bridgford_10q-012111.htm


UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C.  20549
FORM 10-Q
(Mark one)
[ X ] QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF
THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
                       
For the quarterly period ended January 21, 2011
                       
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                                     0-2396
                       
 
BRIDGFORD FOODS CORPORATION
(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)
 
California
95-1778176
(State or other jurisdiction of
    (I.R.S. Employer
  incorporation or organization)
    identification number)
 
1308 N. Patt Street, Anaheim, CA  92801
(Address of principal executive offices-Zip code)
 
714-526-5533
(Registrant's telephone number, including area code)
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.
Yes   [ X ]                  No [   ]
 
Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).
Yes   [   ]                  No [   ]
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company.  See the definitions of "large accelerated filer," "accelerated filer" and "smaller reporting company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
 
Large accelerated filer [   ] Accelerated filer [   ]
Non-accelerated filer [   ]   (Do not check if smaller reporting company) Smaller reporting company [ X ]
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the
Exchange Act).
Yes   [   ]                  No [ X ]
 
As of February 17, 2011 the registrant had 9,318,112 shares of common stock outstanding.

 
 

 
 
BRIDGFORD FOODS CORPORATION
FORM 10-Q QUARTERLY REPORT
INDEX
                         
References to "Bridgford Foods" or the "Company" contained in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q refer to Bridgford Foods Corporation.
                         
                         
Part I.  Financial Information
                 
                         
  Item 1.  Financial Statements
               
Page
                         
 
a. Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets at January 21, 2011 (unaudited) and October 29, 2010
 3
                         
 
b. Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations for the twelve weeks ended January 21, 2011 and January 22, 2010 (unaudited)
 4
                         
 
c. Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the twelve weeks ended January 21, 2011 and January 22, 2010 (unaudited)
 5
                         
 
d. Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)
 6
                         
  Item 2.  Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
10
                         
  Item 3.  Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk
16
                         
  Item 4.  Controls and Procedures
17
                         
Part II.  Other Information
                 
                         
  Item 1A.  Risk Factors
18
                         
  Item 2.  Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds
18
                         
  Item 6.  Exhibits
18
                         
Signatures
19
                         
Items 1, 3 and 5 of Part II have been omitted because they are not applicable with respect to the current reporting period.
 
 
2

 
 
Part I.  Financial Information
Item 1. a.
BRIDGFORD FOODS CORPORATION
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(in thousands, except per share amounts)
ASSETS
 
January 21, 2011
   
October 29, 2010
 
   
(Unaudited)
       
Current assets:
           
             
   Cash and cash equivalents
 
$
11,869
   
$
15,686
 
   Accounts receivable, less allowance for doubtful accounts of $210
               
     and $80, respectively, and promotional allowances of $2,427
               
     and $1,932, respectively
   
9,372
     
7,609
 
   Inventories, less inventory reserves of $164 and $166, respectively (Note 2)
   
15,993
     
16,307
 
   Prepaid expenses and other current assets
   
2,552
     
1,885
 
                 
 Total current assets
   
39,786
     
41,487
 
                 
  Property, plant and equipment, less accumulated depreciation of $56,300
               
  and $56,007, respectively
   
 7,914
     
7,892 
 
  Other non-current assets
   
11,541
     
11,144
 
 Total Assets
 
$
59,241
   
$
60,523
 
                 
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
               
                 
Current liabilities:
               
                 
   Accounts payable
 
$
3,428
   
$
3,364
 
   Accrued payroll, advertising and other expenses
   
7,449
     
8,287
 
                 
 Total current liabilities
   
10,877
     
11,651
 
                 
Non-current liabilities
   
11,994
     
12,672
 
                 
 Total liabilities
   
22,871
     
24,323
 
                 
 Commitments and Contingencies (Note 3)
               
Shareholders' equity:
               
   Preferred stock, without par value
               
     Authorized - 1,000 shares
               
     Issued and outstanding - none
               
                 
   Common stock, $1.00 par value
               
     Authorized - 20,000 shares
               
     Issued and outstanding – 9,322 and 9,328 shares, respectively
   
9,379
     
9,385
 
   Capital in excess of par value
   
10,338
     
10,396
 
   Retained earnings
   
24,705
     
24,471
 
   Accumulated other comprehensive loss
   
(8,052
)
   
(8,052
)
Shareholders' Equity    
36,370
     
36,200
 
Liabilities and Shareholders' Equity  
$
59,241
   
$
60,523
 
 
See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements. 
 
 
3

 

Item 1. b.
 
BRIDGFORD FOODS CORPORATION
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(unaudited)
(in thousands, except per share amounts)
 
   
12 Weeks ended
 
   
January 21, 2011
   
January 22, 2010
 
             
Net sales
 
$
28,809
   
$
29,248
 
Cost of products sold
   
19,000
     
17,077
 
                 
Gross margin
   
9,809
     
12,171
 
                 
Selling, general and administrative expenses
   
9,040
     
10,411
 
                 
Income before taxes
   
769
     
1,760
 
Income tax (benefit) provision
   
(397
   
350
 
                 
Net income
 
$
1,166
   
$
1,410
 
                 
                 
Net income per share
 
$
0.13
   
$
0.15
 
                 
Weighted average common shares
   
9,324
     
9,344
 
                 
                 
Cash dividends paid per share
 
$
0.10
   
$
0.10
 

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.
 
 
4

 

Item 1. c.
 
BRIDGFORD FOODS CORPORATION
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(Unaudited)
(in thousands)

   
12 weeks ended
 
   
January 21, 2011
   
January 22, 2010
 
Cash flows from operating activities:
           
             
  Net income
 
$
1,166
   
$
1,410
 
                 
  Income or charges not affecting cash and cash equivalents:
               
    Depreciation
   
456
     
559
 
    Losses (recoveries) on accounts receivable
   
129
     
(31
)
    Gain on sale of property, plant and equipment
   
(12
)
   
(3
)
Effect on cash and cash equivalents from changes in operating assets and liabilities:
         
    Accounts receivable
   
(1,892
)
   
1,133
 
    Inventories
   
314
     
1,122
 
    Prepaid expenses and other current assets
   
(667
   
180
 
    Other non-current assets
   
(397
)
   
(145
)
    Accounts payable
   
64
     
(1,034
)
    Accrued payroll, advertising and other expenses
   
(838
)
   
(386
)
    Non-current liabilities
   
(678
)
   
(175
)
                 
       Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities
   
(2,355
   
2,630
 
                 
Cash used in investing activities:
               
     Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment
   
12
     
3
 
     Additions to property, plant and equipment
   
(478
)
   
(401
)
                 
       Net cash used in investing activities
   
(466
)
   
(398
)
                 
Cash used in financing activities:
               
     Shares repurchased
   
(64
)
   
(145
)
     Cash dividends paid
   
(932
)
   
(933
                 
      Net cash used in financing activities
   
(996
)
   
(1,078
)
                 
Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents
   
(3,817
   
1,154
 
                 
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
   
15,686
     
13,911
 
                 
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
 
$
11,869
   
$
15,065
 
                 
Cash paid for income taxes
 
$
51
     
268
 
 
See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

 
5

 
 
Item 1. d.
BRIDGFORD FOODS CORPORATION
 
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Unaudited)
(in thousands, except percentages, share and per share amounts)
       
                     
Note 1 - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies:
           
                     
The unaudited consolidated condensed financial statements of Bridgford Foods Corporation (the "Company", "we", "our", "us") for the twelve weeks ended January 21, 2011 and January 22, 2010 have been prepared in conformity with the accounting principles described in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended October 29, 2010 (the "Annual Report") and include all adjustments considered necessary by management for a fair presentation of the interim periods.  This report should be read in conjunction with the Annual Report. Due to seasonality and other factors, interim results are not necessarily indicative of the results for the full year.  New accounting pronouncements and their effect on the Company are discussed in Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations in this Form 10-Q.
 
The October 29, 2010 balance sheet within these interim condensed consolidated financial statements was derived from the audited fiscal 2010 financial statements.
 
The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities as of the date of the financial statements and the reported revenues and expenses during the reporting periods. Actual results may vary from these estimates.  Some of the estimates needed to be made by management include the allowance for doubtful accounts, promotional and returns allowances, inventory reserves and the estimated useful lives of property and equipment, and the valuation allowance for the Company’s deferred tax assets. Actual results could materially differ from these estimates. Amounts estimated related to liabilities for self-insured workers’ compensation, employee healthcare and pension benefits are especially subject to inherent uncertainties and these estimated liabilities may ultimately settle at amounts which vary from our current estimates.
 
Financial instruments that subject the Company to credit risk consist primarily of cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, accounts payable and accrued payroll, advertising and other expenses.  The carrying amount of these instruments approximate fair market value due to the short maturity of these instruments.  At January 21, 2011, the Company had accounts in excess of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation insurance coverage limit.The Company has not experienced any losses in these accounts and believes it is not exposed to any significant credit risk on cash and cash equivalents.  The Company issues credit to a significant number of customers that are diversified over a wide geographic area.  The Company monitors the payment histories of its customers and maintains an allowance for doubtful accounts which is reviewed for adequacy on a quarterly basis.  The Company does not require collateral from its customers.
 
For the twelve weeks ended January 21, 2011, no customer accounted for more than 10% of consolidated revenues.  For the twelve weeks ended January 22, 2010, Wal-Mart® accounted for 12.6% of consolidated revenues and 19.2% of consolidated accounts receivable.
 
On November 10, 2010, Bridgford Foods Corporation issued a press release announcing that its Board of Directors had approved a one-time cash dividend of $0.10 per share of common stock which was distributed on December 20, 2010 to shareholders of record on November 23, 2010.
 
 
6

 
 
Note 2 - Inventories:
             
Inventories are comprised of the following at the respective period ends:
 
             
 
   
(unaudited)
       
   
January 21, 2011
   
October 29, 2010
 
Meat, ingredients
           
  and supplies
 
$
4,619
   
$
3,155
 
Work in progress
   
883
     
1,192
 
Finished goods
   
10,491
     
11,960
 
   
$
15,993
   
$
16,307
 
 
Inventories are valued at the lower of cost (which approximates actual cost on a first-in, first-out basis) or market. Costs related to warehousing, transportation and distribution to customers are considered when computing market value. Inventories include the cost of ingredients, labor and manufacturing overhead. We regularly review inventory quantities on hand and write down any excess or obsolete inventories to estimated net realizable value. An inventory reserve is created when potentially slow-moving or obsolete inventories are identified in order to reflect the appropriate inventory value. Changes in economic conditions, production requirements, and lower than expected customer demand could result in additional obsolete or slow-moving inventory that cannot be sold or may need to be sold at reduced prices and could result in additional reserve provisions.
 

Note 3 - Commitments and Contingencies:
 
                       
The Company leases certain transportation equipment under operating leases.  The terms of the transportation leases provide for renewal options and contingent rental payments based upon mileage and adjustments of rental payments based on the Consumer Price Index.  The Company also leases warehouse and/or office facilities throughout the United States and Canada through month-to-month rental agreements.  No material changes have been made to these agreements during the first twelve weeks of fiscal 2011.
 
The Company is involved in various claims and legal actions arising in the ordinary course of business.  In the opinion of management, the ultimate disposition of these matters is not expected to have a material adverse effect on the Company’s consolidated financial position or results of operations.
                   
The Company purchases bulk flour under short-term fixed price contracts during the normal course of business. Under these arrangements, the Company is obligated to purchase specific quantities at fixed prices, within the specified contract period.  These contracts provide for automatic price increases if agreed quantities are not purchased within the specified contract period. No significant contracts remained unfulfilled at January 21, 2011.
 
 
7

 
 
Note 4 - Segment Information:
 
                       
The Company has two reportable operating segments, Frozen Food Products (the processing and distribution of frozen products) and Refrigerated and Snack Food Products (the processing and distribution of refrigerated meat and other convenience foods).
 
We evaluate each segment's performance based on revenues and operating income. Selling, general and administrative expenses include corporate accounting, information systems, human resource management and marketing, which are managed at the corporate level. These activities are allocated to each operating segment based on revenues and/or actual usage.
                       
The following segment information is presented for the twelve weeks ended January 21, 2011 and January 22, 2010.
 
         
Refrigerated
                   
         
and
                   
Twelve Weeks Ended
 
Frozen Food
   
Snack Food
                   
January 21, 2011
 
Products
   
Products
   
Other
   
Elimination
   
Totals
 
Sales to external customers
 
$
13,997
   
$
14,812
   
$
-
   
$
-
   
$
28,809
 
Intersegment sales
   
-
     
218
     
-
     
218
     
-
 
Net sales
   
13,997
     
15,030
     
-
     
218
     
28,809
 
Cost of products sold
   
8,166
     
11,052
     
-
     
218
     
19,000
 
Gross margin
   
5,831
     
3,978
     
-
     
-
     
9,809
 
Selling, general and administrative expenses
   
3,885
     
5,179
     
(24
   
-
     
9,040
 
Income (loss) before taxes
   
1,946
     
(1,201
)
   
24
     
-
     
769
 
Income tax (benefit) provision
   
(1,009
   
612
 
   
-
     
-
     
(397
Net income (loss)
 
$
2,955
   
$
(1,813
)
 
$
24
   
$
-
   
$
1,166
 
                                         
Total assets
 
$
11,627
   
$
22,218
   
$
25,396
   
$
-
   
$
59,241
 
Additions to property, plant and equipment
 
$
94
   
$
384
   
$
-
   
$
-
   
$
478
 
                                         
                                         
           
Refrigerated
                         
           
and
                         
Twelve Weeks Ended
 
Frozen Food
   
Snack Food
                         
January 22, 2010
 
Products
   
Products
   
Other
   
Elimination
   
Totals
 
Sales to external customers
 
$
12,227
   
$
17,021
   
$
-
   
$
-
   
$
29,248
 
Intersegment sales
   
-
     
248
     
-
     
248
     
-
 
Net sales
   
12,227
     
17,269
     
-
     
248
     
29,248
 
Cost of products sold
   
7,584
     
9,741
     
-
     
248
     
17,077
 
Gross margin
   
4,643
     
7,528
     
-
     
-
     
12,171
 
Selling, general and administrative expenses
   
3,728
     
6,644
     
39
     
-
     
10,411
 
Income (loss) before taxes
   
915
     
884
     
(39
)
   
-
     
1,760
 
Income tax provision
   
179
     
171
     
-
     
-
     
350
 
Net income (loss)
 
$
736
   
$
713
   
$
(39
)
 
$
-
   
$
1,410
 
                                         
Total assets
 
$
10,160
   
$
21,420
   
$
26,056
   
$
-
   
$
57,636
 
Additions to property, plant and equipment
 
$
130
   
$
283
   
$
(12
)
 
$
-
   
$
401
 

 
 
8

 
Note 5 – Income Taxes:
 
 
The Company expects its effective tax rate for the 2011 fiscal year to be different from the federal statutory rate due to the state tax minimum liability, a net operating loss carryback and a R&D tax credit.

Effective tax rate and provision (benefit)
 
%
   
$
 
Estimated state tax minimum payments
   
27.3%
   
$
210
 
Estimated refund from NOL carryback
   
-76.4%
     
(588
)
R&D tax credit
   
-2.5%
     
(19
)
Total effective tax rate and tax benefit
   
-51.6%
   
$
(397
)
 
We recorded a benefit for income taxes in the amount of $397 for the twelve week period ended January 21, 2011, related to federal and state taxes, based on the Company’s expected annual effective tax rate.  On December 17, 2010, during the Company’s first quarter of fiscal 2011, the Tax Relief, Unemployment Insurance Reauthorization  and Job Creation Act of 2010 was signed into law and extended bonus depreciation on purchases of qualified business property through December 2011.  Management expects that the election of 100% bonus depreciation, the Company’s estimated taxable loss for fiscal 2011 will create a NOL carryback to allow the Company to recover income taxes paid during fiscal 2010.
 
Management is required to evaluate whether a valuation allowance should be established against its deferred tax assets based on the consideration of all available evidence using a “more likely than not” standard. Realization of deferred tax assets is dependent upon taxable income in prior carryback years, estimates of future taxable income, tax planning strategies, and reversals of existing taxable temporary differences.  Management reevaluated the need for a full valuation allowance at January 21, 2011 based on both positive and negative evidence.  The weight of negative factors and level of economic uncertainty in our current business continued to support the conclusion that the realization of its deferred tax assets does not meet the more likely than not standard.  Therefore, a full valuation allowance remained against the net deferred tax assets as of January 21, 2011. Management will continue to periodically reevaluate the valuation allowance and, to the extent that conditions change, some or all of such valuation allowance could be reversed in future periods.  The Company has established objective criteria that must be met before a release of the valuation allowance will occur.
 
During the year ended October 29, 2010, the Internal Revenue Service settled its audit of our U.S. federal income tax returns for fiscal years ended November 1, 2002, October 31, 2003, November 3, 2006 and November 2, 2007. This settlement resulted in the reversal of $35 of unrecognized tax benefits associated with R&D credits we reported, which increased our tax expense by $5.  Our federal income tax returns are open to audit under the statute of limitations for the fiscal years ended October 31, 2008 through October 29, 2010. 
 
We are subject to income tax in California and various other state taxing jurisdictions. Our state income tax returns are open to audit under the statute of limitations for the fiscal years ended October 30, 2006 through October 29, 2010.
 
We do not anticipate a significant change to the total amount of unrecognized tax benefits within the next 12 months.
 
 
9

 
 
Item 2.   Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
(dollars in thousands)

NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

Certain statements under “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and elsewhere in this report constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Securities Act of 1933 and the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the “Exchange Act”).  Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of Bridgford Foods Corporation to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements.  Such factors include, among others, the following: general economic and business conditions; the impact of competitive products and pricing; success of operating initiatives; development and operating costs; advertising and promotional efforts; adverse publicity; acceptance of new product offerings; consumer trial and frequency; changes in business strategy or development plans; availability, terms and deployment of capital; availability of qualified personnel; commodity, labor, and employee benefit costs; changes in, or failure to comply with, government regulations; weather conditions; construction schedules; and other factors referenced in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.  Assumptions relating to budgeting, marketing, and other management decisions are subjective in many respects and thus susceptible to interpretations and periodic revisions based on actual experience and business developments, the impact of which may cause us to alter our marketing, capital expenditure or other budgets, which may in turn affect our business, financial position, results of operations and cash flows.  The reader is therefore cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements contained herein and to consider other risks detailed more fully in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended October 29, 2010.  We undertake no obligation to publicly release the result of any revisions to these forward-looking statements which may be made to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof, or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.

Critical Accounting Policies and Management Estimates

The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America requires management to make certain estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported revenues and expenses during the respective reporting periods.  Actual results may vary from these estimates. Some of the estimates needed to be made by management include the allowance for doubtful accounts, promotional and returns allowances, inventory reserves and the estimated useful lives of property and equipment, and the valuation allowance for the Company’s deferred tax assets. Actual results could materially differ from these estimates. Amounts estimated related to liabilities for self-insured workers’ compensation, employee healthcare and pension benefits are especially subject to inherent uncertainties and these estimated liabilities may ultimately settle at amounts which vary from our current estimates.
 
Our credit risk is diversified across a broad range of customers and geographic regions. Losses due to credit risk have recently been immaterial.  The provision for doubtful accounts receivable is based on historical trends and current collection risk.  We have significant amounts receivable with a few large, well known customers which, although historically secure, could be subject to material risk should these customers’ operations suddenly deteriorate. We monitor these customers closely to minimize the risk of loss. For the twelve weeks ended January 21, 2011, no customer accounted for more than 10% of consolidated revenues.  For the twelve weeks ended January 22, 2010, Wal-Mart® accounted for 12.6% of consolidated revenues and 19.2% of consolidated accounts receivable.
 
Revenues are recognized upon passage of title to the customer, typically upon product pick-up, shipment or delivery to customers. Products are delivered to customers primarily through our own long-haul fleet or through our own direct store delivery system.  The Company also uses independent distributors to deliver products in remote geographic areas of the country.   Revenues are recognized upon shipment to the distributor, net of return allowances.  Historically, returns from distributors have been minimal.  The distributor pays for these products in full, typically within 15 days, and such payment is not contingent upon payment from the large chain stores.  As a convenience to certain large chain stores, we bill such customers on behalf of the distributors and such distributors bear the risk of loss from collection.  No additional revenue is recognized in conjunction with the billing services as these services are considered perfunctory to the overall transaction.

We record the cash surrender or contract value for life insurance policies as an adjustment of premiums paid in determining the expense or income to be recognized under the contract for the period.

 
10

 
 
Deferred taxes are provided for items whose financial and tax bases differ.  A valuation allowance is provided against deferred tax assets when it is expected that it is more likely than not that the related asset will not be fully realized.  During the fourth quarter of fiscal 2008, management recorded a full valuation allowance with respect to its deferred tax assets.  The determination as to whether or not a deferred tax asset can be fully realized is subject to a significant degree of judgment, based at least partially upon a projection of future taxable income, which takes into consideration past and future trends in profitability, customer demand, supply costs, and multiple other factors, none of which are predictable.  The Company policy outlines measurable objective criteria that must be met before a release of the valuation allowance will occur.  Due to the degree of judgment involved, actual taxable income could differ materially from management’s estimates, or the timing of taxable income could be such that the net operating losses could expire prior to their utilization.  Management could determine in the future that the assets are realizable, materially increasing net income in one or many periods. Following recognition, management could again change its determination in the future, materially decreasing income.

We provide tax reserves for federal, state, local and international exposures relating to audit results, tax planning initiatives and compliance responsibilities.  The development of these reserves requires judgments about tax issues, potential outcomes and timing, and is a subjective estimate.  Although the outcome of these tax audits is uncertain, in management’s opinion adequate provisions for income taxes have been made for potential liabilities if any, resulting from these reviews.  Actual outcomes may differ materially from these estimates.

We assess the recoverability of our long-lived assets on an annual basis or whenever adverse events or changes in circumstances or business climate indicate that expected undiscounted future cash flows related to such long-lived assets may not be sufficient to support the net book value of such assets.  If undiscounted cash flows are not sufficient to support the recorded assets, we recognize an impairment to reduce the carrying value of the applicable long-lived assets to their estimated fair value.

In March 2010, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, as amended by the Health Care and Education Affordability Reconciliation Act (collectively, the “PPACA”), was signed into law.  The PPACA contains provisions which may impact the Company’s accounting of other postemployment benefit (“OPEB”) obligations in future periods.  Regulatory guidance for implementation of some of the provisions of the PPACA has not yet been established.  Requirements of the law include the removal of the lifetime limits on retiree medical coverage, expanding dependent coverage to age 26 and elimination of pre-existing conditions that may impact OPEB costs.  We will continue to assess the accounting implications of the PPACA and its impact on our financial position and results of operation as more legislative and interpretive guidance becomes available.  The potential future effects and cost of complying with the provisions of the PPACA are not determinable at this time.

Overview of Reporting Segments
 
We operate in two business segments – the processing and distribution of frozen products (the Frozen Food Products Segment), and the processing and distribution of refrigerated and snack food products, (the Refrigerated and Snack Food Products Segment).  For information regarding the separate financial performance of the business segments refer to Note 4 of the Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.  We manufacture and distribute products consisting of an extensive line of food products, including biscuits, bread dough items, roll dough items, dry sausage products, beef jerky and a variety of sandwiches and sliced luncheon meats.  We purchase products for resale including a variety of cheeses, salads, party dips, Mexican foods, nuts and other delicatessen type food products.
 
Frozen Food Products Segment
 
In our Frozen Food Products Segment, we manufacture and distribute an extensive line of food products, including biscuits, bread dough items, roll dough items and sandwiches.  All items within this Segment are considered similar products and have been aggregated at this level.  Our frozen food division serves both food service and retail customers.  Approximately 150 unique frozen food products are sold through wholesalers, cooperatives and distributors to approximately 21,000 retail outlets and 22,000 restaurants and institutions.
 
 
11

 
 
Refrigerated and Snack Food Products Segment
 
In our Refrigerated and Snack Food Products Segment, we distribute both products manufactured by us and products manufactured or processed by third parties.   All items within this Segment are considered similar products and have been aggregated at this level.  The dry sausage division includes products such as jerky, meat snacks, sausage and pepperoni products.  The deli division includes products such as ham, sandwiches, cheese, Mexican food, pastries and other delicatessen type food products.  Our Refrigerated and Snack Food Products Segment sells approximately 220 different items through a direct store delivery network serving approximately 28,000 supermarkets, mass merchandise and convenience retail stores located in 49 states and Canada.  These customers are comprised of large retail chains and smaller “independent” operators.  Independent distributors serve approximately 2,300 customers of all types in areas impractical to serve by our Company-owned vehicles and personnel.
 
Results of Operations for the Twelve Weeks ended January 21, 2011 and Twelve Weeks ended January 22, 2010
(in thousands, except percentages)
 
Net Sales-Consolidated

Net sales decreased by $439 (1.5%) to $28,809 in the first twelve weeks of the 2011 fiscal year compared to the same twelve-week period last year.  The changes in net sales were comprised as follows:
 
Impact on Net Sales-Consolidated
 
%
   
$
 
Selling price per pound
   
2.7%
   
$
865
 
Unit sales volume in pounds
   
-6.2%
     
(2,011
)
Promotional activity
   
1.8%
     
642
 
Returns activity
   
0.2%
     
65
 
Decrease in net sales
   
-1.5%
   
$
(439
)

Net Sales-Frozen Food Products Segment

Net sales in the Frozen Food Products Segment, excluding inter-segment sales, increased by $1,770 (14.5%) to $13,997 in the first twelve weeks of the 2011 fiscal year compared to the same twelve-week period last year.  The changes in net sales were comprised as follows:

Impact on Net Sales-Frozen Food Products
 
%
   
$
 
Selling price per pound
   
5.7%
   
$
800
 
Unit sales volume in pounds
   
3.6%
     
506
 
Promotional activity
   
5.1%
     
455
 
Returns activity
   
0.1%
     
9
 
Increase in net sales
   
14.5%
   
$
1,770
 

The increase in selling price per pound over the prior year period was due to favorable product mix changes. Increased unit volume and lower promotional activity compared to the same twelve week period in fiscal year 2010 also contributed to the sales increase.

Net Sales-Refrigerated and Snack Food Segment

Net sales in the Refrigerated and Snack Food Products Segment, excluding inter-segment sales, decreased by $2,209 (13.0%) to $14,812 in the first twelve weeks of the 2011 fiscal year compared to the same twelve-week period last year. The changes in net sales were comprised as follows:
 
 
12

 
 
Impact on Net Sales-Refrigerated and Snack Food
 
%
   
$
 
Selling price per pound
   
0.4%
   
$
65
 
Unit sales volume in pounds
   
-13.6%
     
(2,517
)
Promotional activity
   
0.7%
     
187
 
Returns activity
   
-0.5%
     
56
 
Decrease in net sales
   
-13.0%
   
$
(2,209
)
 
Unit sales volume in pounds declined 13.6% compared to the prior year period as a result of lower holiday season demand during the twelve weeks ended January 21, 2011. Higher average selling prices per pound partially off-set the volume decline due to favorable product mix changes.

Cost of Products Sold and Gross Margin-Consolidated

Cost of products sold increased by $1,923 (11.3%) to $19,000 in the first twelve weeks of the 2011 fiscal year compared to the same twelve-week period in fiscal 2010.  The gross margin decreased from 41.6% to 34.0% due to primarily to significantly higher commodity costs and lower unit volumes described in the segment analysis below.

Cost of Products Sold-Frozen Food Products Segment

Cost of products sold in the Frozen Food Products Segment increased by $582 (7.7%) to $8,166 in the first twelve weeks of the 2011 fiscal year compared to the same twelve-week period in fiscal year 2010. The cost of products sold increased primarily due to the 3.6% increase in sales volume.  In addition, the cost of purchased flour increased approximately $213 in the first twelve weeks of fiscal 2011 compared to the prior year period.  Despite the increase in flour costs, higher selling prices per pound as well as favorable product mix changes resulted in an increase in the gross margin percentage from 38.0% to 41.7% in the first twelve weeks of fiscal year 2011 compared to the same twelve week period in the prior fiscal year.

Cost of Products Sold-Refrigerated and Snack Food Segment

Cost of products sold in the Refrigerated and Snack Food Products Segment increased by $1,311 (13.5%) to $11,052 in the first twelve weeks of the 2011 fiscal year compared to the same twelve-week period in fiscal year 2010.  The cost of significant meat commodities increased approximately $1,540 in the first twelve weeks of fiscal 2011 compared to the same period in the prior year.  In addition, the significant decrease in sales volume compared to the prior year increased unit overhead in the first twelve weeks of fiscal year 2011 further increasing unit costs and lowering overall margins. The gross margin earned in this segment decreased from 43.6% to 26.5% in the first twelve weeks of fiscal year 2011 due primarily to these factors and to a lesser extent as a result of sales mix changes.
 
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses-Consolidated

Selling, general and administrative (“SG&A”) expenses decreased by $1,371 (13.2%) to $9,040 in the first twelve weeks of fiscal year 2011 compared to the same twelve-week period in the prior fiscal year.  The decrease in this category for the twelve-week period ended January 21, 2011 did not directly correspond to the sales decrease.  The table below summarizes the significant expense increases and decreases included in this category:

   
12 Weeks Ended
   
Expense/Gain
 
   
January 21, 2011
   
January 22, 2010
   
Increase (Decrease)
 
Wages and bonus
 
$
3,623
   
$
4,235
   
$
(612
)
Fuel
   
1,106
     
1,374
     
(268
)
Cash surrender value gain
   
(396
)
   
(147
)
   
(249
)
Repairs & maintenance
   
591
     
816
     
(225
)
Losses (recoveries) on accounts receivable
   
129
     
(31
)
   
160
 
Depreciation
   
42
     
169
     
(127
)
Workers’ compensation
   
197
     
322
     
(125
)
Other SG&A combined
   
3,748
     
3,673
     
75
 
Total
 
 $
9,040
   
$
10,411
   
$
(1,371
)
 
 
13

 
 
Headcount decreased during the first twelve weeks of the 2011 fiscal year compared to the same period in the prior year, which resulted in decreased wages and combined with lower profits, lower profit sharing accruals.  The decrease in fuel expense and repairs and maintenance were driven by a reduction in the Company-owned fleet compared to the prior year period.  The cash surrender value of life insurance policies increased primarily as a result of favorable trends in the market values of equities that support policy values.   The increase in the provision for accounts receivable was mainly the result of the bankruptcy of a customer.  The decline in depreciation is a result of a decline in the amount of overall capital spending when compared to the prior year and in recent years.  The Company’s workers’ compensation benefit expense was more favorable compared to unfavorable claim trends in the comparative twelve week period in fiscal 2010.  

Selling, General and Administrative Expenses-Frozen Food Products Segment

SG&A expenses in the Frozen Food Products Segment increased by $157 (4.2%) to $3,885 in the first twelve weeks of fiscal year 2011 compared to the same twelve week period in the prior fiscal year.   The increase in this category partially relates to the overall increase in sales volume. Favorable cost trends related to workers’ compensation and pension costs reduced SG&A costs as a percentage of sales.  Favorable trends in product mix towards lower distribution and promotional cost products also lowered SG&A costs as a percentage of sales in the first twelve weeks of fiscal year 2011.

Selling, General and Administrative Expenses-Refrigerated and Snack Food Segment

SG&A in the Refrigerated and Snack Food Products Segment decreased by $1,465 (22.0%) to $5,179 in the first twelve weeks of fiscal year 2011 compared to the same twelve-week period in the prior fiscal year.  The decrease in SG&A costs is primarily related to lower sales volume compared to the same twelve week period in the prior year.  The segment has completed an extensive restructuring and downsizing of its direct door delivery system lowering the cost of distribution of its products as a percentage of sales revenue.  Direct distribution costs related to sales commissions and base wages, fuel, vehicle repairs, depreciation  and workers’ compensation have been significantly reduced in the first twelve weeks of fiscal year 2011 as a result of this reorganization.
 
Income Taxes-Consolidated

The income tax expense for the twelve weeks ended January 21, 2011 and January 22, 2010 was as follows:

   
January 21, 2011
   
January 22, 2010
 
Income tax (benefit) provision
 
$
(397
 
$
350
 
                 
Effective tax rate
   
-51.6
%
   
19.9
%

The Company expects its effective tax rate for the 2011 fiscal year to be different from the federal statutory rate due to the state tax minimum liability, a net operating loss carryback and a R&D tax credit.

Effective tax rate and provision (benefit)
 
%
   
$
 
Estimated state tax minimum payments
   
27.3%
   
$
210
 
Estimated refund from NOL carryback
   
-76.4%
     
(588
)
R&D tax credit
   
-2.5%
     
(19
)
Total effective tax rate and tax provision (benefit)
   
-51.6%
   
$
(397
)
 
We recorded a benefit for income taxes in the amount of $397 for the twelve week period ended January 21, 2011, related to federal and state taxes, based on the Company’s expected annual effective tax rate.  On December 17, 2010, during the Company’s first quarter of fiscal 2011, the Tax Relief, Unemployment Insurance Reauthorization  and Job Creation Act of 2010 was signed into law and extended bonus depreciation on purchases of qualified business property through December 2011.  Management expects that the election of 100% bonus depreciation, the Company’s estimated taxable loss for fiscal 2011 will create a NOL carryback to allow the Company to recover income taxes paid during fiscal 2010.
 
Net Income -Consolidated

The net income of $1,166 in the twelve weeks ended January 21, 2011 includes a non-taxable loss on life insurance policies in the amount of $396. Gains and losses on life insurance policies are dependent upon the performance of the underlying equities and future results may vary considerably.

The net income of $1,410 in the twelve weeks ended January 22, 2010 includes a gain on life insurance policies in the amount of $147.  Taxable investment income decreased on a comparative basis due to lower short-term interest rates.

 
14

 
 
Cash flows from operating activities for the twelve weeks ended:
 
             
   
January 21, 2011
   
January 22, 2010
 
             
Net income
 
$
1,166
   
$
1,410
 
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
               
Depreciation
   
456
     
559
 
Losses (provision) on accounts receivable
   
129
     
(31
Gain on sale of property, plant and equipment
   
(12
)
   
(3
)
Changes in operating working capital
   
(4,094
)
   
695
 
Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities
 
$
(2,355
)
 
$
2,630
 

Significant changes in working capital for the twelve weeks ended:

January 21, 2011  Sources of cash included a decrease in inventory of $314. Operating cash flows for the period ended January 21, 2011 were reduced by an increase in accounts receivable of $1,892, an increase in prepaid expenses and other current assets of $667, a decrease in non current liabilities of $678 and a decrease in accrued payroll, advertising and other expenses of $838.   During the twelve week period we funded $190 towards our defined benefit pension plan.

January 22, 2010- Sources of cash included reductions in accounts receivable of $1,133 and inventory of $1,122. Operating cash flows for the period ended January 22, 2010 were reduced by a decrease in accounts payable of $1,034 and a decrease in accrued payroll, advertising and other expense of $386.   During the twelve week period we funded $216 towards our defined benefit pension plan.

Cash used in investing activities for the twelve weeks ended:

   
January 21, 2011
   
January 22, 2010
 
Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment
 
$
12
   
$
3
 
Additions to property, plant and equipment
   
(478
)
   
(401
)
Net cash used in investing activities
 
$
(466
)
 
$
(398
)
 
 
15

 
 
Expenditures for property, plant and equipment include the acquisition of new equipment, upgrading of facilities to maintain operating efficiency and investments in cost effective technologies to lower costs. Overall capital spending has declined in recent years as we carefully scrutinize capital investments for short term pay-back.  In general, we capitalize the cost of additions and improvements and expense the cost for repairs and maintenance.  The Company may also capitalize costs related to improvements that extend the life, increase the capacity, or improve the efficiency of existing machinery and equipment.  Specifically, capitalization of upgrades of facilities to maintain operating efficiency includes acquisitions of machinery and equipment used on packaging lines and refrigeration equipment used to process food products.
 
The table below highlights the additions to property, plant and equipment for the twelve weeks ended:
 
   
January 21, 2011
 
Increase in projects in process
 
$
338
 
Delivery vehicles
   
29
 
Processing equipment
   
88
 
Temperature control
   
6
 
Packaging lines
   
17
 
Additions to property, plant and equipment
 
$
478
 
 
Cash used in financing activities for the twelve weeks ended:
 
   
January 21, 2011
   
January 22, 2010
 
Shares repurchased
 
$
(64
)
 
$
(145
)
Cash dividends paid
   
(932
)
   
 (933
Net cash used in financing activities
 
$
(996
)
 
$
(1,078
)

Our stock repurchase program was approved by the Board of Directors in November 1999 and was expanded in June 2005.  Under the stock repurchase program, we are authorized, at the discretion of management and the Board of Directors, to purchase up to an aggregate of 2,000,000 shares of our common stock on the open market.  As of January 21, 2011, 365,817 shares were still authorized for repurchase under the program.  One-time cash dividends were paid  in the amounts of ten cents per share, during the first twelve weeks of the 2010 and 2011 fiscal years.

We remained free of interest bearing debt during the first twelve weeks of fiscal year 2011.  We have remained free of interest-bearing debt for twenty-four consecutive years. We maintain a line of credit with Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. that expires on December 15, 2012. Under the terms of this line of credit, we may borrow up to $2,000 at an interest rate equal to the bank’s reference rate, unless we elect an optional interest rate. The borrowing agreement contains various covenants, the more significant of which require us to maintain tangible net worth of 1.25 to 1.0 and a Quick Ratio of 1.0 to 1.0 at each quarter end. We were in compliance with all loan covenants as of January 21, 2011.  There were no borrowings under this line of credit during the year.  Management believes that our strong financial position and our capital resources are sufficient to provide for our operating needs and capital expenditures for the balance of fiscal 2011.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

None applicable during the first quarter of fiscal 2011.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

We are not engaged in any “off-balance sheet arrangements” within the meaning of Item 303(a)(4)(ii) of Regulation S-K.

Item 3.   Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk

Not applicable to smaller reporting company.

 
16

 
 
Item 4.  Controls and Procedures

Our management, with the participation and under the supervision of our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, has evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) as of the end of the period covered by this Report. Based on this evaluation the principal executive officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of the end of the period covered by this Report in their design and operation to provide reasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed by us in the reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to management and  recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified by the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms

Our management, including our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, does not expect that our disclosure controls and internal controls will prevent all error and all fraud. A control system, no matter how well conceived and operated, can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurance that the objectives of the control system are met. Further, the design of a control system must reflect the fact that there are resource constraints, and the benefits of controls must be considered relative to their costs. Because of inherent limitations in all control systems, no evaluation of controls can provide absolute assurance that all control issues and instances of fraud, if any, within the Company have been detected. These inherent limitations include the realities that judgments in decision-making can be faulty, and that breakdowns can occur because of simple error or mistake. Additionally, controls can be circumvented by the individual acts of some persons, by collusion of two or more people, or by management override of the control.

The design of any system of controls is also 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 our stated goals under all potential future conditions; over time, a control may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate. Because of inherent limitations in a cost-effective control system, misstatements due to error or fraud may occur and not be detected.

We maintain and evaluate a system of internal accounting controls, and a program of internal auditing designed to provide reasonable assurance that our assets are protected and that transactions are performed in accordance with proper authorization, and are properly recorded. This system of internal accounting controls is continually reviewed and modified in response to evolving business conditions and operations and to recommendations made by the independent registered public accounting firm and internal auditor.  We have established a code of conduct.  Our management believes that the accounting and internal control systems provide reasonable assurance that assets are safeguarded and financial information is reliable.

The Audit Committee of the Board of Directors meets regularly with our financial management and counsel, and with the independent registered public accounting firm engaged by us.  Internal accounting controls and the quality of financial reporting are discussed during these meetings. The Audit Committee has discussed with the independent registered public accounting firm matters required to be discussed by Statement of Auditing Standards No. 114 (Communication with Audit Committees). In addition, the Audit Committee and the independent registered public accounting firm have discussed the independent registered public accounting firm’s independence from the Company and its management, including the matters in the written disclosures required by Public Company Accounting Oversight Board Rule 3526 “Communicating with Audit Committees Concerning Independence”.
 
There have been no changes in our internal controls over financial reporting that occurred during our first quarter ended January 21, 2011 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal controls over financial reporting.
 
 
17

 

Part II.  Other Information

Item 1A. Risk Factors

The risk factors listed in Part I “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended October 29, 2010, should be considered with the information provided elsewhere in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, which could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition or results of operations.  There have been no material changes to the risk factors as previously disclosed in such Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Item 2.  Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

We have not sold any equity securities during the period covered by this report.

The following table provides information regarding repurchases by us of our common stock, for each of the three four-week periods included in the interim twelve-week period ended January 21, 2011.
 
ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES
 
Period (1)
 
Total Number of
Shares Purchased
   
Average Price
Paid Per Share
   
Total Number of Shares
Purchased as Part
of Publicly Announced
Plans or Programs (2)
   
Maximum Number of
Shares that May Yet
Be Purchased Under
the Plans or Programs (2)
 
   October 30, 2010 – November 26, 2010
    5,084     $ 11.87       5,084       366,059  
   November 27, 2010 – December 24, 2010
                            366,059  
   December 25, 2010 – January 21, 2011
    242     $ 12.00       242       365,817  
   Total
    5,326     $ 11.87       5,326          
 
 
(1)
The periods shown are the fiscal periods during the twelve-week quarter ended January 21, 2011.

 
(2)
Repurchases reflected in the foregoing table were made on the open market.  Our stock repurchase program was approved by the Board of Directors in November 1999 (1,500,000 shares authorized, disclosed in a Form 10-K filed on January 26, 2000) and was expanded in June 2005 (500,000 additional shares authorized, disclosed in a press release and Form 8-K filed on June 17, 2005).  Under the stock repurchase program, we are authorized, at the discretion of our management and the Board of Directors, to purchase up to an aggregate of 2,000,000 shares of our common stock on the open market.  Our Stock Purchase Plan (“Purchase Plan”) is administered by Citigroup Global Markets Inc. (“CGM”) for purchase of shares of our common stock in compliance with the requirements of Rule 10b5-1 under the Exchange Act.  Commencing on October 14, 2009 and continuing through and including October 13, 2010, CGM shall act as our exclusive agent to purchase shares of our common stock under the Purchase Plan.  This Purchase Plan supplements any purchases of stock by us “outside” of the Purchase Plan, which may occur from time to time, in open market transactions pursuant to Rule 10b-18 of the Exchange Act or in privately-negotiated transactions.  As of January 21, 2011, the total maximum number of shares that may be purchased under the Purchase Plan is 365,817 at a purchase price not to exceed $12.00 per share at a total maximum aggregate price (exclusive of commission) of $4,389,804.
  
Item 6.
 
Exhibits
 
  Exhibit No. Description
     
 
31.1
Certification of Chairman (Principal Executive Officer), as required by Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 
31.2
Certification of Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial and Accounting Officer), as required by Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
 
 
32.1
Certification of Chairman (Principal Executive Officer), as required by Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
 
 
32.2
Certification of Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial and Accounting Officer), as required by Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
 
 
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SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
 
 
BRIDGFORD FOODS CORPORATION
 
    (Registrant)  
       
Dated: March 7, 2011   
By:
/s/ Raymond F. Lancy
 
   
Raymond F. Lancy
 
   
Chief Financial Officer
 
   
(Duly Authorized Officer, Principal Financial and Accounting Officer) 
 
 
 
 
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