e10vq
Table of Contents

U.S. SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-Q

(Mark One)

(X) QUARTERLY REPORT UNDER SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE
ACT OF 1934

For the quarterly period ended June 30, 2004

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: 001-13343

ADVANTAGE MARKETING SYSTEMS, INC.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
     
Oklahoma
(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)
  73-1323256
(I.R.S. Employer
Identification No.)
     
711 NE 39th Street    
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma   73105
(Address of principal executive offices)   (Zip Code)

(405) 842-0131
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) 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 is an accelerated filer as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

Yes (  ) No (X)

On August 9, 2004, we had outstanding 6,879,760 shares of our common stock, $.0001 par value.

 


ADVANTAGE MARKETING SYSTEMS, INC.
QUARTERLY REPORT ON FORM 10-Q
FOR THE SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2004

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 Letter of Independent Accountants
 Rule 13a-14(a) Certification by our Chairman and Chief Executive Officer
 Rule 13a-14(a) Certification by our Chief Financial Officer
 Section 1350 Certification of our Chief Executive Officer
 Section 1350 Certification of our Chief Financial Officer

CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION

Certain statements under the caption “Item 2 – Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” constitute “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. Certain, but not necessarily all, of such forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “anticipates”, “believes”, “expects”, “may”, “will”, or “should” or other variations thereon, or by discussions of strategies that involve risks and uncertainties. Our actual results or industry results may be materially different from any future results expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially include general economic and business conditions; our ability to implement our business and acquisition strategies; changes in the network marketing industry and changes in consumer preferences; competition; availability of key personnel; increasing operating costs; unsuccessful advertising and promotional efforts; changes in brand awareness; acceptance of new product offerings; changes in, or the failure to comply with, government regulations (especially food and drug laws and regulations); product liability matters; our ability to obtain financing for future acquisitions and other factors.

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PART I –FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

ADVANTAGE MARKETING SYSTEMS, INC.
AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
JUNE 30, 2004 AND DECEMBER 31, 2003

                 
    June 30,   December 31,
    2004
  2003
    (Unaudited)        
ASSETS
               
CURRENT ASSETS:
               
Cash and cash equivalents
  $ 437,505     $ 2,309,281  
Marketable securities, available for sale, at fair value
    5,458,913       1,876,978  
Receivables
    201,638       416,919  
Prepaid taxes and income tax receivable
    464,975       464,975  
Inventory
    1,163,813       901,529  
Deferred income taxes
    4,854       4,854  
Other assets
    276,642       41,212  
 
   
 
     
 
 
Total current assets
    8,008,340       6,015,748  
RECEIVABLES
    233,448       232,809  
PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, net
    3,110,524       3,461,733  
COVENANTS NOT TO COMPETE and other intangibles, net
    519,095       558,004  
DEFERRED INCOME TAXES
    2,103,296       1,883,172  
OTHER ASSETS
    44,988       52,553  
 
   
 
     
 
 
TOTAL
  $ 14,019,691     $ 12,204,019  
 
   
 
     
 
 
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
               
CURRENT LIABILITIES:
               
Accounts payable
  $ 328,954     $ 357,696  
Accrued commissions and bonuses
    351,463       215,062  
Accrued other expenses
    172,544       328,136  
Accrued sales tax liability
    115,115       130,185  
Notes payable
          485,161  
Capital lease obligations
    68,429       78,954  
 
   
 
     
 
 
Total current liabilities
    1,036,505       1,595,194  
LONG-TERM LIABILITIES:
               
Notes payable
          1,504,009  
Capital lease obligations
    116,340       142,880  
Deferred compensation
    668,073       668,073  
 
   
 
     
 
 
Total liabilities
    1,820,918       3,910,156  
 
   
 
     
 
 
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (NOTE 7)
               
STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
               
Common stock - $.0001 par value; authorized 495,000,000 shares; issued 7,322,555 and 5,905,307 shares, outstanding 6,849,760 and 5,432,512 shares, respectively
    732       590  
Paid-in capital
    19,923,153       15,160,183  
Notes receivable for exercise of options
    (31,000 )     (31,000 )
Accumulated deficit
    (5,576,025 )     (4,687,718 )
Accumulated other comprehensive gain, net of tax
    126,389       96,284  
 
   
 
     
 
 
Total capital and accumulated deficit
    14,443,249       10,538,339  
Less cost of treasury stock (472,795 shares, common)
    (2,244,476 )     (2,244,476 )
 
   
 
     
 
 
Total stockholders’ equity
    12,198,773       8,293,863  
 
   
 
     
 
 
TOTAL
  $ 14,019,691     $ 12,204,019  
 
   
 
     
 
 

See notes to consolidated financial statements.

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ADVANTAGE MARKETING SYSTEMS, INC.
AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
FOR THE PERIODS ENDED JUNE 30, 2004 AND 2003
(UNAUDITED)

                                 
    Three Months Ended   Six Months Ended
    June 30,
  June 30,
    2004
  2003
  2004
  2003
Net sales
  $ 4,257,340     $ 4,686,784     $ 8,730,588     $ 9,300,937  
Cost of sales
    3,526,988       3,129,965       6,350,616       6,356,490  
 
   
 
     
 
     
 
     
 
 
Gross profit
    730,352       1,556,819       2,379,972       2,944,447  
Marketing, distribution and administrative expenses:
                               
Marketing
    264,240       403,837       489,461       795,361  
Distribution and administrative
    1,683,657       1,384,114       3,075,933       2,780,064  
 
   
 
     
 
     
 
     
 
 
Total marketing, distribution and administrative expenses
    1,947,897       1,787,951       3,565,394       3,575,425  
 
   
 
     
 
     
 
     
 
 
Loss from operations
    (1,217,545 )     (231,132 )     (1,185,422 )     (630,978 )
Other income (expense):
                               
Interest and dividends, net
    29,164       (24,618 )     75,263       (47,309 )
Other, net
    (26,903 )     (30,091 )     (16,489 )     (51,389 )
 
   
 
     
 
     
 
     
 
 
Total other income (expense)
    2,261       (54,709 )     58,774       (98,698 )
 
   
 
     
 
     
 
     
 
 
Loss before taxes
    (1,215,284 )     (285,841 )     (1,126,648 )     (729,676 )
Income tax benefit
    (272,910 )     (111,478 )     (238,342 )     (284,574 )
 
   
 
     
 
     
 
     
 
 
Net loss
  $ (942,374 )   $ (174,363 )   $ (888,306 )   $ (445,102 )
 
   
 
     
 
     
 
     
 
 
Net loss per common share – basic
  $ (.14 )   $ (.04 )   $ (.13 )   $ (.10 )
 
   
 
     
 
     
 
     
 
 
Net loss per common share – assuming dilution
  $ (.14 )   $ (.04 )   $ (.13 )   $ (.10 )
 
   
 
     
 
     
 
     
 
 
Weighted average common shares outstanding – basic
    6,770,556       4,448,981       6,628,247       4,436,716  
 
   
 
     
 
     
 
     
 
 
Weighted average common shares outstanding - assuming dilution
    6,770,556       4,448,981       6,628,247       4,436,716  
 
   
 
     
 
     
 
     
 
 

See notes to consolidated financial statements.

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ADVANTAGE MARKETING SYSTEMS, INC.
AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
FOR THE SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2004 AND 2003
(UNAUDITED)

                 
    June 30,   June 30,
    2004
  2003
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
               
Net loss
  $ (888,306 )   $ (445,102 )
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash used in operating activities:
               
Depreciation and amortization
    438,064       492,790  
Loss on sale of assets
    17,516       12,047  
Realized loss on sale of marketable securities
    10,536       48,403  
Deferred taxes
    (238,342 )     (284,574 )
Stock issued for services
    14,000       43,500  
Employee compensation recognized upon exercise of stock options
    198,423        
Changes in assets and liabilities which provided (used) cash:
               
Receivables
    226,555       89,373  
Inventory
    (262,284 )     (175,849 )
Other assets
    (233,929 )     (243,154 )
Accounts payable and accrued expenses
    (63,002 )     335,306  
 
   
 
     
 
 
Net cash used in operating activities
    (780,769 )     (127,260 )
 
   
 
     
 
 
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
               
Purchases of property and equipment
    (375,297 )     (469,074 )
Sales of property and equipment
    315,898       24,412  
Receipts on notes receivable
    (11,912 )      
Purchases of marketable securities, available for sale
    (7,076,803 )     (1,199,436 )
Sales of marketable securities, available for sale
    3,532,654       1,183,716  
Payments on advances to affiliates
          29,454  
 
   
 
     
 
 
Net cash used in investing activities
    (3,615,460 )     (430,928 )
 
   
 
     
 
 
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
               
Proceeds from issuance of common stock
    572,470        
Proceeds from exercise of warrants
    3,978,218        
Principal payment on notes payable
    (1,989,170 )     (242,661 )
Principal payment on capital lease obligations
    (37,065 )     (62,637 )
 
   
 
     
 
 
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities
    2,524,453       (305,298 )
 
   
 
     
 
 
NET DECREASE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS
    (1,871,776 )     (863,486 )
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, BEGINNING
    2,309,281       1,207,299  
 
   
 
     
 
 
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, ENDING
  $ 437,505     $ 343,813  
 
   
 
     
 
 

See notes to consolidated financial statements.

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ADVANTAGE MARKETING SYSTEMS, INC.
AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2004 AND 2003
(UNAUDITED)

1. UNAUDITED INTERIM FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

     The unaudited consolidated financial statements and related notes have been prepared pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Accordingly, certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America have been omitted pursuant to such rules and regulations. The accompanying consolidated financial statements and related notes should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements of the Company, and notes thereto, for the year ended December 31, 2003.

     The information furnished reflects, in the opinion of management, all adjustments, consisting of normal recurring accruals, necessary for a fair presentation of the results of the interim periods presented. Operating results of the interim period are not necessarily indicative of the amounts that will be reported for the year ending December 31, 2004.

2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

     In December 2002, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (SFAS) No. 148, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation-Transition and Disclosure”, which amended SFAS No. 123, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation”. The standard provides alternative methods of transition for a voluntary change to the fair value based method of accounting for stock-based employee compensation. In compliance with SFAS No. 148, the Company elected to continue to follow the intrinsic value method in accounting for its stock-based employee compensation arrangement as defined by APB No. 25. Accordingly, no compensation cost has been recognized for stock options granted in the accompanying consolidated financial statements. The following pro forma data is calculated net of tax as if compensation cost for the Company’s stock-based compensation awards was determined based upon the fair value at the grant date consistent with the methodology prescribed under SFAS No. 123.

                                 
    Three Months Ended
  Six Months Ended
    June 30,
  June 30,
    2004
  2003
  2004
  2003
Net loss as reported
  $ (942,374 )   $ (174,363 )   $ (888,306 )   $ (445,102 )
Adjustment, net of tax
    (316,736 )     (20,610 )     (557,253 )     (44,974 )
 
   
 
     
 
     
 
     
 
 
Proforma net loss
  $ (1,259,110 )   $ (194,973 )   $ (1,445,559 )   $ (490,076 )
 
   
 
     
 
     
 
     
 
 
Net loss per common share as reported
  $ (.14 )   $ (.04 )   $ (.13 )   $ (.10 )
Adjustment, net of tax
    (.05 )           (.09 )     (.01 )
 
   
 
     
 
     
 
     
 
 
Proforma net loss per common share
  $ (.19 )   $ (.04 )   $ (.22 )   $ (.11 )
 
   
 
     
 
     
 
     
 
 
Proforma net loss per common share — assuming dilution
  $ (.19 )   $ (.04 )   $ (.22 )   $ (.11 )
 
   
 
     
 
     
 
     
 
 
Weighted average common shares outstanding
    6,770,556       4,448,981       6,628,247       4,436,716  
 
   
 
     
 
     
 
     
 
 
Weighted average common shares outstanding – assuming dilution
    6,770,556       4,448,981       6,628,247       4,436,716  
 
   
 
     
 
     
 
     
 
 

The fair value of each option grant is estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option pricing model with the following weighted average assumptions used for grants in 2004 and 2003, respectively: risk-free interest rates of 3.16 and 2.73 percent; no dividend yield or assumed forfeitures; an expected life of five years; and volatility of 81.2 and 59.7 percent. The pro forma amounts above are not likely to be representative of future years because there is no assurance that additional awards will be made each year. In January 2003, the Company adopted a new stock incentive plan, under

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ADVANTAGE MARKETING SYSTEMS, INC.
AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2004 AND 2003
(UNAUDITED)

which shares were issued in the first and second quarters of 2004. This plan was approved at the 2003 annual meeting of shareholders.

3. MARKETABLE SECURITIES

     Securities are classified as available for sale with the related unrealized gains and losses excluded from earnings and reported net of income tax as a separate component of stockholders’ equity until realized. Realized gains and losses on sales of securities are based on the specific identification method. Declines in the fair value of investment securities below their carrying value, that are other than temporary, are recognized in earnings.

     Net unrealized gains, net of tax, of approximately $4,000 and $30,000 were included in accumulated other comprehensive gain/loss for the three and six months ended June 30, 2004 and net unrealized gains, net of tax of approximately $97,000 and $89,000 were included in other comprehensive gain/loss for the three and six months ended June 30, 2003. Total comprehensive loss for the three and six months ended June 30, 2004 was approximately $939,000 and $858,000 and total comprehensive loss for the three and six months ended June 30, 2003 was approximately $19,000 and $303,000.

4. NOTES PAYABLE

     Notes payable consists of the following:

                 
    June 30,   December 31,
    2004
  2003
Note payable to RMS Limited Partnership, 7.5% effective rate, payable in 60 monthly installments net of discount of $80,069 at December 31, 2003
  $     $ 961,606  
Note payable to bank, with interest at prime less .25% (3.75% at December 31, 2003), payable in monthly installments of principal and interest, due on September 30, 2006, collateralized by warehouse and equipment
          853,270  
Note payable to bank, with interest at prime less .25% (3.75% at December 31, 2003), payable in monthly installments of principal and interest, due on September 30, 2006, collateralized by certain assets
          145,950  
5.0% note payable to Lexus Motor Credit, payable in monthly installments of $588.59
          28,344  
 
   
 
     
 
 
Total
          1,989,170  
Less: current maturities
          485,161  
 
   
 
     
 
 
Long-term notes payable
  $     $ 1,504,009  
 
   
 
     
 
 

All of the notes payable and long-term debt was paid in full in January 2004, using proceeds from the exercise of outstanding warrants.

5. LOSS PER SHARE

     Loss per common share – basic is computed based upon net loss divided by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during each period. Loss per common share – assuming dilution is computed based upon net loss divided by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during each period adjusted for the effect of dilutive potential common shares, calculated using the treasury stock method.

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ADVANTAGE MARKETING SYSTEMS, INC.
AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2004 AND 2003
(UNAUDITED)

     The following is a reconciliation of the common shares used in the calculations of loss per common share – basic and loss per common share – assuming dilution:

                         
    Income   Shares   Per Share
    (Numerator)
  (Denominator)
  Amount
Weighted average common shares outstanding:
                       
For the three months ended June 30, 2004:
                       
Loss per common share:
                       
Loss available to common stockholders
  $ (942,374 )     6,770,556     $ (.14 )
 
                   
 
 
Loss per common share – assuming dilution:
                       
Options
                   
 
   
 
     
 
         
Loss available to common stockholders plus assumed conversions
  $ (942,374 )     6,770,556     $ (.14 )
 
   
 
     
 
     
 
 
For the three months ended June 30, 2003:
                       
Loss per common share:
                       
Loss available to common stockholders
  $ (174,363 )     4,448,981     $ (.04 )
 
                   
 
 
Loss per common share – assuming dilution:
                       
Options
                   
 
   
 
     
 
         
Loss available to common stockholders plus assumed conversions
  $ (174,363 )     4,448,981     $ (.04 )
 
   
 
     
 
     
 
 
For the six months ended June 30, 2004:
                       
Loss per common share:
                       
Loss available to common stockholders
  $ (888,306 )     6,628,247     $ (.13 )
 
                   
 
 
Loss per common share – assuming dilution:
                       
Options
                   
 
   
 
     
 
         
Loss available to common stockholders plus assumed conversions
  $ (888,306 )     6,628,247     $ (.13 )
 
   
 
     
 
     
 
 
For the six months ended June 30, 2003:
                       
Loss per common share:
                       
Loss available to common stockholders
  $ (445,102 )     4,436,716     $ (.10 )
 
                   
 
 
Loss per common share – assuming dilution:
                       
Options
                   
 
   
 
     
 
         
Loss available to common stockholders plus assumed conversions
  $ (445,102 )     4,436,716     $ (.10 )
 
   
 
     
 
     
 
 

     Options to purchase 2,533,394 shares of common stock at exercise prices ranging from $1.30 to $6.13 per share were outstanding for the three and six months ended June 30, 2004, but were not included in the computation of earnings (loss) per common share – assuming dilution for the three or six months ended because such inclusion would not be dilutive.

     Options to purchase 2,613,192 shares of common stock at exercise prices ranging from $1.45 to $6.13 per share were outstanding for the three and six months ended June 30, 2003, but were not included in the computation of earnings (loss) per common share – assuming dilution for the three or six months ended because such inclusion would not be dilutive.

     Warrants to purchase 1,874,768 shares of common stock at exercise prices ranging from $3.40 to $5.40 per share were outstanding at June 30, 2003, but were not included in the computation of

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ADVANTAGE MARKETING SYSTEMS, INC.
AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2004 AND 2003
(UNAUDITED)

earnings per common share - assuming dilution for the three or six months ended because the warrants’ exercise price was greater than the average market price of the common shares.

     As part of the LifeScience Technologies Acquisition, the sellers received monthly cash payments in an amount equal to the greater of $41,667 or 5% of LifeScience Technologies product sales. The sellers had the election to take each monthly payment in shares of common stock rather than cash at $3.00 per share exercise price, but could not acquire more than 860,000 shares pursuant to elections. None of the shares of common stock subject to this election right were included in the computation of earnings (loss) per common share – assuming dilution for the three or six months ended June 30, 2003 because there was a net loss for the three and six months then ended. The balance of the acquisition price, including interest, was paid in full on January 29, 2004.

6. DEFERRED TAXES

     On a regular basis, management evaluates all available evidence, both positive and negative, regarding the ultimate realization of the tax benefits of its deferred tax assets. Valuation allowances have been established for certain operating loss and credit carryforwards that reduce deferred tax assets to an amount that will, more likely than not, be realized. Uncertainties that may affect the realization of these assets include tax law changes and the future level of product prices and costs. The outlook for determination of this allowance is calculated on the Company’s historical taxable income, its expectations for the future based on a three-year projection, and available tax-planning strategies. Based on this determination, management expects that the net deferred tax assets will be realized as offsets to reversing deferred tax liabilities and as offsets to the tax consequences of future taxable income. The Company has net operating loss carryforwards of $4,038,000 available to reduce future taxable income, which will begin to expire in 2023. During the three months ended June 30, 2004, a valuation allowance of approximately $200,000 was provided by management, based upon this analysis. This valuation allowance caused a difference in the Company’s actual tax rate, as compared to the statutory tax rate.

7. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

     Recent Regulatory Developments - As a marketer of products that are ingested by consumers, the Company is subject to the risk that one or more of the ingredients in its products may become the subject of adverse regulatory action. On February 11, 2004, the Food and Drug Administration, or FDA, issued and published in the Federal Register its Final Rule on Ephedrine-containing Supplements, stating that since an “unreasonable risk” had been determined, such supplements would be considered “adulterated” under the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act, or FFDCA, and thus may not be sold. In essence, this Final Rule (or regulation) imposes a national ban on ephedrine supplements.

     The effective date of this regulation was April 12, 2004. The Company complied, and ceased all sales and advertisement of AM-300 and any other ephedra-containing supplement on April 12, 2004. The FDA has indicated that it will now consider whether alternatives to Ephedra and other weight loss and energy stimulants (such as bitter orange) similarly carry an unreasonable risk. These proposals to limit stimulant ingredients, if finalized, may necessitate reformulations of some of the Company’s weight loss products.

     Finally, as the press, the FDA, and members of Congress and of the supplement industry have all predicted, the very issuance of the Final Rule on Ephedra may cause Congress to rethink and amend The Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act of 1994, or DSHEA, as to how safety in supplements may be ensured. In particular, there is growing sentiment (including from one herbal trade association) to make Adverse Event Reporting mandatory for all manufacturers and marketers of

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ADVANTAGE MARKETING SYSTEMS, INC.
AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2004 AND 2003
(UNAUDITED)

dietary supplements, so that FDA may take action more quickly than it did on Ephedra, when a harmful herb or other ingredient is suspected. The Company’s regulatory counsel will keep it apprised of any challenges to DSHEA, especially any proposed bills that would amend this Act.

Manufacturing. On March 13, 2003, the FDA published a proposed rule in the Federal Register which proposes comprehensive requirements for the manufacturing, packing and holding of dietary supplements, also known as good manufacturing practices, or GMPs. The FDA accepted public comments on the proposed GMPs until June 11, 2003; final GMPs will be promulgated after the FDA has reviewed the public comments. Once final GMP regulations become effective, the Company’s manufacturer will be required to adhere to them. The FDA will most likely institute an effective date for the GMPs which will allow the Company’s manufacturer a reasonable amount of time to conduct this review and, if necessary, revise its manufacturing operations to comply with the final GMP regulations.

Advertising and Website. The FDA considers website promotional content to constitute “labeling”, and thus the Company’s website must not contain disease claims or drug claims, but only permissible structure/function claims. The Federal Trade Commission, or FTC, governs the advertising of dietary supplements, in any medium or vehicle—print ads, radio spots, infomercials, etc.—including on Internet ads and websites. The fundamental FTC rule is that all material advertising claims, whether express (direct) or implied, must be substantiated by reliable and competent scientific evidence. Because the Company’s website must comply with both FDA and FTC regulations, management routinely asks its regulatory compliance counsel to review certain web pages, especially the content of new product promotions. When necessary, regulatory counsel also reviews the scientific substantiation for particular claims (again, especially for new products such as Prime One, an anti-stress and weight loss product) to determine if it is sufficient, and also that there are no disease claims present, the main FDA issue. Any major website revision will be reviewed by counsel.

     Product Liability - The Company, like other marketers of products that are intended to be ingested, faces an inherent risk of exposure to products liability claims in the event that the use of its products results in injury. The Company maintains a claims made policy, with limited liability insurance coverage. The limits of this coverage are $1,000,000 per occurrence and $2,000,000 in the aggregate. Products containing ephedra, which represented approximately 20.3% of the Company’s first half 2004 net revenue, are not covered by the Company’s product liability insurance. The Company generally does not obtain contractual indemnification from parties manufacturing its products. However, all of the manufacturers of the Company’s products carry product liability insurance, which covers the Company’s products. Such product claims against the Company could result in material losses to the Company.

     Legal Proceedings - The Company is currently involved in four products liability suits related to the ingestion of its ephedra-based products. Answers to these petitions have been filed and written discovery and responses have been, or soon will be, exchanged. The Company has denied, and will continue to deny, any wrongdoing, and intends to vigorously defend against the claims. The amounts of damages sought are unknown, but include compensatory and punitive damages.

8. DEFERRED COMPENSATION

     On November 4, 2003, the Company entered into a written employment agreement with John W. Hail, Chief Executive Officer, or the Executive. The contract is for an initial two-year term, commencing November 4, 2003, and may be extended for up to five successive one-year terms if the Company and the Executive agree in writing. The contract calls for a base salary of $249,600 per year, a monthly variable salary equal to one percent (1%) of the Company’s gross revenues, and a discretionary year-end bonus

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ADVANTAGE MARKETING SYSTEMS, INC.
AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2004 AND 2003
(UNAUDITED)

determined by a majority vote of the Board of Directors. The agreement also contains provisions for graduated severance payments if the Company terminates the Executive without cause. In addition, if the employment period is extended beyond November 11, 2005, the monthly variable salary will cease and be replaced by a fixed supplemental payment to the Executive, which will be in a gross amount necessary to cover all federal, state and local taxes and all employment taxes, and pay a net amount of $7,000 per month. At June 30, 2004, the discounted value of those fixed supplemental payments was approximately $668,000.

9. CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

     The following table sets forth changes in stockholders’ equity between December 31, 2003 and June 30, 2004:

                 
    June 30, 2004
  December 31, 2003
Common Stock
  $ 732     $ 590  
Paid in Capital
    19,923,153       15,160,183  

     Common stock increased $142, or 24.0% to $732 at June 30, 2004 from $590 at December 31, 2003, due to the issuance of 5,000 shares of common stock for consulting services, the exercise of approximately 242,000 stock options and the exercise of approximately 1,170,000 outstanding warrants.

Paid in capital increased $4,762,970, or 31.5% to $19,923,153 at June 30, 2004 from $15,160,183 at December 31, 2003. The increase in paid in capital was due to:

  Approximately $14,000 related to issuance of stock for services;
 
  Approximately $756,000 related to exercise of stock options; and
 
  Approximately $4,000,000 related to the exercise of outstanding warrants.

******

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Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

To the Board of Directors and Stockholders of
Advantage Marketing Systems, Inc. and Subsidiaries

We have reviewed the accompanying consolidated balance sheet of Advantage Marketing Systems, Inc. and Subsidiaries as of June 30, 2004, and the related consolidated statements of operations and cash flows for the three-month and six-month periods ended June 30, 2004 and 2003. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management.

We conducted our reviews in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). A review of interim financial information consists principally of applying analytical procedures and making inquiries of persons responsible for financial and accounting matters. It is substantially less in scope than an audit conducted in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the objective of which is the expression of an opinion regarding the financial statements taken as a whole. Accordingly, we do not express such an opinion.

Based on our review, we are not aware of any material modifications that should be made to the consolidated financial statements, as of and for the period ended June 30, 2004 and 2003, for them to be in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

We have previously audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated balance sheet of Advantage Marketing Systems, Inc. and Subsidiaries as of December 31, 2003 and the consolidated statements of operations, stockholders’ equity and cash flows for the year then ended (not presented herein) and, in our report dated February 17, 2004, we expressed an unqualified opinion on those statements. In our opinion, the information set forth in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2003 is fairly stated, in all material respects, in relation to the consolidated balance sheet from which it has been derived.

GRANT THORNTON LLP

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
July 22, 2004

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Item 2. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

General

     We market a product line consisting of approximately sixty products in three categories; weight management, dietary supplement and personal care products. These products are marketed through a network marketing organization in which independent associates purchase products for resale to retail customers as well as for their own personal use.

     Critical Accounting Policies. We prepare our consolidated financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States, which require us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the year. Actual results could differ from those estimates. We consider the following policies to be most critical in understanding the judgments that are involved in preparing our financial statements and the uncertainties that could impact our results of operations, financial condition and cash flows.

     Throughout this report, “net sales” represents the gross sales amounts reflected on our invoices to our associates, including freight income, less associate discounts and sales returns. All of our products include a customer satisfaction guarantee. Our products may be returned within 30 days of purchase for a full refund or credit toward the purchase of another product. We also have a buy-back program whereby we repurchase products sold to an independent associate (subject to a restocking fee), provided the associate terminates his/her associateship agreement with us and returns the product within 12 months of original purchase in marketable condition. We receive our net sales price in cash or through credit card payments upon receipt of orders from associates.

     Our “gross profit” consists of net sales less:

  Commissions and bonuses, consisting of commission payments to associates based on their current associate level within their organization, and other one-time incentive cash bonuses to qualifying associates;
 
  Cost of products, consisting of the prices we pay to our manufacturers for products and royalty overrides earned by qualifying associates on sales within their associate organizations; and
 
  Cost of shipping, consisting of costs related to shipments, duties and tariffs, freight expenses relating to shipment of products to associates, and similar expenses.

     We recognize revenue upon shipment of products, training aids and promotional materials to the independent associates. All of our customers pay for sales in advance of shipment. As such, we have no trade receivables. Loans to associates are repayable in five years or less; are secured by commissions controlled by us; and are no longer allowed. Interest rates on loans are typically two percent or more above the prime rate and are fixed. All loans and receivables are secured by guaranteed payment sources that are within our control. As such, we believe there is no need for an allowance for doubtful accounts.

     We write down our inventory to provide for estimated obsolete or unsalable inventory based on assumptions about future demand for our products and market conditions. If future demand and market conditions are less favorable than management’s assumptions, additional inventory write-downs could be required. Likewise, favorable future demand and market conditions could positively impact future operating results if written-off inventory is sold.

     On a regular basis, we evaluate all available evidence, both positive and negative, regarding the ultimate realization of the tax benefits of its deferred tax assets. Valuation allowances have been established for certain operating loss and credit carryforwards that reduce deferred tax assets to an amount that will, more likely than not, be realized. Uncertainties that may affect the realization of these assets include tax law changes and the future level of product prices and costs. The outlook for determination of this allowance is calculated on our historical taxable income, our expectations for the future based on a three-year projection, and available tax-planning strategies. Based on this determination, we expect that the net deferred tax assets will be realized as offsets to reversing deferred tax liabilities and as offsets to the tax consequences of future taxable income.

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     We account for contingencies in accordance with SFAS No. 5, “Accounting for Contingencies”. SFAS 5 requires that we record an estimated loss from a loss contingency when information available prior to issuance of our financial statements indicates that it is probable that an asset has been impaired or a liability has been incurred at the date of the financial statements and the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated. Accounting for contingencies such as legal and income tax matters requires us to use our judgment. Many legal and tax contingencies can take years to resolve. Generally, as the time period increases over which the uncertainties are resolved, the likelihood of changes to the estimate of the ultimate outcome increases. However, an adverse outcome in these matters could have a material impact on our results of operations, financial condition and cash flows. No amounts were accrued for such uncertainties as of June 30, 2004.

Results of Operations

     The following table sets forth, as a percentage of our net sales, selected results of operations for the three and six months ended June 30, 2004 and 2003. The selected results of operations are derived from our unaudited consolidated financial statements. The results of operations for the periods presented are not necessarily indicative of our future operations.

                                                                 
    For the Three Months Ended
  For the Six Months Ended
    June 30,
  June 30,
    2004
  2003
  2004
  2003
    Amount
  Percent
  Amount
  Percent
  Amount
  Percent
  Amount
  Percent
Net sales
  $ 4,257,340       100.0 %   $ 4,686,784       100.0 %   $ 8,730,588       100.0 %   $ 9,300,937       100.0 %
 
   
 
     
 
     
 
     
 
     
 
     
 
     
 
     
 
 
Cost of sales:
                                                               
Commissions and bonuses
    2,022,434       47.5       2,022,758       43.2       3,794,290       43.5       4,060,995       43.6  
Cost of products
    1,060,404       24.9       733,930       15.6       1,773,433       20.3       1,514,063       16.3  
Cost of shipping
    444,150       10.4       373,277       8.0       782,893       9.0       781,432       8.4  
 
   
 
     
 
     
 
     
 
     
 
     
 
     
 
     
 
 
Total cost of sales
    3,526,988       82.8       3,129,965       66.8       6,350,616       72.8       6,356,490       68.3  
 
   
 
     
 
     
 
     
 
     
 
     
 
     
 
     
 
 
Gross profit
    730,352       17.2       1,556,819       33.2       2,379,972       27.2       2,944,447       31.7  
Marketing, distribution and administrative expenses:
                                                               
Marketing
    264,240       6.2       403,837       8.6       489,461       5.6       795,361       8.6  
Distribution and administrative
    1,683,657       39.6       1,384,114       29.5       3,075,933       35.2       2,780,064       29.9  
 
   
 
     
 
     
 
     
 
     
 
     
 
     
 
     
 
 
Total marketing, distribution and administrative expenses
    1,947,897       45.8       1,787,951       38.1       3,565,394       40.8       3,575,425       38.5  
 
   
 
     
 
     
 
     
 
     
 
     
 
     
 
     
 
 
Loss from operations
    (1,217,545 )     (28.6 )     (231,132 )     (4.9 )     (1,185,422 )     (13.6 )     (630,978 )     (6.8 )
Other income (expense):
                                                               
Interest, net
    29,164       0.7       (24,618 )     (0.5 )     75,263       0.9       (47,309 )     (0.5 )
Other, net
    (26,903 )     (0.6 )     (30,091 )     (0.7 )     (16,489 )     (0.2 )     (51,389 )     (0.6 )
 
   
 
     
 
     
 
     
 
     
 
     
 
     
 
     
 
 
Total other income (expense)
    2,261       0.1       (54,709 )     (1.2 )     58,774       0.7       (98,698 )     (1.1 )
 
   
 
     
 
     
 
     
 
     
 
     
 
     
 
     
 
 
Loss before taxes
    (1,215,284 )     (28.5 )     (285,841 )     (6.1 )     (1,126,648 )     (12.9 )     (729,676 )     (7.9 )
Tax benefit
    (272,910 )     (6.4 )     (111,478 )     (2.4 )     (238,342 )     (2.7 )     (284,574 )     (3.1 )
 
   
 
     
 
     
 
     
 
     
 
     
 
     
 
     
 
 
Net loss
  $ (942,374 )     (22.1 )%   $ (174,363 )     (3.7 )%   $ (888,306 )     (10.2 )%   $ (445,102 )     (4.8 )%
 
   
 
     
 
     
 
     
 
     
 
     
 
     
 
     
 
 

Comparison of the Three Months ended June 30, 2004 and 2003

     Our net sales during the three months ended June 30, 2004 decreased by $429,444, or 9.2%, to $4,257,340 from $4,686,784 during the three months ended June 30, 2003. The sales decrease is due to the decrease in number of associate autoships experienced by us in late 2003. We have historically earned a material portion of our revenues from our AM-300 product, which contains ephedra. In 2003, the FDA banned the use of ephedra in nutritional supplements. This ban was effective April 12, 2004. Sales of our AM-300 product totaled approximately $300,000 and $1.7 million, respectively, in the second quarter and first half of 2004, as compared to sales of approximately $1.6 million and $3.5 million, respectively in the same periods of 2003. While the FDA’s decision had an adverse effect on our 2003 revenues, we had been preparing for this contingency. Over the last several years, through strategic acquisitions, product redevelopment and refocus of weight loss products, we have built a multi-product peak performance, weight loss and

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nutritional product line that is predominately non-ephedra. We have seen positive results in converting our AM-300 customers to AM-300 fat burning solution or other weight loss products in states like New York, Illinois and California that have previously banned ephedra. A majority of the customers in those states have chosen one or more of our other performance-based weight loss and nutritional products.

     On March 6, 2004, we announced the launch of our three-phase 2004 mass marketing preferred customer acquisition program using a free trial format. The three products, Prime One, AM-300 fat burning solution and ToppFast meal replacement shake, are packaged in two free trial programs and represent our core adaptogen and weight loss products, targeting consumer demand for increased energy, reduced belly fat and recognizable weight loss. On May 27, 2004, we announced the signing of a Product Infomercial Development agreement, representing the third phase of our customer acquisition program, with on-air testing targeted for September 2004.

     During the second quarter of 2004, we added approximately 14,000 new sales associates and preferred customers with our free trial program. This compares to additions of approximately 3,000 new sales associates for the same period of the prior year. Retention rates from our free trial program appear equivalent with those associated with associate acquisition programs in past years.

     Our cost of sales during the three months ended June 30, 2004 increased by $397,023, or 12.7%, to $3,526,988 from $3,129,965 during the same period in 2003. Total cost of sales, as a percentage of net sales, increased to 82.8% during the three months ended June 30, 2004 from 66.8% during the same period in 2003. The increase in cost of sales was attributable to:

  An increase of $326,474 in the cost of products sold due to sales of our free trial program; and
 
  An increase of $70,873 in shipping costs primarily due to our free trial program.

     The factors discussed above resulted in a decrease in gross profit of $826,467, or 53.1%, to $730,352 for the three months ended June 30, 2004 from $1,556,819 for the same period in 2003.

     Marketing expenses decreased $139,597, or 34.6%, to $264,240 during the three months ended June 30, 2004, from $403,837 during the same period in 2003. The decrease in expense was primarily attributable to:

  A decrease in employee costs of approximately $23,000;
 
  A decrease in promotion expenses of approximately $49,000;
 
  A decrease in travel costs of approximately $37,000 related to less outside travel of executives and our nutrition expert; and
 
  A decrease in general expenses such as postage, telephone expense, and office supplies of approximately $23,000.

     Distribution and administrative expense increased $299,543, or 21.6%, to $1,683,657 for the three months ended June 30, 2004 compared to $1,384,114 for the three months ended June 30, 2003. The increase in expense was primarily attributable to:

  An increase in employee costs of approximately $200,000 due primarily to exercise of employee stock options;
 
  An increase in legal expense of approximately $71,000 related to ephedra lawsuits; and
 
  A decrease in rent expense of approximately $21,000 related to the consolidation of our corporate offices.

     The marketing, distribution and administrative expenses as a percentage of net sales increased to 45.8% during the three months ended June 30, 2004 from 38.1% during the same period in 2003. Management expects marketing, distribution and administrative expenses to continue at or near the current dollar levels.

     Our net other income (reduced by other expense) increased by $56,970 to net other income of $2,261 at June 30, 2004, from a net other expense of $54,709 during the same period in 2003, primarily due to a decrease in interest expense, related to the repayment of all outstanding debt in January 2004, and an increase in investment income from marketable securities.

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     Our loss before taxes increased $929,443 to a loss of $1,215,284 for the three months ended June 30, 2004, compared to a loss of $285,841 during the same period in 2003. Loss before taxes as a percentage of net sales was (28.5)% and (6.1)% for the three months ended June 30, 2004 and 2003, respectively. Income tax benefit for the three months ended June 30, 2004 and 2003 was $272,910 and $111,478. Our net loss increased $768,011 to $942,374 for the three months ended June 30, 2004, from $174,363 for the same period in 2003. This increase was attributable to:

  The decrease in gross profit to $730,352 during 2004 from $1,556,819 during 2003;
 
  The increase in marketing, distribution and administrative expense to $1,947,897 during 2004 from $1,787,951 during 2003; and
 
  The increase in net other income to $2,261 during 2004 from net other expense of $54,709 during 2003.

Net loss as a percentage of net sales increased to (22.1%) for the three months ended June 30, 2004, from (3.7%) during the same period in 2003.

Comparison of the Six Months ended June 30, 2004 and 2003

     Our net sales during the six months ended June 30, 2004 decreased by $570,349, or 6.1%, to $8,730,588 from $9,300,937 during the six months ended June 30, 2003. The sales decrease is due to the decrease in number of associate autoships experienced by us in late 2003, and the FDA ban on ephedra-containing products. We have launched a new free trial program, adding approximately 17,000 new associates and preferred customers in the first six months of 2004, compared to additions of approximately 4,000 new associates in the same period of 2003. Retention rates from our free trial program appear equivalent with those associated with associate acquisition programs in past years.

     Our cost of sales during the six months ended June 30, 2004 decreased by $5,874, or 0.1%, to $6,350,616 from $6,356,490 during the same period in 2003. Total cost of sales, as a percentage of net sales, increased to 72.7% during the six months ended June 30, 2004, from 68.3% during the same period in 2003. The decrease in cost of sales was attributed to:

  A decrease of $266,705 in associate commissions and bonuses due to the decreased level of sales;
 
  An increase of $259,370 in the cost of products sold due to sales of our free trial program; and
 
  An increase of $1,461 in shipping expenses primarily due to of our free trial program.

     The factors discussed above resulted in a decrease in gross profit of $564,475, or 19.2%, to $2,379,972 for the six months ended June 30, 2004 from $2,944,447 for the same period in 2003.

     Marketing expenses decreased $305,900, or 38.5%, to $489,461 during the six months ended June 30, 2004, from $795,361 during the same period in 2003. The decrease in expense was primarily attributable to:

  A decrease in employee costs of approximately $53,000;
 
  A decrease in promotion expenses of approximately $100,000;
 
  A decrease in travel costs of approximately $68,000 related to less outside travel of executives and our nutrition expert; and
 
  A decrease in general expenses such as postage, telephone expense, and office supplies of approximately $50,000.

     Distribution and administrative expense increased $295,869, or 10.6%, to $3,075,933 for the six months ended June 30, 2004 compared to $2,780,064 for the six months ended June 30, 2003. The increase in expense was primarily attributable to:

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  An increase in employee costs of approximately $200,000 due primarily to exercise of employee stock options;
 
  An increase in legal expense of approximately $117,000 related to ephedra lawsuits; and
 
  A decrease in rent expense of approximately $44,000 related to the consolidation of our corporate offices.

     The marketing, distribution and administrative expenses as a percentage of net sales increased to 40.8% during the six months ended June 30, 2004 from 38.5% during the same period in 2003. Management expects marketing, distribution and administrative expenses to continue at or near the current dollar levels.

     Our net other income (reduced by other expense) increased by $157,472 to net other income of $58,774 for the six months ended June 30, 2004, from a net other expense of $98,698 during the same period in 2003, primarily due to a decrease in interest expense, related to the repayment of all outstanding debt in January 2004, and an increase in investment income related to our marketable securities.

     Our loss before taxes increased $396,972 to a loss of $1,126,648 for the six months ended June 30, 2004, compared to a loss of $729,676 during the same period in 2003. Loss before taxes as a percentage of net sales was (12.9%) and (7.9%) for the six months ended June 30, 2004 and 2003, respectively. Income tax benefit for the six months ended June 30, 2004 and 2003 was $238,342 and $284,574. Our net loss increased $443,204 to $888,306 for the six months ended June 30, 2004, from $445,102 for the same period in 2003. This increase was attributable to:

  The decrease in gross profit to $2,379,972 during 2004 from $2,944,447 during 2003;
 
  The decrease in marketing, distribution and administrative expense to $3,565,394 during 2004 from $3,575,425 during 2003; and
 
  The increase in net other income to $58,774 during 2004 from net other expense of $98,698 during 2003.

Seasonality

     No pattern of seasonal fluctuations exists due to the patterns that we are currently experiencing. However, there is no assurance that we will not become subject to seasonal fluctuations in operations.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

     Our primary source of liquidity has been cash provided by sales of our equity securities and marketable securities, and from our operating activities. In January 2004, we added cash of approximately $1.2 million from the exercise of outstanding warrants. Using a portion of the proceeds from the exercise of warrants in 2003 and 2004, we repaid all debt, totaling $1,504,009, resulting in a decrease in annual interest expense of approximately $123,000. At June 30, 2004, we had working capital of $6,971,835, compared to $4,420,554 at December 31, 2003. Our working capital needs over the next 12 months consist primarily of marketing, distribution and administrative expenses, and will be provided by our operating activities and existing cash and cash equivalents. During the six months ended June 30, 2004, net cash used in operating activities was $780,769, net cash used in investing activities was $3,615,460 and net cash provided by financing activities was $2,524,453. This represented a net decrease in cash during this period of $1,871,776. Our marketable securities can provide cash liquidity during the next 12 months, should the need arise.

     In 2001, we completed construction of a 23,346 square foot distribution and call center facility in Oklahoma City. This project was funded, in part, with bank loans of $980,000 for the land and building and $166,216 for the warehouse equipment. Both loans were with Bank One Oklahoma, N.A. and accrued interest at an annual rate of .25% under the prime rate. The loans were retired in January 2004. As of January 31, 2004, we had no long-term debt outstanding.

Item 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

     Our balance sheet includes marketable securities, which we believe are conservative blends of income and growth investments resulting in moderate market risk. We invest in equity marketable securities to generate capital

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growth, and fixed-income marketable securities to provide current income. Because of the nature of these investments, total return and risk will be affected by both current interest rates and equity market movements. Our fixed income investments of approximately $2,600,000 are subject to interest risk only. We have approximately $2,800,000 of equity investments that are exposed to market risk.

     Interest Rate Risk. We currently maintain an investment portfolio of high-quality fixed-income marketable securities. All securities are available for sale and recorded in the balance sheet at fair value with fluctuations in fair value reported as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income in stockholders equity. We do not hedge our investment portfolio. Fixed-income investments with a maturity date of three months or less at the date of purchase are deemed to be cash equivalents. Any remaining fixed-income securities are considered short-term and mainly consist of investments in U.S. Treasury notes and bonds.

     The following table lists our cash equivalents and our short-term fixed-income marketable securities at June 30, 2004 and December 31, 2003:

                                 
    June 30, 2004
  December 31, 2003
            Fair           Fair
    Cost
  Value
  Cost
  Value
Cash equivalents
  $ 12,383     $ 12,383     $ 17,709     $ 17,709  
Short-term investments
    2,666,430       2,633,393       787,551       786,855  
 
   
 
     
 
     
 
     
 
 
 
  $ 2,678,813     $ 2,645,776     $ 805,260     $ 804,564  
 
   
 
     
 
     
 
     
 
 

     The fair value of the cash equivalents and fixed-income marketable securities increased $1,841,212 during the six months ended June 30, 2004 to $2,645,776 from $804,564 at December 31, 2003. This increase was primarily due to the purchase of fixed-income securities of approximately $1,800,000, purchased with cash from the exercise of our outstanding warrants.

     Equity Market Risks. We currently maintain an investment portfolio of equity securities. All securities are available for sale and recorded in the balance sheet at fair value with fluctuations in fair value reported as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income in stockholders equity. We do not engage in hedging our equity portfolio or otherwise purchase derivative securities. Because of the quality of our portfolio and liquid nature of our equity investments, we do not consider the market risk related to these investments to be material. At June 30, 2004, our equity investments had a value of $2,813,138 compared to $1,072,414 at December 31, 2003, primarily due to the purchase of mutual fund equity investments, purchased with cash from the exercise of our outstanding warrants.

     We attempt to manage our interest and market risk by evaluating and purchasing what we believe to be the best investment securities and rates of return available.

Item 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

     As of the end of the period covered by this report, an evaluation was carried out under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) as required by Rule 13a-15(b). Based upon that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that the design and operation of these disclosure controls and procedures were effective. Our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have also concluded that there have not been any changes in our internal control over financial reporting that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

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PART II. OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

On March 5, 2004, we were sued in Ross v. Advantage Marketing Systems, Inc., Superior Court of the State of California for the County of Los Angeles, Case No. BC 309118. An answer has been filed. The case has been transferred to the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York as part of the multi-district ephedra litigation. The plaintiff alleges that she took AM-300, which contains ephedra, and was injured as a result. She seeks actual, compensatory and punitive damages, plus an accounting and disgorgement of profits we purportedly earned as a result of allegedly illegal conduct. No discovery has yet been undertaken. We intend to vigorously defend the case.

On March 8, 2004, we were sued in Purcell v. Advantage Marketing Systems, Inc. and The Chemins Company, Inc., District Court in and for Pontotoc County, State of Oklahoma, Case No. C-04-127. An answer has been filed, and the parties are in the process of exchanging written discovery. The plaintiff alleges that she took AM-300, which contains ephedra, and was injured as a result. She seeks actual and punitive damages in an amount in excess of $10,000. We intend to vigorously defend the case.

The case of Ronald Potter et al v. Advantage Marketing Systems, Inc. et al, a products liability claim, was filed in the Oklahoma County District Court in March 2003. The Plaintiffs allege that the ingestion of ephedra included in AM-300 resulted in the death of Pamela Sue Potter. We have filed an Answer to the Petition. Written discovery and responses have been exchanged, and a limited number of depositions have been taken. Otherwise, there has been little action in the case. We have denied any wrongdoing and intend to vigorously defend the claim. The amount of damages sought is unknown, but includes compensatory and punitive damages.

The case of In re Jose Garcia v. Advantage Marketing Systems, Inc., a products liability claim, was filed in the Superior Court of California, San Bernardino County, in February 2003. The Plaintiff claims personal injury and lost wages resulting from the ingestion of ephedra included in AM-300. We have filed an Answer to the Petition. Written discovery and responses have been exchanged. Otherwise, there has been little action in the case. We have denied any wrongdoing and intend to vigorously defend the claim. The amount of damages sought is unknown.

Item 2. CHANGES IN SECURITIES, USE OF PROCEEDS AND ISSUER PURCHASE OF EQUITY SECURITIES

None

Item 3. DEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES

None

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

None

Item 5. OTHER INFORMATION

None

Item 6. EXHIBITS AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K

(a)   Exhibits
 
3.1   The Registrant’s Certificate of Incorporation, incorporated by reference to the Registration Statement on Form SB-2 (Registration No. 333-47801) filed with the commission on March 11, 1998.
 
3.2   The Registrant’s Bylaws, incorporated by reference to the Registration Statement on Form SB-2 (Registration No. 333-47801) filed with the commission on March 11, 1998.

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15   Letter of independent accountants as to unaudited interim financial information, filed herewith.
 
31.1   Rule 13a-14(a) Certification by our Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, filed herewith.
 
31.2   Rule 13a-14(a) Certification by our Chief Financial Officer, filed herewith.
 
32.1   Section 1350 Certification of our Chief Executive Officer, filed herewith.
 
32.2   Section 1350 Certification of our Chief Financial Officer, filed herewith.
 
(b)   Form 8-K

     We filed the following Form 8-K during the second quarter of 2004:

  May 28, 2004. Item 5 and 7 filing disclosing the press release concerning the signing of a Product Infomercial Development agreement.

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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.

         
    REGISTRANT:
    ADVANTAGE MARKETING SYSTEMS, INC.
 
       
Dated: August 12, 2004
  By:   /S/ REGGIE B. COOK
      Reggie B. Cook, Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
      (Duly Authorized Officer of Registrant and Principal Financial Officer)

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Index of Exhibits

     
3.1
  The Registrant’s Certificate of Incorporation, incorporated by reference to the Registration Statement on Form SB-2 (Registration No. 333-47801) filed with the commission on March 11, 1998.
 
   
3.2
  The Registrant’s Bylaws, incorporated by reference to the Registration Statement on Form SB-2 (Registration No. 333-47801) filed with the commission on March 11, 1998.
 
   
15
  Letter of independent accountants as to unaudited interim financial information, filed herewith.
 
   
31.1
  Rule 13a-14(a) Certification by our Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, filed herewith.
 
   
31.2
  Rule 13a-14(a) Certification by our Chief Financial Officer, filed herewith.
 
   
32.1
  Section 1350 Certification of our Chief Executive Officer, filed herewith.
 
   
32.2
  Section 1350 Certification of our Chief Financial Officer, filed herewith.

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