Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis
Item 2 - Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
BUSINESS
Overview
Griffon Corporation (the “Company”, “Griffon”, "we" or "us") is a diversified management and holding company that conducts business through wholly-owned subsidiaries. The Company was founded in 1959, is a Delaware corporation headquartered in New York, N.Y. and is listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE:GFF).
Business Strategy
We own and operate, and seek to acquire, businesses in multiple industries and geographic markets. Our objective is to maintain leading positions in the markets we serve by providing innovative, branded products with superior quality and industry-leading service. We place emphasis on our iconic and well-respected brands, which helps to differentiate us and our offerings from our competitors and strengthens our relationship with our customers and those who ultimately use our products.
Through operating a diverse portfolio of businesses, we expect to reduce variability caused by external factors such as market cyclicality, seasonality, and weather. We achieve diversity by providing various product offerings and brands through multiple sales and distribution channels and conducting business across multiple countries which we consider our home markets.
Griffon oversees the operations of its subsidiaries, allocates resources among them and manages their capital structures. Griffon provides direction and assistance to its subsidiaries in connection with acquisition and growth opportunities as well as in connection with divestitures. As long-term investors, having substantial experience in a variety of industries, our intent is to continue the growth and strengthening of our existing businesses, and to diversify further through investments in our businesses and through acquisitions.
Since 2017, we have undertaken a series of transformative transactions. We divested our specialty plastics business in 2018 and our defense electronics (Telephonics) business in 2022 to focus on our core markets and improve our free cash flow conversion. In our Home and Building Products ("HBP") segment, we acquired CornellCookson, Inc. ("CornellCookson") in 2018, which has been integrated into Clopay Corporation ("Clopay"), creating a leading North American manufacturer and marketer of residential garage doors and sectional commercial doors, and rolling steel doors and grille products, under brands that include Clopay, Ideal, Cornell and Cookson. In our Consumer and Professional Products ("CPP") segment, we expanded the scope of our brands through the acquisition of Hunter Fan Company ("Hunter") in January 2022 and ClosetMaid, LLC ("ClosetMaid") in 2018. We established an integrated headquarters for CPP in Orlando, Florida for our portfolio of leading brands that includes AMES, Hunter, True Temper and ClosetMaid.
CPP Global Sourcing Strategy Expansion and Restructuring Charges
In response to changing market conditions, Griffon announced in May 2023 that CPP is expanding its global sourcing strategy to include long handled tools, material handling, and wood storage and organization product lines.
By transitioning these product lines to an asset-light structure, CPP’s operations will be better positioned to serve customers with a more flexible and cost-effective sourcing model that leverages supplier relationships around the world, while improving its competitive positioning in a post-pandemic marketplace. These actions will be essential to CPP achieving 15% EBITDA margins, while enhancing free cash flow through improved working capital and significantly lower capital expenditures.
The global sourcing strategy expansion is expected to be complete by the end of calendar 2024. By that time, CPP expects to reduce its facility footprint by approximately 1.2 million square feet, or approximately 15% of CPP's square footage, and its headcount by approximately 600. Manufacturing operations have ceased at all affected sites: Camp Hill and Harrisburg, PA; Fairfield, IA; Grantsville, MD and four wood mills.
Implementation of this strategy over the duration of the project will result in charges of $120,000 to $130,000, including $50,000 to $55,000 of cash charges for employee retention and severance, operational transition, and facility and lease exit costs, and $70,000 to $75,000 of non-cash charges primarily related to asset write-downs. Capital investment in the range of $3,000 to $5,000 will also be required. These costs exclude cash proceeds from the sale of real estate and equipment, which are
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expected to largely offset the cash charges, and also exclude inefficiencies due to duplicative labor costs and absorption impacts during transition.
Further Information
Griffon posts and makes available, free of charge through its website at www.griffon.com , its annual report on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K and amendments to those reports filed or furnished pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as well as press releases, as soon as reasonably practicable after such materials are published or filed with or furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). The information found on Griffon's website is not part of this or any other report it files with or furnishes to the SEC.
For information regarding revenue, profit and total assets of each segment, see the Business Segments footnote in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
Reportable Segments:
Griffon conducts its operations through two reportable segments:
• Home and Building Products ("HBP") conducts its operations through Clopay. Founded in 1964, Clopay is the largest manufacturer and marketer of garage doors and rolling steel doors in North America. Residential and commercial sectional garage doors are sold through professional dealers and leading home center retail chains throughout North America under the brands Clopay, Ideal, and Holmes. Rolling steel door and grille products designed for commercial, industrial, institutional, and retail use are sold under the Cornell and Cookson brands.
• Consumer and Professional Products (“CPP”) is a leading global provider of branded consumer and professional tools; residential, industrial and commercial fans; home storage and organization products; and products that enhance indoor and outdoor lifestyles. CPP sells products globally through a portfolio of leading brands including AMES, since 1774, Hunter, since 1886, True Temper, and ClosetMaid.
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OVERVIEW
Revenue for the quarter ended March 31, 2024 was $672,880 compared to $710,984 in the prior year quarter, a decrease of 5%, driven by decreased revenue of 1% and 11% at HBP and CPP, respectively. Net income was $64,143 or $1.28 per share, compared to a net loss of $62,255, or $1.17 per share, in the prior year quarter.
The current year quarter results from operations included the following:
– Restructuring charges of $2,401 ($1,769, net of tax, or $0.04 per share);
– Gain on sale of building of $11 ($9, net of tax, or $0.00 per share);
– Strategic review - retention and other of $2,676 ($1,997, net of tax, or $0.04 per share); and
– Discrete and certain other tax benefits, net, of $390 or $0.01 per share.
The prior year quarter results from operations included the following:
– Restructuring charges of $78,334 ($58,529, net of tax, or $1.06 per share);
– Strategic review - retention and other of $6,190 ($4,658, net of tax, or $0.08 per share);
– Intangible asset impairment charges of $100,000 ($74,256, net of tax, or $1.34 per share);
– Proxy expenses of $614 ($471, net of tax, or $0.01 per share); and
– Discrete and certain other tax benefits, net, of $8,723 or $0.16 per share.
Excluding these items from the respective quarterly results, net income would have been $67,510, or $1.35 per share in the current year quarter ended March 31, 2024 compared to $66,936, or $1.21 per share, in the prior year quarter.
Revenue for the six months ended March 31, 2024 was $1,316,033 compared to $1,360,368 in the prior year period, a decrease of 3% driven by decreased revenue of 1% and 7% at HBP and CPP, respectively. Net income was $106,320 or $2.10 per share, compared to a net loss of $13,553, or $0.26 per share, in the prior year period.
The current year-to-date results from operations included the following:
– Restructuring charges of $14,801 ($10,982, net of tax, or $0.22 per share);
– Strategic review - retention and other of $7,334 ($5,497, net of tax, or $0.11 per share);
– Gain on sale of building of $558 ($415, net of tax, or $0.01 per share); and
– Discrete and certain other tax provisions, net, of $393 or $0.01 per share.
The prior year-to-date results from operations included the following:
– Restructuring charges of $78,334 ($58,529, net of tax, or $1.06 per share);
– Gain on the sale of building $10,852 ($8,323, net of tax, or $0.15 per share);
– Intangible asset impairment charges of $100,000 ($74,256, net of tax, or $1.34 per share);
– Proxy expenses of $2,117 ($1,624, net of tax, or $0.03 per share);
– Strategic review - retention and other of $14,422 ($10,880, net of tax, or $0.20 per share); and
– Discrete and certain other tax benefits, net, of $9,056 or $0.16 per share.
Excluding these items from the respective periods, net income would have been $122,777, or $2.42 per share in the current year period ended March 31, 2024 compared to $114,357, or $2.07 per share, in the prior year period.
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Griffon evaluates performance based on adjusted net income (loss) and the related adjusted earnings (loss) per share, which excludes restructuring charges, non-cash impairment charges, loss from debt extinguishment, acquisition related expenses and discrete and certain other tax items, as well as other items that may affect comparability, as applicable, non-GAAP measures. Griffon believes this information is useful to investors for the same reason. The following table provides a reconciliation of net income (loss) from operations to adjusted net income and earnings (loss) per share to adjusted earnings per share:
For the Three Months Ended March 31, For the Six Months Ended March 31,
2024 2023 2024 2023
(Unaudited)
Net income (loss) $ 64,143 $ (62,255) $ 106,320 $ (13,553)
Adjusting items:
Restructuring charges (1)
2,401 78,334 14,801 78,334
Intangible asset impairment — 100,000 — 100,000
Gain on sale of building (11) — (558) (10,852)
Strategic review - retention and other 2,676 6,190 7,334 14,422
Proxy expenses — 614 — 2,117
Tax impact of above items (2)
(1,309) (47,224) (5,513) (47,055)
Discrete and certain other tax provisions (benefits), net (3)
(390) (8,723) 393 (9,056)
Adjusted net income $ 67,510 $ 66,936 $ 122,777 $ 114,357
Earnings (loss) per common share $ 1.28 $ (1.17) $ 2.10 $ (0.26)
Adjusting items, net of tax:
Anti-dilutive share impact (4)
— 0.05 — 0.02
Restructuring charges (1)
0.04 1.06 0.22 1.06
Intangible asset impairment — 1.34 — 1.34
Gain on sale of building — — (0.01) (0.15)
Strategic review - retention and other 0.04 0.08 0.11 0.20
Proxy expenses — 0.01 — 0.03
Discrete and certain other tax provisions (benefits), net (3)
(0.01) (0.16) 0.01 (0.16)
Adjusted earnings per common share $ 1.35 $ 1.21 $ 2.42 $ 2.07
Weighted-average shares outstanding (in thousands) 47,946 53,038 48,365 52,809
Diluted weighted-average shares outstanding (in thousands) 49,931 55,364 50,714 55,334
Note: Due to rounding, the sum of earnings per common share and adjusting items, net of tax, may not equal adjusted earnings per common share.
(1) For the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023, restructuring charges relate to the CPP global sourcing expansion, of which $1,334 and $74,645, respectively, is included in Cost of goods and services and $1,067 and $3,689, respectively, is included in SG&A. For the six months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023, restructuring charges relate to the CPP global sourcing expansion, of which $12,980 and $74,645, respectively, are included in Cost of goods and services and $1,821 and $3,689, respectively, are included in SG&A.
(2) The tax impact for the above reconciling adjustments from GAAP to non-GAAP Net income and EPS is determined by comparing the Company's tax provision, including the reconciling adjustments, to the tax provision excluding such adjustments.
(3) Discrete and certain other tax provisions (benefits) primarily relate to the impact of a rate differential between the statutory and annual effective tax rates on items impacting the quarter.
(4) In the three and six months ended March 31, 2023, Earnings (loss) per common share is calculated using basic shares on the face of the income statement. The anti-dilutive share impact represents the impact of converting from basic shares to diluted shares used in calculating Earnings (loss) per common share.
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RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Three and Six Months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023
Griffon evaluates performance and allocates resources based on each segment adjusted EBITDA, a non-GAAP measure, which is defined as income (loss) before taxes, excluding interest income and expense, depreciation and amortization, unallocated amounts (mainly corporate overhead), strategic review charges, non-cash impairment charges, restructuring charges, and acquisition related expenses, as well as other items that may affect comparability, as applicable. Griffon believes this information is useful to investors for the same reason. See table provided in Note 12 - Business Segments for a reconciliation of adjusted EBITDA to income (loss) before taxes.
Home and Building Products
For the Three Months Ended March 31, For the Six Months Ended March 31,
2024 2023 2024 2023
Residential $ 221,322 $ 220,416 $ 440,120 $ 447,475
Commercial 170,740 176,243 347,733 345,757
Total Revenue $ 392,062 $ 396,659 $ 787,853 $ 793,232
Adjusted EBITDA $ 128,924 32.9 % $ 131,871 33.2 % $ 253,643 32.2 % $ 256,016 32.3 %
Depreciation and amortization $ 3,772 $ 3,811 $ 7,405 $ 7,657
For the quarter ended March 31, 2024, HBP revenue decreased $4,597 or 1% from the prior year quarter due to unfavorable product mix of 2%, partially offset by a 1% increase in volume. Increased residential volume in the quarter was partially offset by decreased commercial volume.
For the quarter ended March 31, 2024, adjusted EBITDA of $128,924 decreased $2,947 or 2%, compared to $131,871 in the prior year quarter. The unfavorable variance to the prior year resulted from the decreased revenue noted above, and increased labor and distribution costs, partially offset by reduced material costs.
For the six months ended March 31, 2024, revenue decreased $5,379 or 1%, compared to the prior year period, driven by decreased volume of 3% reflecting decreased commercial volume, partially offset by increased residential volume and favorable product mix of 2%.
For the six months ended March 31, 2024, adjusted EBITDA of $253,643 decreased $2,373, or 1%, compared to $256,016 in the prior year period. The unfavorable variance resulted from the decreased revenue noted above, and increased labor and distribution costs, partially offset by reduced material costs.
For the quarter ended March 31, 2024, segment depreciation and amortization remained consistent with the prior year quarter. For the six months ended March 31, 2024, segment depreciation and amortization decreased $252 compared to the prior year period due to fully depreciated assets.
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Consumer and Professional Products
For the Three Months Ended March 31, For the Six Months Ended March 31,
2024 2023 2024 2023
United States $ 183,142 $ 212,385 $ 334,314 $ 366,052
Europe 18,353 19,070 23,598 23,766
Canada 16,363 21,570 37,391 44,686
Australia 57,030 56,585 121,901 122,802
All other countries 5,930 4,715 10,976 9,830
Total Revenue $ 280,818 $ 314,325 $ 528,180 $ 567,136
Adjusted EBITDA $ 20,121 7.2 % $ 19,635 6.2 % 25,660 4.9 % 17,826 3.1 %
Depreciation and amortization $ 11,171 $ 13,303 $ 22,228 $ 26,430
For the quarter ended March 31, 2024, revenue decreased $33,507, or 11%, compared to the prior year quarter primarily due to decreased volume driven by reduced consumer demand in North America and the U.K., partially offset by increased volume in Australia.
For the quarter ended March 31, 2024, adjusted EBITDA of $20,121 increased $486 or 2% compared to $19,635 in the prior year quarter. The variance to the prior year was primarily due to improved North American production costs and decreased discretionary spending, partially offset by the unfavorable impact of the reduced volume noted above.
For the six months ended March 31, 2024, revenue decreased $38,956, or 7%, compared to the prior year period primarily due to decreased volume driven by reduced consumer demand in North America and the U.K., partially offset by increased volume in Australia and elevated customer inventory levels.
For the six months ended March 31, 2024, adjusted EBITDA of $25,660 increased $7,834 or 44% compared to $17,826 in the prior year period. The variance to the prior year was primarily due to improved margins in Australia and reduced North American production costs, as well as decreased discretionary spending, partially offset by the unfavorable impact of the reduced volume noted above.
For the quarter and six months ended March 31, 2024, segment depreciation and amortization decreased $2,132 and $4,202, respectively, compared to the prior year period, primarily related to fully depreciated assets and the write-down of certain fixed assets at several manufacturing facilities in connection with restructuring activities.
CPP Global Sourcing Strategy Expansion and Restructuring Charges
In response to changing market conditions, Griffon announced in May 2023 that CPP is expanding its global sourcing strategy to include long handled tools, material handling, and wood storage and organization product lines.
By transitioning these product lines to an asset-light structure, CPP’s operations will be better positioned to serve customers with a more flexible and cost-effective sourcing model that leverages supplier relationships around the world, while improving its competitive positioning in a post-pandemic marketplace. These actions will be essential to CPP achieving 15% EBITDA margins, while enhancing free cash flow through improved working capital and significantly lower capital expenditures.
The global sourcing strategy expansion is expected to be complete by the end of calendar 2024. By that time, CPP expects to have reduced its U.S. facility footprint by approximately 1.2 million square feet, or 15% of CPP's square footage, and its headcount by approximately 600. Manufacturing operations have ceased at all affected sites: Camp Hill and Harrisburg, PA; Fairfield, IA; Grantsville, MD; and four wood mills.
Implementation of this strategy over the duration of the project will result in charges of $120,000 to $130,000, including $50,000 to $55,000 of cash charges for employee retention and severance, operational transition, and facility and lease exit costs, and $70,000 to $75,000 of non-cash charges primarily related to asset write-downs. Capital investment in the range of $3,000 to $5,000 will also be required. These costs exclude cash proceeds from the sale of real estate and equipment, which are expected to largely offset the cash charges, and also exclude inefficiencies due to duplicative labor costs and absorption impacts during transition.
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In the six months ended March 31, 2024, CPP incurred pre-tax restructuring charges of $14,801 consisting of cash charges of $6,319 and non-cash, asset related charges of $8,482 to adjust inventory to net realizable value. The cash charges included $2,329 for one-time termination benefits and other personnel-related costs and $3,990 for facility exit and other related costs. Since inception, cash charges totaled $39,855 and non-cash, asset-related charges totaled $67,414; the cash charges included $19,101 for one-time termination benefits and other personnel-related costs and $20,754 for facility exit and other related costs. Non-cash charges included a $22,018 impairment charge related to certain fixed assets at several manufacturing locations and $45,396 to adjust inventory to net realizable value.
Cash Charges Non-Cash Charges
Personnel related costs Facilities, exit costs and other Facilities, inventory and other Total Capital Investments
Anticipated Charges (1)
$ 19,500 $ 35,500 $ 75,000 $ 130,000 $ 5,000
Total 2023 restructuring charges (16,772) (16,764) (58,932) (92,468) —
Q1 FY2024 Activity (1,847) (2,071) (8,482) (12,400) —
Q2 FY2024 Activity (482) (1,919) — (2,401) $ —
Total 2024 restructuring charges (2,329) (3,990) (8,482) (14,801) —
Total cumulative charges (19,101) (20,754) (67,414) (107,269) —
Estimate to Complete $ 399 $ 14,746 $ 7,586 $ 22,731 $ 5,000
Facility and equipment sales to date (gain / cash proceeds)
$ — $ — $ 1,065 $ 1,065 $ 1,192
________________________
(1)The above table represents the upper range of anticipated charges during the duration of the project.
Unallocated
For the quarter ended March 31, 2024, unallocated amounts, excluding depreciation, consisted primarily of corporate overhead costs totaling $14,814 compared to $14,630 in the prior year quarter; for the six months ended March 31, 2024, unallocated amounts totaled $28,721 compared to $28,406 in the prior year period. The increase in both the current quarter and six month periods, compared to their respective comparable prior year periods, primarily relates to increases in Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) expenses driven by the increase in Griffon's share price, partially offset by a decrease in other compensation related expenses.
Strategic review
During the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023, we incurred strategic review expenses of $2,676 ($1,997, net of tax) and $6,190 ($4,658, net of tax), respectively, and during the six months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023, we incurred strategic review expenses of $7,334 ($5,497, net of tax) and $14,422 ($10,880, net of tax), respectively, primarily for retention payments and other associated costs related to the strategic review process that concluded in April 2023.
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Proxy expenses
During the three and six months ended March 31, 2024, we did not incur any non-recurring proxy expenses. During the three and six months ended March 31, 2023, non-recurring proxy expenses of $614 ($471, net of tax) and $2,117 ($1,624, net of tax), respectively, were recorded in SG&A, and related to a settlement entered into with a shareholder that had submitted a slate of director nominees.
Segment Depreciation and Amortization
For the three months ended March 31, 2024, segment depreciation and amortization of $14,943 decreased $2,171 compared to $17,114 in the prior year quarter, and for the six months ended March 31, 2024, segment depreciation and amortization of $29,633 decreased $4,454 compared to $34,087 in the prior year period. The decrease in both the three and six months ended March 31, 2024, primarily relates to fully depreciated assets and the write-down of certain fixed assets at several manufacturing facilities in connection with CPP's restructuring activities.
Other Income (Expense)
For the quarters ended March 31, 2024 and 2023, Other income (expense) of $626 and $293, respectively, includes $179 and ($164), respectively, of net currency exchange gains (losses) in connection with the translation of receivables and payables denominated in currencies other than the functional currencies of Griffon and its subsidiaries, net periodic benefit plan expense of $35 and $217, respectively, and net investment income of $29 and $74, respectively. Other income (expense) also includes royalty income of $509 and $476 for the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively.
For the six months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023, Other income (expense) of $1,258 and $900, respectively, includes $191 and $(98), respectively, of net currency exchange gains (losses) in connection with the translation of receivables and payables denominated in currencies other than the functional currencies of Griffon and its subsidiaries, net periodic benefit plan expense of $69 and $433, respectively, as well as $85 and $107, respectively, of net investment income (loss). Other income (expense) also includes rental income of $0 and $212 in the six months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023, as well as royalty income of $1,100 and $1,025 for the six months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively.
Provision for income taxes
During the quarter ended March 31, 2024, the Company recognized a tax provision of $24,430 on income before taxes of $88,573, compared to a tax benefit of $27,904 on a loss before taxes of $90,159 in the prior year quarter. The current year quarter results included strategic review costs - retention and other of $2,676 ($1,997, net of tax), restructuring charges of $2,401 ($1,769, net of tax), gain on sale of building of $11 ($9, net of tax); and discrete and certain other tax benefits, net, that affect comparability of $390. The prior year quarter results included strategic review - retention and other of $6,190 ($4,658, net of tax); restructuring charges of $78,334 ($58,529, net of tax); intangible asset impairment charges of $100,000 ($74,256, net of tax); proxy expenses of $614 ($471, net of tax); and discrete and certain other tax benefits, net, that affect comparability of $8,723. Excluding these items, the effective tax rates for the quarters ended March 31, 2024 and 2023 were 27.9% and 29.5%, respectively.
During the six months ended March 31, 2024, the Company recognized a tax provision of $42,395 on income before taxes of $148,715, compared to a tax benefit of $8,586 on a loss before taxes of $22,139 in the comparable prior year period. The six month period ended March 31, 2024 included restructuring charges of $14,801 ($10,982, net of tax); strategic review - retention and other of $7,334 ($5,497, net of tax); gain on sale of building of $558 ($415, net of tax); and discrete and certain other tax provisions, net, that affect comparability of $393. The six month period ended March 31, 2023 included restructuring charges of $78,334 ($58,529, net of tax); Strategic review - retention and other of $14,422 ($10,880, net of tax); gain on the sale of building $10,852 ($8,323, net of tax); intangible asset impairment charges of $100,000 ($74,256, net of tax); proxy expenses of $2,117 ($1,624, net of tax); and discrete tax and certain other tax benefits, net, that affect comparability of $9,056. Excluding these items, the effective tax rates for the six months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023 were 27.9% and 29.4%, respectively.
Stock-based compensation
For the quarters ended March 31, 2024 and 2023, stock based compensation expense, which includes expense for both restricted stock grants and the ESOP, totaled $6,257 and $6,593, respectively. For the six months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023, stock based compensation expense totaled $12,674 and $13,335, respectively.
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Comprehensive income (loss)
For the quarter ended March 31, 2024, total other comprehensive loss, net of taxes, of $4,896 included a loss of $7,199 from foreign currency translation adjustments primarily due to the weakening of the Euro, British Pound and Australian and Canadian Dollars, all in comparison to the U.S. Dollar; partially offset by a $531 benefit from pension amortization and a $1,772 gain on cash flow hedges.
For the quarter ended March 31, 2023, total other comprehensive income, net of taxes, of $2,613 included a gain of $334 from foreign currency translation adjustments primarily due to the strengthening of the Euro and British Pound, partially offset by the weakening of Australian Dollars, all in comparison to the U.S. Dollar; a $746 benefit from pension amortization; and a $1,533 gain on cash flow hedges.
For the six months ended March 31, 2024, total other comprehensive income, net of taxes, of $5,579 included a gain of $3,039 from foreign currency translation adjustments primarily due to the strengthening of the Euro, British Pound and Australian Dollars partially offset by the weakening of Canadian Dollars, all in comparison to the US Dollar; a $1,063 benefit from pension amortization ; and a $1,477 gain on cash flow hedges.
For the six months ended March 31, 2023, total other comprehensive income, net of taxes, of $14,832 included a gain of $12,271 from foreign currency translation adjustments primarily due to the strengthening of the Euro, Canadian and Australian Dollars and British Pound, all in comparison to the US Dollar; a $1,608 benefit from pension amortization of actuarial losses; and a $953 gain on cash flow hedges.
DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS
At March 31, 2024 and September 30, 2023, Griffon’s liabilities for discontinued operations primarily relate to insurance claims, income taxes, product liability, warranty and environmental reserves totaling $7,994 and $11,798, respectively. Griffon's assets for discontinued operations primarily relate to insurance claims. There was no reported revenues or costs in the three and six months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023 for discontinued operations.
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LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
Liquidity
Management assesses Griffon’s liquidity in terms of its ability to generate cash to fund its operating, investing and financing activities. Significant factors affecting liquidity include cash flows from operating activities, capital expenditures, acquisitions, dispositions, bank lines of credit and the ability to attract long-term capital under satisfactory terms. Griffon believes it has sufficient liquidity available to invest in existing businesses and strategic acquisitions while managing its capital structure on both a short-term and long-term basis.
As of March 31, 2024, the amount of cash, cash equivalents and marketable securities held by foreign subsidiaries was $69,900. Funds held outside the U.S. may be subject to foreign withholding taxes if repatriated to the U.S. Funds held outside the U.S. are typically used for foreign operating needs or reinvested to fund expansion of existing non-U.S. businesses. The Company has accrued a deferred tax liability for withholding taxes on previously taxed earnings and profit (PTEP) which are not considered permanently reinvested.
Griffon's primary sources of liquidity are cash flows generated from operations, cash on hand and our secured $500,000 revolving credit facility ("Revolver"), which matures in August 2028. During the six months ended March 31, 2024, the Company generated $185,860 of net cash from operating activities and, as of March 31, 2024, the Company had $317,538 available, subject to certain loan covenants, for borrowing under the Revolver. The Company had cash and cash equivalents of $123,030 at March 31, 2024.
The following table is derived from the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows:
Cash Flows from Operations For the Six Months Ended March 31,
2024 2023
Net Cash Flows Provided by (Used In):
Operating activities $ 185,860 $ 161,636
Investing activities (32,017) (2,571)
Financing activities (132,043) (99,631)
Cash flows provided by operating activities for the six months ended March 31, 2024 was $185,860 compared to $161,636 in the prior year period. The variance was due to increased cash generated from operations and a decrease in net working capital across all businesses, primarily inventory, partially offset by an increase in accounts receivable.
Cash flows used in investing activities is primarily comprised of capital expenditures and proceeds from the sale of businesses, investments and property, plant and equipment. During the six months ended March 31, 2024, cash flows used in investing activities was $32,017 compared to $2,571 in the prior year period. Cash flows used in investing activities in the current period primarily consisted of capital expenditures of $33,289, partially offset by proceeds totaling $1,272 primarily from the sale of a building. In the prior year period, cash flows used in investing activities consisted of capital expenditures of $11,837 and a working capital adjustment payment of $2,568 related to the sale of Telephonics, partially offset by proceeds totaling $11,834, primarily from the sale of a building.
During the six months ended March 31, 2024, cash used in financing activities totaled $132,043 compared to $99,631 in the prior year period. Cash flows used in financing activities in the current period consisted of the purchase of shares of common stock in connection with the board authorized share repurchase program and the purchase of common stock withheld to satisfy tax obligations in connection with the vesting of restricted stock totaling $222,421 and the payment of dividends of $21,676, partially offset by net proceeds of long-term debt of $112,316, primarily related to the Revolver. Cash flows used in financing activities in the prior year period consisted primarily of net repayments of long-term debt of $73,691, purchases of common stock withheld to satisfy tax obligations in connection with the vesting of restricted stock of $12,989 and the payment of dividends of $12,824.
During the six months ended March 31, 2024, 595,929 shares, with a market value of $34,326, or $57.60 per share, were withheld to settle employee taxes due upon the vesting of restricted stock, and were added to treasury stock.
During the six months ended March 31, 2024, the Board of Directors approved and paid two quarterly cash dividends of $0.15 per share. The Company currently intends to pay dividends each quarter; however, payment of dividends is determined by the Board of Directors at its discretion based on various factors, and no assurance can be provided as to the payment of future dividends.
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During 2023, the Board of Directors approved two quarterly cash dividends of $0.10 per share and two quarterly cash dividends of $0.125 per share, totaling $0.45. Additionally, on April 19, 2023, the Board of Directors declared a special cash dividend of $2.00 per share, paid on May 19, 2023, to shareholders of record as of the close of business on May 9, 2023.
On May 7, 2024, the Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.15 per share, payable on June 20, 2024 to shareholders of record as of the close of business on May 29, 2024.
On April 19, 2023, the Company's Board of Directors approved a $200,000 increase to Griffon's share repurchase program to $257,955 from the prior unused board authorizations from August 3, 2016 and August 1, 2018 of $57,955. Also, on November 15, 2023, Griffon announced that the Board of Directors approved an additional increase of $200,000 to its share repurchase authorization. Share repurchases during the six months ended March 31, 2024 totaled 3,437,878 shares of common stock, for a total of $187,024, or an average of $54.40 per share. This includes the repurchase of 1,500,000 shares repurchased by the Company on February 20, 2024 pursuant to a stock purchase and cooperation agreement executed by the Company and Voss Value Master Fund, L.P., Voss Value-Oriented Special Situations Fund, L.P and four separately managed accounts of which Voss Capital, LLC is the investment manager, in a private transaction. The purchase price per share was $65.50, for an aggregate purchase price of $98,250. As of March 31, 2024, $120,158 remained under these Board authorized repurchase programs. During the six months ended and as of March 31, 2024, $1,411 and $2,712, respectively, were accrued for excise taxes for share repurchases.
During the six months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023, cash used in discontinued operations from operating activities of $3,273 and $2,598, respectively, primarily related to the settling of certain liabilities and environmental costs.
Cash and Equivalents and Debt March 31, September 30,
2024 2023
Cash and equivalents $ 123,030 $ 102,889
Notes payables and current portion of long-term debt 8,152 9,625
Long-term debt, net of current maturities 1,577,208 1,459,904
Debt discount/premium and issuance costs 18,194 20,283
Total debt 1,603,554 1,489,812
Debt, net of cash and equivalents $ 1,480,524 $ 1,386,923
During 2020, Griffon issued, at par, $1,000,000 of 5.75% Senior Notes due 2028 (the “2028 Senior Notes”). Proceeds from the 2028 Senior Notes were used to redeem $1,000,000 of 5.25% Senior Notes due 2022. In connection with the issuance and exchange of the 2028 Senior Notes, Griffon capitalized $16,448 of underwriting fees and other expenses incurred, which is being amortized over the term of such notes. During 2022, Griffon purchased $25,225 of 2028 Senior Notes in the open market at a weighted average discount of 91.82% of par, or $23,161. As of March 31, 2024, outstanding 2028 Senior Notes due totaled $974,775; interest is payable semi-annually on March 1 and September 1.
The 2028 Senior Notes are senior unsecured obligations of Griffon guaranteed by certain domestic subsidiaries, and subject to certain covenants, limitations and restrictions. The 2028 Senior Notes were registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act") via exchange offer. The fair value of the 2028 Senior Notes approximated $950,406 on March 31, 2024 based upon quoted market prices (level 1 inputs). At March 31, 2024, $7,910 of underwriting fees and other expenses incurred remained to be amortized.
On August 1, 2023, Griffon amended and restated its Credit Agreement (as amended, "Credit Agreement"). The amendment increased the maximum borrowing availability on its revolving credit facility from $400,000 to $500,000 (the "Revolver") and extended the maturity date of the Revolver from March 22, 2025 to August 1, 2028. In the event the 2028 Senior Notes are not repaid, refinanced, or replaced prior to December 1, 2027, the Revolver will mature on December 1, 2027. The amendment also modified certain other provisions of the Credit Agreement, including increasing the letter of credit sub-facility under the Revolver from $100,000 to $125,000 and increasing the customary accordion feature from a minimum of $375,000 to a minimum of $500,000. The Revolver also includes a multi-currency sub-facility of $200,000.
Borrowings under the Revolver may be repaid and re-borrowed at any time. Interest is payable on borrowings at either a Secured Overnight Financing Rate ("SOFR"), Sterling Overnight Index Average ("SONIA") or base rate benchmark rate, plus an applicable margin, which adjusts based on financial performance. Griffon's SOFR loans accrue interest at Term SOFR plus a credit adjustment spread and a margin of 2.00% (7.43% at March 31, 2024); SONIA loans accrue interest at SONIA Base Rate
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plus a credit adjustment spread and a margin of 2.00% (7.22% at March 31, 2024); and base rate loans accrue interest at prime rate plus a margin of 1.00% (9.50% at March 31, 2024).
At March 31, 2024, under the Revolver, there were $169,500 in outstanding borrowings; outstanding standby letters of credit were $12,962; and $317,538 was available, subject to certain loan covenants, for borrowing at that date.
On January 24, 2022, Griffon amended and restated its Credit Agreement to provide for a new $800,000 Term Loan B facility, due January 24, 2029, in addition to the Revolver. The Term Loan B accrues interest at the Term SOFR rate plus a credit adjustment spread with a floor of 0.50%, and a spread of 2.25% (7.70% as of March 31, 2024). The Term Loan B was issued at 99.75% of par value. In connection with this amendment, Griffon capitalized $15,466 of underwriting fees and other expenses incurred, which are being amortized over the term of the loan.
The Term Loan B facility requires nominal quarterly principal payments of $2,000, potential additional annual principal payments based on a percentage of excess cash flow and certain secured leverage thresholds starting with the fiscal year ending September 30, 2023; and a final balloon payment due at maturity. At September 30, 2023, Griffon's secured leverage remained below the threshold set forth in the Credit Agreement that would, if exceeded, require Griffon to make an additional payment, and therefore no additional annual principal payment was required. Term Loan B borrowings may generally be repaid without penalty but may not be re-borrowed. During 2023 and 2022, Griffon prepaid $25,000 and $300,000, respectively, aggregate principal amount of the Term Loan B, which permanently reduced the outstanding balance. In connection with the prepayment of the Term Loan B, Griffon recognized a charge of $437 and $6,296 on the prepayment of debt in 2023 and 2022, respectively. The charges were comprised of write-offs of underwriting fees and other expenses of $386 and $5,575 for 2023 and 2022, respectively, and the original issue discount of $51 and $721 for 2023 and 2022, respectively. The Term Loan B facility is subject to the same affirmative and negative covenants that apply to the Revolver (as described below), but is not subject to any financial maintenance covenants. Term Loan B borrowings are secured by the same collateral as the Revolver on an equal and ratable basis. The fair value of the Term Loan B facility approximated $459,574 on March 31, 2024 based upon quoted market prices (level 1 inputs). At March 31, 2024, $6,378 of underwriting fees and other expenses incurred remained to be amortized. At March 31, 2024, $459,000 of the Term Loan B was outstanding.
The Revolver has certain financial maintenance tests including a maximum total leverage ratio, a maximum senior secured leverage ratio and a minimum interest coverage ratio, as well as customary affirmative and negative covenants and events of default. The negative covenants place limits on Griffon's ability to, among other things, incur indebtedness, incur liens, and make restricted payments and investments. Both the Revolver and Term Loan B borrowings under the Credit Agreement are guaranteed by Griffon’s material domestic subsidiaries and are secured, on a first priority basis, by substantially all domestic assets of the Company and the guarantors, and a pledge of not greater than 65% of the equity interest in Griffon’s material, first-tier foreign subsidiaries.
On September 28, 2023, the Company closed on the exercise of its lease purchase option, as permitted under the lease agreement, to acquire ownership of the manufacturing facility located in Ocala, Florida for a cash purchase price of $23,207. The Ocala lease had a maturity date in 2025 and bore interest at a fixed rate of approximately 5.6%. As a result of exercising the purchase option, the Company no longer has any future lease obligations related to this real estate. The remaining lease liability balance relates to finance equipment leases. Refer to Note 20-Leases for further details.
In November 2012, Garant G.P. (“Garant”), a Griffon wholly owned subsidiary, entered into a CAD 15,000 revolving credit facility. Effective in December 2023, the facility was amended to replace the Canadian Dollar Offer Rate with the Canadian Overnight Repo Rate Average ("CORRA"). The facility accrues interest at CORRA or the Canadian Bankers Acceptance Rate plus 1.3% per annum (6.30% using CORRA and 6.35% using the Canadian Bankers Acceptance Rate as of March 31, 2024). The revolving facility matures in December 2024, but is renewable upon mutual agreement with the lender. Garant is required to maintain a certain minimum equity. At March 31, 2024, there were no outstanding borrowings under the revolving credit facility with CAD 15,000 ($11,039 as of March 31, 2024) available.
During 2023, Griffon Australia Holdings Pty Ltd and its Australian subsidiaries (collectively, "Griffon Australia") amended its AUD 15,000 receivable purchase facility to AUD 30,000. The receivable purchase facility was renewed in 2024 and now matures in March 2025, but is renewable upon mutual agreement with the lender. The receivable purchase facility accrues interest at BBSY (Bank Bill Swap Rate) plus 1.25% per annum (5.55% at March 31, 2024). At March 31, 2024, there was no balance outstanding under the receivable purchase facility with AUD 30,000 ($19,575 as of March 31, 2024) available. The receivable purchase facility is secured by substantially all of the assets of Griffon Australia and its subsidiaries. Griffon Australia is required to maintain a certain minimum equity level.
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In July 2018, the AMES Companies UK Ltd and its subsidiaries (collectively, "Ames UK") entered into a GBP 14,000 term loan, GBP 4,000 mortgage loan and GBP 5,000 revolver, which matured in July 2023. Prior to maturity, on June 30, 2023, AMES UK paid off and cancelled the GBP 14,000 term loan and GBP 4,000 mortgage loan. The payoff amounts were GBP 7,525 ($9,543) and GBP 2,451 ($3,108), respectively. Upon maturity in July 2023, the GBP 5,000 revolver had no balance and was not renewed.
In February 2024, Griffon repaid in full a loan with the Pennsylvania Industrial Development Authority. The balance in other long-term debt consists primarily of finance leases.
At March 31, 2024, Griffon and its subsidiaries were in compliance with the terms and covenants of its credit and loan agreements. Gross Debt to EBITDA (Leverage), as calculated in accordance with the definition in the Credit Agreement, was 2.8x at March 31, 2024.
Capital Resource Requirements
On May 3, 2023, in response to changing market conditions, Griffon announced that its CPP segment will expand its global sourcing strategy to include long handled tools, material handling, and wood storage and organization product lines. By transitioning these product lines to an asset-light structure, CPP’s operations will be better positioned to serve customers with a more flexible and cost-effective sourcing model that leverages supplier relationships around the world, while improving its competitive positioning in a post-pandemic marketplace. These actions will be essential to CPP achieving 15% EBITDA margins, while enhancing free cash flow through improved working capital and significantly lower capital expenditures. For additional information, see CPP reportable segments discussion.
Griffon's debt requirements include principal on our outstanding debt, most notably our Senior Notes totaling $974,775 payable in 2028 and related annual interest payments of approximately $56,050, a Term Loan B facility maturing in 2029 with an outstanding balance of $459,000 on March 31, 2024 and Revolver maturing in 2028 with an outstanding balance of $169,500. The Term Loan B accrues interest at the Term SOFR rate plus a credit adjustment spread with a floor of 0.50%, and a current spread of 2.25% (7.70% as of March 31, 2024). Additionally, the Term Loan B facility requires quarterly payments of $2,000 and a balloon payment due at maturity. For the Revolver, interest is payable on borrowings at either a SOFR, SONIA or base rate benchmark rate, plus an applicable margin, which adjusts based on financial performance. Griffon's SOFR loans accrue interest at Term SOFR plus a credit adjustment spread and a margin of 2.00% (7.43% at March 31, 2024); SONIA loans accrue interest at SONIA Base Rate plus a credit adjustment spread and a margin of 2.00% (7.22% at March 31, 2024); and base rate loans accrue interest at prime rate plus a margin of 1.00% (9.50% at March 31, 2024).
Customers
A small number of customers account for, and are expected to continue to account for, a substantial portion of Griffon’s consolidated revenue. For the six months ended March 31, 2024, our largest customer, The Home Depot, represented 11% of Griffon’s consolidated revenue, 14% of CPP's revenue and 8% of HBP’s revenue.
No other customer exceeded 10% of consolidated revenue. Future operating results will continue to depend substantially on the success of Griffon’s largest customers and our ongoing relationships with them. Orders from these customers are subject to change and may fluctuate materially. The loss of all or a portion of the volume from any one of these customers could have a material adverse impact on Griffon’s liquidity and results of operations.
SUPPLEMENTAL GUARANTOR FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Griffon’s Senior Notes are fully and unconditionally guaranteed, jointly and severally by Clopay Corporation, The AMES Companies, Inc., Clopay AMES Holding Corp., ClosetMaid LLC, AMES Hunter Holdings Corporation, Hunter Fan Company, CornellCookson, LLC and Cornell Real Estate Holdings, LLC, all of which are indirectly 100% owned by Griffon. In accordance with Rule 3-10 of Regulation S-X promulgated under the Securities Act, presented below are summarized financial information of the Parent (Griffon) subsidiaries and the Guarantor subsidiaries as of March 31, 2024 and September 30, 2023 and for the three and six months ended March 31, 2024 and for the year ended September 30, 2023. All intercompany balances and transactions between subsidiaries under Parent and subsidiaries under the Guarantor have been eliminated. The information presented below excludes eliminations necessary to arrive at the information on a consolidated basis. The summarized information excludes financial information of the non-Guarantors, including earnings from and investments in these entities. The financial information may not necessarily be indicative of the results of operations or financial position of the guarantor companies or non-guarantor companies had they operated as independent entities. The guarantor companies and the non-
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guarantor companies include the consolidated financial results of their wholly-owned subsidiaries accounted for under the equity method.
The indentures relating to the Senior Notes (the “Indentures”) contain terms providing that, under certain limited circumstances, a guarantor will be released from its obligations to guarantee the Senior Notes. These circumstances include (i) a sale of at least a majority of the stock, or all or substantially all the assets, of the subsidiary guarantor as permitted by the Indentures; (ii) a public equity offering of a subsidiary guarantor that qualifies as a “Minority Business” as defined in the Indentures (generally, a business the EBITDA of which constitutes less than 50% of the segment adjusted EBITDA of the Company for the most recently ended four fiscal quarters), and that meets certain other specified conditions as set forth in the Indentures; (iii) the designation of a guarantor as an “unrestricted subsidiary” as defined in the Indentures, in compliance with the terms of the Indentures; (iv) Griffon exercising its right to defease the Senior Notes, or to otherwise discharge its obligations under the Indentures, in each case in accordance with the terms of the Indentures; and (v) upon obtaining the requisite consent of the holders of the Senior Notes.
Summarized Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss)
For the Six Months Ended For the Year Ended
March 31, 2024 September 30, 2023
Parent Company Guarantor Companies Parent Company Guarantor Companies
Net sales $ — $ 1,079,917 $ — $ 2,190,636
Gross profit $ — $ 423,158 $ — $ 800,477
Income (loss) from operations $ (13,017) $ 191,453 $ (42,948) $ 228,346
Equity in earnings of Guarantor subsidiaries $ 125,394 $ — $ 149,981 $ —
Net income (loss) $ (27,557) $ 125,394 $ (85,770) $ 149,981
Summarized Balance Sheet Information
As of March 31, 2024 As of September 30, 2023
Parent Company Guarantor Companies Parent Company Guarantor Companies
Current assets $ 52,543 $ 699,098 $ 51,701 $ 707,929
Non-current assets 13,860 1,291,593 13,954 1,317,575
Total assets $ 66,403 $ 1,990,691 $ 65,655 $ 2,025,504
Current liabilities $ 65,537 $ 234,353 $ 76,460 $ 226,532
Long-term debt 1,577,115 71 1,459,952 —
Other liabilities 23,676 237,606 (9,994) 271,985
Total liabilities $ 1,666,328 $ 472,030 $ 1,526,418 $ 498,517
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES
The preparation of Griffon’s consolidated financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”) requires the use of estimates, assumptions, judgments and subjective interpretations of accounting principles that have an impact on assets, liabilities, revenue and expenses. These estimates can also affect supplemental information contained in public disclosures of Griffon, including information regarding contingencies, risk and its financial condition. These estimates, assumptions and judgments are evaluated on an ongoing basis and based on historical experience, current conditions and various other assumptions, and form the basis for estimating the carrying values of assets and liabilities, as well as identifying and assessing the accounting treatment for commitments and contingencies. Actual results may materially differ from these estimates. There have been no changes in Griffon’s critical accounting policies from September 30, 2023.
Griffon’s significant accounting policies and procedures are explained in the Management Discussion and Analysis section in the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended September 30, 2023. In the selection of the critical accounting policies, the objective is to properly reflect the financial position and results of operations for each reporting period in a consistent manner that can be understood by the reader of the financial statements. Griffon considers an estimate to be critical if it is subjective
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and if changes in the estimate using different assumptions would result in a material impact on the financial position or results of operations of Griffon.
RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS
The FASB issues, from time to time, new financial accounting standards, staff positions and emerging issues task force consensus. See the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for a discussion of these matters.
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
This Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, especially “Management’s Discussion and Analysis”, contains certain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Securities Act, the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such statements relate to, among other things, income (loss), earnings, cash flows, revenue, changes in operations, operating improvements, industries in which Griffon Corporation (the “Company” or “Griffon”) operates and the United States and global economies. Statements in this Form 10-Q that are not historical are hereby identified as “forward-looking statements” and may be indicated by words or phrases such as “anticipates,” “supports,” “plans,” “projects,” “expects,” “believes,” "achieves", “should,” “would,” “could,” “hope,” “forecast,” “management is of the opinion,” “may,” “will,” “estimates,” “intends,” “explores,” “opportunities,” the negative of these expressions, use of the future tense and similar words or phrases. Such forward-looking statements are subject to inherent risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in any forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, among others: current economic conditions and uncertainties in the housing, credit and capital markets; Griffon’s ability to achieve expected savings and improved operational results from cost control, restructuring, integration and disposal initiatives (including, in particular, the expanded CPP global outsourcing strategy announced in May 2023); the ability to identify and successfully consummate, and integrate, value-adding acquisition opportunities; increasing competition and pricing pressures in the markets served by Griffon’s operating companies; the ability of Griffon’s operating companies to expand into new geographic and product markets, and to anticipate and meet customer demands for new products and product enhancements and innovations; increases in the cost or lack of availability of raw materials such as steel, resin and wood, components or purchased finished goods, including any potential impact on costs or availability resulting from tariffs; changes in customer demand or loss of a material customer at one of Griffon’s operating companies; the potential impact of seasonal variations and uncertain weather patterns on certain of Griffon’s businesses; political events or military conflicts that could impact the worldwide economy; a downgrade in Griffon’s credit ratings; changes in international economic conditions including inflation, interest rate and currency exchange fluctuations; the reliance by certain of Griffon’s businesses on particular third party suppliers and manufacturers to meet customer demands; the relative mix of products and services offered by Griffon’s businesses, which impacts margins and operating efficiencies; short-term capacity constraints or prolonged excess capacity; unforeseen developments in contingencies, such as litigation, regulatory and environmental matters; Griffon’s ability to adequately protect and maintain the validity of patent and other intellectual property rights; the cyclical nature of the businesses of certain of Griffon’s operating companies; possible terrorist threats and actions and their impact on the global economy; effects of possible IT system failures, data breaches or cyber-attacks; the impact of COVID-19, or some other future pandemic, on the U.S. and the global economy, including business disruptions, reductions in employment and an increase in business and operating facility failures, specifically among our customers and suppliers; Griffon’s ability to service and refinance its debt; and the impact of recent and future legislative and regulatory changes, including, without limitation, changes in tax laws. Additional important factors that could cause the statements made in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q or the actual results of operations or financial condition of Griffon to differ are discussed under the caption “Item 1A. Risk Factors” and “Special Notes Regarding Forward-Looking Statements” in Griffon’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended September 30, 2023. Such statements reflect the views of the Company with respect to future events and are subject to these and other risks, as previously disclosed in the Company's Securities and Exchange Commission filings. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date made. Griffon undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.