44      2.32

Second Quarter

     8.90      4.75

First Quarter

     10.70      8.50

On March 26, 2009 the closing price on the NASDAQ Global Market for our common stock was $0.86 per share. As of March 26, 2009, there were approximately 64 holders of record (not in street name) of our common stock. Because many of our shares of common stock are held by brokers and other institutions on behalf of our stockholders, we are unable to estimate the total number of stockholders represented by these record holders.

Dividend Policy

We have never paid cash dividends on our common stock. We currently intend to retain any earnings for use in our business and do not anticipate paying cash dividends in the foreseeable future. In addition, the payment of cash dividends to our stockholders is currently prohibited by our credit facility. See Note 9 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

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Item 6. Selected Financial Data

The data set forth below (in thousands, except per share data) are qualified by reference to, and should be read in conjunction with Item 7, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations,” and our consolidated financial statements, related financial statement notes and other financial information included in Item 8, “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.”

 

     Fiscal
Year
2008
    Fiscal
Year
2007
 

Consolidated Statement of Operations Data:

    

Revenues

   $ 48,528     $ 55,532  

Cost of revenues

     28,849       31,248  
                

Gross profit

     19,679       24,284  
                

Operating expenses:

    

Research and development

     4,009       5,779  

Selling, general and administrative

     17,842       27,930  

Impairment of goodwill and intangibles assets

     5,364       14,690  
                

Total operating expenses

     27,215       48,399  
                

Loss from operations

     (7,536 )     (24,115 )

Legal settlement

     800       2,500  

Interest and other expense income, net

     (507 )     (644 )
                

Loss before income taxes

     (7,243 )     (22,259 )

Provision from income taxes

     (127 )     (13 )
                

Net loss

   $ (7,370 )   $ (22,272 )
                

Share Data (basic and diluted):

    

Basic net loss per common share

   $ (0.84 )   $ (2.69 )

Diluted net loss per common share

   $ (0.84 )   $ (2.69 )

Shares used in net loss per common share calculation

    

Basic and diluted

     8,824       8,293  
     January 3,
2009
    December 29,
2007
 

Consolidated Balance Sheet Data:

    

Cash, cash equivalents and available-for-sale securities

   $ 5,307     $ 5,809  

Working capital

     9,211       7,659  

Total assets

     28,225       46,654  

Total stockholders’ equity

     11,746       18,810  

 

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Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

Overview

IRIDEX Corporation is a leading worldwide provider of therapeutic based laser systems and delivery devices used to treat eye diseases in ophthalmology and skin conditions in aesthetics. In January 2007, the Company acquired Laserscope’s aesthetics business, including its subsidiaries in France and the United Kingdom (UK) from American Medical Systems Holdings (AMS). Laserscope aesthetics treatments encompass minimally invasive surgical treatments for pigmented and vascular lesions, skin rejuvenation, skin tightening, hair reduction, leg veins, and acne. Our previous dermatology lasers were incorporated with the Laserscope aesthetics product offering to create an expanded aesthetics business.

Our products are sold in the United States (US) predominantly through a direct sales force and internationally through approximately 100 independent distributors into 107 countries except for our aesthetics products which are sold, marketed and serviced directly in the UK and France. In June 2008, we signed an agreement which transferred the responsibility for sales and service of our aesthetics products in the UK to an independent distributor along with the transfer of associated assets.

We manage and evaluate our business in two segments—ophthalmology and aesthetics. We further break down these segments by geography—Domestic (US) and International (the rest of the world). In addition, within ophthalmology, we review trends by laser system sales (consoles and durable delivery devices) and recurring sales (single use consumable laser probes (“consumables”), service and support).

Our ophthalmology revenues arise primarily from the sale of our OcuLight and IQ 810 laser systems, consumables and revenues from service and support activities. Our current family of OcuLight systems includes the OcuLight TX, the OcuLight Symphony (Laser Delivery System), OcuLight SL, OcuLight SLx, OcuLight GL and OcuLight GLx laser photocoagulation systems as well as the IQ 810 laser system. We also produce the Millennium Endolase module which is sold exclusively to Bausch & Lomb and incorporated into their Millennium Microsurgical System.

Our aesthetics revenues arise primarily from the sales our Laserscope aesthetics products including: the Gemini, Venus-i, Lyra-i and Aura-i Laser Systems, the VersaStat 10 mm, VersaStat-i, and Dermastat handpieces along with an articulated arm for the Venus-i Laser System, as well as our IRIDEX VariLite and DioLite XP laser systems.

Sales to international distributors are made on open credit terms or letters of credit and are currently denominated in United States dollars and accordingly, are not subject to risks associated with currency fluctuations. Sales of aesthetics products to end customers from our French subsidiary are denominated in Euros.

Cost of revenues consists primarily of the cost of purchasing components and sub-systems, assembling, packaging, shipping and testing components at our facility, direct labor and associated overhead and beginning in 2007, amortization of intangible assets acquired in the Laserscope acquisition, and the addition of the field service organization in the US in support of the Laserscope aesthetics products.

Research and development expenses consist primarily of personnel costs, materials to support new product development and research support provided to clinicians at medical institutions developing new applications which utilize our products and regulatory expenses. Research and development costs have been expensed as incurred.

Sales, general and administrative expenses consist primarily of costs of personnel, sales commissions, travel expenses, advertising and promotional expenses, legal, accounting and other public company costs, insurance and other expenses not allocated to other departments.

 

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Results of Operations—2008, 2007 and 2006

Our fiscal year always ends on the Saturday closest to December 31. Fiscal 2008 ended on January 3, 2009, fiscal 2007 ended on December 29, 2007, and fiscal 2006 ended on December 30, 2006. Consequently, fiscal 2008 included 53 weeks of operations while fiscal years 2007 and 2006 included only 52.

The following table sets forth certain operating data as a percentage of revenue for the periods included.

 

     Percentage of Revenue Years Ended  
     Jan 3, 2009     Dec 29, 2007     Dec 30, 2006  

Revenues

   100.0 %   100.0 %   100.0 %

Cost of revenues

   59.4     56.3     47.6  
                  

Gross margin

   40.6     43.7     52.4  

Operating expenses:

      

Research and development

   8.2     10.4     15.3  

Sales, general and administrative

   36.8     50.3     50.3  

Impairment of goodwill and intangible assets

   11.1     26.5     —    
                  

Total operating expense

   56.1     87.2     65.6  
                  

Loss from operations

   (15.5 )   (43.4 )   (13.3 )

Legal settlement

   1.6     4.5     —    

Interest and other (expense) income, net

   (1.0 )   (1.2 )   2.1  
                  

Other income, net

   0.6     3.3     2.1  
                  

Loss before income taxes

   (14.9 )   (40.1 )   (11.2 )

Provision for income taxes

   (0.3 )   (0.0 )   (4.8 )
                  

Net loss

   (15.2 )%   (40.1 )%   (16.0 )%
                  

Acquisitions.

In order to more fully understand the comparison of the results of operations for the year ended January 3, 2009 to the years ended December 29, 2007 and December 30, 2006, it is important to note that we acquired Laserscope’s aesthetics business from AMS in January 2007, which had a material impact on our financial position and results of operations in fiscal 2008 and fiscal 2007.

Impairment of Goodwill and Intangible Assets.

As a result of the acquisition of the Laserscope aesthetics business from AMS in January 2007, the Company recorded $16.4 million of intangible assets and $10.1 million of Goodwill. The intangible assets are being amortized over their useful lives with $1.8 million and $1.8 million being charged to cost of revenues and $0.5 million and $1.0 million being charged to Sales, General and Administrative expense for 2008 and 2007, respectively. Please refer to the following for additional information on the impairment charges incurred in 2008 and 2007.

In December 2008, the Company performed its annual impairment test in accordance with SFAS 142—Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets. We identified the Laserscope Aesthetics reporting unit as the appropriate reporting unit for this analysis. Reporting units are operating segments or components of operating segments for which discrete financial information is available. Based on operating results for 2008 and the outlook for the aesthetics business for 2009 and beyond, management concluded that the carrying value of the reporting unit exceeded its fair value. Management subsequently determined the fair value of the assets and liabilities of the reporting unit to measure the amount of impairment loss. By establishing the fair value of the reporting unit and the fair value of assets and liabilities within the reporting unit, the Company determined the amount of impairment to goodwill. Consequently, in December 2008, an impairment loss to goodwill of $3.2 million was

 

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recognized and goodwill was reduced from $3.2 million to $0. In addition the operating results for 2008 and the outlook for the aesthetics business for 2009 indicated that the carrying amount of the intangible assets may not be recoverable from future undiscounted cash flows in accordance with SFAS 144—Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets. As a result, management tested the intangible assets to determine recoverability and consequently, in December 2008, a write down to the gross carrying value of intangible assets of $2.1 million was recorded reducing the gross carrying value from $8.6 million to $6.5 million. The net carrying value of all intangible assets including non-Laserscope related intangible assets as of January 3, 2009 was $1.5 million.

A similar review was conducted at the end of fiscal 2007. The consequence was to write down goodwill by $6.9 million from $10.1 million to $3.2 million and write down the gross carrying value of the intangible assets by $7.8 million from $16.4 million to $8.6 million in fiscal 2007. The net carrying value of all intangible assets including non-Laserscope related intangible assets as of December 29, 2007 was $5.9 million.

Comparison of 2008 and 2007

Revenues.

Total revenues in 2008 were $48.5 million as compared with $55.5 million in 2007, a decrease of $7.0 million or 12.6%. The decrease is directly attributable to the decrease in aesthetics revenues. The decline is primarily due to the global economic environment which significantly affected demand for aesthetic products during fiscal 2008.

Ophthalmology revenues in total remained constant. Ophthalmology recurring revenues consisting of consumables and service increased $1.3 million, or 8.4%, from $15.7 million to $17.0 million. Domestic ophthalmology systems decreased $0.3 million, or 4.8%, from $6.3 to $6.0 million. International ophthalmology systems decreased $1.3 million, or 14.9%, from $8.7 million to $7.4 million. OEM revenues increased $0.3 million or 20.3% from $1.6 million to $1.9 million. OEM revenues are generated from a long standing relationship and the demand for this product is dependent on the OEM’s market demand.

Aesthetics revenues in total decreased $7.1 million or 30.4%, from $23.2 million to $16.1 million. Service revenues increased $0.1 million or 2.6%, from $7.0 million to $7.1 million. International aesthetics system revenues decreased $3.4 million or 33.4%, from $10.2 million to $6.8 million, domestic aesthetics system revenues decreased $3.8 million or 63.6%, from $6.0 million to $2.2 million.

Gross profit.

Gross profit decreased $4.6 million from $24.3 million in 2007 to $19.7 million in 2008. The decrease in gross profit is attributable to the overall reduction in revenues as mentioned above and a reduction in the gross margin obtained on revenues.

Gross margin represented 40.6% of revenues in 2008 compared with 43.7% of revenues in 2007. Gross margins were negatively impacted by: amortization of intangible assets, 3.8%; expensing of previously capitalized manufacturing overhead costs associated with applying overhead burden to closing inventory, as a consequence of reducing inventory levels during 2008, 2.5%; and increases in inventory reserves, primarily relating to aesthetics inventory, 2.0%. The aggregate impact of these items was to reduce gross margins by 8.3%. Going forward we see the amount of expense attributable to these items trending lower and as a consequence would expect to see our gross margins trending higher to a range of 45% to 50% assuming similar revenue levels and product mix.

Research and development.

Research and development (R&D) expenses decreased $1.8 million or 30.6%, from $5.8 million in 2007 to $4.0 million in 2008. The decrease in R&D spending is primarily attributable to decreases in salary, benefits,

 

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consulting and temporary help and related costs including stock compensation charges of $1.2 million and a reduction of material costs consumed in engineering development projects of $0.3 million as a result of reduced headcount, mostly management and our focus on cost control. In line with our overall Company strategy for fiscal 2009, we expect to target our level of R&D spending at approximately 10% of revenues.

Sales, general and administrative.

Sales, general and administrative (SG&A) expenses decreased $10.1 million or 36.1%, from $27.9 million in 2007 to $17.8 million in 2008. The decrease in SG&A spending, in general, was a result of the Company’s objective to return the Company to operating stability by carefully managing expenses. The decrease in SG&A spending is primarily attributable to decreases in salary, benefits, consulting and temporary help and related costs including stock compensation and travel expenses of $4.0 million as a result of a reduction in headcount. Commissions decreased $0.6 million as a result of reduced revenues and marketing expenses decreased $1.8 million. Legal fees, as a result of a settlement of litigation in 2007, decreased $1.5 million. The overall UK subsidiary spending decreased $1.2 million as a result of transferring the responsibility for sales and service in the UK to an independent distributor.

Legal settlement and Interest and other (expense) income, net.

Income from the settlement with Synergetics of legal claims related to patents infringement amounted to $0.8 million and $2.5 million for 2008 and 2007, respectively. The Company anticipates receiving an additional $3.2 million in other income from the settlement, to be paid to the Company in four annual installments of $0.8 million on each April 16th until 2012. Interest and other expense, net of $0.5 million is primarily interest expense on bank debt.

Income Taxes.

We recorded a provision for income taxes of $127 thousand and an effective tax rate of 2% for the year ended January 3, 2009 compared to a provision for income taxes of $13 thousand for the year ended December 29, 2007. The increase in the provision for income taxes is primarily attributable to the increase in taxable income in the U.S.

Comparison of 2007 and 2006

Revenues.

Total revenues in 2007 were $55.5 million as compared with $35.9 million in 2006, an increase of $19.6 million or 54.6%. The increase was primarily the result of the Laserscope acquisition.

Aesthetics revenues in total increased $18.1 million or 355%, from $5.1 million to $23.2 million. International aesthetics system revenues increased from $8.9 million to $10.2 million, domestic aesthetics system revenues increased from $3.0 million to $6.0 million and service revenues increased from $0.8 million to $7.0 million. The increase was primarily the result of the Laserscope acquisition.

Ophthalmology revenues in total increased $1.5 million or 4.9%. The increase is primarily attributable to an increase in Ophthalmology recurring revenues consisting of consumables and service, an increase in international ophthalmology system revenues, partially offset by a decrease in domestic ophthalmology product revenues. Ophthalmology recurring revenues increased $1.9 million or 13.8%, from $13.8 million to $15.7 million. International ophthalmology system revenues increased $0.8 million or 10.6%, from $7.9 million to $8.7 million. Domestic ophthalmology product revenues decreased $0.6 million or 8.7%, from $6.9 million to $6.3 million. OEM revenues decreased $0.6 million or 27.3%, from $2.2 million to $1.6 million.

 

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Gross profit.

Gross profit increased to $24.3 million in 2007 from $18.8 million in 2006. The increase in gross profit was primarily the result of the increased revenues derived from aesthetics systems and services acquired from AMS.

Gross margin represented 43.7% of revenues in 2007 and 52.4% of revenues in 2006. The major components that contributed to the change in overall gross margin were: changes in direct margins; addition of amortization expense for intangibles; and absorption of manufacturing costs.

Direct margins as a percentage of revenue remained constant for the Ophthalmology business. Direct margins as a percentage of revenue decreased for the Aesthetics business with the addition of the Laserscope products to our product portfolio, as a result of those products having lower direct margins. Service margins decreased with the additional costs associated with the addition of the field service organization required to support the Laserscope products. The impact of these changes in direct margins was a reduction to overall gross margin of 11.5%.

In addition, overall gross margin was reduced by the inclusion in cost of revenues of $1.8 million of amortization expense in 2007 for intangible assets acquired in the Laserscope acquisition. This cost was not present in 2006. The impact of this change was a reduction to overall gross margin of approximately 3.3%.

Overall gross margin was improved by a decrease in manufacturing costs of $0.3 million and the consequence of total manufacturing costs being spread over increased production. The impact of these changes was an increase in overall gross margin of 6.1%.

Research and development.

Research and development expenses increased by 4.9% to $5.8 million in 2007 from $5.5 million in 2006. $0.1 million of this increase was attributable to increased salary and benefit expense associated with increased headcount resulting from the Laserscope acquisition, although by the end of 2007 the number of employees in Research and development decreased year over year. Expenses for consulting and temporary help increased $0.2 million.

Sales, general and administrative.

Sales, general and administrative expense increased in 2007 by 54.7% to $27.9 million from $18.1 million in 2006. Selling, general and administrative expenses increased 9.7% or $2.7 million because of the addition of the UK and French subsidiaries as a result of the Laserscope acquisition. US selling expenses increased 37.2% or $3.6 million. This increase was largely the result of headcount costs increasing $2.7 million. The increase in costs included increased payroll, commissions and travel expenditure associated with the addition of the US Laserscope aesthetics business sales force. In addition, selling expense increased $0.6 million related to the expenses associated with the addition of Laserscope demonstration units used in the sales process. Marketing expense increased $3.4 million primarily as a result of the inclusion of $1 million of amortization expense for intangible assets acquired in the Laserscope acquisition. (this cost was not present in 2006), an additional $1.9 million spent in support of the aesthetics products acquired from Laserscope and $0.3 million of additional expenses related to increased headcount, although by the end of 2007 the number of employees in Marketing decreased year over year. US General and administrative expenses increased $0.1 million. Legal expenses decreased $1.2 million due to the settlement of litigation early in 2007 and stock compensation costs decreased $0.4 million. These decreases were offset by a $0.4 million increase in auditing and accounting services and $1.2 million increase in consulting and temporary help resulting from the Laserscope acquisition.

Legal Settlement and Interest and other (expense) income, net.

Income from the settlement that occurred in 2007 with Synergetics of legal claims related to patents infringement amounted to $2.5 million. The Company anticipates receiving an additional $4.0 million in other

 

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income from the settlement, to be paid to the Company in four annual installments of $0.8 million on each April 16th until 2012. Interest and other expense, net of $0.6 million is primarily interest expense on bank debt. In 2006, interest and other income was primarily the result of interest received on cash, cash equivalents and available for sale securities.

Income Taxes.

Significant components affecting the effective tax rate include pre-tax net loss, changes in valuation allowance, federal and state research and development tax credits, income from tax-exempt securities, the state composite tax rate and recognition of certain deferred tax assets subject to valuation allowance. We recorded a tax provision of $13 thousand in 2007. In 2006 we recorded a tax provision of $1.7 million resulting from the establishment of a valuation allowance with respect of our deferred tax assets based on past losses and uncertainty regarding our ability to project taxable income.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

Comparison of 2008 to 2007.

Liquidity is our ability to generate sufficient cash flows from operating activities to meet our obligations and commitments. In addition, liquidity includes the ability to obtain appropriate financing or to raise capital.

As of January 3, 2009, we had cash and cash equivalents of $5.3 million and working capital of $9.2 million compared with cash and cash equivalents of $5.8 million and working capital of $7.7 million as of December 29, 2007.

Net cash used in operating activities in 2008 was $0.1 million compared with $0.5 million in 2007. During 2008 we made repayments to AMS of $6.3 million including interest as a result of the settlement agreement reached in August of 2007. As of January 3, 2009 all amounts owed to AMS have been repaid. Excluding these payments, cash from operations was positive $6.2 million. See Note 10 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in this report for more information regards the AMS Settlement.

In March 2008, the Company terminated the credit agreement with Mid-Peninsula Bank, part of Greater Bay Bank N.A. and entered into a new credit agreement with Wells Fargo Bank. See Note 9 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in this report for more information regarding bank borrowings. The Company’s credit facility with Wells Fargo Bank is an asset-based revolving line of credit. The amount of money the Company may borrow at any particular time is determined by the amount of eligible accounts receivables and inventory the Company has on hand at that particular time (the Borrowing Base). If at any time the amount outstanding under the credit line exceeds the Borrowing Base, the Company will be required to pay the difference between the outstanding amount and the Borrowing Base immediately. With the current problems experienced in the global economy, it is possible that customers will take longer to pay and or default on their payments. Under such circumstances, the Borrowing Base may be reduced significantly which will reduce the Company’s ability to borrow and will have a direct negative impact on the Company’s cash position.

Management is of the opinion that the Company’s current cash and cash equivalents, together with its credit facility with Wells Fargo Bank, provide sufficient liquidity to operate for the next 12 months; that the covenants contained in the credit facility with Wells Fargo Bank are reasonable; and management expects to be able to meet these covenants based on its operating plan for 2009. However, recent operating results indicate that there is risk in achieving the operating plan. If the Company is not able to perform according to the Company’s operating plan for 2009 and is unable to maintain compliance with its debt covenants, Wells Fargo Bank would be entitled to exercise its remedies which include declaring all outstanding obligations due and payable, and disposing of the collateral if obligations are not paid. For example, in August 2008 the Company was not in compliance with the debt service covenant contained in the credit facility with Wells Fargo Bank; however, the Company has

 

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obtained a waiver from the bank and was in compliance with the covenants in September 2008. As of January 3, 2009, the Company was in compliance with the loan covenants contained in the amended Agreement. See Note 9 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in this report for more information regarding the amended credit facility.

Comparison of 2007 to 2006.

As of December 29, 2007, we had cash and cash equivalents of $5.8 million and working capital of $7.7 million compared with cash and cash equivalents of $21.1 million and working capital of $29.8 million as of December 30, 2006. In order to complete the Laserscope acquisition concluded in January 2007, the Company entered into financing arrangements and used the majority of our liquid resources and ended the year with bank debt of $6.1 million (net of $3.8 million restricted cash). Previously we had no debt outstanding. In addition, during the year we raised an additional $4.9 million through the issuance of Series A Preferred Stock and warrants to purchase common stock. See Note 11 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in this report for more information regarding share issuance.

Contractual Payment Obligations.

Our contractual payment obligations that were fixed and determinable as of January 3, 2009 were as follows:

 

     Payments Due by Period
     Total    2009    2010    2011    2012    2013 and
thereafter

Contractual Obligations

                 

Balance on revolving credit facility

   $ 6,000    $ 6,000    $ 0    $ 0    $ 0    $ 0

Operating Leases Payments

   $ 4,292    $ 643    $ 675    $ 676    $ 689    $ 1,609
                                         

Total Contractual Cash Obligations

   $ 10,292    $ 6,643    $ 675    $ 676    $ 689    $ 1,609
                                         

Critical Accounting Policies

The preparation of our condensed consolidated financial statements in conformity with United States Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) requires us to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, net sales and expenses, and the related disclosures. We base our estimates on historical experience, our knowledge of economic and market factors and various other assumptions we believe to be reasonable under the circumstances. Actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions. We believe the following critical accounting policies are affected by significant estimates, assumptions, and judgments used in the preparation of our consolidated financial statements.

Revenue Recognition.

Our revenues arise from the sale of laser consoles, delivery devices, consumables and service and support activities. Revenue from product sales is recognized upon receipt of a purchase order and product shipment provided that no significant obligations remain and collection of the receivables is reasonably assured. Shipments are generally made with Free-On-Board (FOB) shipping point terms, whereby title passes upon shipment from our dock. Any shipments with FOB receiving point terms are recorded as revenue when the shipment arrives at the receiving point. Cost is recognized as product sales revenue is recognized. The Company’s sales may include post-sales obligations for training or other deliverables. When these obligations are fulfilled after product shipment, the Company recognizes revenue in accordance with the multiple element accounting guidance set forth in Emerging Issues Task Force No. 00-21, “Revenue Arrangements with Multiple Deliverables.” When the

 

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Company has objective and reliable evidence of fair value of the undelivered elements, it defers revenue attributable to the post-sale obligations and recognizes such revenue when the obligation is fulfilled. Otherwise, the Company defers all revenue related to the transaction until all elements are delivered. Revenue relating to extended warranty contracts is recognized on a straight line basis over the period of the applicable warranty contract. We recognize repair service revenue upon completion of the work.

Inventories.

Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market and include on-hand inventory, sales demo inventory and service loaner inventory. Cost is determined on a standard cost basis which approximates actual cost on a first-in, first-out (FIFO) method. Lower of cost or market is evaluated by considering obsolescence, excessive levels of inventory, deterioration and other factors. Adjustments to reduce the cost of inventory to its net realizable value, if required, are made for estimated excess, obsolescence or impaired inventory and are charged to cost of revenues. Factors influencing these adjustments include changes in demand, product life cycle and development plans, component cost trends, product pricing, physical deterioration and quality issues. Revisions to these adjustments would be required if these factors differ from our estimates.

Sales Returns Allowance and Allowance for Doubtful Accounts.

The Company estimates future product returns related to current period product revenue. We analyze historical returns, and changes in customer demand and acceptance of our products when evaluating the adequacy of the sales returns allowance. Significant management judgment and estimates must be made and used in connection with establishing the sales returns allowance in any accounting period. Material differences may result in the amount and timing of our revenue for any period if management made different judgments or utilized different estimates. Our provision for sales returns is recorded net of the associated costs. Our provision for sales returns was $138 thousand and $87 thousand as of January 3, 2009 and December 29, 2007, respectively.

Similarly management must make estimates regarding the uncollectability of accounts receivable. We are exposed to credit risk in the event of non-payment by customers to the extent of amounts recorded on the balance sheet. As of January 3, 2009, we had accounts receivable totaling $8.2 million, net of an allowance for doubtful accounts of $0.9 million. As sales levels increase the level of accounts receivable would likely also increase. In addition, in the event that customers were to delay their payments to us, the levels of accounts receivable would likely also increase. We maintain allowances for doubtful accounts for estimated losses resulting from the inability of our customers to make required payments. The allowance for doubtful accounts is based on past payment history with the customer, analysis of the customer’s current financial condition, the aging of the accounts receivable balance, customer concentration and other known factors.

Warranty.

The Company accrues for estimated warranty costs upon shipment of products. Actual warranty costs incurred have not materially differed from those accrued. The Company’s warranty policy is applicable to products which are considered defective in their performance or fail to meet the product specifications. Warranty costs are reflected in the statement of operations as a cost of revenues.

Valuation of Goodwill and Intangible Assets.

The purchase method of accounting for acquisitions requires estimates and assumptions to allocate the purchase price to the fair value of net tangible and intangible assets acquired. The amounts allocated to, and the useful lives estimated for, intangible assets, affect future amortization. There are a number of generally accepted valuation methods used to estimate fair value of intangible assets, and we use primarily a discounted cash flow method, which requires significant management judgment to forecast the future operating results and to estimate

 

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the discount factors used in the analysis. Purchased intangible assets were initially recorded in the first quarter of 2007 in conjunction with the acquisition of the aesthetics business of Laserscope—See Note 3. We review our intangible assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that their carrying value may not be recoverable. An asset is considered impaired if its carrying amount exceeds the future net cash flow the asset is expected to generate. If an asset is considered to be impaired, the impairment to be recognized is measured by the amount by which the carrying amount of the asset exceeds its fair value.

Goodwill and intangible assets determined to have indefinite lives are not amortized, but are subject to an annual impairment test. To determine any goodwill impairment, a two-step process is performed on an annual basis, or more frequently if necessary, to determine 1) whether the fair value of the relevant reporting unit exceeds carrying value and 2) to measure the amount of an impairment loss, if any. Goodwill was initially recorded in the first quarter of 2007 in conjunction with the acquisition of the aesthetics business of Laserscope—See Note 3. During the 4th quarters of 2008 and 2007, the Company conducted its annual impairment analysis.

Future changes in events or circumstances, such as an inability to achieve the cash flows determined above, may indicate that the recorded value of the intangible assets will not be recovered through future cash flows, or if the fair value of the Laserscope Aesthetics business unit is determined to be less than its carrying value, the Company may be required to record an additional impairment charge for the intangible assets or goodwill or further modify the period of expected lives for the intangible assets.

Income Taxes.

We account for income taxes in accordance with SFAS No. 109, “Accounting for Income Taxes” (SFAS No. 109), which requires that deferred tax assets and liabilities be recognized using enacted tax rates for the effect of temporary differences between the book and tax bases of recorded assets and liabilities. Under SFAS No. 109, the liability method is used in accounting for income taxes. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined based on the differences between financial reporting and the tax basis of assets and liabilities, and are measured using the enacted tax rates and laws that will be in effect when the differences are expected to reverse. SFAS No. 109 also requires that deferred tax assets be reduced by a valuation allowance if it is more likely than not that some or all of the deferred tax asset will not be realized. We evaluate annually the realizability of our deferred tax assets by assessing our valuation allowance and by adjusting the amount of such allowance, if necessary. The factors used to assess the likelihood of realization include our forecast of future taxable income and available tax planning strategies that could be implemented to realize the net deferred tax assets. In 2008 and 2007, we have recorded a full valuation allowance for our deferred tax assets based on our past losses and uncertainty regarding our ability to project future taxable income. In future periods if we are able to generate income we may reduce or eliminate the valuation allowance.

Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes.

Effective December 31, 2006, the Company adopted Financial Accounting Standards Interpretation, or FIN, No. 48, “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes—an interpretation of FASB Statement No. 109.” FIN No. 48 prescribes a recognition threshold and measurement attribute for the financial statement recognition and measurement of uncertain tax positions taken or expected to be taken in a company’s income tax return, and also provides guidance on de-recognition, classification, interest and penalties, accounting in interim periods, disclosure, and transition. FIN No. 48 utilizes a two-step approach for evaluating uncertain tax positions accounted for in accordance with SFAS No. 109. Step one, recognition, requires a company to determine if the weight of available evidence indicates that a tax position is more likely than not to be sustained upon audit, including resolution of related appeals or litigation processes, if any. Step two, measurement, is based on the largest amount of benefit, which is more likely than not to be realized on ultimate settlement. The cumulative effect of adopting FIN No. 48 on December 31, 2006 is recognized as a change in accounting principle, recorded as an adjustment to the opening balance of retained earnings on the adoption date. As a result of the

 

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implementation of FIN No. 48, the Company recognized no change in the liability for unrecognized tax benefits related to tax positions taken in prior periods. Upon adoption of FIN No. 48, the Company’s policy to include interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits within the Company’s provision for (benefit from) income taxes did not change.

Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation.

On January 1, 2006, we adopted Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 123 (revised 2004), “Share-Based Payment” (SFAS 123(R)), which requires the measurement and recognition of compensation expense for all share-based awards made to employees and directors, including employee non-qualified and incentive stock options, restricted stock units and employee purchase rights under our Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP Shares) based on estimated fair values. SFAS 123(R) supersedes previous accounting under Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 25, “Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees” (APB 25) for periods beginning in fiscal year 2006. In March 2005, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) issued Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 107 (SAB 107) providing supplemental implementation guidance for SFAS 123(R). We have applied the provisions of SAB 107 in our adoption of SFAS 123(R).

SFAS 123(R) requires companies to estimate the fair value of share-based awards on the date of grant using an option pricing model. The value of the portion of the award that is ultimately expected to vest is recognized as expense over the requisite service periods in our consolidated statements of income. Our consolidated financial statements, as of and for the years ended January 3, 2009, December 29, 2007 and December 30, 2006, reflect the impact of SFAS 123(R).

Stock-based compensation expense recognized in the years ended January 3, 2009, December 29, 2007 and December 30, 2006, included stock-based compensation expense for share-based awards granted subsequent to January 1, 2006, based on the fair value on the grant date estimated in accordance with the provisions of SFAS 123(R). In conjunction with the adoption of SFAS 123(R), we changed our method of attributing the value of stock-based compensation expense from the accelerated multiple-option method (for the purposes of non-GAAP information under SFAS 123) to the straight-line single option method. Stock-based compensation expense for all share-based awards granted prior to January 1, 2006 will continue to be recognized using the accelerated multiple-option approach, while stock-based compensation expense for all share-based awards granted subsequent to December 30, 2005 will be recognized using the straight-line single option method. SFAS 123(R) requires that we recognize expense for awards ultimately expected to vest; therefore we are required to develop an estimate of the number of awards expected to cancel prior to vesting (forfeiture rate). The forfeiture rate is estimated based on historical pre-vest cancellation experience and is applied to all share-based awards. SFAS 123(R) requires the forfeiture rate to be estimated at the time of grant and revised, if necessary, in subsequent periods if actual forfeitures differ from those estimates. Prior to fiscal year 2006, we accounted for forfeitures as they actually occurred.

Upon adoption of SFAS 123(R), we selected the Black-Scholes option pricing model as the most appropriate method for determining the estimated fair value for stock options and ESPP Shares. The Black-Scholes model requires the use of highly subjective and complex assumptions which determine the fair value of share-based awards, including the option’s expected term and the price volatility of the underlying stock. For restricted stock or restricted stock units, stock-based compensation expense is calculated based on the fair market value of our stock on the date of grant.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

In December 2007, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) No 141(R) (revised 2007), Business Combinations (SFAS 141R), which replaces SFAS 141. SFAS 141R establishes principles and requirements for how an acquirer recognizes and measures in its financial statements the identifiable assets acquired, the liabilities assumed and the goodwill acquired. SFAS

 

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141R also establishes disclosure requirements that will enable users to update evaluate the nature and financial effects of the business combination. SFAS 141R is effective as of the beginning of an entity’s fiscal year that begins after December 15, 2008 and will be adopted by the Company in the first quarter of fiscal year 2009. While the Company expects that SFAS 141R will have an impact on accounting for business combinations once adopted, the effect is dependent upon acquisitions at that time.

In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS 160, Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements, an amendment of ARB No. 51 (SFAS 160). The standard changes the accounting for noncontrolling (minority) interests in consolidated financial statements including the requirements to classify noncontrolling interests as a component of consolidated stockholders’ equity, and the elimination of “minority interest” accounting in results of operations with earnings attributable to noncontrolling interests reported as part of consolidated earnings. Additionally, SFAS 160 revises the accounting for both increases and decreases in a parent’s controlling ownership interest. SFAS 160 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008, with early adoption prohibited. The Company believes it is unlikely that the adoption of SFAS 160 will have an impact on the consolidated financial statements because the Company does not hold a noncontrolling (minority) interest in another entity.

In March 2008, the FASB issued SFAS 161, Disclosures about Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities, an amendment of FASB Statement No. 133 (SFAS 161). SFAS 161 requires enhanced disclosures about an entity’s derivative and hedging activities. These enhanced disclosures will discuss (a) how and why an entity uses derivative instruments, (b) how derivative instruments and related hedged items are accounted for under Statement 133 and its related interpretations, and (c) how derivative instruments and related hedged items affect an entity’s financial position, financial performance, and cash flows. SFAS 161 is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years and interim periods beginning after November 15, 2008. Currently, the Company does not engage in derivative and hedging activities.

In April 2008, FASB Staff Position SFAS 142-3, Determination of the Useful Life of Intangible Assets, (FSP 142-3) was issued. FSP 142-3 amends the factors that should be considered in developing renewal or extension assumptions used to determine the useful life of a recognized intangible asset under SFAS 142, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets, (SFAS 142). FSP 142-3 is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008, and interim periods within those fiscal years. Early adoption is prohibited. The guidance for determining the useful life of a recognized intangible asset in paragraphs 7–11 of this FSP shall be applied prospectively to intangible assets acquired after the effective date. The disclosure requirements in paragraphs 13–15 shall be applied prospectively to all intangible assets recognized as of, and subsequent to, the effective date. FSP 142-3 will be adopted by the Company in the first quarter of fiscal year 2009. The Company does not expect the adoption of FSP 142-3 will have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.

In April 2008, the FASB issued Emerging Issues Task Force (EITF) EITF 07-05, Determining Whether an Instrument (or Embedded Feature) Is Indexed to an Entity’s Own Stock, (EITF 07-05). EITF 07-05 provides guidance on determining what types of instruments or embedded features in an instrument held by a reporting entity can be considered indexed to its own stock for the purpose of evaluating the first criteria of the scope exception in paragraph 11(a) of FAS 133. EITF 07-05 is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008, and early application is not permitted. Management is evaluating what effect EITF 07-05 will have on the Company’s financial position and operating results.

In May 2008, the FASB issued SFAS No. 162, “The Hierarchy of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles” (SFAS No. 162). SFAS No. 162 is intended to improve financial reporting by identifying a consistent framework, or hierarchy, for selecting accounting principles to be used in preparing financial statements that are presented in conformity with GAAP for nongovernmental entities. SFAS No. 162 is effective 60 days following the SEC’s approval of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board amendments to AU Section 411, “The Meaning of Present Fairly in Conformity with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles.” The Company does not expect the adoption of SFAS No. 162 will have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements.

 

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Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements.

The Company has no off-balance sheet arrangements.

 

Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk.

Market risk represents the risk of loss that may impact the financial position, results of operations or cash flows due to adverse changes in financial and commodity market prices and rates. We transact the majority of our business in US dollars and therefore changes in foreign currency rates will not have a significant impact on our income statement or cash flows. However, increases in the value of the US dollar against any local currencies could cause our products to become relatively more expensive to customers in a particular country or region, leading to reduced revenue or profitability in that country or region. As we continue to expand our international sales, our non-US dollar denominated revenue and our exposure to gains and losses on international currency transactions may increase. In January 2007 we acquired two European subsidiaries as part of our acquisition of the assets of the aesthetics business of Laserscope. In June 2008, we signed an agreement which transferred the responsibility for sales and service of our aesthetics products in the UK to an independent distributor along with the transfer of associated assets. These entities did and do transact business in their geographies in their local currency. We currently do not engage in transactions to hedge against the risk of the currency fluctuation, but we may do so in the future.

The Company currently requires debt to fund its operations and movements in the credit markets will impact the availability and the cost of this funding.

 

Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.

Our consolidated balance sheets as of January 3, 2009 and December 29, 2007 and the consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive income (loss), stockholders’ equity and cash flows for each of the three years ending in the period January 3, 2009, December 29, 2007, and December 30, 2006 together with the related notes and the report of our independent auditors, are on the following pages. Additional required financial information is described in Item 15.

 

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REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

To the Board of Directors and Stockholders of IRIDEX Corporation

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of IRIDEX Corporation (“the Company”) as of January 3, 2009 and December 29, 2007, and the related consolidated statements of operations, stockholders’ equity and comprehensive income (loss), and cash flows for each of the two years in the period ended January 3, 2009. Our audits also included the financial statement schedule listed in Item 15.2. IRIDEX Corporation’s management is responsible for these consolidated financial statements. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated 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 consolidated financial statements are free of material misstatement. The company is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of its internal control over financial reporting. Our audit included consideration of internal control over financial reporting as a basis for designing audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the company’s internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion. An audit also includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the consolidated financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall consolidated financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of IRIDEX Corporation as of January 3, 2009 and December 29, 2007, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the two years in the period ended January 3, 2009 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Also, in our opinion, the related financial statement schedule, as of and for the years ended January 3, 2009 and December 29, 2007, when considered in relation to the consolidated financial statements taken as a whole, presents fairly, in all material respects, the information set forth therein.

/s/ Burr, Pilger & Mayer LLP

San Francisco, California

April 1, 2009

 

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REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

To the Board of Directors and Stockholders of IRIDEX Corporation:

In our opinion, the consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive income (loss), stockholders’ equity and cash flows present fairly, in all material respects the results of operations and cash flows of IRIDEX Corporation and its subsidiaries for the year ended December 30, 2006, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. In addition, in our opinion, the financial statement schedule for the year ended December 30, 2006 presents fairly, in all material respects, the information set forth therein when read in conjunction with the related consolidated financial statements. These financial statements and financial statement schedule are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements and financial statement schedule based on our audit. We conducted our audit of these statements 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, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, and evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

As discussed in Note 1 to the consolidated financial statements as of December 30, 2006 (not presented herein separately), the Company will not be in compliance with certain debt covenants as of the quarter ended March 31, 2007 and does not have available resources to repay the debt if required to do so by the lender which raise substantial doubt about its ability to continue as a going concern. Management’s plans in regard to these matters are also described in Note 1 to the consolidated financial statements as of December 30, 2006 (not presented herein separately). The consolidated financial statements do not include any adjustments that might result from the outcome of this uncertainty.

As discussed in Note 6 to the consolidated financial statements as of December 30, 2006 (not presented herein separately), the Company changed the manner in which it accounts for stock-based compensation in 2006.

/s/ PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP

San Jose, California

March 30, 2007

 

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IRIDEX Corporation

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(in thousands, except share and per share data)

 

     January 3,
2009
    December 29,
2007
 
ASSETS     

Current assets:

    

Cash and cash equivalents

   $ 5,307     $ 5,809  

Restricted cash

     —         3,800  

Accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $908 in 2008 and $700 in 2007

     8,199       8,876  

Inventories, net

     11,644       15,967  

Prepaids and other current assets

     540       1,051  
                

Total current assets

     25,690       35,503  

Property and equipment, net

     832       1,621  

Goodwill

     —         3,239  

Other intangible assets, net

     1,474       5,944  

Other long term assets

     229       347  
                

Total assets

   $ 28,225     $ 46,654  
                
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY     

Current liabilities:

    

Accounts payable

   $ 2,415     $ 2,887  

Bank line of credit

     6,000       4,863  

Accrued compensation

     1,729       2,024  

Accrued expenses

     2,249       7,809  

Accrued warranty

     1,345       1,895  

Deferred revenue

     2,741       3,350  

Bank term loan

     —         5,016  
                

Total current liabilities

     16,479       27,844  
                

Commitments and contingencies (Note 10)

    

Stockholders’ equity:

    

Convertible preferred stock, $.01 par value:

    

Authorized: 2,000,000 shares;
Issued and outstanding: 500,000 shares in 2008 and 2007

     5       5  

Common stock, $.01 par value:

    

Authorized: 30,000,000 shares;
Issued and outstanding: 8,824,301 shares in 2008 and 2007

     89       89  

Additional paid-in capital

     39,105       38,695  

Accumulated other comprehensive loss

     (192 )     (88 )

Treasury stock, at cost

     (430 )     (430 )

Accumulated deficit

     (26,831 )     (19,461 )
                

Total stockholders’ equity

     11,746       18,810  
                

Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity

   $ 28,225     $ 46,654  
                

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

 

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IRIDEX Corporation

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

(in thousands, except per share data)

 

     Year Ended
January 3,
2009
    Year Ended
December 29,
2007
    Year Ended
December 30,
2006
 

Revenues

   $ 48,528     $ 55,532     $ 35,904  

Cost of revenues

     28,849       31,248       17,099  
                        

Gross profit

     19,679       24,284       18,805  
                        

Operating expenses:

      

Research and development

     4,009       5,779       5,511  

Sales, general and administrative

     17,842       27,930       18,059  

Impairment of goodwill and intangible assets

     5,364       14,690       —    
                        

Total operating expenses

     27,215       48,399       23,570  
                        

Loss from operations

     (7,536 )     (24,115 )     (4,765 )

Other income and expenses:

      

Legal settlement

     800       2,500       —    

Interest and other (expense) income, net

     (507 )     (644 )     733  
                        

Loss before income taxes

     (7,243 )     (22,259 )     (4,032 )

Provision for income taxes

     (127 )     (13 )     (1,721 )
                        

Net loss

   $ (7,370 )   $ (22,272 )   $ (5,753 )
                        

Basic and diluted net loss per common share

   $ (0.84 )   $ (2.69 )   $ (0.75 )
                        

Shares used in computing net loss per common share, basic and diluted

     8,824       8,293       7,713  
                        

IRIDEX Corporation

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE LOSS

(in thousands)

 

     Year Ended
January 3,
2009
    Year Ended
December 29,
2007
    Year Ended
December 30,
2006
 

Net loss

   $ (7,370 )   $ (22,272 )   $ (5,753 )

Changes in unrealized losses on available-for-sale securities, net of tax

     —         —         27  

Foreign currency translation adjustments

     (104 )     (88 )     —    
                        

Comprehensive loss

   $ (7,474 )   $ (22,360 )   $ (5,726 )
                        

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

 

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IRIDEX Corporation

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

(in thousands, except share data)

 

    Convertible
Preferred Stock
  Common Stock   Additional
Paid-in
Capital
  Treasury
Stock
    Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income (Loss)
    Retained
Earnings
    Total  
    Shares   Amount   Shares   Amount          

Balances, December 31, 2005

      7,520,358   $ 76   $ 26,334   $ (430 )   $ (27 )   $ 8,564     $ 34,517  

Issuance of Common Stock under Stock Option Plan

      276,578     3     1,289           1,292  

Issuance of Common Stock under Employee Stock Purchase Plan

      44,845       295           295  

Employee Stock-Based Compensation Expense

            1,779           1,779  

Change in unrealized gains on available-for-sale securities

                27         27  

Net loss

                  (5,753 )     (5,753 )
                                                         

Balances, December 30, 2006

      7,841,781     79     29,697     (430 )     0       2,811       32,157  

Issuance of Common Stock under Stock Option Plan

      156,137     2     783           785  

Issuance of Common Stock in connection with Laserscope Acquisition

      213,435     2     2,012           2,014  

Issuance of Common Stock under Employee Stock Purchase Plan

      12,948       90           90  

Employee Stock-Based Compensation Expense

            1,230           1,230  

Issuance of Preferred Stock in private placement, net of issuance cost of $112 (see Note 11)

  500,000     5         2,586           2,591  

Common stock warrants, $0.01 per share, in connection with private placement (see Note 11)

            2,297           2,297  

Exercise of common stock warrants, $0.01 per share

      600,000     6             6  

Foreign currency translation adjustments

                (88 )       (88 )

Net loss

                  (22,272 )     (22,272 )
                                                         

Balances, December 29, 2007

  500,000     5   8,824,301     89     38,695     (430 )     (88 )     (19,461 )     18,810  

Employee Stock-Based Compensation Expense

            322           322  

Tax effect of stock compensation expense

            88           88  

Foreign currency translation adjustments

                (104 )       (104 )

Net loss

                  (7,370 )     (7,370 )
                                                         

Balances, January 3, 2009

  500,000   $ 5   8,824,301   $ 89   $ 39,105   $ (430 )   $ (192 )   $ (26,831 )   $ 11,746  
                                                         

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

 

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IRIDEX Corporation

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(in thousands)

 

    Year Ended
January 3,
2009
    Year Ended
December 29,
2007
    Year Ended
December 30,
2006
 

Operating activities:

     

Net loss

  $ (7,370 )   $ (22,272 )   $ (5,753 )

Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash used in operating activities:

     

Loss on disposal of assets

    136       —         —    

Depreciation and amortization

    3,221       3,818       542  

Impairment of goodwill and intangible assets

    5,364       14,690       —    

Stock compensation cost recognized

    322       1,230       1,816  

Tax effect of stock compensation expense

    88       —         —    

Provision for doubtful accounts

    208       140       141  

Provision for inventory reserves

    1,442       3,017       (296 )

Deferred income taxes

    —         —         2,488  

Changes in operating assets and liabilities net of assets and liabilities acquired:

     

Accounts receivable

    469       2,211       396  

Inventories

    2,881       (6,676 )     (609 )

Prepaids and other current assets

    511       608       (379 )

Other long term assets

    118       (194 )     (154 )

Accounts payable

    (472 )     282       (274 )

Accrued compensation

    (295 )     (640 )     (154 )

Accrued expenses

    (5,560 )     3,782       771  

Accrued warranty

    (550 )     (742 )     (263 )

Deferred revenue

    (609 )     224       343  
                       

Net cash used in operating activities

    (96 )     (522 )     (1,385 )
                       

Investing activities:

     

Purchases of available-for-sale securities

    —         —         (18,250 )

Proceeds from maturity of available-for-sale securities

    —         —         27,056  

Business acquisition cost

    —         (25,530 )     (60 )

Acquisition of property and equipment

    (223 )     (776 )     (515 )

Purchases of intangible assets

    —         (171 )     —    
                       

Net cash provided (used in) by investing activities

    (223 )     (26,477 )     8,231  
                       

Cash flows from financing activities:

     

Proceeds from issuance of common stock

    —         881       1,550  

Proceeds from issuance of preferred stock and warrants, net of offering costs

    —         4,888       —    

Proceeds of credit facility, net of issuing costs

    —         11,900       —    

Proceeds from borrowings

    44,777       —         —    

Repayment of borrowings

    (48,656 )     (2,021 )     —    

Release (restriction) of funds under debt facility

    3,800       (3,800 )     —    
                       

Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities

    (79 )     11,848       1,550  
                       

Effect of foreign exchange rate changes

    (104 )     (91 )     —    

Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents

    (502 )     (15,242 )     8,396  

Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year

    5,809       21,051       12,655  
                       

Cash and cash equivalents, end of year

  $ 5,307     $ 5,809     $ 21,051  
                       

Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information:

     

Cash paid during the year for:

     

Income taxes

  $ 20     $ 4     $ 243  

Interest paid

  $ 691     $ 855     $ 1  

Stock issued in acquisition

  $ —       $ 2,014     $ —    

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

 

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IRIDEX Corporation

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

1. Business of the Company

Description of Business.

IRIDEX Corporation is a worldwide provider of therapeutic-based laser systems and delivery devices used to treat eye diseases in ophthalmology and skin conditions in dermatology (also referred to as aesthetics). Our products are sold in the United States predominately through a direct sales force and internationally through approximately 100 independent distributors into 107 countries.

In January 2007, the Company acquired Laserscope’s aesthetics business including its subsidiaries in France and the United Kingdom (UK), from American Medical Systems Holdings (AMS) to complement and increase the product offerings in the Company’s own aesthetics business segment. In June 2008, the Company signed an agreement which transferred the responsibility for sales and service of our aesthetics products in the UK to an independent distributor along with a transfer of associated employees and assets.

We have incurred substantial losses and negative cash flows from operations for the last three years. For the year ended January 3, 2009, we incurred a net loss of approximately $7.4 million and had negative cash flows from operations of approximately $0.1 million. As of January 3, 2009, we had an accumulated deficit of approximately $26.8 million. While management believes that our current funds will be sufficient to enable us to meet our planned expenditures through at least January 2, 2010, if anticipated operating results are not achieved, management has the intent and believes it has the ability to delay or reduce expenditures so as not to require additional financing resources. Failure to generate sufficient cash flows from operations, raise additional capital or reduce certain discretionary spending could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s ability to achieve its intended business objectives.

2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

Financial Statement Presentation.

The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of IRIDEX Corporation and our wholly owned subsidiaries. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. Except as noted below, the Company has determined that the local currency of the country where the subsidiary is located is the functional currency for those foreign operations. Assets and liabilities were translated into their US dollar equivalent using the spot rate at the balance sheet date. Operating results were translated using average exchange rates for the period. Accordingly, translation adjustments for foreign subsidiaries are included as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). The Company’s UK subsidiary ceased operating activities in the third fiscal quarter of 2008. An independent distributor took over the responsibility for sales and service of our aesthetics products in the UK. Consequently at the start of the fourth quarter of 2008 in accordance with SFAS No. 52, “Foreign Currency Translation,” management determined that the primary economic environment in which the entity was operating had changed to the US dollar and therefore the functional currency was changed to the US dollar. Effective at the start of the fourth quarter of 2008, non-monetary assets and liabilities were translated into their US dollar equivalent at the historical rate. Monetary assets and liabilities were translated at a spot rate at the balance sheet date, and the operating results were translated using average exchange rates for the period. Translation adjustments are included in “Interest and other (expense) income, net” in the period in which they occur.

Our fiscal year always ends on the Saturday closest to December 31. Fiscal 2008 ended on January 3, 2009, fiscal 2007 ended on December 29, 2007, and fiscal 2006 ended on December 30, 2006. Consequently, fiscal 2008 included 53 weeks of operations while fiscal years 2007 and 2006 included only 52.

 

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IRIDEX Corporation

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

Use of Estimates.

The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires us 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. We base our estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions that we believe to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent form other sources. Actual results may differ from these estimates. In addition, any change in these estimates or their related assumptions could have an adverse effect on our operating results.

Cash and Cash Equivalents.

For financial statement purposes, we consider all highly liquid debt instruments with insignificant interest rate risk and an original maturity of three months or less when purchased to be cash equivalents. Cash equivalents consist primarily of cash deposits in money market funds that are available for withdrawal without restriction. Restricted cash represents cash that can not be used to fund operating requirements.

Fair Value of Financial Instruments.

On December 30, 2007, the Company adopted Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) 157, Fair Value Measurements (SFAS 157) which defines fair value, establishes a framework for using fair value to measure assets and liabilities, and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. SFAS 157 applies whenever other statements require or permit assets or liabilities to be measured at fair value. SFAS 157 is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007, and interim periods within those fiscal years, with early adoption of SFAS 157 permitted, except for the impact of FASB Staff Position (FSP) 157-2. FSP 157-2 deferred the adoption of SFAS 157 for nonfinancial assets and liabilities until fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2008.

SFAS 157 includes a fair value hierarchy that is intended to increase the consistency and comparability in fair value measurements and related disclosures. The fair value hierarchy is based on inputs to valuation techniques that are used to measure fair value that are either observable or unobservable. Observable inputs reflect assumptions market participants would use in pricing an asset or liability based on market data obtained from independent sources while unobservable inputs reflect a reporting entity’s pricing an asset or liability based upon their own market assumptions. The fair value hierarchy consists of the following three levels:

Level 1—instrument valuations are obtained from real-time quotes for transactions in active exchange markets involving identical assets.

Level 2—instrument valuations are obtained from readily-available pricing sources for comparable instruments.

Level 3—instrument valuations are obtained without observable market values and require a high-level of judgment to determine the fair value.

At January 3, 2009, the Company had $5.3 million in cash and cash equivalents. Of this amount, approximately $4.1 million were in money market funds whose fair market value was obtained from real-time quotes for transactions in active markets involving identical assets. At January 3, 2009, the Company had $6.0 million outstanding against the bank line of credit . The book value of this bank line of credit approximates fair value due to its floating rate nature. The Company did not have any Level 2 or Level 3 assets or liabilities at January 3, 2009.

 

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IRIDEX Corporation

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

In January 2008, the Company adopted provisions of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) 159, Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities, and have elected not to measure any of our current eligible financial assets or liabilities at fair value. SFAS 159 was issued to allow entities to voluntarily choose to measure certain financial assets and liabilities at fair value (fair value option). The fair value option may be elected on an instrument-by-instrument basis and is irrevocable, unless a new election date occurs. If the fair value option is elected for an instrument, SFAS 159 specifies that unrealized gains and losses for that instrument shall be reported in earnings at each subsequent reporting date. SFAS 159 is effective January 1, 2008. We did not elect the fair value option for our financial assets and liabilities existing on January 1, 2008, and did not elect the fair value option for any financial assets or liabilities transacted during the twelve months ended January 3, 2009.

Sales Returns Allowance and Allowance for Doubtful Accounts.

The Company estimates future product returns related to current period product revenue. We analyze historical returns, and changes in customer demand and acceptance of our products when evaluating the adequacy of the sales returns allowance. Significant management judgment and estimates must be made and used in connection with establishing the sales returns allowance in any accounting period. Material differences may result in the amount and timing of our revenue for any period if management made different judgments or utilized different estimates. Our provision for sales returns is recorded net of the associated costs. Our provision for sales returns was $138 thousand and $87 thousand as of January 3, 2009 and December 29, 2007, respectively.

Similarly management must make estimates regarding the uncollectability of accounts receivable. We are exposed to credit risk in the event of non-payment by customers to the extent of amounts recorded on the balance sheet. As of January 3, 2009, we had accounts receivable totaling $8.2 million, net of an allowance for doubtful accounts of $0.9 million. As of December 29, 2007, we had accounts receivable totaling $8.9 million, net of an allowance for doubtful accounts of $0.7 million. As sales levels change the level of accounts receivable would likely also change. In addition, in the event that customers were to delay their payments to us, the levels of accounts receivable would likely increase. We maintain allowances for doubtful accounts for estimated losses resulting from the inability of our customers to make required payments. The allowance for doubtful accounts is based on past payment history with the customer, analysis of the customer’s current financial condition, the aging of the accounts receivable balance, customer concentration and other known factors.

Inventories.

Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market and include on-hand inventory physically held at the Company’s facility, sales demo inventory and service loaner inventory. Cost is determined on a standard cost basis which approximates actual cost on a first-in, first-out (FIFO) method. Lower of cost or market is evaluated by considering obsolescence, excessive levels of inventory, deterioration and other factors. Adjustments to reduce the cost of inventory to its net realizable value, if required, are made for estimated excess, obsolescence or impaired inventory and are charged to cost of revenues. Factors influencing these adjustments include changes in demand, product life cycle and development plans, component cost trends, product pricing, physical deterioration and quality issues. Revisions to these adjustments would be required if these factors differ from our estimates.

As part of our normal business, we generally utilize various finished goods inventory as either sales demos to facilitate the sale of our products to prospective customers, or as loaners that we allow our existing customers to use while we repair their products. The Company is amortizing these demos and loaners over four years. The amortization of the demos is charged to sales expense while the amortization on the loaners is charged to cost of

 

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IRIDEX Corporation

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

revenues. The gross value was $3.1 million and $3.0 million and the accumulated amortization was $2.1 million and $1.3 million as of January 3, 2009 and December 29, 2007, respectively.

Property and Equipment.

Property and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and amortization. Depreciation and amortization are provided on a straight—line basis over the estimated useful lives of the assets, which is generally three years. Our net property and equipment was $0.8 million at the end of fiscal 2008 and $1.6 million at the end of fiscal 2007. We invested $0.2 million in property and equipment in 2008 compared to $0.8 million in 2007. Capital expenditures in fiscal 2008 have been primarily for software and computer equipment and in fiscal 2007, primarily for engineering, manufacturing and office equipment.

Valuation of Goodwill and Intangible Assets.

The purchase method of accounting for acquisitions requires estimates and assumptions to allocate the purchase price to the fair value of net tangible and intangible assets acquired. The amounts allocated to, and the useful lives estimated for, intangible assets, affect future amortization. There are a number of generally accepted valuation methods used to estimate fair value of intangible assets, and we use primarily a discounted cash flow method, which requires significant management judgment to forecast the future operating results and to estimate the discount factors used in the analysis. Purchased intangible assets were initially recorded in the first quarter of 2007 in conjunction with the acquisition of the aesthetics business of Laserscope—See Note 3. We review our intangible assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that their carrying value may not be recoverable. An asset is considered impaired if its carrying amount exceeds the future non-discounted net cash flow the asset is expected to generate. If an asset is considered to be impaired, the impairment to be recognized is measured by the amount by which the carrying amount of the asset exceeds its fair value. In the fourth quarter of 2008 the Company determined that based on estimated future cash flows the carrying amount of specific intangible assets exceeded their fair value; accordingly an impairment loss was recognized—See Note 7. Similarly in the fourth quarter of 2007 an impairment loss to intangible assets was recognized.

Goodwill and intangible assets determined to have indefinite lives are not amortized, but are subject to an annual impairment test. To determine any goodwill impairment, a two-step process is performed on an annual basis, or more frequently if necessary, to determine 1) whether the fair value of the relevant reporting unit exceeds carrying value and 2) to measure the amount of an impairment loss, if any. Goodwill was initially recorded in the first quarter of 2007 in conjunction with the acquisition of the aesthetics business of Laserscope—See Note 3. In the fourth quarter of 2008 the Company performed an annual impairment test. We identified the Laserscope Aesthetics reporting unit as the appropriate reporting unit for this analysis. Reporting units are operating segments or components of operating segments for which discrete financial information is available. The conclusion was that the carrying value of the reporting unit exceeded the fair value. As a result management performed the second step and determined the fair value of the assets and liabilities of the reporting unit to measure the amount of impairment loss. By establishing the fair value of the reporting unit and the fair value of assets and liabilities within the reporting unit, the Company determined the amount of impairment to goodwill—See Note 6. Similarly in the fourth quarter of 2007 an impairment loss to goodwill had been recognized.

Future changes in events or circumstances, such as an inability to achieve the cash flows determined above, may indicate that the recorded value of the intangible assets will not be recovered through future cash flows and the Company may be required to record an additional impairment charge for the intangible assets and or further modify the period of expected lives for the intangible assets.

 

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IRIDEX Corporation

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

Revenue Recognition.

Our revenues arise from the sale of laser consoles, delivery devices, consumables and service and support activities. Revenue from product sales is recognized upon receipt of a purchase order and product shipment provided that no significant obligations remain and collection of the receivables is reasonably assured. Shipments are generally made with Free-On-Board (FOB) shipping point terms, whereby title passes upon shipment from our dock. Any shipments with FOB receiving point terms are recorded as revenue when the shipment arrives at the receiving point. Cost is recognized as product sales revenue is recognized. The Company’s sales may include post-sales obligations for training or other deliverables. When these obligations are fulfilled after product shipment, the Company recognizes revenue in accordance with the multiple element accounting guidance set forth in Emerging Issues Task Force No. 00-21, “Revenue Arrangements with Multiple Deliverables.” When the Company has objective and reliable evidence of fair value of the undelivered elements, it defers revenue attributable to the post-sale obligations and recognizes such revenue when the obligation is fulfilled. Otherwise, the Company defers all revenue related to the transaction until all elements are delivered. Revenue relating to service contracts is recognized on a straight line basis over the period of the applicable service contract. We recognize repair service revenue upon completion of the work.

In international regions outside of France, we utilize distributors to market and sell our products. We recognize revenue upon shipment for sales to these independent, third party distributors as we have no continuing obligations subsequent to shipment. Generally our distributors are responsible for all marketing, sales, installation, training and warranty labor coverage for our products. Our standard terms and conditions do not provide price protection or stock retention rights to any of our distributors.

Deferred Revenue.

Revenue related to service contracts is deferred and recognized on a straight line basis over the period of the applicable service period. Costs associated with these service arrangements are recognized as incurred. A reconciliation of the changes in the Company’s deferred revenue balances for the years ended January 3, 2009 and December 29, 2007 is provided as follows (in thousands):

 

Balance, December 30, 2006

   $ 1,415  

Additions to deferral through acquisition

     1,711  

Additions to deferral

     7,919  

Revenue recognized

     (7,695 )
        

Balance, December 29, 2007

   $ 3,350  

Additions to deferral

     6,679  

Revenue recognized

     (7,288 )
        

Balance, January 3, 2009

   $ 2,741  
        

 

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IRIDEX Corporation

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

Warranty.

The Company accrues for estimated warranty costs upon shipment of products. Actual warranty costs incurred have not materially differed from those accrued. The Company’s warranty policy is applicable to products which are considered defective in their performance or fail to meet the product specifications. Warranty costs are reflected in the statement of operations as a cost of revenues. A reconciliation of the changes in the Company’s warranty liability for the years ended January 3, 2009 and December 29, 2007 is provided as follows (in thousands):

 

Balance, December 30, 2006

   $ 866  

Warranty accrual acquired through acquisition

     1,771  

Reduction to warranty accrual during the year

     (224 )

Settlements made in kind during the year

     (518 )
        

Balance, December 29, 2007

   $ 1,895  

Warranty accrual

     224  

Reduction to warranty accrual during the year

     (770 )

Settlements made in kind during the year

     (4 )
        

Balance, January 3, 2009

   $ 1,345  
        

Shipping and handling costs.

Our shipping and handling costs billed to customers are included in revenues and the associated expense is recorded in cost of revenues for all periods presented. Shipping and handling costs amounted to $0.4 million, $0.3 million and $0.3 million for the years ended January 3, 2009, December 29, 2007 and December 30, 2006, respectively.

Research and Development.

Research and development expenditures are charged to operations as incurred.

Advertising.

Advertising and promotion costs are expensed as they are incurred; such costs were approximately $322,000 in 2008, $479,000 in 2007, and $424,000 in 2006 and are included in sales, general and administrative expenses in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations.

Income Taxes.

We account for income taxes in accordance with SFAS No. 109, “Accounting for Income Taxes” (SFAS No. 109). Under SFAS No. 109, the liability method is used in accounting for income taxes. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined based on the differences between financial reporting and the tax basis of assets and liabilities, and are measured using the enacted tax rates and laws that will be in effect when the differences are expected to reverse. SFAS No. 109 also requires that deferred tax assets be reduced by a valuation allowance if it is more likely than not that some or all of the deferred tax asset will not be realized. We evaluate annually the amount of our deferred tax assets that are realizable by assessing our valuation allowance and by adjusting the amount of such allowance, if necessary. The factors used to assess the likelihood of realization include our forecast of future taxable income and available tax planning strategies that could be implemented to realize the net deferred tax assets. At January 3, 2009, we recorded a full valuation allowance for our deferred tax

 

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IRIDEX Corporation

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

assets based on our past losses and uncertainty regarding our ability to project future taxable income. In future periods if we are able to generate income we may reduce or eliminate the valuation allowance.

Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes.

Effective December 31, 2006, the Company adopted Financial Accounting Standards Interpretation, or FIN, No. 48, “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes—an interpretation of FASB Statement No. 109.” FIN No. 48 prescribes a recognition threshold and measurement attribute for the financial statement recognition and measurement of uncertain tax positions taken or expected to be taken in a company’s income tax return. It also provides guidance on derecognition, classification, interest and penalties, accounting in interim periods, disclosure, and transition issues. FIN No. 48 utilizes a two-step approach for evaluating uncertain tax positions accounted for in accordance with SFAS No. 109. Step one, recognition, requires a company to determine if the weight of available evidence indicates that a tax position is more likely than not to be sustained upon audit, including resolution of related appeals or litigation processes, if any. Step two, measurement, is based on the largest amount of benefit, which is more likely than not to be realized on ultimate settlement.

Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation.

On January 1, 2006 we adopted Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 123 (revised 2004), “Share-Based Payment” (SFAS 123(R)), which requires the measurement and recognition of compensation expense for all share-based awards made to employees and directors, including employee non-qualified and incentive stock options, restricted stock units and employee purchase rights under our Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP Shares) based on estimated fair values. SFAS 123(R) supersedes previous accounting under Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 25, “Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees” (APB 25) for periods beginning in fiscal year 2006. In March 2005, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) issued Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 107 (SAB 107) providing supplemental implementation guidance for SFAS 123(R). We have applied the provisions of SAB 107 in our adoption of SFAS 123(R).

SFAS 123(R) requires companies to estimate the fair value of share-based awards on the date of grant using an option pricing model. The value of the portion of the award that is ultimately expected to vest is recognized as expense over the requisite service periods in our consolidated statements of income. Our consolidated financial statements, as of and for the years ended January 3, 2009, December 29, 2007 and December 30, 2006, reflect the impact of SFAS 123(R).

Stock-based compensation expense recognized in the years ended January 3, 2009, December 29, 2007 and December 30, 2006, included stock-based compensation expense for share-based awards granted subsequent to January 1, 2006, based on the fair value on the grant date estimated in accordance with the provisions of SFAS 123(R). In conjunction with the adoption of SFAS 123(R), we changed our method of attributing the value of stock-based compensation expense from the accelerated multiple-option method (for the purposes of non-GAAP information under SFAS 123) to the straight-line single option method. Stock-based compensation expense for all share-based awards granted prior to January 1, 2006 will continue to be recognized using the accelerated multiple-option approach, while stock-based compensation expense for all share-based awards granted subsequent to December 30, 2005 will be recognized using the straight-line single option method. SFAS 123(R) requires that we recognize expense for awards ultimately expected to vest; therefore we are required to develop an estimate of the number of awards expected to cancel prior to vesting (forfeiture rate). The forfeiture rate is estimated based on historical pre-vest cancellation experience and is applied to all share-based awards. SFAS 123(R) requires the forfeiture rate to be estimated at the time of grant and revised, if necessary, in subsequent

 

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IRIDEX Corporation

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

periods if actual forfeitures differ from those estimates. Prior to fiscal year 2006, we accounted for forfeitures as they actually occurred.

Upon adoption of SFAS 123(R), we selected the Black-Scholes option pricing model as the most appropriate method for determining the estimated fair value for stock options and ESPP Shares. The Black-Scholes model requires the use of highly subjective and complex assumptions which determine the fair value of share-based awards, including the option’s expected term and the price volatility of the underlying stock. For restricted stock or restricted stock units, stock-based compensation expense is calculated based on the fair market value of our stock on the date of grant.

Concentration of Credit Risk and Other Risks and Uncertainties.

The Company’s cash and cash equivalents are deposited in demand and money market accounts of three financial institutions. Deposits held with banks may exceed the amount of insurance provided on such deposits. Generally these deposits may be redeemed upon demand and therefore, bear minimal risk.

The Company markets its products to distributors and end-users throughout the world. Sales to international distributors are generally made on open credit terms and letters of credit. Management performs ongoing credit evaluations of our customers and maintains an allowance for potential credit losses. Historically, the Company has not experienced any significant losses related to individual customers or a group of customers in any particular geographic area. For the years ended January 3, 2009, December 29, 2007 and December 30, 2006 no single customer accounted for greater than 10% of total sales. One customer accounted for 13.7% of our accounts receivables as of December 29, 2007, net balance. No single customer accounted for more than 10% of our accounts receivable, net balance, as of January 3, 2009 and December 30, 2006.

The Company’s products require approvals from the Food and Drug Administration and international regulatory agencies prior to commercialized sales. The Company’s future products may not receive required approvals. If the Company were denied such approvals, or if such approvals were delayed, it would have a materially adverse impact on the Company’s business, results of operations and financial condition.

Reliance on Certain Suppliers.

Certain components and services used by the Company to manufacture and develop its products are presently available from only one or a limited number of suppliers or vendors. The loss of any of these suppliers or vendors would potentially require a significant level of hardware and/or software development efforts to incorporate the products or services into the Company’s products.

Net loss per Share.

Basic and diluted net loss per share are computed by dividing net loss for the year by the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding during the period. The calculation of diluted net loss per share excludes potential common stock if their effect is anti-dilutive. Potential common stock consists of incremental common shares issuable upon the exercise of stock options and the conversion of preferred stock. See Note 15.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements.

In December 2007, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) No 141(R) (revised 2007), Business Combinations (SFAS 141R), which replaces

 

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IRIDEX Corporation

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

SFAS 141. SFAS 141R establishes principles and requirements for how an acquirer recognizes and measures in its financial statements the identifiable assets acquired, the liabilities assumed and the goodwill acquired. SFAS 141R also establishes disclosure requirements that will enable users to update evaluate the nature and financial effects of the business combination. SFAS 141R is effective as of the beginning of an entity’s fiscal year that begins after December 15, 2008 and will be adopted by the Company in the first quarter of fiscal year 2009. While the Company expects that SFAS 141R will have an impact on accounting for business combinations once adopted, the effect is dependent upon acquisitions at that time.

In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS 160, Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements, an amendment of ARB No. 51 (SFAS 160). The standard changes the accounting for noncontrolling (minority) interests in consolidated financial statements including the requirements to classify noncontrolling interests as a component of consolidated stockholders’ equity, and the elimination of “minority interest” accounting in results of operations with earnings attributable to noncontrolling interests reported as part of consolidated earnings. Additionally, SFAS 160 revises the accounting for both increases and decreases in a parent’s controlling ownership interest. SFAS 160 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008, with early adoption prohibited. The Company believes it is unlikely that the adoption of SFAS 160 will have an impact on the consolidated financial statements because the Company does not hold a noncontrolling (minority) interest in another entity.

In March 2008, the FASB issued SFAS 161, Disclosures about Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities, an amendment of FASB Statement No. 133 (SFAS 161). SFAS 161 requires enhanced disclosures about an entity’s derivative and hedging activities. These enhanced disclosures will discuss (a) how and why an entity uses derivative instruments, (b) how derivative instruments and related hedged items are accounted for under Statement 133 and its related interpretations, and (c) how derivative instruments and related hedged items affect an entity’s financial position, financial performance, and cash flows. SFAS 161 is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years and interim periods beginning after November 15, 2008. Currently, the Company does not engage in derivative and hedging activities.

In April 2008, FASB Staff Position SFAS 142-3, Determination of the Useful Life of Intangible Assets, (FSP 142-3) was issued. FSP 142-3 amends the factors that should be considered in developing renewal or extension assumptions used to determine the useful life of a recognized intangible asset under SFAS 142, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets, (SFAS 142). FSP 142-3 is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008, and interim periods within those fiscal years. Early adoption is prohibited. The guidance for determining the useful life of a recognized intangible asset in paragraphs 7–11 of this FSP shall be applied prospectively to intangible assets acquired after the effective date. The disclosure requirements in paragraphs 13–15 shall be applied prospectively to all intangible assets recognized as of, and subsequent to, the effective date. FSP 142-3 will be adopted by the Company in the first quarter of fiscal year 2009. The Company does not expect the adoption of FSP 142-3 will have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.

In April 2008, the FASB issued Emerging Issues Task Force (EITF) EITF 07-05, Determining Whether an Instrument (or Embedded Feature) Is Indexed to an Entity’s Own Stock, (EITF 07-05). EITF 07-05 provides guidance on determining what types of instruments or embedded features in an instrument held by a reporting entity can be considered indexed to its own stock for the purpose of evaluating the first criteria of the scope exception in paragraph 11(a) of FAS 133. EITF 07-05 is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008, and early application is not permitted. Management is evaluating what effect EITF 07-05 will have on the Company’s financial position and operating results.

 

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IRIDEX Corporation

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

In May 2008, the FASB issued SFAS No. 162, “The Hierarchy of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles” (SFAS No. 162). SFAS No. 162 is intended to improve financial reporting by identifying a consistent framework, or hierarchy, for selecting accounting principles to be used in preparing financial statements that are presented in conformity with GAAP for nongovernmental entities. SFAS No. 162 is effective 60 days following the SEC’s approval of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board amendments to AU Section 411, “The Meaning of Present Fairly in Conformity with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles.” The Company does not expect the adoption of SFAS No. 162 will have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements.

3. Business Combination

On January 16, 2007, the Company completed the acquisition of the aesthetics business of American Medical Systems, Inc. (AMS) and Laserscope, a wholly owned subsidiary of AMS, pursuant to the terms of the Asset Purchase Agreement dated November 30, 2006 between AMS, Laserscope, and IRIDEX Corporation. These financial statements include the results of operations for the acquired business from the acquisition date.

The Company purchased the aesthetics business of Laserscope from AMS due to its complementary fit with the existing IRIDEX laser business. Under the terms of the Asset Purchase Agreement, the Company purchased the aesthetics business for the following consideration:

 

(in thousands)       

Cash paid on closing

   $ 26,000  

Issuance of common stock

     2,014  

Post closing adjustment to purchase price

     (2,766 )

Acquisition costs

     3,366  
        

Total purchase price

   $ 28,614  
        

Issuance of common stock included 213,435 shares of common stock valued at $9.43 per share.

Acquisition costs include investment banking, legal and accounting fees, and other external costs directly related to the acquisition.

The allocation of the purchase price to tangible and identifiable intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed was based on their fair values at the date of acquisition as determined by management. The excess of the purchase price over the tangible and identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed was allocated to goodwill. The purchase price has been allocated as follows:

 

(in thousands)       

Accounts Receivable

   $ 5,174  

Finished Goods Inventory

     2,809  

Other current assets

     395  

Property and equipment

     681  

Intangible assets

     16,447  

Deferred Revenue

     (1,711 )

Accrued Warranty

     (1,771 )

Accrued Liabilities

     (3,557 )
        

Fair value of net assets acquired

     18,467  

Goodwill

     10,147  
        

Total purchase price

   $ 28,614  
        

 

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IRIDEX Corporation

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

In addition, the Asset Purchase Agreement signed with AMS called for a post-close adjustment mechanism which in effect allows for an adjustment to the final purchase price based upon the parties’ agreement to the final closing balance sheet and several other items. On August 14, 2007, the Company, AMS and Laserscope (collectively the Parties), entered into a Settlement Agreement (the “Settlement Agreement”) to document their full and final agreement as to the amount of the adjustment. The Settlement Agreement provided that the Company would make an additional payment to AMS of approximately $1.2 million, which was the sole and final adjustment to the purchase price—See Note 10.

Through this acquisition, the Company planned to increase its sales into the aesthetics laser market and augment its core ophthalmic business with enhanced revenue and marketing opportunities. These factors primarily contributed to a purchase price which resulted in the recording of goodwill. Goodwill of $10.1 million represents the excess of the purchase price over the fair value of the net tangible and intangible assets acquired. We anticipated recognizing a growth in revenues and a reduction in cost of revenues as we integrated the Laserscope aesthetics operations. A review of the Company’s 2008 performance in the fourth quarter, the completion of the 2009 operating plan, and the annual impairment analysis has subsequently resulted in a write-down of both goodwill and intangible assets—See Notes 6 and 7. Goodwill and intangible assets were also written down in 2007 as a result of a similar process and conclusion.

4. Inventories

The components of the Company’s inventories are as follows (in thousands):

 

      January 3,
2009
   December 29,
2007

Raw materials and work in process

   $ 7,753    $ 9,450

Finished goods

     3,891      6,517
             

Total inventories

   $ 11,644    $ 15,967
             

5. Property and Equipment

The components of the Company’s property and equipment are as follows (in thousands):

 

     January 3,
2009
    December 29,
2007
 

Equipment

   $ 6,526     $ 6,818  

Leasehold improvements

     2,236       2,230  

Less: accumulated depreciation and amortization

     (7,930 )     (7,427 )
                

Property and equipment, net

   $ 832     $ 1,621  
                

Depreciation expense related to property and equipment was $876,000, $926,000, and $542,000 for the years ended January 3, 2009, December 29, 2007, and December 30, 2006.

 

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6. Goodwill

The carrying value of goodwill totaled $0.0 million and $3.2 million at January 3, 2009 and December 29, 2007 respectively. Changes in goodwill for the year ended January 3, 2009 is presented in the following table (in thousands):

 

     January 3,
2009
    December 29,
2007
 

Balance, beginning of period

   $ 3,239     $ —    

Goodwill as a result of acquisition

     —         10,147  

Impairment of goodwill

     (3,239 )     (6,908 )
                

Balance, end of period

   $ —       $ 3,239  
                

As described in Note 3, the Laserscope Aesthetics reporting unit was tested for impairment in the fourth quarter of 2008. The fair value of the reporting unit was calculated using a combination of three methods: Income Approach—discounted cash flow method; Market Approach—guideline public company method; and Cost Approach. As a result of the contraction in the global aesthetics market, operating profits and cash flows for 2008 were lower than expected and the outlook has been revised downwards. Consequently the Company determined that the carrying value of the reporting unit exceeded the fair value by $3.2 million; accordingly an impairment loss of that amount was recognized and is included within the statement of operations as impairment of goodwill and intangible assets.

7. Intangible Assets

The components of the Company’s purchased intangible assets as of January 3, 2009 are as follows (in thousands):

 

    Useful
Lives
  Annual
Amortization
  Gross
Carrying
Value
  Accumulated
Amortization
  Impairment
Charge
  Gross
Carrying
Value after
Impairment
  Net
Carrying
Value
  Useful Lives
Remaining after
Impairment

Gemini Handset—Core Technology

  4 Years   $ 177   $ 993   $ 462   $ 531   $ 462   $ —     —  

Gemini—Current Technology

  1 Year     1,652     2,874     2,874     —       2,874     —     —  

Other Products—Current Technology

  —       —       325     325     —       325     —     —  

Accessories—Current Technology

  —       —       15     15     —       15     —     —  

Services—Contractual Customer Relationships

  9 Years     324     3,425     831     1,293     2,132     1,301   8 Years

Contractual Distribution Agreement

  —       —       352     352     —       352     —     —  

Trade Name

  4 Years     135     681     278     301     380     102   1 Years

Other (non-Laserscope related)

  2 Years     57     171     100     —       171     71   2 Years
                                       
    $ 2,345   $ 8,836   $ 5,237   $ 2,125   $ 6,711   $ 1,474  
                                       

 

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IRIDEX Corporation

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

The components of the Company’s purchased intangible assets as of December 29, 2007 are as follows (in thousands):

 

    Useful
Lives
  Annual
Amortization
  Gross
Carrying
Value
  Accumulated
Amortization
  Impairment
Charge
  Gross
Carrying
Value after
Impairment
  Net
Carrying
Value
  Useful Lives
Remaining after
Impairment

Gemini Handset—Core Technology

  10 Years   $ 299   $ 2,995   $ 285   $ 2,002   $ 993   $ 708   4 Years

Gemini—Current Technology

  4 Years     1,282     5,129     1,222     2,255     2,874     1,652   1 Year

Other Products—Current Technology

  1 Year     341     341     325     16     325     —     —  

Accessories—Current Technology

  4 Years     15     62     15     47     15     —     —  

Services—Contractual Customer Relationships

  10 Years     532     5,318     507     1,893     3,425     2,918   9 Years

Contractual Distribution Agreement

  5 Years     370     1,848     352     1,496     352     —     —  

Trade Name

  5 Years     151     754     143     73     681     538   4 Years

Other (non-Laserscope related)

  3 Years     57     171     43     —       171     128   2 Years
                                       
    $ 3,047   $ 16,618   $ 2,892   $ 7,782   $ 8,836   $ 5,944  
                                       

In fiscal year 2008, as a result of the continued contraction in the global aesthetics market encountered by the Laserscope Aesthetics reporting unit, operating profits and cash flows for 2008 were lower than expected. Based on this trend, the cash flow forecasts anticipated to be generated by the specific intangible assets acquired were revised downwards in the fourth quarter of 2008. In addition, based on market trends for the aesthetics market, the Company determined that a reduction in the useful lives of certain specific assets were required. Consequently the Company determined that the carrying amount of these intangible assets as calculated on an asset by asset basis exceeded their fair value by $2.1 million; accordingly, an impairment loss of that amount was recognized and is included within the statement of operations as impairment of goodwill and intangible assets.

In fiscal year 2007, as a result of the contraction in the global aesthetics market encountered by the Laserscope Aesthetics reporting unit, operating profits and cash flows for 2007 were lower than expected. Based on this trend, the cash flow forecasts anticipated to be generated by the specific intangible assets acquired were revised downwards in the fourth quarter of 2007. In addition, based on market trends for the aesthetics market, the Company determined that a reduction in the useful lives of certain specific assets were required. Consequently the Company determined that the carrying amount of these intangible assets as calculated on an asset by asset basis exceeded their fair value by $7.8 million; accordingly, an impairment loss of that amount was recognized and is included within the statement of operations as impairment of goodwill and intangible assets.

Amortization for the technology related intangible assets is being recorded in cost of revenues and amortization for marketing related intangible assets is being recorded in selling, general and administrative expense.

 

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IRIDEX Corporation

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

Estimated future amortization expense for purchased intangible assets is as follows:

 

(in thousands)     

2009

   $ 319

2010

     177

2011

     163

2012

     163

2013

     163

Thereafter

     489
      

Total

   $ 1,474
      

8. Accrued Expenses

The components of the Company’s accrued expenses are as follows (in thousands):

 

      January 3,
2009
   December 29,
2007

Income taxes payable

   $ 166    $ 203

Sales and use tax payable

     73      213

AMS settlement

     —        4,767

Distributor commission

     225      —  

Other accrued expenses

     1,785      2,626
             

Total accrued expenses

   $ 2,249    $ 7,809
             

9. Bank Borrowings

In January 2007, the Company entered into a credit agreement with Mid-Peninsula Bank, part of Greater Bay Bank N.A. (the “Prior Lenders”) that provided for an asset-based revolving line of credit up to $6 million and a $6 million term loan. The Company’s obligations under all loans were secured by a lien on substantially all of the Company’s assets.

In March 2008, the Company terminated the credit agreement with the Prior Lenders, repaying all outstanding balances, and entered into (i) a Borrowing Agreement and (ii) an Export-Import Bank Loan and Security Agreement with Wells Fargo Bank (together referred to as the “Agreement”). The Agreement provides for an asset-based revolving line of credit of up to $8 million (the “New Revolving Loans”). Of the New Revolving Loans, up to $5 million of the principal amount (the “New Exim Sublimit”) will be guaranteed by Exim Bank. The Company’s obligations under the New Revolving Loans (including the New Exim Sublimit) are secured by a lien on substantially all of the Company’s assets. Interest on the New Revolving Loans (including the New Exim Sublimit) is set at the prime rate as published in the Wall Street Journal, plus 0.75%, subject to adjustment under certain circumstances, including adjustments to the prime rate, late payment or the occurrence of an event of default. All outstanding amounts under the New Revolving Loans are payable in full on March 27, 2011. If at any time the amount outstanding under the New Revolving Loans exceeds the Borrowing Base as defined in the Agreement, the Company will be required to pay the difference between the outstanding amount and the Borrowing Base. The Company may prepay New Revolving Loans without penalty. These facilities contain certain financial and other covenants, including the requirement for the Company to maintain a certain level of net income (loss) and to be able to sufficiently cover its debt service needs. Other covenants include, but are not limited to, restricting the Company’s ability to incur indebtedness, incur liens, enter into mergers or consolidations, dispose of assets, make investments, pay dividends, enter into transactions with affiliates, or

 

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IRIDEX Corporation

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

prepay certain indebtedness. In the event of noncompliance by the Company with the covenants under this Agreement, Wells Fargo Bank and Export-Import Bank, would be entitled to exercise their remedies, which include declaring all obligations immediately due and payable and disposing of the collateral if obligations are not paid.

In August 2008, the Company was not in compliance with certain covenants contained in the Agreement relating to the Company’s ability to sufficiently cover its debt service needs; however, the Company obtained a waiver from Wells Fargo Bank and was in compliance with all of the covenants in the Agreement during September 2008. As of January 3, 2009, the Company was in compliance with the loan covenants contained in the amended Agreement.

On November 3, 2008, the Company and Wells Fargo Bank agreed to amend certain sections of the Agreement dealing with interest rates and interest related matters on advances against the line of credit such that the interest is set at the greater of 5% or prime as published in the Wall Street Journal, plus 2% on Floating Rate Advances per annum and 3.5% on LIBOR Advances. The margin is reduced by 0.25% per annum on a one-time basis if the Company’s Earnings Before Taxes, Depreciation, and Amortization for any fiscal year ending on or after December 31, 2008 is greater than $1,500,000.

As of January 3, 2009, the Company was in compliance with the loan covenants in the Agreement and the total amount outstanding under the New Revolving Loans was $6 million. As of January 3, 2009, there was eligible collateral to support approximately an additional $1,548,000 in borrowings.

10. Commitments and Contingencies

Lease Agreements.

The Company leases its operating facilities under a noncancelable operating lease. In September 2003, the Company entered into a lease amendment for our facility in Mountain View, California. The original lease term of this facility, which ended in February 2004, was amended and extended until February 2009. On December 22, 2008, the lease was amended and renewed to lease for an additional six year period beginning March 1, 2009 until February 28, 2015. The Company also leases office space in Cwmbran, South Wales and in Lisses, France through April 2010 and September 2009, respectively. Rent expense totaled $564,000 for the fiscal year ended January 3, 2009, $608,000 for the fiscal year ended December 29, 2007, and $403,000 for the fiscal year ended December 30, 2006.

Future minimum lease payments under current operating leases at January 3, 2009 are summarized as follows (in thousands):

 

Fiscal Year

   Operating Lease Payments

2009

   $ 643

2010

     675

2011

     676

2012

     689

2013

     710

Beyond

     899
      

Total future minimum lease payments

   $ 4,292
      

 

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IRIDEX Corporation

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

License Agreements.

The Company is obligated to pay royalties equivalent to 5% and 7.5% of sales on certain products under certain license agreements. Royalty expense was approximately $231,000, $162,000, and $93,000 for the years ended January 3, 2009, December 29, 2007, and December 30, 2006, respectively.

AMS Settlement.

On August 14, 2007, the Company, AMS and Laserscope (collectively the Parties), entered into a Settlement Agreement (the Settlement Agreement). The Parties entered into the Settlement Agreement to document their full and final agreement as to the amount of the adjustment contemplated by Section 1.5 of the Asset Purchase Agreement, by and among AMS, Laserscope and the Company, dated November 30, 2006 (the Purchase Agreement); to amend the Product Supply Agreement, between Laserscope and the Company, dated January 16, 2007 (the Product Supply Agreement); and to set forth the Parties’ mutual understanding as to certain other matters.

As of December 27, 2007, $4.8 million in obligations to AMS, not including interest, was outstanding and included in accrued liabilities, and there were $1.3 million of non-cancelable purchase orders outstanding with AMS for inventory to be delivered and paid for in 2008. As of January 3, 2009 all amounts due to AMS had been paid in full and there were no remaining non-cancelable purchase orders.

During the third quarter of 2008 the Company determined that there was a probable underpayment of withholding tax concerning its overseas subsidiaries relating to periods prior to the Company’s acquisition of these subsidiaries. Subsequently, the Company has resolved this matter with no charge to net income and the asset in prepaids and other current assets and the corresponding amount recorded in accrued expenses have been removed.

Indemnification Arrangements.

The Company enters into standard indemnification arrangements in our ordinary course of business. Pursuant to these arrangements, the Company indemnifies, holds harmless, and agrees to reimburse the indemnified parties for losses suffered or incurred by the indemnified party, generally our business partners or customers, in connection with any trade secret, copyright, patent or other intellectual property infringement claim by any third party with respect to our products. The term of these indemnification agreements is generally perpetual anytime after the execution of the agreement. The maximum potential amount of future payments the Company could be required to make under these agreements is not determinable. The Company has never incurred costs to defend lawsuits or settle claims related to these indemnification agreements. As a result, the Company believes the estimated fair value of these agreements is minimal.

The Company has entered into indemnification agreements with its directors and officers that may require the Company: to indemnify its directors and officers against liabilities that may arise by reason of their status or service as directors or officers, other than liabilities arising from willful misconduct of a culpable nature; to advance their expenses incurred as a result of any proceeding against them as to which they could be indemnified; and to make good faith determination whether or not it is practicable for the Company to obtain directors and officers insurance. The Company currently has directors and officers’ liability insurance.

In general, management believes that claims which are pending or known to be threatened, will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position or results of operations and are adequately covered by the Company’s liability insurance. However, it is possible that cash flows or results of operations could be

 

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IRIDEX Corporation

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

materially affected in any particular period by the unfavorable resolution of one of more of these contingencies or because of the diversion of management’s attention and the incurrence of significant expenses.

11. Stockholders’ Equity

Convertible Preferred Stock

The Company is authorized to issue up to 2,000,000 shares of undesignated preferred stock from time to time in one or more series. During August 2007, the Company filed a Certificate of Designation authorizing the Company to issue up to 500,000 of the 2,000,000 shares of authorized undesignated preferred stock as shares of Series A Preferred Stock, par value $0.01 per share.

In August 2007, the Company issued 500,000 shares of Series A Preferred Stock, convertible into 1 million shares of Common Stock, and warrants to purchase an aggregate of 600,000 shares Common Stock at an exercise price of $0.01 per share. The warrants were to expire December 31, 2007 but were exercised prior to that date. The purchase price for a unit of 1 share of Series A Preferred Stock and a warrant to purchase 1.2 shares of Common Stock was $10.00, resulting in net proceeds to the Company of approximately $4.9 million. Of the total $4.9 million proceeds received, approximately $2.3 million has been allocated to the common stock warrants based on their estimated fair value at the time of issuance.

In the event that the Common Stock of the Company trades on a trading market at or above a closing price equal to $5.00 per share (as adjusted for capital reorganizations, stock splits, reclassifications, etc.) for a period of 30 consecutive trading days, the shares of Series A Preferred Stock shall automatically convert to common stock.

Holders of Series A preferred stock have preferential rights to noncumulative dividends when and if declared by the Board of Directors. In the event of liquidation, the holders have preferential rights to liquidation payments in the amount of the original purchase price plus declared and unpaid dividends, if any. At January 3, 2009, the aggregate liquidation preference was $5,000,000.

In addition, holders of Series A preferred stock have certain registration rights including the requirement that the Company file a Form S-3 registration statement within 90 days of becoming eligible to file a Form S-3 registration statement and the right to request that the Company file a Form S-1 registration statement any time after February 29, 2008. Subsequent to the year end the holders of the Series A preferred stock and the Company agreed to amend the Form S-3 registration rights. The agreement changed the clause requiring the Company to file a Form S-3 registration statement within 90 days of becoming eligible to a right to request the Company file a Form S-3 registration statement any time after June 30, 2009. In consideration for extending the period during which the Company is not required to file a registration statement the Company issued the holders of Series A preferred stock warrants to purchase an aggregate of 20,000 shares Common Stock at an exercise price of $0.01 per share. The warrants expire 6 months from date of issuance.

Stock Option Plans

1998 Stock Plan.

The 1998 Stock Plan (the 1998 Plan), as amended, provides for the granting to employees (including officers and employee directors) of incentive stock options and for the granting to employees (including officers and employee directors) and consultants of nonstatutory stock options, stock purchase rights (SPRs), restricted stock, restricted stock units, performance shares, performance units and stock appreciation rights. The exercise price of incentive stock options and stock appreciation rights granted under the 1998 Plan must be at least equal

 

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IRIDEX Corporation

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

to the fair market value of the shares at the time of grant. With respect to any recipient who owns stock possessing more than 10% of the voting power of our outstanding capital stock, the exercise price of any option or SPR granted must be at least equal to 110% of the fair market value at the time of grant. Options granted under the 1998 Plan are exercisable at such times and under such conditions as determined by the Administrator; generally over a four year period. The maximum term of incentive stock options granted to any recipient must not exceed ten years; provided, however, that the maximum term of an incentive stock option granted to any recipient possessing more than 10% of the voting power of the Company’s outstanding capital stock must not exceed five years. In the case of SPRs, unless the Administrator determines otherwise, the Company has a repurchase option exercisable upon the voluntary or involuntary termination of the purchaser’s employment with the Company for any reason (including death or disability). Such repurchase option lapses at a rate determined by the Administrator. The purchase price for shares repurchased by the Company is the original price paid by the purchaser. In June of 2006, this plan was amended to shorten the contractual life of all option grants made after June 2006 to a seven year term. As of January 3, 2009 and December 29, 2007, no shares were subject to repurchase. The form of consideration for exercising an option or stock purchase right, including the method of payment, is determined by the Administrator. The 1998 Plan expired in February 2008.

Stand-Alone Options.

In July 2005, in connection with the employment of the Company’s then Chief Executive Officer, the Company’s Board of Directors granted a stand alone option, outside of the Company’s existing stock plans, to Barry Caldwell. The option entitled Mr. Caldwell to purchase up to 234,104 shares of the Company’s Common Stock at an exercise price of $6.07 per share. Mr. Caldwell left the services of the Company in October 2007 and as of January 3, 2009 there were 143,426 shares outstanding and exercisable under this option.

In March 2006, in connection with the employment of the Company’s Vice President of Product Innovation, the Company’s Board of Directors granted a stand alone option, outside of the Company’s existing stock plans, to Deborah Tomasco. The option entitled Ms. Tomasco to purchase up to 50,000 shares of the Company’s Common Stock at an exercise price of $8.26 per share. Ms. Tomasco left the services of the Company in March 2008 and as of January 3, 2009 there were no shares outstanding or exercisable under this option.

In February 2007, in connection with the employment of the Company’s then Chief Financial Officer, the Company’s Board of Directors granted a stand alone option, outside of the Company’s existing stock plans, to Meryl Rains. The option entitled Ms. Rains to purchase up to 50,000 shares of the Company’s Common Stock at an exercise price of $9.42 per share. Ms. Rains left the services of the Company in December 2007 and as of January 3, 2009 there were no shares outstanding under this option.

In February 2007, the Compensation Committee of the Company’s Board of Directors approved the grant of 235,000 non-qualified stock options, outside of the Company’s existing stock plans, to a total of 54 new employees, both domestic and international, hired in connection with the Company’s recently completed acquisition of the assets of the aesthetics business of Laserscope. The options were granted as of February 28, 2007 at an exercise price of $10.06 per share. As of January 3, 2009 there were 110,000 shares outstanding and exercisable under these options.

2008 Equity Incentive Plan.

On June 11, 2008, the shareholders approved the adoption of the 2008 Equity Incentive Plan, (the Incentive Plan). There are no material changes in the Incentive Plan from the 1998 Stock Plan. The maximum aggregate number of shares that may be awarded and sold under the Incentive Plan is 300,000 shares plus any shares

 

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IRIDEX Corporation

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

subject to stock options or similar awards granted under the 1998 Stock Plan that expire or otherwise terminate without having been exercised in full and shares issued pursuant to awards granted under the 1998 Stock Plan that are forfeited to the Company on or after the date the 1998 Stock Plan expires. The terms and awards granted during the fiscal year 2008 under either plan were consistent with those described under the 1998 Stock Plan.

The following table summarizes information regarding activity in our stock option plans during the fiscal year ended January 3, 2009:

Information with respect to activity under these option plans are set forth below (in thousands except share and per share data):

 

     Shares
Available
for Grant
    Outstanding Options
       Number
of Shares
    Aggregate
Price
    Weighted
Average
Exercise Price

Balances, December 31, 2005

   294,186     2,154,003     11,851     5.50

Additional shares reserved

   200,000     —       —       —  

Options granted

   (300,650 )   300,650     2,551     8.48

Options exercised

     (276,578 )   (1,291 )   4.67

Options cancelled

   46,505     (46,505 )   (311 )   6.69

Options expired

   (4,750 )   —       —       —  
                      

Balances, December 30, 2006

   235,291     2,131,570     12,800     6.00

Additional shares reserved

   385,000     —       —       —  

Options granted

   (468,600 )   468,600     3,824     8.16

Options exercised

   —       (156,137 )   (785 )   5.03

Options cancelled

   584,496     (584,496 )   (4,516 )   7.73

Options expired

   (398,228 )   —       —       —  
                      

Balances, December 29, 2007

   337,959     1,859,537     11,323     6.09

Additional shares reserved

   568,863     —       —       —  

Options granted

   (686,712 )   686,712     1,605     2.34

Options exercised

   —       —       —       —  

Options and cancelled

   494,434     (494,434 )   (3,052 )   6.18

Options expired

   (448,581 )   —       —       —  
                      

Balances, January 3, 2009

   265,963     2,051,815     9,876     4.81
                      

 

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IRIDEX Corporation

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

The following table summarizes information with respect to stock options outstanding at January 3, 2009:

 

     Options Outstanding    Options Vested and Exercisable

Range of Exercise Prices

   Number of
Shares
Outstanding
at January 3,
2009
   Weighted
Average
Remaining
Contractual
Life (Years)
   Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price
   Number of
Shares
Exercisable
at January 3,
2009
   Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price
   Weighted
Average
Remaining
Contractual
Life (Years)

$086 – $2.34

   232,500    6.88    1.09    0    $ 0.00    0.00

$2.41 – $2.78

   256,313    5.89    2.58    57,090    $ 2.58    7.89

$2.88 – $3.40

   270,969    4.46    3.34    158,280    $ 3.30    4.72

$3.41 – $4.10

   236,615    3.59    3.70    194,785    $ 3.72    3.04

$4.16 – $5.15

   205,209    3.90    4.75    183,536    $ 4.76    4.00

$5.26 – $6.07

   359,884    2.78    5.78    357,591    $ 5.78    5.88

$6.19 – $7.98

   227,881    5.34    7.17    176,011    $ 7.08    5.50

$8.26 – $10.06

   245,394    3.89    9.39    175,436    $ 9.25    3.65

$10.25 – $10.86

   13,300    2.63    10.58    11,788    $ 10.55    2.40

$12.75 – $12.75

   3,750    1.50    12.75    3,750    $ 12.75    1.50
                     

$0.86 – $12.75

   2,051,815    4.47    4.81    1,318,267    $ 5.60    4.75
                               

As of January 3, 2009, December 29, 2007, and December 30, 2006, options to purchase 2,051,815, 1,859,537, and 2,131,570 shares of common stock were outstanding at a weighted average exercise price of $4.81, $6.09, and $6.00, respectively.

As of January 3, 2009, 1,863,276 shares were vested and expected to vest, at a weighted average exercise price of $4.92 per share and with a weighted average remaining contractual life of 4.32 years.

Adoption of SFAS 123(R).

We estimate the fair value of stock options granted using the Black-Scholes option-pricing formula.

The determination of fair value of all options granted by the Company is computed based on the Black-Scholes option-pricing model with the following weighted average assumptions:

 

     Employee Stock Option Plan     Employee Stock Purchase Plan  
     2008     2007     2006         2008        2007     2006  

Average risk free interest rate

   2.7 %   4.4 %   4.80 %   —      4.9 %   4.43 %

Expected life (in years)

   4.8 years     4.6 years     3.8 years     —      0.12     0.5  

Dividend yield

   —       —       —       —      —       —    

Average volatility

   71.9 %   59.0 – 65.0 %   50.0 – 60.0 %   —      36 %   34.0 – 60.0 %

Option-pricing models require the input of various subjective assumptions, including the option’s expected life and the price volatility of the underlying stock. The expected stock price volatility is based on analysis of the Company’s stock price history over a period commensurate with the expected term of the options, trading volume of the Company’s stock, look-back volatilities and Company specific events that affected volatility in a prior period. The Company has elected to use the simplified method for estimating the expected term as discussed in SAB No. 107 and SAB No. 110. The risk-free interest rate is based on the U.S. Treasury yield curve in effect at the time of grant. No dividend yield is included as the Company has not issued any dividends and does not anticipate issuing any dividends in the future.

 

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IRIDEX Corporation

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

The following table shows stock-based compensation expense included in the Consolidated Statements of Operations for 2008, 2007 and 2006 (in thousands):

 

     Year Ended
January 3,
2009
   Year Ended
December 29,
2007
   Year Ended
December 30,
2006

Cost of revenues

   $ 152    $ 141    $ 122

Research and development

     85      182      251

Sales, general and administrative

     85      907      1,433
                    
   $ 322    $ 1,230    $ 1,816
                    

Approximately $7 thousand, $7 thousand and $6 thousand of the stock based compensation expense recognized was capitalized into inventory as a component of overhead at January 3, 2009, December 29, 2007 and December 30, 2006, respectively.

Information with respect to activity under these option plans are set forth below (in thousands except per share data):

 

     Shares     Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price
   Aggregate
Intrinsic
Value

Outstanding at December 29, 2007

     1,859,537     $ 6.09    $ —  

Options granted

     686,712       2.34   

Options exercised

     —         —     

Options forfeited/cancelled/ expired

     (494,434 )     6.18   
                     

Outstanding at January 3, 2009

   $ 2,051,815     $ 4.81    $ —  
                     

The weighted average grant date fair value of options granted during 2008 was $1.38 per share.

The aggregate intrinsic value in the table above represents the total pretax intrinsic value (the difference between the Company’s closing stock price on the last trading day of fiscal 2007 and the exercise price, multiplied by the number of in-the-money options) that would have been received by the option holders had all option holders exercised their options on January 3, 2009. This amount changes based on the fair market value of the Company’s stock. The total intrinsic value of options exercised during the years ended January 3, 2009 and December 29, 2007 were approximately $0 and $0.5 million, respectively.

 

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IRIDEX Corporation

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

As a result of adopting the fair value recognition provisions of SFAS 123(R), the impact to the consolidated financial statements for 2008, 2007 and 2006 from stock-based compensation is as follows (in thousands, except per share data):

 

     Year Ended
January 3,
2009
    Year Ended
December 29,
2007
    Year Ended
December 30,
2006
 

Stock-based compensation expense by award type:

      

Employee stock options granted

   $ 322     $ 1,218     $ 1,218  

Employee stock purchase plan

     —         12       12  
                        

Total stock-based compensation

     322       1,230       1,230  
                        

Total effect on stock-based compensation at the Company’s marginal tax rate

     (129 )     (467 )     (467 )
                        

Effect on net loss

   $ 193     $ 763     $ 763  
                        

Effect on net loss per share:

      

Basic and diluted earnings per share

   $ 0.01     $ 0.09     $ 0.09  
                        

A summary of the status of the Company’s non-vested shares as of January 3, 2009 and changes during the period ended January 3, 2009 is presented below (in thousands, except per share amounts):

 

     Number of Shares     Weighted
Average Grant
Dated Fair Value

Non-vested at December 29, 2007

   473,143     $ 7.50

Granted

   686,712       1.38

Vested

   43,127       5.70

Cancelled/forfeited

   (469,434 )     6.18
            

Non-vested at January 3, 2009

   733,548     $ 3.41
            

As of January 3, 2009, there were $2.1 million of total unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested share-based compensation arrangements under both of the plans. The cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of three years.

12. Employee Benefit Plan

The Company has a plan known as the IRIS Medical Instruments 401(k) trust to provide retirement benefits through the deferred salary deductions for substantially all US employees. Employees may contribute up to 15% of their annual compensation to the plan, limited to a maximum amount set by the Internal Revenue Service. The plan also provides for Company contributions at the discretion of the Board of Directors. On April 1, 2000 the Company commenced a Company match for the 401(k) in the amount of 50% of employee contributions up to an annual maximum of $2,000 per year. The Company contributions totaled $214,000 in 2008, $260,000 in 2007, and $106,000 in 2006. Prior to the start of fiscal 2009, the Company temporarily suspended the matching contributions. It is not known at this time when such matching contributions will be reinstated.

 

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IRIDEX Corporation

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

13. Income Taxes

Pre-tax Book loss was comprised of the following:

 

     Year Ended
January 3,
2009
    Year Ended
December 29,
2007
    Year Ended
December 30,
2006
 

United States

   $ (7,049 )   $ (20,772 )   $ (4,032 )

Foreign

     (194 )     (1,487 )     —    
                        

Total

   $ (7,243 )   $ (22,259 )   $ (4,032 )
                        

The provision for income taxes includes:

 

     Year Ended
January 3,
2009
   Year Ended
December 29,
2007
   Year Ended
December 30,
2006
 

Current:

        

Federal

   $ 87    $ 4    $ (371 )

State

     40      9      —    
                      
     127      13      (371 )
                      

Deferred:

        

Federal

     —        —        1,756  

State

     —        —        337  
     —        —        2,093  
                      

Income tax provision

   $ 127    $ 13    $ 1,721  
                      

The Company’s effective tax rate differs from the statutory federal income tax rate as shown in the following schedule:

 

     Year Ended
January 3,
2009
   Year Ended
December 29,
2007
   Year Ended
December 30,
2006

Income tax provision at statutory rate

   34%    34%    34%

State income taxes, net of federal benefit

   5%    4%    1%

Nondeductible permanent differences

   (3%)    (1%)    (10%)

Research and development credits

   1%    0%    2%

Change in valuation allowance

   (40%)    (35%)    (73%)

Foreign Rate Differential

   1%    (2%)    1%
              

Effective tax rate

   (2%)    (0%)    (45%)
              

 

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IRIDEX Corporation

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

The tax effect of temporary differences and carry-forwards that give rise to significant portions of the net deferred tax assets are presented below (in thousands):

 

     January 3,
2009
    December 29,
2007
 

Accruals and Reserves

   $ 2,465     $ 1,989  

Deferred Revenue

     255       72  

Fixed assets

     633       616  

Intangibles

     8,580       6,386  

Stock Compensation

     514       525  

Net operating loss

     148       293  

R&D Credits

     911       821  

Other Tax Credits

     33       0  

Other

     15       12  
                

Net deferred tax asset

   $ 13,554     $ 10,714  

Valuation Allowance

     (13,554 )     (10,714 )
                

Net Deferred Tax Assets (Liability)

   $ 0     $ 0  
                

As a result of losses incurred in 2008 and 2007 and uncertainty regarding the ability to project future profitable results, the Company has recorded a valuation allowance against its deferred tax assets.

As of January 3, 2009, the Company had Federal and State net operating loss carry forwards of approximately $1,650,000 and $4,066,000 respectively. The federal losses will begin to expire in 2027 and the state losses will begin to expire in 2019. Of the above NOL’s, $1,650,000 and $1,434,000 respectively, relate to windfall stock option deductions which when realized will be credited to equity.

As of January 3, 2009, the Company had Federal and State research credit carry forwards of approximately $838,000 and $996,000 available to offset future liabilities. The Federal credits will begin expiring in 2020 if not used. The state research credits do not expire.

The Company also has $33,000 of alternative minimum tax credits which do not expire and can be used to offset regular tax at a future date.

The above net operating losses and R&D credits are subject to IRC sections 382 and 383. In the event of a change in ownership as defined by these code sections, the usage of the above mentioned NOL’s and credits may be limited.

Effective December 31, 2006, the Company adopted Financial Accounting Standards Interpretation, or FIN, No. 48, “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes—an interpretation of FASB Statement No. 109.”

As a result of the implementation of FIN No. 48, the Company recognized no change in the liability for unrecognized tax benefits related to tax positions taken in prior periods.

Upon adoption of FIN No. 48, the Company’s policy to include interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits within the Company’s provision for (benefit from) income taxes did not change. As of January 3, 2009, the Company had accrued $67,297 for payment of interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits.

 

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IRIDEX Corporation

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits is as follows (in thousands):

 

Balance at January 1, 2007

   $ 550

Additions Based upon tax positions related to the current year

     35

Reductions resulting in lapse of statute of limitations Settlements

     —  
      

Balance at January 3, 2009

   $ 585
      

If the ending balance of $585 thousand of unrecognized tax benefits at January 3, 2009 were recognized, none of the recognition would affect the income tax rate. The Company does not anticipate any material change in its unrecognized tax benefits over the next twelve months. The unrecognized tax benefits may change during the next year for items that arise in the ordinary course of business.

The company files U.S. federal and state returns as well as foreign returns in France and the UK. The tax years 2001 to 2007 remain open in several jurisdictions none of which have individual significance.

14. Major Customers and Business Segments

The Company operates in two reportable segments: the ophthalmology segment and the aesthetics segment. In both segments, the Company develops, manufactures and markets medical devices. Our revenues arise from the sale of consoles, delivery devices, consumables and service and support activities.

In the years ended January 3, 2009, December 29, 2007 and December 30, 2006, no customer individually accounted for more than 10% of our revenue.

Revenue information shown by geographic region is as follows (in thousands):

 

     Year Ended
January 3,
2009
   Year Ended
December 29,
2007
   Year Ended
December 30,
2006

United States

   $ 26,959    $ 29,931    $ 21,826

Europe

     14,809      15,077      7,787

Rest of Americas

     2,584      1,959      1,836

Asia/Pacific Rim

     4,176      8,565      4,455
                    
   $ 48,528    $ 55,532    $ 35,904
                    

Revenues are attributed to countries based on location of end customers. In the years ended January 3, 2009, December 29, 2007 and December 30, 2006, no individual country accounted for more than 10% of the Company’s sales, except for the United States, which accounted for 55.6% of sales in 2008, 53.9% of sales in 2007, and 60.8% in 2006.

 

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IRIDEX Corporation

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

Information on reportable segments for the three years ended January 3, 2009, December 29, 2007, and December 30, 2006 is as follows (in thousands):

 

     Year Ended January 3, 2009  
     Ophthalmology    Aesthetics    Total  

Sales

   $ 32,387    $ 16,141    $ 48,528  

Direct cost of revenues

     9,197      6,638      15,835  
                      

Direct gross profit

   $ 23,190      9,503      32,693  

Impairment of goodwill and intangible assets

      $ 5,364      5,364  

Total unallocated indirect costs

           34,865  
              

Loss from operations

         $ (7,536 )
              
     Year Ended December 29, 2007  
     Ophthalmology    Aesthetics    Total  

Sales

   $ 32,347    $ 23,185    $ 55,532  

Direct cost of revenues

     9,721      11,151      20,872  
                      

Direct gross profit

   $ 22,626      12,034      34,660  

Impairment of goodwill and intangible assets

      $ 14,690      14,690  

Total unallocated indirect costs

           44,085  
              

Loss from operations

         $ (24,115 )
              
     Year Ended December 30, 2006  
     Ophthalmology    Aesthetics    Total  

Sales

   $ 30,826    $ 5,078    $ 35,904  

Direct cost of revenues

     9,312      2,125      11,437  
                      

Direct gross profit

   $ 21,514    $ 2,953      24,467  

Total unallocated indirect costs

           29,232  
              

Income from operations

         $ (4,765 )
              

Direct cost of revenues includes standard product cost (direct material, labor & fringe benefits) and any warranty and unit royalty costs. Indirect costs of manufacturing, research and development and selling, general and administrative costs are not allocated to the segments. The Company’s assets and liabilities are not evaluated on a segment basis. Accordingly, no disclosure on segment assets and liabilities is provided.

 

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IRIDEX Corporation

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

15. Computation of Basic Net Loss Per Common Share and Diluted Net Loss Per Common Share

A reconciliation of the numerator and denominator of basic net loss per common share and diluted net loss per common share is provided as follows (in thousands, except per share amounts):

 

     Year Ended
January 3,
2009
    Year Ended
December 29,
2007
    Year Ended
December 30,
2006
 

Net loss

   $ (7,370 )   $ (22,272 )   $ (5,753 )

Denominator—Net loss per common share

      

Weighted average common stock outstanding

     8,824       8,293       7,713  

Effect of dilutive securities

      

Weighted average common stock options

      

Total weighted average stock and options outstanding

     8,824       8,293       7,713  
                        

Net loss per common share

   $ (0.84 )   $ (2.69 )   $ (0.75 )
                        

Diluted net loss per common share

   $ (0.84 )   $ (2.69 )   $ (0.75 )
                        

In 2008, 2007 and 2006 there were 2,051,815, 1,859,537 and 2,131,570 outstanding options to purchase shares at a weighted average exercise price of $4.81, $6.09 and $6.00 per share, respectively, that were not included in the computation of diluted net loss per common share because their effect was antidilutive. These options could dilute earnings per share in future periods. In 2008 and 2007, there were 500,000 shares of Preferred A stock which will automatically convert into 1,000,000 common shares in the event that the common stock of the Company trades at or above $5.00 per share for a period of 30 consecutive trading days, the shares have not been included in the computation of diluted net loss per common share because their effect is antidilutive. These shares could dilute earnings per share in future periods.

16. Selected Quarterly Financial Data, (Unaudited)

 

     Quarter  
     First     Second     Third     Fourth  
     (In thousands, except per share amounts)  

Year Ended January 3, 2009

        

Sales

   $ 11,474     $ 12,922     $ 11,987     $ 12,145  

Gross profit

   $ 4,805     $ 5,331     $ 4,990     $ 4,553  

Net loss

   $ (892 )   $ 275     $ (249 )   $ (6,503 )

Net loss per common share

   $ (0.10 )   $ 0.03     $ (0.03 )   $ (0.74 )

Basic and diluted net loss per common share

   $ (0.10 )   $ 0.03     $ (0.03 )   $ (0.74 )

Year Ended December 29, 2007

        

Sales

   $ 12,566     $ 15,249     $ 13,575     $ 14,142  

Gross profit

   $ 5,209     $ 6,584     $ 6,185     $ 6,306  

Net loss

   $ (4,920 )   $ (343 )   $ (1,238 )   $ (15,771 )

Net loss per common share

   $ (0.61 )   $ (0.04 )   $ (0.15 )   $ (1.82 )

Basic and diluted net income loss per common share

   $ (0.61 )   $ (0.04 )   $ (0.15 )   $ (1.82 )

 

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Item 9. Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure

Not applicable.

 

Item 9A. Controls and Procedures

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures.

We maintain “disclosure controls and procedures,” as such term is defined in Rule 13a-15(e) under the Exchange Act, that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by us in reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in SEC rules and forms, and that such information is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure. In designing and evaluating our disclosure controls and procedures, management recognized that disclosure controls and procedures, no matter how well conceived and operated, can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurance that the objectives of the disclosure controls and procedures are met. Additionally, in designing disclosure controls and procedures, our management necessarily was required to apply its judgment in evaluating the cost-benefit relationship of possible disclosure controls and procedures. The design of any disclosure controls and procedures also is based in part upon certain assumptions about the likelihood of future events, and there can be no assurance that any design will succeed in achieving its stated goals under all potential future conditions.

Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting.

Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting as defined in Rule 13a-15(f) of the Exchange Act. Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

Under the supervision and with the participation of management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, we conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of January 3, 2009 using the criteria for effective internal control over financial reporting as described in “Internal Control—Integrated Framework,” issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organization of the Treadway Commission. Based on their evaluation as of the end of the period covered by this Annual Report on Form 10-K, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective at the reasonable assurance level and that the material weakness in our internal control over financial reporting related to our financial reporting process identified in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 29, 2007 has been remediated.

Remediation of Prior Year Material Weakness.

During fiscal 2008, we implemented the following remediation actions designed to address these material weakness:

 

   

we enhanced our finance function by hiring a new Chief Financial Officer, a new Controller and an additional staff member;

 

   

we improved the processes and procedures to ensure timely reconciliations of all major balance sheet accounts; and

 

   

we continued to strengthen personnel through training of existing staff.

 

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We believe these actions have strengthened our internal control over financial reporting and addressed the material weakness identified above. Based on our testing of these enhanced procedures, management determined that, as of January 3, 2009, we have remediated the material weakness in internal control over financial reporting as disclosed in the Annual Report on Form 10-K for December 29, 2007.

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting.

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2008 that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

This Annual Report on Form 10-K does not include an attestation report of our independent registered public accounting firm regarding internal control over financial reporting. Management’s report was not subject to attestation by our independent registered public accounting firm pursuant to temporary rules of the SEC that permit us to provide only management’s report in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

 

Item 9B. Other Information

Not applicable.

 

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PART III

Certain information required by Part III has been omitted from this Form 10-K. This information is instead incorporated herein by reference to our definitive Proxy Statement for our 2009 Annual Meeting of Stockholders (the Proxy Statement), which we will file within 120 days after the end of our fiscal year pursuant to Regulation 14A in time for our Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held June 17, 2009.

 

Item 10. Directors and Executive Officers of the Registrant

Information regarding our directors is incorporated herein by reference to “Proposal One—Election of Directors—Nominees” in our Proxy Statement. The information concerning our current executive officers is incorporated herein by reference to “Executive Officers” in our Proxy Statement. Information regarding delinquent filers is incorporated by reference to “Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance” in our Proxy Statement. Information regarding our code of business conduct and ethics is incorporated herein by reference to “Proposal One—Election of Directors—Corporate Governance Matters—Code of Business Conduct and Ethics” in our Proxy Statement.

 

Item 11. Executive Compensation

The information required by this item is incorporated herein by reference to “Executive Compensation” in our Proxy Statement.

 

Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters

The information required by this Item is incorporated herein by reference to “Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management” in our Proxy Statement.

 

Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions

The information required by this Item is incorporated herein by reference to “Certain Relationships and Related Transactions” in our Proxy Statement.

 

Item 14. Principal Accountant Fees and Services.

The information required by this item is incorporated herein by reference to “Proposal Three—Ratification of Appointment of Independent Accountants” in our Proxy Statement.

 

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PART IV

 

Item 15. Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules and Reports on Form 8-K

The following documents are filed in Part II of this Annual Report on Form 10-K:

 

     Page in
Form 10-K
Report

1. Financial Statements

  

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

   46

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

   47

Consolidated Balance Sheets as of January 3, 2009 and December 29, 2007

   48

Consolidated Statements of Operations for the years ended January 3, 2009, December  29, 2007, and December 30, 2006

   49

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Loss for the years ended January 3, 2009, December  29, 2007, and December 30, 2006

   49

Consolidated Statements of Stockholders’ Equity for the years ended January 3, 2009, December  29, 2007, and December 30, 2006

   50

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended January 3, 2009, December  29, 2007, and December 30, 2006

   51

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

   52
2. Financial Statement Schedule   

The following financial statement schedule of IRIDEX Corporation for the years ended January 3, 2009, December 29, 2007, and December 30, 2006 is filed as part of this Annual Report and should be read in conjunction with the Consolidated Financial Statements of IRIDEX Corporation.

Schedule II—Valuation and Qualifying Accounts

   85

Other schedules have been omitted because they are either not required, not applicable, or the required information is included in the consolidated financial statements or notes thereto.

3. Exhibits

Exhibit Index

 

Exhibits

  

Exhibit Title

  2.1(13)      Asset Purchase Agreement dated November 30, 2006 by and among American Medical Systems, Inc., a Delaware corporation, Laserscope, a California corporation and a wholly owned subsidiary of American Medical Systems, Inc., and IRIDEX Corporation.
  3.1(1)      Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Registrant.
  3.2(2)      Amended and Restated Bylaws of Registrant.
  4.1(3)      Certificate of Designation, Preferences and Rights of Series A Preferred Stock.
  4.2(3)      Investor Rights Agreement, dated as of August 31, 2007, by and between the Company, BlueLine Capital Partners, LP; BlueLine Capital Partners III, LP and BlueLine Capital Partners II, LP.
10.1(1)      Form of Indemnification Agreement with directors and officers.
10.2          Lease Agreement dated December 6, 1996 by and between Zappettini Investment Co. and the Registrant, as amended pursuant to Amendment No. 1 dated September 15, 2003 and Amendment No. 2 dated December 22, 2008.
10.3(4)*    1995 Director Option Plan.

 

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Exhibits

  

Exhibit Title

10.4(5)*     1998 Stock Plan (as amended June 19, 2007).
10.5(6)*     2005 Employee Stock Purchase Plan.
10.6(7)*     2009 Employee Incentive Program Summary.
10.7(8)*     2008 Equity Incentive Plan.
10.8*          Change of Control Severance Agreement by and between the Company and James Mackaness, dated January 22, 2008.
10.9(5)       Settlement Agreement, dated April 6, 2007, by and among Synergetics, Inc., Synergetics USA, Inc. and IRIDEX Corporation.
10.10(3)      Securities Purchase Agreement, dated August 31, 2007, by and among BlueLine Capital Partners, LP, BlueLine Capital Partners III, LP, BlueLine Capital Partners II, LP and IRIDEX Corporation.
10.11(10)    Credit and Security Agreement, dated March 27, 2008, by and between IRIDEX Corporation and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, acting through its Wells Fargo Business Credit operating division.
10.12(10)    Credit and Security Agreement (Ex-Im Subfacility), dated March 27, 2008, by and between IRIDEX Corporation and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, acting through its Wells Fargo Business Credit operating division.
10.13(10)    Borrower Agreement, dated March 27, 2008, by IRIDEX Corporation in favor of Export-Import Bank of the United States and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, acting through its Wells Fargo Business Credit operating division.
10.14(11)    First Amendment to Credit and Security Agreements and Waiver of Default, dated November 3, 2008, by and between IRIDEX Corporation and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.
10.15(9)      Letter Agreement, dated June 27, 2007, by and between American Medical Systems, Inc., a Delaware corporation, Laserscope, a California corporation and a wholly owned subsidiary of American Medical Systems, Inc., and IRIDEX Corporation, as amended.
10.16(9)      Letter amendment, dated July 31, 2007, by and between Laserscope and IRIDEX Corporation.
10.17(9)      Letter amendment, dated August 6, 2007, by and between Laserscope and IRIDEX Corporation.
10.18(9)      Security Agreement made by the Company in favor of each of American Medical Systems, Inc. and Laserscope, dated August 14, 2007.
10.19(9)      Patent, Trademark and Copyright Security Agreement by and between the Company and Mid-Peninsula Bank, dated July 31, 2007.
10.20(9)      Subordination Agreement by and between the Company, Mid-Peninsula Bank, American Medical Systems, Inc. and Laserscope, dated August 14, 2007.
16.1(12)      Letter from PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP to the Securities and Exchange Commission, dated as of August 19, 2007.
21.1(1)       Subsidiaries of Registrant.
23.1            Consent of Burr, Pilger & Mayer LLP, Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm.
23.2            Consent of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm.
24.1            Power of Attorney (See page 86).
31.1            Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

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Exhibits

  

Exhibit Title

31.2    Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
32.1    Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
32.2    Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 * Indicates a management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement.
(1) Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with the Registration Statement on Form SB-2 (No. 333-00320-LA) which was declared effective on February 15, 1996.
(2) Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with the Registrant’s Report on Form 8-K on November 21, 2007.
(3) Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with the Registrant’s Report on Form 8-K on September 7, 2007.
(4) Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 filed with the Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form S-8 on August 3, 2004.
(5) Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with the Registrant’s Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2007.
(6) Incorporated by reference to the appendix filed with the Registrant’s Proxy Statement for the Company’s 2004 Annual Meeting of Stockholders which was filed on April 30, 2004.
(7) Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.1 filed with the Registrant’s Form 8-K on December 16, 2008.
(8) Incorporated by reference to the appendix filed with the Registrant’s Proxy Statement for the Company’s 2008 Annual Meeting of Stockholders which was filed on April 24, 2008.
(9) Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with the Registrant’s Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 29, 2007.
(10) Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with the Registrant’s Report on Form 8-K on April 2, 2008.
(11) Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 filed with the Registrant’s Report on Form 8-K on November 7, 2008.
(12) Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 16.1 filed with the Registrant’s Report on Form 8-K on August 29, 2007.
(13) Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1 filed with the Registrant’s Report on Form 8-K on December 6, 2006.

Trademark Acknowledgments

IRIDEX, the IRIDEX logo, IRIS Medical, OcuLight, SmartKey, EndoProbe, Apex, Aura, Lyra, Gemini, Venus, Coolspot and Dermastat are our registered trademarks. G-Probe, DioPexy, DioVet, TruFocus, TrueCW, DioLite, IQ 810, IQ 577, MicroPulse, OtoProbe, ScanLite, Symphony, VariLite and EasyFit product names are our trademarks. All other trademarks or trade names appearing in this Annual Report on Form 10-K are the property of their respective owners.

 

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Schedule II

IRIDEX CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS

(in thousands)

 

Description

   Balance at
Beginning of
The Period
   Additions     Deductions     Balance
at End of
The Period

Balance for the year ended December 30, 2006:

         

Allowance for doubtful accounts receivable

   $ 559    $ 141     $ (261 )   $ 439

Provision for inventory

   $ 2,055    $ (296 )   $ 1     $ 1,760

Balance for the year ended December 29, 2007:

         

Allowance for doubtful accounts receivable-(1)

   $ 439    $ 470     $ (209 )   $ 700

Provision for inventory-(2)

   $ 1,760    $ 3,147     $ (277 )   $ 4,630

Balance for the year ended January 3, 2009:

         

Allowance for doubtful accounts receivable

   $ 700    $ 410     $ (201 )   $ 909

Provision for inventory

   $ 4,630    $ 5,894     $ (4,073 )   $ 6,451

 

(1) Additions amount includes 330 thousand from the acquisition of the aesthetics business of Laserscope from AMS.
(2) Additions amount includes 130 thousand from the acquisition of the aesthetics business of Laserscope from AMS.

 

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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, in the City of Mountain View, State of California, on the 1st day of April 2009.

 

IRIDEX CORPORATION
By:   /s/    THEODORE A. BOUTACOFF        
 

Theodore A. Boutacoff

President, Chief Executive Officer, and Chairman

KNOW ALL PERSONS BY THESE PRESENTS, that each person whose signature appears below constitutes and appoints Theodore A. Boutacoff and James H. Mackaness, jointly and severally, their attorney-in-fact, each with full power of substitution, for him in any and all capacities, to sign on behalf of the undersigned any amendments to this Annual Report on Form 10-K, and to file the same, with exhibits thereto and other documents in connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission, and each of the undersigned does hereby ratifying and confirming all that each of said attorneys-in-fact, or his substitutes, may do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1934, this report has been signed by the following persons in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

 

Signature

  

Title

 

Date

/s/    THEODORE A. BOUTACOFF        

(Theodore A. Boutacoff)

   President, Chief Executive Officer, and Chairman
(Principal Executive Officer)
  April 1, 2009

/s/    JAMES H. MACKANESS        

(James H. Mackaness)

   Chief Financial Officer
(Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)
  April 1, 2009

/s/    JAMES L. DONOVAN        

(James L. Donovan)

   Vice President, Corporate Business Development and Director   April 1, 2009

/s/    JAMES B. HAWKINS        

(James B. Hawkins)

   Director   April 1, 2009

/s/    DONALD L. HAMMOND        

(Donald L. Hammond)

   Director   April 1, 2009

/s/    SANFORD FITCH        

(Sanford Fitch)

   Director   April 1, 2009

/s/    GARRETT A. GARRETTSON        

(Garrett A. Garrettson)

   Director   April 1, 2009

/s/    WILLIAM M. MOORE        

(William M. Moore)

   Director   April 1, 2009

 

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Exhibit Index

 

Exhibits

  

Exhibit Title

  2.1(13)      Asset Purchase Agreement dated November 30, 2006 by and among American Medical Systems, Inc., a Delaware corporation, Laserscope, a California corporation and a wholly owned subsidiary of American Medical Systems, Inc., and IRIDEX Corporation.
  3.1(1)        Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Registrant.
  3.2(2)        Amended and Restated Bylaws of Registrant.
  4.1(3)        Certificate of Designation, Preferences and Rights of Series A Preferred Stock.
  4.2(3)         Investor Rights Agreement, dated as of August 31, 2007, by and between the Company, BlueLine Capital Partners, LP; BlueLine Capital Partners III, LP and BlueLine Capital Partners II, LP.
10.1(1)        Form of Indemnification Agreement with directors and officers.
10.2            Lease Agreement dated December 6, 1996 by and between Zappettini Investment Co. and the Registrant, as amended pursuant to Amendment No. 1 dated September 15, 2003 and Amendment No. 2 dated December 22, 2008.
10.3(4)*      1995 Director Option Plan.
10.4(5)*      1998 Stock Plan (as amended June 19, 2007).
10.5(6)*      2005 Employee Stock Purchase Plan.
10.6(7)*      2009 Employee Incentive Program Summary.
10.7(8)*      2008 Equity Incentive Plan.
10.8*           Change of Control Severance Agreement by and between the Company and James Mackaness, dated January 22, 2008.
10.9(5)        Settlement Agreement, dated April 6, 2007, by and among Synergetics, Inc., Synergetics USA, Inc. and IRIDEX Corporation.
10.10(3)      Securities Purchase Agreement, dated August 31, 2007, by and among BlueLine Capital Partners, LP, BlueLine Capital Partners III, LP, BlueLine Capital Partners II, LP and IRIDEX Corporation.
10.11(10)    Credit and Security Agreement, dated March 27, 2008, by and between IRIDEX Corporation and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, acting through its Wells Fargo Business Credit operating division.
10.12(10)    Credit and Security Agreement (Ex-Im Subfacility), dated March 27, 2008, by and between IRIDEX Corporation and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, acting through its Wells Fargo Business Credit operating division.
10.13(10)    Borrower Agreement, dated March 27, 2008, by IRIDEX Corporation in favor of Export-Import Bank of the United States and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, acting through its Wells Fargo Business Credit operating division.
10.14(11)    First Amendment to Credit and Security Agreements and Waiver of Default, dated November 3, 2008, by and between IRIDEX Corporation and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.
10.15(9)      Letter Agreement, dated June 27, 2007, by and between American Medical Systems, Inc., a Delaware corporation, Laserscope, a California corporation and a wholly owned subsidiary of American Medical Systems, Inc., and IRIDEX Corporation, as amended.
10.16(9)      Letter amendment, dated July 31, 2007, by and between Laserscope and IRIDEX Corporation.
10.17(9)      Letter amendment, dated August 6, 2007, by and between Laserscope and IRIDEX Corporation.
10.18(9)      Security Agreement made by the Company in favor of each of American Medical Systems, Inc. and Laserscope, dated August 14, 2007.


Table of Contents

Exhibits

  

Exhibit Title

10.19(9)      Patent, Trademark and Copyright Security Agreement by and between the Company and Mid-Peninsula Bank, dated July 31, 2007.
10.20(9)      Subordination Agreement by and between the Company, Mid-Peninsula Bank, American Medical Systems, Inc. and Laserscope, dated August 14, 2007.
16.1(12)      Letter from PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP to the Securities and Exchange Commission, dated as of August 19, 2007.
21.1(1)        Subsidiaries of Registrant.
23.1            Consent of Burr, Pilger & Mayer LLP, Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm.
23.2            Consent of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm.
24.1            Power of Attorney (See page 86).
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            Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
32.2            Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 * Indicates a management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement.
(1) Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with the Registration Statement on Form SB-2 (No. 333-00320-LA) which was declared effective on February 15, 1996.
(2) Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with the Registrant’s Report on Form 8-K on November 21, 2007.
(3) Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with the Registrant’s Report on Form 8-K on September 7, 2007.
(4) Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 filed with the Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form S-8 on August 3, 2004.
(5) Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with the Registrant’s Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2007.
(6) Incorporated by reference to the appendix filed with the Registrant’s Proxy Statement for the Company’s 2004 Annual Meeting of Stockholders which was filed on April 30, 2004.
(7) Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.1 filed with the Registrant’s Form 8-K on December 16, 2008.
(8) Incorporated by reference to the appendix filed with the Registrant’s Proxy Statement for the Company’s 2008 Annual Meeting of Stockholders which was filed on April 24, 2008.
(9) Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with the Registrant’s Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 29, 2007.
(10) Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with the Registrant’s Report on Form 8-K on April 2, 2008.
(11) Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 filed with the Registrant’s Report on Form 8-K on November 7, 2008.
(12) Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 16.1 filed with the Registrant’s Report on Form 8-K on August 29, 2007.
(13) Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1 filed with the Registrant’s Report on Form 8-K on December 6, 2006.