Item 1. Financial Statements
ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
LIFEWAY FOODS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Consolidated Balance Sheets
March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020
(In thousands)
March 31,
2021
(Unaudited)
December 31,
2020
Current assets
Cash and cash equivalents
$ 8,618
$ 7,926
Accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts and discounts & allowances of $1,100 and $1,350 at March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020 respectively
9,961
8,002
Inventories, net
6,736
6,930
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
1,110
1,163
Refundable income taxes
46
31
Total current assets
26,471
24,052
Property, plant and equipment, net
20,744
21,048
Operating lease right-of-use asset
317
345
Intangible assets
Goodwill and indefinite-lived intangibles
12,824
12,824
Other intangible assets, net
–
–
Total intangible assets
12,824
12,824
Other assets
1,800
1,800
Total assets
$ 62,156
$ 60,069
Current liabilities
Accounts payable
$ 5,289
$ 5,592
Accrued expenses
2,587
2,196
Accrued income taxes
1,215
653
Total current liabilities
9,091
8,441
Line of credit
2,774
2,768
Operating lease liabilities
143
165
Deferred income taxes, net
1,764
1,764
Other long-term liabilities
160
77
Total liabilities
13,932
13,215
Commitments and contingencies
Stockholders' equity
Preferred stock, no par value; 2,500 shares authorized; no shares issued or outstanding at March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020
–
–
Common stock, no par value; 40,000 shares authorized; 17,274 shares issued; 15,604 outstanding at March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020
6,509
6,509
Paid-in capital
2,664
2,600
Treasury stock, at cost
(12,450 )
(12,450 )
Retained earnings
51,501
50,195
Total stockholders' equity
48,224
46,854
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity
$ 62,156
$ 60,069
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial
statements
3
LIFEWAY FOODS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Consolidated Statements of Operations
For the three months ended March 31, 2021 and
2020
(Unaudited)
(In thousands, except per share data)
2021
2020
Net Sales
$ 29,376
$ 25,388
Cost of goods sold
20,512
18,624
Depreciation expense
815
767
Total cost of goods sold
21,327
19,391
Gross profit
8,049
5,997
Selling expense
3,222
2,575
General and administrative expense
2,891
3,145
Amortization expense
–
39
Total operating expenses
6,113
5,759
Income from operations
1,936
238
Other income (expense):
Interest expense
(22 )
(39 )
(Loss) gain on sale of property and equipment
(7 )
5
Other income, net
(8 )
(3 )
Total other income (expense)
(37 )
(37 )
Income before provision for income taxes
1,899
201
Provision for income taxes
593
55
Net income
$ 1,306
$ 146
Earnings per common share:
Basic
$ 0.08
$ 0.01
Diluted
$ 0.08
$ 0.01
Weighted average common shares:
Basic
15,604
15,623
Diluted
15,814
15,737
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial
statements
4
LIFEWAY FOODS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Consolidated Statements of Stockholders’
Equity
(Unaudited)
(In thousands)
Common Stock
Issued
In treasury
Paid-In
Retained
Total
Shares
$
Shares
$
Capital
Earnings
Equity
Balance, January 1, 2020
17,274
$ 6,509
(1,564 )
$ (12,601 )
$ 2,380
$ 46,963
$ 43,251
Issuance of common stock in connection with stock-based compensation
–
–
27
210
306
–
516
Treasury stock purchased
–
–
(179 )
(405 )
–
–
(405 )
Stock-based compensation
–
–
–
–
62
–
62
Net loss
–
–
–
–
–
146
146
Balance, March 31, 2020
17,274
$ 6,509
(1,716 )
$ (12,796 )
$ 2,748
$ 47,109
$ 43,570
Balance, January 1, 2021
17,274
$ 6,509
(1,669 )
$ (12,450 )
$ 2,600
$ 50,195
$ 46,854
Stock-based compensation
–
–
–
–
64
–
64
Net income
–
–
–
–
–
1,306
1,306
Balance, March 31, 2021
17,274
$ 6,509
(1,669 )
$ (12,450 )
$ 2,664
$ 51,501
$ 48,224
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial
statements
5
LIFEWAY FOODS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
(Unaudited)
(In thousands)
Three Months Ended March 31,
2021
2020
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income
$ 1,306
$ 146
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to operating cash flow:
Depreciation and amortization
815
806
Non-cash interest expense
6
6
Non-cash rent expense
–
(11 )
Bad debt expense
–
1
Deferred revenue
(8 )
(24 )
Stock-based compensation
153
117
Deferred income taxes
–
370
Loss (gain) on sale of property and equipment
7
(5 )
(Increase) decrease in operating assets:
Accounts receivable
(1,959 )
(1,739 )
Inventories
193
(491 )
Refundable income taxes
(15 )
(346 )
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
54
312
Increase (decrease) in operating liabilities:
Accounts payable
(301 )
833
Accrued expenses
398
(981 )
Operating lease asset amortization/liability
–
(11 )
Accrued income taxes
561
(38 )
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities
1,210
(1,055 )
Cash flows from investing activities:
Purchases of property and equipment
(518 )
(403 )
Proceeds from sale of property and equipment
–
5
Net cash used in investing activities
(518 )
(398 )
Cash flows from financing activities:
Purchase of treasury stock
–
(405 )
Net cash used in financing activities
–
(405 )
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
692
(1,858 )
Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the period
7,926
3,836
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the period
$ 8,618
$ 1,978
Supplemental cash flow information:
Cash paid for income taxes, net of (refunds)
$ 47
$ 65
Cash paid for interest
$ 16
$ 35
Non-cash investing activities
Increase (decrease) in right-of-use assets and operating lease obligations
$ 21
$ 113
Non-cash financing activities
Issuance of common stock under equity incentive plans
$ –
$ 516
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial
statements
6
LIFEWAY FOODS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Unaudited)
(In thousands, except per share data)
Note 1 – Basis of Presentation
Basis of presentation
The accompanying unaudited consolidated financial
statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the U.S. (“U.S. GAAP”) for interim
financial information, and do not include all of the information and disclosures required for complete, audited financial statements.
In the opinion of management, these statements include all adjustments necessary for a fair presentation of the results of all interim
periods reported herein. The consolidated financial statements and related notes should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial
statements and related notes included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020. Results of operations
for interim periods are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for other interim periods or the full year.
A detailed description of our significant accounting
policies can be found in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020.
Principles of consolidation
Our consolidated financial statements include
the accounts of Lifeway Foods, Inc. and all its wholly owned subsidiaries (collectively “Lifeway” or the “Company”).
All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated.
Note 2 – Significant Accounting Policies
Use of estimates
The preparation of consolidated financial statements
in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities
and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements and reported amounts of revenues
and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Significant estimates made in preparing the
consolidated financial statements include the reserve for promotional allowances, the valuation of goodwill and intangible assets, stock-based
and incentive compensation, and deferred income taxes.
Revenue recognition
We sell food and beverage products across select
product categories to customers predominantly within the United States (see Note 12, Segments, Products and Customers). We also sell bulk
cream, a byproduct of our fluid milk manufacturing process. In accordance with ASC 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers, we recognize
revenue when control over the products transfers to our customers, which generally occurs upon delivery to our customers or their common
carriers. The amount of revenue recognized reflects the consideration to which the Company expects to be entitled to receive in exchange
for these goods or services, using the five-step method required by ASC 606.
For the Company, the contract is the approved
sales order, which may also be supplemented by other agreements that formalize various terms and conditions with customers. The Company
applies judgment in determining the customer’s ability and intention to pay, which is based on a variety of factors including the
customer’s historical payment experience or, in the case of a new customer, published credit and financial information pertaining
to the customer.
Performance obligations promised in a contract
are identified based on the goods or services that will be transferred to the customer, which is the delivery of food products which provide
immediate benefit to the customer.
7
We account for product shipping and handling as
fulfillment activities with revenues for these activities recorded within net revenue and costs recorded within cost of goods sold. Any
taxes collected on behalf of government authorities are excluded from net revenues.
Variable consideration, which typically includes
volume-based rebates, known or expected pricing or revenue adjustments, such as trade discounts, allowances for non-saleable products,
product returns, trade incentives and coupon redemption, is estimated utilizing the most likely amount method.
Key sales terms, such as pricing and quantities
ordered, are established on a frequent basis such that most customer arrangements and related incentives have a one year or shorter duration.
As such, we do not capitalize contract inception costs and we capitalize product fulfillment costs in accordance with U.S. GAAP and our
inventory policies. We do not have any significant deferred revenue or unbilled receivables at the end of a period. We generally do not
receive noncash consideration for the sale of goods, nor do we grant payment financing terms greater than one year.
Advertising and promotional costs
Lifeway expenses advertising costs as incurred.
For the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020 total advertising expenses were $1,393 and $536 respectively.
Recent accounting pronouncements
Adopted
In December 2019, the FASB issued Accounting Standards
Update (“ASU”) No. 2019-12, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Simplifying the Accounting for Income Taxes. The new guidance is intended
to enhance and simplify various aspects of the accounting for income taxes. The new guidance eliminates certain exceptions to the general
approach to the income tax accounting model and adds new guidance to reduce the complexity in accounting for income taxes. The Company
adopted this guidance on January 1, 2021. The adoption of this standard did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements
and disclosures.
Issued but not yet effective
In March 2020, the FASB issued Accounting Standards
Update (“ASU”) No. 2020-04, Reference Rate Reform (Topic 848): Facilitation of the Effects of Reference Rate Reform on Financial
Reporting. The new guidance provides optional expedients and exceptions for applying generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) to
contracts, hedging relationships, and other transactions that reference LIBOR or another reference rate expected to be discontinued because
of reference rate reform. The guidance will be effective prospectively as of March 12, 2020 through December 31, 2022 and interim periods
within those fiscal years. Management is currently evaluating the impact that the new guidance will have on the consolidated financial
statements.
In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-13,
Financial Instruments – Credit Losses (Topic 326): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments, in November 2018 issued
an amendment, ASU 2018-19, Codification Improvements to Topic 326, Financial Instruments - Credit Losses, and in November 2019 issued
two amendments, ASU 2019-10, Financial Instruments—Credit Losses (Topic 326), Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815), and Leases (Topic
842): Effective Dates, and ASU 2019-11, Codification Improvements to Topic 326, Financial Instruments—Credit Losses. The series
of new guidance amends the impairment model by requiring entities to use a forward-looking approach based on expected losses rather than
incurred losses to estimate credit losses on certain types of financial instruments, including trade receivables. This may result in the
earlier recognition of allowances for losses. The guidance should be applied on either a prospective transition or modified-retrospective
approach depending on the subtopic. The guidance is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2022, including interim
periods within those fiscal years, with early adoption permitted. Management is currently evaluating the impact that the new guidance
will have on the consolidated financial statements.
Note 3 – Inventories, net
Inventories consisted of the following:
March 31,
2021
December 31,
2020
Ingredients
$ 1,684
$ 1,725
Packaging
2,114
2,234
Finished goods
2,938
2,971
Total inventories
$ 6,736
$ 6,930
8
Note 4 – Property, Plant and Equipment, net
Property, plant and equipment consisted of the following:
March 31,
2021
December 31,
2020
Land
$ 1,565
$ 1,565
Buildings and improvements
17,182
17,834
Machinery and equipment
31,716
31,707
Vehicles
778
778
Office equipment
862
857
Construction in process
587
228
52,690
52,969
Less accumulated depreciation
(31,946 )
(31,921 )
Total property, plant and equipment, net
$ 20,744
$ 21,048
Note 5 – Goodwill and Intangible Assets
Goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets consisted of the following:
March 31,
2021
December 31,
2020
Gross goodwill
$ 10,368
$ 10,368
Accumulated impairment losses
(1,244 )
(1,244 )
Goodwill
9,124
9,124
Brand names
3,700
3,700
Goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets
$ 12,824
$ 12,824
Finite-lived Intangible Assets
Other intangible assets, net consisted of the following:
March 31,
2021
December 31,
2020
Recipes
$ 44
$ 44
Customer lists and other customer related intangibles
4,529
4,529
Customer relationship
985
985
Trade names
2,248
2,248
Formula
438
438
8,244
8,244
Accumulated amortization
(8,244 )
(8,244 )
Other intangible assets, net
$ –
$ –
9
Note 6 – Accrued Expenses
Accrued expenses consisted of the following:
March 31,
2021
December 31,
2020
Payroll and incentive compensation
$ 1,825
$ 1,366
Real estate taxes
271
341
Current portion of operating lease liabilities
174
179
Other
317
310
Total accrued expenses
$ 2,587
$ 2,196
Note 7 – Debt
Line of Credit
On May 7, 2018, Lifeway entered into an Amended
and Restated Loan and Security Agreement (the “Revolving Credit Facility”) with its existing lender. On April 10, 2019, effective
March 31, 2019, Lifeway entered into the First Modification to the Amended and Restated Loan and Security Agreement (the “Modified
Revolving Credit Facility”) with its existing lender. Under the amendment, the Modified Revolving Credit Facility provides for a
revolving line of credit up to a maximum of $9 million (the “Revolving Loan”) with an incremental facility not to exceed $5
million (the “Incremental Facility” and together with the Revolving Loan, the “Loans”).
On December 10, 2019, Lifeway entered into the
Second Modification to the Amended and Restated Loan and Security Agreement, as amended, (the “Second Modification”) with
its existing lender. The Second Modification amends the Amended and Restated Loan and Security Agreement, as amended, by redefining the
“Borrowing Base” and further clarifying the definitions of “Eligible Accounts” and “Eligible Inventory.”
The “Borrowing Base” under this amendment means, generally, an amount equal to the sum of (a) 85% of the unpaid amount of
all eligible accounts receivable, plus (b) 50% of the value of all eligible inventory. The Second Modification also addresses the calculation
of interest after the potential discontinuance of LIBOR and its replacement with a replacement benchmark interest rate.
On September 30, 2020, Lifeway entered into the
Third Modification to the Amended and Restated Loan and Security Agreement, as amended, (the “Third Modification”) with its
existing lender. The Third Modification amends the Amended and Restated Loan and Security Agreement, as amended, by removing the monthly
borrowing base reporting requirement effective September 30, 2020, including a covenant to maintain a quarterly minimum working capital
financial covenant, as defined, of no less than $11.25 million each of the fiscal quarters commencing the fiscal quarter ending December
31, 2020 through the expiration date, and eliminating the tier interest pricing structure. The Amended and Restated Loan and Security
Agreement continues to provide Lifeway with a revolving line of credit up to a maximum of $5 million (the “Revolving Loan”)
and provides the Borrowers with an incremental facility not to exceed $5 million (the “Incremental Facility” and together
with the Revolving Loan, the “Loans”). The Termination Date of the Revolving Loan was extended to June 30, 2025, unless earlier
terminated.
Except as described above, as amended, the Modified
Revolving Credit Facility remains substantively unchanged and in full force and effect, including customary representations, warranties,
and covenants on the part of Lifeway, including financial covenants requiring us to maintain a fixed charge coverage ratio of no less
than 1.25 to 1.00 each of the fiscal quarters ending through the expiration date. The Modified Revolving Credit Facility continues to
provide for events of default, including failure to repay principal and interest when due and failure to perform or violation of the provisions
or covenants of the agreement, as a result of which amounts due under the Modified Revolving Credit Facility may be accelerated. The loans
and all other amounts due and owed under the Revolving Credit Facility and related documents are secured by substantially all of our assets.
As of March 31, 2021, we had $2,774 net of $3
of unamortized deferred financing costs, outstanding under the Revolving Credit Facility. We had $2,223 available for future borrowings
as of March 31, 2021.
10
As amended, all outstanding amounts under the
Loans bear interest, at Lifeway’s election, at either the lender Base Rate (the Prime Rate minus 1.00%) or the LIBOR plus 1.95%,
payable monthly in arrears. Lifeway is also required to pay a quarterly unused line fee of 0.20% and, in conjunction with the issuance
of any letters of credit, a letter of credit fee of 0.20%. Lifeway’s interest rate on debt outstanding under our Revolving Credit
Facility as of March 31, 2021 was 2.15%.
We were in compliance with the fixed charge coverage
ratio and minimum working capital covenants at March 31, 2021.
Note 8 – Leases
Lifeway has operating leases for two retail stores
for its Lifeway Kefir Shop subsidiary which includes fixed base rent payments as well as variable rent payments to reimburse the landlord
for operating expenses and taxes. The Company terminated its office space leases in June 2020. The Company also lease certain machinery
and equipment with fixed base rent payments and variable costs based on usage. Remaining lease terms for these leases range from less
than 1 year to 4 years. Some of our leases include options to extend the leases for up to 5 years and have been included in our calculation
of the right-of-use asset and lease liabilities. Lifeway includes only fixed payments for lease components in the measurement of the right-of-use
asset and lease liability. Variable lease payments are those that vary because of changes in facts or circumstances occurring after the
commencement date, other than the passage of time. There are no residual value guarantees. We do not currently have leases which meet
the finance lease classification as defined under ASC 842.
We do not record leases with an initial term of
12 months or less on the balance sheet. Expense for these short-term leases is recorded on a straight-line basis over the lease term.
Total lease expense was $78 and $179 (including short term leases) for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively.
Lifeway treats contracts as a lease when the contract
conveys the right to use a physically distinct asset for a period of time in exchange for consideration, we direct the use of the asset
and obtain substantially all the economic benefits of the asset.
Right-of-use assets and lease liabilities are
measured and recognized based on the present value of the future minimum lease payments over the lease term at the commencement date.
We have elected the practical expedient to combine lease and non-lease components into a single component for all of its leases. For many
of our leases such as real estate leases, we are unable to determine an implicit rate; therefore, we use our incremental borrowing rate
based on the information available at the commencement date in determining the present value of future payments for those leases. We include
options to extend or terminate the lease in the measurement of the right-of-use asset and lease liability when it is reasonably certain
that we will exercise such options. Lease expense for minimum lease payments is recognized on a straight-line basis over the lease term.
Future maturities of lease liabilities were as
follows
Year
Operating Leases
Nine months ended December 31, 2021
$ 147
2022
158
2023
23
2024
7
2025
5
Thereafter
2
Total lease payments
342
Less: Interest
(26 )
Present value of lease liabilities
$ 316
The weighted-average remaining lease term for
our operating leases was 2.05 years as of March 31, 2021. The weighted average discount rate of our operating leases was 7.85% as of March
31, 2021. Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities was $55 and $142 for the three months ended March 31,
2021 and 2020, respectively.
11
Note 9 – Commitments and contingencies
Litigation
Lifeway is engaged in various legal actions, claims,
audits, and proceedings arising in the normal course of business, including commercial disputes, product liabilities, intellectual property
matters and employment-related matters resulting from our business activities.
We record accruals for outstanding legal matters
when we believe it is probable that a loss will be incurred and the amount of such loss can be reasonably estimated. We evaluate, on a
periodic basis, developments in legal matters that could affect the amount of any accrual and developments that would make a loss contingency
both probable and reasonably estimable. If a loss contingency is not both probable and estimable, we do not establish an accrued liability.
Currently, none of our accruals for outstanding legal matters are material individually or in the aggregate to our financial position
and it is management’s opinion that the ultimate resolution of these outstanding legal matters will not have a material adverse
effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows. However, if we ultimately are required to make payments
in connection with an adverse outcome, it is possible that it could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition,
results of operations or cash flows.
Lifeway’s contingencies are subject to substantial
uncertainties, including for each such contingency the following, among other factors: (i) the procedural status of the case; (ii) whether
the case has or may be certified as a class action suit; (iii) the outcome of preliminary motions; (iv) the impact of discovery; (v) whether
there are significant factual issues to be determined or resolved; (vi) whether the proceedings involve a large number of parties and/or
parties and claims in multiple jurisdictions or jurisdictions in which the relevant laws are complex or unclear; (vii) the extent of potential
damages, which are often unspecified or indeterminate; and (viii) the status of settlement discussions, if any, and the settlement posture
of the parties. Consequently, Lifeway cannot predict with any reasonable certainty the timing or outcome of such contingencies, and we
are unable to estimate a possible loss or range of loss.
Note 10 – Income taxes
For each interim period, Lifeway estimates
the effective tax rate expected to be applicable for the full year and applies that rate to income before provision for income taxes
for the period. The effective tax rate for the three months ended March 31, 2021 was 31.2% compared to 27.5% for the three months
ended March 31, 2020. Our effective tax rate may change from period to period based on recurring and non-recurring factors including
the relative mix of pre-tax earnings (or losses), the underlying income tax rates applicable to various state and local taxing
jurisdictions, enacted tax legislation, the impact of non-deductible items, changes in valuation allowances, and the expiration of
the statute of limitations in relation to unrecognized tax benefits. We record discrete income tax items such as enacted tax rate
changes and completed tax audits in the period in which they occur.
On March 27, 2020, the “Coronavirus Aid,
Relief, and Economic Security Act” (the CARES Act) was enacted. The CARES act features several tax provisions and other measures
that assist businesses impacted by the economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. The significant tax provisions include an increase in
the limitation of the tax deduction for interest expense from 30% to 50% of adjusted earnings in 2019 and 2020, a five-year carryback
allowance for net operating losses generated in tax years 2018-2020, increased charitable contribution limitations to 25% of taxable income
in 2020, and a retroactive technical correction to the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act that makes qualified improvement property placed in
service after December 31, 2017 eligible for bonus depreciation. The Company has recorded a $245 income tax benefit related to the net
operating loss carryback provisions of the CARES Act for the three months ended March 31, 2020.
Unrecognized tax benefits were $96 and $90
at March 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. We do not expect material changes to our unrecognized tax benefits during the next twelve
months. The Company believes that an adequate provision has been made for any adjustments that may result from tax examinations.
However, the outcome of tax audits cannot be predicted with certainty. If a tax audit is resolved in a manner inconsistent with its
expectations, the Company could be required to adjust its provision for income taxes in the period such resolution occurs. We do not
expect material changes to our unrecognized tax benefits during the next twelve months.
12
Note 11 – Stock-based and Other Compensation
In December 2015, Lifeway stockholders approved
the 2015 Omnibus Incentive Plan, which authorized the issuance of an aggregate of 3.5 million shares to satisfy awards of stock options,
stock appreciation rights, unrestricted stock, restricted stock, restricted stock units, performance shares and performance units to qualifying
employees. Under the Plan, the Board or its Audit and Corporate Governance Committee approves stock awards to executive officers and certain
senior executives, generally in the form of restricted stock or performance shares. The number of performance shares that participants
may earn depends on the extent to which the corresponding performance goals have been achieved. Stock awards generally vest over a three-year
performance or service period. At March 31, 2021, 3.317 million shares remain available under the Omnibus Incentive Plan. While we plan
to continue to issue awards pursuant to the Plan at least annually, we may choose to suspend the issuance of new awards in the future
and may grant additional awards at any time including issuing special grants of restricted stock, restricted stock units, and stock options
to attract and retain new and existing executives.
Stock Options
The following table summarizes stock option activity during the three
months ended March 31, 2021:
Options
Weighted
average
exercise price
Weighted
average
remaining contractual life
Aggregate
intrinsic value
Outstanding at December 31, 2020
41
$ 10.42
5.22
$ –
Granted
–
–
–
–
Exercised
–
–
–
–
Forfeited
–
–
–
–
Outstanding at March 31, 2021
41
$ 10.42
4.97
$ –
Exercisable at March 31, 2021
41
$ 10.42
–
$ –
As of December 31, 2019, all outstanding options
were vested and there was no remaining unearned compensation expense.
Restricted Stock Awards
A Restricted Stock Award (“RSA”) represents
the right to receive one share of common stock in the future. RSAs have no exercise price. The grant date fair value of the awards is
equal to our closing stock price on the grant date. The following table summarizes RSA activity during the three months ended March 31,
2021.
RSA’s
Outstanding at December 31, 2020
78
Granted
4
Shares issued upon vesting
–
Forfeited
–
Outstanding at March 31, 2021
82
Weighted average grant date fair value per share outstanding
$ 3.04
We expense RSA’s over the service period.
For the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020 total pre-tax stock-based compensation expense recognized in the consolidated statements
of operations was $36 and $5, respectively. For the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020 tax-related benefits of $11 and $1, respectively,
were also recognized. As of March 31, 2021, the total remaining unearned compensation related to non-vested RSA’s was $108, which
is expected to be amortized over the weighted-average remaining service period of 1.22 years.
13
Long-Term Incentive Plan Compensation
Lifeway established long-term incentive-based
compensation programs for fiscal year 2017 (the “2017 Plan”) and for fiscal year 2019 (the “2019 Plan”) for certain
senior executives and key employees (the “participants”). Under both the 2017 Plan, long-term incentive compensation is based
on Lifeway’s achievement of certain sales and adjusted EBITDA performance levels versus respective targets established by the Board
for each fiscal year. Under the 2019 Plan, long-term equity incentive compensation is based on Lifeway’s achievement of four strategic
milestones over a three-year period from Fiscal 2019 through Fiscal 2021.
2017 Plan
Under the 2017 Plan, collectively the participants
had the opportunity to earn cash and equity-based incentive compensation in amounts ranging from $0 to $11,025 depending on Lifeway’s
performance levels compared to the respective targets and the participants performance compared to their individual objectives. The equity
portion of the incentive compensation is payable in restricted stock that vests one-third in each of the three years from the 2017 grant
dates. For the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020, $0 and $49 was expensed as stock-based compensation expense in the consolidated
statements of operations, respectively. As of March 31, 2021, there was no remaining expense.
2019 Plan
Under the 2019 Plan, collectively the participants
can earn equity-based incentive compensation in amounts ranging from $0 to $1,776 depending on Lifeway’s performance levels compared
to the respective targets. The equity-based incentive compensation is payable in restricted stock that vests 50% of unvested shares in
year one, 50% of unvested shares in year two, and 100% of remaining unvested shares in year three from the 2019 grant date. For the three
months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020, $19 and $13 was expensed as stock-based compensation expense in the consolidated statements of operations,
respectively.
2019 Retention Award
During Q1 2019, we awarded a special retention
grant (the “2019 Retention Award”) of restricted stock to certain senior executives and key employees (the “participants”).
The equity-based incentive compensation is payable in restricted stock that vests one-third in March 2019, one-third in March 2020 and
one-third in March 2021. For the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020, $8 and $43 was expensed as stock-based compensation expense
in the consolidated statements of operations, respectively. As of March 31, 2021, there was no remaining expense.
2020 CEO Incentive Award
During the fourth quarter 2020, we awarded a long-term
equity-based incentive of $750 to our Chief Executive Officer (the “2020 CEO Award”) depending on Lifeways 2020 performance
levels compared to the respective targets. The equity-based incentive compensation is payable in restricted stock that vests one-third
in April 2022, one-third in April 2023, and one-third in April 2024. The issuance of vested equity awards is subject to approval under
the Stock Purchase Agreement dated October 1, 1999. For the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020, $90 and $0 was expensed as stock-based
compensation expense in the consolidated statements of operations, respectively. As of March 31, 2021, the total remaining unearned compensation
was $610, of which $274 will be recognized in 2021, $221 in 2022, $98 in 2023, and $17 in 2024, respectively, subject to vesting.
Retirement Benefits
Lifeway has a defined contribution plan which
is available to substantially all full-time employees. Under the terms of the plan, we match employee contributions under a prescribed
formula. For the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020 total contribution expense recognized in the consolidated statements of operations
was $113 and $118, respectively.
14
Note 12 – Segments, Products and Customers
Lifeway’s primary product is drinkable kefir,
a cultured dairy product. Lifeway Kefir is tart and tangy, high in protein, calcium and vitamin D. Thanks to our exclusive blend of kefir
cultures, each cup of kefir contains 12 live and active cultures and 25 to 30 billion beneficial CFU (Colony Forming Units) at the time
of manufacture.
We manufacture (directly or through co-packers)
and market products under the Lifeway and Fresh Made brand names, as well as under private labels on behalf of certain customers.
Our product categories are:
·
Drinkable Kefir, sold in a variety of organic and non-organic sizes, flavors, and types, including low-fat, non-fat, whole milk, protein, and BioKefir (a 3.5 oz. kefir with additional probiotic cultures).
·
European-style soft cheeses, including farmer cheese, white cheese, and Sweet Kiss.
·
Cream and other, which consists primarily of cream, a byproduct of making our kefir.
·
ProBugs, a line of kefir products designed for children.
·
Other Dairy, which includes Cupped Kefir and Icelandic Skyr, a line of strained kefir and yogurt products in resealable cups.
·
Frozen Kefir, available in soft serve and pint-size containers.
Lifeway has determined that it has one reportable
segment based on how our chief operating decision maker manages the business and in a manner consistent with the internal reporting provided
to the chief operating decision maker. The chief operating decision maker, who is responsible for allocating resources and assessing our
performance, has been identified collectively as the Chief Financial Officer, the Chief Operating Officer, the Chief Executive Officer,
and Chairperson of the board of directors. Substantially all of our consolidated revenues relate to the sale of cultured dairy products
that we produce using the same processes and materials and are sold to consumers through a common network of distributors and retailers
in the United States.
Net sales of products by category were as follows
for the three months ended March 31:
2021
2020
$
%
$
%
Drinkable Kefir other than ProBugs
$ 24,203
82%
$ 19,857
78%
Cheese
3,199
11%
3,260
13%
Cream and other
863
3%
781
3%
ProBugs Kefir
680
2%
860
3%
Other dairy
384
1%
371
2%
Frozen Kefir (a)
47
1%
259
1%
Net Sales
$ 29,376
100%
$ 25,388
100%
(a)
Includes Lifeway Kefir Shop sales
Significant Customers – Sales
are predominately to companies in the retail food industry located within the United States. Two major customers accounted for approximately
22% and 21% of net sales for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively.
15
Note 13 – Related Party Transactions
Lifeway obtains consulting services from the Chairperson
of its board of directors. On December 28, 2020, Lifeway entered into an amended and restated consulting agreement (the “Agreement”),
effective as of December 31, 2020, with the Chairperson. Under the terms and conditions of the Agreement, the Chairperson will continue
to provide consulting services with respect to, among other things, our business strategy, international expansion and product management
and expansion. For the services, the Company will pay an annual service fee of $500. The Chairperson will also be eligible for an annual
performance fee target of $500 based on the achievement of specified performance criteria. The Chairpersons annual service fee and target
bonus amounts are subject to periodic change by the Compensation Committee of the Company’s Board of Directors on 30 days’
prior written notice to the Chairperson. The Agreement shall continue until either party provides at least a 10-day written notice of
termination.
Service fees earned are included in general and
administrative expenses in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations and were $125 and $250 during each of the three months
ended March 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. During the three months ended March 31, 2021, the Company recorded $94 related to estimated
earnings under the fiscal year 2021 annual performance fee target. This amount is included in general and administrative expenses in the
accompanying consolidated statements of operations.
Lifeway is also a party to a royalty agreement
with the Chairperson of its board of directors under which we pay the Chairperson a royalty based on the sale of certain Lifeway products,
not to exceed $50 in any fiscal month. Royalties earned are included in selling expenses in the accompanying consolidated statements of
operations and were $150 during each of the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020.
Note 14 – COVID-19
The ultimate impact that the COVID-19 pandemic or any future pandemic
or disease outbreak will have on our business and our consolidated results of operations is uncertain.
To date we
have seen increased customer and consumer demand for our products as consumers initially began pantry loading and have increased their
at-home consumption as a result of social distancing and stay-at-home and work-from-home mandates and recommendations. However, this increased
customer and consumer demand may decrease in the coming months if and when the need for social distancing and stay-at-home and work-from-home
mandates and recommendations decrease, and we are unable to predict the nature and timing of when that impact may occur, if at all.
Although to
date we have not experienced supply chain constraints, and we have continued to be able to fully satisfy customer and consumer demand
for our products, the continued unprecedented demand for food and other consumer packaged goods products as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic
or any future pandemic may limit the availability of, or increase the cost of, ingredients, packaging and other raw materials necessary
to produce our products, and our operations may be negatively impacted. Additionally, pandemics or disease outbreaks could result in a
widespread health crisis that could adversely affect economies and financial markets, consumer spending and confidence levels resulting
in an economic downturn that could affect customer and consumer demand for our products.
Our efforts
to manage and mitigate these factors may be unsuccessful, and the effectiveness of these efforts depends on factors beyond our control,
including the duration and severity of any pandemic or disease outbreak, as well as third party actions taken to contain its spread and
mitigate public health effects.
The ultimate
impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on our business will depend on many factors, including, among others, the duration of social distancing
and stay-at-home and work-from-home mandates and recommendations and whether additional waves of COVID-19 or different variants of COVID-19
will affect the United States and other markets, our ability and the ability of our suppliers to continue to operate our and their manufacturing
facilities and maintain the supply chain without material disruption and procure ingredients, packaging and other raw materials when needed
despite unprecedented demand in the food industry, and the extent to which macroeconomic conditions resulting from the pandemic and the
pace of the subsequent recovery may impact consumer eating and shopping habits. We cannot predict the duration or scope of the disruption.
Therefore, the financial impact cannot be reasonably estimated at this time.
16
ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL
CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS.
Management’s Discussion
and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (“MD&A”) in this Form 10-Q is provided as a supplement to,
and should be read in conjunction with, our audited consolidated financial statements, the accompanying notes, and the MD&A included
in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 (the “Form 10-K”). Unless otherwise specified,
any description of “our”, “we”, and “us” in this MD&A refer to Lifeway Foods, Inc. and our subsidiaries.
Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking
Statements
In addition to historical information, this quarterly
report contains “forward-looking” statements within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private
Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements may be identified by the use of words such as “anticipate,” “from
time to time,” “intend,” “plan,” “ongoing,” “realize,” “should,” “may,”
“could," "believe," "future," "depend," "expect," "will," "result,"
"can," "remain," "assurance," "subject to," "require," "limit," "impose,"
"guarantee," "restrict," "continue," "become," "predict," "likely," "opportunities,"
"effect," "change," "predict," and "estimate,” and similar terms or terminology, or the negative
of such terms or other comparable terminology. Examples of forward-looking statements include, among others, statements we make regarding:
·
Expectations of the effect on our financial condition of claims, litigation, environmental costs, contingent liabilities and governmental and regulatory investigations and proceedings;
·
Strategy for acquisitions, customer retention, growth, product development, market position, financial results and reserves; Estimates of the amounts of sales allowances and discounts to our customers and consumers;
·
Our belief that we will maintain compliance with our loan agreements and have sufficient liquidity to fund our business operations.
Forward looking statements are based on management’s
beliefs, assumptions, estimates and observations of future events based on information available to our management at the time the statements
are made and include any statements that do not relate to any historical or current fact. These statements are not guarantees of future
performance and they involve certain risks, uncertainties and assumptions that are difficult to predict. Actual outcomes and results may
differ materially from what is expressed, implied or forecast by our forward-looking statements due in part to the risks, uncertainties,
and assumptions that include:
·
The actions of our competitors and customers, including those related to price competition;
·
The decisions of customers or consumers;
·
Our ability to successfully implement our business strategy;
·
Changes in the pricing of commodities
·
The effects of government regulation;
·
The impact of the COVID-19 outbreak on our business, suppliers, consumers, customers, and employees;
·
Disruptions to our supply chain, or our manufacturing and distribution capabilities, including those due to cybersecurity threats and the COVD-19 outbreak; and
·
Such other factors as discussed throughout Part I, Item 1 “Business”; Part I, Item 1A “Risk Factors”; and Part II, Item 7 “Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2020 and that are described from time to time in our filings with the SEC.
These factors are not necessarily all of the
important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in any of our forward-looking statements.
Other unknown or unpredictable factors could also have material adverse effects on future results. We intend these forward-looking statements
to speak only at the date made. Except as otherwise required to be disclosed in periodic reports required to be filed by public companies
with the SEC pursuant to the SEC's rules, we have no duty to update these statements, and we undertake no obligation to publicly update
or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
Recent Developments
COVID-19 Pandemic Impact
In December 2019, a novel coronavirus disease
("COVID-19") was first reported and subsequently characterized by the World Health Organization ("WHO") as a pandemic
in March 2020. In an effort to reduce the global transmission of COVID-19, various policies and initiatives have been implemented by governments
around the world, including orders to close businesses not deemed "essential", shelter-in-place orders enacted by state and
local governments, and the practice of social distancing measures when engaging in essential activities. Lifeway has seen increased orders
from retail customers in response to increased consumer demand for food at home in response to government mandated social distancing and
shelter in place orders in the United States and the immune boosting quality of our products.
17
Local, state, and national governments continue
to emphasize the importance of food supply during this pandemic and asked that food manufacturers and retailers remain open to meet the
needs of our communities. The health and safety of our employees throughout this pandemic is paramount, and we have taken numerous steps
to keep our employees safe including enhanced sanitation protocols, implementation of social distancing measures at our manufacturing
operations, masks and personal protective equipment for employees across our facilities, preventative temperature screenings across all
manufacturing locations, the rollout of new benefits that help support our employees and their families, and remote work arrangements
for administrative support functions to comply with shelter-in-place orders. In addition, a cross-functional task force has been established
to monitor and coordinate the Company's response to COVID-19.
During the first quarter of 2020, Management,
anticipating the spread of COVID-19 and its effects, implemented a plan to mitigate effects of COVID-19 on supply and transportation of
materials used to make and package our products, staffing, and transportation of our products to customers. Management’s proactive
planning allowed the Company to avoid disruption to its manufacturing facilities and production, transportation, and sales and to meet
the increased demand without delay. The Company has full production capacity available at all locations at this time and does not anticipate
manufacturing or staffing disruptions in the near term.
Results of Operations
Three Months Ended March 31, 2021 Compared to Three Months Ended
March 31, 2020
March 31,
Change
2021
2020
$
%
Net sales
$
29,376
$
25,388
$
3,988
15.7
%
Cost of goods sold
$
20,512
$
18,624
$
(1,888
)
Depreciation expense
815
767
(48
)
Total cost of goods sold
$
21,327
$
19,391
$
(1,936
)
(10.0
%)
Gross profit
$
8,049
$
5,997
$
2,052
34.2
%
Gross Profit % to net sales
27.4
%
23.6
%
Selling expenses
$
3,222
$
2,575
$
(647
)
(25.1
%)
Selling expenses % to net sales
11.0
%
10.1
%
General and administrative expenses
$
2,891
$
3,145
$
254
8.1
%
General and administrative % to net sales
9.8
%
12.4
%
Amortization expense
$
–
$
39
$
39
100.0
%
Total operating expenses
$
6,113
$
5,759
$
(354
)
(6.1
%)
Total operating expense % to net sales
20.8
%
22.7
%
Income from operations
$
1,936
$
238
$
1,698
713.4
%
Income from operations % to net sales
6.6
%
0.9
%
Total other income (expense)
$
(37
)
$
(37
)
$
–
0.0
%
Total other income (expense) % to net sales
(0.1
%)
(0.1
%)
Income before provision for income taxes
$
1,899
$
201
$
1,698
844.8
%
Income before provision for income taxes % to net sales
6.5
%
0.8
%
Provision for income taxes
$
593
$
55
$
(538
)
(978.2
%)
Provision for income taxes % to net sales
2.0
%
0.2
%
Net income
$
1,306
$
146
$
1,160
794.5
%
Net income % to net sales
4.5
%
0.6
%
18
Net Sales
Net sales finished at $29,376 for the three-month
period ended March 31, 2021, an increase of $3,988 or 15.7% versus prior year. The net sales increase was primarily driven by higher volumes
of our branded drinkable kefir. Approximately 30% of the increase results from the Farmers to Families Food Box program with the United
States Department of Agriculture (“USDA”) which began during the middle of the first quarter of 2021. The program is scheduled
to end in May 2021.
Gross Profit
Gross profit as a percentage of net sales was
27.4% during the three-month period ended March 31, 2021. Gross profit percentage was 23.6% in the prior year. The increase versus the
prior year was primarily due to the favorable impact of operating leverage that arises from higher net sales relative to fixed costs,
and to a lesser extent favorable milk pricing. Additionally, depreciation expense increased reflecting our continued investment in manufacturing
improvements.
Selling Expenses
Selling expenses increased by $647 or 25.1% to
$3,222 during the three-month period ended March 31, 2021 from $2,575 during the same period in 2020. The increase versus prior year primarily
reflects an increase in advertising expense related to a television and digital advertising campaigns in the first quarter of 2021, partially
offset by lower compensation expense. Selling expenses as a percentage of net sales were 11.0% during the three-month period ended March
31, 2021 compared to 10.1% for the same period in 2020.
General and Administrative Expenses
General and administrative expenses decreased
254 or 8.1% to $2,891 during the three-month period ended March 31, 2021 from $3,145 during the same period in 2020. The decrease is primarily
a result of lower compensation expense due to organizational changes made in 2020 and lower professional fees.
Provision for Income Taxes
The provision for income taxes includes federal,
state and local income taxes. The provision for income taxes was $593 and $55 during the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively.
Our effective income tax rate for the three months
ended March 31, 2021 was 31.2% compared to 27.5% in the same period last year. During the first quarter of 2020, the company’s effective
tax rate was reduced due to provisions of the CARES Act. That law provided for the carryback of certain net operating losses to
years in which the tax rates were significantly higher. The tax benefit was recorded as a discrete item in the first quarter of
2020. The statutory Federal and state tax rates remained consistent from 2020 to 2021. The Company has a number of items that are
nondeductible or are discrete adjustments to tax expense. Although similar items were reflected in 2021, the percentage effect is lower
due to the increase in pre-tax income in 2021 compared to 2020.
Our effective tax rate may change from period
to period based on recurring and non-recurring factors including the relative mix of pre-tax earnings (or losses), the underlying income
tax rates applicable to various state and local taxing jurisdictions, enacted tax legislation, the impact of non-deductible items, changes
in valuation allowances, and the expiration of the statute of limitations in relation to unrecognized tax benefits. We record discrete
income tax items such as enacted tax rate changes and completed tax audits in the period in which they occur.
19
Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code (the
“Code”) limits the deductibility of compensation paid to certain of our executives. Under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (the “Act”)
amendments to Section 162(m), no tax deduction in taxable years beginning after December 31, 2017 is allowed for compensation paid to
any covered employee to the extent that the total compensation for that covered employee exceeds $1,000,000 in any taxable year. Although
the Act eliminated the prior tax deduction under Section 162(m) for performance-based executive compensation, it included a transition
rule under which the changes to Section 162(m) will not apply to awards made to our covered employees who had the right to participate
in our 2015 Omnibus Incentive Plan pursuant to written binding contracts in effect as of November 2, 2017, as long as those contracts
have not subsequently been modified in any material respect. Accordingly, subject to further guidance from the Treasury Department and
the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”), the performance-based compensation paid to our executives under our Omnibus Plan remained
eligible for the Section 162(m) exemption through 2019. Beginning in 2020, compensation exceeding the threshold for covered employees
is non-deductible for income tax purposes.
Income taxes are discussed in Note 10 in the Notes
to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
Net Income
We reported net income of $1,306
or $ 0.08 per basic and diluted common share for the three months ended March 31, 2021 compared to net income of $146 or $0.01 per
basic and diluted common share in the same period in 2020.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
The ultimate
impact that the COVID-19 pandemic or any future pandemic or disease outbreak will have on our business and our consolidated results of
operations is uncertain.
To date we
have seen increased customer and consumer demand for our products as consumers initially began pantry loading and have increased their
at-home consumption as a result of social distancing and stay-at-home and work-from-home mandates and recommendations. However, this increased
customer and consumer demand may decrease in the coming months if and when the need for social distancing and stay-at-home and work-from-home
mandates and recommendations decrease, and we are unable to predict the nature and timing of when that impact may occur, if at all.
Although to
date we have not experienced supply chain constraints, and we have continued to be able to fully satisfy customer and consumer demand
for our products, the continued unprecedented demand for food and other consumer packaged goods products as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic
or any future pandemic may limit the availability of, or increase the cost of, ingredients, packaging and other raw materials necessary
to produce our products, and our operations may be negatively impacted. Additionally, pandemics or disease outbreaks could result in a
widespread health crisis that could adversely affect economies and financial markets, consumer spending and confidence levels resulting
in an economic downturn that could affect customer and consumer demand for our products.
Our efforts
to manage and mitigate these factors may be unsuccessful, and the effectiveness of these efforts depends on factors beyond our control,
including the duration and severity of any pandemic or disease outbreak, as well as third party actions taken to contain its spread and
mitigate public health effects.
The ultimate
impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on our business will depend on many factors, including, among others, the duration of social distancing
and stay-at-home and work-from-home mandates and recommendations and whether additional waves of COVID-19 or different variants of COVID-19
will affect the United States and other markets, our ability and the ability of our suppliers to continue to operate our and their manufacturing
facilities and maintain the supply chain without material disruption and procure ingredients, packaging and other raw materials when needed
despite unprecedented demand in the food industry, and the extent to which macroeconomic conditions resulting from the pandemic and the
pace of the subsequent recovery may impact consumer eating and shopping habits. We cannot predict the duration or scope of the disruption.
Therefore, the financial impact cannot be reasonably estimated at this time.
20
To date, our manufacturing facilities
have not been significantly impacted. We have full production capacity available at all locations at this time. On March 16, 2020, the
food industry, including grocery stores and their suppliers, and transportation were classified by the U.S. federal government as critical
infrastructure industry. As a result, our employees and facilities, as well as the retailers and distributors that sell our products,
will be able to remain in operation. During the first quarter of 2020, Management, anticipating the spread of Covid-19 and its effects,
implemented a plan to mitigate effects of Covid-19 on supply and transportation of materials used to make and package our products, staffing,
and transportation of our products to customers. While the situation is fluid, we have evaluated all manufacturing locations and do not
anticipate any staffing shortages or interruption of our production, transportation and sale of products in the near term.
Cash Flow
At this time, the COVID-19 pandemic has not materially
impacted on our operations. We expect to meet our foreseeable liquidity and capital resource requirements through anticipated cash flows
from operations; our revolving credit facility; and cash and cash equivalents to ensure the continuation of the Company as a going concern.
The success of our business and financing strategies will continue to provide us with the financial flexibility to take advantage of various
opportunities as they arise. Given the dynamic nature of COVID-19, we will continue to assess our liquidity needs while continuing to
manage our discretionary spending and investment strategies.
Sources and Uses of Cash
Lifeway had a net increase in cash and cash equivalents
of $692 during the three-month period ended March 31, 2021 compared to a net decrease in cash and cash equivalents of $1,858 in the same
period in 2020. The drivers of the year over year change are as follows:
Net cash provided in operating activities was
$1,210 during the three-month period ended March 31, 2021 compared to net cash used by operating activities of $1,055 in the same period
in 2020. The increase in cash provided by operating activities is primarily due to the increase in cash generated through higher revenues
and reduced expenses in 2021, and the change in working capital. Working capital consumption was higher in 2020 due to increased revenue
in March 2020 as consumers anticipated the shelter in place directives that ultimately occurred as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Net cash used in investing activities was $518
during the three-month period ended March 31, 2021 compared to net cash used in investing activities of $398 in the same period in 2020.
The increase in net cash used in investing activities in 2021 reflects higher capital spending. Capital spending was $518 during the three-month
period ended March 31, 2021 compared to $403 in 2020. Our capital spending is focused in three core areas: growth, cost reduction, and
facility improvements. Growth capital spending supports new product innovation and enhancements. Cost reduction and facility improvements
support manufacturing efficiency, safety and productivity.
Net cash used in financing activities was $0 during
the three-month period ended March 31, 2021 compared to net cash used in financing activities of $405 in the same period in 2020.
On November 1, 2017, Lifeway’s Board approved
an increase in the aggregate amount under our previously announced 2015 stock repurchase program (the “2017 Repurchase Plan Amendment”),
by adding to (i.e., exclusive of the shares previously authorized under the 2015 stock repurchase program) the authorization the lesser
of $5,185 or 625 shares. We repurchased approximately 178 shares of common stock at a cost of $405 during the three-month period ended
March 31, 2020 under the 2017 Repurchase Plan Amendment. As of March 31, 2021, there were no shares of common stock that remained available
to be purchased under the 2017 Repurchase Plan Amendment. We intend to hold repurchased shares in treasury for general corporate purposes,
including issuances under our 2015 Omnibus Incentive Plan. Treasury shares are accounted for using the cost method.
Debt Obligations
On September 30, 2020, Lifeway entered into the
Third Modification to the Amended and Restated Loan and Security Agreement, as amended, (the “Third Modification”) with its
existing lender. The Third Modification amends the Amended and Restated Loan and Security Agreement, as amended, by removing the monthly
borrowing base reporting requirement effective September 30, 2020, including a covenant to maintain a quarterly minimum working capital
financial covenant, as defined, of no less than $11.25 million each of the fiscal quarters commencing the fiscal quarter ended December
31, 2020 through the expiration date, and eliminating the tier interest pricing structure. The Amended and Restated Loan and Security
Agreement continues to provide Lifeway with a revolving line of credit up to a maximum of $5 million (the “Revolving Loan”)
and provides the Borrowers with an incremental facility not to exceed $5 million (the “Incremental Facility” and together
with the Revolving Loan, the “Loans”). The Termination Date of the Revolving Loan was extended to June 30, 2025, unless earlier
terminated.
21
Except as described above, amended, the Modified
Revolving Credit Facility remains substantively unchanged and in full force and effect, including customary representations, warranties,
and covenants on the part of Lifeway, including financial covenants requiring us to maintain a fixed charge coverage ratio of no less
than 1.25 to 1.00 each of the fiscal quarters ending through the expiration date. The Modified Revolving Credit Facility continues to
provide for events of default, including failure to repay principal and interest when due and failure to perform or violation of the provisions
or covenants of the agreement, as a result of which amounts due under the Modified Revolving Credit Facility may be accelerated.
As of March 31, 2021, we had $2,774 net of $3
of unamortized deferred financing costs, outstanding under the Revolving Credit Facility. We had $2,223 available for future borrowings
as of March 31, 2021.
As amended, all outstanding amounts under the
Loans bear interest, at Lifeway’s election, at either the lender Base Rate (the Prime Rate minus 1.00%) or the LIBOR plus 1.95%,
payable monthly in arrears. Lifeway is also required to pay a quarterly unused line fee of 0.20% and, in conjunction with the issuance
of any letters of credit, a letter of credit fee of 0.20%. Lifeway’s interest rate on debt outstanding under our Revolving Credit
Facility as of March 31, 2021 was 2.15%.
We are in compliance with all applicable financial
debt covenants as of March 31, 2021. See Note 7 to our Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information regarding our indebtedness
and related agreements.
ITEM 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK.
Not applicable.
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